Lost for words? Surely not with Poets to the People
By Gill Ward
‘Greetings literary aficionados!’
It’s always dilemma how to start a newsletter: And this greeting seems appropriate as all of you, who so regularly join in our monthly event, are interested (and know about) literature in its many forms.
You listen, appreciate, applaud, perform and celebrate our poets; both the Guest Poet and those who share their poetry at the open mic. We couldn’t do it without you.Or without the wonderful support of Leigh and her staff at High Tide Café. Thank you all for your enthusiasm and participation. read more…
Horowhenua farmer, National MP, and landowner Nathan Guy — key player in land development
Nats front up for Expressway meetings, but risks ahead for Horowhenua Council
By Veronica Harrod, Horowhenua Correspondent
National Leader, former political overlord of the Transport Agency, and close pal of Nathan Guy.
The land and property development agenda of Horowhenua District Council, and council’s in-house economic development board, could implode if the Transport Agency decides not to proceed with the expressway past Levin.
This demonstrates just how high the stakes are in the land development frenzy in Horowhenua.
Otaki electorate MP Nathan Guy (National) brought along National Party leader Simon Bridges and new Nat. transport spokesman, Jami-Lee Ross, to the second Levin pro-expressway public meeting Mr Guy has organised in the last six weeks. read more…
I run for the textures under my feet. Roger Robinson
Something for everyone
By Roger Childs
More than 3000 people took part in events from 5km to the marathon in the Waitarere Forest at the weekend.
The annual event started in 1997 when just 150 or so people ran or walked in the northern part of the Forest.
The success of the event — which is for all ages — lies in the off-road courses and the superb organisation. read more…
The latest challenge.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Prue Hyman
How useful is the Treasury’s Living Standards Framework?
By Prue Hyman
It’s exciting that a department as dry as Treasury is increasingly keen for policies to be based on how they affect people’s standards of living, or wellbeing, rather than just gross national product and its rate of growth. Treasury’s Living Standards Framework (LSF) has been around since 2011, but is now being developed further – I wonder here whether it is as promising as it sounds. read more…
(We recently published Bob Brockie’s article about Maori groups putting pressure on the Royal Society and Otago University to have the Treaty and Maori viewpoints central in all scientific investigation.(Scroll down to April 10.) Bud Jones points out below that Victoria University of Wellington has caught some of the contagion.)
Serious questions on spiritualism, religiosity and racism
By Bud Jones
Bud being congratulated by Governor General Jerry Mateparae on being awarded the QSM
First a little about my background and credentials.
After immigrating from America, I had service with the NZ Symphony Orchestra for 40 years and as Artist Teacher at Victoria University for 26 years 1990—2016.
I was awarded a QSM in 2013 for services to education at the high school and university level, including director for NZ National Youth groups, and also for environmental achievements.
Does Maori culture have a place in all courses?
mātauranga Māori = Māori knowledge – the body of knowledge originating from Māori ancestors, including the Māori world view and perspectives, Māori creativity and cultural practices. read more…
Inspired by travels in North Africa
By Kate Hartmann
Currently on show at Tutere Gallery are a series of small paintings by local Waikanae artist Gillian Cronin.
An intrepid traveller, Gillian and her husband are often away on adventure to exotic locales.
Their most recent trip overseas was to India and once on a trip to Morocco Gillian’s husband was offered a couple of camels for her, we are extremely grateful he declined!
These trips away are incredibly inspiring and often provide inspiration for subsequent paintings. read more…
A $35 million top up
Opinion piece by Roger Childs
Chris Finlayson (centre), who was a former lawyer for Ngai Tahu, is shown signing yet another settlement
Most New Zealanders will be incredulous about this announcement from Treaty Negotiations Minister, Andrew Little, earlier this week. These allocations – $16.6 million and $18.7 million, are in addition to payments of $190,000,000 and $180,000,000 made in December last year to Waikato/Tainui and Ngai Tahu respectively.
All this money which has been handed over has nothing to do with grievances against the state. In the Minister’s double-speak: The Crown is committed to honouring the contractual nature of the Relativity Mechanism clauses …
Since the Waitangi Tribunal was set up in 1975, it has authorised settlements of between $3 -$4 billion dollars to iwi and it’s not finished yet. The government, on behalf of the taxpayer, has dutifully signed the cheques. read more…
On the Tongariro Crossing
By Mary Hadfield
For many years I have wanted to walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. With help from Belinda and Anthony Hadfield (my brother-in-law and sister-in-law) I finally achieved my dream.
As a sight-impaired person (I lost a lot of my sight after a brain tumour operation 3 years ago) I have particular perceptual and physical challenges walking in the outdoors, especially on something like the Tongariro Crossing.
We stayed the night at Discovery Lodge which provided a full package deal especially for the Tongariro Crossing, including our evening meal and bus shuttle service drop off and pick up, while our car remained safe at the motel for the day. read more…
Of Poppies and Bumblebees
By Cushla McGaughey
The Chamberlain poppyfield
My brother-in-law, military historian Howard Chamberlain, wears a poppy every day. Every year poppies grow in their garden.
One sunny morning, Finola went to investigate an unusually strong buzzing sound. She found their mini poppyfield in full bloom. Among the flowers, literally dozens of bumblebees were hard at work.
That afternoon the wind stripped the petals. The bumblebees too were gone. But overnight a fresh wave of poppy buds opened and the bumblebees returned in force.
Alongside is Finola’s close-up shot of a poppy-sated bumblebee, showing the heavily laden pollen bags. read more…
We want the action as it happens
By Roger Childs
Short-changing sports fans
Some years ago New Zealand took the Olympic Games feed from Australia’s ABC.
It was a disaster, because in the middle of exciting action where Kiwis were in with a chance, they would cross for coverage of also ran Aussies competing.
With the Gold Coast Games television, TV1 have been doing the business poorly.
Not only have sports fans had to sit through endless and repetitive commercials and adverts for future programmes, there has been insufficient live coverage. read more…
Author Judith Holloway, l
‘Hysterical right-wing nonsense’ displayed in attacks on Jacinda
By Judith Bryers Holloway
Honestly! The beat-up in the media about our Prime Minister ‘losing the plot’ about sex orgies, Carol Hirschfield’s possible lobbying of the Minister of Broadcasting, the possible existence of Russian spies in the Russian Embassy!
What a lot of hysterical, right-wing nonsense!
How is it possible for Jacinda Adern to take control of the antics of a drunken, male lout, after-hours, at a Young Labour Conference in the country? Was anyone damaged? No. Did others put a stop to it? Yes. Enough said! ‘Twere ever thus. read more…
I am in want of sufficient clothing and food. 78 year old Miriama Huruwai 1891
I am writing for you to hear …
By Roger Childs
In the last few decades of the 19th century many Maori women were active in petitioning the government.
The issues varied but many related to land and all were seeking justice.
Dr Angela Wanhalla spoke on this fascinating topic at a recent talk at the National Library.
She is the co-author of the book Women’s Voices from the 19th Century ( He Reo Wahine) in collaboration with Lachy Paterson. read more…
Very successful day
Story by Angelo Robinson. Photos by Dawn Ireland-Spicer
5-7 year olds
The Hoop Club Kapiti Expo was held on Sunday 8 April.
It was a great success with families across all the ages getting involved and having a great time, along with parents competing for prizes in the Hot Shot and Shoot Out competitions.
The event kicked off at 9.30am with the Welcome and Blessing from Koro Don and a visit and speech from Mayor Guru. read more…
Getting started
By Gill Ward
It’s always a dilemma how to start a column and this greeting seems appropriate as all of you who read this, do so because you are interested in Literature and what’s going on locally in the area.
I’ll start off with a word about Poets to the People which was initially set up (eleven years ago!) to bring notable poets out here so that those who found it hard to get in to Wellington could have the chance to hear them. read more…
What haven’t you found?
By Tony Fraei
I am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes is a long but fascinating book – it combines a murder mystery and a plot to unleash a cataclysm on America. It is a true epic in which I was completely immersed.
The lead character is a forensic criminal investigator.
One of his mantra’s in the book is Forget the evidence …..evidence is a list of the material you’ve got. What about the things you haven’t found?
The various examples that came out through this type of perspective were very illuminating.
I even had to wonder if this approach has been followed much in a number of our high profile New Zealand crimes and mysteries? read more…
-
David Liti: question 4
The latest challenge.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Dr Bob Brockie, noted biologist, writer, and cartoonist, who now lives in Waikanae
What exactly did the Kapiti science writer do wrong? Or is Bob Brockie on the side of the angels?
By Alan Tristram
A huge row has broken out over a column by Kapiti science writer Bob Brockie, who dared to question Otago University’s decision to let a Maori consultative committee consider all science research projects.
(Scroll down to see our “Iwi Consultation” opinion piece on April 10.)
I happen to believe in the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.
I also believe in the right of Scientists to pursue their projects wherever this takes them — providing they follow ethical guidelines, respect human rights, and do not break the law.
So make up your own minds on this issue please. It’s at least as important as the Commonwealth Games!
Here, in full, is Bob Brockie’s column from The Press … read more…
Para athletes add to the magic
By Roger Childs
The amazing Sophie Pascoe
It was a brilliant idea to include the competition for Para-Sport in with the rest of the Commonwealth Games. The crowds love it and there is huge respect for these athletes who perform brilliantly against the odds.
Last night our amazing swimmer Sophie Pascoe, minus a foot, picked up the gold in the 50m breaststroke. She was tiring towards the end, but did enough to get her second first place.
The cheerful but unlucky Holly Robinson
Then in the main stadium Holly Robinson seemed to have gold sewn up in the para-javelin.
Her first throw was a world record, but on her final throw another Holly, (Arnold), from Wales went further.
The medal ceremony was great and it was hard not to feel emotional when possibility the finest of all national anthems Land of our Fathers resounded around the stadium. read more…
The Treaty has no place in scientific endeavour. To make it the centrepiece of the Royal Society beggars belief. Scientist, journalist and cartoonist, Bob Brockie
… consideration of the Treaty of Waitangi has added depth and breadth to our scientific endeavours. Dr Margreet Vissers, Associate Dean Research, Otago University
Sciencific journalist in hot water
By Roger Childs
(Credit Bob Brockie)
Bob Brockie recently got into trouble with the PC brigade for basically suggesting that the Treaty of Waitangi has nothing to do with science.
He was critical of the New Zealand Royal Society for saying the Treaty should be central to all their work, and of Otago University for requiring all research to be approved by Ngai Tahu. He wondered why the part-Maori descendants of the iwi should have a role.
Academic and historian, Dr Anne Salmond, was horrified and Otago University Research Dean Dr Margreet Vissers gave an Oh Dear! reaction. read more…
Distinguished New Zealand Poet
Harry Ricketts is a an internationally recognised academic, writer, poet and expert on war poetry.
He was the keynote speaker at the 2014 Kapiti Literary Festival and spoke on the wealth of verse that came out of World War One.
We are honoured to feature one of his own poems below. (Chosen by our poetry columnist, Gill Ward.) read more…
Right-wing terrorism rears its ugly head in Germany…again
By Harald Dähne in Berlin
A Higher Regional Court in Dresden, Saxony, recently sentenced eight people to prison sentences of between 4 and 10 years.
They were members of the so-called terrorist “Gruppe Freital” and committed bombing against houses of refugees and the car of a local Socialist politician.
The judge said they deserved justified the hard punishment: It was lucky no-one was seriously injured in these attacks.
But there’ve been many other attacks too. read more…
Curran has hardly covered herself in glory, but her actions fall short of the sackable offence of misleading the Prime Minister. Claire Trevitt, NZ Herald
Foul ups in government
By Roger Childs
Jacinda’s first 100 days were a dream run, but all good things come to an end. Governments will always have ministers and other MP who will queer the pitch and bring joy to Her Majesty’s Opposition.
