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Smokefreerockquest heats heads to Rotorua
Toi Toi Tree and Out of Tunar could be the hottest new sounds on the Kiwi music scene if they hit the big time via the time-honoured pathway of Smokefreerockquest.
Now in its 25th year, New Zealand’s only nationwide, live, all original youth music competition is about to kick off in Rotorua, with the heats scheduled for 3pm Saturday 18 May at Rotorua Convention Centre. Tickets $10, available at the venue.
Around 700 entries are expected to go through regional heats and finals in 23 towns from Invercargill to Whangarei. Founder and Director Glenn Common says while much has changed in the 25 years that SFRQ has been running, there are some things that remain the same:
"The enthusiasm of young people for their music, and the way they respond to having a platform to perform to their peers is one of the constants," he says. "These days they can put their video clips up on Youtube, but that hasn't taken the thrill out of getting up on stage in front of a real live crowd."
The Rotorua bands performing at the Convention Centre on Saturday are:
Loft, Western Heights High School
Burning Skies, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College
Zenith, Rotorua Lakes High School
Toi Toi Tree, John Paul College, Rotorua Lakes HS
Kingdom, Western Heights High School
ABN, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College, Rotorua Boys’ HS
Undecided, Rotorua Lakes High School
Aftershock, Western Heights High School, John Paul Coll
Puoro Kaupare, Tarawera High School
Out Of Tunar, Western Heights High School
4ward, Western Heights High School
Monique Doig, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College
Bianca, John Paul College
Ruby Solly, Western Heights High School
Marcus Crowe, Lake Taupo Christian School
Title, Rotorua Girls' High School
Lucy Campbell, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College
Azura, Reporoa College
Liana, Tauhara College
Sarah Chilvers, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College
Ellie Redmond, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College
Emily-Jane, Western Heights High School
This year there are separate categories for solo/duo acts and bands. The top two solo/duos will be announced at the heats. They will play off at the regional finals and will both go into the judging pool for the national final.
"We’ll have regional winners in the solo/duo section and the band section, and the same at the national final," Glenn explains. "There will be more winners and more prizes and it means neither category will feel overlooked."
Glenn says this change has been made in response to comments from entrants and teachers, and brings SFRQ more in line with NCEA assessments where bands are assessed separately.
The regional events run every weekend until 13 July, then the top regional bands and solo/duos submit videos for selection as national finalists. Smokefreerockquest, powered by Rockshop, has national winners’ prize packages for bands and the solo/duo winners, that include musical gear to a total value of $13,000 from NZ Rockshops and their suppliers, inclusion on the NZ On Air Kiwi Hit Disc, radio promotional support, and video play on youth music channel FOUR. There is also the MAINZ Scholarship for outstanding musicianship, the APRA Lyric Award, the Lowdown Best Song Award, the Smokefree Women’s Musicianship Award and the Skinny People’s Choice voted by text with the opportunity to open the SFRQ National final.
More info at sfrq.co.nz or facebook.com/thesfrq
Rotorua Fire & Ice festival returns this winter
This winter's Fire & Ice Festival will return with a favourite from last year, and three new events.
Ice World has announced that they will return to Rotorua with their hugely popular ice rink as part of Rotorua’s winter festival.
Fire & Ice will also feature three new events - Mid-Winter Christmas at the Night Market, outdoor movie at the Village Green, and the Luminite lights trail at Government Gardens.
RDC major events coordinator and Fire & Ice coordinator, Kylie Lang, says she is thrilled to have the ice rink back this year.
“Having the ice rink return allows us to produce new events within Fire & Ice, and create an exciting festival in a usually quiet time of year.
“It also enables us to deliver a top quality event that can be experienced by locals and visitors."
Ms Lang said events such as Luminite have never been seen before in Rotorua.
"This particular event will have its own lights trail that weaves throughout Government Gardens and will incorporate local businesses such as the Rotorua Museum and Blue Baths. It will also feature a bigger and better fireworks and laser show to end the night."
Most of the events will take place during the final two weeks of July, in conjunction with school holidays.
Ria Hall, Lisa Carrington up for Maori of the year
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| Ria Hall performs at Coca-Cola Christmasin the Park in Christchurch. Photo: Sharp Focus Photography/ Sam Sword |
TVNZ’s Marae Investigates will again broadcast the Māori of the Year Awards 2012, a programme that recognises outstanding people, groups and organisations who have enhanced mana Māori in 2012.
Kaitaia GP Dr Lance O’Sullivan, Olympic gold
medallist Lisa Carrington and Kerikeri High School are amongst the 27 high calibre finalists for the second Marae Investigate’s-Ngā Toa Whakaihuwaka (Māori of the Year Awards 2012.)
All 27 finalists come from across nine diverse categories for individuals and groups who have achieved at the highest levels this year.
medallist Lisa Carrington and Kerikeri High School are amongst the 27 high calibre finalists for the second Marae Investigate’s-Ngā Toa Whakaihuwaka (Māori of the Year Awards 2012.)
All 27 finalists come from across nine diverse categories for individuals and groups who have achieved at the highest levels this year.
Ngā Toa Whakaihuwaka will air on Wednesday 6th February 2013 in a one-hour live special celebrating Māori excellence on TV One at 12.30pm.
