Kia ora everyone, Today marks the official first day of winter and the beginning of the second half of the year. We’ve certainly enjoyed a beautiful autumn, with calm days, blue skies, sunshine, and mild days that have been hard to beat.
A big thank you to those who noticed the typo in our recent Community Event + AGM half-page front cover notice. I was genuinely impressed by the attention to detail shown — especially by some of our younger readers! Despite careful checks, the occasional error can still slip through. A quick reminder that The Woodpecker now has a new email address, so please take a moment to update your records: editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz Our upcoming Woodpecker Community Event + AGM is something we are really looking forward to, and we would love to see as many of our volunteers, advertisers, and community contributors there as possible. The evening is a chance to share what The Woodpecker has been doing behind the scenes, provide an update on the recipients of our Community Engagement Fund (launched in July last year), hear from some fantastic speakers, and enjoy a relaxed mix-and-mingle at the end. As Editor, I connect with so many of you regularly through email, phone calls, and messages, and this event
often gives me the opportunity to finally put faces to names — something I always value.
So please do RSVP and come along if you can. Numbers are limited, so it will be first come, first served. We would love to have you join us.
This month, we are proud to bring you an even larger 64-page edition of The Woodpecker, packed with community stories, updates, and local information. I continue to be amazed at just how much is happening across our communities, with June shaping up to be another busy and vibrant month filled with events, activities, and opportunities to connect. It is also wonderful to welcome several new advertisers who have recently joined us — your support helps us continue producing The Woodpecker and keeping our local communities informed and connected.
“Community is not just about living near each other — it’s about supporting, connecting, and growing together.”
The Woodpecker – Produced by the community, for the community Tēnā koutou, Debs Taylor-Hayhurst Editor - The Woodpecker editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
DISCLAIMER: All efforts are made to verify the correctness of information contained within this publication; however, The Woodpecker Community Trust accept no liability for the correctness or accuracy of any information contained within these pages. Any views, information or opinions expressed within this publication are not necessarily the opinions or views of The Woodpecker Community Trust or any of its providers.
LIONS CLUB OF WOODEND PEGASUS
BOOK FAIR
JIGSAWS & PUZZLES ALSO AVAILABLE
5th - 6th June 2026
9am - 3pm
The Lions Den, 38 Rangiora Woodend Rd
All proceeds go to local good causes and projects
Eftpos available
Books may be deposited in the clearly marked wheelie bin in the foyer at New World Ravenswood until 3 June 2026.
Woodend - Sefton Community Board
Discretionary Grant Application
A discretionary grant can be applied for through the Woodend-Sefton Community Board which is designed to assist projects that enhance community group capacity and/or increase participation in activities. The Board cannot accept applications from individuals. All funding is paid to community-based project groups, non-profit community organisations, registered charities or incorporated societies. Grants are generally limited to $750 with a maximum of $1000 in any financial year.
Applications need to be received at least three weeks before the Board's meeting, otherwise they will not be considered until the Board's following meeting which in some cases could be a few months.
To apply for funding, go to the Board Grants & Funding page on the Waimakariri District Council website and select the application form for the Woodend-Sefton Community Board.
Pegasus Community Centre
The Pegasus Community Centre now has a roof which marks a significant project milestone. The centre is on track for completion this October.
Next meeting – all are welcome
Monday 8th June starting 5.30pm in the Woodend Community Centre
Contact – more information about the Board and contact details at https://www.waimakariri.govt.nz/council/council,-boards-and-committees/woodendsefton-community-board
If you would like to see what will be discussed at meetings check out the Board Facebook page or agenda at waimakariri.govt.nz/council/meetings/minutes-andagendas/woodend-sefton-community-board around Thursday of the week prior. WoodendSeftonCommunityBoard
Te Kōhaka o Tūhaitara Trust Tūhaitara Coastal Park — Community Newsletter
Kia ora kōutou — A Word from the Team
It has been a little while since our last newsletter — our October 2025 update feels like a lifetime ago! We want to be upfront with you: the Trust has been navigating some significant changes over recent months, and we’ve been heads-down making sure the park continues to be cared for through that transition.
In April, our Biodiversity and Community Ranger Chris came to the end of his time with the Trust. Chris brought enormous energy and heart to his mahi here — from the Sustainable Futures programme with Christ College, to planting days and pest plant control sessions in between. We are deeply grateful for everything he contributed to Tūhaitara Coastal Park and to the communities who love it.
Trust has also seen changes at the Trustee level. We acknowledge these transitions take time to navigate, and we thank our wider community for its patience and continued support.
For now, it is just Kelli and Murray holding down the fort at an operational level. We are focused on what matters most — keeping the park open, the trails maintained, and the trees we’ve collectively planted over the years healthy and thriving.
Ka mahi tonu — the work continues.
Keeping the Park Open — Baseline Mahi
With a smaller team, we’ve had to be strategic. Our focus over recent months has been on the essentials: Trail maintenance — keeping routes safe, clear, and accessible for all visitors Tree health checks and maintenance of the Trust’s restoration plantings across the park
Alongside changes in staffing, the
Ongoing pest plant and pest animal control to protect the gains we’ve
made
The park is yours to enjoy — please do come out and walk the trails, breathe the coastal air, and see the restoration taking shape.
International Visitors — Hands-On Learning at Tūhaitara
One of the highlights of recent months has been welcoming a series of visiting academic groups from the United States. These groups come to Tūhaitara to learn about the park’s ecological restoration work and to roll up their sleeves alongside us.
We have hosted students and staff from:
Washington State University
Texas A&M University
Virginia Tech
Their time in the park has mostly been spent planting and maintaining trees — practical, meaningful work that makes a real difference to our restoration programme. It has been wonderful to share the story of Tūhaitara with people from so far away, and to see their enthusiasm for the kāinga of so many taonga species.
Local Schools — Growing the Next Generation of Kaitiaki
Closer to home, we have continued our work with local schools. Christ College, Kaiapoi High School and Middleton Grange School have all brought students into the park to participate in hands-on environmental learning — planting trees, learning about successional restoration, and connecting with the natural world on their doorstep.
Seeing young people engaging with Tūhaitara, getting their hands in the soil, and asking great questions about the birds and plants around them is
what keeps us motivated to pursue our 200-year vision.
Mahinga Kai Huria Reserve — The Finishing Stretch
Murray has been leading a significant push on the Mahinga Kai Huria Reserve project. He has been keeping the park maintained while the plants grow! We are working with Wai-ora to complete the final infill planting between now and spring — filling the gaps in what will become a beautiful, flourishing native forest.
