Porirua News 27-03-13

Porirua news

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Your best read local community newspaper

Hop, hop hoppy Easter!

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Editor bids paper fond ‘farewell’ p2 HAPPY EASTER: Citylife’s nominated Easter Bunny, Hopscotch Papatsoumas, looks a bit overwhelmed among the chocolate largesse in the newsroom. Hopscotch, from Berhamphore, is seven weeks old and belongs to reporter Nikki Papatsoumas. Not used to car rides, the bewildered bunny stayed still for the photograph, but perked up once he was back in his hay-lined box with some greens. CAUTION: DO NOT feed chocolate to a rabbit. Chocolate is toxic to many animals. This photograph is a staged image.

Photo: Andrew Bonallack / CCN180313ABhopscotch

Kindy’s fund fight Nikki Papatsoumas

Pukerua Bay Preschool are preparing to raise over half a million dollars to keep their doors open.

Last year the Porirua News reported that funding cuts had meant Wellington Kindergartens had no money to carry out a much needed refurbishment to the building the preschool runs from.

The centre is running, but without a refurbishment it will

not meet Ministry of Education requirements.

After a community meeting, members of the parents committee have taken up the challenge.

Member of the parents committee, Christine Wilson, has helped to form a ‘rebuild team,’ made up of herself and two others, that will take the project forward. ‘‘It cannot go on like it is at the moment.’’

She says the Ministry of

Education have changed their requirements, they are going through kindergartens and assessing them against new regulations.

The building is very small and there are a lot of issues with maintenance.

She says they will need to have a new sleep room, and separate toilets for adults and children. The kitchen needs work done, and the playground doesn’t comply.

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continue to support the preschool, they just no longer have the money for the capital outlay. ‘‘Wellington Kindergartens don’t have the funds to put into a capital investment, for them it is a cash flow issue. ‘‘They are still absolutely committed to Pukerua Bay preschool service, they just can’t afford to pay for a new building.’’

■ Continued Page 3

Dog cuddle therapy a hit

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Wednesday, March 27, 2013

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Editor departs to helm daily paper Citylife Newspapers and Porirua News editor Andrew Bonallack (pictured right) is departing after Easter to take up the position of editor of the Wairarapa Times-Age, a daily newspaper based in Masterton.

Citylife’s Porirua News was Andrew’s first stint as a journalist, when he was hired in 2006 after graduating from Massey University’s school of journalism that year.

Andrew, who had come from a land surveying and construction background, discovered journalism late after working as a land surveyor in New Zealand and England. He says he was a good surveyor but journalism was what he was born to do.

Andrew was promoted from junior reporter to chief reporter, then became editor of the papers in 2010.

He departs as the Cook Strait News, Independent Herald, Porirua News and Wainuiomata News transition from APN News and Media ownership to independent company Wellington Suburban Newspapers Ltd, under publisher Les Whiteside of the Blenheim Sun. ‘‘Les has been in community news for many years and is looking forward to showcasing the vibrant and progressive suburbs we’ve been associated with for over

Green Elephant

Fundraising for the Pukerua Bay Preschool. There will be quality pre-loved clothes, books and toys for preschool children, as well as coffee, cakes and raffles. Entry is gold coin dontaion. April 13 at St Andrews Church in Plimmerton. from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Wine Appreciation Club

40 years,’’ says Andrew. ‘‘I wish him and the team, under WCN, all the best.’’

Next week’s editions will be the last under APN News and Media.

Andrew is moving with his wife and two dogs from Churton Park to Featherston.

Meet on the first Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Mana Cruising Club, Ngatitoa Domain, Mana. Meet new people and taste some excellent wines. For more information, please ring Dianne Hicks 237 9229.

Adventure School Women’s Expo

Fundraiser will be held on Friday April 5. Tickets on sale from 5 March. Goodie bags, spot prizes, raffles and a cafe and wine bar on site for the evening. For more information about the event or to purchase tickets go to adventureschoolptni@gmail.com

Grand Traverse

The annual event is back, with five different event options to suit all ages and abilities, Sunday April 7. For more information see www.poriruagrandtraverse.co.nz.

Lunch Blitz

30 minutes a day Push Play so we’re bringing to you for Free.

Free lunch time exercise at 12.15 every Wednesday at Te Rauparaha Arena. For more information Contact Siaosi on 2378125.

Probus Club

The Probus Club of Kenepuru has vacancies for members. Meet at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month in the Masonic Hall, McKillop Street, Porirua. For information phone 232 8257.

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

STREET VIEW The Local Government Reform may mean change is on the way for the Tawa Community Board.

Councils around Wellington are currently reviewing two models that are up for consultation. The first, a single tier model, which would have a governing council making decisions. Community

boards would be optional.

The second, a two-tiered model, would see a governing council as well as support from local boards.

The proposal under both options is to ‘‘absorb’’ Tawa into the Porirua ward.

Porirua News reporter, Nikki Papatsoumas asked members of the

community if they used the services provided by the Tawa Community Board, if they thought it was a vital part of community. We also asked if they would prefer for Tawa to remain as a part of Wellington City Council, or if they thought they were better suited to Porirua City Council.

Coffee and Quiz At the Tawa Community Centre, the quiz is at 11am, all are welcome to join in. Fridays, from 10am until noon.

Tai Chi Thursday, 9.15am till 10.15am, Linden Social Centre, 10 Linden Avenue.

