January 2019

Published by Neighbourhood Trust February 2019 . Vol 12, No 1 . Issue No 121

Contributions to: P O Box 21179 . Edgeware . Christchurch . 8143 . p 355-6522 . e themairehau@nht.org.nz

On December 11th at 69B Briggs Rd, Barnardos Early Learning Centre Te Puna Oraka and Shirley Hub celebrated the opening of the Community Pantry with members of the Shirley Community.

Shirley Community Pantry Up and Running

The Pantry is a community-based initiative lead by Early Childhood Teachers Gillian and Isabel and the pantry itself was built by a parent at the preschool, Rowan Christieson. The idea is to leave what you don’t need to share with someone who could use it. The main intention is to share food items and plants to grow food. Over the weeks since the Community Pantry opened, all manner of items have passed through the pantry doors, canned food, pantry items, fresh fruit and vegies as well as books, toys and clothing. All items are gratefully accepted as long as they are in clean and usable condition. If you have very large items or very large quantities of clothing that are too big to fit on the shelves, the Community Pantry might not be the right place for them.

Marge Reedy cutting the ribbon on Community Pantry

Marge Reedy being farewelled

If you are not sure call in to Barnardos Early Learning Centre or the Shirley Hub and have a chat with us. Thank you to all the lovely Shirley people who have been contributing to the Community Pantry, and giving it a tidy-up when it needs one, it’s a great team effort.Pictured cutting the ribbon at the opening of the pantry is our Whanau Awhina Marge Reedy from the Te Puna Oraka / Shirley Hub staff who we farewelled on the same day. Marge leaves us after more than 8 years and she will be missed by all of us at Early Start and in the Shirley Community. We wish her all the best in her new adventure as a Social Work Student.

January 2019 page two

EditorialA new era…It’s with much excitement and humility I say hello to you and introduce myself as the new General Manager of the Neighbourhood Trust. This year we celebrate a big milestone, 20 years of service to the local community.I am blessed to have inherited a wonderful team, a strong legacy and a connected community.I hope to guide and steward what I have inherited and look forward to the future for our community and our Neighbourhood Trust. I’d like to acknowledge Ginny Larsen our previous Manager for 11 1/2 years and our wonderful Interim Manager Lee Arthur who Co-ordinates Pay It Forward, our Social Enterprise Design Store at 49 Nancy Ave, Mairehau.We have the Mairehau Community Day at Mairehau Primary School on Saturday 16th March 2019 so ‘save the date’ and come and say hello to myself and our team. There will be lots of family fun and activities and a free sausage sizzle.We also have plenty of opportunities for volunteering within the Neighbourhood Trust if 2019 is the year for you to get more involved, please contact us at 03 355 6522 ext 113 if you are interested or to find out more.Ngâ mihi (regards)Trudy Hedges

Trudy Hedges

Attention Homeowners – new insulation subsidies availableHave you checked on the health of your home lately? Given that we spend a significant amount of our time at home, it seems logical that we make sure it is a healthy environment for us to live in.It’s the perfect time now to make sure you have enough insulation in your ceiling and underfloor, as this contributes greatly to the health of your home, and the health of you and your family. In particular, those with respiratory conditions and other illnesses aggravated by cold, damp environments, can benefit immensely from improving their ceiling and underfloor insulation.

Community Energy Action (CEA) are the only service provider in Central and North Canterbury that can offer insulation subsidies through the Government’s insulation scheme, Warmer Kiwi Homes.

Qualifying homeowners could receive up to 92% off the costs of insulation, if; • You are a homeowner, living in the home,

• The home was built before 2008,

And either;

• Have a valid Community Services Card (CSC) or a Super Gold ‘combo card’,

Or

• The home is located in an area identified as lower-income; contact CEA to find out if your address qualifies.

Unsure whether you have a SuperGold combo card’? Check the back of your card, and if it states the initials CSC, it can be used in replacement of your Community Services Card – meaning, you will qualify for health subsidies (such as insulation subsidies above) as well as your SuperGold Card discounts.

If affordability is a problem, and/or you don’t qualify for the above subsidy, CEA has interest free payment plans available.

CEA is also a registered provider of the new Healthier Homes Canterbury Rate scheme provided by The Regional Council (ECAN). This offers low interest loans towards the cost of insulation, heating and simple ventilation, to be paid back via rates bills over nine years.

Funding towards the installation of LED downlights may also be available. Please call CEA for further information.

