HARRIET PALMER harriet.palmer@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Taranaki has so many wonderful things that John Eagles can't help but get involved.
He's been volunteering for numerous organisations, boards and committees for more than 20 years and says it's been well worth putting in all the effort.
"Without the hard work of Taranaki people, a lot of what the region has wouldn't survive," he said.
Mr Eagles has been awarded a Queen's Service Medal for services to the community, many of which include working with school boards of trustees.
He said this work came about with the introduction of Tomorrow's Schools in 1989, which enabled him to have an input in to his children's education.
"I thought it was a good idea for parents to get involved," he said.
"It was a chance to make a difference."
Mr Eagles was also instrumental in the development of the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery as chairman of the Govett-Brewster foundation, he was a member of the New Plymouth Opera House trust board for 10 years, and is currently independent director of the Taranaki Rugby Football Union.
The list of causes and events Mr Eagles has invested in is almost endless and it's a wonder he has the time.
"I like being busy and I enjoy doing all the things so I don't even notice."
Monday, December 31
Tuti's retirement just means keeping going
HARRIET PALMER harriet.palmer@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Wetere says she has retired, although for her, retirement has quite a different meaning than it does to many.
Ms Wetere has been working in the community, mainly with Maori, for more than 55 years. Even though she says it's time for others to take over, she shows little sign of slowing down.
She has been a member and branch president of the Maori Women's Welfare League, was the first woman trustee of the Owae Marae Committee in Waitara, and was part of Taranaki's Clean Sea Action group.
Today, Ms Wetere wants younger people to take over the instrumental roles in Maori society, and her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren are all following proudly in her footsteps.
Ms Wetere has been awarded the Queen's Service Medal for services to the community.
Today that means helping to knit 800 pairs of slippers to be given to delegates at a Maori Women's Welfare League conference.
It also means travelling to Wellington to be present at the signing of the Agreement in Principle which assures the return of the Port Nicholson Block to the Taranaki Whanui.
"I don't even think about it," Ms Wetere said.
"I used to finish a day's work and wonder what else I could do."
Ms Wetere grew up in New Plymouth and is of Te Atiawa and Ngati Maniapoto decent.
She is a JP and has been a marriage celebrant, but it is her work with marae that has meant the most.
"I've always been interested in marae. They don't have any funds. They rely on koha and the goodwill of people," Ms Wetere said.
Volunteering is where Ms Wetere has met people and been able to make a difference in the lives of her people.
"It's quite wonderful," she said
Wetere says she has retired, although for her, retirement has quite a different meaning than it does to many.
Ms Wetere has been working in the community, mainly with Maori, for more than 55 years. Even though she says it's time for others to take over, she shows little sign of slowing down.
She has been a member and branch president of the Maori Women's Welfare League, was the first woman trustee of the Owae Marae Committee in Waitara, and was part of Taranaki's Clean Sea Action group.
Today, Ms Wetere wants younger people to take over the instrumental roles in Maori society, and her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren are all following proudly in her footsteps.
Ms Wetere has been awarded the Queen's Service Medal for services to the community.
Today that means helping to knit 800 pairs of slippers to be given to delegates at a Maori Women's Welfare League conference.
It also means travelling to Wellington to be present at the signing of the Agreement in Principle which assures the return of the Port Nicholson Block to the Taranaki Whanui.
"I don't even think about it," Ms Wetere said.
"I used to finish a day's work and wonder what else I could do."
Ms Wetere grew up in New Plymouth and is of Te Atiawa and Ngati Maniapoto decent.
She is a JP and has been a marriage celebrant, but it is her work with marae that has meant the most.
"I've always been interested in marae. They don't have any funds. They rely on koha and the goodwill of people," Ms Wetere said.
Volunteering is where Ms Wetere has met people and been able to make a difference in the lives of her people.
"It's quite wonderful," she said
Volunteer rewarded for his life philosophy
ROB MAETZIG rob.maetzig@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Thirty-five years' service to the Taranaki region in a wide variety of ways has been rewarded for New Plymouth's Lynn Bublitz, who has been made a companion of the Queen's Service Order in the New Year Honours.
Mr Bublitz said he was thrilled to have received the award, but the real honour was "being part of making a positive difference".
His many contributions have included local government, arts, education and community organisations.
Volunteering is part of Mr Bublitz' life philosophy. He believes it is voluntary effort that makes a good society.
"I hope I've been able to live that philosophy," he said.
The list of causes Mr Bublitz has given his time to shows he has well and truly lived up to his own expectations.
A New Plymouth District councillor for 18 years and deputy mayor, Mr Bublitz established the council's iwi liaison sub-committee and forged strong partnerships with the district's iwi.
He was instrumental in establishing New Plymouth's Puke Ariki museum and library complex, and was a trustee of the Taranaki Arts Festival trust for 17 years.
Mr Bublitz has also been heavily involved in the instigation and organisation of Womad, the Taranaki Youth Festival, and the Taranaki Festival of the Arts.
