The Star: December 11, 2025

Thursday, 11 December 2025 | Christchurch’s best read and largest circulating newspaper
Are you
walking
too fast ?
– page 3
Bravery brings back
Bo after ram-raid
BY KEES CHALMERS
Pet ram Bo is like a child to
Kathrine Calder-Ritchie and
her husband.
So, when their knobbly
kneed 3-year-old was
stolen, they were absolutely
devastated.
But through a tip-off, a
$1000 reward for his return
and a bit of courage against
police advice, Bo is safe
and sound again, back
where he belongs with the
couple.
Bo was taken midafternoon
13 days ago
from a paddock in Little
River where Calder-Ritchie
had put their animals in
preparation for a shift
to the property later this
month.
Witnesses reported
seeing three men in a red
sedan, wrangling Bo.
Calder-Ritchie said it was
believed Bo was lifted over
a padlocked gate and put in
the car’s boot.
She had feared the worst
when he was stolen: He had
been taken for meat.
Calder-Ritchie posted
an article on the theft
from Bay Harbour News
on the Rolleston Facebook
community group on last
Thursday afternoon.
› Continued on Page 4
Kathrine Calder-Ritchie and her pet ram Bo, who is home safe and sound after being stolen.
‘No apology’
for traffic
checkpoints
despite
crime wave
BY DYLAN SMITS​
​Eight police officers and five
patrol cars were tied up on a
75min traffic stop on Friday
– at a time when the city’s
top cop says “every available
resource” is being used to fight
an outbreak in youth crime.
The traffic stop on
busy Lincoln Rd from
11am-12.15pm resulted in
23 drivers being issued with
infringement notices: 16
for using a cellphone while
driving, four for not wearing
a seatbelt correctly, two for
excessive speed, and one
for unsafe driving in an
intersection.
Police regularly use the
location at 359 Lincoln Rd to
pull offending drivers into
a private car parking area
where they are ticketed.
Last Thursday, Canterbury
district commander
Superintendent Tony Hill
said police were using “every
available resource” to tackle
the recent rise in youth crime.
› Continued on Page 5
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2 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
inside
Rates cap impact forecast ....................................5
Restored graves reveal Titanic link .................... 6-7
Youth play tackles vaping problem...........................9
Strip club boss sells ‘Playboy Mansion’..................12
Beloved bungalow for sale after 70 years...............14
Readers’ letters........................................................18
Edgeware’s young stars aiming for upset...............23
Mini Cooper amps up the fun..................................31
Classified...........................................................32-34
Gig guide.................................................................35
news
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great things to do
this weekend
New Brighton Seaside Christmas
Parade
Saturday, 10am-2pm
Meet Santa on the beach, watch the parade,
shop at the seaside market, and listen to live
entertainment. Market opens at 10am, Santa
arrives on New Brighton Beach at 10.15am,
parade starts 10.30am.
New Brighton Mall
Festive Fun
December 1-21
Festive Fun is back
at The Arts Centre.
Celebrate the season
with concerts, singalongs,
sweet treats, Christmas shopping, and a sleighload
more. For the programme, go to www.
artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/festive-fun-2025/
Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre
letters
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on the issues affecting life in
Canterbury.
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50’s-Up Brass
Christmas Concert
Friday, 2-3.30pm
Catch 50’s-Up Brass
on their Christmas
tour around Christchurch. They can’t wait to share
festive tunes, carols and holiday cheer with you all.
Door entry $5, spot prizes and raffles.
RSVP www.cashmereclub.org.nz
Cashmere Club
Not Enough Lights
Until December 31,
8.30-10.30pm
Witness one of two
Christmas lights
experiences: 500,000 lights set to music at this home.
Park on Kathleen Cres or Parker St. Entry is free,
donations welcome with 50% going to the SPCA. A
Real Fruit ice-cream vendor on-site most nights.
8 Dunluce Pl, Hornby
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Until December 30,
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starnews.co.nz
NEWS The Star, December 11, 2025 | 3
Interactions with seal prompt move, DOC warning
DOC moved the seal pup because it
was unsafe.
PHOTOS: DOC
​BY PRETORIA GORDON
The Department of
Conservation is reminding
people not to feed or interact
with seals, after a kekeno pup
had to be relocated from the
Ōpāwaho/Heathcote River.
DOC ranger Mailee Stanbury
said the pup had travelled
from Redcliffs along the river
to Opawa, which was “not
unusual”.
While DOC would have
prefered to leave the pup
alone, Stanbury said she had to
move it “because it was unsafe
from people”.
She said the pup was being
hand-fed fish, and one person
had even taken it from
the river and put it beside the
road.
It had learned people would
give it food, so it had started to
habituate to them.
“There were men there who
were saying that they were
going to take the pup and put it
in their bath at home, which is
completely inappropriate.”
While Stanbury took the pup
to Godley Head late Friday
night, it returned in search of
more hand-fed fish the following
morning.
This prompted her to release
in a bay past Akaroa Harbour
(right) on Monday.
“These little seals are only
just weaned from their mothers
and need to learn to feed
and survive in the wild. . . We
urge the public to leave seals
alone, give them a wide berth,
and absolutely do not feed
them.
“Ring the DOC hotline if you
think a seal is injured, sick, or
in danger,” Stanbury said.
– RNZ
Absurdist signs in CBD
poke fun at officialdom
​BY DYLAN SMITS
A baffling sign on Cashel St
instructs passers-by to slow
their strolling to a new ultraslow
speed limit – but the fast
walkers among us can relax.
It is part of an art festival,
not a crackdown on brisk
pedestrians.
At a glance, the sign looks official.
It informs readers of a new
2.83km/h walking speed limit –
much slower than the 4.8km/h
average speed for adults.
But at a closer look, the logo
on the sign reads ‘Christchurch
City Confusion’ rather than
‘Christchurch City Council’.
The michevious sign is one of
five planned for the central city
by artist Cameron Hunt as part
of the Little Street Art Festival,
which runs until Sunday.
Another is on the corner of
Hereford and Montreal Sts, stating
‘this area is slightly haunted
but manageable’.
Hunt, from Wellington, has
become known for his playful
art installations, including
a clothesline that mysteriously
appeared in the middle of the
footpath on Salisbury St in May.
Hunt told The Star the goal
of the art is to give people a
moment of confusion and then
a “burst of joy”.
The official presentation
of the signs poke fun at how
seriously people take public signage,
he said.
“You see someone read
one and you can watch the
confusion for a second . . . and
then they laugh and carry
on with their day. That tiny
moment is the entire point.”
Cameron Hunt’s
playful art
includes five
signs as part of
the Little Street
Art Festival. Hunt
also installed a
clothesline on
Salisbury St in
May.
Ribbon cut at Parakiore
New Zealand’s largest recreation
and sports complex, Parakiore,
will open to the public on
Wednesday. The ribbon was cut
for the $500 million St Asaph St
facility in a ceremony on Tuesday
ahead of the Special Olympics’
national summer games, which
run until Sunday. The facility
boasts a 50m competition pool,
dive pools, hydroslides, aquatic
leisure zones and a sensory
centre. It also has nine indoor
courts, including a three‐court
show court with retractable
grandstands for spectators.
Bio-science firm’s
Christchurch acquisition
Auckland BioSciences is boosting
its South Island presence with the
purchase of Christchurch manufacturer
Genesis BioLab, giving
the firm a stronger foothold in
the fast-growing animal part and
nutrient-based pharmaceutical
sector. The acquisition follows the
company’s new Uruguay plant and
will bring in 55 Christchurch staff.
Genesis BioLab’s manufacturing
expertise is key for the company
as the firm expands into new
international markets.
All Blacks to kick off
at Te Kaha
One New Zealand Stadium will
host the All Blacks’ first test
match of 2026, against France.
The All Blacks will play 17
matches and 13 tests next year
with the first test at the stadium
at 7.10pm on Saturday, July 4.
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4 | The Star, December 11, 2025 NEWS
starnews.co.nz
Pilot who survived Malayan crash dies
​A former Air Commodore and
pilot who lived to tell the story
of how he was ejected from a de
Havilland Venom jet during an
inverted spin over the Malayan
jungle has died aged 91.
Air Commodore, OBE, RNZAF
(Retired) Geoffrey Hubbard
died peacefully at Burwood
Hospital on Tuesday last week.
Hubbard appeared on a 2021
podcast series called Great
Escapes, where he described
finding himself in an inverted
spin over the jungle in his de
Havilland DH.112 Venom FB.1,
serial WE409 on July 3, 1957.
He gave a second-by-second
account of what it was like to
be a young fighter pilot with the
Geoffrey
Hubbard
RNZAF No 14 Squadron during
the Malayan Emergency.
He also recalled what happened
during the very first
RNZAF pilot ejection, when a
member of his squadron, Mike
Palmer, escaped the Venom he
was piloting.
Hubbard also told some
The No 14 Squadron Venom WK428 over Singapore.
PHOTO: AIR FORCE MUSEUM OF NZ
intense stories about New
Zealand pilots, crew and passengers
who found themselves
in grave danger.
He spoke of how their lives
were saved by using the ejection
seat or other means of
escape.
Hubbard served with the
RNZAF from 1953 till 1990. He
was a Group Captain in 1977
and later attained the rank of
Air Commodore.
Hubbard’s obituary on
December 6 said he was married
to Claire for 65 years and
was the “much loved father
and father-in-law of Lynne and
Thad, and Philip and Vicky”.
​He had five grandchildren
– Ross, Sara, Matthew,
Daniel, and James – and five
great-grandchildren.
In accordance with Hubbard’s
wishes, a private farewell will
be held for him.
Right – A Martin-Baker Mk 2 ejector
seat like the one used by Hubbard.
Bo back on safer ground after mercy mission
› From Page 1
About 5pm, Calder-Ritchie
received a reply to her post
from someone who said they
had information on Bo’s
whereabouts.
That information led her to
a Burnham property which
she visited two hours later.
The property was protected
by a padlocked gate. She was
nervous about approaching
the gate to get the attention
of who lived there, so called
the police and explained the
situation.
“They (police) basically
said, don’t go there, and they
would find someone available
to look into it further,” she
said.
“But I went there anyway, I
was just desperate to find him.”
She waved at the security
cameras on the property,
trying to get the attention of its
occupants, but to no avail. A
woman in a car then arrived, so
Calder-Ritchie explained why
she was there.
The woman went inside to
inquire about Bo. She came
back out and said there was no
sheep.
Calder-Ritchie thanked her
for the help and went back
home to Springston.
About 9pm, a glimmer of
hope appeared when she
received a Facebook message
from the woman at the
Burnham property, who said
her associate would like to help
her find Bo.
Calder-Ritchie assumed she
saw her post on the Rolleston
community page.
Calder-Ritchie then passed
on her phone number to the
woman. Soon after a man rang,
asking if the $1000 reward
was legitimate, which she
confirmed.
The woman then sent a photo
of who she believed to be Bo.
Calder-Ritchie verified it
was him and gave her their
address.
Two men turned up to her
home about 1am on Friday with
Bo, who was on a trailer.
“I was just so stoked to see
him,” Calder-Ritchie told The
Star.
“It’s amazing, I honestly
thought he would be dead or
beaten but the fact he’s still
alive is just next level crazy.
“It’s like out of a movie.”
She came out of the house
and thanked the men.
The men told her Bo was
found in Hoon Hay.
She gave them $800 for their
trouble and sent $200 to the
person who tipped her off.
While at the house, one of
the men asked her if would be
possible to eat a ram like Bo.
“I said, no, you wouldn’t eat a
ram, bro,” she said.
The couple has had Bo since
his birth three years ago.
She said Bo is still a little bit
shaken from the experience.
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starnews.co.nz
NEWS The Star, December 11, 2025 | 5
‘We are bringing in every
available resource’
› From Page 1
It follows a spike in
aggravated robberies and
ram-raids that saw a dairy
owner in Opawa stabbed and
a convenience store worker
in Heathcote ordered to the
ground at gunpoint. A 14-yearold
was arrested for the
stabbing, while a 17-year-old
handed himself in in connection
to the Heathcote robbery.
The Auckland-based police
Eagle helicopter has been
deployed to Christchurch as
part of a two-month operation
to target and disrupt youthrelated
offending. At the
weekend it was used to track
a vehicle suspected of being
involved in a burglary in
Stanmore Rd at 1.40am on
Sunday. Ground units followed
and two suspects were arrested.
Said Hill last week: “Serious
offences should be met with
serious consequences, and we
want our community to know
that we are bringing in every
available resource to help keep
them safe.
“We understand there is a
lot of frustration among the
community following recent
offending, and we hear you. This
operation is being launched to
disrupt offending patterns, hold
offenders to account and deter
Police conducting the traffic checkpoint on Lincoln Rd.
any further offending.”
Hill did not respond to
questions from The Star about
the level of resource used on
the traffic stop, and if they
could have been deployed
elsewhere.
But road policing manager
Senior Sergeant Gerard Peoples
told The Star police “make no
apologies” for traffic checkpoints.
“This sort of routine
checkpoint is common, and
business-as-usual for road
policing staff. This type of
activity, like other policing
activity, continues and will
continue alongside our current
focus on youth crime,” he said.
Peoples said the operation
involved a spotter who
identified unsafe driving
HAVE YOUR SAY What is your
view on these types of traffic
operations and the amount of police
resource used? Email dylan.smits@
alliedmedia.co.nz in 200 words
or less
PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN
behaviours.
“They then notify officers on
the radio, who will then pull
that driver over to speak with
them, and on most occasions
issue them an infringement.”
Peoples said police will
continue to run checkpoints in
order to prevent unsafe driving
behaviour and encourage
compliance with the law.
Rates cap
impact
forecast
The city council has modelled
the potential financial impact
of the Government’s newly
announced plan to cap rates
increases at 4% annually.
Under the policy, the minimum
increase would be set at
2% and the maximum at 4%.
While key aspects of the
policy remain uncertain, including
who would regulate council
rates rises, the Government
intends to legislate to enforce
the cap in 2029.
The city council has undertaken
initial modelling to
understand the potential implications
of the proposed cap.
Mayor Phil Mauger and city
councillors were updated on
the modelling during a workshop
on Tuesday.
With a 4% rates cap commencing
in 2027/28, city council rates
in 2029/30 would need to be
reduced by 12.6% – an amount
of $80.3 million from the current
forecast. With a 2% rates cap
commencing in 2027/28, rates in
2029/30 would need to be reduced
by 17.5% or $112m compared to
current forecasts.
The cumulative impact of a
rates cap significantly reduces
the amount of rates revenue
which can be collected over
time compared to current
projections.
• Readers respond to
proposed rates cap, page 18
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6 | The Star, December 11, 2025 NEWS
starnews.co.nz
Restoration of neglected grave revives
BY GEOFF SLOAN
A long-neglected grave in
Linwood Cemetery with a littleknown
link to one of history’s
most infamous maritime
disasters has been brought back
to life.
It belongs to Christchurch
teacher Ada Florence Murdoch
(née Banks), who married William
McMaster Murdoch, the
first officer aboard the Titanic
when it sank, later the subject
of controversy and debate surrounding
his final actions and
death.
In 1912, the state-of-the-art
ocean liner was on its maiden
voyage from
Southampton to
New York when it
struck an iceberg
and sank, claiming
more than 1500
lives.
“It’s a tragedy
that still fascinates
people to this day,”
said New Zealand
Remembrance
Army founder
Simon
Strombom
Simon Strombom, who organised
the gravestone’s restoration.
The retired New Zealand Army
major and decorated Afghanistan
veteran leads a group of
volunteers dedicated to preserving
neglected graves and
memorials of military service
personnel across the country.
Strombom said while Ada
Murdoch did not serve in the
armed forces, her grave was
internationally significant.
Ada Florence Murdoch died in 1941, aged 65, and was buried in the Banks family plot in Linwood Cemetery.​Her gravestone
was recently restored by the NZ Remembrance Army.
PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN
“Our charity obviously focuses
on restoring service graves, but
this story was just so exceptional,
we felt we needed to do
the right thing by her and recognise
(Murdoch’s) service by
putting her grave back together.
It is something that should be
protected.”
The NZRA was alerted to
the historic significance of the
earthquake-damaged grave by
the NZ Returned and Services’
Association’s London-based
official historian Dr Andrew
Macdonald.
“We almost fell over backwards
when we realised who
and what it was.”
Strombom said their research
showed Ada’s husband, William
Murdoch held the rank of
lieutenant in the Royal Naval
Reserve, and served on ships
operating between New Zealand,
Australia and the UK.
“So there was a really strong
connection.”
Ada Florence Banks was born
in Christchurch in 1873, growing
up in a politically progressive
family.
She, along with her mother and
older sisters, signed the petition
for women’s suffrage in 1892.
William McMaster Murdoch
was born in Scotland in 1873.
Like his father and grandfather
before him, he went to sea.
William McMaster Murdoch was originally
appointed chief officer for the Titanic’s
maiden sailing, but a late reshuffle saw
Captain Edward Smith take charge.
A member of the Royal Naval
Reserve, he joined the White
Star Line in 1900 after serving
on a number of naval ships.
Ada, then a 29-year-old
teacher, met Murdoch aboard
the Runic, a White Star liner
travelling from Sydney to England
in 1903.
Ada’s family was originally
from Scotland, and she was on
her way to live there after taking
up a hospitality role with a
shipping line.
The pair hit it off and began a
long-distance correspondence.
They married in Southampton
in 1907, when Banks was 33.
In 1912, Ada paid a visit to her
husband on his latest ship, marvelling
at the size and grandeur
of the RMS Titanic.
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starnews.co.nz
NEWS The Star, December 11, 2025 | 7
long-forgotten link to Titanic tragedy
It was just six days before the
ship departed on its ill-fated
voyage on April 10.
Murdoch had originally been
appointed chief officer for the
maiden voyage, but a lastminute
reshuffle after Captain
Edward Smith took command
saw him demoted to first officer.
Strombom said controversy
surrounded Murdoch’s role on
the night of the disaster, as he
was the officer in charge of the
bridge when the Titanic hit an
iceberg at 11.40pm on April 14.
“In the movie Titanic, he was
portrayed as panicking when he
was loading the lifeboats. The
movie portrayed him as a bit of
a hothead and firing a pistol,”
he said.
“Someone did fire a pistol in
the air, but that has never been
attributed to him.”
As passengers were being
loaded into lifeboats, Strombom
said Murdoch’s side of the ship
keeled over and he was swept
into the water, where he is
believed to have drowned. His
body was never recovered.
He is credited with overseeing
the launch of about 10 lifeboats,
saving many of the survivors.
“From all accounts from the
survivors, he did his job really
well,” Strombom said.
Second officer Charles
Herbert Lightoller, who
survived after diving into
the water, later wrote to Ada,
co-signing a letter with the other
surviving officers expressing
their “deep sympathy in this,
your awful loss”.
The ill-fated White Star liner RMS Titanic, which struck an iceberg and sank on her maiden voyage across the Atlantic. PHOTO: GETTY
Lightoller said the letter also
served to “refute the reports that
were spread in the newspapers”.
English newspapers had
published conflicting and
unverified reports of a shooting
and possible suicide by an
officer during the evacuation.
The letter stated Murdoch
was “working hard, personally
assisting, overhauling the forward
boat’s fall”, and Lightoller
insisted “other reports as to the
ending are absolutely false. Mr
Murdoch died like a man, doing
his duty.”
The negative portrayal of
Murdoch in director James Cameron’s
Oscar-winning 1997 movie
caused significant distress for
Murdoch’s family and sparked
public backlash in his hometown
of Dalbeattie, Scotland, where he
is remembered as a hero.
Film executives later travelled
to the town in 1998 to formally
apologise for the depiction.
Because Ada’s husband had
been the officer in charge of the
Titanic that night, Strombom
said a great deal of media
attention fell on her.
In 1917, she moved back
to New Zealand to live with
her father and two sisters in
Christchurch.
James Cameron’s 1997 movie Titanic
portrayed William Murdoch, played
by actor Ewan Stewart, as a pistolwielding
hothead. Film executives later
travelled to his hometown to apologise
for the inaccurate depiction.
“She never remarried and
lived a quiet life out of the
spotlight,” Strombom said.
Ada was said to have told her
family her only disappointment
in the marriage was that she and
William never had children.
Ada Murdoch died on April 21,
1941 aged 65 and was buried in
the Banks family plot in Linwood
Cemetery.
As part of their restoration
process, Strombom said the NZRA
makes every effort to contact
relatives.
“We didn’t have much luck.
I suspect they’re probably in
Scotland, but there might still be
some New Zealand connections.”
Though Ada Murdoch lived a
quiet life in Christchurch, the
Titanic connection ensures her
story remains part of maritime
history.
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NEWS The Star, December 11, 2025 | 9
​Play tackles ‘normalised’ youth vaping
​BY DYLAN SMITS
Young footballers turned actors
are taking a stand against youth
vaping.
The 10 players appear in Ali
Tries Vaping, a comedy put on
by All Stars Theatre Company.
Formed from the Muslim Boys
Football Club, the actors, aged
11-14, are aiming to perform
at primary and intermediate
schools across
the city.
Writer and
director Kynan
Buckingham
said he was
prompted to
create the play
after seeing a
rise in vaping
among adults
and youth at Al
Noor Mosque.
Kynan
Buckingham
“I do see some vaping around
the mosque area, which we
don’t really want to become
normalised. So I thought this
might be a good fun way to give
the message to the youth that
this shouldn't be your way of
life,” he said.
The Asthma Respiratory
Foundation New Zealand 2024
report shows vaping increases
significantly among teens as
they go through high school.
It found 2.7% of year 7 and
8 students had vaped in the
sewven days before they were
surveyed, rising to 8.6% among
year 9-11 students and 21.9%
for year 12 and 13.
Buckingham wants to spread
a message against vaping to
primary and intermediate
school children ahead of their
teen years, when vapes will
become more widely
used and accessible by their
peers.
A Canterbury University
study last year found many
vape stores are located close to
schools, with 30% within 400m
of a school and 71% within
800m.
Ali Tries Vaping follows
17-year-old Muslim boy Ali
after he moves to a big city and
decides to take up vaping.
Vape sellers seem friendly
and give Ali a good deal, but
through comedic moments,
the play explores whether they
really have his best interests at
heart.
In the end Ali has to decide if
it is worth risking his health to
look cool.
“The actors have really
worked hard over the last two
months of rehearsal. They’re
really really loving it,” said
Buckingham.
The first performance, which
is opento the public in general,
is at Spreydon School on
Saturday at 3.20pm. Doors open
at 3pm.
Entry is by gold coin
donation.
• Any primary and intermediate
schools wanting to host the play
Ali Tries Vaping can email kynan.
buckingham@gmail.com
​The cast of Ali Tries Vaping during dress rehearsal last week. The boys are from
the Muslim Boys Football Club.
Detergent
removed
from centres
after kids
suffer burns
The childcare company
responsible for children
suffering chemical burns has
removed the detergent that
caused the injuries from all of
its centres.
Seven people, including five
children, were taken to Christchurch
Hospital after a dishwasher
chemical was mistakenly used
on a children’s slip and slide at
Kindercare in Woolston.
In a letter to parents, Kindercare
said additional supplies of
the detergent had been removed
from its centres.
The provider said it was
investigating alternatives to the
chemical.
In a statement, Kindercare
said the centre reopened on
Monday morning: “We are
overwhelmed at the trust
families have placed in us,
despite Friday’s incident, and
we are encouraged to see
that all of the children who
attended hospital on Friday,
have returned to our care today.
We will continue supporting
our families and team. Our
investigation is underway and
we're committed to working
co-operatively with WorkSafe
and the Ministry of Education
through this process.” – RNZ
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Grandmother’s return to yes
Marion’s knees had started
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No to coffee with friends. No
to the Saturday market. No to
the walking group she’d loved
for years. At 72, the grandmother
found herself declining more
invitations than she accepted.
“It wasn’t dramatic,” Marion
explains. “My knees just wouldn’t
cooperate. I’d wake up stiff as a
board every morning. By the time
I got going, half the day was gone.
By afternoon, I was done.”
The invitations kept coming at
first. But when you say no enough
times, people stop asking.
“That’s when I realised my world
had gotten smaller. I wasn’t seeing
friends. I wasn’t going places. I
was slipping out of my own life
without really noticing.”
Nothing ages you faster than
missing out. Marion could feel it
happening, becoming someone
who “used to” do things. Used to
meet friends for coffee. Used to
go into the mall. Used to take the
grandchildren out.
“The ‘used to’ was the scary
part,” she admits. “I was 72, not
92. But my knees were making me
live like I was much older.”
She’d tried various approaches
but nothing quite took the edge off
when she needed it.
Then a friend mentioned Koru
FX over a cup of tea. She’d been
using the natural New Zealandmade
cream herself and suggested
Marion ask about it at her local
pharmacy.
“I was highly sceptical,” Marion
recalls. “But I picked up a bottle
that afternoon. More sick of the
status quo than anything.”
“The cream absorbed quickly
with a pleasant smell, nothing
like the greasy products I’ve tried
before. There was a gentle warmth,
then a cooling sensation.”
“I applied it before bed that first
night. Again in the morning. I
could feel it working on my knees
before getting up. It was subtle, but
I noticed a difference.”
Within a few weeks, Marion’s
mornings had shifted. She was
getting going faster. The afternoon
came and went. Small changes -
but they added up to something
bigger.
Her world started expanding
again.
First came coffee with a friend
she hadn’t seen in months. A trip
into the mall. Then rejoining her
walking group for a stroll.
“The real change was saying yes
again,” Marion explains. “When
someone invited me somewhere, I
stopped automatically thinking of
reasons I couldn’t go.”
She keeps Koru FX on her
bedside table. Using it morning
and night. The fast-acting, longlasting
formula has become part of
her routine.
But it’s a recent moment that
shows how far she’s come.
“Her son called about a beach
walk. Six months ago, I would
have made an excuse. The sand is
tricky. But this time I said yes.”
Marion beams. “Your world can
shrink so slowly you don’t notice.
Then one day you realise you’re
watching life through the window
instead of living it. But it can grow
back. Mine did.”
Her advice? “Don’t let your
knees, or anything else, make your
decisions for you. I spent too long
accepting a smaller life. Now when
someone asks me to do something,
I start from a place of yes,” Marion
pauses.
“That’s not a small thing. That’s
everything.”
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10 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
COURT
Gang member sentenced over violent kidnapping
BY AL WILLIAMS
A patched gang member
suffered a collapsed lung,
fractured eye socket and
fractured ribs after a beating
that lasted several hours and
involved various weapons,
including a hammer and a
child's bike.
The Mongrel Mob attack in
2022 was during a period of
violent offending by the chapter
across several months.
On Monday, Rameka Joseph
Rangi-Te Rito appeared in the
High Court at Christchurch to
be sentenced for kidnapping.
Rangi-Te Rito, and at least
another eight patched members
and associates of the Aotearoa
chapter, arrived at the 28-yearold
victim’s Invercargill address
while he was at home with his
children.
The summary of facts
revealed the victim was told to
get into a “Mob car” but instead
ran into a shed on the property
where he was assaulted by
members who delivered a
series of vicious kicks and
punches to his body, head and
face.
Various items in the shed,
including a child's bicycle,
pieces of timber and tools were
used during the assault.
He was dragged out to the
car while Rangi-Te Rito was
in another car that followed
behind.
The court heard he was taken
to the Mataura Mongrel Mob
pad where he suffered further
injuries.
The Mongrel Mob pad in Albion St, Mataura, which the Crown is attempting to confiscate after it was used for the brutal
beating of a member who wanted to leave the gang.
PHOTO: NZ POLICE
He was then driven to the
house of chapter captain
Turoirangi Harmer-Elers who
told him if he didn't comply with
sanctions placed on him, he
would be assaulted again.
A member was directed to
take him to Gore Hospital, but en
route, changed their mind and
decided to drop him back home.
He pleaded with the driver
to take him to hospital and was
eventually dropped off where
he was assessed as in a serious
condition and transferred to
Southland Hospital.
The court heard Rangi-Te Rito,
40, had been on bail since the
August 2022 incident. He had
no previous convictions, was a
father of six, and had since found
employment.
Justice Jonathan Eaton said
Rangi-Te Rito had a commitment
and loyalty to the gang, which
led to “nasty and stand-over
offending” against somebody he
probably knew.
Justice Eaton said while
Rangi-Te Rito had not severed
ties with the gang, he had
engaged with help and secured
employment.
There was premeditation; it
was a planned kidnapping over
a period of hours, and Rangi-Te
Rito was among others with a
shared understanding to detain
the victim and take him to the
gang pad, the judge said.
Rangi-Te Rito was sentenced
to eight months’ home detention
and told not to associate with the
victim or communicate with the
gang without approval.
Six Mataura Mongrel Mob
members were found guilty in
August of a number of serious
assaults and kidnapping in 2022.
Police described Operation
Pakari as a complex, detailed
investigation into violent
offending by the gang across
several months.
The first incident, in late
January 2022, spurred further
offences in the form of drive-by
shootings and violent assaults,
which left people with critical
injuries.
The termination of the
operation in June 2023 resulted
in 21 people being put before the
courts on a range of charges.
Six Mongrel Mob members
went on trial in Christchurch
in July on 12 charges, including
wounding with intent to
cause grievous bodily harm,
kidnapping, and injuring with
intent to injure.
The victims of the assaults
were Mongrel Mob members and
in most cases, did not co-operate
with police.
Authorities are now making
legal moves to confiscate the
Mongrel Mob’s Matuara pad.
Crown lawyers have applied
for a forfeiture order covering
the gang headquarters and a
next-door section in Albion St,
with a combined rateable value
of $347,000.
New Energy in Bishopdale, Good News for
Wider Christchurch
Recently I posted on social media about the
development of the former Mitre 10 building at
Bishopdale Mall, which has been empty for several
years. It has two new tenants (Tend Medical and
Snap Fitness) and the owner is looking for a few
more retail or hospitality outlets.
Like many, I have fond memories of the mall from
my childhood, and as the local MP, it’s great to see
new life being breathed into it.
What I didn’t expect was that my post would go viral
and my office would become a realtor with people
wanting to lease space. I was very pleased my post
raised so much positive interest in the Mall - as were
the owners!
It’s encouraging to see it being developed and small
businesses looking to start up or expand within the
electorate.
Canterbury is now seeing some of the strongest
business growth in the country. Recently Business
Canterbury released its August quarterly survey
showing 64% of firms expect the local economy to
strengthen over the next year.
More than half (55%) plan to hire, and 59% intend to
invest in property, plant or equipment over the next
12 months. We’re also creating new businesses at
almost twice the national rate.
I think this revitalisation is positive for the entire
mall, attracting more people and strengthening the
local community.
Hamish Campbell MP for Ilam
How I can help
• Advocate
Contact
• Represent
• Facilitate
Hamish.Campbell@parliament.govt.nz • 03 359 3665
Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by H Campbell, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
I particularly enjoy attending community events, and
an annual favourite is ‘Celebrate Bishopdale’. I meet
with residents, hearing their concerns and views,
and it’s a vibrant, busy event showcasing what a
community can do.
I know this is replicated in communities all over the
city showing our diverse and inclusive focus often
supporting local initiatives such as “Ōtautahi Youth
Mākete” highlighting young entrepreneurs.
These community gatherings help redefine and
celebrate the city’s evolving identity as a fabulous
place to live, work and visit. It’s no surprise
Christchurch Airport is preparing for recordbreaking
international arrivals this summer - up 15%
on last season and ahead of pre-Covid levels.
This holiday take the opportunity to celebrate
Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region; with
all it offers.
Best wishes for the Christmas break and 2026.
Hamish Campbell, MP for Ilam
This time of year can be difficult for many families.
My office (Fendalton Village) is a collection point
for the Bishopdale Gifting Tree, supporting local
families who need a hand. If you’re able, drop off
unwrapped children’s gifts or pantry staples before
December 18.
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starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 11
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www.mitre10.co.nz