Make use of the cheaper summer months to help spruce up your home. If you start making improvements now, you’ll be in a warmer, drier, cosier home before you know it and the dreaded winter blues won’t be so bad.

info@cea.co.nz . www.cea.co.nz . 0800 GET WARM (0800 438 9276) . (03) 374 7222299 Tuam Street, Christchurch Central . PO Box 13759, Christchurch 8141

January 2019 page three

0800 RED ELEC

WINNER

Wishing you a relaxing Christmas holiday & fantastic New Year 2018

Authorised by Duncan Webb, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

duncan.webb@parliament.govt.nz

Dr Duncan Webb MPMP for Christchurch-Central

I am honoured to be part of our government’s ambitiousplan to create a fairer and liveable New Zealand for all.

Dr Duncan WebbMP for Christchurch Central

Authorised by:Duncan Webb, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

282-290 Durham St(03) 366 5519 chchcentral@parliament.govt.nz

March 2018

17

237 Westminster Street, Christchurchwww.edgewaremowers.co.nz

Phone 366-3924

Edgeware Mowers and Chainsaws

For all types of outdoor power – Sales and Service

Pick up and delivery service available

We service what we sell

237 Westminster Street, Christchurchwww.edgewaremowers.co.nz

Phone 366-3924 We service what we sell

For all types of outdoor power - Sales and Service

Pick up and delivery service available

Before | After School | Holiday Programmes• OSCAR on Innes After School Care (St Francis of Assisi)• Mairehau Primary Before & After School Care• Holiday programmes

We provide: Before school breakfast, After school afternoon tea, homework supervision

Structured indoor outdoor activities. Holiday Programme includes planned outings.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIALRoana | 355-6522 ext 111 | 027-701-9382

www.nht.org.nz

We provide:Before school breakfast, After school afternoon tea

Nicky Wagner

922 Colombo StreetCentral ChristchurchPO Box 21359Christchurch 8143

chch.office@parliament.govt.nz

03 365 8297

nickywagner.co.nz

A

EPW

Funded by the Parliamentary Service and authorised by Nicky Wagner, 922 Colombo Street, Christchurch.

National List MP

Sat 16th March

BASTINS PHARMACY

RELAX!

De-crampDe-stressSleepRelax

254a Innes Road . St Albans Christchurch . Phone 355 9265

50% off

60 tabs $13.99120 tabs $19.99

January 2019 page four

Rental Property InvestmentsTax Returns, Financial Accounts, GST, PAYE

Any Inland Revenue related matters

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION Ph 377 4501

268 Cranford St, Corner Weston Rd. PO Box 1844, ChristchurchEmail: info@philpotts.co.nz

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

Personal and Professional

service

DADS GROUP

357 Gloucester Street Saturday 10-11.30am

Meets weekly All Dads Welcome

Health Tips . . . .Conquering ConstipationConstipation is not a disease. It occurs when bowel motions (stools) become harder or drier than normal and are more difficult to pass, or when you get fewer than your usual number of bowel movements. There is no right or wrong number of daily or weekly bowel movements. For some people a movement everyday is normal and for others every 3 to 4 days is normal.

Symptoms of constipation include straining to pass a bowel motion, small hard stools that are difficult to pass, stomach cramps or bloating, decreased frequency, or pain when passing a bowel motion.

The main causes of constipation include not eating enough fibre, not drinking enough fluid, lack of exercise or activity, failing to respond to the urge to pass a motion (or holding on), some medicines, emotional stress and some conditions such as diabetes, haemorrhoids and hypothyroidism.

Constipation can usually be relieved by simple lifestyle changes such as increasing activity, eating more fibre (approximately 30g per day), and drinking more water (6 – 8 glasses per day). Fibre can be found in wholegrain cereals and breads, brown rice, fresh fruit and vegetables, and nuts, and should be incorporated into your diet gradually over a few weeks.

When constipation is causing real discomfort, laxative medicines can help. There are many different types including stool softeners, fibre products and bowel stimulants. Some laxatives can become habit forming, so it is always best to ask the friendly staff at Mairehau Pharmacy or your GP for advice on what laxative is right for you to conquer your constipation.

Andrea is one of our volunteers who talks to clients and provides them with information and offers options on how they may address a particular issue. Every call is different, and Andrea says she never knows what to expect.