“Māori often find it hard to talk about how sweet their kumara is but we at Marae Investigates believe it’s important for outstanding achievement to be recognised,” says Paora Maxwell, Executive Producer.
"It’s only appropriate that we celebrate Māori success on our national day."
Public nominations were called for in November and closed on December the 2nd. Our expert panel of judges had the difficult task of whittling down the 27 finalists from more than 60 nominations.
Public nominations were called for in November and closed on December the 2nd. Our expert panel of judges had the difficult task of whittling down the 27 finalists from more than 60 nominations.
Watch Marae Investigates on Wednesday 6th February 2013 to see the category winners announcements. Te Toa Whakaihuwaka-The Māori of the Year the supreme winner will also be presented with a specially commissioned pounamu trophy carved by master carver Hepi Maxwell of Rotorua.
Category Finalists:
REO/TIKANGA
The Hika Group
Dr Cathy Dewes
Associate Professors Poia Rewi and Rawinia Higgins
The Hika Group
Dr Cathy Dewes
Associate Professors Poia Rewi and Rawinia Higgins
TOI-ARTS
Rawiri Paratene
Ria Hall
Chris Winitana
Rawiri Paratene
Ria Hall
Chris Winitana
MĀTAURANGA-EDUCATION
Professor Linda Smith
Sir Mason Durie
Bentham Ohia
Professor Linda Smith
Sir Mason Durie
Bentham Ohia
HAUORA-HEALTH
Dr Helen Herbert
Janice Wenn
Dr Lance O’Sullivan
Dr Helen Herbert
Janice Wenn
Dr Lance O’Sullivan
HĀKINAKINA-SPORT
Lisa Carrington
Storm Uru
Cameron Leslie
Lisa Carrington
Storm Uru
Cameron Leslie
RATONGA HAPORI-COMMUNITY SERVICE
Cindy Kiro
Piki Thomas
Darci Goldsworthy
Cindy Kiro
Piki Thomas
Darci Goldsworthy
RANGATAHI-YOUTH
Kerikeri High School
Johnson Rapata Tumai Totorewa
Tama Te Waiwhakaruku Hata
Kerikeri High School
Johnson Rapata Tumai Totorewa
Tama Te Waiwhakaruku Hata
TE AO HANGARAU-SCIENCE/INNOVATION/TECHNOLOGY
Dr Ocean Mercier
Microsoft NZ Ltd
Kapenga M Trust
Dr Ocean Mercier
Microsoft NZ Ltd
Kapenga M Trust
PAKIHI-BUSINESS
NZ Manuka Honey
Te Awanui Hukapak
Christopher Mace
NZ Manuka Honey
Te Awanui Hukapak
Christopher Mace
Test your Olympic skills at Bayfair
ANZ and Bayfair Shopping Centre is also giving shoppers a chance to indulge in the spirit of the games when the ANZ Olympic bus visits the centre between 10.00am-11.30am on Wednesday 8 August.
This authentic London double-decker bus is an exciting Olympic experience, loaded with the latest equipment and technology, giving visitors the opportunity to test their rowing and cycling skills against the records of New Zealand’s top sports men and women.
On the first level of the bus visitors can put down the shopping bags and put the pedal to the metal on rowing or cycling equipment to see how close they can get to Olympic racing times. Upstairs, there are ipads for visitors to use to post a special message of support to the New Zealand Olympic team.
The details:
Event: ANZ Olympic Bus
Date: Wednesday 8 August
Time: from 10:00am to 11:30am
Location: Front car park, in front of ANZ. Bayfair Shopping Centre, Cnr Maunganui and Girven Roads, Mount Maunganui
Western Bay of Plenty Students ‘Leave their Mark'
YIA recognises that, as a region, we need to be proactive and use our expertise through innovation and sustainability to make us globally competitive for the future. YIA aims to inspire students to become true creative innovators through learning the basics of exploring and spotting opportunities, developing ideas, creating something and realising it.
This is the third year the competition has been running. It is an initiative led by Priority One’s Instep programme, Locus Research, a product development agency and Woods Creative, a creative agency focused on branding. The awards are also supported by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
As part of the launch of Western Bay@Work month at the TECT Arena and in front of representatives from local government, business and education and community organisations, 19 finalists were recognised for their efforts.
The keynote speaker at the function was Mark Pennington of Formway Design – one of New Zealand’s most highly awarded and commercially successful designers and design educators. On viewing the finalist submissions, Mark said he was amazed at what the students had been able to achieve and commented “It is so important to foster innovation and creativity as both a skill and a mindset in our young people, and to encourage them to think and act sustainably too. YIA is a great initiative and I’m thrilled to have had the chance to meet some of these students with their bright ideas – they’re our future”.
Five judges representing: Zespri, Locus Research, Woods Creative, Catalyst R&D and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment selected the finalists from over 60 entrants from seven Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty secondary schools. The judges used the five categories of research, communication, sustainability, innovation and creativity to select the finalists, and ultimately the Supreme winners.
This year’s Supreme Senior winner was Melanie Duff from Tauranga Girls’ College with her innovation of a sustainable and re-useable cup. The judges felt that her submission was a well thought out solution to the problem of reheating cold drinks.
