This street installation makes it easy to see how many bikes can be parked in the space of single car park. Cycling in Gisborne I’ve lived in New Zealand for 22 years, most of them in Auckland, and before that in the Netherlands and France. Now, you might wonder why that matters. Hang in there, we’ll get to that. After visiting Gisborne regularly over a seven year period, my partner and I finally made the move last year. We knew we wanted to leave Auckland… it just took us 21 years to do it. Our main requirement? A coastal town on the North Island where you could get around by bike. In Auckland, I cycled. But to call it cycling is rather generous. It was more of a sport involving hills, honking, and lots of deodorant. With the slow progress of cycling infrastructure and the increase of cars on the road, it was starting to feel less like transport and more like combat training. Gisborne, in contrast, is flat. It’s compact. The roads are wide. Some even have cycle lanes, though let’s be honest, they’re the kind where you develop a sixth sense for opening car doors. You’re never fully relaxed. A cycle-friendly (left to right) roundabout, footpath kerb, and bus station. The Missing Crossings But for someone starting out, especially families or anyone walking, scooting, or using a mobility device, Gisborne isn’t exactly welcoming. The big road corridors, free of pedestrian crossings, carve up our city and result in a disconnect between our homes and our destinations: the city centre, services, beaches, parks, friends, workplaces and schools. Take Rutene Road. Two kilometres long and not a single pedestrian crossing. Te Wharau School, Ilminster Intermediate, Dunblane Village and Kaiti Mall are all nearby. Good luck trying to cross safely. Same with Awapuni Road... great beach, no safe way to walk there. Or Ormond Road, where you're expected to detour 20 minutes to the Ballance Street crossing just to get to the other side in one piece. Busy Wainui Road—near the popular shops level with Harris street—has no zebra crossing. And Wi Pere, Lytton etc etc… The Cost of Convenience We live in a city where most families need two cars, not because they want to, but because it’s the only safe option. But imagine ditching one car because walking or cycling became safe, normal, and convenient. That's money saved on fuel, maintenance, and insurance, plus a little more sanity during school runs. And here's a bonus: zebra crossings and safe infrastructure make drivers more considerate too. They remind us that other humans exist, small ones on scooters, older ones with walkers, tired ones just trying to get home. Not All Projects Are Created Equal... and that’s OK Now, if you’ve been following the Grey Street saga, you might be thinking: “Cycling infrastructure? We tried that. Look how that went.” Fair enough. Even as someone who cycles, I’ll admit: that project wasn’t ideal. The intention might have been good, but the execution left too many scratching their heads, including cyclists. Here’s the thing though: one bumpy rollout doesn’t mean we abandon the whole idea of improving how we move around our city. It just means we need to do better. We involve more locals early on, including those who cycle, those who drive, and those who do both. We think carefully about how designs work in practice, not just on paper. And we learn from places that have done this well, including other NZ towns. We all want the same things: safe roads, less congestion, healthier communities, and a town where our kids can walk or ride to school without us worrying. If we get that right, the benefits aren’t just for the cyclists, they’re for everyone.   From Amsterdam to Paris… to Christchurch The Netherlands didn’t become a cycling paradise overnight. In the 1970s, after decades of prioritising cars, protests erupted following tragic road deaths, many involving children. Combine that with the oil crisis, and the Dutch began rethinking the car-first model. Fast forward to Paris, 1995. I moved to Paris just before the start of a national rail and local metro strike which brought the city to a standstill.  It was mayhem. Cars were parked and left for weeks in places you can’t imagine you could park a car. People walked, dusted off old bicyclettes, or resigned like only the French can... "Laissez faire". For 22 days, in the lead up to Christmas, Parisians found out what life without public transport (and with way too many cars) looked like. And surprise: many realised that cycling was faster, more reliable, and oddly liberating. Investment followed. And continues to this day.   purpose-built cycle-way rubbish bins And right here in Aotearoa, we have Christchurch, now considered the leading city in New Zealand for active transport. Following the 2011 earthquake, the city was given a rare opportunity: a clean slate to redesign its transport network. And they used it. Instead of rebuilding around cars, Christchurch invested in public transport, separated cycle-ways, pedestrian-friendly design, and smarter urban connections. It has paid off. Not just in bike use, but in liveability, health, and city resilience. What Can We Do Right Now? Local elections are coming up. That means we’ll have the chance to shape the kind of city we live in, not just through our votes, but by asking candidates the right questions. If the idea of a safer, healthier, more connected Gisborne inspires you, here are some questions you could ask at Meet the Candidates events (or email them directly to candidates if you are not able to make one of the events): Safe Crossings: What is your plan to make it safer for people to walk, cycle, or use mobility scooters, especially on roads connecting neighbourhoods with schools and shops but no pedestrian crossings? Active Transport: Do you support investment in cycling and walking infrastructure, so families have a genuine alternative to needing two cars? Learning from Others: Christchurch rebuilt with cycling at its heart after the earthquake, and is now NZ’s leading cycle city. What lessons from Christchurch (or other towns) would you apply here in Gisborne? Grey Street: How will you ensure that future projects involve locals from the start so designs work for both cyclists and drivers? Long-Term Vision: Where do you see Gisborne in 10 years’ time? A city locked into car dependence, or one where people of all ages can safely and confidently walk or cycle to school, shops, work and the beach? These conversations matter. They signal to candidates that this isn’t a “cyclists versus drivers” issue. It’s about building a city where everyone can move safely, affordably, and connect with the city in a way you can’t from behind a windscreen. Gisborne’s Potential Gisborne already has the ingredients: flat terrain, manageable size, mild weather. With a little investment and vision, we could become New Zealand’s most cycle-friendly city, and the healthiest, happiest, and most connected, too.   Let’s Not Let This Slip Past Whether you ride a bike, drive a car, or walk your dog, we all benefit from safer, better-designed streets. The question is: do we wait for a crisis to force our hand, or do we start building a city we can all enjoy now? It’s our move. Words and photos by Silvia Spieksma

This is another one of those stories (we never get sick of them) that proves you can work in a small, isolated town at the bottom of the world and still be recognised on the international stage. Jacopo Orazi might have chosen to start his business, Radice (Ra- dee-che) Soil Solutions in the stunning town of Sirolo, Italy, but for him, there was one thing missing from his hometown. Surf. It was the surf that brought him to Gisborne twelve years ago, and we are all the better for it. Radice, which means ‘root’ in Italian, was recently shortlisted for the Falling Walls science breakthrough awards in Berlin, Germany. Jacopo’s application was selected from over 250 other international applications. The global recognition is impressive, but it also speaks to the importance of the kaupapa. Soil health. We don’t talk about it enough. Not on a large agricultural scale anyway. I’ve written about soil health and backyard food forests before. At an individual and whānau level, I found no down sides to improving the soil and biodiversity on my own little patch. I get excited when I imagine those positive outcomes at a community level. Imagining forest and soil restoration on a global scale can feel like wishful thinking. It brings to mind the film Don’t Look Up, a satire on the absurdity of science denial. No doubt, there will be those who say, “Don’t Look Down” when faced with the idea of soil restoration as a solution. But it could literally save the world. Soil health is the key to healthy and abundant food, clean water, climate resilience and sustainable food production. Again, there are no down sides! Politicians often cite economic concerns as a reason to delay environmental progress. But Radice’s soil improvement service proves that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. Large agricultural businesses don’t have to choose between the two. Why would anyone continue to use chemicals and costly fertilisers if they didn’t have to? Jacopo says his clientele varies and he adapts his approach with each organisation according to their needs. Plans have been customised with iwi, farmers and orchardists and he recognises that each have a special relationship with the land. The science of soil health is complex and involves sampling, microscopes and years of acquired knowledge. But the concept is actually very simple. If you’ve ever made sour dough or rewena bread, you’ll know that you need a starter. To make a starter you feed it, and after a few days a diverse community of microorganisms spring to life. Now you have a starter to make as much bread as you like, for as long as you like. The same principle applies to soil. With permission, Jacopo transplants a small sample of soil from undisturbed areas like native forests and adds it to a compost. Microorganisms from the sample flourish in the compost and that becomes the soil starter. Damian (Day Whaanga) from Rongowhakaata Iwi Trust, wanted to gain a scientific understanding of soil health to support their restoration efforts. Rongowhakaata have aspirations to transition agricultural land back to native forest. Before seeking Jacopo’s service, Day says they didn’t have a baseline measurement for soil health. Their knowledge was all based on observation, like checking for worms and visual signs like colour and structure. But there is a whole universe underneath us that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Radice Soil Solutions enables people to see inside that fascinating world. For Day, there’s also a cultural significance to soil health. ‘Before colonisation, much of this area was remnant forest, and you can clearly see the decline in the land’s health.’ They are now looking for ways to remediate that. To decolonise the land. There is already a lot of evidence about the negative impacts of current land use practices. A growing number of people are trying to do things differently. Jacopo is there to support their drive for change. One example of how small, simple changes can yield big results in forest restoration is to shift away from using herbicides. Instead, mulching with cardboard and bark and sowing clover seeds as a cover crop. While mulch just suppresses weeds, a living mulch like clover brings in nutrients from the sun, encourages bacteria and fungi, and helps feed the soil. Day says he really valued the collaborative aspect of soil restoration. His relationship with Jacopo wasn’t transactional, it was an exchange of knowledge. And that’s exactly what Radice Soil Solutions is shortlisted for at the science awards: outstanding community engagement. Days group started with a four-day tailored workshop, which he says was hugely beneficial for the whole team. Keep an eye on Radice soil solution socials as Jacopo runs free Healthy Soil introductory workshop at EIT a few times a year. Find out more at https://radicesoil.com Photos by Jordan Perry

Hey Creatives! Do you want to be a part of our network of creators and makers at Gizzy Local? We have two studio rooms available for lease from the 1st of July. The benefits of renting a space at Gizzy Local go well beyond your own four walls: you get to work alongside a diverse range of thinkers and doers, there’s a breakout meeting space, wifi, coffee, Gizzy Local perks, and the warm glow of being under the roof of your favourite community Arts champion. Gizzy Local are committed to creating a space where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. The rooms are $92 each, which includes wifi and power. One room, pictured at left, looks onto Lowe Street while the room pictured below looks onto the inner courtyard. If $92 per week is a little steep for your budget maybe you want to share with a mate? We’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in having a look. We will be showing people around from the week of the 16th June. Don't wait, because these rooms will get snapped up! Sing out to Sarah P at community@gizzylocal.com to arrange a time to see the room.

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. Pinehollow Equestrian Jacquie and the team offer the chance to get up close and personal with her gentle animals. Enjoy a fun full day with horses. Learn how to ride, play games and most of all have fun! They have all different size ponies, so there's one to suit everyone.  Their holiday programme is open Mon 30 June - Fri 4 July and Mon 7 - Fri 11 July 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 8:50am and drop-off is at 4:00pm.) 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 Gisborne Gymnastics Club Open Gym During the school holidays, the Gisborne Gymnastics Club offer unstructured play sessions. Book your primary or intermediate tamariki into any of the two sessions per day Mon - Thurs or the special Preschool-only session on Friday. The location is the Stihl Shop Sports Centre (537 Aberdeen Road).  Week 1:  Mon 30 June - Friday 4 July Mon - Thurs | Primary and Intermediate 9 am - 12 pm or 12 pm - 3 pm Friday | Preschool Only 9:30 am - 11 am Week 2: Monday 7 July - Friday 11 July  Mon - Thurs | Primary and Intermediate 9 am - 12 pm or 12 pm - 3 pm Friday | Preschool Only 9:30 am - 11 am Caters to ages: 5-14  Cost is $20 for primary and intermediate sessions and $10 for preschool sessions. Book in or find more information here: https://gisbornegymnastics.com/holiday-program The Y Oscar Winter Holiday Programme  The Y Oscar programme offer a variety of fun activities every day, from Monday through Friday, 30 June - 11 July . Bookings are available from 7:30am to 5:45pm at Y Oscar House - 155 Disraeli Street. From trips to the Kiwa Pools and the cinema to crafts, there’s sure to be something for everyone!  Caters to ages 5-13 (two groups) Cost is $60 for a full day (7:30 am - 3:45pm and includes Breakfast Club till 8:30am). You can add on aftercare for $20 per day (3:45pm - 5:45pm). To enrol, fill out the form at the link below and email it to oscar@ymcagisborne.nz . You can email that address or ring 06 867 9259 Ext 3 with questions. https://www.ymcagisborne.org.nz/asset/downloadasset?id=e23f039b-7a56-4feb-be72-e8bc9d423a56 H.B. Williams Library  The Gisborne Library have all sorts of activities to keep your little ones learning and happy this school holiday break. All the events are located at their beautiful space at 34 Bright St and are FREE. Most of the events are open to all – just turn up. Note that the Tākaro Māori / Māori Games session in the second week has limited capacity. Make sure you reserve your free spot in that one (details below). All activities run from 10.00am – 11.30am   June 30 Monday – Cup Crafts We’re getting crafty with paper cups!  Make a windmill, money tin and more. Suitable for all ages, under 8’s will need help from an adult.   July 01 Tuesday – Lego Build and repeat.  We’re pulling out the lego and going wild!  Come and join us for some lego fun! Suitable for ages 5+, under 5’s must be supervised by an adult at all times around the lego.   July 02 Wednesday – Loom Weaving We’re making our own loom boards and weaving a coaster out of wool.  Come and join us for some winter weaving fun. Suitable for ages 7+ This activity requires patience. Under 7’s will need help from an adult   July 03 Thursday – Paper Crafts We’re turning paper into fun and making fortune tellers, infinite cubes, spinning tops and more.  Come and see what you can create. Suitable for all ages.   July 04 Friday – Space Crafts Todays theme is space!  Come and make a space mobile and other space crafts. Suitable for all ages.   July 07 Monday – Zines If you like story telling then this one’s for you.  Make your very own zine and fill it with a story, a poem or whatever you like, let your imagination run wild. Suitable for ages 7+   July 08 Tuesday – Lego Build and repeat.  We’re pulling out the lego and going wild!  Come and join us for some lego fun! Suitable for ages 5+, under 5’s must be supervised by an adult at all times around the lego.   July 09 Wednesday – Crafts We’re making DIY stickers, bookmarks, marble ladybirds and more.  Come and see what you can create.Suitable for all ages.     July 10 Thursday – Tākaro Māori Nin from Whitiora will be popping in to teach us some fun Māori games for all the whānau to play.  Phone 867 6709 to register now for one of two sessions available.  10.30am or 11.05am. Suitable for ages 9+   July 11 Friday – Board Games We’re putting the devices down and pulling out the board games.  Bring the whānau down and choose between Jenga, connect 4, chess and more. Suitable for all ages.   June 30 Monday – July 12 Saturday – Caterpillar Hunt Look for the caterpillars, chrysalides and butterflies around the library to solve the riddle. Events 4 All The team at Events 4 All have heaps of activities that will keep your tamariki safe and having fun throughout both weeks of the school holidays. They operate Monday through Friday, 30 June - 11 July,  from 7.30am till 5.30pm. They're based at Awapuni School and schedule a variety of activities to keep the young ones entertained and to make sure there’s something for everyone. You provide a bag lunch and a drink and they have breakfast, morning and afternoon teas sorted. Weather-appropriate clothing is a must on outing days. Caters for ages 5+.  Cost is $60 per day. Book at this link: https://enrolmy.com/events-4-all/book-now/251-Events-4-All-July-2025-Holiday-Programme- For more information, reach out to Colleen at 027 531 5756. Eastwoodhill Arboretum The folks at Eastwoodhill Arboretum (2392 Wharekopae Rd, Ngatapa) have two options to entertain and inspire the kiddies this school holidays.  Kids Holiday Craft Workshops - Matariki Tuesday 1st July and Tuesday 8th July  10am - 1pm Drop in anytime between 10am - 1pm to take part in fun, Matariki-themed craft activities. Spaces are limited and all materials are provided. Please book in advance here: trybooking.com . Parent supervision is required.  Caters to ages 4-13 years. Cost is $10 and includes entry.  