Now delivered to 5,100 households!
OCTOBER 2026
Produced for the community, by the community
Community contacts pages 56 - 59 PEGASUS
SILVERSTREAM
Open Monday to Friday 8:30 to 5:30. Late night Tuesday Online bookings available. www.pagdental.com
• • Hygiene Clinic • New Zealand PAG Pegasus Dental - 03 920 4003 PAG Silverstream Dental - 03 925 8003 trained Clinicians • 54 Pegasus Main St, Pegasus • Facial Plan Shop 4/42 Silverstream Boulevard pagpegasusdental@gmail.com pagsilverstreamdental@gmail.com • Ample parking, • Funded Dental Care* • Dental Therapy easy access The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 1
Editor's Note
Spring is certainly keeping us on our toes! We’re enjoying some superb warm, sunny days, with the odd cold snap reminding us that winter hasn’t quite finished with us yet. However, the longer days and lighter evenings are a welcome glimpse of summer being on its way. We have another bumper-packed 64page edition this month, with several new advertisers coming on board, along with some great community notices, news and events taking place across our area. And don’t forget the four pages of useful community contacts towards the back of the publication. Our print run has increased again, from 5,000 to 5,100 copies. Our last increase was in December 2025. The rapid growth in new homes, particularly in Ravenswood, has slowed somewhat, but our distribution continues to grow as our communities develop. Christmas Thank You Evening – Page 60 - Once again, we’re delighted to be holding our annual Christmas Thank You Evening. It’s always a lovely opportunity to thank the many people who support The Woodpecker throughout the year. If you would like to join us, please do RSVP by email – we’d love to see you there. Map Development Coordinator Wanted – Page 15 - Sadly, the person who had taken on this role is now unable to continue due to personal circumstances, so we are once again on the lookout for someone who might like to get involved. Please take a look at the notice on page 15 if this could Page 2
be you! Giving Back to Our Community – Page 18 Through our Community Development Fund, we’re delighted to support two more local initiatives: the John Harris Memorial Plaque for the Woodend Community Association and YDOT’s pool table recovering project. It’s always rewarding to be able to give something back to the communities that support The Woodpecker. If your community organisation has a project that could benefit from funding, please ask us for an application form. You’ll find further details on page 18. Finally, I really enjoy receiving your feedback and genuinely appreciate everyone who takes the time to email with a well done, a thank you, or simply to let us know they’ve enjoyed an article or edition. Editing The Woodpecker is very much a solo juggling act – managing the emails, preparing all the contributions ready for inputting, and then coordinating everything to fit within our template while maintaining our roughly 50 / 50 balance between advertising and community content. Every month it reminds me of putting together a rather large jigsaw puzzle – somehow, all the pieces eventually find their place! Enjoy your October Woodpecker – and enjoy spring! The Woodpecker – Produced by the community, for the community Tēnā koutou, Debs Taylor-Hayhurst Editor, The Woodpecker editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
Four Seasons Realty
DECADES OF LOCAL EXPERIENCE From Hanmer Springs to Rolleston, we’re proud to be part of the communities we call home. Our local real estate roots go back decades. From our beginnings in Rangiora in 1990 to 11 offices today, we’ve grown alongside our local communities. With local knowledge, trusted relationships and proven experience, our teams are here to help you with every step of your property journey. Whether you’re buying or selling, residential, rural or lifestyle, we’ve got you covered.
the
Q R co
isa
l
get
use a
pp
Licensed Agent REAA 2008
e ho
ra
a
fre
d
to
Sc
n
e
a
Talk to your local Harcourts Four Seasons team today.
0800 789 1011 The Woodpecker - October 2026
fourseasons@harcourts.co.nz
harcourtsfourseasons.co.nz Page 3
Toot for Tucker Food Bank Appeal
Tuesday 1st December 2026
Rangiora | Oxford | Pegasus | Woodend | Amberley Ravenswood | Kaiapoi | Leithfield | Waipara
Donation ideas Non-perishable food Cleaning products Toiletries Pet food Christmas treats
Listen for the Toots from 6-7pm Please supply your own bags for collection
pb.co.nz
Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 Q031888
Page 4
The Woodpecker - October 2026
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 5
Operating Hours Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4.30pm. Free Clinics We hold free clinics that cover advice for beneficiaries, employment, immigration, and two types of legal assistance. In addition, we have volunteers who are also Justices of the Peace, and they offer that service when they’re on duty. Please get in touch for dates and more information about the clinics and JPs. Spotlight on our Legal Clinics We host two types of free legal clinic. Every Monday a lawyer from Community Law Canterbury is available to give CAB clients the opportunity to discuss their legal needs and questions in detail. The clinic runs between 9.30am and 3.30pm. There are five 45-minute appointments available, and they are on a one-off basis. The clinic on the first Monday of the month has only three appointments available between 9.30am and 12.30pm. Bookings are essential. Free legal information appointments are available fortnightly on a Wednesday between 1pm and 2pm. The lawyers will not offer free legal advice as such. They are simply listening to the client’s issue and then advising if they need to seek legal advice from a law firm or, alternatively, directing them to where they would be best to go to resolve their issue. This could be, for example, the Disputes Tribunal. The appointments are for 10 minutes. The scheme is supported by six local North Canterbury law firms who donate their time and expertise. You must book for this clinic. General Support If you or someone you know needs information, advice or support on any matter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’re here to help. We’ll even provide a listening ear if that’s what you need. All our services are free and confidential. 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
Page 6
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Real CLIENTS Real RESULTS Lisa is the kind of agent everyone deserves in their corner!
“We were recommended Lisa by a colleague, and we honestly couldn’t have asked for a better agent. From the beginning, Lisa was so down to earth, pragmatic and personable. She has an obvious knowledge of the market, but what we really appreciated was that she took the time to understand what we wanted rather than simply telling us how she thought we should sell. Lisa is knowledgeable, hardworking, honest and incredibly easy to deal with. We are so grateful for Lisa, and we couldn’t be happier with the result. We would wholeheartedly recommend Lisa to anyone looking to sell. She is an absolute gem!” D & L Stevenson (Seller) September 2026
DECADES OF LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND PROVEN RESULTS. I’ll help you stand out in any market.
TOP
SALES CONSULTANT
Harcourts Four Seasons - Rangiora Office 2023 - 2026
The Woodpecker - October 2026
for a FREE no obligation appraisal
LISA TIPPEN Four Seasons Realty Licensed Agent REAA 2008
027 4545 416 0800 TO GET SOLD (0800 864 387) lisa.tippen@harcourts.co.nz
Page 7
Page 8
The Woodpecker - October 2026
The Woodend School Fair was a great success!
a nice sunny day.
We wish to thank the Woodend School Fair organisers who did a great job of putting together their annual event on 19 September. They deserve a big “pat on the back” for their efforts. There were lots of parents, children, grandees and others enjoying themselves on
Our guys at the Shed were hard at work in July, August and September making a range of items for sale and as a result we had our most successful sale day ever. Most of the funds raised will go into the fund for our new building for which we are awaiting consent. The Menzshed Pegasus Woodend is located at Gladstone Park, and we are open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 9.30am and 12.30pm. Maybe you have a project we can help with……? Contact John 021 347 805 or Steve 021 023 77864 or Derrick 022 436 5960 for more information
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 9
Big Brothers Big Sisters Hits the Big Screen! From 1 October, keep an eye out at the Rangiora Town Hall Cinema - Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Canterbury is hitting the big screen with a brand-new mentor recruitment ad! Featuring some of our local mentoring matches, the ad was created by the talented Brendan Holt of Display and captures what mentoring is all about: one hour a week, building a friendship that can make a lifetime of difference. A huge thank you to the Rangiora-Ashley, KaiapoiTuahiwi, Oxford-Ohoka and Woodend-Sefton Community Boards for funding the creation of the ad, and to the Keith Laugesen Charitable Trust for funding the cost of screening it at the cinema. We’re incredibly grateful for this local support in helping us spread the word and inspire more people to become mentors.