Recently she has had calls about consumer issues, problems with noisy neighbours, queries from migrants about visas, and several calls from employees without employment agreements. Requests for directions, JP services and free legal advice are recurring queries. Our volunteers have the support of a comprehensive database and extensive training.

They are trained to interview clients and research the options that are available. This may also include referring someone to another agency if they need access to on-going support and advocacy services. We not only help members of the community, but also provide a mentally stimulating and rewarding experience for our volunteers.

We have a course for new volunteers starting in March 2019. To inquire about joining our knowledgeable, caring team either email: manager.cabchch@gmail.com or phone 0800 367 222.

Want to help?

January 2019 page five

CHRISTCHURCHTHERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

CENTREwww.theramass.co.nz

229 Hills RoadChristchurch

Ph (03) 385 0544

SportsSwedishRelaxationPre & Post NatalAromatherapyNeuromuscular TherapyOnsite - Chair Massage

The Massage Therapy

Professionals

www.theramass.co.nz9 Shirley Road

Mairehau, ChristchurchPh (03) 385 0544

Introducing Nadine Gracea podiatrist, who has begun her new business FootWerks at 9 Shirley Rd, Mairehau.I’m Nadine Grace, I’ve been working as a podiatrist in Christchurch for the last 7 years, and last year decided it was time to go out on my own and open FootWerks Podiatry.

I’m originally from Henderson, in West Auckland, so after graduating from AUT in 2011 with a Bachelor of Health Science in Podiatry, I moved to Christchurch to start my new career.

I’m always asked why I wanted to become a Podiatrist, and as I grew up always struggling with foot pain, especially being heavily involved in tap dancing and

sport. I grew up wearing orthotics and regularly visiting a podiatrist. My keen interest in wanting to work in healthcare, sparked the idea that I could do something I could relate to.

I am interested in all areas of podiatry, particularly diabetic foot care, ingrown toenails, and biomechanics. Although I do love a good thick toenail or a meaty corn to get into

Christchurch Therapeutic Massage Centre has expanded and added new services. Podiatry, Chiropractic and a studio for teaching Yoga and Feldenkrais. The studio is a 40m2 teaching space for small groups and is available for hire. For further information regarding this space please phone Heather Wright on 03-385-0544.

Exciting times for Christchurch Therapeutic Massage

e ma i l ma r k @ e mp o w e r c h u r c h . c o . n z w w w . e mp o w e r c h u r c h . c o . n z / C o mmu n i t y F B : f a c e b o o k . c o m/ c o mmu n i t y f o c u s t r u s t

GET IN TOUCH

COOKING ON A BUDGET & HEALTHY EATING

LEARN LIFE BASICS W H E R E & W H E N

DayChildrens

For more information phone 941 8999

No smokingNo dogs permitted

ccc.govt.nz/summertimes

FREE

March3PM03

DayChildrens

For more information phone 941 8999

No smokingNo dogs permitted

ccc.govt.nz/summertimes

FREE

March3PM03

January 2019 page six

IFG Adventure is a fun programme for girls aged 8 - 10 years old (or in Years 4 - 6 at school). It’s on Thursdays from 6:00pm to 7:30pm during school term time, and is held at St Albans Baptist Church (64 McFaddens Road, St Albans) First night back in 2019 is Thursday 7th February.

Costs $4 a week and activities include: Fun and games 5 minute Bible devotion A project which earns a badge

For more details, contact Don: * Mobile: 027 956 9202 * Email: don.benn@sabc.org.nz

ICONZ Adventure is a fun programme for boys aged 8 - 10 years old (or in Years 4 - 6 at school). It’s on Thursdays from 6:00pm to 7:30pm during school term time, and is held at St Albans Baptist Church (64 McFaddens Road, St Albans) First night back in 2019 is Thursday 7th February.

Costs $4 a week and activities include: Fun and games 5 minute Bible devotion A project which earns a badge

For more details, contact Don: * Mobile: 027 956 9202 * Email: don.benn@sabc.org.nz

Pay it Forward is a Neighbourhood Trust social enterprise.

Profits are used to support community programmes.

49 Nancy Ave, MairehauMon - Fri 10am - 4pm & Sat 11am - 3pm

payitforwardstore.co.nz

Designer co-op store of locally handcrafted goods

the creative heart of your community

Pay it Forward is a Neighbourhood Trust social enterprise.

Profits are used to support community programmes.