12 | The Star, December 11, 2025 NEWS
starnews.co.nz
Strip club boss sells
‘Playboy Mansion’
to developer for $6m
High-profile strip club boss
James Samson has sold his
sprawling Russley estate near
Christchurch Airport for $6
million in a private offmarket
deal.
Once touted as New
Zealand’s answer to the
Playboy Mansion, the
Russley Rd property was
snapped up by a property
developer.
The sale went through
in August, OneRoof has
revealed.
Samson, whose family
built up the strip club chain
Calendar Girls, told OneRoof:
“Have been there 25 years ... got
bored.”
James Samson
The 600sq m home was owned
by Samson’s mother, Vicki,
though his businesses were all
registered to the address.
He said the buyer
planned to develop the
7493sq m site.
Records show the property
was bought by SG
Residential Property,
whose director is Stacey
Giles.
Calendar Girls, which
operates R18 strip clubs
in Christchurch, Wellington,
Auckland and
Queenstown, acquired the Russley
Rd property in 2020 for an
adult show, rebranding it the
‘Calendar Girls Mansion’.
A group of dancers moved into the ‘Calendar Girls Mansion’, with their activities
streamed live on the internet for 12 weeks.
James Samson has sold his Russley mansion for $6m - the second highest price paid for a property in Christchurch this year.
PHOTO: GOOGLE
Ten dancers moved into the
house, and their daily lives
were livestreamed for 12 weeks.
Samson, who was sentenced
to five years in prison on methamphetamine-related
charges
in 2004, has also been linked
to a Viking-themed retreat in
Kaiata near Greymouth, offering
an off-grid experience with
“barrel” accommodation pods.
Its website promotes it as
“the ultimate retreat for battleweary
warriors” set in “an
off-the-grid slice of Valhalla”.
Samson told Stuff in 2023 that
he decided to build the retreat
to keep his son out of trouble
and to tap into the international
visitor market.
At the time, he had submitted
plans to develop a much larger
lodge in the area.
The $6m sale price for the
Russley Rd property is the second-highest
in Christchurch this
year behind the $9.55m paid for
a mansion on Saint Barnabas
Lane, in Fendalton.
The 110-year-old heritage
home, known as Brenchley, sold
within two weeks of hitting the
market last month.
It was owned by prominent
property developer Richard
Peebles and his wife, Suzanne,
who bought the property in
2015.
• Beloved bungalow for sale after 70
years, page 14
Brenchley, on Saint Barnabas Lane in Fendalton, is the most expensive property
ever sold in Christchurch.
We’re investing in your electricity network
Have your say on our plans
To continue providing the safe, reliable and resilient
power supply that you depend on, we must invest
more. This includes renewing ageing assets,
expanding capacity, and strengthening resilience.
Electricity use is changing, so we’re also making
the network smarter to support two-way energy
flows and technologies like solar and batteries –
giving you more choice and us more flexibility to
meet demand. While this means a small increase in
electricity distribution charges, you’ll benefit from
a reliable and future-ready network.
Visit haveyoursay.oriongroup.co.nz/cpp to share
your thoughts.

starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 13
Bupa
Parkstone
Retirement
Village
Apartments starting from $665,000^
Brand new two and three bedroom apartments
opening from February 2026.
Live the life that’s right for you at Bupa Parkstone Retirement Village in Ilam, with brand
new two and three bedroom apartments expected to open from February 2026. Modern and
spacious, our apartments feature a well-designed kitchen, walk-in wardrobe, open plan living,
and patio or balcony.
At Bupa Parkstone Retirement Village you’ll enjoy a lock up and leave lifestyle that offers both
independence and a sense of belonging, in a welcoming community of like-minded individuals.
Features:
• Fixed or variable weekly fees available
• Indoor heated pool
• 24/7 emergency alarm system (monitored off site)
• Care Home located on site (subject to availability)
For more information, or to make an appointment to view,
contact our friendly team on 03 928 5563.
Bupa Parkstone Retirement Village | 2 Athol Terrace, Ilam
^Price is for a licence to occupy under an Occupation Right Agreement.