With thanks to:
03 310 7004 Page 10
northcanterbury@bbbs.nz
www.bbbs.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
CLASSIFIEDS
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
Clean spaces. Clear minds. Move-out cleans Builders cleans Oven cleaning
Window cleaning
021 047 7013
www.proenterprises.co.nz
Want 1/8th advertising space?
That’s this size! Up to 30 words available - no logos. Interested? Email Debs on: editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
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
RELIEF DELIVERER WANTED
We’re looking for an adult relief deliverer to join our wonderful team of Woodpecker volunteers. The role involves approximately one hour a month, covering delivery rounds when one of our regular deliverers is unavailable. It’s a great opportunity for someone who enjoys walking, getting out in the community, and making a difference. If you’d like to be part of a friendly volunteer team, we’d love to hear from you. Contact: Debs, Editor at editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
Page 11
Pegasus Monthly Cuppa. This month’s Cuppa is on
Wednesday, 14th October at 10a.m.
at our Spanking, Brand New Pegasus Community Centre. All welcome!
Bring a friend!
Free!
This month we have invited Pegasus’s own professional photographer, Sarah Perrins, to display her artist talent and tell us a little about herself and the genre of photography that she specialises and excels in. PegasusMonthlyCuppa@outlook.com
Gratefully sponsored by: New World Ravenswood
Page 12
Lake Pizza
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Nothing Added or Taken Away Open 24 Hours. Cash up to $20 notes 1820 Main North Road, Sefton (SH1, 5 min north of Woodend)
Ph 0274 Ph 0274 393 673393 673
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 13
Woodend Methodist Report
Spring is finally here. It is so wonderful to see nature starting to thrive again with flowers, baby animals arriving, the days getting longer and warmer and hopefully all winter illnesses will disappear. Our Vision is to be a strong, inclusive and welcoming community of faith and to extend our engagement in the local community by responding to relevant needs. We continue to support families who are needing assistance in the community by providing food baskets. The services for October are: 4 October 9am Holy Communion – Rev Hun Hoe Song – Morning tea after the service 11 October 9am – Rev Barbara Peddie 18 October 9am - Rev Hun Hoe Song 25 October 9am – Losana Korovulavula The next monthly movie afternoon is on Wednesday 7 October 1pm at Woodend Methodist Hall. The movie will be “The Secret Life of Bees” a drama about Lily, a lonely teenager, who flees from her home and reaches a small town in South Carolina. Once there, she finds herself in the company of the Boatwright sisters who introduce her to a new world. $5 admission and afternoon tea will be served. 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. Page 14
The Pearl Am I the only one who stops to marvel at the bare twig with a small white pearl drop of blossom seemingly emerging from lifeless wood, heralding the start of new growth? Winter is gone, and creation is bursting into Spring colour. These snow-white drops of budding blossom reminded me of pearls suspended from the branches, the hidden treasures of the sea. The incredible fact about pearls is that they are created through agitation. When a grain of sand or other intruder slips into the oyster’s innermost parts, it causes immense irritation, provoking the immune system to produce proteins and nacre, otherwise known as mother-of-pearl. Thousands of layers coat the irritant over time until, one day, all that can be seen is the beauty of the journey from irritant to a lustrous pearl. I wonder, as you wander in the spring sunshine and gaze on the magnificent colours, what pearl is developing in your own soul, what causes you much distress and irritation that keeps you up at night, that drives you to the indigestion tablets and one too many glasses of wine in the evening. What is the thing that feels like it’s a constant agitation in your life? Lessons from nature are poignant reminders, and as the great poet Rumi once said, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” Often, we resent the things that hurt us and break us, or we perceive them as robbing us of life and happiness. But what if we are all on a journey developing pearls of great worth in our The Woodpecker - October 2026
souls? Should we coat our wounds and worries with prayers of belonging, encouragement and hope? What beauty might be emerging from the agitation in your life? As someone who desires to walk life’s journey with God ever before me, I too struggle with irritants in my life; I take heart in watching Spring erupt. I embrace the colour as a sign of beautiful hope of possibilities, knowing the pearls developing within have a lustre yet to be held. Is there agitation in your life? Come and join us on a Sunday morning at St Barnabas Church and allow us to The Woodpecker - October 2026
help you embrace the friction of life’s inevitable turbulence. We are a community for the old and young and all the in-between, authentic in our love for one another and in the wild and wondrous journey in God we call living. “Whoever sells the world for this great pearl of price, which once procured, will purchase paradise”- Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan. Our Sunday services are currently at 10.30am at the Woodend Methodist Church while our building project is on. More details on our website stbarnabaswoodend.org Page 15
Mayor Dan Column A major milestone for Pegasus is now just weeks away. On 9 October, I’ll have the pleasure of cutting the ribbon at the official opening and blessing of the new Pegasus Community Centre. I recently had a site tour of the new centre and was impressed by what I saw. The building, expertly interwoven with the boardwalk and the view across the lake, is going to be a valuable community asset. Its clever use of space will support a wide range of groups, activities and users. The centre has been communityled from the beginning, and I thank everyone who has contributed and worked hard to get us here. Woodend, Ravenswood and Pegasus continue to grow, and it’s important we plan for that growth together. Community feedback has helped shape the draft North East Waimakariri Urban Plan, which sets out the long-term direction for the wider Woodend, Pegasus and Ravenswood urban area. If you missed the earlier drop-in session, there is another opportunity Page 16
to have your say on 24 September at Woodend Rugby Club, Gladstone Park. Your feedback will help shape the final plan. The warmer spring weather has also
marked the start of a new season for bowling clubs across the district. I recently enjoyed opening and speaking at Woodend Bowling Club’s 2026 / 27 season opening day. These occasions are a great opportunity to welcome new members, reconnect with familiar faces and look forward to another season of friendly competition. Clubs like Woodend play an important role in our communities, and Woodend Bowling Club has been part of local life for an impressive 90 years. A great deal of work happens behind the scenes, so thank you to everyone who gives their time and effort to keep our clubs thriving. Please get in touch if you need assistance or have an issue you would like to discuss. Email me at dan. gordon@wmk.govt.nz or phone 021 906 437. I’m here to help. The Woodpecker - October 2026
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 17
Page 18
The Woodpecker - October 2026
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 19
Page 20
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Kaiapoi Community Garden ...Cake, Teas & Tunes... 1st November 11am - 2pm
Back Field of Kaiapoi Borough School, Hilton Street
Vege seedling sale Live band - “Magic” Preserves Children’s activities Build a raised bed demo Bring a chair
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Cash only
Page 21
A Great Day Out at the Rangiora A&P Show on Saturday 24 October 2026 The Rangiora A&P Show proudly showcases the very best of rural North Canterbury, attracting competitors, exhibitors and visitors from across the region and the South Island. For more than 150 years, the Northern A&P Association has brought town and country together to celebrate our farming heritage, community spirit and the very best of rural life. The Show features some of Canterbury’s top equestrian and rural sporting talent, with highlights including show hunter events, shearing, wood chopping, Highland dancing and dog trials. Visitors can also enjoy the livestock competitions, where leading breeders present sheep,
Page 22
cattle, poultry, donkeys, alpacas and more. There is plenty of local creativity on display in the Produce Shed, with entries across Cooking, Needlework, Knitting, Hand Spun, Art, Photography, Woodwork & Models, Junior Arts & Crafts, the Schools Challenge, Scarecrow Competition, Murals and Flower Arranging. And it’s not all about the competitions! There’s something for everyone, with food, craft, market and trade stalls, vintage machinery displays and a full programme of entertainment. Families can enjoy the Kids Zone, live music, motorbike stunt riders, mounted games, Hackney scurry races, farmyard
The Woodpecker - October 2026
fun, pony rides, duck herding and, of course, the much-loved Terrier Race. For machinery lovers, there’s an agricultural display showcasing farm machinery at its best. If you love Jeremy Clarkson and all things farming machinery, you’ll want to come and see these impressive machines up close and in full display! From the latest technology to the big machines that keep our farms moving, there’s plenty to see. Don’t Miss the Furniture Race! One of the Show’s more unusual attractions, the Furniture Race sees competitors take to the track in both motorised and pedalled entries. It’s great fun and always worth watching! Please note: Friday 23rd October is dedicated to equestrian events only and public entry is free. The full Rangiora A&P Show is held on the Saturday of Labour Weekend, 24th October. Tickets are available to purchase at the gate on Show Day. Adults $15, Children 5 – 16 years $5, Under 5 – free. Come along, bring the family and enjoy a great day out celebrating rural Canterbury!
