The Weekend Sun - 22 August 2025

22 August 2025, Issue 1264

Rally for Daffodil Day!

Daffodil Day is next Friday, August 29, but things are already revving up in Bay to get people driving their support to the Bay the wheel of this Sunday, August 24’s Classic & Vintage Vehicle Show & Rally –an annual fundraiser for our BOP/Waikato

Yatton Park, Tutarawānanga, will find daffodils blooming in the new Memory Meadow where people can honour a loved one affected by cancer t Tauranga Airport a powerful new art installation is to raise awareness of the Cancer Society’s services. On Daffodil Day

– next Friday, August 29 – volunteers will man street appeals around Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Welcome Bay, Pāpāmoa, Te Puke and Katikati to collect donations for the society Find out more on how you can give generously on pages 14-15.

Summerset by the Dunes Morning Tea and Tour

Thursday 28 August, 10:30am 35 Manawa Road, Papamoa Beach

405 Cameron Rd, Private Bag 12002, Tauranga Mail Centre, Tauranga 3143

Phone 07 578 0030 www theweekendsun.co nz

ads@thesun.co.nz newsroom@thesun.co.nz

All about poo farms and carparks

Thanks Tauranga City Council (TCC). You have dumped me right in it. Right in the poo Well, next to it.

Because I now must start my day in the predawn chill and pong at a bus stop outside the Chapel St faece farm – minding my own business but breathing in the stench from everyone else’s business. Nice!

And that’s because some grinch who hasn’t acclimatised to the rarified air on the decisionmaking floors of TCC’s new Devonport Rd palace has nicked my carpark outside work – while Grinch himself probably gets a basement carpark as part of his employment package.

You won ’ t see him waving down a Bayhopper bus outside a poo farm Ah, the haves and have-nots But I’m suffering profound inconvenience and pain from this significant loss. Perhaps I’m just out-and-out pissed, irked and annoyed.

Where I used to park all day with impunity, a street-side bay exactly 27 convenient paces from the front door of my place of employ, the spoilsport council has, overnight, erected a P120 sign, which I am told means “piss-off after two hours”. I apologise for the excessive use of the word “piss” but you will appreciate in the context my commuting issues, it’s appropriate. All this has upended my life. Stuffed up my

routine. It’s affected how I think, feel, and operate. Which, admittedly, was always marginal.

Before sparrows fart

Now if I ignore or forget the sign it might cost me more in fines than I earn that day Does council take measly third world pay scales into account when handing out parking fines?

And when I say “nicked” it wasn ’ t MY carpark, it was anyone ’ s carpark. But each day I laid claim by being up and about before the sparrows had rolled over, scratched their tail feathers and stretched their landing gear Then exactly five minutes and 23 seconds, including a couple of red lights, after leaving my cave I would slip into that freebie carpark just off Cameron Rd And stay there all day It was a beautiful thing No meter, no meddling, no new-fangled licence plate recognition technology messing up my day All this by 6 30am while Mr Killjo was probably s to untangle the middle manage pants before he wrestling my c Now, if I take far down Cam

I need a visa to packed lunch a break the walk

Other option ample, two axe butt – and it. Forty-four minutes from door-todoor But then I need a cup of tea and down when I get there.

oy at TCC till struggling e cord on his ement pyjama eading to work to plot arpark from me. e the car, I have to park so eron Rd in the morning o get back And a and water bottle to k ns? Get off my e-handles across walk! I’ve done lie

was the only passenger on a 10-minute journey on a Bayhopper recently I felt quite special.

But buses have their issues for me. My deep, dark and dank cave is 100m off a major commuter corridor There’s a procession of buses all day but getting on one is my problem

At the top of my street I could turn left to a bus stop – a walk of about 10 minutes. Then after a dark, cold and possibly wet wait, I pay for the bus to

Rd to work, Or I could walk – another 15 minutes. Or perhaps I could break it up – overnight in the CBD. And I can still whiff the pong of the poo farm – it’s permeated right to where this soulless soul should have a soul.

Thank you Jim

The fan mail flooded in this week – one email actually – but it ‘poured’ in. “V” says Jim Bunny’s take on “5% Tuesday” at the supermarket last week was bang on –“well written, very fair and I laughed all the way through” It reminded her of England’s “ mass hysteria January sales”. But school holidays are just as bad as “5% Tuesday, she reckons “Children too young to get a driver’s licence do as much trolley swerving without warning. Very off-putting.”

Chauffeured limos?

carry me back down the road I have just travelled. I could take the ‘ poo option – at the my street – turn owards town and a ht outside a sewage m or 300m away op outside the faece ’ s not good for the loitering outside

d h Or pong ’ top of right to bus stop righ works 200m A bus sto farm? It’ image to be a sewage works wonder why I didn home. By the time I reach to town any

Passersby will also n ’ t ‘ go ’ before I left h that bus stop I’m halfway anyway, so I figure I may as well walk the 25 minutes into town. I have timed it. The things I do for excitement.

“V” once made the mistake of going to the supermarket on “ crazy Tuesday” and when she saw a full carpark, realised her mistake, immediately did a ‘ u-ey ’ and went home for a nice relaxing cup of tea. “Love the column. Brightens up the day Jim. Thank you. ” No, Thank you! Now the bobtail’s all fluffed up with pride. Don’t wait to catch Jean near the supermarket on “ crazy Tuesday”. It won ’ t happen “No Way!”

She lives at one of those communities for seniors at Pyes Pa and there are many residents who won ’ t join any centre activities on a Tuesday because its shopping day and they get a discount. Save $5? Or stay home for some fun? No choice really

“Residents will even refuse a doctor’s appointment on Tuesday no matter how ill they are. Tell Jim his “bloke” told it right

Perhaps one of TCC’s big yellow 68-seat chauffeured limos might be the ticket – it felt like a chauffeured limo when I

Pong of the poo

Even if I did bus to work, I’d need a second bus to take me down Cameron

Concerned locals are appealing the decision to allow a controversial industrial park in their rural Western Bay of Plenty community

Priority Te Puna has filed an appeal with the Environment Court against resource consents granted for the Te Puna industrial park by an independent commission in July

Te Puna Industrial Limited bought 12ha of industrial-zoned land at 297 Te Puna Station Rd for $4 7 million in 2021 and applied for consents from the Western Bay of Plenty District and Bay of Plenty Regional councils in 2022

Plans for the site included a sales office, refrigeration, engineering and workshop activities, including container washing Te Puna Industrial Ltd is half-owned by shipping container company ContainerCo, which would hold a “small supply” of up to 300 containers at the site

Priority Te Puna spokeswoman Alison Cowley said members of the incorporated society decided to appeal after holding a community meeting

“Following that meeting, there was no doubt that the will on the part of the community was to appeal.

“There is no shred of support for this development in Te Puna ”

Safety concerns

There were safety concerns because of the increase in trucks and heavy vehicles on Te Puna Rd from the park, she said “We feel that the impact on Te Puna Village and the Te Puna Rd corridor has not been in any way considered The safety concerns have always been around that industrial traffic will make it unsafe They’re operating in a local, rural environment with local, rural people behaving as local, rural people do.”Cowley said the society was appealing the resource consent on multiple grounds The main one was that the effects on the community, its people and environment had not been adequately assessed

The land is culturally significant to Pirirakau hapū, who occupied the Pukewhanake Pā at the headland of the Te Hakao valley, and the wetland was once an important food source for them Priority Te Puna was fundraising for the appeal, and the number of points it could appeal on

Local appeals Te Puna industrial park decision

would depend on how much money was raised, she said

How this consent and appeal were assessed would set a precedent for other developers that had land on Te Puna Station Rd, Cowley said.