49 Nancy Ave, MairehauMon - Fri 10am - 4pm & Sat 11am - 3pm

payitforwardstore.co.nz

Designer co-op store of locally handcrafted goods

the creative heart of your community

Combined Security SolutionsFor all your electronic security needs, home or business. Alarms, cameras, gates and intercoms. Combined Security Solutions has the solution for you.

Paul McCormick027 433 7997paul@combined security.co.nz Christchurch, NZ

Designer co-op store of locally handcrafted goods49 Nancy Ave, Mairehau

Mon–Fri 10am - 4pm & Sat 11am - 3pmpayitforwardstore.co.nz

Pay it Forward is a Neighbourhhod Trust social enterprise.Profits are used to support community programmes.

January 2019 page seven

If you are a not-for-profit organisation and would like your notice displayed, (see page eight) send copy (max. 30 words) to themairehau@nht.org.nz or phone Kim at 355-6522. Please note deadline is 15th of the month for publishing 26th.

For other Neighbourhood Trust Programmes please refer to Community Noticeboard on page eight

Neighbourhood Trust Golden Programme for over 60s: All run from 64 McFaddens Road (St Albans Baptist Church)

After School Tutoring – 49 Nancy Ave. – Maths, English, Spelling, Science. Professional, effective, affordable. Contact Peter 027-699-7622, 03-383-2710, 2020tutoring@hotmail.co.nz Childcare – Porse Home-educator available in Mairehau. 18yrs experience. Monday-Friday 7.30-5.30. Ph 385-1183 or 027-331-9356.Clarinet, Sax, Flute, Guitar, Bass, & Piano - Experienced local teachers. Ph Nicola and Ivan 385-3856.Handyman – Pete Knuiman Ltd. For all your property maintenance, repairs, painting, carpentry, fencing, brickwork, tiling work, alterations and those odd jobs. Ph. Pete 021-022-53774 or 385-1718 or email pete@peteknuiman.co.nz Visit www.peteknuiman.co.nzJill’s Cleaning Services, available for household cleaning in the Mairehau and surrounding areas. Phone 385-6762 / 021-206-0024.Flower Bazaar – Beautiful, fresh bouquets and a huge selection of gifts. Shop 3, 406 Innes Road, Mairehau. Phone 03-386-1711; 027-508-5298. ianharveyflowers@yahoo.co.nz www.ianharveyflowers.co.nz RED Electrical - your local Electricians 0800 RED ELECRoofing Contractor – LBP, Local, prompt. Repairs and reroofs. Ph Richie 021-342-852 A/H 385-6710Vintage beeswax food wraps in a set of 3 for $25, recycling and helping to save the planet. Get yours from Amber at Upcycled Vintage 027-222-6577, The Flower Bazaar and at the Pay it Forward Store, 49 Nancy Ave Mairehau. www.upcycledvintage.bigcartel.com Yoga - Tue - Chair Yoga 10.15am, Every Wed 6pm, Fri 9.30am, Sat 9am Cnr Nancy Ave & Knowles St. Classes from $8. No experience necessary and all welcome Robyn 027-459-2553. www.soul2solefitness.com

Classified

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of

The Mairehau

Neighbourhood Trust is a charitable trust. All programmes are kept at low cost through grants and donations.

All donations over $5 are tax receiptable. To make a donation send cheques to Neighbourhood Trust,

PO Box 21-179 Edgeware, Chch 8143 with your return address or see the website for internet banking detail - www.nht.org.nz

To go on the mailing list to receive a newsletter or to book – phone Kim 355-6522 ext 112 or email golden@nht.org.nz

If you have made a booking for any part of the programme, but can’t attend please let us know – we often have a waiting list.

Community Notices continued from page 8

Quote of the

month:

St. Albans Community Preschool: quality early childhood education since 1985. Qualified teachers, well resourced, 20 hours free ECE. Come in and check us out, 3 Thames St, 355-9396.

St Albans Uniting Menz Shed: A place to learn and provide the opportunity to share skills, talents & knowledge while building relationships with others. Contact: John Boxall 352-0096 & Bill Pearcy 980-9538 Session Times: Mon 1pm-4pm & Sat 9am–12 Noon.

St Albans Merivale Bowls Club: Donald Place off St Albans St - has been there for over 100 years. Two Greens. New members welcome. Ph. 355-9507.

St Albans Park Bowls: Forfar St, We have the green and the bowls, and we need you. Come for a casual roll up for $10 a season. Fill in your Sunday afternoon with friends & bowls. Hall is available for hire. All enquiries ring Gail Ph 027-434-1771.

