West Coast Messenger 21 June 2023

2021HondaJazzCrosstar 1.5litre,ABS,CD,alloys,3,500km,exdemo

Grey Main School students Aurora Whitlow-Smith, left, Nova Devlin, Phoebe Hay, Freddie Thompson, Peyton Ryan-Russell and Sophie Seifert of Mamaku hub with their Lego playground creations. They mounted their colourful creations in the library at Grey Main School for the Lego Masters competition on Friday June 16. The school's Pohutukawa, Mamaku and Totara hubs were all challenged to make a book themed playground while children in Rata had to create a Lego gingerbread house. The students made their creations at home during the week to bring in on Friday ahead of judging. Displays of colourful Lego builds were dotted throughout the library before formal judging on Friday afternoon, and students were able to pop in and see what everyone else had made. PICTURE: Arianna Stewart

Westport artist finalist in national award

n by Rose O'Connor in Westport

Well-known Westport tapestry weaver

Marilyn Rea-Menzies has been selected as a finalist for the annual National Contemporary Art Award.

As one of 40 selected – from a group of around 400 entrants – Rea-Menzies believes it is the first time a tapestry has received a finalist place in the prestigious New Zealand art award.

Rea-Menzies is delighted her tapestry has been selected for the award but at this stage what it looks like is under wraps until the awards winner is announced.

It is second time lucky for the well-known artist and contemporary tapestry-weaver after her previous entry around five years ago was not nominated as a finalist.

In her latest submission Rea-Menzies had to submit an entry including photographs of her art.

"The online form was not working and after three attempts I contacted the organisers who advised me to email it as a pdf. I made it with 15 minutes to spare," she says.

The winner will be announced on July 28. All award works will be displayed in the Waikato Museum in Hamilton from July 29 to November 12.

Rea-Menzies is considering travelling to the awards event as three of her five children live in Hamilton.

She currently has a small tapestry touring the UK as part of a national art exhibition which will eventually travel around New Zealand; she is currently working on another small tapestry for a New Zealand exhibition.

Rea-Menzies, 79, comes from a very artistic Westport family. Her love of art began with a fascination for drawing horses as a 10-year-old. In 1980 she began experimenting with tapestry as there was no one around to teach her.

"I was a natural. I think I must have been a weaver in a past life. I just love it. I think I'll be doing it until I'm 102," she says.

After many years away from Westport Rea-Menzies set up MRM Studio Art Gallery in Palmerston Street when she arrived 'home' four years ago.

She has regular exhibitions of her own and other local artists' work, and also displays her work in Gallery 118.

Buller youth attend festival

n by Rose O'Connor in Westport

TWELVE Youth Voice Kawatiri members attended the Festival for the Future youth event in Wellington recently. The festival slogan was "as Aotearoa's biggest leadership and innovation summit, Festival for the Future is one of the most inspirational you'll ever attend". Kawatiri Youth Services co-ordinator Tessa Spillane said feedback from the Kawatiri youth was "super positive".

"Each person has shared what they enjoyed as well as what they have taken away from the event," Ms Spillane said.

"Highlights of the Festival would have to have been the workshops including mindfulness, unlocking the

innovator in you and the keynote speakers on both days. One was our very own Buller women, Tara Shepherd."

Current and future leaders in business, government and community sectors held a variety of workshops, panel discussions and presentations over the two-day event.

Current issues, possible solutions and building ideas and skills for a more sustainable and inclusive future were explored.

The Kawatiri group raised nearly $2200 for the trip by holding a winter

warmers raffle, surveys and by utilising donation boxes at youth events.

"On the first day, we attended the mayors' lunch along with other youth councils from all over New Zealand," Ms Spillane said.

They met Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine there.

Ms Spillane said Youth Voice Kawatiri was now on a mission to see how its members can participate in an impact challenge.

"The youth need to make some more decisions on where they see youth voice's new pathway going forward."

Marilyn Rea-Menzies works on a piece of tapestry weaving in her studio.

PICTURE: Rose O'Connor

Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine with former Buller woman and festival keynote speaker, Tara Shepherd. PICTURES: Supplied

The Kawatiri Youth Voice members and their supporters met with Mayor Jamie Cleine, at the mayors lunch in Wellington.

– Est 1997 –

Reaching over 15,000 West Coast households and businesses every Wednesday

Editor: PAUL MADGWICK

Email: editor@greystar.co.nz

Reporters

• Westland, Greymouth 03 769 7913 ext 946 news@greystar.co.nz

• Hokitika

JANNA SHERMAN 03 755 8421 | jannas@greystar.co.nz

Westport, Buller, Karamea

ROSE O’CONNOR 021 185 9660 | buller@greystar.co.nz

• Reefton

CLAIRE WARD 021 250 1104 | reefton@greystar.co.nz

Advertising

MIKE WILSON • Sales 03 769 7927 | mikew@greystar.co.nz

Deadline: 12 Noon, Friday

Fax: 03 768 6205

Address: PO Box 3, 3 Werita Street Greymouth 7840

www.issuu.com/ westcoastmessenger

Printed and published by the Greymouth Evening Star Company Ltd

Crossword No. 20840

CRYPTIC

ACROSS

6. A joker to play before the king (5,6).

7. The placard or what you have to pay for it (4).

8. Inclined to keep oneself to oneself, being engaged (8).

9. While one writes, they quiver (6).

10. Noise the police might be called to investigate (6).

12. The bloodhounds follow it, going up (6).

15. Buck and Albert will be on the foot (6).

17. And the one that gets home first wins it! (4-4).

19. Lied about being unemployed (4).

20. A fool, although he’s all there! (8,3).

DOWN

1. What the child aimed to get when it shot into the sweet-shop? (5-3).

2. Jumps ship, bitter at heart (6).

1.

