The heavens opened. It rained, it blew. But that didn’t stop a large group gathering for the formal dawn blessing (Tā i te Kawa) of the Tupua Horo Nuku shared path at Whiorau Reserve last Saturday morning. When the day finally dawned, the sun did not shine… In fact, flooding was so bad in parts of the city that the already postponed Sunday public events celebrating the path’s opening were cancelled, because Hutt City Council staff had their hands full cleaning up.
The blessing was led by esteemed Te Āti Awa rangatira Kura Moeahu with iwi rōpū Puharikiriki. He says Tupua Horo Nuku was an opportunity to share the purakau (traditional Māori narrative) and educate the community.
”It’s now about the people of Eastbourne owning this side of the harbour. It belongs to them and they should be the ones talking about Eastbourne and the stories it holds.”
Heavy rain forced the formalities indoors to the Pelorus Trust Sports House where waiata from Muritai School students enthralled the 200-strong audience.
Muritai School students also spoke of their involvement in the project including a lovely presentation from year-8 pupil and head student Tessa Hayward. She was inspired by the school’s involvement.
Mayor Ken Laban heaped praise on all those involved in the project.
“I am proud of Council, and all our partners, in the work they’ve done to complete this project for the community. And a big thank you to all the locals who have helped and embraced Tupua Horo Nuku over the years.
“We all know there is only one way in and one way out of
Garden Maintenance Made Easy.
Eastbourne. The new seawall adds much needed resilience to that route while also providing a safe place for pedestrians and cyclists to travel, separated from traffic".
There is still finishing work to be done, decisions to be made and longer term plans to agree. Make sure that as Eastbourne locals - you have your input. You have lived through the years of inconvenience and need to now look forward and influence how Tupua Horo Nuku integrates into the Eastbourne way.
Whakawhetai ki a koutou katoa. A heartfelt thanks to you all.
Ann Packer / Nicola Morris
Reflections from the far side of the moon...
On 16 July 1969, NASA launched Apollo 11 - the first rocket to land on the moon. My father-in-law was part of the launch team and my wife watched from the other side of the river. The videos and photographs from Artemis II sparked many memories for me...
This time, Victor Glover, US Navy captain piloting the mission, speaking as a Christian, said “ looking back at the beauty of creation, I think, for me, one of the really important perspectives I have up here is that I can really see Earth as one thing”.
And Christina Koch, seeing Earth from deep space said: “The thing that changed for me, was not only the beauty of Earth, but how much blackness there was around it. It truly emphasized how alike we are We evolved on the same planet, and we have some shared things about how we love and live that are just universal. And the specialness and preciousness of that, really is emphasized when you notice what there is around it.”
And, from a recent poem by Ana Lisa de Jong:
We are not strangers here. We are made with need for love and community for our shared enrichment.
When we see the alien as brother we lower the drawbridge, widen the kingdom.
We all of us live on the near side of the moon, the outside rind of an orange skin…
St Alban’s+St Ronan’s: 1st Sundays 9:30am monthly Shared Communion Services (alternating venues, leaders and preachers). 1 March at St Ronan’s church, 5 April at San Antonio church St Ronan’s: 1st Sundays shared with St Albans (see above). 2nd and 4th Sundays 9:30am informal, 3rd Sundays 9:30am traditional, 5th Sundays 12:00pm fellowship meal. office@stronans.org.nz www.stronans.org.nz
St Alban’s: 1st Sundays shared with St Ronan’s (see above). Other Sunday services at San Antonio church at 9:30am. 1st Thursdays, communion at 10:30am at St Ronan’s church. www.facebook.com/StAlbansNZ office@stalbanschurch.nz www.stalbanschurch.nz
San Antonio: Vigil Mass, Saturdays 5:30pm.
Sacred Heart, Petone: Mass, Sundays 9.30am and 5.30pm. holyspiritparish41@gmail.com www.holyspirit.nz
Column sponsored by St Alban’s Anglican, St Ronan’s Presbyterian & San Antonio Catholic.
Don J. McIlroy
An Eastbourne lawyer
First Floor, 40 Rimu St Tel: 562 6393
Email: arcadia@xtra.co.nz
WHAT’S HAPPENING HAIR
APRIL
April always feels like a fresh start the air turns crisp, the pace slows, and it’s the perfect time to reinvent yourself.
If you ’ re reading this, it might be time for a change Maybe your hairstyle feels dated, your colour no longer suits your complexion, or your look just doesn’t reflect who you are anymore That’s where I come in.
I specialise in modern sophistication and effortless, polished looks tailored to your lifestyle and personality. Together, we’ll find a cut and colour that flatters your features, complements your skin tone, and fits seamlessly into your everyday routine.
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While I am fully booked most weeks, I have a few spaces for new clients this month. If you ’ re ready for a look that feels like the best version of you, now ’ s the time to book.
Because confidence starts the moment you love your reflection.
Eastbourne Community Board
Tupua Horo Nuku
The shared path is open. Unfortunately the weather gatecrashed our party. We will celebrate soon, but the great thing about walking and cycling is we don’t need an event to have a great time. Get out there and let us know your ideas for improvement. We also have lots of bike bells to give away, so contact us or ask at the library.
