FREE
Holiday Edition
Sunday December 27, 2015 | Issue 2015 Holiday Edition
Special place . . . Wildlife artist Kate Jacobs with her husband Roy, son Ashok, daughter India, far left, and India’s friend, Laura, at Woodend Beach.
PHOTO: SHELLEY TOPP
Waimakariri’s magical playground
By SHELLEY TOPP The Tuhaitara Coastal Park is a magical recreational playground on Waimakariri’s doorstep. The beautiful 575hectare park encompasses 10.5 kilometres of stunning South Island coastline from the mouth of the Waimakariri River to Waikuku Beach. It’s a special place, rich in biodiversity with immense educational, cultural and recreational options for visitors to explore. The park’s general manager Greg Byrnes says it is a great place to spend time and he wants to welcome more visitors there these summer holidays. ‘‘The park has a network of walking,
cycling and horse trails, a picnic spot at the Woodend Beach domain, and it is the access point to the wonderful beaches of The Pines, Woodend and Pegasus,’’ he said. The 5km allweather Tutaepatu Trail stands out. It leads to the stunning Tutaepatu Lagoon, which has a viewing platform. That trail also links Woodend Beach and Waikuku Beach, with an option to stop at Pegasus for coffee on the way. ‘‘The whole philosophy behind creating Tuhaitara Coastal Park was to recognise its significant cultural, environmental and recreational values. It was set up as an outcome of the settlement between the
Crown and Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and then gifted to the people of New Zealand,’’ he said. ‘‘The makeup of Te Kohaka o Tuhaitara Trust, which administers the park, is also about inclusion with three trustees appointed by Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and three trustees appointed by Waimakariri District Council. ‘‘The trust has a 200year vision to restore the 10.5km park to an indigenous coastal ecosystem. This project is well under way with the rehabilitation of Tutaepatu Lagoon, located just north of Woodend Beach and the commencement of the rehabilitation of The Pines Beach wetland, the two key
wetlands within the park.’’ Greg said the trust’s vision was supported by ‘‘our environmental education programme and the development of a network of biota nodes’’. These were small selfsupporting ecosystems created by the many community groups, corporates, and local schools which visit the park each fortnight including Kaiapoi North, Tuahiwi, Woodend, Ohoka, Te Pa o Rakaihautu along with numerous other North Canterbury and Christchurch schools which visited regularly during each term, for example, St Joseph’s and Rangiora High School. Continued Page 2
A Truly Unique Pedalling Experience for the Whole Family
You’ll find us at Hanmer Adventure Centre, 20 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs
Page 2
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
A special place for artist Connectivity
Tutaepatu Lagoon . . . One of the gems in the 575 hectare Tuhaitara Coastal Park. From Page 1 The park is a special place for the Tuahiwi artist Kate Jacobs and her family, husband Roy, daughter India and son Ashok. They regularly visit, bringing their dogs to the park for a walk, spending time at Woodend Beach, or enjoying the trails. India also enjoys horse riding on the beach. ‘‘I love it, Kate said. ‘‘I think it is an amazing place that we have right on our doorstep.’’ Kate is a wildlife artist who had a popular exhibition, Living Treasures of Waimakariri, Flora and Fauna in Oil Pencils, earlier this year at Art on the Quay, in Kaiapoi. Her work can also be seen in the beautifully illustrated Tuhaitara Coastal Park Field Guide, and she is working on volume two of the popular manual.
PHOTO: SHELLEY TOPP
Keeping fit . . . Des and Helen Howe on the Tutaepatu Trail in the Tuhaitara PHOTO: SHELLEY TOPP Coastal Park last Sunday.
Organic grocery C4 coffee Salad & juice bar
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Holiday Hours
NEW LOCATION:
Hawarden Tavern and Café Café is open:
Every day from Dec 26 to Jan 10 9am-4pm Then Tuesday to Sunday 9am-4pm
Tavern hours:
Open every day from Dec 26 to Jan 10 11am-close Then Tuesday-Thursday 4pm-close Friday to Sunday 11am-close
Café Food
52 Main Street, Pegasus Town Ph 03 920 4060 www.pegasusmedicalcentre.co.nz
PROHIBITION OF THE CONSUMPTION OR POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL AT GORE BAY & HANMER SPRINGS NOTICE is hereby given that the Hurunui District Council, in accordance with the provisions of Section 147(2) of the Local Government Act 2002, has RESOLVED to prohibit the consumption of alcohol, and the bringing or possession of alcohol, within the public places during the period specified in the schedule set out hereunder, between the hours of 7.00pm on Thursday 31 December 2015 and 7.00am on Friday 1 January 2016, on the occasion of the New Year’s Eve Celebrations.
Specified Public Places
SCHEDULE
a)
Hanmer Springs: All that area of Amuri Avenue north of the intersection of Leamington Street, to the junction with Jacks Pass Road, west along Jacks Pass Road to Chisholm Crescent, east along Chisholm Crescent to Conical Hill Road and then south to the area known as “The Reserve” bordering Jollies Pass Road and Conical Hill Road. The area south of Jollies Pass Road in front of the public library at the intersection of Amuri Avenue and Jollies Pass Road and approximately 40 metres east of this intersection along Cheltenham Street. Also the Chisholm Reserve and the reserve between Jacks Pass Road and Chisholm Crescent.
Bar meals and takeaways.
b)
All public reserves under Council control and public roads within Gore Bay, including the beach and foreshore, but excluding the camp grounds.
Located at 1 Gladstone Street, Hawarden. Phone (03) 314 2506
c)
Scones, Brazilian cheese balls, slices, salads, fresh and toasted sandwiches. Coffees, teas and cold drinks available.
Tavern Food
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network up 91 percent during the same period the year before. This equated to more than one billion selfies uploaded, between December 23, 2014 and January 7, 2015. Vodafone is expecting those figures to climb even higher these summer holiday. Last Christmas, Whangamata, Whitianga, Matarangi, Pauanui and Hahei were some of the country’s most connected spots, based on data usage.
24th December.................................................8.30am–3.00pm 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th December................................Closed 29th December.................................................8.30am–6.30pm 30th December.................................................8.30am–5.30pm 31st December .................................................8.30am–3.00pm 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th January ..........................................Closed 5th January..............................................Normal hours resume
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We all wish you a healthy and happy holiday season and look forward to continuing to provide Find us at the Ohoka Farmers you with the best in certified Market New Years Market Jan 1st organics for 2016.
Connected . . . Vodafone ensures Kaikoura connects people with the outside world during the summer holiday FILE PHOTO. period.
We wish all our patients a healthy and safe holiday season
Mon - Fri 9-5.30 Sat/Sun 10 - 4 14 Queen Street, Rangiora Closed 28 Dec - 4th Jan Reopen Tues 5th Jan
The idea of a summer holiday is to relax and switch off. But for New Zealanders that doesn’t mean leaving their technology gadgets at home. Vodafone has been investing heavily in its network in the lead up to Christmas, spending more than $1.5 million dollars upgrading cell sites around the country’s most popular holiday hotspots. The 4G capacity has been doubled at the Kaikoura site to ensure continued connectivity in the area over the holiday period. Vodafone’s Technology Director Tony Baird says Kiwis want to be connected no matter where they are, and smartphones, laptops and tablets are at the heart of that.’’ ‘‘Kiwis rely on their electronic devices to look up activities and directions, to share their holiday experiences on social media and to stay in touch with their friends and family. ‘‘It’s also vital for small business owners away on holiday to stay connected. ‘‘We’re working hard to ensure they have the network services they need,’’ he says. During the last Christmas holiday period, Vodafone customers gobbled up 518 Terabytes of data on the
Roads include a street, beach, service lane, accessway, local accessway and parts of roads such as footpaths, verges and berms.
Hamish Dobbie Chief Executive Officer
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 3
Huge playground awaits visitors in the Hurunui By AMANDA BOWES
The western side of the Hurunui district where the main divide separates the West and East coasts, there is a huge playground just waiting for trampers and recreationalists. Much of the land is accessible to trampers and some iconic stations, which are working farms, are open to the public. The Lake Sumner Forest Park is the closest place to explore. It is a mixture of Department of Conservation land and farmed land. It is situated many kilometres up a windy gravel road which ends at Lake Taylor. From here vehicle access is restricted but the other lakes can be reached by foot. It is a popular hunting area but care needs to be taken in the alpine regional because of unpredictable weather. West of the small country town of Hawarden lies the Hurunui River gorge, a pristine area frequented by kayakers, trampers and fishermen. Molesworth Station. Molesworth Station is open to the public at specified times of the year and if the mercury and the fire risk soar during the summer months, the road is closed to the public. Originally a large sheep and beef station, the farm now only runs cattle and a few sheep and is managed by DOC. In the 1850s onwards, the Acheron Road was the main inland route between Marlborough, Nelson and North Canterbury. Before that, Maori used the area for gathering Ponamu and crossing from West to East. At 180,787 hectares, Molesworth is a combination of four farms which were abandoned to the Crown between 1938 and 1949 because of rabbit infestations, stock losses and recession. The land remained in crown ownership and slowly recovered with intensive rabbit control and over sowing. The 90,000 sheep
Historic woolshed . . . The St James Woolshed in the Department of Conservation’s St James Conservation area, near Hanmer Springs. FILE PHOTO The historic building was once a hive of activity supporting the St James station formerly owned by the Stephenson family. which once grazed have been reduced to a small number and cattle are now farmed conservatively. In 1988 it became open to the public and can be accessed from Hanmer Springs or at the other end in Marlborough. The Acheron Road can be biked, ridden, walked or driven. St James Conservation area The St James Conservation Area covers 78,000 ha of native beech/tawhai forest, alpine tussocklands, rivers, lakes and mountains. It was one of the largest operating cattle sheep stations in the country dating back to 1862. It was bought by the Government in 2008 for public conservation land to protect its natural, physical and cultural values. Today the diverse landscape offers a huge range of recreation activities including, walking and tramping, skiing, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, horse
riding, camping, hunting, mountain climbing, picnicking and exploring or it can simply be a great place to find peace and solitude. The land to the east of the Waiau River is open to motorised vehicles, mountain biking, horse riding and dogs with a permit. St James west of the Waiau River provides a natural backcountry experience with the St James Walkway providing a great fiveday subalpine tramp. The west side of the St James Conservation area is accessible to walkers from State Highway 7 (Lewis Pass Road) at Boyle Village (190km from Christchurch) and the Lewis Pass. Horses, mountain bikes and motorised vehicles cannot access the Conservation area from this side but they are able to access it from Hanmer Springs via the Clarence Valley Road over Jacks Pass to
connect with Tophouse Road, about 13km from Hanmer Springs. Offroad parking is available at the St James Homestead and at the entrances to Maling Pass and Fowlers Pass tracks. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. Rainbow Station. Rainbow Station is leased by Lone Star Farms Ltd from the Crown but allows public access on its fourwheeldrive track which covers 110kms from Hanmer Springs to St Arnaud. As it is a farm track and not maintained for public use, the condition of the road can be unpredictable, so care needs to be taken. In the open season, the gates open from 6am to 7pm from Boxing Day to Easter and there is a toll charge. If you have a high clearance four wheel drive and are well prepared, the Rainbow Road is another good way of seeing some of the South Island high country.