Coast Calendar

JUNE

24 Reefton Winter Market, Reefton Community Hall, 10am to 1pm.

24 The Coaster Volleyball Tournament, Westland Recreation Centre, Greymouth, 1.30pm to 7pm

24 Youth Open Mic , Art Soup, Tainui Street Greymouth, 7pm.

24 Submac Music Quiz, Greymouth RSA, $5 per person, 7.30pm.

25 The Coaster Volleyball Tournament, Westland Recreation Centre, Greymouth 9.00am to 4.00pm

25 Greymouth Sunday Market, Civic Centre, 10am.

25 Joe Cumming 45s pairs, Westport RSA, 1pm.

28 Quiz Night with Gazza, Greymouth RSA, 7.30pm.

30 Youth Disco, Greymouth Regent Theatre, 6pm.

JULY

1 Reefton Vehicle Display, Reefton campground, 10am.

1 Greymouth Old Time and Sequence Dance, Holy Trinity Church Hall, Greymouth, 7.30pm.

1 Quiz Night fundraiser for Kidsfirst Kindergarten , Australasian Hotel, teams of six, $20pp, 7.30pm.

1 Soul Kitchen and Tillerman, Camerons Hall, Camerons, 7.30pm.

2 Second-hand Market, Civic Centre, Greymouth, 10am.

2 Car boot sale, fine weather only, Black Ops charity shop, Hart Street, Blackball, 1 to 3pm.

2 Mitch James, the Long Road Home Tour, Regent Theatre, Greymouth.

7 Wonderland Glow Show, Regent Theatre, Hokitika, 10am.

8 Music Quiz, Greymouth RSA, $5 per person, 7.30pm.

9 Greymouth Sunday Market, Civic Centre, 10am.

12 Alpha Course, Cobden Anglican Church, Richmond Street, Cobden, 7.30pm.

14 MatarikiMawhera 2023, Blaketown Seniors Rugby Club, 2.30pm.

14 DJ Miss Implicit, Monteith's Brewery, 6 to 9pm.

15 NZ Under 21 Chopping Championship. Boys Brigade Hall, Hokitika.

15 Greymouth Old Time and Sequence

Dance, Holy Trinity Church Hall, 7.30pm.

16 Greymouth Sunday Market, Civic Centre, 10am.

22 Reefton Winter Market, Reefton Community Hall, 10am to 1pm. 22 Totally 80s Show, Regent Theatre, Greymouth. 23 Greymouth Sunday Market, Civic Centre, 10am. 23 Fire Brigade 45s pairs, Westport Fire Station, 1pm. 29 Julz Outram Memorial Trophy Poker, Runanga Club, 2pm. 29 Cold Rosie, Reefton Workingmen's Club, 8pm.

AUGUST

5 Greymouth Old Time and Sequence

Dance, Holy Trinity Church Hall, 7.30pm.

5 Music Quiz, Greymouth RSA, $5 per person, 7.30pm.

6 Car boot sale, fine weather only, Black Ops charity shop, Hart Street, Blackball, 1 to 3pm.

15 Rock Tenors, The Anthems Tour, Regent Theatre, Greymouth, 7.30pm.

19 Reefton Winter Market, Reefton Community Hall, 10am to 1pm.

19 Greymouth Old Time and Sequence Dance, Holy Trinity Hall, Greymouth, 7.30pm.

20 Buller Open 45s pairs, Westport RSA, 1pm.

20 Holistic Spiritual Expo, fundraising for West Coast Cancer Societ, Greymouth High School,10am till 4pm.

22 Totally 80s Show, Regent Theatre, Greymouth.

26 Fox's Got Talent, Fox Glacier Community Theatre Talent Show, 7pm.

31 Elton John versus Billy Joel, NBS Theatre, Westport, 7.30pm.

SEPTEMBER

1 Dj Miss Implicit, Blackball's Inn and 08 Café, Blackball, 8pm.

3. Are set in the form of the puzzle (6).

4. Move with a clink (4).

5. Blow briskly in? (6).

6. Clamps and cuts (5).

11. If he think you’re a tough guy, he may not try to capture you! (8).

13. Comfort the sun is to one (6).

14. Hangs behind when one follows someone (6).

15. He is taken in by the radios and the paper (6).

16. It enables you to see the world (5).

18. In return, give out a jail sentence (4).

2 Cold Rosie, Blackball Workingmen's Club, 8pm.

3 Car boot sale, fine weather only, Black Ops charity shop, Hart Street, Blackball, 1 to 3pm.

6 Psychic medium Sue Nicholson, Hello From the Other Side, Regent Theatre, 7pm.

9 Women's Institute Anne Stewart Rose Bowl, Trinity Centre, Greymouth.

22 Music Quiz, Greymouth RSA, $5 per person, 7.30pm.

23-26 Annual Festival of Dance, Regent Theatre, Greymouth.

