Creating cleaner, greener urban spaces doesn't always begin with large-scale projects. Sometimes it starts with something as familiar as your local dairy. The Tairāwhiti Environment Centre's (TEC) Keep Tairāwhiti Beautiful initiative is helping refresh neighbourhood streetscapes through practical, community-led action that makes it easier for people to care for the places we all share. Where better to begin than the local dairy? Found in almost every neighbourhood, dairies are some of the most used community spaces making them the natural place to begin. The Keep Tairāwhiti Beautiful project began when TEC invited dairy owners with planter boxes outside their stores to take part in the kaupapa. Existing planter boxes, originally installed to support dairy owners following a rise in ram raids, had gradually become makeshift seats, bins, and ashtrays. Rather than starting from scratch, TEC worked alongside dairy owners to refresh them with new soil, seasonal flowers and practical guidance, creating the foundation for Keep Tairāwhiti Beautiful. Nearby residents are encouraged to awhi the planters, creating a shared sense of care, while a new partnership with Strive Rehab will see next season's flowers propagated and grown by Strive clients before being planted across Tairāwhiti. Steph, Hub Coordinator at Tairāwhiti Environment Centre, said this project is all about making awhi for our shared spaces more visible. "After a tough few years, we wanted to help shift the focus from what's wrong with our streets to what we can do together to care for them. Small actions, repeated often, can completely change how a place feels." As this project got underway, it became clear to Steph that further opportunities could be added to this project. "The gardens were looking great, but litter was still finding its way into these spaces, even where bins were nearby. We realised there was another simple way we could support people who wanted to help care for their neighbourhoods." This led to the realisation of the next stage of the project. Each participating dairy received a litter picking kit including a picking tool, buckets and hi-vis vests. As interest in the project grew, participation expanded from the original 11 dairies to many more across Tairāwhiti, with kura and preschools also joining the kaupapa. For dairies without the space for planter boxes, the kits provide another way to contribute to cleaner, more welcoming streets. In total, the project has enabled 100 litter-picking kits to be distributed throughout the community. To encourage even more people to get involved, 15 kits are also available for members of the public to borrow from the Tairāwhiti Environment Centre. But the project didn’t stop there. Steph recognised another opportunity to connect people with the journey litter takes once it leaves our streets. "We wanted to help make that connection between our streets, our awa and our moana. Sometimes seeing where stormwater goes is all it takes to understand why every piece of litter matters." And so began the third stage of the Keep Tairāwhiti Beautiful project. Working alongside Gisborne District Council, Mountains to Sea, and Enviroschools, TEC is installing 100 blue fish beside stormwater drains across town. These bright blue fish create a simple visible reminder that anything that goes down a stormwater drain flows directly in our awa or moana. The initiative extends across neighbourhoods, parks, industrial areas, busy public spaces and up to 30 schools and kura. Moreover, many locations also feature signs carrying the message "You love the awa? You love the moana? Anything dropped here, washes straight there! See it. Pick it up!" There’s even an online map showing locations of the fish installed so far. Getting involved in this kaupapa is easy. Get picking. Borrow a litter kit from the Tairāwhiti Environment Centre and help give your local street a little extra care. Talk to your local dairy owner, or Steph at TEC, if you're keen to help awhi the flowers in the planter boxes Get educated. Keep an eye out for the blue fish around town. Tell your friends and whānau why they are there and keep learning about the connection between our streets and waterways. Get tagging. Share your efforts by using #keeptairawhitibeautiful to help inspire others! Tairāwhiti Environment Centre is open Tuesday – Friday, 9 am – 3 pm (5pm on Thursdays). Stop in to have a yarn and a cuppa; they are always accepting of new volunteers and good ideas. Visit: 386 Palmerston Road Phone: 06 867 4708 Email: info@tairawhitienviro.nz Website: https://www.tairawhitienviro.nz/ One of the #keeptairawhitibeautiful fish, located outside Cotton On, on Gladstone Road. Steph (far right) and the team at Strive who are already underway planning for the next growing season.

Check out the offerings from these fine local activity providers who will keep the young ones entertained and engaged during the Winter Holidays! Tōnui Collab STEMM Workshops: TŌNUI Collab invites young people to explore the diversity of STEMM* through innovative and collaborative exploration and experimentation. *Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths and Mātauranga Māori 7 - 13 years old Tōnui Collab, 466 Childers Road, Te Hapara 9 am - 3 pm each day, need to bring morning tea, lunch and a drink Online bookings and workshop details, www.tonuicollab.com admin@tonuicollab.com 0800 8 TONUI Virtual Reality - Monday 6th July Game Development - Tuesday 7th July 3D Modelling - Wednesday 8th July Digital Art - Thursday 9th July Free Holiday Fun @ The HB Williams Memorial Library Nga mahi kei te haere | What’s on @ the HB Williams Memorial Library Parents and caregivers bring your coffee and kids down to the library for some free fun holiday activities that will keep the kids occupied and off their devices. These sessions are drop-in based and run from 10.00am – 11.30am Monday to Friday. All children must be accompanied