Other community members are rallying against the industrial park through a series of protests

The first was held last week, yesterday and another set for Tuesday, August 26

Protest organiser Brooke Mullooly told Local Democracy Reporting last week that the wider community needed to know the project had been consented “We as a community actually need to stand up and show that we don’t want it here ”

Worked through

ContainerCo managing director Ken Harris said Te Puna Industrial Limited had no concerns with Priority Te Puna appealing the decision ContainerCo respected the appeal process and how it would be worked through, he said

The enabling consents granted were “relatively minor” for internal roading, water management and landscaping, Harris said

It would be a low-density mixeduse business park with a range of supply chain businesses and offices, and involve attractive landscaping and improved roading “These do not include a container park or large stacks of containers or involve excessive truck movements We want it to look great and to be a great fit with the area and region because that’s going to maximise the value of what we do ”

Once fully developed, the site would generate 774 vehicle movements daily, with a peak of 125 vehicles an hour, the commission’s decision report said Harris said the vehicle movements included staff and customers accessing the site, not only trucks The resource consents were granted by an independent three-person commission following a thorough process, he said The commission’s decision was careful, balanced and considered The matters raised at the public hearings were accounted for, Harris said The Western Bay of Plenty District Council had committed to upgrading the Te Puna Station Rd/Te Puna Rd intersection, with works set to start in October and finish late January However, on August 15 the council’s

projects and monitoring committee chose not to upgrade the road until the appeal was decided, and Te Puna Industrial Ltd agreed to pay for the improvements The appeal will go before an Environment Court judge who will determine the next steps – LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Have your say by 5pm on 28 August 2025 on the toll proposal for the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road

NZTA proposes an amendment be made to the tolling scheme (the Order in Council) to allow for an additional toll point to be installed on the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road. This will enable motorists travelling between the Domain Road Interchange and the Pāpāmoa East Interchange to be charged a toll price to contribute toward debt repayment for this road. People travelling this distance would pay a lower toll price than the current toll to reflect the shorter distance travelled.

Mount Maunganui’s Caitlyn Fortescue is fulfilling a lifelong dream of being on the world stage

Growing up, the 15-year-old was addicted to Ninja Warrior – a competitive sport and television show where athletes tackle challenging obstacle courses.

Now she’ll represent New Zealand at the World Obstacle Course Racing Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden, on September 11-14.

Fortescue will compete in the 100m sprint and 3km events. The 100m sprint course has 11 standardised obstacles on a two-lane, 100m linear course.

She said the 2025 format was new and included quintuple steps, monkey bars, a 1.5m wall, balance beam, spinning wheels, rings, cargo net, climbing holds, 5m rope swing and a warped wall.

“The aim is to complete [the course] as fast as possible. The world records are typically between 20 to 30 seconds. It’s fast, risky and a lot of fun ”

Chase big goals

The opportunity was incredibly special to her, and she was determined to chase big goals alongside the 2025 New Zealand obstacle team “OCR is now an Olympic sport, with an 80m ninja-style course forming part of the modern pentathlon, along with running, fencing, swimming and laser pistol shooting.”

Fortescue is very keen on sports and has won and placed in many national climbing events in the last eight years, including winning her division in rock climbing at the AIMS Games – in boulder, top rope and speed. She won a gold medal in her age group at this year ’ s Speed Climbing National Championships, and was selected to represent NZ in the Youth World Championships in Finland. In 2024 she placed fourth in the national bouldering competition in her age-group

Intense training

Her training routine involves working part-time at climbing gym Rocktopia and exercising at Mount Crossfit three times weekly She also played netball

and recently began attending Tauranga’s 5km park runs to build conditioning for longer runs Still she begged her parents to let her do more sports

Fortescue’s parents have built a training course in their home garden with rings and monkey bars and would soon add a set of quintuple steps, spinning wheels, a jumping wall and more

Self-funded, Fortescue needs to raise $2500 to get to Sweden Donations will be used to cover flights, competition fees and accommodation

To donate, visit: givealittle co nz/cause/help-caitlynget-to-the-2025-world-ocr-champs

To follow Fortescue’s journey, visit her Instagram @ caitlyn ocrsprint Ayla Yeoman

The rising number of abandoned and derelict boats in Tauranga Harbour is becoming a costly issue, with ratepayers often footing the bill for their disposal

Bay of Plenty Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters said the problem was escalating In the last two months, the Harbourmaster team has already recovered three sunken vessels with another recovery under way “We’re seeing more and more boats left to deteriorate on their moorings,” said Peters. “Each one of these vessels can cost anywhere up to $25,000 to remove if they sink, and when we can ’ t recover the costs from the owner, the community ultimately pays for this ”

The issue isn’t unique to the BOP Nationwide, abandoned boats are becoming a national concern.

Many vessels now causing problems were built in the boating boom of the 1960s-1970s and are now reaching the end of their usable life. “Some owners can ’ t afford the upkeep anymore Others don’t have the skills or time to maintain their boats, and some just lose interest and walk away

“Unfortunately, if those boats sink, they may become hazards to navigation, create environmental risks and become costly to dispose of ”

Severe weather events in recent years have only made matters worse. Boats already in poor condition are

bandoned boats cost ratepa ers

more likely to break free from moorings or sink during storms, creating urgent safety and environmental concerns in potentially hazardous conditions.

Peters’ team manages 490 moorings and annual inspections by the BOPRC’s marine biosecurity dive team have revealed about 40% of vessels moored in Tauranga Harbour are showing signs of neglect, with no recent hull maintenance

“This is a red flag,” said Peters. “Neglected boats are more likely to become derelict and, once they reach that point, the costs and risks of sinking multiply”

Removing a sunken vessel is no small task The cost depends on the vessel’s size, materials and how difficult it is to access – especially if sunk in deep water “Even a relatively small boat can cost thousands to recover, ” Peters said. “We do everything we can to reclaim costs from the owner, but in many cases, they’ve disappeared or simply can ’ t pay That’s when the cost lands on ratepayers. ”

Peters urged boat owners to take responsibility before their vessels become a problem.

He warned insurance was unlikely to cover the cost of removing a wreck, as it’s considered the owner ’ s responsibility

The Harbourmaster team manages the region’s waterways, which includes investigating and removing wrecks, under the Maritime Transport Act 1994.

ClimateActionFundopen

Tauranga City Council’s Climate Action Fund’s first application round is open now – and will close September 1

According to council, the Climate Action Fund supports communityled climate initiatives that benefit the community while also helping the city reach its climate goals

The fund responds to priority actions identified in council’s Climate Action & Investment Plan and Nature & Biodiversity Action & Investment Plan to support projects that drive low-carbon and adaptation

initiatives as well as enhance the environment Grants are provided to support delivery of a clearly defined activity, project, or initiative that enables the implementation of climate actions by community groups at a local scale once a planning process has been completed

Do you have an idea that reduces emissions or enhances nature and biodiversity? If so, visit: www tauranga govt nz/culture-andcommunity/grants-and-funding/ climate-action-fund

MONDAY 25TH - PRIVATE HOUSECALLS

Ma or ’ s ote forces

U-turn on ater plan

Tauranga City Council has backflipped on its decision to go it alone on delivering water services and will partner with its closest neighbour

Mayor Mahé Drysdale used his casting vote at a meeting last Friday to reverse a previous decision that would have seen the council deliver water services in-house until July 2028.

