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Selwyn_Times: January 14, 2026

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Wednesday, <strong>14</strong> <strong>January</strong> <strong>2026</strong><br />

Connecting Your Local Community<br />

starnews.co.nz<br />

Illegal parking<br />

pet peeve<br />

for 2025<br />

Page 3<br />

Lines operator<br />

climbs final<br />

power pole<br />

Page 6<br />

GERARD BLIGH<br />

M. 021 909 198<br />

nzsothebysrealty.com<br />

Each office is independently owned and operated. NZSIR<br />

Canterbury Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.<br />

Calls for<br />

Whata Rau<br />

to have<br />

bilingual<br />

signage<br />

BY DANIEL ALVEY<br />

Another controversy could<br />

be brewing over the issue of<br />

whether a new council building<br />

should have bilingual signage.<br />

Construction of a $16 million<br />

service centre, library and community<br />

facility is due to start in<br />

Leeston towards the end of the<br />

year.<br />

It will be called Whata Rau, a<br />

name gifted to the council by Te<br />

Taumutu Rūnanga.<br />

But already Leeston residents<br />

and the township’s community<br />

committee want bilingual<br />

signage.<br />

That might stop a similar<br />

controversy to what erupted<br />

in Rolleston over Te Ara Ātea.<br />

The word ‘library’ was left off<br />

the building by the council,<br />

leading to concern from the<br />

Rolleston Residents<br />

Association,<br />

which ignited<br />

huge reader<br />

feedback when it<br />

was reported in<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>.<br />

The issue of<br />

wording for the<br />

Leeston building<br />

was raised at a<br />

council briefing<br />

Brendan<br />

Shefford<br />

in December by deputy mayor<br />

Brendan Shefford.<br />

“Probably the most important<br />

question. What is the name<br />

going on the side of the building?”<br />

he asked council staff<br />

giving the briefing.<br />

Mayor Lydia Gliddon<br />

responded to the question saying<br />

it was “undecided”.<br />

​HAVE YOUR SAY<br />

What name should<br />

go on the outside of<br />

Leeston’s $16 million<br />

new library and<br />

community centre?<br />

Send your views in<br />

200 words to daniel.<br />

alvey@alliedmedia.<br />

co.nz<br />

“It has a building name of<br />

Whata Rau. That has been<br />

gifted by mana whenua and is<br />

relevant to the community," she<br />

said.<br />

Whata Rau does not translate<br />

to library and community centre.<br />

Whata means an elevated<br />

stage for storing food – a storage<br />

place or drying racks. It also<br />

The planned<br />

Leeston service and<br />

community centre<br />

and library, Whata<br />

Rau.<br />

Below – Rolleston’s<br />

Te Ara Ātea.<br />

means to elevate,<br />

support and bring<br />

into prominence.<br />

Rau means to put<br />

into, gather into,<br />

place into and to<br />

catch with a net.<br />

It also means a<br />

hundred.<br />

Joined together, Lydia Gliddon<br />

the name recognises<br />

the many platforms<br />

and storehouses of knowledge,<br />

the resources to be found<br />

throughout the district, and the<br />

significant natural resources of<br />

the landscape.<br />

No decisions have been made<br />

on what wording will appear<br />

on the building and if it will be<br />

bilingual.<br />

Shefford told <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong> he<br />

wants to avoid a repeat the Te<br />

Ara Ātea situation.<br />

› Continued on Page 4<br />

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2 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

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Please include your name, address and contact details<br />

Your local community newspaper connects neighbours in<br />

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from the editor’s desk<br />

Big Red Shefford’s quip at a council<br />

briefing last month has opened<br />

the door on what could be a hotly<br />

debated issue this year (page 1).<br />

The deputy mayor made this<br />

comment during discussion about<br />

the $16 million Leeston service<br />

centre, library and community<br />

facility: “Probably the most<br />

important question. What is the<br />

name going on the side of the<br />

building?” he asked council staff<br />

who were giving the briefing.<br />

They didn’t have time to answer,<br />

if indeed they were going to. Mayor<br />

Lydia Gliddon jumped in, saying it<br />

was “undecided”, adding: “It has a<br />

building name of Whata Rau. That<br />

has been gifted by mana whenua<br />

and is relevant to the community.”<br />

A canvas of Leeston residents and<br />

the Leeston Community Association<br />

indicates an appetite for Whata Rau<br />

and english signage on the building<br />

which says what the facility is.<br />

Construction is due to start later<br />

this year.<br />

Shefford told us last week he<br />

wants to avoid a repeat of the Te<br />

Ara Ātea situation, the omission of<br />

the word ‘library’ on the building<br />

sparking a massive outcry.<br />

“I don’t think you want another<br />

case of Rolleston division, and<br />

that’s my position on it. Sometimes<br />

something little ends up being<br />

news<br />

Complaints about roundabout<br />

Page 5<br />

news<br />

Insect invasions surge<br />

something big<br />

and consumes<br />

time, effort,<br />

energy,<br />

and creates<br />

division for<br />

the wrong<br />

reasons,” he<br />

said.<br />

A councilappointed<br />

reference<br />

group to look<br />

at the design and naming looks like<br />

having a big influence.<br />

- Barry Clarke<br />

barry@alliedmedia.co.nz<br />

This busy roundabout carries 10,100 vehicles a day. But many<br />

motorists say its overgrown state is a danger – and a potential<br />

fire risk.<br />

It is the busiest time of year for pest controller Darryl Knauf, as<br />

ant and fly infestations increase over summer.<br />

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starnews.co.nz<br />

NEWS <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 3<br />

Problem parkers rile residents<br />

BY DANIEL ALVEY<br />

Illegal parking topped the list<br />

of the most common resident<br />

complaints in 2025.<br />

Data from the council’s<br />

issue‐reporting tool, Snap Send<br />

Solve, showed there were 587<br />

omplaints of illegal parking.<br />

Last year, the council issued<br />

2902 parking tickets, totalling<br />

$393,265 in fines.<br />

Rolleston councillor Sophie<br />

McInnes admitted she will<br />

report illegal parking from time<br />

to time.<br />

“Quite often it is<br />

tradies’ vans. If I<br />

see a dodgy park,<br />

I won’t report it<br />

straight off, but if<br />

I’m coming back<br />

the same way<br />

and they are still<br />

there, then I’m<br />

like, that wasn’t ​Sophie McInnes<br />

quickly unloading<br />

your van,” she said.<br />

“Often when there is a subdivision<br />

going in, you get vans<br />

all over the place which doesn’t<br />

help the people that live there<br />

already.”<br />

Seven trade vehicles were<br />

ticketed in July for parking on<br />

a footpath on Lincoln Rolleston<br />

Rd, opposite the Pak’nSave<br />

which was still under construction<br />

at the time.<br />

The council acted after<br />

receiving complaints school<br />

children were having difficulty<br />

using the footpath.<br />

Of all parking tickets issued,<br />

the most common offence was<br />

​Complaints led to these tradie vehicles getting tickets in July for parking on a footpath.<br />

driving without a current registration<br />

(5<strong>14</strong>), followed by no<br />

warrant of fitness (462) and<br />

parking on a berm (393).<br />

McInnes said complaints about<br />

illegal parking prompted the<br />

council to resume enforcement<br />

about two years ago.<br />

Overgrown vegetation was the<br />

second most‐reported issue, with<br />

581 reports, followed by damaged<br />

roads with 470.<br />

McInnes encouraged<br />

others to use Snap Send Solve<br />

for reporting parking or<br />

road‐maintenance issues rather<br />

than going through a councillor.<br />

“You actually get a faster<br />

TOP ISSUES<br />

Illegal parking: 587<br />

Overgrown vegetation 581<br />

Damaged road: 470<br />

Pothole: 379<br />

Dumped rubbish: 320<br />

General parks request: 310<br />

Rubbish and bins: 280<br />

Water leak: 275<br />

Roads general: 231<br />

Road signage: 229<br />

response if you use Snap Send<br />

Solve because it goes directly to<br />

staff.”<br />

Complaints to council<br />

TOP LOCATIONS<br />

Rolleston: 2211<br />

Lincoln: 1020<br />

Prebbleton: 626<br />

Darfied: 286<br />

Leeston: 277<br />

West Melton: 233<br />

Tai Tapu: <strong>14</strong>8<br />

Springston: 125<br />

Kirwee: 113<br />

Southbridge: 86<br />

The Snap Send Solve app can be<br />

downloaded via the Google Play<br />

Store or the Apple App Store.<br />

In brief<br />

Re-roofing work to close<br />

part of community centre<br />

Part of the Rolleston Community<br />

Centre will be closed until about<br />

Easter while it gets a new roof<br />

installed. The work will see the<br />

stadium section of the building<br />

closed. The Youth Hub and Older<br />

Persons Hub will be unaffected.<br />

The council has budgeted $424,687<br />

for the new roof and other<br />

maintenance being completed at<br />

the same time.<br />

Repairs mean periodic<br />

closure for bridge<br />

The Waimakariri Gorge bridge will<br />

be closed at various times this<br />

week so repair work can be carried<br />

out. Work will start at 7pm today,<br />

with the bridge closed until 5am<br />

tomorrow. It will be also closed<br />

from 9.30am-2.30pm tomorrow,<br />

Friday and Monday. The work<br />

is weather dependent, so if it is<br />

raining or there are high winds and<br />

work cannot be carried out, the<br />

night works will happen on <strong>January</strong><br />

19 and 20, and the day works on<br />

<strong>January</strong> 22 or 23.<br />

​New Year Honours<br />

photo error<br />

In last week’s issue an incorrect<br />

photo of King’s<br />

Service Medal<br />

recipient David<br />

Drake was<br />

published.<br />

This is the<br />

correct photo.<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong><br />

apologises for<br />

the error.<br />

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4 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> NEWS<br />

