Weekend Sun 9 December

d n e k e e the w

9 December 2011, Issue 576

The Bay’s largest circulating, most read newspaper.

63,360 copies

to the homes of 159,700 residents throughout TAURANGA, MOUNT MAUNGANUI, PAPAMOA, WAIHI BEACH, KAIMAI, KATIKATI, TE PUKE, PAENGAROA, OTAMARAKAU and all RDs No.1 The Strand, Tauranga Ph: 07 578 0030

INSIDE THE TEAWAGON 2 BUS LOUNGE? 3 WELCOME BAY B’DAY 6 BRAZILIAN FESTIVAL 9 CHRISTMAS GIFTS 16-18 FOOD 22-23 HOME BASE 28-30 MOTORING 34-35 LETTERS 36-37 WHAT’S ON 38-42 CLASSIFIEDS 44-48 SUNLIVE 49

Cultural rhythms

Immerse yourself in culture, festivities and celebration when the fifth annual Brazilian music festival and carnival day takes over downtown Tauranga on Saturday, December 10. The festival is an annual congregation of music, dance and Capoeira performance in a carnival setting, injecting plenty of colour and festivities into the community. See story on page 9.

Pictured: Tauranga Samba members Philip Solomon and Warren Parkinson, Patricio Alvarez (DJ Pato), Veronica Prompt, Mount Maunganui Zumba instructor Kimberly Lewis, performer Caterina Laschke, Capoeira Brazil instructor Tulio Costa (Mercurio), with Donovan Boucher (Creativo) and Gustavo Nunes (Corvinho) performing Capoeria in front.

Photo by Bruce Barnard.

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Full medical services available includes Xrays,splints & plasters. Fracture Clinic, Womens Health Clinic, Mole Removal Clinic & Ear Care Service.

2 FAX: (07) 571 1116 Ad enquiries: ads@thesun.co.nz News enquiries: newsroom@thesun.co.nz PO Box 240, 1 The Strand TAURANGA www.sunlive.co.nz

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The Weekend Sun

The Weekend Sun is published every Friday, circulating throughout the Western Bay of Plenty, delivered free to 63,360 homes of more than 157,300 residents from Waihi Beach, through Katikati, Tauranga, Mt Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke including rural and residential mailboxes.

THE BAY’S MOST READ NEWSPAPER. The Weekend Sun is produced by Sun Media Ltd, an independent and locally owned company based at 1 The Strand, Tauranga.

Sun Media also publishes Waterline and Coast & Country

Sun Media Ltd Directors: Claire & Brian Rogers General Manager: Ross Brown Editorial: Andrew Campbell, Edward Scragg, Sheryl Brown, Laura Weaser, Hamish Carter, Letitia Atkinson, Phillipa Yalden. Advertising: Kathy Andrews, Suzy King, Lois McKinley, Jo Dempsey, Daphne Keller, Kirsty Hutcheson, Gaylene Moore, Rose Hodges, Aimee-Leigh Brunsdon. Design Studio: Kym Johnson, James Carrigan, Donovan Boucher, Sarah Adamson, Kerri Wheeler, Kyra Duffy.

Office: Julie Commerer, Melanie Stone, Leah Rogers, Julia Price.

Jumping on the teawagon I know you are all very tired of hearing about the secretlyrecorded tea tapes. However, we feel compelled to jump on the bandwagon, or in this case, the teawagon. Only because we’ve been hounded by readers wanting to know the RR take on the whole episode.

Sun Media owner/editor Brian Rogers

have dispensed with the string on the teabag and instead put the bag on a rod, which doubles as a stirrer. They’ve named it in honour of the politicians and called it “the Dipsticks.”

Locally, there’s been plenty of reaction.

Hone Harawira is not happy that John K prefers his white and sweet. He wants to know what is wrong with strong and black.

John Banks feels that Auckland’s new slogan should be changed from ‘Auckland A’ to ‘Auckland T’ and that the symbol will be an easier shape to make with your hands.

Rodney Hide is still miffed that he did not feature in the centre of the tea event, since he’s clearly the ‘short and stout’ one and is well known for his spout.

but I may have left my secret microphone recording on your table.”

People will even name their children after this scandal. The Rowfone family of Bellevue are pleased to announce the safe arrival And really, you knew deep down that of Mike. this special RR edition of the Tea Tapes Particularly successful will be the yet-towas coming, didn’t you? It was really just a be-born, infamous rapper, T-Pot.| matter of time.

But we have some breaking news. Our But you know how it is; these things take secret cameras, hidden at the cafe, recorded time to draw. this image of the historic meetSo, put the jug on and sit down ing and you are seeing it now ow n k u with a nice cuppa to read the o y hn, do o revealed for the first time, n J “ e More revealed rest of this column; in the a hidd ly t exclusive to RR: there‛s e r c Coming up next week, exclue “No, Joh comfort of your favourite s e n o h n. ” ?

Y microp s o u u sively to RR, Winston Peters chair with the wafting h g u m in it, I‛ll record reveals all about the secret play it.” aroma of India’s finest recordings. Or not. blend.

He also tells who Shot the The whole country has been choking Sheriff, JR, JFK and some other initials. on this for a month now.

The colonel’s secret recipe of eleven herbs It’s been repeating on the electoral digesand spices will be revealed and the Secret tive system like an insufficiently dunked Squirrel finally has his cover blown. The gingernut. whereabouts of the crew of the Mary The tea saga will go down in history as Celeste will seem insignificant compared one of those iconic moments. In decades to signed confessions from Elvis and to come, people will remember where they Amelia Earhart over their faked deaths. were when they first heard about the secret Also, Winston will reveal How the teapot tapes.

Grinch Stole Christmas; who put the So will some of the text of the conversahungry enzymes in Drive; who wants to tion. Mr Banks will relate this, having We imagine there has been world outrage be a millionaire; and who put the ‘bomp’ ousted Mr ‘Gone by Lunchtime’ Brash about this secret taping and the arguments in the ‘bomp, bah bomp, bah bomp.’ from the top of the party. over whether it should be made public.

Promoters of the Boston Tea Party are Defining phrases consulting with the lawyers over the posParting thought Just as the moon landings were defined by sible breach of copyright by the Epsom Tea A new word, via astute reader Tony F: those famous words, “One famous step…”

Party.

Ineptocracy: [in-ep-toc’-ra-cy] A system and rock’n’roll will be remembered for some Speaking from a press conference of government where the least capable particularly silly lyrics by Barry Mann; announcing the comeback of The A Team, to lead are elected by the least capable of so too, the teapot tape conversations will Mr T is said to be furious that he’s been producing; and where the members of become the defining phrases of the 2012 upstaged. society least likely to sustain themselves general election.

Dilmah are bringing out a special edition or succeed, are rewarded with goods and A whole range of new pick-up lines will blend to celebrate the meeting of two poliservices paid for by the confiscated wealth evolve, as young men approach groups of ticians – called the Double Dils. of a diminishing number of producers. young women at cafes and say: “Excuse me, Meanwhile Choysa, not to be outdone,

A few patches left in Adopt a Beach luxury airport

shuttles

Rejuvenation a new you

Astute readers in coastal areas of Mount and Papamoa will notice a flyer in this edition of the Sun. It’s all about Operation Beach Clean’s “Adopt a Beach” and is a really positive way locals can further help overcome the effects of the Rena grounding.

The clean up seems to be going very well, thanks to some mighty efforts by volunteers who have put in around

20,000 hours so far. Every little bit helps, they say, and residents can contribute by looking after their “local patch.”

There are just a few sectors to be allocated in the Adopt a Beach scheme. If you’d like to offer assistance, email: renavolunteers@gmail.com or call 0800 884 881 extn RENA (7362).

IMPORTANT STUFF: All material is copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission of the publishers. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publishers. The Weekend Sun takes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all published information however will not be liable in any way for errors or omissions or the subsequent use of information published. Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, ‘I think I’ll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?’ Who was the first person to say, ‘See that chicken there… I’m going to eat the next thing that comes out of its backside. ‘

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The Weekend Sun

Market test Expressions of interest sought

Bus passengers in the central city will have to continue waiting for their buses outside in the cold and wet next winter.

Tauranga City councillors have taken the cheaper option for the ‘bus lounge’ space on the ground floor of the council building and decided not to do anything.

Councillors decided against spending $100,000 of council money on fitting the space out as a cafe/waiting room and instead

will offer the space up for general commercial lease.

The lease has a five year term after which it will be reviewed.

There will be a call for expressions of interest, with no restrictions on use or opening hours, to test the market.

It is the decision of lowest financial risk to council, but it may not deliver the intended benefits to users of the City Centre Bus Stops.

The option also limits the possibility of developing off-street waiting facilities for the City

Centre Bus stops within the lease period, as no other site is available. The bus lounge option was first suggested as a use for the space opposite the council offices when Willow Street was being prepared for use as the Hopper Bus terminal.

The City Centre Bus Stops have been operating since March and it was thought timely to decide if a waiting lounge was necessary.

The decision was made as part of the annual plan process and is going out for public consultation.

By Andrew Campbell

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The Weekend Sun

Low moon eclipses observatory

The Tauranga Astronomical Society observatory is not open for this Sunday’s lunar eclipse. Instead, members Stuart Murray and Harry Tobias are encouraging people to view it through binoculars.

Photo by Bruce Barnard.

Star gazers are being encouraged to rise extra early this Sunday morning to witness a total eclipse of the moon from the comfort of their own home.

A poor view from the Tauranga Astronomical Society observatory has prompted members to decide against opening and they are instead suggesting people use their binoculars.

Society spokesman Harry ‘Toby’ Tobias says viewers will get a much better perspective of the moon through binoculars or the

naked eye than the observatory’s telescope, so there is no point in opening.

“We have looked at the angles and the figures and because the moon is quite low, the telescope can only offer a partial view.”

Toby says because of the large size of the low moon, you would see less than half of it when viewed through the telescope.

“It really is a great spectacle. The colours are quite fantastic, so I would encourage anyone interested to view it.”

University of Colorado atmospheric scientist Richard Keen, who has studied many lunar

eclipses, predicts the moon will appear bright orange or coppercoloured during the event with a hint of turquoise at the edge.

The eclipse will last from 1.46am to 5.18am, with the moon completely behind the earth’s shadow from 3.06am to 3.57am.

The observatory at Matua’s Ferguson Park clubroom buildings is open on the second and fourth Tuesday every month from 7.30pm ($5 non members).

For more details phone Toby 07 543 5358 or Jim Barrowclough 07 576 5389.

By Hamish Carter

Freehold

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The Weekend Sun

It’s stamped with the star The rush to send Christmas cards with the Bethlehem postal mark began about two weeks ago and appears to be as popular as ever this year despite the fall-off in mail.

Bethlehem Paper Plus and Post Shop owner David Gardner says the shop is still receiving just as much mail from overseas and around New Zealand to send on with the festive postmark.

“I don’t have the figures on it, but it seems like it’s as big as ever this year,” says David.

Along with being sent cards from as far as Europe to post on, he says they have hundreds of customers visiting from Auckland or other areas outside the Bay of Plenty to send bundles of cards.

“Usually they are coming to Tauranga to visit family or do something else, but some do come just to post their cards.”

By Hamish Carter

Customers wanting the Bethlehem post mark on their Christmas cards are keeping Donna Gardner and the Bethlehem Paper Plus and Post Shop team busy. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

Shutters

Blinds

Screens

Rollers

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The Weekend Sun

Celebrating Welcome Bay heart A community celebration tonight marks the Welcome Bay Community Centre’s fifth birthday.

Executive committee member Perry Keyte says the centre had a lot to celebrate after becoming an important part of the community in the last five years.

Perry, who has been involved from the start, says the centre’s major achievements were its successful youth

activities programme and becoming an information and support hub for the community.

“We’ve helped change a few things in the community – mainly the behaviour of some of the area’s youth.”

He says the centre’s regular Friday night activities for young people and a programme for youth to earn the Duke of Edinburgh Award, including camping trips to learn bushcraft and survival skills.

“We are hoping to expand and offer more activities for the community.”

Centre secretary Colleen Gourlay encouraged residents to use the new Facebook page to give the centre feedback or encourage involvement in other issues.

Interested residents are invited to celebrate the centre’s birthday at a pot luck dinner and official launch of the centre’s website and Facebook page tonight – Friday, December 9 from 6pm.

Dinner and a performance by the local Zumba group will be followed by the regular Friday night family drop-in programme. For more centre details visit www.welcomebaycommunitycentre.org.nz

By Hamish Carter

Colleen Gourlay and Perry Keyte are celebrating the Welcome Bay Community Centre’s fifth birthday with a pot luck dinner and website launch. Photo by Bruce Barnard.

Ground rules change in library debate The Tauranga City Council library’s level of service debate resulted in only minor changes to the services, but has changed the ground rules for future debates.

At present, Tauranga City Council bases its decisions on a target level of 41 square metres of library floor space per 1000 people – level reduced from 45Sqm/1000 in 2009.

The council has decided to

remove the current decision making process altogether, says Mayor Stuart Crosby.

“What we discussed and agreed to is not accept the square metre per 1000 people ratio. We felt that was arbitrary and not based on anything, so what we decided to do was put our own criteria together that relates to our city and where our catchments of people are.”

The city currently provides, through the libraries at Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Greerton and Papamoa, a service level of 40.4Sqm/1000 which will reduce as the population increases.

All of the libraries are currently at capacity for books. The plan is to convert room space to public space in Tauranga Library, so overall book numbers can be maintained at 2.6.

The Weekend Sun

7

Get on your bike From learning to ride as a preschooler, Tauranga’s Kurt Pickard’s trusty companion has been a bike.

top 20 at recent races.

He recently returned from the pinnacle of BMX racing in the ABA Grand Nationals in Oklahoma, where he was unable to capitalise on early success – finishing in the top 20 and top 16 at the two dayThe leading BMX rider jokes how his passion for long events. pedalling saw him “terrorising” his neighbourhood The national high as a youngster, before falling under the sport’s spell performance team at Sulphur Point’s track at age five. member is clear “I can’t remember my first race, but I about his focus on know I loved it and just wanted to keep success – with his doing it.” current aim to make Early success at local BMX selection for the London races was followed by a Olympics. Further out he national title at age seven, aims to become a fully sponwhich was soon followed by sored rider and compete at a third-placing at the Wold the highest level, saying he Championships. wants to “take over the More than 12 years later, world of BMX”. at 20 years old, Kurt holds Kurt is extremely 13 national titles and is “living excited about the dream” traveling the world to the new race.

Cambridge His path to success has not been Road track’s one smooth ride, but with the potential ups and downs along the to foster way which are just part talent in the of the routine for a region.

BMX racer.

The During track has been the last designed by him, year, he with the help of local has jugriders, drawing on inspiragled time Tauranga’s leading international tion from top tracks Kurt between BMX rider Kurt Pickard tries out the new has competed on.

Tauranga Cambridge Road track. Photo by Cody Stevens.

The Tauranga BMX and international Club’s new track opens racing. After starting the at Cambridge Road on Sunday, December 11 at year well – finishing in the top 16 in the BMX 10.15am. Public are welcome.The event is attractWorld Championships in South Africa – he was

By Hamish Carter knocked by injuries and slipped back to place in the ing over 350 riders.

Lighting it up Struck by how dull New Zealand looked at Christmas, compared to the houses in the United States which are adorned with lights, David and Susan Mitchell set about brightening Tauranga’s festive celebrations more than 10 years ago.

“Nothing was lit up, it was very dull,” says David.

The following year, nobody would have thought it was dull as they passed the Mitchell’s twinkling gabled house in Cambridge Road.

With few other properties lit up when they started 11 years ago, the house was an instant hit. Most nights they were attracting about 2000 cars, slowing

down to see the lights – so the Mitchells requested a hazard sign for the road to minimise the traffic danger.

Traffic has since fallen off as other houses have lit up, but they still love putting on their twinkling light show and often find notes in the mailbox from people thanking them for brightening their day.

“I just enjoy it because it adds a bit of colour to our Christmas season. We’ve got so much to be thankful for.”

While they only run the lights from about 8.30pm to 11pm most nights, David is conscious they chew up a bit of electricity.

“It’s probably a good thing that I’ve never thought to check the power bill.”

The 30,000 lights decorating the Cambridge Road, Tauriko house will be switched on from next week.

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The Weekend Sun

David Mitchell and his lights.

Photo by Tracy Hardy

By Hamish Carter

Wireless hubs planned for Tauranga Internet users in Tauranga will soon be able to access public WiFi zones around the town with the launch of a new service by internet provider EOL. The public WiFi hubs will allow people to safely and securely transmit sensitive details over the WiFi system.

The service is being launched this month, allowing people to choose a ‘high security’ option when browsing the internet in public places such as cafes, parks and camping grounds.

EOL managing director Terry Coles says they have set up a network of WiFi zones through the Western Bay of Plenty which can be accessed throughout Tauranga’s CBD, Tauranga Hospital, Grace Hospital,

Marine Parade, Pilot Bay and the Beachside Holiday Park at the base of Mount Maunganui.

Terry says a ‘secure option’ is rarely available for public networks anywhere in the world and may well be a first for New Zealand.

“Almost all public internet hotspots around the world are non-secure open networks, which is why users should avoid transmitting sensitive data over them.

“Provided your mobile device supports it, we can now protect your privacy when you’re using EOL’s paid public network by providing PEAP over the air encryption between your device and our servers.”

He says the new secure service will be of particular interest to IT or business people who want to connect to their business networks remotely in a secure and protected manner whilst roaming in public places.

9

The Weekend Sun

Bringing colour and culture

Pin Up Pet of the Week

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From front cover

Although the festival identifies itself as the Brazilian music festival and carnival day, organiser Tulio Costa says his idea for the festival has always been about bringing different cultures together in the city – not just Brazilian.