John Key had a swag of them – people saying the wrong thing, lying, talking to the wrong people, unwisely using the government credit card, having delusions of grandeur.
Last year Todd Barclay should have had his day in court over illegally taping conversations and Prime Minister Bill English was less than truthful over what he knew and said.
Another government on, the Minister of Broadcasting has dropped her leader in it. read more…
-
Question 7
The latest challenge can still be done by scrolling down to April 4.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
Different reactions
By Melbourne-based sports authority, John Smith
Aussie cheats
It is interesting observing how it is playing out over here. Three different reactions are emerging. There are
~ some who think that the Cricket Australia bans are excessive
~ others who don’t have an issue with the general culture of the Australian cricket team
~ also a lot of people here who have not liked the culture of the Australian team for some time now. read more…
It ain’t over till it’s over
By Roger Childs
The home team celebrates a last minute one point victory (Credit: Fox Sport)
Life is very unpredictable, especially Super Rugby games. The Rebels beat the Sharks 46-14 in round four and then the Hurricanes hammered the Rebels last week 50-19.
What would your pick be for the Hurricanes playing the Sharks in Napier? An easy victory perhaps?
No way, the South African visitors seemingly had it all sewn up 37-28 with 6 minutes to go. But the fat lady was still walking towards the stage, clearing her throat. Was there time for a miracle?
Yes indeed; with Ihaea West’s conversion going over in the 85th minute the home team just made it 38-37. read more…
Helen’s property is around 5 acres and has some bush on it plus more bush on the adjoining properties. DOC did visit and asked about using 1080 on her property … There are signs from DOC indicating the use of Brodifacoum, Postassium Cyanide, Diphacinone and Cholecalciferol about 100 metres from Helen’s property. Geoff Guenole
Performing a valuable public service
By Helen Whitfield
Helen and Justine with Ivan and Jim looking much better a couple of days ago
Elamore Farm Rescue is a non profit animal shelter that takes in animals that people can’t keep or don’t want anymore.
We have found that many roosters need our help the most, as people who live in suburbia aren’t allowed to have them.
We keep them here until they find a new rural home.
We also help ex-commercial hens, so instead of them going for dog food, we give them a second chance at being a normal chicken. read more…
Housing development under way in Levin — where growth is extolled above all
Developers’ dream ahead in Horowhenua…but not for ordinary folk
By Veronica Harrod
A tsunami of demolition, construction and land and property development will be unleashed across the district if Horowhenua District Council adopts the draft Horowhenua Growth Strategy 2040.
Late last year council voted in support of establishing a property investment trust, which economic development board members will be directors of.
The Trust will be involved in many of the land and property development projects included in the draft growth strategy, especially projects in the central business districts (CBD) of Levin, Shannon and Foxton. read more…
Crowds out in Waikanae’s Mahara Place
By Ann David
Mahara Place was humming. (Credit: Waikanae Watch)
This year, the Waikanae Easter Market seemed better than ever.
The good weather helped. People with children, carers with charges, owners with dogs, friends, buddies and mates, locals and out-of-towners thronged Mahara Place and spilled over the edges in amicable curiosity.
No-one came to buy anything specific.
Everyone came to see what there was to buy. read more…
Former KCDC Cr Lyndy McIntyre
Why the Kapiti Counmcil must take over rubbish services
(Part B)
By former KCDC Cr Lyndy McIntyre
During the 2007-2010 term, KCDC adopted kerbside recycling. Previously waste for the landfill was collected weekly in bags and residents could use recycling centres at various locations.
When KCDC decided to adopt kerbside recycling. The free recycling facilities in local communities were closed and KCDC began providing a bag collection (for waste to landfill) and a kerbside recycling bin. The incentive to reduce waste was the cost of the bags. read more…
Early last month the country lost one of its foremost conservationists. Here is environmentalist and journalist Tony Orman’s eulogy, given at Bill’s funeral.
Respect and honour
By Tony Orman
We are here to pay homage to Bill Benfield. The dictionary defines homage as ‘an expression of respect and honour.” Bill Benfield deserves the utmost respect and honour.
He was the author of three outstanding books “The Third Wave – Poisoning the Land”, “At War with Nature – Corporate Conservation and the Industry of Extinction” and “Water – Quality and Ownership” all which were glowingly reviewed.
But those books don’t tell the story of the man himself. His tireless endeavours in the conservation field earned the utmost respect and his efforts and results earned him much honour. read more…
Eribert Loehner
My part in America’s love affair with the pick-up truck
By Eribert Loehner in Vancouver
At a time when President Trump is lobbing economic broadsides at most of Americas trading partners, many Americans are likely not aware that there has been a duty on imported light trucks for more than a half-century.
This duty allows American automobile manufacturers to make profits significantly higher on light trucks than on smaller more fuel-efficient cars.
The impact this duty has had on manufacturer’s bottom lines, not to mention the selling prices to consumers, makes them more than happy to provide the latest gas guzzlers to customers so they can drive to the local shopping mall. read more…
A Greek tragedy of sorts
By Ralph McAllister
Beautiful Animals by Lawrence Osborne is the pick of a rather mediocre bunch.
Osborne is a well established author who has written a dozen novels and many essays and short stories.
Set mostly in modern day Greece this is a kind of travelogue leading to murder.
There is no mystery about the perpetrators and what they do, but before the reader gets there, we explore the relationship between American Sam and English Naomi, two young women in Hydra with not much to do but swim, eat, smoke weed and, finally, plot.
What to do when a charitable act goes horribly wrong. read more…
Lyndy McIntyre
Former Councillor says Kapiti must take back waste management
By Alan Tristram
Former KCDC Councillor Lyndy McIntyre says the KCDC has failed in its attempt to privatise waste management. And it must now take
KCDC — caught out on waste?
the service back in-house.
-
Visual clue for No.6.
The latest challenge.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Finding Your Feet is a beauty!
By Roger Childs
Britain has a wonderful array of elderly actors. Helen Mirren, Judy Dench and Maggie Smith are just some of this highly capable group. However, none of these appear in Finding Your Feet. Among those who do feature are the equally talented Timothy Spall, Celia Imrie and Imelda Staunton.
The title of the film comes from the meeting of these older Londoners at a weekly dancing group. The movie is in the tradition of Calendar Girls and The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel with a mix of sharp dialogue, intrigue, humour and changing relationships. All the major players have hang-ups and problems, not all of which are resolved.
This is a highly entertaining film which I’m sure many of you have seen: 4 stars. read more…
Argentinian ants attacking a native New Zealand ant
Anti-Ant Trial begins soon in Raumati South
There will be a trial ant extermination programme during this coming weekend, 7 and 8 April, in Dell Road, Raumati South, on the Kapiti Coast.
This has just been announced by Trevor Daniell, Chair of Raumati Resident’s Association.
He says: “It’s our last chance of hitting them before the cooler weather puts the ants into hibernation.” read more…
Women’s Refuge and Life Flight
By Roger Childs
Every year since 2012 the Kapiti Joggers and Walkers have organised the In the Footsteps of the Marines event from Whareroa Farm. Entries are now open at http://www.enteronline.co.nz/index.cfm?page=EventDetails&ID=5322
It always takes place on the Sunday before the American Memorial Day, to remember the role the US Marines played in our local history. Over 15,000 American servicemen passed through the three camps north of Paekakariki in 1942 -1943 before going on to fight the Japanese in the Pacific.
In 2018 the event, which can be walked or run, or a bit of both, will raise money for a number of local groups but especially The Kapiti Women’s Refuge and the Life Flight Trust. read more…
Kapiti Districtwide Cr Jackie Elliott
Kapiti Council must reinstate yellow bags…and proper council waste services
“In recent weeks Kapiti has seen the loss of two services from private companies. The response, reaction and potential outcomes couldn’t have been more different and has left me wondering where priorities lie.” read more…
The New Zealand environment in twelve lines
By Roger Childs
Anne Powell gives us a delightful description of the symbiosis of people with their ecology.
She incorporates elements of astronomy, geology, flora, fauna, climate and relief in placing us in the midst of our environment.
We are what surrounds us. read more…
The Easter theme quiz can still be done by scrolling down to March 28 .
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
Top of the table Rebels humbled
By Roger Childs
One of Lam’s four tries (Credit Photosport)
Four wins from four, and then they met the Hurricanes.
The Melbourne-based Rebels came up against their first New Zealand opposition last night and might have fancied themselves on home turf.
But after leading 19-8 well into the first half, the Hurricanes scored 42 unanswered points to blow the top Aussie team away 50-19.
Are we in for a repetition of last year’s Kiwi dominance over the Australian franchises? read more…
One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. Romans 14:5
A holiday with a difference
By Roger Childs
For Christians it is the most sacred day of the year, but for the majority of people it’s just another welcome public holiday. However, unlike most of these days, there is no daily paper and most retail outlets are closed.
In America where a higher proportion of the population are church goers compared with New Zealand, there is no nationwide holiday. However in thirteen states most working people have the day off.
In New Zealand it adds a crucial fourth day to the “Easter” weekend and thousands get in their cars or take ferries or planes to Coromandel, Taupo, Queenstown, the Sounds, Waiheke wherever. read more…
Georgia Groen, role model
By Roger Booth
In only her second Open World Waterskiing Championship, held in Wisconsin, USA in 2016, Kapiti athlete Georgia Groen
- won the overall open world title
- her third consecutive trick title
- silver in the slalom and the jump
- shared bronze medals in the overall team award.
The aging writer and the young agent
By Roger Childs
Credit: Stephen A’Court
Crime writer Patricia Highsmith has retreated to the land of mountains, cuckoo clocks and fondue. Is she a burnt-out case or has she got another Tom Ripley novel waiting to get out?
The publisher’s agent, Edward Ridgeway, thinks she has and turns up on her doorstep to persuade her to make it happen.
She’s not pleased, and early on we have the timid geek on the back foot confronted by the shrill harridan. But things are not all they seem. The stage is set for a dramatic psychological thriller. read more…
My son idolises Steve Smith. What am I meant to tell him today? Australian cricket fan
Cricket joy and shame
By Roger Childs
Aussie cheats
Two test matches involving cross -Tasman rivals had very different outcomes. A great win for the Black Caps over England in Auckland while the Australians were well beaten in Capetown.
However, at Newlands the big news was the ball tampering, a story to rival the famous Greg Chappell underarm delivery in the 1981 one-dayer in Melbourne. Unfortunately the Kiwi success had been over-shadowed by the Aussie cheating.
Tom Scott summed up the recent media focus on test cricket with a huge red ball labelled OZ CHEATING in the foreground and two little Black Caps leaping up in the background saying Has anyone noticed how well we played? read more…
The latest challenge with an Easter theme.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
All ages and stages
By Roger Childs
Kapiti Joggers biking on the Timber Trail north-west of Taupo
The cycling community covers a wide range of people and levels of fitness. At the top end there are the professionals who compete in the Tour de France, Olympics, track races and events all round the world.
Meanwhile, in the local area there are skilled mountain bikers who roar down windy tracks in Whareroa Farm at over 35 kph, and little kids, barely out of nappies who confidently ride two wheelers down the footpath in our street.
Around the country governments, local and national, have been developing cycleways and biking lanes for this rapidly growing form of exercise. There seem to be new off-road cycling routes being opened up all the time following on the huge success of the pioneer Central Otago Rail Trail. read more…
Team members from across the region – from Wainuiomata and Hutt Valley, to Mana, from Kapiti to Miramar – have competed every weekend for the past month. A winter of gym and onwater training has paid off this past weekend …
Wellington’s golden steps to Florence
By Bette Cosgrove
First, the Wellington dragon boat team of breast cancer survivors, CanSurvive, added to three gold-medal wins at the North Island Regional Dragon Boat Regatta in Auckland (mid-March).