When established, this forest will be filled with birdsong — a living taonga for the community, and a space that reflects the values of mahinga kai and kaitiakitanga that sit at the heart of the project. It is exciting to be in the finishing stretch of this project, being years in the making. Not to worry, the Trust will be there to maintain the plants into the foreseeable future.
Volunteer Trappers — A Season to Be Proud Of
Our incredible volunteer trappers have been hard at work right across the park — and with some new faces joining the trapping network this season, things are shaping up really well. Every trap checked is an act of kaitiakitanga, protecting the taonga species who call Tūhaitara home: the manu (birds) in our wetlands and dunes, and the mokomoko (skinks) that live among them.
In the last 365 days, our trappers have caught a combined 1,342 pest animals from the park.
That is a huge effort:
399 hetiheti | Hedgehog
359 kiore | Rat
110
tori uaroa |
Mustelid
A huge warm fuzzy to each and every one of our volunteer trappers. Your dedication makes a real difference — every catch is a bird that gets to nest, a skink that gets to bask in the sun. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa.
Want to get involved?
Whether you’re keen to help with planting, pest control (animal or plant), or simply spreading the word about what’s happening at Tūhaitara, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with Kelli at kelli@tuhaitarapark.org.nz
Mr Woody Woodpecker is hidden amongst one of The Woodpecker pages. For fun, search for him and if you find him, email the Editor on editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz with a high-resolution photo of you pointing to the very page where Mr Woody Woodpecker is, along with your first & last name, age, location. Your photo will be in next month’s Woodpecker.
The Country House Greengrocers
For those locals who haven’t yet met the owners of The Country House Greengrocers, Dryden and Becks Power are keen to welcome you into the store and get to know the community. Dryden grew up in the area, his grandparents and parents being farmers in Tuahiwi and he and Becks have returned to Canterbury after a lifetime of travelling.
Becks is bringing her design and floristry skills to the business which is evident when you enter the shop now and while the fruit and veg is still the main event there is a growing selection of meats, pantry items and fresh bread which is collected daily from the Grizzly bakehouse in Christchurch - to ensure it arrives early! The Powers are committed to bringing quality seasonal produce, New Zealand made goods and country-style extras together in one shop. “It’s about balance” says Becks and “seasonal life is what drives the vision of what we love doing here. There is an increasing awareness of the importance of supporting local and while it isn’t always easy, more people are changing their habits to do just that - eating well, supporting the NZ growers and embracing communitybased shops is really important”.
Dryden and Becks are grateful for the opportunity to bring something special to Woodend and invite you to stop by.
Mayor Dan Gordon Column
Like many in our community, Council only became aware that the sale of the Pegasus Golf Course was definite when the news became public last week. Since then, there has understandably been a high level of interest and concern from Pegasus residents and the wider district about what the future may hold for this important community asset. At the time of writing this, to my understanding, there have been no approaches to Council seeking rezoning or any formal information requests relating to future development of the site. Under the partially operative District Plan, apart from the hotel and spa which were consented and incorporated into the District Plan, the land is not zoned for housing. The golf course also has its own special purpose zoning, which reflects the significance of the site and the role it plays within Pegasus.
heard as part of any future discussions. I also believe it is important to acknowledge the original vision of Bob Robertson for Pegasus and the role the golf course and lake have played in shaping the identity of the town. Those features are deeply valued by residents and are part of what has made Pegasus such a distinctive place to live. I hope the new owners honour this.
Council understands the strength of feeling within the community. We will definitely continue listening carefully to residents and stand up and advocating for residents as the golf course is an important asset to the community.
If the new owner wishes to pursue a change of use in the future, there are formal statutory pathways they would need to follow, such as applying for a private plan change or seeking approval through the fasttrack process. Any proposal would need to involve community input and consideration of local feedback. The voices of Pegasus residents, the Pegasus Residents Group, the Woodend-Sefton Community Board and the wider community must be
I have requested a meeting with the new owner so I can gain a better understanding of their intentions for the property. I also want to discuss the interim maintenance of the golf course, along with ideas that have already emerged from within the community about helping care for the site in the meantime.
Once there is greater clarity around the owner’s plans, and after further discussions with the community and key local groups, Council will then be in a position to consider its formal response and next steps.
I welcome contact from anyone who needs assistance or has an issue that you might want to discuss.
Email me at dan.gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021 906 437.
As always, I’m here to help.
Woodend
Welcome to our June edition for 2026.
Thank you to our sponsors
We are incredibly grateful for the financial contribution’s from our sponsors to help support our community association and to fund our community projects. Firstly we would like to thank Paws Vets continued support as our gold sponsor.
Canterb y da Ltd
We would like to acknowledge Paws as they have been our gold sponsor for the past 3 years. Also we would like to say a big thank you to Canterbury Honda , Woodend Nursery and Woodend Landscape Supplies for their donations over the past few years also.
Woodend community garden needs vounteers......
As the autumn is setting in and the summer crops are coming to their end, the garden is in need of seeds for winter planting and preparation for next spring If you have any seeds spare, the gardeners would really appreciate these Please contact Andy, andyandsuechilds@xtra co nz Also, if you are keen on sharing your gardening knowledge or lending a hand, Andy is the one to talk to
Do you have any suggestions to make our community better?
The WCA are in the process of planning what projects we will be focusing on for 2026. If you have any suggestions for Woodend, big or small , please email your ideas too woodend.community.association@gmail .com.
Do you want to help create change in Woodend?
At the Woodend Community Association, our aim is to promote and support any initiative which advances safety, wellbeing and community spirit in Woodend. If you are interested in joining our committee, have a idea or for a $10 yearly membership, you can help us deliver projects to improve our community. For info email, woodend.community.association@gmail.com
St Barnabas Church Update
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come buy and eat. Isaiah 55:1. I think you would have to be living under a rock or have a winning lottery ticket not to feel the financial pinch in our pockets and the daily uncertainty of fuel supply and war. But the invitation still stands from God, the invitation to come with our needs, both physically and emotionally.
Several people have recently contacted St Barnabas, wanting to explore their spirituality, what this God of the Bible might have to offer in their lives, and how exciting it is to journey together. This is the Good News that should be on our screens, the community that was there for each other…
The name of our little white church on the side of the bust road is St Barnabas, which means “son of encouragement.” We would like to heartily invite you to a cup of encouragement as we enter this winter season, which leaves the best of us a little blue at times. Why not take this season to explore what God might mean in your life? Are you thirsty for something beyond Netflix and the same old, same old?