“Coming from Brazil, it is a colourful country, very exciting. I feel that is something missing here.

“The festival is our effort to make this beautiful city a bit more colourful and vibrant, bringing all cultures together for a celebration.”

Starting at 1pm, the main stage outside Cornerstone bar features

live performances from the talented young Mount Maunganui band RPM, Figa Mandinga, musician Aaron Saxon and Patricio Alvarez (DJ Pato).

The festival also features dance demonstrations of samba, salsa, Zumba, flamenco and hip-hop.

The Tauranga/Mount Maunganui Capoeira Brazil group and capoeiristas, who have travelled to Tauranga for the festival, are demonstrating Capoeira as well as Maculele (a traditional form of dance where the group perform with long wooden sticks).

From 2pm, Tauranga samba are leading the festival parade, followed by the various performers.

Five years on, the festival has now

become an exciting, integral part of cultural life in Tauranga. Tulio says every year the festival grows and will continue to grow as more people know about it.

“Even though we were unable to get the funding we needed this year, the community loves the events and don’t want to see it die.

“The Tauranga community has been so supportive and with the help of organisations like Creative Tauranga, we are able to keep bringing a little bit of culture to the heart of the city for the whole family to enjoy.”

The festival runs from 1pm until 5pm. The Strand from Wharf Street to Hamilton Street is closed from 10am.

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By Laura Weaser

Budding photographers Papamoa College’s visual arts teacher Helen MacDuff (front row left) assembled 42 enthusiastic students who enjoyed a presentation last week by yours truly (front row right) as part of their careers day. Judging by their questions, I’d say some will undoubtedly pursue a career in photography.

Taken with Panasonic Lumix GF2 on mini tripod.

Want to pursue a career in photography?

Email photos@andybelcher.com or visit www.andybelcher.com

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The Weekend Sun

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11

The Weekend Sun

The first cut is not the deepest As noted last week, every three years full council wades through the laborious task of reviewing all council’s services and activities to collate a Ten Year Plan.

This review process makes it a three year/Ten Year Plan and this time around a majority of councillors have reverted to voting with their hearts instead of their heads.

At the outset the aim was to reduce debt by about $100 million and a rate revenue increase of about five per cent.

Things aren’t going so well in even putting a dent in the finances or debt.

But this is the first cut of a draft for consultation so there’s a way to go yet – a point the Bay Times headline writer seems to have missed.

Misreporting confuses In three year/Ten Year Plan reporting, no decisions have been made.

Decisions are only made after consultation/submissions are received and have been deliberated on in May next year.

What is being put in the plan is to ascertain what the public thinks council should do. Take for instance the Waterfront Plan on The Strand.

This proposal includes a playground – cost of about $300,000.

My personal view is that it shouldn’t be in, but I am very interested in community feedback ($300,000 could be better spent of even better not spent at all?).

The ‘Glasshouse’ left over from the ill-fated ‘Kestrel’ restaurant is hardly a fit in a marine environment, but again what is the majority view?

So it won’t be until submissions are received (and other feedback) that any decisions are made.

Other proposals to be included are a $420,000 boardwalk along Pilot Bay. Daisy Hardwick Walkway in Otumoetai proposed $19,000 for a gravel access for the Goods Road connection.

Rubbishing OSH silliness More PC rubbish with OSH requirements. Mention OSH and most elected members run for the ratepayers’ cheque book.

So $137,500 of your money is proposed for safety issues. Some of

it – like push locks on fire escapes is sensible, but others are ridiculous.

On one council building there is a side door fire escape.

It’s a staircase about three metres off the ground. Someone might run up it and fall through the railing.

The fact that it’s been there for 50 years with no reported incidents might be an indicator, but no.

It is to be covered with a Perspex shield to prevent a fall.

More like interfering with the gene pool if someone is stupid enough to climb it and fall.

And they shouldn’t be there anyway.

Pools get a dip in The Mount Hot Pools redevelopment is unlikely to go ahead, but the refurbishment that was expected will likely proceed.

Ratepayer subsidy for operations is about $732,000 with loan and debt servicing taking it to about $2million.

A redevelopment was designed to reduce this subsidy by increasing revenue and surplus on the Hot Pool operation.

This is the only pool that usually (not likely this year) makes money.

A library lift The Greerton Library, after lengthy debate, is in the first cut with a $450,000 addition increasing its size by 50 per cent.

Much hilarity as Catherine Stewart got tongue tied and told us that library users “should be happy with a 50 per cent increase that would double the size of the library”.

It’s okay Catherine, we knew what you meant.

In a bid to get some thinking outside the square I successfully moved the CEO bring back options that might produce a new library and complex in conjunction with the private sector.

As an example, council provides the land and someone builds a complex that includes the Village Square and a library at no cost to ratepayers.

Pie in the sky the detractors howled, but how do you know until you ask?

The resolution passed 7-4. Why you wouldn’t ask escapes me.

The mobile library is proposed to cease as the $160,000 it costs each year can be more effectively used within the library service. This is

not cost cutting. Half of this service is to schools which pay nothing to the service, but we understand, receive an allowance, albeit inadequate, to provide in-school library services. $30,000 of the $160,000 would be used to upgrade a service for housebound library users.

Baypark needs a boost

for first home buyers be repaid over five years in the rates by the homeowner.

I pointed out that the banks would just add this debt into the loan calculations and/or reduce the amount of the loan. The resolution was put and lost 10-0 with Rick acknowledging that making policy on the hoof wasn’t a good idea. 10-0 is a first in my experience – the mover usually votes for.

This week’s mindbender – “Life is hard. It’s even harder if you’re stupid.”

Unsurprisingly by Anonymous.

Baypark asked for a budget provision of $1.7m in the plan to build a 2500sqm ‘pavilion’ (read big shed), but after lively lengthy discussion was declined.

TCVL, which runs Baypark Stadium and TECT Arena, is seeking a $5m capital injection.

The debt is already there, created by principal requirements, capitalised interest and operational loss. No decision until the CEO brings back an options report.

Baypark is doing okay now it is in full control of activities, but it has been hit by the economic downturn and issues not fully within its control.

The likely outcome is some of this debt will have to be picked up by ratepayers.

Funds for the suits Staff surprised elected members by telling us they needed another $500,000 for City Plan appeal processes – legal and mediation. Oh joy!

I asked if council needed to stick so hard to the party line.

I was told it’s just not that easy (to summarise).

It never is where the Resource Management Act is involved, but is great for lawyers and consultants.

Add to all this the $20 million plus for uncollectable development contributions and you can see that elected members with a disposition to voting with their hearts are either going to harden up and chop out a heap of worthy, but unaffordable proposals or send you a whopping rates increase.

As David Stewart so eloquently puts it – and I agree – we are going to do very well if we can tread water in the next couple of years.

Council first to finish

To finish, more hilarity (despite attempts to portray otherwise in the daily media, most of the time we are a good humoured bunch) when Rick Curach attempted to move that a building impact fee

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12

The Weekend Sun

A myriad of wonderful sights Atacama – one of the greatest deserts on Earth.

I recently had the absolute pleasure in October to travel to South America to visit Chile and Argentina. What a myriad of wonderful sights to see. One of my favourite locations being the Atacama Desert.

It is extreme in its variety, isolated and beautiful. Its beauty resides in the texture of

the land, the starkness of the sky and in how life has found a way to conquer the desert.

Atacama is a lunar landscape in places, lush river canyons in others. In some parts, rain has not touched this parched land for the last three hundred years while summer can bring brilliant rainstorms in the mountains that surround the Alto Atacama Hotel, which is where I stayed.

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te Puke

We flew in to the Calama Airport and stayed in this amazing all-inclusive Desert Lodge and Spa which is approximately 90 minutes drive from the airport. This lodge is incredible. They offer 36 different excursions from the Lodge and their local guides have an incredible knowledge of the whole area including the flora and fauna. With the planned excursions the hotel staff will be waiting to collect you from your bike ride, horse trek, hike or walk, with drinks and snacks all set up just waiting for you to appear. This is soft adventure – simply fantastic.

I would recommend this to anyone who wants to do and see something a little different. There are also salt lakes

and desert lagoons with flamingos and geothermal pools, little villages dotting the land, with lots of craft shopping and genuine South American food and beverages.

Words to describe Atacama; ‘amazing, stunning and unforgettable’, so call me soon for prices and the best way to get there. Phone Leeann at United Travel at the Mount.

Simon Bridges MP FO R TAU R A N G A Thank you for your support. I will continue to work hard to represent Tauranga.

My wife Natalie and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

My office will close for the Christmas break at noon on 21 December 2011 and reopen on Monday, 16 January 2012.

CONTACT: 184 Devonport Road, Tauranga 3110 P O Box 581, Tauranga 3140 PHONE 07 579 9016 FAX 07 579 9669 EMAIL taurangamp@parliament.govt.nz www.simonbridges.co.nz

facebook.com/Simon.Bridges.MP

Funded by the Parliamentary Service and authorised by Simon Bridges MP, 184 Devonport Road, Tauranga

www.national.org.nz

By Leeann Sandlant

13

The Weekend Sun

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14

The new wave in IT service

The Weekend Sun

Progress your IT career with us Using a Graduate Diploma in Computing (GDipComp) from Bay of Plenty Polytechnic, Kevin Reynolds is now developing web sites at the forefront of one of the biggest companies in the Bay of Plenty.

After emigrating from India, Kevin already had a Masters in Science and Information Technology prior to entering into Polytechnic’s Graduate Diploma in Computing. This programme is designed for graduates like Kevin who want to enhance their career with additional skill sets.

The programme built on the work he had studied in India – including programming, animation, business analysis and web designing. One of his projects at the Polytechnic was working on the internal website help desk system that enabled employees to log job requests – that impressed his current employers at Triodent.

Kevin is now a web developer there, where his cur-

rent project revolves around creating a new application for both the company’s international and New Zealand website versions.

The Graduate Diploma in Computing programme is run in partnership with Auckland’s Unitec and is available either part time or full time. This comprehensive programme of study provides technical, theoretical and practical knowledge, and the skills you need to succeed in the computing and IT industry. The programme is comprised of eight papers from the Bachelor of Computing Systems Degree (BSC) (at least five at Level 7) and is open to people with a non-computing degree or for experienced IT professionals with no formal qualifications.

Apply now, programme starts 20 February, call Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Information Centre on 0800 BOP POLY or visit www.boppoly.ac.nz

By Laura Weaser

Generation X bites back at the commentators Locally, some commentators in the not so distant past have suggested the economy is so bad in New Zealand that Gen X and Y people should leave the country on mass (where too, I hear you ask).

Baby boomers have you failed your offspring? Do you know how they feel about the situation they have been handed? ‘Greed is good’ crowed Gordon Gekko in the movie Wall Street. Well if greed is good, then let me be the first to say good is not enough, not even close, let’s reach for greatness.

Baby boomers

Given I am from the Generation X, I feel I can comment on who we are and how we may feel. Gen X’s are stereotypically cast as dislocated as well as uncertain.

The MTV generation has had to deal with family breakdowns and ever more greedy baby boomers and as a result we shunned authority and turned to film and music for our inspiration. The influences certainly in the early 90s, including bands such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, Rage Against the Machine as well as films such as Clerks and Fight Club, propagated this feeling of disillusionment. In summary, Gen X has been conditioned to feeling left out and out of control which until now is exactly what has been the case.

New blood

I think it is time to let Gen X help plot the new course. As Brian Gaynor has mentioned before, board rooms need to change personnel. Bring in new blood because we need a change of thinking. For investors out there, we should pay very close attention to those companies that make this step. Failed may not be the right word, but it is harder now than it was. Therefore, together we will have to find a new way and to do so we need to harness the thinking of Gen X. One last point, my grandparents grew up post depression – therefore I think we could listen to them a little more too.

The article is based on personal opinion and may not be representative of the views of Goldridge Ltd. Josh Hoskin is an authorised financial adviser with Goldridge Wealth Management. A copy of his Disclosure Statement is available free on request. This article is not personalised advice under the Financial Advisers Act 2008. Readers should not act on any suggestions in this column without taking professional advice that takes into account their current circumstances and appetite for risk.

The Weekend Sun

15

Thank you Tauranga ership model to four SOEs; and reducing the Government’s stake in Air New Zealand, plus much, much more.

In welfare our next steps include amending the Social Security Act to comprehensively reform benefits and focus on getting those who can work, back to work. In addition, we will introduce changes to sanction beneficiaries whose recreational use of drugs affects their ability to apply for and get a job. We will undertake an urgent review to make it easier to prosecute people who defraud the taxpayer and we will make changes so if someone is on the run from Police, with a warrant out for

their arrest, we can stop their benefit.

Other steps across various fields include more changes to bail laws to make it harder for those accused of the most serious crimes

to get bail, setting a target of 98 percent participation rates for new school entrants in early childhood education by 2015, and work to introduce new ECE services in areas of highest need. In health we will do such things as continue to increase the number of elective surgeries each year by at least 4,000 and ensure that all state houses built before 1978 that can be practically insulated, are insulated.

These policies I’ve mentioned give you merely a flavour of our Post-Election Action Plan.

For more details go to http://national.org.nz/ PDF_General/Post-Election_Action_Plan.pdf

Simon and his mum Ruth thank Tauranga for their support.

Thank you Tauranga for your support at the general election on 26 November.

It is a great privilege to be your local MP and to renew my contract with you for another three years.

I pledge to be a strong voice for Tauranga in Government and to continue to work hard for you and your family.

Since the election the Prime Minister has been working hard to form a Government with supply and confidence agreements with the United Future, Act and Maori parties. The purpose of all this is to form a strong, stable, National-led Government over our term and to help us give effect to our policies, which are outlined in National’s Post-Election Action Plan (a link to this plan is below).

Post-Election action plan

Our Post-Election Action Plan covers our next steps in regard to the economy, welfare, law and order, education, health and rebuilding Canterbury. We want to begin work on all of these elements immediately.

On the economy we want to balance the books, repay debt and create more jobs. Specific measures we’ll undertake include halving the Budget deficit next year; finalising departmental four year spending plans to ensure spending control targets are met; amending the RMA to have six-month time limits on consenting medium-sized projects; implementing our mixed own-

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16

The Weekend Sun

Practical or personal gifts?

Forget about the glitter and glitz, sometimes the best presents are practical items that will be used again and again.

With times a little tougher, there may be a temptation to give items needed for the household, but research by The Weekend Sun suggests this strategy is only successful if you choose the right people.

A straw poll of Western Bay residents found mixed feelings on the practical approach to presents – split largely across age and gender-lines.

Those aged over 30 and a high proportion of men are happy with practical gifts for the household, while anything practical for a men’s hobby like fishing or boating is always a hit.

Papamoa receptionist Sarah Smith – in the under 30 category – summed up the opposition, saying she thought it was better to give special treats.

“It’s a special time of year so the presents should also be special, not just something you are Tazmin dressed in his finest!

going to get anyway, like a car cleaning kit,” says Sarah.

Oropi mother Catherine MacLoughlin – in the over 30 category – believes giving practical presents, such as kitchen appliances or cake mixers, can be a good way to be treated to something you have been putting off.

“I remember my mother wasn’t happy when she got a mixer, but I would love it.

“It’s funny because the mixer has now become a family heirloom.”

Te Puke orchardist Mark Miller illustrated the position held by most men, saying he loved any gifts relating to his hobbies of fishing or golf.

By Hamish Carter

This is all I want for Christmas Dear Santa, I have just heard the news that last year’s green house emissions from burning fossil fuels rose by more than five per cent.

Santa influence

That’s not good, especially for you and all your helpers at the North Pole. You have a big enough job without having to

worry about your home melting away. Is there any way that this Christmas you can influence all the people with the power in the world to agree on what we can all do to cut back on the emissions that’s changing our climate.

Healthy Rudolph

I know it’s a big task, but if anyone can, you can. You can show them Rudolph and co produce clean gas emissions, that they don’t have any carbon footprints and that the only global warming you cause is to the hearts of children around the globe.

Yes I know that everyone from all the various countries around the globe are going to have to give a bit. Expectations around the world are going to have to be matched with what the poor old planet can cope with now and more particularly for the future. We need someone to do something or else we might not have many white Christmas’ left.

Anyway, if you could do your best, that would be great.

PS: Also, if you could enable world peace in 2012 that would be great.

Perfect tipple for Christmas stockings Hillsdene Wines on Cameron Road is a great place to visit, in fact you could do all your Christmas shopping in one hit if you tried (except for the children of course).

Doug has an excellent range of wines and beers, plus the knowledge and expertise to point you in the right direction.

His selection of single malt whiskeys has to be seen to be appreciated. I know my dad will be getting one in his Christmas stocking (sorry to ruin the surprise dad). There is also a huge range of gift boxes at varying prices.

The wine we tried this week was the Jules Taylor Sauvignon Blanc 2011, which just picked up gold at the Air NZ Wine Awards. A lovely expressive bal-

anced wine, it’s a nice light colour with aromas of passionfruit. A nice rich palate with grapefruit flavours up front, with a nice dry finish. A good example of a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. On special at only $18.90 it makes good buying, well worth stocking up at this price.

Check out the video interview with Doug on www.sunlive.co.nz

The Weekend Sun has a bottle of Jules Taylor Sauvignon Blanc 2011 or lucky readers who can tell us where this Sauvignon won gold recently?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions section.

Entries must be received by December 13.

The winner is to collect their prize in store at Hillsdene Wines.

17

The Weekend Sun

Dressing a festive home Dressing yourself for Christmas get togethers and parties is a fantastic way to celebrate the season, but dressing the tree, table and even the garden, can also add a spectacular festive feel to your home.