RANGIORA
FREE
COURTESY VAN Contact us to arrange your next pick up or drop off (Subject to availability)
TRY OUR NEW SUMMER MENU
83 Victoria St, Rangiora + 03 3131 JOE + joes.co.nz
Summer Holiday Gift
FREEDRINK Redeem this voucher anytime at Rangiora for a FREE DRINK*
We are open over the holidays except stat days
Waipara Junction Garage Ph/Fax: (03) 314-6899
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Looking forward to seeing you for all of your Husqvarna and motoring needs.
*Conditions: Max one free drink per person (up to $10), only valid with purchase of main meal, not valid with any other promotions & only for use at Joe’s Rangiora. Ask our staff about your free drink options upon arrival. Valid during Jan 2016
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Places to stretch your legs around HS By AMANDA BOWES There are a variety of short walks in the Hanmer Springs area that offer challenges for keen trampers or provide a great jaunt for those just wanting to stretch out in the great outdoors or for family groups. Conical Hill Walk A moderate walk, one hour return trip. There are great views from a lookout shelter. There is a plaque near the shelter to commemorate Duncan Rutherford who helped develop the Hanmer Basin which was planted in 1910 and is home to such species as Lawson’s Cypress and Atlantic Cedars. Woodland Walk. An easy one hour walk from Torquay Terrace or the Jollies Pass Road car park. It passes through woodland, meadowland and exotic trees, including redwood, Douglas firs and poplars. The walk is family friendly and has a stream, flax, wetland and a pond along its path. Majuba Walk. Majuba is a 20 minute oneway moderate walk. It connects Conical hill and Woodland walks and takes in recently planted Douglas Fir. The name comes from Majuba Hill in South Africa where a British force, which included men from Hanmer Springs, was defeated by Boer troops. Dog Stream Reserve. The Dog Stream reserve is an easy half hour walk, one way. It can be accessed from Jollies Pass Road, Cheltenham Street, Bath Street and Fraser Close. This is the closest walk to the village and the track goes through Alder, Sycamore and willows. It is suitable for wheelchairs and has access points on to the Forest Heritage walks. Upper Dog Stream, Jolliffe Saddle Track, Timberlands Trail Circuit. This track is a moderate circuit walk of
Great base . . . Hanmer Springs provides the perfect base for a holiday with walks and tramps on its doorstep. one to one and a half hours. It starts across the walk bridge at the picnic area on Jollies Pass Road. The track to the right follows Upper Dog stream through radiata pine and mountain beech to the Jolliffe saddle. The track then goes down to Jolliffe Road and joins Timberland Trail after turning right on to the forestry road. The Timberland Trail was developed by the Hanmer Springs Lion Club and has a small stand of Redwood trees. Waterfall Track. The Waterfall walk takes about 2.5
hours and is of moderate difficulty. The track climbs through mountain beech until it reaches the 41 metre drop, Dog Stream Waterfall. Native orchids are a feature on this walk. Spur Track The Spur track is three hours return. This is an alternative route back from Dog Stream Waterfall and has views of the Hanmer Basin and sub alpine plants along with the plantation forest. Chatterton River Track. This track is a two and a half hour walk which follows the Chatterton River to an
old stock route before cutting across to the original Jacks Pass bridle trail. An extension follows the old stock route to Jacks Pass. Day Tramp: Mt Isobel This tramp leaves from the Clarence Valley Road car park and is five hours return. It is for experienced trampers. Leaving the car park, the track climbs through European and Japanese Larch before heading into sub alpine scrub. It climbs up to an open ridge, which gives spectacular views across the Hanmer Basin and further.
Stan’s 7 Day Pharmacy Every ryone y at
Stan’s 7 Day Pharmacy
would like to wish you all a very ry y safe and happy Holiday Season New Hours from 1st December to End of January 2016 Monday – Friday 7am to 7pm Sat / Sun & Public Holidays 8.30am – 6.30pm
15 Ashley Street, Rangiora
Ph 03 313 8280 • Fax 03 313 8209 1685026-v
FILE PHOTO.
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 5
Cassels & sons Craft Beers & Local Waipara Wines, Gourmet Pizzas, Garden Conservatory & available for private functions.
150 ASHWORTHS ROAD (STATE HIGHWAY 1) AMBERLEY PH. 03 314 8030 WWW.COPPERROAD.CO.NZ
Special reserve . . . Al Blackie, a member of the Silverstream Reserve Advisory Board, left, and Dan Cameron, a member of the Waimakariri District Council Green Corps SHELLEY TOPP team, at the Silverstream Reserve last Saturday morning.
Stream a silver lining By SHELLEY TOPP At the heart of the Silverstream Reserve in Clarkville, is its pristine namesake, a springfed stream with water pure enough to drink. The stream is cold, but perfectly fine to swim and fish in, making it a great place to explore during the summer holidays, or anytime inbetween. Dan Cameron, a member of the Waimakariri District Council’s Green Corps team, said the reserve is visited regularly by recreational anglers. ‘‘For a lowland stream in a rural area the water quality, and clarity, is outstanding,’’ he said. The stream meanders gently through the 52 hectare reserve which is situated in rural land, at 85 South Eyre Road. The Waimakariri District Council has managed the reserve since 1989. In 2009 the Silverstream Reserve Advisory Board put together a development plan to enhance environmental values and recreation opportunities. Since then a huge amount of work has been done at the reserve, much of it by many volunteers, including school groups, with an emphasis on native restoration. ‘‘Over the last couple of years we have been very fortunate in having both everincreasing participation in planting and custodianship from the nearby Clarkville School, as well as an outstanding level of commitment from members of the Advisory Group. The group members are mostly residents of the immediate area and have given a lot of their own time to care for the newly developed areas, invite new volunteers from other
organisations to the reserve and get them involved in it, and even apply successfully for external funding to assist in clearing and planting new areas,’’ Dan said. The Swannanoa Volunteer Fire Brigade is also playing an important role in the development of the reserve, by holding firehose practice sessions there, instead of at their fire station, so that the water can be used to irrigate the plants. Although the new plants are still quite small, the native birds are already starting to return to the reserve and the surrounding area. Al Blackie, a Kaiapoi dentist, who is a member of the Kaiapoi Community Board, and a member of the Silverstream Reserve Advisory Group, lives close to the reserve and he has seen bellbirds return to his garden. The reserve is split in to two similar sized areas, east and west. This is significant to Te Ngai Tuahuriri for food gathering and its associated cultural values and because the stream is home to eels, trout and water cress. The small Silverstream salmon hatchery has also been developed on reserve land, and is adjacent to the stream. There is a wide, open track around the reserve, perfect for many recreational activities including walking, running, exercising dogs, and horse riding. At one stage, during 2006, the Waimakariri District Council planned to plant a pine forest on the land, but the proposal was abandoned after public opposition, and the land was designated as a natural reserve instead.
Fishing for a prize Fishermen will be hoping to lure a big fish to take a share of a $4000 prize pool at the Amberley Beach Surfcasting competition on January 17. Keen surfcasters can begin fishing from 8am and have until 3pm to hook a winner at the annual event run by the Amberley Lions Club. Many will be trying to emulate the efforts of young fisherman Devon Stainton who used his local knowledge and local bait to carry off the four top prizes in the junior section. Lions organiser Geoff Shier says Devon outclassed every fisher in the contest catching the greatest number of fish on the
day, simply by using his local experience to gain his ‘‘competitive advantage’’. Every junior fisher registered will receive a prize and there will be a sausage sizzle, coffee cart, raffles and spot prizes for fishers and supporters to enjoy at the popular beach contest where the main sponsor is Hamills, North Canterbury. Tickets are on sale now at Arthur Burke Amberley, Hamills North Canterbury, Rangiora, Fishermans’ Loft, Christchurch or at the Amberley Beach Domain Hall from 7am on the day of the contest, Sunday, January 17. Entry fees are $20 for adults and $5 for children under 13 years.
Monday-Thursday 9.00am-7.00pm Friday & Saturday 9.00am-8.00pm Sunday 10.00am-7.00pm Brackenfields Shopping Centre 121 Carters Road, Amberley Phone: 03 314 7724
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at
Rangiora Golf Club OPEN ALL SUMMER FOR YOUR GOLFING FUN GREEN FEE PLAYERS WELCOME
Ask about our 10 Round Loyalty Discount Card Twilight Golf - 10 Holes
Tee times 3.30pm to 5.30pm Tuesdays Delicious Meals available for your enjoyment after golf
Phone Peter in the Proshop to book your tee time
03 313 6666 Watch our website for upcoming events www.rangioragolfclub.co.nz
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Call in and dine with us in the holidays. We look forward to seeing you
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Camping el fresco . . . Campers enjoy the vista at Lake Taylor in North Canterbury and the serenity of the St James Conservation Area.
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED BY DOC
Far enough away, but home comforts nearby By SARAH ENSOR, DOC COMMUNITY RANGER These summer holidays you don’t need to go far to get away from it all and still have your basic home comforts on hand. An added bonus is that you can still pop back home to pick up supplies, do some washing, clear mail and so forth. There’s a wealth of local camping sites throughout North Canterbury, ranging from fully serviced options with hot showers and kitchen facilities through to
roughing it on a river bank and digging you own toilet. Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites are more on the ‘‘roughing it’’ side of the spectrum no hot showers or electrical connections. If this is you, a brief summary of DOC campsites in North Canterbury that are either free (basic) or standard campsites with a charge of $6 adult/night, $3/child (from 5 to 17 years) or free for children four years and under are listed on page 7. Please note these are only some of the
wonderful campsites in North Canterbury. There are also a range of commercial campsites offering more home comforts and services. Check out the Ashley Gorge Reserve Holiday Park near Oxford which is a great base to take advantage of the many walks and tramps in the Mt Thomas, Mt Richardson and Mt Oxford areas, and also to enjoy some retail therapy in Oxford and enjoy the cafe ´ and boutique stores. In Hanmer Springs there is the Hanmer Springs Top 10 Holiday Park, the Alpine Adventure Holiday Park, the Pines
Holiday Park and the Alpine Holiday and Apartments and camping ground. For those who enjoy the beach environment there are holiday parks at Gore Bay, Woodend Beach and Leithfield Beach, while Rangiora also has a Holiday Park. But for those who want to get back to nature to recharge the mind and body after a stressful year, whatever your needs and budget constraints, there will be the perfect spot for you and your family just down the road. Continued Page 7
CHEVIOT Ph 03 3198869 Fax: 319 8844 24 Hall Street, Cheviot
• Newly renovated inside and out • We welcome all visitors to Cheviot • Bar • Pool Table • Accommodation • Great food • Welcoming family atmosphere
See us for all of your Painting, Plumbing, Gardening, Fishing and Hardware requirements
Cheviot Trust Hotel 1686309-K
Phil Duncan cheviothardware@xtra.co.nz
43 Hall St, Cheviot Ph 03 319 8616 cheviot.trust.hotel@xtra.co.nz
We also stock a large range of Stationery, Toys, Magazines and Small Appliances
Two Rivers Cafe Cheviot
Tasting Room
Open Daily from 8.30am till 4.30pm Breakfast & Lunch menu, plus cabinets of tempting treats, all baked in-house.
Beautiful wine comes from a beautiful place...
Open evenings during the summer months on Friday & Saturday.
11 Hall Street is now open. Come join our Cheviot 7310 passionate team for an informative Open: 10am - 6pm Mt. Beautiful Tasting Room
Fully licensed, serving a selection of local wines and beer.