by an adult during the sessions. Library Hunt - Te Huna o Matariki Scavenger Hunt Monday, July 6 – Saturday, July 18 Search the library for clues to solve the hidden sentence. Once you have solved the hidden sentence, fill in your details to enter the draw to win a prize Wiki Tuatahi | Week One - All activities run from 10.00am – 11.30am Monday 6 July - Star Gazer Make a star gazer with us. Easy craft for the kids that will get them viewing the star constellations like a pro. Suitable for all ages Tuesday 7 July - Keemū Māori with Whitiora Tairāwhiti Nin from Whitiora Tairāwhiti will be at the library to teach us some fun traditional māori games in celebration of Matariki. For ages 7+ Also check out our “Matariki Herenga Waka” whānau night from 5 pm-7pm, see here for full details. Wednesday 8 July - Whatu | Tukutuku Whatu is a technique used to weave Māori cloaks. We'll be learning the very basic single whatu. Requires patience. Suitable for 8+ years. We'll have other paper weaving crafts for younger children. Thursday 9 July - Storytime & Waiata Mai This year's Matariki theme, "Matariki Herenga Waka", is all about inclusion and encouraging all people to celebrate Matariki together. With that in mind, join us for a fun Matariki story for the kids and waiata for all the whānau. Suitable for all ages Friday 10 July - CLOSED FOR MATARIKI Wiki Tuarua | Week Two - All activities run from 10.00 am – 11.30 am Monday 13 July - Matariki Remembrance Stars Matariki is a time to honour, remember, and cherish our loved ones, so we're making remembrance stars to dedicate to Pohutukawa Suitable for all ages (young children will need a little help from an adult) Tuesday 14 July- Manu Aute Manu aute are traditional Māori kites made from natural resources. We'll be making our contemporary versions of these. Fun craft for all the kids. Suitable for all ages Wednesday 15 July - Matariki Lanterns Easy, fun craft for the kids. Create a lantern to take home to hang and light up at night. Suitable for all ages Thursday 16 July - Parachute Competition Up for a challenge? Can you turn a newspaper into a parachute to save a falling object? If you think you can, then join us for a morning of fun! Suitable for all ages Friday 17 July - Rattle Drum Make a rattle drum! Unleash your creativity with this fun and easy craft using recycled materials. Suitable for all ages Pine Hollow Riding School / Riverview Treks Pine Hollow’s holiday programme runs during the holidays, giving kids plenty of fun-filled days with treks, pony rides, and lessons. The programme runs: Monday 6th July to Thursday 9 July. Friday, 10th July, is a public holiday. Sunday lessons etc Monday 13 July to Friday 17th July. Sunday lessons etc Holiday program $65 per day If you require the minivan, please book at the time of booking - Pick up by the Tav 8.50 am and drop off ia at 4 pm. If you're bringing out to Pine Hollow, drop off is at 9.15 and pick up is at 3.30 When booking, please ensure you choose your days correctly, as there is a cancellation policy. Bank details are Pine Hollow 06-0637-0264724-00. Please use the child's name as a reference. Please contact Jacquie on 0277491629 or pm/text or email pinehollowridingschool@gmail.com Tairāwhiti Museum - Holiday Programme For more info and to register, head over to our friends at the Tairawhiti Museum reception. Kiwi Pools - Holiday Programme Alternating between Inflatables, starting with large - (Sat–Thu) Large: 10 am–3 pm Small: 11 am–3 pm Plus bombing every hour (15 mins) Waterworld Week 1 Fri + Week 2 Sat–Sun: 10 am–6 pm Aqua Kids Wed (Week 1 & 2) + Fri (Week 1 & 2): 11am–12pm Week 3 (Sat & Sun) Artemis Games: Dungeons & Dragons Holiday Programme Young adventurers aged 8+ are invited to dive into the world of Dungeons & Dragons during these school holidays. Learn character creation, paint a miniature, develop roleplaying skills, and embark on an epic tabletop adventure. Suitable for beginners and experienced players alike, with expert Dungeon Masters guiding the journey. 7th & 8th of July from 10 am - 4 pm each day - $60 PP *The 8th will be the full-day D&D session - this one will be suitable for either more experienced players or those who've gone through the beginner session the previous day. Message/Call Artemis Games via https://web.facebook.com/ArtemisGamesNZ or https://artemisgames.co.nz/ Commet Swimming Club Holiday Programme Flippa Ball Winter Holiday Camp Winter Holiday Flippa Ball Camp Open to Year 5–8 students, bring your mates along for a few days of fun, games, and water polo action at Kiwa Pools. $15 per session $20 for both

Art in the City is a creative initiative to transform empty shop windows and spaces into vibrant showcases for local art. By bringing colour, light and imagination into the spaces we pass every day, the project aims to bring a sense of aroha and creativity to revitalize the unique character of the city. Some installations are community collaborations, others feature the work of local artists. Keep your eyes peeled for new projects hitting the inner city, and check out the images below of our completed projects. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We would like to acknowledge Rongowhakaata Iwi Trust as mana whenua of our city centre in relation to this project. Here is a link to their website, Rongowhakaata Iwi Trust This project couldn’t have happened without the support of the Gisborne District Council and Trust Tairawhiti. THE FUTURE - Te Wharau School collaboration. Corner of Lowe St and Gladstone. TAIRAWHITI WILDLIFE STARS - Hospice Tairāwhiti and Tairāwhiti Environment Centre Collaboration. 38 Peel St. TINY GALLERY - Outside entry of the HB Williams Memorial Library. 35 Peel St. HAPORI By Michelle Hinekura Kerr - Te Aitanga a Hauiti, Te Whanau a Apanui, Te Whakatohea, Ngai Tuhoe, Ngati Raukawa. 63 Gladstone Road. INFINITUDE By Leah McCann. 58 Gladstone Road. 5 POSTERS By Lily Paris West. 46 Gladstone Road.