starnews.co.nz<br />

Mason’s Australian<br />

salary to be revealed<br />

BY DANIEL ALVEY<br />

New community centre<br />

signage gets debated<br />

​Outgoing council chief<br />

executive Sharon Mason’s new<br />

pay in Australia will be known<br />

tomorrow.<br />

Mason, who resigned just<br />

before Christmas and will<br />

finish on Friday, was being<br />

paid $374,000. She will receive<br />

a $57,380 payout in lieu of<br />

working her contract’s threemonth<br />

notice period.<br />

Her new salary as the chief<br />

executive City of Onkaparinga,<br />

south of Adelaide, is expected to<br />

be made public tomorrow.<br />

An Onkaparinga<br />

Council spokesperson said<br />

remuneration was “set within<br />

the tribunal’s prescribed band<br />

one total remuneration package<br />

range”.<br />

The band one package<br />

for local government in<br />

South Australia sits between<br />

AUD$323,763 and AUD$419,580<br />

annually.<br />

The highest salary is just<br />

AUD$30,000 shy of State<br />

Premier Peter Malinauskas’<br />

reported AUD$450,000 annual<br />

salary.<br />

Former Onkaparinga chief<br />

executive Phu Nguyen, who<br />

announced his resignation<br />

in October, earned<br />

AUD$354,895.92.<br />

If Mason was paid the same as<br />

Nguyen, she could get about a<br />

$30,000 increase on her current<br />

salary once the exchange rate is<br />

​Sharon Mason’s salary as the new chief<br />

executive of Onkaparinga Council in<br />

South Australia is expected to be made<br />

public tomorrow.<br />

accounted for.<br />

If she were paid the highest<br />

AUD$419,000, it would work out<br />

to a $1<strong>14</strong>,000 increase.<br />

The Onkaparinga Council will<br />

also pay up to AUD$20,000 for<br />

Mason’s relocation.<br />

“Consistent with standard<br />

practice for senior management<br />

appointments, council has<br />

approved relocation assistance<br />

capped at $20,000, with no<br />

entitlement to the full amount if<br />

costs are lower,” a spokesperson<br />

said.<br />

ahead of construction<br />

› From Page 1<br />

“I don’t think you want<br />

another case of Rolleston<br />

division, and that’s my position<br />

on it . . .” said Shefford.<br />

“Sometimes something little<br />

ends up being something<br />

big and consumes time, effort,<br />

energy, and creates division for<br />

the wrong reasons.”<br />

In Christchurch, the newly<br />

completed Parakiore Recreation<br />

and Sports Centre features both<br />

its gifted name and its purpose<br />

on the entry sign.<br />

Shefford said it should be up<br />

to the community what they<br />

want on the building.<br />

“If they don’t want (Leeston<br />

Library and Community Centre)<br />

put on and they are happy with<br />

Whata Rau, just let them be,”<br />

he said.<br />

But Leeston<br />

Community Committee<br />

chair<br />

Bryan Tubb said<br />

if Whata Rau goes<br />

on the outside, so<br />

should Leeston<br />

Library and Community<br />

Centre.<br />

“That would<br />

be the opinion<br />

Bryan Tubb<br />

of anyone in the<br />

community committee,” he said.<br />

People spoken to by <strong>Selwyn</strong><br />

<strong>Times</strong> in Leeston say both names<br />

should be on the building.<br />

Said Leeston resident Bobbie<br />

Pringle: “It should be bilingual<br />

with the Māori name first.”<br />

Another resident, Jackie<br />

Cochrane, said she will be calling<br />

it the library.<br />

“Library should be first, then<br />

the Māori name,” she said.<br />

Fresh Choice Leeston owner<br />

David Craig said it should have<br />

both for people who live outside<br />

the area and do not know what<br />

it is.<br />

Gliddon told <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong> she<br />

also wanted to avoid a repeat<br />

of what happened with Te Ara<br />

Ātea.<br />

“If we can do things right<br />

from the start, it is good for<br />

everybody, so I think it is about<br />

respecting the name it has been<br />

gifted from mana whenua and<br />

Taumutu and also partnering<br />

with our community,” she said.<br />

Gliddon said it should be up to<br />

the community reference group<br />

formed to help with design<br />

to decide what goes on the<br />

building.<br />

The group, chaired by former<br />

councillor Grant Miller,<br />

also comprises of community<br />

volunteer Grant Clausen, Ellesmere<br />

College principal Antony<br />

French, accountant and business<br />

owner Mike Lay, planning<br />

consultant Jane West, and Te<br />

Taumutu Rūnanga representitives<br />

Liz Brown and Bridget<br />

Robilliard.<br />

Miller was non-committal<br />

about what should be on the<br />

building when asked by <strong>Selwyn</strong><br />

<strong>Times</strong>, saying<br />

there were more<br />

important things<br />

to focus on, like<br />

getting it built.<br />

“I wouldn’t be<br />

worried about<br />

the name, I’d be<br />

worrying about<br />

getting it built on<br />

budget and on<br />

time. The Leeston<br />

​Grant Miller<br />

community has been waiting too<br />

long,” Miller said.<br />

“I just think it has been a<br />

non-issue (name) right from<br />

the start, the project has been<br />

Whata Rau Leeston Library and<br />

Community Centre.”<br />

Ellesmere councillor<br />

Elizabeth Mundt also said it<br />

should be what the community<br />

wants.<br />

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starnews.co.nz<br />

NEWS <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 5<br />

​Eyesore, danger, complaints<br />

​BY DYLAN SMITS<br />

This busy roundabout carries<br />

10,100 vehicles a day, from<br />

heavy transport trucks to<br />

commuters.<br />

But many motorists say the<br />

overgrown vegetation in the<br />

middle of the Halswell Junction<br />

Rd and Springs Rd roundabout<br />

is a danger – and a potential fire<br />

risk.<br />

Dozens have complained to<br />

Halswell Ward city councillor<br />

Andrei Moore.<br />

His frustration is clear.<br />

“It’s an overgrown roundabout.<br />

I don’t really want to be<br />

spending endless time on it,<br />

but something has to be done,”<br />

Moore told <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>.<br />

"You also end<br />

up in this difficult<br />

grey area.<br />

Is the maintenance<br />

about<br />

safety or is it<br />

aesthetic?”<br />

The<br />

overgrown<br />

roundabout is<br />

a key junction<br />

between<br />

Andrei Moore<br />

Wigram, Hornby, Halswell and<br />

Prebbleton.<br />

But aesthetics are no longer a<br />

Government priority.<br />

The vegetation is not being<br />

maintained to its previous<br />

standard by New Zealand<br />

Transport Agency due to<br />

changes to maintenance budgets<br />

made by the Government.<br />

The overgrown roundabout which<br />

obscures this Holden Captiva before it<br />

rounds the bend. PHOTO: DYLAN SMITS<br />

The Government Policy Statement<br />

on Land Transport 2024<br />

restricted budgets which paid<br />

for aesthetic maintenance in<br />

order to focus resources on<br />

more critical maintenance like<br />

filling pot holes.<br />

An NZTA spokesperson told<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong> the Christchurch<br />

City Council has recently<br />

agreed to start maintaining the<br />

roundabout.<br />

City council head of transport<br />

and waste management Lynette<br />

Ellis said staff are working with<br />

NZTA on a revised operational<br />

delegations agreement to define<br />

activities the two authorities<br />

do on each other’s behalf,<br />

including for landscaping at the<br />

roundabout.<br />

Moore and Hornby Ward city<br />

councillor Mark Peters have<br />

both inquired about the issue to<br />

NZTA and learnt of the budget<br />

constraints from staff last week.<br />

Peters questions the logic of<br />

viewing the maintenance as<br />

purely aesthetic.<br />

“It’s not just an aesthetic<br />

issue, I have heard about some<br />

near misses,” he said.<br />

Between 2020 and 2025, there<br />

have been six recorded crashes<br />

at the roundabout with one<br />

resulting in a serious injury.<br />

Moore’s Facebook post about<br />

the roundabout received many<br />

comments concerned about the<br />

overgrowth.<br />

Peter Welsh said it “looks<br />

like a fire hazard waiting to<br />

happen”.<br />

Said Maree Walker: “This<br />

is a problem nationwide. It’s<br />

lack of forethought from the<br />

engineers who design the<br />

roundabouts. Plant them out if<br />

you must, but make sure there<br />

is enough funding so they will<br />

be maintained in its lifetime.”<br />

HAVE YOUR SAY<br />

What do you think about the state of<br />

this roundabout? Send your views to<br />

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6 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

Dedicated Orion<br />

operator pulls<br />

the plug after<br />

four decades​<br />

NEWS<br />

​BY DANIEL ALVEY<br />

Tony Smith has climbed his final<br />

power pole as he retires from<br />

lines operator Orion after a<br />

41-year career.<br />

The 70-year-old Leeston resident<br />

has worked as a network<br />

operator since joining the<br />

company in 1985, when it was<br />

known as the Central Canterbury<br />

Electric Power Board.<br />

“I have loved the job and got<br />

a lot of satisfaction out of it.<br />

People really appreciate the<br />

fact you’re there trying to keep<br />

the power going and get their<br />

power back on for them,” he<br />

said.<br />

After finishing school, Tony,<br />

who is originally from Lake<br />

Hāwea, spent 12 years in Twizel<br />

with the Ministry of Works<br />

where he completed his apprenticeship<br />

and became a qualified<br />

electrician.<br />

As a network operator, he was<br />

often first on the scene to deal<br />

with damaged or faulty powerlines,<br />

frequently being called<br />

out in bad weather and at all<br />

hours of the night.<br />

Tony recalled having to rescue<br />

a couple of lambs from “the<br />

big snow” in August 1992 while<br />

repairing a power line.<br />

“It was a really heavy snowfall,<br />

you could hardly drive<br />

through the roads.<br />

“I had a lineman with me,<br />

Gerard O’Neill – he and I<br />

grabbed these lambs and pulled<br />

them out of the snow and<br />

helped them on their way.<br />

“That was probably one of<br />

the biggest storms we had, and<br />

it caused quite a bit of havoc,”<br />

Tony said.<br />

Alongside extreme weather<br />

events, Tony was also called to<br />

attend car accidents, sometimes<br />

fatal, where power poles had<br />

been struck.<br />

“Some of it is pretty sad and<br />

hard to get over, but unfortunately,<br />

you can’t do a lot about<br />

it. You just have to put it behind<br />

you and carry on,” he said.<br />

When he first started at the<br />

power board, Tony’s role also<br />

​Retiring Orion network operator Tony<br />

Smith, pictured last week, has been<br />

keeping the power on for 41 years and<br />

estimates he has driven more than<br />

1 million miles across the district.<br />

PHOTOS: DANIEL ALVEY<br />

included servicing household<br />

appliances.<br />

“Central Canterbury Electric<br />

Power Board originally had a<br />

showroom on the main street<br />

in Leeston, so they used to sell<br />

fridges, freezers and washing<br />

machines, and we used to service<br />

those as well.”<br />

The Smith family’s connection<br />

to Orion will continue, with two<br />

of Tony’s four children working<br />

for the company. Daughter<br />

Elizabeth is in administration,<br />

and his son Thomas is a project<br />

manager.<br />

Apart from keeping up with<br />

lawn bowls, Tony has no specific<br />

plans for retirement.<br />

“It’s a bit frightening, because<br />

I’ve been working since I was<br />

about 16, so it’s going to be completely<br />

different.”<br />

Tony said it will be hard to<br />

stop checking the powerlines<br />

when he is driving around.<br />

“But because you’re so used to<br />

doing it just about every day of<br />

your life, it’s going to be hard to<br />

just put it behind you, that’s for<br />

sure. It will take a bit of getting<br />

used to.”<br />

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8 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