23 Reefton Winter Market, Reefton Community Hall, 10am to 1pm.

24 Fox Glacier Community Market Day 10am.

29 Don McGlashan Spring Tour, Karamea Pulse Energy Centre.

30 Don McGlashan Spring Tour Barrytown Settlers Hall, 7.30pm.

OCTOBER

1 Car boot sale, fine weather only, Black Ops charity shop, Hart Street, Blackball, 1 to 3pm.

14 Music Quiz, Greymouth RSA, $5 per person, 7.30pm.

14 General Election.

22 Greymouth Motorcycle Street Races.

22 Rocky Point Run/Walk

28 Reefton Winter Market, Reefton Community Hall, 10am to 1pm.

NOVEMBER

25 Music Quiz, Greymouth RSA, $5 per person, 7.30pm.

Should

"No! They deserve a voice but why should they be expected to make political decisions at that age?"

Last week’s answer

Last Week’s Crossword Solutions

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 20839

Across - 6, Opposition. 8, Calm. 9, Dude. 10, Annul.

11, Euro. 12, Endurance. 16, Unpopular. 20, Alps.

22, Kudos. 23, Mace. 24, Taxi. 25, Tenderness.

Down - 1, Upturn. 2, Doleful. 3, Cicada. 4, Picnic.

5, Uncle. 7, Alarm. 13, Nap. 14, Augment.15, Clear.

17, Nadine. 18, Oyster. 19, Access. 21, Skite. CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 20839

Across - 6, Good health. 8, Open.9, Mi-mi.

10, La-ger (rev.).11,Turn. 12,War on want. 16, Barn-dance.

20, Club, 22. A-llot. 23, Bill. 24, Mint. 25, High colour. Down - 1, (Lady) Godiva. 2, Advisor (anag.). 3, Fell-ow. 4, Flag-on. 5, Short. 7, Heart (anag.). 13, (p)Air. 14, Ga-M.B.-ols. 15, Plain. 17, Al-leg-e. 18, Not-ice. 19, Call up. 21, Bat-he.

''No. They're too busy being young people. They're not interested.''

"I'm 16 and personally I don't think I'm responsible enough."

"I haven't thought about it but would consider it. Sixteen-year-olds now are older than what they were in my day!"

Please contact via our e-mail with any date changes and/or new events.

EVENTS

''No. I just don't think it interests most 16-year-olds.''

To add any events to the Coast Calendar please e-mail: news@westcoastmessenger.co.nz. Community events only in this free service

Marie Mahuika-Forsyth Hokitika

Julie McDonald Westport

Sonja Barker Hokitika

Layla Walczak Westport

"Of course."

Dahlin Harrison Greymouth

Anne Routhan Hokitika

Hokitika Pool revamp

Short work was made of the demolition of the changing rooms and entry to the Weld Street entrance to the Hokitika Pool on June 15. The entrance and changing rooms have been completely cleared ahead of the second-stage upgrade of the complex by Westland District Council. The redevelopment includes a new entrance and changing area for the upgraded pool by next March. Meantime the pool is expected to be closed for four months while other works –including installation of a new pool liner, plumbing and additional earthquake strengthening – are completed. When the pool reopens access will be temporarily via Sewell Street with temporary changing and toilet facilities until the new Weld Street entrance is completed . It is expected to open in March 2024.

Westland sets low rates rise

WESTLAND District ratepayers are likely to face an overall average rates increase of 0.07%.

This follows a hearing on June 6 in which 13 submitters spoke to their submissions to the 2023-24 annual plan

Council has decided to not fund three waters depreciation for the next year, removing $3 million off the books and slashing the average rate rise from 16% to about 0.07%.

"The overall average rate increase is likely to be close to the 0.07% proposed in the draft annual plan," Mayor Helen Lash said.

"The main driver of the changes that people will see in their rates is from the increase in the general rates, which is used to fund most council activities."

The plan is due to be adopted during an extraordinary meeting on June 30.

Mrs Lash said council appreciated the public input. "This year there have been some very hard decisions that we as elected members considered to make any rate increases fair for as many ratepayers as possible.

Submissions were "well-thought through" and helped council to understand issues facing the community – hearing directly from13 submitters.

"We gained a greater understanding of the issues and consequences of some of the proposals that were, or in some cases not, included in the draft annual plan."

Council made the following decisions:

 A preferred rates model of a 20% uniform annual general charge but with the rural differential

reduced from 1 to 0.95, and the rural residential differential reduced from 0.75 to 0.7.

 A public toilet block will be built at Otira and funded by council to maintain.

 Existing fees and charges for the Carnegie Gallery, Hokitika Museum, and venue hire rates have been maintained.

 One-off funding of $80,000 to the Westland Heritage Park for sewage connection and other sewage deficiencies on site.

Develop a business casefor Gillam's Gully Road and Cement Lead Road seal extensions via the 2025 National Land Transport Programme.

Lazar Park: $23,000 including GST for fencing and increased maintenance to more than $11,300 from $2500 to include toilet maintenance at the site. Council rejected a $5750 request for a drinking fountain.

Grant Funding

 Council declined request by Hokitika Lions for $15,000 for a Matariki Festival.

 It confirmed the Hokitika Regent Theatre annual grant, adjusted for inflation.

 Hari Hari Civil Defence gained $50,000 for a power generator security cage and wiring subject to quotes.

Fox Glacier Community Development Funding gained $13,000 to support the Fox Glacier Tourism Promotions Rate.