Want to be added to our mailing list? Want to receive our digital version of The Woodpecker? Email Debs, Editor:
editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
Spring Into Your Community Making the most of October in North Canterbury
Spring is here, bringing longer days, warmer weather and plenty of opportunities to get out and about! With gardens bursting into colour, birds singing and the promise of summer just around the corner, it's a wonderful time to rediscover everything our local communities have to offer. Why not take a stroll around your neighbourhood, explore a local walking track, enjoy a coffee at a nearby café or support one of our wonderful local businesses? From Pegasus and Ravenswood to Woodend, Waikuku and our beautiful beach communities, there's so much to enjoy right on our doorstep. Spring is also a great time to reconnect with neighbours, join a community group or consider volunteering. Whether it's helping at a local event, supporting a fundraiser or simply checking in on someone who lives nearby, every little contribution helps strengthen our community. Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference – a friendly smile, a helping hand, a kind word or a simple hello can brighten someone's day. As our communities continue to grow and welcome new residents, let's remember the importance of looking out for one another and maintaining that wonderful sense of belonging. This October, let's make the most of spring and celebrate the people, places and community spirit that make our little corner of North Canterbury such a special place to call home. Page 23
COMMUNITY NOTICES Chamber Gallery Rangiora
Daffodil Day Thank You!
To everyone who was involved, supported, volunteered, donated, purchased fresh flowers, Painted the Town Yellow, organised a fundraiser – thank you so much for supporting the 1in3.
Nothing about us without us - IHC’s 75year anniversary. 19 October - 11 November. Interweaving photographic portraits, still life images, archival material and text; telling the story of a movement that champions the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
Pegasus Bay Bible Study Group
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 eco-friendly 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
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. President: Kevin Taylor – 027 444 1390. Page 24
Join us for our weekly Bible Study group every Wednesday evening at 7pm. We are Bible-believing Christians who gather to study and share God’s Word with people in our local community and beyond. To register your interest, please call Willoughby on 021 119 7524.
Kaiapoi Community Garden Volunteer Days
Every Monday and Wednesday 10am to 12 noon and the last Saturday of each month, 10 to 12 noon. 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 Foot Care Clinic
Held in Woodend monthly. Phone 021 022 49443 for an appointment.
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Dragon Stone Paving Ltd COMMERCIAL CIVIL RESIDENTIAL
Professional paving specialists based in Woodend with over 30 years of combined industry experience
Patios, pathways, driveways, doorways, pool surroundings, stone landscaping ... anywhere you could need paving
We are a quick, reliable, friendly, and tidy professional team Check out our facebook page for examples of our work and contact Lee for a quote!
021 292 2335 - Lee Squires
fb: dragonstonepavingltd
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 25
COMMUNITY NOTICES Birthday Party Hire
easy-clean party space
heaps of space & summer shade
Celebrate your child’s next birthday at Woodend Playcentre
exclusive use of outdoor areas
Spacious, private, fenced venue Full kitchen facilites Available all year round $80 hire fee
BOOK NOW www.playcentre.org.nz/hire/centre-hire-woodend/
Woodend Playcentre
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
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.
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.
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 Page 26
The Woodpecker - October 2026
TILER
Need a top-Notch Tiler or Glass Shower Installer?
Your local independent hearing experts
Certified waterproofing
Full diagnostic hearing tests Tinnitus assessments and support Hearing aids from all the major brands Custom earplugs and hearing protection
You’re in safe hands with Andy - a good bloke with over 10 years tiling experience and 25 years in glass and glazing. Based in North Canterbury, Andy specialises in kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and entryways. Ceramic, porcelain & mosaic tiling Custom frameless glass showers supplied and installed
Local. Reliable. Professional
021 020 81972 www.andytiler.co.nz
Book an appointment today
Call: (03) 423 3158 admin@setzaudiology.co.nz 83b Ivory Street, Rangiora Amberley Medical Centre, 6 Hilton Drive
PEGASUS
• • • Funded Dental Care* (0 - 18yrs) • ACC Accredited (no surcharge) • Teeth Whitening
SILVERSTREAM
• Hygiene Clinic • Facial Plan • Dental Therapy • Oral Medicine Specialist • Minor Oral Surgery
• New Zealand trained Clinicians • Ample parking, easy access • Community Services Card discounts
Open Monday to Friday 8:30 to 5:30 | www.pagdental.com PAG Pegasus Dental - 03 920 4003 54 Pegasus Main St, Pegasus pagpegasusdental@gmail.com The Woodpecker - October 2026
PAG Silverstream Dental - 03 925 8003 Shop 4/42 Silverstream Boulevard pagsilverstreamdental@gmail.com Page 27
OCTOBER 2026 WAIMAKARIRI EVENTS MARKETS KAIAPOI SATURDAY MARKET Charles St, Kaiapoi Every Saturday, 9am – 12.30pm
ŌHOKA FARMERS MARKET Ōhoka Domain, Mill Road, Ōhoka Every Friday, 9am – 12pm
1-4 ROTARY BOOK FAIR
18 THE NORTH CANTERBURY VINTAGE FAIR
Thurs 4pm - 8pm Fri 9am - 8pm Sat & Sun 9am - 5pm Rangiora Showgrounds Join North Canterbury’s largest book fair! Browse thousands of books over four days, with all proceeds going back into the community. Free Event
10am - 2pm Rangiora Racecourse
3 WOODEND FLOWER SHOW 1pm Woodend Community Centre
Step into a world of nostalgia and charm and expect to find a wide range of vintage treasures, retro, revamped, antiques and collectables. Free Event
A fantastic community show showcasing flowers, baking, photography, market stalls and more. Enter your creations and celebrate local talent.
OXFORD FARMERS MARKET Main St, Oxford Every Sunday, 9am – 12pm.
OXFORD CRAFT MARKET Oxford Town Hall, Oxford First Saturday of each month, 10am – 2pm
RANGIORA CHURCH ST MARKET St John’s Anglican Church Grounds & Hall First Saturday of each month, 9.30am – 1pm
THE DELICIOUS MARKET 179 Lehmans Road, Rangiora Mon-Fri 8am – 4pm
Adults $5 & Kids Free - Cash Only
PEG & PINT CRAFT MARKET The Peg & Pint Grounds Last Sunday of each month, 10am – 2pm
24 RANGIORA A&P SHOW 8am – 5pm Rangiora Showgrounds
2 THE BIG ART AUCTION FUNDRAISER 6pm – 8.30pm Rangiora Borough School Hall Enjoy a night of local art, live music, and auctions all while supporting youth mentoring and helping make a difference in North Canterbury. Tickets $40pp available from Humanitix
Experience one of Canterbury’s favourite country shows, with livestock, equestrian competitions, rural sports, entertainment, market stalls, food vendors and family fun. $15 Adults, $5 Children U5 Free
4 SPRING MARKET IN THE PARK
Enjoy a fantastic community day out with market stalls, local artisans, delicious food, live music, workshops, and family-friendly entertainment for all ages
events@visitwaimakariri.co.nz
@visitwaimakariri
Page 28
OXFORD GALLERY, TOI O WAIMAKARIRI
ART ON THE QUAY ‘All Together’ by Victoria Bennett & The Our Studio Artists 10 Sep –14 Oct Kaiapoi Library
Entry by Donation
Scan to receive our monthly events calendar straight to your inbox!