Lidia Cassetly Says she does not use the services very much, but says she believes it is very important because of the service it provides. She says she hopes to see Tawa stay a part of the Wellington City Council.

Fred Sharp Says he very rarely uses the service unless he is wanting something specific, but he does believe it is a very important part of the community. He says he would like to see Tawa stay with the Wellington City Council, because he believes there is too much controversy surrounding the Porirua City Council.

Dulcie Stone She says she has had a lot of trouble with flooding, and Tawa College (her property backs on to it). She says the community board is important because it works as a voice for Tawa. She hopes the community board will stay with Wellington, and she does not believe they need to go to Porirua.

Raelene Robson She says she has not lived in Tawa for that long, so she has not had a chance to use services or learn about the community board. She said that she thinks once she has settled in to the community she would use the service. She says she is happy with the way things are going with Wellington City Council.

Kindy funds Get in train-ing for art contest ■ From Page 1

Funding is currently based on how many children attend the centre, and for the service to be viable they would need to look at increasing the roll. ‘‘There is a huge waiting list, that is the crucial thing. There are around 45 children waiting at the moment, but it can go up to 70 because the demand is there. ‘‘I Think that’s the key, that the demand is really high, there is no other teacher led toddler pre-kindergarten service in the northern Porirua region.’’

They will have a Ministry of Education assessment in August and she predicts they will then have 18 months to get the building up to scratch. An estimate of costs sits at around $700,000. ‘‘If no-one does anything the service will close, which was an eye opener for people, no-one ever thought it would get that bad.’’

They have come together to make sure they have public support.

They are currently doing an analysis to satisfy the community that they have looked into all of the options that were suggested at the meeting.

By April they hope to know where they are going for sure, and then Christine says the fundraising will begin.

Christine says she will be looking for grants, benefactors, sponsorship, donations and fundraising.

Enter Metlink’s public art competition and — if you win — your creation could soon adorn one of the region’s buses, trains or harbour ferries.

The competition is a first for Metlink, Greater Wellington Regional Council’s public transport arm. The regional council plans for and funds Metlink bus, train and ferry services.

Participants need to create a piece of art which brings to life the theme, ‘‘It’s Your Transport’’.

Once competition entries have been submitted, a panel will short-list them and these entries will be put to the public vote. The most popular designs will be produced and turned into ‘wraps’ on two trains, various buses and a harbour ferry. Some entries will also be produced as posters.

Peter Glensor, chairman of the council’s economic wellbeing committee, hopes the competition will raise people’s awareness of the

NEED TO KNOW Entries need to be with Metlink by Friday, May 3 with voting taking place during May. It’s expected winning artworks will begin appearing on buses, trains and a harbour ferry around the middle of this year. All details and specifications for the competition are available at www.metlink.org.nz/ itsyourtransport region’s great public transport services. ‘‘For a region of less than half a million people, we have a fantastic public transport network. Our new Matangi fleet has taken travelling by train to a whole new level, we have great bus services throughout the region with real time information available for most, and there’s nothing more enjoyable on one of Wellington’s many stunning days than a jaunt across the

2013 ANZ Championship TransTasman Netball Competition.

Centre Pass 7.40pm. Tickets available from the TicketDirect website and from Te Rauparaha Arena. April 1.

It’s OK to Help A community meeting about how to stop domestic violence in the community. Guest speakers include community constable Sarah Riddering and Tawa College principal Murray Lucas.

Thursday April 4 from 7.30 pm at the Tawa Community Centre.

Plimmerton Promenade Music everywhere, old fashioned games, beach sports to try, vintage ball gown exhibition, vintage vehicles, fancy dress prizes for best 50s or 60s looks, all day dancing, something for everyone!

Saturday April 6 from 10am until 4pm.

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harbour on a ferry. ‘‘Public transport means different things to different people. ‘‘For some, it’s where they often meet friends or acquaintances, for others it’s an opportunity to take time out, catch up on emails, listen to music or watch the world go by, while for others it’s their only way of getting from A to B. It will be really interesting to see how people express what public transport means to them. And the chance to have your artwork on display on a bus, train or ferry is a tremendous opportunity.’’

Information about the competition is being sent to every school and a large number of tertiary institutions in the region. ‘‘We’re hoping to get a really good number of entries from students who are big public transport users. But the competition is open to all, so I’d encourage everyone to get creative.’’

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Dog cuddle therapy a hit ■

Have fun shopping A

lthough I adore clothes shopping and the thrill of finding the perfect outfit, I have met many women who found clothes shopping daunting and frustrating.

It doesn’t matter if it’s not me with the bags to take home as personal shopping with clients never fails to bring excitement and enthusiasm into my day.

Keeping up with the fashions isn’t something that interests everyone and I don’t believe that people should be dictated to by fashion either.

Fashion gives us fresh ideas to try and this makes dressing fun, but we should only take the outfits that make us look and feel fabulous. We don’t want to be a fashion victims!

There are classic pieces to be found and I have always liked the idea of a timeless capsule wardrobe which can be updated with one or two accessories or garments each season.

If you know which colours and styles suit you you need try only those items that will suit you and not have a changing room full of garments, thus cutting down the time spent shopping and your stress.

By knowing your style everything in your wardrobe will mix and match because the clothes and accessories all match you — and this doesn’t necessarily mean spending loads of money on designer outfits.

■ Andie Dunne and Anita McGonigle are Wellington-based stylists, offering a range of packages to help you look and feel fabulous. Find out more at www.colourwithstyle.co.nz.