Regular arboretum visitor entry fees apply: Adults $18, age 5-14 $5 (free with workshop booking), under 5s are free. Contact Rose at rosie@eastwoodhill.org.nz or 06 863 9003 with any questions. Tairāwhiti Museum During the school holidays, Tairāwhiti Museum offer morning and afternoon activities for your young ones, inspired by the Museum’s current exhibitions. Spaces are limited, so pre-booking and payment at the museum is essential. All children must be accompanied by an adult during the duration of the workshop. More info coming soon, so either check back here or pop into the museum for the details. Caters to ages 5-12. Cost is $5 per child or $10 per child for the clay workshops. Tōnui Collab  STEMM Workshops:  Across the second week of school holidays, Tōnui Collab offer 4, 1-day workshops, 9am to 3pm each day at their location at 466 Childers Road. Their workshops encourage children to explore the diversity of STEMM - science, technology, engineering, mathematics and mātauranga Māori through the experimentation and creation of animation, engineering, game development, robotics, coding, virtual reality and more! Bring a lunch, morning tea and drink bottle and they have the rest covered for a creative and inspiring day! For a description of all the courses offered, follow the link to their website (below). Caters to ages 7-13 Cost is $60 per day. Information and to book online, https://www.tonuicollab.com/holiday-workshops Questions? Contact Moana at admin@tonuicollab.com or 0800 8 TŌNUI Week 2: Tuesday 8 July - Friday 11 July Tuesday 8 July - Game Development Wednesday 9 July - Virtual Reality Thursday 10 July - 3D Modelling Friday 11 July - Digital Art Tairāwhiti Water Polo  This school holidays, Tairāwhiti Water Polo is excited to offer a Flippa Ball Holiday Camp at Kiwa Pools, featuring guest coaches from Hungary, home to some of the best water polo players in the world! This is a unique opportunity for tamariki aged 7–12 to develop their water skills, learn new techniques, and have fun in the pool while being coached by international professionals. All equipment is provided… just bring togs, towel, water bottle and lunch. Tuesday 1 July, 10 am - 2 pm Caters to ages 7 -12 Cost is $15 (plus $2 pool entry) RSVP via this form: https://forms.gle/E78GNURGCoqEuG8J9 For more information, email Aggie at aggieweston@icloud.com Earth Arts and Crafts Get the kids into nature these school holidays with 2 days of outdoor fun at our Earth Art and Crafts Workshops. Facilitators Bridget Scully and Jo Cringle will teach your kids how to craft simple tools with wood, traditional fire lighting, camp fire cooking, foraging and creating art supplies using natural materials. Book in for one or both days.  Thursday 3 July and Friday 4 July, 9 am - 3 pm Caters to ages 7+ Cost is $60 per day Bookings are essential. Register by emailing Bridget at  bridgetscully@gmail.com .

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 the holidays. BubbleWrap Fun Fun Days On 12 & 13 April, BubbleWrap Fun are putting on 2 indoor Fun Days at the Gisborne Event Centre. Enjoy bouncy castles and fun play for all ages, with an under 5’s and soft play areas, as well as ponies. Book your tickets in advance online for your 2.5 hour window of fun (they won’t be offering door sales). Cost are free for under 6 months, $15.00 for 6 months-12 years, $8.50 for 13+ and adults Book your tickets and find more info here . Tōnui Collab  STEMM Workshops:  Across the two weeks of school holidays, Tōnui Collab offer six, 1-day workshops, 9am to 3pm each day at their location at 466 Childers Road. Their workshops encourage children to explore the diversity of STEMM - science, technology, engineering, mathematics and mātauranga Māori through the experimentation and creation of animation, engineering, game development, robotics, coding, virtual reality and more! For a description of all the courses offered, follow the link to their website (below). Caters to ages 7-13 Cost is $60 per day. Information and to book online, https://www.tonuicollab.com/holiday-workshops Questions? Contact Moana at admin@tonuicollab.com or 0800 8 TŌNUI Week 1: Tuesday 15 - Thursday 17 April Tuesday 15 April - Digital Art Wednesday 16 April - Virtual Reality Thursday 17 April - Robotics Week 2: Tuesday 22 - 24 April Tuesday 22 April - Animation Wednesday 23 April - Game Development Thursday 24 April - Coding & Electronics Pinehollow Riding School and Riverview Horse Trek Jacquie and the team offer the chance to get up close and personal with her gentle animals. Their holiday programme is open Mon - Thurs, 14 - 17 April and Tues - Thurs, 22 - 24 April  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 Tav Restaurant. (Pick-up is at 8:50am and drop-off is at 4pm.) Participants need to wear appropriate footwear (gumboots or closed-toed shoes). With the beautiful weather at the moment, they’re hoping to spend plenty of time down at the river with the ponies, so also bring change of clothes, togs and towel for swimming in the pool. You’ll need sunscreen, plenty of kai and water. Caters to ages 5+. 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 her on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverviewtreks Ocean Rhythms Surf Camp Join Ocean Rhythms Surf Coaching for their Autumn Surf Camp, Mon - Thurs, 14 -17 April . The camp runs daily 9am-3:30pm at Midway Beach, a safe beach for kids to learn the fundamentals of surfing, develop respect for the environment and make new friends. With a soft, sandy bottom, predictable conditions, a lack of hazards, and plenty of attentive, passionate and fully trained instructors, your child will safely play in the waves and develop confidence, ocean knowledge and safety. The primary goal of this camp is to teach kids to properly assess ocean risks, have fun in nature and introduce them to a healthy activity they can do for the rest of their life! Your child will get surf instruction suited to their ability, grouped with kids at their level, with the ability to advance their skills throughout the week and advance to the next group. The coaches are there to provide water safety and to maximise fun! There will be tandem rides, party waves and plenty of beach games. The day includes warm-up games, health & safety discussions, 2 hour blocks of surf time before and after lunch, and an ocean knowledge and beach safety chat. If required, the location could shift to Northern Makorori, with notification.  Caters to ages 6-13. Cost is $340 for all 4 days and $380 if you need to hire a board To book, or with questions, email oceanrhythmscoaching@gmail.com . H.B. Williams Library  The Gisborne Library have all sorts of activities to keep your little ones learning and happy this school holiday break. All the events are located at their beautiful space at 34 Bright St and are free. Just turn up –  there’s no need to book in advance.  They have two activities that take place over the course of the holiday break for you to enjoy at your pace. The first is Te Hauhake o Ngahuru Reading Challenge. Read, review and repeat. Pick up a reading challenge form from the Children's Area.  Read a book and give them a review to go in the draw to win one of four mystery prizes up for grabs.  The more you read the more chances of winning. The second is Dogman Hunt. Help find the lost Dogman characters in the library to go in the draw to win a prize. In addition to these ongoing challenges, they offer activities that encourage creativity and fun. Check them out below. April 14, Monday – 10.00am - 11.30am Paper Crafts Get creative with paper and make a bunch of different things from fortune cookies to gnome homes and more. April 15, Tuesday – 10.00am - 11.30am Playing Card Crafts Make a bunch of different crafts using playing cards.  Bring your own pack of cards and we will provide the rest. April 16, Wednesday – 10.00am - 11.30am DIY Boardgame Make your very own boardgame to play at home with the family. April 17, Thursday – 10.00am - 11.30am LEGO Build and repeat.  Get creative and let your imagination run wild, the sky is the limit.  Suitable for ages 5+   April 22, Tuesday – 10.00am-11.30am Shoebox Theatre Show We’re turning shoeboxes into theatre shows.  Create your characters, decorate your shoebox and let the show begin. April 23, Wednesday – 10.00am-11.30am Autumn Crafts We’re celebrating autumn by getting crafty with nature.  We’ve got leaves, twigs and all sorts from out of the garden.   April 24, Thursday – 10.00am-11.30am Mothers Day Cards Mothers Day is just around the corner so come and make mum a Mothers Day card she will surely love. April School Holiday Origami Workshops for Children School Holiday Origami Workshops are happening again on Tues 22 April. Classes are offered based on age.   See the class schedule below to find the right class for your child. All materials are supplied but you’re welcome to bring supplies if you wish. Each class will attempt 2 - 3 different origami creations. (Creations on the photos are examples.) Sessions are held at Te Hapara School (31 Mill Road). Caregivers are welcome to stay or can drop/pick-up.  Enroll by text to 0220443717, by email to noboundaryhandmadecrafts@gmail.com , or message their facebook page  with your name, your child's name and school year, and times you would like to book in. Mutsuko will reply to you with details.  Year 1-3 | 9:30-11:00  Year 4-6 | 11:30-13:00 Year 7 + | 13:30-15:00  Caters to ages 5+. Cost is $15 each for a class. The Y Oscar April Holiday Programme  The Y Oscar programme offer a variety of fun activities every day, from 14 - 24 April (not including Good Friday, Easter Monday, and ANZAC Day). Bookings are available from 6:45am to 5:45pm at YMCA Oscar House - 153 Disraeli Street (look for the green fence). From trips to the Kiwa Pools and the cinema to Easter Egg Hunts and crafts, there’s sure to be something for everyone!  