T: +64 3 319 8155 E: tastingroom@mtbeautiful.co.nz W: www.mtbeautiful.co.nz 1685024-27.12-K
wine tasting of the current vintages or enjoy a glass of wine with a platter to share from our menu.
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Ph 03 319 8505
www.tworiverscafe.co.nz 1685027-K
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 7
Favourite camping accessible and remote From Page 6 Favourite Department of Conservation easily accessed camping sites and those that are more remote: Wooded Gully Campsite Mt Thomas Conservation Area This is the most accessible campsite with the shingle road being suitable for caravans and campervans. Camp site options range from possies next to the Wooded Gully Stream or the upper flat with great views across the plains. This is a very familyfriendly site with open spaces for kids to kick a ball around, paddle in the stream or take in a short walk from 1 hour to a day tramp to the top of Mt Thomas and back. Dogs are also welcome just keep them under control and of course clean up after them. All DOC huts and campsites work on a ‘‘pack it in / pack it out’’ rule meaning you need to take your rubbish (including your doggie’s doos) away with you. This standard campsite with flush toilets and tap water costs $6/ night for adults, $3/night for children from 5 to 17 years old. Self register when you arrive you need to pay either by cash or cheque (no eftpos sorry). A DOC ranger will be present over the busy summer period to provide information on local walks and anything else. Grey River Campsite Mt Grey/ Maukatere Conservation Area A bit more remote, you’ll need to drive through Ashley Forest along Cramptons Bush Road for approx 9 km and cross a culvert at the end which may by difficult for low vehicles. During high fire risk the Cramptons Bush Road will be locked, so check the DOC website for the latest information or contact Rayonier NZ on 03 310 7612. This basic (free) campsite has a long drop toilet, and water is available form the nearby stream. Again there’s a range
Beech forest . . . There are many spots tucked away in DOC beech forest areas where PHOTO: JIM HENDERSON people can set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors. of local walks and tracks ranging from 1 hour to a half day walk to the top of Mt Grey with spectacular 360 degree views across Canterbury. Dogs are also welcome at the campsite and on the tracks, just keep them under control. Lake Taylor Campsite Heading further north, we turn off at Waikari to one of the many entry points to Lake Sumner Forest Park. It’s basically a two hour drive along sealed and then shingle road to Lake Taylor. The road to
Lake Taylor is accessible for 2WD vehicles towing caravans and boats, but beyond that you need a high clearance 4WD vehicle to get to Loch Katrine a further 3040 minutes on. Lake Taylor is also a standard DOC campsite, meaning you need to register and pay before settling in. There’s a shelter and toilets next to Lake Taylor which is a great lake to have a swim or take the boat out for a spot of fishing (don’t forget your fishing license).
Cheviot, New Zealand
Come and join us in our luxury boutique guest house.
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• Continental breakfasts, TV dinners
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We look forward to hearing from you. Gary Mitchell and Robert Day. 124 Cheviot Heights Rd. Ph 03 319 8823 e: info@ribbonwoodcountryhouse.co.nz
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• Free Wifi on site
Welcome to
Dogs are permitted only in the campsite which is surrounded by private farmland. Loch Katrine Campsite Loch Katrine is a further 8 km from Lake Taylor and despite the challenging road, is a very popular spot over summer. This is one of the access points to the Lake Sumner Forest Park where there are a wealth of walks and tramps, huts and mountain biking opportunities. As a basic (free) campsite, facilities include long drop toilets and running water. Dogs are permitted in the campsite but are not permitted in the Lake Sumner Forest Park as kiwi are present. St James Conservation Area For the adventurous and more self contained, there are endless opportunities to camp throughout St James Conservation Area. Access is from Hanmer Springs over Jacks Pass. A mountain bike, 4WD vehicle or horse will take you over Maling Pass or Edwards valley 4WD track to the banks of the Waiau River. If taking a vehicle in, you will need to register on through the DOC website for the codes combination locks for Maling Pass or Edwards valley 4WD tracks. Vehicles are only permitted as far as the Waiau River and must not enter or cross the river. There are plenty of places to set up camp anywhere along these tracks. At the end of the Maling Pass track there is a long drop toilet, but anywhere else you will need to take a spade and dig a hole around 20 cm deep; please fill it back in when you leave! Dogs are also permitted only on the eastern side of the Waiau River which runs through the middle of St James Conservation Area. Kiwi are present in the beech forests on the western side of St James. Free North and South Island Conservation Campsite brochures. The new 2015/2016 are out now and are available from you local DOC office and iSITES.
Cheviot
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Cheviot now has free WiFi
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Cheviot is a small, friendly town nestled in the rolling farmland between two of the South Island’s magnificent braided rivers and the Pacific Ocean. While small, Cheviot has attractions and services well beyond its size.
www.cheviotnz.com
ribbonwoodcountryhouse.co.nz
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
IL C N U O C T IC R T IS D I HURUNU
Regulatory Services
A FEW OF OUR
2015 HIGHLIGHTS
Roading and Utilities Cheviot Wastewater Waveband This was completed last month.
completed underbudget for $71,204.00
The original budget for the works was $132,231 but it was
The rock is from the Hapuku River.
and view a filtered version of the district plan, which only displays the rules relevant to their particular site. The Hurunui District ePlan is one of the first in New Zealand, with a number of other councils now following suit.
District Plan Review The council notified the proposed district plan on 2 May 2015. The council is required to review the district plan every 10 years. This document sets out the district’s different zones and the types of activities that may take place.
Resealing Contractors have completed all reseal programmed roads in the Leithfield area and are now progressing to Amberley & Waikari.
108 submissions were received regarding the proposed district plan. The district plan review will continue into 2016, with the hearing of submissions scheduled to commence in May 2016.
Library
Take us with you on holiday!
New Water Pipe In 2015 over 15 kilometres of water pipe was laid in the district!
In 2015, the council developed an electronic district plan, known as the ePlan. The ePlan uses the internet to give the public access to an interactive district plan and maps. Users can select their property
Tekoa Road Rockfall Stabilising
Conway River Bridge The guardrail was reinstated this year after damage caused by inconsiderate overwidth vehicles.
FREE Digital Magazines hurunuilibrary.nz
The world’s largest newsstand is now on our library’s website!
Presenting the 2016
Hurunui Youth Council
The 2016 HYC has been appointed and is picking up where the succesful 2015 group left off - and have plans to continue with the popular projects as well as deveoping new ones. HYC members each have a “portfolio” that aligns to a council service and provides input from a youth perspective to assist the council with decision making.
Thousands of publications easily viewed on any internet enabled device.
Conway Flat Foreshore Rock Armour/Rip Rap project to protect the road from the on-going ocean erosion.
BorrowBox
Simply login with your member details to browse, borrow and read or listen to our library’s eBooks and eAudiobooks anywhere, and everywhere.
Amberley Water A variety of projects have culminated this year to provide Amberley with a solution to water quality and quantity issues.
What you need: • a valid Hurunui Libraries library card • a computer, phone or tablet with an internet connection • software or an app to let you read DRM-protected eBooks and eAudiobooks.
Waste Services Since introducing the user-pays rubbish and recycling bag system in June, kerbside recycling has increased by more than 20%
Hardness (calcium) has reduced from 203ppm to 128 ppm, and iron levels from 1.1ppm to just 0.07ppm.
www.hurunui.govt.nz
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 9
Hidden treasures of the Waipara River By HELGA BENNETT, HURUNUI DISTRICT COUNCIL SENIOR PLANNER The Waipara River is a unique and special environment valued by the community for its natural, physical and recreational qualities. To ensure that these qualities are enjoyed by all the Waipara River Management Strategy has been developed to provide a framework for managing the Waipara River now and into the future. The river and its surrounding environments were formed as a result of tectonic activity. Millions of years ago most of the South Island was under the ocean. But over time sediment and dead marine animals fell to the seafloor and later became compressed into layers of rock. Later, tectonic activity lifted the seafloor above the ocean to form the Southern Alps in a process known as orogeny. The rivers then cut down through the mountains exposing the different layers of rock creating the landscapes we see today. White Gorge is a spectacular limestone formation created as a result of these processes. The geology of the White Gorge area is stunning and held in high esteem by geologists throughout the world. Massive limestone cliffs tower over the riverbed which is rich in ancient fossils. The fossilised remains of large terrestrial and marine reptiles including good examples of the world’s largest penguin, the plesiosaur, and the mosasaur or sea lizard, have been found in this area. Concretions similar to the wellknown Moeraki Boulders can also be found upstream of the gorge. The concretions range in size from just a few centimetres to almost two metres in diameter. They formed 65 million years ago around ancient bones, and it’s only when the boulders are split open that these marvels are exposed.
Hidden treasures . . . Concretions in the Waipara River. Another treasure to be found upstream of Laidmore road is the highly visible boundary between the Cretaceous and Paleogene Periods formerly known as the KT or CretaceousTertiary boundary a 65 millionyearold geological signature consisting of a thin seam of ruststreaked clay that bleeds into the underlying sediment. The layer contains the meteorite element, iridium. This sprinkling of cosmic dust is strong evidence that an asteroid wiped out the dinosaurs. The gorge and all its treasures are located on private property. However through the development of the Waipara River Management Strategy the landowners adjoining the river have kindly agreed to allow small groups of four wheeldrive vehicles access to White Gorge from Stringers Bridge on the first weekend of every month. However, quad bikes and trial bikes are not permitted at any time within this
PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
section of the riverbed. Walking access within the riverbed is permitted, although walking groups are encouraged to contact landowners in advance in case there is conflict with stock management. There is no vehicular access to the White Gorge from Laidmore Road. People are able to park at the river end of Laidmore Road and walk along the riverbed to view these treasures. Landowners request you respect this unique and special place where no dogs, camping or firearms are allowed. In addition, all rubbish must be taken away. ‘‘Another area rich in fossils is located in the lower gorge at Teviotdale. The Double Corner shell beds, as these fossil beds are referred to, occur on either side of the lower Waipara River gorge, at the area known ‘‘the Horseshoe’’ about three kilometres upstream from Greenwoods Bridge (Teviotdale Bridge) on Double Corner Road. The name Double Corner was adopted
for the sheep station which during the latter part of the 19th century covered most of the country between the Waipara and Kowai Rivers. The fossil beds are rich in shell fossils, mostly molluscs and are about 12 million years old. The Waipara River mouth is a unique estuarine system of national and international significance for threatened birds. A total of 25 wetland bird species have been seen here, including migratory waders, uncommon elsewhere in Canterbury and New Zealand. Threatened species found in this area include the wrybill, bittern, black fronted tern and banded dotterel. Some of these birds, such as the wrybill, lay eggs that are almost indistinguishable from rocks. This area is off limits to dogs and motorised vehicles. Vehicles are allowed to travel along the beach below the high tide mark or further up the Waipara River along formed tracks. A swimming hole located near the Waipara Boys Brigade Camp is a great place for a dip. The swimming hole can be accessed from the end of Darnley Road. The Waipara River is a popular camping and picnicking spot although there are no formal camping sites or toilet facilities provided. As such, campers must provide portable toilets and take away all rubbish. The fire risk is high all year round so fires are not permitted at any time. Cookers and stoves should be used with care. This unique and special environment should be treated with respect by users. Vehicles should remain on formed tracks. People riding motorbikes and ATV’s are encouraged to use less densely populated parts of the river such as the area between the State Highway 1 Bridge and Webbs Road. If the guidelines in the Waipara River Strategy are followed it can be preserved and enjoyed by all the different interest groups within our community. For more information on the Waipara go www.waiparariver.org.nz.