Community Resilience
ECB have made a submission on the Draft Wellington Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Plan, which emphasises the importance of a community led response, especially in the first 7 days of an event.
Communications
Lowry Bay made good use of their recently purchased walkie-talkie radios during the last power outage, and we are also exploring the use of an off-grid radio system as a backup communications option everyone can use. Lowry Bay also made good use of their community generators. Get involved
Are you and your community organised and ready for emergencies? Contact ECB if you would like to get involved in developing a more resilient community.
What’s next?
What are our community priorities over the next 10 years? What would you like to see in the survey? Let us know.
Anzac poppies were the subject of a felting workshop, one of several holiday options for children offered by Artspace teacher Clare Leniston. The results when laid out are like a quilt, honouring those who died at Gallipoli on that first Anzac Day, 25 April 1915, and later on the Western Front, where Flanders is part of Belgium. The young artists were
This is Clare’s tenth year teaching in the space between the bakery and the greengrocery in Rimu St. She says she loves what she does, and her windows and displays at the library are a vibrant, ever-changing backdrop to village life.
Self Service Dogwash
•Easy to Use
• 3 filters to capture all dog hair
•Council consented
• Cost $12, pay with gold coin or card via paywave
• 10 minutes to wash your dog using Shampoo, Flea Shampoo and Conditioner, rinse them off with warm water and blow-dry them.
• Area is under surveillance and has a motion activated light for late night dog walkers
•If any issues arise, contact numbers are located on the machine
LOCATION: Behind the public toilets at the Eastbourne Swimming pool. This is to provide somewhere safe for the dogs to be washed after going for a walk or a swim along the beach.
Olive, Harry, Charley, Mona, Ollie and Isla.
PLANT THERMOLOGY 1
April/May: Mid-late autumn. Golden leaves, shorter days, cooler air.
Range: Plant growth depends on temperature, and daily growth on the day/night average (www. mulchpile.org/5). Every species has min and max temperatures with which it can cope. The max on a summer’s afternoon, the min on a winter’s night. These determine its habitat range. Sessile: Plants can’t move, so must tolerate the hot/cold extremes of their environment. Like reptiles, plants are poikilothermic - they live at the temperature of their environment. They make chemicals to help survive the extremes (heat shock proteins, antifreeze proteins). Careful measurement shows leaves and flowers can be a bit cooler or warmer than the surrounding air.
So, although poikilothermic, they have some ability to regulate their temperature.
Radiation: On a still, sunny, day a leaf may be about 2°C warmer than the surrounding air, and on a still, cloudless night it may be about 2°C cooler – enough to have dew form on it, or frost (if air temperature is close to 0°C). The daytime warming is due to incoming solar radiation (~1 kW / m2). The nighttime cooling is due to net outgoing infrared radiation - from the relatively warm leaf, to the chill of the night sky (at about -40°C). In a breeze, these small temperature differences disappear (so, no dew or frost if windy).
Evaporation: If a plant is wellwatered, a leaf can be 2°C cooler than the air, even in full sun, due to evaporative cooling. The leaf opens up its tiny pores (stomata) and evaporation of its internal water cools it. But if the plant is droughted, and the sun bright, the stomata close, evaporative cooling is negligible, leaf temperature can rise to 10°C warmer than the air. May be lethal.
Reorientation 1: Young sunflowers (buttercups, dandelions, tulips) follow the sun as it moves across the sky (heliotropism). This warms the flower (~5°C) (faster growth). Sunflowers stop this behaviour as they mature, they end up facing east. This warms them on cool mornings, five-times better at attracting pollinators, bees like warm flowers!
Reorientation 2: Sunflower (cucumber, tomato, hydrangea) leaves droop around midday. Drooping reduces exposure to overhead sun by ~20% (cooler). Leaves revive in the afternoon.
Reconfiguration: In some grasses (wheat, rice, maize) the leaves change shape under drying conditions - leaf rolling. This can decrease exposure to the sun by ~50% (cooler).
Reflection: Many plants adapted to hot, dry conditions (xerophytes) have silvery leaves. A green leaf reflects ~10% of sunlight, a silvery leaf reflects ~65% (cooler). The silver colour is due either to a thick waxy cuticle or to downy hairs. slang@outlook.co.nz www.mulchpile.org
THE HASSLE OF PESKY INTRUDERS!
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Eastbourne Bowling Club - Clash of the Codes
Eastbourne Bowling Club hosted its second annual Clash of the Codes tournament on Sunday 29 March.
A strong field of 48 bowlers, representing Eastbourne’s rugby, football, cricket and tennis clubs, took part, while just as many spectators enjoyed the afternoon.
Plenty of competitive bowls were played in great spirit. Events like this continue to showcase the Bowling Club at its best — both on and off the green.
Girls Years 1–13, Co-ed Preschool
It was once again a highly successful event, culminating in a gripping finish. In the final playoff, Team Cricket, captained by Steve Gellatly, took out the Shield, defeating last year’s winners, Team Tennis.
French Polynesia – Papeete to Lautoka, Silver Cloud. Departs 1st April 2027 for 12 days
Papeete to Lautoka expedition style. Visit 11 ports in 5 countries including full day in Bora Bora and Aitutaki, included excursions include shark and ray snorkelling, hiking, lagoon cruising and many more.