Aidan Winch from Mount Maunganui College was awarded the Junior Supreme Winner’s prize for what the judges felt was a very clever, very simple solution to the problem of not knowing how much medicine is left within an asthma inhaler.
Each of the finalists and the highly commended students were awarded a certificate. The two Supreme winners each received a $1000 cheque from local businesses that supported the initiative, a specially designed trophy and an invitation to attend the Sustainable Business Awards in Rotorua.
In addition to the existing awards, an internship was awarded to Sam Boggiss from Aquinas College for his “Maths Mate” phone application. Sam will spend two weeks working at Locus Research and Woods Design Agency. The directors of both companies said Sam will not be expected to make coffee but will be mentored to work through a project of his choice.
Another opportunity provided for all YIA finalists this year is a People’s Choice Award. Shoppers at Bayfair Shopping Centre this week will be able to view the students amazing work and vote for who they think should win the People’s Choice Award.
Timothy Allan, Managing Director of Locus Research said “There is so much valuable learning that takes place through entering YIA. It was great to see a number of students entering again this year. We look forward to building on this initiative with more students taking up the challenge in 2013.”
Lyn Parlane, Manager of Priority One’s Instep programme, has been overwhelmed by the huge support provided by the business community for YIA. She said, “The ability to problem solve, think outside the square and communicate clearly are transferable skills businesses need in their employees, both now and in the future.”
Maori leaders to drive growth through science
The Federation of Maori Authorities says supporting the world's top agricultural biotechnology conference being held in Rotorua in September is an opportunity to connect its members with the best minds in the business.
The Federation has come on board as a Platinum sponsor of ABIC (Agricultural Biotechnology International Conference) 2012, which will bring industry leaders, researchers and scientists, investors and policy makers from around the world to New Zealand. ABIC 2012 is hosted by NZBIO, the New Zealand biotechnology industry association. The Federation of Maori Authorities represents New Zealand businesses with a combined asset base valued at NZ$8 billion, much of which comes from interests in seafood, forestry, dairy, sheep and beef, horticulture and energy.
Federation chief executive Te Horipo Karaitiana says the conference presents an exciting opportunity for the Federation to grow and advance Maori-owned agri-business through sharing science and biotechnology knowledge and networks.
"Maori have a saying that 'with your basket of knowledge and ours, the people will prosper' and our Federation sees this conference as a step in that direction.
"Through science, the Maori economy will grow, so it is vital that the Federation, as the largest network of Maori businesses, is a key player in this conference."
Mr Karaitiana says Maori also have much to offer international guests attending ABIC 2012.
"We will bring a unique element to the discussion because of our cultural and environmental values where taking care of the land that we operate businesses on is just as important as making a profit."
NZBIO Chief Executive Dr Suzanne Bertrand has welcomed the Federation's involvement in ABIC 2012.
"This is an extremely positive confirmation that Maori agbiotech business will be playing an integral role in the development of the future knowledge-intensive bio-economy.
"Having them on board is enlarging our knowledge base and allowing us to have an all-encompassing view of the industry," Dr Bertrand said.
ABIC 2012 takes place from 2 - 6 September and its theme is Adapting to a Changing World. The Ministry of Science and Innovation is a major sponsor of the event.
To view the programme for ABIC 2012, visit: www.abic2012.com/index.cfm/programme/
Kawerau dancer set for departure to Las Vegas
The day is finally here for a Kawerau dancer who will be departing the shores of New Zealand this afternoon to represent New Zealand at the World Hip Hop Champs in Las Vegas.
Joseph McClutchie, 20, along with a group of Bay of Plenty dancers from the Co' Lab Mega Crew will be departing the land of the long white cloud to the bright neon lights of Las Vegas to represent New Zealand at the World Hip Hop Champs.
Mr McClutichie will be performing apart of Papamoa's Urban Dance Company's Co' Lab Mega Crew who will be performing in the MegaCrew division.
"Who would have thought that a guy from Kawerau would have made it to Las Vegas to rep NZ and more the Bay of Plenty." says Mr McClutchie. "I thank every one that has helped me get this far in life, this has been my life long dream and I can't wait to hit that stage an kill it."
Urban Dance Company's Co' Lab Mega Crew secured their placing at the world championships after placing 3rd in the New Zealand Street Dance national competition in April.
Sarah Martin of Papamoa's Urban Dance Company said It has been a demanding effort getting the group sorted and set to go but it has been worth it.
"We would like to thank all our supporters, fans and family who have helped and contributed money, time and just support to make this 'dream' possible." She says.
The Co' Lab Mega Crew will perform in Las Vegas on Friday morning (NZ Time)
The Co' Lab Mega Crew will perform in Las Vegas on Friday morning (NZ Time)
Supporters are encouraged to join the groups official facebook page https://www.facebook.com/CoLabMegaCrew to keep up to date and follow the crew in Las Vegas.
Rena disaster design takes top awards
Inspired by the Rena oil disaster, a liquid latex creation by aspiring young fashion designer Charlotte Bishop took out top honours at the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards last night (Saturday July 29).
A sell-out crowd of 700 fashion-lovers packed Gore's Town and Country Stadium for a stunning three-and-a-half-hour showcase of emerging talent from around New Zealand.