As a community, we seek to be an authentic space for exploring life and experiencing unconditional love and acceptance together in a world that sometimes struggles to hold such spaces. So, as you pull the curtains on
another dark and chilly evening, I encourage you to reflect on the scripture above (which is a fancy way of saying: read it a few times and ask yourself what you feel inside you, and what these words might mean for you).
Is this an invitation you want to take up?
Why not give Rev’d Sammy a message and meet for a cuppa and a chat?
Or pop along to our 30-minute daily prayer time at 5pm. We also have our main Sunday service with a full children’s program at 9.30am.
Come and explore how to quench that thirst and be encouraged at St Barnabas.
To contact St Barnabas Church email stbswoodend@gmail.com or check out our website stbarnabaswoodend.org/
Why you should keep your service box clear
The community is being asked to help ensure electricity service boxes remain clear and accessible at all times.
Through regular service box inspections – and when attending planned repair work – MainPower is increasingly finding service boxes obstructed by fences, planter boxes, timber structures, vegetation or heavy landscaping.
The service boxes are owned by the North Canterbury lines company and control the power supply to a property. Most service boxes are located on the council berm and must always be accessible.
Why does it matter?
MainPower crews must be able to open and remove the lid of a service box and safely access the equipment inside.
Obstructions can delay both planned maintenance and urgent fault repairs, affecting neighbouring customers.
Disturbing live electrical cables around boxes can have serious safety consequences.
In an emergency (such as a fault or fire), obstructions can cause delays or unsafe access conditions.
These situations are classified as red defects – MainPower’s highest level of urgency – because restricted access puts safety at risk. Some of the obstructions seen would require chainsaws or forklifts to remove, which
is not acceptable or safe in a fault situation.
Solid structures, such as fences hard up against boxes or heavy planters are not permitted. Even if a fence does not cover the top of the box, it can still prevent access to the internal equipment.
Recommended clearance areas around service boxes are:
• Clear access to the front of the box (roadside)
• 300mm access to each side and behind the box
• No obstructions above the box
People understandably want to make their properties look great, but service boxes are critical infrastructure and MainPower is legally required to always have clear access to them.
If you are concerned about your service box, call MainPower on 0800 30 90 80.
MainPower teams almost need x-ray vision to spot the service box in this photo. Please ensure the service box outside your property is visible and accessible for repairs and maintenance.
Abbeyfield Auction of Promises
An evening of promise
The owner of a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder super car promises to whisk the successful bidder away to lunch at Waipara Springs Winery when they win the final lot offered at the Abbeyfield Auction of Promises.
“Lot 43 should see some spirited bidding,” says Mrs Valda Reveley, Chair of Abbeyfield Waimakariri Inc. “It’s a rare opportunity and an experience that will be etched in the winner’s memory for many years.”
“Then there is the owner of an Arrowtown property promising a group of four, four nights of five-star accommodation.”
They are just two of the 43 lots valued
from under $100 to over $6,000 to go under the hammer at the Rangiora RSA on Saturday 16 May.
The full list of auction lots is also open to absentee bidders who are asked to email abbeyfieldwaimakariri@gmail. com for lot details and bidding forms. Tickets are $20 per person and available at Clay & Cotton at the carpark end of the walkway at 112 High Street, Rangiora, or at Humanitix (Abbeyfield Auction of Promises).
Funds raised from the auction will go towards building a multi-studio flatting-for-seniors Abbeyfield House in Rangiora.
PHOTO: Auction organiser Su Anderson checks the tickets and winning envelopes.
The AWI committee chairperson is Valda Reveley Ph 027 271 9961 valda.sam@xtra.co.nz abbeyfieldwaimakariri@gmail.com www.abbeyfield.co.nz/house/ waimakariri
Would you like to read the digital copy of The Woodpecker?
Did you know that a digital copy is available each month on issuu.com
Did you know we upload every copy of The Woodpecker each month to a digital platform called http://issuu. com/thewoodpecker4
If you would like to be included in the mailout with this link, please email Debs on editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
A great way to share The Woodpecker with friends and family and read previous copies.
Woodend Methodist Church Report
Woodend Methodist Church Report
The next monthly movie afternoon is on Wednesday 3 June 1pm at Woodend Methodist Hall. The movie will be “Elvis” which is a 2022 musical epic biographical drama film which tells the life of the American singer and actor Elvis Presley under the management of Colonel Tom Parker. $5 admission and afternoon tea will be served.
The services for June are:
7 June 9am Holy Communion – Rev Hun Hoe Song
14 June 9am is a ‘Team Service’ and is going to be a favourite hymn service so there will be lots of singing
21 June 9am – Rev Hun Hoe Song
28 June 9am - Losana Korovulavula
Every third Sunday in the month for June, July and August the Pastoral Team will serve soup and rolls after the 1030 service at Rangiora Trinity Methodist.
Blankets are required for the Methodist Mission Blanket Bank. With winter there is an urgent need for the Bank to replenish their blanket stock. Please bring spare blankets to Rangiora Trinity during the office hours printed below.
Rangiora Community Choir are having a Concert on Sunday 14 June at 2pm at Rossburn Event Centre, Rangiora. $10 entry at door with afternoon tea provided.
Booking of our Woodend complex. You can hold small or large gatherings e.g. classes, tutoring, concerts, interviews, conferences, clubs etc. –for any enquiries please contact Kaye at the Rangiora Trinity Office, 176 King Street, Rangiora, 313 3448 or email methodist.rangiora@gmail.com Rangiora Trinity office hours - Tuesday 10-1 Wednesday 9.45-1.45 Thursday 10-1.
Woodpecker Deadline
The Woodpecker is published 11 times a year (February–December, with December covering January). The monthly deadline is the 21st of each month by 5pm, with reminders sent to advertisers and community contributors. To secure your space, please send contributions in as early as possible to avoid missing out. Following the deadline, there is a tight turnaround to prepare the publication for print and distribution, ready for delivery to homes on the 1st of each month.
WOODEND FRIENDSHIP CLUB
15 April – Our speaker was Chris Hickson from Canterbury Air Rescue. Chris gave us an update on the Canterbury Air Rescue service. Three new helicopters have been purchased second-hand from Swiss Air Rescue. These helicopters were comparatively very new; the first arrived in November 2020. The helicopters had to be completely stripped down and modified, and the crew had to retrain as the new models were different from the previous models. A training simulator has been purchased. Prior to this, pilots had to go overseas for training. With the simulator, pilots can train while on call.