14 | The Star, December 11, 2025 NEWS
starnews.co.nz
Beloved bungalow for sale after 70 years
A Strowan bungalow bought
by a young bride and her new
husband just after World War 2
has hit the market for the first
time in more than 70 years.
The 1930s property at 83
Blighs Rd is the only home
Hazel and Ken Whall ever
owned.
The couple, who met before
the war, were in their mid-20s
when they bought the house
from Ken’s brother in the early
1950s.
The property has an RV of
$740,000 and will go up for auction
today.
The couple's son, Kelvin, told
OneRoof the four-bedroom
property was on the outskirts of
Christchurch when his parents
first moved in.
“When they bought the house,
that area was on the edge of
town basically. There were
fields surrounding the property.
I think Condell Ave hadn’t even
been connected up,” he said.
​“Mum used to talk about taking
a billy and getting it filled
with milk from a dairy farm
in Condell Ave, which is really
hard to imagine when you look
at the area today.”
His mother died last year
aged 102. She had only moved
out of the property a few years
earlier to enter a care home
after living at the house for
more than 70 years.
Hazel had been a well-known
member of the community,
Kelvin said, because she had
spent many years leading the
local Boys’ Brigade and also
volunteering at the nearby rest
home.
Kelvin said selling the family
home after so long was a big
decision for him and his sister
because so many memories had
been made there.
There had been seven decades
of anniversaries, children’s
birthdays, grandchildren’s
birthdays and even great-grandchildren’s
birthdays.
“It was their only home. My
sister and I were raised there,”
Kelvin said.
The property is still in its original
condition, which Harcourts
agent Mark O’Loughlin said
only added to its charm.
O’Loughlin’s listing highlights
the leadlight windows, the timber
panelling in the hallway,
and the classic oversized laundry
with a toilet.
The patterned wallpaper and
the eye-catching floral Axminster
carpet in the bedroom and
hallway date back to the 1970s
when the family gave the home
a makeover.
The four-bedroom, one-bathroom 1930s
bungalow at 83 Blighs Rd, Strowan,
heads to auction this week. The house
features many original features, including
leadlight windows and eye-catching floral
Axminster carpet.
O’Loughlin told OneRoof
it was rare to come across a
home that had been in the same
family for over 70 years.
So far, there had been a
mix of interest from buyers,
but most were homeowners
looking to renovate it and live
in it, while a couple of buyers
indicated they would replace it
with a larger new home.
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Their team of expert sales people, qualified
electricians, heating and refrigeration
engineers, help to supply and install one of
Christchurch’s widest range of heat pumps
including Panasonic, Mitsubishi Electric,
Daikin and Fujitsu. Because they have no
affiliation with any one brand, you can be
assured their advice on the benefits and
differences between each product is unbiased.
They will recommend the most energyefficient
and cost-effective system for your
individual situation, and will have you
regulating the heat in your home or office in
no time.
Nowadays, customers are often wanting
whole home solutions to be able to maintain
even temperatures throughout the home both
in Winter and Summer. This can be achieved
by using ducted systems or multi systems
and Enviro Master are experts in designing,
installing and commissioning these systems.
Help is currently available with a
government subsidy offering 90 per cent of
the cost of a new heat pump up to $3450
including GST.
The subsidy is part of the Warmer Kiwi
Homes initiative and is available to Home
owner/occupiers with a Community Services
Card, a SuperGold combo card or who live in
a low-income area as determined by deciles
9-10 on the New Zealand Deprivation Index.
The applicant’s home must also have been
built before 2008, have insulation up to code
(insulation subsidies also available) and have
no fixed heating in any living area, such as an
existing operational heat pump or fireplace.
To ensure you choose the right system
for your home or business, one of Enviro
Master’s experts will visit to assess your
individual situation, offer advice and answer
any questions you may have.
This consultation is at no cost to the
customer and is always provided before a
heat pump is installed.
Anyone wondering about their eligibility
for a subsidised heat pump are welcome to
get in touch for details and help with the
application process.
* To find out more, call Enviro Master
on (03) 366 0525 or visit their website
www.enviromaster.co.nz
“A local team for local people”

starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 15
DECEMBER
DEALS
OPEN BOXING DAY
with FREE LED light on selected umbrellas and FREE Free
Ziggy Twin Warming Rack and Ziggy Twin Reversible Trivet
Shelta Regis O’Bravia
3.5m Octagonal
Cantilever Umbrella
• 360-degree rotation with foot lock
• Up to 60-degree mast axis tilt
• Protective cover included
FREE LED LIGHT worth $79
Shelta Emery Octagonal
Cantilever Umbrella with
LED Strip Lights – Charcoal
• 3 Year Warranty on fabric &
1 Year on the frame
• Tilt back and sideways
• Strip lights connected to a
rechargeable pack
FREE LED LIGHT worth $79
Elevate your Outdoor relaxation with Shelta’s new
Emery 330cm Octagonal Cantilever Umbrella. Versatile
and user-friendly. Please note, base not included.
Was $2199 NOW $849
The Shelta Regis Cantilever Umbrella is
lightweight with no compromise to its quality.
It is a weather resistant umbrella made from
a first-grade aluminium powder coated frame
and sturdy steel ribs. In addition, the heavyduty
thick O’Bravia canopy is fade, mould,
and mildew resistant. This gives an increased
lifespan & an elegant look.
Was $2999 NOW $1499
Shelta Navare O’Bravia
3.3m Octagonal Cantilever
Umbrella
• 3 Year Warranty on O’Bravia Canvas
• 360 degree rotation
• Wind rated for 40 kph
FREE LED LIGHT worth $79
This is a great addition to any outdoor space.
Wind rated and laboratory tested up to an
impressive 40kph, this umbrella is built to last.
Was $1999 NOW $899
Dome Heating specialises
in electric infrared heating
solutions for both indoor &
outdoor environments
Dome Patio Heater 1.5 KW
• Efficient • Reliable • Eco-friendly
Was $189 NOW $55
Dome Patio Heater 2 KW
• Better for you • 2000w • Coverage 12m 2
Was $239 NOW $64
Dome Patio Heater 2 KW
• IP 65 • Silver only • Remote
Was $249 NOW $69
Ziggy Classic Twin Grill and Cart
• Uncompromised Power
• All in one bbq – Roast,grill, Bake,sear
• 7 Year Comprehensive Warranty
• Easy Clean Design
• Rust Proof Aluminium
Norman Chairs and Table Set
(White Only)
• High Density Polyethylene construction
• Stainless steel hardware
• 3 Year frame warranty
All weather material is built to withstand all four
seasons and a range of climates. Cleans easily with
soap and water and requires no painting.
Was $899 NOW $399
Free Ziggy Twin Warming Rack worth
$89.95 and Ziggy Twin Reversible Trivet
worth $89.95
The Ziegler & Brown Ziggy Twin Grill is a high-performing and
portable barbeque that is sure to impress your guests no matter
where you are. It is available in three stylish colours and features
two independently operated stainless steel burners and a
spacious high-domed hood that can be used both open and closed.
With the ability to cook a variety of meals, from mixed-grill feasts
to roasting large turkeys, this BBQ is versatile and powerful.
The temperature gauge built into the roasting hood ensures
consistent cooking temperature, and the removable burners make
cleaning the grill easy.
Was $1048 NOW $899
Ziggy Twin
Warming Rack
Ziggy Twin
Reversible Trivet
Many, many more deals in store!!
34 Sandyford Street,
Sydenham.
Phone 354-0377.
Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm,
Sat & Sun 10am - 3pm.
lifestylels.co.nz
Enjoy 17 months (500 days) interest-free*
on orders $1000 and over. Offer is ongoing
until further notice & valid in-store and online.
*Minimum spend applies. $55 Establishment Fee applies to
your first long term finance (LTF) transaction, $35 advance
fee to subsequent LTF transactions. Standard interest rate of
28.95% p.a. applies to outstanding balance at the end of LTF
interest free period. Other interest rates and fees may apply.

CRACKING
Christmas
DEALS
Please drive safe and drink responsibly this holiday season
HEROES
OF THE WEEK
BALVENIE 12YO
DOUBLEWOOD OR
GLENFIDDICH 15YO
WHISKY 700ML
$124.99
$119.99
FOR MATES! $99.99
GLENFIDDICH 12YO
SCOTCH WHISKY OR
HENDRICK’S GIN
1 LITRE
$104.99
FOR MATES!
$94.99
FOR MATES!
HENNESSY
VSOP ORIGINAL
OR NBA EDITION
COGNAC 700ML
$99.99
MAKERS MARK
PREMIUM
BOURBON
1 LITRE
$74.99
$72.99
FOR MATES!
KRAKEN BLACK
SPICED RUM OR
APPLETON ESTATE
12YO RUM 700ML
$74.99
$229.99
FOR MATES!
JOHNNIE WALKER
BLUE LABEL
700ML
$239.99
$89.99
FOR MATES!
JOHNNIE WALKER
SWING
700ML
$94.99
$79.99
FOR MATES!
JOHNNIE WALKER
GREEN LABEL 15YO
700ML
$84.99
$46.99
FOR MATES!
$69.99
FOR MATES!
$69.99
FOR MATES!
$79.99
FOR MATES!
$64.99
FOR MATES!
$54.99
FOR MATES!
BUFFALO TRACE
BOURBON 1 LITRE OR
MONKEY SHOULDER
SCOTCH WHISKY 700ML
$74.99
CHIVAS REGAL 12YO
1 LITRE OR GELNLIVET
12YO SCOTCH WHISKY
700ML
$74.99
GLENMORANGIE
ORIGINAL 12YO
SCOTCH WHISKY
700ML
$69.99
LITTLE BIDDY GIN
RANGE EXCL
LIMITED EDITIONS
700ML
$69.99
JOHNNIE WALKER
GOLD LABEL
RESERVE 700ML
$84.99
JOHNNIE WALKER
DOUBLE BLACK
700ML
$69.99
JOHNNIE WALKER
BLACK LABEL
12YO 700ML
$59.99
CORUBA DARK OR GOLD RUM, JOHNNIE WALKER RED LABEL,
FAMOUS GROUSE SCOTCH WHISKY, BAILEYS IRISH CREAM
LIQUEUR, SMIRNOFF PLAIN VODKA OR GORDON’S
LONDON DRY GIN 1 LITRE
$64.99
FOR MATES!
$62.99
FOR MATES!
$59.99
FOR MATES!
$49.99
ROKU
JAPANESE
CRAFT GIN
700ML
LAPHROAIG
SELECT ISLAY
SCOTCH WHISKY
700ML
APPLETON EST SIGNATURE
1 LITRE, WILD TURKEY
BOURBON 1 LITRE OR
APPLETON EST 8YO 700ML
DRAMBUIE, BROKEN SHED
NZ VODKA OR CAZCABEL
COFFEE OR COCONUT
TEQUILA LIQUEUR 700ML
WOODFORD RESERVE OR
GENTLEMAN JACK WHISKEY
700ML, MOUNT GAY ECLIPSE
GOLD RUM 1 LITRE
JACK DANIEL’S ORIGINAL,
BOMBAY SAPPHIRE
LONDON DRY GIN OR
JAGERMEISTER 1 LITRE
$67.99
$64.99 $64.99
$64.99
$64.99
$64.99
$54.99
FOR MATES!
1.125
LITRE!
$52.99
FOR MATES!
$52.99
FOR MATES!
GLEN MORAY 12YO
OR GLEN TURNER
12YO SCOTCH
WHISKY 700ML
SHEEP DOG OR
FIREBALL 1 LITRE
OR BUFFALO TRACE
BOURBON 700ML
ESPOLON
REPOSADO OR
BLANCO TEQUILA
700ML
ST REMY
VSOP FRENCH
BRANDY
1 LITRE
JIM BEAM
WHITE LABEL
BOURBON
1.125 LITRE
SHANKY’S WHIP
BLACK IRISH
LIQUEUR
700ML
GRANT’S SCOTCH
WHISKY OR
GREENALL’S LONDON
DRY GIN 1 LITRE
SKYY PREMIUM
PLAIN VODKA
1 LITRE
$64.99
$59.99
$59.99
$56.99
$54.99
$54.99
$49.99
$49.99
ABSOLUT ORIGINAL OR HARING LIMITED EDITION
PLAIN VODKA, BEEFEATER LONDON DRY GIN 1 LITRE
$49.99
$46.99
FOR MATES!
$44.99
FOR MATES!
$41 .99
FOR MATES!
$39.99
FOR MATES!
$34.99
FOR MATES!
MAKE YOUR OWN
PEPPERMINT
WHITE RUSSIAN
YOU’LL NEED:
-30 ml Kahlúa
-15 ml Absolut Vanilia
-15 ml Creme De Menthe, White
-15 ml Creme De Cacao
-60 ml Milk or Cream
-1 Whole Peppermint
Chocolate Bark
JOSE CUERVO
GOLD OR SILVER
TEQUILA
700ML
$47.99
KAHLUA COFFEE
OR SALTED CARAMEL
LIQUER OR MALIBU
RUM 1 LITRE
$46.99
2 FOR
$32!
FINLANDIA
PLAIN VODKA
1 LITRE
$44.99
NEW FRIS
SCANDINAVIAN
VODKA
1 LITRE
$44.99
$16.99
FOR MATES!
SEAGERS ORIGINAL
OR LIME GIN OR
IVANOV PLAIN
VODKA 1 LITRE
$42.99
ROULETTE OR
MONT CASTLE
PREMIUM INDIAN
WHISKY 750ML
$41.99
STAMBECCO
TIRAMISU
LIQUEUR
700ML
$36.99
SANTA MARTA
CHOCOLATE OR
ESPRESSO
LIQUEUR 500ML
$32.99
$24.99
FOR MATES!
1.Fill a glass with ice.
2.Add the Kahlúa coffee
liqueur, vodka, crème de
menthe and crème de cacao.
3.Top with a layer of milk
or cream.
4.Garnish with peppermint bark.
AMARULA VANILLA
SPICE OR ETHIOPAN
COFFEE CREAM
LIQUEUR 700ML
$26.99
CANTERBURY
CREAM LIQUOR
700ML
$16.99
JOSE CUERVO
SPARKLING
MARGARITA 4PK
CANS 330ML
$15.99
HARD RATED,
BROOKVALE UNION
OR LONG WHITE 6PK
CANS 330ML/320ML
$17.99
FIJI DRY RUM
PREMIX 10PK
CANS RANGE
330ML
$24.99
TUI VODKA PREMIX
7% 12PK OR 6% 10PK
CANS RANGE
250ML/330ML
$24.99
X BY LONG WHITE
OR HARD RATED
10PK CANS RANGE
330ML
$26.99
FOR MORE DEALS, PLEASE SEE PAGE 2
Big Barrel – Ferrymead, 2 Waterman Place, Ferrymead | Big Barrel – Wigram, Shop 3 / 187 Wigram Road, Halswell