Tauranga-based Ms Bishop, 30, was unable to attend the awards in person but was first delighted to learn via Skype screened live to the stadium about her win in the 'Avant Garde' category.
Later in the night and again live on the big screen she was "stunned" to be notified she was the overall Open Section winner and recipient of a $12,000 Ensign Award of Excellence package.
A fashion design student at Otago Polytechnic, based at the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic, she said the award wins were "amazing".
"It just blows my mind that I've been so successful at these awards, because this is going to change my life," she said.
Ms Bishop said the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards was "a great place" to start out in the fashion industry and showcase designs.
"I'm incredibly grateful to everyone involved and I'm going to run with the opportunities that winning the awards are presenting to me. I'm open for anything that comes my way.
"When Rena happened I felt I had to do something positive with a truly tragic situation, so I created a design to try and do some good."
A judging panel of top New Zealand designers including Barbara Lee, Doris DuPont, Lela Jacobs, James Dobson and Gore's Jim Geddes said they'd found it an incredibly difficult task to select 200 designs, out of the 300-plus entries submitted, to appear on the catwalk.
"Over three days we saw every single entry modelled up close and we were very, very impressed and amazed," said Ms DuPont.
"Many designs were bold and dynamic, and we particularly commend the schools section entries. If this is the standard we're having from schools we have a very bright future in New Zealand fashion.
"This year we've seen a real emphasis on craftsmanship, dying techniques and very good technical know-how, and the entries have been truly unique," she said.
Seven-year-old Nelson schoolboy Torenzo Monopoli, despite being the youngest competitor by far in the school's Avant Garde section, took out top honours with a stunning full length pink and purple creation.
Judges look at each entry 'blind', so were not aware of his age when they picked his design as the winner.
Hokonui Fashion Design Awards convenor Heather Paterson said she was "thrilled" with the success of this year's event and was very impressed with the calibre of this year's entries.
"The feedback I've received about the designs and their exceptional standard is fantastic," said Mrs Paterson.
"The opportunities the Awards present are huge, not only for the designers. Already one of the male models from last night's show has been contacted by a national modelling agency. He was pretty overwhelmed being his first time on the catwalk."
Even metrosexual Mayors Tracy Hicks and Tim Shadbolt -- of Gore and Invercargill respectively -- got in on the act, strutting their stuff in a menswear showcase with bare feet sporting bright red toe nail polish.
Mrs Paterson said she was already looking forward to the 25th anniversary event in 2013.
"This year we've worked hard to lift the profile of the event and engage more sponsors who have been hugely supportive.
"Planning is already underway for next year's 25th celebration which promises to be bigger and better than ever."
For all category winners and more images please go to www.hokonuifashion.co.nz.
Maori arts series aims to encourage learning
Made in conjunction with the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute at Te Puia in Rotorua, the series explores the history and customary use of many Maori art forms over 26 episodes.
Each week, renowned artists will take the audience through the steps to make particular taonga and experts in traditional resources will take viewers to the source.
Travel to the South Island to gain an insight on pounamu, learn how weapons are extracted from whale jaws and find out from artists throughout the country the many uses of plants and materials.
Producer Lara Northcroft, from Rotorua's Velvet Stone Media, says taonga Maori were traditionally admired for their functionality rather than pieces of art. "Some were highly prized because of the degree of skill needed to produce them, the length of time it took or the scarcity of materials. Others were associated with rituals, prominent ancestors or spiritual beliefs," she says.
TE IRIKURA features renowned taonga Maori artists and craftspeople including carvers, James Rickard, Clive Fugill, Takirirangi Smith and Hekenukumai Busby as well as weavers Matekino Lawless, Karl Leonard, Mere Walker and Kohai Grace.
Northcroft says TE IRIKURA begins with simple instructional methods for basic taonga and gets more difficult as the series progresses.
The glimpse into the world of weaving starts with an insight into the customary importance of flax to Maori; how it grows and is harvested, prepared and dyed for different uses. This is followed by a tutorial session on how to make a simple basket, the following week those skills will be transferred to making a basic kete.
Viewers will learn how to make a wide range of taonga from a simple kono to taonga puoro as well as learning how traditional tools like uhi and toki are made.
Tune in to TE IRIKURA, premiering on Maori Television from Sunday August 5 at 5.00pm.
All episodes will be available to view online at www.maoritelevision.com after transmission.
High-flying judge for Wearable Creationz 2012
Former Rotorua woman, designer Sandy Fullerton, is joining the judging panel for the 10th anniversary Wearable Creationz event in Rotorua next month.
A record 74 entries were received for the popular annual wearable arts extravaganza this year and Mrs Fullerton will be the guest judge.
"It's a huge coup getting Sandy here and we are very grateful she's making the time to come," says organiser Barbara Cook.
Now based in Sydney, Mrs Fullerton will join Terry Wheeler, Jo Romanes, Mike Steiner and Donna Campbell on the judging panel.
Mrs Fullerton (nee Lyle) was born and schooled in Rotorua and in 1997, with her husband Tom Fullerton, established Fullerton Design, specialising in embroidery textiles for film and theatre, religious, bridal and corporate occasions.
The couple have worked on many movies including two Star Wars films, Matrix 2, Moulin Rouge, Narnia 3 and more recently Peter Jackson's The Hobbit and Andrew Lloyd Webber's Love Never Dies.