Chris spoke of the “golden hour”. If an injured person can be attended to within the first hour of an injury or medical event, their recovery is increased by 80%. He also spoke about the value of carrying an automatic locator beacon, especially when cell coverage is unavailable. The helicopter can locate the beacon within 2 metres.
There is no charge for the helicopter's arrival. It is funded through various government departments; however, fundraising is also necessary.
With fuel costs rising, there was no outing this in April. We did, however, meet for an excellent lunch at Siri Thai in Rangiora.
The Woodend Friendship Club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the Woodend Community Centre at 2 pm. If you are retired and looking for a way to connect with other people, please come along for a visit.
If you require more information, please phone: Jack Dzenis, President: 027 845 4858 or Lyn Petrie, Secretary: 022 159 2676
e admin@chrisdelurybuilders.com www.chrisdelurybuilders.co.nz
WOODEND GARDEN CLUB
June in the Garden with the Christchurch Horticulture Society
Tasks for the first frosts
1. General Clean-up and Pruning
Now’s the time to tidy up garden beds—remove old annuals, fallen leaves, and dead growth. Fruit trees and roses can be pruned over the Winter months but make sure to wait until they are fully dormant. Clean, sharp tools are essential to avoid damaging branches and to promote faster healing.
2. Tool Maintenance
Speaking of tools, use the quieter garden time to clean and sharpen secateurs, loppers, spades, and any other equipment that worked hard over Summer. Lawnmowers should be serviced too so you’re ready for the Spring growth flush.
3. Compost Management
If you’ve been gathering up those beautiful fallen leaves, don’t forget to turn your compost heap regularly. Mixing in green material such as vegetable scraps or fresh grass clippings will help balance the carbon -rich leaves and speed decomposition.
4. Greenhouse Jobs
Winter is a good time to give your greenhouse a fresh start. Remove any shade cloths or spent crops, wash down interior surfaces, and scrub away moss and grime. Finish with a disinfectant wash to reduce the risk of pests or disease overwintering.
Winter Planting and Preparation:
• New fruit trees are arriving in nurseries over Winter. Get your planting sites ready by digging over the soil and incorporating compost or aged manure.
• Browse plant and seed catalogues from specialist nurseries. Now is the perfect time to plan ahead, especially if you’re looking for more unusual varieties not available in standard garden centres.
Plant Now:
• Garlic and broad beans can be sown now they’ll thrive in the cooler months.
• Spring-flowering plants such as pansies, polyanthus, poppies, and lilies can also go in the ground.
• Strawberry plants should be planted now to establish a good root system before Spring. Look out for day-neutral varieties for extended harvests
grant from the Lion Foundation. These are a big improvement on our existing lathes which were purchased through another grant, Þfteen years ago. Members have enjoyed the extra features which makes turning so much easier.
It is just as well the club has been able to install these new lathes as the clubroom has been rather full with lots of new members joining the club and enjoying the wonders of turning blocks of raw timber into carefully crafted turned pieces under the tutelage of our experienced members and great tutors. There has been a great mix of young people right through the age range with quite a few female members joining which is fantastic to see. Watch out for our ‘Women’s for Women’s Day coming in the next few months where, one weekend, females can come and have a go under the tutelage of female tutors.
Thanks to a recent newspaper article, the Club has received offers of timber to stock up our wood store. We are always looking for suitable wood for turning, so if you are looking at felling some trees, please get in touch.
Next month, we have groups coming for an introductory two hour ‘have a go’ session. So if you would like your club or group to have some fun turning, contact Howard at 021 353886 or howardpettigrew56@gmail.com
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
THE ACADEMY OF SEIKO-KAI KARATE
57 Williams Street, Kaiapoi
Email:seikokainz@yahoo.com
Phone: 020 4092 5056
Website: https://www.nz.seiko-kai-karate. com/
BUDGETING SERVICES NORTH CANTERBURY (BSNC)
War Memorial Hall
1 Albert Street, Rangiora. Tel: 03 313 3505 servicemanager@bsnc.org.nz www.bsnc.org.nz
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & OPPORTUNITIES TRUST (YDOT) info@ydot.co.nz www.ydot.co.nz
Would you like your club or community group to be listed in Community Contacts?
If you would like your community group or club listed in our community contacts page, please would you contact the Editor via email providing the appropriate details and these can be included. Thank you! Email our Editor Debs on editor@ thewoodpecker.co.nz
The Woodpecker welcomes our latest volunteer - our Map Development Coordinator
I’ve only just started in the role, so I’m still finding my feet.
I’ve lived in Woodend for 20 years now and was previously a Woodpecker deliverer for a while. I originally got involved for the exercise, but also because I wanted to support The Woodpecker and help keep our local community informed. Being part of The Woodpecker feels like my little way of giving back.
Over the years, I’ve also been involved in a number of other voluntary roles, including Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), Bikers Against Child Abuse, and Riders Against Cancer. And yes… I do ride a motorbike! What I love about Woodend is that it’s generally nice and quiet — apart from the Main Road traffic! I’d certainly welcome the bypass, although I won’t be paying any tolls!
I currently work in Traffic Management and have done so since the earthquakes.
It’s great to now be part of The Woodpecker team and contribute in a small way to keeping locals connected and informed. Mark Fridd
GENERAL PEGASUS STORE
Winter hours: 7.30 am - 7.30 pm, Monday-Friday. Weekends 8.30 am -7.30 pm, including public holidays.
COMMUNITY NOTICES
Pegasus Community Watch Patrol
We are now recruiting volunteers for Patrolling.
Full training given, if interested, please contact Colin 022 497 3512.
Only requirement Full Drivers licence.
Kaiapoi Toy Library
Kaiapoi Toy Library, 9 Cass Street
Kaiapoi, open 11.00am - 1.00pm Saturdays. Access to a range of toys for a small annual fee, no toy rental charges. Check us out www. kaiapoitoylibrary.org
Rangiora Arthritis Support Group
Meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month.
New members welcome.
Guest speakers, Lunches, Raffles, Games.
Come along and join our friendly group.
Covers all North Canterbury. For more information contact. Iris 027 255 9179 or Noeline 027 645 5909
Woodend Tennis Club
Tennis is a great game for all the family. And yes, we do play during the winter months.