Councils have until September 3 to submit a plan for managing drinking, storm and wastewater services under the Government’s Local Water Done Well programme.

August 15’s extraordinary meeting at TCC provided information about the implications of the in-house decision because the work done so far was for a water services organisation with other council partners

Tauranga City Council will now partner with its “little brother”, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, and possibly Thames Coromandel District Council, on a water services organisation from July 2027.

Our family

Drysdale said the information reconfirmed that a multi-council water organisation was the right direction. “Western Bay are our family, they’ve cried out for help, and it’s our responsibility as the regional leader to step up and look after our little brother”

The Department of Internal Affairs made it clear that councils needed to consider what was best for their regional partners, as well as themselves, he said.

The multi-council organisation was a “win for everyone ” because “ everyone pays less,” Drysdale said

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer wrote to Tauranga expressing his “dismay” at the city

council’s in-house decision Tauranga’s decision put Western Bay of Plenty in a “ very challenging situation” where it would be unable to meet the financial sustainability requirements, the August 6 letter said

Denyer asked Tauranga City Council to reconsider its decision and to work toward a multiple-council water organisation with them.

Thames Coromandel Mayor Len Salt also wrote to Tauranga City Council on August 13, saying its water services plan would be sub-optimal without its regional partners.

Biggest decision

At last Friday’s meeting, councillor Hautapu Baker said this was the biggest decision this council would make.

The respectful thing to do was give equal time and weight to all the possible water scenarios, which the decision to stay in-house allowed for, he said

The decision to work with other councils was subject to due diligence.

Western Bay of Plenty needed to be satisfied that concerns expressed by its iwi about Treaty of Waitangi settlement considerations would be considered before Tauranga would include Thames Coromandel.

Western Bay of Plenty councillors also met on Friday to decide the way forward.

Initially, the district council was going to request a Crown facilitator to help deliver a viable water services plan, but this was not required after Tauranga City Council’s latest decision.

The cost of a Crown facilitator would have been $1600 a day had it been required.

Stick with Tauranga

The district council would stick with its original decision to work with Tauranga on water services.

HALL - 1263 CAMERON ROAD - 10-3PM.

THURSDAY 28TH - BETHLEHEM COMMUNITY CHURCH - 183 MOFFATT ROAD - 10-3PM.

PLEASE NOTE: AFTER 3PM HAMISH IS ALSO CONDUCTING DAILY

Western Bay of Plenty mayor James Denyer asked Tauranga to reconsider its water decision.

It noted Thames Coromandel District Council’s desire to be part of a multi-council-controlled organisation with Tauranga City and the Western Bay of Plenty Also, that district council requested the Office of Treaty Settlements work urgently with tangata whenua to resolve treaty settlement issues raised by iwi These issues made it difficult for Western Bay of Plenty to partner with Thames Coromandel for water

WBOP councillor Margaret Murray-Benge asked if there could be an extension to the September 3 deadline so the council could continue to consult with the community However, the deadline for an extension request was August 3.

Both TCC and WBOPDC held public consultation on options for water services in April.

Murray-Benge said the mayors using casting votes to “make sure ” the in-house options were “ never considered” was a “ vote of no confidence in the whole process”.

Benefits

Mayor James Denyer used his casting vote to opt for a multicouncil water organisation at Western

Bay of Plenty’’s water meeting earlier this month.

Deputy mayor John Scrimgeour said there were benefits to everyone by working with other councils. “If we are trying to get the best result for our ratepayers, we need to be talking about how we can involve as many councils as possible.”

Scrimgeour respected the issues raised about working with other councils, but they needed to work together to get the “best possible outcomes”.

Denyer said Tauranga’s decision allowed Western Bay of Plenty to move forward with confidence.

“Working with Tauranga is the best step forward for both councils,” he said in a statement today

“We are all working toward the same goal: sustainable water services under the new framework ”

Both Tauranga City and Western Bay of Plenty will submit a Water Service Delivery Plan by September 3

The Department of Internal Affairs will assess them and provide a decision by the end of the year

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Get inked to raise funds for mental health

Warning:Thisstory includesreferences to suicideandmentalhealthand may bedistressing.

A family-run Tauranga tattoo studio is hosting a fundraiser for mental health to ensure people feel heard and supported.

Co-owner of UnderTongue Tattoo, Alysia Greaney, said the loss of her brother to suicide in 2019 shaped the way she views the world. That was why she decided to organise a family-friendly fundraiser on Sunday,

Coveri

August 24, at Mount Social Club for a charity helping those struggling with their mental health.

All proceeds would go directly to Spark That Chat (STC). “They do amazing work around suicide prevention and mental health awareness, especially among youth,” said Greaney

She dealt with her own struggles with depression and anxiety caused by losing her brother “At the time I lived in Ohakune, which is a really small

rural community so theere was not a whole lot of help there at all.” She strugglled to get into the system to get a counsellor and somme support and with the long waiting times and the exxpenses involved, she found accessibility was lacking g

The August 24 event w would include live tattooing by four local artists, a D DJ, bar snacks, silent auction and fake tattoos s for the kids

Each tattoo artist wouuld bring their own set designs, and the pricce would be $70 for smaller and $100 for bigger designs by UnderTongue Tattoo o co-owner and Greaney’s partner Cheyyne Tweeddale, Rotorua’s Trinity Ropihha, Mount Maunganui’s Jane Marttin Tattoos and Tauranga’s Harmony Innc

She said at UnderTonggue Tattoo studio, a lot of people come in and finding they feel safe in the chair, they share stories of their struggles and open up while they y get inked

“They want to get a taattoo to recognise what they havve been through. I guess getting g a tattoo is a healthy pain release ”

STC is a charity that t travels New Zealand, offering s support at schools, farms, festivaals, skifields, golf clubs, runnning tracks, gyms and the likke

Founder Jack Jensen said on the charity’s website thaat on November 24, 2020, hiis crew, MSFT Productions, losst one of their own to suicide. “LLike so many others who sadly can rellate, this loss came as a shock ”

He and his crew reachhed out to the community and were deevastated to hear how many lives had beeen affected by suicide and mental heallth issues, so they created their charity STTC

and Cheyne Tweeddale Photo / Brydie Thompson

Ayla Yeoman

Students Leila Funaki and Johan De Graaf with new principal Lisa Broadmore

Photo / Brydie Thompson

PickPoko!

Meet Poko, a 14-week-old female Mastiff-cross pup

This loveable, intelligent girl has already nailed crate training and sleeps through the night. She has great recall and will ‘sit’ when asked or awaiting her food She has been fostered with a cat and a dog and wants to be friends with everyone. Poko’s favourite past time is playing chase and tug-of-war RRR estimate Poko grow into a medium to large dog and will suit a family that will make time, and put in the effort by including her in their daily activities.

Want to meet this sweet girl? Fillin an application on our website at: rrr.org.nz

Small school’s ne principal wants to make big impact

A small Mount school recently welcomed a new principal and is now set to welcome international students to their kura.

Lisa Broadmore began the role of principal at St Thomas More Catholic School on Gloucester Rd, at the start of Term 2.

She came from St Mary’s Catholic School in Tauranga, where she’d worked for 16 years, including five years as deputy principal.

“This is my first time as principal. I feel incredibly privileged to lead a school with such a strong reputation for excellence,” said Broadmore of the Catholic school, which is nestled between Arataki Park, Baywave Aquatic Centre and All Saints by the Sea Parish.