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starnews.co.nz<br />

NEWS <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 9<br />

Owner cleared<br />

after greyhound<br />

returns positive<br />

test for meth<br />

BY JEREMY WILKINSON<br />

A greyhound that tested<br />

positive for methamphetamine<br />

after winning its race has left its<br />

owner and racing investigators<br />

scratching their heads about<br />

how the dog could have been<br />

contaminated.<br />

Trainer Craig Anderson, 68,<br />

was shocked by the result,<br />

vehemently expressing he had<br />

never touched the drug and had<br />

no idea how his dog came into<br />

contact with it.<br />

When investigators from the<br />

Racing Integrity Board turned<br />

up at his property for a drug<br />

screening of his six greyhounds,<br />

they found one of the dogs,<br />

Hilton Hustler, tested positive<br />

for the Class A substance.<br />

The previous afternoon,<br />

the dog had won its race at<br />

Addington, but hadn’t been<br />

swabbed post-race.<br />

Forensic samples were taken<br />

from Anderson and his wife,<br />

the dogs’ kennel area, and<br />

Anderson’s vehicle, which was<br />

used to transport the dogs, and<br />

all returned a negative result.<br />

Hilton Hustler’s test one week<br />

earlier, and another two weeks<br />

after, were also clear.<br />

In the last year, Anderson was<br />

involved in hundreds of races<br />

with his greyhounds being tested<br />

22 times collectively, and 18<br />

times the previous year.<br />

He has had no prohibited<br />

substance breaches since he<br />

began racing dogs in 2017.<br />

Anderson told investigators<br />

that other than his dog having<br />

the usual interactions with<br />

kennel staff and other handlers<br />

while at the races, no other<br />

humans had been in contact with<br />

the dog in the two to three days<br />

before the positive drug test.<br />

Despite the racing investigators<br />

being unable to trace the source<br />

of the drug, a charge was laid<br />

against Anderson before the Racing<br />

Integrity Board.<br />

The greyhound, not pictured here, had very low levels of methamphetamine in its system.<br />

However, at a hearing held<br />

in December at Addington<br />

Raceway, no penalty was sought<br />

for Anderson due to there not<br />

being any evidence of his being<br />

connected to the drug.<br />

Investigators said the level<br />

found in Hilton Hustler’s system<br />

was very low at just 0.7ng/mL of<br />

methamphetamine and 3ng/mL<br />

of amphetamine.<br />

For comparison, the international<br />

standard for positive<br />

drug test cut-off concentration<br />

applied in human drug testing<br />

is 300ng/mL.<br />

Because a source could not<br />

be found, the board opted not<br />

to penalise Anderson for the<br />

positive drug test.<br />

“The Adjudicative Committee<br />

is satisfied that neither Mr nor<br />

Mrs Anderson was in any way<br />

responsible for the Prohibited<br />

Substances that were found in<br />

the out-of-competition urine<br />

sample that was taken from<br />

their greyhound…”<br />

PHOTO: GETTY<br />

The board noted the low levels<br />

of meth found and Anderson’s<br />

unblemished racing record.<br />

“Presenting a greyhound with<br />

a prohibited substance in its<br />

system is an offence of strict<br />

liability – that is to say, an offence<br />

is committed even when, as in<br />

the present case, no negligence is<br />

found,” the board said.<br />

“However, where no<br />

negligence is found, that finding<br />

can lead to a reduced penalty or<br />

a very small, or no, fine.”<br />

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10 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> NEWS<br />

starnews.co.nz<br />

Summer conditions drive<br />

surge in insect invasions<br />

​BY DYLAN SMITS<br />

Teddy<br />

Bears’ Picnic<br />

Friday 16 <strong>January</strong>, 10.30am–1.30pm<br />

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Get your teddy ready for the picnic of the year!<br />

Bring a packed lunch and reusable coffee mug and enjoy<br />

a fun-filled day with your teddy and whānau.<br />

Relax with live entertainment, or get active with crazy bikes,<br />

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FREE EVENT<br />

It is the busiest time of year for pest<br />

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The warmer months, amplified by a<br />

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but less welcome for household roofs,<br />

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We’re seeing huge nest populations. If<br />

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As the owner of Essential Pest Control<br />

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“We’ve actually invented the perfect<br />

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said.<br />

Many of Knauf’s customers discover<br />

ant infestations in their roof spaces<br />

while installing insulation.<br />

Higher than normal rainfall in<br />

December has also driven ants to look<br />

for drier areas inside homes that still<br />

have access to water, such as roofs and<br />

bathrooms.<br />

“It used to be the winter cold snaps<br />

would kill some of their numbers but<br />

we’ve had less of that recently so they<br />

can just multiply more year-round,”<br />

Knauf said.<br />

After 36 years in the business, his<br />

other general advice is to keep homes<br />

clean, cover green bins, and maintain<br />

lawns and gardens.<br />

starnews.co.nz<br />

Although mosquitoes are a summer<br />

​Pest controller Darryl Knauf exterminates an<br />

ant nest under a dishwasher, a common damp<br />

environment where ants make a home.<br />

problem in the North Island, Knauf said<br />

there are few infestations in Canterbury.<br />

“What we have seen is a lot more<br />

rodents for this time of year. There’s usually<br />

more of that in autumn time, but it<br />

has stayed consistent this year.”<br />

Pest Management Association of New<br />

Zealand member Dr Paul Craddock said<br />

insect biology, particularly for ants, is<br />

closely linked to climate.<br />

“They’re basically multiplying, and<br />

their nests are expanding. It’s nice and<br />

warm and damp for them, so they’re<br />

really liking that,” he said.<br />

Craddock said fly screens are a worthwhile<br />

investment, with windows open<br />

more often in summer.<br />

“There’s also airflow – you’ll often<br />

find on a windy day there aren’t many<br />

flies around because they’re all kind of<br />

hiding.”<br />

Ceiling and pedestal fans also create<br />

“artificial wind” and can deter flying<br />

insects in particular, Craddock said.<br />

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starnews.co.nz<br />

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12 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

SPORT<br />

Lack of volunteers<br />

puts netball club’s<br />

future in jeopardy<br />

BY SAM COUGHLAN<br />

“Help us.”<br />

That is the plea from<br />

the Ellesmere Combined<br />

Netball Club, which faces a<br />

severe shortage of volunteer<br />

committee members for <strong>2026</strong><br />

and could be forced into<br />

hibernation.<br />

Outgoing president Jess<br />

Galbraith, who has spent<br />

the past 10 years on the<br />

committee and the last<br />

three as president, said<br />

the club currently had<br />

five committee members,<br />

with nine needed to<br />

operate smoothly.<br />

“I think the commitment<br />

scares a lot of people, but<br />

it is no more than picking up a<br />

new hobby or something else.<br />

“If you get some enjoyment<br />

out of it, it doesn’t seem like<br />

that’s a big commitment,” she<br />

said.​<br />

Galbraith’s children played<br />

for the club when they were<br />

younger but are now in their<br />

20s and no longer involved.<br />

She and outgoing treasurer<br />

Justine Caunce are stepping<br />

down, leaving Ellesmere<br />

short of volunteers for key<br />

administrative roles.<br />

​Jess Galbraith<br />

“It’s time to pass the reins on,<br />

but that leaves the committee<br />

a little bit light on hands, and<br />

the reality is, it can’t run on less<br />

than what it has done in the last<br />

couple of years,” Galbraith said.<br />

“We decided we would put<br />

the letter out and do one last<br />

plea so that we could try<br />

and keep things going.”<br />

Without a committee,<br />

Ellesmere would be<br />

unable to register with<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> Netball Centre<br />

for its <strong>2026</strong> competitions,<br />

leaving about 120 players<br />

across junior and senior<br />

grades needing to join<br />

another club.<br />

“We would essentially<br />

put the club into limbo,”<br />

Galbraith said.<br />

“That means putting the funds<br />

we have aside into some form of<br />

trust, so that if the club wanted<br />

to be restarted in the next<br />

couple of years, it could be.”<br />

Ellesmere Combined was<br />

formed in 2009, when the<br />

Leeston, Irwell and Dunsandel<br />

clubs merged. Individually, the<br />

clubs date back as far as the<br />

1960s.<br />

Galbraith said the volunteering<br />

culture in sport had<br />

changed.<br />

Ellesmere Combined players might have no place to play in <strong>2026</strong> with the netball club struggling to find enough volunteers to<br />