St Albans Play Centre: Mon-Fri, 9.15–11.45am Term time. Learning through play, establishing friendships, developing life skills and having lots of FUN. Call now or drop by to arrange 3 FREE sessions. Ph. 982-1643, 96 Philpotts Rd.

St Albans Swim Club: Learn to swim programme for school age children, Mon & Wed 4-5.30pm, Shirley Intermediate School solar heated outdoor pools. Affordable fees, lane swimming, family swims & barbecues. Enquiries Phone 355-6512 or paul.valerie@actrix.co.nz.

Tai Chi for Health & Balance (Modified) Monday Intermediate11.20am & Beginners 12.30pm at St Albans Uniting Parish, Cnr Nancy Ave & Knowles St, Ring Jan on 357 4930.

Veggie Youth Group: For vegetarian & vegan youth aged 10+. Movies, cooking, crafts, games nights & special events. Email: youth@vegetarianchristchurch.org.nz or check Meet Up (‘Christchurch Vegetarian Society Meet Up’), Facebook (‘Christchurch Vegetarian Youth’), or www.vegetarianchristchurch.org.nz/groups/youthgroup/

Volunteers wanted by Volunteer Canterbury for a variety of roles from accountancy to fundraising for the SPCA and everything in between. Interested? Visit website www.volcanmatch.com or call 366-2442.

Mondays (term time only) – Walking Group for over 60s. Phone Kim for more info on 355-6522 ext. 112.13th February – Foot Clinic: 9am - $15 for a foot pamper - spa, nail trim, massage. Appointments start from 9am. Morning tea served. Currently full. Waiting list only. 20th February - Golden Meal: Come along for a tasty two course lunch at St Albans Baptist Church starting at midday. $5 Suggested Donation. Bookings Essential. You must book each month.

Published by Neighbourhood Trust, the community arm of St Albans Baptist Church

Graphics, layout and printing by ReachOut PressEditor: Amber McCormick Sub-Editor: Trudy Hedges

Masthead illustrator: Neroli WilliamsContributors: Amber McCormick, Trudy Hedges, Kevin White, Don Benn,

Andrew Brown, Donne Threadwell, Jo Waddingham.Advertising: Amber McCormick.

Supported by the Papanui / Innes Community Board, Râtâ Foundation and NZ Lotteries.

Visit our website on www.nht.org.nz to read back copies of The Mairehau

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you

and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

27th February – Golden Movie: Miss Porter - Come at Midday so you can buy a $2 toastie for lunch, or join us at 1pm for the movie, an ice-cream and a cuppa afterwards. Gold Coin Donation. To go on the mailing list to receive a newsletter or to book – phone Kim 355-6522 ext. 112 or email golden@nht.org.nz If you have made a booking, but can’t attend please let us know – we often have a waiting list.

January 2019 page eight

Community Noticeboard:

If you are a not-for-profit organisation and would like your notice displayed, send copy (max. 30 words) to themairehau@nht.org.nz or phone Kim at 355-6522 ext 113.

Please note deadline is 15th of the month for publishing 26th. continued on page 7

Church services: All Souls Anglican Church (formerly St Matthew’s in St Albans & St Mary’s in Merivale) new church complex cnr Papanui Road and Church Lane, Merivale. Service times: Sun.8am, 9.30am & 11am & Wednesdays 10am. Further info: ph 355-3287; email: info@allsouls.org.nz. Rev Megan Herles-Mooar 021-025-46956 People’s Warden: Susan MacDonald (355-7515); Vicar’s Warden: Lyndsey Sturge (352-9761); Director of Music: Murray Lennox (385-8336).

Emmett Street Community Church: 10am Service each Sunday followed by morning tea. For other activities please see our website at www.escc.org.nz or call 03 3863143.

Latimer Church: Family service with kids church. Every Sunday, 10am at Mairehau High School or 4:15pm at 12 Berwick Street. www.latimerchurch.nz or contact office@latimerchurch.nz.

St Francis of Assisi Parish: Innes Road, Masses Sat @ 5.30pm; Sun. @ 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am & 5pm. www.mairehauparish.org.nz

Quinns Road Bible Chapel: Corner Voss St & Quinns Road; Sun. @ 10.30am. Everyone welcome. Contact Mr Arthur on 323-6389 for more info.