A member of the board of the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust for 35 years and at times its chairman, he headed a fundraising campaign in 2002 to save the garden, was the fundraiser for Pukeiti's 50th jubilee, and was made a life member in 1989.
Mr Bublitz was principal of Inglewood High School for more than 10 years, a teacher at New Plymouth Boys' High School for more than 25 years, was a mentor with the First Time Principals Programme, and was awarded a Wolf Fisher Scholarship in 1985.
He has also been involved in many other community organisations, including the LA Alexander Agriculture College Trust Board, the Unesco Science Committee, and the Te Papa National Services Committee.
Thirty-five years' service to the Taranaki region in a wide variety of ways has been rewarded for New Plymouth's Lynn Bublitz, who has been made a companion of the Queen's Service Order in the New Year Honours.
Mr Bublitz said he was thrilled to have received the award, but the real honour was "being part of making a positive difference".
His many contributions have included local government, arts, education and community organisations.
Volunteering is part of Mr Bublitz' life philosophy. He believes it is voluntary effort that makes a good society.
"I hope I've been able to live that philosophy," he said.
The list of causes Mr Bublitz has given his time to shows he has well and truly lived up to his own expectations.
A New Plymouth District councillor for 18 years and deputy mayor, Mr Bublitz established the council's iwi liaison sub-committee and forged strong partnerships with the district's iwi.
He was instrumental in establishing New Plymouth's Puke Ariki museum and library complex, and was a trustee of the Taranaki Arts Festival trust for 17 years.
Mr Bublitz has also been heavily involved in the instigation and organisation of Womad, the Taranaki Youth Festival, and the Taranaki Festival of the Arts.
A member of the board of the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust for 35 years and at times its chairman, he headed a fundraising campaign in 2002 to save the garden, was the fundraiser for Pukeiti's 50th jubilee, and was made a life member in 1989.
Mr Bublitz was principal of Inglewood High School for more than 10 years, a teacher at New Plymouth Boys' High School for more than 25 years, was a mentor with the First Time Principals Programme, and was awarded a Wolf Fisher Scholarship in 1985.
He has also been involved in many other community organisations, including the LA Alexander Agriculture College Trust Board, the Unesco Science Committee, and the Te Papa National Services Committee.
Museum owner honoured
GLENN McLEAN glenn.mclean@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Tawhiti Museum creator Nigel Ogle says he agonised over accepting the Queen's Service Medal for service to historical research and museums.
"I wondered what was going on when I got notified," he said.
"All I could think of was that there are plenty of other people doing similar sorts of heritage things in Taranaki. It is a wonderful honour, though."
As he sits hunched over his workbench at the back of his expanding Hawera museum, the smell of his creative work thick in the air, Mr Ogle says he never envisaged being where he is today.
A former teacher, Mr Ogle and his wife, Teresa, are in the middle of creating their biggest project, a $1 million South Seas Traders display, which is being made in partnership with Wellington's Weta Workshop - the Academy Award-winning film modelling and sculpture business.
Equally funded by the South Taranaki District Council and Mr and Mrs Ogle, the project is due to open in October 2009.
"The next 12 months will be the busiest I've ever worked," he said.
"But I've always toyed about doing it and to finally be able to, well, it's an incredible honour."
Founded after Mr Ogle purchased the old Tawhiti cheese factory in 1975, the museum has won seven tourism awards. It has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Taranaki.
At a time when the New Zealand Air Force's Ohakea Museum has closed, as well as Dairyland on the outskirts of Hawera, Mr Ogle said visitor numbers at his museum continued to grow as awareness from outside Taranaki increased.
"An area needs a basket of attractions, and it's sad to see these things fall over."
Tawhiti Museum creator Nigel Ogle says he agonised over accepting the Queen's Service Medal for service to historical research and museums.
"I wondered what was going on when I got notified," he said.
"All I could think of was that there are plenty of other people doing similar sorts of heritage things in Taranaki. It is a wonderful honour, though."
As he sits hunched over his workbench at the back of his expanding Hawera museum, the smell of his creative work thick in the air, Mr Ogle says he never envisaged being where he is today.
A former teacher, Mr Ogle and his wife, Teresa, are in the middle of creating their biggest project, a $1 million South Seas Traders display, which is being made in partnership with Wellington's Weta Workshop - the Academy Award-winning film modelling and sculpture business.
Equally funded by the South Taranaki District Council and Mr and Mrs Ogle, the project is due to open in October 2009.
"The next 12 months will be the busiest I've ever worked," he said.
"But I've always toyed about doing it and to finally be able to, well, it's an incredible honour."
Founded after Mr Ogle purchased the old Tawhiti cheese factory in 1975, the museum has won seven tourism awards. It has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Taranaki.
At a time when the New Zealand Air Force's Ohakea Museum has closed, as well as Dairyland on the outskirts of Hawera, Mr Ogle said visitor numbers at his museum continued to grow as awareness from outside Taranaki increased.
"An area needs a basket of attractions, and it's sad to see these things fall over."
