Did You Know?

Computer skills workshops

Local computer consultant Alan Stebben will be pleased to read this column for it is eveidence that his dedicated work on setting up my new computer, along with trying to get me to understand different operations, has actually worked! Mangawhai is fortunate in having a number of skilled computer services available, plus SeniorNet. Getting Started With Facebook starts on Friday March 15, the first of four workshops on this. Each session is just two hours, from 10.30am - 12.30pm, and held at the Learning Centre in Kaiwaka. To register, contact Tony Cox 431 2269, email voyager2@slingshot.co.nz. $10 for members, $15 for non-members, and you will need to bring your password and email account details.

 

Classes for dance lovers

Hip Hop is a very energetic dance form, and the Boyzdance classes being offered are just the thing for those ‘can’t sit still’ boys. Mary Madden of Love 2 Dance has arranged for a specialist teacher from Hardcore, Whangarei, to work with pupils here for a 5 week workshop, starting on Wednesday 13 March, 4.30 - 5.15pm. For those aged 5 - 10 years, the course is just $50. Teens are catered for too, with a mixed class following, from 5.15-6.15pm, costing $60 for the 5 week workshop. Limited places, so be quick. Register by contacting Mary 431 4351, mob 021 034 8450. 

 

Local funding spread

Endowment Fund annual grant applications have been considered by the committee, this year $55,104 is available for distribution. Mangawhai Restoration Society received $30,000 towards dredging activities and stabilisation of the distal spit; Historical Society $13,200 to complete the Genealogy Room in the new museum; $6500 to Plunket for a shade archgola; $4604 to the NZ Fairy Tern Trust for predator traps and bait; and Mangawhai Riparian Planting Goup $860 (conditional on administration by a Charitable Trust or Incorporated Society).

 

KDC info online

If you would like to receive the latest information from Kaipara District Council there is now an email facility available. Log on to the website www.kaipara.govt.nz, click on the button in the right top hand corner that says “sign up for email information” and fill in the simple form.

 

Ironman or Ironwoman?

Melanie Wintle, who will always be a ‘local’, completed her first Ironman competition in Taupo recently. Mum Jenny is pretty impressed by her energy as Mel is a mother of two, works as a paramedic in Auckland, is undertaking a university course, and training for her next Ironman! 

 

Show me the way…

If you were asked for directions to Spioenkop Road, or Te Whai Ave, could you help? Te Whai Ave is off Parklands Ave into Thelma St first left, and Spioenkop Road is off the top of King Road, on the right hand side before Brook Lane.  Of course, you know where Parklands Ave is, and King Road… ?

 

Homes worth having

Westmoreland, who have the show home on Molesworth Drive, are close to completing two stand-alone houses at the rear. These are exactly what an increasing number of retirees are looking for – own freehold title, low maintenance, 2 bedrooms plus study, 2 bathrooms, walking distance to shops. Snap one up now and you’ll get to choose your own carpets, colour scheme etc.

 

Energy workshop

‘How to tackle the energy crisis in New Zealand without loss of comfort’ is the subject of a workshop at the Positive Energy House in Kaiwaka on April 6 at 10am. You’ll need to register by emailing ericjansseune@xtra.co.nz or phone 431 2408. Check it all out on the website ewatec-global.com.

• Did you know that our ‘little’ library now has 700 members? Free membership, excellent selection of books, request facility, friendly volunteers, opening hours posted on the door!
• Wellsford resident Angela Alderton runs a business with the intriguing name Mum Will Do It. Says it all really when something needs doing! She says she can tackle anything, so ring her on 0272 692 937.
• And you should already know that there is a 50 kph speed limit on Molesworth Drive starting near the new museum.
• Mangawhai Beach and Country summer Sunday markets are drawing to a close, with one on Sunday March 17, and the final on Easter Saturday with a Twilight market from 3-6pm. Contact Sue on 0274 586 144.

News and views to share through this column? Contact Jo Roberts 431 4711, email jo.roberts@xtra.co.nz.