Nikki Papatsoumas

Canine Pet Therapy was formed in 1990, after founder Eileen Curry saw a need for pet therapy programmes in hospitals and retirement homes around the country.

The organisation now has 350 members across New Zealand, 15 of which work in Wellington from Mirimar to Churton Park.

Members take their dogs into hospitals, hospices and homes to visit patients and residents.

Wellington Liaison Officer and Fundraising Coordinator Anne Dunlop is right behind the service, and says that it is extremely rewarding. ‘‘The benefits are enormous, it is really nice, we do it for the nice warm feelings.’’

Anne used to visit homes with her dog Cookie, a yellow labrador.

She says Cookie always loved the opportunity to head out and visit people in hospitals and retirement homes. ‘‘When she sees the red scarf come out she knows she’s going to work. They love it because they get lots of pats and cuddles and a few more treats.’’

She says they have every kind of dog from griffins to mastiffs. ‘‘It has nothing to do with the breed, it is to do with the dogs nature and character and obedience, that the dog is looking to its owner. ‘‘With most of the dogs that join us we look for placid, obedient dog’s with a good relationship with their owner.’’

To see if a dog will be the right fit for the job, Anne says she invites potential clients and their owners around to her place.

She says seeing them in a different environment normally gives her a good indication as to whether or not they are the right fit. ‘‘By the end of the chat I would

CUDDLES: Bunnie McGreevy from Longview Retirement Home in Tawa, with Gus, who visits once a week with his owner Photo: Nikki Papatsoumas / CCN200313NPtherapy David Brown as part of the Canine Pet Therapy programme. know if I have the sort of lovely tolerant person I am looking for.’’

Anne says that it is not all about the dogs, the volunteer has to also be a people person. ‘‘It’s not just a dog visit, it’s a people visit, there are people we visit that don’t get to see a lot of people, so our visits are important.’’

David Brown from Johnsonville has been involved in

Canine Friends Pet Therapy with his dog Gus, for a year now.

David says Gus, who is a toy poodle, loves his weekly visits to Longview Retirement Home in Tawa and Malvina Major Retirement Village in Khandallah. ‘‘He is a nice little dog and lots of people like dogs, so it was an opportunity for him to share his good nature with people.

‘‘He is the catalyst he breaks the ice then we just chat. It’s all Gus and the bloke that brings him around.’’

David says the job is very rewarding and now even works as a volunteer driver at Longview Retirement Home.

welcome.

They are not being irrigated and Council staff will be carrying out daily condition assessments and monitoring usage. Leisure Assets and Services Manager Karyn Stillwell says, ‘‘Our parks maintenance team will check the turfs every day. If we think the condition of a sport ground is deteriorating, we will act quickly and, if necessary, help clubs find an alternative training space in the city

to use.’’ Council staff have notified the affected clubs, who have been advised of the seriousness of the situation and have been asked to act promptly in ceasing use of a field if requested. ‘‘I’d encourage anyone wishing to check the availability of sports fields in Porirua City at any time of the year, to go to our Sports Grounds Status website at pcc.govt.nz,’’ says Ms Stillwell.

NEWS IN BRIEF Government Reform

Fields to remain open

The Tawa community is being given the opportunity to express its views on the question of Local Government Reform. The Tawa Community Board is organising a community meeting at the community centre at 4pm on Sunday April 7 to hear from the Wellington City Council the various options being proposed. All are

Porirua City Council says they will keep sports grounds open for pre-season training for winter sports.

The council says despite the run of dry weather Porirua sports grounds are in good condition and are in the condition expected of them at this time of the year.

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Whitireia graduation

Last Friday 500 students graduated with degrees, diplomas and certificates from Whitireia Polytechnic.The graduation ceremony took place at Te Rauparaha Arena, with graduates parading to the ceremony from the Porirua Campus. Porirua News was there to take part in the celebration.

Keeping kids safe WELL DONE: From left, Teresa Hoskins, Tammy Blackford and Rebecca Watson are all graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Music.

Photo: CCN220313NPgraduate3

GRADUATES: A group of students all graduating with a Diploma in Stage and Screen Arts.

Photo: CCN220313NPgraduate2

CONGRATULATIONS: Students graduating with a Postgraduate Certificate in Primary Healthcare Photo: CCN220313NPgraduate5 Speciality Nursing.

CAPPED: This group are all graduating with a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.

Photo: CCN220313NPgraduate4

PARTY: Students graduating with a Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing - Mental Health.

Photo: CCN220313NPgradute6

SCHOLAR: From left Elizabeth Mua, Laura Margett and Nicky Mochan are all graduating with a Photo: CCN220313NPgraduate7 Bachelor of Nursing.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What’s the point?

I’m not sure what the point is of Porirua News bringing us the news on those who say they are

Don’t those standing for office realise the current lot are not only planning to shrink democracy but we will no longer have a say about how money is

Wahine storm

Evening Post

going to stand for council later this year. If the current crop of councillors have their say we may not have a Porirua City Council.

raised and spent locally.

The Wellington Regional Council on steroids will tell us what is good for us.

KEVIN WATSON

We all have a role in supporting parents and whanau to keep children safe — Families, whanau, friends, neighbours and workmates of everyone who is raising children in Aotearoa. We want to make sure children are loved, well cared for and brought up free from family violence.