Reformed Church of Christchurch: Cornwall Street, St. Albans. Sunday Services: 10:30 am and 5pm. Pastor David Waldron. Ph: 365-0317.

St Albans Baptist Church: Join us, 10am @ 64 McFaddens Rd for inspiring, life-giving messages, vibrant music, kids programme for Yr 1-Yr 8 and a ‘Welcome Home’ family feel. Youth group every Fri night term time; Intermediate group fortnightly Fri nights term time. Ph. Office: 355-6522, www.sabc.org.nz

St Albans Uniting Parish: 36 Nancy Avenue. Sunday services - 8.30am Breakfast Church for children & young families & their friends. 10.00am: a warm welcome for all who love the Lord! Parish Office: 36 Nancy Avenue. Telephone: 385-7545. Email: office@stalbinsuniting.org.nz. Website: www.stalbansuniting.org.nz. Minister:Vacant at present. See us on Facebook.

St Stephens: Meets @ Shirley Intermediate School Hall, North Parade, 10.30am Sun. For other activities, call 980-0929 or email shirley.anglican@paradise.net.

Need help with earthquake related problems? Contact the Earthquake Support Co-ordinator Service on 0800-777-846.

Neighbourhood Trust courses at St Albans Baptist Church, 64 McFaddens Rd:

Before & After School Programmes; Holiday Programmes – Before | After School | Holiday Programmes held at Mairehau Primary & St Francis of Assisi Ph: Roana 355-6522 ext 111; 027-701-9382. E: childrens@nht.org.nz .

Pilates - 9.30am Wednesdays, term time: If you haven’t done Pilates before please call 355-6522 ext 113. $9 a session.

Circuits - 7pm Tues evening, term time: All welcome. $9 a session; discount cards available for both Pilates and Circuits.

Craft & Friendship Group: Tues term time, 10.00-11.30am: All welcome.

Literacy and Numeracy with the Hagley Adult Literacy Centre: 9am–1pm, Tues & Thurs term time. Newcomers welcome. Phone the Centre on 379-1916 or text 027-899-5220.

Neighbourhood Trust Golden Programme for over 60s: Please see page 7

Te Puna Oraka: Early Years Hub Courses run from 69b Briggs Road (next to the

Preschool): Music Bugs: Mon mornings, term time – 10.30am coffee & free play for mums/children followed by a free preschool music session from 11.30am–noon provided by Vanessa. Bring a snack for your child. All welcome. Ph. Jo on 385-6148 or 027-655-1996.

Shirley International Playgroup: Fri 9.30am–11am term-time for mums & children under 5 for refugees & migrants. Conversational English class, songs, outings & play. Costs $2. Morning Tea provided. Call Shauna on 389-0219.

Breastfeeding Support Group: @ Te Puna Oraka every Thurs, 10.30am-12.00pm. All breastfeeding mothers, babies, toddlers & pregnant women are welcome.

Shirley Library, The Palms community programmes:Reading to Dogs programme: Tues 3:30-4:30pm (each session 15 mins long), provides a relaxed, non-threatening atmosphere encouraging children to practise their reading skills. Library staff & dog handler present at all times to help facilitate sessions. Bookings essential. For info ph. 941-7923. http://my. christchurchcitylibraries.com/reading-to-dogs/

Scrabble Club: Wed 1:30-3:30pm. All welcome. No experience required. Meet others in the community.

Super Saturday Story Times: Sat during term time 11:00–11:45am. Story, song and rhyme followed by a craft activity.

REGULAR ACTIVITIES:Beginners Quilting and patchwork: Tote bags & fabric teddy bear making. Also china cup pin cushions and other items. We would love you to come on a Thurs morning @Emmett Street Community Church from 10am, gold coin donation. Morning tea supplied. Please contact Linda for more info on 354-5901 or the church office on 386-3143.

Birthright Canterbury holds a monthly coffee drop in 1st Wed of the month for single parents to come for a coffee & chat with each other & our two social workers. Christchurch Community House at 301 Tuam Street, 11am- 1.30pm. Contact us on 366-9456 for further info or like our Facebook page Birthright Canterbury.

Canterbury Embroiderers’ Guild: @ Hammersley Community Centre, Amos Place off Marshland Rd. Groups meet Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri. Contact: Ros 021-108-5539, Lynne 027-323-5664 or email CEGstitchers@gmail.com. All welcome who enjoy any form of stitching at any skill level.