They also designed the Papal Mitre which Pope Benedict XV1 wore on World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008 and which is now stored in the Vatican archives.
Coming to Rotorua under her own steam, Mrs Fullerton will be available to chat to entrants following pre-judging on August 6.
"There's a lot the entrants can learn from Sandy given her experience and years as a very successful designer and we hope they'll take the opportunity to benefit from the fact she is here," says Mrs Cook.
Entrants across five categories - youth, enviro art, group, culture and corporate - will be vying for first, second and third in each category with the Harvey World Travel Rotorua, Singapore Airlines and Holland America Supreme Award selected from the five category winners.
The event includes a matinee show on Thursday, August 16, a gala night on Friday, August 17, and the awards night on Saturday, August 18. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, online or at the Rotorua Convention Centre.
Today: Magic celebrations parade
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| Photo: Mark McKeown/Musae Studios |
The Magic is first New Zealand team to win the ANZ Championship trans-Tasman netball competition after defeating the Melbourne Vixens 41-38 at Melbourne’s Hisense Arena on Sunday night.
The parade will leave 1st Avenue at 12.30pm making their way down Devonport Road ending at Edgewater Fan for a mayoral reception.
Students from Tauranga schools dressed in Magic uniforms will lead the procession.
Netball BOP CEO Sheryl Dawson says the parade is a great way to thank the supporters and sponsors for their support.
“We’d really like people to enjoy the moment that’s been created for them,” she says.
Waiariki MP hosts exhibition at Parliament
Waiariki MP, Te Ururoa Flavell is hosting an exhibition of Maori art and carvings at Parliament at 10am, Thursday 26th July in the Parliamentary Exhibition Space on level one of Bowen House.
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| news wire |
Artists Te Kuiti Stewart, Warren McGrath, Simon Madgwick, Thomas Hansen and Pita Broad have worked together on exhibitions in galleries around New Zealand several times and have undertaken commissioned work and large community projects. Their works demonstrate oratory as a theme, chosen by the group as the exhibition dates overlap Māori Language Week. Twenty eight works are featured and they include carved whalebone, moa bone, pounamu and whakairo.
The exhibition will be on show until 31 August and is open to the public three days a week – Wed/Thu/Fri from 10am to 3pm.
Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week in the Bay
This year’s World Breastfeeding Week will see mothers across New Zealand attempting to break the record set last year of 1564 women breastfeeding simultaneously.
Locations are being set up across New Zealand for mothers and babies to come together and celebrate breastfeeding.
Toi Te Ora – Public Health Service has been working to support two Big Latch On venues in the Bay of Plenty. Those wanting to join the event in Tauranga, which has been organised by the Breastfeeding Advocacy and Advisory Group for Western Bay of Plenty, can come along to Bayfair Shopping Centre, opposite Farmers at Mount Maungauni at 10am on Friday 3rd August. Whakatane mothers wanting to join the event can come along to Whakatane Library at 9.30am on Friday 3rd August. This Big Latch On has been organised by Ukaipo.
The Big Latch On will also be held at other venues across the Bay of Plenty:
§ Katikati – Katikati Midwives Clinic, 14 Jocelyn Street, Katikati
§ Kawerau - Tuwharetoa Health, Ranfurly Building, Kawerau
§ Opotiki - Whakatohea Iwi Social & Health Services, 128 Church St, Opotiki
§ Tauranga – Grindz Café, 50 First Avenue, Tauranga
For contact details, visit the Women’s Health Action Trust website – www.womens-health.org.nz
This year it is anticipated that even more mothers will participate in the Big Latch On which will again break the record, which has been broken every year since 2005.
World Breastfeeding Week takes place annually in the first week of August in over 170 countries. Every year World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) sets a theme for Breastfeeding Week, this year it is “Understanding the Past - Planning the Future, celebrating 10 years of WHO/UNICEF's Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding”.
Toi Te Ora - Public Health Service recommends that mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months and then continue to breastfeed along with the introduction of solid foods.
For more information about World Breastfeeding Week and the Big Latch On event visit www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.
Magic celebrations confirmed
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| Magic win the 2012 ANZ Netball Championships Grand Final against the Melbourne Vixens. Photo: Mark McKeown/Musae Studios |
Doors open at the Claudelands Arena, 3.30pm on Thursday 26th July. It is expected to last approximately 90 minutes, with limited parking available at the venue.
This will be a chance for everyone to see and hear from members of the team and their management support and the Mayor will formerly congratulate the team on behalf of the city. The afternoon timeslot was chosen so that fans from all over the Waikato can come along and see their netball superstars.
Commenting, Mayor Julie Hardaker said: “We are excited the Magic will be sharing their victory at Claudelands Arena which hosted a number of thrilling matches during this season. I’m looking forward to joining in the celebrations with the team and all their supporters."
A parade will be held in Tauranga at 12pm on Thursday. They will leave 1st Avenue at 12.30pm making their way down Devonport Road ending at Edgewater Fan for a mayoral reception.
A parade will be held in Tauranga at 12pm on Thursday. They will leave 1st Avenue at 12.30pm making their way down Devonport Road ending at Edgewater Fan for a mayoral reception.