As many wāhine will know, finding accurate advice on health and wellness can feel like a bit of a minefield. As women, we move through many different seasons of life, from our teens to our twenties, motherhood to menopause, each bringing its own changes and challenges. Yet despite how universal these experiences are, conversations around women’s health can still feel isolating, confusing, or even embarrassing. That’s exactly what local wāhine, businesswoman, and event organiser Bridgette Penny hopes to change with Out Loud: Talking About Women’s Health, an upcoming event designed to bring education, openness, and genuine connection into one room. When we sat down with Bridgette over coffee to yarn about women’s wellness, it was hard not to get swept up in her enthusiasm. Bridgette told us stories of her own journey into health and wellness, and how that journey connected her with the five inspiring women who are now coming together as speakers for the event. Each brings expertise from a different corner of the wellness world, creating what Bridgette describes as a truly holistic approach to women’s health. With speakers spanning fields including functional movement, menopause, physiotherapy, and vaginal health, attendees can expect a day packed with practical knowledge, honest kōrero, and empowering conversations. More importantly, Bridgette says, the event is about helping people feel less alone in their experiences. “This event is essentially a complete round-up of everything I wish I’d known about women’s health and wellness in my twenties and thirties,” she says. “It’s definitely not just for menopausal women. Any woman interested in her health, clinicians and health professionals, young mums, and anyone who wants to support the women in their life are all welcome. Learning from these wāhine can benefit everyone.” Those attending will hear from Dr Linda Dear, a.k.a Menodoctor, a menopause health specialist; local physiotherapist Margie Humphreys; Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie, one of only a few female plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New Zealand; functional strength and movement specialist Aimee Challies; and Dr Mirjana Janjic, a medical laser specialist focusing on vaginal health. While the expertise on offer is impressive, Bridgette believes the heart of the event lies in the connections being built throughout the day. In a place like Gisborne, where face-to-face connection and community matter deeply, creating a space where women can openly ask questions, gain knowledge, and connect with both speakers and each other feels especially meaningful. “There’s something really powerful about women being in the same room, having honest conversations and realising they’re not the only ones experiencing certain things,” Bridgette says. “So many of these topics are normal parts of life, but we often don’t talk about them openly enough.” True to the holistic kaupapa behind the event, the included lunch will feature healthy, nutrient-dense kai and treats that reflect the importance of food as medicine when it comes to overall wellbeing. Guests will also receive a wellness bag valued at more than $400, packed with thoughtfully selected goodies from local and international businesses, along with information and contacts for essential services. There’ll also be plenty of spot prizes up for grabs on the day. Bridgette says the overwhelming support from local sponsors and businesses has played a huge role in bringing the event to life. It’s a day celebrating all wāhine and making lifetime connections, with sponsors making it possible. At its core, Out Loud is more than just a wellness event. It’s an invitation to learn, connect, and have the kinds of conversations that can genuinely change lives. Info below: Date: May 30th Time: 9 am - 3 pm Where: Waikanae Surf Lifesaving Club Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560520057748 Book Your Tickets Here

Has the idea of a new role got you thinking about making a real impact in Tairāwhiti? If creating safer, more connected communities sounds like your kind of mahi, this opportunity with Gisborne District Council could be the one. Gisborne District Council is on the lookout for a Walking and Cycling Programme Lead  to help bring active travel projects to life across the region. This part-time (32–36 hours per week), three-year fixed term role is all about turning big-picture strategy into real, on-the-ground change. From planning and partnerships through to delivery, this role plays a key part in shaping how people move, connect and experience Tairāwhiti. You’ll be working across council teams and alongside external partners to keep projects moving, remove roadblocks, and identify opportunities to get things happening faster. Whether it’s navigating planning and funding pathways, providing clear advice for decision-making, or unlocking quick wins within existing projects, this role sits right at the heart of meaningful regional change. If you’ve got a relevant degree, around five years’ experience in a similar space, and confidence working across complex environments, they’d love to hear from you. A solid understanding of legislation like the RMA, Reserves Act, LGA and Land Transport Act will set you up well, alongside strong communication skills and a genuine commitment to working in partnership with iwi. Beyond the role itself, Gisborne District Council offers a supportive, values-led environment with flexible hours, wellbeing support, and plenty of opportunities to connect — from waiata groups to Te Reo kawhe kōrero. It’s a workplace grounded in purpose, with the added bonus of living and working in a region known for its beaches, rivers and strong sense of community. As one of only six unitary authorities in Aotearoa, Gisborne District Council delivers both district and regional services, making their work wide-ranging and impactful. With over 500 staff, they’re a team committed to shaping a thriving future for Tairāwhiti. If this sounds like your next step, reach out to the team at recruitment@gdc.govt.nz  or head to www.gdc.govt.nz/council/careers  to learn more.