CHAMBER GALLERY RANGIORA ‘Nothing about us without us’ IHC’s 75th Anniversary Exhibition. 19 Oct –11 Nov Rangiora Library
‘Lost Mythologies’ by Michael Southern 10 Sep - 11 Oct 72 Main Street, Oxford
11am - 3pm Victoria Park, Rangiora
KEEP IN TOUCH
ART EXHIBITIONS
31 HALLOWEEN TWILIGHT CARNIVAL 2pm - 8.30pm Norman Kirk Park, Kaiapoi Enjoy spooky family fun with food trucks, market stalls, light displays, bouncy castles, a Trick or Treat Trail and more! Free Event
WHAT’S ON WAIMAKARIRI LIBRARIES Vibrant spaces for connection, creativity and community. Events for all ages - explore what’s on & join your community this month.
VISITWAIMAKARIRI.CO.NZ The Woodpecker - October 2026
COMMUNITY NOTICES Woodend Tennis Club PEGASUS & WAIKUKU SAYGo
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.
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 10.00am - 11.30am 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. SPACES AVAILABLE. For more information: Contact Mavis 03 312 7839 or Lorraine 027 332 9298.
Would you like your club or community group listed in Community Contacts?
If you would like your community group or club listed in our community contacts page, contact the Editor providing the appropriate details and these can be included. Thank you! editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 29
Address: 50 Courtenay Drive, Kaiapoi Email : menzshedkaiapoi@outlook.com Website : www.menzshedkaiapoi.weebly.com Facebook: Kaiapoi Men’s Shed
Waghorn builders have made great progress with our new Shed and the structure will soon be reaching completion. Week 9, and you can see we now have a building. We still have a long way to go before the shed will be operating and we are continue to fund raise for electrical work, drainage and other incidental costs that we will incur. The photo below shows the concrete blocks that the container units will sit on. We are onsite on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, you are welcome to join us for a cuppa, usually around 9.30, if you are thinking of joining the Menz Shed this is a good time to do it, exciting times ahead. We are not allowed to work on this site yet; however, we continue to take on projects. Some of our members are working on small jobs in their own garages or sheds and we continue to work off site in the community. Spring is in the air, and your garden may be in need of some care. Maybe a new bench? The men are currently producing benches similar to this one. Or maybe you need a new garden fence? If you have a project you would like the Menz Shed to help with, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch and lets see how we can bring your idea to life. Contact: Doug 021 662 486, Bert 021 145 3393, Bob 021 111 5534, Angela 021 210 2849
If you would like to support our new site at Courtney Drive by making a donation our bank account details are: MenzShed of Kaiapoi Inc 03-1585-0428006-00 Providing an environment for the health and well-being of men
Page 30
The Woodpecker - October 2026
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.
Pegasus Community Watch Patrol
CELEBRATE RECOVERY GRACE VINEYARD N O R T H
C A N T E R B U R Y
Every Thursday Night Meet at 6.15pm light snack provided Salvation Army Church 12 Ashley Street, Rangiora
Celebrate Recovery is for anyone struggling with hurt, hang-ups, and habits of any kind. Enquiries Phone Roger - 0212550099
K A I A P O I
S P E A K E R S
We are now recruiting volunteers for Patrolling. Full training given, if interested, please contact Colin 022 497 3512. Only requirement Full Drivers licence.
Find your voice Boost your confidence
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. The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 31
STEVE’S
DRAINAGE & ODD JOBS We’re not afraid to get down and dirty
OUR SERVICES • • • • • • •
Certifying Drainlayer Handyman & Odd Jobs Septic Maintenance & Replacement Water Tank Repair & Installation Irrigation Pumps & Filters Lifestyle Properties
Phone Steve 021 833 635
hoodinnovations@outlook.com
HEAT PUMP CLEANING
Lawns & Gardens
Builders Cleaning
Property Tidy-Ups
Oven Cleaning
Dog Poo Pick-Ups
Window Cleaning
Move-Out Cleaning
And More!
PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE & LOCAL OPERATING IN THE AREA FOR OVER 5 YEARS
We’re your go-to team for keeping your home looking its best inside and out!
021 047 7013 lawn.pronz www.proenterprises.co.nz
Page 32
CALL JOHN WRIGHT
027 496 8192
The Woodpecker - October 2026
In August and September each year migrant birds return to nest on the braided rivers and estuaries of Waimakariri. The wrybill flies in from the North Island, while black fronted terns and black-billed gulls congregate from various parts of the country where they’ve been spending the winter. Banded dotterels return from as far away as Australia. To celebrate this return, a number of groups got together again this year to hold a Welcome the Birds event in the Waikuku Beach hall. Children from nine schools and pre-schools took part in painting cutout birds and brought them along to join the “Flock” on 30 August. Predator Free Waikuku, Tuhaitara Coastal Park and Ashley Rakahuri Rivercare Group were there. All three do great work reducing the number of pests around the river and coast so that native wildlife has a better chance of breeding and surviving for the next generation. Our braided river and estuary bird’s nest on the ground. So remember when you’re out on the estuaries, rivers and beaches over summer, if you see a bird there could well be a nest there. These nests are practically invisible so if you can keep some distance that would be great. Most nesting is finished by the end of January so after that you don’t have to worry – just enjoy. Below: Participants from Pegasus School
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 33
October 2026
52 Pegasus Main Street Pegasus Town, Ph 03 920 4060 www.pegasusmedicalcentre.co.nz
됻 됺 됹 됸 됷
EXCITING NEWS – We are Growing! We are excited to share that building alterations will be starting 28 September! Over the next three months, we’ll be adding two new consultation rooms and an additional administration room to our building. As our practice continues to grow, these extra spaces will help us continue providing the excellent service and care our patients know and value. During the building work, you may occasionally notice that the car park in front of the building is restricted. We kindly ask that you allow an extra 5 mins for your appointment, as you may need to park on the roadside if our car parks are being used by other patients. We really appreciated your patience and understanding while we make these exciting improvements. We look forward to welcoming you into our expanded space! HAYFEVER is an allergic reaction to triggers like pollen, pets or dust mites, causing symptoms like runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. To manage symptoms, and avoid triggers, use saline nasal rinses, take over the counter or prescription medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays. Self-Care reduce exposure, stay indoors when pollen counts are high. Clean regularly, vacuum and dust with damp cloth to remove allergens. Manage pets, wipe your pets coat with a damp cloth after they have been outside to remove pollen, it’s best to keep pets out of bedrooms. Avoid drying clothes outside, dry inside to prevent pollen from sticking to them. Use nasal saline rinses or sprays to help clear the nasal passage. Medications: Antihistamines available as tablets or sprays for fast relief (some cause drowsiness). Nasal decongestant sprays. Eye Drops. Speak with pharmacist or book to see doctor if over the counter medicines are not providing relief. VIRAL ILLNESS IN COMMUNITY Influenza A and RSV outbreaks is doing the rounds in our community; we kindly ask that anyone experiencing flu like symptoms wear a mask if asked to enter the practice. Masks are available at the entrance. Please stay at home if you are unwell, rest and fluids, hand hygiene and cover coughs and sneezes. Reminder that we also can become short staffed in these situations and will do our best to accommodate all our patients when the demand is increased. Thank you for your support. CERVICAL SCREENING CLINICS – Be reassured we continue to run a robust recall system for our patients. Regular cervical screening (smear tests or self-tests) is one of the best ways to detect early changes that could 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). ADHD – New Diagnosis – Medication Start – We can offer an ADHD new medication start/review 30-minute consultation with selected doctors for patients that are 18+, have had a specialist ADHD assessment done and have a report confirming the diagnosis. These appointments are $200+ for the consultation only. Additional service charges may apply. Please book in through the receptionist staff.
