January 2018 e Volume: 14 Omokoroa Omelette Issue: 11

Locally produced by January 2018 Volume 14 Issue 11 Omokoroa Community Board Report by Murray Grainger Chairman The year ahead... Omokoroa ANZAC Memorial Cairn was first used. 100 years ago, during 1918, World War One For the Council, 2018 will continue to be busy. The Long- finished and the Spanish Flu epidemic began. Term Plan has to be proposed, consulted on and agreed. The 50 years ago, during 1968, Martin Luther King Omokoroa Stage 3 Structure Plan has to be finalised. A plan for was assassinated and the French began testing nuclear bombs the Omokoroa Domain / The Esplanade area will be brought to at Mururoa Atoll. (Ultimately, this lead to a protest fleet sailing the community for consultation. The future of green-waste and from NZ and that fleet included the yacht “Boy Roel”, owned or recycling in Omokoroa is to be decided. Waste minimisation by the van Leeuwen’s who lived in Omokoroa.) plans will be drawn up and so on. In March we will hold a Future Focus event. (See below for details) 20 years ago, in 1998, Google.com was first registered as a domain name. With all these matters the Council is committed to hearing from you, the ratepayers, and feedback options are available 10 years ago, in 2008, the Global Financial Crisis began. via the Council “Have your say” website, via email, via paper 5 years ago, in 2013, Prince George was born. submissions, either posted or left at the Library. Be involved 2018 has yet to make its mark on history on the world stage and help shape the future of Omokoroa and the wider Western but, for Omokoroa, 2018 will be remembered as the year the Bay district.

First Community Board Meeting 2018 30 January at the Community Church Hall 2018 Future Focus Event - Wed 7 March at Settlers' Hall

Omokoroa Omelette 1 January 2018 Letters to the Editor...

Dear Editor We at Tall Poppy Real Estate were shocked and saddened to read your letter from ‘One Who Cares’ about real estate agents stalking bereaved family members in the hope of securing a listing. That is not only despicable behaviour, it is very definitely against the Real Estate Agents Code of Conduct. There have been cases heard on this matter by the REAA (our regulating government Authority) with the perpetrator being fined and publicly admonished. If anyone suffers from this sort of illicit conduct, we would be only too happy to assist them in making a formal complaint to the REAA to bring the miscreants into line. Rachel and Bernie, Tall Poppy Real Estate

ATTENTION ALL DOG OWNERS Due to a recent local dog attack resulting in injury to our pet and a vet bill, we wish to make this statement "If any dogs ever attack our dogs again, as we walk with him on a leash around Omokoroa, we will take immediate action and report the full details of the dog and the incident to the council"

Tony and Paula Bowman

Omokoroa Omelette 2 January 2018 Try Something New! Two years ago, I was persuaded by friends that I should attend bridge lessons. I attended ten sessions at the local Bridge Club and left each one slightly less confused than before I began. Bridge is, as they say, “a game of two halves”. The first half is silent written bidding, the second half playing the cards. So really what this means is that you must learn a foreign language to communicate with your partner, and then apply what you have communicated to playing the cards. The trouble with foreign languages are that they are jolly tricky to learn with lots of variations, so that it is difficult to become proficient. When you start playing after completion of the lessons, you find you are speaking French and your partner is speaking Russian, and you fumble about desperately, staring at your bidding sheet, trying to work out what on earth your partner is trying to tell you. As you improve, you may find you are both speaking Italian, but are from different regions, and anyway one of you lives on the border and keeps lapsing into German Meanwhile your opponents have hatched a plan in fluent Mandarin and your promising little contract has just evaporated. So why put yourself through this and learn? Well, quite simply, the game is intriguing. It is gripping. I’ve never been much of a one for cards, and have always been hopeless at arithmetic. I may never be good at bridge, but I can appreciate the cleverness of it. Don’t think you have to be retired or sporting a pink rinse and false teeth to join. Do come along for ten weeks of fascinating lessons with Ross Petersen from the Omokoroa Bridge Club. Lessons begin on Monday 12th of February 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Community Church, 139 Hamurana Road. The generosity and friendliness of the members of the Omokoroa Bridge Club is well known to the local inhabitants. W/Bays RBM was invited to attend their Christmas lunch and Prize-giving and was given a royal welcome to the beautiful harbourside village. Arriving early to explore the area, on a beautiful summer day ‘the place of the long lizard’ is a delight of scenic views and is outstanding in its collection of exotic and native trees planted by Joseph Tice Gellibrand and Arthur Crapp between 1870 and 1900. For the final session of the year the members of the club had set the scene with decorated tables, wine or soft drinks and Christmas crackers provided, to accompany the delightful meal to which everyone had contributed. After everyone had enjoyed the delicious delights provided by the members, we proceeded to the prize- giving with Stephanie Annan, their President doing the honours. Many of the members were rewarded with prizes for their success over the year, with Sue Olsen winning the Cup. Prize-giving over, we sat down to finish an entertaining afternoon with some quality Bridge, for which I had the pleasure of playing with Stephanie. The genuine welcome by all of the members, their kindness and consideration is what makes this club so special, that people travel many kilometres to attend. My thanks to Jo for my ‘special‘ prize. A special mention also to David and Ross for their help and to Barbara for providing a fantastic venue, with views to die for, where the committee and myself met to discuss how we can jointly help the club move forward. I look forward to a happy and successful year ahead. By Eunice Eccles All enquiries to Jo Wake 548 0287 - Jean Sears 548 0717 - David Luxton 548 0521 Or email: [email protected]

Omokoroa Omelette 3 January 2018 ♠ OMOKOROA CARDS 500 ♣ We welcome any new players! The group meets at the Bowling Club on Monday evenings 7:15pm. We welcome any new players, if you don’t really understand the game, but would like to learn; our members will teach and mentor you. Please phone Andy on: 570-6035

20 November Winners Lucky Last Joy Ilsey 2310 Jill Clark 270 David Thomas 2910 Brick Taylor 1380 27 November Winners Lucky Last Trish Western 2420 Colin Kurth 1360 David Thomas 3650 Vera Martin 20 Raffle: Trish Western ♦ ♣ Beverley Teeboon Barbara Dowman Jim Hart David Thomas ♠ ♥ Reg Deane 4 December Winners Lucky Last Lorraine Taylor 3350 Shirley Deane 250 Brian Clark 3610 Andy Smith 330 11 December Winners Lucky Last Judi Mori 2300 Jill Clark 100 Sylvia Thompson 2300 Graeme Davis 270 Jim Hart 2890 8 January Winners Lucky Last Barbara Dowman 2820 Judi Mori 740 Brian Clark 2800 Brick Taylor 430 15 January Winners Lucky Last David Nielson 3290 Fay Murdoch 650 Barbara Dowman 2610 Brian Clark 1370

Omokoroa Omelette 4 January 2018 To our wonderful community, best wishes to you all for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! Waipuna Hospice Charity Shops If Santa was too good to you and you have bulging cupboards and no clear surfaces, our Charity Shops will welcome your donations. We accept a wide range of products – in clean, working order – that we can sell to raise revenue for our services. Income from our shops makes a HUGE difference to the breadth and depth of service we can provide our patients and their families. We value your donations of goods and your custom, and would welcome new volunteers to join the team too!

Our latest news is that our Papamoa Charity Shop is opening in early February at 157 Domain Road. Why not pop in when you’re on your way to the beach? Remembrance Service This special annual service will be held at Waipuna Hospice, 7pm on Monday 12 February 2018 and include the blessing of messages from the Remembrance Tree appeal. All welcome. YOUR AD Keep in Touch ‘Like’ us at www.facebook.com/WaipunaHospiceTauranga and visit COULD BE HERE! www.waipuna-hospice.co.nz to keep up with ‘Hospice Happenings’.

We are extremely grateful for the support of individuals, clubs and businesses in our community and look forward to your involvement in upcoming events and with volunteer opportunities in 2018.

Omokoroa Omelette 5 January 2018 Omokoroa Community Policing Group Report Your Omokoroa Community Patrol Team operated across the peninsula throughout the holiday period, at times conducting both afternoon and night patrols. While few issues requiring Police attention were observed and reported, there is little doubt that the presence of the highly visible Patrol vehicle had a tempering effect on those with a disposition towards anti-social behaviour and crime. At the recent Trustpower Community Awards the Omokoroa Community Patrol were declared the winner of the Health and Wellbeing category for the Western Bay area. Their citation on the award certificate reads (in part): “Due to its isolation, Omokoroa is some 30 minutes away from a Police response in the event of a crime or Community Constable emergency. The patrol works to ensure the safety, security and care of both residents and property. Statistics on Paul Wrigley reported crime tell the story. From 80 incidents in the last quarter of 2007, when the group was formed, down to just 8 in the first quarter of 2017. Whatever the presence of Police and emergency services, a community is never as safe as it can be when we each take on a share of responsibility of looking out for each other. The success of the Omokoroa volunteers proves that this approach really works” Omokoroa also won this category in 2014. What is a Community Patrol? A community patrol is a voluntary group of people giving some of their time and taking responsibility within their own community to help the Police make their community a safer environment in which to live. Any citizen who has a caring attitude to their community may offer their services. The Omokoroa Community Patrol has links to Tauranga Police and the Western Bay of Plenty District Council (the partners), and is managed by a committee of local volunteers elected at a publicly advertised annual meeting. Tauranga Central Police Community Constable Paul Wrigley, is the liaison officer appointed to cover the Omokoroa area. He provides direction and guidance to the entire Omokoroa Community Policing Group – Police Information Centre, Neighbourhood Support, Graffiti Busters - including the Patrol Team. Community patrollers act as ‘eyes and ears’ for police. Patrolling their community in pairs, patrollers note anything that could be suspicious and inform police immediately of incidents requiring urgent attention.