With a roll of a little more than 100 students learning in five classes, St Thomas is a place where children are known by name, celebrated for who they are, and encouraged to shine – spiritually, academically, socially, and creatively, said Broadmore.

“There’s a genuine sense of whānau here – a joyful, welcoming atmosphere where learners thrive and faith is woven through everything we do ”

The school catered to Year 1-6 students from Mount Maunganui to Pāpāmoa, with a values-based education that reflects the best of Catholic schooling, said Broadmore.

“Our size is our strength It allows us to really know our tamariki and their families, to offer highquality learning that meets individual needs, while also drawing on the wider resources of our Catholic education network.”

From creative arts and kapa haka to sports, music,

leadership and service, students were encouraged to discover their passions and develop their gifts.

“Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or on the stage, our children are always learning – about themselves, about others, and about what it means to live a life of purpose ”

Now in her second term as principal, Broadmore was excited to guide the school into a globally-connected future, with plans to welcome international students from late-2025. “Opening our doors to the world is our next step We’re ready to embrace students from other cultures into our inclusive, nurturing school family – and to grow global citizens who are proud of who they are and ready to make a difference ”

Broadmore said the school had capacity to host up to 10 international students at any one time.

“Students are welcome to join us for short-term stays or full-year enrolments, depending on their needs and preferences.”

The international students would be fully immersed in school life, said Broadmore.

“Rather than being placed in separate classrooms, international students would join peers in mainstream classes, learning alongside them and engaging in the same curriculum and activities. “This approach would ensure they experience authentic English language learning opportunities in a supportive environment while building friendships and a strong sense of belonging.

“To help international students succeed, we will provide additional support where needed, including access to English language lessons.”

Merle Cave

Tauranga get set – game time is just around the corner!

The biggest ever Zespri AIMS Games is coming to town, with 14,022 Year 11-13 athletes from 431 schools set to compete in 27 sports across the city from August 30-September 5.

During the games, Tauranga will be buzzing with more than 25,000 participants. To help everyone get around easily and sustainably, Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council are

providing free buses for athletes, officials, supporters, and even the locals!

Hop on the free loop buses, which run every 30 minutes, stopping at key locations around Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa at Mount Hot Pools, Mount Mainstreet shops, Blake Park, Baywave, Mercury Baypark (free parking available), and Gordon Spratt Reserve (free parking available). Find full route details and timetables at: nzaimsgames. co.nz/buses

What’s Your Property Worth?

Call me for your free, no obligation Market Appraisal No pressure, and it’s good to know the value of your property. I’ll keep you updated from time to time as the market changes.

Students launch innclusi e cooking ebsite

Inspired by a friend’s struggle to find suitable recipes due to an intolerance to dairy, eggs and nuts, three Ōtūmoetai College students have created a website to make cooking inclusive, easy, fun and accessible to all

Year 12 students Chelsea Williamson, Saige McDonnell and Olivia Antcliff thought about how many people struggle with allergies, intolerances and health conditions that prevent them from being about to eat freely, and decided to find a solution

“That’s how our website came about,” said Williamson “We wanted to create a platform that made inclusive cooking easy, fun, and accessible to everyone ”

The 16-year-olds have been best friends since Year 5 at primary school “When we found out that we were in the same business class, we were all excited to get the opportunity to work together and create a business that has meaning,” said Williamson, who was the CEO and did the website coding and development

McDonnell was the marketing and digital manager, and Antcliff was the CFO and sales manager

“Together we all work hard to make our business successful putting in time, effort and money outside of school hours,” said Williamson “Food is such an important part

of people’s lives, and we believe everyone should have the chance to enjoy what they eat without worrying about allergies, dietary restrictions, or time pressures, ” said Antcliff

A sense of belonging

When the group saw a friend struggle to join in when baking or sharing meals, and often felt like a burden due to her intolerances, the group decided to make something to give people like their friend a sense of belonging

“Everyone deserves the chance to eat freely, confidently and without guilt,” said McDonnell

Williamson said the biggest challenge the group faced was their lack of knowledge in coding or building a website

“We had to learn through tutorials and AI how to do what was desired on the website We had a setback when our free trial ran out on Squarespace [a website builder platform] and we weren ’ t financially able to pay for it so we moved to Wix where it was cheaper to run and easier to produce the website ”

Antcliff said learning how to build a functional, professional website from scratch while juggling schoolwork was a huge challenge and understanding payment systems, domain names, and legal requirements was a learning curve, “but it’s taught us so much”

The group brainstormed the

features they wanted, like a recipe filter and submission form, and refined the site based on feedback and their own testing

Community and inclusivity

McDonnell said many recipe sites catered to general audiences, but this site would put dietary needs front and centre so people could filter recipes instantly and find exactly what they needed

giving users a chance to add their own personal touch with their own special and treasured recipes with others will make our website more popular and well-known.”

Future plans

The cost of the subscription was $10 a month with a seven-day free trial Once launched, the group planned to adjust features or the monthly price based on feedback

“We also allow users to submit their own favourite recipes that we will review then publish on our website This is what gives our website a sense of community and inclusivity”

The filtering system was an essential part of the website and ensured each user got a recipe that fitted their specific needs You can search for a recipe like ‘chocolate cake’ and then use the filter buttons for options like egg, nut or dairy-free or diet plans such as keto or vegan

Each recipe included a breakdown of ingredients and notes on substitutions so they could be adapted for different dietary needs.

The site has 15 recipes, and the group continued to build a strong and reliable database. “We aim to have at least 50 recipes when we launch our site,” said Williamson.

McDonell said there was a page on the website where users with a monthly subscription could post their own recipes and contribute to helping the food community grow

“This is encouraged by us as we believe that

“Once the site is live, we hope to add a range of new features such as step-by-step video tutorials, seasonal recipe collections, and collaborations with local chefs and nutritionists,” said Williamson.

McDonnell said the group would love to feature recipes from well-known Kiwi chefs to bring professional expertise into people’s kitchens, as well as highlight local produce and food traditions

Antcliff said if they could collaborate with anyone, they would like it to be Chelsea Winter

“In future, depending on our website’s success, we ’ re also considering adding community recipe challenges, and perhaps even an annual digital cookbook created from our users ’ submissions ”

The group had received great feedback from showing previews to friends, family and classmates. They also recently had a stall at the Young Enterprise Expo, where more than 30 people signed up to be notified of their website launch

Ayla Yeoman

Don’t t waste e your olld phoness!

If you ’ ve got old mobile phones stashed at home, there is a place in Tauranga to recycle them.

The most recent collection point added to Envirohub Bay of Plenty is Re:mobile, said community co-ordinator Cathy Donnelly

Since April, Envirohub BOP’s 31B Glasgow St office has been able to take old mobile phones from the public to be recycled.

Donnelly said mobile phones are a significant component of electronic waste, and the fastestgrowing waste stream globally

“Improper disposal can lead to toxic substances like lead, mercury and cadmium leaching into the environment, contaminating soil, water and air”

But the devices contain valuable metals such as gold, silver, copper and palladium. Recycling these devices allows for the recovery of these materials, Donnelly said.

“In tough economic times, regardless of environmental consequences, who wants to throw something away that has value?

“My teenage son ’ s recent phone cost more than I paid for my first car So, who wouldn’t want that to still have value at the end of its life/purpose? And

sharing that resource and money with a charity is a win-win surely”

Re:mobile is a project in collaboration with Sustainable Coastlines, an organisation Donnelly said aligns well with Envirohub

“Sustainable Coastlines is a charity that protects the moana [ocean] we all love by bringing people together to reduce plastic pollution and other litter

“Their goal is to see 60% less litter on the coastlines of New Zealand by 2030.”