Then this past weekend they clinched the coveted 500-metre Gold Medal Breast Cancer Survive title at the national championships of the NZ Dragon Boat Association at Lake Hood in Ashburton.
‘We are going from strength to strength this season,’ says team Chairwoman Iona Elwood- Smith. ‘This win was just another one of our goals achieved, as we prepare for the International Breast Cancer world event to be held in Florence, Italy in July.’ read more…
My encounter with Phil Lamason’s amazing life — the Kiwi who saved 167 fliers in Buchenwald
By Hilary Pedersen
The amazing Phil Lamason
It’s remarkable now to look back to a time when I had never heard of Phil Lamason. For the last almost three years this man and his exploits have taken over my life.
The story of kiwi pilot Phil Lamason saving 167 airmen from the Buchenwald Nazi concentration camp isn’t well known in New Zealand, even among military personnel.
For me, objectivity flew out of the window early.
Confronted by the tapestry of a story with as many threads as Phil’s demanded only one response. Bury yourself in it.
Like Joseph’s coat Phil’s life had an amazing range of colours. read more…
End of term Expo
By Angelo Robinson
We are holding a Hoop Club Kapiti Expo Day on Sunday 8 April: the last day for Hoop Club for Term 1.
This event will be open to the public for people to come down and check out Hoop Club Kapiti and see our sessions in action.
The idea is that it is a fun day and an opportunity for Hoop Club Kapiti to show its programmes. read more…
-
See question 6.
The latest challenge can be done by scrolling down to 21 March.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
Di Buchan
Fascinating session in store
Kapiti Friends of the Library invite you to come and hear Di Buchan talk about her book
Sun, sea and sustenance
The story of the Otaki Children’s Health Camp
- PARAPARAUMU LIBRARY MEETING ROOM
- 30 pm
- SUNDAY 25 MARCH
The huge eruption
By Sandra Smith
On the night of June 10th 1886 the residents of the small village of Te Wairoa slept unaware of the catastrophic event that was about to occur.
In the early hours of this winter’s night they were awoken by huge earthquakes which were then followed by the massive eruption of Mount Tarawera situated across the lake.
Tonnes of molten rock and ash rained down on Te Wairoa and the surrounding villages. Approximately 120 people lost their lives. The eruption was over by dawn though clouds of ash made day as dark as night. A 17 kilometre long rift split Mt Tarawera and millions of tonnes of ash and debris covered lakes and bush. read more…
A must see
By Bruce Dryden
This play is absolutely outstanding.
The story of Annie who left her two young sons and abusive husband in Timaru, to live with and marry Henry Chaffey at Asbestos Cottage deep in the Kahurangi National Park.
For 40 years Annie only once left this bush hut to go to Nelson Hospital, while Henry would often tramp to Takaka or the Motueka Valley for supplies.
The story is told by Martine Baanringer of the Drama Lab theatre company and a Golden Bay drama teacher. read more…
What the campaigners are asking the Govt. to do ( Part 2)
By Mandy Hager
Although the Defence Force has admitted lying about the position of the SAS raids revealed in Jon Stephenson and Nicky Hager’s book Hit and Run,
they still refuse to address the questions raised.
The ‘Hit and Run’ campaigners say that if our soldiers killed and hurt innocent civilians, NZ needs to stand-up and learn the lessons so that such events are never again repeated.
( Six innocent civilians, including three-year-old Fatima, were killed and 15 wounded in the SAS raid on Afghan villages in August, 2010. See my earlier article, ‘Truth – A NZ War Casualty,’ March 21)
To summarise the arguments, here’s the briefing the campaigners have given Attorney-General David Parker : read more…
Facing up to the challenge with little sight
By Mary Hadfield
Mary Hadfield
It didn’t take long to discover Outward Bound isn’t about being ultra fit, young and athletic.
It’s about challenging yourself mentally, emotionally and physically from an outdoor environment, being mind free enough to allow the best to flow from you.
For me ( as a sight-impaired person) my key was to face every physical challenge with positivity. Just do it, then reflect. No preconceived ideas of my capabilities.
Having no contact with the outside world enabled us to focus only on what was in front of us for the next hour or so. We never knew what we would be doing from day to day.
Finding the power and pride in myself when I achieved far more than I could have ever imagined. read more…
A possible threat to civil defence
By Shane Cave and Felicity Stewart
You will now be well aware of Air New Zealand ending its Kapiti Auckland service from April the 3rd. This also has major implications for the region’s Civil Defence.
The revenue to the airport owners from the Air New Zealand service is an important part of the overall revenue flow to the airport.
It is quite likely, at some stage in the medium term future, that the loss of this income will lead to the owners seeking to rezone and sell the land for commercial and / or residential use.
If that were to happen it would pose a major threat to the region’s civil defence infrastructure. read more…
Farming and working with wood
By Roger Childs
Former Pukerua Bay residents Helen and Peter Jeromson run sheep and cattle on a couple of blocks near Porongahau in Central Hawke’s Bay.
They live in a magnificent villa style home which Peter lovingly crafted from an old farm house.
With the many off-cuts of timber, and other bits and pieces, he has decorated the walls both inside and out with wooden sculptures.
Alongside is a shirt which features on the western side.
Below is a ‘collage’ of toys. read more…
Pensioner flats in Levin
Audit NZ reveals startling facts on handover of pensioner units
By our Horowhenua correspondent, Veronica Harrod
Horowhenua District Council lost $1.86 million on the sale of the pensioner housing and 1.1 hectare of bare land to land and property dealer Willis Bond, according to a recently released Audit NZ report.
Horowhenua Council CEO, David Clapperton
The loss on the sale contradicts statements made by council’s chief executive David Clapperton in an April 5, 2017 Community Connections newsletter that, “There are..important criteria, including a realistic price offer.” read more…
Live performances do it better
By Ralph McAllister
Credit: Stephen A’Court
It is not often that a modern play satisfies one’s personal tastes in diverse ways.
Switzerland by Joanne Murray-Smith does just that.
I read many thrillers.
- The Woman in the Window is Hitchcockian in its plotting and stunningly climactic.
- Hangman has a cannabilistic hero(?) with whom you begin to take sides.
- A Killer Harvest transplants eyes to give the hero (?) different insights.
I loved these works because they help view the darker sides of life from the comfort of the armchairs.
But as with all good theatre, live performance can sometimes do it better. read more…
A child’s coffin outside Parliament last week — commemorating the life of three-year-old Fatima who died during NZ’s ‘Operation Burnham’ in Afghanistan.
NZ Defence Force still being frugal with the truth
By Mandy Hager
Almost under the radar last week, the New Zealand Defence Force finally admitted that, despite their press-circus at the time, they had lied about the position of the raids revealed in Jon Stephenson and Nicky Hager’s book Hit and Run.
This only came as the result of economist Sam Warburton’s pursuit of an OIA request. He talks about the process and the results of the disclosure here: https://www.pundit.co.nz/content/how-we-found-the-nzdf-was-wrong-on-hit-run
Yet, despite this latest evidence that the NZDF went into spin-mode rather than being open and transparent about its actions in Afghanistan, they still refuse again to address the issues raised in the book, instead trying to slide away from having to tell the truth. read more…
-
See question 10.
The latest challenge.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Pushing the boundaries
By Roger Childs
Bill Leak pushing the boundaries
Cartoons often sell papers, because the caricaturists can go into places where the reporters can’t.
Tom Scott’s effort today in the DomPost is a good example: Labour Scout Leader, Jacinda Ardern, makes the connection between yobbo behaviour at camps preparing budding lawyers for life in the firm.
The late Bill Leak did it constantly in The Australian. (See alongside.)
At the recent Readers’ and Writers’ Week at the NZ Festival there was an excellent forum of cartoonists speaking about the art of political pricking. read more…
‘On a good day’
By Bruce Stephenson
Turning into Lower Cuba Street, the gale is at our backs.
You laugh at her mocking declaration that you can’t beat
Wellington on a good day. read more…
Has Mayor Gurunathan launched search for Air NZ replacement?
Photo by Jack Penman
Our aviation correspondent says it appears that Kapiti Mayor K Gurunathan has taken off on his search for planes to replace the missing Air NZ planes on the Kapiti Auckland service.
He’s been aided by the senior robotics class at Paraparaumu College.
(The ‘car project’ senior robotics students designed and built the ‘autonomous vehicle’. The passenger picks a destination; the robot car does the rest).
There’s not much between us, but you were the better player. Roger Federer
Close encounter in the desert
By Roger Childs
The champ in 2017
Roger Federer won the prestigious tournament last year beating Swiss compatriot Stan Wawrinka 6-4, 7-5.
So far this year he had won the Australian grand slam and the Rotterdam tournament. The latter victory took him to number one in the world rankings.
Yesterday he was again in the final, this time against the talented Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro.
It would be a titanic struggle. read more…
Envirowaste bins — but no yellow bags for the Coast from now on
Council has no plans to keep ‘yellow bag’ service going
By Alan Tristram
The Kapiti Coast Council has told KIN that it has no firm plans to replace the ‘yellow bag’ waste disposal service despite widespread public concern.
It’s outlined various ideas, but has admitted that effectively it has handed the job over to private enterprise, which is now ending the service.
KCDC says: ‘We have received a range of queries through our Call Centre, which are going through to our Solid Waste and Minimisation Team, who are helping customers work through the changes. read more…
Popular children’s railway at Raumati Beach is forced to suspend loco departures
By Alan Tristram
Kapiti Independent understands one of Kapiti’s most popular children’s entertainments has been switched to a siding because of onerous government regulations.
All steamed up and nowhere to go
The Kapiti Coast Council says it’s advising the Kapiti Miniature Railway & Model Engineering Society to stop operating until both a new Certificate of Registration from Worksafe and a permit to operate from Council are in place. read more…
Hello Poetry People
From Elizabeth and Gill
Whether you are a poet who gets up to the open mic, or a friend or supporter of the spoken or written word, we appreciate your interest in Poets to the People.
Not everyone on the mail list can attend every event but we’re always delighted with attendance figures, the contribution of quality poetry and general good humour.
Thank you for your part in this. Thus we look forward to another fabulous year. read more…
Red Admiral a casualty of wasps
By Cushla McGaughey
The Red Admiral is our most eye-catching native butterfly.
It depends on availability of the stinging nettles on which its caterpillars feed, and may be found along forest fringes and in clearings where the native ongaonga grows.
The appropriate Maori name, kahukura, means red cloak.
But while a toreador cape invites attack, this cloak instead warns predators away, and so the sun-loving butterfly can bask in peace, with wings outspread. read more…
Driving on the sandspit
By John Robinson
A much sort-after fish
The sandspit at the mouth of the Waikanae River is precious, for people and for birds, and is recognised as such. It is a Scientific Reserve and driving along the beach is banned.
In real life many people drive across and damage it, particularly in whitebaiting season.
The Kapiti Coast District Council (KCDC) gives permits to anyone asking for one, to drive along the beach expressedly for whitebaiting (but not in the Scientific Reserve!).
Whitebait, of course, come up the river, and these people ignore the limits of the permission to drive across the sandspit. read more…
Jacinta Beckley on the up and up
Jacinta grabbing a rebound
DENVER – (March 5) Three members of Seattle University women’s basketball (The Redhawks) were named 2017-18 All-Western Athletic Conference (WAC), according to a release by the conference Monday morning.
Alexis Montgomery was chosen first team and all-defense, Kallin Spiller earned WAC Freshman of the Year and all-newcomer team, and Jacinta Beckley picked up second team recognition.