Interested in learning more? Ring Tony Hawkins 548 2454; Glenn Whittaker 548 0987 or Bill Jacobs 548 2061. For the Omokoroa Community Policing Group Committee – Glenn Whittaker

Omokoroa Omelette 6 January 2018 Omokoroa Lions Club by President Peter Hartles On behalf of The Omokoroa & Districts Lions Club, I wish everyone a Happy and Enjoyable New Year. Our December dinner meeting was well attended by current as well as past members. The food was great and plenty of Christmas hampers were raffled. We were entertained by the very talented Tauranga Girls College Choir so everyone had a really enjoyable night I would like to thank all those who helped man the Waipuna Hospice Remembrance Tree down at the local Fresh Choice supermarket, especially the organiser Mary Klein. On the 6th of December several of our members manned the BBQ at the Fresh Choice Community Christmas party. Plenty of sausages were handed out, free of charge. This was a very fun event put on by Steve and Chantelle Ling to thank the community for their loyal support to our local supermarket. On the 19th December some of us attended the unveiling of The Omokoroa ANZAC Memorial Cairn. This was a community project that we were happy to donate towards and it was great to see what a marvellous asset it has turned out to be. We enjoyed the entertainment and speeches which were very appropriate for this special event. This year our club name will be changed to Omokoroa & Districts Lions Club. We are dropping the word Pakeke so we can now attract younger members. So don’t be shy, if anyone is interested they can talk to our membership team - Keith and Rosemary Searle - Ph 548 2117. We are looking for new members to join our friendly club who like to serve and give back to our community.

Our 2018 Lions Calendars are now available - $10.00 each. Contact Brian Burford Ph: 548 0933

These will also be availabe to buy at the Market days held every 2nd Sunday of each month - Western Ave. (weather permitting)

Don't forget we Lions do Betty Gane collect a lot of things too! Next Omokoroa Lions Ph: 548 0845 Omokoroa Market Days We collect... Feb 11 & March 11 - Screw top wine bottle caps Contact Betty or - Can tabs any local Pakeke Come along for some good deals, - Unwanted Spectacles Lions member some good food and some great to give them to! company! - Old and foreign money

Pakeke Lions’ Health Aids / Equipment Available on Loan

The Pakeke Lions’ Club of Omokoroa maintains a wide range of health aids equipment which is available to community residents on a loan basis when needed following illness and/or surgery. To enquire about the equipment contact Mary Klein 548-1600 Bed Hoop (1) Heat Lamp (1) Shower Stools (8) Bedside Table (2) High Stool (2) Sock Putter-On (1) Bedside supports (help out of bed) (1) Knee Supports (2) Spenco Cushions (5) Bed / Shower Access Aid (1) Long Shoe Horn (1) Stroller Walkers (9) Bedpans (2) Monkey Bar (1) Toilet Seats (7) Chair for Rehabilitation (4) Moon Boot (5) Transfer Board (1) Chair Raiser (3) Nebulisers (3) Transfer Cushion (2) Commodes (4) Non-slip Shower Mat (2) Urinals (4) Crutches (7 pair) Picker Upper (7) Walkers: Wooden / Metal (5) Eating Tray - cushioned (1) Protectors for Plaster Cast when shower- Walking Aid, 4ft. (2) Elephant Feet (2 set) ing (2 leg, 1 arm) Walking Stick (5) Electric Fan (1) Ring cushion (2) Wheel Chairs (7) Exercise Cycle (1) Sheepskins (2) Softech Full Chair Cushion (1)

Omokoroa Omelette 7 January 2018 Whakamarama Kindergarten 474 Whakamarama Road Ph/Fax 07 552 6631 RD7 Tauranga 3179 Mobile: 0278336524 Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/whakakindi Email: [email protected]

Kia ora everyone, Whakamarama Kindergarten would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support last year with our kindergarten fundraisers. On Friday 1st December 2017 we held our Christmas Market evening at the Whakamarama Hall. Thanks to Fresh Choice Omokoroa, Whakamarama Earthworks and Tauranga Christmas Tree Farm for gifting us items/vouchers for our Silent Auctions. Thanks to Farmlands, Sharon and Joy who gifted us some amazing prizes including; a Christmas cake trucks, a dolls table and chairs and a basket of chocolates. Also thank you to Creative Toys, Whakamarama Community Incorporated, Dean Edwards, Al Ussher and Talia Evered who gifted us spot prizes and items for our children’s lucky dips. A huge shout out to Debbie Allan one of our amazing parents and her team of supportive helpers you know who you are. We had a fantastic visit to The Men’s Shed in Tauranga in term four. We saw where our wooden toys were made and we even got to buy some new boats and a fire engine. Thank you for being Mika and Jamie deciding on what so warm and welcoming to us! delicious treat they want to eat! Throughout the year we continued to visit the bush and Fairy trees on a regular basis. We wish to thank Farmer Gaye and Farmer Norm for making this possible. Also, the Friends of Puketoki continue to support our learning. We would like to make a special shout out to Terry, Robbie, Rob and Colin whom hold a wealth of information and share their knowledge with us in such meaningful ways. Our neighbours the Power family are incredible allowing the children to feed the chickens, watch the shearing and inviting us over when something exciting is going to happen like the concrete truck coming… We have become friends with Paul and Andrea at the strawberry farm and enjoy our little walks up there. Delicious!! We are forever grateful to the Omokoroa Centre for supporting us with the grant to purchase some new outdoor awnings. The difference these made over the rainy season was phenomenal, thank you so much what an amazing service that you offer to the community. Finally, we wish to thank Graeme and Nancy at the Omelette you are such kind and patient people thank you for the gift of communication within the community. You are such a vital and integral link. To our families what a fantastic year we re-open on Monday the 22nd January 2018. We look forward seeing you then and hearing about all of the children’s adventures. As Under Cover Cody would say, stay sun smart over the holidays. “Slip, Slop Slap and Wrap.” We would like to wish you all a happy and safe new year!

Love from the team at Whakamarama kindergarten, Joybells, Sharon, Emily and Bronwyn. Under Cover Cody

Mens shed Emily, (The Christmas tree) Joybells, Historic village ...Mens shed trip (The Pavalova) Santa, Sharon and Morning tea time Bronwyn

A woman went to a computer dating service and said she didn't care A husband visited a marriage counselor and said, "When we were about looks, income or background. All she wanted was a man of first married, I would come home from the office, my wife would upright character. Then a man came in and told them the only thing bring my slippers and our cute little dog would run around barking. he was seeking in a woman was intelligence. Now after ten years it's all different. I come home, the dog brings the The service matched them together at once because they had one slippers and my wife runs around barking." thing in common - they were both compulsive liars.

Omokoroa Omelette 8 January 2018 LOVED 4 LIFE™ Loved 4 Life has been alive in Omokoroa for a year now and is growing steadily. We have welcomed 12 new Babies this year and look forward to meeting many more next year. These babies have all received a patchwork quilt, warm knitted garments and a home cooked meal - all made by our wonderful volunteers. We still need to know about upcoming births. If you are pregnant or have a friend or neighbour who is, please contact me so that Loved 4 Life can continue to welcome Mums and their new babies so that they feel loved and supported, knowing they belong to a caring community. I can be reached on 021 704 686 or 777 0633 or email: [email protected] I would also like to acknowledge the fantastic support we have had in the form of very generous grants from The Centre (Omokoroa), Legacy Funerals and WBOP Council Community Matching Fund. These grants have enabled us to purchase fabrics, wool, labels and brochures. Thank you very much for your support. Cathy Taylor

Our Loved 4 Life team with our Mums and babies at our pre-Christmas Morning Tea

Mayor questions prospect of another toll road for Western Bay sub-region Documents released under the Official Information Act show the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is looking at tolls for four uncompleted roads nationally – including the yet to be built Tauranga Northern Link. Western Bay of Plenty District Mayor Garry Webber says while he accepts tolling is a tool NZTA could use to speed up the building of State Highways, he questions the equity of the approach across New Zealand. “The Western Bay already has two out the country’s three toll roads, the Tauranga Eastern Link, which has been tolled since 2015 and Takitimu Drive, tolled from 2003. “There’s no doubt these roads have brought significant benefit, particularly in terms of efficiency and safety, however it’s hard to reconcile the Western Bay sub-region could end up with another toll road while other large scale roading network upgrades and improvements in Auckland, Waikato and Canterbury have been progressed without tolling.” Garry understands the outcomes of the Tauranga Northern Link tolling investigation are not expected until mid-2018. “I’m not going to predict the final outcome however I will be reminding central government of the need for equity when it comes to applying road funding tools around the country. “It’s vital the right balance is struck between the benefit of yet another toll road to the residents of the Western Bay sub-region and the additional cost to those same residents, businesses and visitors compared to residents in other areas who do not have toll roads.”