Bayfair Shopping Centre has a myriad of products that allow you to choose the perfect table setting, coordinate this with your tree and complement the look with fresh flowers.

Whatever your budget, you can create your own theme ranging from small accents with napkins and napkin rings to a completely coordinated room.

“For inspiration or when time is just too tight to plan your Christmas designs,

why not look out for the mailers in the letterbox which often illustrate some wonderful options or visit the stores to see the settings on display,” says Bayfair Shopping Centre marketing manager Nina Rivett.

For a complete listing of the stores which can assist with your Christmas decorating plans visit www.bayfair.co.nz

A long term Christmas gift

When spending money on a gift for your loved one this year, why not put that money into a long-term investment with high, reliable returns?

Powersmart Solar, New Zealand’s premier solar integrator is offering high quality, top of the market solar PV systems for a great price this Christmas.

Investment gift

Not only will the gift of solar reduce your future electricity bills and create an ever-increasing income for you, it will provide endless entertainment.

A common trend with solar power system owners following the installation of their system is their intrigue

and interest in the power generated. On a number of occasions, Powersmart Solar have had feedback from those standing in front of their inverters watching the electricity production.

Great project

Bay of Plenty resident Garry Tapper says the solar installation was “a great male project”.

It allowed him to turn appliances on and off and generally learn how much power every item in the house used.

There are a number of reasons why solar is a good investment; to reduce your power bill, to reduce your carbon footprint or as John Moore of Maungatapu says, “Long term, I didn’t want large power bills in

Zumba food bank dance A special festive food bank collection is being organised for Zumba dance enthusiasts at Hairini Marae.

Fundraiser organiser Lena Kairau says the special Zoom (Zumba on our Marae) class is a fun way to get together with others in the community before Christmas and supporting a great cause with exercise.

“The theme is Santa and Elves – so we are asking people to come dressed as Santa or Elves and go get into the festive spirit.”

All participants must donate a non perishable food item for the Tauranga Foodbank. The fundraiser is on Monday, December 19 from 6pm to 7.30pm. For more details phone 0272 564 327.

By Hamish Carter

my senior years”.

With the complete turnkey solution offered

by Powersmart Solar, a PV system makes a great hassle-free Christmas gift and will provide you with your future electricity needs while generating a return for you of at least eight per cent per annum.

Wayne Rush

Bodywork Specialists in injury and illness recovery and prevention

18

The Weekend Sun

Set to sparkle this festive season The team at Bethlehem Jewellers has recently expanded with the addition of Julie Eynon and Helma Gerrits to the team.

The team are thrilled to offer Julie Eynon’s latest collection ‘Embrace’ this Christmas.

“Julie’s Sterling Silver pieces really provide a cohesive fit with Bethlehem Jewellers,” says owner Helen Redding.

Retail manager Julie Eynon, apprentice jeweller Scott Parker and Sarah Morrison, owners Helen and manufacturing jeweller Adrian Redding. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

“She hand crafts each piece, making each piece a unique item.”

Owner and manufacturing jeweller Adrian Redding says it is an exciting time for their small business.

“We have been open for over four years now. We specialise in providing something a little bit special – exceptional customer service, manufacturing jewellers on-site and pieces of jewellery that are hand picked.”

Adrian says the one of the benefits of dealing direct with the jewellery

manufacturers is clients have the opportunity to work together with the jeweller to design and manufacture that special piece of jewellery The team have also just imported an exciting new welder from the USA, enabling them to offer a new range of services in-store. They can now weld metals that have previously been unable to be repaired such as items made from titanium and stainless steel as well as jewellery with heat sensitive stones.

‘One Love, One Dream, One Carat’ is a stunning promotion that

Bethlehem Jewellers are currently showcasing in store this Christmas.

Fifteen gorgeous new one carat and more diamond rings, earrings and pendants sparkle from the special display – the perfect Christmas gifts.

Bethlehem Jewellers have also joined Facebook. Go to www. facebook/BethlehemJewellers and ‘Like’ their page to go in the draw to win some beautiful jewellery over the next few months, including a Tissot watch valued at $899.

Making Christmas more joyful It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.

W. T. Ellis Whatever our circumstances, if we keep the love that is the true meaning of Christmas in our hearts we will effect our environment. It is not what

we have so much, as how we give of ourselves in this season. My wish for each of you is that you may have a very blessed and loving Christmas.

What small thing could you do for another person during this season that would make their Christmas more joyful?

If you would like to find out more about coaching, phone Mary Parker for a complimentary session 07 577 1200, email info@coachingtheattitude.co.nz or visit www. coachingtheattitude.co.nz

The Weekend Sun

19

20

The Weekend Sun

Growing book worms this summer Tauranga library is set to become an incubator for young book worms during the summer holidays.

Fed on a diet of interesting books before reporting back to the teenage or children’s librarians on what they have read, the library’s summer reading pro-

grammes aim to grow healthy young readers says teen librarian Amanda McFadden.

Amanda is encouraging young readers to register for the limited spaces available on its teenage and children’s programmes which offer young readers a chance to earn free books or win movie tickets from their reading.

“We want to keep them reading as much as possible over the holidays so they continue developing an interest in books and their reading level doesn’t slip back,” says Amanda.

Children’s librarian Michelle Anderson says by maintaining reading during the holidays, young readers avoid the ‘summer slide’, when they return to school with lower reading levels.

The teen programme, open to students aged 12-18, offers readers the chance to earn up to four books and culminates with a finale party when they will Skype top US author Lauren Oliver and Kiwi writers Brian Faulkner and Mo Johnson.

Among those already lining up to join in the programme is Tauranga Intermediate School Year 8 student Amber-Leigh Adnitt. The 13 year old is aiming to read as many books as possible during the holidays.

The programmes return after positive feedback last summer.

For more details phone 07 577 7220 or register at any library.

By Hamish Carter

Book worm Amber-Leigh Adnitt, 13, is looking forward to earning books as part of Tauranga Library’s ‘Teens Means Reads’ programme.

Christmas around the globe A multicultural Christmas celebration is taking people around the world next Friday when the Tauranga Regional Multicultural Council holds its end of year event.

Council president Ewa Fenn invites anyone interested to attend the ‘Celebrations around the World’ event, which will include cultural performances by groups from India, Korea, Kiribati, Philippines, Nepal, Samoa and the Netherlands.

“There will be beautiful costumes, music and dance and a chance for everyone to make new friends,” says Ewa.

Tauranga Park Ph 0800 2 BE APE (23 273)

Ph 07 929 8724

(Tect-All Terrain Park) 18 Whataroa Rd, Upper Pyes Pa Rd (SH 36), Tauranga tauranga@adrenalin-forest.co.nz Check out Adrenalin Forest in our Christchurch and Wellington locations

The event is part of the multicultural council’s monthly ‘Living in Harmony’ series of events, where various ethnic groups showcase their culture and meet others.

Please bring a plate of food for a pot luck dinner at the event on Friday, December 16 at the Wesley Church Hall, 13th Ave, Tauranga.

For more details phone 07 577 1644 or email enquiries@trmc.co.nz

By Hamish Carter

After a successful year of Living in Harmony, all cultures are coming together for Christmas.

Photo by Bruce Barnard.

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21

COMPUTER PROBLEMS?

Onward march

Relax!

More than 25 teams from the Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Auckland and Wellington are marching their way to Nationals at the Northern Regional competitive marching championship this weekend.

Top New Zealand Under 12, Under 16 and Senior teams are performing compulsory and freestyle routines at the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre. This season, the City of Tauranga has two very new young squads that are rebuilding for the future and hope to be back at the top by the 2013 Nationals in Dunedin.

Sixteen members are brand new to the sport this season, but they are still competing well against much older and more experienced teams.

Team coach Tracy Tredinnick says this is the most inexperienced team she has coached since the early 1990s, but she is so extremely proud of how well the team is performing against some very experienced teams.

“We are very proud to have hung on to top three finishes at our last three competitions and hope to place in the top three at the championship this weekend.” Visiting teams are travelling to Tauranga in order

Tauranga Computers Ltd The City of Tauranga girls. to chase top competition and judges ahead of the 2012 NZ Marching Championships that take place in March at the Claudelands Stadium in Hamilton.

The competition is on Saturday, December 10 starting at 12pm and the championship on Sunday, December 11 at 11am sharp. Entry is by gold coin donation.

Rising country star shining at carols Rising country star 11-year-old Georgia Baker of Tauranga is a featured soloist at this year’s Carols at the Quarry on Saturday, December 10. Georgia, a member of the Papamoa Country Music Club and who has been named a New Zealand Country Music Star of 2011, is performing two solos and in the finale.

“It’s wonderful to be able to share a performer of Georgia’s calibre,” says organiser of the Carols event at Te Puna Quarry Park Beth Bowden.

“It’s a family-oriented evening and people are welcome to bring picnics and enjoy the surrounds of the quarry park before we have

lots of lovely music under the stars.” The carol singing is being led by the 20-strong Quarry Choir, which has been in rehearsal for two months, accompanied by Emmaus, a six-piece band from St Mary’s Church in Tauranga.

The carols begin at 7.30pm in the park’s amphitheatre and, as part of the relaxed ambience, there is a coffee cart available.

Shuttle buses are running carollers from the parking area on Quarry Road to the amphitheatre track and Beth says concert-goers should bring a torch for the descent. No naked flames are permitted at the quarry park.

Should the weather turn wet the venue is Te Puna Hall, on the corner of SH2 and Te Puna Road. For more information phone Shirley Sparks 07 552 5874.

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The Weekend Sun

22

The Weekend Sun

The temptation of apples Like Eve, I have often been tempted by an apple and if Jazz apples were around way back then, I can see why Eve took a bite.

Traditional customs are still practised in countries like Sweden, Denmark and the US where on the first day of school, pupils give apples to the teachers. This

stemmed from 16th century customs where parents paid educators with foods like fruits because during that time teachers did not receive enough salary to sustain the

Apple and walnut cake Ingredients 2 cup wholemeal flour 1.5 cup raw sugar 2 tsp baking soda 2 tsp mixed spice 1 cup chopped walnuts 3 cup chopped apples – skins on is fine 1 cup soya or vegetable oil 4 large eggs Method Preheat oven to 170 degrees, grease 6-8 inch cake tin well or line with baking paper. In a bowl, mix all

From

NZ Farms

cost of living – so what’s new?

Jazz apples are the result of a cross between Royal Gala and Braeburn, developed in New Zealand by Plant and Food Research in 1985.

With all the summer fruit arriving, starting with the popular strawberries stealing the show, it’s still a great time to enjoy apples.

Interestingly, this variety of apple has become very popular in Australia – the country that only recently has allowed apple imports from New Zealand.

The crunchy juicy Jazz apple makes great eating and adds great flavour to baking.

This week’s recipe is a very easy apple and walnut cake.

the dry ingredients then the chopped apple. Mix the oil and eggs together and stir into dry mix till just mixed through.

Bake for about 45 minutes to one hour, test with a skewer, but remember this is a very moist cake so it’s often hard to tell when ready.

Another method is to slap the top of the cake with a spatula to hear the sound of the cake; a dull thud means it needs more time and a hollow sound means it’s ready. Allow to cool and frost with lemon icing or add a little yoghurt to your icing or just eat it as it comes.

This cake keeps well in the fridge for about a week – if it lasts that long.

23

The Weekend Sun

Delicious festive gift ideas Artisan Cakes and Christmas puddings are handmade by Bill and Judith Hanrahan from Christchurch and are just divine.

The Christmas puddings are carefully crafted by hand. The result is a rich, dense, dark fruit pudding made from fruit soaked in brandy and Guinness.

The aroma of fruit and brandy envelopes you as soon as you lift the lid.

For those who don’t like peel – you won’t find any in this Christmas pudding.

They are sold in a resealable container which you can use to reheat the pudding in. The puddings can be reheated by microwave or steaming.

Small pudding; 2 serves – Large pudding; 6-8 serves.

Artisan Celebration Cakes are made from ingredients chosen with care, chopped and mixed by hand and baked in small batches.

This care and attention ensures that each

Christmas meat loaf Over the next two weeks, we will be printing Sun Media staff ’s favourite Christmas recipes. Up first is ‘‘Chef ’ Ross Brown’s take on meatloaf.

I’ve been asked to give you one of my recipes, well the truth is, I only have one recipe and that’s from my flatting days 40 years ago.

This is an ‘any occasion’ meat loaf. If it’s for a birthday, you can stick candles in it, place one of those ugly plastic wedding couple statues on it and serve it at your (budget) wedding, but with the aid of a couple of mint leaves and some glazed cherries, I’m confident of passing it off as a Christmas dish.

Ingredients 500g sausage meat 500g mince meat 1 onion 1 bottle of wine (drink during the preparing – note; beer was my chosen drink while flatting) 1 beef stock cube 1 tin of tomato soup I tin of canned tomatoes 1 egg Mint leaves Glazed cherries Salt and pepper Method Pour a generous glass of wine to begin.

In a big bowl add the mince meat and sausage meat then mix by hand. Chop the onion (Tip: Remove the skin first) and put in bowl.

Add egg (Tip: Use fresh, not hard boiled eggs).

Add beef stock cube after having dissolved in some hot water first. (Tip: Don’t just fling it in whole as I did, as someone will get a nasty surprise when eating your creation).

Add salt and pepper.

Mix again in bowl and flop the gooey mix in a load tin.

Time for another wine (Tip: Go easy on the wine).

Pour the tin of soup over the top.

Drain the can of tomatoes and slosh them in.

Grind a bit of pepper on the top, this probably doesn’t do much, but they always seem to do it on Masterchef.

Turn the oven to 180 degrees (Tip: Let oven heat up to temperature before you put the meat loaf in – so many recipes forget to tell us guys basic things like that).

Cook for about 1 hour. Remove from oven and add mint leaves and cherries to look like holly.

Fantastic served hot with spuds and peas or cold with a salad (Tip: Go for the peas and spuds as they only need boiling, where as a salad is way more complicated.) Cheers and have a great Christmas.

Receive a FREE Pane di Casa Loaf when you buy one of our delicious NEW Christmas Cakes or 2 Christmas Muffins.

Limit of one per person, per day. Offer valid until 18/12/2011.

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Share the joy with the ones you love.

Celebration Cake not only bursts with flavour, but also looks gorgeous – especially when cut – and the glace fruit sparkles like jewels.

The Celebration Cake is perfect as a small gift or as a Christmas stocking-filler. It also goes well in hampers.

Boxed, it is a wonderful gift at Christmas, but is also great to take with you to your dinner hosts.

As the Celebration Cake is best served thinly sliced, you can get 15-18 slices from the boxed cake. Serve with stilton cheese or a good cheddar after dinner.

24

The Weekend Sun

Dressing for the festive season Casual unstructured jackets and fashionable cotton knits can be layered when it cools down or dressing up a plain tee. Lightweight cotton fabric tunics are so fabulously cool, easy to wear and fashionable.

erly designed soft draping dresses.

Give yourself the ‘good feel factor’ by slipping on one of these dresses with elegant heels, quality accessories and get into the swing and enjoy the festive season.

Welcome to December and the festive month’s edition.

It now appears summer is really on the way, strong winds have abated and daytime temperatures are rising.

The time has come to organise what to wear for all the end-of-year functions, Christmas day and general outdoor entertaining.

Party time

For the Christmas parties, why not consider a feminine look. These range from Chic tiered style to clev-

Comfortable

Christmas day is a special time of the year when you want to feel cool, comfortable and classy.

There are a good number of dresses available that fall into this category or maybe a skirt and top are more to your taste.

Outdoor entertaining is such an important part of the lifestyle in the Bay. Three-quarter pants, tops, tee shirts and tunics all play a major role in this type of dressing.

Frank Lyman dress

Stock up

There is an extensive range of tops available, covering many different styles that can help you create many looks to suit the occasion. Stock up – you can never have too many tops.

On behalf of the Team at Maison Monique, Adele, Judi, Ward and myself, we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Working together for vulnerable children In the Bay of Plenty we have more than 250 services working with and for our children.

We have more than 170 health and social services here that are involved with family and more than 60 Kaupapa Maori services.

Whilst we do have this strong foundation of services and support for children and families, we unfortunately also see families that are not able to thrive, with children not finding their place to belong and achieve.

This week, the Green Paper for Vulnerable Children Roadshow has been in Tauranga, letting us know about the opportunity for us all to have our say about parents and caregivers, communities, the Vulnerable Children’s Action Plan, legislation changes, working with whanau, hapu, iwi and Maori leaders, sharing information, reviewing government spending, watching out for vulnerable children and better linkages for connecting chil-

%

dren and parents to services.| To quote from the website; http:// www.childrensactionplan.govt.nz – the facts speak for themselves: Every year an average of 10 children die at the hands of the people closest to them, the people they love and trust.

• More and more New Zealanders are coming forward with their concerns about suspected abuse or neglect of children. In fact, notifications to Child, Youth and Family grew by 205 per cent from 2004 to 2010 and 148 notifications were confirmed by social workers.

• Between 2008 and 2009, 13,315 children under five were admitted to hospital for conditions that could have been avoided and 1,286 were admitted because of assault, neglect or maltreatment.

• More than 30,000 students are truant from schools on any given day and 7342 school leavers left with no qualification in 2009.

To change a landscape involves touch decision making. If we want to see better job prospects, greater

life choices, less dysfunction, welfare dependence and crime, then let’s think about and respond to this opportunity to contribute thoughts and ideas on how we can ensure our children thrive. I believe it is families which raise children, so how can we better help families do this?

How would you like the future of children in New Zealand and Tauranga to look? We have until February 28, 2012 to have our say.