Donnelly said they intend to achieve this by empowering communities to take action for their local beach through coastal clean-up events, educational programmes, public awareness campaigns and litter data collection.

“Since Sustainable Coastlines partnered with Re:mobile in 2016, they have passed on the proceeds of donated mobile phones totalling more than $223,000.

“This money helps support the charity in their endeavours to educate around plastic waste in the oceans we all love.”

Envirohub BOP’s 31B Glasgow St office is open 10am-2pm Mondays-Thursdays for mobile phone collections Find out more at: envirohub.org.nz

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Pacific Lakes Village is set amongst tranquil park like grounds and private lakes. Spacious modern villas and terrace houses have been designed to create a vibrant community, providing an ideal setting for your active and independent lifestyle

The village’s main community facility, The Pavilion, is currently under construction. Positioned on the lakes edge, this impressive building will house an eatery, lounge bar, library, art studio, beauty salon, wellness suite and extensive recreational facilities

News from Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council AUGUST 2025

Bay Say – Bay Said

In June, we carried out our first Bay Say survey Bay Say is our updated approach to our residents survey – a more costeffective, timely and flexible approach to gathering community feedback

More than 300 people had their say and we thank everyone who shared their thoughts. These insights will help us support people to take part in local elections and better understand your views about the work we do on your behalf

Results are now in and are available to view online at: boprc.govt.nz/bay-say

FREE ZESPRI AIMS GAMES LOOP BUS

To make it easier to get around Tauranga and travel sustainably, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Tauranga City Council are providing free loop buses between key venues for everyone – athletes, coaches, supporters and volunteers Travel with your team or school group, share the excitement between games and arrive ready to play! View the timetable below or visit nzaimsgames.co.nz/buses formore information

TRAVELLING ON BAYHOPPER BUSES

Need to reach other venues? Take a Bayhopper urban bus Athletes, coaches and referees travel free – just show your Zespri AIMS Games app when you board Family and

or

Across the Bay of Plenty, we have more than 1700 monitoring sites keeping an eye on what’s happening both above and below the ground.

Our monitoring system takes a holistic approach, ki uta ki tai (mountains to sea), recognising that everything in our environment is interconnected What affects one aspect of te taiao (the environment) will have an impact in other areas Nothing was meant to live in isolation, and so the mauri (life force) of everything that exists in te taiao is all relative

Through regularly monitoring the state of our local environment, we can plan, protect and sustainably manage our natural resources so our communities can thrive

We also make this information and data publicly accessible to other agencies and local communities to help inform their decision making and know what’s happening in their backyard

Find out more at boprc.govt.nz

A special place to honour loved ones blooms

Yellow blooms are popping their heads out of the earth at Tauranga City’s Yatton Park, Tutarawānanga, ahead of Daffodil Day and are a bright reminder to give generously to support the Cancer Society next Friday, August 29.

Back in April, the Cancer Society Waikato/ Bay of Plenty teamed up with EVES Real Estate and Tauranga City Council to create a special Memory Meadow for people affected by cancer and their whānau

During winter months a ‘meadow’ at the park was densely planted with daffodil bulbs in the hopes they would bloom near the end of August Back then Bay of Plenty residents were encouraged to contribute by buying daffodil bulbs, with all proceeds going to the Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty

A planting day at the Harrier St side of the park was held on May 10, which invited the community to help plant the bulbs they purchased

Where funds go

Every donation received helped to support the Cancer Society’s work in the Tauranga area, including the support of a local navigator, access to counselling and accommodation near to Waikato Hospital for those travelling for treatment, said Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty CEO Helen Carter. The initiative saw 10,000 bulbs go in the ground Back then Carter said Tauranga’s Memory Meadow would be a very special destination “which people

can visit to remember a loved one or to honour the journey they’ve b been on ”

Early flowers

While the full bloom was planned for the end of August to coincide with Daffodil Day, warmer temperatures had meant visitors had been enjoying the bright, uplifting display since late-July

“Locals are encouraged to visit the park to enjoy the meadow, which was made possible thanks to community contributions and dozens of volunteers who helped plant the bulbs ”

Free services

Carter said the community should know that the Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty is not directly government-funded – but their services are free for people with cancer and their whānau

“These services include transport to reatment, support from experienced cancer care professionals, support groups, accommodation near to treatment centres and access to counselling ”

Across Waikato and Bay of Plenty in the last financial year 3724 people were supported by the Cancer Society, 04,657km were driven taking cancer patients to their treatment, $252,583 was contributed towards local and national cancer research; and 17,145 nights’ accommodation were provided to guests at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge in Hamilton

For more information on Daffodil Day and how to donate, sign up your own fundraiser or volunteer, visit: daffodildayorg nz

Cars to rev up funds too!

If you ’ re not a flower person – there’s another way you can support the Bay of Plenty/ Waikato Cancer Society branch this month

Car-lovers are invited to bring their old beauties to the Classic & Vintage Vehicle Show and Rally on August 24 in Tauranga

The Bay of Plenty Vintage Car Club’s annual fundraiser for the BOP/Waikato Cancer Society at its Cliff Rd clubrooms is ideal for the whole family “We want as many people as possible to bring their vintage or classic vehicles along and enter the display and/or rally,” said BOP VCC members and event organisers Trevor and Raewyn Hughes “We also invite the community to come along and view the car show”

All vehicle owners are welcome “A classic car is any car older than 30 years, so all pre-1995 vehicles are eligible,” said Raewyn Gates to the club, at 29 Cliff Rd, open 8am August 24 for cars to assemble Entry is $10 per

car Vehicles need to assemble by 9 45am Members of the public are invited to the show from 10am until midday Entry is by gold coin donation “New for this year is that we ’ ve sectioned off part of the Cliff Rd carpark for public car parking,” said Raewyn Big drawcards include a replica of the Goodbye Pork Pie Mini, a 1927 Ford Race-A-Bout from Waiuku, a 1928 Model T Speedster and a 1913 Ford Model T Tourer among other beauties. Raewyn said the show is a family-friendly event “There will be tea, coffee, scones, sandwiches and savouries available for purchase, plus a sausage sizzle, coffee cart and popcorn ” For those who want to join an afternoon rally of vintage, classic or everyday cars – which has a range of prizes to be won – there’s a 12 30pm briefing Rally entry is $10 per car for the driver and navigator, with afternoon tea included Extra passengers cost $5 each for the afternoon tea

Find out more at: www bayofplentyvintagecarclub com

Woven with aroha

SculptureunveiledatTauranga Airporthonouring DaffodilDay

Visitors to Tauranga Airport will be greeted by a powerful new art installation ahead of Daffodil Day – a striking woven sculpture that honours those affected by cancer and pays tribute to the strength of community.

Created by Lana Bell, Hoana Toovey and Erica Whalen, the artwork takes the form of a pākē – a traditional protective cloak It was crafted using harakeke, mānuka, pīngao and jute, symbolising the weaving together of support, strength and shelter for people going through a cancer journey

“This artwork represents weaving together to create strength for someone facing cancer, ” said Bell. “The pākē provides protection and shelter – just like the Cancer Society does, not only for the person going through cancer but for their whānau too ” Bell brought the team together, having long admired the work of weaver Whalen and artist Toovey The collaborative process, including harvesting harakeke together, made the experience deeply meaningful “It definitely brought those people we ’ ve lost to the

forefront of our minds while we were working on this project,” said Bell.