Council has requested a full strategic review of Jackson Bay.

 Allocated $6000 for annual maintenance costs at the Stafford Cemetery

Don Neale of the Regent Theatre presents a submission to the annual plan hearing. PICTURE: Janna Sherman

Maintenance of the historic Stafford Cemetery will be subsidised in 2023-24. PICTURE: Brendon McMahon

PICTURE: Brendon McMahon

Early birds get the worm

n by Claire Ward in Reefton

Blacks Point has a couple of early birds living there – a postie and courier with an impressive record.

They actually enjoy getting up before dawn, and do not even need an alarm to do so.

Sonia and Dion Alexander have been Reefton's courier and postie for NZ Post coming up to five years now.

They are both from over the hill, Christchurch, where Sonia worked in the dental industry and was a volunteer ambulance officer for St John, and Dion was a paramedic for 20 years.

They bought a holiday home in Blacks Point and loved it so much, and were welcomed by so many people, they moved there full time.

Initially Sonia worked in a cafe on Broadway and Dion was in Reefton St John as a paramedic, but when the courier/postie job came up, they applied and got the post - pun intended.

Sonia is the courier and works six mornings a week. She is not contracted by NZ Post to work the Saturday morning, but chooses to, "for my people".

They have delivered mothers and fathers days cards on Saturday and Christmas and birthday presents.

"Saturday is the best day as people are home so I can meet them and put faces to names," Sonia said.

Dion is the postie and works three mornings a week. But they work as a team. After waking up naturally at 5am, they leave the house at 6.30am and start work.

"We have to wait till dawn before we start delivering as we need to see the addresses on the packages and envelopes," Sonia said.

"And even though we're out in all weather, you soon become warm if it's frosty, and I've become fit and strong. But there's still some

heavy packages, some 20-30kg, that I can't lift so Dion helps me."

They give dogs Tux biscuits.

"It's got to the point where all the dogs recognise the sound of my motorbike and are all waiting and barking for me," Dion said.

"But if I'm a bit earlier and the owner is still in bed, they're probably annoyed after being woken up by their dog barking and having to get up to let them out. And it's costing me a small fortune in dog biscuits," Dion laughed.

Sonia is a member of the "Hundy (100%) percent club" for scanning, which means she has scanned every single package, so not one has

CLEANCARREBATESARE BEINGREDUCEDON1JULY ENQUIRENOWBEFORE YOUMISSOUT!!

gone astray, got lost or delivered via Guatemala.

"It's a hard club to be in as you only need to miss one scan," she said. Sonia is also very adept at hiding packages she delivers. So adept that a customer had to ring the Reefton Postal Agency one day saying she received notification her package had been delivered but they could not find it.

"She was told to look in her gumboots," Sonia said. And Sonia will also take a package right to older people sitting inside their home instead of leaving it outside as it can be a hassle for them to get up to collect it, especially in winter.

"One older couple I did this for loved it and even put in a review to NZ Post about how lovely it was I did that.

"There's a lot of bad stuff that can happen in the world, so it's nice to help people," Dion said. When they've finished for the day, Dion restores classic vehicles and Sonia works at the Broadway Tearooms part time. She also delivered meals on wheels for a year but couriering packages got much busier, so she had to stop.

"It's a lifestyle for us.

"We love what we do and we always go the extra mile."

Auto1300cc, just41,000kms, darkwinered 1500cc,petrol/ electric,auto, 89,000km, white

2INSTOCK OneinWestport

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1552.90

Smart2litre, hatch/wagon,in darkblue,loaded withextras,18” alloywheels, 66,000kms

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$460

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1161.10

Auto,1500cc, petrol/electric, 3.9Lper100km, brownmetallic Auto,1500cc hybrid,just 58,000kms,like new

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$501

Auto,1300cc, 58,000kms, niceinlightblue

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1078.62

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$624.97

just54,000kms

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1016.76

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1552.90

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1573

Sonia and Dion Alexander – Blacks Point-based courier and postie.

PICTURE: Claire Ward

Freemasons bestow award

n by Rose O'Connor

West Coast combined freemasons have presented a trophy to the Westport Yacht and Powerboat Club.

This follows their generous donation last season to the club of four 'pro-optimist' (pro-opti) sail boats valued at $10,000.

The new trophy was presented after the annual instalment for the Reefton Robert Burns Lodge, held in Westport late last month.

Robert Burns spokesman Peter Allan said the project mostly came about due to concern that everyone should learn to swim and be confident in the water.

Mr Allan said it went from there and all the West Coast lodges combined to

support and fund the project.

Yacht club secretary-treasurer of the yacht club, Eyvonne Diskin, said the club was extremely grateful for the pro-optis and now also for the beautiful trophy.

"Four pro-optis have enabled us to hold a class. Our youth really love them. We plan to really look after them so they are here for many years to come," Mrs Diskin said.

"We sail every Sunday during the season and they are always the first out on the water."

Pro-opti class winner in the yacht club last season Ryder Wilson was also on hand to receive his award and the inaugural trophy.

The presentation followed the annual

instalment meeting of the Robert Burns lodge where new members are initiated and new officers for the year installed.

There are currently three active Freemason lodges on the West Coast under the New Zealand Freemason Constitution.

They are Lodge Torea at Waimangaroa, Robert Burns, and Mawhera in Greymouth.

Other lodges in the region belong to the English Constitution including Lodge Phoenix in Westport, where the presentation was made.