In her senior season, Beckley posted 13.3 points and 4.6 boards per game.
She led the Redhawks with 47 made three-pointers this season. read more…
-
See question 2.
You can still do the quiz by scrolling down to March 15.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
Paddy was walking home one Saturday with a pig. On the way he met Sean. His friend said “Where did you get that?” “I got it at a fair.” said the pig.
A scattered people with humour and talent
By Roger Childs
No doubt many of you of like Jim Bolger, Gabby O’Rourke, Kay Carter, Tipene O’Regan, Jack McAllister and myself, have Irish ancestry.
In the 50 years following the Irish famine in the mid 19th century, over half the population of Ireland migrated to the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere.
They took with them their talents, culture, music, religion and good humour, and made huge contributions to the development of their new homelands.
Today is St Patrick’s Day, and in many shops, supermarkets, rest homes and work places people will be wearing silly hats, costumes and even wigs with green the dominant colour. At Raumati School on Friday many of the students dressed up in green. read more…
Young Labour camp may spark long-awaited Justice
By Dr Catherine Strong
Thank goodness there were three teens sexually abused at the Young Labour camp…not just one.
If it was only one 16-year-old girl, there would be scant focus on the unfortunate incident, in fact it would probably have been dismissed with comments about what she wore, why she stayed in the room, whether she had a sip of alcohol, etc.
It’s a sad fact that when a female reveals she has been molested or attacked, or even raped, people find reasons to disbelieve it. True, it is a hard thing to believe, but it happens every day in New Zealand. read more…
Council vote for road safety delights advocacy groups
— and an apology from KIN
By Alan Tristram
Advocacy groups say the Kāpiti Coast Council’s decision to create safe cycle lanes on the former SH1 at Waikanae is good news for locals, the town centre and the environment.
There were two options on the table the council’s March 15 meeting: one for 32 parallel carparks, cycle lanes and a buffer zone between them (Option 1), the other replacing parallel carparks with angle parking (a total of 41 parks) and no cycle lanes (Option 2).
Note: KIN’s story yesterday got this wrong. We reported that cyclists had been missed out. We were wrong and apologise for this. read more…
Give the public a say
Dragging their feet and the mayoral chain
The Paraparaumu/Raumati Community Board believes the public need to have a say on whether council should put on display a Gold Award winning sculpture being loaned to council.
The Board had made a recent request for councillors to support our wish for a temporary replacement to the Tui sculpture which was removed by councillors in 2012.
We have been waiting for five years for a replacement and despite setting up two Arts Panels they have been unable to provide any solutions. read more…
Deidre Kent
Environmentalists outraged by loss of low-carbon service
By Deidre Kent, of Low Carbon Kapiti
So that’s the end of yellow rubbish bags is it? Envirowaste, finding it wasn’t making enough profit from the users of bags, will no longer sell the yellow rubbish bags.
If the Neighbourly site is anything to go by, with 107 replies to a question, outraged bag users, the very people who reduce waste, are saying they fill a bag every 2-6 weeks.
They need a real alternative now with a built-in mechanism for rewarding waste reduction. read more…
Direct access to the artist
By Kate Hartmann
Tutere Gallery has a philosophy based on connection.
By giving you direct access to our artists we hope to inspire and uplift you as you learn more about them and their creative practice.
Sara Boland graduated from EIT with a Diploma in Visual Arts and Design in 1994.
She then worked as a jeweller for quite a few years until she decided it was time for a change.
“The women in my family have shaped my love of textiles – I’ve stitched, sewed, knitted and created things out of fabric since I was a little girl, so changing my art practice to be textile based made sense.” read more…
-
See question 7.
The eleventh quiz of 2018.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
SH1 makes way for parallel carparks
By Alan Tristram
Kapiti Coast Council has come up with a controversial plan for the old SHI through Waikanae which provides parallel car parks.
The former SH1 is being handed over to the KCDC as part of a ‘revocation’ plan, following SH1’s relocation to the Kapiti Expressway.
The Council says parallel parking should be adopted through the town centre for safety reasons, although it will also study further safety measures for cyclists with the Transport Agency.
Horowhenua Council HQ in Levin
Oldies will suffer if Horo Council ups rates for water/wastewater
By Veronica Harrod, Horowhenua Correspondent
Hundreds of existing residents will be superannuitants by the time Horowhenua District Council introduces proposed average rates increases of $2000 annually in five areas targeted for new water and wastewater systems.
The council’s preferred option , included in the consultation 20 year Long Term Plan (LTP), to install new essential infrastructure in Waitarere, Hokio, Ohau, Manakau and Waikawa due to projected land and property development will hit ratepayers hard in the pocket between the years 2027 and 2036. read more…
Prue Hyman
How much should we celebrate International Women’s Day?
By Prue Hyman
Last week marked International Women’s Day. I noted it last year — mentioning domestic violence, pay equity and the need to value properly women’s caring work – and plugged my new book on the whole area.
This year, many interesting events were held as usual and the involvement of young women was particularly evident at the Governor General’s reception, although facilitator Mihingarangi Forbes rightly noted later the under-representation of Maori women.
And this year is also the 125th anniversary of women’s universal suffrage in 1893. read more…
Vicious Argie ants besieging residents’ homes and gardens
Residents Assocn. calls emergency meeting
Raumati South residents are under attack from major infestations of vicious Argentinian ants, says Trevor Daniell, chair of the Raumati South Resident’s Association.
He says: “We’ve had numerous reports of major infestations of Argentinian ants — one of the most invasive ants in the world.” read more…
-
See question 2
You can still do the tenth quiz of 2018 by scrolling down to March 7.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
The last service between Kapiti Coast and Auckland will operate on 3 April 2018. Passengers booked to travel on this service past this date will be re-accommodated on alternative services.
Air New Zealand backs off again
By Roger Childs
In 2015 they stopped flights to Christchurch and now the Auckland service is being canned.
The airline gave a typical excuse along the lines that it had to make domestic schedule adjustments to match its seat capacity to areas with growing customer demand.
There is huge disappointment in the area from Porirua north, especially for people who have used the service regularly or intermittently without having to travel all the way into Wellington and out to Rongotai. read more…
Chancellor Angela Merkel continues in charge, but with problems
Chancellor Merkel saved – but nationalists lead the opposition
By Harald Dähne in Berlin
From October 2017 until now Germany was without an elected government — the longest time in the history of the Federal Republic.
Technically, this was no problem because the old Chancellor, Angela Merkel, and ministers continuing working.
But in the end it was a difficult time with much seesawing for politicians, and public. Now the new Government, a coalition between conservatives and social democrats, will be installed in the Bundestag at the end of this month.
The Bundestag in Berlin
Stars coming to schools
By Roger Booth
Musician John Psathas
Kapiti Kids Motivation Trust already has four visitors lined up for 2018, after a quiet year last year.
The four projected 2018 visitors will be –
- World Barefoot Ski Champion Georgia Groen
- All Black Dane Coles
- Internationally renowned music composer John Psathas
- Singer Tina Cross
Air New Zealand suspends Kapiti Coast service
‘One more nail in the coffin of Paraparaumu’s airport?’
Opinion piece by the Editor, Alan Tristram
Air New Zealand has just announced it’s suspending its service between the Kapiti Coast and Auckland from next month.
The abrupt move,with no warning, will come as a huge blow to the whole district.
Only last weekend, the Kapiti Coast Airport held an open day for the public to showcase its services, with mayors from through the region attending.
Women hold up half the sky. Mao Zedong
By Roger Childs
The popular NZ prime minister
We have come a long way in New Zealand in giving women their rightful place in society.
Today we have women as Prime Minister, Governor General and Chief Justice.
125 years ago women gained the right to vote in New Zealand.
We were the first country to pass such a law, and British and American women would have to wait until 1918 and 1920 respectively.
The first Women’s Franchise Bill had gone before the New Zealand parliament in 1878, but it would take another 15 years before the deal was finally done. read more…
Painting of Kete Horowhenua in the 1800’s
Murky water surrounds figures for big rate rises facing many residents
By KIN Horowhenua correspondent Veronica Harrod
Horowhenua District Council has refused to answer a direct question on the expected financial impact on ratepayers if new water and waste water systems are installed in Waitarere, Hokio, Ohau, Manakau and Levin.
Horowhenua Council CEO, David Clapperton
In response to a question asking for the impact in dollar terms, CEO David Clapperton replies, “Page 18 of the Consultation Document [2018-2038 Long Term Plan] explains the annual increase in rates for all households in the district currently connected to water.
“Within the new infrastructure settlements, rates would increase by more since they would begin to pay the Water Supply Targeted rate when they start to receive this service.” read more…
Today we begin a short series on this cruel affliction.
Taking opportunities
By Roger Childs
The editors were very fortunate a few years ago, being able to take a dementia patient out for walks once a week. (Alan also took him for swims.)
He was in the dementia wing of a local retirement home, but because he was very fit he liked to get out for breaks.
It was our honour and privilege to accompany him on strolls for an hour or more. He became our close friend and we always enjoyed the experience of the walk and talk which often ended in a cafe such as The Marine Parade Eatery, Mitre 10 or The Windmill.
Alan and I never had any problems when were out with him: it was a pleasure to be in his company. read more…
Timesup for the Criminal justice system, says support group
A support group for sexual violence survivors is calling on the government to change the criminal justice system for sexual offending.
HELP is using International Women’s Day, tomorrow, March 8, to highlight the need for changes that reduce the trauma of the justice process for survivors.
They want to encourage offenders to take responsibility for their behaviour, and ultimately achieve greater justice. read more…
To view the earlier article on the project to get the Octavius Hadfield story on screen, scroll down to February 12.
Lights, Action, Camera!
By Roger Childs
Earlier this week Eternity Media Productions Ltd filmed the story in different locations on the Kapiti Coast.
The weather and light were ideal for filming, and I was able to catch up with the team at Brown’s Farm in Otaihanga.
The scene being filmed was one involving Kate Hadfield and her baby with some Maori friends, being approached by Kingite warriors in 1863. read more…
-
See question 2.
The tenth quiz of 2018.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Some humour from Paul Mulvaney in Christchurch
Sitting by her window
Sitting by the window of her convent, Sister Barbara opened a letter from home one evening. Inside the letter was a $100 bill her elderly parents had sent.
Sister Barbara smiled at the gesture.
As she read the letter by the window, she noticed a shabbily dressed stranger leaning against the lamp post below.
Quickly, she wrote, Don’t despair. – Sister Barbara, on a piece of paper, wrapped the $100 bill in it, got the man’s attention and tossed it out the window to him. read more…
Do I have to complete the census? Yes. The Statistics Act 1975 requires everyone in New Zealand on census day to take part. Statistics New Zealand
No collectors, blue bags and forms?
By Roger Childs
They’ve ll gone, but you can get forms if you really want them. As we move deeper into the computer age, more and more things are becoming online.
In the 2013 census Stats NZ were hoping for a better than 50% return of details via people’s computers but it turned out to be less than 40%.
Regardless, in 2018 everyone is being encouraged to do it online. That’s fine for the young people who are digital natives and computer savvy adults, but what about older folk who don’t know a mouse from a megabyte? read more…
Anyone who knows Diane will know she has devoted her life to this community. Former Kapiti mayor, Ross Church
An acknowledgement for community service
By Roger Childs
Former Councillor, Diane Ammundsen retired at the end of 2016. It is now time to honour her with a lasting acknowledgement of her service to the Kapiti District.
Over the years, she has been involved in a wide range of activities: guiding, conservation, church igroups, fund raising and youth development. In the early 2010s she was the key Council figure in getting the Kapiti Aquatic Centre financed and operational.