Nau mai, haere mai, ki Gizzy Local’s first ever Affordable Art Exhibition!  Something special is hitting Gizzy Local in May - an art space for everyone! Somewhere you can exhibit and buy art without a huge budget or the pressure of a traditional gallery setting. Running from the 22nd to the 24th , Gizzy Local’s inaugural Affordable Art Exhibition is all about making art accessible. Think prints, photography, small works and sculptures, all priced between $25-$250 so you can take something home that connects with you. All this without sacrificing the grocery shop, because let’s be real - life’s expensive right now! That doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice things that bring us joy. Art has a way of doing that. It shifts a space, a mood, and becomes a part of accumulating memories. Katy, coordinator of this exhibition, has a lifetimes collection of art that has come through friends and community acquaintances. “We have spent our lives around creative people, and it has been a privilege to swap and purchase pieces that have a connection deeper than face value. All of our pieces hold memories of people, places, opportunities and times in our lives. It is so rewarding to be able to support peoples’ practices while getting something beautiful to live with. Our walls are filled with art by our children, our friends, artists we admire, local finds, a painting by our neighbour, and pieces unearthed from unusual places. Our hallway has a series of nine portraits my partner found at a garage sale!”  This kaupapa is a chance to support the incredible local creative community we have, while giving everyday humans with ‘cost-of-living’ budgets the chance to buy an art piece that speaks to them. It’s no secret that the artistic culture in Tairāwhiti is off the charts. An often overlooked part of the process is having your art seen. Hanging art and it being viewed is as important for the artist as it is for the audience, making a moment for the transition from studio into everyday life. Maria shares “The first piece of art I bought was from an exhibition my brother and his friends put on in their flats in Wellington when they were studying. A bunch of creatives wanting to make and share art with minimal budgets. I bought this face painted on a piece of canvas for $10. It is so compact and flexible, it has moved around the world with me. Since moving back to Aotearoa, it’s lived in a frame on my wall and, man, the stories it could tell.”  Moving art out of the expensive sphere and into your living room is a crucial part of breaking down barriers between artists, their work, and the continued life of the art in the viewer’s lives. This is where the magic happens - when art becomes part of everyday life.  By opening up an alternative, community-led space, where artists aren’t just  exhibiting - they’re part of the experience, there will be opportunities to connect directly with the people viewing (and buying) the work. This show will be a co-creation, where artists can share the stories behind their work and contribute to the approachable vibe of the space.  This is a call out for artists to submit their work to be shown. Gizzy Local will be accepting expressions of interest until 24th April.   We’re looking for: Prints Small works Photography Sculpture Or anything you’d like to sell within the $25-$250 range There is a $30 submission fee per artist, and a volunteer roster to staff the show and support the curation of the space. That’s right! No commission!   You keep 100% of your sales. Your time as an artist is important. The exhibition is open to all artists, but it is worth keeping your time in mind when creating your work. It is great if you are established and selling prints of your mahi at an accessible price. If you are an emerging artist sculpting the next Venus de Milo, maybe save that for another show and create something less time-consuming. Steph Barnett knows well the ongoing impact art can have on both the buyer and the artist. She recalls “when I was about 16 I purchased my first ever original piece of art, a small pencil drawing of a dog for $20. I still have that piece and it still gives me the feeling of art being a portal into something unnamable but gloriously human and hopeful. Art inspires art and that dog represents an early inkling towards a future as an artist made possible by seeing others create (and sell) their work.” Thanks to Gisborne District Council and Creative New Zealand’s CCS funding for helping to make this show possible.  If you’re keen, email your expression of interest to marketing@gizzylocal.com  with your contact details and info about what kind of work you want to show. You have until Friday the 24 th  to put your name in the ring.  Come along, bring a friend, and have a look. You never know, you might just find something to take home.

Check out the offerings from these fine local activity providers who will keep the young ones entertained and engaged during the Autumn Holidays! Tōnui Collab STEMM Workshops : 7 - 13 years old Tōnui Collab, 466 Childers Road, Te Hapara 9 am - 3 pm each day, need to bring morning tea, lunch and a drink Online bookings and workshop details, www.tonuicollab.com admin@tonuicollab.com 0800 8 TONUI Digital Art - Tuesday 14th April Game Development - Wednesday 15th April Virtual Reality - Thursday 16th April Free Holiday Fun @ The HB Williams Memorial Library Nga mahi kei te haere | What’s on @ the HB Williams Memorial Library Free kids' activities 9.30 am - 11.30 am daily. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wiki Tuatahi | Week One - Tuesday 07 April – Saturday 18 April Library hunt Library hunt Search the library for clues to solve the hidden sentence. Once you have solved the hidden sentence, fill in your details to go in the draw to win a prize. Face painting - Tuesday 07 April We’ve got the paint, you bring the faces. Self-managed face painting. Diorama - Wednesday 08 April Turn a shoe box into your very own miniature creation, let your imagination run wild. Whacky hat day - Thursday 09 April We’ve got a bunch of hats that need decorating. Get whacky with your creations and have fun. Lego | Boardgames | Beamafilm - Friday 10 April We’re setting up LEGO, board games, and a movie corner for those who just want to chill while the rest of the whanau play games. Wiki Tuarua | Week Two S ecret garden - Monday 13th Create your own little secret garden just like the book. Bird feeder - Tuesday 14 April Build your very own bird feeder to hang in the backyard. Watch the birds flit around the garden Key chains - Wednesday 15 April We’re turning our bits and bobs into key chains. Come and see what you can create. Bottle cap mania - Thursday 16 April Turn the humble bottle cap into something fun. We’ve got a ton of bottle caps ready to be upcycled. DIY games | Board games - Friday 17 April This was a hit last year, so we’re bringing it back. Create your own board game, you make the rules. Pine Hollow Riding School / Riverview Treks Pine Hollow’s holiday programme runs during the holidays, giving kids plenty of fun-filled days with treks, pony rides, and lessons. The programme runs: Tuesday 7 – Friday 10 April Monday 13 – Friday 17 April Sundays (12 & 19 April)  also have lessons, treks, and pony rides, while Saturdays (11 & 18 April)  are closed. Holiday program $65 per day If you require the minivan, please book at the time of booking - Pick up by the Tav 8.50 am and drop off ia at 4 pm. If you're bringing out to Pine Hollow, drop off is at 9.15 and pick up is at 3.30 When booking, please ensure you choose your days correctly, as there is a cancellation policy. Bank details are Pine Hollow 06-0637-0264724-00. Please use the child's name as a reference. Please contact Jacquie on 0277491629 or pm/text or email pinehollowridingschool@gmail.com Gisborne Gymnastics / Club Holiday Program $25 9 am - 12 pm $25 12 pm - 3 pm Week 1 = Tuesday 7th / Wednesday 8th / Thursday 9th Week 2 = Monday-Thursday Friday morning 9.30 am Preschool ONLY under 5 - $10 537 Aberdeen Road, Gisborne Gisgymenrolment@gmail.com Book online www.gisbornegymnastics.com Commet Swimming Club - Holiday Programme Week 1  = 7th - 10th April Week 2  = 13th - 17th April Elgin Week 1 : 4x30 min sessions - $48 Week 2: 5x30 min sessions - $60 Kiwa 4 - 4:30 pm Use the portal to book or email Libby @ learntoswim@commetswimmingclub.co.nz Tairāwhiti Museum - Holiday Programme For more info and to register, head over to our friends at the Tairawhiti Museum reception. East Coast Museum Of Technology Open Saturday 4th April - 10 am-4 pm. Adults: $10 Student/Gold Card: $5 Children - Primary/Secondary: $2 Under 5: Free Tel: 06 927 7081 email: enquiries@ecmot.org.nz Kiwi Pools - Holiday Programme There is a school holiday programme at Kiwa Pools from Saturday 4 to Friday 17 April The schedule (below) remains the same for both weeks.