"We help support the community to support our children which helps our children to rise up," Freemason spokesperson for the lodge Di Everleigh said.

NewListing

A-GradeSite

"Location,Location,"theysayinrealestate...it'sall aboutthelocation.ThisspaciousA-framehomeisina greatspot,closetotheKarameaRiver,estuaryand beach;it'swithinwalkingdistanceoftheshops,school, swimmingpool,tenniscourts,cafes,andrestaurants andacrosstheroadfromthehistoricKarameaVillage Hotel.

ForSale $475,000

Attentiondiscerninghomebuyers,thispropertyisa magnificentlyrenovatedKiwicountryhome.Itisclose toalltheamenities,servicesandfacilitiesonofferin theKarameatownshipbutinapaddockonitsown.It hasalovelyruralaspectandwithoutimmediate neighbours.

ForSale $625,000

PaulMurray

0272569967

Relaxandenjoythelifestyle

Verywell-maintainedcontemporaryhome.Three doublebedroomsonewithensuiteandWIR,modern kitchenwithallnewappliances,openplanlivingwith indoor-outdoorflowleadingouttoaoutdoor entertainmentareaandmanageablewell-presented section.Thereisdoublegaragewhichalsohousesthe laundryandagoodareaforoff-streetparking.

PaulMurray

0272569967

PerfectLocation

1970homeonacornersection,withanewmodern kitchen,updatedappliances,largeopenplan lounge/diningarea.Topstoreyhas3doublebedrooms, themainbedroomhasitsownbalcony,upgraded bathroomwithclawbath,separateshowerroomand toilet.Thelaundryareaanddoublegarage/workshop areinthebasement.Fullyfencedbackgarden.

KarameaandReefton

Karamea 27WharfRoad

Karamea 14CurriesRoad CountryComfort(Pricedtosell)

Reefton 69BullerRoad

Reefton 34ShielStreet

Eyvonne Diskin with the trophy for the Westport Yacht and Powerboat Club and representatives of the combined West Coast Freemasons: Peter Allan, left, Di Everleigh, Sos Currie, Gary Clarke and Harvey Sara.

Ryder Wilson receives the Pro-Opti Trophy from Westport Yacht and Powerboat Club secretary Eyvonne Diskin, left, as Sos Currie looks on. PICTURES: Rose O'Connor

Winter Warmth 2023 Keep your home warm and dry

Here are some simple tips to keep your home warm and dry without breaking the bank:

1. Insulate your house

Insulation in the roof and under the floor keeps your house warm and dry in winter, but it's expensive and may not be an option if you're renting or on a budget. If you're on a low income, you may be able to get financial help for home insulation through the Ministry of Health's Healthy Homes Initiative.

Some local or regional councils offer insulation deals and the Winter Energy Payment is available for some people. Insulation is also now compulsory in all rental homes.

If you don't have insulation, there are other ways you can insulate to help make your home warmer:

 Window films - these kits have a clear plastic film that sticks to your window framing and acts like double-glazing

 Bubble wrap - added to your windows, bubble wrap provides an extra layer that helps insulate your home against the cold outside air.

 If you have a wooden, tiled or lino floor, add a large rug

to cover as much of it as possible.

2. It's curtains for cold

Having snug-fitting curtains helps keep your house warm. Floor length curtains keep the heat in better than shorter ones. Adding a rolled-up towel on top of your curtain track also stops warm air escaping behind the curtain. The heat from the sun is free, so make sure you open your curtains in the morning to let the sun's heat in and close them just before sunset to keep the cold out.

If you don't have curtains, there are several curtain banks that provide good quality, second hand curtains, or you could try pinning a blanket up to stop the heat escaping.

3. Draught-proof windows and doors

Check there aren't any draughts coming in through any windows or doors, as this will make your house cold. A draught stopper across the bottom of a door (or a rolled up dry towel) helps keep the cold out. Other options include a pool noodle that's been cut so it fits snugly on both sides of the door, or self-adhesive brush strip draught excluder

strips available from hardware shops.

4. Reduce condensation

Condensation, or water that's collected on windows and walls, makes your home damp and can cause mould to grow. A damp house is also more expensive to heat. To reduce dampness in your home:

 Put lids on pots when cooking

 Use an extractor fan in the kitchen and bathroom or open a window

 Close the bathroom door while showering

 Dry your clothes outside (or in a garage or carport).

If you do have condensation, wipe it off each morning with a towel.

5. Get a good heater

Electric heaters are cheap to buy and safe to use. Get a heater that's the right size for the room you're heating.

A heat pump with a thermostat is also a good option as it keeps the cost down. Keep doors closed to rooms that aren't in use.

Note: portable or unflued indoor gas heaters release dangerous toxins and increase moisture.

6. Move furniture

Where you have your furniture in your room can make a difference to how easy it is to heat. It may feel good to sit close to your heater or fire, but your furniture can block the heat from spreading, which means it will take longer for the room to heat up.

7. Air your house

Make sure you air your house out, even in the colder months. Open the doors and windows on fine days and

let the fresh air in to help dry out your home and reduce mould.

8. Get rid of mould

Mould loves to grow in damp and wet places and can cause health problems. Almost half of all homes in Aotearoa New Zealand have mould issues. If you see mould, get rid of it as soon as possible. You can use a bleach solution (2 teaspoons of bleach to 1 litre of water) or white vinegar (without any added water) to remove it.