Arthur Burke Ltd
YOUR COMPLETE MOTORING SHOP
CAR SALES & WORKSHOP
· North Canterbury’s Holden Dealership
· Authorised Holden Service Agent
· Demonstrators available
· Servicing all makes and models
· New & Used vehicles
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Sales: Neville 03 314 0135 | Service Tim: 03 314 0131
BRIDGESTONE TYRE CENTRE: Ash 03 314 0137
www.arthurburke.co.nz
Markham St, Amberley Ph: 03 314 0127 Karaka Rd, Waikari Ph: 03 314 4477
ARTHUR BURKE LTD ESTABLISHED 1935
1683122
TWO GREAT LOCATIONS
Page 10
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Looking for something to do this summer? Come to one of our indoor or outdoor swimming pools and relax with the family
Dudley Park Aq quatic Centre an nd Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre arre both heated indoor facilities, while Oxford Community Aquatic is a heated outdoor ool
KAIAPOI AQUATIC CENTRE 9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi Phone (03) 375-5041
DUDLEY PARK AQUATIC CENTRE 47 Church St, Rangiora Phone (03) 311-8905
OXFORD COMMUNITY AQUATIC CENTRE Burnett St, Oxford Phone (03) 311-9019 1681449
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 11
Challenge for Lifesavers on duty in NC readers open By DAVID HILL
The Waimakariri Libraries have developed a new and improved Summer Reading Challenge designed to help prevent the ‘‘summer slide’’. Children actually lose some of the reading skills that they have acquired in school during the year, due to lack of practice during the long summer holidays. The updated Summer Reading Programme, which is designed to keep children involved in reading and visiting the library over the summer holidays, is open to all school aged children from year One to year 10. A range of challenges to suit school aged children, especially with the reluctant reader in mind. ‘‘We aim to encourage children to read without overwhelming them over the school break,’’ says Donna McMillan at the Rangiora Library. To begin with, children will register and be given a booklet that contains a wide range of reading and creative tasks. Each child will pick and choose the activities that they would like to do in an effort to gain points. Keen readers will be able to enjoy the many Reading Challenges, such as: read a book about a native New Zealand animal, read a graphic novel, read three
books or more in a series, or read 10 books written by 10 different authors. Reluctant readers can explore numerous hands on activities from the Creative and Technological Challenges where they can design a video game cover based on a book plot or character, make a Lego model based on a book, or re create a town. ‘‘The Summer Reading Challenge is a perfect example of how children can become engaged with learning, get creative, and use technology to enjoy reading activities,’’ says Jason Clements, Learning Connections coordinator for the Waimakariri Libraries. There will be small rewards for the children who reach certain targets when they go to the library and show a librarian what they have achieved. At the end of the programme there will be a finale party with a Magician. Children can register at Kaiapoi, Rangiora or Oxford Libraries from Monday, December 14, 2015. Entries close on Wednesday, January 27 and the prize giving is at Rangiora Baptist Church on Saturday, January 30, 2015 from 10am to 11.30am with entertainment by Elgregoe The Magician.
Surf lifesavers are out in force at Waikuku, Woodend and Pegasus beaches this summer. Waikuku Beach Surf Life Saving Club president Tania Bailey says the club has been providing volunteer patrols during weekends from 11am to 5pm for the last month, while Surf Life Saving New Zealand is providing paid lifeguards for six weeks from Monday, December 22, to the end of January. She says the club’s lifeguards are ‘‘looking sharp’’ in hi viz orange vests, which were purchased last year, while the paid lifeguards are wearing the familiar yellow vests. Waikuku club lifeguards will continue to patrol Waikuku Beach on weekends until March, she says. The paid lifeguards are on duty at Waikuku Beach on week days from 10am to 6pm, while Woodend and Pegasus beaches are patrolled by professional lifeguards seven days a week. Mrs Bailey says the Waikuku Beach club is the only one in North Canterbury and boasts one of the largest membership in the country, with more than 300 members, including 150 kids under the age of 15. ‘‘The club is going good, we have huge numbers again this year. We have six age groups, with 25 in each age group for the little nippers swimming classes on Saturday mornings and 40 qualified lifeguards.’’ The Waikuku Beach club has a big season ahead, fundraising in earnest to send a large team up to the junior national surf life saving
On duty. . . Surf lifesavers, Pania Watson (right) and Carina Schill, keep an PHOTO: DAVID HILL eye on swimmers at Waikuku Beach last summer. championships in Tauranga during March 3 to 6, Mrs Bailey says. ‘‘It’s the first time Waikuku is taking up a large group and we are fundraising hard. We are doing the car parking at the Muscle Cars
weekend and a sausage sizzle and selling drinks at the Waikuku Sand Sculpture Competition next month. ‘‘It is costing $1500 just to take the gear up on the trailer, so we need to do a lot of fundraising.’’
Holiday Period Filling & Delivery Hours & Times 2015-2016 For all your LPG Cylinder fillling needs and industrial gas supply Monday 21 December
Tuesday 22 December
Wednesday 23 December
Thursday 24 December
Friday 25 December
Normal Hours Apply Darfield Oxford Cheviot Kaiapoi Thursday 31 December 9.00am-3.00pm Kaiapoi Rangiora Ohoka
Rangiora Amberley Kaiapoi Friday 1 January
Woodend Ashley Northern Rangiora, Com Saturday 2 January
Not Open (Call-out Fee Applies)
Closed New Year
Sunday 27 December
Monday 28 December
Closed Christmas Monday 4 January
Tuesday 5 January
Wednesday 6 January
Tuesday 29 December
Thursday 7 January
Rangiora Kaiapoi
Friday 8 January
9.00am-3.00pm 9.00am-3.00pm 9.00am-3.00pm
9.00am-3.00pm
Darfield, Oxford Rangiora Com Cheviot Kaiapoi
Rangiora Ohoka
Amberley Kaiapoi
Wednesday 30 December
9.00am-3.00pm
Not Open (Call-out Fee Applies)
Rangiora Ohoka Darfield Oxford Sunday 3 January
Saturday 26 December
Woodend Rangiora Com Ashley
Woodend Ashley
Saturday 9 January
Merry Christmas to you all Have a safe and happy New Year from all the Rockgas North Canterbury team
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Summer holiday puzzle fun One of these North Canterbury place names is missing. Can you discover which one?
Food safety Summer diners are being warned to be ‘‘food safe’’ to avoid their summer fun being spoiled by food poisoning. Raw meat, especially chicken, can harbour bacteria which can make people ill not for long, but enough to be inconvenient or at worst incapacitate them for sometime. Environmental health officer, Hurunui Eric Donald says summer fun does not have to end up with people being violently ill. All they need to do is wash their hands and keep food at the right temperature and appropriately stored to help ward off nasty toxin producing bacteria that go forth and quickly multiply, making us ill. The first rule to keep safe around food preparation is wash your hands. ‘‘The use of gloves is not a substitute for hand washing,’’ he says. He warns if you are not well then you should not be preparing food for others and to keep safe food preparation areas clean to prevent bugs getting into food. Use a food safe sanitiser 20% bleach for food contact surfaces and chopping boards. Cover food to keep flies off. Frozen food should be properly defrosted and raw meat should be kept separate from all other ready to eat food. ‘‘Sounds easy but mistakes still happen. Clean plates for cooked food are a start. Do not use the raw meat plate for the cooked meat,’’ he says. ‘‘Like your steak cooked rare? Most of us do, but under cooking tenderised steak, liver, chicken, sausages and meat patties, is asking for trouble.’’ Mr Donald says the safest way to make sure food is cooked, is to use a cooking thermometer. ‘‘The safe cooked temperature is 75 degrees. Temperature is also the key to keeping food safe. Refrigeration (5 degrees) will limit the growth of toxin producing bacteria. Bacteria will grow rapidly in some food if it is out of the refrigerator.
A Beautiful and Unique Experience Especially Designed with the ‘Girl’ in us in Mind Pop into the gorgeous Pink Sugar with its cry rystal chandeliers and floral feature walls, enjoy the tasty delights and exquisite Whittard tea. Now selling Carrello — Italian gelato and sorbet in 12 flavours. We specailise in vintage high tea on fine china, along with cupcakes and delicious cabinet lunch and morning/afternoon tea fare. Please book a day before for high tea.
A venue for your special occasions • Exquisite teas • Tuesday to Sunday 9am-4pm. Reopens January 3 Wander across the road to the gorgeous 1880s cottage brimming with unique giftware. • Little girl’s dresses, sizes 1-7 • Table ware — stockist of Whittard Tea and Coffee • Teddy bears and dolls • Knitters’ supplies
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• Haberdashery ry • Baby gifts
Maisy lue
75 & 76 Main St, Oxford • Phone: (03) 312 1416 • www.pinksugar.co.nz
The News
Keeping kids safe
Page 13
Oxford • Fresh real milk produced and sold on farm • Bring your own container or 1-litre glass bottles available for purchase from on-farm dispenser • Great milk at a great price • Cash Only Self-Service — Open 7 days 7am-9pm
Targeting the young ones . . . Keep an eye on kids around farm machinery and FILE PHOTO. teach them how to stay safe. Like the Safekids’ driveway safety campaign says, ‘Check for me before you turn the key’. Walk around the vehicle first and check children are a safe distance away before starting the engine. A few seconds extra care will prevent what could be a tragedy.’’ Several of the deaths involving children aged between five and 15 involved a child operating a vehicle. Making sure vehicle operators are competent and suited to the vehicle is essential for their safety, Mr McCone says. ‘‘Kids need to be made aware of where water hazards are on the farm, like rivers, creeks, troughs, dips, tanks, dams and ponds. If they’re prepared and aware, there’s lots of scope for fun.’’ There are plenty of useful tips and guidance on keeping children safe on farms in WorkSafe’s guide Managing Health and Safety a guide for farmers, which includes a section on children on farms. The guide and other farm health and safety resources are available at www.saferfarms.org.nz.
56 Ashley Gorge Road (2km off Main Street) Oxford (027) 630 2230 www.villagemilk.co.nz
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Life’s good when there’s a pie in your hand! Over 25 varieties of AWARD WINNING PIES to choose from! All made with the highest quality, freshest ingredients!
• Fresh bread 7 days a week • Filled rolls & sandwiches • Traditional kiwi baking • Scones, muffin loaves, biscuits, slices, cream cakes and much more! • Low gluten options*
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The school holidays are a good time to focus on keeping kids safe on farms. Summer holidays on the farm are a special kiwi experience. WorkSafe’s agriculture programme manager Al McCone says kids can continue this great tradition and stay safe and healthy with farmers / carers taking a few precautions. ‘‘Children are a vital part of farming life. Many farmers learned about farming from their parents and want to enjoy their farms with their own families and friends. We want that to continue. ‘‘The sad fact is that 23 children (aged between one and 15) have died in workrelated farm accidents since 2000, and eight of those died in either the month of December or January.’’ Mr McCone says it is about farmers changing their thinking from that of working alone, to having the kids around while they do their tasks. ‘‘Of the 10 deaths of children under the age of five, seven involved the child being near the parents working. ‘‘If you are used to working alone and get engrossed in a task or problem, then it is easy to forget about the kids. Farmers need to be aware of this and take steps to ensure the kids stay top of mind.’’ Taking practical steps like fencing ponds, covering pits, locking chemicals away and being aware when using hot water in dairy sheds will reduce the risk of accidents, Mr McCone says. ‘‘There are some easy steps you can take to keep the kids safe. Lock doors to stop children getting into areas they shouldn’t and remove keys from vehicles children aren’t to drive. ‘‘Even if you have safety guards on machinery, these may still have holes small enough for children to put their hands through. ‘‘Kids love playing around vehicles.