From AU$16,750 pp in a Veranda Suite.
Asia – Kobe to Otaru, Silver Cloud. Departs 16 May 2027 for 12 days
Japan expedition style. 11 ports in Japan and an overnight in Busan, included excursions are waterfall trekking, kayaking, tea with a monk in an art village, onsen experience, geisha performance and much more.
It was a sellout season for The Pearl Fishers in February, and clever rescheduling even managed to beat the foul weather that rolled in later on the last day.
Director Rhona Fraser – who managed to squeeze some of her Sunday audience into the Saturday show, and brought the Sunday evening performance forward to 12.30pm to miss the forecast storm – was delighted with how The Pearl Fishers “just fitted” as a choice of opera for the setting and audience. “So much reference to the wonders of the natural world in the opera and then all those amazing tunes resonating amongst the trees and all the way up to the ridge line…”
Now back in Cambridge, UK, Ms Fraser says the opportunity to come home to NZ to perform for family and friends was a drawcard for her lead singers, Madison Nonoa, Zachary McCulloch and Kieran Rayner.
“People obsess about the weather,” she says, “but if you are producing an opera with at least 35 people involved in making it possible, there are countless things that could and do happen. Many of the audience had flown from around the country and were just coming as they love opera and they love seeing and hearing it in our intimate setting.”
A convert to the power of small, intimate opera productions since early in her own career, Ms Fraser was delighted to again have conductor Howard Moody return to conduct the opera, as well as the oratorio concert in St Mary of the Angels the following week. She says the orchestra loved working with him as did the “wonderful chorus of young Wellington singers who really gave their all and created the opera for the soloists to perform in.” For his part, Mr
Ann Packer
Moody – seen the day after the oratorio heading for the ferry with the most enormous rolling suitcase packed with musical scores – noted that for some of the singers it was their first opportunity to sing with an orchestra, and he believes this is one of the most important benefits the Days Bay Opera productions offer.
Ms Fraser says she feels very supported by the Eastbourne community, including those who host the soloists. “It makes my heart sing when all the different elements align and we are able to create something so special in the garden".
“I think as New Zealanders and Wellingtonians, we have huge potential to create opera. We have our national professional orchestra based in Wellington, and an impressive cohort of singers continually being trained and making a local and international contribution to the world of music.
As for next year, she already has a great opera chosen – “and I know it will work really well in the garden”.
APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS
Closing date: 15 June 2026
Applications from EastbourneBays groups are invited. Application forms are available on the website (see below).
Please refer to the following website for information on the Trust: www.ebct.org.nz
Contact: Anne Manchester 027 684 5664 or email: trustees@ebct.org.nz
Now you see them - now you don't
They were there one day, gone the next…but Greater Wellington’s Lisa Treeby-Brown says the colourful lacy wings at Butterfly Creek were only ever intended to be temporary.
She says the wings “reference the name of the iconic picnic, swimming and recreation spot and provide the perfect photo opportunity to share with friends".
“Our events and activations aim to get people into regional parks for fun and education. The butterfly wings, and the historical signs on the trail, give visitors of all ages a new reason to visit an old favourite location, and teach them a bit about the area and why it is so special.”
Part of the council’s wider programme of summer events throughout the region for the 2025/26 season, from December to March, the large wooden shapes were designed by the council’s in-house designer and painted by staff to enliven areas of the park that visitors might not
know too much about.
They were folded away at the end of March, so as not to be damaged by weather over winter. And in the end, says Lisa, there was only an antenna missing.
“They did pretty well considering!”
Ann Packer
A Mother's Day Retreat
Showcasing the Power of Small Community Innovation. Sister bakehouse, Kirsty Morison Ceramics, Shareheat Sauna
In a time when small businesses are navigating increasing challenges, a collective of local creators in Eastbourne are coming together to offer something truly special: a voucher for gifting this Mother’s Day. It's a thoughtfully curated half-day retreat that celebrates care, creativity, and community resilience on 17th May 2026.
Designed as an invitation to slow down and reconnect, this unique experience blends wellness, craftsmanship, and nourishment into a seamless, restorative flow. More than just a retreat, it is a reflection of how small, independent businesses are
innovating — collaborating to create meaningful, high-quality experiences that support both people and place.
Guests are welcomed into a serene coastal setting where the day begins with a hands-on fermentation workshop, exploring the art of crafting sauerkraut — a practice rooted in tradition, sustainability, and wellbeing. From there, participants are guided into a ceramics session, where they can create a personal piece to be professionally fired and delivered after the retreat, offering a lasting reminder of the experience. The retreat concludes with a deeply restorative sauna session, allowing guests to fully unwind and reset, followed by a nourishing shared meal designed to ground and replenish.
bookings contact
kirstymorison@gmail.com
Term One Review
As the school is currently in ‘holiday mode,’ it’s wonderful to look back at the energy and spirit our students and staff brought to every challenge and opportunity over the first term of 2026. Along with the classroom teaching and learning that takes place, part of our philosophy at Muritai is extending learning beyond the classroom—utilising our wonderful local resources and environment while seeking out opportunities to give back.
• Adventure and Resilience: Our Year 5–8 students recently took over Te Ngaengae Pool for our annual Swimming Sports. It was fantastic to see the grit on display, whether students were racing for a personal best or simply cheering on their peers from the sidelines. As usual, the finale was the much-anticipated class and House Relays. Congratulations to Charters House for taking the win this year!