Children need to feel safe, to feel loved and need to have people they can trust. Constant fights and arguments are emotionally damaging for children.

Violence makes them feel unsafe, unloved and makes them mistrust the people they should be able to trust the most. It is harder for them to grow up and lead normal lives — harder for them to make friends, to learn, stay healthy and be happy.

Growing up in a violent environment makes children hyper-alert.

They are always on the lookout for trouble — eyes wide, looking around, guard up, watching what they say or do — because they think they might do something unintentionally to provoke an attack. It’s not just about being on the receiving end.

It’s also seeing it happen to people that they love.

Adults aren’t the only ones who hurt children. Siblings who bully others can be violent and emotionally abusive.

No-one should be frightened or scared by someone in their family.

Supporting parents helps to prevent abuse and keep children safe. Understanding the behaviours and situations that can lead to abuse and neglect can help us stop it from happening.

Call Police on 111 if an adult or child is in immediate danger Porirua Living Without Violence on 237 6009 Barnardos Footsteps to Feeling Safe on 801 1678 ■ The words have been taken directly from ‘‘Keeping Kids Safe and Secure’’ an It’s not OK publication.

Museum of Wellington City & Sea

45th anniversary events Mon 8 April The Wahine Disaster documentary & director’s talk 12.30pm to 2pm* repeat screening Tue 9 April 1pm to 2pm* Wed 10 April The Wahine bell will be rung and flowers of tribute can be laid throughout the day Wreath laying 11am Wahine bus tour to Seatoun departs Museum at 1pm* $10 per person

Thurs 11 & Friday 12 April Theatre performances Wellington East Girls’ College and Wellington High School students 1pm and 7pm* Record your Wahine story and add to the map of Wellington from 8 to 12 April 10am to 5pm *Booking recommended for these events T: 04 472 8904 Programme details subject to change, see: www.museumswellington.org.nz a Wellington Museums Trust institution

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Admiring their buns You know Easter is coming when hot-cross buns hit the shelves.

A spiced bun traditionally eaten around Easter, hot-cross buns tend to be marked with a cross, which is made of flour and water and sugar.

According to food writer Jan Bilton, the bun’s origin lies in pagan traditions of ancient cultures, with the cross representing the four quarters of the moon. Later, the Christian church adopted the bun and gave new meaning to the cross.

Your hard-working Cook Strait News team sampled some of the top five hot cross buns from around the Wellington region.

All the buns were sampled toasted, with a little butter, by our hungry newsroom.

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■ Aro Bake, 83 Aro Street, Aro Valley $1.90 for a bun, but it was a good size. This bun had a lovely zesty citrus flavour, as well as great spices.

Baked on site, the bun had a delicious glazing on to.

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■ Strathmore Bakery, 510 Broadway, Strathmore This bun cost $1.50 and was definitely a decent size. We noticed it didn’t have as much fruit as some of the others we tried.

The flavour of our batch was a bit bland and soapy.

■ Lucky Bakery, 100 Karori Road, Karori We were very impressed

by Lucky Bakery’s take on the hot cross bun, and at $1.50 it was also a reasonable price. Their bun seemed to have the perfect balance of spices and fruit. We definitely recommend giving it a go.

■ Wainui Cake Kitchen, Shop 34, The Mall, Wainuiomata This was the cheapest of all the hot

cross buns we sampled at just $1.30.

It was slightly smaller than the other buns and not as spicy, but earned points for the tasty sweet glaze on top.

■ Nada Bakery, 64 Johnsonville Road, Johnsonville; 4/72 Main Road, Tawa Most expensive of those we tasted at $2.40, but Nada buns never fail to impress.

There was a good amount of citrus fruit and the bun was a decent size, but some on the news team found it a bit light on the spice.

■ If you’d like to make your own buns for Easter, there are plenty of recipes available on the internet, just Google ‘‘hot cross bun recipes’’, including one from Dame Alison Holst at www.food.com/ recipe/alison-holsts-hot-crossbuns-164295

Curtain bank opens for winter Wellington Curtain Bank is opening its doors for the winter season on Tuesday, April 2. Those with a Community Services Card can get free, lined curtains for their lounge. ‘‘With the weather getting colder and respiratory illness a constant threat to our families, lined curtains are an effective way to look after your family’s health and keep the heat

inside your home, saving on your power bills at the same time,’’ Community Programmes manager Christina Bellis says. Skilled staff repair and upcycle donated curtains and give them free to people struggling to keep their homes warm. The trust is celebrating 10 years in the Wellington region with an Easter special — up to 90 per cent

subsidies on insulation for homeowners with Community Service Cards and landlords with tenants who have Community Services Cards.

■ To get curtains: Go to www.sustaintrust.org.nz to download a measurement form or pick one up from your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

Celebrate with us

Mana Natural Health and Beauty has moved Join us at the Official Opening of our new premises Saturday 6th April at Palmers Lifestyle Centre, SH1 Plimmerton ❥ ❥ ❥ ❥ ❥ ❥

9:00am Opening Ceremony – Mayor of Por ir ua officiating All Day Refreshments Tastings – Raw Chocolate, Tar t Cherr y Juice, Beetroot Juice and more.

Gifts with Purchase Lucky Draws Meet our Practitioner s , 1-2pm; Ir idology, Homeopathy, Acupuncture, Massage

Book now for the following special offers – Call 04 233 8820 ❥ ❥ ❥ ❥ ❥

In-store make-up ar tist - $25 15 min neck & shoulder massage – $25 Eyebrow sha pe and tint -$25 Raw Chocolate Making Wor kshop - $45.00. Saturday 10am – 12pm and Sunday 10am – 12pm.