Her contribution to local body politics on the Kapiti Coast is unparalleled. Her popularity with voters saw her returned to office in every election from 1989 to 2013.
The local community appreciated her hard work, wide ranging experience and interests, and her no-nonsense approach to local government. read more…
The people of New Zealand are losing not only the quality of their once pristine rivers, but also the ownership of the water to hungry predators. Bill Benfield
Bill Benfield passes on
By Roger Childs
Bill probably knew more about the problems facing the New Zealand environment than anyone else in the country. He wrote a number of books and articles on such issues ranging from 1080 poison to water quality.
Unfortunately, it has only been in the last few years that mainstream media has taken much notice, and many of his thoroughly researched pieces earlier featured in the online outlets – The Tasmanian Times and Kapiti Independent News.
As well being an expert on environmental and conservation matters, Bill was also an architect, vintner, tramper and fisherman.
He passed away peacefully in the Wairarapa last Wednesday. read more…
What’s in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet. Juliet Capulet in Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
Name changes to suit the rulers
By Roger Childs
Definitely Istanbul!
Some readers will recall the 1953 song which included the refrain Istanbul not Constantinople. The latter was the name the Romans gave to the great city, but in the 1920s the older Turkish name Istanbul came into common usage.
The Dutch called the settlement New Amsterdam, but when the British took over that wouldn’t do, so New York it became.
In New Zealand we have had plenty of changes or additions over the years, mainly to provide Maori names.
Sometimes alterations have been made to replace unfortunate connotations. Golden Bay does sound a lot better than the Tasman named Murderers Bay! read more…
NZTA dragging the rumble strips
By Nick Fisher
One section sorely needing noise reduction: Wharemauku Stream to Raumati Road
I have just received notification from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), that the rumble strips won’t be removed until May or later.
This is completely unacceptable, given they should never have been laid in the first place, and we were assured they would be removed by the end of October.
Write to them, give them hell. M2pp-noise@nzta.govt.nz Greg.Haldane@nzta.govt.nz Lisa.McMillan@m2pp.co.nz Rob.Hannaby@nzta.govt.nz
Also ask why they are not enforcing Road User Rule 7.4 prohibiting excessive noise from vehicles (Engine brakes) read more…
-
See question 1.
The ninth quiz of 2018 can still be done by scrolling down to February 28.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
To see Howard’s first article, scroll down to February 28)
Memorial to the Australians
By Howard Chamberlain
1st Australian Tunnelling Company Memorial Hill 60
Two memorials close together are those of the 14th Light Division on the right of this picture and the 1st Australian Tunnelling Memorial on the left.
They are often visited as it is no great distance from Britain.
With so many memorials close together nearly all are viewed during the same visit.
It is easy to pick the rising sun on the 1st Australian Tunnelling Company memorial on the left as Australian and this was dedicated in 1923. read more…
First Tomato
By Julie Leibrich
The seed for this poem was sown in several ways. First, a tomato plant popped up unexpectedly in the garden.
A few weeks later, Christine Lenk, and then Peter Creswell, brought early tomatoes for us to taste.
Next, the first fruit on my plant turned red. That unique smell of a ripe tomato on the vine reminded me so strongly of my dad, who loved growing tomatoes. That evening I served my first tomato on a plate, cut into four.
Next morning the poem arrived, telling me that it was time to start growing my own tomatoes. read more…
…. as there are no full-blooded Māoris in existence it indisputably follows that had it not been for migrants, mainly Brits, not a single Māori alive today … would have existed. Sir Robert Jones
No races just mongrels
Opinion piece by Roger Childs
Bob Jones article in the National Business Review about a “Gratitude Day” caused offence in many quarters. Some suggested he should be stripped of his knighthood. However, in the statement from that article which we have quoted above, Bob speaks the truth.
In answer to a question from Andy Oakley when he lodged his Te Pakeha claim, the Waitangi Tribunal defined a Maori as being a person of the Maori race of New Zealand. This is what the 1975 Treaty of Waitangi Act says.
One problem: anthropologists and other scientists reject the concept of race. As people who seek out their DNA background find, all humans are physiologically the same and in terms of origins we are all basically mongrels! read more…
Horowhenua District Council HQ in Levin
Draconian media policy adopted by Horowhenua District Council.
By our Horowhenua correspondent, Veronica Harrod
The Horowhenua District Council has adopted a media policy that refuses to recognise media questions unless they are from, “a news media organisation registered by the New Zealand Companies Office.”
“Any further enquiries that are not from a news media organisation registered by the New Zealand Companies Office will be treated as Official Information Requests,” says Council’s communications advisor Trish Hayward. The council also wants to know what news organisations the information is being provided to and what the deadline is. read more…
Retrace history In the Footsteps of the Marines
By Roger Childs
The hills and valleys behind Paekakariki were an ideal war training ground for US Marines in 1942-43. During this time over 15,000 Americans lived in the three camps in the area, and not surprisingly this “friendly invasion” had a huge impact on the seaside village with its population of 600.
One of those Marines was Leon Uris and in his novel Battle Cry he recounted one of the route marches in the hills. In The Footsteps Of The Marines roughly follows his description.
The Kapiti Joggers and Walkers are organising the seventh running of this event on Sunday 27 May 2018. Last year more 170 walkers and runners participated, including several Marines and US Embassy staff. read more…
To see Ian’s first article, scroll down to February 28.
Lake Rotoroa, birds galore
By Ian Bradford
Forest in Nelson Lakes
The mast in 2001/2 in my area of Nelson Lakes was notable for the numbers of rats and mice, and consequently, stoats were often seen too. Did the bird life suffer? Not one little bit.
The bird life around the settlement at Lake Rotoroa where I live, is better than anywhere else in the park. No 1080 is dropped here. I won’t go through the list of birds I have had on my section. But the list even includes riflemen.
Last autumn I had a native robin sit on my knee for over five minutes. I have had a tomtit nest under my carport most years, and so it goes on. Tui and bellbirds go after nectar in the flowers on the native fuschia just 2m from my lounge window.
Native pigeons sit in the trees. Native parakeets fly overhead. I am fond of and enjoy the birds around. I am angry that DOC is destroying them at a totally unacceptable rate then putting the blame on everything but 1080. read more…
Does DoC have a reverence for life?
By Ian Bradford
DoC Director General Lou Sanson
Last October (2017), the Director General of DOC was sounding off about the dumping of approximately 50 Sika deer in a conservation area in Taranaki.
Apparently, some anti 1080 protestors had released these deer in this area as a protest. It is thought that they had transported these deer some distance, possibly somewhere from the East Coast.
The Director General’s solution was to simply kill them all.
DOC’s continued use of 1080 may be killing tens of thousands of birds every year. Then they spend millions of dollars of taxpayer money trying to bring them back again. read more…
-
See question 6.
The ninth quiz of 2018.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Memorials to individuals as well as units
By Howard Chamberlain
When travelling in north western France and in Belgium one can see many memorials not only to units but also sub units and to individual soldiers.
Some who read my earlier articles, late last year, will remember the memorials to Sgt Charles Sciascia, MM and LCpl (later Brigadier) Leslie Wilton Andrew, VC, DSO. (See alongside.)
One place where there are numerous memorials is near the WW1 battle site called Hill 60.
This is in the Zwarteleen area of Zillebeke a short distance south east of Iepre (Ypres). read more…
Exciting trio performing in the village
Mulled Wine Concerts present the Toru Trio
~ at 2:30 PM on Sunday 11 March, 2018
~ at the Paekakariki Memorial Hall, The Parade, Paekakariki.
Mulled Wine Concerts organiser Mary Gow, now in her tenth year of presenting high quality music for discerning Kapiti audiences says
“We are featuring the harp as an instrument this year. Usually you see it off to the side of the orchestra, but it has a gorgeous sound in its own right, it looks stunning and deserves a better hearing!” read more…
Waikanae Sandspit and DOC Scientific Reserve (Credit: David Wall)
DOC: We’re trying to stop cars crossing into Reserve from Waikanae beach
DOC has replied to KIN’s questions about the lack of action to stop vehicles illegally crossing its Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve (see our story on Feb 26, ‘Waikanae Beach Problems Continue’).
DOC’s Kapiti and Wellington Operations Manager, Jack Mace, says: “The Department of Conservation is working with Kapiti Coast District Council to address the complex issue of vehicles illegally accessing the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve.
“Unfortunately, the beach access points – at the Waikanae and Kapiti Boating clubs, and other road ends, are outside the reserve and therefore outside the Department’s control.”
Andrew London
From baa’s to blues at the Lindale Barn
By Andrew London
It’s a few years since tourists were regularly bussed up to Lindale to watch sheep being shorn in the Lindale Barn’s tiny 50-seat auditorium, but now local musicians ( including myself) are pressing it back into service.
Ross McDermott has operated his recording studio ‘Audiosuite’ within the Lindale complex for the last decade and was aware of the auditorium’s history.
He says:‘I sometimes find myself imagining what it must have been like full of tourists watching a shearing demonstration — the noise and smells and bustle, and think what a pity it was that it was languishing mostly unused.
“I thought it might make a terrific intimate live music venue – minus the smells of course. Our local caretaker has been storing his collection of antique farmimplements and memorabilia here, so it looks like a museum at the moment. read more…
Vehicles damaging the sand spit
By John Robinson
Waikanae Beach
Vehicles drive over the Waikanae Beach and the sand spit at the mouth of the Waikanae River. Some are hooning around and some are used to take whitebaiting equipment to the river.
There is extensive damage along the beach, and across the sandspit, where birds are known to nest.
Driving vehicles is forbidden along the beach south of the boat ramp to the mouth of the Waikanae River.
But the Kapiti Coast District council gives permits to drive in that prohibited area to “any member of the public to operate a vehicle on the beach for the purposes of gaining access for whitebaiting”. read more…
Representing NZ in July
By Angelo Robinson
Kapiti Basketball Players, Rachel Pike and Moss Whitman, with Atsuya Miyake as a reserve, have been selected for the New Zealand Basketball Academy Age Group Teams to tour Las Vegas USA in July this year.
This is Rachael Pike’s second year being selected for the USA Tour.
All three players put in strong performances at the trials held in 2017 with the final trials (a four day camp) held in January and have been rewarded with securing positions in these top Age Group Teams. read more…
Dog control survey reveals public’s main worries
The Kāpiti Coast Council says key issues identified in its recent public dog survey are:
- Dogs should be on-leash in densely populated areas.
- Rules should be enforced, there is a lack of, and people want.
- More designated dog parks.
- Clear dog control signage throughout the district.
Major needs in the community
Mayor K Gurunathan and Hub Co-ordinatoer Iride McCloy on the left at the opening
Waikanae Support Hub was officially opened on the 21st of February 2018.
The Hub was the brain child of Iride McCloy who saw a need to have a venue for the community to visit and share their needs for assistance and well-being.
Waikanae is the only area on the Kapiti Coast, with an increasing population, that does not have the vital support services readily available for residents who become vulnerable due to the elements lacking in finance, health and accommodation in a safe environment. read more…
For the background to this article, scroll down to February 24.
An Expensive Process
By Carol Sawyer
After two court hearings, (30 November 2017 and 16 January, 2018 ) and a two-day trial ( 19 and 20 February, 2018 ) the case has been dismissed.
Outside the Thames Courthouse on 20th February, friends and family are relieved that the charges have been dismissed against Graeme Sturgeon, third from right.
Graeme Sturgeon and his wife Julie have a massive legal bill to pay. They have, in Graeme’s words, endured “the worst three months of their lives”.