• Speaking of grit, our Year 5–6 students headed off to Makahika camp earlier this term. School camps are more than just a getaway; they are vital for developing independence and social cohesion. In an outdoor environment, our young people learn to navigate challenges, support one another through physical hurdles, and build confidence that simply can’t be replicated in a classroom. For many, this was their first night away from home, and we could not have been more proud of their attitude and behaviour.
• Nurturing Our Grounds and Buildings: The school garden, Māra Muritai, is looking sharper thanks to
the incredible turnout at our recent garden working bee. A huge thank you to the parents and whānau who rolled up their sleeves—your hard work ensures our students have a vibrant, tidy environment to play and learn in.
• Meanwhile, you’ve likely noticed the ongoing building work across the school site. These upgrades are focused on long-term resilience and weather-tightness, ensuring our facilities remain warm, dry, and ready to withstand the elements for years to come. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we navigate these improvements and are hoping the majority of this work will be wrapped up by the end of Term 2.
• Strengthening Local Ties: Connection remains at the heart of what we do. Our students have been busy out in the community, bringing joy to the Mainly Music group and
delivering a stellar Kapa Haka performance at the St Alban's Fete. These interactions teach our tamariki the value of service and the importance of being a good neighbour. Looking ahead, these community connections continue. We are excited to support the opening of the new shared pathway, Tupua Horo Nuku, celebrating better connectivity for our whole region. Many of our students have watched this project develop over the past three years; during 2024, it was even our overarching learning focus. It provided many opportunities for us to act as Kaitiaki (guardians) of the local environment through dune planting, lizard relocations, and building shelters for the precious kororā. Our Kapa Haka rōpū and student leaders are excited to be involved in the dawn ceremony on April 18th, and we all can’t wait to make use of the completed pathway!
Finally, as is our annual tradition, we invite you to join us at the school’s memorial gates for ANZAC Day. Our students take great pride in playing a prominent role in these commemorations, ensuring the legacy of those who served is never forgotten.
Boundaries
Louise Parry, Liberty Counselling
Do you tend towards insecurity when it comes to sharing your views? Do you allow the opinions of others to go unchallenged, even when they don’t sit well with your values? Or perhaps there’s someone in your life who regularly offers unasked-for opinions about what you do and how you do it, yet you don’t feel able to speak up. This way of being in relationships seems particularly common for women, though it’s certainly not exclusive to us.
What are we fearing when we keep silent, rather than gently challenging someone else’s views? I’m not suggesting this needs to be confrontational (although that can change when those opinions veer towards bigotry and insults). Respect is important, but respect needs to be a two-way street.
In Western culture, especially now, we tend to see two extremes. At one end are the very confident, loudly-voiced opinions of those who feel entirely entitled to express their views, regardless of the impact on others. The right to freedom of speech is exemplified in extremes on social media platforms. At the other end of the spectrum sit the people I often encounter in my work, who are unable to express their views
at all, as though what they think or feel is somehow less valid than others’ thoughts and feelings.
I’m not talking here about the fear of disagreeing with a volatile partner. I’m talking about people who have been raised to take a back seat, to let others go first, and to keep the peace. Boundaries aren’t only about safety, though this is a vital consideration. They’re also about being able to show up as yourself. Why should you have to tone down your personality and opinions for someone else?
Sometimes, there’s a fear that speaking up could unsettle the relationship, as though it might disrupt an unspoken hierarchy it’s been built on. This inevitably calls into question its true stability and mutuality.
The old adage “do unto others,” or as Thumper says in Bambi, “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all,” isn’t bad advice. But there’s a difference between speaking unkindly or reacting with anger, and simply being clear. Setting a boundary, or expressing your opinion, isn’t an attack; it’s a way of showing others how you expect to be treated.
Of course, changing the habit of a lifetime isn’t easy, especially
if you’ve been conditioned to prioritise everyone else’s needs and opinions above your own. But small steps build confidence.
You might start by saying what you would actually like to do on a night out, rather than defaulting to “I don’t mind.” You might gently correct a friend who makes an inaccurate assumption about you. Or you might start to speak up against a family member’s bigoted views. These moments matter.
Try it. You may find it easier than you expect. The world won’t stop. And it might just be the beginning of a more authentic way of living.
Counselling can offer a space to refine your values and see where your life aligns, or doesn’t align, with these. Get in touch to make an appointment at libertycounsellingnz@gmail.com or phone or text 022 0800 393.
phone or text: 022 0800 393
libertycounsellingnz@gmail.com
Local environmental association winds up Ann Packer
East Harbour Environmental Association, which has fought for environmental issues in Eastbourne for some fifty years, has officially wound up.
Like many such organisations, it was faced with changing its constitution to meet the requirements of the Charities Amendment Act 2023, which required all 24,000 New Zealand incorporated societies to re-register by 5 April 2026.
In accordance with EHEA’s constitution, an SGM on 26 March confirmed the resolution passed at an SGM in July last year, to wind up
the association and allocate assets, after discharge of liabilities.