All welcome to our midweek social session on a Wednesday evening 7pm to 9pm.
We play under lights, with teams made up on the night.
It’s good competitive tennis, but we mix teams around to accommodate all skill levels.
It’s not too serious, and we have a lot of laughs.
There is a $5 fee for non-members and casual players.
If you don’t have a racquet yet, that’s ok, as we have some spares.
Or there is an open court for people to use during the day. Please just put something into our collection box. The courts are in Gladstone Park next to the rugby club.
For any other info visit the Woodend Tennis Facebook page or contact Jim on 021 806 366.
Support your local club.
Cancer Society
Coffee & Conversation, 4 June with Guest Speaker, 10am, 43 Church Street, Rangiora. A safe welcoming space for you and your whānau to connect with others on a cancer journey.
MARKETS
KAIAPOI SATURDAY MARKET
Morgan Williams Reserve, Charles St, Kaiapoi. Every Saturday, 9am–12.30pm
OHOKA FARMERS MARKET
Ohoka Domain, Mill Road, Ohoka Every Friday, 9am-12pm.
OXFORD FARMERS MARKET
Main St, Oxford. Every Sunday, 9am–12pm.
OXFORD CRAFT MARKET
Oxford Town Hall, Oxford First Sunday of each month, 10am-2pm.
RANGIORA CHURCH STREET MARKET
St John’s Anglican Church Grounds & Hall, Cnr of Church and High Streets, Rangiora First Saturday of each month, 9.30am-1pm.
THE DELICIOUS MARKET
179 Lehmans Road, Rangiora, Mon-Fri 8am – 4pm
ART EXHIBITIONS
ART ON THE QUAY
“Rising from Ruin” 28 May – 25 June, Kaiapoi Library 176 Williams Street, Kaiapoi
CHAMBER GALLERY
“Art in Fashion” by Rosalie Todd 7 June – 9 July, Rangiora Library 141 Percival Street, Rangiora
OXFORD GALLERY, TOI O WAIMAKARIRI
Check the website for updated info 4 June – 28 June 72 Main Street, Oxford
COMMUNITY NOTICES
Pegasus & Waikuku SAYGo
Steady as you go falls prevention classes. Simple activities, seated and standing, proven to improve balance, flexibility and strength. Fun social groups, join us for a cuppa after class. Pegasus SAYGo in The Big Room, Pegasus Community Centre, Main St, Pegasus.
Waikuku SAYGo at Waikuku Community Hall, Park Terrace, Waikuku.
Pegasus Class 1 Thursdays 1.30pm - 3.00pm in The Big Room, Pegasus Community Centre, followed by a cuppa after class. CLASS IS FULL.
For more information contact Kay 021 022 64682.
Pegasus Class 2 Mondays 10.00am12.00pm in The Big Room, Pegasus Community Centre, followed by a cuppa after class. Spaces available. For more information contact Linda 027 431 5970.
Waikuku Class, Waikuku Community Hall, Wednesdays 10.00am - 11.30am followed by a cuppa after class. CLASS IS FULL.
For more information contact Mavis 03 312 7839 or Lorraine 027 332 9298.
Kaiapoi Community Patrol
We are now recruiting volunteers for Camera Operation and Patrolling. Full training given. If interested, please contact Owen 027 442 4436. All volunteers are required to be vetted by police.
Community Foot Care Clinic
Held in Woodend monthly. Phone 021 022 49443 for an appointment.
Kaiapoi Speakers welcomes you.
Are you looking for a fun way to improve your communication and leadership skills? Kaiapoi Speakers allows you to engage with people in a supportive and comfortable setting.
@Riverside Community Church 45 Charles St Kaiapoi. 7.00pm We meet every 3rd Tuesday of the month. (Back Hall) Ph Dean Severinsen 021 955 797 or check our Facebook page.
Who found Mr Woody Woodpecker last month?
Henry Lloyd, age 6, Woodend was very excited to find Mr Woody Woodpeker. Sent by Emma Lloyd. Chloe Lloyd, age 9, Woodend also found Mr Woody Woodpecker. Sent in by Emma Lloyd.
NEXT ISSUE JULY 2026
Deadline for advertisements and community articles21 JUNE 2026
The Woodpecker Digital Issue Available on:
Would you like to read the digital copy of the woodpecker?
A digital copy is available each month on issuu.com
Did you know we upload every copy of The Woodpecker each month to a digital platform called http://issuu.com/thewoodpecker4
If you would like to be included in the mailout with this link, please email Debs on editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
A great way to share The Woodpecker with friends and family and read previous copies.www.issuu.com/thewoodpecker4
Email: editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
Call: 021 863 877
COMMUNITY NOTICES
PBirthday arty Hire
Celebrate your child’s next birthday at Woodend Playcentre
Woodend Playcentre
Woodend Country Music Club
Meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.
7pm until approx 10pm. Woodend Community Centre. School Road, Woodend. Great bands and walk-ups, everyone is welcome.
Kaiapoi Food Forest
Volunteer Mondays 9.00- 12 noon 32 Cass Street, Kaiapoi Volunteering at Kaiapoi Food Forest connects you with locals interested in sustainable food production and ecofriendly living. The Food Forest has fostered community and knowledgesharing since 2017. Natalie will be onsite every Monday to direct tasks. All welcome. No experience necessary. Cuppa provided.
https://www.kaiapoifoodforest.co.nz
Wednesdays 12 15pm
President: Kevin Taylor – 027 444 1390.
Rangiora Rotary
Investing in the next generation is at the heart of what we do.
Like to be involved or find out more. Email seretary@rotary.co.nz
Kaiapoi Community Garden Volunteer days
Wednesday 10am – 12pm and the last Saturday of every month 10-12pm. Come and join the Community Garden and learn about organic produce, composting skills and find likeminded people to share your love of gardening. For more information follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KaiapoiCommunity-Garden kaiapoicg@gmail.com
COMMUNITY NOTICES
Canterbury Sportfishing Club
If you are interested in sea fishing, chasing Trout or Salmon then come and join our club.
Monthly meetings are held at the Fish and Game building at 595 Johns Road on the last Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm.
Fishing trips are organised catering for all types of fishing, from targeting Grouper, Bluenose, Blue Cod etc to fishing in the Lakes and the canals at Twizel.
Doesn’t matter if you own a boat or not, all fishermen are catered for and welcome.
The Club also owns a Bach at Oaro near Kaikoura for the use of its members.