Caters to ages 5-13. Cost is $60 for a full day (7:30 am - 3:45pm and includes Breakfast Club till 8:30am). You can add on aftercare for $20 per day (3:45pm - 5:45pm). To enrol, fill out the form at the link below and email it to oscar@ymcagisborne.nz . For questions, email or ring 867 9259, ext 3.  https://ymcagisborne.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Y-OSCAR-HP-Rego-April-2025-Easter-2.pdf?x86194   Bush Kura – Pūkeko Camp   Te Kura-a-Wao Charitable trust was established in 2019 to provide opportunities for rangatahi to learn practical life skills, co-operation, resilience, leadership attributes, bush craft and safe hunting practices around the Tai Rāwhiti region. From 12 - 14 April, Pūkeko Camp offers a basic, beginner’s course that promotes the outdoors. This digital-free camp builds positive and meaningful connections.  Located in Ruatorea Caters to ages 8-11. Cost is $30 per child.  Book via their facebook page here  or their website https://thebushkura.co.nz/course-details/ Sing out with any questions via email admin@thebushkura.co.nz  or pm their facebook page. Tairāwhiti Museum During the holidays, Tairāwhiti Museum offer activities for your young ones, inspired by the Museum’s current exhibitions. Spaces are limited, so pre-booking and payment at the museum is essential. All children must be accompanied by an adult during the duration of the workshop.  PLEASE NOTE NEW SCHEDULE Important Art Workshops Update!   Due to unforeseen circumstances, some adjustments have been made to the upcoming  School Holiday Art Workshops  schedule.   Monday & Wednesday classes remain the same - no changes.   Tuesday and Thursday classes that were in week 1 have now been moved to week 2. Week 1: Monday 14th April, 10am - 12pm & 1pm - 3pm *$5 per child Create fun sculptural artworks inspired from the Gisborne Pottery Group exhibition: A Piece of Me. Wednesday 16th April, 10am-12pm & 1pm - 3pm *$5 per child Transform fabric textiles into a unique artwork inspired by two textile exhibitions: Add Subtract, Transform - TARTS & Blooming by Kathy Grimson.   Week 2: Tuesday 22nd April, 10am-12pm & 1pm - 3pm *$10 per child Clay workshop: Make your own clay artwork with ceramic artist Fiona Bryant. Thursday 24th April: 10am-12pm & 1pm - 3pm *$10 per child Clay workshop: Make your own clay artwork with ceramic artist Fiona Bryant.   If you haven't registered yet, there's still room! Just stop by the museum to book in. They look forward to seeing you soon!  Caters to ages 5-12. Cost is $5 per child or $10 per child for the clay workshops. Gisborne Gymnastics Club Open Gym During the school holidays, the Gisborne Gymnastics Club offer unstructured play sessions. Book your little ones into any of the two sessions per day during Mon - Thurs, 14 - 17 April , and again in the second week, on Tues - Wed, 22 - 23 April . The location is the Stihl Shop Sports Centre (537 Aberdeen Road).  Caters to ages: 5-14  Cost is $20. Book in or find more information here: https://gisbornegymnastics.com/holiday-program Eastwoodhill Arboretum The folks at Eastwoodhill Arboretum have a few options for you this school holidays to entertain and inspire the kiddies.  Tuesday 15 April: Kids Creative Days Drop in anytime between 10am - 1pm to take part in a fun, nature crafting day. Spaces are limited and all materials are provided, so please book in advance by emailing enquiries@eastwoodhill.org.nz . Parent supervision is required.  Cost is visitor entry fees: Adults $18, age 5-14 $5, Under 5s are free. Easter Weekend, 18 - 20 April: Eastwoodhill Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt Find the clues around the arboretum and when you get all the answers right, the staff at the Visitor Centre will reward you with a yummy chocolate Easter egg.  Cost is visitor entry fees: Adults $18, age 5-14 $5, Under 5s are free. ANZAC Day, 25 April 10am - 12pm: Aya and the Butterfly This new puppet and music show for the whole family features magical puppetry, music, songs, and lots of giant caterpillar fun. Parent supervision required. Caters to ages 5-12 Tickets cost for adults are $25, ages 5-14 are $15, and under 5s are free. Entry to the arboretum is included with your ticket, so bring a picnic and make a day of it. Tickets are available at their website here . Comet Swimming Club Holiday Programmes Do you have a “water baby”? If so, Comet has just the thing for you: School Holidays Booster 30-min swimming lessons with an instructor held at Elgin School Pool. Cost is for all the daily lessons for the week, 14 - 17 April. During the school holidays is the perfect time to boost your little one’s confidence in the water. Caters to 3+ years.  Cost is $48 per week. To book or find more information, go to their website https://www.cometswimmingclub.com/book-now1  or email Libby at comet.libbyd@gmail.com

“Find a comfortable position, close your eyes if you want to, and thank your body for letting you work out today.” I lie back and look up at the sky, pinking at the edges. These are the best words to hear, not only because we’re about to luxuriate in 90 seconds of peaceful meditation (possibly the only 90 seconds I might give myself today), but the hard part of the Sol Fitness class is done and the post-exercise endorphins have kicked in, lifting my mood and energy. Body and soul, I feel great. Sol Fitness is a group fitness community, unique for making the most of Gizzy’s surroundings. Not married to a typical brick and mortar gym, the mobile classes are held in the great outdoors. Regular classes are held outside at St Mary’s and Wainui Beach schools, and pop-ups are held in local parks and reserves. Along with increased strength and cardio health, with Sol Fitness you get a bonus of vitamin D and birdsong in the summer, and moonlight and constellations in the winter. (The regular classes have indoor and covered spaces to keep people cool, sun-safe and dry when needed.) Some from the Wainui class occasionally whip across the road for a post-workout ocean dip, a unique option for this mobile fitness class. You might have come across the friendly Sol Fitness founder and trainer, Jorge Buelna. Engineering brought him to Gisborne from his home in Mexico back in 2017. In the intervening years, he followed his personal fitness passions which often involved rallying friends to do fun and challenging workouts together, like a group run or cycle that ended at a coffee shop. He started bringing a small speaker for musical motivation to the free, weekly Friday Stairs and over time became the cheerful face of this year-round activity. Each summer and winter solstice for the last few years, he’s organised celebratory sunrise ocean dips, which have grown to over 100 attendees.  His welcoming and likeable personality alongside his passion for motivating others in their fitness goals led him to start his own fitness business, now fully established and pumping. A certified personal trainer, Jorge makes sure all feel welcome and that there’s something for everyone. Sol Fitness workouts vary each session but always include scaled options for all the exercises so that people of different fitness levels and ages have their best workout. People from 13 - 70+ work out with Sol Fitness and everyone is encouraged to choose the intensity that is best for them.  Four times a week, you can join a regular Sol Fitness group class. On Monday & Wednesday evenings, from 5:30pm at St Mary’s School and on Tuesday & Thursday mornings, from 6:00am at Wainui Beach School, Sol Fitness classes are 50-minute full-body workouts – a mix of cardio and body weight or weighted exercises. On Saturdays through to the end of March, get in quick for his small-group kettlebell sessions, held beachfront opposite Watson Park. Keep your eye out for the next of these seasonal pop-up classes. Now that he’s established the regular classes and found a recipe for seasonal pop-up classes, next for Sol Fitness is branching out to workplace classes. He can pull his trailer of weights and fitness gear to a workplace for group classes of almost any size and for all fitness abilities. He structures his classes so up to 40 people can workout together. Sol Fitness workouts would be a meaningful and fun option for workplaces looking for team bonding or as part of a workplace wellness program.  The workout is done, the high-fives have gone around, and we’ve done our cool-down stretching. Now it’s time to get into that comfortable position, which for me is on my back, hands laced under my head. Jorge switches the music to a soothing, groovy ambient guitar tune. “Here’s 90 seconds just for you, in complete silence.” In the early autumn evening, I watch a few clouds float past in the colouring sky. The cicadas’ steady chirp from the trees around us harmonise with the happy sighs of the other people around me. It’s pretty special what Sol Fitness offers: a friendly community that motivates us to be fit and strong. And as we know, being connected to a community is something that keeps us well for the long haul of life.  Newcomers are always welcome at Sol Fitness. You can find everything you need to know at their website solfitness.co.nz  and on instagram at @solfitnesss. If you’re a workplace, sing out to Jorge to learn about how to increase your staff’s wellness. Photography by Jorge Buelna, Jordan Perry, and Matt Lang.