put a committee together.<br />

“Sport has always been a<br />

massive thing in <strong>Selwyn</strong>. The<br />

tennis clubs have always been<br />

strong, netball, rugby, it’s the<br />

volunteering that has gone a bit<br />

more by the wayside.<br />

“It has been really<br />

heartbreaking for us to get to this<br />

point and actually have to stick<br />

our hand up and say, ‘hey, this is<br />

going to be the end if we can’t get<br />

some help’.”<br />

A <strong>Selwyn</strong> Netball Centre<br />

spokesperson Trinity Lauren<br />

said while Ellesmere had not<br />

approached them directly,<br />

they were aware of the club’s<br />

situation.<br />

“Our clubs are run by<br />

Final ball fortune favours Darfield<br />

​BY SAM COUGHLAN<br />

A top edge from No 11 batter<br />

Isaac Earl that landed safely<br />

in a gap proved the difference<br />

between victory and defeat, as<br />

a depleted Darfield side claimed<br />

a dramatic one-wicket win over<br />

Peninsula-Harbour on Saturday.<br />

Chasing 219 for victory,<br />

Darfield still needed 31 runs<br />

from the final three overs when<br />

Earl, the last remaining batter,<br />

walked to the crease to join No<br />

10 Jack Middleton.<br />

“Some of the boys were<br />

definitely feeling it on the<br />

sidelines. There was a bit of<br />

pacing around and not much<br />

conversation going on,” said<br />

Darfield coach Shannon<br />

McAleer.<br />

Earl then smoked two<br />

sixes off David Neal in the<br />

Darfield remain third in the Canterbury<br />

Country premier competition after a<br />

one-wicket win over Peninsula-Harbour.<br />

PHOTO: SHANNON MCALEER<br />

penultimate over to leave his<br />

side needing just five runs from<br />

the final over.<br />

That was eventually reduced<br />

to two runs off the last ball,<br />

when Earl’s top edge dropped<br />

into empty space and the pair<br />

safely completed the winning<br />

second run. Earl finished on 21<br />

not out off just nine balls.<br />

The side was without Canterbury<br />

Country players Jesse Frew,<br />

Jordy Frew, and Robbie Foulkes,<br />

and McAleer said those were<br />

the matches his side targeted as<br />

must-win opportunities.<br />

“It’s not our strongest 11, so<br />

we target these games for wins if<br />

we can sneak past a team.<br />

“We definitely had a young<br />

side out there, three or four guys<br />

who have only just finished high<br />

school cricket, so it was great to<br />

get that result,” he said.<br />

The win kept Darfield third<br />

on the ladder behind leaders<br />

Weedons, who beat Cheviot by<br />

five wickets on Saturday, and<br />

Pleasant Point.<br />

This weekend, Darfield host<br />

winless Kaiapoi, Weedons play<br />

Sefton, Peninsula-Harbour host<br />

Pleasant Point, and Oxford visit<br />

Ohoka. Cheviot has the bye.<br />

Country closer to cup final<br />

​BY SAM COUGHLAN<br />

​Canterbury Country are just<br />

one game away from getting<br />

the opportunity to regain the<br />

Hawke Cup after a 10-wicket<br />

win over Marlborough in<br />

Blenheim at the weekend.<br />

Country’s win, spearheaded<br />

by eight wickets for Canterbury<br />

spinner Raunaq Kapur, means<br />

their clash with Nelson at Mainpower<br />

Oval in two weeks acts as<br />

the zone 3 playoff final, with the<br />

two teams having already qualified<br />

with a round to spare.<br />

The match will be played over<br />

three days with the winners to<br />

meet the Hawke Cup holders,<br />

currently Taranaki, next month<br />

for the cup.<br />

Country were made to work<br />

hard against Marlborough, who<br />

put up 189 in their first innings,<br />

Kapur the pick of the bowlers<br />

with four for 29.<br />

With the bat Country was<br />

reduced to 51 for four early<br />

before Brayden Hill (51) and<br />

Will Williams (48) batted them<br />

into the lead, and quick runs<br />

from Sam Chamberlain (30) and<br />

Jordy Frew (26 not out) meant<br />

they made 253 all out.<br />

Kapur took four more wickets<br />

in the second innings, backed<br />

up by four for Robbie Foulkes<br />

as Marlborough were all out for<br />

112, and Country chased down<br />

the small target of 50 with ease<br />

to seal victory.<br />

Country last held the Hawke<br />

Cup in 2023 before losing it to<br />

Hawke’s Bay.<br />

Last season against Taranaki<br />

they fell just six runs short of<br />

winning it back, with Kapur<br />

caught on the boundary trying<br />

to hit the runs they needed to<br />

pass Taranaki’s first-innings<br />

total.<br />

volunteers and at times find<br />

themselves facing challenges for<br />

various reasons.<br />

“Ellesmere has identified that<br />

they need more volunteers to<br />

support the club moving forward<br />

and have reached out to their<br />

community.<br />

“They have a long history of<br />

netball in <strong>Selwyn</strong> and we will<br />

do all we can to support them to<br />

continue,” Lauren said.<br />

The club is holding a special<br />

meeting on Sunday at 3pm at its<br />

Leeston Park clubrooms, with<br />

the aim of establishing a new<br />

committee.<br />

“We’ve had a few people<br />

reach out to us, which has been<br />

​BY SAM COUGHLAN<br />

​Prebbleton’s Chris White has<br />

shaken off illness to record<br />

his best weekend in the<br />

Toyota GR86 Championship<br />

at Hampton Downs in the<br />

Waikato.<br />

White, who races for Neale<br />

Motorsport, won the round<br />

victory. He finished on the<br />

podium in all three races and<br />

won the third after starting on<br />

pole position, despite by his<br />

own admission feeling “pretty<br />

miserable” all weekend.<br />

“Some sort of cough-y sickness,<br />

sore body and headaches and<br />

everything,” he said.<br />

“It didn’t really affect me for<br />

the first few laps of the race,<br />

but the second your body starts<br />

heating up it just cooks you,<br />

amazing,” Galbraith said.<br />

“So we’re feeling positive.”<br />

She said being on the<br />

committee was highly rewarding<br />

and well worth the time.<br />

“The good feelings you get back<br />

from giving to the community is<br />

much more than the effort you<br />

put in.<br />

“You get to the end of the season<br />

at prizegiving and you see all<br />

these kids who have come so far<br />

from the beginning of the season.<br />

“You hear all of the good<br />

stories of kids getting out there<br />

and playing, being healthy and<br />

doing all of the things we did<br />

when we were kids, and that’s<br />

awesome,” she said.<br />

​Chris White put sickness aside to win the third race in the Toyota GR86<br />

Championship at the weekend.<br />

PHOTO: JOEL HANKS<br />

​White beats illness<br />

for GR86 victory<br />

makes you feel completely<br />

dead.”<br />

The physical challenges did<br />

not stop White from taking the<br />

championship lead after two<br />

rounds, with his next race at<br />

Teretonga Park in Invercargill<br />

in two weeks before racing<br />

in Cromwell the following<br />

weekend.<br />

“I’ve done plenty of laps<br />

around there, so it’ll be quite<br />

good getting a South Island<br />

advantage over the North<br />

Islanders,” he said.<br />

“Just starting to extend the<br />

championship lead would be<br />

the ultimate goal for the rest of<br />

the season.”<br />

The championship spans six<br />

weekends, with the final race<br />

at the Taupo International<br />

Motorsport Park in April.


starnews.co.nz<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 13<br />

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<strong>14</strong> | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

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FEATURE <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 15<br />