For Whalen, the kaupapa of the Cancer Society resonated “My whānau have been affected by cancer, and it’s nice to do something in response.

“Once the three of us started talking, I got really excited about creating something with meaning – with the hope that it will generate much-needed pūtea for the work that the Cancer Society does,” Whalen said.

Toovey said she has whānau who’ve been through, and are

going through, cancer “Seeing my loved ones face this has made me more determined to raise awareness, ” she said The installation is on display at Tauranga Airport throughout August, raising awareness and support for the Cancer Society’s services across Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty Daffodil Day – the Cancer Society’s biggest annual fundraiser – is next Friday, August 29. All funds raised stay local to help provide free support services, accommodation, transport to treatment, and more.

Be a localhero this DaffodilDay

More volunteers are needed to help the Cancer Society on August 29 – Daffodil Day –with street appeals planned for Tauranga and Mount Maunganui

With nearly 30 locations across the city from Bethlehem to Tauriko, and Otūmoetai to Mount Maunganui and Welcome Bay, there are plenty of spots for volunteers to complete a two-hour shift between 9am and 5pm If August 29 doesn’t suit, some locations will also continue the street appeal on August 30.

“We really need the community to get involved, because we can ’ t do what we do without community support, ” Lena Cordery from the Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty branch said “It’s also a really great day to be involved in, as it’s about spreading hope, and wearing the yellow with pride ” Daffodil Day is the country ’ s chance to work together and change the experience of cancer for every New Zealander Becoming an everyday hero for your community by volunteering for

two hours is a focus of the appeal, because everyone knows someone affected by cancer, and most Kiwis know the toll cancer takes on a person and their friends and whānau

“Cancer is affecting one in three New Zealanders,” Cordery said

“This campaign is around that it could be you, it could be someone you love But in saying that, we do want to spread the message this month that we are raising money for our support services, which are provided free to anyone who has cancer

“And we are also raising money for cancer research. The Cancer Society is New Zealand’s biggest private funder of cancer research ” Research is vital to finding a cure and improving outcomes for the approximately 28,000 New Zealanders diagnosed with cancer every year

In the last 10 years, the Cancer Society has invested more than $50 million in cancer research that has improved the prevention, detection, and treatment of different types of cancer This research aims to save lives and help New Zealanders live longer following a diagnosis

To volunteer for the street appeal, visit: www.daffodilday.org.nz

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Re: ‘CBD fringe parking fees spark resident backlash’ page 3, TheWeekend Sun August 1, 2025 edition

I recently read about parking fees in The Weekend Sun Well here is my story

I’m an 80-year-old lady and had to go to A&E health centre on 2nd Ave in Tauranga as I was in a lot of pain and could not get into my doctor or go to Tauranga Hospital’s A&E as they are also so busy there

I managed to get a carpark right out front of the building as there were no carparks left behind the building.

Luckily, I was only in the A&E for one hour 10 minutes I went in early at 9 45am then went home after getting my prescription Well, two days later I get an infringement notice for parking in a paid parking area I did not even see the parking meter as I rushed inside A&E

The infringement notice cost me $70 If I was in the centre for up to three hours waiting – which could happen – imagine what the infringement notice would have cost me!

I wonder how many other patients have got infringement notices When I left the centre it was very, very busy with patients

Why – in all their wisdom did – Tauranga City Council put parking meters outside a health centre? You don’t know how long you have to wait before you

Roaming dog query

I know of two occasions where a report has been made to two different council dog officers and on both occasions the complainant has been advised to secure the dog and advise the dog officer, who will take over from there.

One was in Australia and one here. Surely that can ’ t be in the rules?

David Lawrence, Ōtūmoetai Tauranga CityCouncilteam leaderanimal servicesBrent Lincolnresponds:

If a person sees a roaming dog and it is safe and they can secure it, we will come and collect that dog If it is registered and has no recent adverse history, the dog will be returned to the owner If not, the dog will be impounded If the person can ’ t capture the dog or they don’t feel confident to try then please take a photograph or video, which we can later use to prove the offence. If they can ’ t secure the dog and we have an officer who is able to attend, they will attempt to capture the dog.

are seen by the doctor or nurses, and you pay to go to the A&E And you will have to pay for the parking

What about parents with young children? Where are they supposed to park? It must be very stressful for them.

Carole Butler, Bethlehem

Tauranga City Councilmanager oftransport system operations Shawn Geardreplies:

Paid parking is a proven way to manage demand in busy areas By adjusting prices based on occupancy levels, we can help ensure that a small number of spaces are available somewhere in close proximity to where they are needed, reducing the time people spend circling for a park

Paid parking has operated on Second Ave for more than 25 years, aside from the temporary city centrewide free parking trial introduced in mid-2020 in response to Covid-19 disruptions Paid parking was reintroduced in December 2022 to support retailers and customers, after concerns that all-day parkers were taking up spaces that should be available for visitors

Since then, we ’ ve seen a noticeable increase in the number of carparks available for short-stay visitors coming to shop, dine, or access services like healthcare Parking turnover has improved across the city centre, meaning more people are able to find a convenient space during the day

Drivingaroundon the taxpayers’back!

Recently, in my area in Tirinui Crest Rd, a white delivery van appeared, which was not unusual until the driver, who must have been as high as a kite, started throwing his food around the street with loud laughter, which he thought was very funny

A responsible company would not have this type of person delivering anything – they are a danger on our roads. I find it interesting that many cannot put food on the table in New Zealand etc, so who is buying the drugs that are on a steep increase?

The Government has trouble finding the “supermarkets” that have them on special.

I look around and see the many thousands of overseas people who can find a job in NZ in our service industries, which are forever short of labour, and the locals then stay “work ready” until they retire. It seems we will continue to see many young driving around all day on the taxpayers ’ back.

Ron

Chamberlain, Otūmoetai

WRITE TO US

StorageContainerGuysisa modernstoragefacilityproudly ownedandoperatedbylongtimeresidentCameronHood andhiswifeSandra

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Storage Container Guys boasts a prime location in downtown Greerton, with handy access to State Highway 29, and near both Tauranga CBD and The Lakes subdivision at Pyes Pa

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Storage Container Guys had even attracted customers from Pāpāmoa Katikati and Te Puke

“We get people coming to us from miles away said Cameron

“It’s true that people will travel to get the best deal possible Our region is growing; there’s an emerging need for quality secure storage”

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Sandra said they’d had a great response from the community since starting this venture “ we thank our local community for storing with us!”

Parking meters outside health clinic not on!

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New venue, new song, new festival

Spring has sprung I think Daffodils have bloomed at the Watusi Country Club and fresh musical shoots are sprouting all over It’s a start

Let’s begin at the Tauranga Acoustic Music Club (TAMC) I write often about the Katikati Folk Club (KKFC), less so about the amiable denizens of the TAMC While KKFC is known for an uncanny ability to lure top international folk acts to our region, TAMC is more focused on members playing music

TAMC operate Tuesday evenings and will have their last night at Tauranga RSA on September 16. From then gatherings move to the Greerton Social Club, on Cameron Rd, previously called Oasis, where weekly Tuesdays will alternate between jam sessions and blackboard concerts – and everyone is welcome.

I’m not meaning to suggest KKFC members don’t play music themselves: their spot is the Forta Leza – near Aongatete on State Highway 2 – with a blackboard session the first Sunday of each month and a jam on the third.