Page 34
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Woodend Friendship Club August / September Report
Our guest speaker at the August meeting was Joella Haglund from Eco Educate, who gave an interesting talk about recycling. We learned what can and cannot go into the recycling bin. If any recycling bin is contaminated with anything not meant to be in it, the whole bin is treated as rubbish, so it's important to put only recyclables in. Stickers showing what can and cannot go in any of the bins are available from the Council. Joella brought some resources to give away, saving us the trip to the Council. We discussed the possibility of dedicated glass recycling. There were many questions, and Joella answered them all. Several people gathered at the RSA in Rangiora for morning tea and a chat. These informal gatherings are very enjoyable and a good way to get to know more people. With the cold, wintry weather still about, no trip was organised. Instead, we held another movie afternoon at the Woodend Community Centre. Those who went along really enjoyed themselves. Open All Hours, starring Ronnie Barker, was the attraction. We are hopeful that now that Spring is here and the weather is beginning to warm up, we will resume our trips away. For further information, please phone: Jack Dzenis, President: 027 845 4858 or Lyn Petrie, Secretary: 022 159 2676 Information is also available on our Facebook page, and we have a members-only web page at www.woodendfriendshipclub.co.nz. The web page includes reports, newsletters, events, and more. The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 35
Woodend / Pegasus Lions Club
It has been another month of community activities for our members. Three of our accomplished BBQ chefs helped at the Woodend School Fair on 19 September. This is an activity that the club attends every year and we are pleased to be able to support the fundraising activities of the school On 26 September, some of our members supported members of the New Brighton Lions Club as they delivered pre ordered pea straw and compost. This is a major activity for the New Brighton Club and up to 80 volunteers are required. Our monthly club / dinner meeting was held at the Woodend Tavern on 17 September. Great food and great company. Our 2026 / 2027 District Governor, Alastair Rankin, was our guest speaker. We were also joined by members of the Motor Homes Association Lions Club. The club will assist with the set up and break down of the Woodend Flower Show which will be held on 2 and 3 October. There will be another working bee at the Woodend Food Forest on Sunday 11 October from 1pm to 3pm. We will be respreading mulch, and all are welcome to join our club Page 36
members and the members of other local community organisations. Christmas cakes are now available for purchase at $25. These are baked by Coupland’s to the “secret” Lions recipe. They are delicious and uniced. They can be ordered by contacting Gay on 027 436 1364. If you are interested in more information regarding joining our Club, please contact our President, Gay on 027 436 1364. Correction In our September edition, we featured the name change of the Woodend Pegasus Lion’s Den. Unfortunately, the names associated with several photographs in the article were incorrect. We apologise to the Club and those individuals affected for these errors and any embarrassment caused. We are pleased to publish the correct names below: 1. Brendon Harris, John’s
brother. 2. Mark Paterson, Mayor Dan Gordon, Cliff Hurley, John’s sister Claire Hope, and Brendon Harris. 3. Mayor Dan Gordon. Thank you to the Woodend Pegasus Lion’s Den for bringing this to our attention.
The Woodpecker - October 2026
THE WAIMAKARIRI EVENT FUND Are you looking to start a new event in Waimakariri, or grow an existing one? Applicants are now invited to apply for up to $5,000 towards promotion or coordination of events that clearly demonstrate economic and/or community benefit to the Waimakariri District. The next funding round is open 1st – 31st October 2026. Check out the criteria and apply online at https://enterprisenorthcanterbury.co.nz/eventfunding/waimakariri-event-fund/ or E: events@visitwaimakariri.co.nz The Waimakariri Event Fund is WDC funding administered by ENC.
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 The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 37
Page 38
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Dan Rosewarne
Labour List MP based in North Canterbury Spokesperson for Small Business and Rural Communities dan.rosewarne@parliament.govt.nz /DanRosewarneWaimakariri
Authorised by Dan Rosewarne MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 39
Woodend Garden Club Marks 80 Years with Gift to the Community A beautiful new addition has been unveiled outside the historic Woodend Methodist Church at 86 Main North Road, marking a major milestone for one of the areas longest running community groups. To celebrate its 80th anniversary (1945 – 2025), the Woodend Garden Club has donated a handcrafted park bench to the town, offering churchgoers, weary walkers, and locals a spot to rest and enjoy the surroundings. The commemorative seat represents a wonderful collaboration of North Canterbury community groups. Looking for a lasting tribute to mark eight decades of fellowship, the garden club commissioned the skilled volunteers at the Menz Shed of Kaiapoi to construct the sturdy, solid bench. While Orchard Homes volunteered to lay the concrete pad and install the bench. The site was chosen for its central role in the neighbourhood, with the Woodend Methodist Church serving as a cornerstone of central Woodend since 1910. The Woodend Garden Club meets on the third Monday of each month at 1.30pm at the Woodend Community Centre, welcoming new members of all gardening backgrounds. October 19th Jane Mahoney is speaking from Secret Gardens of NZ.
Page 40
The Woodpecker - October 2026
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 41
PEGASUS COMMUNITY PEGASUS GOLFNEWS UPDATE
Although things may appear quiet publicly, considerable work continues behind the scenes. Our first major objective was to prevent the proposed golf course development from proceeding through the Fast-track approvals process, and we succeeded. The campaign also brought national attention to whether Fast-track legislation should be used for major housing developments outside established district planning processes. We have reached an important stage in our efforts to protect the golf course and are actively exploring options. Unfortunately, we cannot share further details at present without potentially compromising the outcome we are working towards. We will provide updates as soon as possible. Meanwhile, we have joined communities across New Zealand facing similar issues to establish Communities for Planned Growth. The group's first initiative is a national petition calling on the Government to exclude housing developments outside adopted district plans from the Fast-track approvals process. The petition launches on Tuesday 29 September, 11am, at Springston Community Hall, Selwyn. All are welcome. Communities nationwide will then be encouraged to support it. What began as a local campaign has become part of a wider debate about planned growth, local democracy and the integrity of district planning. There will be more to share about both the Pegasus Golf Course and the national petition in the coming weeks. Thank you for your continued support and understanding while circumstances limit what we can say publicly.
Page 42
Website: pegasusresidentsgroup.com E: prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com Pegasus Residents’ Group Inc
BIRD FLU: WHAT PEGASUS RESIDENTS NEED TO KNOW Bird flu may become more prominent as we head into spring and summer, particularly in Pegasus, where we live alongside large numbers of wild birds and waterfowl. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) advises that bird flu, or avian influenza, is a highly contagious viral disease primarily affecting birds. It can also spread to mammals and, rarely, humans. High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), including H5 strains, can cause severe illness and high death rates in birds. What should you do if you find sick or dead birds? Most importantly, don't touch or move them. If you see three or more sick or freshly dead wild birds together, keep your distance and report them to MPI's exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66, or through MPI's online reporting system. If possible, note the location and take photographs or video from a safe distance. MPI requests details including bird type, numbers affected, group size and precise location. Keep pets away from sick or dead birds. Dogs should not be allowed to collect sick birds or pick up dead ones. There is no need for alarm, but sensible precautions matter. Avoid handling sick or dead wild birds and wash your hands after contact with wild birds. With Pegasus surrounded by waterways, ponds and open spaces attracting birdlife, reporting unusual clusters of sick or dead birds helps protect our local bird population and wider community. Remember: Three or more sick or dead wild birds together? Don't touch them. Report them to MPI on 0800 80 99 66. For more information, visit MPI's bird flu information page.
The Woodpecker - October 2026
H5 bird flu – information for game bird hunters Bird flu is a highly contagious viral disease that mainly affects birds. It can also spread to mammals including, on rare occasions, people. There are two main types of avian influenza: • High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), which can cause severe signs and high death rates in birds. There are a number of strains including H5, H7, and H9. • Low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI), which typically causes few or no signs in birds but can possibly mutate to HPAI.
Reporting bird flu If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, avoid contact, record what you see and report it to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 from anywhere in New Zealand. You can also report online at report.mpi.govt.nz. If you report online, select the ‘dead or dying wild birds’ option from the dropdown list and then the type of bird you have found. Do not handle or move the birds. Provide as much detail as you can, including: • common name or species of sick or dead bird if known
How to protect yourself and prevent possible spread You should always follow New Zealand Food Safety’s advice on food safety for hunters, but we especially recommend that you: • don’t harvest or handle wild birds (or their feathers) if they are obviously sick or found dead; • wash and dry your hands after handling or dressing wild birds; • don’t eat, drink or put anything in your mouth while handling or cleaning harvested birds; • don’t allow your dogs to collect sick birds or pick up birds that are already found dead • wash knives and other utensils, and scrub chopping boards between preparation of raw and cooked foods; • keep raw meat and poultry covered and away from ready-toeat food, fruit and vegetables; • cook birds well – an internal temperature of at least 73 degrees Celsius for at least 2 to 3 minutes is needed to kill bacteria and viruses; • scrub and disinfect all boots and equipment between hunting sites – we recommend you use an antiviral disinfectant; • wash any clothes that have been in direct contact with birds after each hunting trip.