Back<br />

to School<br />

Back-to-school savings<br />

As the new school year approaches, many<br />

families feel the pinch from uniforms,<br />

stationery lists, and all the extras that<br />

add up. However, preparing your child<br />

for school doesn’t have to break the<br />

bank. Here are some tips to help you keep<br />

back-to-school costs down.<br />

The cost of school uniforms can often<br />

be a significant source of stress for<br />

families. Here are some tips to help<br />

reduce those expenses:<br />

• Check if your school offers pre-loved<br />

uniforms or holds PTA sales.<br />

• Look for uniforms on platforms like<br />

Facebook Marketplace, Neighbourly,<br />

and Buy/Sell/Swap groups.<br />

• Reach out to friends and family; their<br />

children may have outgrown items<br />

that still fit your needs.<br />

• • Visit op shops, as many have<br />

dedicated sections for school<br />

uniforms.Only purchase essential<br />

branded clothing, and consider<br />

generic items like thermals and<br />

socks from regular retailers.<br />

• Buy one size up, especially for shirts<br />

and jerseys, to allow for growth.<br />

• Only buy what is truly necessary<br />

instead of purchasing multiple sets.<br />

• Look for school shoes during sales.<br />

• Choose durable shoes over trendy<br />

ones, as sturdier options often<br />

last longer than cheaper alternatives.<br />

• Label all items, including hats,<br />

socks, and jerseys, to prevent costly<br />

replacements.<br />

At the beginning of the year, one<br />

significant expense is the stationery list.<br />

Here are some strategies to help make this<br />

more affordable:<br />

• Reuse supplies from last year, such as<br />

calculators, scissors, rulers, pencils,<br />

glue sticks, and exercise books, before<br />

purchasing new items.<br />

• Compare prices online before visiting<br />

stores, as many retailers offer back-toschool<br />

promotions.<br />

• Opt for house-brand stationery<br />

whenever possible to save money.<br />

• Purchase multipacks of pens, pencils,<br />

and highlighters, which can be shared<br />

between siblings or kept at home for<br />

refills throughout the year.<br />

• Stick to the school list and avoid<br />

buying unnecessary extras.<br />

Double-check the exercise book<br />

codes (e.g., 1B5, 1E5, 1A8) to ensure<br />

you are getting the correct books.<br />

• Choose a simple pencil case; an<br />

inexpensive zip-up case may last<br />

just as long as more expensive<br />

novelty options.<br />

• Compare the cost of ready-made<br />

stationery packs with the<br />

do-it-yourself lists to determine<br />

the best value.<br />

Lastly, for tech requirements, consider<br />

refurbished devices or check whether<br />

your school has loan programmes<br />

or payment plans available. Some<br />

organisations also support families<br />

through funding for essential<br />

school supplies. Also, many stores have<br />

back-to-school device specials.<br />

With a bit of planning and a few smart<br />

swaps, back-to-school time can be far<br />

more affordable and less stressful. Start<br />

the school year organised by planning<br />

and making thoughtful choices to<br />

prioritise essential items, make savings<br />

and have a more positive back-to-school<br />

experience for everyone involved.<br />

A New Beginning:<br />

Te Rau Horopito opening in <strong>2026</strong><br />

Office is open from Monday 26th <strong>January</strong>,<br />

10am – 2pm daily.<br />

Open afternoon, Friday 30th <strong>January</strong><br />

1.30pm – 4.30pm<br />

Term 1 commences Monday 2nd<br />

February, 8.50am<br />

Please visit our website for more<br />

information – www.terauhoropito.school.nz<br />

The days are counting down, and excitement is<br />

building as Te Rau Horopito, Rolleston's newest<br />

full primary school, prepares to open. Foundation<br />

principal Jo Grant and her team are thrilled to<br />

welcome learners and their families when the<br />

school opens on February 2, <strong>2026</strong>, at the beginning<br />

of Term 1.<br />

Located at 5 Arbor Green Boulevard, the school<br />

will be a valuable addition to the Arbor Green<br />

neighbourhood and the expanding community.<br />

It will open its doors to ākonga (students) at<br />

the beginning of the <strong>2026</strong> academic year and is<br />

expected to grow quickly. Currently, the school<br />

features a 12-classroom block, a playground,<br />

and outdoor learning spaces. The administration<br />

block is scheduled to be completed by mid-March<br />

<strong>2026</strong>. Additional construction is planned for next<br />

year, including another 12-classroom block, a<br />

multipurpose hall, and a six-classroom technology<br />

block, all expected to be completed by the start<br />

of the 2027 school year. Plans are also in place for<br />

an official opening at the end of March, to which the<br />

entire community will be invited.<br />

At Te Rau Horopito, every child matters. Teaching<br />

is designed with the ākonga at the centre,<br />

enabling them to build a strong sense of purpose,<br />

responsibility, and connection to the world around<br />

them. Principal Jo Grant has explained that they<br />

will provide a high-quality curriculum that reflects<br />

their community and celebrates every ākonga and<br />

their unique identities, cultures, and languages.<br />

The intention is to create a welcoming and inclusive<br />

learning environment where all ākonga can thrive.<br />

Te Rau Horopito has established a set of values<br />

to guide its approach to learning, shaping its culture<br />

and how they interact and grow together. The three<br />

core values are: Whanaungatanga: connection<br />

and belonging, Tiakitanga: guardianship and<br />

sustainability, Manaakitanga: care and compassion.<br />

The school will also implement the E Tū Tāngata<br />

approach to promote a culture where everyone<br />

is valued, and success is collectively celebrated.<br />

This approach is centred around three key<br />

strands: You Have Value, We Succeed Together and<br />

Others Matter.<br />

Te Rau Horopito is poised to become a vital part of<br />

the Rolleston community, fostering a nurturing and<br />

inclusive environment for learners, and the staff's<br />

commitment and welcoming atmosphere promise a<br />

bright future for both the ākonga and their families.