Bourke humbled by New Year award
RACHAEL MURPHY rachael.murphy@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Former South Taranaki Mayor Mary Bourke, at her Hawera home, says she accepted her Queen's Service Honour out of respect for the people who nominated her.
Former South Taranaki mayor Mary Bourke is "hugely humbled" at being awarded the Queen's Service Order - but feels it's wrong to suggest it recognises only her individual efforts.
"I've accepted the award out of respect for those who have nominated me ... being chosen to accept this award is an affirmation of all those people I've worked with over the years - because nobody is an island," she said. "Sometimes it's tempting to try to be, but it certainly doesn't get the best results.
"I've been pretty fortunate to work with some excellent teams and individuals in my time."
Miss Bourke's 15 years as mayor was a record for a woman before she stood down before the last local body elections in October.
She has since kept herself busy with a few local government contracts, involving the parts of local government that she truly enjoys.
"Making sure meetings are productive, that people stay focused and that local government is recognised as a fulfilling and useful practice rather than the entity that people love to hate - which traditionally it has been."
She has also been keeping up with her work as a marriage celebrant, with which she has commitments until March.
She has been a celebrant since 2000 and officiates at about 10 weddings each year.
But mostly she is focusing on "taking the time to do some breathing and smell the roses and consider my options".
Miss Bourke is still heavily involved in the Bishop's Action Foundation in Taranaki, is South Taranaki Medical Trust chairperson, and is on the Territorial Forces Employer Support Council.
She has done a lot of work facilitating and chairing working parties for issues related to local government, such as rates reviews and ICT (information computer technology).
Former South Taranaki Mayor Mary Bourke, at her Hawera home, says she accepted her Queen's Service Honour out of respect for the people who nominated her.
Former South Taranaki mayor Mary Bourke is "hugely humbled" at being awarded the Queen's Service Order - but feels it's wrong to suggest it recognises only her individual efforts.
"I've accepted the award out of respect for those who have nominated me ... being chosen to accept this award is an affirmation of all those people I've worked with over the years - because nobody is an island," she said. "Sometimes it's tempting to try to be, but it certainly doesn't get the best results.
"I've been pretty fortunate to work with some excellent teams and individuals in my time."
Miss Bourke's 15 years as mayor was a record for a woman before she stood down before the last local body elections in October.
She has since kept herself busy with a few local government contracts, involving the parts of local government that she truly enjoys.
"Making sure meetings are productive, that people stay focused and that local government is recognised as a fulfilling and useful practice rather than the entity that people love to hate - which traditionally it has been."
She has also been keeping up with her work as a marriage celebrant, with which she has commitments until March.
She has been a celebrant since 2000 and officiates at about 10 weddings each year.
But mostly she is focusing on "taking the time to do some breathing and smell the roses and consider my options".
Miss Bourke is still heavily involved in the Bishop's Action Foundation in Taranaki, is South Taranaki Medical Trust chairperson, and is on the Territorial Forces Employer Support Council.
She has done a lot of work facilitating and chairing working parties for issues related to local government, such as rates reviews and ICT (information computer technology).
Award the result of love for Stratford
GLENN McLEANglenn.mclean@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Life has not slowed down at all for former Stratford mayor Brian Jeffares.
The man who wore the mayoral chains in the Central Taranaki district for three successful terms is still accepting offers to sit on various committees in the town, despite almost three decades of working in the community.
The 59-year-old, who stood down as mayor at the last election, has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to local body affairs and the community.
The former builder turned real estate manager stands by his decision to step down from the mayoralty this year. "I think it was the right and best decision to make at the time and I don't regret it because it was time to move on," he said.
Mr Jeffares says he never envisaged getting involved in committees or local politics.
It all started from the "humble background of being a builder" when he took up an offer to work on a school committee.
"I think school committees and PTAs are a great breeding ground for community life and many people move on from there to serve elsewhere," he said.
Mr Jeffares says there is a simple reason behind what drives him to still be a Taranaki regional councillor, chair the Taranaki Electricity Trust, the Stratford Health Trust, to be a trustee on the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust, a member of the Hospital Advisory Committee, the Stratford Youth Trust and a committee member of the Stratford Rugby Club.
"I guess I'm just impatient, I want to get things done.
"That comes back to my background as a builder as well, you learn to get the foundations right," he said. Many of his positions have given him a lot of satisfaction and he admits to getting plenty of pleasure out of seeing projects through to the end.
One example is the Taranaki Electricity Trust, which he says is a tribute to the people of the area.
"We have now given away about $50 million and have a portfolio worth about $90 million.
"That's a huge increase on what we started with in 1993, so yeah, that's been significant in a lot of growth in the area," he said.
"But there is a downside to it, a lot of committees now think their fundraising consists entirely of writing a letter to the TET."
Mr Jeffares says he will continue to remain fiercely loyal to Stratford.
"That's why I do everything I do, because I really love this community. If I didn't love this community I wouldn't do it."
Life has not slowed down at all for former Stratford mayor Brian Jeffares.
The man who wore the mayoral chains in the Central Taranaki district for three successful terms is still accepting offers to sit on various committees in the town, despite almost three decades of working in the community.