• how many are sick or freshly dead, and the total number of birds present
Heat destroys the virus, so food that has been thoroughly cooked is safe to eat.
• a GPS reading or other precise location information
Read more on food safety for hunters on our website: www.mpi.govt.nz/food-safety-home/food-safety-tips-fishinghunting-homekill/food-safety-hunters
• photographs and videos of sick and dead birds. MPI will contact notifiers if more information is required.
For more information visit www.mpi.govt.nz/hpai
The Woodpecker - October 2026
July 2026
About bird flu
Page 43
Rangiora Museum
This will be popular! A free public meeting at the Museum, 29 Good Street, by the Bowling Club, two showings of a new film! “The Early History of the N Z Farmers’ Co-op - the first 100 years.” One hour 20 minutes long, it describes how this company began and what happened. The first is on Thursday 22 October at 7.30pm, and the second is Sunday 1 November at 2pm. Bookings essential. Book online (our preferred method to get instant confirmation) at https://www. trybooking.com/nz/BFOX. No charge for booking. Alternatively, ring the Museum, 03 310 7356, during opening hours, which are Wednesdays and Sundays from 1.30pm to 4pm. Did you work at the NZ Farmers’ Coop? You may not see yourself in the film, but you may recognise some of the old characters and have a chuckle as well. This is a fascinating local history story. Join us for this journey back to the early years and enjoy a cup of tea and chat afterwards. Donations appreciated from non-members of the Rangiora Early Records Society. Norma McLaren (patron)
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.
Want 1/8th advertising space?
That’s this size! Up to 30 words available - no logos. Interested? Email Debs on: editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz Page 44
The Woodpecker - October 2026
All Construction & C onc rete Work
• Driveways, patios & paths • Bridges and Culverts • Floors, foundations, sheds and buildings • Dairy Sheds, Herd homes • Silage pits, effluent ponds
• Retaining walls & landscaping • Swimming pools & ponds • Excavation and cartage • Precast concrete • Insulated panels • Placing & Finishing
Daryl Power 027 230 9401
concretepower@scorch.co.nz • www.concretepower.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 45
Kia ora koutou katoa and happy spring!
This month we are excited to introduce Dave Chivers, who has recently joined our brigade in a support role. Dave has lived in Pegasus for 15 years and joined the fire service in 1984 as a firefighter with the New Brighton Volunteer fire brigade. After holding numerous roles over the next two decades, he was appointed Volunteer Support Officer for North Canterbury in 2012. This involved supporting 14 volunteer brigades with their operational readiness and resourcing firefighting equipment and uniform. Dave said this was “a tremendous role to have been involved with” and the highlight of his career. Dave recently retired and has decided to maintain his Fire and Emergency connections through supporting the Woodend and Rangiora brigades. Outside of work, Dave is interested in following international football, especially the English Premier League and European football. He currently plays socially himself but previously played the position of striker for 35 years competitively. Dave is also interested in the history of the fire service and fire engines, art and art history, and popular music such as the Beatles and Beach Boys. We are very lucky to have him on board! Safety Messages Is your family prepared for the event of a house fire? Following these three Page 46
simple steps can help to keep your loved ones are safe. 1. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway and living area. 2. Plan two ways out. 3. Agree on a safe
meeting place. Recruitment Finally, we are always looking for new brigade members. If you work locally or are around during the daytime, and are keen to learn valuable skills, be part of a great team and serve your community, give us a call on 03 312 7794 or email shayne.robinson@ fireandemergency.nz Noho ora mai! As always, get in touch if you have any questions.
Ever thought of advertising in The Woodpecker?
Are you a local business wishing to advertise your products or services? The Woodpecker is delivered to 5,100 households! Uploaded to a number of Facebook pages and groups as well as a digital copy being permanently available via Issuu.com If you are interested, please email the Editor to ask about our advertising rates where you will be added to our mailing list. editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
Want to be added to our mailing list? Want to receive our digital version of The Woodpecker?
Email Debs, Editor on: editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz
The Woodpecker - October 2026
RAVENSWOOD
Spring is here! We are here!
ven Bob Robertson
Dr
Kes te
6 Clayton Place FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
New World Ravenswood Pl
Clayto
n Pl
Spring has finally arrived, and it is time to shake off the chill with a fresh, crisp pour that tastes like warmer days ahead. We’ve got options, so come check out the selection today!
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
Medical Corner Pharmacy
Our specially trained pharmacists can now prescribe and dispense Mounjaro®. Pop in to one of our two handy locations to discuss or book a consultation online to see if Mounjaro® is right for you. If suitable, consultation and medication charges apply.
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 47
Community Fund Applications Open Now Backing the people and projects that support our communities. The MainPower Community Fund is now open and seeking applications from not-forprofit organisations, community groups and schools across the Waimakariri, Hurunui, Kaikōura and Kainga/Stewarts Gully communities. $40,000 of funding is available for projects that support: • • • • •
Youth and education Community wellbeing Environmental sustainability Energy efficiency initiatives Local projects that create lasting community benefits
Grants range from $500 to $5,000 per organisation. Applications close 31st October 2026 Find out more and apply online – www.mainpower.co.nz/community-funding
Page 48
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Woodend Community Association Love Woodend? Help shape its future! 🌿🌿
Join the Woodend Community Association for just $10 a year and support projects like the Jill Creamer Trail, community advocacy and community events. Got ideas, want to become a member or just be apart of the change? We'd love to hear from you! woodend.community.association@gmail.com Our Food Pantry has 2 new fridges The food pantry is for everyone to enjoy, whether it is gifting food you do not need, or using the items that the pantry holds. And on that note, thank you to everyone that stocks the food pantry with items for others to use. Please remember that the fridges are unpowered, so no items that need refrigeration.
Woodend Community Garden Our community garden is starting to get busy with the weather getting warmer - which means only one thing - more energy to be put in. The community garden is looking for voluteers to help spread the load. No matter if you are a seasoned gardener or are yet to find your green fingers, we would love to hear from you if you could spare some time. All it involves is meeting on a Saturday, 10am to 12pm. If you would like more information please email Andy, andyandsuechilds@xtra.co.nz
Woodend Community Association AGM - 5th Oct The WCA is holding its annual AGM at the Woodend Community Hall, 6pm. Everyone from the community is invited. Come along to hear what is happening in your community and have your say. See you there......
Community clean up - Keep NZ beautiful week Thank you so much for to our wonderful community members for supporting the WCA committee with our “clean up the streets”. This has become a Woodend Community Association tradition now to organise a community clean up during Keep NZ Beautiful week. No worries if you missed out, we will keep you posted on the next one, so watch this space.
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. The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 49
CHECK OUT WHO FOUND MR WOODY WOODPECKER LAST MONTH!
Millie Smyth, 9yrs, Woodend. Sent in by Sam Smyth. Ohrin Smyth. 7yrs, Woodend. Sent in by Sam Smyth. Georgia Sue 10yrs, Pegasus needed the help of her daddy to find it this time only fish & chips (fnc) night. Sent in by Louise Sue. My son Hunter Waghorn, 8yrs, Pegasus, and his girlfriend Luca Sharpe, 9yrs, Pegasus found Mr Woody Woodpecker. Sent in by Louise Waghorn. Theo Karauria, 9yrs, Ravenswood. First time finding Mr Woody Woodpecker stoked! Sent in by Rebecca Bailey. Marlee Jarvis, 7yrs and Benji Jarvis, 4yrs, Pegasus found Mr Woody Woodpecker! Sent in by Sophia Jarvis. Misha Adonis, 6yrs, Ravenswood. Sent in by Katey Adam. George McLachlan, 9yrs, & Lottie McLachlan, 7yrs, Pegasus were super excited to find Mr Woody Woodpecker. Sent in by Stefanie McLachlan. My son Riley Pritchard, 9yrs, Pegasus searched long and hard for a few days but finally found Mr Woody Woodpecker. It was a great challenge this month. Sent in by Paula Brown.