Sunday December 27 2015
*Please note: although we take all precautions, our low gluten products are manufactured in the same bakery as our products that contain gluten.
All accompanied by amazing Underground Coffee! Open 6.30am to 4.00pm daily.
www.sheffieldpieshop.co.nz
Water-saving campaign
Friida Save water . . . Be smart with how you FILE PHOTO water in your garden and on farm. sprinkler, investigating rain tanks on the roof, or selecting less waterhungry plants are examples. * SMART stands for sustainably managed, accountable, responsible and trusted. * SMART Irrigation and SMART Watering practice rely on the same principles checking that your system can apply water efficiently, that your use of water is justified and that you are monitoring and measuring as you go. * SMART Watering isn’t difficult and will save you time and money in the long term. * SMART Watering is sustainable watering be part of the solution to conserve supply. ‘‘The east coast of the South island has been classed a drought area for at least another three months. The recent warning by Government on the importance of planning and preparing for very dry El Nino conditions highlights the need to take water efficiency seriously,’’ Mr Curtis says. ‘‘All of this background makes SMART Watering a very timely campaign.’’
Saturday and Sunday evenings s – Bookings advisable
Live Entertainment with 8.30pm til 12.30am Restaurant Open for Dining - Bookings advisable
Courtesy van – New Years Eve. Members, their guests & affiliates welcome
OXFORD CLUB
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Home gardeners, lifestyle irrigators, small businesses, sports grounds and schools are the target of a new water saving campaign by IrrigationNZ, local bodies and industry partners. The SMART Watering campaign shows home gardeners and community irrigation projects how to apply water efficiently. Its wider rollout follows on from the successful SMART Irrigation programme which encourages sustainably managed, accountable, responsible and trusted irrigation practice. Canterbury councils, including the Waimakariri District Council and Environment Canterbury (ECan), and industry partners Water Supply Products and RX Plastics, have joined forces with IrrigationNZ to help home gardeners and community irrigation projects find ways to make the best use of their water during what is predicted to be another hot, dry summer. ‘‘There are a lot of parallels between home gardeners and farmers. Both need to know how much water their plants and crops require, have efficient systems for application and be monitoring soil moisture levels,’’ IrrigationNZ chief executive Andrew Curtis says. ‘‘The irrigation industry has proven products, technologies and practices that can eke out water supply. We are sharing this knowledge so we can all play our part in conserving supplies this summer.’’ As part of the campaign, fact sheets with tips on SMART Watering are available on the Facebook page WateringSMART and website www.smartirrigation.co.nz/ smartwatering. Simple things like choosing early mornings or evenings to water your plants, setting a timer on the vege patch
Ph 03 312-4411 • 160 High St, Oxford
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
1687932-28.12-K
Stay in Clean Comfort & Affordable Style!
Safe link . . . A trail between Amberley and Leithfield is providing a safe line for cyclists, PHOTO: SUPPLIED walkers and runners.
Trail provides link
1685038-28.12-K
Convenient central location for the thermal pools, shops, restaurants & bars. Studio, one & two bedroom self-contained units with kitchens. Spa options. 16 Jacks Pass Road • Ph 315 7516 Hanmer Inn Motel • hanmer@xtra.co.nz • www.hanmer.com
Happy Camping
Camping Ess entials
The Waimakariri Libraries will host free writing workshops in collaboration with the School for Young Writers these summer school holidays. Aspiring writers can join award winning author, Heather McQuillan, for free writing workshops at the Rangiora and Kaiapoi libraries. Heather writes for children as well as exploring flash fiction and poetry. In 2005, she was awarded the Storylines Tom Fitzgibbon Award. Her first book Mind Over Matter, Scholastic NZ, was released in 2006 and was selected for the Storylines Notable Book List 2007, Junior Fiction list. There will be two opportunities for different age groups to take part on the same day at the Kaiapoi Library on Wednesday 20 January and at the Rangiora Library on Friday 22 January 2016. Year 4 to 6 writers will explore Fantastical Animals. ‘‘Ancient mythology is filled with hybrid creatures like the Chimera.
Citronella
Torches
Party Accessories
BBQ Accessories 1681453
. . . because we are more than just a hardware store 199 Jacks Pass Road, Hanmer Springs
Road. The AACT group says the support of businesses with material, equipment and funds for signage was invaluable and it is also grateful to John Richards for allowing access through his farm on Stockdills Road. There are orientation panels at major points along the trail. The AACT project runs under the umbrella of the Hurunui Trails Trust. To help fund more cycle trail networks in the community, become a Hurunui Trails Member by visiting http:/ /www.hurunuitrails.org.nz/.
Writing workshops
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by our product range and prices
Batteries
A community project, backed by local businesses, has help build a safe link between Amberley and Leithfield for cyclists, walkers and runners. Stage one of the Amberley Area Cycle Trail (AACT) starts near the Leithfield Hotel and heads toward the northern end of the Kowai Trail. It crosses the Kowai River, which is normally dry, and passes through scenic farmland before popping out at the south end of Stockdills Road. The trail then continues along an unsealed road, past the new recycling/ transfer station and ends at Goldpine on the corner of State Highway One and Grays
(just past the residential area) Ph: 03 315 7213 Fax: 03 315 7238 Hours: Closed 1-3 Jan. Open 8am-5pm 28-31 Dec & 4-7 Jan.
Young writers will mix fact with fiction to create their own hybrids, endow them with powers and flaws, and then to write about them as if they were, indeed, real. And who knows, they may be in the future,’’ says Heather. Year 7 to 9 writers will engage with Fantasy World Building. ‘‘In fantasy writing the author gets to be ’god of their own universe,’’ says Heather. The school for Young Writers is a notforprofit organisation founded in 1993 and based in Christchurch. The school aims to inspire young writers aged 8 to 19 by showing them that writing improves with effort. These workshops have been funded by the Waimakariri District Creative Communities scheme. Young writers will need to bring their own writing journal, some pens, and their imagination. Fantastical things will happen! Bookings for these workshops are essential. Contact Glyn Strange youngwriters@xtra.co.nz
Recycle rubbish Over Christmas and summer many of us head off on holiday, enjoying entertainment or just relaxing with family and friends. But it is a time when New Zealanders generate an estimated 30 percent more waste and in seaside areas it is an additional 400 percent. And most of it could be recycled. The amount of glass recycled actually doubles in January but sales of glass and cans go up three times over normal levels so let’s recycle it all. If you are enjoying a takeaway pizza recycle these boxes too along with other takeaway containers, cans, bottles, paper and any other recyclables. Or take them home and put them in your recycling bin at home.
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 15
A new and exciting shopping experience has opened in Hanmer Springs, North Canterbury. Designed to complement the landscape and the relaxed atmosphere of Hanmer Springs, The Village Shopping Centre nearly doubles the size of the retail sector in the village. Built on the corner of Conical Hill Road (the village’s main street) and Chisholm Crescent, it has been developed by Conical Holdings Ltd. Its owner Brent Ennor says it was the village’s growing economy that drove the creation of the centre. “Having owned the land for a long time, I was continually being asked when I was going to build some retail. The time has definitely come for Hanmer to have a top quality retail complex.’’ The centre brings together several new businesses and some old favourites, including a selection of clothing boutiques, a café, pharmacy and gifts, furniture and homewares, along with the Artisan Spa. Set around a beautiful central courtyard, the doors to the complex opened in the first week of December, giving visitors an opportunity to pamper themselves in many ways. While you do not get to keep the handmade plates, you will keep the memory of a fabulous bakery filled with divine goodies and great service. Hanmer Bakery Café is the perfect spot from early morning until late afternoon, 7 days a week. Its extensive product range of top quality, affordable products, created on site, provides something for everyone. Mirror Mirror Boutique stocks many up-and-coming labels, including Taylor’s Room, an exclusive range for Mirror Mirror Boutique, made in North Canterbury. Other brands are Honey & Beau, OnceWas, Lovestitch, Minty Meets Munt and NZ-made Anyone’s Daughter. As well as clothing, this brand-new boutique stocks Minx Shoes, Status Anxiety handbags and Kirstin Ash jewellery.
Healthworks has a vision to provide you with everything you could ever need in pharmacy and giftware. It provides over-the-counter medicines (overnight prescriptions are delivered daily) and has an amazing range of reading glasses and sunglasses. Its friendly, personalised service even includes free giftwrapping. Artisan Spa combines nature and science to create visibly beautiful skin using the finest natural and clinical skincare products, along with a cuttingedge skin-analysis machine to tailor each treatment to a client’s needs. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa manager Graeme Abbot says the opening of Artisan Spa cements Hanmer Springs’ reputation as New Zealand’s alpine spa village. “We now have a spa on the main street which adds to the enormous range of services on offer.’’ Whether you pop in for a manicure, massage or facial, you will be pampered. And, best of all, you will feel amazing. Homestead Interiors is excited to bring furniture and homeware to Hanmer Springs which is sourced from New Zealand and around the world. You will find hide floor rugs including cow, springbok and reindeer, along with jute and hemp floor rugs. It is the exclusive Hanmer Springs stockist of Ashley & Co products, made from organic oils and natural extracts. Other brands include Mooi hide bags & purses and jewellery from Silk & Steel. Designer Rosa Thomas may be in-store with the latest fabric and wallpaper books as well as colour charts. Refer to Homestead’s Facebook page and website for Rosa’s in-store dates. Rohm is a stylish boutique bringing you contemporary classic clothing with an edge. It stocks a variety of selective brands which cater to the discerning woman. With a focus on the 30-plus woman, Rohm invites you to relax and enjoy the experience of shopping. Pop in for something a little creative, casual and contemporary. Shop 6
The Village Centre 24 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs Ph 03 315-7714 www.hanmerbakery.co.nz 6am-4pm. 7 days a week
Shop 1
The Village Shoppiing Centre www.artisanspa.nz 0800 150 026
Whether you come in for a manicure, massage or facial, you will be pampered. Best of all, you will feel amazing.
Filled rolls, club sandwiches, gourmet pies, fresh baked breads, rolls, buns, pastries, homemade doughnuts, giant date scones, mega choc chip cookies & Grinders Coffee.
HOMESTEAD INTERIORS LTD Shop 2, The Village Centre HANMER SPRINGS 7360 hsinteriors@outlook.co.nz www.homesteadinteriors.nz 0272 240-269
Shop 7
The Village Centre
Interior Designer Rosa Thomas from Niche Designs will be available in store each month and for consultancy advice by appointment.
24 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs Phone 03 975-1512 Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5pm and Sunday 10am-3pm
Mirror Mirror Boutique Shop 5
The Village Shopping Centre, 24 Conical Hill Road (03) 315-5044 SHOP ONLINE at www.mirrormirrorboutique.co.nz www.facebook.com/MirrorMirrorHanmerSprings Up-and-coming labels including an exclusive North Canterbury-made range.