An informal group will continue the work as East Harbour Environmental
Group, with a sum of $500 going to Felicity Rashbrooke, to prepare records for depositing with the Eastbourne Historical Society (HSE) and to continue running an email membership list and occasional newsletter.
The remainder, around $5000, will pass to MIRO to be held for pest eradication and/or native planting in the Gollans Valley Farm area. A Memorandum of Understanding will be drawn up between EHEG and MIRO.
Final EHEA committee members, from left: Linda Mead, Felicity and Geoff Rashbrooke, following the SGM that confirmed the winding up.
Prime Position, Timeless Charm
Perfectly positioned in an exceptional location just a short stroll from the Village, shops, public transport, the beach and the local swimming pool, this light-filled 1940s character home offers an outstanding opportunity for buyers seeking charm, convenience and long-term potential. Set on a generous 973sqm (more or less) section, the home offers 93sqm (approximately) of welldesigned living space, enhanced by polished wooden floors that bring warmth and enduring appeal. A bright lounge and separate dining room create comfortable spaces for everyday living. Includes two bedrooms, a tidy bathroom with separate toilet, and a separate laundry.
bayleys.co.nz/3289944
2
Market Intel
Sinead Diederich, Harcourts
Easter is behind us and with Anzac day celebrations and school holidays, the month of April can often be a quiet month for real estate activity. 24 Sales since the start of 2026 – this is the lowest activity in that same period since 2021, reflecting a market that is buffeted by cross winds with world affairs, fuel costs, potential for interest rate hikes and recession playing on people’s minds.
Yet since the start of the year, we’ve seen buyers from a variety of walks of life – families relocating from Lower Hutt for lifestyle & schooling; downsizers moving from larger homes within the bays; grandparents from Auckland buying to be closer to grandchildren; multi-gen families buying together; upsizers moving within the Bays after outgrowing their dream home; 30-somethings returning from overseas (often with a partner, bubba or both) wanting to settle down; and a surprising number of American
immigrants (is there a message here?), to name just a few. One thing these people have in common? They want to live here. While questions arise about insurance/insurability, one road access, flood risk – ultimately any real estate purchase is a tradeoff. It never ceases to amaze me how much of a part emotion plays in these transactions. I rarely see someone purchase a home they don’t like!
Coming into the darker months of the year, once daylight saving ends, sellers become concerned about saleability at this time. We have many tips we can share with you, but the fundamental principles of saleability don’t change with the seasons. Good houses, well presented and priced to the market, always sell. And in Winter – there are fewer homes on the market, so less choice for buyers.
The question we get asked most
often at the moment is “How’s the market”. Short answer? Mixed! This month we sold the highestvalue property in Lower Hutt so far this year, to Kiwis returning from overseas. Perhaps it's a safe haven combined with exceptional value? What continues to surprise us is the level of buyer activity –particularly from those who can buy and are feeling positive about purchasing in a down market despite uncertain times. If you would like tailored insights for your street or part of The Bays, I’m always happy to talk. A question I love to be asked is “what do I need to do to my house before selling?”. Ask this question 3 months or more before going to market to get the absolute best out of our advice!
Top Tip for April: Get your heating appliances serviced now, ahead of any cold snaps, and gutters cleared ready for heavy downpours!
Spearfishing Success for Local Lad
Tom Cleland jumped at the opportunity to team up with a young competitor from the US to contest the Junior section of the World Freshwater Spearfishing Championships - held here in New Zealand at Lake Taupo on the 13th and 14th of March.
The competition serves a dual purpose of helping to remove Catfish, an invasive and destructive pest from the lake, while also providing a real test for competitive ‘spearos’ to pit their skills against the best.
Entry to the event is by application through your country’s national body, and generally via a selection process based on previous competition results.
Tom’s pathway was a little different in answering a last-minute call for help to partner up Port Cameron,
a visiting US Junior whose partner was unable to travel. And while new to the freshwater scene, Tom’s recent successes at spearfishing events gave him the confidence to have a crack.
The competition format is demanding, especially for the younger competitors, seeing them compete across two 6-hour days of continuous swimming, hunting and spearing the target species all by breath hold freediving and without the assistance of boats. Catfish have really taken hold in parts of Lake Taupo, with divers targeting them from very shallow waters to depths in excess of 20 metres with equal success. Day one for Tom was all about coming up to speed with the new techniques used for freshwater (more common overseas), using a pole spear as
opposed to his more familiar band powered speargun.
Tom and Port finished 4th in a strong junior field and while a bit disappointed not to get on the podium, they can be proud of their achievement and amazing contribution to the preservation of the lake.
East Harbour Women’s Club recently held a birthday party for their patron, Nancy (Pat) Moore, 106 years old, seen here with RSA member Lesley Fogarty. Club members were joined by members of Pat’s family, the RNZ Navy and the RSA, who presented her with flowers. An Eastbourne resident since 1987, when she moved back to her husband’s home town, Pat was a Wren - as the Women’s Royal Naval Service were known - stationed at a radio station at Waiouru during WWII.
Just minutes from Eastbourne, Wainui and Lower Hutt
Neighbours open their doors to show “what’s inside” solar homes
Eastbourne and Bays residents got a rare look inside real solar-powered homes last month, as ten local households opened their doors for the Watts Inside? Eastbourne and the Bays solar and electric home tour.