WELL DONE TO EVERYONE - WELL SPOTTED! Page 50
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Can you find Mr Woody Woodpecker!
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, and location. Your photo will be in next month’s Woodpecker.
RELIEF DELIVERER WANTED
We’re looking for an adult relief deliverer to join our wonderful team of Woodpecker volunteers. The role involves approximately one hour a month, covering delivery rounds when one of our regular deliverers is unavailable. It’s a great opportunity for someone who enjoys walking, getting out in the community, and making a difference. If you’d like to be part of a friendly volunteer team, we’d love to hear from you. Contact: Debs, Editor at editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 51
Page 52
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Affordable Tutor
Qualified Hairdresser (25yrs exp)
• • • •
Ladies cut $30 Pensioner Ladies cut $25 Mens cut $20-$25 Pensioner Mens cut $15-$20
For an appointment phone
021 298 3957 or 03 310 6890
Assisting students at any age struggling to comprehend tasks or complete homework, then studying to achieve excellence in exams. Neurodivergent- and Queer- friendly, experienced in children’s rights advocacy. Pricing:
$40/hour with preferred session 90 minutes If sessions held offsite a fuel surcharge of $2.50 Invoicing is monthly, last week of the month Invoice is for agreed sessions month going forward Payment requested by start of the month
Fostering a love of learning for life, moving from a ‘Fixed’ to a ‘Growth’ Mindset. No assignment brought to session too hard. From help with routine homework to support developing a study-plan with effective time-management, the key is keeping it fun and giving it good company.
ph/whatsapp 027 282 6004 www.medusaenterprises.org email: drprudencestone@gmail.com
Registered/Licensed , Consented Hair Salon
Design & Build New Homes, Decking & Renovations p 021 462 001 or 0800 335 879 - Pegasus, North Canterbury
e admin@chrisdelurybuilders.com www.chrisdelurybuilders.co.nz
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 53
Toot for Tucker Food Bank Appeal
Tuesday 1st December 2026
Rangiora | Oxford | Pegasus | Woodend | Amberley Ravenswood | Kaiapoi | Leithfield | Waipara
Donation ideas Non-perishable food Cleaning products Toiletries Pet food Christmas treats
Listen for the Toots from 6-7pm Please supply your own bags for collection
pb.co.nz
Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 Q031888
Page 54
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Heat ’n’ Eat GOOD FOOD. MADE EASY.
SMALL · 500 ml
$11.50
LARGE · 700 ml
$13.50
ON THE MENU
Roast pork and roast vegetables Creamy basil pesto chicken on mash Bangers & mash Creamy pumpkin soup Spaghetti Bolognese Cajun fish with mash and vegetables Apricot chicken & sage filo with steamed vegetables Vegetable bake in our homemade tomato based sauce
Order on Monday to collect on Thursday at Kaiapoi Golf Club, Williams St
heatandeats@outlook.com
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 55
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 The Salvation Army North Canterbury 12 Ashley Street, Rangiora 03 313 2370 rangiora.corps@salvationarmy.org.nz BUSY BEES WOODEND Centre Manager: Hannah Byrne-Webby 03 312 7654 manager@woodend.busybees.org.nz https://busybees.org.nz/woodend CANCER SOCIETY NORTH CANTERBURY 43 Church Street, Rangiora. 0800 226 695 northcanty@southerncancer.org.nz FB: https://www.facebook.com/ CancerSocietyNC CANTERBURY SPORTFISHING CLUB New Members Welcome Shayne Riwaka - 027 664 0016 COLDSTREAM TENNIS CLUB RANGIORA Paul - 028 434 9928 DEATH CAFE NORTH CANTERBURY Liz - 027618-4891 liza-w@outlook.com GLADSTONE PARK ADVISORY GROUP Chairperson: Mark Paterson – 03 312 7439 GRACE VINEYARD CHURCH NORTH CANTERBURY 157 King Street, Rangiora 03 379 8463 HEART FAILURE Sadie Ross - 027 330 9826 Clinical nurse specialist heartfailurepracticenurse@gmail.com
Page 56
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Chris Ponniah - 021 528 821 Rachel Emmitt - 021 203 6085 Shane Luzak, 027 519 7832 justiceofthepeace.org.nz/page/search KAIAPOI CYCLING FOLK KCF Nigel Cook 027 404 7712 or Graeme Dodd 027 224 5458 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/618639468771759 KAIAPOI & PEGASUS CROQUET Tony Connolly 021 024 73267 Adrienne Lamb 021 265 7857 KAIAPOI ROCK AND ROLL CLUB PRESIDENT - KEVIN TOWART - 021 307 599 KAIAPOI TOY LIBRARY 9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi 10.30-12.30 Saturdays www.kaiapoitoylibrary.org LIONS CLUB OF WOODEND – PEGASUS President - Gay Walker – 027 436 1364 Secretary - Adrienne Hill secretary.woodendpegasus@lionsclubs.org. nz LITTLE WONDERS PEGASUS 03 662 9060 cm.pegasus@littlewonders.nz https://www.littlewonders.nz/locations/ pegasus/ MAIRUSU KAI JUDO CLUB INC 021 052 0791 Contact@mairusukaijudo.co.nz MENZSHED OF KAIAPOI INC. 7 Dale Street, Kaiapoi John Forster - 027 421 7620 menzshedkaiapoi@outlook.com MENZSHED PEGASUS & WOODEND COMMUNITY TRUST Steve Burleigh - 0210 237 7864 Derrick Wales – 022 436 5960 John Burns - 021 347 805 menzshedpegasuswoodend@gmail.com
The Woodpecker - October 2026
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
MUSIC AND PLAY Meaghan - 027 392 6409 NORTH CANTERBURY CYCLING CLUB Website: https://www.nccc.co.nz/ Email: info@nccc.co.nz Facebook: North Canterbury Cycling Club NORTH CANTERBURY WOODCRAFT CLUB Chairperson: Howard Pettigrew 021 353 885 Secretary: Mike Moloney 027 626 6002 OHOKA WOMEN’S INSTITUTE President Bev Ensor - 03 312 6782 Secretary Wendy Moore - 03 313 6302 OXFORD GALLERY TOI O WAIMAKARIRI 72 Main Street, Oxford oxfordgallery.org.nz 03 312 1639 Artsinoxfordgallery@gmail.com PEGASUS BROWNIES pegasusbrownies@gmail.com PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE Bookings and enquiries contact: Waimakariri District Council Freephone: 0800 965 468 www.waimakariri.govt.nz PEGASUS COMMUNITY CENTRE TEAM Email: pcc@pegasusresidentsgroup.com PEGASUS COMMUNITY WATCH PATROL Colin Brownlee–022 497 3512 pcc@pegasusresidentsgroup.com PEGASUS MAHJONG GROUP Tuesday 2pm to 4pm - The Peg & Pint Myra - 021 0847 3402 PEGASUS MONDAY MORNING WALKING GROUP Christine Johnston–021 179 7330 PEGASUS RADIO SAILING CLUB Ian McGregor - 027 595 9000 Rod McKenzie - 021 830 080 PEGASUS RESIDENTS GROUP INC prgi@pegasusresidentsgroup.com www.pegasusresidentsgroup.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/ PegasusResidentsGroupInc The Woodpecker - October 2026
PEGASUS & WAIKUKU SAYGO Kay Mills - 021 022 64682 kaymillsnz@gmail.com PEGASUS TOWN KNITTING GROUP Knit & Natter, The Peg & Pint, Fridays 10amnoon Chris - 027 313 1931 or Denise - 021 166 3587 PEGASUS WOODEND WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Pam Cleeve, Treasurer - 021 170 9895 Julie Robinson, Secretary - 021 669 747 PLUNKET NORTH CANTERBURY Plunket Nurses: Kaisa 027 223 5678, Krystel 027 281 5849 Plunket Line - 0800 933 922 Admin - 0800 184 803 RANGIORA ARTHRITIS SUPPPORT GROUP Covers all North Canterbury Iris Hansen - 027 255 9179 Noeline Wentworth - 027 645 5909 RANGIORA BELLS Director - Clare Dolheguy claredoll6@gmail.com 027 583 7504 03 313 8693 RANGIORA BRIDGE CLUB www.rangiorabridgeclub.co.nz admin@rangiorabridgeclub.co.nz 022 458 5344 RANGIORA COMMUNITY CHOIR Co-Chairs - Fergus Harding 027 302 0374, Graham Lamb 021 217 5323 Secretary - Lee Leonard 03 312 1536 Email leevelia99@gmail.com RANGIORA LIONESS LIONS CLUB President Anne Thorne - 029 374 4141 Rangioralioness.pres@lionsclubs.org.nz RANGIORA COMMUNITY PATROL rangiora@cpnz.org.nz Paul Buttell - 022 047 2852