Susan Partington catches us up on the local community theatre haps (UPDATED to inlcude her pre-opening night review). When I heard about Evolution Theatre Company’s upcoming play Picasso at the Lapin Agile , my first thought was “what the hell is a Lapin Agile?” Google tells me it means ‘nimble rabbit’ but I’m uncultured and not French, so I just picture a ‘jumpin’ bunny’. This ‘Jumpin’ Bunny’ is actually a famous bar in Paris that opened in the 1800s and is still open today (with four stars on TripAdvisor, if you’re ever in the neighbourhood). Picasso at the Lapin Agile  is a light-hearted look at creative brilliance, written by Steve Martin, a comedy powerhouse since the 1970s. I remember him fondly as the dad in Father of the Bride  and, more recently, in Only Murders in the Building .  This play, a comedy set in 1904 at this iconic bar, takes playgoers back to the dawn of the 20th century to see Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein on the brink of changing the world with their genius. Like every bar throughout time, it’s filled with colourful characters who add to the lively ambiance of the Jumpin’ Bunny and the humour of the play.  I spoke with Kevin Haggard who plays Freddy, the bartender. Audiences will remember Kevin as the rock-n-roll teacher in School of Rock  and the angriest juror in Evolution’s 12 Angry Jurors . Kevin brings humour and heart to the stage in every role, and I’m looking forward to seeing him as the whimsical bartender, Freddy. With a luxurious beard and a pet donkey, Freddy was a real-life character who would let artists pay their bar tabs with works of art. Picasso probably downed a drink (or several) at Freddy’s place, given his famous work, “ Au Lapin Agile .”  Kevin is enjoying bringing this character to life on stage and delivering his zingy one-liners. Although the play is about geniuses, the humour isn’t overly intellectual, and will appeal to everyone. Why not take a break from real life and immerse yourself in the absurd world of the Jumpin’ Bunny for an evening? The play runs from February 27 - March 9 at Evolution Theatre Company on Disraeli Street. Find their website or Facebook page for more info and buy tickets at Trybooking.com or the Gisborne iSite.  REVIEW by Susan Partington As soon as “Picasso at the Lapin Agile” opens, it is clear that Evolution Theatre Company is going to take the audience on a wild and crazy ride. The whole play is set in a Parisian pub, the Lapin Agile, with a colourful and eclectic mix of staff and regulars who fill the pub with their witty banter. The play was written by Steve Martin, and you can hear his voice in the dialogue which swings from dry, deadpan humour to over-the-top hilarity. The basic premise is Picasso and Einstein walk into a bar. The Spanish artist is played with lusty enthusiasm by Myles Ashworth, and the German scientist is brought to life by Brent Charles Forge with nerdy charm. Orbiting around these two larger-than-life geniuses are a bevy of hilarious barflies - the aging yet lusty Frenchman, the buffoonish businessman, the seductive vamp, the pretentious art lover and more. The supporting actors all add to the whimsy and absurdity of the world of the Lapin Agile. As always, I was blown away by the set. It sent me to outer space - literally! This play brought the lols and left me wanting more. When the lights went up, I wasn’t ready to say adieu to the Lapin Agile. I encourage you to buy a ticket and come see for yourself what happens when two famous geniuses collide. Who will win the duel between art and science? Who is the time-travelling visitor who pops into the Lapin Agile? The cast and crew of this show have created a hilarious journey through time and space that runs through March 9 at Evolution Theatre Company on Disraeli St. Grab your tickets from their website or the Gizzy iSite.

Kia ora koutou and bonjour à tous ! My name is Tui, and I recently returned from a year-long exchange in France! I’m keen to share my experience with the readers of Gizzy Local in hopes to inspire other teens to trust themselves, trust the adventure and explore options to study abroad.  Long story short, it was the best decision I have ever made, and I will forever be grateful for the people who made it happen. I can barely begin to describe how much I have changed as a person over a year. From my arrival to my departure, I was constantly learning new things, both about the world around me and myself. I travelled (a lot), I made new friends, I learnt a whole new language, and discovered who I am as an individual. The person who arrived in France is not the same person who left it, that’s for sure. People were not   lying when they said that travelling is AWESOME. In regards to the language, I’ll admit that it was rather   difficult to begin with. I understood next to nothing, and communication was a struggle. My host family spoke no English, so I was forced to improvise. After about three months, I began to understand when people spoke to me, but even then my comprehension was limited. After seven   months, I was able to speak my thoughts in more than just three word sentences. It was only after ten months, as I was about to leave, that I really felt like I had a grip on the French language. At the end, my comprehension was crazy, to the point where I was thinking in half-French half-English, and I was able to chat and joke around with my French classmates. In my opinion, the hardest part of my exchange was definitely the school. French school in particular is quite difficult, especially in comparison to New Zealand. For starters, the hours are from 8am - 5pm, and if you include the commute and the extraordinary amount of homework most students are given, it wasn’t easy! Luckily the homework was not compulsory for me; learning a new language was challenging enough! But regardless of the workload, everyone at my school was very kind to me, and while most of my friends tended to be other exchange students, I still made a few French friends that I cherish dearly. In all honesty, apart from school and the language, there was little else that I had difficulty with — I didn’t even get homesick! Exchange students stay with host families and I was very lucky. Unlike the stereotypical host family that consists of a mum, a dad, and siblings, my situation was slightly different. I spent a year with an older couple— around 80 years old— who were absolutely lovely. I was their thirteenth(!)   exchange student, believe it or not. They had been hosting students since before I was born, literally! Therefore they were very understanding, patient, generous, and kind to me. When I first arrived, the phrase ‘language barrier’ had never felt more literal. We communicated in one-word sentences or via a translator. But everyday it got easier and easier, and by the end, me and my host family had become great friends. Since my departure, I’ve already been back to visit them, and we now facetime every week! To conclude, this exchange has gifted me with the desire to learn, to travel, and to be alive, and I will never, ever forget it. In fact, I loved the language-learning process so much that I am now going to university to study Linguistics! If anyone reading this is thinking of doing an exchange, I would tell them that life is short! Take the risk! Live life while you’re young!! Passing up on an opportunity like this would be one of the biggest ‘what-ifs’ of your life, I assure you. My exchange forever will be the best decision I have ever made :) Gizzy Local: What made you choose France? It seems so far away and so different from our Gizzy life. Tui: I chose France almost entirely because of the language; French just sounds so beautiful and I wanted to be able to speak it and understand it. I also wanted to be in Europe, as it's very central, and travelling between countries is shockingly easy.  GL: How did you learn about your exchange programme?  Tui: I chose to do my exchange through AFS because it was the only association my family and I had heard of. We knew a few other people who had done student exchanges with them and had nothing but positive experiences. AFS has been helpful, understanding, and absolutely amazing. I have no regrets in doing my exchange through them. GL: When you got there, language aside, did small-town France feel wildly different from Gizzy, or did you see similarities? Tui: In France, I lived in quite a small town - smaller than Gisborne. It wasn't a big shock to the system, as I'm sure it would have been if I was placed in a larger city. I noticed that everyone was very kind (contrary to the very common French stereotype), and I received more kind greetings from strangers than I ever did in New Zealand. Despite it being a small town, the school I went to was an area school, so it had more students than any of the Tairāwhiti schools, which was a change.  GL: Cost must be a big barrier to overcome. How did you fundraise to make this happen?  Tui: In addition to building up savings with a part-time job, we organised a community fundraising event a few months before I left. A few local bands - including myself - played live music in our backyard. With the inclusion of bake sales and garage sales, the event was a raving success, and contributed greatly to the total cost. I was also lucky enough to receive a scholarship, so factoring that on top of the kindness of those around me, my exchange became much more affordable. If anyone reading this is wanting to do an exchange but finds the cost daunting, I will note that France was one of the most expensive options available, and there are plenty of other countries that are much cheaper! GL: I imagine to some young people, this may seem beyond them, requiring next-level independence or bravery. How did you begin to see the exchange as something you could actually do? Tui: To any high school students out there who may, in the abstract, want to do a student exchange, yet struggles to even visualise the mere concept, I can tell you right now that it will be worth it. It may seem far-fetched now, but once you're surrounded by a new culture, a new language, and a new way of life, that magical process of discovering the heart and soul of the world around you is life-changing.  Even if it sounds scary, do it scared. Life is short, money comes back, and the force of time is unstoppable, regardless of how you spend it. Besides, even if it goes awry, you'll still have a hell of a story to tell.