CRACKING
Christmas
DEALS
Please drive safe and drink responsibly this holiday season
ANY 2 FOR
$50!
$26.99
FOR MATES!
$26.99
FOR MATES!
KIRIN HYOKETSU 6%
VODKA PREMIX 10PK
CANS RANGE 330ML
$26.99
PALS OR FRANKYS
PREMIX 10PK CANS
RANGE 330ML
$27.99
GORDON’S G&T OR
PINK GIN PREMIX
12PK CANS 330ML
$27.99
TUI OR BARREL 51 7%
BOURBON & COLA
12PK CANS 250ML
$27.99
LONG WHITE VODKA
PREMIX 10PK BOTTLES
RANGE 320ML
$27.99
CRUISER 7% 12PK CANS
250ML OR 4.8% 12PK
BOTTLES 275ML
$29.99
HEROES
OF THE WEEK
$27.99
FOR MATES!
$18.99
FOR MATES!
JIM BEAM OR
CANADIAN CLUB 4.8%
10PK CANS RANGE
330ML
SCAPEGRACE
PREMIX 10PK
CANS RANGE
330ML
CORUB RUM & COLA
5% 10PK 330ML
BOTTLES OR 7%
12PK 250ML CANS
JACK DANIEL’S
DOUBLE JACK 6.9%
10PK CANS RANGE
330ML/375ML
MONTEITHS CRAFT
BEER 6PK BOTTLES
OR CANS RANGE
330ML
HBBC CRAFT
BEER 6PK
CANS RANGE
330ML
WAKACHANGI
LAGER 12PK CANS
INCL LOW CARB
330ML
$37.99
FOR MATES!
$29.99
$29.99
$32.99
$36.99
$15.99
$19.99
$19.99
$37.99
FOR MATES!
$39.99
FOR MATES!
$41.99
FOR MATES!
$41.99
FOR MATES!
WOODSTOCK BOURBON & COLA 7% 18PK 250ML
CANS OR 4.8% 18PK 330ML BOTTLES
CARLSBERG
PILSNER 12PK
BOTTLES OR ASAHI
12PK CANS 330ML
$24.99
EXPORT ULTRA 24PK CANS,
TUI, DB DRAUGHT, EXPORT
GOLD, TUI ULTRA OR EXPORT
ULTRA 24PK BOTTLES 330ML
$39.99
SPEIGHT’S SUMMIT
ULTRA LOW CARB LAGER
24PK BOTTLES OR
CANS 330ML
$39.99
PURE BLONDE
LOW CARB LAGER
24PK (4X6PK)
CANS 330ML
$41.99
HEINEKEN SILVER
LOW CARB LAGER
24PK BOTTLES
330ML
$44.99
HEINEKEN
LAGER 24PK
BOTTLES
330ML
$44.99
$39.99
$41.99
FOR MATES!
$41.99
FOR MATES!
$26.99
FOR MATES!
CORONA
18PK BOTTLES
355ML
$44.99
STEINLAGER
CLASSIC LAGER
24PK BOTTLES
330ML
$44.99
STELLA ARTOIS OR
STEINLAGER PURE
24PK BOTTLES
330ML
$47.99
FIRST PICK
MARLBOROUGH
SAUVIGNON BLANC
750ML
NGATARAWA
STABLES WINE
RANGE
750ML
$9.99 $11.99
VILLA MARIA PRIVATE
BIN WINE RANGE EXCL
SYRAH OR PINOT NOIR
@$16.99 750ML
$13.99
WAIRAU RIVER WHITE
LABEL (EXCL PINOT
NOIR) OR GIESEN WINE
RANGE INCL 0% 750ML
$14.99
NEW!
MICHELOB ULTRA LOW CARB LAGER
12PK BOTTLES 355ML
$16.99
FOR MATES!
$27.99
SELAKS TASTE
COLLECTION OR
RUFFINO PROSECCO
EXCL ORGANIC 750ML
$15.99
CHURCH ROAD WINE RANGE
EXCL SYRAH, MCDONALD
SERIES, GRAND RESERVE
& GWEN 750ML
BROWN BROTHERS
PROSECCO NV OR
PROSECCO ROSE NV
750ML
VEUVE DU VERNAY
SPARKLING BRUT NV
OR ROSE BRUT NV
750ML
$15.99 $16.99 $17.99
DEVIL’S STAIRCASE
CENTRAL OTAGO
PINOT NOIR
750ML
$19.99
DEUTZ SPARKLING
CUVEE BRUT NV OR
ROSE BRUT NV
750ML
JULES TAYLOR (EXCL
PINOT NOIR) OR
ALLAN SCOTT CECILIA
RANGE 750ML
$21.99 $21.99
$36.99
FOR MATES!
$359.99
FOR MATES!
VEUVE CLICQUOT YELLOW LABEL
CHAMPAGNE BRUT NV 750ML
TE MATA SYRAH,
SYRAH, CHARDONNAY,
MERLOT CAB OR
GAMAY NOIR 750ML
$24.99
TAYLORS
JARAMAN SHIRAZ
OR CABERNET
SAUVIGNON 750ML
$24.99
ROCKBURN
CENTRAL OTAGO
PINOT NOIR
750ML
$39.99
CLOUDY BAY
PELORUS
SPARKLING
BRUT NV 750ML
TAYLOR’S FINE
TAWNY OR
RUBY PORT
750ML
$36.99
MDC (MARQUIS
DE CONFLANS) OR
CHAMPAGNE
BRUT NV 750ML
$49.99
MOET & CHANDON
CHAMPAGNE
BRUT NV
750ML
DOM PERIGNON
CHAMPAGNE BRUT 2009,
2010, 2012, 2013 OR
2015 VINTAGE 750ML
$64.99 $369.99
$79.99
Want Mates Rates? Earn Points
Join the club. Receive Rewards &
It’s free to sign up! Get Exclusive Deals
Sign up in-store or online. www.bigbarrel.co.nz
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Pricing on products marked as ‘Mates Club Reserved’ is only available
to Mates Club Members. Limit of 6 per customer. Trade not supplied.
Please visit our website for a list of full terms and conditions.
Visit our website to see a full list of
store locations and opening hours.
SPECIALS VALID FROM 10TH-22ND
DEC 2025 OR WHILE STOCKS LAST
*Some items may not be available in all stores
Big Barrel – Ferrymead, 2 Waterman Place, Ferrymead | Big Barrel – Wigram, Shop 3 / 187 Wigram Road, Halswell

18 | The Star, December 11, 2025 LETTERS
starnews.co.nz
Feedback
sees fares
cut on new
rail route
​BY MARK JOHN
A new passenger rail service
between Christchurch and
Invercargill has given fares a
25% price cut within 24 hours
of going live.​
Rail and Tourism Group chief
executive Paul Jackson said
feedback in the first 12 hours
after launch indicated concerns
about the initial price point.
The one-way Christchurch to
Dunedin fare dropped from $199
to $149, while the Dunedin to
Invercargill fare fell from $169
to $129. The adjustment was
made possible by adding an extra
carriage to the train.
Bookings for the new service
had been minimal before the
price change, and passengers
were eligible for refunds covering
the difference.
Once all carriage builds are
completed, the train will have a
capacity of 390 seats, including a
generator wagon, six S-carriages,
and a buffet carriage.
The first timetable includes
Christchurch to Dunedin
on January 20, Dunedin to
Invercargill on January 21,
Invercargill to Dunedin on
January 22 and a return service
from Dunedin to Christchurch on
January 23.
‘It just comes down to sensible spending’
It would be great if our rates
were capped at the Government
proposed 4% cap, but read the
small print, we will pay more
one way or another to make up
for this. Our year-on-year compounding
rates are hurting and
the city council needs to rein in
wasteful over the top spending
right now.
As the mayor was quoted as
saying, “I know ratepayers are
feeling the pinch, that is why
we’re checking every dollar we
spend and carefully weighing
the impacts on ratepayers.”
With that quote in mind perhaps
an explanation could/will
be given for the $1.36 million
payment, as reported recently
in the news media, to a Ngāi
Tahu linked consultancy firm.
Exactly what was this
payment for and what was the
benefit or otherwise to the long
suffering ratepayers? To not do
so might just result in a guess at
the truth, which would not be
helpful.
-David Mok
I refer to your front page
article, ‘Not everyone happy
over 4% rate plan’.
I would suggest that most
people are not happy, especially
families and pensioners, who
are already struggling under
the present economic climate.
Following the earthquake,
one might have expected
rates to be higher for repair
of infrastructure, but 14 years
have passed.
One would have expected our
Family’s Special
Thursday, 4 December 2025 | Christchurch’s best read and largest circulating newspaper
– page 27
In a world full of turmoil, economic
uncertainty and despair it is essential
that we do our very best to give the
Olympics dream
vulnerable children in our community
a strong message of hope in the best,
most compassionate and caring way
possible. Each of us should do what
we can, in whatever way we can to
help the next generation be better
than we have been and reach for the
sky in their own respective ways!
DONATE TODAY -
In my long association with Home and
Family I have been privileged to see
SHAPE TOMORROW
and understand how important Home
and Family’s work is for the children in
our community. My decision to leave
021 101 1438
a legacy gives me the satisfaction
contact@homeandfamily.net.nz
of knowing I am helping in my own
small way.
homeandfamily.net.nz
Phillip Duval,
Not everyone
Home & Family Patron & Legator
happy
over 4% rates plan
City councillor Sam MacDonald wants to sell fibre-broadband company
Enable and use the proceeds for an investment fund. The fund’s returns
BY DYLAN SMITS
could help the city council meet the proposed 4% rates cap.
to now show at least
a little compassion towards
citizens, most of us, who
experienced trauma and losses.
Instead there has been no
reprieve from continued rates
hikes; our money being wasted
on a top-heavy bureaucracy,
building dangerous speed
humps, low priority bicycle
Lower rates increases might be
music to some people’s ears.
But not everybody is thinking
that way.
The Government this week
proposed a 4% annual rates
increase cap but it would not
be fully in force until 2029.
After a 6.49% increase for
the average household in the
city this year, rates are projected
to rise by 9.2% in the
next Annual Plan in June but
this is likely to decrease as city
councillors look for savings.
The rates increase was 9.52%
in the 2024/25 year and 6.6% in
2023/24.
The rates cap has drawn a
mixed response from starnews.
co.nz readers.
Some welcome the constraint
on city council spending and
rates hiking but others are
concerned it will force cuts to
services, encourage asset sales,
and defer critical infrastructure
works.
And the drum for asset
sales has started beating with
right-leaning Waimairi Ward
city councillor Sam MacDonald
calling for the sale of city
council-owned fibre broadband
company Enable.
He believes it could have a $1
billion market value.
Using the sale proceeds, Mac-
Donald would like to form a
protected investment fund for
the city and pay down Christchurch
City Holdings Ltd’s debt
which is $2.4 billion.
However, MacDonald backs
Mayor Phil Mauger’s position
against selling Lyttelton
Port Company, Orion, and the
airport.
Starnews.co.nz readers
reacted to the Government
plan.
Said Moira McNulty: “Appalling
idea. It will mean things
won’t get fixed because it will
all be spent on water done
expensively. Libraries will
close, pools will have reduced
hours and anything that makes
living in a city fun will be taken
away.”
But Trevor Taylor said:
“Brilliant idea. Time councils
learned to respect the money
Give all children
in Canterbury
a safe and positive
childhood
Could it lead to asset sales?
and started to spend it more
wisely.”
Said Lox Dixon: “Introduce
rates caps, blame councils for
not being able to afford to run
their services to an acceptable
level, gut local government
(see removal of regional
councils), and once everyone’s
at their wits end, privatise to
companies run by their mates.”
Said Janjan Juakay: “I needed
this. Rates are slowly spiraling
and yet the services we get
haven’t improved.”
Said Pete Beswick : “Another
populist policy that has had
negative results when tried
elsewhere (Australia). Yes, rates
need to be reined in, and yes,
councils need to be careful
and transparent with their
spending, but only being able to
pay for “the basics” will mean a
lack of vibrancy and life in our
cities.”
Said Steve Keller: "What a
terrible idea. All this will result
in even more under-investment
in the core infrastructure that
we need.”
› Continued on Page 4
Regardless of the Government’s proposed 4% rates cap, readers say the city
council needs to rein in unnecessary spending.
they get from ratepayers
lanes and traffic islands like the
Dyers Pass Rd intersection that
have added to road queues and
more potential for road-rage,
risk taking and fatalities.
There is also no need for the
city council to sell assets when
it just comes down to sensible
spending.
-Brian Wilson
We want to hear your views on the
issues affecting life
in Canterbury
Send emails to:
barry@
alliedmedia.kiwi
Letters may be edited or rejected at
Allied Media’s discretion. Letters should
be about 200 words.
A name, postal address and phone
number should be provided.
Please use your real name, not
a nickname, alias, pen name or
abbreviation.
In my experience, few leftwing
councillors have displayed
the skills or experience to direct
a multi million or billion dollar
business.
They are democratically
elected to represent the people
of their electorate and, in
consultation, to ensure that
professional management
provides and maintains an
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As we are now learning,
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with an expensive legacy of
unskilled management, wasted
capital and very costly catch-up.
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professionals to decide the
worth of a one-off broadband
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-Bill Harrington
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starnews.co.nz
Purchase any new ASX in December and get
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The Star, December 11, 2025 | 19
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20 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
China’s 15th
Five-Year Plan
Development for the Nation, Opportunities for the World
China’s Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social
Development is a cornerstone of the country’s governance
system. These plans serve as strategic, programmatic, and
policy-guiding frameworks that steer China’s development.
Since 1953, China has formulated and implemented
14 Five-Year Plans. This unique institutional mechanism
ensures continuity, stability, and predictability in national
development policies.
In October 2025, the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th
CPC Central Committee reviewed and approved the Recommendations
of the Central Committee of the Communist
Party of China on Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for
National Economic and Social Development, marking a new
stage in China’s modernization drive. A thorough understanding
of China’s planning mechanisms and development
blueprint will help China and New Zealand share
development opportunities during the 15th Five-Year Plan
period, further expand areas of cooperation, and achieve
mutual benefit.
I. China’s Five-Year Plans:
A Window into National Governance
Five-year plans reflect China’s distinctive strengths in
national governance and serve as a key to understanding
China’s way of governance.
First, strategic vision and policy continuity. Each Five-Year
Plan is grounded in a thorough assessment of China’s
development stage, the international environment, and
national priorities. It sets clear development goals, key
indicators, and policy pathways for the coming five years.
This top-level design and medium to long-term planning
mechanism ensure continuity and stability of China’s national
development strategy and clear policy expectations
for both domestic and international stakeholders.
Second, Resource allocation and market coordination. Each
of the five-year plans sets clear strategic priority sectors
and policy directions, channeling social resources into key
sectors while allowing the market to play a decisive role
and enabling the government to perform more effectively.
Third, Global alignment. Recent Five-Year Plans have
increasingly emphasized alignment with international
rules and “institutional opening-up.” They serve not only
as domestic development roadmaps but also as a window
for the international community to understand China’s
policy direction and identify opportunities for cooperation.
II. The 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030):
Laying the Foundation for Modernization
The 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030) is defined as “a
critical stage for reinforcing the foundations and pushing
ahead on all fronts”, with the core goal of laying a decisive
foundation for basically realizing socialist modernization
by 2035. It outlines three key priorities:
First, innovation-driven development and industrial upgrading.
The Plan emphasizes science and technology as
the driving force for building a modern industrial system,
promoting breakthroughs in strategic emerging sectors
such as artificial intelligence, new energy, biomedicine and
other cutting-edge fields. It underscores the importance of
original innovation, resolving core technological bottlenecks,
and fully integrating technological advances with
industrial development.
Second, green transition and sustainable development.
Guided by the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality
(peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and achieving
carbon neutrality before 2060), the Plan reaffirms China’s
commitment to a green transformation. It calls for accelerating
the development of a modern energy system based
on renewables, and advancing a comprehensive shift
toward a low-carbon, resource-efficient, environmentally
friendly economy and society.
Third, expanding domestic demand and deepening institutional
opening-up. The Plan places strategic emphasis on
strengthening the domestic market by expanding effective
demand — boosting consumption, raising incomes,
and improving public services — while at the same time
expanding institutional opening. This includes shortening
the negative list for foreign investment, improving market
access, strengthening intellectual-property protection, and
fostering a more internationalized, high-standard business
environment. Such efforts aim to create a robust, diversified
domestic market and sustainable opportunities for
both domestic players and international participants.
III. China-New Zealand Cooperation:
Strong Foundations and Mutual Opportunities
China and New Zealand have highly complementary economies
and a solid foundation for cooperation. During his
visit to China in June this year, New Zealand Prime Minister
Christopher Luxon stated that China is New Zealand’s
largest trading partner and an indispensable part of New
Zealand’s economic success. Amid ongoing global uncertainty,
both sides remain committed to securing more
opportunities in China.
Guided by the positive high-level engagement, practical
cooperation between the two countries has continued to
make new progress this year. Bilateral trade has maintained
a robust growth momentum. In the first half of the
year, trade reached 20.92 billion NZD, up 9.4% year-onyear.
New Zealand’s exports to China totaled 12.36 billion
NZD in the same period, an increase of 12.6%, accounting
for 21% of New Zealand’s total exports. Exports of dairy
products, timber, and meat to China all recorded growth.
The total annual bilateral trade volume is expected to
exceed 40 billion NZD again.
Participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) has strengthened regional economic
integration by harmonizing trade rules and reducing
non-tariff barriers. Meanwhile, negotiations launched in
2024 under the China–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement
to revise the negative list for services trade are expected to
unlock new cooperation opportunities in finance, education,
environmental protection, and other sectors.
China is also a major source of international students for
New Zealand. As of August 2024, 25,175 Chinese students
were enrolled in New Zealand, a 5% increase year-on-year.
Tourism has rebounded strongly, with 248,300 Chinese
visitors in 2024, spending an average of USD 3,845 per
person—among the highest of all major source markets.
Simplified visa procedures and new direct flight routes
have further encouraged student and tourist exchanges.
IV. Key Areas for Future Cooperation
The full implementation of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan will
inject strong momentum into China-New Zealand cooperation
and vastly expand opportunities in key areas.
First, green economy and agricultural innovation. China’s
sustained commitment to emission reductions and green
development aligns closely with New Zealand’s long-standing
emphasis on low-carbon agriculture, ecological
conservation, and renewable-energy strategies. The two
countries already cooperate in organic product certification
and environmental protection technologies and have
made progress, as evidenced by Cooperation on Organic
Products Certification Action Plan 2025-2026 signed by both
sides in 2025.
As China advances toward its carbon-neutrality goals,
demand continues to grow for sustainable agriculture and
low-carbon food technologies. Meanwhile, New Zealand
possesses globally recognized expertise in ecological
farming, dairy-sector emission reduction, food research
and development, and sustainable agricultural practices.
This creates a natural complementarity between the two
nations.
Leveraging these strengths, the two sides can deepen cooperation
through joint research, technological exchanges,
and demonstration projects. Looking ahead, both countries
could further collaborate on low-carbon agricultural
technologies, jointly develop carbon-market cooperation
mechanisms, and explore third-country export markets —
thereby contributing to green transitions at a regional and
even global scale.
Second, digital economy and consumption upgrading.
China’s consumer market is increasingly shifting toward
healthier and more digitally driven consumption. New Zealand
companies can take advantage of cross-border and
social e-commerce platforms to reach Chinese consumers
with high-value products, including health supplements,
maternal and infant goods, and wine. Under the 15th Five-
Year Plan, China places renewed emphasis on balancing
investment in physical infrastructure with investment in
people, including education, healthcare, and social welfare.
This dual approach aims to boost living standards and
consumer confidence, thereby strengthening the foundation
for sustained domestic demand.
Third, scientific and technological cooperation and regional
connectivity. China and New Zealand have made
substantive progress in areas such as deep-sea scientific
exploration and aviation connectivity. The joint deep-sea
expedition to the Puysegur Trench in 2025 set multiple records
and collected abyssal samples, contributing original
data to global deep-sea research. China Eastern Airlines
will launch the Shanghai–Auckland–Buenos Aires route at
the end of 2025, which will further strengthen trans-Pacific
logistics linkages and enhance New Zealand’s role as a
transportation and logistics hub between South America
and the Asia-Pacific.
China’s Five-Year Plan system not only underpins the stability
of its modernization drive but also provides a sustainable
framework for China-New Zealand cooperation. As
H.E. Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the
National People’s Congress of China (NPC), noted during
his recent visit, the adopted 15th Five-Year Plan Recommendations
serves as a strategic blueprint for China’s
development over the coming five years, and is expected
to generate new opportunities for all partners, including
New Zealand. As the 15th Five-Year Plan ushers in a new
journey, China-New Zealand closer strategic alignment and
complementary cooperation will foster mutual benefit and
enduring gains for both countries and their peoples.
This advertisement is paid for by the Chinese Consulate

starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 21
The Way
We Were
1960 – REHUA MEETING HOUSE
Torrential rain did not stop
festivities at Rehua meeting
house when it opened 65
years ago.
Te Whatumanawa
Māoritanga o Rehua was
said to be the first carved
wharenui built in the South
Island for over a century.
More than 5000 guests
attended the opening celebrations
during the first week
of December 1960, including
members of the Māori royal
family. Piki Paki was the guest
of honour in place of her
father, King Korokī, who was
too unwell to attend.
Rehua started life as a hostel
for girls and then boys at
its initial site at Stanmore
Rd in the 1950s. The hostel
accommodated young
apprentices who came to
Christchurch Polytech under
the Māori apprentices trade
training scheme.
In 1952, the hostel moved
to its present day site at
Springfield Rd. Extra accommodation
was built as the
number of new trainees
increased.
Planning for the wharenui
began in 1955, with construction
and carving under way
by 1957.
Carving and the design of
woven tukutuku panels was
overseen by Henare Paikea
Toka, who was helped by his
wife Mary Toka and Joe Kingi
from Northland. Other carvers
lived and worked at Rehua
for over a year. Volunteers did
much of the building work.
The training scheme ended
in the 1980s with the old
hostel being redeveloped
into apartments and health
services.
Rehua has hosted hui and
tangihanga, political and
religious meetings, and school
groups and royal visits since
its opening.
Mae Taurua of the Christchurch Māori Women’s Welfare League explaining tuku tuku during a traditional crafts course in 1977.
Above right – Terry Ryan, Peter Kenyon, Abdullah Baginda, Joey Pelher and Wally Stone at a conference on-site in 1990.
Peter Karawana (left) and Joseph Hokiaanga with help
lifting a basket of hot food out of a hāngi in 1987.
Left – Baskets of vegetables for a hāngi in 1971.
Right – The exterior of the meeting house in 1982.
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22 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
SPORT
Tight race
for spot in
T20 semis
​BY SAM COUGHLAN
The final two rounds of the
premier Metro T20 competition
this weekend will decide which
teams make next Sunday’s
semi-finals, with no side yet
guaranteed a spot.
Leaders Sydenham need just
one win from their remaining
games against East Shirley and
Heathcote to secure qualification,
while fellow top-four teams Old
Boys, Burnside and Heathcote are
also in strong positions.
But lurking are fifth-place St
Albans, who would move into
the top four after the morning’s
sixth round of games at 10.30am,
should they beat Heathcote.
East Shirley and Lancaster Park
in sixth and seventh are still in
the hunt.
Lancaster Park meets bottomplace
Riccarton in the morning
while second-place Burnside
plays Old Boys in third with the
winner all but certain to qualify.
In the afternoon games at
2.30pm, Riccarton hosts St Albans
while Old Boys play East Shirley,
Burnside host Lancaster Park and
Sydenham visit Heathcote.
​PREMIERSHIP T20 POINTS
Sydenham 20, Old Boys 15, Burnside
15, Heathcote 15, St Albans 13,
East Shirley 10, Lancaster Park 8,
Riccarton 5
​First cup challenge for St Margaret’s
​BY SAM COUGHLAN
Coach Amanda Hardy believes
her St Margaret’s College side
will be competitive in their firstever
tilt at the Girls’ First XI Cup
in Lincoln this week.
Christchurch Girls’ High had
long held a stranglehold as
Canterbury’s representative in
the national schoolgirl cricket
competition, but St Margaret’s
broke through by winning the
qualification tournament in
March. Their campaign starts
today at Lincoln University.
Hardy, who is also a PE teacher
at the school, said the team was
excited about the opportunity
to compete with
the best in the
country.
“When you do
something like
this for the first
time, there’s a lot
of nerves.
“But the
messages we as
a coaching team ​Amanda Hardy
have been sending
our girls is that it’s good to be
nervous, but we deserve to be
there, we’ve worked really hard
to get to where we are, just
trying to really reinforce to them
that they’re good enough to be
there.”
St Margaret’s beat Otago
Girls’ High and St Hilda’s
Collegiate (Dunedin) last week, a
confidence boost ahead of their
opening matches today against
Northern Districts qualifiers
Ōtūmoetai College at 10am and
Auckland’s Takapuna Grammar
​Ciara Hartland plays a cut shot for St Margaret's College against Christchurch Girls' High School.
at 2pm.
“It’s just enough to give us a
little bit of confidence to back
our skills,” Hardy said.
“We were able to give
everybody a run in both of
those games so that everybody
is contributing and playing
their role.”
Despite their inexperience on
the big stage, Hardy believes
the team has a lot of quality.
“We have got a really good
mix of skill sets, which really
excites me. We are a little bit
unknown because we’ve never
been to a tournament before, so
if anything, that could be one of
our strengths too.
“Ultimately we’re focusing
on processes, and the outcomes
will take care of themselves,”
she said.
Meanwhile, Christchurch
Boys’ High wrapped up a trifecta
of Canterbury titles
on Saturday, beating old foe
Christ’s College by 202 runs in
the one-day final at home.
They will start their Boys’
PHOTO: ANNA GIBB
First XI Cup campaign as Canterbury
representatives against
St Paul’s Collegiate from Hamilton
on Wednesday, also at
Lincoln.
Boys’ High are two-time
defending champions in the
national boys’ competition and
have won a tournament-record
13 titles.
The girls’ competition runs
from today until Sunday; the
boys’ competition starting on
Wednesday and going through
to the following Monday.
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Come celebrate our athletes
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Please refer to stjohn.org.nz/membership-terms.

starnews.co.nz
SPORT The Star, December 11, 2025 | 23
Edgeware’s young stars aiming
for upset against Te Kura Hagley
BY DIANE KEENAN
Experience meets youth
tomorrow night as Te Kura
Hagley faces a junior-stacked
Edgeware in a top-of-the-table
premier women’s interclub
clash.
The women’s competition
returns after a two-week
break, which coincided with
Wilding Park hosting the Tennis
New Zealand national
championships.
Tennis Canterbury’s Tatiana
Na won both the 12U singles and
doubles titles, dropping only
four games on her way to the
final, where she was again dominant
with a 6-1, 6-1 victory.
Na was also runner-up in
the 14U singles championship,
while her brother Alvin finished
runner-up in the 16U boys’ doubles.
Another Canterbury junior,
Yihan Liu, won the 12U boys’
doubles.
When Te Kura Hagley and
Edgeware met in the opening
round, the more experienced Te
Kura Hagley side prevailed.
Since then, Edgeware has
built confidence with a string
of victories over higher-ranked
opponents. The tie will be played
at Te Kura Hagley.
Bishopdale’s Aliyah Daly
returns to premier interclub fresh
from national success, having
won the 14U New Zealand doubles
title and finished runner-up
Tatiana Na won both the 12u singles and doubles titles at the Tennis New Zealand
national championships, dropping only four games en route to the final.
PHOTO: TENNIS CANTERBURY
in the 16U doubles. Her Bishopdale
side will face Elmwood,
which has been bolstered by the
recent return of its top player,
Abby Mason.
The third match features Cashmere
and Waimairi, both sitting
at the bottom of the points table.
Cashmere would love to call on
its former top singles player, Lucia
Gale, now based in Australia,
who won the national 18U girls
doubles championship and was
runner-up in the singles.
POINTS
Men: Elmwood 83, Burnside Park/
Sumner 83. Cashmere 79, Mid-
Canterbury 69, Te Kura Hagley 43,
Edgeware 32, Bishopdale 28
Women: Te Kura Hagley 59, Edgeware
56, Elmwood 52, Bishopdale 37,
Cashmere 28, Waimairi 20
In the men’s competition,
joint leaders Elmwood and
Burnside Park/Sumner continue
their push for the title.
Elmwood travels to
Ashburton on Saturday to face
Mid-Canterbury, a team buoyed
by its home-court win over
Cashmere last month.
Mid-Canterbury’s young
players were in strong form at
nationals – Josh Gilbert won the
16U doubles and finished third
in the singles, while teammate
Riley Breen reached the semifinals
of the 18U singles.
Burnside Park/Sumner
enjoyed an excellent win
at home last week against
Cashmere and its lineup will be
boosted by the return of Sakeri
Parnell, the national 16U singles
runner-up, when it plays Te
Kura Hagley at Te Kura Hagley.
Te Kura Hagley’s top singles
player, Ray Xu, finished
runner-up in the 18U singles.
Cashmere meets Bishopdale
this week at Bishopdale.​
Papanui athletes
shine at champs
Four Papanui High School
students won gold at the
national secondary schools
track and field championships
in Napier over the weekend.
Para athletes Cody Lamond
(junior boys’ 800m, 1500m and
2000m), Sam Churchill (senior
boys’ 800m), Connor Carston
(senior boys’ long jump, discus
and 2000m) and Adi Pathak
(junior boys’ shot put) all
claimed individual titles, and
together the quartet also won
the para 4x100m relay.
Christ’s College pair Otto
Church and Sam Moore won
the senior and junior boys’ pole
vault respectively, while Boys’
High juniors Vern Toaolamai-
Holden (100m) and George
Gainsford (hammer throw) also
secured gold medals.
Other Christchurch winners
included Villa Maria’s Lily
Dunne (junior girls’ 400m),
Cashmere High’s Pera Gordon
(senior girls’ pole vault) and
Mairehau High’s Tyler Selvam-
Lyne (junior boys’ triple jump).
They said it
“England talk the talk but
can’t walk the walk. With
this sort of batting and
bowling they couldn’t win
an egg cup, let alone the
Ashes urn.”
– Pundit and former test cricketer
Sir Geoffrey Boycott reacts to
England’s latest eight-wicket loss
to Australia
11PM-3PM
11.00am-3.00pm
11.30am-2.45pm
11.00am-3.00pm
ENTERTAINMENT
Food , Craft & Community Stalls
Santa’s Grotto
Face painting + Bouncy Castle
S A T U R D A Y
T H
13
D E C E M B E R
1 1 . 0 0 A M - 3 . 0 0 P M
K A I A P O I C L U B C A R P A R K
R A V E N Q U A Y
12.30pm
11.30am-2.30pm
11.00am-3.00pm
2.30pm
Kaiapoi Rock and Roll Club
Performance
Live Music from Tracy Rockhouse
Roaming circus performer
Balloon twisting
Shop and Win drawn
Kaiapoi Club Carpark

24 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
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starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 25
Get Ready For
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289 99 ea
Hovertrax
Prizma
Black or Pink
Usually $499.99
SAVE
$
50
50
$
449.
99
ea
Gift Guide promotion ends 24th December 2025, while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. In-store specials only available at Christchurch, Dunedin and Nelson stores.

26 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
CaDA 1:24 Brick Humvee $
24 99 ea
Usually $29.99
SAVE $5 $
55.99
Exost 1:18 2.4Ghz
RC 360 Cross
Usually $69.99
20 %
OFF
ea
Hydro M.A.D
Water Blaster
Assortment
Usually $69.99
SAVE
$
10
10
$
59.
99
ea
SAVE $20
Exost 1:14 Rally XTR
Remote Control Car
Usually $99.99
$
79 99 ea
Exost Pro
Rocket One
1:14 RC Car
Usually $119.99
SAVE
$
99 99 ea
SAVE $20
Mega Race Track Set
Usually $149.99
$
119 99 ea
SAVE
$30
1:20 RC Volvo
A40G Articulated
Dump Truck
Usually $319.99
$
40
40
$
279.
99
ea
Brontosaurus
Ride-On
Inflatable Pool
Toy
Usually $39.99
Angler Fish Inflatable
Baby Pool
Usually $49.99
SAVE $5
$
44 99 ea
SAVE
$
5
$ 99
34.
ea
Whale Ride-On Inflatable
Pool Toy 193 x 119cm
Usually $39.99
Tropical Island
Baby Pool
Usually $59.99
$
49 99 ea
SAVE
$10
Sun Shade Pool
157 x 157 x 122cm
Usually $89.99
SAVE
$
10
10
$
79.
99
ea
Tropical Swim Centre
Family Pool
Usually $89.99
$
79 99 ea
SAVE $10
Dino Park
Inflatable
Play Centre
Usually $159.99
SAVE
$
10
10
CHRISTMAS LATE NIGHT HOURS FOR OUR CHRISTCHURCH STORES
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
8 pm 9 pm 8 pm 6 pm 9 pm 9 pm 10 pm 10 pm 10 pm 9 pm 9 pm 9 pm 9 pm 6 pm
10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22 Dec 23 Dec 24 Dec
Gift Guide promotion ends 24th December 2025, while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. In-store specials only available at Christchurch, Dunedin and Nelson stores.
6 pm $
149.
99
ea
SAVE $40
Under the Sea
Play Centre Pool
Usually $229.99
$
189 99 ea

starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 27
20% OFF ALL
PALM PALS
Aurora Plush Palm Pals
Clawford Lobster
Usually $17.99
$
14 39 ea
Keeleco Plush Pigs
with Sound
Assortment
Usually $22.99
$
18 39 ea
20% OFF ALL
KEELECO
Bubble ‘n’ Fun Leaf Blower Combo
Usually $79.99
Monster Treads
Tractor & Wagon
Usually $79.99
SAVE
$
15
15
$
64.
99
ea
Fashion Designer
Light-Up Pad
Usually $29.99
$
24 99 ea
SAVE $5
Kitty
Sweet
Style
Activity Kit
Usually $69.99
SAVE
$10
$
59 99 ea
Tomy
Megasketcher
Usually $59.99
20 %
$
47.
OFF
99
ea
Vintage
Dollhouse
Usually $199.99
$
149 99 ea
SAVE
$50
Technic 42204 Fast & Furious
Toyota Supra MK4
Usually $109.99
$
76 99 ea
30% OFF
Disney Pixar 43279
Wall-E and Eve
Usually $119.99
SAVE
$10
Ideas 21357
Pixar Light
Usually $129.99
$
119 99 ea
SAVE
$10
Icons 10353
Williams
Racing
Usually $139.99
$
118 99 ea
15%
OFF
$
109 99 ea
Icons 10367
The Lord
of the Rings
Balrog Book Nook
Usually $219.99
15 %
OFF
$ 99
186.
ea
Icons 10358 Transformers
Soundwave
Usually $329.99
$
309 99 ea
SAVE $20
Icons 10354
The Lord of The Rings The Shire
Usually $449.99
$
429 99 ea
SAVE
$20
SAVE
HARD
TO
Technic 42182 NASA
Apollo Lunar
Roving Vehicle
Usually $379.99
$
120
120
FIND$ 99
259.
ea
STUCK FOR A GIFT IDEA?
GIVE A TOYWORLD
GIFT CARD!
Gift Guide promotion ends 24th December 2025, while stocks last.
Terms and conditions apply. In-store specials only available at
Christchurch, Dunedin and Nelson stores.