Page 57
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
RANGIORA PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY Website https://rps.nz Email info@rps.nz Rose Kerin – Secretary – 027 449 6712 RANGIORA SCOUT GROUP rangiora@group.scouts.nz RANGIORA STROKE CLUB (covers North Canterbury) Alanah Mason - 03 310 6166 Deidre King – 027 463 5947 RANGIORA TOY LIBRARY rangioratoylibrary@gmail.com ST BARNABAS ANGLICAN CHURCH Revd Sammy Mould 022 021 5401 stbswoodend@gmail.com SOROPTIMISTS INTERNATIONAL OF NORTH CANTERBURY Ph: 0210 250 0519 (Secretary) Email: sinorthcanterbury@siseap.org @soroptimistsnorthcanterbury THE ASHLEY LODGE Norme Shore - Secretary ashley.lodge@ymail.com http://www.ashley28.net.nz TIMEBANK WAIMAKARIRI tbwaimakariri@gmail.com 021 0265 4071 Website: waimakariri.timebanks.org Facebook: facebook.com/ timebankwaimakariri TUAHIWI COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL 03 313 2141 tuahiwipreschool@xtra.co.nz https://www.facebook.com/tuahiwi. preschool www.tuahiwicommunitypreschool VINTAGE CAR CLUB CANTERBURY John Forster - 027 444 3427 WAIKUKU BEACH PLAYGROUP waikukubeachplaygroup@hotmail.com Facebook: Waikuku Beach Playgroup Waikuku beach hall. Mondays in term time 9.15am-11.15am Page 58
WAIKUKU BEACH SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB Sarah Button - wbslsc@wbslsc.com WAIMAK DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITY collaboration4hope@gmail.com Chris - Ravenswood - 021 528 821 WAIMAKARIRI LIBRARIES Rangiora, Kaiapoi & Oxford Libraries 0800 965 542 library@wmk.govt.nz waimakaririlibraries.com FB & Insta: @waimakaririlibraries WAIMAKIRIRI POTTERY GROUP Loburn Reserve, 154 Loburn Whiterock Road, Loburn wpg.nz info@wpg.nz WOODEND BADMINTON CLUB Paul Henderson - 0274 925 936 WOODEND BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMME 021 0464 243 woodend.wasp@wasp.org.nz https://www.facebook.com/WoodendOSCAR WOODEND BOWLING CLUB President - Phil Harris - 027 222 5764 Secretary - Sheryl Atkins - 021 225 5778 WOODEND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION President - Andy Child - –027 512 2681 Secretary - Kendall Antony-Bowen Woodend. community.association@gmail.com WOODEND COMMUNITY CHURCH Andy Childs - 027 512 2681 Meets Sunday’s at 10am at 38 Rangiora Woodend Road www.woodendcommunity.church WOODEND COMMUNITY GARDEN Co-ordinator - Andy Childs - 027 512 2681 andyandsuechilds@xtra.co.nz WOODEND FLOWER SHOW President - Pam Cleeve 021 170 9895 Secretary - Glenis Everts 021 0370 323 Treasurer - Julie Robinson 021 669 747 The Woodpecker - October 2026
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
WOODEND FRIENDSHIP CLUB President - Jack Dzenis – 03 310 6164 Secretary - Lyn Petrie - 022 159 2676 WOODEND GARDEN CLUB President Chris Sutherland 0274 555 708 Secretary Di Orchard 027 254 9597 WOODEND GOLDEN OLDIES RUGBY & NETBALL President Tony Hurley – 027 476 9611 WOODEND GYM CLUB Simone Templeton - 027 514 8363 WOODEND INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Club President Andrew Petrie - 022 592 8389 Club Captain Linda Hayes - 027 906 7300 WOODEND CRICKET CLUB JUNIORS woodend.cricket@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/ share/1HMppu8QfS/ WOODEND METHODIST CHURCH Minister - Rev Songs - 021 290 0112 minister.rangioramethodist@gmail.com WOODEND NETBALL CLUB President - Katrina McKay - 021 250 3513 Administrator - Fiona Bisphan 027 890 3445 woodendnetballclub@gmail.com WOODEND PLAYCENTRE 027 353 2131 woodend@playcentre.org.nz FB: https://www.playcentre.org.nz/ woodend WOODEND RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB Club Secretary - Stacey Beetham - 027 464 3011 secretary@woodendrugby.co.nz Treasurer - Marliese Stewart - 027 424 7659 treasurer@woodendrugby.co.nz WOODEND SEFTON COMMUNITY BOARD Chairperson - Mark Paterson - 027 534 9112 - mark.paterson@wmk.govt.nz Vice Chair - Andrew Thompson - 027 235 7140 - andrew.thompson@wmk.govt.nz WOODEND SENIOR CRICKET CLUB Robert Davey - 021 762 963 The Woodpecker - October 2026
WOODEND TENNIS CLUB Jim Bucknell - 021 806 366 Eric van de Wiel - 021 292 7004 WOODEND VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE CFO Shayne Robinson - 021 286 6574 www.fireandemergency.nz YOUTH DEVELOPMENT & OPPORTUNITIES TRUST (YDOT) info@ydot.co.nz www.ydot.co.nz
Attention Advertisers and Community Groups
Are you part of a group which you would like to promote? Are you a small local business who would like to promote themselves? Do you have any community stories you would like to share? Have you any information or notices you would like to share? YES? We would love to hear from you! editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz Is your Club or Group listed correctly in our Community Contacts page? Email our Editor Debs on editor@thewoodpecker.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
Page 59
Page 60
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Book now!
END-OF-YEAR FUNCTIONS
Celebrate your team with us this November + December facebook.com/Suburban416 416 Williams Street Kaiapoi
027 315 7559 pressure.pronz www.proenterprises.co.nz The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 61
NEXT ISSUE – NOVEMBER 2026
Deadline for advertisements and community articles: 21 October 2026
Read The Woodpecker Online
Did you know that every issue of The Woodpecker is uploaded to our digital platform, Issuu? Current and previous editions can be viewed online at: www.issuu.com/thewoodpecker4 Would you like to receive the digital edition each month? Simply email Debs to be added to the distribution list. The digital edition is a great way to: The Woodpecker online anytime Share copies with friends and family Access previous editions Email: editor@thewoodpecker.co.nz Visit: www.issuu.com/thewoodpecker4 Page 62
The Woodpecker - October 2026
The Woodpecker - October 2026
Page 63
Fleas! Keep fleas off your furry friends
Did you know a single flea can lay up to 80 eggs per day? They then develop in the environment, including your home. The best advice we can give is to act early and break the flea lifecycle. We have selected flea treatments to fit your household and your pets lifestyle, including a yearly injection for dogs. Pop in and see us before a problem starts. P.S. PAWS Vets can now take on new clients again.
PAWS VETS
CONTACTS
PHONE: 03 312 2669 EMAIL: pawsvets@gmail.com ADDRESS: 8 Hinge Lane, Ravenswood HOURS: 8.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am - 12 Saturday, 8.30am - 6.30pm Wednesdays
OPENING SOON IN
WOODEND
For 24 hours emergency care during this time please phone 033122669 for contact details.
Page 64
Nick Deane.
The Woodpecker - October 2026
May I introduce myself. A vet since ’92 I have