Held on Sunday 29 March, the community-led event attracted 85 attendees –virtually a sell-out – who visited three to four homes each across the Bays. Instead of sales pitches or glossy brochures, visitors viewed wall-mounted batteries in garages, compared rooftop solar systems, checked energy-monitoring apps, and asked homeowners the questions that matter most: What did it cost? What actually works? And would you do it again?
tonnes annually – the equivalent of taking 17 cars off the road.
But the real secret to the event’s success? Trust. Ninety-two percent of respondents rated homeowner conversations as the most valuable part of the tour – proof that neighbours helping neighbours remains one of the most powerful ways to share knowledge.
For many, the biggest surprise was affordability. Several attendees said solar was “cheaper than expected,” while others were relieved to learn their roofs were large enough to make it viable. One participant, who had been researching solar for three years, said the tour finally gave them the confidence to make a decision. Post-event feedback suggests the impact will last: 58% of surveyed attendees plan to
seek a solar quote within the next six months, while 83% intend to pursue some form of electrification such as solar panels, hot water heat pumps, EVs, induction cooking, or switching off gas. The tour could catalyse an estimated $677,000 in household electrification investment, delivering $55,000 per year in combined energy savings and reducing carbon emissions by approximately 41
For lease - Room 7, Above the Eastbourne library
Newly renovated office space with views of the harbour. 20.94msq
Clean, newly renovated shared toilets and kitchen.
Office is on the first floor above the library and is accessed via stairs. Please note, there is no elevator so the office is not wheelchair/ disabled accessible.
Access to additional meeting rooms available (extra charges apply)
Please contact Monica Turner to view: monica.turner@huttcity.govt.nz 38-40 Rimu Street, Eastbourne.
This event was organised by community electrification initiative Electrify the Hutt in partnership with Rewiring Aotearoa, supported by Just Paterson Real Estate, with homeowner gifts donated by Lighthouse Cinema Petone and O’Malley’s.
To learn more about solar, batteries, heat pumps, and EVs – and how to get started –visit rewiring.nz
APPLICATIONS FOR EASTBOURNE FREEMASONS’ SCHOLARSHIP
Closing date 15 May 2026
This $5,500 scholarship is available to students who have distinguished themselves during a minimum of three years tertiary study and who have lived in Eastbourne for a minimum of five years during their life.
Application forms available to download from https://www.eastbourne-bayscommunity-trust.org.nz/ Applications to be emailed to trustees@ebct.org.nz (only electronic applications will be accepted).
Contact Gaby Brown : 021 179 5311
CLUB
MAY
Tips & tricks to keep your garden looking great all year round!
May is the month that completes the transition from the mild days of autumn to the cold of winter. The stunning colours of autumn are starting to fade as we move in to the heart of winter. Many plants relish this change of season, luckily the bugs don’t!
Garlic, shallot & Elephant Garlic
Feijoas
Citrus
Spring Bulbs
Prune Autumn
Fruiting Canes
Harvest Pumpkin
Tend to Asparagus
Check Citrus Branches
Prune Hydrangeas
Daphne Cyclamen
Hellebores
Indoor Plants
Prune Delphiniums
Feed Winter
Flowering Plants
Spray Fruit Trees
Tend to Lawn
Guard Against Frost
KEY POINTS FOR THIS MONTH
` Refresh you pots with winter flowering annuals.
` Don’t give up on winter vege seedlings. They can still be planted.
` Garlic will be available late May so start planning your garden bed.
` Lift summer flowering bulbs and store them.
` Continue to plant trees and shrubs before winter sets in.
` Do a final clean up in the garden.
` Collect fallen autumn leaves and compost them.
KITCHEN GARDEN
` Sow green crops of lupin and mustard in any spaces you are leaving empty for digging into the soil for green manure.
` Refresh soil for crops by adding new compost and sheep pellets.
` Plant seedlings: broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, Brussels sprouts, silverbeet, spinach, onion and silverbeet. Protect from the cold while they are young.
` Sow seeds: spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, lettuce, onions, and peas. Transplant to the garden as the weather warms and when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves.
` Broad beans can be planted directly in to the soil, stagger your sowing for a continuous harvest.
` Plant parsley to replace any plants that have gone to seed.
` Dust your cauliflowers, broccoli and Brussels sprouts with derris dust to protect them from the white butterfly and the diamond back moth.
` Cut back herbs as they become straggly and leggy, divide if necessary.
` Plant garlic and shallots bulbs; give them plenty of winter sun.
` Tidy up old strawberry beds and prepare for new plants.
` Check your citrus trees as they will be heavy with fruit, remove fruit and shorten any that are bending under the weight. Better to lose a few fruit than the whole branch.
` Remove old fruit from the ground around all fruit trees to break the life cycle of bugs.
` Pruning fruit trees can begin once the leaves have fallen.
` Grape vines can be pruned once all the leaves have fallen.
` Watch out for early frosts.
` Protect seedlings from slugs and snails.
Recently SOLD In Your Area
Kia ora neighbour
From Kerry: Kia ora Neighbor!
What a special guest this month, friends. For those of us with school aged tamariki, Stu Devenport, Muritai
-
Kerry Makin-Byrd
School principal, needs no introduction. Grateful he was willing to share a few thoughts with us.