The case hinged on security footage which Graeme’s lawyer just could not get from the Department of Conservation (DoC). At first they were given only 6 seconds of footage and this inability to get hold of information crucial to the case caused expensive holdups (for both Graeme and the NZ taxpayer). Eventually, and only recently, a full 15 minutes was supplied. read more…
-
See question 7
The eighth quiz of 2018 can be done by scrolling down to February 21.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
Crafting in stone and bronze
By Kate Hartmann
Donna and Kate
Donna Clarke’s Finding Balance, a small show of bronze and Oamaru stone works, opens at Tutere Gallery and Creative Space on Sunday March 11.
Donna will be here from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm to not only talk about her work but also to demonstrate some of the processes that go into creating such pieces. The works are collectively called ‘Finding Balance’ as Donna explains: It has been an adventure in pushing the point of balance in wax, bronze, stone and life. A crazy combination but heaps of fun!
Donna has been working with Oamaru stone for many years now, bronze joining her body of materials in the past few years. read more…
Thriller at Forsyth Barr
By Roger Childs
The days of cricket giving way to rugby and other winter sports about Easter are long gone.
The Black Caps have a limited over series and a couple of tests against the English coming up, but Super 15 always starts in late February. (Two matches were played in South Africa last weekend to get things underway.)
And what a start it was! In front of a large crowd in the covered Dunedin stadium the home team beat the visiting Blues 41-34. But for a yellow card against Blues forward Antonio Kirikiri, it could have been even closer.
There were nine excellent tries and both teams played quality rugby with few mistakes. read more…
There could have been a tragedy
By Carol Sawyer
Cave Creek was a DoC tragedy; there could have been another one in Whitianga
Eugenie Sage, Lou Sanson – please remember Cave Creek and do the honest thing by the people of Whitianga whose crime was to not want their water, land and wildlife poisoned.
Remember Cave Creek ? Turns out Denis Marshall, Minister of Conservation at the time, actually offered to resign immediately after the accident ( but Jim Bolger told him not to ). See this link :
https://tramper.nz/forums/thread/9773?offset=11
Well what happened in Whitianga on the night of 17 October, 2017, isn’t Cave Creek, or anything close to it, obviously.
However there might have been an enormous tragedy in Whitianga if that undeclared, improperly stored 23.7 tonnes of 1080 baits had caught fire.
Still, there has been a huge injustice and nobody from DoC is offering to resign! read more…
Sporting success in perspective
By Roger Childs
Nico and Zoi: worthy third place-getters (Credit stuff)
We do have a reputation for being a country that’s sporting mad.
However, I have friends who, despite my best efforts, don’t know who is playing in up-coming cricket and rugby tests.
But at times the media seems to go crazy over meritorious, but by world standards, minor successes.
The bronze medals won by the 16 years old Kiwis in the Winter Olympics are great personal achievements, but they were not gold or silver. read more…
Graeme Sturgeon goes free
By Stephanie McKee
In the Thames District Court on 20th February, Judge Greg Hollister-Jones dismissed a charge of common assault brought by the New Zealand Police against Graeme Sturgeon of Coromandel.
The unprofessional and confrontational methods used by the DoC security guard, in opening Graeme Sturgeon’s car door forcibly, in a surprise move, without identifying himself, appeared to tip the balance in the judge’s mind to decide that Sturgeon’s actions from the moment the door was opened were made in self-defence.
Outside the Thames Courthouse on 20th February, friends and family are relieved that the charges have been dismissed against Graeme Sturgeon, third from right.
Cr David Scott
Kapiti Councillor on trial in May for alleged indecent assault
Welcome to 2018 & exciting literary adventures!
By Gill Ward
I’m thinking of the Readers and Writers – New Zealand Festival 8 – 11 March this year. So good to have it taking place in Wellington.
There are brochures in the libraries, and if not there will be some in the information site over by the Mediterranean Food Warehouse. I’ve seen them in cafes as well. The events/sessions are very reasonable and there are many free events too.
We even have a Kapiti session at Mahara Gallery 4-5 pm on Friday 9th March, with two successful graphic novelists, Mimi Pond (USA) and Brent Williams (NZ). Of course you’ll find it online too WWW.festival.co.nz. That know-all Google will direct you! read more…
1 News photo taken at the intersection of Nathan Ave and Manly Street, Paraparaumu Beach
UPDATE ON KĀPITI FLOODING
After last night’s rain, the Kāpiti Coast District Council operations and welfare teams are working with the community to clean up areas that were affected by flooding.
The KCDC says: “The Kapiti Fire Service has advised us that approximately six houses in the Paraparaumu Beach area were evacuated due to flooding.
“The people living in those homes went to neighbours, friends or relatives houses. We assessed the situation and determined that there was no need to activate our
Emergency Operations Centre. Reports that our centre was activated were incorrect,” says Group Manager Infrastructure Services Sean Mallon. read more…
Remembering the master in different ways
By Roger Childs
We watched Loving Vincent at Shoreline yesterday and emerged to a sight we had never seen before. Beyond the theatre entrance a tropical downpour was drenching Waikanae through incredibly bright sunlight.
It needed Van Gogh to paint it.
The film breaks new ground in the history of cinema, as it is painted. (See our earlier articles on February 10 and 19.) It is a magical experience and not to be missed, if you haven’t seen it yet: unquestionably five stars.
Van Gogh is also remembered in poetry and music, courtesy of the highly talented Don McLean.
Our Turangi correspondent, Leslie Clague, is also doing her bit and embroiding Starry Starry Night. read more…
Damage to SH1 sea protection causing delays
The NZ Transport Agency is making emergency repairs to the sea protection on State Highway 1 between Paekakariki to Pukerua Bay following damage sustained during ex-cyclone Gita.http://kapitiindependentnews.net.nz/emergency-sea-wall-repairs-2/
NZ Transport Agency Senior Journey Manager Neil Walker says one lane of the road is currently open to traffic in both directions under Stop/Go traffic management, but traffic in the area is heavy.
read more…
-
See question 3
The eighth quiz of 2018.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
|
Wellington Police were warning motorists that State Highway One was closed between Pukerua Bay and Paekakariki after it sustained weather damage overnight.
Iride McCloy: concerned about the Waikanae community (Credit Stuff)
The Waikanae Support Hub will offer a “front door” to anyone in the community seeking information or assistance as well as arranging specific purpose appointments. Iride McCloy
Meeting a local need
The Support Hub officially opens its doors at 10.30am on Wednesday 21 February.
Iride is a former Kapiti mayor and more recently has been involved in the travel industry.
She has long been concerned about the lack of information and assistance available in Waikanae and is hopeful that The Waikanae Support Hub will fill the gap. read more…
Kapiti Mayor K (Guru) Gurunathan
Kapiti Mayor files defence in defamation case
Kapiti’s Mayor, K Gurunathan (Guru) has filed his defence in the High Court against a defamation case being brought by the owners of Waikanae’s well-known macrocarpa hedge.
View of the controversial hedge in Te Moana Rd before trimming work by the Council.
He is being represented by Sarah Macky, a partner at Heaney and Partners out of Auckland.
The Mayor is facing the case over remarks he made allegedly defaming the well-known Waikanae couple, Vince and Raechel Osborne, who own the 80-year-old hedge on Te Moana Rd.
KIN understands he is being sued for more than $50,000, and costs — as well as a full apology — for allegations he made in print and on the radio. The Council is paying for his defence.
It’s the first time in living memory that a Kapiti Mayor has faced Court action over such a community dispute.
Music to stir the Scottish soul
Last Saturday Weka Park was alive with the sound of Scottish music.
For the 1-2 million New Zealanders who have some Scots ancestry, it is music which makes the heart beat faster.
12 bands were featuring in the annual Wellington – Hawke’s Bay Championships and there were plenty of prizes to be won.
One of the big prize winners was the Manawatu Grade 1 band, who are New Zealand’s finest and currently ranked 9th in the world. They will be competing at the World Championships on Glasgow Green in August. read more…
… one of his (Trump’s) first acts upon taking office was to do away with restrictions imposed by his predecessor on the availability of firearms to people with mental illness. Danielle McLaughlin, Sunday Star Times 18 February 2018
It’s in the constitution
By Roger Childs
Grieving family members
The names are a litany of school gun tragedies: Columbine, Sandy Hook, Virginia Tech and now Parkland Florida.
Senior Senator for Florida, Marco Rubio, who was a prominent Republican candidate for the presidency in 2016, played the sympathy card, but stood by the second amendment of the constitution.
What does it say?
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. read more…
Levin, heart of the Horowhenua
Council let $100 million go down the plughole to please developers.
Ratepayers suffer the consequences
By Veronica Harrod, Horowhenua correspondent
Rates are set to skyrocket in Horowhenua with plans by Horowhenua District Council to spend up to $52.5 million on new waste water systems — and $54.3 million on water systems at Waitarere, Hokio, Ohau, Manakau and Waikawa Beach.
But since 2015 there has been an explosion of property developments and, if Council had not cancelled development contributions,up to $100 million could have been raised in extra revenue! read more…
The goal at start of week was to make it to the semi-finals, Federer said. It’s unbelievable to be number one again. This is one of the best weeks of my life.
On top of the world
By Roger Childs
With his victory over-night in the Rotterdam Open, Roger Federer displaces Rafal Nadal as world number one.
It was back in October 2012 that he last held that coveted spot, and most pundits did not expect a comeback.
In January 2017, after a six month break with a knee injury, he was ranked 17th.
Since then he has won three of the five grand slams and five other top titles.
At 36 he is the oldest player ever to be number one. read more…
(This is Stephanie’s final article in the series. Scroll down to February 14, 15, 16 and 18 to see the earlier ones.)
Dysfunctional DoC
By Stephanie McKee
There is strong feeling against 1080 and the way DoC operates
This whole raruraru (trouble) in Whitianga and beyond, demonstrates that the Department of Conservation is dysfunctional, and treats local residents and local government alike with arrogance.
The public experiences the Department of Conservation as a law unto itself. It does not inform local authorities, it does not follow its own consultation guidelines, and it breaches statutes.
For example, the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act under which DoC receives consents for aerial poisoning requires :
- caution where there is scientific or technical uncertainty ( Section 7);
- protection of Maori taonga (Section 8)
- and consultation ( Section 5).
Fascinating hand-painted animation
By John Granville
This can only be seen on quite small screens in boutique cinemas such as the Waikanae.
It is the first fully painted animated film in history.
Seven-years in the making, it is primarily by Polish couple Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman. read more…
(To read the earlier episodes scroll down to February 14, 15 and 16.)
Nobody seemed to know but DoC
By Stephanie McKee
DoC managers were utterly secretive about the storage of 23,000 kgs of 1080 bags in the centre of Whitianga town. Very few knew about this storage, as far as we know not the local council, not the community board, and certainly not the local fire chief.
Their planning included storing 23,000 kg of bags of 0.15% 1080 baits in their Whitianga warehouse in advance of the signoff for the drops from the Waikato Medical Officer of Health, and without the knowledge of the other tenants in the building, nor of the local residents metres away.
The baits arrived on the 6th June. At this time DoC did not have the go-ahead for the drops from the Waikato Medical Officer of Health.
This was not applied for until August and not received until September 23. Obviously they saw it as a mere formality that would not be refused. read more…
We travelled many miles for our homeland we have lost, to make a new beginning beneath the Southern Cross. Scottish balladeer, Steve McDonald
Scottish heritage alive and well
Story by Roger Childs, photos by Pam Childs
The Manawatu Grade 1 Band
Twelve pipe bands playing in Raumati were a reminder of New Zealand’s proud Scottish heritage.
Saturday 17 February saw the annual Wellington, Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay Provincial Championships featuring at Weka Park.
Under the efficient co-ordination of former piper, Sandra Harry, the bands competed in four grades and a juvenile division.
The senior grades were judged on three items: Street March, Set Piece and Medley. read more…
-
See question 9
The seventh quiz of 2018 can still be attempted by scrolling down to February 14.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
Do you remember?