A man was rushed in to Mercy Hospital and taken straight in for coronary surgery. The operation went well and, as the groggy man regained consciousness, he was reassured by a Sister of Mercy, who was waiting by his bed. "Mr. Smith, you're going to be just fine," said the nun, gently patting his hand. "We do need to know, however, how you intend to pay for your stay here. Are you covered by insurance?" "No, I'm not," the man whispered hoarsely. "Can you pay in cash?" persisted the nun. "I'm afraid I cannot, Sister." "Well, do you have any close relatives?" the nun essayed. "Just my sister in New Mexico," he volunteered. "But she's a humble spinster nun." "Oh, I must correct you, Mr. Smith. Nuns are not 'spinsters.' They are married to God." "Wonderful," said Smith. "In that case, please send the bill to my brother-in-law."

Omokoroa Omelette 9 January 2018 Omokoroa Omelette 10 January 2018 A House of Representatives or Party Poodles Democracy is a fragile flower that must be vigilantly protected. That is why all New Zealanders should be concerned by the Government’s proposed changes to the Electoral Act pushed by Winston Peters that will enable party leaders, rather that the public, to dismiss MPs from our Parliament. This law risks turning our parliamentarians into party poodles. An MP who questions a policy, criticises a leader, or votes differently to his or her party faces the prospect of dismissal from parliament by their party leader. This is a fundamental change to the centuries old principle that the public and the public alone get to hire and fire MPs. The greatest harm from this change is to stifle debate. It will further concentrate power with political parties and leaders. Our Parliament is already much more rigid along party lines than most western democracies and this provision will make it worse. Dissent and debate can sometimes make Parliament messy, but they are essential ingredients to a properly functioning democracy. A survey of other Parliaments around the world shows just how far out of whack this bill is from democratic norms. Every democracy faces this tension between MPs standing on a party ticket but who fall out with their party. Only a few failed democracies like Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Bangladesh enable a party leader to sack an MP. The courts in Europe have struck down such laws as unconstitutional. The Inter-Parliamentary Union, based in Switzerland, represents 173 Parliaments and has been advocating since 1889 on best practise for parliaments around the world. It is damning of the sort of law being proposed for New Zealand, saying it creates “political party dictatorships”. It argues the free mandate of MPs is an "indispensable guarantee of parliamentary democracy." It states “while party loyalty and discipline are necessary for the proper functioning of a democracy, they must never impair the full and effective exercise of freedom of expression and association by any member of that party since these are overriding fundamental human rights.” This concern is shared by New Zealand constitutional law experts. Professor Andrew Geddis of the University of Otago says that using the law to quash internal party disagreement comes at too great a cost to our wider parliamentary democracy. The origin of this law change lies with Winston Peter’s deep resentment during the first MMP government of nearly half his MPs defecting. These eight MPs dared disagree with their leader over his walking out of the then Jenny Shipley led Government. They believed they were acting in the best interests of New Zealand. New Zealand First now has a rule in its constitution that any MP who leaves or is kicked out has to pay the party $300,000. I do find it ironic that when I was a junior member of the National caucus in the 1990s Winston Peters was the strongest champion of the rights of MPs to free speech and association. Consistency is not his strongest personal trait. It is claimed the power of the leader to sack a MP from Parliament is constrained under the Bill by party rules and a two thirds vote of MP’s. This is ineffective. Two thirds of New Zealand First’s caucus hold Ministerial and other positions at the discretion of the leader. Parties are tribal and do as their leaders wish. Parties are entitled to exit MP’s from their caucus but not from Parliament. This law change is particularly obnoxious for an electorate MP with a direct mandate from his or her constituents. The Government justifies this law change on the basis that MPs who vote differently to the party line are upsetting the proportionally of Parliament and the integrity of the election outcome. This erroneously assumes that political parties and leaders have a monopoly on integrity. The history of New Zealand parliamentary dissidents suggest it is the party and its leadership that more commonly strays from a party’s elected mandate. Derek Quigley was closer to core National values than Prime Minister Rob Muldoon. Most people today would accept that Jim Anderton was closer to Labour party philosophy when he left during the Rogernomics era in 1989. Tariana Turia totally reflected the views of Labour Maori voters when she left over the foreshore and seabed issue in 2004. Hone Harawira left the Maori party in opposition to their agreement with the John Key led National Government. The latest example was Kennedy Graham and David Clendon's abandoning the Greens pre-election over the benefit fraud controversy. A simple tick in the ballot box can never be simplistically translated into clear positions on every issue. I crossed the floor as a junior MP over the Employment Contracts Act in the 1990s to provide for a graduated minimum wage for workers under 20. Such dissent would be impossible under this proposed law. I am particularly astounded by the Green party support for this law change. They described a near identical bill in 2005 as one of the worst to ever come before our Parliament. It is hardly acceptable for the New Zealand Green Party to be the champions of human rights and democracy abroad while voting for erosion of these values at home. Freedom of speech and tolerance of dissent are core kiwi values. We must reject this attempt to weaken our parliamentary democracy. Todd Muller ~ MP for Bay of Plenty

Omokoroa Omelette 11 January 2018 Omokoroa Artists By Karen Loten Hello 2018! Let us hope this year is as good as the last at least in terms of Art. The end of year was celebrated at The Falls Cafe at Karangahake Gorge where the food was amazing and almost a full complement of members in attendance. The photographs are the evidence. The following week saw The Artists AGM take place at the Settlers' Hall with a small team elected to the Action Committee. It was felt that a shared workload would only strengthen the running of the group with more people able to step up if there were absences. Our current co-ordinator Jackie Knotts, was thanked for all her hard work and unanimously re-elected with Janine and Betty now leading on finance. Fran agreed to continue sending our newsy newsletters but will also be supported my Melanie our graphics whiz. The action team will manage such matters as the Programme, workshops and beginners groups as well as coordinate social events, culinary matters and of course exhibitions and competitions. Many ideas for 2018 new experiences were put forward including more clay work led by Hanneke, painting on silk, spray painting and classes for men to name a few. Excited? You should be. If you want to join us, follow the links below. The First session of the year is on Thursday 1st February 0900 at the Settlers' Hall. See you there. Interested?  Karen 548-1454 / 021 102 1984 or follow us on: www.omokoroabeach.nz Omokoroa Artists

Two deaf men were talking on their coffee break about being out late the night before. The first man signed to his friend, "My wife was asleep when I got home, so I was able to sneak into bed, and not get into trouble." The second deaf man signed back, "Boy you're lucky. My wife was wide awake, waiting for me in bed, and she started swearing at me and giving me hell for being out so late." The first deaf man asked, "So, what did you do?" The second man replied, "I turned out the light."

Omokoroa Omelette 12 January 2018 Omokoroa Point School 'The best little school in the bay' 2018 – Creating Our Future We are looking forward to an exciting year growing our school – this includes building new classrooms – this process is taking longer than we had anticipated but we know that all good things take time and you can be assured that the BOT are working very hard to ensure we get the very best possible options for OPS – one that will retain as much greenspace as possible even with the addition of more classrooms. Our last meeting with ministry staff has confirmed that we are now in a design and build process – which we are very excited about. This process will take next year but will give us the opportunity to design classrooms that will fit our school rather than the ministry relocatable option. We are hopeful that we may have new classrooms by the end of 2018. In the meantime, we are fortunate to have the whare manaaki space to grow into should we require it. At the end of last year, we fare-welled three staff members - Gethin Baldwin finished up the year in Room 4, thanks Gethin for the work you put in while at OPs we wish you every success. We also fare-welled two long standing staff members - Angela Pilkington and Pele de Roo. Both Angela and Pele have not only been staff members but their children have all attended OPS so they have had in put via the PTA and as parents as well as staff members for many, many years. Angela’s dedication to teaching has always been something to be admired. Her ability to move students academically and high expectations of what children are capable of will be missed but we know Angela is making the right move to head away on adventures and wish her all the very best. Pele has been an absolute treasure and one that we are sure we won’t be able to replace – Pele has supported our classroom programmes with expert knowledge of what children need to learn to move ahead – her knowledge of literacy is second to none and we shall dearly miss her gentle positive approach, ability to get alongside and bring out the best in all students she works with especially the shy ones. To be chosen to work with Pele has always been a treat not a chore. Everyone loves Pele but while we will miss her we know that she is making an exciting move to be with her daughter, Katie, in Wellington. This year we welcome Elliot Needs to OPS. Elliot was teaching at Mt. Intermediate and brings experience and enthusiasm particularly in performing arts and sport. Elliot will be teaching in Room 5L. We have an incredibly hard-working BOT team and welcome two new members – Richard Apanui and Ronnie Peers to join the team. To Liz Farrell and Shaun Vickers, who have stepped down from the BOT, we thank you for your time, energy and knowledge. Shaun’s business acumen and level steady approach to dealing with issues has been really appreciated. As chair of the BOT Liz’s leadership has enabled a well-managed transition between boards and meant that the school has been able to move from strength to strength. Liz’s care for the wellbeing of staff, advocacy for special needs and focus always on the students being at the heart of all decisions has made an enormous contribution to OPS. We look forward to a great 2018.