Gisborne is the kind of place where if you need advice or resources, we largely rely on who we know…with any luck, you’ll know someone, who knows someone, who knows someone, who can help!  The Rau Tipu Rau Ora (RTRO) co-working space replicates that small community concept by providing a shared working space that enables small businesses and social enterprises to work together, synergistically.  Some of the benefits of sharing space were unexpected, says tenant Jared Johnstone, owner of Tahu , the high-end restaurant and bar at Midway Surf Club. During Tahu’s set-up period, he says, it was helpful to be in the same building as businesses like Coast Build, who were sub-contractors involved in the restaurant build. Jared also talks about how useful it is to have a diverse group of workmates to bounce ideas off. “Working from home can be an isolating experience and can lead to silo thinking. We are social beings”. Jared noted that working in this environment also creates organic opportunities. Whether he was choosing menus or figuring out the seating, chatting to others in the space gave him a cross section of preferences and enabled him to make decisions to suit a variety of tastes.  Sanne Effmann is a graphic designer who also works in the space creating corporate brand and packaging designs for companies internationally.  While Sanne could work from anywhere, including her own home, she says she prefers to separate work from home, and finds that sharing an office is great for networking. The office is available 24/7 which is perfect for Sanne when she has an overseas meeting in a different time zone. With the use of a key card, she can come and go whenever she wants, and there is always a car park, right outside the office.  As I am interviewing for this story Zane Goodwin enters the room and I now have a first-row seat to the organic networking situation we’ve been talking about. Zane is a surfer who recently moved to Gisborne from Piha. He’s just getting his web development business Rise Digital off the ground. Of course, like a lot of us, Zane loves the fact that here, you can surf before work and be back in the water just after 5. No more sitting in traffic, losing hours of your life each day!  Sanne and Zane meet for the first time and find that they each have businesses that could be beneficial to the other, they make the connection and agree to chat later.  I can see how uplifting that easy, organic connection and likelihood of support would be for a new resident, but of course, any business owner would appreciate this!  Matene Blandford has been using the office for 6 years now. Rata Forest Management started out with one desk and slowly expanded to seven. Matene likes the vibe of the office and being amongst people who are “giving it a go”.  He also mentions the benefit of 24/7 access and great parking. You can’t beat the lunchtime views either, down on the waterfront and if you’re into exercise, the entry to Titirangi is just down the road, easily accessible for a lunchtime hill walk. The RTRO co-working space manager Harley Dibble is a community projects manager focused on supporting positive social and environmental outcomes. He is the driving force behind Exchange Café , a platform for exchanging ideas and solutions around climate action in Tairawhiti, is the Tairawhiti Lead for Te Wero ia Wenerei , a project encouraging workers and students to get out of their car every Wednesday for positive environmental, climate and community wellbeing outcomes; and a project led by the Te Weu Trust to establish a citizens assembly in the region focused on climate adaptation.  For Harley, it’s sharing office space with like-minded, environmentally conscious people that he really appreciates.  It seems that a variety of businesses sharing space doesn’t just benefit the people in the office, the positive vibe seeps into the wider community too. It’s a win-win for everyone. On the day I visited the co-working space, the CoastBuild team were being given a send-off morning tea. After five years in the space, owner Tim Scrimshaw is moving his expanded workforce into new premises.  Tim spoke fondly of his time in the co-working space, the relaxed environment for his team, and the cost effectiveness of the space for his business. There were three individuals not in the office when I visited. Mark Burt is a Public Relations and communications consultant specialising in helping NZ brands tell their story in the US, and Jarred Christison is a talented product designer working for signage and design business George & Willy . Sam Rowland is the Programme Manager for the Sustainable Business Network , whose mission is to accelerate Aotearoa New Zealand’s transition to a regenerative, low emissions, circular economy. The RTRO Co-working space currently has some desks available. If your business could do with sharing the load on some of those operational expenses, as well as the kinds of benefits mentioned above, get in touch with Harley at RTRO on harley@rtrotairawhiti.nz to find out how. Story by Aimee Milne Photographs by Thomas Teutenberg

Has flipping the calendar over to a new year found you looking for a new professional direction? If you have science or lab experience in your background, dnature, a local business that leads the world in dna and molecular testing and diagnostics might be the perfect place for you. dnature is a leading business in DNA diagnostics, having developed world-leading diagnostic tools for the primary & healthcare sector. They test and help growers identify diseases or viruses plaguing their crops, or beehives. Their work supports primary industries, clinical pharmacogenetics, and was critical in our response to Covid-19.  You don’t need to be an experienced PCR specialist. If you love science and are proactive with an eye for detail, they would love to hear from you. As a business that has an excellent reputation in their field, they will take you under their wing and train you with the skills you need for the role. They’re a small team so if you’re looking to avoid corporate bureaucracy or hierarchy in your new chapter, dnature could be the perfect company for you. To reach out, send Belinda an email at belinda@dnature.co.nz  or ring her at 021 415 100.