By Gill Ward
Do you remember the streamers – the
ones we threw from the ships?
And the crowds on the old wooden
wharves who grasped them as
we threw. That boy I was leaving
to get 12,000 miles away from…
I just had to hope that he was on the
other end of the one I hurled – my heart
beating with the excitement the hurly
burly and crashing of it all. read more…
Big score, poor bowling
By Roger Childs
The Black Caps celebrate an Aussie dismissal but there weren’t enough
The T20 matches are the most exciting form of cricket. This is crash and bash stuff and not for the purists.
There is plenty of hit, miss and snick, and consequently runs aplenty. You haven’t got time to play yourself in and need to make the big hits for the team, preferably sixes.
If you get a big score batting first you need bowl with care and precision to secure the victory.
At Eden Park last night the Black Caps did the first but not the second. read more…
Desperately Seeking National
By Roger Childs
The three frontrunners (Credit RNZ)
Even the most diehard Tory supporter would be dismayed at the field lining up to replace Bill English as leader. Judith Collins has a lot of baggage; Simon Bridges is not easy to listen to; and Amy Adams had a flawed run as Justice Minister.
There is nobody to set the pulses racing like Rob Muldoon, John Key or David Lange. To find a leader to match the star quality and charisma of Jacinda Ardern looks very difficult.
In the background behind the three frontrunners are the tired old faces of Stephen Joyce, Paula Bennett, Ann Tolley and Nick Smith.
No right wing Messiah there. read more…
Needs but no action
By Roger Childs
Flooding in Raumati May 2015
Back in May 2015 the Kapiti area suffered severe flooding and several houses had to be evacuated.
Less well known was the damage caused in Whareroa Farm.
Near the start of the Farm Road that runs inland from the Shelter, a stream began running across the road, and at the base of the hill where several tracks diverge to go up to Campbell’s Mill Road, the main stream had washed away much of the bank at the main crossing point.
Furthermore two bridges were swept away and have not been replaced. read more…
We continue our series on the bizarre events in the Coromandel back in late 2017. Next week the trial begins of a man who was allegedly assaulted but then charged with assault! (To read stories 1 and 2 scroll down to February 14 and 15.)
A Kafkaesque Turn of Events
By Stephanie McKee
Graeme Sturgeon: assaulted but charged!
In November 2017, a victim became the accused and Graeme Sturgeon found himself charged by the NZ Police with Common Assault.
Wendy Pond was informed verbally that the police would not charge the security guard with assaulting her as she was associated with Graeme Sturgeon.
Two months after the assault on her, Diana Halstead received from the Police, on 21 December 2017, formal notification that they would not lay charges for assault against the security guard, while at the same time, advising her that “people affected by crime” can get help from Victim Support and “a Ministry of Justice website www.victimsinfo.govt.nz”.
Question: What circumstances prevented NZ Police from laying a charge of assault in this case, given that they acknowledged that Diana is a victim of crime? read more…
The second language
By Roger Childs
Anthropologists estimate that there were over 400 indigenous languages in Australia before white men and women arrived. Less than 10% now remain. What lies ahead for Te Reo Maori?
In New Zealand there is plenty of official support to keep Te Reo alive and well, and there are many proponents for making it compulsory in all schools. At the government level, all documents, papers and notices are required to be in both languages.
The bottom line however, is that even if people and especially younger folk, become fluent in the language, will they use it regularly in the future? read more…
Graeme Sturgeon’s account
By Stephanie McKee
The Kaimarama valley: such a beautiful place they are poisoning, and the watershed for Whitianga.
“Three elders, with myself one of them, were camped at Kaimarama near the river ready to bear witness to the dropping of toxins into the Whitianga water supply.
As I have suffered the effects of Agent Orange for just on 50 years now, I have a particular interest in aerial deployed toxins into my or anyone else’s water supplies.
Just as it was getting dark, I received a phone call telling me that there was a strong smell from the lure mixed with the 1080 bait and the caller had observed bags of bait being loaded out of a warehouse in the middle of Whitianga. read more…
KCDC calls for police action to stop lawbreakers on Waikanae Estuary
By Alan Tristram
Kapiti Mayor K Gurunathan (Guru) says he’s disturbed by reports about vehicles intruding into the environmentally sensitive Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve. And he wants the Police to take action.
He says he speaks as ‘the initiator and founding member of the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve Care group.’
Answering queries from KIN, the Mayor says the cost of installing electronic gates must be shared by KCDC, DoC and the Police. This is because of the overlapping legal responsibilities. read more…
Today we begin a story about disgraceful happenings in October 2017 involving a government department in the Coromandel. It is tale about the storage of dangerous chemicals near houses and shops, secretive loading of trucks, assault on civilians, unregistered security guards, a flawed police investigation, not to mention poisoning the land.
DoC is in trouble
By Stephanie McKee
2017 was initially a good year for the Department of Conservation (DoC), on the Coromandel Peninsula.
They simply ignored all public calls for alternatives to aerial 1080, and just planned to go ahead with the drops as directed.
Consultation has been abandoned by DoC, even though DoC rangers are currently required to declare they have complied with the Communications Guidelines for Aerial 1080 Operations.
No longer are locals being offered “options for control” as required by the Communications Guidelines for Aerial 1080 Operations (1) read more…
-
See question 3
The seventh quiz of 2018.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Halt regional funding for poisoning
By Reihana Robinson, Upper Coromandel Landcare Assocation
Loading 1080 onto trucks in Whitianga
A Coromandel conservation group is calling for a halt to regional funding of toxin use on private land for wild animal control.
The Upper Coromandel Landcare Assocation (UCLA) is asking Waikato Regional Council (WRC), to suspend any further cash grants to “community” groups for placement of toxin 1080 and anticoagulant rat poisons on private properties on the peninsula.
UCLA cited a $41,000 grant to the Moehau Environment Group (MEG), a local contractor to WRC, for placement this summer of the poisons in bait stations on hundreds of hectares in Port Charles in an operation opposed by many landowners in the small community. read more…
Horowhenua District Council HQ in Levin
Horowhenua Council keeps mum on economic board activities
An Official Information Act request for the minutes of economic development board meetings held in 2016 and 2017 has been refused by Horowhenua
Horowhenua Council CEO, David Clapperton
District Council.
DomPost slips up
By Roger Childs
Editorials are always opinion pieces, but they relate to actual events, issues and developments. FOODS FOR THOUGHT are KIN’s editorials and we work hard to get the facts right before tossing our views, analysis and interpretation at the readers.
Today the DomPost based its editorial on the topic of how the new government is handling the issue of our military involvement in Iraq. The heading was Questions about Iraq.
Legitimate points were raised on whether our role had gone beyond that of training Iraqi troops.
Unfortunately the editor strayed into another continent when commenting The other urgent Iraqi issue (our underlining) for the new Government is whether it will stick with former Labour leader Andrew Little’s statement in April last year that an independent inquiry was needed into allegations in the book “Hit and Run” by Jon Stephenson and Nicky Hager. read more…
Waikawa rates may soar by $1500 under draft 20-year plan
By our Horowhenua correspondent, Veronica Harrod
Residents of Waikawa Beach have been told their rates could increase by $1500 annually if Horowhenua District Council proceeds with a scheme to provide water and waste water essential infrastructure.
Historically, septic tanks and a combination of bore water and water tanks have provided for each dwelling. read more…
A Rangatira every inch of him. Maori tribute to Octavius Hadfield
Production beginning shortly!
By Roger Childs
Octavius Hadfield, was the son of a rich English merchant, and he came to New Zealand in 1839 as a missionary aged 25.
His life to that time had been dogged by illness, and it was uncertain how long he would live.
It turned out to be an unexpectedly long time: in 1890 he became Anglican Archbishop of New Zealand and died 14 years later at the age of 90.
He is unquestionably one of the great New Zealanders of the 19th century. read more…
Previous flooding in Kapiti
Quarter of a billion dollars to fix all Kāpiti’s flood problems
By Alan Tristram
Kapiti Mayor K (Guru) Gurunathan worries about huge costs ahead
Kāpiti’s Mayor, K Gurunathan, says it’s sobering to know that more than a quarter of the district’s properties are a risk of being flooded.
And KIN says that it’s even more sobering to note the long-term costs could be a quarter of a billion dollars.
The Mayor’s assessment has come at a workshop on the Council’s long-term plan. read more…
This iconic Kapiti event first began in November 1983, 35 years ago! KWT website
Encouraging participation and enjoyment
By Roger Childs
The 2018 running of this iconic Kapiti sporting event will take place on Sunday 25 February.
The Kapiti Women’s Triathlon (KWT) promotes participation for all women and girls, with options suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. We consider everyone who makes the start line is a winner. Evelyn Williamson.
As the website puts it: The emphasis of the event is on a friendly, affordable, non-competitive atmosphere. There’s something for everyone with a range of event options available.
The KWT mantra sums up what the event is all about: Inspire, Motivate, Participate read more…
Kapiti Island (Photo Chris Keating)
That balanced biodiversity (Kapiti Island’s) is still a dream on the mainland, but in the first months of 2018, it will come significantly closer after a TBfree aerial 1080 possum control operation knocks down possums and rats across a large chunk of TB vector risk area – 11,000 hectares of bush and forest along the foothills of the Tararua Ranges, between the Akatarawa Road in the south and the Otaki River in the north. Michelle Edge OSPRI CEO December 2017
Not happening apparently
By Roger Childs
It was scheduled for February 2018, but OSPRI’s official documents show four other parts of the North Island set down for poisoning this year, but not the Tararua foothills.
Kapiti Biodiversity Officer, Rob Cross hasn’t heard anything, and it was he who announced last year’s September drop behind Waikanae.
So it appears that the birdlife, insects and animals in the hills behind Kapiti are safe, for now. read more…
-
See question 3
You can still do the quiz by scrolling down to February 7.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
The games are seen as a pivotal moment for relations between the two countries, who have been officially at war since 1950. Democracy Now, 9 February 2018
An amazing country
By Roger Childs
Korea has given the world many things which we now take for granted. To name a few: heated greenhouses, sauna, moveable metal printing (two centuries before Gutenberg), ironclad ships, celadon pottery, taekwondo, mask dancing, and …. Samsung products. (Any at your place?)
Back in the early 1950s South Korea was one of the poorest nations on the planet. Today it is one of the richest and most innovative.
As we know, dark political clouds hang over the Korean peninsula, not helped by the fulminations of President Trump and the intransigence of the North’s dictator, Kim Jong Un.
However the Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, which opened in spectacular fashion, may be the start of a thawing in relations across the 38th parallel. read more…
And now I understand what you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
How you tried to set them free.
They would not listen
They did not know how.
Perhaps they’ll listen now.
From Vincent by Don McLean
Van Gogh on the big screen
By Roger Childs
The Dutch painter is many people’s favourite from the dawning of “modern art”. Vincent Van Gogh was part of the extraordinary late 19th – early 20th era when a plethora of different styles emerged.
Gone were the days of the domination of representational art, and Impressionism, Fauvism, Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Abstraction to name but a few, burst onto the European art scene.
Van Gogh can’t be pigeon-holed, as he included elements in his painting from a range of styles to create a unique blend. His most amazing work was done in the south of France, especially in and around Arles.
Now in Loving Vincent the greatness of the artist is celebrated on screen, with the movie entirely rendered in the Van Gogh style. read more…
Ursula Le Guin
Ursula Le Guin can help you live better!
By Prue Hyman
OK – enough of one of my obsessions – I am now leaving sports politics! (See February 7).
Instead, I want to draw your attention to the wonderful work of Maria Popova who has a brilliant website and weekly newsletter on literary and philosophical writers and issues.