To find child and parenting health and social services for Tauranga visit www.bop.webhealth. co.nz – your link to wellbeing.

To be connected to Rise Up Tauranga go to the Facebook Page ‘Rise Up Tauranga’ or email riseuptauranga@gmail.com Rosalie Crawford is a medical scientist and lecturer. Email Rosalie.crawford@xtra.co.nz, phone 021 072 8255, Skype: Guavablue or Facebook/ Twitter: Rosalie Crawford.

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The Weekend Sun

Unexpected health benefits LIVING with John Arts

When I create a nutritional programme for someone, in most cases there is a main problem we are trying to address. This can be anything from general fatigue to something like a sore knee.

It is always a delight to see people get an improvement in the area causing them the greatest concern. What is interesting though is by addressing fundamental nutrition, there are often many unexpected benefits.

I had someone call me about

quite severe body-wide cramps.

These were not the common night cramps in your leg. They affected her in her torso and many other parts of her body.

She was under the care of her GP for the problem. Our goal was to ensure her muscles were getting all the important minerals, especially magnesium and that her blood vessels which bring oxygen and nutrients to her muscles were working as well as possible. After three months she noticed the cramps had significantly reduced. She also noticed her general energy and wellbeing had improved as had her hair and nails. These were matters we had not discussed and the benefits completely unexpected.

So often we think of our bodies as separate components or systems that are somehow independent of each other. Anyone who has

studied physiology learns this interconnectedness is central to how our bodies operate. Of course, sometimes damage or disease is localised, but systemic weakness can cause local problems. As a simple example, if your immune system is generally producing too much background inflammation, this may show up as seemingly unrelated problems.

You may have a problem with various joints and have swollen gums. If we can lower overall inflammation, we may be able to help both problems.

In the case of the person with cramps, we included a broad spectrum multi antioxidant, multi mineral and multi vitamin along with solid Omega 3 doses.

These nutrients affect every cell, not just muscle fibres. We also used targeted nutrient therapy to assist with proper blood flow

Smart way to fight skin ageing Keep looking younger easier, faster and cheaper this summer with the simple application of sunscreen.

SunSmart manager Laurianne Reinsborough says New Zealand’s environment, including our high ultraviolet radiation levels are tough on our skin and can cause skin to age more quickly.

“Without protection, exposure to UV can cause noticeable skin changes like age spots, spider veins, rough leathery skin and wrinkles.

“With repeated exposure, the skin loses the ability to repair itself and becomes thinner.”

Laurianne says scientific studies have shown that repeated UV exposure breaks down collagen and attacks elastin, the protein that keeps skin firm and flexible.

“In a nutshell, UV exposure from the sun or from sunbeds speeds up the skin ageing process.”

Laurianne says there are two types of UV that reach the earth’s surface – UVA and UVB. “UVB

rays are more likely to cause sunburn, but UVA rays pass deeper into the skin and scientists now think that UVA rays may add to skin damage that can lead to skin cancer and cause premature ageing.

“You only get one skin in your lifetime and if you want to get a lifetime out of it, the single most important thing you can do to fight skin ageing is protect your skin from UV exposure.”

Take steps to protect your skin from the sun this summer. Between 10am and 4pm during the daylight saving months, remember to ‘slip, slop, slap and wrap’ – slip on a shirt or into the shade, slop on plenty of broad-spectrum SPF30 plus sunscreen, slap on a hat and wrap on a pair of wrap-around sunglasses.

Laurianne says sensible sun protection should not put people at risk of vitamin D deficiency.

“Most Kiwis will get enough vitamin D through just being out and about during summer without deliberately exposing their skin, particularly during peak UV periods.”

and to improve blood vessel function. This is especially important with people prone to cramps.

The really good news is despite her 70 plus age, she is now experiencing a period of significant health improvement.

Our bodies are very capable of healing once we give it what it needs.

To contact John phone 0800 423 559 or 07 578 9051 or visit www.abundant.co.nz.

To read more visit www.sunlive.co.nz

Abundant Health

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The Weekend Sun

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The Weekend Sun

Falling out of bed: home hazard More than 7600 people were injured falling out of bed last year.

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Falls are the biggest cause of injuries in the home and the number of New Zealanders injured in their own home is more than those injured at work or on the road.

According to Accident Compensation Corporation, last year, more than 261,000 New Zealanders were injured as a result of falling over or slipping in their own home. These injuries were serious enough to result in a visit to the doctor or require time off work and the cost was $272 million.

ACC general manager insurance and prevention services Keith McLea says it’s not just older and younger people who fall at home.

“People aged 25 to 64 years old make up 41 per cent of all home falls and account for 60 per cent of the cost.

“There were also about 1800 people in this age group who fell out of bed.”

Keith says falling out of bed may sound insignificant, but 146 people are hurt every week as a result of these falls.

“An injury like this can seriously mess up your plans and we don’t want New Zealanders to miss playing

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for their team at the weekend because they are laid up in a hospital bed with an injury.”

Other common home accidents occur while doing everyday things like walking up or down steps, rushing to answer the phone or working on a DIY

project. The most common place to take a tumble was the garden with 78,000 people falling outside the home. The bathroom was one of the most dangerous rooms inside the home, with 11,000 people hurt after slipping.

Falls: The facts and stats

• There were more than 261,000 claims for falls in the home in 2010.

• The cost of falls in the home was $272 million.

• Falls made up more than 40 per cent of home injuries.

• There were more than 107,000 claims for falls in the home made by 25 to 64 year olds.

• More than two thirds of these claims were made by people in the workforce.

• The cost of falls for 25-64 year olds was $164 million – $68 million of which was weekly compensation.

• More than 3000 people were off work for more than three months as a result of falls in the home.

• Almost 10,000 people were off work for more than a week as a result of home falls.

• Last year, more than 15,000 people in New Zealand were seriously hurt falling down the stairs at home.

• Last year, more than 2500 people in New Zea land were seriously hurt from a fall indoors on a wet floor.

• Last year, more than 78,000 people in New Zealand were injured from a fall outside the home.

For more information visit www.homesafety.co.nz

29

The Weekend Sun

Good builder versus great builder When engaging the services of your local trade professional, it’s only fair to receive value for money and the product is fit for purpose.

Certified Builders are no ordinary builders. They’re among the most qualified in the building industry; trade qualified, experienced, professional and reliable.

So how do you tell good, from great? A good builder may have a self written contract with little protection

for the homeowner. A great builder can offer user friendly contracts, from a suite of contracts specific to your build requirements – up-to-date and in line with protection under the Building Act. A good builder will have a license, a great builder will be a licensed

Building Practitioner and trade qualified; for that added assurance. Good builders have self written guarantees that are only valid while the builder is trading.

Great builders can offer a 10 year Homefirst Builders Guarantee that is underwritten by an independent third party with a Standard and Poor rating.

Good builders will go into weathertight rebuild work with good intent.

Great builders will have the backing of an association that can offer a Weathertightness Guarantee. A good builder builds the way he has always

done things. Great builders minimise building failure through continuing industry training with technical training events and meetings.

So when it comes to renovations, alterations or building your home, you’ll want a great builder – look for the Certified Builders logo. It’s the mark of quality.

To find a great builder visit www.certified.co.nz Certified Builders New Zealand’s most qualified builders.

Ad helps ignite firewood sales Plans to clear a shed of firewood were given a huge boost when the Tauranga City Sunrise Lions Club advertised in The Weekend Sun last week.

Club past president and firewood collection organiser Ken Evans says he is delighted with the fantastic response they had to the advertisement and editorial.

“We’ve sold 17 truckloads of firewood and counting, just off that one ad. That’s just great,” says Ken. “We always use the Sun for our promotions because we know it goes to more mailboxes and lots of people read it.”

He is delighted to still be getting orders almost a week after the ad ran and says it is helping make space for more wood they are collecting. They are delivering a truckload of mixed wood (about 1.5 cubic metres) to the Tauranga/Mount/Papamoa area for $150. Phone 07 578 0451.

Codes published The Department of Building and Housing has released its first edition of Code Watch – a new updated publication on changes to the Building Code and its documents.

Code Watch includes links to information sheets, which give more detail about the key changes. Issue one is out now and features changes to the B1 Structure and E2 External Moisture documents.

For more information visit www.dbh.govt.nz

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30

The Weekend Sun

Smart and sound buildings A commitment to only employ high quality tradesmen using high quality products has built a top reputation for Tauranga painter and plasterer Texcote 2007.

By Hamish Carter

Until now, the business has grown through meet the new requirement of having a With painting and plastering divisions, quality and word of mouth. the business offers the perfect solution when 10-year building maintenance plan. The Texcote is also helping body corporates repainting plastered buildings with its ability company is drawing on its team’s wealth of to fix deteriorating textured areas experience to put together and underas part of the repaint project. take maintenance plans to keep The six-member Texcote the paint finish in top condition painting team, led by owner to avoid building deterioration. and lead painter Eden ColWith a team of qualified lins, recently completed a professionals, clients can be three week project that has confident no short cuts will be reinvigorated the stunning taken and jobs are organised so Mills Reef Winery art deco they are fast, with minimum style building. disruption.

Eden says the feedback “It comes down to knowlfrom the winery owners edge of how you plan and and visitors has been so Eden Collins and his team are proud of all their painting and moving around the parts of the positive he has decided to plastering jobs, including this Cambridge Rd home. building depending on how take advantage of it and busy they are throughout the actively promote the business day so you are almost invisible.” for the first time in 15 years.

Western Bay values drop The triennial rating revaluation of the Western Bay is showing the huge impact Psa-V is having on the district.

The revaluation of the district under the Rating Act is as of July 1, 2011, before the full extent of the infection was known and reduces Gold orchards by as much as 50 per cent. Most of the reduction is in the value of the vines and support structures. Although Psa has meant vines have had to be removed and at the time of the revaluation there

was no cure in sight, an infected orchard still has an alternative use says the council’s rating report.

The land has been valued to reflect this, with the result that land values for orchards have typically dropped by 25 per cent across the whole district.

The capital values of Green orchards across the whole district are typically down by 35 per cent.

The district’s total capital value is $12.8 billion, which is 18 per cent lower than the last valuation in

2008. The district’s total land value is $7.38 billion, representing a 22 per cent decrease.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council chief executive Glenn Snelgrove says the fall is in line with a nationwide trend, which he attributes mainly to the Global Financial Crisis.

The drop in property value does not automatically lead to a reduction in rates says Glen. “If your valuation decreases less than the average, your rates are likely to increase.”

31

The Weekend Sun

Record Gold grower payout DMS Progrowers has made a record payment to late season Gold kiwifruit growers, including a special extra payment to all Gold growers averaging 62 cents.

shipped to market in week 41 and very low fruit loss, these payouts take us from an average year to an exceptional year.”

Craig says during recent years, they have been working hard at DMS to improve fruit loss results and net storage earnings.

“Due to our continued low fruit loss and the high “And we are now consistently performing at the top returns this late in the season, we have increased our of the industry in both areas, meaning more money in usual payment to Gold growers significantly,” says grower’s pockets.

DMS directors Craig Greenlees and Paul Jones.

“For the last three seasons, our superior fruit loss has “It’s great to be able to offer our Gold growers meant extra money into growers’ something positive at a time of great DMS pockets. This year that is more uncertainty, with many growers Progrower than $1 extra per tray for earning $3.00 per tray and more directors Gold growers and 20 cents from storage this year.”

Craig to Green growers comDave Willis is a Gold and Greenlees, pared to industry average.

Green orchard owner who left and Paul “We believe this excelpacks his kiwifruit with Jones. lent result is due to DMS and also has an our staff and auditing orchard managed by systems to ensure DMS. our growers’ fruit is “We have done extremely well manextremely well with aged so that it will DMS over the last few reach the offshore years, especially in relamarkets in excellent tion to fruit storage. condition.”

“With Gold kiwifruit

How to walk to Matakana Read this column in full on www.sunlive.co.nz With Brian Anderson

It’s really quite easy – one foot after another.

You have to start an hour or two below high tide, negotiate a muddy patch on the shore at the end of Matahui Road and walk to Matakana Point.

Three kilometers out from the shore, there might be a few misgivings. You might feel a little vulnerable. Don’t worry. The Matahui Bank is quite wide and if you wear your polaroids you will be able to see the bottom of the shallow puddles and be more sure footed.

Two hours before low tide, the deepest water was just over my knees. It is obviously a walk for a group.

There would be a real feeling of isolation on your own and three kilometers away from any shore.

There is no rush. Our group met the other half of the Katikati Primary School senior school on Matakana Point walking the other way. They started from Omokoroa and walked back to Matahui on the same low tide.

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The Weekend Sun

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The Weekend Sun

Family tradition turns full cycle

Rd

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mechanic Warren returned the business into family ownership three years ago.

Warren used to help his dad with repairs in the shop after school and was keen to carry on the family tradition.

Cambridge Heights Shopping Centre

wn

From helping in the family cycle and mower shop as a youngster, life has gone full circle for Otumoetai Cycles and Mowers owner Warren Judge.

The business which sells and services a wide range of bikes, lawnmowers and outdoor garden equipment, was originally run by Warren’s father David Judge until 18 years ago.

After years of working as a motor

By Hamish Carter

W es

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ins

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Mower and cycle specialist Warren Judge is building on the top reputation established by his father at Otumoetai Cycles and Mowers. Photo by Bruce Barnard.

“You are dealing with the front man who owns the business compared to the other big stores where you are just a number.”

His dad – who ran the business for the first year under Warren’s ownership – still likes to pop in and help where he can.

15 Camb rid 8 g

Originally based in the Otumoetai Road-Grange Road shops, the familyfocussed business now operates from Cambridge Heights.

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34

The Weekend Sun

Safe summertime scootering

AT LEAST ONE LAYER OF CLOTHING LIKE THIS PROTECTS YOUR SKIN IF YOU COME OFF scootersurvival.co.nz 2330 ACC Scooter Adshels Phase 2_1jb.indd 1

Nothing feels more like summer than being in bikinis and boardies, scootering along Marine Parade, but ACC is warning riders this summer to ‘add another layer’ and keep safe on the road.

ACC’s ‘add another layer’ campaign is targeting young riders who, while enjoying the freedom and convenience of their scooter, may not have given much thought to avoiding serious injuries if they do come off.

Even at low speeds, scooter riders can be badly injured in a crash and nasty grazes are common.

Last year, ACC paid out approximately $2 million Tauranga Hospital Emergency Department clinic supporting injured scooter riders, with a third of nurse specialist Charlie Caine says the department claims being for riders 15-24 years old. sees a lot of injuries, varying from fractures and broken bones, to “really nasty grazes and gravel rash, which spreads along the body if the driver is only wearing a T-shirt and shorts”.

“It makes a mess when the bits of clothing stick to the skin and it makes it difficult to dress,” says Charlie.

“The T-shirt can get dragged along with the skin and makes significant skin wounds.”

ACC insurance and prevention services general manager Keith McLea says just lth hea yee of emplo Mark Hardman, manager ury prevention one layer of clothing ACC Regional manager d community inj an r rpe Ha Ted can help reduce the e vic ser and saftey ng. Photo by Tracy Hardy. seriousness of injuries, consultant Carole Flemi but T-shirts, shorts and jandals offer zero protection against the unforgiving asphalt and the risk of a more serious injury is far greater if riders aren’t even covering bare skin.

“Simply adding a long sleeved jacket can reduce the severity of injury in 75 per cent of crashes.”

Keith says that while full protective gear is always going to be best, wearing clothes you already have will still make a big difference.

“Long sleeves, gloves, jeans or long pants, shoes or boots are your best protection. Plus wear a full face helmet to give more protection to your face if the worst does happen.”

Tauranga Hospital health and safety officer Ted Harper has joined ACC in the campaign to bring awareness to not just patients, but hospital visitors and hospital staff.

As part of this promotion, the hospital is supporting a safety display courtesy of ACC and Lindsay Beck from Bayride Motorcycles Limited. The display will be seen in a prominent area of the main corridor.

ACC, Tauranga Hospital and Bayride Motorcycles want scooter riders to be able to spend the long sundrenched summer days having fun, not recovering indoors from an injury.

More safety tips and information for scooter riders is available at www.scootersurvival.co.nz 12/10/11 1:42 PM

Conditions apply, ask in store for details

By Laura Weaser

35

The Weekend Sun

Planes, games and automobiles There is something for the whole family at the Classics of the Sky Airshow during Auckland Anniversary Weekend in January thanks in a large part to the efforts of the Tauranga Te Papa Rotary Club.

The club is responsible for the on-ground activities, as it was in 2010 for the inaugural event.

“We realise that what’s happening in the air is the major drawcard, but we know how important it is to keep people entertained on the ground as

Hippo slide.

$91 p/week

well,” says Rotarian Jerry Cowper.

Rotarians have planned a range of activities for the kids, including the return of the Mammoth Slide, which is reputed to be the largest inflatable slide in the world, plus a Vertical Bungee, Water Balls and a Climbing Tower.

Alongside this, there is going to be a small Ferris wheel, Merry Go Round, Mini Jeeps, Chair o Plane and Pendulum Swing Boat.

The ‘bigger kids’ can try driving a V8 Supercar Simulator from Virtech Simulators and meet local drivers from the nearby Baypark Speedway.

The trade sites already booked cover a wide range of interests, from various car and caravan dealers, aviation businesses, jewellery, hats, possum and merino knitwear, glassware, pottery, beading kits, homemade fudge, kitchen processors, outdoor furniture and much more.

Food and beverages will also be in good supply, with a diverse range of snack food and healthy meals on offer. Local bars have also secured trade sites and will supply wine and beer in controlled settings.