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. Pinehollow Jacquie and the team offer the chance to get up close and personal with her gentle animals. Their holiday programme is open from 9 am - 3:30. They are located at 2424 Matawai Road but they have limited spaces in a van for pick-up and drop-off at the Tav Restaurant. (Pick-up is at 8:50am and drop-off is at 4pm.) Participants need to wear appropriate footwear (gumboots or closed-toed shoes). With the beautiful weather at the moment, they’re hoping to spend plenty of time down at the river with the ponies, so also bring change of clothes, togs and towel for swimming in the pool. You’ll need sunscreen, plenty of kai and water. Week 1: Monday - Friday, 16 - 20 December   Week 2: Monday - Friday, 8 - 12 January Week 3: Monday 15, Wednesday - Friday, 17 - 19 January Week 4: Monday 22 & Tuesday 23 January Caters to ages 5+. 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, the list of dates for the holiday programme, lessons, team building days, etc., see their facebook page (link below). With questions, ring Jacquie on 0277491629, email (above) or message her on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverviewtreks The Band School Keen young musicians, beginner or pro, join The Band School at their ever-popular Busking Holiday Programme, held twice this summer holiday. Team up with others to create and rehearse your own tunes. All ages and abilities are welcome. The programme is held in the Gisborne Intermediate music department (park under the sails) from 9 am - 3 pm. In December, learn Christmas tunes to prepare your band for the ultimate busking experience. Then take to the streets to make some Christmas money! Their top earners in previous years have raised up to $90 per kid—how much can you make? Week 1: Monday - Friday, 16 - 20 December Week 2: Monday - Friday, 20 - 24 January Caters to ages 5-14. Cost is $60 per day (discount for week booking). Bookings and more info at www.thebandschool.co.nz Gisborne Library Christmas Activities The HB Williams Memorial Library have a whole raft of activities this time of year. Check it out below and see their website for updates.  Kei te Haramai a Hanakoko Santa is coming to the library for a Kiwiana Christmas celebration.  Bring all the whanau down and take a photo with Santa or even bring your work crew over for a team photo to end the year!  Santa will be at the library on Wednesday, Thursday and Fri during the two weeks before Christmas so make sure you catch him before he heads off for a surf.  Ho! Ho! Ho! Meri Kirihimete! Week 1: Wed 11 Dec - Fri 13 Dec, 11:30 - 3:30 pm Week 2: Wed 18 Dec - Fri 20 Dec, 11:30 - 3 :30pm Suitable for everyone young and old! Cost is free. Free present wrapping at the library Shop local and get your presents wrapped for free at the library by Santa’s little helpers.  How it works: 1. Purchase your gift locally 2. Bring your presents and receipt 3. We’ll wrap your pressie for FREE! Week 1: Wed 11 Dec - Fri 13 Dec, 11:30am - 3:30pm Week 2: Wed 18 Dec - Fri 20 Dec, 11:30am - 3:30pm Christmas with Aroha This time of year can be a bit lonely for some, and we want to help with that by sharing the AROHA!  We want you to send your kind messages of aroha to someone in need of some Christmas cheer. Here’s how it works: Step one: Ask a librarian for a Christmas card. Step two: Decorate card and write message. Step three: Return finished card to librarian or pop into letter box on children librarians desk. It’s that easy! Week 1: Mon 9 Dec - Sat 14 Dec Week 2: Mon 16 Dec - Fri 20 Dec Kiwiana Christmas Events Calendar Santa’s elves have been hard at work getting the library ready for a Kiwiana Christmas Celebration.  So if you’re looking for some free fun things to do in the lead up to Christmas then the library is where you want to be.  Live music, workshops, kids crafts, Christmas story time and more.  Expand the lists below and keep an eye on their events calendar  for more activities to come! Week 1: Mon 9 Dec - Fri 13 Dec December 9, Monday Christmas masks and ornaments 10.00am – 11.30am   December 10, Tuesday Lego Corner For ages 7+ Due to small lego pieces and limited staff we ask that this workshop be for children 7 years or older. Parents with younger children are more than welcome to check out our Kiwiana Christmas set up in our Rangatahi Youth space. 10.00am – 11.30am Grace McVey Musician Join Grace McVey local Gisborne Girls High student and member of band "Eleventh Hour" for some music entertainment you'll love. Bring a drink and a snack and join Grace in the Kahui Whetu constellation courtyard, make sure to lock it in your calendar now.  1.00pm – 1.45pm   December 11, Wednesday Hanakoko Santa Get your photos taken with Santa and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 11.30am – 3.30pm Free Present Wrapping Shop local and get your pressies wrapped for free by Santa’s helpers 11.30am – 3.30pm Christmas Story time with Santa’s helpers 12.30pm – 1.30pm December 12, Thursday Christmas Lanterns with Izzy 11.30am Hanakoko Santa Get your photos taken with Santa and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 11.30am – 3.30pm Free Present Wrapping Shop local and get your pressies wrapped for free by Santa’s helpers 11.30am – 3.30pm Christmas Story time with Santa’s helpers 12.30pm – 1.30pm December 13, Friday Hanakoko Santa Get your photos taken with Santa and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 11.30am – 3.30pm Free Present Wrapping Shop local and get your pressies wrapped for free by Santa’s helpers 11.30am – 3.30pm Christmas Story time with Santa’s helpers 12.30pm – 1.30pm Anahera – Live Music Come sing with Anahera as she performs some kids' favourites. Disney karaoke fun all the whanau are sure to enjoy!  2.30pm – 3.30pm   Week 2: Mon 16 Dec - Fri 20 Dec December 16, Monday Lego Corner For ages 7+ Due to small lego pieces and limited staff we ask that this workshop be for children 7 years or older.  Parents with younger children can check out the face painting next door at our Kiwiana Christmas set up in our Rangatahi Youth space. 10.00am – 11.30am Tu Meke Face Painting Children and adults come and get your face painted and check out our Kiwiana Christmas while you’re here. 11.30am – 3.30pm   December 17, Tuesday Raranga Bangle Workshop Learn how to weave a bangle using harakeke.  Younger children will need one on one help from a parent or caregiver. 11.30am Sam and Lui – Live Music Winner of the 5 minutes of Fame Wāhine section in 2022, also participating in Pacific Beats and Rock Quest in her earlier years. Sam now works for Te Tairāwhit Arts Festival and you can occasionally see her performing with Lui at different venues.  The incredible duo are bringing an arrange of music for an afternoon of entertainment in the Kahui Whetu Constellation Courtyard.  Don’t forget to bring your sun hat and water bottle.   December 18, Wednesday Hanakoko Santa Get your photos taken with Santa and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 11.30am – 3.30pm Free Present Wrapping Shop local and get your pressies wrapped for free by Santa’s helpers 11.30am – 3.30pm Christmas Story time with Santa’s helpers 12.30pm – 1.30pm Anahera – Live Music Come sing with Anahera as she performs some kids' favourites. Disney karaoke fun all the whanau are sure to enjoy! 2.30pm – 3.30pm December 19, Thursday Raranga Bangle Workshop Learn how to weave a bangle using harakeke.  Younger children will need one on one help from a parent or caregiver. 11.30am Hanakoko Santa Get your photos taken with Santa and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 11.30am – 3.30pm Free Present Wrapping Shop local and get your pressies wrapped for free by Santa’s helpers 11.30am – 3.30pm   December 20, Friday Blue Tutu Face Painting Children and adults come and get your face painted and check out our Kiwiana Christmas while you’re here. 11.30am – 3.30pm Hanakoko Santa Get your photos taken with Santa and let him know if you’ve been naughty or nice. 12.30pm – 3pm Free Present Wrapping Shop local and get your pressies wrapped for free by Santa’s helpers 12.30pm – 3pm TaaOro – Regan Balzer & Horomona Horo Relax, revitalise and reset with Taonga Puoro specialist Horomona and performance painter Regan Balzer, who will take you on a journey of collaboration and creativity. One of the most thrilling and relaxing toi & taonga puoro journey’s you will experience for 2024 12.30pm – 3.30pm Week 3: Mon 23 Dec December 23, Monday Christmas Card making Come and make Christmas cards for your loved ones with Santa’s helpers. 10.00am – 11.30am Surfing with Sarah | Surf Coaching and Equipment Hire Summer is the perfect time for the kids (and caregivers!) to learn how to surf. Sarah and her team provide surf coaching and equipment hire for all ages and abilities. They offer sessions every day, depending on conditions. Purchase one-off, 2-hour lessons at $75 or a 3-lesson package for $185 (all equipment included). It’s $35 if all you need is to hire a board/wetsuit.  