Omokoroa Omelette 13 January 2018 Omokoroa Community Tennis Club We ended 2017 at our Saturday afternoon club session on 16th of December with an informal BBQ and BYO drinks which went down very well after a good run around, it was well attended and it was good to see our coach Jackson Currie hitting balls in anger instead of just coaching as he usually does (I gave him a few tips on how to sharpen his game up a bit, my black eye cleared up well though)! Anyway a good time was had by all and now we move in to 2018 and are all waiting with bated breath for the opening of the new courts. A source has told us that the top surface could be laid in the next couple of weeks so we are not too far away from expanding what we we can do on the courts regarding hosting other clubs. We have had a very hot start to the year and have been suffering a bit for our art but on the plus side the kg’s fall off a bit quicker! Happy Tennising everyone By Jeff Warren

spotlight on... Spotlight on Peter ‘Jabba’ and ‘lights out’ Liz Gibbs, Peter was tour in the area would born in the Hutt Valley and Liz in Shropshire England, but let’s often pop in and it not let facts get in the way of a good story. When this respectable was when a startled looking couple accepted the invitation to feature in this article an actress namely Julie appointment was made to go to their house and take a photo of them Walters had tea spilt but such was their desire to avoid the truth coming out they quickly on her by the hapless put their house on the market and did a runner somewhere north Miss Everall that a of Auckland and as you can see from the photo in their haste they seed was planted in forgot their beloved tennis racquets, well Mr and Mrs Gibbs you can her head to create the run but you can’t hide! famous bumbling tea Peters life has been tinged with disappointment and nearly but lady/cleaner comedy not quite moments, for instance before his birth Peters mum had a character but she vision that a group of 3 brothers with hairy chests, medallions, open decided to change the shirts, shiny white teeth and falsetto voices named something like name of the character to Mrs Overall to avoid being sued by Liz and Gibbs from down under would take the music world by storm, earn keep all the proceeds to herself! It seemed that it was only a matter millions and look after their parents for ever more. Imagine her of time before these 2 hapless souls were to be united and despite disappointment when despite sending her 3 beloved Gibbs brothers, her bungling tea lady efforts Liz had amassed enough money to fund sons John, Bill and Pete to school with open shirts, stick on hairy a trip from London to Brisbane. Pete was still trying his bungling chests and medallions in the hope of hastening their assault on best to break in to the world of travel guiding and was a guide on superstardom a bunch of upstarts from across the ditch called Robin, the trip that Liz had booked (those last 10 words are actually true… Maurice and Barry Gibb beat them to it, a TRAGEDY! Down but I must be slipping) but the bus broke down in Dartford and despite not out Pete turned to his dream of being a tour guide and combined their best efforts to fix it they decided to hit the nearest pub and the his love of travel and his obsession with Star Wars to dress up as rest as they say is history. Jabba the Hutt and set up tours around his native Hutt Valley while The story doesn’t end there though, Peter and Liz are our current listening to 70’s music and talking a lot, hence the ‘Hit the High mixed doubles b champs and not that I'm bitter but they used all of Hutt with the Hutt named Jabba while listening to Abba and having their cunning to defeat myself and ‘Whacky’ Jacqui Pittendreigh in a jabba by moving your jaws and talking about Star Wars’ company the final, we were one set up and cruising when Liz claimed that was formed he also had a nutty tea lady guide with him called daft she wanted the lights on and instead of just flicking the switch she Ada who served tea out of a light saber, surprisingly it failed! The claimed that they would not work, it took about half an hour for me first tour went went well but once all 5 of his sisters and aunts and to find out that while she distracted both Jacqui and myself Pete had uncles had supported the early tours business dried up very quickly. pulled the fuse so the lights would not come on and by the time we While all of this was going on and talking of daft tea ladies, in a had worked out what they were up to we had lost our concentration distant Shropshire village a young English rose by the name of Liz and they took the next 2 sets easily and while we were trying to Everall was taking any part time jobs that were available to make find out the problem Pete ate all of Jacquis maltesers which caused ends meet and fund her love of travel. It was whilst doing one of her great distress. I feel that we should warn all tennis clubs in the these fund raising jobs that lead to her claim to fame. She got a job as Auckland area of this innocent looking couples impending arrival! a cleaner come tea lady in an antiques shop in Shropshire. She was a They will be greatly missed though and we all wish them well and terrible tea lady and would often spill more tea than she served (her look forward to seeing them on our courts again one day. serving hasn’t got much better over the years). The shop was very popular with the well to do and actors and actresses that were on By Jeff Warren.

For their anniversary, a couple went out for a romantic dinner. Their teenage daughters said they would fix a dessert and leave it waiting. When they got home, they saw that the dining room table was beautifully set with china, crystal and candles, and there was a note that read: "Your dessert is in the refrigerator. We are staying with friends, so go ahead and do something we wouldn't do!" "I suppose," the husband responded dryly, "we could clean the house."

A husband visited a marriage counselor and said, "When we were first married, I would come home from the office, my wife would bring my slippers and our cute little dog would run around barking. Now after ten years it's all different. I come home, the dog brings the slippers and my wife runs around barking."

Omokoroa Omelette 14 January 2018 Lennie helps crack record for Council’s adoptions One hundred and one dogs have found new homes this year thanks to Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s adoption programme. Lennie, who left for his forever home in the South Island this month, was another success for Council’s Adopt-a-Dog programme. Like many dogs in the programme Lennie had a bad start in life – he was found wandering along a country road skinny, dull-coated and very hungry. Often Adopt-a-Dogs are strays, victims of neglect or voluntarily surrendered by their owners but have the nature, ability and desire to be companions in a loving home. These dogs are nurtured, nourished and prepared for their next journey in life by Council’s foster carers and animal services team. All undergo a behavioural and temperament assessment and are de-sexed, vaccinated, microchipped and treated for fleas and worms. Lennox packed up and off to his After being with Council’s team for a few weeks, it was clear Lennie was adorable, quick . to learn, gentle and looking for love. A smart dog with the looks of a Belgian Malinois new home (Belgian sheep dog), Lennie stole the hearts of Jan and Nick from Christchurch because of his resemblance to their old dog Cracker who passed away in October. Council takes adoption very seriously and only allows dogs to go to responsible owners who are the right fit for the dog they are adopting. Adoption costs are $220 (includes vet checks, vaccinations, microchipping, desexing and flea and worm treatment). Interested in adopting a dog? The Western Bay programme is unique in the way that people looking to adopt a particular size or breed of dog are welcome to let Council know the kind of dog they are interested in. If the right one comes along Council will be in touch. Or fostering a dog? Council is always keen to find foster carers to temporarily care for dogs while they are being prepared for adoption. If you are interested and have a suitable safe and secure property and the time to give, give Council a call. For more information please contact the Animals Services Team on 0800 926 732 or email Shelley on: [email protected] Check Council’s website for details www.westernbay.govt.nz/adopt-a-dog.

FIRE PERMITS SUSPENSION LIFTED - Monday, 15 January 2018 Recent rain in the Western Bay area has lowered the fire danger enough to allow issuing of fire permits again. Customers with expired permits will need to renew their permits or reapply at www.pumicelands.co.nz. Weather conditions will continue to be monitored. February and March are traditionally the hottest and driest months of the year, and all permit holders must ensure they are burning safely in the weather conditions and following the conditions of their permits. It is essential to have sufficient water and tools onsite to keep their fires under control at all times. Fires must not be left unattended at any time and be completely extinguished when left. A reminder also that a total fire ban remains in force for all reserves, foreshores, beach esplanades and parks managed by Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga City councils.

Omokoroa Omelette 15 January 2018 Bay Trust confirms support for Blade expansion Further to our reports in last month’s Omokoroa Omelette, we are delighted to let you know we have been successful in our application to the Bay Trust, and had a lovely Christmas present of $9,000 towards our expansion plans in the Kaimai Mamaku State Forest Park at the end of Whakamarama Road. Now all we need are lots of volunteers! Casual supporters ready and able to clear tracks of supplejack etc. so traps can be installed and accessed readily. Can be trained and introduced to the area, then do bits of track clearing in their own time. Long term committed trap checkers ready to go in every two weeks to record rat and possums trapped and re-set the traps. Casual trap checkers who can come to help when able at regular trapping times. Weekends could be a possibility, as well as our regular Friday afternoon sessions. Progress Report On our last visit on the 22nd of December we cracked the 500 barrier with a total since May 2016 of 507 possum trapped. Over the holidays, our hard-working GPS man Wayne, has been in and set out the tracks of trapping lines 11 to 13 with every 75 metres marked off for rat trapping tunnels. Possum traps will go in on alternate stations 150 m apart as they travel further. These need people to go in with pruners and loppers to make them easier to walk along without the danger of tripping or getting lost. Future Plans We are starting up again 12th January, although a few are going in earlier, and then a major full turnout, when everyone is back from holiday, starts Friday the 19th January. We have had several people say they would join us in the New Year, so hope to start showing these people the ropes from then. We meet at the Blade Carpark, which is 500 metres down the single lane road at the end of Whakamarama Road. Orders are being placed for more traps to set up in the lines 11 to 13, and there will be a weekend working bee advised on the two local cyberlink networks as to when the gear is ready to be carried up into place. That will take a huge community effort with 38 rat tunnels and 20 possum traps to be carried in. Should be a fun and exhilarating day’s effort to be a part of. Funding In the long run we are going to need more funds for this ongoing project, so we are keeping our “Trap Sponsor” project going for local supporters. You can fund rat traps at $20; Possum @ $40; Stoat @ $120. Anyone who would care to support this worthy effort may email [email protected] now. A “How To” email will boomerang into your inbox. So far, we have confirmed offers of $1940 from sponsors [Thanks folks] approximately $9,000 to go Please help us get there. Tracking To assess our success, we place tracking cards out in 25 tunnels across the original 100 Ha area. Last done on December 16th after using Ditrac rat bait for four weeks. There were zero rat prints and only one chew card attacked by a rat. The photo below shows weta prints on our most heavily marked card. Their presence is a sign of an increasingly healthy piece of bush for the native fauna we are protecting, please think seriously about joining this local pest free initiative.