• Chairs —new & reupholstered • Dressers • Lamps
rohm Shop 4
The Village Centre 24 Conical Hill Rd, Hanmer Springs Ph 03 315-7305.
Stockists of Verge David Pond Jellico Paula Ryan
• Shelving Units • Bedside Tables • Homewares
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The Village Shopping Centre
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Get the Best Feed in Town!
1686315-v
18 West End, Kaikoura • Ph 319-5637 Open 12noon-9pm 7 days
Racing around this summer? WOF | Servicing Repairs | Tyres Suspension | Exhausts Punctures Insurance Repairs Performance Upgrades
TYRES FOR CARS & 4WD BRAKES EXHAUSTS SUSPENSIONS
Crusing . . . Cruise ships are set to visit Kaikoura again this summer.
Cruises returning
Let’s make it safe!
Kaikoura is gearing for a busy summer, with six cruise ships scheduled to visit in the coming months. Visits from cruise ships has been a growing trend over recent summers and could be set to grow, with local authorities seeking to make the harbour area more attractive. Five cruise ship visits are scheduled for January, four of those by Australian cruise ship Coral Discoverer which is due to arrive on January 2. Coral Discoverer, which is set to make return visits on January 14, 18 and 30, carries up to 72 passengers and 20 crew. Another cruise ship, Silver Discoverer, is scheduled to visit on January 18 and return on February 13, and carries up to 120 passengers and 96 crew. Destination Kaikoura general manager Glenn Ormsby says the town is continuing to explore options to address the issue of rocks in the South Bay in a bid to attract cruise ships with 700 or more passengers. ‘‘We are working with Environment Canterbury and the harbour master, so we can increase the number of cruise ships arriving here and attract bigger cruise ships. ‘‘If we can attract more and bigger cruise ships there will be benefits for our neighbours as well.’’ A marina is also included in the
83 Beach Road, Kaikoura Ph 03 319-6009
We strive for excellence
1685040
Why Not Cafe Come in and discover our exciting menu of fresh tasty homemade food in our newly refurbished cafe. Gluten free menu also available. Traditional food at traditional prices. Outside dining option.
66 West End
Opposite the car park
1683413
Phone 03 319-6486 smith.laxton@xtra.co.nz
FILE PHOTO
Kaikoura District Council’s long term plan, but this is likely to require outside funding, Mayor Winston Gray says. ‘‘It is an item that for a small community is a real challenge and needs to be commercially viable.’’ Cruise ships anchor off the coast from either South Bay or the New Wharf, to the north of the Kaikoura Peninsula, with the tenders bringing passengers ashore. So far the largest cruise ship to visit Kaikoura is the Seabourn Odyssey, which has up to 450 passengers and 330 crew. The biggest cruise ships which visit New Zealand have 2500 to 3000 passengers, however Mr Ormsby says it is unlikely a cruise ship that big will visit Kaikoura anytime soon. ‘‘At this stage I’d say zero. There’s a lot of work to do before we can get over 1000. We’ve got to cut our costs accordingly and the logistics don’t bear thinking about. ‘‘It can get pretty busy in South Bay with all the fishing boats, so we have got to make sure everything is done properly and it’s safe.’’ Mr Ormsby says cruise ship schedules are subject to change due to the weather and other issues, so it is possible there may be a last minute additions to the scheduled visits during the season, as there has been in the past.
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 17
Support for stressed teens
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informed decisions. Relationship issues can be a major source of stress for young people, so Youthlaw, Commonground and Sex’n’respect are there to provide some tips. Youthlaw has lots of information and FAQs (frequently asked questions) about relationships, legal rights and responsibilities, access to welfare, and so much more. Youthlaw also provides free legal services to anyone under age 25. Commonground is there to help parents, families, whanau and friends of young people have easy access to information to help support young people to manage hard times and enjoy positive mental health and wellbeing. Sex’n’respect is website which provides tips on healthy sexual relationships, how to avoid abusive relationships, to be in control of your feelings and to keep safe.
Check, clean and dry Summer is the time to head out on to Canterbury’s lakes and rivers for recreation and relaxation. It’s also time to be a tidy visitor and to ‘Check, Clean, Dry’, says Environment Canterbury. ‘‘While having fun you can also be a responsible water guardian, leaving your favourite spot as you found it,’’ says Graham Sullivan, regional manager biodiversity and biosecurity. ‘‘Freshwater pests like didymo spoil recreational activities and can affect plant and animal habitats. They also undermine the community’s efforts to keep their waterways clean and improve water quality. ‘‘So remember to check for clingons, clean your gear, or if this isn’t practical dry your clothes and equipment, before entering and leaving the water. We don’t want people to stop enjoying waterways, just to make sure they’re not having an impact on the environment.’’ Check, Clean, Dry is not just about didymo. Taking the right steps also stops other freshwater pests such as lagarosiphon, egeria and hornwort from spreading. ‘‘Many of our waterways are still free of these pests and we want to keep them that way,’’ says Mr Sullivan. How do I Check, Clean, Dry? CHECK: For ‘clingons’. Check any equipment or clothing that has come into contact with water for waterweed and remove all plant parts. CLEAN: After removing debris, clean
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Healthy food . . . Eating healthy is a good for well being Jax Hamilton told Rangiora High School students on International Youth FILE PHOTO Day.
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Didymo . . . Check for didymo and stay FILE PHOTO clean. with a 5 percent dishwashing detergent or nappy cleaner (two large cups or 500 millilitres with water added to make 10 litres). Soak or spray all surfaces for at least one minute (absorbent items require longer soaking times to allow thorough saturation) before rinsing with tap water. DRY: When cleaning is not practical, items must be completely dry to the touch, inside and out, then left to dry for at least another 48 hours before use in another waterway. If cleaning or drying is not practical, only use your gear in a single waterway. For details on how to clean particular equipment, visit http:/ /www.biosecurity.govt.nz/cleaning
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The summer holidays can be a stressful time for teens away for their usual routine and dealing with emotions and life. The festive season can also be a good time to connect with family and friends and have a good time. However the Waimakariri Libraries website has come up with some websites where teens and their parents / caregivers can seek advise and support. For health concerns, there is TeensHealth, the Lowdown, Youthline and Skylight. TeensHealth provides honest, accurate information and advice about health, emotions and life. The Lowdown helps young people recognise and understand depression and anxiety. It is full of ideas and people who can help you get unstuck and get to a better place. Youthline helps you to get health and support when you need it and there is lots of information and access to help via phone, text, email or live chat. Skylight is there to help young people who have you been emotionally impacted by events that have caused significant change, loss or grief in their lives. Figuring out what you want to do when you grow up can be highly stressful, particularly for young people, so seeking good career advise is essential. CareersNZ, GiveMe, No major drama and Maori Futuremakers may provide you with just the tips you need. CareersNZ allows you to search and apply for jobs online. There are guidelines for CVs and cover letters, with samples and templates. Match your interests to career paths and find out what education and training you may need. GiveMe helps you to find possible funding providers for your study expenses. No major drama provides information about subjects you can major in for Bachelor degrees from across eight New Zealand universities and then rank them based on your skills and interests. Maori Futuremakers is a website to encourage Maori to pursue higher levels of education, training, employment, enterprise and innovation by supporting students and whanau to make more
Page 18
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Family research opportunities With time off work over the summer, what better time to catch up on a little family history research. Rangiora Museum archivist Pam Mackintosh says now is a good time to find out about forebears who served in World War 1, with a lot research being carried out throughout New Zealand to coincide with the WW1 centenary. ‘‘It’s going good, with people writing the stories about soldiers, so people can come into the museum and read it. ‘‘We’re not getting as many people coming in as I thought we would, but we have been in touch with a lot of people.’’ The New Zealand Society of Genealogists’ Waimakariri branch has been working on a project, supported by the Waimakariri district museums and the Rangiora RSA, to research soldiers from the district who served in WW1 and are named on local war memorials. While the project is still ongoing, a considerable number of biographies have been written and copies are available at the Rangiora, Kaiapoi and Oxford museums. Anyone who has photos and medals or information relating to local WW1 soldiers (including place of death, schooling, work and family background) can contact the Rangiora Museum in Good Street, Rangiora, or phone (03) 3107356.
War research . . . Oxford Historical Records Society secretary Voila Brown (left) and Rangiora RSA president Ian Thompson look up records of World War 1 soldiers from the Oxford district. The Rangiora Museum is open on Wednesdays and Sundays from 1.30pm to 4pm (closed public holidays). Admission is adults $2 and children 50 cents. The Kaikoura Museum is the perfect place to visit on a rainy day and is open every day
except Christmas Day and Good Friday. Normal opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am to 4.30pm and Saturday and Sunday 2pm to 4pm, while on Friday, January 1, the museum will be open 2pm to 4pm. The museum houses records
FILE PHOTO
and artefacts relating to local history and particularly to Maori, colonial and whaling history and holds records for family history research. It is located at 14 Ludstone Road, Kaikoura, and admission is $5 for adults and children $1. The recently opened
Kaiapoi Museum is open during library opening hours at the Ruataniwha Kaiapoi Civic Centre on Williams Street, Monday to Wednesday and Friday 9am to 5pm, Thursday 9am to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm and Sunday 1pm to 4pm (closed public holidays). The recently expanded Oxford Museum on Main Street is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 1pm to 3.30pm and Sunday 11am to 4pm. For scouting connections, visit the National Scout Museum at Blue Skies Conference and Training Centre on Williams Street, Kaiapoi, on Sundays 1pm to 4pm. The Hawarden Museum is located in the former Methodist church building on High Street, Hawarden, and holds records relating to the former Waipara county, between the Hurunui and Waipara Rivers. Contact (03) 3144160 to arrange a visit. The Cheviot Museum in Hall Street, Cheviot, is open on Fridays and Sundays 2pm to 4pm over the summer and holds records dating back to early settlement. The Amuri Historical Society runs the Cob Cottage Museum and old Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre in Cheviot Street, Waiau, and is open on Sundays 2pm to 3.30pm over the summer.
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96 9 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand Phone (03) 319 6777 Freephone 0800 733 365
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Be safe this summer Take care when lighting up the barbecue this summer. Barbecues are potentially dangerous, ‘‘especially when the cook is drinking alcohol’’, Waimakariri District Council injury prevention coordinator Leanne Bayler says. She advises people to make sure barbecues are clean and there is no excess fat left which could catch on fire. Check and maintain fittings and connections, because rubber especially can perish, and take care with flammable liquids. Anyone using old charcoal barbecues and lighting with meths needs to take extra care. Supervising children at all times when the barbecue is in use is a must, Ms Bayler adds. ‘‘We are reminding people to be aware that someone is watching the kids and particularly being mindful when drinking, that someone is sober and is watching the kids.’’ Ms Bayler says people need to take care on the beaches, including Waikuku and Woodend beaches. ‘‘Be particularly concerned if kids are digging in the sandbanks. The sea has carved out the stop banks this year and so they could collapse and cavein. ‘‘We haven’t had any issues in Waimakariri, but there have been children in other areas who have been killed.’’ Families are also advised to be safe when swimming in rivers, Ms Bayler says. ‘‘Swimming in a river is not like swimming in a pool or in the sea. Drowning takes less than one minute and is very quiet. ‘‘Even children who are competent swimmers should be supervised. The supervisor should be out of the water.’’ Rivers change every day, so watch out for the depth of the water as it may be deeper or shallower than you think. Check what is beneath the water, as there may be obstacles you can’t see washed into the swimming hole. Do not get into muddy water as it could have a strong current and never jump off a
Relax and unwind Meet or retreat Just enjoy this unique alpine village
Summer sizzler . . . The popular kiwi barbecue can be dangerous if misused.