Their venues change to get the best conditions, so contact Sarah at 0 22 073 9383 or by email at surfingwithsarah@gmail.com . Tōnui Collab STEMM Workshops:   Tōnui Collab offer 3 weeks of 1-day workshops, 9am to 3pm each day at Tōnui Collab, 466 Childers Road . Their workshops encourage children to explore the diversity of STEMM - science, technology, engineering, mathematics and mātauranga Māori through the experimentation and creation of animation, engineering, game development, robotics, coding, virtual reality and more! For a description of all the courses offered, follow the link to their website (below). Caters to ages 7-13 Cost is $50 per day. Book online here : https://www.tonuicollab.com/holiday-workshops Questions? Contact Moana at admin@tonuicollab.com  or 0800 8 TŌNUI Week 1: Tuesday 17 - Thursday 19 December Tuesday 17 Dec - Virtual Reality Wednesday 18 Dec - Game Development Thursday 19 Dec - Robotics Week 2: Tuesday 21 - Friday 24 January Tuesday 21 Jan - Digital Art Wednesday 22 Jan - Robotics Thursday 23 Jan - Animation Friday 24 Jan - Game Development Week 3: Tuesday 28 - Friday 31 January Tuesday 28 Jan - Virtual Reality Wednesday 29 Jan - Digital Art Thursday 30 Jan - Game Development Friday 31 Jan - Robotics Comet Swimming Club Holiday Programmes 30-min swimming lessons with an instructor held at Elgin School Pool. Cost is for all the daily lessons for the week. During the school holidays is the perfect time to boost your little one’s confidence in the water. Week 1: Mon 6 Jan - Fri 10 Jan Week 2: Mon 13 Jan - Fri 17 Jan Week 3: Mon 20 Jan - Fri 24 Jan Caters to 3+ years.  Cost is $60 per week. To book or find more information, go to their website https://comet-swimming-club.accounts.ud.io  or email Libby at comet.libbyd@gmail.com   The Y Oscar Summer Holiday Programme The Y Oscar programme offeres a variety of fun activities every day, from 16 December to 31 January , with bookings available from 6:45am to 5:45pm at YMCA Oscar House - 153 Disraeli Street (look for the green fence). From trips to the Kiwa Pools and the cinema to baking and arts and crafts, there’s sure to be something for everyone! Limited spaces available in December, so don’t delay. Caters to ages 5-13. Cost ranges from $10 (for breakfast-club and after-noon care) - $65 (full day). Ask them about their whanau discount – Ts & Cs apply. To enrol, fill out the form at the link below and email it to oscar@ymcagisborne.nz . For questions and to learn about their whanau discount, email (address above) or ring 867 9259, ext 3.  https://ymcagisborne.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Y-OSCAR-HP-DEC24JAN25-3.pdf?x86194 Events 4 All The team at Events 4 All have heaps of activities that will keep your tamariki safe and having fun throughout the summer. 18 Dec -  29 Jan, 7.30am till 5.30pm. They're based at Awapuni School and schedule a variety of activities across the summer to keep the young ones entertained and to make sure there’s something for everyone. You provide a bag lunch and a drink and they have breakfast, morning and afternoon teas sorted. Caters for ages 5-14.  Cost is $60 per day. Book at this link: https://enrolmy.com/events-4-all/book-now/237-Events-4-All-Christmas-20242025 For more information, reach out to Colleen at 027 531 5756. Ocean Rhythms Surf Camp Ocean Rhythms Surf Coaching are running 3 su rf camps this summer, from 9am-3:30pm each day  at Midway Beach, a safe beach for kids to learn the fundamentals of surfing, develop respect for the environment and make new friends. With a soft, sandy bottom, predictable conditions, a lack of hazards, and plenty of attentive, passionate and fully trained instructors, your child will safely play in the waves and develop confidence, ocean knowledge and safety. The primary goal of this camp is to teach kids to properly assess ocean risks, have fun in nature and introduce them to a healthy activity they can do for the rest of their life! Camp 1: Wed 18 - Fri 20 December Camp 2: Mon 6 - Fri 10 January Camp 3: Mon 13 - Fri 17 January Caters to ages 6-12. Cost is $270 for the December camp and $410 for each of the January camps (extra for equipment hire). Book via email, or email your questions, to oceanrhythmscoaching@gmail.com . Gisborne Library Summer Activities After the Christmas fun is over, there's still plenty of free activities to enjoy. The HB Williams Library have fun and enriching activities to keep the little ones busy during summer! Break up the long summer days with trips to the library for arts, crafts, story-time, a writing workshop, and many more and of course, fuel that love of reading! December 16, 2024 – January 26, 2025 Hineraumati Summer Reading Challenge Pick up a registration form from the children’s area in the library or see www.gpl.govt for downloadable registration form and full details.  Weekly spot prizes up for grabs! Read for two hours in 15 minute slots and go in the draw to one of four mystery prizes. For ages 0-18years Free   December 16, 2024 – January 26, 2025 Hineraumati Summer Hunt Search the library for all the clues to solve the hidden message.  Pick up a hunt form from the children’s area. For ages 0-18years Free   ALL ACTIVITIES RUN FROM 10.00am-11.30am WEEK ONE January 06, Monday Book Marks Make your own personalised book mark and one to gift to a friend. Suitable for all. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 07, Tuesday Origami Join resident origami guru Liam for some origami antics.  Requires patience and concentration. Suitable for primary aged and up. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 08, Wednesday Pompom Launchers & Paper Planes Launching fun for everyone.  Can you launch your pompom and hit the target?  Come and give it a go.  We’re making pompom launchers and paper planes. Suitable for all. 10.00am-11.30am, free January 09, Thursday Picture Frames Upcycle cardboard boxes and turn them into picture frames. If arts and crafts is your thing then make sure to join in for some picture frame fun. Younger children may need help from an adult. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 10, Friday Pirate Day Ah-hoy matey! Make all things piratey. If that sounds like fun to you then pop into the library for some DIY piratey shinanigans! 10.00am-11.30am, free   WEEK TWO January 13, Monday Shadow Puppets Make shadow puppets.  If you can think it, you can make it.  Bring your ideas and stories to life. Younger children will need help from an adult. 10.00am-11.30, free   January 14, Tuesday Marble Run Make a marble obstacle course.  Will require patience and a hand from an adult. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 15, Wednesday Super Hero Masks Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a super potatoe?  Create your own super hero mask and let your imagination run wild.  Suitable for all. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 16, Thursday DIY Water Bombs Summer is here. Have fun with water and making your own DIY water bombs.  Bring swim wear or a change of clothes cause it may get a little wet. Suitable for all. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 17, Friday DIY Bubble Wands Come and make your own bubble wand out of string, sticks and pipe cleaners. Suitable for all. 10.00am-11.30am, free   WEEK THREE January 20, Monday Games Day Get ready for some of your party fav’s and giant games in the courtyard. Suitable for primary school aged and up. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 21, Tuesday Rock Painting Paint your very own pet rock to pop in the garden. Young children must have one on one supervision. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 22, Wednesday Mini Garden Let’s get planting.  Decorate your planter pot, plant your seed and watch it grow.  Suitable for all. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 23, Thursday Paper Weaving Weave a colourful creation using paper.  Will require a little bit of patience and determination.  Under 5’s will need help from an adult. 10.00am-11.30am, free   January 24, Friday Story Writing Workshop Help us write a short story to create a mini story walk display in the library.  For ages 8 -17 years.  20 spots only, phone the library on 867 6709 to book your spot. 10.00am-12.00pm, free Youth Learn to Sail Age 11-14 and keen to sail? The Gisborne Yacht Club’s Youth Learn to Sail programme, running two times during the January school holidays will get you out on the water, easy as. Bring a wetsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, change of clothes, and a water bottle (snack and sunglasses optional).  • Boats and life jackets provided  • Yachting NZ qualified coaches • Crewed safety boats alongside learners Week 1: Tuesday 7th - Thursday 10th January 2025, 10am - 1pm. Week 2: Tuesday 14th - Thursday 16th January 2025, 10am - 1pm. Caters to ages 11-14 Cost is $200/week, which includes GYC Membership for the 2024/25 sailing season (thru May 2025), access to the club house (including changing rooms & showers), a variety of sailboats, and sailing alongside crewed safety boats on club days. To register, contact Jake at okay.jake4062@gmail.com or 022 304 5330.

Are you hosting visitors? Do you have accommodation that gets visitors throughout the year? We know Gizzy locals like you love sharing the gems of the place we call home. In addition to your favourite walk or picnic spot, we've created an easy way to share with visitors the Gizzy Local event calendar so they can see details for music, art, and other events held in our charming and wonderful hospitality venues and third places. Just open the below image and print it out for the fridge for your guests or just put it up for yourself. The qr code takes to you the Gizzy Local calendar. Have fun out there!