Omokoroa Omelette 16 January 2018 Omokoroa Preschool Ohana means family - Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten. Kia Ora everyone!! A very warm welcome back and a happy new year to all our families and our new families that have joined us. Here’s to 2018 where we will be making great memories once again. Thank you to everyone for coming to our Christmas in the park it was a great turn out and support was wonderful. There was a visit from Santa and gifts given out. Really enjoyed seeing the staff and familes get together outside the centre. Relaxing evening spent at the Park! There is an exciting year ahead for us in which we will be promoting and enhancing your child’s growth and development while learning in a warm and safe challenging environment. There are still some families away taking advantage of our lovely weather but here at preschool we Vinnie & Jacob gloop fun have still been very busy having fun. The structure of our daily routines are carefully planned to encourage independence, self confidence and also group co-operation through one on one and group play. Please keep a look out for our annual quiz night which will Cole, Vinnie &Jacob come around faster than we know it. We would love to take this opportunity once more to thank everyone for their continued support Please feel free to pop in any time to meet the team and have a look around. 144 Margaret drive, Omokoroa. Phone 548 2626 www.omokoroapreschool.co.nz Eva

Mason, Elliott, Nixon, Sienna, Jack, Vinnie, Jacob & Mia Benjamin and Nixon Boh & Benjamin on the bus, hold on tight!

Omokoroa Omelette 17 January 2018 OMOKOROA LAWN BOWLING CLUB Bowls Alive and well in 2018

Bowls for The New Year is well under way at the Omokoroa Bowling The Men’s Fours and Triples and Junior Singles championships are Club with Championship and Open events being held and the greens reaching the final stages while the Championship Singles and Pairs in full use. A new Men’s Monday Interclub started in early January events will be held in February and March respectively. and the Challenge Omokoroa Trophy series continues through until Two Open Tournaments recently held attracted teams from as far April. away as Auckland. Our very popular Omokoroa Country Estate The hugely popular Twilight Bowls on Tuesday evenings is well ‘Mussel’ 2x4x2 Pairs Tournament (yes – players do get to eat mussels advanced and will go through until late February. between games!) – was contested by 40 teams over two days in early Three Club Championships were completed in December: December. Kevin Whitworth and Neville Canute from Katikati were the successful duo with the Day One prize going to local Omokoroa Mary Lott Mixed Pairs: players, Rodger Broomhall and John Hunt. Winners: Ken Coleman, Annette Hawkins The ASB Open Men’s Triples event held early in January was won Runners Up: Derek Ilsley, Caryl Collier by a composite team headed up by local Omokoroa member, Morgan Women’s Fours: Solomon. There was a good representation of six Omokoroa teams Winners: Annette Hawkins, Jane Mason, with the most successful team comprising Stephen Maddock, Peter Nicholson and Mike Connor who won the afternoon prize. Caryl Collier, Linda Walker Runners Up: Janet Burmeister, Joan Torteli, Anne Murphy, Jillian Cresswell Women’s Triples: Winners: Janet Burmeister, Annette Hawkins, Anne Murphy Runners Up: Marlene Conn, Christine Ramsden, Caryl Collier

ASB Open Men’s Triples Winning team: (from L) Ross Roycroft Tauranga, Carl Hunt ASB Representative, Morgan Solomon, Greg West Tauranga

Twilight Bowls… we can always find room (and bowls) for a few more people. You are welcome to come along and join in at 5.30pm on Tuesdays – or if you are driving along Hamurana Rd and see some activity at the Bowling Club, come on down and have a look. You might get ‘bowled over’! For Twilight / General Bowls info contact… Bill Murphy Ph: 548 1491 Email: [email protected] Max Cleaver Ph: 548 0298 Email: [email protected]

Omokoroa Omelette 18 January 2018 Pest-Free Omokoroa aka the Rat Colum As you can read below I’m writing on a slightly different topic this month.In Central Otago the bird and plant life have been highly invaded and lizards so depleted there is little left in the environment for people to relate to, also the remnant, threatened species of plants and invertebrates remaining, are small and hidden and hard to get excited about. To raise awareness, the Central Otago Ecological Trust has created the Mokomoko Dryland Sanctuary. A big emblem of a skink has been erected on the highway together with a sculpture (similar to our Lizard) and the local museum has live animals on display and are planning to build an outdoor enclosure for lizards. The Otago Skink and Grand Skink are not only two of New Zealand’s largest lizards but also some of our rarest, that are only found in Central Otago. The schist rock there is very layered and fractured horizontally forming deep cracks where skinks can escape from the heat and cold extremes. These two species of skink are slow growing, slow to reach sexual maturity and then produce only two young per year; which makes them very vulnerable to population decline and introduced predators. Otago is prone to pests of every kind so there was a need for a fenced Sanctuary. In 2005 the Trust built “the smallest sanctuary fence in N.Z.” --just 0.3 hectares-- as an experimental trial to see if lizards would survive in an area they were known to live in the past. Some captive bred Otago Skinks were released and initially all went well - then mice got in, and although lizards can grow to 30cm long, mice were seen attacking them. The more environmentalists have looked at the relationship of mice, together with native species, the more problems have been found. Otago’s modified dryland ecosystem is now often introduced species of grasses bred for pastoral farming, which seeds heavily every year creating a ‘seed mast’ year with a resultant high population of mice. The mice within the trial area have been eradicated and a bigger 14 hectare fenced sanctuary has been created for full translocation/reintroductions where pest eradication and habitat restoration continues. This has taken years of volunteer work and fund raising - the message for other interested community groups being - ‘you have to be patient - don’t be in a hurry’ The plan now is to begin releasing more lizards in February and March this year, with a DOC permit to translocate Jewelled Geckos from the highlands of Central Otago. An expert, and specialist, considers that this population source is robust enough to withstand the removal of some individuals, but coming from tussock and shrub high country where temperatures are cool will create another trial case for the Trust. Hopefully, in a year or so Green Skinks can be introduced, which would mean 4 locally extinct species - Grand and Otago Skinks, Jewelled Geckos and Green Skinks have all been reintroduced in just a few years. Later, Mountain Tree Weta and Tuatara may be translocated. With the ongoing hard work by the Trustees and volunteers doing weed control and planting natives, which are propagated by a local community group, a lot of natural habitat has recovered, making the Sanctuary a great educational attraction for many schools and providing a continuing interest within Central Otago. I was doing some research and the photo of the skink attracted me, reminding me of our lizard. I wouldn’t have thought building a large outside sanctuary for skinks and lizards Oligosoma Grande would be feasible, what a great achievement! Another great “Ark Sanctuary” for our endangered wild life.

Omokoroa Omelette 19 January 2018 Council funding a lifeline for lifeguards A funding boost for surf lifeguards on Western Bay beaches this summer has helped bridge the funding gap for weekly patrols, says Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber. Western Bay of Plenty District Council has lifted its annual funding for the Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) lifeguards to $92,642 – a $10,000 increase from the previous summer. This has enabled 14 paid professional lifeguards to be on duty during the week at Waihi Beach, Bowentown, Maketu and Pukehina throughout the peak holiday season from December through most of January. They are part of a national charity representing 74 Surf Lifesaving Clubs in New Zealand that patrol more than 80 locations. The additional lifeguards will patrol during the week, while weekend patrols are covered by volunteer lifeguards. Tauranga City Council contributes $180,000 to the service on Mount Maunganui, Omanu and Papamoa beaches. Mayor Garry Webber says Council is privileged to support the service."As a nation we rely heavily on a mainly volunteer-based lifeguard service to keep people from harm. The lifeguards work through all weathers and conditions Waihi Beach professional lifeguards for Surf Lifesaving to ensure our beaches are as safe as possible.’’ Council’s funding extends the New Zealand, Shanae Richardson and Thomas Brown professional mid-week lifeguard service to tie in with the volunteer weekend help holidaymakers Maryanne Sutherland and daughter guards to provide full week lifeguard patrols for the public. Eastern Regional Lucie from Hawke’s Bay. Manager for SLSNZ, Chris Emmett, says local council funding is critical to sustain the level of service needed through the busiest time of summer. "The Western Bay beaches are getting busier every year and we work really hard to keep our level of service high. While our lifeguards provide a lifeline for swimmers, the support from councils is a lifeline for Surf Lifesaving New Zealand. Their funding is spent almost entirely on the lifeguards’ wages. Without this support we would not be able to sustain this level of service during week days.’’ Please don’t swim here! - 21 December 2017 Four swimming sites in the Western Bay are unsafe due to high E.coli levels following recent heavy rain. Western Bay of Plenty District Council has placed `No Swimming’ signs: Tuapiro at McMillan Road Wairoa River at SH2 Wairoa River below McLaren Falls Road Uretara Stream at Henry Ford. Toi Te Ora Public Health has warned that each of these sites has recorded E.coli levels well above the acceptable limit for safe swimming. The contamination is likely to be the result of farm run-off after the heavy downpour of rain earlier this week. Toi Te Ora advises that swimming in any lake or river after heavy rain may cause ill health. These sites will be re-sampled until they return to acceptable levels and the signs will be removed. For more information check out www.westernbay.govt.nz/our-services/water-services/swimming-water-quality

One day after the service a little boy approached the parish priest with a question: Little Boy: "Father I heard you once say that we all came from dust" Parish priest, "That's right I did say that". Little boy: "And Father I heard you say that when we die we go back to dust." Parish Priest: "That's right I did say that, I am glad you were listening so very well". Little Boy: "Well Father I think you should come to my place and look under my bed because someone is either coming or going!"