Your Guide to wellness & movement around Tairāwhiti The Yoga Room Facebook Instagram Location: Upstairs at 113 Gladstone Road, Gisborne, 4010 Email: gillianlewis74@gmail.com Phone: 0210414990 | 068672973 Classes: Hatha | Beginners | Hatha Floor Yoga | Birthlight Pregnancy | Restorative | 60s Plus | Yoga Nidra | Pranyama Authentic Pilates Facebook Instagram Location: 114 Bright Street, 4010, Gisborne Email: fabio@authenticpilates.net.nz Phone | Text 0278066478 Classes: Private | Mat Wall | Mat Classes | Pilates Gold Specialising In: Yin| Mat Pilates | Trauma Informed Reset Yoga Instagram Facebook Location: Level 2, 38 Childers Rd, 4010, Gisborne Email: contact@reset.net.nz Phone: 0274215808 Classes: Studio Yoga Classes | Reiki Sessions | Online Yoga Classes | Specialising In: Hatha Yoga | Vinyasa Flow | Yin Yoga | Hot Yoga Series Kiri Yoga Facebook Instagram Location: 113 Gladstone Rd (upstairs to the right) Email: kirisutherland@hotmail.com Phone: 02102789225 Classes: Yoga Classes | Online Yoga Classes Specialising: Ashtanga Yoga | Broga | Sangraha Yoga Pilates With Tilly Instagram Location: Yoga Coast Plus, 46 Makorori Beach Road, Makorori, 4073 Email: tillyhxdges@gmail.com Phone: 0273311032 Classes: Pilates Specialising: Tone, Sculpt & Flow To The Root With Natali Instagram Location: Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council, 241 Gladstone Road, Gisborne Email: natali.totheroot@gmail.com Phone: 0211402576 Classes: Community Yoga Classes | Online Yoga | Ayurvedic Consultations | Yoga Events Specialising: Hatha Yoga | Ayurveda| Holistic Habit Change Heart Space Facebook Instagram Location: Gisborne Email: becs@heartspace.co.nz Phone: 021913318 Classes: Yoga Classes | Breathwork & Meditation | Ayurveda Specialising: Hatha Yoga | Meditations & Mindfulness | Breathwork Courses | Yoga Nidra | Ayurveda | Digestive Health |Seasonal Resets | Sleep Silent Flute Taijiquan Facebook Location: Anytime Gym, Gisborne Email: mikebaker916@hotmail.com Phone: N/A Classes: Taijiquan Classes | Personal Trainer Specialising: Solo Forms | Partnered Routines | Self Defence | Weapons |Myofascial Release Therapy Masseur |Community Strength & Balance Coordinator The Sauna Project Facebook Instagram Location: Tatapouri Bay, Gisborne Email: Contact Phone: N/A Classes: Sauna | Silent Sauna | Morning Sauna Specialising: N/A Tapuwae Tairāwhiti Trails Facebook Instagram Location: Tairāwhiti, Gisborne Email: manager@tairawhititrails.nz Phone: N/A Classes: Tracks & Trails | Walking | Biking Specialising: N/A Ayurwell - Holistic Health Through Ayurveda Facebook N/A Instagram Location: Inner Kaiti, Gisborne Email: hello@ayurwell.co.nz Phone: 027 292 8864 Classes: Ayurvedic Treatments  | Ayurvedic Detox Programs  | Ayurvedic Education | Ayurvedic Consultation | Ayurveda Products Specialising: 13+ years practising and living Ayurveda First Light Face Yoga NZ Facebook Instagram Location: Gisborne Email: FirstlightFY@hotmail.com Phone: Classes: In-Person/Online Small Group Classes | In-Person/Online One-on-One Sessions Specialising: First Certified Face Yoga Method Teacher in New Zealand, trained under Fumiko Takatsu, the internationally recognised founder.  Total Body Power Plate Facebook Instagram Location: 6 reads quay marina view building 4010 Email: totalbodypowerplate@gmail.com Phone: 02108347868 Classes: Powerplate Memberships Specialising in: PowerPlate

Story by Aimee Milne “Ka ora ngā tāngata i te pūrākau, ka ora te pūrākau i ngā tāngata”  People are healed by the story, and the story is healed by the people - Hine Pūrākau  Writing stories is nothing but human connection. Sharing your personal story; the good, the obstacles overcome, the deepest fears, the greatest hopes, the grief and shame, allows other people to relate to your humanness. Not everyone will accept your vulnerability without judgment so it’s an act of bravery to tell your story anyway.  When I met Rahera and Matawai Solomon I was disarmed by their authenticity. I walked into the interview tired and middle-aged but I swear I walked out younger, revived by the passion of this dynamic young couple new to town. They have separate stories that are rich on their own, but woven together, they become more brightly textured. You find yourself leaning in, wanting to hear what comes next. The couple had a creatively catalytic meeting 6 years ago   on a dating app which has enhanced both their lives and their individual talents. Matawai is from here, he uri nō Rongowhakaata me Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki. Talent runs in his family, you’ve probably seen his musician dad around town, T Bonez Entertainment (Thomas Solomon).   As a kid, Matawai grew up in various places. France and Australia included. At school in Australia he enriched his predominantly white classmates by teaching them kapa haka. He is a natural performer and from a young age he was starring in plays and winning talent quests and dance competitions.  Rahera is from Rotorua but has Ngāti Porou nui tonu, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti whakapapa and was also performing from a young age. She shared the stage with Suzanne Prentice and Frankie Stevens as a young singer and she writes her own songs, poetry, and plays. Her most recent work in progress is a play about her non-verbal takiwātanga (autistic) son. The play has no dialogue but uses taonga pūoro (traditional Māori instruments), physical gesture and expression. It is currently in development and (hopefully) we will be the lucky first audience when it is ready. Rahera is an easy conversationalist and her honesty is refreshing. Childhood trauma derailed her life for a few years, but she successfully completed an 18 month stint in rehab for drug and alcohol addiction and has been in recovery ever since. Matawai was still actively drinking when he met ‘the love of his life.’ “It could have gone the other way,” says Matawai “I had a box of beers and she was going to have one. I didn’t want her to relapse, so I told her no.” Then he realised that he didn’t like his own behaviour when he was drinking either, so he quit alcohol and joined Rahera in recovery. This is the power of story and connection. Young humans pulling each other up to the next level. And they want to lift up other rangatahi too.  Rahera worked as an addictions counsellor and has designed a communication workshop called Hine Pūrākau. She and Matawai will be running the first workshop on Saturday 24th of Jan at 100 Grey St, level 2. It is free to attend and is open to all. The workshop is about communicating difficult conversations, or just improving communication in general. Couples, workmates, managers, whanau, anyone is welcome! Hine Pūrākau as the name suggests is entwined with story. Their work blends ‘indigenous wisdom, trauma-informed practice, lived experience, and creative storytelling to support intergenerational healing’ and reconnection to self, whānau and origin. You can read more about it on their website   and Facebook .  