The 59-year-old, who stood down as mayor at the last election, has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to local body affairs and the community.
The former builder turned real estate manager stands by his decision to step down from the mayoralty this year. "I think it was the right and best decision to make at the time and I don't regret it because it was time to move on," he said.
Mr Jeffares says he never envisaged getting involved in committees or local politics.
It all started from the "humble background of being a builder" when he took up an offer to work on a school committee.
"I think school committees and PTAs are a great breeding ground for community life and many people move on from there to serve elsewhere," he said.
Mr Jeffares says there is a simple reason behind what drives him to still be a Taranaki regional councillor, chair the Taranaki Electricity Trust, the Stratford Health Trust, to be a trustee on the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter Trust, a member of the Hospital Advisory Committee, the Stratford Youth Trust and a committee member of the Stratford Rugby Club.
"I guess I'm just impatient, I want to get things done.
"That comes back to my background as a builder as well, you learn to get the foundations right," he said. Many of his positions have given him a lot of satisfaction and he admits to getting plenty of pleasure out of seeing projects through to the end.
One example is the Taranaki Electricity Trust, which he says is a tribute to the people of the area.
"We have now given away about $50 million and have a portfolio worth about $90 million.
"That's a huge increase on what we started with in 1993, so yeah, that's been significant in a lot of growth in the area," he said.
"But there is a downside to it, a lot of committees now think their fundraising consists entirely of writing a letter to the TET."
Mr Jeffares says he will continue to remain fiercely loyal to Stratford.
"That's why I do everything I do, because I really love this community. If I didn't love this community I wouldn't do it."
Dame given new honour
LYN HUMPHREYS lyn.humphreys@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Monday, 31 December 2007
Taranaki folk will be delighted that the farmer-diva we claim as our own has been awarded the country's second-highest honour.
Conferred with a Dame Commander of the British Empire in 1991, Dame Malvina Major this year becomes a Principal Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her lifelong service to opera.
"It was a lovely surprise," Dame Malvina told the Taranaki Daily News from the family beach home at Whangamata as six grandchildren milled around, impatient to get to the beach.
She is unconcerned that it is not the supreme national accolade - for which there can be only 20 living New Zealand recipients at any one time.
"It's important for me. It's an acknowledgment from New Zealand," she said.
Dame Malvina is well in control of her busy life despite heading towards her 65th birthday on January 28.
"It's amazing to me that at my age I'm still singing overseas and teaching. It's all a bit mad really."
Dame Malvina is a fulltime professor of voice at Canterbury University, is deeply immersed in supporting emerging musical talent through the Dame Malvina Foundation and committed to community work through endless fundraising campaigns.
Examples of just a few of those fundraising efforts in Taranaki alone are assistance with the purchase of diagnostic heart equipment, refurbishing the children's Base Hospital ward and supporting the Taranaki Hospice.
After some time off the stage to have her family, by 1986, she had picked up her career and returned to sing overseas. After the sudden death of her husband, Winston Fleming, of a heart attack at the farm in September 1990 she first moved to New Plymouth and a little over 10 years ago moved to Christchurch where her partner, Brian Law, is the conductor of the city's choir and director of music for Christchurch's Anglican Cathedral.
This year, the highlight for Dame Malvina was singing at the closing of the Rotary Convention at Salt Lake City, USA, with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir before 21,000 people. Donny Osmond had performed at the opening of the convention.
Among the very full agenda for next year is representing the New Zealand Government at Washington and Los Angeles and ambassadorial work in Houston, Boston and New York for the Dame Malvina Foundation.
Dame Malvina returns regularly to Taranaki.
Taranaki folk will be delighted that the farmer-diva we claim as our own has been awarded the country's second-highest honour.
Conferred with a Dame Commander of the British Empire in 1991, Dame Malvina Major this year becomes a Principal Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her lifelong service to opera.
"It was a lovely surprise," Dame Malvina told the Taranaki Daily News from the family beach home at Whangamata as six grandchildren milled around, impatient to get to the beach.
She is unconcerned that it is not the supreme national accolade - for which there can be only 20 living New Zealand recipients at any one time.
"It's important for me. It's an acknowledgment from New Zealand," she said.
Dame Malvina is well in control of her busy life despite heading towards her 65th birthday on January 28.
"It's amazing to me that at my age I'm still singing overseas and teaching. It's all a bit mad really."
Dame Malvina is a fulltime professor of voice at Canterbury University, is deeply immersed in supporting emerging musical talent through the Dame Malvina Foundation and committed to community work through endless fundraising campaigns.
Examples of just a few of those fundraising efforts in Taranaki alone are assistance with the purchase of diagnostic heart equipment, refurbishing the children's Base Hospital ward and supporting the Taranaki Hospice.
After some time off the stage to have her family, by 1986, she had picked up her career and returned to sing overseas. After the sudden death of her husband, Winston Fleming, of a heart attack at the farm in September 1990 she first moved to New Plymouth and a little over 10 years ago moved to Christchurch where her partner, Brian Law, is the conductor of the city's choir and director of music for Christchurch's Anglican Cathedral.