16 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE<br />

Back<br />

to School<br />

Primary School Start Dates <strong>2026</strong><br />

27 <strong>January</strong><br />

Kirwee Model School<br />

School Ln, Kirwee, 7543. Ph: 318 1850.<br />

website.kirweemodel.school.nz<br />

28 <strong>January</strong><br />

Dunsandel School<br />

Irvines Rd, RD2, Dunsandel, 7682.<br />

Ph: 325 4079. dunsandel.school.nz<br />

Glentunnel School<br />

Homebush Rd, Glentunnel, 7683.<br />

Ph: 318 2717. glentunnel.school.nz<br />

Leeston Consolidated School<br />

19 <strong>Selwyn</strong> St, Leeston, 7632.<br />

Ph: 324 3493. leeston.school.nz<br />

29 <strong>January</strong><br />

Te Rōhutu Whio School<br />

85 Kate Sheppard Drive, Rolleston 7678.<br />

Ph: 244 0426. terohutuwhio.school.nz<br />

Weedons School<br />

135 Weedons Ross Rd, RD 5, Weedons,<br />

7675. Ph: 347 8740. weedons.school.nz<br />

West Rolleston Primary School<br />

327 Dunns Crossing Rd, Rolleston, 7678.<br />

Ph: 595 0952. westrolleston.school.nz<br />

30 <strong>January</strong><br />

Burnham School<br />

2 Chaytor Ave, Burnham, 7600.<br />

Ph: 347 6851. burnham.school.nz<br />

Greendale School<br />

187 Greendale Rd, RD1, Christchurch,<br />

7671. Ph: 318 8436. greendale.school.nz<br />

Southbridge School<br />

25 Hastings St, Southbridge, 7602.<br />

Ph: 324 2545. southbridge.school.nz<br />

2 February<br />

Springfield School<br />

2 Tawera Ln, Springfield, 7681.<br />

Ph: 318 4867. springfield.school.nz<br />

Windwhistle School<br />

19 Rakaia Gorge Road, Windwhistle,<br />

Hororata, 7572. Ph: 318 6828.<br />

windwhistle.school.nz<br />

Hororata School<br />

2548 Bealey Rd, Hororata, RD2, Darfield,<br />

7572. Ph: 318 0803. hororata.school.nz<br />

Sheffield School<br />

Wrights Rd, Sheffield, 7500. Ph: 318 3713.<br />

sheffieldprimary.school.nz<br />

Lemonwood Grove School<br />

<strong>14</strong> Lemonwood Dr, Faringdon, Rolleston,<br />

7615. Ph: 974 9236.<br />

lemonwoodgrove.school.nz<br />

Rolleston School<br />

11 Tennyson St, Rolleston, 76<strong>14</strong>.<br />

Ph: 347 8355. rolleston.school.nz<br />

West Melton School<br />

743 Weedons Ross Rd, West Melton, 7618.<br />

Ph: 347 8448. westmelton.school.nz<br />

Broadfield School<br />

562 Robinsons Road, Broadfield, 7676.<br />

Ph: 325 2440. broadfield.school.nz<br />

Darfield Primary School<br />

15 Ross St, Darfield, 7510.<br />

Ph: 318 8473. darfieldprimary.school.nz<br />

Lincoln Primary School<br />

130 North Belt, Lincoln, 7608.<br />

Ph: 325 2571. lincolnprimary.ac.nz<br />

Springston School<br />

16-20 Leeston Rd, Springston, 7616.<br />

Ph: 329 5724. springston.school.nz<br />

Tai Tapu School<br />

1 School Rd, Tai Tapu, 7645.<br />

Ph: 329 6796. taitapu.school.nz<br />

Te Rau Horopito<br />

5 Arbor Green Boulevard, Rolleston 76<strong>14</strong>.<br />

Ph: (03) 599 9280. terauhoropito.school.nz<br />

3 February<br />

Rolleston Christian School<br />

571 Springston Rolleston Rd, RD 8,<br />

Rolleston, 7678. Ph: 550 2653.<br />

rollestonchristian.school.nz<br />

Clearview Primary School<br />

20 Broadlands Dr, Rolleston, 76<strong>14</strong>.<br />

Ph: 347 7025. clearview.school.nz<br />

Araria Springs Primary<br />

18 Russ Drive, Lincoln, 7608.<br />

Ph: 420 0888. ararira.school.nz<br />

Ladbrooks School<br />

9 Barnes Rd, Halswell, Christchurch, 7674.<br />

Ph: 329 6885. ladbrooks.school.nz<br />

Prebbleton School<br />

Blakes Rd, Prebbleton, 7604.<br />

Ph: 349 6553. prebbleton.school.nz<br />

Waitaha School<br />

12 Lemonwood Dr, Faringdon, Rolleston,<br />

7615. Ph: 344 1243. waitaha.school.nz<br />

Te Uru Tarata | Lemonwood Grove School in <strong>2026</strong><br />

Te Uru Tarata | Lemonwood Grove School<br />

is situated in Faringdon and is the largest<br />

primary school in the South Island. The school<br />

will start the <strong>2026</strong> year with 1000 learners<br />

ranging from Year 1 to Year 8. The vision ‘The<br />

best of you, as you’ means that as a school, we<br />

are focused on progress and ensuring every<br />

learner is reaching their potential both socially<br />

and academically. Te Uru Tarata | Lemonwood<br />

Grove School provides a balanced curriculum<br />

where the core curriculum is prioritised<br />

alongside teaching children to be curious,<br />

creative, and confident learners to ensure<br />

they are set with the skills they will need to<br />

be positive people in society. As a school, we<br />

are tightly zoned and encourage the school<br />

to be accessed by our community outside of<br />

school hours, with the field, playgrounds, and<br />

basketball courts all available to provide a<br />

safe place for learners to come together. We<br />

are really proud of the way our community<br />

treats and respects the physical environment.<br />

New families are enrolling their children from<br />

throughout Canterbury, New Zealand, and the<br />

world, contributing to a very rich and diverse<br />

community.<br />

Orientation Day - Friday 30th <strong>January</strong>, 1pm-3pm<br />

Term 1 Starts - Monday 2nd February<br />

Office open from Monday 26th <strong>January</strong> 9am-12pm<br />

Lemonwood Grove School<br />

<strong>14</strong> Lemonwood Drive, Faringdon, Rolleston 7615<br />

www.lemonwoodgrove.school.nz


starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 17<br />

Back<br />

to School<br />

Rebuild routines for starting the school year<br />

The start of the school year may be the<br />

ideal time to rebuild routines that support<br />

learning, wellbeing, and calmer days<br />

for everyone. With a bit of planning,<br />

establishing some simple daily habits at<br />

the start of the school year can make a big<br />

difference all term long.<br />

Mornings<br />

Starting the morning smoothly sets<br />

the tone for the day. During holidays,<br />

bedtimes and wake-up times often<br />

become more relaxed. Reintroducing<br />

consistent wake-up times a week or<br />

two before school starts helps children<br />

adjust without drama on the first day<br />

back. Avoid the morning rush and<br />

stress by introducing simple habits:<br />

lay out uniforms the night before and<br />

pack bags after dinner. Keep lunches<br />

straightforward and involve children in<br />

selecting their food and packing their<br />

own lunches. Whenever possible, prepare<br />

food in bulk at the beginning of the week<br />

and store it in portions for easy access<br />

throughout the week. Help children<br />

become more independent by displaying<br />

a quick, visible checklist of what is needed<br />

to start the day.<br />

After school<br />

If your children are not in after-school<br />

activities or care, allow time for them to<br />

decompress after they finish school. Help<br />

them transition from the classroom to<br />

home by setting aside time for a snack,<br />

a chat about the day, or a chance to play<br />

and unwind. It’s important to set aside<br />

a regular, sensible block of time for<br />

homework and project completion. This<br />

routine helps manage tasks and reduces<br />

last-minute stress.<br />

Bedtime<br />

Re-establish a consistent bedtime by<br />

gradually moving it 10–15 minutes earlier<br />

every few nights, one to two weeks<br />

before school starts. Set a pre-bedtime<br />

routine, such as a shower, reading a<br />

book, or listening to quiet music, to help<br />

them relax. Switch off devices at least an<br />

hour before bed, or keep screens out of<br />

bedrooms on school nights, to resist latenight<br />

scrolling and improve sleep.<br />

Plan the week<br />

A shared family calendar, whether it’s<br />

on the wall or online, helps everyone<br />

know what’s coming up. It can include<br />

sports practices, school events, meetings<br />

and family outings. Everyone can easily<br />

see at a glance what’s scheduled, helping<br />

avoid overscheduling and reducing lastminute<br />

stress.<br />

Screen time<br />

Discuss screen time and agree on clear<br />

expectations for devices, including when<br />

they’re allowed, where they’re used, and<br />

when they’re switched off. Reducing<br />

screen time can be an opportunity to<br />

spend time together, play games, and<br />

connect as a family. The beginning of<br />

the year is a chance to reset habits and<br />

routines for a successful school year.<br />

High School start dates <strong>2026</strong><br />

Darfield High School<br />

7 McLaughlins Road, Darfield.<br />

Ph: 318 8411. admin@darfield.school.nz<br />

Mon 2 Feb: Year 7s attend<br />

Tues 3 Feb: Whole School attends<br />

Fri 6 Feb: Waitangi Day Public Holiday<br />

Ellesmere College<br />

Leeston Dunsandel Road, Leeston.<br />

Ph: 324 3369. office@ellesmere.school.nz<br />

Fri 23 Jan: Office opens<br />

Tues to Thurs 27 to 29 Jan: Year 13<br />

Camp, Year 7 Fun Day<br />

Thurs 27 Jan: Buses run from today<br />

Fri 30 Jan: Year 8-10 at School - buses<br />

running<br />

Fri 6 Feb: Waitangi Day Public Holiday<br />

Lincoln High School<br />

25 Boundary Road, Lincoln.<br />

Ph: 325 2121. office@lincoln.school.nz<br />

Wed 28 Jan: Teacher Only Day<br />

Thurs 29 Jan: Teacher Only Day<br />

Fri 30 Jan: Start of Term 1 Year 9 Only<br />

and New Year 10-13 students and peer<br />

support (8:45am – 11am)<br />

Mon 2 Feb: Full school starts<br />

Fri 6 Feb: Waitangi Day Public Holiday<br />

Rolleston College<br />

631 Springston Rolleston Road, Rolleston.<br />

Ph: 595 2490. admin@rollestoncollege.nz<br />

Mon 2 Feb: Year 12 and Year 13 Mihi<br />

Whakatau and all year levels start.<br />

Fri 6 Feb: Waitangi Day Public Holiday<br />

West Rolleston<br />

Primary - School<br />

Te Kura o Te Uru Kowhai<br />

West Rolleston<br />

Primary - School<br />

Te Kura o Te Uru Kowhai<br />

Welcome<br />

to <strong>2026</strong><br />

Term 1 <strong>2026</strong><br />

commences<br />

on Thursday<br />

29th <strong>January</strong><br />

The school office will be<br />

open for new enrolments on<br />

Tuesday the 27th of <strong>January</strong><br />

from 12pm to 2pm and<br />

Wednesday the 28th <strong>January</strong><br />

from 9am to 12pm.<br />

Please visit our website<br />

www.westrolleston.school.nz<br />

for more information<br />

Nau mai, haere mai.<br />

Term 1 commences<br />

Thursday 29th<br />

<strong>January</strong> <strong>2026</strong>.<br />

Our office is open for <strong>2026</strong><br />

enrolments on Tuesday 27th<br />

<strong>January</strong>. Please complete our<br />

online enrolment form and email<br />

admin@terohutuwhio.school.<br />

nz to book your enrolment hui<br />

meeting. Kanohi ki te kanohi will<br />

be on the 29th & 30th <strong>January</strong>.<br />

Normal school learning starts on<br />

2nd February .<br />

For more information please visit<br />

www.terohutuwhio.school.nz or<br />

phone our office 03 244 0426.<br />

Leeston<br />

Consolidated<br />

School<br />

Term 1 commences Wednesday<br />

28th <strong>January</strong>. Office open for<br />

new enrolments on Tuesday 27th<br />

<strong>January</strong> 9-12pm or complete an<br />

online enrolment on our website.<br />

Ph 3243 493 or visit<br />

www.leeston.school.nz<br />

for more information.<br />

Welcome to <strong>2026</strong><br />

Clearview Primary<br />

Term 1 Commences<br />

Tuesday, 3 February<br />

Open afternoon Monday 2 February 1-3pm<br />

Office open for enrolments from<br />

Wednesday 28 <strong>January</strong> at 9.30am<br />

Uniform Sale<br />

Order on-line at: nzuniforms.com/clearview,<br />

or visit NZ Uniforms retail store<br />

455 Blenheim Road,<br />

Sockburn<br />

Te Kura Tuarua o Tawera<br />

DARFIELD HIGH SCHOOL<br />

Start of School Year <strong>2026</strong><br />

Monday 19 <strong>January</strong>: Office opens<br />

10am - 2pm weekdays to 2 February<br />

Monday 2 February: Year 7s attend and<br />

Course Confirmation by appointment<br />

Tuesday 3 February: All school attends<br />

Friday 6 February: Waitangi Day<br />

Please visit our website<br />

www.darfield.school.nz<br />

for more information<br />

Second Hand Uniforms<br />

Monday 2 February 1-3pm<br />

in the Clearview Hall.<br />

Please visit www.clearview.school.nz for further information on Clearview Primary


18 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE<br />

We look forward to welcoming all learners on Monday 2 February <strong>2026</strong>!<br />

Rolleston College Horoeka Haemata<br />

is welcoming learners and whānau<br />

back for <strong>2026</strong> with a strong sense of<br />

momentum, as preparations continue<br />

for the school’s major expansion to<br />

two campuses from <strong>2026</strong>.<br />

Under the new model, Campus One<br />

will be home to years 9–11, while<br />

Campus Two will cater for years<br />

12 and 13.<br />

The shift will strengthen learner<br />

wellbeing, provide more space,<br />

broaden opportunities, and support<br />

the rapidly growing Rolleston<br />

community.<br />

Principal Rachel Skelton says the<br />

changes reflect the college’s long-held<br />

commitment to personalised learning.<br />

“This structure lets our young people<br />

grow in spaces designed for their<br />

stage of learning, while staying<br />

connected through our shared culture<br />

and values,” she says.<br />

“No matter which campus they are<br />

on, our students remain united by the<br />

Rolleston Spirit – to develop self, build<br />

communities, and transform futures.”<br />

Growing with the community<br />

The college continues to experience<br />

strong enrolment demand as<br />

Rolleston expands, and the twocampus<br />

model aims to future-proof<br />

local secondary education. Close<br />

partnership with mana whenua, Ngāi<br />

Te Ruahikihiki, remains central to the<br />

college’s planning and identity.<br />

The school also continues to<br />

strengthen its ties with local clubs,<br />

organisations, and community groups<br />

– from sports partnerships to arts<br />

collaborations and cultural events that<br />

bring the wider Rolleston community<br />

into the heart of the kura.<br />

Opportunities that reflect local<br />

strengths<br />

As the 2025 school year gets<br />

underway, learners can look forward<br />

to a wide range of opportunities<br />

including:<br />

• Academic pathways tailored to<br />

university, trades, and employment<br />

• A thriving performing arts<br />

programme, including the <strong>2026</strong><br />

production of Into the Woods Jr<br />

• Strong sports participation,<br />

bolstered by community coaches<br />

and local competition<br />

• Digital innovation and technology,<br />

including growing STEM<br />

opportunities<br />

• Leadership development, with roles<br />

available from year 9 through to<br />

year 13<br />

• Enhanced hauora and pastoral<br />

support, ensuring every learner feels<br />

known and supported.<br />

These opportunities form part of<br />

the college’s ongoing investment in<br />

learners’ strengths and aspirations.<br />

Rolleston College is looking toward<br />

<strong>2026</strong> with optimism – two campuses,<br />

one united vision.<br />

<strong>2026</strong> Head Students with our Tumuaki/Principal, Rachel Skelton:<br />