Recently she praised the extensive writing of Ursula Le Guin, who sadly died last month after 89 years of wonderful life and writing. read more…
Overseas croquet players from 11 countries compete at Waikanae and Paraparaumu
By our croquet corespondent, Jeremy Smith
International sport – the world championships for Association Croquet — came to Kapiti this week .
The district’s two croquet clubs, Waikanae and Paraparaumu, started by hosting qualifying matches , along with three other clubs from the Wellington region. read more…
My open letter to all KCDC councillors and mayor
By John Robinson
The Waikanae River sandspit features middle left. (Credit David Wall)
I oppose inaction, and apparent permission, concerning vehicles driving across the sandspit at the Waikanae River estuary, which is a Scientific Reserve and thus legally out of bounds.
I want something done about it.
Vehicles regularly drive across the sandspit at the mouth of the Waikanae River, at all times of the year.
The number of such vehicles is particularly large during the whitebaiting season.
Note: KIN Has asked Kapiti Mayor, K Gurunathan, to comment on this serious threat to sea birds.
Let’s start with one of the best
By Ralph McAllister
Mick Herron is a spy thriller writer of huge talent, right up there with Grahame Greene and John Le Carre, but with a voice of staggering originality.
Slow Horses is the first of four, so far, about the ineptitude of spies sent out to pasture.
We all reach our sell by date and Jackson Lamb supervises his gang of failures by consuming large quantities of whisky, smoking endless cigarettes and farting with deadly punctuation.
His team is Keystone Cops with English idiosyncrasies.
Desperately funny, yet somehow managing to succeed despite the odds, this crazy gang makes you glad to be alive, unlike some of the nasty victims who suffer some revolting endings. read more…
In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the founders hoped and trusted they would do. Supreme Court Justice Black, 1971
The very watchable Post
By Roger Childs
The Vietnam War was the one the Americans lost. That humiliating defeat still hangs heavily on the national conscience.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the media played a crucial part in encouraging the rising opposition to the country’s continuing involvement in Indochina, not least with the publication of the Pentagon Papers.
This is what The Post is all about and it is an exciting story without the need to take any cinematic licence.
The early sections take some sorting out, however once the issues and motives become clear, the tension builds to a stunning climax as the Washington Post presses roll. Four stars. read more…
Prue Hyman
Where are the Women’s Rugby Sevens?
Portia Woodman heading for the line in the semi-final against the USA
By Prue Hyman (1st of two columns)
I can’t resist starting this column with a quick follow up to my December one which had both praise and some criticism to the place given to women’s sport in New Zealand (and overseas).
Good on Portia Woodman, huge rugby star, for her comments last week on the lack of women’s 7’s in New Zealand when we have a great women’s team. read more…
-
See question 9
The sixth quiz of 2018.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
He aha te mea nui o te ao. What is the most important thing in the world? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata. It is the people, it is the people, it is the people. (Maori proverb)
A day for all New Zealanders
By Roger Childs
Whatever people’s ethnicity, Waitangi Day is for all New Zealanders. In 2018, it marks the 178th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, sometimes called “our founding document”.
This agreement guaranteed certain rights to all people living in the country at the time, both Maori and European, in exchange for British sovereignty.
Sadly in recent years, the formalities at Waitangi have been marred by protests, political grandstanding and the jostling of dignitaries. read more…
A variety of contemporary music
By Gilbert Haisman
Paekakariki: setting for the concert
The Hayden Chisholm Trio will be performing at the Paekakariki gallery and home of painter Gerda Leenards and craft artist Lindsay Missen on Friday 16 February, 7.30pm.
Their music is original, subtle, and likely to appeal to people attracted to contemporary classical music, chamber jazz, Ravi Shankar, and/or the art music that shares the bill with the more spectacular world music that features at WOMAD.
There will also be quirky touches, including words from James Joyce. The trio is completed by two former lecturers at the New Zealand School of Music: bassist Paul Dyne, and composer and pianist Norman Meehan. read more…
Horowhenua District Council should put all the records onto the website
Horowhenua Council fails transparency test on making 1015 records internet friendly
By Horowhenua correspondent Veronica Harrod
Every now and then we get a detailed Comment which warrants turning into an article. Alan Mountford has followed up on our Scott Watson story (See January 4) and puts his perspective from knowing the Watson family.
A friend of the family
The missing couple
By Alan Mountford
I met the Watson family, including Scott about 17 years before this event occurred.
We became good friends over the years.
Yes – Scott got into a bit of trouble in his teenage years – not really any different to a lot of other young guys though. read more…
We will be looking for practical ways to bring to reality increased Māori home ownership, more jobs for our rangatahi and working together on child wellbeing – in particular for tamariki. Jacinda Ardern
A fresh approach
By Roger Childs
Jacinda at Waitangi
In recent years Waitangi Day has often generated more heat than enlightenment. There has sometimes been feuding between different iwi and visiting politicians have been jostled.
Jacinda Ardern is continuing to get a good name from making smart moves. From the time she became Labour leader she has acted with dignity, thought carefully before speaking and has not allowed herself to be rattled by the media.
Confronting with the manifold issues facing the country, she has been breath of fresh air. Not least in her approach to the often contentious Waitangi Day celebrations. read more…
A colourful new addition to Raumati Rd is turning heads as well as pages, thanks to the efforts of a local librarian. Cloe Willetts, Kapiti News
Free books accessible locally
The Raumati Little Library
By Roger Childs
It’s the brain-child of Paraparaumu librarian, Nisa Promchot.
The idea is to bring books to the people in their local communities.
Users are encourage to take one / leave one, or just add to the stock.
The colourful Little Library is the first of its kind in the area, but has encouraged other communities to set up their own.
Plans are underway in Waikanae and Paekakariki to provide such book options for locals. read more…
… a people composed of numerous dispersed and petty tribes, who possess few political relations to each other and are incompetent to act or even deliberate in concert. Colonial Secretary, Lord Normanby, speaking about the native inhabitants of New Zealand in his instructions to Hobson, August 1939
What it meant at the time
Opinion piece by Roger Childs
It was 6 February 1840 and the location was an elevated area above the Bay of Islands known as Waitangi. The British government’s envoy, Captain William Hobson, had called native tribal leaders together to sign a treaty.
When we examine the significance of this agreement, we need to understand what the signatories understood at the time.
This was a treaty about the scattered native peoples of New Zealand, through their iwi leaders, ceding sovereignty to the British government in exchange for
~ having the ownership of their lands, dwellings and property (taonga) protected
~ becoming British citizens.
There was no Waitangi Tribunal, no late 1980s Maori back-translation into Te Reo, no mention of partnership or principles. read more…
-
See question 1
You can still do the fifth quiz of 2018 by scrolling down to January 31.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers on Sunday.
Today we begin a series of short articles on aspects of the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi: Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We start with the rapidly changing scene in the 1830s and what the Treaty did for the Maori way of life at the time.
Reluctant colonisers
By Roger Childs
Raising the flag after the signing of the 1835 Declaration
New Zealand in the 1830s had no government or political structure either Polynesian or British. The native tribes were frequently at war with one another and there was no concept of a united Pacific nation. This was despite the fact that in 1835 there was a Declaration of Independence cobbled together by British Resident, James Busby.
Although signed by a number of chiefs, mostly from Northland, and accepted by the British government, it did not set up a unified Maori nation.
Up until 1838. the British government had no desire to get involved in New Zealand and establish another expensive colony. It was well aware that British settlement was increasing, but was reluctant to interfere. In the meantime, it was happy to let the Governor of New South Wales monitor the changing New Zealand scene from across the Tasman. read more…
Martin McDonagh’s latest laconic, multilayered wrong-footer pits McDormand’s storming mourner against two local cops, Woody Harrelson’s omnipotently beloved sheriff and Sam Rockwell’s richly monstrous officer in waiting. Sight and Sound
Tensions in the Mid-West
By Roger Childs
The three billboards are outside Ebbing, Missouri and they have been put up by Mildred Hayes. The messages are about the lack of action by local police into the rape and death of her daughter.
Mildred is part of a highly dysfunctional family: her husband has left her for a 19 year old; her teenage son has issues, and she has plenty of guilt about the night her daughter stormed out on foot.
Downtown at the police department there are also plenty of issues and Ebbing citizens are divided over Mildred’s actions.
This is a film with plenty of strong language and violence, and is not for the faint-hearted.
However, it grabs your attention from the start and doesn’t let go: 4.5 stars. read more…
KCDC District Cr Mike Cardiff
Councillor ‘surprised’ by amount of insurance excess costs in Mayoral Court case
By Alan Tristram
The vexed question of who pays out for a defamation case brought against Kapiti’s Mayor K Gurunathan continues to surprise even a sitting councillor.
Mayor Gurunatha — facing court case
Waddell Media is an award winning producer of lifestyle formats, high quality documentaries and specialist factual programmes for the UK, Irish and International markets. Waddell Media website
Food and history: a great combination!
By Roger Childs
Chefs Paul Rankin and Nick Nairn (Credit Concern Worldwide)
Dave Gallaher is a legendary figure in New Zealand sporting history. His famous 1905 All Blacks completed a long tour through the British Isles, France and California, and set new standards for the game of rugby.
Gallaher was born in Ramelton in the north of Ireland and came to Kati Kati with his family in the late 19th century.
This Irish-New Zealand link is why Waddell Media is involved.
For five series now, chefs Paul Rankin and Nick Nairn have travelled the world in the footsteps of the Ulster-Scots, unearthing some interesting history, and creating some bespoke meals for distinguished descendants. ibid. read more…
Horowhenua District Council building in Levin — home of the master plan
Horowhenua Council’s Master Plan revealed
Horowhenua Chief Executive David Clapperton
The 49-page “HDC-Project-Lift-Master-Plan-
Mayor KGurunathan
Mayor K Gurunathan answers some of the vital questions
By the Editor, Alan Tristram
View of the controversial hedge before trimming work.
A month ago we published important stories about Kapiti’s Mayor, K Gurunathan (Guru), and a defamation case being brought by the Osborne family of Waikanae Beach.
The case centres on the controversial hedge nurtured by the Osborne family in Te Moana Road over many years — and efforts by the KCDC and Mayor Gurunathan to get it cut back because of safety concerns.
Various remarks were made about Mr and Mrs Osborne and they were unhappy about some attributed to the Mayor, and so took legal action.
Much of this is sub judice, but not the question of who will pay for all the possible very large legal fees. And perhaps most important of all — why didn’t the Mayor get legal advice before launching into the media?
The KCDC insurers will cover the legal costs. But we understand there is a $10,000 excess. So who pays for this — the Mayor or the Public (through their rates).
Highly valuable environments
By Cushla McGaughey
World Wetlands Day was established in 1997 to raise awareness about the value of wetlands.
They include swamps, marshes, peat bogs, lakes and rivers, salt marshes, mudflats and mangroves.
Wetlands reduce flooding, filter water and recharge groundwater.
They create a rich, diverse habitat for hundreds of native plant, bird and invertebrate species. read more…
Distinguished local writer and poet
Raumati author, Julie Leibrich, is well known for her writings on justice, crime, spirituality and health. As well as a writer of children’s stories and non-fiction, she is also a renowned poet.
One evening at low tide she was on the beach looking out to where Kapiti Island had disappeared in the mist ….
There was no one else in the water or on the beach. A swoop of gulls – about a hundred birds – flew towards me and I really thought they had come to take with them to the island for the night. I was so sure that they had, I raised my arms in readiness.
This was the inspiration for Julie’s February sonnet. read more…
-
See question 7.
The latest challenge can be done by scrolling down to April 11.
- Remember that no correspondence, computers or cell phones may be entered into!
- Answers below.