New members welcome
For more information contact Shayne 027 664 0016.
Relief Deliverers Wanted for Ravenswood, Woodend & Pegasus areas
We are in need of adult relief deliverers, for our three delivery areas of Woodend, Ravenswood and Pegasus to join our dynamic team of volunteers at The Woodpecker. The commitment is ONLY one hour a month approximately, when cover is needed, and would ideally suit someone who loves walking, meeting people and giving back to the community. If you think this might be you, please contact our Editor Debs at editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
Chamber Gallery Rangiora presents: Art of Fashion by Rosalie Todd
6 June- 9 July
Art in Fashion is a celebration of the iconic and distinctive couture by local fashionista legend Rosalie Todd. Combining elegant, understated elegance with an eye for sumptuous fabrics; this collection showcases Rosalie’s timeless craft of bespoke oneof-a-kind prêt-à-porter. Some garments will be available for purchase.
Tai Chi - for enjoyment and health
Tuesday afternoons, 1:30pm - 2:45pm. North Canterbury Musical Society Hall. 189 Northbrook Road, Rangiora. Highly experienced instructor. No cost to come along and see how you like it.
Contact: Steve steve@tcqci.club 021 640 733
Do you have a community notice you would like to promote that your group or club is running?
Then please contact the Editor to request your community notice at editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
COMMUNITY MEETING – 2 JUNE
PLEASE
PEGASUS COMMUNITY NEWS
NOTE: Change of Venue
Following the recent public statement by Wolfbrook Properties, the new owner of the Pegasus Golf Course, regarding potential residential redevelopment of the land, Pegasus Residents Group Inc is holding a community meeting to discuss the possible future of the site and associated planning matters.
This meeting is open to all members of the community and will provide an opportunity to hear updates, share information, and discuss potential impacts for Pegasus, including infrastructure, planning, and long-term community outcomes.
We encourage residents and interested members of the public to attend and be part of this important discussion.
When: 7pm, Tuesday 2 June 2026
Where: Pegasus Bay School, 5 Solander Road, Pegasus
To help us make the best use of time, please submit questions in advance so we can identify common themes and provide the best responses.
Questions can be submitted here: https://www.pegasusresidentsgroup.com/peg asus-golf-course
SAVE THE DATE – PRGI AGM
Wednesday 22 July
Woodend Community Centre, Room A 6.00pm
We warmly invite our members and community to join us for this year’s PRGI AGM. Hear key updates, reflect on the past year, and look ahead to future priorities for Pegasus. The evening will also include a keynote speaker, highlights from our recent community survey, and an opportunity to learn more about joining our volunteer team. We’d love to see you there. Please remember to RSVP.
Website: pegasusresidentsgroup.com
E: prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com
Pegasus Residents’ Group Inc
PEGASUS RESIDENTS GROUP WEBSITE UPDATES
The Pegasus Residents Group has recently updated its website to improve access to local information and support the community. A key update is the refreshed Business and Community Directory , now expanded to include a wider range of local services and businesses that support PRGI, making it easier for residents to connect with trusted providers.
PRGI has also created a webpage sharing factual information relating to the recent sale of the Pegasus Golf Course to Wolfbrook, providing residents with a clear resource to stay informed and support informed discussion.
These updates reflect PRGI’s ongoing commitment to keeping Pegasus residents informed and connected.
LAKE UPDATE – ALGAE TREATMENT TRIAL RESULTS REMAIN INCONCLUSIVE
Templeton Group’s advisers, WSP, have provided an update on the ultrasonic algae treatment trial in Pegasus Lake. Since installation, algae levels have generally reduced from the high levels seen in December 2025, although some spikes continued over summer. At this stage, it is still too early to confirm whether the treatment is consistently effective.
PRGI Chair Matt James said lake health remains the community’s top concern, with ongoing pressure on both council and Templeton Group to improve outcomes.
In March 2026, testing showed algae levels had dropped enough for the lake to move into a lower risk category. Monitoring will continue monthly through to August 2026, increasing to weekly if levels rise again.
Pegasus Residents Group Responds to Golf Course Proposal
The Pegasus Residents Group is working hard to ensure the community’s voice is clearly heard following the announcement that Wolfbrook Group intends to develop on the Pegasus golf course land. Our group is committed to keeping residents informed as the situation develops. Updates will be shared via social media, and new channels are being established to make it easy for residents to express their views and stay connected throughout the process.
Chair Matt James says the group plays an important role at times like this. “The strength in having the Pegasus Community Group is that we have an avenue to express the views of the community and ensure that decisionmakers understand how people feel about these proposals.”
Residents are encouraged to stay engaged. Updates will continue as more information becomes available. Stay tuned.
52 Pegasus Main Street Pegasus Town, Ph 03 920 4060 www.pegasusmedicalcentre.co.nz
WELCOME New Doctor – Dr Verena Hermanns
We are excited to have Dr Verena Hermanns join our team, permanently working on Thursdays weekly “I am a General Practitioner originally from Austria who has called New Zealand home for the past 15 years. I have a background in pediatrics and have also completed training in urgent care, which has given me a broad and adaptable clinical skill set. I enjoy caring for patients of all ages and am committed to providing thoughtful, patient-centered care to individuals and families”
2026
FLU VACCINES – still available
Anyone can book into see the nurse for a Flu Shot - you do not need to be a patient at PMC to book. To make a booking phone us 03 9204060 or call in. Eligibility criteria and fees remain the same as 2025. Unfunded vaccine is $35. We also have two alternative flu vaccines that cost $45 speak to the nurse or go to our website to find out more.
BOOKING APPOINTMENTS – availability on the day ☺
We are fortunate to have a large supportive team each day in the clinic - currently we sometimes have routine appointments on the day or the next day, please call receptionist to check availability. If you need to see the doctor on the day (cannot wait till next available appointment), please speak with the nurse, they will triage you and either offer an acute time slot or come up with a plan for your care.
APPOINTMENT SLOTS – Each doctor’s appointment is 15 minutes, allowing enough time for one or possibly two issues if brief. If you have multiple concerns, please book two appointments (additional fees apply)
MANAGE MY HEALH (MMH) – Patient Portal
Our patient portal now has robust security layers put in place and good to use. You may need to log in again and set up an authenticator as an extra layer of security , the app will take you through the steps. If you need assistance, please call us and reception can help getting you on board for the first time or to re-connect. You can book appointments and request repeat scripts through this portal at a time that is convenient for you. Access MMH through our website.
