Winter Ceilidhs at Ngaio Union

Winter’s coming and if you’re looking for something that’ll warm the body and the soul, then Ngaio Union Church has you covered.

On Saturday 27 May, 1 July, and 12 August from 7pm “we’re throwing open our doors and inviting everyone in for an evening of dancing, music, and family fun – with piping, haggis, and a delicious supper thrown in,” says Ngaio Union Community Minister, Brett Reid.

“It’s family friendly and non-alcoholic,” Brett says.

Celtic Plus will be performing the music. “You’ll be walked through all the dances by expert ‘callers’, and no previous experience is needed. And if you just want to sit, watch the dancers and listen to the music, that’s fine too.”

Numbers are limited by floor space, so to be sure of entry, come in plenty of time. Entry is free but a koha is appreciated for the Ngaio Community Assistance Fund. And bring along some food to share for supper.

You’ll find Ngaio Union at the corner of Crofton Road and Kenya Street.

“You can’t miss it” Brett says. “It’s the building with the giant mural painted on the outside wall.”

Q: What is your favourite memory?

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No prescription fees

Dear Editor,

For the first time ever I won’t be voting National in this year’s election – unless they rescind their decision to reimpose the $5 prescription fee.

I have voted National in the past mainly because I consider that National governments are better for our economy. I also consider that National’s policies are generally better for New Zealand.

Reimposing the $5 prescription fee is worse for the economy and it is also worse for New Zealand people.

It is worse for the economy as it will, in my view, lead to more people needing to go to hospital with a variety of health issues that have resulted from them not taking the medication they should have taken.

The fact that it is worse for people was demonstrated following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle. The government temporarily waived the prescription fee in the wake of the cyclone and that led to better community health and wellbeing.

In my view it is not enough to waive the