28 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
1:12 Bigfoot RC 2.4Ghz
Usually $139.99
20%
OFF
54” Plush
Snake
Usually $24.99
LOTS TO
CHOOSE
FROM
$
19 99 ea
20% OFF ALL
CUDDLEKINS
Plush
Cuddlekins
12” Tarantula
Usually $29.99
$
23 99 ea
Time Teacher
Assorted Watches
Usually $44.99
SAVE
$10
$
34 99 ea
SAVE
$
30
30
$
109.
99
ea
Unicorn Tots
Assortment
Usually $29.99
$
22 49 ea
25%
OFF
25% OFF ALL
TONKA
Steel Toughest
Mighty Dump Truck
Usually $159.99
$
119 99 ea
CRAZY
DEAL!
Miniverse
Make It Mini
Celebration
Usually $27.99
64 %
$
9.
99
ea
OFF
SAVE
$
40
40
$
149.
99
ea
Primal Hatch
Jurassic
Interactive
Dino
Usually $189.99
Hug-A-Lumps
Medium Kitty
Usually $39.99
$
31 99 ea
20%
OFF
Mini
Brands
Fill the
Fridge
Playset
Series 1
$
35.
Usually
44.99
20 %
OFF
99
ea
40% OFF ALL GIANT
TOP FUN PLUSH
Goldchi Plush
Teddy Bear
100cm
Usually $79.99
$
47 99 ea
40 %
$
65.
OFF
99
ea
Plush Sitting Dog 80cm
Usually $109.99
25 %
$
119.
OFF
99
ea
RC Rock
Crawler Red
Usually $159.99
12V Ride On Electric Ford Ranger
Usually $649.99
$
519 99 ea
20 %
OFF
$ 99
559.
ea
20 %
$ 99
35.
OFF
ea
Fast Fill
Shark
Attack
Water
Blaster
Usually $44.99
20% OFF ALL
12V RIDE ON
VEHICLES
Volta 12V Ride On Electric
Landrover Defender
Usually $699.99
CHRISTMAS LATE NIGHT HOURS FOR OUR CHRISTCHURCH STORES
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
8 pm 9 pm 8 pm 6 pm 6 pm 9 pm 9 pm 10 pm 10 pm 10 pm 9 pm 9 pm 9 pm 9 pm 6 pm
10 Dec 11 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 14 Dec 15 Dec 16 Dec 17 Dec 18 Dec 19 Dec 20 Dec 21 Dec 22 Dec 23 Dec 24 Dec
Gift Guide promotion ends 24th December 2025, while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. In-store specials only available at Christchurch, Dunedin and Nelson stores.

starnews.co.nz
The Star, December 11, 2025 | 29
1:72 Starter Set
North American
P-51D Mustang
Usually $34.99
$
27 99 ea
20% OFF ALL AIRFIX
1:72 Supermarine
Spitfire MK.Ia
Usually $34.99
$
27 99 ea
1:72 Messerschmitt BF109E-4
Usually $34.99
20 %
$
27.
OFF
99
ea
1:72 Starter Set
Messerschmitt BF109F-4
Usually $49.99
$
39 99 ea
Santa,
Superhero
or T-Rex
100pc
Tubes
Usually $17.99
20 %
$ 39
14.
OFF
ea
Big Tropical,
Basic or Pastel
15pc Tubes
Usually $24.99
$
19 99 ea
20% OFF
ALL PLUS
PLUS
Jungle Mix
240pc Tubes
Usually $29.99
$
23 99 ea
Chimpanzee Cub
Hugging
Usually $8.99
Box of Mini
Dinosaurs
Usually $29.99
$
7 19 ea
Mexican Redknee
Tarantula
Usually $15.99
Box of Mini
Prehistoric
Animals
Usually $29.99
$
23 99 ea
$
12 79 ea
$
23 99 ea
Box of Mini
Wild Animals
Usually $29.99
$
23 99 ea
20% OFF ALL COLLECTA
Jaekelopterus with Prey
Usually $19.99
$
15 99 ea
20 %
$
23.
OFF
99
ea
Box of Mini
Prehistoric
Marine
Usually $29.99
$
23 99 ea
Donkey
Usually $15.99
$
12 79 ea
Beautifully sculptured
with lifelike features
Box of Mini
Reptiles and
Amphibians
Usually $29.99
TOWER JUNCTION
NZ’s Biggest TOYWORLD
Clarence St, Riccarton, Ph 03 343 0330
MARSHLAND
Homebase, A1/215 Marshland Rd,
Ph 03 982 8697
Gift Guide promotion ends 24th December 2025, while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply.
In-store specials only available at Christchurch, Dunedin and Nelson stores.
HORNBY
Chalmers St,
Ph 03 281 8127

30 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
THANK YOU
CHRISTCHURCH
No1
for readership in Christchurch
The latest survey confirms one ad in The Star is read by
70 %
MORE READERS
THAN IN THE PRESS
In fact, readership movements last 12 months are:
THE STAR UP +2.4%
THE PRESS DOWN -7.3%
*Source Nielsen national readership report Q4 2024 – Q3 2025 (one ad placement – CHCH urban area, average issue readership - Star/The Press) all people 15+.

starnews.co.nz
MOTORING The Star, December 11, 2025 | 31
Mini Cooper amps
up the fun with
electrifying results
Motoring with Bob Nettleton
It was inevitable that one day,
electrification would find its
way into John Cooper Works
(JCW) performance models
– long-standing bastions of
traditional British motoring.
By 2030, the vast majority
of passenger vehicles will be
electric, whether fully or in
hybrid form.
The smallest JCW – the Mini
Cooper three-door – has taken
that leap of faith, and it’s off to
a flying start as one of the most
potent Minis you can buy.
While not without its flaws,
it’s a solid, rather than a stellar,
entry into the world of pure
electric performance cars,
piggybacking on the technology
and expertise of parent
company BMW.​
The Mini Cooper threedoor
JCW E we tested in top
Favoured spec is a diminutive
but well-equipped performance
car, boasting both a megasized
$72,990 price tag and
performance to match.
At just 3858mm long, 1560mm
wide, and 1460mm tall, it’s
hardly a giant in the highperformance
world. But size
isn’t everything, and that’s
certainly true of this mini-sized
master blaster.
The test car proved a people
magnet. When parked at the
supermarket, I often returned
to find it covered in fingerprints
from curious onlookers peering
inside.​
I like how its appearance stays
true to the classic Mini silhouette
and hasn’t been overcooked it
with too many modern design
touches.
It carries heaps of visual
swagger, starting with 18-inch
alloy wheels. The gloss-black
paintwork and red highlights
signal just how special this car is.
Clever design flourishes,
LED headlamps, JCW-specific
daytime running lights, and a
black diffuser integrated into
​Rating out of 10: Performance 8, Handling 7, Build Quality 7, Comfort 6 , Styling, 7, Value for money 5
Safety: Five star 2025 ANCAP crash rating
Price: $72,990
Overall points out of 10: 7
the rear bumper add to its edgy
appeal.
A 54kWh battery and single
synchronous motor deliver
190kW and 340Nm of torque,
giving the JCW E plenty of
oomph – enough to charge
from 0-100km/h in a brisk 5.9
seconds.
There’s immense low-speed
pulling power – in fact, at times
it feels almost too much for a
car without an AWD system
to channel it effectively. You
quickly learn that smooth,
rather than heavy-handed,
throttle inputs are essential,
especially on wet roads where
traction can be a challenge.
As expected for a supercompact
three-door hatch,
passenger and load space are at
a premium.
The back seat is tight and
cramped for adults except on
short trips, while the 210-litre
boot is among the smallest of
any new car on sale. Folding the
rear seats expands the space
enough for weekend bags, but
that’s about it.
If you have greater load
carrying requirements than
this meagre offering, you
would be paying a bit more,
but the superior cargo carrying
capacity and practicality of a
Mini Countryman wagon is an
attractive plan B.
Inside, the JCW cabin stays
true to its performance DNA
with heated front seats, a
recycled knit polyester dash
featuring JCW patterning, and
bucket-style sports seats that
hold driver and passenger
firmly in place. The JCWbranded
steering wheel feels
great in hand, while the front
seats include memory and
massage functions for extra
comfort.
A high-resolution circular
display houses the latest tech,
including wireless Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto.
The huge panoramic sunroof
almost looks out of proportion
on such a small car, dominating
what little roof space there is.
Your in-car music sounds great
through the quality Harman
Kardon system, while other
standard features include an
interior camera, wireless phone
charging, and a head-up display.
The 240mm circular central
display delivers key driving
information and is intuitive
to navigate – even for the less
tech-savvy.
Mini hasn’t missed a beat
on safety. Radar-based driver
assistance features include
cruise control, lane change
warning with blind-spot
detection, and rear cross-traffic
alert with brake intervention.
Active cruise control with
stop/go, collision prevention,
surround view, and remote
3D view also feature on the
extensive safety list.
​The firm suspension set-up
mandated for performance cars
like this, comes with downsides
such as an unyielding low
speed ride in urban driving,
accompanied by some irritating
jitteriness. This can make the
car tiresome if you do a lot of
around town motoring.
At higher speeds, the ride
smooths out somewhat, but
high-frequency bumps still make
their presence felt too often
for my liking. It doesn’t feel as
composed or refined in terms
of comfort as other JCW models
I’ve driven recently. The short
2526mm wheelbase and modest
124mm ground clearance don’t
help either.
On the plus side, the JCW
three-door is a quick, incredibly
nimble, and beautifully balanced
hot hatch when pushed hard on
twisty, undulating roads.
Its sharp, point-and-go steering
is straight out of the JCW
playbook – sure to be admired
by anyone who appreciates
genuine performance cars,
regardless of size or shape.
If that doesn’t sound like you,
there are other JCW models
in the lineup that are less
polarising and edgy – and offer
better value for money.
subscribe
AND sAVe
20%
OFF THe rrP*
*based on savings
for 12 issues
New ZealaNd’s
premier magaZiNe
for lovers of
yesterday’s cars
classicdriver.co.nz
0800 624 295

32 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
CLASSIFIEDS
Your guide to our LOCAL & TRUSTED
Trades & Professional Services
Call Aaron &
the team today!
Phone: 03 347 4422
or 021 542 402
Email: Aaron@theoutdoorspace.co.nz
www.theoutdoorspace.co.nz
. A+ LAWN
MOWING
Christchurch, Mowing
& Weed Whacking.
Ph: 0274 115 744.
Email: m.gillette1234
@gmail.com
ARBORIST
Canterbury Tree Experts
Your Trusted Arborists for Christchurch
and the Greater Canterbury region
Our Services include:
- Tree Removal and felling
- Tree Pruning and height reductions
- Hedge trimming - Site Clearance
- Branch Chipping - Stump Grinding
Fully insured Arborists.
Contact us for a free site
visit and quote.
Phone:
027 4231 538
Email: Ben@CanterburyTreeExperts.co.nz
Website: CanterburyTreeExperts.co.nz
TRADES & SERVICES
A CARPENTER Licensed
Building Practitioner no.
100981. All carpentry &
building repairs &
maintenance.
Alterations & property
upgrades. Laundries /
bathroom / kitchens
replaced. Specialising in
replacement of all rotten
timber, fascia boards,
To advertise: Phone 379 1100 or email star.class@starmedia.kiwi
For the Outdoor
Space of your
Dreams...
Paving, Irrigation,
Lawns, Planting,
Fences, Pergolas,
Water-features,
Outdoor fires, Raised
Vege beds, Decks,
Artificial grass, Garden
maintenance & more...
Merry Christmas
& a Happy New Year
from The Outdoor Space
BATHROOM TILER wet
area waterproofing,
underfloor heating, soap
boxes, old to new, for
best results, call Devon
on 021 375-888 or 03
329 5511
BEST BATHROOMS Full
renovation specialists,
LBP builder. Free quote,
all building property
maintenance. Ph 387-
0770 or 027 245 5226
ciey@xtra.co.nz
BLOCKED DRAINS Drain
Clearance, CCTV
Inspections, Remedy &
Repair. CDDL Services
Ltd. Ph: 0800 487 453
windows, windowsills BRICK & BLOCK LAYING
etc. John Sandford, Ph All restoration work and
329 4616, mob 027 518 new work plus
9598
foundations, Ph 342
johnsandford2@gmail.c 9340 or 021 853 033.
om
BRICKLAYER George
AAA HANDYMAN Lockyer, Governors Bay.
licensed carpenter LBP, UK trained with over 40
all property and building years exp. Smaller jobs
maintenance, repairs, & brick repairs preferred.
bathroom/shower No job too small. 027
installations, with free 684 4046 E:
quotes. 03 387 0770 or georgelockyer@xtra.co.
027 245 5226 nz
ciey@xtra.co.nz
BUILDER Qualified 50
ARBOR-TEK Complete yrs exp. Bathrooms,
Tree Care, Tree Kitchens, Renovations,
maintenance, felling, Repairs & Extensions
hedges, shelterbelts, Free quotes. Discount
stump grinding, for pensioners. Ph Mike
powerline clearing. No 03 980 9771 or 027
job too big or small. Call 2266 930
03 349 7143
ARBORIST qualified.
Copper Beech Tree
Services. Tree removal,
pruning, height BUILDER
reduction, hedge
trimming, shaping, tree
planting, firewood. Free
quote. Contact Angus
Edwards 027 259 6741
copperbeechtreeservice
s@gmail.com
TRADES & SERVICES
TRADES & SERVICES
Semi-retired.
Available for bathrooms,
decks, small projects
and all repair work. Ph
027 326 6114 or
brentew@outlook.com.
Excellent work. Great
rates.
landscaping
25 Years experience
• Landscape construction and
garden maintenance
• Residential & light commercial
• Garden makeovers
For a proFessional job call
ross legg 027 222 0388
email revivelandscaping23@gmail.com
WINDOW TINTING
tintawindow
advanced film solutions
99% uv block
fade protection
heat control
reduce glare
25 Years Experience
Free Quotes Canterbury and Districts
03 365 3653 0800 368 468
PREMIUM TYRES offers
top-quality new and
used tyres, wheel
alignments, vehicle
servicing, WOF's & Oil
changes. Trusted for
reliability, affordability,
and fast service across
Christchurch, 222
Linwood Ave, PH 380-
5020
privacy films
frosting designs
non-darkening films
Workmanship Guaranteed
Lifetime Warranties on Most Films
UV
block
TRADES & SERVICES
BUILDER -
LICENSED
Available for
alterations, additions,
repairs, decks,
bathroom alterations,
aluminium window &
door replacements.
Free quotes. Over 30
years in industry.
Prompt, reliable,
quality workmanship.
Ph Ian on
021 350 509.
BUILDING AND property
maintenance. No job too
small. 40 years
experience. Ph 027 497
8322. david.cartwright@
xtra.co.nz
TRADES & SERVICES
TEAM TURF
For all your artificial turf
requirements.
Residential or
commercial.
teamturf.co.nz
Christchurch installers.
Grow Landscape
021 034 5504
CARPET LAYING Exp.
Repairs, uplifting,
relaying, restretching.
Phone John on 0800
003 181, 027 240 7416
jflattery@xtra.co.nz
TRADES & SERVICES
CHIM CHIM CHIMNEY
SWEEPS. We'll sweep
your logburner's flue,
check firebricks, baffles,
airtubes & controls.
We're experts on coalranges,
and can sweep
any sized open fire. We
quote & underake
repairs, flue extensions
& install bird netting,
0800 22 44 64
www.chimchim.nz
COMPUTERS - TVs -
CCTV Computer -
Repairs, Sales, Virus
Removal, Internet. TV -
Stereo installs, Setup.
CCTV - 35 yrs exp. Ph
Paul 027 405 3888
EDWARDS TREE
SERVICE
Qualified arborists, tree
removal, pruning, hedgetrimming.
Free quotes.
Phone 021 0220 8323.
ELECTRICIAN A prompt
& reliable registered
electrician with 24 years
experience for all
residential and
commercial work, new
housing and switch
board replacements.
Phone Chris 027 516
0669
FENCING
Quality timber fencing -
gates & repairs. Timber
decking. Ph Ryan 027
951 8892
GARDENER
AVAILABLE
for weeding, pruning,
regular garden
maintenance, rubbish
removed. Experienced
& qualified.
Ph Richard
0274 918 234,
03 349 4022
House & Garden
Property Services Ltd
Tree & hedge trimming
Gardening
Landscaping
Gutter cleaning
All aspects of property maintenance
CALL US 03 260 4499
TRADES & SERVICES
GARDENING, lawn
mowing, gutter cleaning
Residential and
commercial work. North
and West CHCH. Phone
Will on 021 140 0977
INSECT SCREENS,
BLINDS AND SECURITY
DOORS
Custom made security
doors, also flyscreen
windows and doors, and
stylish blinds. Quality
you can trust. We also
repair existing Screens
and doors etc.
Canterbury Blinds and
Screens. Ph 03 3589237
for a free quote.
JCM DIRECT TYRES
provides quality tyres,
both new and used,
expert fitting, and fast,
reliable service. Trusted
to ensure your vehicle’s
safety and performance
with reliable products
and professional care.
8c Birmingham Drive -
call 03 343-0099
LANDSCAPING Paving,
Lawns, Irrigation,
Decking, Fencing. Kanga
& small digger services.
Check out Squire
Landscaping on
Facebook. FREE
QUOTES. Ph Arthur 347-
8796, 027 220-7014
Edwin 027 220-7154
PAINTING Interior /
Exterior, Roofs, Decks,
Fences. For a
competitive quote ph
John 0272 242 831
30 years + experience
Older house
restorations:
no problem!
Quotes: FREE!
Rates: Reasonable
Paint supplied at
trade price!
NO JOB TOO SMALL
Light industrial also
Roger Brott
Painter & Decorator
021-1966-311
PAINTING Exterior
experts. Free quotes.
Int/ext & roof painting
Family run business,
work guaranteed.
Pensioner discounts. Ph
Paul 022 191 7877
Website
www.swedekiwipainting.
co.nz
PAINTING
Indoor / Outdoor, over
30 yrs exp, same day
quotes, ph Steve 021
255 7968
HOME SERVICE All PLUMBER Friendly,
general property repair & certified local expert in
maintenance, Artificial plumbing, gas &
grass laying, Painting, drainage. Guaranteed
Kitset Assembly. Ph top-quality work. Call
George 021 053 8655 Waterloo Plumbing 022
630 7639
INDEPENDENT
CARPETS - Huge PLUMBER Highly
selection of quality experienced Plumber.
carpets at unbeatable Exceptional service.
prices to suit every Ready to help with all
home. Expert advice. your plumbing needs.
Visit us today! Call now Call today! MJ Plumbing
03 388-6643 or 027 827 Ltd 021 109 2397
3360
TRADES & SERVICES
TRADES & SERVICES
TRADES & SERVICES TRADES & SERVICES WANTED
TRADES & SERVICES
ROOF
PAINTING
Competitive rates
Rope n Harness
certified
39 yrs experience
Commercial/
Residential
Exterior Painting
Interior - colder
months
Phone Mason on
021 233 0378
masonwairau.com
ROOF
PAINTING 24/7
Rope & harness
a speciality,
no scaffolding
required,
30 years of
breathtaking
experience.
FREE QUOTES
20% OFF other
roof quotes
Exterior staining,
exterior painting,
water blasting.
Moss and mould
treatment $300.
Phone Kevin
027 561 4629
H2O SOLUTIONS
Renovations, New
Houses, Hot Water
Cylinders, Kitchens,
Bathroom Upgrades,
Laundries, General
Maintenance, Water
Filters. Phone Mark 027
869 0026
PLUMBER Do you need
a reliable plumber?
Quality and timely
services. No job too big
or small. Phone V
Plumbing Ltd. 022 351
4125
PRIME DIESEL
SERVICES -
Fast,
reliable
diagnostics and repair
for trucks, tractors, and
generators. certified, ontime
service, fair pricing.
Call 027 240 4779
THE ROOF
SPECIALISTS
CANTERBURY LTD
Established 2005
Protective coatings
10 year guarantee on:
Faded coloursteel
Tiles & iron
Decramastic
Phone NOW 4 FREE
Roof check & report
Scott McKenzie
022 044 3008
TREE SERVICES Free
quotes 20+ yrs exp.
Tree, hedge or shrub -
reduction, shaped or
removed. Ph/text Paul
The Branch Manager
027 431 4720
TREE SERVICES
Pensioner discounts.
Tree & hedge reduction.
Professional advice.
Stump grinding and
branches chipped. Txt or
ring Andrew on 027 20
44 949.
7”, 45’s, singles, eps
records wanted, any
amount top prices paid.
Pennylane Records, 430
Colombo Street,
Sydenham, ring Dave
021 222 6144, 7 days
A1 ALBUMS, old photos,
postcards, coins, gold,
bank notes, badges,
medals, jewellery,
watches, china, crystal,
books, furs, vintage
clothing, paintings,
furniture, estates &
downsizing. Etcetera
Antiques, 194 Edgeware
Rd, 385 5117.
ALL JAZZ Records
wanted: Kiwi and
overseas artists, Blue
Note, Prestige, Riverside,
ECM, Verve, Impulse,
CTI, Milestone etc; top
prices paid for good
titles. — Please phone
Dave 021-222-6144,
Pennylane Records, 7
days.
AAAA Always buying
Gold. Cash paid. The
Pawn Shop, 396
Blenheim Rd, 121
Riccarton Rd, 77 Ferry
Rd.
CASH PAID
for jars of old coins and
banknotes. Ph Carl 0275
296 560
CARAVAN wanted with
shower and toilet,
needing repairs ok or
any condition. Ph 027
622 0011
MILITARIA Any country,
swords and helmets,
uniforms, badges,
medals, memorabilia,
WW2 or earlier, Ph 021
035 0882
SPOUTING CLEANING OLD TOYS, Models &
Spouting unblocked, Trains. Tri-ang, FunHo
cleaned out & flushed Matchbox, Dinky,
out. Call Greg 03 384 Hornby, Meccano,
2661 or 027 616 0331. Marklin, Corgi etc. Ph
027 604 1816
toymodelcollectors.co.n
z
STUMP GRINDING &
small tree removal. Tony
0275 588 895
TILING
Floor & walls.
Kitchen & splashback
specialist.
No job too small.
35 yrs exp.
Free quotes
Ph 0274 833 887
TREES FOR
CANTERBURY:
Specialist Native Plant
Garden Centre. Trees,
Shrubs, Groundcover.
Supporting your
community and the
environment. 42
Charlesworth St,
Woolston. Phone: (03)
982 1028
WANTED
ALWAYS BUYING
Gold, Sterling, Good
China, Royal Albert,
Antiques & Retro.
Estate, downsizing
specialists. In-home
appraisal. Obligation
free. Great Prices.
Free Appraisal.
Call Rob
027 299 7232
academyantiques.co.nz
PENNYLANE RECORDS
always buying records.
Excellent prices paid.
430 Colombo Street,
Sydenham, 366 3278,
open 7 days
TOOLS, Garden, garage,
saw benches, lathes.
Cash buyer. Phone 355-
2045.
STERLING
SILVER
& GOLD
Wanted, from
single items
to entire
collections,
please phone
0800 428 937
or 0274 327 514
ACCOMMODATION WANTED
ROOM / BOARD
REQUIRED Gent, 50's.
Text 027 471 0369
BOATS & ACCESSORIES
WINDSCREENS
Perspex cut to size
and shape.
Fab Plastics
Ph 366 3634
BOOKS
BOOKS, STATIONERY
cards, gifts - Paper Plus
New Brighton has it all.
Friendly local team,
great prices, supporting
this community. 72
Brighton Mall, New
Brighton. Phone 03 388
1809
ENTERTAINMENT
DELICIOUS all you can
eat buffet at Valentines
Hornby - Fresh seafood,
roasts, desserts and
great service for the
whole family! 7/11
Chalmers Street Hornby
- PH 0800 VAL BUFFET
DELICIOUS all you can
eat buffet at Valentines
Hornby - Fresh seafood,
roasts, desserts and
great service for the
whole family! 7/11
Chalmers Street Hornby
- PH 0800 VAL BUFFET
FOR SALE
PERSPEX, poly
carbonate and other
plastics cut to size and
shape. Fab Plastics
phone 366-3634