Jade Croskery, Jayden Hill, Tua Tiatia, Mason Cole, Tavu Likiliki.<br />

Learners showing our refreshed uniform. Following a full consultation<br />

process we have developed one uniform for all learners to promote<br />

unity and belonging across both campuses.<br />

Rolleston College junior campus.<br />

Rolleston College senior campus progress in December 2025.<br />

2025 Dux: Recca Brimon and 2025 Proxime Accessit: Emma Sarwary.<br />

Campus one — Year 9 to 11<br />

631 Springston Rolleston Road<br />

Rolleston 76<strong>14</strong><br />

Campus Two — Year 12 and 13<br />

700 <strong>Selwyn</strong> Road<br />

Access from Eileen Way<br />

Rolleston 76<strong>14</strong>


starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 19<br />

ADVERTISEMENT<br />

Lincoln High School<br />

We’re all about opportunities<br />

looking to give something new a go or to<br />

compete with less pressure.<br />

Leadership<br />

Students can continue or begin their<br />

leadership journey by applying to be<br />

part of a range of leadership groups that<br />

enhance the school experience for all. From<br />

being a house leader to working within the<br />

Student Executive there is an opportunity<br />

to make a difference.<br />

Cultural<br />

Ākonga Māori and Pasifika student groups<br />

meet regularly, and other ethnicities will<br />

also get together to support each other.<br />

Our kapa haka group proudly represents<br />

our kura, and our Lincoln tikanga is<br />

embedded in the school culture.<br />

For both students returning to, and<br />

beginning at Lincoln High School,<br />

there are opportunities awaiting them.<br />

The school has a proud tradition of<br />

enabling students to explore academic,<br />

sporting, leadership, cultural and artistic<br />

pursuits whether to enhance already<br />

proven skills or to begin their journey in<br />

these areas.<br />

Academic Excellence<br />

Students can choose from a wide range<br />

of courses at each year level with clear<br />

pathways through to tertiary education.<br />

Option courses allow passions to be<br />

followed while important core subjects<br />

support numeracy and literacy progress.<br />

With a strong emphasis on students<br />

attaining their best possible qualification,<br />

ākonga are challenged and supported in<br />

achieving their very best.<br />

Modern Campus<br />

Lincoln High is a modern campus within<br />

a large open environment. In November<br />

2025 the new science building, Wai Tūhura<br />

officially opened. In <strong>2026</strong>, students will<br />

be able to fully enjoy learning in state-of<br />

the art science labs and breakout spaces<br />

conducive to collaborative study.<br />

Sport<br />

A huge variety of sports are available at<br />

Lincoln. If you play it, we’ll look to support<br />

it. Opportunities exist to compete in local,<br />

provincial, South Island and national<br />

tournaments. Social teams exist for those<br />

Performing and Fine Arts<br />

Our Performing Arts area has regular<br />

student performances scheduled –<br />

including short plays, dance and music<br />

recitals.<br />

Our Art department is nationally<br />

recognised with student work in painting,<br />

sculpture and print regularly show-cased<br />

in exhibitions and installations at a national<br />

level.<br />

Lincoln High School has so many<br />

opportunities for students to thrive<br />

– they just need to take the first step<br />

and get into it!<br />

<strong>2026</strong> start dates<br />

Friday, <strong>January</strong> 30<br />

Year 9 students at school (full day)<br />

New Year 10-13 students (8.45-11am)<br />

(All buses run as normal from today)<br />

Peer support leaders<br />

Monday, February 2<br />

All year levels, (9-13) at<br />

school (full day)<br />

The school office<br />

is open from<br />

Monday, <strong>January</strong> 26<br />

25 Boundary Road,<br />

Lincoln<br />

(03) 325 2121<br />

lincoln.school.nz


20 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE<br />

CONTINUING EDUCATION<br />

Discover the joy of learning with Risingholme<br />

Risingholme’s brand new <strong>2026</strong><br />

programme is live and ready for<br />

enrolments. With over 300+ courses and<br />

workshops offered annually, there is no<br />

shortage of things to learn.<br />

This year’s programme is packed with<br />

familiar favourites as well as a suite<br />

of brand new courses and workshops<br />

across a range of topics including:<br />

Computer and Digital Skills - learn<br />

basic tech literacy and get the most<br />

out of your devices with courses like<br />

Getting to Know your Computer and<br />

Getting to Know your iPhone. For those<br />

looking to make sense of spreadsheets,<br />

Risingholme is offering Excel<br />

Spreadsheets courses for beginners and<br />

for advanced users throughout the year.<br />

In the health and wellbeing space,<br />

the new courses emphasize gentle<br />

movement and adaptability. Try Tai Chi<br />

Yang Style, Chiball Exercise, or Easy<br />

Stretching and Chair Yoga to find the<br />

type of movement that not only feels<br />

good but does good for your mind and<br />

body. Risingholme is also one of the few<br />

organizations offering a course in the<br />

Ronnie Gardiner Method. This multisensory<br />

exercise uses rhythm, music,<br />

verbalisation and movement to work<br />

the brain making it an excellent exercise<br />

for healthy aging as well as for those<br />

living with neurological conditions or<br />

during recovery from events like stroke.<br />

If you’re a foodie or want to get<br />

the most out of seasonal ingredients,<br />

come experience a Dehydration<br />

Demonstration and Testing and learn<br />

handy tips about this long-standing<br />

food preservation method. For those<br />

just beginning their cooking journey,<br />

Cooking for Beginners is where you will<br />

learn the basics of making tasty and<br />

nutritious food.<br />

If you have limited time or want to<br />

try adult and community education<br />

without committing to a full course,<br />

consider enrolling in short 1-2 day<br />

workshops which can give you a taste<br />

of what learning at Risingholme is like,<br />

and leave you with skills that can last a<br />

lifetime. Term 1 offers lots of workshops<br />

across sewing and fabric arts, including<br />

Pattern making and a Fabric Painting –<br />

Vintage Bottles and Jars Workshop.<br />

Risingholme’s courses are for the<br />

curious beginners, and for those with<br />

some experience looking to extend<br />

their skills and further explore their<br />

interests. Visit www.risingholme.org.<br />

nz to view the full programme and<br />

enrol to discover the joy of learning<br />

something new.<br />

Term 1 Night Classes at Papanui<br />

Thinking of a New<br />

Years Resolution? Trying<br />

something new is<br />

always a great place to<br />

start and Papanui High<br />

School has a wide range<br />

of choices. If you are<br />

looking to keep fit and<br />

active we have Yoga,<br />

Pilates, Tai Chi, Strengh-<br />

2Balance and Zumba to<br />

choose from. Creativity<br />

is well catered for with<br />

Basket Weaving, Guitar,<br />

Ukulele, Photography, Stone Carving<br />

and Art. Or if you want to get creative<br />

in the kitchen, we have Indian, Spanish<br />

With an election approaching, bringing<br />

social and political questions into<br />

focus, gain an understanding of politics<br />

in Term 1. To vote with confidence join<br />

Civics 101 - Quentin Findlay (Mon 16<br />

Feb, 5 weeks, 6.30–8pm) who introduces<br />

central and local government and interest<br />

groups in a clear, grounded way.<br />

In Politics Made Plain - Michael Couch<br />

(Tue 3 Mar, 5 weeks, 12.30–2.30pm)<br />

explains how electorates and Parliament<br />

work including MMP.<br />

Stimulating courses, “Our Changing<br />

Oceans” and “Understanding the<br />

Treaty” will expand your horizons. Or,<br />

indulge yourself with Cooking, Screenwriting<br />

or Zentangling.<br />

A Tale of Two Heists by Dr Rosie<br />

and South American Cuisines on<br />

offer. For the practical creative<br />

we have Woodwork, Sewing, Candle<br />

Making, Willow Obelisks and<br />

Upholstery.<br />

New on offer this term are Philosophy,<br />

Spanish Conversation,<br />

Brand Building and Digital Marketing<br />

for Small Businesses and<br />

Understanding Autism (ASD).<br />

Term 1 courses begin the<br />

week of 9 February. For a<br />

complete list of courses and<br />

to enroll, visit our website,<br />

https://www.papanui.school.nz/comedu/categories<br />

phone 03 3520701 or<br />

email ace@papanui.school.nz.<br />

Broaden Your Horizons in <strong>2026</strong> at CWEA<br />

Ibbotson (Tue 10 Feb, 12.30–2pm, $12)<br />

examines recent high profile thefts<br />

from the Louvre. Learn what these<br />

reveal about how societies value art,<br />

how museums construct meaning and<br />

respond to changing expectations.<br />

In Power Foods for the Brain<br />

- Katarina Tawiri (Sat 21 Feb,<br />

9.30am–12.30pm, $28) focuses on brain<br />

health and ageing well through diet.<br />

She demonstrates low fat, plant based<br />

recipes backed by research. Students<br />

receive handouts of economical recipes,<br />

using nutrient dense key foods and<br />

supplements.<br />

For more details or to enrol, visit<br />

www.cwea.org.nz or drop in to 59<br />

Gloucester Street.<br />

What will you delve into now?<br />

Courses, events & workshops: arts, science,<br />

history, writing, cooking and more<br />

Affordable prices, central city location<br />

Secondhand bookshop 10am-3pm<br />

Roopu kaimahi matauranga o waitaha<br />

Canterbury Workers’ Educational<br />

Association<br />

CWEA, 59 Gloucester St, Chch. www.cwea.org.nz 03 366 0285


starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 21<br />

CONTINUING EDUCATION<br />

Make <strong>2026</strong> your year to read and understand the Bible!<br />

The Bible is the world’s best selling<br />

book, and also holds the record for<br />

being translated into more languages<br />

than any other book. This means that<br />

almost any person on earth can have<br />

access to the Bible and read or hear the<br />

words which have changed the course<br />

of history so often. No other book is<br />

so widely quoted or so widely studied.<br />

More books are written about the<br />

Bible than any other book. The Bible<br />

has endured thousands of years of copying<br />

by hand, yet it appears to have<br />

remained almost unchanged. It has<br />

been burned, banned and outlawed<br />

many times. For example, in <strong>14</strong>08 England<br />

passed the following law: “that no<br />

one henceforth on his own authority<br />

translate any text of Holy Scripture into<br />

English or other language . . . and that<br />

no book of this kind be read.” Those who<br />

did translate it into English (such as William<br />

Tyndale) were killed. Others were<br />

burnt at the stake for saying the Lord’s<br />

prayer in English. Only a few years ago,<br />

it was a criminal offence in many communist<br />

countries to have a Bible in your<br />

possession. Even when it was possible<br />

to own a Bible in days gone by, it might<br />

have been the only book owned by a<br />

family, and was read and treasured,<br />

memorised and discussed. But in today’s<br />

busy world, with so many books and so<br />

much information, it is much less well<br />

known. The Bible is a book of amazing<br />

diversity - a mixture of enchanting<br />

history, beautiful poetry, remarkable<br />

prophecies, great wisdom, simple proverbs<br />

and difficult teaching. At its core<br />

is one key message: ‘God wants you to<br />

turn to Him!!’ The Old Testament tells of<br />

events from the creation of man. It gives<br />

God’s word as it related particularly to<br />

the people of Israel. In contrast, the New<br />

Testament records God working with<br />

people through his son, Jesus Christ.<br />

In the New Testament it becomes clear<br />

that God’s promises are to all people,<br />

not just to Israelites. How is the Bible<br />

still around after so many years, with so<br />

much controversy around it? Many have<br />

even risked their lives for it. So what is<br />

it all about? But more importantly how<br />

does it relate to US? If you have always<br />

wanted to know more about this amazing<br />

book, this is your opportunity. You<br />

are invited to come along this year to<br />

some Bible reading groups that are<br />

relaxed, informative and friendly, to<br />

bring any questions that you might have<br />

and to take time to read, discuss, and<br />

learn together.<br />

Make <strong>2026</strong> your year to read and<br />

understand the Bible!<br />

This is an entirely free event (you<br />

won’t ever be asked for money), and is<br />

run by volunteers from the Christadelphian<br />

community. No pressure is ever<br />

applied as we believe in freely providing<br />

everyone with the tools to begin<br />

reading the Bible for themselves and<br />

so discover a real treasure. The classes<br />

are specifically designed for people who<br />

don’t have any level of Bible knowledge,<br />

and free Bibles are available if you need<br />

them.<br />

If you would like to find out more<br />

but are unable to attend these groups,<br />

we welcome you to view some online<br />

seminars at www.onlinebibleseminars.com<br />

on Exploring the Bible and<br />

Bible Study Made Easy.