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Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Avengers invade library ■ Chloe Winter ■ Massey Journalism Student

WOFS*

Monday through to Saturday

BE IN QUICK, AS BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL

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Sixty children have now completed a Cannons Creek Library programme that encourages kids to read and be interested in books.

Library Avengers sets the children tasks, such as searching for specific words in the library, making bookmarks, separating fiction from non-fiction books, and shelving books using the Dewey Decimal System.

There is a junior programme for 5- to 7-year-olds and a senior programme for those aged 8 and over.

Gladys Foisaga, 9, is the 60th Avenger and graduated from the programme in March, five months after she started.

Gladys says her favourite part was the scavenger hunt, where she had to find books in the library and file them away in alphabetical order.

She hopes the library makes a new programme. ‘‘I wish I could do it again.’’

Branch librarian Gina Miller says another of the children’s tasks is to write to an author they admire. ‘‘Most of the time the authors write back and send them a book. ‘‘They get really encouraged by that . . . it just blows their mind,’’ she says.

Miss Miller is designing a range of activities to make a third programme. ‘‘[I’m] just trying to make it fun, but it’s still teaching them stuff.’’

One striving Avenger, Gloriya Talaoloa, 9, is excited to become a Library Avenger. ‘‘[I love] looking and learning

30

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UNIT 3, 98 MAIN RD, TAWA (JUST BEHIND BP SERVICE STATION) THE AVENGERS: Graduates and striving Avengers stand in front of their Wall of Photo: Chole Winter / CCN250313NPavengers Fame. about the books.’’

Graduates have their photo displayed on a Wall of Fame and can take a book of their choice out of the library.

‘

They get really encouraged by that . . . it just blows their mind.

■ To join Library Avengers, contact Gina Miller on 237 8354 or GMiller@pcc.govt.nz

’

GINA MILLER Librarian

04 232 9128

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It's a well-known fact that when a woman walks into a house for the first time it's the kitchen she notices first. In fact real estate agents say if you can sell a woman the kitchen you can very nearly sell the entire house.

Even if you aren't planning to list your house for sale but want to spruce it up, it's odds-on the kitchen and the bathroom are high on the list of priorities. So how affordable are kitchen remodels these days?

It depends, of course, on how extensively you want to remodel. If there are walls to be moved or removed, an extension to plan or rewiring to be done, the cost can creep up. But if it's a basic remodel and not bespoke, out with the old and in with the new in a matter of days, there are numerous modular options ranging from DIY flat-pack kit sets to having a designand-build company install a completed kitchen.

DECKING FENCING MAINTENANCE

It is well to first consider the size of the kitchen you require. Statistics New Zealand estimate that by 2021 the majority of dwellings will house only one or two people. Logic dictates, then, that a large kitchen will not be a major requirement for the majority of these households and yet micro-kitchens or kitchenettes are still thought to devalue a property for resale.

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There is probably a compromise between too large for your own needs or too small to attract a buyer and it may depend on whether you live in a city, a smaller town or the country. Given the take-away and restaurant options that proliferate cities, and a generational viewpoint that cooking in an oven is a time-waster, smaller kitchens are in vogue in urban houses and apartments.

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Then there is the choice of materials to be used in both new or renovated kitchens. The

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natural and untreated kitchen components used from early last century to about the mideighties is now called retro chic. The materials are better for the environment and may cost more unless you source them from a recycle depot. A quick-fix solution like melamine faced chipboard (MFC) is affordable and effective for cupboards, drawers and doors and could allow you to spend more on bench tops. Once again there is a wide variety of options are available for the working surfaces _ laminate, stainless steel, stone or tiles.

It's great to have a brand new kitchen but what if the old wiring can't cope and you need new flooring? These things need to be factored into any remodelling budget. It's surprising how many kitchens have been remodelled but the floor has been left looking like a scruffy child in desperate need of attention.

Then there's bench height. A generation ago builders stuck in benches of a certain height regardless of whether it suited owners or not so if it needs to be reduced in a remodel, the additional cost of wall work needs to be taken into account.

It's better to plan and budget before you start to avoid being slapped with a cost you hadn't even thought of. Newspapers are a good source of information and the internet offers advice from the comfort of home.

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Tawa to hold first It’s OK seminar

‘

■ Talisa Kupenga ■ Massey Journalism Student

Tawa will hold its first It’s OK to help seminar next month to prevent family violence.

The free seminar and dinner hosted by the Tawa Community Centre aims to equip locals with positive ways to counter abuse.

Northland Presbyterian Support anti-violence advocate and domestic violence survivor Jude Simpson will speak at the event. ‘‘Conversations can lead to all sorts of things. ‘‘The more we talk about it the more it brings things out into the open,’’ she says.

Ms Simpson suffered domestic violence from a young age, which led to 28 years of abuse and violent relationships.

She is now a motivational speaker on the topic and answers questions on the It’s not OK! website helping others in similar situations.

Ms Simpson is commending Tawa for confronting this sensitive issue. ‘‘It is a very bold move and I am proud of the community for doing this.’’

Tawa Community Centre coordinator Angela Rampton and Northern Wellington City Councillor Donna Wilson were prompted to action following conversations with a work colleague - a domestic violence survivor.