An aunties night out as Tame from the GC comes to town
All the Neffs and Aunties in Whakatane have something to look forward to tonight.
Tame Noema the star of the hit TV3 show 'The GC' will be in Whakatane tonight as his tour of New Zealand comes to an end.
The Wellington born scaffolding TV star will be at the Whakatane Commercial tonight serving up cocktails and pleasing the Aunties with his fine looks and interesting slang words.
The Wellington born scaffolding TV star will be at the Whakatane Commercial tonight serving up cocktails and pleasing the Aunties with his fine looks and interesting slang words.
The 24-year-old will host a cocktail party at the Comm in Whakatane tonight with all the Aunties expected in their droves.
Some party goers have described it as an "Aunties night out"
Some party goers have described it as an "Aunties night out"
Warriors night in support of Chace Topperwien charity
Tickets are still on sale for a night of charity, cash for points and the return of the club's heritage kit when the Vodafone Warriors and the table-topping Vodafone Junior Warriors take on Newcastle at Mount Smart Stadium tonight.
The ninth-placed Vodafone Warriors (20 points) line-up against 12th-placed Newcastle (18 points) in a must-win match with just seven games left in the NRL season (kick-off 7.30pm).
And at 5.15pm the 2010-2011 back-to-back NYC premiers (29 points) will seek their fifth straight win when they face the eighth-placed Knights (21 points).
The Vodafone Warriors are hoping for another strong turnout of members and supporters with just four home games left this season.
Since attracting a crowd of 37,502 for the season-opener against Manly at Eden Park, the club has had solid crowds in seven matches at Mount Smart Stadium. The best topped 20,000 for the game against Melbourne while five o the other six games have had crowds ranging from 15,374 (North Queensland) to 19,012 (Brisbane). The only exception has been the Gold Coast match, which was played on Saturday night at a drenched Mount Smart Stadium in front of almost 13,000.
Charity of the Day
A major feature of the night will be the club's support of the Dream Chaser Foundation - A Chace Topperwien Charity established in the name of the three-year-old Whakatane boy who died last month from a rare form of myeloid leukaemia.
Chace's parents Keri and Ryan Topperwien along with other family members will be hosted by Vodafone Warriors owners Eric Watson and Owen Glenn. Watson and Glenn each donated $25,000 to the cost of an expensive drug trial when they learned of Chace's plight.
Watson said he was keen for the Vodafone Warriors to support the foundation, particularly having met and spent time with the family while they were in the United Kingdom.
"As a father it was very hard to see Ryan and Keri with little Chace. My heart really went out to them," he said.
"As a parent you'd do anything if your child was in the same situation and they certainly did for Chace. "I am in awe of their dedication and commitment to help others by setting up this foundation. I know the Vodafone Warriors' community will get behind them and support us in raising a great deal of money for the foundation."
Glenn is looking forward to meeting the Topperwiens and their parents tonight.
"It is good timing that both Eric and I will be in New Zealand and at the game against the Knights," he said.
"Ryan and Keri and their parents will be our guests that night and I'm confident that the Vodafone Warriors will play the game of their lives in memory of Chace.
"We want to give the foundation the best possible launch and we encourage Kiwis to get behind it too."
A number of activities are being organised to raise funds for the charity the Topperwiens have set up.
Match Day Sponsor
Match day sponsor TNT has pledged cash for points in support of the charity of the day. Every try scored by the Vodafone Warriors and the Vodafone Junior Warriors will result in TNT donating $100 to the Dream Chaser Foundation while it will pay $50 for every goal and $25 for every field goal scored by the club's two teams.
Auctions
There'll be an auction in the Club Lounge on game day when Vodafone Warriors members and guests will be able to bid for a signed 2012 Vodafone Warriors home jersey and $500 worth of SKYCITY vouchers. Collectors will also be circulating the venue for a gold coin collection.
Another fundraiser is an online auction the Vodafone Warriors have set up with three packages to bid on. Click http://www.trademe.co.nz/Members/Listings.aspx?member=4278262 (see details of lots below). The auction closes on Monday, July 23.
Te Toki Pounamu
The Vodafone Warriors will use tomorrow night's special occasion to give their heritage jersey - Te Toki Pounamu - another outing in front of Vodafone Warriors members and fans at Mount Smart Stadium. The last time they played in it at home they beat Gold Coast 26-6 on March 24.
Entertainment
The entertainment package before the main game features performances by the Mini Warriors Cheerleaders and the SKYCITY Cheer Team plus the naming of the Vodafone Superfan on the Match and a live performance by hip hop artist Tyree.
At halftime there'll be a TNT parcel delivery race while the SKYCITY Cheer Team and Tyree will again perform.
Club Lounge
Vodafone Warriors owner Owen Glenn will join Vodafone Warriors gold and platinum members in the lounge about 7.00pm. He'll talk about his just-released book 'Making a Difference', his joint venture shareholding in the club and this week's major announcement about the Vodafone Warriors' future. He'll also sign copies of his book while he's there.