– www.healthnavigator.org.nz

Winter Warmth 2023

Govt's top five energy tips

The Energy and Resources

Minister Dr Megan Woods has launched a new public information campaign to help New Zealanders keep their homes warm and dry with lower power bills this winter

The campaign 'Find Money in Weird Places' is a partnership between EECA's Warmer Kiwi Homes and Consumer NZ, with support from the Electricity Authority. It highlights how New Zealanders can save up to $500 on their annual power bills with five free and easy-to-implement tips.

"There is an immediate need to support Kiwi families with information on energy saving," Dr Woods said. "These ideas aren't new – but they are meaningful to families. Small steps can add up to savings that make a real difference."

The campaign is underpinned by proven energy-saving actions such as checking your power plan is most suited to your needs, operating your heat pump efficiently, shortening your showers, changing your washing machine settings to a cold wash, and switching off your appliances when you are not using them.

The campaign launch follows the expansion of EECA's Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, as part of Budget 2023.

"The programme extension will help tens of thousands more New Zealanders lower their power bills and

A Showerdome® shower top stops steam and moisture leaving your shower, so you can enjoy mist-free mirrors, a dry bathroom and a warm, clear shower enclosure.

improve their health by improving the thermal performance and heating in their homes," said Megan Woods.

"Other benefits include less time off school and work, and reducing energy related emissions by reducing electricity consumption at times of peak demand."

The Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, which began in July 2018, has to date, included grants that cover 80% of the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation, and 80% of the cost of a heat pump or efficient wood or pellet burner for eligible homes (the cap on heating grant is $3000). It has delivered over 110,000 insulation and heating retrofits into New Zealand homes. A Motu study found the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme is making homes cheaper to heat; reducing electricity use by 16% on average over the winter months.

The five key tips that the 'Find Money in Weird Places' campaign promotes are:

 Check you're on the best power plan for you and your whānau

 Switch off appliances at the wall when you're not using them

 Set your heat pump to a maximum of 21 degrees

 Change your washing machine settings to cold wash

 Shorten showers to five minutes.

Steamed mirrors, condensation on walls and ceilings, slippery floors and mould are year-round issues caused by shower steam, which can add significant costs to home maintenance. A dry warm home is a healthy home, as damp bathrooms are the perfect place for fungus and bacteria to grow, which can cause serious health problems. Showerdome® solves these problems by controlling steam, reducing condensation and making the home warmer, drier and healthier.

A Showerdome® shower top consists of a clear acrylic dome that prevents steam from forming when fitted on top of an existing shower box. With no on-going costs, it is the most effective investment one can make for a home or rental property. Showerdome® also makes mirror demisters and extractor fans redundant and could save the average household around $250 in annual energy costs.

To learn more, visit www.showerdome.co.nz

We have 1x DIY ShoWerDome® kIT To gIve aWaY valueD aT $339 (installation by an official local Showerdome® installer is available at standard pricing).

To enter, email your full name, email address and phone number to sharelk@greystar.co.nz with Winter Warmth Give Away in subject Line

New Blue Pools bridges

Two new suspension bridges at the Blue Pools, near the Haast Pass, could be in place by March 2024.

The Blue Pools and Makarora bridges, both on the popular Blue Pools Track, were closed in May for safety reasons.

In an update, the Department of Conservation said engineering design work for the Blue Pools suspension bridge upgrade and the Makarora suspension bridge replacement was well advanced and should be completed by August.

That will allow the procurement process to begin. Depending on the availability of contractors, completion of construction work by March 2024 should be achievable.

Department of Conservation Central

Otago operations manager David Butt, said last month that while the closures will be frustrating for people who want to visit these sites, visitor safety is at the heart of the decision.

"These are popular sites that see a high level of visitation, particularly over the summer months. Engineering advice is that they cannot sustain the current usage, and with visitor numbers continuing to increase, we need to make them safer."

The Blue Pools and Makarora bridges, both on the popular Blue Pools Track, are visited on average by around 550 people a day in January, with around 75 people per hour crossing during peak time.

The bridges also provide high water access to the Young Valley and Gillespie Pass Circuit.

DOC track bookings in July

THE Department of Conservation has announced new booking dates for the great walks for the 2023/24 season.

DOC had technical difficulties In May when it went to release opening dates on-line and postponed. This did not affect Milford Track bookings which were filled on April 20.

DOC director of heritage and visitors Cat Wilson said the rest of the great walks bookings will open from July 11.

"The fixes made to the booking system have been tested...so we have the assurance we need to re-open bookings soon.

"We are grateful to everyone for their patience and understanding."

The great walks opening exception is the Heaphy Track which remains shut as a through walk following damage caused by Cyclone Dovi in February last year.

The department has started the Heaphy bridge replacement with a new two-bridge solution across the Heaphy

and Lewis rivers on a higher alignment. Work is also underway to raise part of the coastal section – with all work expected to be finished about Labour Weekend.

That track can be booked on July 26, from 9.30am, as a walk from either the Karamea or Bainham with the start date for walking on October 19. The full track is expected to be open later in the year.

The rest of the new great walk booking slots are open at 9.30am on each date: Tongariro Northern Circuit July 11, Rakiura Track July 12, Paparoa Track July 13, Abel Tasman Coast Track July 18, Whanganui Journey July 19, Kepler Track July 20, Routeburn Track July 25, Heaphy Track July 26. Huts, lodges, campsites: Momorangi Bay Campground July 27, South Island huts, campsites and lodges, August 1, North Island huts, campsites and lodges August 2, Tōtaranui campground August 3.