The seminar also comes after the tragic death of a local mother late last year, but officials say the events are not linked.

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Jude Simpson will be speaking at the It’s OK to help seminar in Tawa about her experience with family violence.

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Ms Wilson says the campaign is aimed to help educate the public. ‘‘Domestic violence is everyone’s responsibility, whether directly or indirectly affected people can act positively to these situations.’’

Tawa College principal and master of ceremonies for the event, Murray Lucas, is encouraging all to attend. ‘‘It is something we all have a role in solving. Violence has no place in any society.’’

Tawa Constable Sarah Riddering and It’s Not OK! campaign manager Stephanie Edmonson will also speak.

People can sign up for additional two-hour practical seminars at the meeting, which will be run at the community centre by the Ministry of Social Development.

Give us a call and we can arrange a free quote.

Check out our interactive website

■ Contact Angela or Hinetai at Tawa Community Centre on (04) 232 1682 Or log onto the website : tawacc@wcc.govt.nz

A H UG E thank you to our sponsors, funders, volunteers and supporters who made CR E E KFE ST 2013 a success.

A special thank you to Hon Tony Ryall Minister of Health who visited and participated in the day, meeting with stall holders and the community.

The feedback we have received is that the stall holder promotions were innovative and fun, the sports activities were exciting and challenging and the music was fantastic.

A special thank you to the Board of Porirua Whanau Centre Trust who under wrote the event in the last hour to ensure Creekfest 2013 happened. Steve Kenny Chairman Porirua Healthlinks.

A community Creekfest debriefing meeting will be held at Porirua Whanau Centre Thursday 28th March at 12pm in the Fono Room, 16 Bedford Court, Cannons Creek

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Free

March Edition of Dream Weddings

CONFERENCE: From left, Superintendent Tavita Fafita (Tonga), Superintendent Pati Taulapapa (Samoa), Mayor Nick Leggett, Superintendent Akatauira Matapo (Cook Is) , Deputy Commissioner Atelaite Soakai (Tonga).

Photo: Supplied / CCN210313SPLpolice

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To receive your FREE copy of this magazine please send your name and address to: E: leanne.holdaway@citylifenews.co.nz

Top Pacific police in Porirua The Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) in Porirua is currently hosting a conference of police officers from across the Pacific.

The 21 Senior Police Officers from 15 South Pacific countries are in New Zealand to attend a twoweek long course designed for future leaders in police.

They have travelled from as far afield as Federated States of Micronesia in the Northwest Pacific, to the Cook Islands in the South Pacific.

The course is designed to develop management skills and provide the tools senior officers need in leadership roles.

Four members of the course have previous links with Porirua City and the RNZPC dating back 25 years.

Superintendent Pati Taulapapa

(Samoa) attended a Basic Investigations Course in 1988, Deputy Commissioner Atelaite Soakai (Tonga) attended a recruit course in 1990, Superintendent Akatauira Matapo (Cook Is) from attended both a Recruit Course 1992 and Sergeant’s Course 1995, and Superintendent Tavita Fafita (Tonga) was at the College in 2001 for some specialist training in International Monitoring.

Nick Leggett, Mayor of Porirua City, met with the group and was impressed by the calibre of pacific leaders on his city’s doorstep. ‘‘It’s great to see the Police College at Porirua being used as a training base by Pacific nations.

With such a large Pacific community I see these senior officers as being great role models to kids in our schools. We are proud that Porirua is the ‘home’

New Zealand Police and as such we need to be better promoting policing as a career to our large population of children and young people. We have this great facility in our backyard and it has the potential to develop scores of Porirua kids. We have to forge better connections to ensure it does that.’’

Inspector Anaru George, head of Community and Prevention training at the RNZPC echoes the Mayor’s sentiment. ‘‘Having senior police members from across the pacific attend a high level leadership course in Porirua has been fantastic not just for the attendees but for staff, course members and recruits. It has been heartening to see members of the leadership course seek out pasifika recruits and share stories.’’

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

INSERTS INSERTS

GEARED UP: Ryan Tait, Joe Smythe and Logan Kendall show off the new gear they have received as part of the ANZ Gear Photo: Supplied / CCN250313NPanz Grant.

Grant gears up cricketers

The Porirua Junior Cricket Club has been given a helping hand in their first season with an ANZ Cricket Gear Grant worth $1500.

The grant, which includes bats, stumps, helmets, and pads, will aid over 100 of Porirua’s young cricketers with practice sessions and competition matches.

ANZ says it is awarding $100,000 worth of grants to clubs, schools, fans and social teams around the country. ANZ Porirua branch manager Paul Commerford says the bank wants to support cricket at every level, from junior clubs right through to the professional series. ‘‘The ANZ Cricket Grant

scheme was established to celebrate and support New Zealand’s love of cricket. Many players and fans need a helping hand, whether it be new gear for a school cricket team or tickets to the test series. We want cricket mad Kiwis from every corner of the country to benefit from the ANZ Cricket Grant Scheme. ‘‘Porirua Junior Cricket Club formed this season as a result of Whitby and Mana clubs joining forces. The club offers coaching to over 100 young players in the area and are hoping to grow each year.

We wanted to reward this dedicated group of coaches and players with new gear to help them

develop,’’ he says.

Coach Brent Smythe said the grant would make a huge difference to Porirua’s junior cricketers. ‘‘Our club’s first season is going really well and we have a great bunch of children who are all very focused on being the next generation of Black Caps.