starnews.co.nz
CLASSIFIEDS The Star, December 11, 2025 | 33
CARS WANTED
CAR REMOVALS
$$CASH PAID$$
CARS, VANS, UTES & 4X4 WANTED
NZ OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 24 YEARS
We use world class vehicle depollution systems
0800 77 80 80
www.pickapart.co.nz
PERSPEX Cut to size,
clear and tinted sheets
available. Suitable as
replacement panels in
your glasshouse or as a
windbreak. Fab Plastics
366 3634.
direct
cremation
(includes committal)
$2,200 GSt
inclusive
0800 27 28 29
www.mainlandcrematorium.co.nz
GARDEN SUPPLIES
HEALTH & BEAUTY
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
FEET FIRST PODIATRY
provides expert foot
care,
offering
personalised treatments
for pain relief, injury
recovery, overall foot
and lower limb wellness.
Unit 2B, 355 Riccarton
Road. Ph 03 348-7910
www.feetfirst.co.nz
HEALTH & BEAUTY
HEALTH Boost your
wellbeing at Marshall’s
Health & Natural
Therapy. Quality health
supplements, herbal
dispensary, natural
skincare, and expert
naturopathic advice.
Visit us today for a
healthier, happier you!
Marshalls Health &
Natural Therapy. 101
Seaview Road, New
Brighton. Ph 03 388
5757. Shop instore or
online:
www.marshallshealthsh
op.co.nz
HEALTH & BEAUTY
HEALTH & BEAUTY
MOBILE Toe Nail Cutting
Service by Registered
Nurse. $50. Phone 022
281 6647
PERSONAL
MALE, 64 seeks
intimate lady playmate.
Any age / size. Ph 021
146 8156
PUBLIC NOTICES
ROTARY PAPANUI
TRAILER RAFFLE
WINNER
ANNOUNCEMENT
Ticket Number:
1st prize 3294
2nd prize 2086
3rd prize 4194
PUBLIC NOTICES
ADD SOME
COLOUR
TO YOUR ADVERT!
Learn CPR for your loved one
This free training is designed to give you the confidence to take
action if someone suffers a cardiac arrest by:
More
informatıon
Calling 111
Step one
Starting CPR
Step two
Using an AED
Step three

34 | The Star, December 11, 2025 starnews.co.nz
CLASSIFIEDS
WHAT S
ON
To add a listing, contact
Jo Fuller 03 379 7100 or
027 458 8590
jo.fuller@alliedmedia.co.nz
WHAT'S ON
AT HORNBY CLUB
Pavilion Café Opens 8am daily
Legends Bar Opens 10am daily
Reception Open from 9am daily
Live music
FRIDAY 7PM GAZZA
SUNDAY 3PM REMINISCE
WITH ANTHONY
THE 12 DAYS OF XMAS
Cash Vouchers &
prizes to be won
6.30PM THIS SUNDAY
MUST BE PRESENT AND TO QUALIFY
HAVE MADE A PURCHASE AFTER 3PM
ON SUNDAY 14th DECEMBER.
WED
31
DEC
8PM
EARLY BIRD
MEMBERS
DRAW
Join or *renew
from now to
17 December
to win BIG!
$1200 Supermarket Voucher
$500 Supermarket Voucher
$250 Supermarket Voucher
+ TEN Spot Prizes!
DRAW WED 17 DEC, 6PM
*Must renew by 5pm 17 December
Chalmers Restaurant
Wednesday to Saturday:
A la Carte from 5pm
Sunday: Buffet from 4.30pm
CHASE THE ACE!
THURSDAY 6.30PM
$1400
CRACK THE CUBE!
FRIDAY 6.30PM
$1100
LUNCH & DINNER
Sundays 14th, 21st
of December
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
NOW OPEN
*no drink included in prices
ADULTS: $40,
SENIORS: $35
CHILDREN
$2/year of age
up to 12 years
*membership &
conditions apply
DND
SHOW
BAND
Tickets $15 on sale at the Club office | Door sales $20 (if available)
Come on down!
17 CARMEN RD. PH. 03 349 9026
WWW.HORNBYCLUB.CO.NZ
THE LITTLE LOCAL IN THE
HEART OF LINWOOD HAS A
NEW SEASON MENU
Bridie’s Bar & Bistro is an Irish themed
pub that has been a mainstay in the local
community for over ten years.
Whether you're meeting mates for a
catch up over drinks or aer somewhere to
take the family for a delicious meal, Bridie's
Bar and Bistro on Stanmore Road is the
perfect spot.
Summer is here and Bridie’s has an
exciting new menu that showcases the best
in new season produce.
“Bridie's is associated with some of the
best local suppliers,” said Chef Chris. “We
use grass fed Canterbury meat,
Cumberland Sausages & Deli goods from
the Beckenham Butchery, fresh sour dough
breads by the Hand to Hearth Artisan
Bread Company, and Vivace beans for our
expertly extracted barista craed coffees.”
German-born Chef Christoph (Chris)
Locker took over Bridie’s Bistro in April
2024 and stresses that fresh produce and
quality ingredients are the key to serving
great food.
e new menu offers a wide selection of
great value meals. From Starters & Light
Meals, Mains including Bridie’s famous
Ribs, Grill house classics, Gourmet Pizzas,
Burgers through to irresistible Desserts.
SMASHIES HAVE ARRIVED!
As well as their regular Burgers the
menu now features a choice of the latest
burger trend... Smash Burgers, aka Bridie’s
Smashies.
“Smashies are mostly to do with the meat
patty,” said Chef Chris. “Instead of cooking a
traditional hamburger patty, we ‘smash’ a
loose ball of Angus mince beef onto a very
hot skillet creating a patty that is full of
avour, caramelized, crispy on the edges,
and juicy in the centre. Extra llings are
added and we serve it in a so brioche bun.”
Proving hugely popular, Bridie’s Smashies
are priced at only $15 each with a choice of 3
avours.
1. House favourite, e Cheeseburger
Smashie (Patty, American Cheddar, crispy
onions, and Bridie’s famous Burger Sauce)
2. e Firecracker Smashie (Patty,
American Cheddar, Pickles, Jalapenos, Hot
Sauce, and Slaw).
3. e BBQ Bacon Smashie (Patty, Bacon,
American Cheese, crispy Onion, Pickles,
and BBQ Sauce).
e breakfast menu is available daily
until 1pm, however the mains menu is
available all day everyday from opening.
Let's not forget the kids. Bridie's offers
family-friendly dining and the kid's menu
has many choices with something to satisfy
the fussiest eater.
Anniversaries, Birthdays, Family
gatherings, Work Do's. Bridie's can cater to
any event or function at any budget. ey
can provide set menus, platters, and group
catering. Enquire today about hosting your
special event.
Food allergy? Let the staff know. Many of
Bridie's meals can be modied to
accommodate dietary requirements.
Friendly staff and regular entertainment
coupled with amazing family friendly food
and great drinks specials has made Bridie's a
popular destination with patrons across the
city.
Bridie’s Bar & Bistro | 401 Worcester St | Ph 03 260 0323 | www.bridies.co.nz