This year, the highlight for Dame Malvina was singing at the closing of the Rotary Convention at Salt Lake City, USA, with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir before 21,000 people. Donny Osmond had performed at the opening of the convention.
Among the very full agenda for next year is representing the New Zealand Government at Washington and Los Angeles and ambassadorial work in Houston, Boston and New York for the Dame Malvina Foundation.
Dame Malvina returns regularly to Taranaki.
Saturday, December 22
Saturday, December 8
Sir Elton John said he has never been as cold while performing than he was in New Plymouth last night.
And I've got heaters on stage, so God knows what it's like for you out there," he told the crowd at New Plymouth's Bowl of Brooklands.
But a bitter south-easterly and persistent rain before the show failed to dampen the enthusiasm of his fans, with more than 15,000 turning up to enjoy the show.
Instead, they huddled together on the grass while they waited for the star, and a huge range of raincoats, tarpaulins, oilskins and other waterproofing devices were on display.
And fortunately, the weather cleared as the music began, and fans from far and wide were rewarded for their dedication with a stellar show from the superstar.
"I can't believe I'm actually here. I could listen to him all night," Nicola Sheahan from Cambridge said.
"The rain on the drive down, and standing here in the pouring rain and freezing was absolutely worth it.
"This has been the chance of a lifetime."
Craig Flynn from Winton in Southland agreed, saying he was impressed with the Bowl as a venue.
"I've seen Elton before in London, so this is my second time," he said. "But this setting is the best I've ever seen. It's amazing."
Taranaki fans, young and old, were in on the act as well.
Cherry Phillips from Waitara said she was having a ball.
"This is my first time and it's beautiful," she said. "Taranaki's done it again. The rain stopped just in time and it's magical."
Caitlin Coughtrey, 14, Louise Henderson, 14, and Louise Hunt, 15, of New Plymouth said they grew up hearing their parents listening to Sir Elton's music. "We're all big fans," Caitlin said.
"We're having a great time."
Despite a big crowd, there was plenty of room to move about.
Queues were relatively small, with the longest lines for hot coffee and food.
The crowd began to gather from 2pm, while on the other side of town a handful of brave fans waited at New Plymouth airport for the arrival of Sir Elton's private Gulfstream jet.
Following a bumpy-looking landing, Sir Elton and his entourage were whisked straight to his dressing room at the Bowl in a distinctive silver Mercedes belonging to businessman John Rae.
Mr Rae told the Taranaki Daily News he was approached by the Mercedes dealership in Wellington and asked if he would loan his year-old car out for the night. He was happy to help out.
"Mind you, if I get it back in the morning and it's got any marks on it they'll hear about it," he laughed.
Police and St John Ambulance staff at the Bowl said the crowd had been well-behaved.
But a bitter south-easterly and persistent rain before the show failed to dampen the enthusiasm of his fans, with more than 15,000 turning up to enjoy the show.
Instead, they huddled together on the grass while they waited for the star, and a huge range of raincoats, tarpaulins, oilskins and other waterproofing devices were on display.
And fortunately, the weather cleared as the music began, and fans from far and wide were rewarded for their dedication with a stellar show from the superstar.
"I can't believe I'm actually here. I could listen to him all night," Nicola Sheahan from Cambridge said.
"The rain on the drive down, and standing here in the pouring rain and freezing was absolutely worth it.
"This has been the chance of a lifetime."
Craig Flynn from Winton in Southland agreed, saying he was impressed with the Bowl as a venue.
"I've seen Elton before in London, so this is my second time," he said. "But this setting is the best I've ever seen. It's amazing."
Taranaki fans, young and old, were in on the act as well.
Cherry Phillips from Waitara said she was having a ball.
"This is my first time and it's beautiful," she said. "Taranaki's done it again. The rain stopped just in time and it's magical."
Caitlin Coughtrey, 14, Louise Henderson, 14, and Louise Hunt, 15, of New Plymouth said they grew up hearing their parents listening to Sir Elton's music. "We're all big fans," Caitlin said.
"We're having a great time."
Despite a big crowd, there was plenty of room to move about.
Queues were relatively small, with the longest lines for hot coffee and food.
The crowd began to gather from 2pm, while on the other side of town a handful of brave fans waited at New Plymouth airport for the arrival of Sir Elton's private Gulfstream jet.
Following a bumpy-looking landing, Sir Elton and his entourage were whisked straight to his dressing room at the Bowl in a distinctive silver Mercedes belonging to businessman John Rae.
Mr Rae told the Taranaki Daily News he was approached by the Mercedes dealership in Wellington and asked if he would loan his year-old car out for the night. He was happy to help out.
"Mind you, if I get it back in the morning and it's got any marks on it they'll hear about it," he laughed.
Police and St John Ambulance staff at the Bowl said the crowd had been well-behaved.
Wednesday, November 28
Fishing guru and former teacher dies
BY RYAN EVANS ryan.evans@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Wednesday, 28 November 2007
A Taranaki fishing guru is now fishing the celestial rivers and oceans.