VODAFONE WARRIORS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS
Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland
Saturday, July 21
5.00pm Gates Open
5.15pm Vodafone Junior Warriors v Knights (NYC)
7.30pm Vodafone Warriors v Knights (NRL)
Save by pre-purchasing tickets for Saturday's match against the Knights at www.ticketek.co.nz and at selected Mad Butcher outlets (Albany, Glen Innes, Mangere East, Manukau and Papakura). Dream Chaser Foundation
For more information about the Dream Chaser Foundation - A Chace Topperwien Charity please contact Keri or Ryan Topperwien at ryan@dreamchaser.co.nz or keri@dreamchaser.co.nz
A website is also being set up: www.dreamchaser.co.nz
Auction Lots
The lots for the Vodafone Warriors' online auction are:
Vodafone Warriors Family Extravaganza
Family pass (two adults and three children) to the Vodafone Warriors v Cronulla Sharks game at Mount Smart Stadium on Sunday, August 5
A child (aged 5-13) to run the match ball on at the start of the NRL fixture Vodafone Warriors v Cronulla Sharks game on Sunday, August 5
A 2012 signed Vodafone Warriors home jersey (black)
The opportunity for the family to meet their favourite Vodafone Warrior after the Vodafone Warriors v Cronulla Sharks game in the team gymnasium
A Family Pass for the 2013 Vodafone Warriors season including membership packs
Vodafone Warriors Corporate Extravaganza
A gold table in the Vodafone Warriors' Club Lounge for 10 people to the Vodafone Warriors v Penrith Panthers game at Mount Smart Stadium (August 17-20, date and time to be confirmed)
Framed 2012 signed home (black) and away (white) jerseys
The framed jerseys to be presented by a Vodafone Warrior at your table after the game
Successful bidder will be able to meet their favourite Vodafone Warrior after the Vodafone Warriors v Penrith Panthers game
Vodafone Warriors Backyard League Clinic
A Backyard League clinic for up to 30 children at either a school or rugby league club in Auckland of your choice
Vodafone Warrior gift bags for each child
Match tickets for 30 children and 10 adults to attend the Vodafone Warriors v Cronulla Sharks game on Sunday, August 5 at Mount Smart Stadium.
Ngati Ranginui songstress to perform at Waiata Music Awards
Ria's solo performance of The World In Union at the ceremony was the experience of a lifetime.
Tiki Taane and Hall will be joined by former Nesian Mystic lead singer, Te Awanui Reeder, as guest performers at the Waiata Maori Music Awards ceremony at the Hawke's Bay Opera House in Hastings, on September 14.
Reeder is no stranger to the Waiata Maori Music Awards as his former Nesian Mystics won four categories in 2009 while Taane was also a multiple award winner over three categories in 2011.
This year will be Ria Hall's first appearance at the Waiata Maori Music Awards.
Hall, from Tauranga and Ngati Ranginui, also features in the upcoming edition of Waiata magazine, a publication to promote the awards, Maori music and artists.
She speaks about her Rugby World Cup performance and the opportunities which had since come her way.
"After the opening ceremony my email, phone and Facebook, all means of contact with me, just went completely off the hook," she says.
"It has certainly extended my contact and friends network and I'm really grateful of the recognition and exposure from the Rugby World Cup.
"I learnt a lot from that experience, I learnt how to become fearless, which is what I was on the night. It was a big occasion but being fearless gave the extra confidence I needed."
Hall released an EP at the end of 2011 and plans to release an album in 2012.
Entries for this year's music awards close on July 30. The finalists will be announced in mid August.
The awards event will be held over two days at the Hawke's Bay Opera House in Hastings, from September 13-14.
The winners of this year's awards will be announced at a special ceremony event to be held on the evening of September 14, at the Hawke's Bay Opera House in Hastings.
Search for New Zealand’s Perfect Pie
Most people when they bite into a tasty pie are intent on merely savouring the taste, whether it is a classic mince and cheese, a delectable vegetable, or a delicate smoked fish or salmon pie.
But Dennis Kirkpatrick and his trusty team of 17 professional baking judges at this week’s 2012 Bakels Supreme Pie Awards have a long list of what constitutes a good looking and tasty pie. While taste and flavour are paramount, there is much more to an award winning pie.
Is the pie evenly baked with golden pastry? Does the pie top fit snugly so that filling doesn’t leak out? Does it have a nice bottom? Is the pastry on top layered properly? When the pie is cut open is it properly filled so there’s no gap between the filling and the pastry lid? If it’s a meat pie, does the meat look juicy and enticing? If it’s vegetarian, is there an attractive array of red and green vegetables?
All these and a myriad of other factors will be top of mind for Dennis and his judging team on Thursday (July 19) when they examine and evaluate more than 4,500 pies which have been entered in the Supreme Pie Awards by 444 bakeries and cafes around New Zealand, from the Far North to Bluff. It’s a mammoth day long task in what is simply the largest food contest in the country, with this year’s entry numbers the highest ever since the awards began 16 years ago.
Joining Dennis and his team at the end of the day to judge the Pie of Pies, the Supreme Pie Award, will be Celebrity Judge, Al Brown, television chef and owner of Depot restaurant in Auckland and co owner of Logan Brown restaurant in Wellington.