CERVICAL SCREENING CLINICS – regular cervical screening (smear tests or self-tests) is one of the best ways to detect early changes that c an lead to cervical cancer. Early detection means early treatment – and better outcomes. We have Clinics running weekly, these are led by our experienced practice nurses in a private, comfortable setting (funding available if you meet criteria).
SEXUAL HEALTH HELP – if you are 14-17 years old, you can see a doctor or nurse are free. We respect your privacy, and everything you talk about stays confidential.
VASECTOMY – We run a specialist clinic at PMC for ‘No Scalpel Vasectomies’. Book an initial consultation with reception for this specialist male procedure. Medical insurance may cover the procedure.
Douce Ambiance
Our next Cuppa will be on Wednesday, 10th June at 10a.m. at the Pegasus Community Centre.
All welcome! Bring a friend! Free!
This month we have Ecan’s Stephanie Symms, Senior Community Engagement Advisor and Claire Fletcher, Senior Community Engagement Advisor - Public Transport Team, to discuss their future improvement plans and ongoing public transport survey. We encourage everyone to participate in this survey on https://haveyoursay.ecan.govt.nz/metroreview
PegasusMonthlyCuppa@outlook.com
Gratefully sponsored by: New World Ravenswood Lake Pizza
Citizens Advice Bureau North Canterbury offers free, confidential, independent information and advice about your rights and the services available in our community.
Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Our Amberley satellite runs in the Amberley Library on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month between 9.30am and 11.30am.
Our Service
If you or someone you know needs information, advice or support, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. All our services are free and confidential.
Here are examples of the kinds of questions we deal with regularly.
• Can I put up a boundary fence without talking to my neighbour?
• I overpaid my bill and now my account is in credit . Can I get a refund?
• Where can I find a Justice of the Peace?
• Can I claim for the cost of damage or loss resulting from a power outage?
• What personal information can a landlord ask for when I apply to rent a property?
• What are the employment rights of independent contractors and unpaid interns?
• How should I talk to my creditor about having trouble with my debt repayments?
• How do I apply for a limited licence if I have been disqualified or suspended from driving?
• How accurate is the nutrition information panel on the side of my cereal box?
• How should I dispose of used light bulbs?
• Is a verbal agreement with a friend legally enforceable?
• How do I check if I am due a tax refund without paying someone to do it ?
As you can see, no question is too big or too small. Talk to us - we’re here to help!
You can find us at 209 High Street, Rangiora, or you can phone us on 03 313 8822 or 0800 367 222 or send us an email northcanterbury@cab.org.nz
Tena Koutou Katoa
Welcome back to Term 2!!!
We warmly welcomed our new 5-year-old students and their families who joined Woodend School with a mihi whakatau.
We are also pleased to share that the four new classrooms are making great progress and should be ready for our students to move into the next 2 weeks.
community to get involved, have some fun, and support our school.
All proceeds from these events will go towards the development of our new junior playground. We really appreciate the ongoing support of our PTA and whānau in making these opportunities possible.
Our Students Conquer the Blue Light PCT Challenge!
Whare Manu - School Culture
Our Whare Manu afternoons this year have been a huge success! It has been fantastic to see such high levels of enthusiasm, teamwork, and pride in our kura. These opportunities continue to strengthen our sense of belonging and connection, while bringing our school values to life. We love seeing students supporting one another and celebrating success together.
Cross Country
On Tuesday 12 May our Year 4-8 students took part in the school cross country. It was fantastic to see the effort, determination, and resilience on display. A big thank you to all the parents who volunteered as marshals, and to the many whānau and community members who came along to support and cheer on our students. We had a wonderful turnout, and your presence made the event even more special.
Our Wonderful PTA
Our wonderful PTA has two exciting fundraising events planned for Term 2; the “Win Every Day in May” calendar prize raffle and a Colour Run. These are fantastic opportunities for our
Eight of our finest athletes and problem-solvers faced the ultimate test of grit: the Blue Light PCT (Physical Competence Test) Challenge.
What is the PCT Challenge?
The PCT isn’t just a run in the park; it’s a high-intensity circuit that requires speed, strength, and flawless teamwork. Our students had to master several daunting stages:
The 2.2-Metre Wall: A test of upper body strength and collective effort to get every teammate over.
The Window Jump: Precision and agility were key to clearing this hurdle.
The Beam Traverse: A literal balancing act that tested nerves of steel.
The Fence Climb & Drag: Replicating the physical toll of a rescue or pursuit.
The Blue Light Challenge is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity for our youth to engage with the local Police in a fun, highenergy environment. Our students made us proud, not just with their physical performance, but with their sportsmanship and respect toward the officers and competing schools.
Thank you to the Pegasus-Woodend MenzShed
Whether they were scaling walls or sprinting to the finish line, these eight students proved that they have the “right stuff.” Congratulations to both teams for their incredible effort and for representing our school with such pride! A huge thank you to the amazing team at the PegasusWoodend MenzShed who generously designed and built brand-new wooden work benches for our students to use during break and lunch times. These sturdy benches have already become a popular and creative space for our tamariki, providing opportunities to design, build, explore, and problemsolve through hands on learning. We would also like to acknowledge Year 8 student Lucy H, who won a $500 gift voucher from Mitre 10 for her amazing entries in the Woodend Flower Show. In an incredibly generous act, Lucy donated her winnings to the school so we could purchase tools for students to use with the benches. What an outstanding example of generosity and school spirit!
To complete this wonderful initiative, our fantastic teacher aide Troy has been working with our Year 0–3 students, teaching them how to safely use the benches, nails, saws, and hammers. The excitement, focus, and pride in their creations have been fantastic to see.
This project is a wonderful example of community partnership in action. Thank you to everyone involved for supporting authentic, handson learning opportunities for our students.
Ngā mihi nui Andrew & the Woodend School Team
Rangiora Museum
The next free public meeting will be held at the Museum, 29 Good Street, Rangiora, beside the Bowling Club, on Sunday afternoon, 28 June, 2pm, featuring North Canterbury writer Vanessa Croft’s debut novel "Where in All the World", which is on sale now and has made the Kete Aotearoa New Zealand best Selling adult fiction book list.
Vanessa’s novel was inspired by her belief that Aotearoa New Zealand’s past is rich in stories waiting to be told. It tells the story of Harriet Watson in 1890s New Zealand in the Rakaia Hills, following on to the drawing rooms of London then the wilds of East Africa. Vanessa gives a fascinating illustrated presentation.