FILE PHOTO
bridge into water, or enter the water near bridges. Ms Bayler also reminds families to ensure children are always buckled into a carseat or booster seat when travelling in a car, especially if ‘‘the kids are staying with Granny or another family member’’. She recommends children staying in a booster seat until they reach 148cm in height. The council has also prepared summer beach packs which are available at the Woodend and Waikuku beach camping grounds with safety tips. For more information contact Leanne Bayler at the council on (03) 3118900 or (03) 3276834 or email leanne.bayler@wmk.govt.nz.
BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES www.LyfordHolidayHomes.co.nz 03 3156532
Plenty to do in Kaikoura There is plenty of summer fun in Kaikoura these school holidays. From building sandcastles, to playing golf, raft racing, fishing and music, it’s all happening in the Kaikoura. Get the family together and build a sandcastle. The annual sandcastle building competition began on December 5 and continues to January 31. Register online at www.sporttasman.org.nz/sandcastles and take a photo of your sandcastle and email it to wendy.bet@sporttasman.org.nz before February 1. The only rules is that only sand may be used to form the structure of the sandcastle, however other natural items (such as beach wood, feathers, flora and shells) may be used to decorate it. Keen golfers can sign up for the Charles Wiffen New Year Tournament on New Year’s Day, while budding fishers can have a go in the Lions Club Surfcasting Competition on January 1. Get the family or your friends together and build a raft from recycled materials for Zero Waste Raft Race on January 23. This free family event gets under way at 9.30am, so register your interest now by contacting Jodie Denton on 0276107574 or jodiedenton75@gmail.com or Lu Coyle on 0297731524 or email luisa.c@sporttasman.org.nz. If you are looking to keep the kids busy at the end of the school holidays, sign them up for the Oscar Holiday School Programme from January 25 to 29. And look out for the popular Fyffe House Music on the Lawn. Summer is far from over when the kids go back to school, so look out for the Sport Tasman Kaikoura Summer Explorer. Summer is about getting outside and having fun and Sport Tasman has come up
Page 19
Walkway . . . The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, which was extended with the St Paul’s Track earlier this year, is a popular FILE PHOTO track.
Relax ind oo or outdoo rs rs with us
with a way to do it while exercising the body and the brain. Launched last summer, the Kaikoura Summer Explorer is a family friendly event designed to get locals and visitors alike out using some of the district’s most scenic walk and cycle ways, by challenging people to walk or bike up to 10 routes, while answering quiz questions about what they see along the way. The more questions answered, the more points scored, with the top three point scorers winning prizes. This free event, which runs to March 31, is open to people of all ages, although children under 10 are recommended to be accompanied by a guardian over 16yearsold. 1687924-v
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015
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Fishers coming to Kaikoura over the summer are reminded of the new fishing regulations which came into force last year. The Kaikoura Marine Management Act came into being in August last year, following nine years of campaigning by Te Korowai o Te Tai o Morakura, creating a new marine reserve, whale and seal sanctuaries and new catch limits. The fishing regulations, which include a whale sanctuary, three mataitai, two taiapure and the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, are all designed to help enrich and sustain marine life for present and future generations. Department of Conservation (DOC) and Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) staff will once again be out in force over the New Year to ensure recreational users are aware of the regulations. The Christmas, New Year and January period are traditionally a busy time for the Kaikoura coastline and once again a huge influx of visitors is expected, depending on the weather. Last summer DOC partnership ranger Shelly Sidley said there were some reported rules breaches and there was some confusion, but most people seemed to be aware of the changes. ‘‘Most people seem to be happy with the changes and understand the need to keep fishing in Kaikoura sustainable for future generations,’’ she said in January. In anticipation, Te Korowai, DOC and MPI prepared a leaflet and website information to inform people of the changes last summer. A free smartphone app was also available. Over all MPI staff and honorary fishing officers (HFOs) found more than 100 people breaking the new regulations, but just three of these cases led to court proceedings. Ten people were caught fishing within the new marine reserve. To reduce confusion, more visible signs have been placed by DOC and MPI along
Seafood . . . Kaikoura is known for its fresh culinary delights from the sea, as Mayor FILE PHOTO Winston Gray shows. SH1 and at launching ramps showing boundaries and providing information about take or notake zones and fishing regulations. MPI staff and HFOs regularly patrol the area with more than 300 recreational patrols along the coast and at sea over the last year. Sightings of any suspicious fishing activity can be reported by calling 0800 4 POACHER (0800 276224). All calls are confidential.
Collection day changes for rubbish and recycling Your normal Friday collection day for rubbish and recycling will change from Friday 25 December (Week 1 recycling) and from Friday 1 January (Week 2 recycling)
Where
When
Collection Area
Thursday Friday 24 Dec & 25 Dec (Christmas Day) & 31 Dec 1 Jan (New Years Day)
FRIDAY: Northern Kaiapoi CBD only
7am
FRIDAY: Northern Kaiapoi (nonCBD), The Pines Beach, Kairaki Beach & Southern Rural Collection Areas, & the Pegasus & Rangiora Friday ‘Lane Truck’ Collections
Saturday Sunday 26 Dec & 27 Dec & 2 Jan 3 Jan
Monday 28 Dec & 4 Jan
Refuse & Week 1 recycling collections change to Thursday before Refuse & recycling collections change to the Saturday after: 26 December & 2 January
7am
MONDAY: Oxford, Cust, Woodend, Pegasus and Northern Rural Collection Areas
Refuse and recycling No change
• Only official Waimakariri District Council refuse bags and recycling bins will be collected • Refuse bags and recycling bins must be placed for collection no later than 7am (includes Kaiapoi CBD) • Please check the label on the side of your recycling bin if you’re unsure whether your collection’s usually made on Week 1 or Week 2 • If you miss your collection you can take your official Waimakariri District Council bags and your sorted recycling to the Oxford Transfer Station or the Southbrook Resource Recovery Park during normal operating hours (see below), free of charge.
Southbrook RRP and Oxford transfer station will be closed on the following days over the Christmas and New Year period: Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
24 Dec 8:30am 4:30pm as usual
25 Dec CLOSED
26 Dec CLOSED
27 Dec 12:30pm 4:30pm as usual
28 Dec 8:30am 4:30pm as usual
Sorry, we don’t accept credit cards.
31 Dec 8:30am 4:30pm as usual
1 Jan CLOSED
2 Jan 8:30am 4:30pm as usual
3 Jan 12:30pm 4:30pm as usual
4 Jan 8:30am 4:30pm as usual
Oxford Transfer Station High Street, Oxford
24 Dec Closed as usual
25 Dec CLOSED
26 Dec Closed as usual
28 Dec 27 Dec 12:00pm - Closed as usual 4:30pm as usual
31 Dec Closed as usual
1 Jan CLOSED
2 Jan Closed as usual
4 Jan 3 Jan 12:00pm - Closed as usual 4:30pm as usual
Southbrook Resource Recovery Park 284 Flaxton Road, Southbrook Kiosk: 03 313 5499 ReSale Store: 03 313 5798
Sorry, no EFTPOS available and we don’t accept credit cards.
Sand sculptures . . . Temperatures roared into the 30s as artists took to the sand at Waikuku FILE PHOTO Beach for the annual Sand Sculpture competition last January.
A Waimak summer of fun There is plenty to do and see in the Waimakariri district these summer holidays. From viewing art, to playing golf, visiting farmers markets, listening to music and sporting action, there is something for everyone. Art on the Quay in Kaiapoi has an exhibition of Kaiapoi High School senior art portfolios running until January 31, while Arts in Oxford has a ‘‘small works exhibition’’ which runs until January 13. Golf lovers can sign up for the New Year’s Day Open Stableford at the Rangiora Golf Course. Sporting action is provided at Woodford Glen and the Rangiora Races, while the South Island’s best BMX riders converge on Rangiora during January 910 and the Canterbury Rodeo returns to Mandeville on January 16.
Buster Beat is bound to get the feet tapping in Good Street, Rangiora, every Saturday over the summer, while the World Buskers Festival is set to arrive in Rangiora on January 21 and Kaiapoi on January 22. Get along to Waikuku Beach on January 10 and see some sand sculptors in action. The Ohoka Farmers’ Market is on every Friday in January, including New Year’s Day, while the Rangiora Twilight Market returns on Fridays from January 15 and the Cust Village Market on January 24. MuscleCar Madness rolls into Rangiora on January 23 to 24, Summer of Fun events are being held in Oxford on January 29 and Rangiora on January 31, Dudley Pool has a family swim night on January 30 and Toddlers Big Day Out returns on January 31.
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Page 21
Cool off in your local swimming pool There is nothing better on a hot day than to cool off with a dip at the local swimming pool, beach or nearby stream. Swimming pools throughout North Canterbury will be open over the summer providing plenty of fun. In the Waimakariri district, there is the Dudley Park Aquatic Centre (Rangiora), Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre, Oxford Community Aquatic Centre and the Waikuku Beach paddling pool. The Hurunui district has the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa and the Amberley Swimming Pool, while Kaikoura has its own community pool School swimming pools around the region may also be open by arrangement. Waimakariri The Dudley Park Aquatic Centre is an indoor heated facility which is located at 47 Church Street, Rangiora, and is open yearround. The facility features a Lions Club of Rangiora Pool which is an 8lane, 25 metre pool, a 19.5 metre learners pool, a children’s leisure pool including a toddler area and a spa pool. Opening hours over the summer are, Tuesday to Thursday, December 29 to 31, 7.30am to 7pm, Friday to Monday January 1 to 4, 10am to 7pm, and normal hours resume from Tuesday, January 5. Normal opening hours are: Monday to Friday 6am to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 7.30am to 7pm and public holidays 10am to 7pm. For more information phone (03) 3118905. The Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre is an indoor heated facility at 9 Cass Street, Kaiapoi, which is open yearround with a 6lane, 25 metre main pool and a learners pool with a waterfall into the toddlers pool. Holiday opening hours include,
3119019. The Waikuku Beach Paddling Pool features a spraying whale, three floor sprays and an outdoor shower. A mural has been painted on the western wall of the pump and filter room and visitors to the pool will have access to an outdoor fresh water shower. Hurunui The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is a popular attraction for visitors from throughout New Zealand and beyond. The soothing mineral waters have been attracting visitors for more than 125 years seeking to relax, unwind and ease aches and pains. The pools are open 10am to 9pm every day, except Christmas Day, and include 15 open air pools, three sulphur pools, three aquatherapy pools, an aquaplay area, a private sauna and steam rooms, six private thermal pools, a 25 metre freshwater heated pool with lazy river, a large family activity pool with two waterslides, picnic area and cafe and massage and beauty treatments. The Amberley Swimming Pool open Monday to Friday 3pm to 5.30pm and Saturday and Sunday 12.30pm to Big splash . . . Take a dip at the Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre and other local swimming pools FILE PHOTO 5.30pm. To contact the pool during this summer. opening hours, phone (03) 3148806. To find the pool, head north on the late November each year and includes a Tuesday to Thursday, December 29 to main highway, turn left at the Blue 31, 7.30am to 7pm, and Friday to 4lane, 25 metre main pool with a built in easy access ramp. This facility also Dairy into Douglas Road and head on Monday, January 1 to 4, 10am to 7pm. out past the Amberley School. features a learners pool with toddlers Normal hours resume from Tuesday, stand for the smaller children. Kaikoura January 5, which are Monday to Friday Holiday opening hours include The Kaikoura Lions Pool is an 6am to 3.30pm and 6pm to 9pm, outdoor pool located at 191 Esplanade, Saturday and Sunday 7.30am to 7pm and Tuesday, December 29, to Monday, Kaikoura, and is open Monday to Friday public holidays 10am to 7pm. January 4, from 10am to 7pm. Normal hours resume from Tuesday, January 5, 12pm to 6pm, weekends and public For more information phone (03) which are Monday to Friday 8.30am to holidays 11am to 5pm. 3755041. For more information phone (03) The Oxford Community Aquatic 6.30pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to Centre is an outdoor heated pool in 7pm and public holidays 10am to 7pm. 3197299 and check the Sports Tasman Kaikoura Facebook page for updates. Burnett Street, Oxford, which opens in For more information phone (03)
Page 22
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
Keeping your pets cool and safe
SPCA expects influx of summer welfare complaints Spare a thought for our furry friends over the summer. As we enter the hot summer months the SPCA is preparing for an influx of seasonal welfare complaints. However there are some tips to help safeguard your animals from harm during the festive season. Remember hot cars can kill. Unless your journey is for the benefit of your pets, please leave them at home. On a warm day your car can reach 39 degrees in just 10 minutes. Dogs can only endure this heat for a short time before they suffer irreparable brain damage and death. If you see a dog in distress inside a locked car please phone 111 or the SPCA immediately. The best thing to do is keep them cool. Make sure your animals always have access to fresh drinking water and adequate shelter to protect from the sun and heat. Freeze dog treats in water to create fun ice blocks or fill a shallow kid’s pool with water for them to play in. Above all, beware of the sun. Exercise your pet at the coolest times of day and beware of hot pavements or hot sand. All animals can suffer from
Cute kitty . . . Kittens like this are often left abandoned over the summer. sunburn, so rub animal sun cream on sensitive areas such as ear tips, the nose and belly. Be weary when giving pets treats. Monitor what your pet is eating and be careful not to
overfeed. Give pet treats only. Human food may cause digestive issues and some products, such as chocolate and grapes, are toxic and can be deadly.