Please email me at kerry@ drkerrymakinbyrd. com to nominate anyone who you think should be highlighted in this column.
Kia ora neighbour - Stu Devenport
My name is Stu Devenport . My ancestry is Scandinavian and Scottish and I grew up in Masterton, Wairarapa. My loved ones would describe me as calm and friendly. Now I call Eastbourne home.
When and how did you decide to land in Eastbourne? In 2012 our family moved to Eastbourne after I had been teaching at Muritai for a number of years . We moved to Eastbourne because of the wonderful environment and the high performing school for our three daughters. It's a great place for bring up children!
What’s your favourite local gem? I’ve recently started to appreciate (again) our East by West ferry connection with Wellington. It is one of the most scenic journey in Wellington and so convenient for the daily commute or a quick trip into the city. Even better when the traffic is terrible. I’d love to see the service grow by having more connections to other spots across the harbour and night sailings.
What do you think is one of our region’s best kept secrets? Well, apart from Muritai School it would have to be the many incredible bush walks that are right on our doorstep. From short walks to longer ones, it's a perfect place to escape the busyness of life, suck in the fresh air and ground yourself. The fact you don’t need to jump in the car to get started on your walk is the best!
School principals wear many hats, what part of your role was most unexpected? Or unexpectedly fun? The most unexpected part of the role isn’t the workload - it’s the emotional whiplash. You have to be
incredibly agile to pivot between these “hats” without losing your momentum:
The Diplomat: Negotiating a peace treaty between two students over a disputed Four Square rule.
The Property Manager: Investigating why the heaters aren’t working, why the toilets aren’t flushing, advocating for additional funding from MoE
The Visionary: Sitting down with staff to analyse data and reshape the next five years of the school’s pedagogical approach.
The Comedian: Keeping a straight face while a five year old tells you a 12-minute story that has no ending.
All of the above can easily happen in one day and so much more!
Kerry Makin-Byrd
you ever received? The work is NEVER going to be finished... you need to set your own boundaries of when to stop at the end of the day.
What about best parenting advice? The “No” is often the most difficult tool in a parent’s kit because it feels like the opposite of love. We want our children to have everything we didn’t, and we want to avoid the immediate fallout of a tantrum.
However, in the world of child development, “No” is a structural necessity. It isn’t a rejection of the child; it’s the construction of a guardrail.
One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is the ability to be told “No” and survive it.
The "Micro-Dose": Every time you say no to a toy at the checkout
How can you identify someone is a school teacher without them even telling you? Check their pockets... they are normally filled with one or two ‘gotchas’ or stickers, a whiteboard maker and a Band-Aid.
What’s the best teaching advice
line or five more minutes of screen time, you are giving them a "micro-dose" of disappointment.
The Long Game: If a child never hears "No" at home, the first time they hear it from a peer, a teacher, or a future boss, it will feel like a life-altering catastrophe rather than a standard part of life.
Kia ora neighbour - Stu Devenport
What do you hope to learn in the next 5 years?
• If there’s one thing a career in education teaches you, it’s that the moment you think you’re an expert is the moment you stop being a great educator.
• Teaching is often called a "calling," but it is actually a highskilled profession.
• I'm keen to focus on finding better ways to advocate for teachers, highlighting the complex data analysis and relational skills they do use every day to ensure they get the professional respect they deserve.
• I’m keen to explore how AI will impact our students and the way we work at school. We can't avoid it yet we also can't lose the human side of teaching and learning.
• Learning always starts with relationships first. If you could whisper advice to your younger self, what would you say?
Be kind to yourself. In education and parenting, we are professional "givers." We spend our entire day extending grace, patience, and second chances to everyone else. But often, the person we are hardest on is ourself. If you could make one wish for our community, what would it be?
Ultimately, I wish our community was more affordable for more families to live and grow up here. Creating a more diverse community that reflects everyday New Zealand would be beneficial for all.
combines sharp negotiation
With over $300M in career sales, he brings experience you can trust and results you can rely on.
Available to discuss your real estate plans in confidence, anytime.
Kerry Makin-Byrd
We are proud to welcome you home to the Tommy’s Hutt Valley team!
Duncan
skills with deep local knowledge of Hutt Valley, Eastbourne, and the Bays.
Duncan Povey
WHAT'S ON
Mondays
• Retired Persons’ Assn meet 4th Mon, 10am St Ronan's Church hall for morning tea followed by a speaker - $2 entry. Transport can be arranged for these meetings on request, ph 562 7365 or 562 8387.
• “Baby Bounce & Rhyme” at the library 10.00am.
• Toy Library - 7.30-8.30pm. EastbourneToyLibrary on Facebook. Kathy 0273551950.
•DB Playcentre Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mornings, from 9:30am to 12 noon. Drop in anytime to visit a session or email daysbay@playcentre.org.nz to arrange a visit.
• Pt Howard Playcentre. Mon 9.15 -11.45am. pcpointhoward@gmail.com
• The Historical Society’s Eastbourne History Room above the library is open 2-4 pm every Monday.
• Eastbourne Volunteer Fire Brigade training every Monday 7-9pm. Ph 562 7001 for more info.
• Mindful Mummas group for Mums and preschool children. Childminder onsite. 1011.30. Text Emily 027 552 6119 to join or go to bemoreyou.co.nz for more info.