Indie collaboration

Meanwhile, there’s an upcoming collaboration between two of the city’s leading indie artists – singer-songwriter Frances Ellen, who released a series of songs last year co-written with Reb Fountain, and We Will Ride Fast, the musical moniker of Katikati multimedia artist Kyle Sattler He’s a bit of an indie darling with two of last year ’ s four singles claiming number one spot on 95bFM Top 10 countdowns.

Next week they release a single together, titled ‘When Will Fire Become Spirit?’, and will play a launch show at The Voodoo Lounge on Saturday, August 29, where the two will collaborate on a set of Sattler’s songs. Support comes from

Beatnik Staffs and Stellavision.

Hear the song on next week’s playlist

That same night there’s a unique show at The Jam Factory The Amber Temple is a character-driven music and interpretive dance collaboration between singer-songwriter Julian Temple and dancer Amber Gabrielle Stephens Guitar looping, a bluesy, gravelly voice, costumes and face paint, mime to hip hop to fluid contemporary dance. It comes highly recommended

The arts festival

Lastly, the Tauranga Arts Festival 2025 has announced the bulk of its programme for the last couple of weeks in October and expansive it is too I’ll be coming back to it, but from a musical perspective there is certainly novelty, with a 6.30am rave, Wellington’s Lisa Tomlins delivering high-energy disco anthems, and a pair of

singers, The Velvet Rebels, conjuring a Vegas-style jazz tribute.

New Zealand’s queen of country Tami Neilson is headlining the festival after recently featuring with Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Tour in America, and Australian blues singer C.W Stoneking comes with a strong reputation

The other notable music act is Ozi Ozaa, a nine-piece band I’ve mentioned before, led by Ghanaian composer and master musician Yaw Asumadu, which includes top Tauranga players such as guitarist Tristan Hancock and drummer Paul Hoskin, who interpret his mix of funk, jazz, Highlife and traditional African beats with flair and precision. Seriously Afrofunky

Winston’s Latest Playlist

Knitting and knattering for kids at Pāpāmoa

Bay of Plenty kids can learn to knit, knatter or crochet this month and next at Te Ao MāramaPāpāmoa Library.

The Knit and Knatter Junior group is on Wednesdays from 3 30-4 30pm on August 27, and September 3, 10 and 17 It’s a chance

for children aged seven-12 to join the library’s knitting whizzes to learn and practise a fun new skill Kids can bring their own supplies, or use those present Spaces are limited so booking is essential Register interest by emailing: Library Visits@tauranga govt nz

The full 2025 programme for the Tauranga Arts Festival for Bay of Plenty residents to peruse, and snap up tickets to events, is now online.

Chelsea Winter, Tami Neilson, Te Radar, a circus troupe and the star of the Tinā movie (Anapela Polata’ivao) are among those set to delight at this year ’ s festival.

Launched on August 15 with a jam-packed programme, tickets are now on sale for what the festival’s general manager Sarah Cotter promised would be an event full of “variety and vibrancy”. It will be held at various locations from Ōmokoroa to Tauranga and Mount Maunganui from October 23-November 2 – some events are ticketed and some are free community offerings. “Basically, we are saying that if you are wondering what to do over Labour Weekend, check out: www.taurangafestival.co.nz and just stay home. Enjoy our festival,” said Cotter

Wilson returns with his brand of funny!

Much-loved and outrageously funny

comedian Kevin Bloody Wilson returns to Tauranga next month for two shows packed with his long-loved original gems, his daughter, but also surp

prises

The September 4-5 shows are part of W ‘Aussie Icon Tour’, sh his funniest songs, h stories and shooting political correctness Kiwi fans

“It changes night-t night,” said Wilson “There are a few anc songs we do every sh but the rest is flexibl For instance, something might happen on the way to Tauranga and that will go into the show”

He likes to keep things fresh “I have 21 albums, so I’m constantly mixing things up ” Since 1984

Since releasing his album ‘Your Average Australian Yobbo’ in 1984 and hit songs like ‘Hey Santa Clau Wilson has become global comedy instit with an extensive mu generational fan bas stretching from the Australian Outback Buckingham Palace, most definitely to

New Zealand “I love being on stage when every bugger in the audience knows every word to my songs I now call them my DILLIGAF CHOIR and I don’t think there is a bigger choir in the world!”

He also loves New Zealand “It’s the most

5 Baycourt Wilson’s haring hilarious g down for tochor how le first e n us ’ , a tution ultie to and beautiful country

We call it our budget tour of Europe!”

Daughter Jenny

Supporting Wilson is his favourite artist – and daughter – Jenny Talia, who is first on-stage to warm up the crowd Touring with her for 15 years, ke a great ge and y singerd her dad ows in 90 u need a s wanted to add said: ‘Dad wanted nitting e been ngs since ng one of female at was it

NZIFF brings Cannes to Tauranga City

The New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) returns to Tauranga from August 28-September 7 with a packed programme including a hotly anticipated Jacinda Ardern documentary and eight of the most acclaimed films from this year ’ s Cannes Films Festival Tauranga is one of 10 centres nationwide where NZIFF will screen in 2025.

Headlining the Tauranga programme is Cannes Palme d’Or winner ‘It Was Just an Accident’, directed by Jafar Panahi.

Also screening is Cannes’ Grand Prix winner ‘Sentimental Value’, starring Stellan Skarsgård and Elle Fanning, the latest work by Joachim Trier, director of 2021 Cannes Palme d’Or winner ‘The Worst Person in the World’.

A revealing documentary titled ‘Prime Minister’ about the former PM Jacinda Ardern spans the highs and lows of her six years in office.

Audiences can also look forward to other standout New Zealand films, including ‘Anchor Me’, a documentary from Shirley Horrocks about iconic Kiwi singer songwriter Don McGlashan; and ‘Not Only Fred Dagg’, a portrait of legendary trans-Tasman satirist John Clarke, directed by his daughter Lorin Clarke.

NZIFF will play in Tauranga’s Luxe cinemas. Get tickets at: www.nziff.co.nz

g Wilson said they mak team – on and off stag Living in Nashville working as a country songwriter, she found was to do 75 solo sh days “She said: ‘You support act ’ I alway a female support act gender balance She s I can do that!’” He w her to stick to her kn “She said: ‘Dad, I’ve f***ing up your son I was 14!’” She sun his songs from a perspective Tha

Singing alo

ong

Performing fo Wilson said ins still comes “from songs for my ma my mates ” as it d pubs of Kalgoorl

r 48 years, piration m writing ates about did in the lie “For

Kevin Bloody Wilson is back in Tauranga, with fresh conttent and his good old favvourites, on Septembeer 4-5.

Photo / Suppllied

example, Mick the Master Farter is a real person and he’s still with us The irony of it is that everyone knows a Mick the Master Farter ” Wilson believes audiences keep returning because “the stuff I write about is evergreen; it never dates” The 78-year-old has no plans to slow down “I love what I do! I get my jollies off by having people

be a part of it If you have people singing along, you know you ’ ve done a good job!”