It is expected most trade sites will stay open until 7pm on Saturday evening, meaning patrons can leave the grounds at a leisurely pace and at a time that suits them.

Airshow tickets make great presents and are available from www.tcas.co.nz or from Classic Flyers NZ at Tauranga Airport.

Limited numbers of trade sites are still available and can be booked at www.tcas.co.nz

$110 p/week

$139 p/week

$139 p/week

$81 p/week

$130 p/week

$159 p/week

$183 p/week

$101 p/week

36

The Weekend Sun

Infrastructure of Rena ‘intact in first five days’ It is ironic that Mark Cairn’s statement that criticism of the response to the Rena stranding being too slow, was ill informed, and then proceeds to misinform the readers by quoting the MNZ statements that the Awanuia was not of any use until after the 5th day.

During the first five days the infrastructure was basically intact, power, pumps, heating to tanks and the crew was still on board and were familiar with the vessel. The weather was perfect for ship to ship activities and from all accounts the crew was ready to assist with the transfer of oil.

The fuel transfer pumps, waste oil transfer pump or sludge pump could quickly have their discharge lines modified to connect to the bunker loading point or even directly onto transfer hoses.

The Rena was very close to ship repair facilities and any fabrication of parts not

possible on board could have been done on shore and quickly sent out the vessel.

It is a complete red herring to suggest that the vessel could not have been ready for the Awanuia.

Once the Rena lurched over to starboard and lost the ability to transfer fuel by her own devices the salvors faced the arduous and often dangerous task of removing the fuel over the next month, this was completely avoidable if the MNZ had acted expediently and secured the Awanuia in those critical first few days.

A recent audit of the MNZ criticised the MNZ for not having sufficient technical people in the department, particularly where the Director and her five deputies have no commercial maritime experience or qualifications.

The recent apology from Catherine Taylor that the MNZ had been too slow in advising

the public as the situation developed, was a consequence of her and her managers not being technically aware of the situation and unable to advise the public. It was not until she recruited ex staff with marine experience and consultants that the MNZ was able to report what they were told, parrot fashion.

The recent position being offered to oversee the investigations and on going work on the Rena has been advertised, the successful candidate must be someone that has not been associated with this saga, and hopefully someone with a marine background.

Captain Heath Smart.

Fifty years experience at sea, 25 years oil tankers, deepwater oil drilling, offshore dynamic positioning vessels, (diving, subsea construction, pipelaying, towing, seismic, wreck hunting and salvage).

Shilly-shallying?

Rena on Astrolabe, into week eleven.

Thanks Mr Cairns Thank you, very much Mark Cairns, CEO, Port of Tauranga, for your reply to writer, R Paterson, regarding Rena slow response. Your information was welcome relief from doubts we have had.

We now know much more on what was happening immediately following the grounding. I appreciate you don’t normally use the newspaper letters to the editor to communicate the facts and thank you again.

You do however need to clear up one more point. Speculation has been rife, believing the Rena was grounded on purpose.

Can you please explain the facts and clear this up? It has been said the Rena changed course to hit the reef and radio warnings were ignored.

Also the same shipping company has a record of 3 ships grounded in 3 years.

Thanking you.

S McEwen, Bayfair.

36 months to pay No deposit

Mark Cairns, CEO of Port of Tauranga took the opportunity to comment on my letter but completely chose to miss the points raised and the thrust of my letter.

Effectively what I said was that Port of Tauranga as NZ largest port needed a dedicated barge to take the oil off stricken vessels, it also needed a barge with a crane to unload containers from such vessels and that the Astrolabe Reef needed a beacon.

I made no attempt to address technical issues or the salvage operations as I am not qualified to do so. I did question the delay of a meaningful response for the first 5 days and I was talking about a ship initially in reasonably good shape, which may have been able to assist with oil discharge, not one battered by winds and storms and effectively wrecked.

Mr Cairns went off on his own tangent although it is safe to assume he is dismissive of my observations. Well, next time Mr. Cairns, Tauranga/Mount/Papamoa may not be so lucky.

The public can make up its own mind on the pros and cons of what is being said …. 6 weeks to get the bulk of fuel oil off and a year to remove all the containers!! Remember the sooner you start, the sooner you finish the job.

What goes on behind the scenes and the shilly-shallying between Tauranga Port and Bay Regional Council is not the public’s problem. Those of us with genuine environmental and conservation concerns will not be interested in the politics or who is holding whose hand if any unnecessary damage occurs to our coastal environment. We need emergency services located at Tauranga Port in place to act at short notice, not unpreparedness.

I am not swayed by the ‘once in 100 years event’ claptrap either, we nearly had 2 in a month, MV RENA, MV Schelde Trader (2011) and Hanjin Bombay (2010) plus the Golden Master beached 40 odd years ago.

R Paterson, Matapihi.

37

The Weekend Sun

Mangrove mulch messes remaining

Here we go again with bail outs Again the Mayor and council have let ratepayers down with the bailing out of the company ruining Baypark, was it not the mayor who told us when we bought the park that it would never need rate payer help?

Trouble was we bought it with money we never had, that is the way they do things, if it had stayed in Bob Clarkson’s hands, I bet it would not have lost money, could the Mayor and Council

To link, as Jane Nees does, sighting of godwits as ‘great justification for the mangrove clearance’ is just plain silly.

Godwits are spoilt for choice in Tauranga harbour.

The flocks move and feed over the vast areas of sand and mudflats and their sighting at Aongatete is a matter of tide and chance and people observing them. It has nothing to do with mangrove removal.

Councillor Nees says that ‘the aim of the (mangrove clearing) exercise was to restore the coastal environment back to sand flat and salt marsh…’ In the cleared places I have trudged through, I can tell her that it isn’t working. Even the site at Omokoroa, where the mangroves were mulched nearly two years ago, remains an ugly, foetid mess.

The desired restoration of sandy beaches is wishful thinking, and as for improving access and amenity values, does Councillor Nees prefer the desolation at Omokoroa to the attractive mangrove forest that used to grow there?

Ann Graeme, Bellevue.

tell us of one thing they have put our rates into that has made money or has not had to have more money spent on it? The hot pool made money till they took it over and double the staff, and will never make money. Why is it that there are a number of Private hot pools around town that make money why don’t the council send someone to see how they do it? (abridged) EK Mills, Tauranga.

RIGHT: Omokoroa mess after two years.

TCC money magicians and Route K Tauranga City Councillors latest plan is to rummage through the property archives to see what land TCC own that can be sold, this in desperation to try and reduce the “mushrooming debt” that has been going on for most of the last 10 years.

The ratepayer tab sits at over $400 million (add some $300 million, Southern Sewerage Pipeline project (plan was that develop-

ment/building fees, +SIF’s/BIF’s would pay for it all. Looking at The Lakes and elsewhere that is not going to happen anytime soon.

The “Magical Mystery Tour” plan to be public consulted in 2012 is to sell $100m of TCC lands. sale of Route K/Pyes Pa-bypass with total debt now over $70 million is most of that plan.

Route K yearly losses are:- 2009 $2.775m, 2010 $2.515m and 2011 $2.522m, income and costs have

increased. The 2012 year will have at least $16m added for the Pyes Pa Bypass and even more losses. Car volumes at $1/each will need to increase by about 400% just to try to breakeven at 30/6/2012. Next TCC will be telling us that NZTA have not noticed that!

In two years the debt has risen by $5.9m to $57.0m (PyesPa @$12.8m still to come), by 30/6/2012 the debt will be $73+m.

A Barnes, Tauranga.

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38

The Weekend Sun

E N T E R T A I N M E N T G U I D E MUSIC

DVD MOVIES

OUT THERE GUIDE

The ever popular guide to ‘What’s On’ in the Bay.

Saturday 10 December Arataki Market

St Mary’s Church car park opp Baywave, Girven Rd, Bayfair 9am - 12pm.

Eftpos on site. Craft stalls, plants, fresh seasonal produce etc. Sausage sizzle & Devonshire Teas available. New stallholders welcome. Clare 575 3238

Capoeira & Latino Festival

Fan area on the Waterfront. The Brazilian music festival & carnival display & Latino festival will do displays on the waterfront 1pm start & finish with a parade along the Strand.

Plus Bay Salsa Christmas party 6pm – late at Como Cucina. Free entry. All welcome. 021 045 4235

Car Boot Sale & Stalls

Tauranga Girls’ College staff car park, Cameron Rd 8am-1pm. $10 per car or stall. 571 5504

Christmas Dance Party

Greerton Hall 7.30pm - late. $7pp.

BYO drink & nibbles. All welcome.

Sonia, Supreme Dance Centre 543 2377 or 027 322 1786 or email: soniahodson@ihug.co.nz

News, reviews and opinionated raving on the music scene.

Harrisons Art Gallery Exhibition now on: Pure Gold - Harrisons celebrates 50 fabulous years with 50 artists until Dec 23. Gallery open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm & Sat 10am - 2pm. Late night Thurs Dec 15, 22 till 7pm. 106 11th Ave Tauranga. 578 9322.

Just Avocados Christmas Variety Concert Moore Park, Katikati 4-6pm showcasing local talent. Loads of activities & fun.

Historic Village Bazaar & Market 17th Ave 9am - 2pm. Crafts, car boot sales etc. All shops open.

Messianic Meeting: Ha Derech - The Way Sharing The Truth, The Way & The Life together. All ages & backgrounds Jew & non Jew welcome. Every Sat 10am. Geoff or Pamela 570 1438

Moggies Market Memorial Hall Katikati 8am – 12pm.

Plants, spray-free home produce, local crafts, home baking, recyclables, knick knacks. Come & find a bargain. John 0274 534 050

Presbyterian Church Marton

Christmas Dance

Marton Presbyterians are celebrating 150 years on Aug 19 & 20 2012. If you have been part of St Andrew’s & would like further info ph 06 327 4532 or email: Standrews@maxnet.co.nz

Christmas in the Omokoroa Domain

Ride the Rotorua Lakes. Leave from Tauranga Baypark Stadium car park area 9.30am. Meet up 9am. $20 donation – spot prizes. To register visit www.upost. co.nz Want to ride pillion? Karl 0274 908 309

All dancers welcome to old time & modern sequence dance. Live band, good supper. At Mount Sports Centre cnr Hull & Maunganui Rds, Mount 8-11.30pm.

Entrance $8, members $7. Organised by Mount Scottish Soc. Elizabeth 544 5633 Local bands, school choir, Carol singing 5-9pm. Free family event. Bring a picnic, sausage sizzle available. 548 2515

Christmas Parade & Santa in the Park Katikati 3pm. All welcome.

Dance Party

The Ultimate Christmas Dance Party.

Ballroom & Latin at Te Puke Memorial Hall 7-10.30pm. BYO drinks & supper.

The Dance Centre. http://www.udance2.co.nz

‘Diversity’ Group 55 Te Puna

At Creative Tauranga Gallery, 112 Willow St, Tauranga.

Sativa Eagle Charity Motorcycle Road

Tauranga Farmers Market Tauranga Primary School cnr 5th Ave & Cameron Rd every Sat 7.45am - 12pm. Christmas Hamper tickets on sale. Support Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club. Trixie 552 5278 or www. taurangafarmersmarket.co.nz

Tauranga Radio Sailing Club Model yacht sailing every Sat 11am - 4pm & Weds 1.30-6pm at Lake Taurikura, Scoria Close, The Lakes, Tauriko.

The Drawing Challenge Jump in anytime. You’ll get a Daily

Reviews of DVDs, old and new, as well as other bits and bobs.

Stories, snippets, strangeness, and general entertainment.

Trigger to interpret however you like then express artistically - all for a month. emma_leighh@hotmail.com

Mount Maunganui Farmers Market

The Sociables

Males/Females 30’s/40’s. 022 012 0376

Village on 17th Bazaar Market

Every second Sat of month 9am – 3pm.

Set up from 8am (no earlier access than this). All kinds of stalls welcome, craft, art, produce. $10 per stall. Graeme 543 9282 or 027 4496 960

Whanau Ora Day

At Huharua at Plummers Point, Te Puna. A special day for whanau to come together & share in fun activities as a community. Entertainment & good health promotion eg diabetes tests, sun smart, men’s health, Push Play etc. For more information regarding food/art/craft stall space, Mahia 552 6238 or teoturu@ pirirakauhauora.org.nz

Sunday 11 December Big Chocolate

Church with Distractions & Attractions, Bethlehem Baptist Church, 90 Bethlehem Rd 2.30-4pm. Church service designed specifically for those with intellectual disabilities. Guest speaker: Marcus Norrish, with special appearance from Father Christmas. Includes afternoon tea. All welcome.

Christmas in the Park

On the grass at St Andrews Church, Dee St, Mount 10am. Sausage sizzle, bouncy slide, face painting. Bring a deckchair or rug. 575 9347

Dances of Universal Peace

At 196 Roydon Downs Road, Paengaroa 3.30pm. Bring a plate to share. All welcome. Clarity 533 1915

Free Christmas Dinner

Are you on your own this Christmas Day? Please don’t be. Come & share Christmas dinner. The combined Churches of Te Puke are having their 6th Christmas Day free dinner with entertainment & a small gift for everyone – single or as a family, young or old.

Starts 4pm Dec 25 at Te Puke Baptist Church, cnr Station Rd & Malyon St. 573 9042

Every Sun 9am - 1pm in Phoenix car park, rain or shine. Home grown, home made, organic or spray free - fresh fruit & veges, breads, cheese, oils, plants & more. Downtown the Mount open 7 days. 575 9911

Omokoroa Lions Market

Western Ave car park, Omokoroa 9am - 12pm. All stall holders & car boot sales welcome. Produce, crafts, anything. Only $5/5m space. Keith 548 2117

Opus Orchestra

Graham Young Youth Theatre, Tauranga Boys’ College 7.30pm. Conductor: Peter Walls (NZSO), Katherine Austin - piano, Bill Stoneham - trumpet. 08004ticket or Baycourt.

Palm Beach Plaza Lions Market

7.30am - 12.30pm. Stalls must be set up by 7.30am. Great range of goods for sale including fruit & vege, arts & crafts. $10 per car space. 0272 593 120.

Next market Dec 18.

Petanque

Every Sun, Tues & Thurs at Cliff Rd 12.45pm. Boules available, tuition given. 1st 3 visits free. Neita 572 3768

Radio Controlled Model Yachts

Every Sun 1.30pm & Thurs 5.30pm at pond behind 24 Montego Drive, Papamoa to race electron class yachts.

Graham 572 5419 Singles Mix & Mingle 40+ Coffee Afternoon Zaggers Cafe, Chapel St 2.30pm. Are you looking for friendship or companionship? Mix & mingle with other likeminded singles in a relaxed atmosphere.

Gayle 027 439 3267

Sunday Bible Study

Every Sunday 10am. Fellowship/tea 10.45am. Sunday worship 11am. 1st & 3rd Sunday evening singing 6pm.

Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton. 541 0388

Tauranga BMX Club

Opening of new BMX Track & Cambridge Park, 280 Cambridge Rd 10am followed by 1st NQM race meet 11am start. Bring picnic lunch & enjoy some

The Weekend Sun’s guide to who’s playing and where. spectacular racing.

Tauranga City Sunrise Lions Car Fair

Every Sunday at 11th Avenue car park (opp Mad Butcher) 8am - 12pm. Buy & sell cars/vans/motorhomes/utes/4x4/ boats. Ken 027 733 9686 or www. taurangacarfair.co.nz

Tauranga Country Music Club

Senior Citizens Hall, Norris St 1pm. Christmas Club Day. Visiting club, members a plate please. All welcome. Practice night Dec 9 at Senior Citizens Hall 7pm.

Merv 543 4400

Tauranga Jazz Club Woodhouse Connection plus Marg Harper & Friends at RSA Tauranga 6-9pm. $15 non members, $10 members, $5 students. June 578 5000

Tauranga Spiritual Society Thanks to all our guest speakers & wonderful helpers for their support.

Happy holidays everyone.

Monday 12 December Aspergers Coffee & Chat Group

Support group at Junction office, 4 Roys Rd, Greerton 10am – 12pm. 579 9890

Body & Soul Fun Fitness For over 50’s, social events & occasional guest speakers Mon & Fri Greerton Hall, Cameron Rd. Tues Wesley Church, 13th Ave. Weds City Church Otumoetai Rd. All classes 9.15-10.15am. First class free. Men & women welcome. Dianne 576 5031

Christmas Lights & Display See the display of the Christmas story at Tauranga Central Baptist Church, cnr Cameron Rd & 13th Ave. Church open to view Dec 12 – Dec 23 8-10pm. Also Dec 20 & 21 2-4pm. Light refreshments provided.

Feast Tae Kwondo NZ Every Mon & Thurs at Meredith Hall, Fraser St, Greerton 7pm. Mark 0274 998 282

Katikati Art Gallery Main St, Katikati Mon - Sat 10am - 1pm.

39

The Weekend Sun Meditation

Free classes. Find the real meaning & purpose of your life. Bring out the peace & joy that exists inside you.

Mon 10am & 7.30pm. David 576 9764

Papamoa Branch NZ Soc of Genealogists

Meet 2nd Mon of month in Tohora Room, Papamoa Library 9.30am 2.30pm. Modest door charge. BYO lunch. Tea/coffee provided. Speakers & research material available. New members welcome. Mark 542 0204

Papamoa Mumz A great place to make friends. Coffee group for mothers with babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers.

Papamoa Support Centre, 95 Hartford Ave 9.30-11am. 574 7170

Papamoa Progressive Assn Meet 2nd Mon of month in Tohora Room, Papamoa Library 7.30pm.