•DB Playcentre Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mornings, from 9:30am to 12 noon. Drop in anytime to visit a session or email daysbay@playcentre.org.nz to arrange a visit.
• Muritai Tennis Club 9.30–noon. Merryn 562 0236.
• Eastbourne Homebirth Group 1st Tuesday of the month. Phone Kate 562-7096.
• East Harbour Women’s Club Morning Tea & Chat Group 10am. Contact Glendyr 0210303480.
• Indoor Bowls Club 1.30pm, at the croquet club, Oroua Street. Rosemary 562 7365
• Menzshed 9 till 12 , Williams Park, Barrie barrielittlefair@gmail.com 0204 1234511. Women welcome.
• 9.30am Nia Dance Fitness Class (low impactteens to 70+) Music Movement Magic - Muritai Yacht Club - call Amanda 021 316692 www. niainwellington.com
Sing Eastbourne: 7.30pm, San Antonio
• Toy Library - 9.30am-10.30am.
Wednesdays
• Cubs: 5.30pm - 7.00pm, Ed 021 738 699.
• Venturers - 7:15pm - 9pm - Ed 021 738 699.
• Library preschool story time 10.00 am.
• Pt Howard Playcentre Wed 9.15 -11.45am. pcpointhoward@gmail.com
• Scottish Country Dance. Merryn 562 0236.
• Bridge Club 7-10pm. Shona 562 7073.
•DB Playcentre Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mornings, from 9:30am to 12 noon. Drop in anytime to visit a session or email daysbay@playcentre.org.nz to arrange a visit.
• “Steady as You Go” Age Concern sponsored Falls Prevention and Exercise Programme. Held 11.30 each Wednesday at Eastbourne Community Hall. Classes are held for 1 hour and is free for the first session. Improve your strength and balance to reduce falls and injuries. Falls are preventable. Please join us!
• Tai Chi 9.40am Muritai Yacht Club Lyn 021 1428915 Thursdays
• Menzshed 9 till 12 , Williams Park, Barrie barrielittlefair@gmail.com 0204 1234511. Women welcome.
• St Ronan’s Mainly Music, 9.15am-11.15am, during school terms. Contact Cathy 027 213 9342.
• SPACE at Days Bay Playcentre. Michelle 971 8598.
• East Harbour Women’s Club,- Bolivia 12.45pm, Contact Glendyr ph: 0210303480. Guest Speaker (3rd week of month)6pm, drinks and nibbles provided, Contact Celeste 021 206 5713
•Lions meet 2nd Thursday of the month at the Eastbourne Sports and Services Club, Tuatoru St 6.30 pm. New members and visitors are welcome. Graham 562 8819.
• Scouts 6pm-8pm - Ed 021 738 699
• Eastbourne Bowling Club casual summer bowls 5.30pm for an hour or so. Make up a mixed team of three. Contact Keith Turner ph 04 934 4142.
•.
Fridays
• Pop in and Play playgroup at St Ronan's Church Hall, 9am-11.30am during school terms. All preschoolers (0-4 years) welcome. Becca Sharples 022 645 1303.
• Pt Howard Playcentre Fri 9.15 -11.45am pcpointhoward@gmail.com
• AA Plunket Rooms 7.30pm. Mark 566 6444/ Pauline 562 7833
•Senior Residents: Lighthouse Movies - last Friday of every month. Pick up from 10am. Contact Celeste on 021 206 5713 for more information. Okiwi Services (Eastbourne Community Trust).
• Probus club of Boulcott
Hutt bowling club, Myrtle street, Lower Hutt. Meeting every 2nd Friday @ 10am starting in February 2026.
Fun - fellowship- friendship New members welcome.
More information contact Doreen 0210799063
Saturdays
• Justice of the Peace at the Eastbourne Community Library, first Saturday of each month 12pm-1pm.
• Croquet from 10am Muritai Croquet Club. Lyn 562 8722 or Val 562 8181.
• Lions' Bin - cost effective rubbish and e-waste disposal. Last Saturday of the month (except December) by Bus Barns. Gavin 027 488 5602.
• Club sailing and racing at Muritai Yacht Club, 1:00-5:00 weather dependent. More info: myc.org.nz
Sundays
• AA Plunket Rooms 10am. Karen 021 440 705.
• Days Bay Touch Rugby, by arrangement on Whatsapp group, text Xavier 027 249 3645 to join.
Our Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at Te Omanga. Volunteers are an integral part of the valuable service we provide to all our patients and families.
We need some more volunteers on our happy lawnmowing team. Once a fortnight commitment, or could be once a month. Need to be able to bring your own lawnmower. Morning tea provided.
Call Rachel on 021 103 8841 for more information or email volunteers@teomanga.org.nz
The Eastbourne Herald is proud to support Te Omanga Hospice.
2366 www.jaglegal.co.nz
May Issue
Ad Booking: Wed May 20
Ad Copy: Thurs May 21
Deliveries: May 29 & 30
JuneIssue
Ad Booking: Wed June 17
Ad Copy: Thurs June 18
Deliveries: June 26 & 27
For information about advertising and upcoming deadlines please email editor@eastbourneherald.co.nz or visit www.eastbourneherald.co.nz
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