Omokoroa Omelette 20 January 2018 Minnows Kindergarten Meet the team at Minnows Kindergarten. Beverley Haddon – Centre Owner Mother of 6 with 2 grandchildren, Beverley has been involved in ECE for over 30 years, managing childcare centres for the past 14. She and husband Grant purchased Minnows in 2014. Having previously owned and operated large centres they were looking for a centre with strong family ideals, where children, their families and the teachers feel at ease, enjoying learning together. ‘I believe that children learn and grow more confidently in a smaller group, where there is time for each child to share their ideas, theories and understanding of the world around them. Our teachers and parents are able to build on the children’s knowledge and take it further, explore other related ideas and concepts, encouraging their thirst for knowledge. As children spend longer hours in ECE it becomes more important that there is a strong link between teachers and families to uphold the families’ beliefs. I feel strongly that through the teacher training and registration process the quality of ECE education have improved, but this must be supported with ongoing professional development. This keeps our teaching practices current and relevant in an ever-changing world. Nikki MacDonald – Team Leader – Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) Married to Craig and living in Omokoroa, Nikki has 3 step children and 9 grandchildren. Family is really important to Nikki - originally from The Waikato she tries to visit as much as possible to see them. Enjoys kayaking and fishing in her spare time. She is currently attending ‘The Incredible Years’ Teacher Course. ‘Having worked in large centres it is a joy to work in a small centre where you can really get to know the children and spend time engaging with them’ Helen Osborne – Teacher – Graduate Diploma (ECE) Trained as a teacher in the UK, Helen and her husband emigrated to New Zealand 8 years ago where she continued her education by completing her NZ ECE Diploma. She has a daughter who attends Omokoroa Point School. Helen loves living and working locally and being part of the beautiful Omokoroa Community. ‘I love what I do and have been in education for many years. Areas of particular teaching interest for me at this present time include the value of outdoor play for our children and the role of children as teachers... and I’m delighted to share with you that our wonderful tamariki here at Minnows are always busy providing many fine examples of both!!’ Stephanie Leeves-Annan – Teacher - Graduate Diploma of Teaching (ECE) Stephanie is Married to Geoff, they have teenage twins and have been living in Omokoroa for 12 years. Before she finished her teaching diploma in 2013, Stephanie trained interns through her previous professional role as photographer within Museum and Art Galleries she has also taught fashion history at tertiary level. She has a B.A. PGDip. Art and Design, Dip. F.A.. ‘Because of my previous professional background, I particularly value art, literacy learning and imaginary play with pre-school age children. I consider it a privilege to be working with and caring for the precious children who attend Minnows. Empowering them so that they see themselves as enquiring, capable learners is my focus’. Grace Mathis – Teacher – Diploma in Teaching (ECE) Grace is Married to Barry and they live in Katikati. She has 2 children and 4 grandchildren. Grace works at Minnows 2 days a week and with Barry on their Avocado Orchard 3 days per week. ‘My passion for teaching comes from a childhood where free play was my way of life, running ‘wild and free’ over our family farm land. I believe age appropriate risk taking and exploration builds resilience and character. I feel honoured to be part of a team that offers a respectful learning environment tapping into the very extraordinary learning children do each day, and blessed to build on each child’s individual developing knowledge. Getting to know the children and their whanau allows our Minnows family to be supportive of each other, which is what makes Minnows such a great place to work and learn.’ Louise Roberts - Administration and Support Originally from the UK, Louise moved to New Zealand with her husband in 2005, settling in Omokoroa in 2008. She now has Reuben and Phoebe who both attended Minnows before graduating to Omokoroa Point School. She has a background in Marketing and Catering. ‘I love working with the children, knowing we are teaching them the early foundations for the tools and skills they need throughout life. Working at Minnows gives me the perfect work/life balance’

A teacher plants the seeds of knowledge, sprinkles them with love, and patiently nurtures their growth to produce tomorrow’s dreams.’ – unknown

Minnows Kindergarten is Omokoroa’s longest running quality early childhood centre next to Cooney Reserve in Omokoroa Village. We provide a safe and stimulating learning environment for children aged 0 - 5 with flexible hours, small numbers, low student to teacher ratios and an innovative teaching programme, including our transition to school programme (4-year olds). We are open 7:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday inclusive of school holidays. Call in and see us anytime to see how we can help prepare your child for future learning with confidence. 3 Margaret Drive, phone us on 07 548-2040, email: [email protected] or visit: www.minnowskindergarten.co.nz Minnows Kindergarten ‘Where kids can be kids”

Omokoroa Omelette 21 January 2018 Roads of Omokoroa - Part Three.

In the late 1800s groups came to Omokoroa by boat from Tauranga for church and other group picnics. Tauranga families sailed to and camped here from at least the 1930s. Pam Robinson remembers two other families camping: the James’ camped where lower Harbour View Road begins, the Freemans set up on the Omokoroa Road corner and the Smiths (her parents) looked east. Slowly Omokoroa Beach developed from its earliest days of farming families and other visitors camping under the trees that lined the waterfront (the Beach Store end of the Esplanade). Eventually beach front sections became available. Road access into Omokoroa up till then was from Beach Grove then over the hill and along the Esplanade, so it was this area that became available first. After World War Two, with the The Esplanade development of what is now the waterfront end of Omokoroa Road and then lower Harbour View Road, baches started to be built along these roads. The Beach Store was built, initially run by Myrtle Crapp. Athol Garland remembers that in 1950 there were just the Hiskins, Kirks and Garlands camping where the boat slip used to be. Before long each of these families had built a bach. Likewise the Bentons, Wrights and others built their Harbour View Road baches in the early 1950s. Some local farmers bought sections too. Mrs Betty Francis bought the first section past what is now the boat trailer parking area. A bach was built in 1954 and her family used this in the school holidays, her husband and sons returning to the farm each day for milking. The Nolan family built their bach at 46 the Esplanade in the 1950s and remember that there were already more than ten baches nearby. Theirs still remains, though not on this section and is still owned by one of the four sisters. It was shifted a few doors along and the original section now has two modern holiday homes for two of her sisters. Dick & Ella Coulston’s home Looking up the road, away from the Esplanade. on the Esplanade was the first permanent home (in her interview in 2005 Ella described them as ‘the first of the intruders’ meaning the first non-farming family to settle on the Point). The Barretts too, came to live on the Esplanade, and would make deliveries from their Whakamarama general store to local families and bach owners. A slip along the track from Beach Grove to the Esplanade meant an improved entry into this growing settlement was needed. After Harbour View Road was extended round the hill to meet the newly developed Omokoroa Beach Road, more baches and the start of residential living led to a request for a purpose- built school. On land sold by Alan and Nell Unsworth, Omokoroa Point School and a school house were built and attracted yet more permanent residents. Vivian Drive, MacDonnell and Hamurana Roads and their various side roads came into being through the 1960s. The group of shops on the intersection of Hamurana and MacDonell and the early Fire Station (now the site of the Omokoroa Library Waterfront end of Omokoroa Beach and WBOP District Council office), the establishment of a medical centre and Road, looking towards the harbour. pharmacy there, all added to the attraction of Omokoroa Point as a place to live in. Waikato farmers and others who had holidayed here started to see this as a place to retire to. Ruamoana subdivision followed. Slowly the Point area of Omokoroa filled in along Hamurana Road opposite the school. More land, roads, facilities were needed! And so Omokoroa has grown – and is still growing.