Keep cool . . . Dogs can endure heat for only a short time. Remember, fireworks can be dangerous. Unfortunately the public sale of fireworks requires pet owners to be vigilant at all times, but particularly during the ‘celebratory’ months of October
FILE PHOTOS
to January. Keep pets indoors at night, close curtains and doors to reduce noise. If you have a particularly nervous animal, speak to your vet regarding calming medication.
The NC coastline is a special place to visit By AMANDA BOWES There is a vast playground of constantly changing topography and scenery in the Hurunui district which makes the area a special place. With so many places to stay and interesting places to visit it can provide locals and tourists with destinations and activities that can take several weeks to visit and do. Coastal From Amberley north, there is a rich and diverse coastline to explore, with some sandy bays safe for swimming, and areas for fishing, scuba diving or taking in the vistas. The pebbly Amberley Beach stretches north from the carpark. You can walk from there to a lagoon which fills and empties with the tide. The Waipara River mouth is also just a couple of kilometres up the beach. When the river is low, or at low tide, it is possible to walk across and follow the beach to a cave and rocks which have hundreds of fossilised sea life forms embedded in them. While not a great swimming beach, as there is quite a drop off and under tows, it is a popular place to fish. Mackintoshes After crossing the Waipara River bridge, a right turn (heading north) at the Waipara Garage on to the Kate Valley Landfill road beyond which is a homestead and stock yards for Glenafric, a farm owned by the Mackintoshes. There is public access to the beach across paddocks to a steep track. There are limestone cliffs a feature of much of the coastline and fossil deposits. It is a safe swimming area. All gates must be left as they are found and NO dogs are allowed. Motunau Beach Fifteen minutes drive up the road is Greta Valley. A right hand turn takes you through winding valleys to Motunau. Once a stop over for Maori canoeing
from Kaikoura to Kaiapoi, Motunau has a small permanent settlement and many baches for holiday makers. It was also a site for a whaling station and whale bones can sometimes be seen at low tide on the north side of the river. There are also some famous fossilised whale bones in rocks further north. A popular spot for diving for crayfish and pleasure fishing as well as commercial, Motunau has become such a popular spot there are often queues at the weekend with people wanting to launch their boats which is often a race against the tide. On the southern side of the town, a track winds down to Sandy Bay, a sheltered, safe place to swim, accessible at low tide or as it recedes. Motunau Island, just off shore, has several species of rare birds that nest on it and the water surrounding it is home to little penguins. Nape Nape Moving further north the next bay is Nape Nape. Ten kilometres past Greta Valley take a right turn onto Stonyhurst Road, then Blythe Road to connect to Nape Nape Road. Following this takes you to the beach which is wild and usually has few people. Nape Nape is known for its remnants of coastal bush and there is a valley that Te Rauparaha used to shelter in and grow food for his armies when they were on tribal warfare missions. Steep white cliffs guard one end of the bay and an area that used to be a DOC camping site still has toilets and a tap for water. Fishing is good because of a reef off shore and many species of fish have been caught there. Hurunui River Mouth Reached from Cheviot, the Hurunui Mouth is the final destination for the large braided Hurunui River. Trout, salmon and whitebait are all caught at the river mouth and there is a camping ground above the mouth. From the mouth, a walking track winds
around the coast and links with the Manuka Track which goes around Point Gibson, where the remains of the MV Paroto can be seen. The ship ran aground in 1966 in a thick fog. The track eventually ends up at Port Robinson. Port Robinson Named after William ‘‘Ready Money Robinson’’ a wealthy landowner in the 1800s, the stretch of coastline by Port Robinson is littered with the wrecks of hapless ships that strayed to close to the shoreline. William Robinson built a causeway to accommodate the transport of his wool clip, a precarious journey by horse and cart, then rowboat to a ship off shore. The road and port were closed in 1908. Gore Bay Named after one of Captain Cook’s crewmen on the Endeavour, Gore Bay is a favourite spot for surfing and families in the summer. Most of the houses are holiday homes with a few permanent residents. A combination of sandy and stoney, Gore Bay is the first beach safe for swimming after Motunau. It is also safe to launch small boats from. Cathedral Gully is a wonder of nature with its sloping floor and canyon like walls that create eerie sounds. Gore Bay is reached from Cheviot. Hamuri Bluff Walkway. On the outer edge of the Hurunui district is the Hamuri Bluff Walkway. Oaro, just north of the Hundalees, marks the start of the track that goes from there to Spy Glass Point. The walk, which follows the railway line and goes through a disused tunnel, the site of Mikonui, an old Maori village, takes around four hours return. A little further on is the grave of whaler, George Allright, a probable old whaling station site. Many seals and fossils can be seen on this walk and it can take more than four hours to walk as people stop and look at things along the way. Inland and Rivers. Winding through the Weka Pass, which
was an old trail for Maori travelling from the West Coast to the east, is the small village of Waikari. Dominated by limestone outcrops Waikari has a camping ground that is popular for those wanting to explore further or temporary seasonal workers. Caravans and buses also use the camping grounds which has good facilities. Balmoral Camping Ground. On the door step of Waikari, Hawarden and Culverden, is the Balmoral Reserve, a unique camping ground set in among pine trees on the banks of the Hurunui River. Being so close by, many families escape to Balmoral from their farms without the worry of having someone to look after stock, as they can just nip home to check on things. It’s only $5, has running water in the summer, a long drop in the winter. The toilets are clean and well looked after. There is fishing, swimming and boating and a pub and cafe ´ a few minutes up the road. Waitohi Reserve Campground. At the Waitohi River, on the way to Lake Sumner Forest Park, via Hawarden, there is a small peaceful campground. There is a popular swimming hole, many walks and fishing. The camp ground has two log cabins that can be booked to stay in. Waiau Motor Camp After leaving Culverden, a right hand turn at Mouse Point leads to Rotherham, Waiau and the Inland Road, an alternative route to the Kaikoura Coast. The area is steeped in history and efforts have been made to preserve buildings from the past to capture a glimpse of pioneering life. In Waiau, a motor camp and backpackers offers a family and pet friendly place to stay with budget accommodation. Waiau is ideally located to take in day trips to the coast or Hanmer Springs and has the Waiau and Mason Rivers for fishing, boating and swimming. Further up the road is the Mt Lyford village which has horse trekking and bush walks nearby and is a winter base for the Mt Lyford ski field.
The News
Sunday December 27 2015
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THE NEWS
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Rural crime . . . Christchurch police district crime prevention manager Inspector Corrie Parnell (left) shows Riley Ricketts (3), of Oxford, the ‘‘police tractor’’, which was on display at South Island Agricultural Field Days at Kirwee earlier this year to raise awareness of rural crime. Canterbury police are advising people to stay safe this FILE PHOTO summer.
Canty police wish for zero road toll, crime free new year Canterbury police want everyone to be safe and feel safe this summer. The shopping malls are set to be busy and schools are out for the summer. As families plan for New Year celebrations, Canterbury police have started a social media campaign highlighting ten tips to help prevent you from becoming a victim of crime over the festive season. Canterbury police district crime prevention manager Inspector Corrie Parnell says the tips can keep members of our communities safe yearround, but we have given them a festive theme. ‘‘All too often opportunistic crime can be prevented by taking simple steps such as parking in secure areas, locking valuables and shopping out of sight in car boots, locking doors and windows and setting house and vehicle alarms. ‘‘Everyone is relaxed in the festive season and it is easy to take your eye off the ball. ‘‘This is also a busy time for opportunistic criminals as they take advantage of shoppers being distracted, crowded shops, bags left open and unattended in cars, windows left open in warmer weather and vehicles left in insecure areas, often with their windows cracked open or the doors unlocked.’’ The New Year should be a time for celebration, Inspector Parnell says,
Offices reopen:
Rangiora: Tuesday 5th January Ph (03) 313 2840
however getting into the festive spirit by consuming excess alcohol and overspending causes stress in many relationships. ‘‘Violence of any kind is never OK and violence will not solve problems. Reach out to support agencies, including refuges, for help over the festive period, but in an emergency always call police on 111.’’ Inspector Parnell advises people ‘‘to take it easy on the alcohol so you don’t get yourself into trouble’’. ‘‘Police take an anytime, anywhere approach on breath testing and anyone stopped by police, no matter what the time of day or night, should expect to be breath tested. If you are planning on drinking alcohol don’t drive. Book a taxi, use public transport or nominate a sober driver instead.’’ Alcohol is a major contributor to crimes such as violence, disorder and sexual assaults. In New Zealand around a third of all recorded offences are committed after the offender has consumed alcohol, Inspector Parnell says. ‘‘Make this festive season one that you will remember for all the right reasons.’’ Inspector Parnell says at the top of every police officer’s wish list is ‘‘a zero road toll and crime free Christmas and New Year’’. ‘‘Be a good mate, stop at merry and stay safe.’’
Amberley: Wednesday 6th January Ph (03) 314 8335
Deliverers required, immediate start, must be 11 years or older. For more details, please contact
Val on 027 807 2251 or email val.genet@thenewsnc.co.nz 1690555-v
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The News
Sunday December 27 2015