Kevin Bloody Wilson’s ‘Aussie Icon Tour’ is in New Zealand from August 29-September 23

Purchase tickets to Tauranga’s September 4-5 shows from Eventfinda

RESTAURANT OPENTOTHE PUBLICEVERY SATURDAYNIGHT

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KNOW YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT

House sales lift despite winter chill

House sales activity in New Zealand for July lifted, compared to the same time last year, according to the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand

REINZ’s recent figures show while listings were lower in July 2025 than a year earlier – despite a modest month-on-month rise after a significant drop in June – the national median price increased slightly year-on-year, reflecting a slight rise amid an otherwise steady trend, with monthly movements shaped by seasonal factors

“We’re seeing the usual seasonal patterns play out, with buyers still active in the market even as listing volumes tighten ahead of spring,” said REINZ chief executive Lizzy Ryley of the the REINZ July 2025 full Monthly Property Report

“The lift in sales compared to last July suggests there’s a solid level of interest despite fewer new listings coming to market ” The median price for New Zealand increased by 1 8% year-on-year, reaching $767,250 Excluding Auckland, the median price increased by 3 9% year-on-year to $695,000 Eleven out of 16 regions reported an increase in median prices compared to July 2024

The Bay of Plenty

The median price for the Bay of Plenty decreased by 0 6% year-on-year to $800,000, according to the REINZ July 2025 full Monthly Property Report

“First home buyers and investors were the most active buyer groups, with buyer numbers remaining steady,” said Ryley “Most vendor expectations were realistic regarding asking prices, but a small percentage remained ahead of the market Attendance at open homes was steady; newer

listings and well marketed properties drew the highest number of attendees ”

Tauranga

For Tauranga City, the median house price for July 2025 was $870,000 – a 2 2% drop from June 2025’s median house price of $890,000 This was a drop of 2 8% from July 2024’s median house price of $895,000

The sales count in Tauranga was 245 for July 2025, increasing 14 5% from June 2025’s tally of 214 house sales July 2025’s sales tally was also 11 9% up on July 2024’s sales count of 219

Western Bay of Plenty

The Western Bay of Plenty’s median house price for July 2025 was $775,000 – a 9.9% drop on June 2025’s median house price of $860,000. This was a drop of 10.4% from July 2024’s median house price of $865,000. The sales count in Western Bay of Plenty was 37 for July 2025, which was a 36 7 decrease from June 2025’s tally of 58 house sales July 2025’s sales tally was also 5 1% down on July 2024’s sales count of 39

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Auctions

In July 2025, there were 853 auctions recorded, which represented 13.5% of all sales. The Bay of Plenty recorded the highest percentage of auction sales, with 24.1% of all sales done by auction. The median number of days to sell for New Zealand declined by one day to 48 days.

“While buyers remain active, local salespeople around the country say they’re not in a rush to purchase. With the median days to sell holding steady or improving slightly, it’s clear that buyers still feel they have time to assess the market,” Ryley said.

The HPI

The House Price Index for NZ is 3564, showing a year-on-year increase of 0.1% and a decrease of 0.4% compared to last month. In the last five years, the average annual growth rate of NZ’s HPI has been 3.4%.

See July 2025’s REINZ Property Report at: www reinz.co.nz/libraryviewer?ResourceID=781

See July 2025’s HPI Report at: www.reinz.co.nz/ libraryviewer?ResourceID=780

Reserve Bank cuts OCR to 3%

The Reserve Bank this week cut its benchmark cash rate by 25 basis points to a three-year low of 3%, as expected, in a split decision and left the door open for further moves lower

The central bank said the economy had stalled in the past few months with households and businesses cautious because of rising prices, a soft labour market, and global uncertainty

It said underlying inflation pressures were expected to reach its target of around 2%, even though headline consumer inflation was edging higher to the top of its broader 1-3% band

The Monetary Policy Committee said it debated between no change, and 25 or 50 basis point cuts, with a final vote of four to two in favour of the smaller reduction It said further cuts were likely “Further data on the speed of New Zealand's economic recovery will influence the future path of the OCR If medium-term inflation pressures continue to ease as expected, there is scope to lower the OCR further” Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minster Nicola Willis both welcomed the cuts and said it was good news for house-owners, businesses and the economy Willis said it was telling New Zealanders while there had been a difficult period for the economy the road to recovery “looked good”

CLASSIFIEDSECTION

ProposaltoCloseJellicoe Street,TePuketoVehicular Traffic

Pursuant to the Local Government Act 1974, Tenth Schedule, notice is hereby given that the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, for the purpose of Sikh Parade proposes to close the following road(s) to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated hereunder.

Roadtobeclosedtoordinaryvehiculartraffic:

• Stop/stop on No 3 Road as parade moves from the temple to Atuaroa Road (and return)

Full closure of Atuaroa Road as parade moves from No 3 Road to Jellicoe Street (and return)

• Full closure of Jellicoe Street from Jocelyn Street to Atuaroa Avenue from 11:00am2:00pm

Periodofclosure:

Saturday, 27 September 2025; 10:00am –3:00pm

(Postponement Date Sunday, 28 September 2025)

It will be an offence under the above regulations for any person otherwise than under authority of an authorised permit to use the road for ordinary vehicular traffic during the period of closure.

Climbing group grasp funds for new gear

The Bay of Plenty Sport Climbing Association has received a $10,000 grant from New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) to purchase critical outdoor safety gear for their code.

The new safety gear will make climbing safer and more accessible for the Bay of Plenty community, enabling BOPSCA – which is based at Blake Park, Mount Maunganui and home to New Zealand’s only Olympic-sized speed wall – to expand its outdoor programmes and meet growing demand, said treasurer Jaron Faber “This investment will directly benefit our members and the wider Bay of Plenty community by making the thrill and challenge of outdoor climbing safer and more accessible than ever before With the right equipment, we can encourage more people – especially young climbers and newcomers – to experience climbing safely and sustainably”

Above: Scarlett Cachhatoor-Faber climbing at Buck Rock, Kaimai Forest Park, with neew safety gear thanks to the NZZCT grant

Right: BOPSCA yoouth athlete Eli Cachatoor-Faber r climbing at Waipari Crag, belayyed by Mischa Boorman. Photos s / Supplied

About 200 Faber said BOPSCA estimates up to 200 people will benefit directly from the new gear in the next year, with wider positive impacts across the region BOPSCA youth member and national climbing competitor Cara Hicks, 16, said the new gear would make it super easy to get into more outdoor climbing with friends. “In the past, sometimes I had to wait a long time for a go I can ’ t wait for our next trip!”

Volunteer Corey Hinde said having reliable club equipment takes a huge weight off the shoulders of volunteers and parents alike “We know everyone is climbing on safe, well-maintained gear ” NZCT’s general manager of grants, marketing and communications, Ben Hodges said climbing is an exciting and growing sport for young people

“We’re delighted to h help the association gear up O Our support wouldn’t be possible without the responsible gaming fundraising partnershhips we share with our venuees in BOP” Jaron said BOPSCA A is dedicated to making climbing accessible, safe, and f fun – no matter if you ’ re a firsttimer, seasoned competitor, or family looking for adventure. Find out more at: bopsca.org.nz

Churches Active In Our Community

e can sometimes be enged by life’s issues, king it easy for us to cumb to negativity and worry a common experience manity do not need to be prisoners ars learn to reframe our so that we focus on being or what we have turn has a flow-on effect ves, because we choose to the positive rather than tive

great Roman philosopher or Cicero once said: de is not only the greatest of ut the parent of all others” d hymn ‘Count Your ’ also offers us a reminder

to shift our focus from negative to positive

It invites us to: “Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done”

Long before gratitude journals became popular, this hymn called us to pause and reflect on the many ways God has been faithful

As we do this, our mental and emotional wellbeing is strengthened

We’re certainly living in challenging times, so the next time life feels overwhelming, may we take a few moments to stop and count our blessings, choosing to focus on being grateful for what we have By doing this, we may find, as the hymn says, that “it will surprise you what the Lord has done” God bless you all

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