Opportunities for members to discuss civil & community affairs with councillors & guest speakers. Also learn about proposed & ongoing local & regional developments. New members welcome. Steve 542 1602

Recycled Teenagers

Gentle exercise for 50’s forward, & injury or illness rehabilitation. Mon & Weds at 14 Norris St, Tauranga Senior Citizens Club behind Pak N Save.

Tues at St Mary’s Church Hall, Girven Rd. All 9-10.30am. Classes have finished & recommence Jan 16 2012.

Check The Weekend Sun for details on Jan 13. Jennifer 571 1411

Relationship Services

Mon - Parenting Through Separation, free course for separating parents 10am - 12pm. Positively Me 4 Women - self esteem course for women 12.302.30pm. Tues - Parenting Through Separation 7-9pm. Positively Me 4 Women 12.30-2.30pm. Thurs - Parenting Through Separation Papamoa 10am - 12pm. Positively Me 4 women 7-9pm.

Weekend Course - relationship secrets, for couples. 576 8392

Seeka Avocado Café Competition Dec 12 – Jan 14. Katikati & Waihi Beach cafes. Local restaurants & cafes must produce a dish that uses avocados as the major ingredient. Winning entry announced at Katikati Wine & Food Festival. Details are listed on www. katikati.org.nz Come & try them & you be the judge.

Sit and Be Fit Class

Seated down class. Focused on balance, stability, aerobic, flexibility & strength. Tues 11.30-12.30pm at Papamoa Community Centre, Gravatt Rd. Weds 11am-12pm at Greenwood Park Village, Welcome Bay. 578 9272

YMCA - ALFS

(Active lifestyle for seniors). Smooth

Movers class Mon 8.45-9.45am & 10-11am at Matua Community Hall, Levers Rd. Also 9-10am & 10-11am at Arataki Hall, Zambuk Way (off Grenada St). Tues 9.15-10.15am & 10.30-11.30am at Papamoa Community Centre, Gravatt Rd. Weds 9.15-10.15am Welcome Bay Hall, Welcome Bay Rd. Thurs 8.45-9.45am at Otumoetai Action Centre, Windsor Rd. Also 10.30-11.30am at Bethlehem Hall, Bethlehem Rd. Fri 9.15-10.15am at Papamoa Community Centre, Gravatt Rd. 578 9272

bear making, knitting etc. 541 0388

Zonta International Club of Tauranga

City Early Start Toastmaster

Business & professional women’s club committed to improving the lives of women everywhere. Meet 2nd Mon of month 5.30pm. Allison 544 9992 or email: tauranga@zonta.org.nz

Z.O.O.M Hairini Marae

Dec 19 -Tauranga Foodbank Fundraiser 6-7.30pm. Theme: Santa & Elves.

Entry free: non perishable food/s or koha. Zumba raffle – support the cause. $5 per ticket. All koha & food donated to Tauranga Foodbank. Last class Dec 19 – back Jan 9 at Hairini Marare, 8 Tamahika St, Hairini. Cost $3, under 16 free. Lena 0272 564 327

Tuesday 13 December Conversation Cafe

For housebound seniors every Tues 10am - 12pm. Morning tea, fellowship, games. St Andrew’s Church, Dee St, Mount. $5. 575 9347

Excel Toastmasters Club

Learn to be a competent communicator & get your message across. Meet 2nd, 4th & 5th Tues of month at Senior Citizen’s Hall, 345 Maunganui Rd, Mt Maunganui 6.15pm. New members welcome. George 573 3943

Freestyle BMX Club, BMX Inc

Club night every Tues. Meet at 17th Ave Skate Park 4.30pm. A decision then made as to what skate park to go to. Participants must be 11 years or older to join. Helmets compulsory. Bring money for fish & chips. Check us out on facebook. Key word BMX Inc. Paul 027 742 1756 or 021 916 571

Katikati Support Group

Coffee & chat for people with an experience of mental illness at Katikati Resource Centre, Beach Rd 10am – 12pm. 579 9890

MT Muay Thai Martial Arts

Teaching & train in the art of Muay Thai, self defence, fitness, disciple & personal development. Arataki Community Centre Tues & Thurs 7.309pm. 14-18years of age $3 per session, 18 years + $5 per session. Ray 022 103 7471

Stitching Servants

Every Tues at Tauranga Church of Christ, Greerton 10am. Card, quilt,

www.manutere.co.nz

Tauranga Acoustic Music Club

Trust Bar, Bureta Park Motor Inn 7.30pm. Friendly jam session. Sing, play or just listen. Sheryl 552 5906 or www.taurangaacousticmusic.com

Wednesday 14 December

Bethlehem/Omokoroa Plunket Christmas Party Otumoetai Plunket Rooms, 59 Otumoetai Rd 10am - 12pm. Bring a small plate for shared morning tea & (optional) donation to Foodbank. Liz 021 069 6657 On holiday - back on Jan 25 at Zaggers Cafe 6.50-8.15am. Email: LaniDTM@kol.co.nz

Ladies Bible Study/Tea

Every Weds 10am.

Singing/Bible class 7pm.

Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton. 541 0388

Mount Badminton Club

Summer social club night Weds 7-9.30pm at Mount Sports Centre, Maunganui Rd. Cost $8 per night. All past & new players welcome. Janice 575 2438 or 027 201 0529

Otumoetai Toy Box Toy Library

94 Bureta Road. Opening Hours: Weds 6.30-8.30pm, Thurs 9.3011.30am, Fri 9.30-11.30am. A number of membership options available. All welcome. 576 9923 or 027 857 7452

Pirates of the Pacific

Final shows available Dec 21, 22 & 23. Book now to avoid disappointment. 574 1672

Te Puke Spiritual & Healing Centre

Palmer Place Te Puke. Speakers: Allen & Krystal - readings. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start. Last evening of the year, bring a plate.

Sarai 573 7933

Thursday 15 December Awesome Clothing Sale

Good used clothing, all ages, sizes & styles. Fill a bag for $2. At Village on 17th Ave, Tauranga 9.30am 0 12pm.

All welcome. Organised by Turning Point Trust.

Carols by Glowlight

Experience the magic of Christmas lit by hundreds of glowlights. Sing Carols & hear the Christmas story. St Mary’s Anglican Church, Girven Rd 6.30-7.15pm. Begin your countdown to Christmas with the whole family.

Fitness League

Safe, effective, low impact exercise to music using the Bagot Stack technique, designed for females. All ages & abilities, first class free. Thurs 9.30am Central Baptist Church Hall, cnr 13th Ave & Cameron Rd. Weds

10am at Katikati Memorial Hall. Pam 549 4799 or 021 117 7170

Forest & Bird Walk Tauranga Branch

Beach Rd Katikati. End of year restaurant lunch (Dec 10 walk cancelled). Eddie 576 1849

Happiness & Our Mind

Drop in meditation classes at Otumoetai Plunket, 59 Otumoetai Rd 7-8.30pm. Classes self contained, start any date. $12 per class. Next class Dec 15. www.meditateintauranga.org

Keynotes 4 Part Harmony

Womens Chorus meet Thurs at Wesley Church Hall, 13th Ave 6.45pm. Sing for fun & health. Pam 578 3757

Salvation Army Band

Playing at Tauranga Central Baptist Church cnr Cameron Rd & 13th Ave 7-8pm.

Tauranga Breast Cancer Support Service

Christmas members lunch, for support & information at 56 Christopher St, Tauranga 12pm. Kath Vickers will demonstrate making Christmas decorations. All welcome. Julie 571 3346 or email: bcsstga@ clear.net.nz

Tauranga Heart Support Group

Fun, rehab exercise, social events & occasional guest speakers for those with or at risk of heart disease. Thurs 9.30-10.45am City Church, Otumoetai Rd. Men & women welcome. Cardiac Care leader Dianne 576 5031

Friday 16 December Cantata Church Choir

Presents ‘Night of Miracles’ at Tauranga Central Baptist Church cnr Cameron Rd & 13th Ave 8pm.

Collect for Animals

Dec 16-17. SAFE seeks volunteers to have fun & collect donations to help animals. Registering is easy at http://www.safe. org.nz/Appeal/ or 0800 SAVEUS

Gay/Bi Mens Support Group

Do you need a trusting person to talk to?

Discretion assured. For meetings & locations ph/txt Alex 027 358 5934

Kids Fun Friday

Free Bible crafts, stories, puzzles, puppets, plays, skits, snacks & singing at Tauranga Church of Christ, 1400 Cameron Rd, Greerton 3.30 - 5pm. 541 0388 Tauranga Regional Multicultural Council Living in Harmony event: “Celebrations around the world” at Wesley Church Hall 6pm. Free event, but bring plate of food for potluck dinner. Ewa 577 1644 or enquiries@trmc.co.nz

Regular events see www.sunlive.co.nz under the What’s On section.

“What’s On” in the Weekend Sun is a free service for nonprofit clubs and organisations. email julie@thesun.co.nz or fax 571 1116 or post to PO Box 240, Tauranga. Deadline 3pm Tuesday. Contributions should be less than 20 words.

40

M U S I C

P L U S

The Weekend Sun

By Winston Watusi

The sounds of summer come to Tauranga First it was the kiwifruit, now it’s the oysters; you could begin to wonder whether someone’s got it in for New Zealand.

It hasn’t, by any objective reckoning, been the happiest of years (if you ignore the blip of positivity caused by those large men in black).

Christchurch, the Pike River inquiry, Rena’s grounding, the knackered kiwifruit, the infected oysters, John

Banks back in parliament, we seem engulfed by natural disasters.

But we’re tough here in the Bay. Life goes on, Christmas approaches, and the only thing to do is look forward to all the fun coming up over summer. And there’s a lot of it.

Over the next few months we have the Summer Fest, Gin Wigmore and the Muttonbirds at the Domain, the Acoustic Music Festival, the Marchwood Blues Picnic, the Flavours of the Bay Festival,

and, of course, the big Exodus reggae festival on New Year’s Eve in Papamoa. And that’s just scratching the surface.

Meanwhile, Mills Reef Winery has revealed the line-up for its Summer Series, taking place over the New Year holiday period.

The winery has already announced the acts for the big anniversary weekend concert, formerly known as Stars Under the Stars, but now rechristened The

the ugliest and most commercially obscene moves the music business has ever witnessed) might temper the pleasure of hearing all those great tunes.

The Summer Series happens a little sooner; there are three shows this year.

First up, on December 28, is Auckland’s Crawfish Mambo, a rare (for Tauranga) chance to enjoy the rhythms of New Orleans.

Shaken Not Stirred.

Summer Day Out. Headline act this year is Credence Clearwater Revisited, still featuring the original rhythm section from Credence Clearwater Revival, but with a couple of new guys fronting.

Supporting them will be an amalgam of Kiwis calling themselves Made In NZ, led by Jackie Clarke and Rikki Morris. They will play covers of Kiwi hits.

Still, they will be a couple of huge concerts and only the sad story of how Credence’s original singer/songwriter John Fogerty was screwed out of the royalties and rights of his songs (in one of

Club Mt Maunganui Friday 9 – Che Orton.

Saturday 10 – Paul and Penny.

Crown and Badger Friday 9 – Keel.

Saturday 10 – Shabang.

The band’s music resonates with the humid rhythms of the Big Easy and the joyful sounds of the Caribbean.

This is their first trip to Tauranga and they bring a mix of Mento and Ska, a dash of swampy second-line funk, plus the odd Mambo and Cuban tune.

Perfect for anyone who has discovered Treme on television.

Crawfish Mambo is a four-piece featuring a couple of guys from the very highly regarded Beyondsemble and a couple from French band Club Manouche.

Promising songs from Harry

Sunday 11 – The Blarney Band (Andy Craw and guests) 3-6pm.

Thursday 15 – Chris Gunn and his band 8pm start.

Drivers Bar Wednesday 14 – Tauranga Blues

Belafonte, the Meters, Desmond Dekker and others, it should be a great excuse to ‘Laisser les bon temps rouler!’

Next up is Kokomo, on January 3. The band has recently returned from gigs around the country to mark the release of It All Comes Round, their new album of blues and ragtime.

Kokomo hasn’t been playing much around the Bay for a while now and this will be a chance to catch up on some new songs and luxuriate in an evening of blues, from the earthy sounds of the Mississippi Delta to the contemporary Kiwi variety.

There are currently video clips of the band all over YouTube.

Harmonica player Grant Bullot has been making videos for songs on the new album and an enterprising filmer in Wellington posted a handful after the band’s recent trip there.

Some of them are at www. youtube.com/KokomoNewZealand, the rest are all over the place.

And, finally, January 11 sees the return of ace swing cats Shaken Not Stirred.

Based in Wellington the six-piece are fronted by singer Penelope Kibby and include a host of top players from the capital including ex-Blerta bassist Patrick Bleakley, mean sax-man Andre Paris and two once-local boys-made-good, Damian Forlong (trombone) and Deanne Hunter (guitar).

Mixing swinging jazz favourites with punchy rhythm ‘n’ blues, the band create a unique blend of blues, jazz, soul, and sensual dark lounge grooves.

And they have a lot of fun.

Jam 8pm start.

Mt Maunganui RSA Friday 9 – Harmonics.

Saturday 10 – Upfront.

Sunday 11 – Tellstar 4.30-7.30pm.

The Boulevard Restaurant Bar & Café Friday 9 – Live music from 9pm.

Sunday 11 –Jam sessions and barbecue. Bring your guitar, music and the whole family 2-7pm.

41

The Weekend Sun

D V D

M O V I E S

With Winston Watusi

RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

Fantastic Not bad at all Dreadful

Damn fine Dubious

Starring: James Franco, John Lithgow, Andy Serkis. Dir: Robert Wyatt

Thanks to Video Ezy Brookfield for the DVDs

Occasionally a summer blockbuster comes along that absolutely nails it, and Rise of the Planet of the Apes does exactly that.

Fans of the old series of Planet of the Apes films will notice that this rather departs from the original timeline, eliding at least two films into this one and hastening the demise of the human race with a subtle nod at the close. But the staggering advances in motion capture tech-

kid from Harry Potter, Caesar escapes to lead a revolution.

Yep, we all know basically what’s going to happen, but what makes this work is the finelyjudged screenplay, affecting performances by Franco and Lithgow as Caesar’s kindly minders, and those jaw-dropping effects.

The filmmakers get it all right and it’s a pleasure to watch.

The problem with superheroes is the every new one has to be introduced with an origin story. (Why? James Bond and Indiana Jones didn’t.) It tends to get a little repetitive. And next year we have to go through the Superman and Spiderman origin episodes all over again. Already?

Twice in a decade seems excessive...

This week there are two more, Captain and America: The First Avenger The Green Lantern , each very different but both basically the same story of a flawed hero transformed by scientific experiment / alien ring into a fighter against evil. The former may have been a box office hit and the latter a complete wash-out but both do the job adequately.

Captain America has a well-rendered 1940s setting and a classy support cast (Tommy Lee Jones, Stanley Tucci, Toby Jones, Hugo Weaving); Green Lantern is set in an extravagant universe with purpleheaded aliens (and has cameos by Temuera Morrison and Taika Waititi!).

Taking the leads, Ryan Reynolds and Chris Evans both have likeable all-American looks and attitudes, and overall I wouldn’t pick one film over the other. Green Lantern is probably a bit sillier – for better or worse – and is a little sloppy with its supporting characters, while Captain America’s arrival at least means we can now get on with that big Avengers hook-up.

M O V I E S

nology and the savvy script make this possibly the best of the bunch so far.

The story takes a fairly straightforward route: a new drug to help Alzheimer’s Disease is tested on a young chimpanzee called Caesar.

Not tested exactly legally either, since the programme has been shut down after violent problems.

Eventually, after being maltreated by the nasty

(One thing: if you watch Green Lantern, skip the extended version, which makes a long film into a tedious one, adding nothing but repetition.)

After being so impressed with Cars 2 a couple of weeks back I thought I’d try the other big recent animation release, but Kung Fu Panda 2 didn’t pop my cork in the same way. There’s nothing particularly wrong with it and, while Jack Black’s shtick is wearing a little thin for me, kids’ll probably dig it. I found it all a bit simplistic. Smaller viewers will no doubt love the animal heroes but for me the best feature is the animation’s incorporation of a wide range of Chinese art styles – it’s a real

treat for the eyes.

Nine Miles Down is basically a two-hander, starting with a security guard arriving at a remote Sahara research station. The researchers are all gone, and there are bodies and one woman, a survivor who claims to be part of the scientific team. She reveals the troubling discoveries made during the deep drilling but her story is inconsistent and a psychological and physical battle ensues. Is she the devil? Is he crazy? What exactly is under the ground?

Some questions are answered, some – frustratingly – aren’t, but it is an impressive exercise in sustained tension from director Anthony Waller.

With Rialto

Courageous (M) contains violence Christian-based drama following four law enforcement officers. Despite their effortless ability to stand up against the dangers of their civic duties, one vital duty still alludes them: Fatherhood.

With an ever-increasing sense of disconnect between them and their children, these four men strive to maintain God’s promise to ‘turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers’.

Courageous is the fourth release of Sherwood Pictures, the moviemak-

with

The Weekend Sun has two double passes to give away to the lucky readers who can tell us the name of the moviemaking ministry?

Enter online at www.sunlive.co.nz under the Competitions section.

Entries must be received

by December 13.

ing ministry of Sherwood Church in Albany, Georgia. Their first release since Fireproof, the No. 1 independent film of 2008, Courageous joins Facing the Giants and Flywheel in touching and impacting lives through heartfelt stories of faith and hope.