Omokoroa Beach Road (late 1950s). Lower Harbour View Road is partially obscured by the pine trees. Upper Harbour View Road has not yet met at the corner and Hamurana Road has not yet been developed. Note how few boats are on moorings and the extensive slips along Motuhoa. The beginnings of Harbour View Road (note the trees towards the Esplanade)

Omokoroa Omelette 22 January 2018 Omokoroa Omelette 23 January 2018 Omokoroa Friendship Chit Chat As mentioned in the November Omelette, Friendship Club members were invited to join Country Estate Friendship members on selected Fridays in December and January at the Country Estate and some of us had fun doing that. We'll be back at the Omokoroa Community Church Hall from Friday 2nd February when everything else is in full swing. We would welcome new people to the district who are looking for company and something to do. At the moment we play 500, Rummikub and UpWords (like scrabble) and we are open to other ideas. Just come along to 139 Hamurana Road at 10am Friday mornings. Barbara Walls President Phone 548 2899 or 027 645 9421

Wisdom from Grandpa Whether a man winds up with a nest egg, or a goose egg, depends a lot on the kind of chick he marries. Trouble in marriage often starts when a man gets so busy earnin' his salt, that he forgets his sugar. Too many couples marry for better, or for worse, but not for good. When a man marries a woman, they become one; but the trouble starts when they try to decide which one. If a man has enough horse sense to treat his wife like a thoroughbred, she will never turn into an old nag. On anniversaries, the wise husband always forgets the past but never the present. The bonds of matrimony are a good investment, only when the interest is kept up. Many girls like to marry a military man – he can cook, sew, and make beds, and is in good health, and he's already used to taking orders. Eventually you will reach a point when you stop lying about your age, and start bragging about it. The older we get, the fewer things seem worth waiting in line for. Some people try to turn back their odometers. Not me, I want people to know "why" I look this way. I've traveled a long way and some of the roads weren't paved. How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are? When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to your youth, remember about Algebra. I don't know how I got over the hill without getting to the top. Ah, being young is beautiful, but being old is comfortable. Old age is when former classmates are so gray and wrinkled and bald, they don't recognize you. If you don't learn to laugh at trouble, you won't have anything to laugh at when you are old.

Omokoroa Omelette 24 January 2018 Omokoroa No1 School... End of Year Round Up A highlight and tradition of our end of year – WATER DAY!!! The children had great fun going to different water activities. These ranged from a huge water slide, water obstacle courses, water sack races to water tasting tests. Each class was led by Year 8 students and had a wonderful - and very wet - time!

Jaden & Luca

George, Hugo & Georgia

Our end of year Prize Giving Night focused on farewelling our principal, Chris Broadhurst. There were songs written about him, crowns and plagues, (naming our dome and multi-purpose room The Broadhurst Performance Centre) given to him and many, many tributes and memories shared Mr B with Finn and Harry Our Year 5 Engineers worked very hard to find ways to improve the school. These are some of the clever ideas they came up with. We are the Year 5, Engineers. We’ve been working very hard to find ways to improve the school. These are some of the clever ideas we came up with. Foot cleaning stations (dry and wet) especially for those sandpit lovers Chalk board (for the PE shed to help keep track of our precious sports gear) Bucket pulley system (for the Playhouse, for the little imaginations) Aaron Power presetning Mr Boardhurst These were all great ideas and in the end we agreed that with the plague they were all manageable projects that we could complete and would hopefully benefit everyone at Number 1. The dry foot cleaning station was really fun to make. It was a great challenge getting to budget, plan, design and buy all the materials for this as well as using drills and other hand tools to build these different projects. It has been great to see all the sand on the foot cleaner as it shows us that not only does it work but it’s being used. The younger students really seem to love using the bucket and pulley system in the playhouse and it’s been great to see them using their fine motor skills and teamwork to build and create with their growing imaginations. The chalkboard has been completed but is yet to be implemented but we have high hopes for this to be a success as the other projects have been. All round the year 5 team are pretty happy with their engineering feats.

Omokoroa children singing to Mr Broadhurst

Omokoroa Omelette 25 January 2018 Omokoroa Omelette 26 January 2018 Omokoroa & Area Clubs and Groups

Are you new to lovely Omokoroa? Omokoroa History Group Cards 500 We are looking for people recently moved to the Meets every 2 months. To explore and preserve area Monday evenings 7:15pm at the Omokoroa Bowling area. If that’s you come and join our history. Newcomers welcome. Interested? Club. Visitors & new members welcome! “New Settlers Group.” Meet new people - Share Call Jocelyn on 548-0110 or Colin on 548-1485 Contact: Andy Smith 570-6035 your thoughts Spark ideas around - Have fun! This Omokoroa Bridge Club group will be held on the first Wednesday of every Meets on Monday afternoons and Thursday month @1.30pm at The Centre, evenings at the Omokoroa Church Hall. Kids & Teens community shop Hamurana Rd. We welcome all new members. For further Pre-School Story Time Singles over 50 club information please Ph: David Luxton 548 0521 At the Omokoroa Library Every Friday at 10am. A well-attended new group for guys & gals 50+ (30mins) Caregivers must accompany children. BOLIVIA (card game) enjoying likewise singles company for a variety of Fridays at 1pm @ the Omokoroa Bowling Club. activities (drinks/sport/meals/movies) For more Whakamarama Community Playgroup Contact Joan 577-6342 info please email: Come and join us for a morning of fun! [email protected] We are situated in the Whakamarama Hall. Omokoroa Friendship Club Every Thursday from 9:30-12pm. For information Meets Fridays 10am - 12:20pm. At the Omokoroa Omokoroa Pakeke Lions Club please ring: Debbie Allan 552-5141 Community Church Hall. If you would like to consider joining Drop-in and have a game or a chat. Please call... Rosemary or Keith 548-2117 Omokoroa Toy Library Contact: Barbara Walls Ph: 548-2899 We serve the community, but are a ‘Pakeke’ club Situated behind the Settlers’ Hall. which means ‘work’ is kept to a low level Specialising in toys for 0-5’s from Table Tennis as little as 50c for 2 weeks, memberships (compared to regular Lions groups) allowing you to Interested in joining our local table tennis club. still enjoy your ‘retirement’. available. Open Saturday mornings 9:30 - 11am Monday evenings 7pm – 8:30pm For more info email: $3 ahead - ($5 a couple) Includes supper. Aqua-aerobics in Omokoroa [email protected] All level of players welcome. Enhanced fitness levels, weight loss with lots of Held at The Settlers’ Hall - Omokoroa. laughter and camaraderie. Everybody is welcome. Omokoroa Playcentre Please bring Soft shoes and a bat if you have one, Sessions 9am Mon, Wednesday & Fridays. Situated behind Settlers' Hall. all other equipment will be provided. Omokoroa HOT Pool. Only $5 per person. Open 9am-12pm on Mon, Thurs & Fri, during Contact: Bruce Lauchlan 548-1741 Contact Jude 027 548 0530 school term. Free play for 0-6 yrs olds. Visitors welcome - first 3 visits free. SPACE runs The Wine & Food Society of Tauranga TAEKWONDO, Self Defense, TAI-CHI 9-11.30am on Wed for first time parents (during Now Open to New Members! Taekwondo: school term). Ph: Don Cameron 548-0655 Monday & Wednesday 5:45pm – 6:45pm (all ages) Enquiries: [email protected] Thursday: competition training, exam preparation. Omokoroa Beach Mahjong Circle Mainly Music Tai-Chi: Tuesday 6:30pm – 7:15pm (all ages) Tuesday’s 1pm @Western Ave. Sports Pavilion. Taekwondo Club: KORYO BOP VENUE: Western Ave Join us on Wednesday mornings from 9:15am for Call: Diane 548-0132 or Denise 548-1385 a 9:30 start. Omokoroa Community Church for Sports Hall, Omokoroa th Probus Club of Omokoroa. Meets 4 . Thursday of pre-school children Ph: 548-2515 Phone Sonja 027 548 1960 each month at Settlers’ Hall @ 9:30am E: [email protected] New Members Always Welcome! Whakamarama & Districts Kindergarten W: http://koryobopnz.strikingly.com Ph: Mike Hayden 021 247 8057 or Nestled amongst native bush, next to Carol Hayden 07 863 7292 Whakamarama School. Spaces available. Thursday is ART Day! Sessions; Mon-Fri 8:30-12:30pm or all day Omokoroa Artists at Omokoroa Settlers’ Hall Omokoroa Peninsula Club 9-12pm each Thursday. Follow us on Facebook: 8:30-2:30pm Ph: 552-6631, visit 474 Whaka Rd, or Venue: Omokoroa Church Hall E: [email protected] Omokoroa Artists. Tea and coffee provided. For 9:30am on the first Thursday of each month more information phone Jackie 548-1518 excluding December / January or Karen 548-1454 Dave Woodhouse 548 1093 Area Scouts Margaret Goad 548 2737 Omokoroa Beach Indoor Bowls Omokoroa Pahoia Sea Scout Group Meet at the Settlers’ Hall on Mon. afternoons at Tai Chi - Omokoroa Slipway 1:30pm & on Tues. evenings at 7:30pm. At Omokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Meet Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm Equipment is supplied. Arrive 30 minutes early Tues/Thurs 9:30am – 10:30am. Ph: Jane 022 351 5696 or Ros 021 120 7560 for individual tuition. Contact: This scientifically proven gentle exercise improves Anne Sandel 548-1636 or balance, breathing, posture / joint flexibility. Te Puna Scout (and area!) Groups Jill Clark 548-2799 Beneficial for stress, blood pressure / asthma. @ Maramatangi Park, Tangitu Road, Te Puna Keas 5-6yo meet Thursdays 4-5pm Pahoia Creative Fibre Group Wear comfortable clothing / soft soled shoes. Cost $5 / class. Ph: Trevor 022 322 3410 (Instructor) Cubs 7-10yo meet Thursdays 6:30-8:pm 1st, 3rd & 5th Tue. at Settlers’ Hall 10am. Scouts 10-14yo meet Wednesdays 7-9pm. Evenings - Settlers' Hall: 2nd & 4th Tues. 7pm. Ventures 14-18yo Tuesdays 7-9pm Ph: Robyne 549 5100 Phone Linda Williamson 552 6484