Reefton water chlorinated, June 26

COMPULSORY chlorination of Reefton's water supply will begin next Monday.

The Buller District Council has been testing the automated chlorine dosing system at the water treatment plant in the past 10 days and the system had the green light.

Council's manager infrastructure delivery

Eric de Boer said chlorination was delayed slightly to ensure Reefton residents have "reasonable notice".

Chlorination will begin on Monday morning, June 26, but it may take about a day for the treated water to filter through the system to the tap.

"We are aware that this isn't necessarily going to be a popular development, but

we have tried to do everything possible to make sure that everyone is aware of what is happening and why," Mr de Boer said.

"Reefton is required to meet drinking water legislative requirements. The drinking water regulator, Taumata Arowai, requires the supply to have residual disinfection (chlorine)."

Mr de Boer said residents might notice a change in taste or smell in their water during initial chlorination.

"The reaction between chlorine and any organic matter remaining in the pipes after flushing is what causes this.

"It is what people tend to dislike, understandably, but it shows that it is working and improves after a week or two."

Council had put together information on its website to help people manage changes in the water in the initial chlorination stages.

Good tips included simply leaving a jug of water sit on the bench and/or in your fridge overnight – the chlorine level will reduce over time.

"You can also filter the water though a carbon filter. The cheapest option is to buy a small filter jug which sits in your fridge."

Residents also had the option to fit a filter to where the water supply entered their property.

People with fish tanks need to be aware they should let the water sit for at least 24 hours before replacing tank water.

For details and tips go to https://bullerdc. govt.nz/your-council/key-projects/ reefton-water-supply-upgrade/ What about my pets

Mr de Boer said the drinking water rules require council to maintain a minimum dose of 0.2 mg/l of chlorine at the toby into properties.

"This dose needs to reach the last property on the reticulated system, which may mean properties closer to the treatment plant notice more of a difference than those further away.

"Unfortunately, there is very little we can do about that, but residents are encouraged to contact us if they want to talk about what is happening."

One of the current bridges at the Blue Pools site.

PICTURE: Department of Conservation

Repairs on the coastal section of the Heaphy Track by the Department of Conservation following the storm damage. PICTURE: Department of Conservation

SITUATIONSVACANT

PeerSupportWorker GreymouthBridge

Hours: Full-time,opentonegotiation.

Salaryband: Thelikelyhourlyratewillfallbetween$22.49and$28.25.

Abouttherole

ThePeerSupportWorkerwilldrawonthehopeoftheirownrecovery journeytoempowerotherstofindappropriatesupporttolivefulland meaningfullives.

Keytasks:

•Offeringsupportbyphoneorinpersontoindividuals

•Co-facilitationofpeersupportgroupsandeducationalgroups

•Developingappropriate,empathic,supportive relationshipswithservice usersbasedon asharedexperienceofproblematicalcoholand/ordruguse

Personspecification:

•Canrelatetopeoplewithsensitivity,compassionandpatience

•Tactful,discreteandunderstandstheimportanceofboundariesand

2020GREATWALLSTEED $23,999

SINGLECAB4WDUTE2litrediesel,6speedmanual, largealloyflatdeckwithdropsides,just46,000kms

2019TOYOTACAMRYGLSEDAN $23,999

Auto2500cc,78,000kms,mintcar,fullyoptioned

2018TOYOTALANDCRUISERPRADOGX$49,999 Auto,2800ccturbodiesel,7seater,fantasticvalue, compare