Across No. 1247 7. Famous film direct- 6. Previously (4) or (57) 11. Dusk (8) 8. Frantic (6) 13. Fulfilment (8) 9. Misery (6) 14. Tools (7) 10. Pacifies (7) 17. Shouts (5) 12. Town (SI) (5) 19. Elderly (4) 15. Doomster (5) 21. Carry (4) 16. State forrest (NI) C O N O E C T B I H A S H (7) A P E T R A B A G U S T M S O U O E C L N M R T R S 18. Woman (Maori) (6) O N U S E T H I R T E E N E G D C D U G S X E M S T 20. Native bird (6) F A M O U S G H A R A S S 22. Elation (12) Y E L P OWG T O H A T O Down E S T E E M G C H E E K Y A H T A I A G E T T I A K 1. Service (8) C R U S A D E R I O P U S 2. Enthusiasm (4) Z E P W E C I E I R O R K 3. Expelled (7) A W A I M A K A R I R I M F D T G E P E L O C T E R 4. Scallywag (5) Solution 1246 5. Mollusc (8)

42

The Weekend Sun

Reggae Exodus to the Bay A new sound will be heard in the air this New Year’s Eve as Papamoa hosts the Bay of Plenty’s first New Year reggae festival.

Exodus will feature all New Zealand reggae acts including Katchafire, 1814, House of Shem, Ardijay, Three Houses Down, Foundation, Sons of Zion and is a chance to experience a New Years event dedicated to reggae.

Situated on an empty piece of farmland on Bell Road at the very end of Papamoa, the event runs from 12pm on December 31 until 1.30am on January 1.

Event organiser and promoter Ara Adams-Tamatea says the festival is all about reggae, with a touch of peace, love and harmony.

“A lot of people just smiling, singing, having fun in the sun.

“There will be no angry move-

ments, just a lot of peace and enjoying the music.”

Named after the famous Bob Marley song, Ara says he hopes the festival will create an exodus to the area.

“None of us can remember a New Year event that is dedicated to reggae, there are a lot of New Year festivals that cater to electronic and dub music, but none to solely reggae.”

He compares the festival to other New Zealand reggae events including Raggamuffin, Soundsplash and Parihaka.

“If you like reggae, this is the only New Years event you will want to go to.”

The idea for the event came

from Ara, a former member of Katchafire and a group of other music industry professionals including sound technicians, promoters and musicians themselves.

“We have put on a series of reggae concerts this year, so this is a natural thing to carry on doing reggae events.

“There is a team of people working in different areas of the industry based at the Mount organising it.”

Tickets for the event can be purchased from Baycourt, Brewers Bar and Tracs music store in the central city.

For more information visit www.reggaebynature.com

It’s said that when we lose someone we love, it doesn’t take a special day or time of year for us to remember them, to speak their name or to reminisce about their funny habits or their personal traits.

But that doesn’t mean that special days should pass us by without us having the opportunity to pause and to reflect on the gap that’s been left in our lives.

In fact, stopping to reflect can help us in our grieving and give us time to say thanks for all that the special person meant to us.

It’s for this reason many funeral

homes organise Services of Remembrance so people from all walks of life can come together in a united way, to remember loved ones and to celebrate the role they had in our lives. Services often include readings, songs or hymns, prayers and symbolic gestures such as the lighting of candles, the writing of messages or the releasing of balloons.

Todd Gower from Todd Gower Funeral Services has been holding a Christmas Service

of Remembrance since he established his funeral service in Tauranga and he knows firsthand how much they mean to people.

“I encourage people to join us irrespective of when their loved one passed away,” says Todd.

“Coming together provides people with an environment to laugh and cry in a supported way.”

Those wishing to join Todd and his client families are welcome and are asked to contact Todd to RSVP, phone 07 578 7222.

By Phillipa Yalden

Remembering a life so special

Christmas Service of Remembrance Todd Gower Funeral Services warmly invites you to our Service of Remembrance

Sunday 18th December. 2.30pm To be lead by

Marie Gilpin and Martin elliott olive Tree Cottage.

247 Joyce Road, Pyes Pa, Tauranga.

The service will conclude with a balloon releasing ceremony. light refreshments will then be served.

Please RSVP to Todd Gower Funeral Services on 578 7222 by 16 december.

Celebrating and remembering a life so special

Phone. 07 578 7222 Email. admin@toddgower.co.nz

43

The Weekend Sun

Official Opening

KatiKati Recycling centRe UpgRade

?

cUstOmeR seRvice

Katikati

44

The Weekend Sun

trades & services

CURTAIN CLEAN

ree ech

Carpet and Vinyl Sales and Installation Installation Services New and Second Hand Repairs Restretches Carpet Refitted to Tiles Mobile Showroom Ph 570 0321 www.flooringdirect.co.nz

NZ

45

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trades & services

karaoke hire

adult entertainment

horse treks

news

AAA

MASTER

$8m0ins

PAINTERS

20

TAURANGA

deceased

AAA

MASTER

PAINTERS TAURANGA

AAA

MASTER

PAINTERS TAURANGA

cars wanted

funeral directors

R

GroutPro

.co.nz

0800 382 828

They say goodbye is the hardest word.

So to help you with your goodbyes, we’d like to say ‘hello’.

tile & grout restoration specialists

EXTERIOR HOUSE WASHING

Because we’ve been around for over 100 years, many Bay of Plenty families already know us. Generations have relied on us to bring family and friends together, to celebrate lives, to share treasured memories and to care for recently departed loved ones.

Caring. Locally. Since 1909.

Time 2 Shine

Chris Andrews & David McMahon Registered Funeral Directors

578 4009 enquiry@jonesandco.co.nz www.jonesandco.co.nz

46

situations vacant

The Weekend Sun

public notices

computer services TER NEED COMPU

REPAIRS?

computer services

health & beauty

wanted

mobility

Keeping Kiwis Independant

to rent

car for sale

education

47

The Weekend Sun

adult entertainment $$$$ MONEY for Spring.

Corporate Angels Escort Agency. Ladies and Gay Males welcome for our extremely busy season.

Apply in confidence to Allan 021 606 180

art & craft

GLASS FUSING your last chance before Xmas to make some wonderful unique gifts and chill out a little!

Sat 17th December 1pm 4pm - Introduction to Glass Fusing, jewellery or coasters.

Leadlight Expressions, Historic Village, 17th Ave Ph: 571 3726 MOSAIC WAREHOUSE want to decorate your home & garden, make gifts for family & friends. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, all your mosaic supplies in one shop. Huge selection available. Making mosaics is easy & so much fun. Give it a go, you’ll love it. Unit 29, 23 Tukorako Drive, Mount (off Hull Rd) Tues to Sat 10am2pm eftpos Ph 572 3866 www.mosaicwarehouse.co.nz

bible digest

“THE EYES OF the lord watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help.” Psalms 34:15

business opportunity

WORK FOR YOURSELF, start your own business today (part or full tme). 2 colour pad/ screen printer, compressor, inks, pads, plates, everything you need to print on pens and promo products. $12,500.

027 407 7832

computers

COMPUTER GETTING you down? Problems, viruses, upgrades, internet, new or refurb PC’s, tuition or advice.

Ph Bruce for a no obligation chat or quote 576 7940 or 021 260 9183

computers

VIRUS & SPYWARE REMOVAL Upgrades, servicing and repairs Free call out and quotation New power supply $70 fitted MotherboardsFrom $100 fitted. All work has 12 month warranty.

Laptops from $300, Desktops from $125.

Wanted - faulty pc & laptops.

Call Crystal Computing Tel: 07 579 5860 or 021 156 0055

entertainment

XMAS ENTERTAINMENT Stars in their Eyes Grandfinalist ‘08’ Tony Wellington 1 to 4hours - 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, Party Hits. Ph 027 387 5594

flatmate wanted

FLATMATE WANTED Welcome Bay, $80 wk inc power. 027 368 6792 or 544 3274

for sale

1993 TOYOTA HI-LUX D/Cab Ute, 2wd, 2.4 diesel, canopy, white, 159,409kms. Rego on hold. $7500. Ph 578 3926 1998 HONDA LEGEND NZ new - 98000kms. Well maintained in great condition with good tyres. New WOF and Rego to May 2012.

Navy blue in colour, with cruise control, leather, heated seating, factory mags, 6 CD stacker, sunroof, and all the bells and whistles it is luxury motoring! Only $7500. Ph 027 310 1242 1999 TOYOTA CAMRY GLX. 3L V6. Alloys, airbags, leather, air, all electrics. Serviced since new. Excel con, good towing vehicle. Offers under $4,900 considered. 07 574 9324 or 027 391 6321 2001 NISSAN X TRAIL SUV 5 Door. Easy entry/access, 95000kms. Economical 2WD model, airbags, ABS, A/C and CD Stereo. $13990. Clayton Knight Cars 07 542 0387

travel & tours

for sale

2003 TOYOTA ALTEZZA. 2ltr VVti Saloon 106000kms, auto, ABS, airbags, climate A/C, CD Stereo, factory alloys, $14990. Clayton Knight Cars 07 542 0387 2003 TOYOTA CAMRY 2.4 VVti Saloon. 86000kms, auto, ABS, airbags, climate A/C, dual electric seats. Very spacious sedan $13990.

Clayton Knight Cars 07 542 0387 2008 FORD FALCON XT MK11 Saloon NZ new.

Airbags, ABS, alloys, CD Stereo, A/C, cruise control.

Immaculate example in gunmetal metallic. $16990.

Clayton Knight Cars 07 542 0387 BOAT FOR SALE 33ft wooden launch, 70h/p ford. GPS, VHF, stereo, auto pilot, electric capstan. Sleeps 3, 2 burner cooker and oven, electric toilet, game rigged. Good condition, on rented swing mooring. Best of offer $20k. Ph 021 0277 4294 CAMPING TRAILER (POP UP) Good order reg/WOF. Gas power and fridge. All interior requirements. Ready to go. $2500. Ph 07 544 1955 CONCRETE SLEEPERS everlasting and realistic, from $9.00 each. Village Stone, 53 Hull Rd. Mt Maunganui.

Ph 575 4887 HYUNDAI 2005 for Sale $9500 ono 137000 kms, silver, tiptronic, only two owners in NZ, wof & rego, great family car. Ph 027 5526283 or 07 5526283 or email tmc@xtra.co.nz INDULGENT, NUTRIENT RICH, body nurturing – Antipodes – buy any two products & get a third FREE. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 INIKA COSMETICS Organic and Mineral Makeup – now with a face in a box – incredible value – all you need to start. Value $208 for only $119. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 ITEMS FOR SALE leather chair + stool, cane table + chairs, food trolley, childs pram with doll, Rinnai BBQ, Radiocassette. Ph 548 2677 NANRIC ROAD Fine Foods SHOP OPEN – Gift boxes and Christmas Hampers. 50 Nanric Lane, RD6, Te Puke Next Left after Pukehina beach turn off.

OVEN UNIT includes Stainless Panasonic Microwave and Fisher & Paykel oven, approx 10 years old, excellent condition, plus range hood. $450 ono on the lot. Phone Claire 0274 827200.

PAVERS Factory seconds, half price. 53 Hull Rd Mt Maunganui. Ph 575 4887

gardening

GARDEN TIDY UPS for Christmas, qualified professionals, reasonable rates. Phone Carolyn or Alan 579 4984 or 022 0697 033 SHRUBS & SMALL TREES: $2-$10ea Pink and White Fairy Magnolias 1.0- 2mtrs tall Little Gem Magnolias 1.0 - 2mtrs Crepe Murtles (in bloom) Pittosporums, flaxes, Michelias, Coprosmas (Ideal for sm. hedges) Hydranges(flowering) Phone Ken or Maree 5524823 or 021 533075

health & beauty

AFFORDABLE GIFTS for Christmas. NZ made certified organic skin and personal care products.

Phone Nicci for more information on 543 4556 or 021 020 65440 DIABETIC CHRISTMAS GIFT trays – delicious selection nuts and carob.

Non diabetic also available.

Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 GUARD YOUR PROSTATE Microgenics Protech – supports health of your prostate gland. Save $10.

Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa. 0800 833 333 HEALTH STARTS IN THE GUT! Primadophillus Reuteri provides Lactobaccillus Reuteri a strain of probiotic with extra power. Save on 30’s & 90’s. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 LIVING NATURE SKINCARE 30 minute mini facials - treat yourself this Christmas Bookings essential! 100% natural. Uniquely New Zealand.

Hardy’s Bayfair, 13th December.

Hardy’s Organic Papamoa 15th December. 0800 833 333 LOSE WEIGHT FEEL GREAT! Join a ‘New Look’ clinic in your area. Healthy eating with real food. Ph Bernice NOW 576 4848 NATURAL NEW ZEALAND Health Products. Something for everyone. NZ Chartered Natural Therapies and Natural Medicine Practitioners.

Opposite BP Te Puke. Ph 573 5533 www.naturaltherapiesltd.co.nz and www.kiwikitz.com SHUZI – THE HI-TECH solution for arthritis, insomnia, peripheral neuropathy and much more. From sports bands to high fashion jewellery. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 SMOOTH WRINKLES, rejuvenate skin, repair elasticity - Pro-Col Collagen a pure, hydrolysed triple matrix bovine collagen. Buy one get one half price. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 SVETOL the decaffeinated green coffee bean extract for weight loss. Support metabolism and weight management – save $10 off 2 mth pack. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333 THE LESLIE CLINIC – Massage Therapy with a difference, specialising in developing individual treatment programmes. Call to book today 0274158254 www.theleslieclinic.co.nz TIRED OF YOYO DIETING. Celebrity Slim – the amazing diet system. Value pack – normal value over $100.

14 shakes, 2 breakfast bars, 2 replacement bars, 5 snack bars. Now $79.90. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333

house for sale

A PERFECT 3 bedroom home, warm and dry for winter with fireplace and full insulation. Absolutely gorgeous outlook and cool breezes for Summer!

Fantastic family home or for first home buyers - ideal

house for sale

location in Brookfield. Fully fenced on a 716m2 section situated within easy walking distance to Brookfield shops, Schools, PreSchools & parks.

Separate single garage with power. Located in a quiet cul-de sac in a great neighbourhood, this home is a must see to see the potential. View some photos on TradeMe #405 700 583 or phone Daphne 027 552 6283 today! Price Slashed to Sell was $330 now only $295,000 FANTASTIC LIFESTYLE BLOCK AT PIKOWAI Within easy commuting to Tauranga, Te Puke and Whakatane this 4 bedroom brick home is in paradise!

Beautiful sea and rural views 6 acres grazing land, horse pens, heaps of shedding, butchery and chiller for own use single garage with sleepout/office big games room or can be converted to extra double garage, chook house, drenching race for the cattle.

11.5 x 4.5 metre in ground swimming pool which is fully decked and fenced. This is a beautiful home and comes with a share in the community woolshed, tennis courts and cattle yards. Own water scheme. Fantastic community to belong to - be in quick! Price of house has been slashed! to $550,000 - urgent sale.

Ph 027 281 7427 today.

lifestyle coaching

CAREER ESTRUCTURING? Creating opportunity from Change. Ph Chris at Balanced Success Coaching 027 548 2548 chris@balancedsuccess.co.nz www.balancedsuccess.co.nz

mobility

MOBILITY SCOOTERS, Wheelchairs, Walkers & more. Visit our showroom 29 Burros St, Tauranga, ph 578 1213. Mobility Equipment & Services

personal

HAVE A BOOMING CHRISTMAS – Pro- erex Booster Plus – buy one get one free – better sex naturally. Hardys Bayfair, Hardys Organic Papamoa.

0800 833 333

pets

DOGGY DAY CARE – fun and socialisation for your canine friend. Ph 5766101. www.preciouspaws.co.nz PET SITTING - Book now for Christmas. Pet care and feeding in your home by qualified and experienced Vet Nurses and Pet Sitters. Ph 5766101. www.preciouspaws.co.nz

removal

FREE REMOVAL unwanted steel, ovens, dishwashers, washing machines, fridge/ freezers, car batteries, etc.

Phone Breno 021 608 129 or 544 6560

to let

A FANTASTIC 3 bedroom home is available for Rent.

Great neighbours, great cul-desac in Brookfield within minutes of schools, preschools, park, shops, supermarket etc. Fully fenced with single powered garage. Only $350pw ph or text Kathy on 027 211 9193 today!

CARAVANS, special Spring rates from $30pw. Free local delivery. BOP Caravan Rentals Ltd, 184 Waikite Rd, Welcome Bay. Phone 544 1509 or 027 533 9301 COUNTRY COTTAGE Plumbers Point, 2 bdrm, no garage, $220p/w incl power.

Applicant required to supply two references including one from current employer. Ph 548 0571

to let

FOR RENT GREERTON 3bdrm, $280 p/w. Int acc garage, heatpump, no smokers/ pets, partly furnished. Ph 021 023 607 47 or 07 570 1147 HOUSE WANTED for rent - 4 bdrm. Family moving to Tauranga in the new year.

Welcome Bay to central area.

Ph 07 544 6308 or 021 851 109 TE PUKE 2 bdrm, single garage, conservatory, quiet location, non smokers and no pets. $230p/w. Ph 573 6017

trades & services

ALLAN HOLMES FOR ALL your carpentry & Handyman jobs around the home.

Big or Small. Free quotes.

Reasonable rates. Call 021 992 678 or after hours on 07 576 3543 BAY PAINTERS INC for all your painting needs. Interior and Exterior. Colour consults available. Call Lewis FREE on 213 0784 or 021 555 013 BUILDER 30 YEARS experience in BOP. Specialised in outdoor areas, decks, pergolas, retaining walls, fences etc. Reasonable rates.