As if that’s not enough goodness for us, Rahera and Matawai will also be running a poetry slam night.   Again, everyone is welcome, especially rangatahi who write. Whether that be song writing, rap or poetry. You don’t have to perform but you will be in for a treat. You’ll have the privilege of seeing the recent regional winners, and finalists of the national poetry slam competition perform (Wellington Poetry Slam). That’s Rahera and Matawai. Like I said, they’re talented. Ridiculously talented.  That was their first time entering the competition, but they noticed there was no other representation from Te Tairāwhiti, the closest was Te Matau a Māui/Hawkes Bay representatives. With that in mind they aim to give the talent here a space to build and to help encourage more locals to enter the Wellington based competition. If you want a safe space to perform, or just to soak up some of that youthful, optimistic passion, come along to Gizzy Local on Thursday January 22, from 6pm-8pm.  WORKSHOP registration here

Check out the offerings by these fine, local activity providers who will have the young ones entertained and engaged during the long and free days of summer. Tōnui Collab STEMM Workshops : 7 - 13 years old Tōnui Collab, 466 Childers Road, Te Hapara $50 per child per workshop 9 am - 3 pm each day, need to bring morning tea, lunch and a drink Online bookings and workshop details, www.tonuicollab.com/holiday-workshops December - Week 1: Tuesday 16 December - Game Development Wednesday 17 December - Virtual Reality Thursday 18 December - Digital Art January - Week 2: Tuesday 20 January - Virtual Reality Wednesday 21 January - Game Development Thursday 22 January - Rocket Engineering January - Week 3: Tuesday 27 January - Robotics Wednesday 28 January - Animation Thursday 29 January - Virtual Reality Free Holiday Fun @ The HB Williams Memorial Library All these fun events are happening at the Gisborne Library - Children must be accompanied by an adult for all holiday activities. Raumati Taniwha Hunt December 15 – January 24 during library open hours Search for the taniwha hidden around the library. Collect the letters hidden with the taniwha to solve the secret message. Pick up a hunt form in the children's area. Wiki Tuatahi | Week One Monday January 05 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Bookmarks & book accessories Bookmarks & Book accessories We're getting bookish today and making bookmarks and a bunch of other book crafts. For ages 5+ Tuesday, January 06 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Tinfoil boat challenge You'll have 30 minutes to build your boat, then the challenge will begin. We'll see how well it can float and how much weight it can hold. For ages 5+ Wednesday, January 07 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Fridge Magnets Create your very own personalised magnets to bling out your fridge. Your imagination and creativity is all you need. For ages 5+ Thursday, January 08 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Face painting Parents, bring your artistic flair, ready to paint your kids. Let the kids paint you if you're brave enough. We'll supply the paint, you bring the creativity. Self-managed craft that could get messy! For all ages Friday, January 09 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Lego We're pulling out the Lego for a morning of building fun. Build your own creation or join the team build to build a life-size creation. For all ages. Under 5’s must be supervised at all times. Wiki Tuatahi | Week Two Monday, January 12 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Marble Run We've got paper straws and marbles galore, ready for some marble rolling fun. Fun, easy craft for the kids. Young children will need a helping hand from a parent or caregiver. For ages 5+ Tuesday, January 13 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am DIY Reusable water bombs We're making water bombs out of sponges so you can use them over and over again for some cool water fun this summer! For all ages Wednesday, January 14 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Dominoes Help us build a domino track. Let's see how many dominoes we can line up before they all fall down. For all ages Thursday, January 15 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Tower Building With just newspapers, magazines and cello tape, how tall can you build your tower? For all ages Friday, January 16 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Games, games, games We’re pulling out all the board games we can find. Monopoly, Operation, Headbandz, and more!!! Bring your morning tea and competitive streak for a morning of family games. For all ages Wiki Tuatoru | Week Three Monday, January 19 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am STEM Creation Stations We're emptying the resource cupboard and letting the kids go for gold. IMAGINE, BUILD, CREATE! Let your imagination run wild and see what you can make. For all ages Tuesday, January 20 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Paper Planes We're making paper planes! Challenge our librarians and see whose plane will fly the furthest. For ages 5+ Wednesday, January 21 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Badges Help us test our badge maker and turn your art into a badge. You draw the design, wear your badge art or give it away as a gift. For ages 5+ Thursday, January 22 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Mini Art Inspired by the tiny gallery, we're getting creative and creating mini works of art. For ages 5+ Friday, January 23 | 10.00 am – 11.30 am Cookie decorating We're zhooshing up wine biscuits with colourful icing and sprinkles. It may not be suitable for children with food allergies. For ages 5+ All activities are free . East Coast Museum of Technology ECMoT is home to technologies of the past, like stationary engines, amateur radio, computers & games, vintage cars, firetrucks and much more! They’re located at 67 Main Road, Makaraka, Gisborne. They welcome people of all ages. Entry is $10 per adult, $5 for seniors/students, and $2 for primary/secondary students. Under 5s are free. Over the school holiday period, ECMOT is open. SATURDAY 13th December. 10 Am - 4 PM SATURDAY 10th January. 10 Am - 4 PM Reach out for more information by email enquiries@ecmot.org.nz. Pine Hollow Riding School / Riverview Treks Jacquie and the team offer the chance to get up close and personal with her gentle animals. Their holiday programme is open from 9:15 am - 3:30. They are located at 2424 Matawai Road. If you require transport, they have limited spaces in a van for pick-up and drop-off at the Tudor Park Motel. Pick-up is at 8:50 am and drop-off is at 4 pm. If you require the minivan, please note that at the time of booking. Participants need to wear appropriate footwear (gumboots or closed-toed shoes) and dress to the conditions. Caters to ages 5-18. Cost is $65 for the day.  Email pinehollowridingschool@gmail.com  to register. Payments are via bank transfer (acct: Pine Hollow 06-0637-0264724-00). For more info, including booking and cancellation policy, ring Jacquie on 0277491629, email (above) or message the team on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverviewtreks Empowering Young Women Through Ayurvedic Education. Join Moana for an Ayurvedic workshop designed for young women aged 14-18 With Moana, you will explore the foundations of Ayurveda, have fun with simple cooking, and learn about the different qualities that make each person unique . You will learn about yourself, how to accept your own nature, and how to understand others with more ease and compassion. For more information, get in touch via www.ayurwell.co.nz or call Moana on 027 292 8864 105 Wainui Road, Gisborne