starnews.co.nz
CLASSIFIEDS The Star, December 11, 2025 | 35
GIG GUIDE
Thursday 11 to Wednesday 17 December 2025
ADDINGTON BAR, 291 Lincoln Rd:
Thursday 8pm - Comedy. Friday - Karaoke.
Saturday 8pm - Live music. Sunday 2pm - Open
Mic. Monday 7.30pm - Quiz. Tuesday - Free Pool.
Wednesday 6pm - Poker.
ALTIORA, Chch Arts Centre Gym, 25
Hereford St: Friday 7pm - Ale House Rock No.
9... a casual, community focused choir with a bar
hosted by Davey Backyard, $10 entry.
ARMADILLOS HALSWELL, 29 Ensign St:
Saturday 5pm - Awesome Source.
ARMADILLOS ISLINGTON, 670 Main South
Rd: Sunday 3pm - Lino.
A ROLLING STONE, 579 Colombo St:
Thursday 7.30pm - Sandfly Album Release Show
w/ special guests Sam & Ollie, and Big John's
House, tix $15+BF from UTR.co.nz or cash-only
door sales. Friday 7pm - SiiS Xperience presents
Soul Studio - Unplugged! Soul-filled acoustic live
music experience from the brightest talents in the
Sri Lankan community, fundraiser event, all
welcome, tix $20+BF from kiwilanka.co.nz or
door sales if not sold prior. Saturday 5pm -
Otautahi For Palestine Fundraiser - Day Schedule
5pm Art Sale & Raffles, 5pm Music & Poetry
with Simurgh Music School, Ariana Tikao & Sara
Qasem, 6pm Juanita Hepi, 7pm From Aotearoa to
Palestine - Conversations on Liberation w/ Sina
Brown-Davis, Lara Sheehi, Stephen Sheehi, &
Mahdis Azarmandi, 9pm Music Program feat Big
Sima & Nazarite, Benjamin Canute, Ron Guevara,
Valle, Niva Jean, DVS, Heavy Lifta, & Ayaluna, tix
$25+BF for both events from humanitix.com or
door sales if not sold prior, all proceeds to The
Sameer Project. Sunday 12pm - Garden City Big
Band Christmas Brunch, swing into Christmas
with the last 'Live & Loving It' session for 2025,
$10 cash-only at the door, kids free; Sunday 4pm -
Boogie House Christmas Shindig, feat Steve
Driver, Harry Harrison, Justine S, Allan
Cattermole & Robbie Carpenter - get your groove
on! $10 at the door; Sunday 6pm - J9 Jive's Social
Dancing for Everyone, J9 plays an eclectic mix for
dancing, all styles, no partner needed, all welcome,
dancers $5 at the door; Sunday 8pm - Desafyar
presents 'Sensual Sundays' Social Latin Dancing
feat guest DJs playing Kizomba, Bachata, Salsa &
Zouk, all welcome, dancers $5 at the door.
Monday 7pm - Believe It or Not Quiz, table
bookings 03-377-4787, all welcome incl dogs, free.
Tuesday 7pm - Inner City Jam hosted by Tyler
Robbins, open mic slots and jam session, all
abilities welcome, free. Wednesday 7pm -
Swingtown Rebels Xmas Party - O Come All Ye
Dancers to A Rolling Stone to celebrate the end of
an awesome year of swingdancing in Swingtown,
feat a lesson/refresher at 7pm, followed by live
music from SIlverlocks at 8pm, free entry but
koha welcome to help cover costs, all welcome.
AVONHEAD TAVERN, 120 Withells Rd:
Friday 7.30pm - Live music.
BILL'S BAR, 1 Halswell Rd: Thursday 7pm -
A&J Karaoke. Friday 7.30pm - Raisin Tooth.
Saturday 7pm - Flat City Brotherhood. Sunday
6pm - A&J Karaoke.
BRIDIE'S BAR, 401 Worcester St: Friday 4pm
- DJ Luke. Saturday 3pm - N-didjah-nis. Sunday
3pm - Sunday Session.
CASHMERE CLUB, 50 Colombo St: Friday
2pm - 50s Up Brass Variety Christmas Concert,
$5 entry. Wednesday 31st Dec, 8pm - New Years
Eve with Syde Hustle.
CHAT'S BAR, 251 Travis Rd: Friday 7.30pm -
Mandi Miller. Wednesday 7.30pm - Karaoke.
CHCH CASINO, 30 Victoria St: Friday 5.30pm
- Zed & Andy; 9pm - Corner Sounds. Saturday
5.30pm - The Edition; 9pm - The Meaniez.
COASTERS TAVERN, 1 Daniels Rd: Friday
6pm - Live music.
DARKROOM, 336 St Asaph St: Thursday
7pm - Scattered Sound Sessions Vol 3 feat. Lovers
Anonymous; Polson; Meri Rose & more. Friday
8pm - An Evening with Siouxsie & the Banshees.
Saturday 8pm - Jinx!; Emo; & Pop Punk Night.
Sunday 7.30pm - The Church of Comedy X-
Mass.
FAT EDDIES, 1/76 Hereford St: Thursday
4.30pm - Fuchsia Haze; 8pm - Live Band
Karaoke; 11.30pm - HeadRush. Friday 4.30pm -
Mac & Mates; 8pm - The Late Night Show;
11.30pm - The Kingsmen. Saturday 1pm - Lee
Martin; 4.30pm - Harbourist Duo; 8pm - The
Duval Experience; 11.30pm - Vibe Check. Sunday
2pm - Corner Sounds Duo; 5.30pm - Josh
Keating. Monday 6pm - Josh Braden. Tuesday
7pm - Quiz; 9.30pm - Josh Keating. Wednesday
8.30pm - Roger Roger.
GOOD TIMES COMEDY CLUB, 224 St
Asaph St: Thursday 7.30pm - Late Night Knife
Fight. Friday 8pm - Criminally Hilarious; 10pm -
Late Night Laughs. Saturday 6.30pm - Roast Battle
by Anto Martin; 8pm - Big Laughs Pro Comedy
Showcase. Tuesday 7pm - 2 Fast, 2 Funny.
goodtimescomedyclub.co.nz
HORNBY CLUB, 17 Carmen Rd: Friday 7pm
- Gazza. Sunday 3pm - Reminisce with Anthony.
KAIAPOI CLUB, Raven Quay: Friday 5.30pm -
Tracy Rockhouse. Saturday 5.30pm - Becky
Mayes. Sunday 3pm - Tracy Rockhouse.
MACKENZIES HOTEL, 51 Pages Rd:
Saturday 8.30pm - Girl from Mars.
MAK BAR, 1276 Main North Rd: Saturday
8pm - Sign of the Firebird. Sunday 3pm - Level 6.
MICKY FINN'S, 85a Hereford St: Thursday
7pm - Bandit Queen (Decemberists). Friday
10pm - Dynamix. Saturday 7pm - Sionna;
10.30pm - Mama Rock.
NEW BRIGHTON CLUB, 202 Marine Pde:
Friday 19th Dec, 7pm - Old Skool.
OAK N FERRY, 608 Ferry Rd: Saturday
4.30pm - Dynamix.
PEGASUS ARMS, 14 Oxford Tce: Monday
7pm - Pub music session. Tuesday 7pm - Quiz.
Wednesday 7.30pm - Open Mic. Thursday 18th
Dec, 7.30pm - Singalong.
RACECOURSE HOTEL, 118 Racecourse
Rd: Friday 7.30pm - DnD Trio (Jojo, Mark, Gigi).
REDWOOD BAR, 340 Main North Rd: Friday
7pm - The Party Singers.
RICHMOND CLUB, 'The Borough', 75
London St: Friday 7pm - Liberator. Saturday
7.30pm - MockingBird. Sunday 3pm - Yes Dear.
ROSE & THISTLE, 24 Main North Rd: Friday
8.30pm - A & J Karaoke. Saturday 8.30pm - Hazel
Diaz.
SHARKEY'S BAR & CAFE, 96 Hoon Hay
Rd: Friday 8pm - Karaoke. Saturday 8pm -
Karaoke. Sunday 4pm - Copper Wine & Mark
Cullen.
SPACE ACADEMY, 371 St Asaph St:
Thursday - Molipane x hexxer. Friday - Too Woke
for Toast w- Big John’s House & Secret Admirer.
Saturday - Ride On Super Sound Ruins
Christmas. Sunday - Clube do Cloro.
TEMPS BAR, 21 Goulding Ave: Saturday
8.30pm - Titanic.
THE ASSEMBLY, 153 Madras St: Saturday
7pm - Jordan Luck Band, tickets @
theassembly.flicket.co.nz
THE BLACK HORSE, 33 Lincoln Rd:
Wednesday 7pm - Annalea & Junior Karaoke.
THE BOG, 50 Victoria St: Thursday 7pm -
Quiz. Friday 6pm - Willie McArthur; 10pm -
Spektrum. Saturday 7pm - Josh Braden; 11pm -
Third Junction. Sunday 4pm - Southern Cross
Irish Dance; 5.30pm - Ants Pickard. Monday 6pm
- Sionna. Tuesday 7pm - Jamesons Irish Sessions.
Wednesday 6pm - Sionna.
THE CHURCH, cnr Worcester &
Manchester Sts: www.churchpub.co.nz/thisweek
THE EMBANKMENT TAVERN, 181 Ferry
Rd: Friday 7.30pm - Open Mic. Wednesday -
Live music.
THE FITZ2 SPORTS BAR, 77 Stevens St:
Friday 7.30pm - Mel & Dave's Karaoke.
THE LITTLE FIDDLE, 132 Oxford Tce:
Thursday 9pm - Topia. Friday & Saturday 9pm -
DJ’s. Sunday 4.30pm - Irish Sess; 7pm - Live
music.
THE MILLER BAR, 308 Lincoln Rd: Friday
9.30pm - Game of Tones. Saturday 9.30pm - Bite
the Bullet. Sunday 6pm - Karaoke with Lance
Kiwi. Tuesday 7pm - Quiz. Wednesday 7pm -
Karaoke with Lance Kiwi.
THE OLD LEITHFIELD HOTEL, 11 Old Main
North Rd: Sunday 2pm - Nexus. Sunday 21st
Dec, 2pm - Feelgood Factor. Sunday 28th Dec,
2pm - Funky Claude. Wednesday 31st Dec, 8pm -
New Year’s Eve with The Party Singers.
THE PAPANUI, 310 Sawyers Arms Rd:
Friday 6.45pm - Eddie Simon; Sunday 3pm - Sam
& Ollie.
THE PEG, Belfast Tavern, 899 Main North
Rd: Friday - Hired Guns.
THE RICCS, 280 Blenheim Rd: Saturday
7.30pm - The Party Singers.
THE ROCKPOOL, 85 Hereford St: Thursday,
Friday, Saturday 9pm - DJ's.
THE SIDELINE SPORTS BAR, 331
Stanmore Rd: Thursday 7pm - Jam Night with
Ritchie Gillies & Nick Buchanan.
THE TURF, 6 Inwoods Rd: Thursday 7pm -
Live music.
WUNDERBAR, Lyttelton: Friday 8.30pm -
Tephra Debut Gig with support from Hexxer &
Cherry Red. Wednesday 9pm - Falling Doves.
Friday 19th Dec, 8pm - Sawfish with The Beat
Skips.
RESTAURANT & CAFÉ
‘Famous for our roasts!’
BOOK YOUR
YEAR-END XMAS
FUNCTION NOW!
SPECIAL PRE-XMAS
SET MENUS AVAILABLE
THE WEEKEND LINE UP
THURSDAY 11Th DEC: 7pm-9pm
bandit queen
"the decemberists tribute”
FRIDAY 10pm-2am dynamix
SAT 13TH DEC: 7pm-9pm
SIONNA
saturday 10.30PM - 2.30AM
MAMA ROCK
SLAINTE
(Cheers)
$6
MURPHY'S
PINTS
EVERY SINGLE DAY,
ALL DAY LONG!
RENOVATED
gaming
room
NEW
MACHINES!
$6
MURPHY'S
PINTS
EVERY
SINGLE
DAY,
ALL DAY
LONG!
FAMILY FRIENDLY
GREAT KID’S MENU
ACTIVITIES ROOM
KID’S MEALS
ALL MAINS
INCLUDE A
FREE ICE CREAM
SUNDAE
FROM ONLY
$13
SENIOR'S SPEICAL
LUNCH & DINNER
TWO COURSES
Soup/Roast or $
Roast/Dessert
29
The
RACECOURSE HOTEL
& Motorlodge
118 Racecourse Rd, Sockburn,
Christchurch. Ph 03 342 7150
www.racecoursehotel.co.nz
Pool Tables | Function Rooms
85a Hereford Street | www.therockpool.co.nz
BRIDIE’S BAR
WHAT'S PLAYING
FRI.4PM:
D J L U K E
SAT.3PM:
LIVE MUSIC
N DIDJAH NIS
SUN.3PM
SUNDAY SESSION
OPEN FROM 7AM MON-FRI & FROM 8AM SAT/SUN
GREAT MENU
BRIDIE'S BAR & BISTRO | 401 WORCESTER ST
PH (03) 260 0325 | WWW.BRIDIES.CO.NZ

Thursday, 11 December 2025
Christchurch’s best read and largest circulating newspaper
Celebrate
A CRACKER OF A
CHRISTMAS!
w
FREE
SANTA
AND GIFT
WRAPPING
at Bigger Better Bush Inn
With Ninja Valley in full swing, all of our stores brimming with Christmas goodies
and some great festive specials, Santa here every day and free gift wrapping,
now is the time to visit Bush Inn and join us in a cracker of a Christmas!
All About A Girl
Pop Up Shop open
Friday 12th and Saturday 13th
December 10am - 4pm.
Everything $50 or less.
Next to our main shop inside
the centre.
20%-50% OFF
BISLEY SHIRTS
‣ 2 for $100 ‣ 3 for $135
‣ 4 for $160
While Stocks Last
New Zealand’s largest stockist!
Leather Direct
10% OFF Motorcycle Leather Jackets
Get ready to ride!
For a limited time, score our best quality
motorcycle leather jackets and save!
(Excluding the sale rack). Experience the
durability, style, and fit that sets us apart.
Don’t compromise - Ride in the best. Visit
Leather Direct today! Valid 11 - 14 Dec 2025
Diamonds
& Gold
Jewellery
Offer expires 31 December 2025.
T’s & C’s Apply
The menswear @
Bush Inn Shopping Centre
Afrosentail
Our superb international
beauty and accessory store is
open at Bush Inn!
A huge range of products
from hair care and
extensions, skin care
products, wigs, beauty
appliances & much more.
10% - 15% discount storewide,
valid 11 -31 December 2025.
Terms and conditions apply.
IN-STORE ONLY
11-14 DECEMBER 2025
BUSH INN MALL
UPPER RICCARTON

It’s going to be...
A CRACKER OF A
CHRISTMAS!
at Bigger Better Bush Inn!
4pcs
Dumplings
& Miso soup
BRAZIL, HONDURAS & COLOMBIA
Cocoa & fruit notes with caramel fragrance
Three Elves - A festive blend
of coffee beans, 200g
Limited Stock
$12.50 each
10% OFF HOT DRINKS
Valid 11 December - 14 December 2025
CHEESEBURGER STAR BOX
STAR NUGGETS STAR BOX VALUE CHICKEN STAR BOX ONION RINGS STAR BOX
CARL’S BURGER BOX
Big Carl, Cheeseburger
& Fries
$17 99
CHICKEN BURGER BOX
Ranch Big Chicken,
BURGER BOX
Star Nuggets
Cheeseburger, Value Chicken & Fries & Fries
$9 99 $14
99
WESTERN BACON BURGER BOX
Western Bacon Big Angus,
Reg Onion Rings
& Fries
$14
99
COMBO
$5.90
Come on in
and enjoy
a ton of
festive
offers from
our retailer
team!!
DELIGHT
COOMBOO
Shanghai Dumplings
Half dozen dumplings with appetizer of braised
pork on rice only $20.
Valid 11 December 2025 - 15 January 2026
Moko Cafe
Purchase any breakfast between 9:00am
and 11:30am and receive a free regular coffee.
Terms & Conditions apply
Valid 11 December - 14 December 2025.
6pcs
Spring Rolls
& Miso
Soup
Roast Ease
Beef, Pork, Lamb, Lamb Shanks,
Chicken and roast vegetables
available at Roast Ease.
Bring this into
Coffee Culture
Bush Inn and when
you buy an 8oz hot
drink from our menu,
you can get a second
drink for free!*.
*8oz hot drinks only. Available only at Coffee Culture
Bush Inn. Offer valid 11 December 2025 - 4 January 2026.

GET A PRE-CHRISTMAS TIDY UP
Preschool .......................
GET A PRE-CHRISTMAS
GET $15
TIDY
A
UP
PRE-CHRISTMAS
Primary School 5-12yrs .... $20
High School Preschool 13yrs+ ....................... $15
TIDY
.........
UP
$24
Uni Students Primary Male School ......... $26 5-12yrs .... $20 $17
Uni Students High Female School ...... 13yrs+ $30 ......... $24 $22
Student Re-Style Uni Students ............ Male $35 ......... $26
$26
ALL OUR Uni STYLISTS Students ARE Female ...... $30
FULLY QUALIFIED $28
Student Re-Style ............ $35
Don’t Forget
$32
our LOYALTY ALL CARD OUR STYLISTS ARE
Every 8th Haircut FULLY is FREE! QUALIFIED $40
Flawless
Face and
Beauty
Free LED Light
add on to any
facial booked
until 31 January
2026.
Bush Inn Shopping Centre P. 348 7008 | South City Don’t P. 366 Forget 0619
OPEN 7 DAYS
our LOYALTY CARD
Every 8th Haircut is FREE!
Bush Inn Shopping Centre P. 348 7008 | South City P. 366 0619
OPEN 7 DAYS
The
Nail Shop
OUR SERVICE The
Nail Shop
• M a n i c u re • Pe d i c u re
• G e l E x t e n s i o n
• S N S D i p p i n g p o w d e r
OUR
• N a
SERVICE
i l s A r t • A c r y l i c N a i l s
Gift • M a n Vouchers i c u re • Pe d Available
i c u re
• G e l E x t e n s i o n
• S N S D i p p i n g p o w d e r
• N a i l s A r t • A c r y l i c N a i l s
Deluxe Pedicure
Deluxe Pedicure
NECCHI SEWING MACHINE K417
17 Stitches, Mechanical
MAKR 36PCE COLOURED PENCILS WITH GRIP
Designed for comfort and precision.
FORMR JUNIOR KIDS HOODED TOWELS
60cm x 120cm | Design may vary by store.
Gift OPEN Vouchers NOW Available
OPEN NOW
Dipping Powder
Nail Extension
FORMR PICNIC / TRAVEL RUG
With Water Resistant Backing. Size: 130cm x 150cm
Range may vary by store.
NOVUS FAUX FUR THROWS
127cm x 152cm | Huge range of colours and designs
available which may vary by store.
MODERN HOMEWARES TRI-RACKS
3 Tier. Two side access with extra storage.
Size: 44cm x 34cm x 112cm. Range may vary by store.
MOR E I NFO :
Nail Extension
P h o n e : 03 3 4 30608
S Dipping h o p 1 3 Powder Bu s h I n n C e n t r e Ma l l
2 0 Wa i ma i r i Rd, Upp e r R i c c a r t o n , Eyelash Extension
Ch r i s t c h u r c h .
MOR E I NFO :
P h o n e : 03 3 4 30608
S h o p 1 3 Bu s h I n n C e n t r e Ma l l
2 0 Wa i ma i r i Rd, Upp e r R i c c a r t o n ,
Ch r i s t c h u r c h .
Eyelash Extension
*EXCLUDES FABRICS, PVC BY THE METRE, FAT QUARTERS, CONFECTIONERY, HOME GOODS

VISIT OUR WONDERFUL NEW WHITE
CHRISTMAS THEMED SANTA GROTTO!
FREE SANTA AND GIFT WRAPPING
Santa’s Grotto & Gift Wrapping
Bring the kids to visit Santa while we sort
the gift wrapping for free!
Christmas
Normal trading hours until Wednesday 24th December
Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm, Sunday, 10am – 4pm
HOURS
Thursday 11 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Friday 12 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Saturday 13 Dec: 11am – 5pm
Sunday 14 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Monday 15 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Tuesday 16 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Wednesday 17 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Thursday 18 Dec: 11am – 4pm
Friday 19 Dec: 10am – 5pm
Saturday 20 Dec: 10am – 5pm
Sunday 21 Dec: 10am – 4pm
Monday 22 Dec: 10am – 5pm
Tuesday 23 Dec: 10am – 5pm
Wednesday 24 Dec: 10am – 5pm
Gift wrapping station located inside main mall
Thursday 25 Dec: Closed
Friday 26 Dec: 10am – 4pm
Saturday 27 Dec: 9am – 5pm
Sunday 28 Dec: 10am – 4pm
Monday 29 Dec: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday 30 Dec: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday 31 Dec: 9am – 5pm
Thursday 1 Jan: Closed
Friday 2 Jan: 10am – 4pm
Saturday 3 Jan: 9am – 5pm
Sunday 4 Jan: Normal hours
External shop hours may differ
Have a safe and happy holiday season
LOCATION
Cnr Riccarton and Waimairi Roads,
Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041
CENTRE TRADING HOURS
9.00am – 5.00pm Monday - Saturday,
10.00am – 4.00pm Sundays
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
10:00am – 5:00pm
FOOD OUTLETS 10.00am – Late