The pies, which are all coded for “blind judging”, will be judged in 12 categories which include mince and gravy; steak, vegetables and gravy; steak and cheese; chicken and vegetables; gourmet meat; vegetarian; bacon and egg; mince and cheese; gourmet fruit; seafood; and commercial wholesale. A new category this year, café boutique, has been introduced to cater for the growing number of cafes serving a variety of tasty pies. The café boutique winner isn’t eligible to win the Supreme Pie Award.
Forty nine awards are up for grabs, with prizes including $7,500 cash and the coveted Supreme Piemaker Trophy, while Gold award winners receive $1000 cash.
Last year a spiced plum, port and apple pie made by Shane and Kathy Kearns of Viands Bakery, of Kihikihi near Te Awamutu, caused a frisson in the tight knit bakers’ fraternity when it carried off the title of the 2011 Bakels New Zealand Supreme Pie Awards. So the question on everyone’s lips this year is whether a sweet pie will triumph again or will the classic Kiwi favourite of savoury mince and cheese reassert itself onto the winner’s podium? Or will pie maker Pat Lam, of Gold Star Patrick’s Pies in Tauranga and Rotorua emerge again as Supreme winner? Pat has won the Supreme award four times, including twice with a creamy bacon, mushroom and cheese pie.
Dennis Kirkpatrick has involved with the Pie Awards for 14 of the 16 years they’ve been going, and has seen a massive increase in standards over this period.
“Pies were pretty basic when I first started judging. Mutton and spuds were the big one. I think the prestige of the competition has led to a huge increase in standards of New Zealand pies.”
As the owner of Jimmy’s Pies in Roxburgh, Dennis is no mean pie maker himself, producing more than 20,000 pies a day.
Dennis points out that meat pies are uniquely popular to New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, and he puts their popularity down to the early pioneers of each country who used flour, animal fat and then added meat to make a portable meal or “farmer’s lunch.”
Duncan Loney, Executive Chairman of NZ Bakels and an awards judge, is not surprised about the perennial appeal of pies.
“People find pies a complete tasty meal and quite rightly regard them as quality food.”
He thinks the Pie Awards are popular because everyone has an opinion about pies.
“There was a very healthy debate last year about a dessert pie winning the Supreme prize. In the past there have also been debates about whether peas should go in bacon and egg pies.”
Al Brown says he has loved pies ever since he was a kid and was treated to a pie “to top off a picnic.” Pies, he says, can be considered the real “New Zealand street food.”
The Bakels New Zealand Supreme Pie Award winners will be announced at a dinner at the Rendezvous Hotel in Auckland on Tuesday, July 24. Comedian and TV personality Dai Henwood will be MC.
Pie fast facts
• The meat pie can be traced back as far as 9500 BC
• Ancient Egyptians cooked them over hot coals and the Greeks and Romans loved them
• Kiwis chomp through a staggering 75 million pies a year with the New Zealand pie market worth in excess of $140 million a year
• Pie mania is mainly confined to the former British “colonies”: New Zealand, Australia and South Africa when a pie was a convenient food for pioneers to carry to work while breaking in the back country
• Ancient Egyptians cooked them over hot coals and the Greeks and Romans loved them
• Kiwis chomp through a staggering 75 million pies a year with the New Zealand pie market worth in excess of $140 million a year
• Pie mania is mainly confined to the former British “colonies”: New Zealand, Australia and South Africa when a pie was a convenient food for pioneers to carry to work while breaking in the back country
Wearable Creationz exhibition set to be biggest
The exhibition being held in conjunction with Rotorua's Wearable Creationz in August is set to be the biggest and most diverse collection of contemporary art the Bay of Plenty has seen. More than 300 works by over 75 artists have been submitted for consideration by the selection panel.
The exhibition will launch on August 12 with a VIP opening, enabling those keen to secure a unique artwork the chance to purchase before the exhibition opens to the public on Monday, August 13.
All works on show will be for sale and the week-long exhibition will be held at Rotorua's Energy Events Centre, featuring more than 250 artworks in the large Grand Hall.
This is the fourth year the exhibition has been held in conjunction with Wearable Creationz and it has become bigger and better each year.
Well known Exhibition designer Chris Currie said the response has been fantastic, with works coming from all over the country for inclusion in the prestigious 2012.
"The diversity of the work submitted is of an exceptionally high standard across a wide range of mediums with a number of new artists wishing to be included," said Mr Currie.
"This exhibition is becoming a highlight on the arts calendar for artists from Rotorua and beyond."
Along with the Wearable Creationz event, the exhibition is set to showcase Rotorua as one of the centres of art in New Zealand.
Tickets to the Wearable Creationz shows on August 16, 17 and 18 can be purchased through Ticketmaster, online or at the Rotorua Convention Centre.
GC's DJ Tuini in Whakatane tonight
From the shores of Australia's (GC) Gold Coast but born in (NZ) New Zealand the tv star DJ will be turning her turn tables in (WK) Whakatane tonight.
DJ Tuini, star of the hit TV3 show 'The GC' will be performing at the Whakatane Commercial Hotel tonight with a performance that must not be missed.
The Queensland top female DJ said she will performing some of her hottest hits tonight.
"Im so excited to be performing in Whakatane tonight. I can't wait to meet all my fans!" She said.
"Kiwi fans are awesome they sure know how to party and hopefully I can put on a good show tonight"
Tickets are available from the Whakatane Commercial with pre and door sales available.