Christchurch Football Squash Club: 250 Westminster St. All levels & ages welcome. Friendly atmosphere with great junior’s programme & onsite Coach. Call Adam on 027-577-8274. www.chchfootballsquash.co.nz or Facebook:@Christchurchfootballsquash.

Civil Defence Volunteers – Shirley/Papanui Area: meet 4th Mon of the month. Ph: 386-2953 or 027-570-0706. New Volunteers welcome!

Edgeware Croquet Club, entrance Forfar St, invites you to join them for Golf Croquet on Thurs and Sat at 1pm. Coaching available. Just come along or phone Di 388-1005 or Isabel 354-0088.

Educational Resources: supporting the NZ curriculum can be borrowed from Helen’s Education - ideal for home-schoolers, pre-schoolers, children with ORRS funding or learning disabilities, remedial work primary to intermediate. Ph. 358-9494, 027-206-1883, battersby.helen@yahoo.co.nz.

Family History Society of New Zealand: Research your family tree, 401a Papanui Road, Mon & Sat 10am-12pm. famwhite@ihug.co.nz.

Housie at the Mary Potter Community Centre: 442 Durham St North, every Thursday at 12.30pm-2.15pm. $2 per Housie card or bring a prize to the value of the card. Afternoon tea to follow. All ages welcome. Come along, meet new people, have some fun. Enquiries ph 372 9224.

MacFarlanes on the Park Café: Fri 9.30–12 noon, 17 Acheson Ave. A community café with great food & coffee.

Mairehau Library Inc: 42a Kensington Ave. Community Volunteer Library with a wide selection of adults’ & Children’s books & DVDs. Open weekdays 2.00pm -4.00pm and Sat 10.00am - 2.00pm. Facilities available for hire mornings & evenings. Free membership, new members & volunteers welcome. Come & have look around or contact Lorna ph 980-1225 or Doreen ph 355-7431.

Movers and Groovers: Preschool music and morning tea. Thursdays at 10:30am during term time.12 Berwick St, St Albans.$2 per family per session. All welcome.

Musical Parenting: music & movement for pre-schoolers with Jody Keehan, Dip IRMT. Tues 9.30am, 36 Nancy Ave. Email children@stalbansuniting.org.nz or call 385-7545

OSCAR St Albans: Before & After School programmes & Holiday Programmes for 5-13 years. Enrol Now! Enquire at oscarstalbans.org.nz or ph 03-355-4918.

Pay It Forward Designer Co-op Store: Gift & Homewares shop @ 49 Nancy Ave, open Mon – Fri, 10am–4pm; Sat, 11am–3pm. High quality, locally handcrafted goods, with the profits going back to your community. Also free book swap. See the web page at payitforwardstore.co.nz or www.facebook.com/payitforwardmairehau. Credit card facilities available on purchases over $35.

Problem Gambling Foundation: Concerned about your gambling, or someone else’s? Free confidential help with Christchurch staff is only a phone call away: 0800-664-262.

SeniorNet Canterbury: Computer Training for the Over 50s: Christchurch Football Club, 250 Westminster St - Computer Courses & Workshops on a range of subjects for over 50s. Training by peers in small classes. Help Sessions every Tues; Monthly Socials & Special Interest Groups held in November. For info, call 385-4643.

Shirley Rugby League: New players welcome. Training Tues & Thurs @ McFarlane Park 6.30pm for Seniors & President Players; Junior players from 4.30pm. For more info please contact Rochelle 021-133-5437.

Shirley Plunket Playgroups: Shirley Plunket Volunteers run two friendly playgroups. Tues 10am-12pm & Wed 9.30am-11.30am at the Shirley Plunket Rooms, 166 North Parade. Warm indoor play area, & outdoor area with playhouse. No need to pre-enrol & all welcome. Gold coin donation.

The Shirley Ladies Friendship Club meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month (February to December) at 10 a.m. at All Saints Church, 305 New Brighton Road (near the Avondale Bridge). Each month an interesting speaker is arranged to entertain the members. A number of members meet for a walk & lunch once a month and a bus or a local trip is arranged at least every 2nd month. For more information please call Sandra 3522141 or 021-210-4953 or Ann on 027-930-0890. We would welcome new members.

Shirley Toy Library: A variety of toys for children 6 months to 5+ years. Flexible membership options. Open Wed 9:30-11:30am & Sat 9am-1pm. Hammersley Park School, Amos Place. Call 420-5455 or email librarian@shirleytoylibrary.co.nz