Noel Jack Baty died in New Plymouth on Monday, aged 91.
Born in Christchurch in 1915, he attended St Andrew's College before joining the Royal New Zealand Air Force in 1933.
He married Australian woman Gladys Staples in 1939, before serving in New Zealand and Fiji as a pilot during World War II.
On leaving the RNZAF in 1946, he moved to New Plymouth, and became manager of the Fun Ho! toy factory before training as a primary school teacher.
He taught at Welbourn and Woodleigh primary schools, and was principal of Lepperton primary school for eight years before retiring in 1976.
Fishing was Mr Baty's passion from an early age.
Growing up during the Depression, he would go fishing or hunting to provide food for his mother and four sisters.
He enjoyed trout and boat fishing as well as surfcasting, representing New Zealand in the 1962 World Surfcasting Championships.
For more than 40 years, he wrote fishing columns for The Daily News, The Taranaki Herald, NZ Rod & Rifle and the NZ Fishing News, among others. He also hosted a popular radio show and in 1993 published a book, Hooked On Fishing.
Mr Baty was a foundation member, life member and patron of the Taranaki Surfcasting Club, served on numerous other fishing bodies, and was national president of the New Zealand Angling and Casting Association.
His sons, Max and Spencer, described him as a practical joker, who never did things by half.
They said his life's work was devoted to his wife, who had suffered from polio early in her childhood.
She and Mr Baty spent the final years of their life in the Coronation Lodge Rest Home. Mrs Baty died in 2004.
Mr Baty is survived by his two sons, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
A Taranaki fishing guru is now fishing the celestial rivers and oceans.
Noel Jack Baty died in New Plymouth on Monday, aged 91.
Born in Christchurch in 1915, he attended St Andrew's College before joining the Royal New Zealand Air Force in 1933.
He married Australian woman Gladys Staples in 1939, before serving in New Zealand and Fiji as a pilot during World War II.
On leaving the RNZAF in 1946, he moved to New Plymouth, and became manager of the Fun Ho! toy factory before training as a primary school teacher.
He taught at Welbourn and Woodleigh primary schools, and was principal of Lepperton primary school for eight years before retiring in 1976.
Fishing was Mr Baty's passion from an early age.
Growing up during the Depression, he would go fishing or hunting to provide food for his mother and four sisters.
He enjoyed trout and boat fishing as well as surfcasting, representing New Zealand in the 1962 World Surfcasting Championships.
For more than 40 years, he wrote fishing columns for The Daily News, The Taranaki Herald, NZ Rod & Rifle and the NZ Fishing News, among others. He also hosted a popular radio show and in 1993 published a book, Hooked On Fishing.
Mr Baty was a foundation member, life member and patron of the Taranaki Surfcasting Club, served on numerous other fishing bodies, and was national president of the New Zealand Angling and Casting Association.
His sons, Max and Spencer, described him as a practical joker, who never did things by half.
They said his life's work was devoted to his wife, who had suffered from polio early in her childhood.
She and Mr Baty spent the final years of their life in the Coronation Lodge Rest Home. Mrs Baty died in 2004.
Mr Baty is survived by his two sons, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
Much-loved music teacher remembered
SHARON MARRIS sharon.marris@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Wednesday, 28 November 2007
A Taranaki man awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to music died on Sunday aged 83.
Ernest James Arthur Ormrod (Ernie) was born in Wellington but moved to New Plymouth in the 1950s with his wife Gwitha and children.
He began playing the piano at the age of five, learning brass instruments and joining the Port Nicholson Silver Band in 1938.
In 1942 he joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force as a bomber-gunner but kept playing in military bands. During the 1950s he became deputy conductor of the RNZAF Band, conducting it at Parliament's official opening.
In New Plymouth, Mr Ormrod managed Colliers for many years and became president and a life member of the New Plymouth City Band after administering it for more than 25 years. As well as his British Empire Medal, Mr Ormrod was recognised by the New Zealand Brass Bands Association for service to the band movement. He often performed in the band, the New Plymouth Orchestra and New Plymouth Operatic Society's orchestra.
He told a Taranaki Daily News reporter in 1985: "I would like to think my involvement in all these things has brought pleasure to people and that my teaching has been of assistance to all the young bandsmen."
One of those young bandsmen was Bryce Gordon, who is now the band's conductor. Mr Gordon learned cornet from Mr Ormrod and Ken Martin for about four years. Four words sprang to mind when he thought of Mr Ormrod - dedicated, passionate, sharing and giving.
"Ernie was very patient and he always had plenty of time to give to the youngsters," he said.
"I remember one band practice was cancelled because it was Easter but he'd forgotten to tell everyone so I turned up and he gave me an individual lesson instead."
Mr Ormrod is survived by two children and six grandchildren. His funeral will be held at St Mary's Pro Cathedral tomorrow where Mr Gordon will perform a cornet solo.
A Taranaki man awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to music died on Sunday aged 83.