Unfortunately the players’ enthusiasm didn’t match our gear, which was falling to bits. ‘‘Receiving this ANZ Cricket Grant is a big help and has given us everything we need to coach our players properly. Wearing brand new kit certainly will put a step in the stride of all our players when they go out to bat,’’ he says.

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

New look for Traverse ■

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Nikki Papatsoumas

The Porirua Grand Traverse is back in just over a week with a fresh new course and new look.

MJ Cook has taken on the role of event organiser this year and says she is hoping to give the event a new lease of life. ‘‘The event has a fresh face this year, with new logo and tagline and website. It is something for everyone, a a fun day out for the whole family.’’

This year the event will be held at one place, with the start, transition, and finish all in Whitireia Polytech, which she says will help the day run more smoothly, and create a fun ambience for spectators as well as participants once they cross the finish line.

There will be five event options on the day, a fun run / walk, a youth challenge, a mountain bike, a mountain run, or the multisport / duathlon event. ‘‘We have included events to make it more open to all participants for people who are just starting out with running. ‘‘The multisport / duathlon you need a decent fitness level, the fun run is a bit more achievable for people that just want to get fit.’’

The youth challenge has been set up as an introduction into multisports for kids between the ages of 11 and 15.

Instead of kayaking they will use a waka, then take part in a eight kilometre bike ride, and a two kilometre run.

The multisport event is made up of a 10km kayak, a 28km mountain bike, and a 18km mountain run, both which have 1000m elevation.

MJ says they have tried to keep the duration of the bike and run similar, to make the event balanced across both disciplines.

So far there are 300 participants

registered, and MJ says she is hoping to have a turn out of around 700 on the day.

There is $2,000 worth of prize money to be distributed as well as spot prizes from their sponsors.

People have until the fourth of

April to register online for the event, but can register for the fun run up until April 4.

■ For more information, and to register for the event head to www.pgt.govt.nz

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13

Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Real time SatNav traffic hits NZ H

yundai Motors New Zealand will become the first vehicle manufacturer in New Zealand to include real-time traffic updates as an integrated feature of its vehicle satellite navigation systems.

The system, which receives live updates from the SUNA Traffic Channel and adjusts the recommended route to bypass traffic, will be available as standard on the new generation models of the Santa Fe Elite and Elite Limited, Veloster and as an option on the ix35 Elite, i40 Elite wagon and sedan, and i30 Elite.

Drivers will have access to up-to-theminute information on traffic incidents such as accidents, road closures, traffic congestion, major road works and special events when travelling in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

Hyundai Motors New Zealand General Manager Andy Sinclair says, while the technology is available to drivers overseas, Hyundai is proud to be the first to offer it in New Zealand. ‘‘This system ensures that our customers will know which areas to avoid and how to reach their destination in the quickest possible way.

‘‘We’re a technology-driven company so we encourage and apply innovative thinking, and introducing live traffic updates is just one of the ways we’re leading the market here in New Zealand,’’ Mr Sinclair says.

SUNA Traffic Channel was launched in New Zealand in June this year, and is already accessible on selected portable navigation devices and smartphone apps.

Adam Game, Chief Executive Officer, Intelematics, says the partnership with Hyundai further extends Intelematics’ position as one of the world‘s most

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advanced traffic services. ‘‘We are very pleased to be working with Hyundai to make real-time traffic updates accessible to New Zealand drivers through their incar satellite navigation systems for the first time. ‘‘Integrated traffic solutions are a fast growing market and we congratulate Hyundai on being first to market,’’ says Mr Game.

SUNA’s detailed congestion monitoring is made possible through real-time analysis of data collected from thousands of ‘probe’ vehicles equipped with GPS systems.

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Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Limited edition M3 Pure Coupe´

By Colin Smith

As the new generation BMW 3 Series lineup continues to extend with the arrival of the Touring, the high performance M3 Coupe is enjoying one last hurrah as the current model nears the end of its production cycle.

BMW New Zealand has launched the limited edition M3 Pure Coupe´ — with only 20 units available nationwide and featuring distinctive, sporty styling enhancements as well as exclusive BMW Individual content.

BMW Group New Zealand managing director, Nina Englert, said the new

offering is the last opportunity for performance enthusiasts to get behind the wheel of the quintessential Ultimate Driving Machine. ‘‘The current M3 Coupe´ is the most accomplished and successful ever and the M3 Pure acknowledges this achievement by way of a special limited edition offer,’’

said Ms Englert. ‘‘With its unique features, the M3 Pure Coupe´ will give motoring fans the chance to secure a piece of BMW M history. This new edition will appeal to enthusiasts who desire a bespoke appearance and distinctive character, combined with the power and performance only an M3 can deliver.’’

Included as part of the M3 Pure Coupe´ edition are 19-inch M light alloy wheels, bonnet air vents in black high-gloss, kidney grille and side gills in dark chrome, exhaust tips in dark chrome and the handbrake lever featuring ‘‘M Power’’ stitching.

In addition to having all the performance credentials including rearwheel drive, 50:50 weight balance and a powerful V8 petrol engine — as well as a definite collectibility factor — the new model also offers excellent value for money at $149,900 driveaway.

Included as standard are the Bi-Xenon headlights, Navigation System Professional, Bluetooth and USB audio interface, storage and lights package, antidazzle interior rear view mirror, park distance control front and rear, and a carbon fibre roof.