Enjoy a cosy Sunday afternoon at our museum with afternoon tea served. All welcome, no cost, although donations appreciated from non-members of the Rangiora Early Records Society. No booking required.
Would your local group, or an individual, be interested in exhibiting in our large display case in the Dickhoff room? Upcoming events, collections, sport, pottery, art, embroidery etc?
Are you a retired computer literate person? Maybe you’d like to join us on Wednesday afternoons to work on interesting archive records?
The Museum is open Wednesday and Sunday afternoons, 1.30pm to 4pm.
Phone: 03 310 7356
Email: rangioraearlyrecords@xtra. co.nz
Website: rangioramuseum.wordpress. com
Patron: Norma McLaren
Clothing Alterations & Repairs
Do you have a busted zip or pants that are too long? Or maybe a dress or skirt that needs an alteration? Call or text Paula 027 627 7212.
Debs Private Transport
Airport pick up or drop off, medical & hospital appointments, shopping, outings. Helping you to get places. Email dtooby.nz@gmail.com Ph: 021 289 9256
We are on the lookout for new members.
If you are looking for an activity which you can meet some like-minded guys who tinker with stuff, have a laugh and save the world at least twice a week, then come and see us. No prior skills are required and in fact you don’t have to do anything productive at the shed. Just come for a chat and a cuppa and help out wherever your interest lies. If you have had idle thoughts of making something, we have a range of both wood and metal working equipment along with some skilled people who can guide and help you.
We are located at Gladstone Park, across the drive from the Rugby Club and we are open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 9.30am and 12.30pm. We suggest you come along around 10.30am for a guided tour and join us for a morning tea at 11.00am.
And to our fellow local residents, don’t forget that we are here and available to assist with repairs, rennovations and any creative ideas you may have.
Contact Derrick on 0224365960 or Steve on 02102377864 for more information
May Meeting:
Cuppa in the Community
A free morning tea for people from Woodend, Ravenswood, Pegasus and surrounding areas.
10 am, second Tuesday of the month, at The Woodend Community Centre
We held our first meeting at the Woodend Community Centre, which was warm, spacious, and certainly fit for purpose. Attendance was a little down; however, we hope to return to the numbers we had previously as time goes by.
Our speaker was Sammy Mould, Priestin-charge at St Barnabas Church, Woodend. Sammy gave us an insight into her life and how she ended up at St Barnabas Church in the position she now holds.
Sammy then told us how St Barnabas Church supports the community.
• Free Food Friday at 4 pm has donated food, which is available to everyone.
• Music and Play for under 5-year-olds.
• Youth Group.
• Elder care exercise group.
• And an annual pet service.
• 5 pm prayer meetings during the week. The Church also supports community events such as Toot for Tucker and Community picnics.
For your diary: Tuesday 9th June - 10 am at the Woodend Community Centre – our speaker is David Petrie, who will talk about the area's history.
Thanks to our sponsors: Joe’s Garage, The Coffee Club and Ravenswood New World.
Menz Shed Relocation Update
So much has happened in the last 4 months. It has been a kaleidoscope of movements. Trailers and more trailers shifting timber and machinery, removing rubbish and all the time our members first demolishing and then putting together the bones of our new home.
We now have consent for our main shed and our containers so the next stage will begin shortly.
If you are passing our site at Courtenay Drive on a Tuesday or Thursday morning, please pop in and see us and have a chat.
We are still able to work within the community so if you have a job that we can help you with, big or small, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our away team are ready and waiting. menzshedkaiapoi@outlook.com www.menzshedkaiapoi.weebly.com
Angela Breward – Secretary 021 210 2849
Thanks to our member Peter Judkins for providing the photos.
Providing an environment for the health and well -being of men.
21st Jan. First containers on our new Courtenay Drive site
6th Feb. Trailers, so many trailers.
6th Feb. The office at Sims Road is no more
3rd March. Making ready our main shed.
21st April. The main shed on the move
21st April.The site at Sims Road is cleared.
7th May First BBQ on our temporary site with our flag flying.
The image on the right shows the total number of calls we have attended up to the end of April - sadly it's adding up! Thinking of joining our Brigade? Now is the time
— we need you! Live in Woodend / Ravenswood and available during the day, work locally, or do shift work?
Come to the Station Monday at 7pm and chat with Chief Fire Officer Shayne Robinson.
Finally, something for kids round Woodend during the Holidays...
School Holiday Program
July 6 - 17 (Matariki excluded) A Structured Program For Ages 8-13 Earlybird rates until June 17 Light Snacks provided ph: 027 282 6004 for all enquiries For kids with interest in Leadership, Takeaway Skills for Everyday Life with chances to meet real Leaders of NC
YOU’RE INVITED!
WOODPECKER COMMUNITY & VOLUNTEER EVENING + AGM
Tues 16 July 2026 | 6.00pm (doors open 5.45pm)
Woodend Community Centre
Join us for an evening of connection, inspiration, and community spirit at our Woodpecker Community & Volunteer Evening + AGM.
This special event is open to all our readers, volunteers, advertisers, and community supporters. Come along to:
• Hear about successful funding applications and the real benefits shared by a Community Engagement Fund recipient
• Be inspired by our keynote speaker, Matt Doocey MP
• Including a short address from Mayor Dan Gordon
• Receive updates from the Woodpecker Trustees on recent developments and community initiatives
• Take part in our brief AGM
• Connect and mingle with others over refreshments
Whether you’re new to The Woodpecker community or a long-time supporter, this is a great opportunity to come together, learn more, and be part of what’s happening across our local area.
Following the huge success of last year’s inaugural event, spaces are limited – book early to secure your spot.
Please RSVP by Friday 10 July to editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz (for catering purposes).
Celebrating community, connection, and local impact – we look forward to seeing you there.
The Winter Blues
Although difficult to prove, many believe that dogs and cats can feel down and eat more because of the long periods of dark in winter.
Nurse Jayne
Vet Nick Deane and Nurse Mel Deane
Bright sunlight helps promote the feel good hormone serotonin in the brain. During long nights, another hormone, melatonin, makes pets feel lethargic. It is so important to get out in the bright light with your pets, create fun games and make sure we do not give comfort snacks during winter. For outdoor pets, shelter from cold wind is very important.
Although fat gain in winter keeps them warmer, it can be so hard to shift and is not good for their joints. Weight puts them at higher risk of many other diseases.
So wrap up warmly and get out as much as you can for both their health and yours.