Recently, while chatting about what makes Gisborne special, we got thinking about those local gems that have been part of our community fabric for generations. You know the ones – they've been there forever, but somehow they keep reinventing themselves, staying fresh and relevant for each new generation. The Poverty Bay Bowling Club is exactly that kind of place. When a group of bowlers decided Gisborne needed a third club back in 1920 alongside Gisborne and Kahutia clubs, they probably couldn't have imagined what their venture on Ormond Road would become. Starting with just a simple green on the corner of Ormond Road and Hall Street, the club steadily grew – installing floodlighting, extending the clubrooms, and most recently, laying an artificial turf surface that allows year-round play. Friday Nights Just Got Good Picture this: It's Friday afternoon, you've wrapped up work, and instead of the usual rush home through Gizzy traffic, you're standing on a bowling green with the evening sun warming your back, about to send a bowl rolling toward the jack while the smell of beef burgers wafts from the kitchen. This is Bowls, Burgers & Bevvies – the club's weekly social evening running until Christmas. Every Friday from 5pm to 7pm, the club throws open its doors for what might be the most relaxed introduction to lawn bowls you'll ever find. The beauty of it? You don't need any experience. The club provides the bowls and coaching if you want it – just bring flat-soled shoes and maybe some mates. Whether you nail your first bowl or send it sailing into the next rink, nobody's judging. There are raffles to win, burgers to demolish (nuggets for the kids), and that perfect Friday atmosphere where the work week melts away. (A big thanks to the sponsors for Bowls, Burgers and Bevvies: The Village Butchery, Pak n Save and Leaderbrand.) Wahine Bowls: Where Women Roll Together When the club participated in Well Wāhine Week organised by Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti, something became crystal clear – women wanted to learn bowls as a group, in a relaxed environment, without the perceived pressures of jumping straight into club roll-ups. And since afternoons didn't suit many of them, Thursday mornings became the perfect solution. Now 15 months strong, Wahine Bowls has become a Thursday morning institution. Starting at 9:15am, women gather for a fun, social morning where learning happens naturally through laughter and encouragement. Every session wraps up with morning tea – think yummy scones, sandwiches, or muffins – because what's better than bowls and baking combined? Several participants have now become full members, and once a month, a mini tournament brings out those competitive streaks that were just waiting to surface. It's the perfect example of the club's inclusive approach, recognising that sometimes the best way to learn is when you feel completely comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and celebrating those small victories over a cuppa. All wāhine are welcome, with non-members paying just a small green fee to join in the fun. Why Bowls? Why Now? Here's what nobody tells you about bowls – it's like meditation with mates. Each delivery requires focus and visualisation, engaging your mind in that sweet spot between concentration and relaxation. You're moving, bending, walking (surprisingly, you can clock up decent steps in a game), but the controlled, low-impact nature means your knees, hips, and back stay happy. It's the perfect antidote to desk jobs or physical trades – gentle enough to avoid injury, active enough to keep you mobile. There's something quietly revolutionary happening in lawn bowls. The sport is shedding its traditional image and emerging as genuinely inclusive – one of the few activities where age, fitness level, and experience don't create barriers. Whether you're recently retired and looking for your next chapter, or still working but craving something more meaningful than gym sessions, bowls offers that rare combination of mental strategy and physical activity wrapped in genuine social connection. With membership options from full competitive to casual, the club maintains a good balance of male and female members, all enjoying the benefits of Gisborne's only artificial green that's playable in any weather. The club's modern approach focuses on participation rather than just membership, creating opportunities for everyone to engage with the sport at their own level. With the Wahine Bowls and Bowls, Burgers and Bevvies initiatives, it's a sport that's tactical without being overwhelming, social without being forced, and active without leaving you gasping – the kind of activity that suits our Gizzy lifestyle perfectly. Your Invitation to Roll As we head into summer, there's something comforting about a local institution that's been weathering storms for over a century. After celebrating its centennial in 2020 and coming back stronger after cyclone Gabrielle with a brand new green, the Poverty Bay Bowling Club isn't just surviving; it's thriving, evolving, and creating new ways for our community to come together. In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected, here's a chance to be part of something real and local – a friendly environment that's been bringing Gisborne people together for 105 years and counting. The mental health benefits are real: the focus required quiets the mind, the social aspect and banter brings good vibes, and there's something deeply satisfying about watching your bowl curve gracefully toward its target. Plus, where else can you learn a new sport, win a raffle, and knock back a burger all before 7pm on a Friday? Whether you're joining the wāhine on Thursday mornings or rolling up for Friday night's social scene, there's a place for you on the green. See you on the green, Gizzy locals. Let's roll into summer together. Poverty Bay Bowling Club is located at 111 Ormond Road. Find more information on their facebook page or email questions to Secretaryatpbbc@gmail.com .