IMPORTS

HATCHES/LIFTBACKS

2018NISSANNOTEEPOWERHYBRID$17,999

Hatchback,automatic,just42,000kms,

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1573

2016TOYOTAVITZ5DOORHATCH$15,999

Auto,1300cc,58,000kms,niceinlightblue

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1078.62

2016SUBARUIMPREZA $14,999

1600cc,5door,auto,92,000kms,pearlwhite

2015NISSANNOTE5DOORHATCH$12,999

Auto,1200cc,67,000kms,greatfueleconomy4.7litres per100kms

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1161.10

2015NISSANCUBE $12,999

Auto,75,000kms,loadsofroomandcargospace,wine red

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$501

2015MITSUBISHIMIRAGEG $11,999

5doorhatch,auto,1200cc,77,000kms

2015NISSANNOTE5DOORHATCH$12,999

Auto,1200cc,67,000kms,darkgreymetallic

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1161.10

2014SUZUKISWIFT5DOORHATCH$12,999

Auto,62,000kms,1200cc,darkblue

2013MAZDADEMIO5DOORHATCH$12,999

Auto,1300cc,just41,000kms,darkwinered

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1016.76

2013MAZDADEMIO5DOORHATCH$12,999

Auto1300cc,54,000kms,lightblue

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1016.76

2013MINICOOPERPACEMAN $15,999

3drhatch,auto,brilliantinpearlwhite,18”alloys, 95,000km

2013SUBARUIMPREZA5DOORHATCH$12,999

Auto,2litre,2WD,109,000kms,darkblue

2011GREATWALLX240SUV

2016HYUNDAII-MAX8SEATERCOACH$22,999

2400ccpetrol,autoNZnew

2015HOLDENCAPTIVA5LTAWD $14,999

2400cc,just82,000km

2014MITSUBISHITRITONGLX2WD$27,999

Doublecab,Auto,2500cc,just21,000kms

2013FORDKUGATITANIUM $15,999

Auto,1600cc,AWD,leather,alloys,sunroof,lightgreen

2013SUBARUIMPREZAEYESIGHT4WD$13,999

2litre,auto,loadedwithextras,pearlwhite,109,000kms

2011MINICOOPERCROSSOVER $14,999

5door,auto,1600cc,just62,000kmsred/white

2011TOYOTAVITZ5DOOR $12,999

Auto,1300cc,81,000kms,gunmetalgrey,greatongas

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1078.62

2010MAZDAAXELA20SHATCH $14,999

Auto,2litre,stunnerinpearlwhite,just25,000kms

2010AUDIA35DOORHATCH $12,999 1800cc,petrol,62,000kms,darkblue

2009MINICOOPERS3DOORHATCH$11,999

Auto1600ccturbo,smartinred,99.000kms

2017MAZDACX-3 $25,999

Smart2litre,hatch/wagon,indarkblue,loadedwith extras,18”alloywheels,66,000kms

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$460

2016HONDAVEZEL5DOORHATCH/SUV$29,999

Auto,1500cchybrid,just58,000kms,likenew

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1016.70

2012NISSANDUALIS20G $16,999

Auto,2litre,mintcondition,low61,000kms,sunroof, bronzemetallic

2012HONDACR-V(NEWERSHAPE)$19,999

2litreauto,just72,000kms,mintcondition,jetblack

2012MAZDACX-5 $20,999

Auto,2litre,just55,000kms,niceinaluminiumgrey

2011BMWX330D $16,999

3litrediesel,leatherupholstery,AWD,towbar,NZnew, mintcondition

2010NISSANX-TRAIL $13,999

2litreauto,2WD/4WD,116,000kms

2008NISSANDUALIS $12,999

2litreauto,2WD,sunroof,just89,000km,silver

2013FORDMONDEOTITANIUMECOBOOST$9,999

2012HOLDENCAPTIVA7CXAWD$11,999 3litre,7seater,towbar

5door,liftback,2litre,automatic,144,000kms

2010HYUNDAII-30S/WAGON $7,999

2litreauto,regularlyserviced

2008HOLDENCOMMODOREBERLINASEDAN$12,999 Just85,000kms,excellentcondition,regularlyserviced, auto,3600cc,V6

SEDANS

2018MAZDAAXELASEDAN $17,999 5speedmanual,1600cc,just59,000kms

2013SUBARUIMPREZASEDAN $12,999

Auto,2litre,smartcar,loadedwithextras

WAGONS

2016SUBARUXV $19,999

2litreAWD,just71,000kms,niceinsilver,8xairbags, eyesighttechnology

2013SUBARUFORESTER(NEWERSHAPE)$16,999

2litreauto,102,000kms,darkblue

2012SUBARULEGACYTOURINGWAGON$13,999

Auto2500cc,chaindriveengine,102,000kmsAWD

2011TOYOTAAVENSIS $12,999

2litreS/Wagon,automatic,117,000km

HYBRIDVEHICLES

2017TOYOTAAQUAL $16,999

1500cc,petrol/electric,auto,89,000km,white

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1676

2017TOYOTACOROLLAFIELDERSW$19,999

Auto,1500cc,Hybrid,petrol/electric

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1552.90

2016MITSUBISHIOUTLANDERPHEV$33,999

2litrepetrol/electric,returning2.7litresper100kms, autotransmission,partleather,4WD,loadedwithextras

CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$2130.28

2016HONDAVEZEL5DOORHATCH/SUV$29,999

Auto,1500cchybrid,just58,000kms,likenew CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1016.70

2015TOYOTAAQUASHATCH $14,999

Petrol/electric,auto,97,000kms,silver CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1552.90

•TALKTOUSABOUTFINANCEFORYOURNEXTVEHICLEPURCHASE

•EXPERIENCEDSTAFFTOASSISTYOUWITHYOURAPPLICATION

2014SUBARUIMPREZAXVHYBRID$19,999

2litreauto,AWD,85,000km,navyblue CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$624.97

2014TOYOTAAQUAHYBRID $14,999 Auto,1500cc,98,700km,silver,3.6litresper100km CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1676

2013TOYOTACOROLLAFIELDERS/WAGON$15,999

Auto,1500cc,petrol/electric,3.9Lper100km,brown metallic CLEANCARREBATEAPPLIESOF$1532.28

PEOPLEMOVERS

2016HYUNDAII-MAX8SEATERCOACH$22,999

2400ccpetrol,autoNZnew

2011MAZDABIANTECOACH $11,999

2litrepetrolauto,114,000kms,8seater

COMMERCIALS

2015MITSUBISHIFUSOTIPTRUCK$42,000

5speedmanual,3tonnepayload,canbedrivenoncar licence

2012HINODUTROTIPTRUCK $39,999

5speedmanual,3tonnepayload,canbedrivenoncar licence

•QUICKAPPROVALS•COMPETITIVEINTEREST•FROMNODEPOSIT mtf.co.nz

56HerbertStreet,Greymouth —NexttoMonteithsBrewery Phone037685729 or 021768572(PhilCampbell) oremail greymouthcars@xtra.co.nz