Free quotes. Ph Keith today on 578 6869 or 021 377 387 BUILDER AVAILABLE NOW New homes, renovations, bricklaying, quality rates, quality work. No job too big or small. Call me now for a quote. DK Builders - Dieter 021 474 299 or 574 2139 a/h CARPET LAYING - for a free quote phone 022 154 1476 EARTHWORKS Truck / Digger hire, Tree removal, Farmwork. Opening special only $80+GST per hour. No job too big or small. Call Carl at Addison Civil today 0274 636 560 ELECTRICIAN A professional and affordable registered electrician.

New builds, alterations, repairs. Ph Steve 5780555, 027 848 6042 ELECTRICIAN Able to do all jobs. Alarms, New Houses and renovations. Registered.

Quality service at great price.

Phone Tomas, Check Electrical 07 544 6448 or 027 566 7872 ELECTRICIAN available for all services. Mitsubishi air conditioner supplied and installed for very competitive rates. Ph 027 5473 831 or a/h on 543 0062 GORSE SPRAYING do you have a gorse problem?

Ph today for a FREE quote for all gorse control. Scott 0274 624 769 GUTTERING CLEAN and repairs, moss removal.

Experienced Certified Roofer.

Free quotes. Ph Peter now 542 4291 or 0274 367 740 HANDYMAN BUILDING and section maintenance, decks, fencing, pergolas, painting, water blasting, odd jobs. Free quotes Ph Rossco 027 270 3313 or 544 5911 INSECT SCREENS Measure.

Make. Mend. Contact Rob at Magic Seal 543 4940 NEED YOUR FLOORS SHINING B4 XMAS 5yr warranty, Green certified, Cork, laminate, Parquet, Tiles, Wood, Vinyl. Call now 0800SHINYFLOORS [ 0800744693] OTUMOETAI CYCLES & MOWERS – Huge range of Mowers and garden equipment, Biycles. Specialising in all Mower, Chainsaw, Weedeater and Bike Repairs. 158 Cambridge Road, Tauranga. Ph 07 571 5068 PAINTER / DECORATOR Interior & Exterior, quality workmanship, friendly services. Over 20 years specialising in residential and more. Quality paint at trade prices. For your best

trades & services

advice in all areas Ph Shane Mount/Tauranga Decorators 544 6495 or 021 575 307 PLUMBING WORKS no job too big or small, blocked drains, plumbing, spouting & roof repairs.

Ph 571 5558 RESPOUT NOW! Call Ageless Continuous Spouting. Made to measure costs less than you think. For a prompt quote.

Ph 574 0496 RETAINING WALL SPECIALIST Pole walls, crib walls, tilt slab concrete walls.

Excavation and levelling. The best in the business. Ph Mike 0274 942 966 a/h 576 0941 ROOFING & SPOUTING Metal fascia, gutter and rainwater systems. Long run corrugate. Maintenance, repairs or replacement.

Free no obligation quotes.

PROFIX 0274 965 375 profixltd@xtra.co.nz ROOFING New roofs, re-roofs, spouting & repairs.

Free quotes. Ph Chris 027 276 6348 or 572 3237 ROOF REPAIRS metal or onduline, gutters & down pipes, clean or replacement, chimney repairs. Certified Roofer over 30yrs experience Free quote. Ph Peter 542 4291 or 0274 367 740 ROTARY HOEING Lawn preparation & sowing. Loader & blade work. Tractor mowing.

Quality work & friendly service.

Mini Tractor Service. Ph Murray 543 4538 or 027 200 7480 STUMPINATOR STUMP Grinding free quotes & prompt service.

Narrow machine to access rear yards. Ph 576 4245 or 0220 764 245 TAURANGA TANDEM SKYDIVING Best Buzz in the Bay, Gift Vouchers. Ph 576 7990 TREE FELLING, PRUNING & Removal/chipping. No job to big or small. Phone Scott 0274 624 769

transport

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING! Do you need help with transport to get tp the shops or appointments? How about a Christmas outing with friends? Mobility Problems?

No problem! Call Driving Miss Daisy for safe friendly, and reliable service. Discount offered to Total Mobility card holders. Phone Jackie 552 6614

travel & tours

A DAY OR several days away with John’s Door to Door Trips or Tours. Take a day out to the JERSEY BOYS SHOW in Auckland in April. Bookings open now and also for a March Tour of several days in Northland as far as Cape Reinga. Ph 07 576 9305 A HOLIDAY OR DAY-OUT. Every week. Small Group Tours. Door to Door Hinterland Tours Ph: Kae & Rick 07 575 8118 CURTISY TOURS TRAVEL Club Coming up Day Trips: Matata/Pongakawa, Wildlife Sanctuary Franklin, Whakatane Early Xmas lunch. Away Trip: 23-27th Dec Northland and more phone 543 9205 FAMOUS FOR FUN! Book with The Touring Company this summer - see our ad for more info. Ph 07 5770057 SCOTTSDALE SENIOR TOURS, fully escorted owner/ operated since 1978. Ph free for colour brochure today 0800 664 414. Also see www.scottsdaletours.co.nz

48

The Weekend Sun

Christmas lights and tear drops Like spring rain, the heavens have been showering down upon Tauranga city, refreshing the land.

A crispness comes to the gardens and trees glisten with the greenness of new life.

An expectancy is in the air. Christmas is around the corner, a sense of new hope after a busy year.

Christmas trees are being put up and Christmas lights adorned either in homes or around the shops.

Many are buying Christmas presents and wrapping them with beautiful paper and bows. Many people are burdened with the thought of Christmas, either with relationship or financial factors. Hopes have been dashed throughout the year and the prospect of buying presents and having special treats for Christmas day are looking painfully grim. Guilt, disappointment, rejection, grief and a sense of despair can take over.

The words of a Christmas song say ‘The most wonderful time of the year’. And it is

the most wonderful time of the year if you know the blessing of the saviour that was born as the light of the world.

Born as a saviour to save the people from their sin more than two thousand years ago. To take people out of darkness and bring them into the light of His love. A spiritual awakening was released at that time, like spring rain creating an expectancy in hearts and bringing hope. Jesus is known as the hope of the world.

The Father so loved the world that He gave His one and only son as a free gift to the world. The Father’s love is the most precious gift to receive. It is wrapped in purity, promise and God’s passion for you.

His love will not go out like the Christmas tree lights and His gift will be with you forever.

He will wipe away every tear drop of disappointment, but light up your heart and wrap you in His arms of acceptance. When all around you tinsel is glistening, but your heart is breaking, Jesus

says to you, ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls.

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light’ Matthew 11v28.

I encourage you to reach out to the saviour this Christmas season and in doing so find how great is the love that the Father wants to lavish upon you. It is His joy to turn your mourning into dancing and light up your world. Love to see you soon at The Father’s House where Gods love awaits you. You won’t be disappointed.

By Pastor Janet Johansen

Who do you say that Jesus is?

In Matthew 16:13-17, Jesus asks His disciples “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”

Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the prophets or just a good man, but who do YOU say that I am?”

This Christmas season, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we need ask ourselves “but who do YOU say that I am?”

The decision that we make in response to that question is the most important decision we will make because the consequences are eternal.

Our decision concerning the question Jesus asks: “but who do YOU say that I am?” and the outcomes from that decision, effectively determine eternity in the presence of God, living under the love of God or eternity in the Lake of Fire under the wrath of God. So, who do you say that Jesus is? He needs to personally be Saviour and Lord. We would love to introduce you to Him. Visit with us at Jesus First this Sunday.

This was a general, indirect question that didn’t affect them personally. The disciples detail the various general perceptions that the people had at the time concerning this carpenter named Jesus, who was causing a stir with His teaching and with His works.

The answers that the disciples gave are the same in essence to the way that people answer that question today: “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets”. We could add today “some say that He was a good man”.

And while the question relates to what is the general view: “Who do people say that Jesus Christ is?” then it is easily deflected and it has no personal application and no personal Exalt challenge. But Jesus then turns to His disciples and says to them directly and personally “But who do YOU say that I am?”

In other words, “who do you personally and individually understand that I am? The populace say John the Baptist,

God • Worship Jesus TAURANGA PRIMARY SCHOOL HALL, 31 Fifth Ave

10am: Worship & Communion Service Speaker: David Otway Phone: 579 2729 www.jesusfirst.org.nz JOIN US AS WE MEET WITH THE LORD & HEAR HIS WORD

252 Otumoetai Road, Tauranga

Live & Serve in the Power of the Holy Spirit

Sunday Services 9:30am & 6:00pm All welcome!

See website for more info

www.citychurchtauranga.org.nz

49

The Weekend Sun

A selection of local breaking stories featured this week on...

Accused Avenues attacker in custody The Tauranga man facing an assault charge related to the death of a 50-year-old man on 4th Avenue on Tuesday night may face further charges.

The accused appeared in the Tauranga District Court today and was remanded in

Baypark needs $5m bailout

Tauranga ratepayers may be expected to bail out Baypark as the stadium needs $5million from Tauranga City Council to stay out of the red.

In a report from the council’s deputy CEO, Christine Jones, councillors heard that as of June 30, 2011, Baypark owed the council $7 million which will increase to over $9 million by June 30, 2012.

Tauranga City Venues Ltd, the council controlled organisation that operates Baypark, will have debt of about $14 million by June 30 2014, requiring nearly $1 million in interest payments each year. TCVL does not produce $1 million in profits.

One dead in Waikato house fire

One person is dead and another is believed to be missing following a house fire in the Hauraki Plains on Thursday morning. Firefighters were called to blaze on School Road in Netherton, north of Paeroa at about 4.45am. Firefighters have found one body and there are fears a second person may also have been in the house.

The man’s death has been reported to the Coroner.

Judy Bailey supports volunteers Former television news broadcaster Judy Bailey understands how difficult it can be to help children dealing with grief and loss.

Judy was in Tauranga on Wednesday afternoon to show her support as the patron of the Seasons programme.

SunLive community highlights Picture of the Week: Pipers at the Te Puke Santa Parade by Erina Crichton. Email your photos to newsroom@thesun.co.nz Comment of the Week: By user dgk about the financial problems surrounding the operation of Baypark: “The opening sentence says it all – ‘Baypark needs $5million from Tauranga City Council or it will go broke and have to be bailed out by ratepayers.’ So, either the taxpayer pays, or the taxpayer ends up paying. Sounds like it needs to be closed down while they find somebody who knows what they’re doing...”

Not the News of the Week: “The release of an endangered species back to the wild always brings a

custody by Judge Peter Rollo.

He has entered no plea to the charge of assault in relation to the death.

He has interim name suppression to give him time to notify his family of his arrest, but this is due to expire at 6pm on Friday.

The Bay of Plenty wide programme provides peer support services for children suffering the loss or absence of a loved one due to separation, death, suicide and imprisonment of a family member, or someone close to them.

Police seek hit and run witnesses

A 29-year-old man remains in a serious condition in Waikato Hospital after being hit by a car in Taupo on Tuesday night.

Police are appealing for people who travelled along Forest Road on Tuesday between 6am and 9.30pm, and who saw a man walking in the area wearing a dark jacket and carrying a blue style bag, to contact them on (07) 378 6060

Rena: crane barge prepared

Maritime New Zealand is expecting the crane barge Smit Borneo will begin removing containers from the Rena today.

The crane barge arrived from Singapore on Monday.

A 180 tonne ‘crawler’ crane currently on the barge Sea Tow 60 was installed on the Smit Borneo before it was moved into position near Rena, grounded on Astrolabe Reef.

Poor visibility on Tuesday prevented salvors from going out to the Rena, but they expected to reboard the vessel as soon as the weather clears to resume work on installing patches in Rena’s corridors to improve buoyancy.

At this stage, 167 containers have been lifted from the Rena, leaving 1115 still onboard. sense of satisfaction to animal lovers, and this week saw 60 dotterels, which had been captured and removed to safeguard them from the Rena oil spill, returned to the shoreline at Maketu. These feisty little birds number only around 1700 in NZ. At the same time freedom was granted to the increasingly rare Laybore bird (Phillus Goffus) whose plaintive cry (‘ceegeetee’ ‘ceegeetee’) and poor nesting ability has seen its endangered status rise significantly.” Read this Not the News in full at www.sunlive.co.nz Should the preliminary findings of the Transport and Accident Commission's inquiry into the Rena's grounding be released?

Yes

78%

No

22%

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Join for free and get stories, photos and video sent to you as the news breaks.

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Soft Corn

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The judge says more charges are likely following the police investigation.

The deceased’s body has also been taken to Auckland for a forensic post mortem.

The accused is due to reappear in court on December 20.

50

The Weekend Sun

Zespri estimates Gold crop halved Zespri is predicting a 50 per cent drop back in Gold trays this harvest, which would make a big dent in its annual income, as Gold is a big breadwinner for the company.

Gold – Hort 16A – is suffering the worst impact from Psa-V, the vine bacterial disease spreading its way through kiwifruit orchards.

After a record crop last year, volume was always going to be down, but on top of that, Psa is having a major impact.

“For Gold, we know the impact of Psa has been pretty significant, so on the back of quite a significant drop back because of the season, you then have to add Psa,” says general manager for grower and government relations Simon Limmer.

“It’s still really hard for us to know exactly where we are at, but we are estimating maybe 50 per cent reduction on the previous season.”

Zespri is focusing on maintaining strong relationships with market distributors as they prepare them for a decrease in the number of

Simon Limmer says Zespri is estimating the next Gold kiwifruit harvest to be 50 per cent down in volume.

Gold trays available.

“The fact that we don’t have Gold in the mix, it kind of has an affect with the relationships with some distributors, who like to have a mix of Zespri products,” says Simon.

“But really there is a bit of an upside in having a slightly smaller crop this year; it allows us to optimise the market mix.”

Zespri is estimating Green volumes to be down 10-15 per cent, predominately due to seasonal decreases and the good news for

Green growers is they can expect a higher return for kiwifruit this year.

“We are predicting that Green returns will be up in the coming season compared to where they’ve been,” says Simon.

“We don’t actually think Psa itself is really impacting Green this year. The bulk of it is really seasonal.”

Simon says Zespri has yet to go into many market discussions with distributors about low Gold volumes. “But we know that Gold has been a really strong performer, not only for us and for growers, but also for our inmarket partners, so it’s really important for us to strike a balance now with the markets and ensure we maintain those market relationships, the distribution relationships, and there is really an expectation that we come out of Psa that we have the ability for the market to match the production.

“If we go into a decline in terms of volumes, which we are doing, we want to make sure that we have those markets ready to go again in the future when the solution is starting to

By Sheryl Brown come online.”

Taking a walk on the wild side with Ruger We were staying in the cabin in the bush when the boss said to me, “let's go for a walk with Ruger”.

Now I'm always keen for a walk although I hadn’t been out with Ruger before. He’s the tall skinny individual with the one-eyed, steely gaze, who doesn’t say much, just hangs out in the long tall iron kennel with his equally ruthless friend, Ben Elli. I’ve never met Ben Elli, but legend has it that he has a mighty big bark and can bring down high geese and fast-flying ducks.

Anyway, the boss and Ruger and me headed out into the cool night air, with all sorts of interesting new smells and sounds for a pup to soak up.

I kept pretty close to the boss and listened really well. Then we spotted a wild thing in the tree. The boss had the spotlight on him and I could see his big yellow eyes glinting back at us. I wasn’t sure whether to bark or run. Or both.

Then Ruger let fly. That was exciting. The boss pointed him at the possum and Ruger let out one loud, sharp bark. The possum fell from the tree and hit the ground in front of me with a thud. It had a hole clean through it, I think Ruger must have done that.

This was all very exciting and my little puppy tail was just about wagging off my bottom. Feeling very brave, since the wild thing wasn’t moving any more, I ran in and

gave it a nip, just to make sure.

The boss said I’d done good and let me have a good sniff at the wild thing that Ruger killed.

No worries, boss, I can sniff out more of those for you.

There’s plenty left and they’ve been having a good time in the trees since old Diesel hasn’t been around to harass them. I guess it’s my turn now.

But I think we’ll needv Ruger along. Those trees look mighty hard for a small dog to climb. - Flo. Yo Flo, you just wait until you are old enough to have walks with Remington and it all happens when the boss takes an Escort with him. I am struggling to comprehend though which gives the best bang.

You have done well girl, your initiation into the wild world of things that go off in the night has begun; you have a few more years to learn the ins and outs of possum hunting with uncle. My knowledge of the furry things is very limited, (feathers are more my thing).

It must be a Labrador thing and when the

Servic ing, repair s and upgrad es FREE QU OTE

prey falls out of the tree, you are only thinking it is something else to eat.

I am getting bored out of my tree at the moment.

The boss has been so busy at No. 1, catering for all your two-leggers party habits, so my daily exercise regime has been limited to keeping Flo out of my tucker bowl, as unfortunately there are not many possums here on The Strand for her, (plenty of turkeys) in the wee small hours though.

Not a worry, as very soon the big guy in the red suit will have paid us a visit and it will be back to clocking up some serious training for next year.

Take it easy out there all and remember party hard, party long, but party safely.

Training by Wendy Graydon, The Dog Trainer. 0210 700 111 Sustenance: Ziwipeak.

We do all our own stunts.

51

The Weekend Sun PURCHASE and VIEW PHOTOS from this publication on...

...under Photo Galleries

Top Kids Waihi Road dressed up for Jandal Day on Friday, raising money for surf lifesaving.

Photos by Bruce Barnard.

Jayden Botha is quietly happy with his Jandal face paint.

Rachel Blylevens painting jandals on her daughter Ancje’s feet.

Reese Kerehoma took the stripes option.

Nico Bruce and Nathan Leen with their painted jandals.

Lucas Amaru’s mother painting his face in Jandal Day colours.

Daniel Mason after having his face painted with the Jandal Day face paint.

Makenzie Devon and Chloe Ward.

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