Ernest James Arthur Ormrod (Ernie) was born in Wellington but moved to New Plymouth in the 1950s with his wife Gwitha and children.
He began playing the piano at the age of five, learning brass instruments and joining the Port Nicholson Silver Band in 1938.
In 1942 he joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force as a bomber-gunner but kept playing in military bands. During the 1950s he became deputy conductor of the RNZAF Band, conducting it at Parliament's official opening.
In New Plymouth, Mr Ormrod managed Colliers for many years and became president and a life member of the New Plymouth City Band after administering it for more than 25 years. As well as his British Empire Medal, Mr Ormrod was recognised by the New Zealand Brass Bands Association for service to the band movement. He often performed in the band, the New Plymouth Orchestra and New Plymouth Operatic Society's orchestra.
He told a Taranaki Daily News reporter in 1985: "I would like to think my involvement in all these things has brought pleasure to people and that my teaching has been of assistance to all the young bandsmen."
One of those young bandsmen was Bryce Gordon, who is now the band's conductor. Mr Gordon learned cornet from Mr Ormrod and Ken Martin for about four years. Four words sprang to mind when he thought of Mr Ormrod - dedicated, passionate, sharing and giving.
"Ernie was very patient and he always had plenty of time to give to the youngsters," he said.
"I remember one band practice was cancelled because it was Easter but he'd forgotten to tell everyone so I turned up and he gave me an individual lesson instead."
Mr Ormrod is survived by two children and six grandchildren. His funeral will be held at St Mary's Pro Cathedral tomorrow where Mr Gordon will perform a cornet solo.
`We are irrigating ... a lot goes straight through'
By LIZ ST GEORGE liz.stgeorge@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Wednesday, 28 November 2007
Farmers in South Taranaki's coastal areas are only days away from a drought as strong, dry winds and cloudless skies sap their farmland.
Many are predicting they will be in serious trouble if there is not substantial rain within a fortnight - some say earlier.
While Metservice is expecting showers for the South Taranaki area on Friday, these are not likely to be substantial.
Many farmers are reporting an unusually dry spring with coastal areas hardest hit. Opunake farmer Joe Carey says his farm is the driest for this time of year since 1991 and the dry spell is one of the worst he has experienced in 30 years
"It is the lack of rainfall in September, October and this month," he says. "I guess there is a window of about a fortnight before it gets reasonably serious. It is not just the fact it is a bit dry, it is the effect on the crops, the turnips and maize, it is further down the track."
Taranaki Farmers Opunake Livestock rep Bryan Goodin said he had noticed water levels in the drains and rivers had dropped in the area and farms were suffering under a drying wind as well.
Taranaki Farmers Hawera livestock agent Garry Johns says the south and western sides of SH 45 where the farms have sandy soils are the most affected.
"It is certainly dry.
"It is not desperate yet. It will be another 10 days before we start to say they are in trouble."
Mark Schrider, who farms in Patea, has been irrigating since September. Normally he starts in December.
Richard Julian, who farms south of Opunake, has also resorted to irrigating earlier than usual. "We're pretty dry. We are irrigating a lot of the farm, a lot goes straight through."
Mr Julian has farmed in the area all his life and thinks it is one of the driest Novembers he has had.
Otakeho farmer Alaister Murdoch says he is more concerned about the Waimate West water scheme.
South Taranaki District Council water supply manager Peter Cook says the reservoir for that scheme is hovering around the 50 percent mark.
"The reservoir, at full capacity, only holds about two to three days storage. Unless people get the message and start conserving we may be faced with a situation of not having enough water to go around," he said.
Farmers in South Taranaki's coastal areas are only days away from a drought as strong, dry winds and cloudless skies sap their farmland.
Many are predicting they will be in serious trouble if there is not substantial rain within a fortnight - some say earlier.
While Metservice is expecting showers for the South Taranaki area on Friday, these are not likely to be substantial.
Many farmers are reporting an unusually dry spring with coastal areas hardest hit. Opunake farmer Joe Carey says his farm is the driest for this time of year since 1991 and the dry spell is one of the worst he has experienced in 30 years
"It is the lack of rainfall in September, October and this month," he says. "I guess there is a window of about a fortnight before it gets reasonably serious. It is not just the fact it is a bit dry, it is the effect on the crops, the turnips and maize, it is further down the track."
Taranaki Farmers Opunake Livestock rep Bryan Goodin said he had noticed water levels in the drains and rivers had dropped in the area and farms were suffering under a drying wind as well.
Taranaki Farmers Hawera livestock agent Garry Johns says the south and western sides of SH 45 where the farms have sandy soils are the most affected.
"It is certainly dry.
"It is not desperate yet. It will be another 10 days before we start to say they are in trouble."
Mark Schrider, who farms in Patea, has been irrigating since September. Normally he starts in December.
Richard Julian, who farms south of Opunake, has also resorted to irrigating earlier than usual. "We're pretty dry. We are irrigating a lot of the farm, a lot goes straight through."
Mr Julian has farmed in the area all his life and thinks it is one of the driest Novembers he has had.