Interior features include anthracite cloth with black leather combination upholstered seats with the headrests crafted from black Novillo leather and embossed with the BMW M logo. A black leather carbon structure interior trim is also standard.

FINAL CHANCE: Last opportunity for performance enthusiasts to get behind the wheel of the quintessential Ultimate Driving Machine.

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Settle back and enjoy

Wellington’s cinema The Roxy is hosting a Classic Film Festival to celebrate its second birthday.

Starting Monday, April 1 (Easter Monday) The Roxy Cinema will screen a week-long series of favourite classic films, complete with intermissions, food and drink matches from Coco at The Roxy and The Grand Lobby, and special ticket prices. ‘‘The Roxy Cinema is excited to be celebrating its second birthday,’’ says Daminda Dias, The Roxy Cinema’s operations and film manager. ‘‘In just two years we have become one of Wellington’s main cultural attractions with fantastic film facilities, excellent food from Coco at The Roxy, and craft beer in our Grand Lobby, and of course the impressive Roxy complex itself. What better way to celebrate than to showcase some of our favourite films?, he says.

The cinema will be screening epic film productions, Bollywood

SMOKIN’: The Roxy Cinema Classic Film Festival line-up includes Kung Fu Hustle (left) and Breakfast at Tiffany’s (right). spectaculars, kung fu classics, and 35mm film masterpieces.

Some of the films have been digitally remastered, others are in their original form. ‘‘We hopethere’s something for everyone — it’s our way of

thanking our loyal supporters, and encouraging other Wellingtonians, and visitors to stop by and enjoy a part of film history at The Roxy Cinema,’’ Daminda says.

He says the cinema has been

a labour of love for its owners — Daminda and Valentina Dias, Jo-Anne Lundon and Tim Alexander, Jonny McKenzie, Jamie and Ann Selkirk, and Tania Rodger and Sir Richard Taylor. ‘‘We are so thankful to everyone who has shared our dream and helped make The Roxy such a success,’’ he says.

The Roxy Cinema Classic Film Festival schedule includes: Ben Hur (a 31⁄2-hour epic that will include an intermission), Breakfast at Tiffany’s (screened as a special ‘Heels and Reels’ ladies’ night with canapes and cocktails), Bollywood movies Kahaani, and Special Chabbis, a one-off screening of kung fu classic Kung Fu Hustle, and the 1956 family classic Forbidden Planet.

Tickets for each of The Roxy Cinema Classic Film Festival movies will cost $10. ‘‘We recommend people book early to avoid missing out,’’ says Daminda.

■ The Roxy Cinema Classic Film Festival, Monday April 1-Sunday, April 7, at 5 Park Rd, Miramar.

Entertainment Listings Betty’s

March 28, DJs Micah, B-Lo, Gus & Kev Fresh; March 29, Chopped, Screwed and Funky.

Hotel Bristol

March 28, Roomfulla blues Jazz Night.

Mighty Mighty

March 27, Dave Fraser and the Slave Labourers; March 28, Gold Medal Famous; April 3, Killing Bear.

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15

Porirua News

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

San Francisco Bath House

Bodega

Circa Theatre

March 29, @ Peace Girls song release.

To April 20, Mike and Virginia; April 6-May 4 Tribes.

Sandwiches

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Cafe Meow

Opera House

March 28, Raw Comedy.

March 30, Stanton Warriors.

March 31, The Boptet.

March 25, Big Band Night; March 26, Latin Club; March 27, The Jam; March 31, The Troubles.

March 31, Gerry and the Pacemakers with special guests The Searchers.

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March 28, Don Franks.

April 5, Michael Kiwanuka.

Downstage April 5-19 Krishnan’s Dairy.

Te Papa To April 28, Game Masters, featuring 100+ playable games and celebrating the world’s most influential game designers.

BROKEN CITY

Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Russell Crowe, Catherine Zeta-Jones Director: Allen Hughes Running time: 109 mins Rating: R16 (violence and offensive language) Reviewed by: Francesca Rudkin Catherine Zeta-Jones and Russell Crowe look like they’re having a ball as a powerful married couple at war with each other in this somewhat old-fashioned crime thriller.

This is director Allen Hughes’ first solo effort, having previously codirected with brother Albert films including The Book of Eli and Menace II Society, and he’s delivered a slick-looking effort. The story begins with cop Billy Taggart (Walhberg) standing trial for killing an unarmed African-American.

With the Mayor’s intervention, Billy is found not guilty.

Seven years later we find Billy working as a private eye when he receives a call from Mayor Hostetler, played with all the smarmy charm Crowe can muster, who hires Billy to follow his wife Cathleen (Zeta-Jones), who he believes is having an affair. What Billy uncovers, though, is something much more sinister — a plot that involves dodgy election campaigns and municipal corruption on a grand scale.

Young television actress Alona Tal is in prestigious acting company but, as Billy’s assistant Katy, she gives the most enjoyable performance of the bunch.

The story starts and ends with some enthusiasm, but the middle drags and the film feels longer than its 109 minutes. The initial tease that the world of politics, business and the Hostetler marriage is not as it seems is never really delivered, with the plot unfolding as you’d expect and without the tension and suspense required to keep you on your toes.

Though New York may be broken, it looks great, thanks to cinematography by Ben Seresin — the wealthy world of the Hostetlers is as glossy as Billy’s blue-collar world is gritty. ★★★

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