The rung of a ladder was never meant to rest upon, but only to hold In every man there is something wherein I may learn of him, and in a man's foot long enough to enable him to put the other somewhat that I am his pupil. ~ (Ralph Waldo Emerson) higher. ~ Thomas H. Huxley I am always doing what I cannot do you in order to learn how to do You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in it. ~ (Van Gogh) which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and which you think you cannot do. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt courageously. This is how character is built. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Omokoroa Omelette 27 January 2018 Community Notices & Events brought to you by Omokoroa Print & Copy

Mainly Music is up and running @ Omokoroa Community Church Wednesdays from 9:15am for a 9:30am Start

Omokoroa Omelette 28 January 2018 Community Notices & Events brought to you by Omokoroa Print & Copy YOUR CLUB/GROUP COULD BE HERE! Omokoroa Community Tennis Club CALL NOW TO BE IN THE NEXT Play tennis? Then come along to our club sessions: Monday 9.00 am to 12 pm ISSUE. PH: 07 548 1583 l Tuesday 6.00 pm to 9.15 pm l [email protected] l Thursday 9.00 am to 12.00 pm Saturday 2.00 pm to 5 pm l Omokoroa Community Cyblerlink Charge of $5 per session per person. At other times between 12.00 pm and 5.00 pm (subject to Would you like to join our Cyberlink in Omokoroa? It is availability) hire a court for $10 per hour. a central hub where you email me news of up coming events; stuff you have to give away or need; community information; Alternatively why not join the club with the big serve. garage sales; lost or missing pets/things. Of course the list All enquiries, ring Steve (07 548 2037). is as long as your imagination. If you want to be informed about our community then sign up and spread the word. To sign up: Go to www.omokoroa.net to use the online sign up form. Enter your name and email address and click the subscribe button. You can unsubscribe at any point. Next Working Bee for Cooney Reserve. Your email addresses will be kept safe! All hands needed and all hands welcomed for our next working bee clearing weeds in our reserve. WORKING BEE - 1st Wednesday of each month 9:30am - 12noon Come with some tools. Bring some enthusiasm. Enjoy the camaraderie and let all enjoy our environment. KatiKati Tramping Club Phone Jan 548 2299 Saturday 3rd February 2018 Climb Kaitarakihi - Grade Hard 6 hours approx. 8am start Leader Casual Wednesday Soccer Game Keith Pyle Phone (07 552 0215). Meet at car park behind Every Wednesday night at 7.15pm a very casual soccer game Kati Kati Memeorial Hall or Rocket Park Waihi 8.15am. or ‘kick around’ is held at the bottom field on the Western Ave Easy Option - Devcich Kauri - Leader Peter Lee Johnson phone soccer grounds in Omokoroa. We play all year, almost all (07 863 8781). Please phone Leader if you would like to join us. weathers, and under lights at present. It’s been going for 13 Friday 16th - Sunday 19th February 2018 years! It’s a good way to keep fit and have fun. Depending Weekend at Te Awamutu - various day tramps staying at the Road on how many turn up we might play Runner Holiday Park. 5 aside or a full size game. Leader Peter Lee Johnson Phone (07 863 8781). Anyone over 12 years is welcome. Please phone Leader if you would like to join us. Contact Hamish on on 552 6427

Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support Omokoroa residents are being urged to join a Neighbourhood Support group. Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support launched, in March, a campaign with a focus on “if you see something, say something”. Residents are urged to join, or start, a group through the new website: www.wbopns.org.nz or by phoning... 0800 22 55 85 Rapid population growth makes this more worthwhile than ever, says Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support executive chairperson Adrienne Bruce.

Omokoroa Omelette 29 January 2018 Omokoroa & Area Church Services

Omokoroa Omelette 30 January 2018 CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

House sitting House Cleaning Services Bowen Therapy for Gentle Pain Relief Mature, reliable lady available for house Domestic cleaning - do you need help? For Suffering from Neck, Shoulder, Back or sitting over holidays. Omokoroa – Bethlehem prompt, reliable, honest service, Knee pain, Sciatica, sore Feet, Tennis area. No dogs! Phone Sylvia 548-0961 Call Nicky at POSH Ladies. 577-6948 Elbow, Migraines, Chronic Fatigue or any other discomfort? Give your body some Honda CR-V SUV 2006 For sale Drum Incinerators for sale pampering before the holidays. Book now! Great condition, One NZ Owner, Black, 44-gallon drum incinerators. $35.00 each. Call Hannelore on 548-0824 Factory alarm, Stereo, Mag wheels, Delivered between Katikati and Tauranga. 96,200km $13,000. Call Charmaine Phone: 548-0823 Natural Animal Health Care 021 156 8687 Is your Animal in Pain or Limping, having Omokoroa Settlers’ Hall Arthritis, Skin, Eye, Ear problems, Epilepsy, Clean Fill Site Wanted Available for bookings for clubs, special func- Anxiety or just unwell? Give your pooch If you have a site that you want filled with tions weddings, etc. Reasonable rates and ex- some pampering for Christmas and help your clean fill, then ring Dave Hanlon cellent facilities. For bookings phone Heather animal maintain good health. Call Hannelore 0275 782 887 on 548-1620 Please see the on 548-0824 noticeboard outside the main entrance for Massage "What's on at the hall" Plasterer / Painter Therapeutic, relaxation, remedial, deep Remedial, Interior plastering / painting tissue. Ex Polytech massage tutor. 20+ Painter Skims – Cove – repairs years’ experience. Plummers Point. For all your painting requirements. Phone 30 years’ experience Nicky Two Bears 0273 661 111 Gerard Quilty 0274 475 493 Call Duncan 0270 387 782 A/Hrs 548-1337 Dog Walker/Minder Amore Omokoroa 4 years SPCA volunteer experience. Walking Drum Tutor Homemade Italian meals by order: Italian $8/walk, Minding $10/visit. Professional working musician. 20yrs playing cooking classes – Personal chef for your Caroline 548-1111 or 021 0239 4533 and teaching experience. Beginner to special event. advanced. Jazz, Funk, Blues, Rock. Diane’s Décor Contact Alessandra 0211 835 591 Paul 549-0342 Enjoy your holidays – I am available House Cleaning throughout holiday season! Not just curtains! Green Waste Removal Like a helping hand to clean your home. Curtains, roman blinds, tracks, rods. Roller $15 per wool bale bag as required. Loose Text or Call Robyn 0272 027 282 blinds, home furnishings – fabric samples in green waste also removed. local Showroom. 9:30 – 5 by appointment. Call Phil 022 333 2644 or 549-4950 Rental Available ‘Free quotes and advice’ Long or short term Lyncroft Nursery E: [email protected] Ph Rachel 0276 066 010 Wide range of native grasses, flaxes, shrubs, Now on Facebook! trees. Great Prices. Ph:548-1920 / 0272 846 543 160 Plummers Point Road. Line Dancing 548-1209 Appointment needed Classified Advertisements @ Omokoroa Settlers’ Hall Omokoroa Cleaning Services Thursday Beginners… 2pm – 3pm, Personal $6.00 Business $11.00 Homes, gardens, car valet service. Add. Friday General 9am – 12noon Price per 20 words block or part thereof. services available. Glass/Tile Shower No partner required just join the line, get fit 40 word limit per advert. rejuvenation. Water-blasting-Painting. & have fun. A mix of Latin, waltz, quick-step Enquires welcome. Supply Ad in writing / Payment at time of etc. plus country & western. Ph. Ludi & Andrea 548-2657 or placement. Cash / Cheque / EFTPos Contact Shirley 548-1633 (general), 021 0700 021 PH: 548-1583 E: [email protected] Jean 548-2808 (beginners) Complete Lawn & Garden Services Fancy That Costume Hire For all your lawn / gardening requirements. At Aongatete. Good range of costumes, wigs Call Phil 022 333 2644 or 549-4950 and accessories.Please phone: Lucia Knyvett 0275 107 641 Craftsman Plumber Omokoroa local, 30 years’ experience, Pahoia/Apata Community Hall for Hire for all small jobs, maintenance and repairs. An amazing venue which also has a separate Phone Jason 548-0292 or 021 241 9843 meeting room and a fully equipped kitchen. Quality tables and chairs also available for Painter off-site hire. Interior/exterior. Clean, tidy, fast. Living in Call Michele Smith 021 985 950 or Email Omokoroa. Call Paul Hoskin for your free all enquiries to: [email protected] quote. Ph: 549-0342 or 021 977 346 Omokoroa Lions' Market I treat Anxiety & Depression 2nd SUNDAY each month -11th Feb. / 11th without Medication Mar. Western Ave. car-park. 9am-12noon My name is Kymberley Carter-Paige. I am a Come enjoy a morning out. Cakes, BBQ, Rapid Transformation Therapist. Contact me drinks. Good shopping and good company. for more information. Car boot and stallholders welcome $5 per 5m www.kymberleycarterpaige.com site. Telephone: Keith 548-2117 or 0275 383 778 Peter 548-0430

Omokoroa Omelette 31 January 2018 Need work done this summer? Then look no further!

Omokoroa Omelette 32 January 2018