Otakeho farmer Alaister Murdoch says he is more concerned about the Waimate West water scheme.
South Taranaki District Council water supply manager Peter Cook says the reservoir for that scheme is hovering around the 50 percent mark.
"The reservoir, at full capacity, only holds about two to three days storage. Unless people get the message and start conserving we may be faced with a situation of not having enough water to go around," he said.
Tuesday, November 20
Saturday, October 13
TRFU
TRFU to probe bar frolics
By LEIGHTON KEITH leighton.keith@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Saturday, 13 October 2007
Members of the Taranaki rugby team are being investigated after late-night high jinx in a New Plymouth bar.
Yesterday, Taranaki Rugby Football Union (TRFU) chief executive Mark Robinson confirmed the union was investigating allegations about several players' behaviour at the Crowded House Bar on Sunday, October 7.
The team had been knocked out of the Air New Zealand Cup by Auckland the night before.
The allegations surfaced the same week All Black Doug Howlett landed himself in trouble with British police after he jumped on parked cars outside Heathrow Airport's Hilton Hotel, in London.
The Taranaki Daily News understands the local allegations involve unruly behaviour, nudity, players helping themselves to drinks and under-age barmaids drinking.
A duty manager at the bar has resigned and the owners are conducting their own investigation into what happened on the night.
The Taranaki Daily News also understands the parents of one of the barmaids is seeking compensation from the bar or the TRFU.
Crowded House is the official bar to the TRFU and was recently named top sports bar at the Hospitality Association's Awards for Excellence.
Mr Robinson said the TRFU was still trying to establish what happened.
"The TRFU acknowledges that some of its players were present, along with other members of the public."
Mr Robinson said the union had protocols to manage allegations and it was working through those.
"The union is satisfied, at this stage, any disciplinary action for the players present is unnecessary."
Up to 12 players from the Taranaki team were at the bar.
Mr Robinson said it was important the TRFU went through the process.
"We are not having this or any other inquiry aired through the media."
Young barmaids working or drinking at the bar were not a TRFU issue, Mr Robinson said.
Crowded House co-owner Kerry Simeon, who only arrived back in New Zealand on Thursday having been at the World Cup, said he was still getting the facts together.
"It sounds like the culmination of a lot of stupid fun.
"There was a little bit of drinking going on. There was, I believe, a streak through the bar."
Mr Simeon said the bar was trying to deal with the problem in a professional manner.
"Silly behaviour is always going to happen, it is how you deal with it."
Mr Simeon said he wanted to have a meeting with the two 17-year-old barmaids, and their families, this week and he hoped the TRFU would attend.
Both girls have kept their jobs.
Mr Simeon said the bar was safe and had developed a good reputation with the police and public during its 10 years. His 16-year-old daughter worked in the bar
By LEIGHTON KEITH leighton.keith@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki | Saturday, 13 October 2007
Members of the Taranaki rugby team are being investigated after late-night high jinx in a New Plymouth bar.
Yesterday, Taranaki Rugby Football Union (TRFU) chief executive Mark Robinson confirmed the union was investigating allegations about several players' behaviour at the Crowded House Bar on Sunday, October 7.
The team had been knocked out of the Air New Zealand Cup by Auckland the night before.
The allegations surfaced the same week All Black Doug Howlett landed himself in trouble with British police after he jumped on parked cars outside Heathrow Airport's Hilton Hotel, in London.
The Taranaki Daily News understands the local allegations involve unruly behaviour, nudity, players helping themselves to drinks and under-age barmaids drinking.
A duty manager at the bar has resigned and the owners are conducting their own investigation into what happened on the night.
The Taranaki Daily News also understands the parents of one of the barmaids is seeking compensation from the bar or the TRFU.
Crowded House is the official bar to the TRFU and was recently named top sports bar at the Hospitality Association's Awards for Excellence.
Mr Robinson said the TRFU was still trying to establish what happened.
"The TRFU acknowledges that some of its players were present, along with other members of the public."
Mr Robinson said the union had protocols to manage allegations and it was working through those.
"The union is satisfied, at this stage, any disciplinary action for the players present is unnecessary."
Up to 12 players from the Taranaki team were at the bar.
Mr Robinson said it was important the TRFU went through the process.
"We are not having this or any other inquiry aired through the media."
Young barmaids working or drinking at the bar were not a TRFU issue, Mr Robinson said.
Crowded House co-owner Kerry Simeon, who only arrived back in New Zealand on Thursday having been at the World Cup, said he was still getting the facts together.
"It sounds like the culmination of a lot of stupid fun.
"There was a little bit of drinking going on. There was, I believe, a streak through the bar."
Mr Simeon said the bar was trying to deal with the problem in a professional manner.
"Silly behaviour is always going to happen, it is how you deal with it."
Mr Simeon said he wanted to have a meeting with the two 17-year-old barmaids, and their families, this week and he hoped the TRFU would attend.
Both girls have kept their jobs.
Mr Simeon said the bar was safe and had developed a good reputation with the police and public during its 10 years. His 16-year-old daughter worked in the bar
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