Photo Credit: K.Wallace As Gen X kids, the possibility of nuclear war was our 80s mileu. Tairāwhiti seemed too far away to be affected, but that sense of safety was a luxury; one that is increasingly difficult for this, and future generations, to feel. We’re still geographically isolated, but we’re more globally connected now than ever. Our planet is teetering on a see-saw. Climate change, global conflict, the consequences of unsustainable land use, and general scarcity. These forces do, or will, affect us locally. We all have a say in which way the see-saw tilts. What comes next depends, in part, on what we add weight to: what we tolerate, amplify, or normalise. Our community has important collective decisions to make. When we vote in the upcoming local elections, we will also be voting in a referendum to decide whether to keep or remove the Tairāwhiti Māori Ward for Gisborne District Council. It doesn’t matter if you’re on the Māori or General roll. If you’re enrolled, you can vote. If you haven’t enrolled yet, you can do so here. https://vote.nz/enrolling/enrol-or-update/enrol-or-update-online/  I’m not here to tell you how to vote. I’m just providing information, and hopefully dispelling any myths.  So, what are Māori wards?  I can’t give you a definition without the historical context, so I’ll start at the (formal) beginning, in 1840, when the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. Due to the misinterpretation of certain words, there is ongoing debate about what was promised. But Māori signed the treaty with the understanding that the Crown would have the right to govern settlers while Māori retained tino rangatiratanga (autonomy/authority) over their own lands, resources, and way of being.  That did not happen.  Māori wards are the local government equivalent of the Māori electorates in Parliament. They ensure that Māori communities can elect councillors to represent their interests, perspectives, and priorities.   Māori wards are upholding the Treaty principle of partnership.  Until recently, voters could block the creation of Māori wards by forcing a binding referendum, a barrier that did not exist for any other kind of ward. This was widely criticised as discriminatory, so parliament removed that requirement in 2021, allowing councils to establish Māori wards in the same way they would any other ward. However, some communities, including ours, are still facing referendums.  What are we feeling today? Last July the Government announced any council that had started a Māori ward since 2020, must hold a referendum or remove those wards. This is where we are at now.  At that time our Council had a majority vote to keep the Māori wards. Mayor Rehette Stoltz said “I see Māori Wards as a positive, it’s a plus plus and I am proud of how we’ve all come together. It’s up to us to make sure the Council voices around the table are all of us, we need to hear the voices of our people and more than half of our people are Māori.” I asked a couple of Tauiwi/Tangata Tiriti (non-Māori/people of the treaty) what message they think supporting Māori wards sends about who we are as a region and as a country. Jane Luiten is a local who believes that “in a time of increasing divisiveness and backtracking on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Tairāwhiti support for Māori wards is a beacon of hope.  For Pākehā like me, it speaks to commitment to address the harm of our colonial past and to acknowledge the value Māori bring to our present. He maungarongo ki te whenua, he whakaaro pai ki ngā tāngata katoa, (peace on earth, good will towards all people).” Tim Marshall agreed. “I think it’s sends a message that we are mature enough to understand our opportunity as a region with 50+% Maori to truly demonstrate partnership in a genuine way, as a model for the rest of the country.” This was a common theme amongst the locals I spoke with. Here in Tairāwhiti we have a chance to be exemplary. We have an opportunity to unite in a time of crisis and division. To be world leaders. We are the first city in the world to see the sun, after all.  Most Tauiwi I interviewed said it was less about politics and more about values. Our values should guide how we structure local government representation. “He waka eke noa, Jane continues. It’s about shared purpose and collective responsibility. Local government represents the community it serves, and should acknowledge the diverse world views of its community to enrich decision-making. Let’s break down the ‘us and them’ barriers. Councillors can work together and be informed by multiple perspectives, giving the council confidence in its mandate to make decisions for the community at large. And having representation on council helps future generations feel more connected to local democracy. My son is in Tāmaki Makaurau and reckons there is no one to vote for! The line-up for Auckland has almost zero Māori representation. Why would you bother? My future Tairāwhiti is one that works together: where mana whenua are an integral and valued given in a collective local government entity. Not just an ‘add-on’ to the existing system, but part of rethinking how local government best works in Aotearoa 2025.” Says Jane. Supporting Māori wards is not an act of division. It is an act of inclusion and recognition that our community is stronger when all voices are heard.