22 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE/WHAT’S ON<br />

CONTINUING EDUCATION<br />

Discover the joy of music at the Christchurch School of Music<br />

For 70 years, the Christchurch School of<br />

Music (CSM) has been at the heart of Canterbury’s<br />

musical life—nurturing talent,<br />

inspiring creativity, and building a warm,<br />

family-friendly community where music<br />

truly comes alive.<br />

Whether you’re taking your very first<br />

musical steps or looking to refine your<br />

performance skills, CSM offers something<br />

for everyone. From toddlers to retirees,<br />

absolute beginners to advanced performers,<br />

the school’s doors are open to all who<br />

want to experience the joy of music.<br />

A place for the whole family<br />

Saturday mornings at CSM are alive<br />

with energy. Young children from 2-8<br />

sing, dance and play their way through<br />

“Take Off with Music” classes experiencing<br />

the elements of music in a playful<br />

engaging way or begin their instrumental<br />

journey with Suzuki strings from<br />

age 4½. Six-year-olds can start with the<br />

recorder—an ideal foundation for future<br />

musical learning.<br />

Older children, teens, and adults can<br />

have lessons across a wide range of<br />

instruments including voice. Whether you<br />

dream of playing violin, swinging in a big<br />

band, or performing with an orchestra,<br />

there’s a pathway waiting for you.<br />

The lifelong value of music<br />

Music enriches life at every stage—<br />

boosting development in young children,<br />

enhancing focus and creativity in teens,<br />

and offering adults a powerful outlet for<br />

expression, stress relief, and community<br />

connection. Older adults benefit too,<br />

with music supporting memory, cognitive<br />

health, and emotional wellbeing.<br />

Learning an instrument or singing in a<br />

group strengthens confidence, brings joy,<br />

and keeps minds active. At CSM, people<br />

of all ages discover that it is never too<br />

early—or too late—to experience the<br />

transformative power of music.<br />

Join an ensemble and find your sound<br />

CSM is home to one of the most diverse<br />

ensemble programmes in the region.<br />

With:<br />

• Four orchestras<br />

• Two concert bands<br />

• A Big Band, jazz combo and rock bands<br />

• Wind ensembles, flute choirs and<br />

recorder ensembles<br />

• A children’s choir<br />

• A percussion ensemble<br />

…there’s a place for every skill level<br />

and musical interest. These groups provide<br />

an encouraging environment to<br />

grow, collaborate, and perform—whether<br />

you’re stepping on stage for the first time<br />

or polishing your technique for the next<br />

big concert.<br />

Start your musical journey today<br />

If you’ve ever thought about learning<br />

an instrument, singing in a choir, or joining<br />

an ensemble, now is the perfect time.<br />

Come along to the Try an Instrument Day<br />

on Saturday 24 <strong>January</strong> in the Avonhead<br />

School Hall between 10am and 1pm<br />

Visit www.csm.org.nz or find the<br />

Christchurch School of Music on Facebook<br />

to learn more, explore programmes,<br />

and get involved.<br />

Try an Instrument!<br />

What’s On<br />

in <strong>Selwyn</strong><br />

Storywalk: Summer Moa Hunt<br />

Tomorrow and Wednesday 10am-2pm<br />

Broadfield and Lake Coleridge community<br />

halls<br />

Join <strong>Selwyn</strong> Libraries this summer for a<br />

special outdoor reading of the book We’re<br />

Going on a Moa Hunt. A great chance to<br />

get out and about to explore your local<br />

area. The mobile library vehicle will be<br />

on-site too – so bring a picnic, check out all<br />

the great resources on board, and make a<br />

day of it. The hunt will be on at Broadfield<br />

tomorrow and then at Lake Coleridge on<br />

Wednesday. Drop-in.<br />

Create a Dream Catcher<br />

Tomorrow 3.30-4.30pm<br />

West Melton Community Centre<br />

Make a beautiful dream catcher to hang<br />

on your wall and bring good dream vibes.<br />

For 5+ years. $5 per person. Bookings<br />

required: selwyn.govt.nz/events<br />

Local History Drop-in<br />

Tomorrow, 10am-noon<br />

Leeston Library<br />

Needing help with finding <strong>Selwyn</strong><br />

heritage information and resources?<br />

Drop in and see the heritage team<br />

who can assist you with research and<br />

digitisation advice and support, advice<br />

on caring for your photographs, papers<br />

and other taonga at home, oral history,<br />

and using our scanners to copy your old<br />

photos. All ages welcome. Free. Drop-in.<br />

Snorkelling<br />

Friday and Monday 1.30–3.45pm<br />

Darfield and Southbridge Pool<br />

Learn to snorkel these holidays with the<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> Swim School. Master the basics<br />

of using a snorkel and flippers, search<br />

for items underwater and swim through<br />

obstacles. All equipment provided. Friday<br />

at Darfield and Monday at Southbridge.<br />

For 8–13 years. $8 per person, bookings<br />

required: selwyn.govt.nz/events<br />

Device Drop-In: Tech Help<br />

Friday various times<br />

Lincoln, Darfield and Leeston libraries<br />

Our weekly device drop-in sessions<br />

at Darfield, Leeston and Lincoln are<br />

informal support groups to help<br />

familiarise yourself with your digital<br />

device. Whether it’s a tablet or mobile<br />

phone, someone will be able to help you<br />

with the basics. Lincoln Library: 10amnoon;<br />

Darfield Library: 1.30-3.30pm;<br />

Leeston Library: 2-4pm<br />

Women and Girls Pool Session<br />

Saturday 5.30-8pm<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong> Aquatic Centre<br />

An evening designed to encourage and<br />

include all girls and women to feel<br />

confident and safe using a pool facility.<br />

These private sessions for women and<br />

girls' offers a supportive and safe spaces<br />

and a prayer room is available. Female<br />

staff will be there to support you in your<br />

pool experience throughout the night.<br />

FRESH Youth Pool Party<br />

Saturday 1-3.30pm<br />

Darfield Pool<br />

Grab your mates and come down for free<br />

food and drink, a live DJ, free haircuts<br />

and braids, manu competitions and more.<br />

Aimed at 12–24 years, but all welcome.<br />

Adults’ Book Club<br />

Saturday 10-11am<br />

Leeston Library<br />

Book discussion groups are a fun and<br />

popular way to expand your reading<br />

subjects, meet people in your area and<br />

share your thoughts and ideas about<br />

reading. Free. Drop-in.<br />

Board Games<br />

Sunday 11am-1pm<br />

Lincoln Library<br />

Love board games? Head along to<br />

Lincoln Library to play a variety of<br />

exciting games. Suitable for those new to<br />

board games, as well as regular players.<br />

Free. Bookings not required.<br />

Kanopy Kids Film: Scarygirl<br />

Tuesday, <strong>January</strong> 20 1.30-3pm<br />

Darfield Library<br />

Bring a cushion and snacks and join<br />

us for a screening of the animated film<br />

Scarygirl (2023). As her world is shrouded<br />

in darkness, a young girl must overcome<br />

her fears and travel to a mysterious city<br />

of light, save her father from a dangerous<br />

scientist and prevent the destruction of<br />

her planet. This film is rated PG – parental<br />

guidance recommended for younger<br />

viewers. Some scenes may scare very<br />

young children. Free. For <strong>Selwyn</strong> Library<br />

members only. Bookings required: selwyn.<br />

govt.nz/events<br />

Try out the instruments with some help from<br />

our friendly CSM tutors. A relaxed, fun, way to<br />

find the instrument that best suits you.<br />

SATURDAY<br />

24 JANUARY<br />

10.00am - 1.00pm<br />

AVONHEAD<br />

SCHOOL HALL<br />

55 Avonhead Rd<br />

ENTRY BY KOHA<br />

Teddy Bears’ Picnic<br />

Friday 10.30am-1.30pm at Brookside Park<br />

Get your teddy ready for the picnic of the year. Bring a packed lunch and reusable coffee mug and enjoy<br />

a fun-filled day with your teddy and family. Relax with entertainment on the main stage, or get active with<br />

crazy bikes, the farmyard, and fun play activities. Don’t miss the teddy bear parade grande finale!


starnews.co.nz<br />

FEATURE <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 23<br />

ROLLESTON BUSINESS HUB<br />

Rolleston Township, Jones Road and Industrial Zone<br />

Back from the Break?<br />

Time for a Post-Holiday Vehicle Check<br />

During the summer holidays, vehicles<br />

and trailers are put to serious work.<br />

From long-distance road trips and heavy<br />

towing to repeated trips to lakes and<br />

beaches, everything adds extra kilometres<br />

and strain over the holiday period.<br />

Once the break is over, Jones Road Auto<br />

recommends booking a post-holiday<br />

check or service to make sure everything<br />

is working correctly.<br />

Warmer weather can significantly<br />

increase the wear and tear on vehicles,<br />

especially in their cooling systems. During<br />

the summer months, engines work harder,<br />

particularly when towing caravans,<br />

boats, or trailers. It’s essential to ensure<br />

that radiators, hoses, coolant levels, and<br />

thermostats are all in good condition to<br />

prevent overheating. Performing a simple<br />

check now can help avoid breakdowns,<br />

costly repairs, or being stranded on the<br />

roadside later in the year.<br />

Trailers also need careful attention<br />

after the holidays. Boat and jet ski trailers<br />

are often repeatedly submerged in<br />

water, and even with good rinsing habits,<br />

moisture can enter wheel bearings and<br />

electrical systems. Bearings and lights<br />

are two of the most common components<br />

to fail after summer, often due to<br />

exposure to water.<br />

Jones Road Auto also advises checking<br />

the trailer’s structure, couplings, and<br />

frames for signs of rust, cracks, or fatigue,<br />

particularly on trailers exposed to<br />

salt water. Rust and corrosion can develop<br />

quickly and are often hidden until a<br />

proper inspection is carried out.<br />

Taking the time to service vehicles and<br />

inspect trailers after the holiday season<br />

helps catch minor issues before they<br />

become major problems. It also extends<br />

the life of your vehicle and equipment,<br />

keeping everything safe, reliable and<br />

ready for work or weekend adventures.<br />

Whether it’s the family car, work ute,<br />

caravan or boat trailer, a post-holiday<br />

check at Jones Road Auto, 131 Iport<br />

Drive, Rolleston, offers peace of mind<br />

and ensures your vehicle is prepared<br />

for whatever the rest of the year brings.<br />

Contact Nigel, Lisa, and the team at<br />

Jones Road Auto, 131 Iport Drive,<br />

Rolleston, or visit jonesroadauto.co.nz<br />

or telephone 03 347 4020 to schedule<br />

your service.<br />

BIG NEWS<br />

ROLLESTON!<br />

Has Officially Landed<br />

Ready to power up your career? EQUIP Recruitment is<br />

now in Rolleston — and we’re here to connect top local<br />

talent with standout opportunities.<br />

Whether you’re a job seeker looking for your next big move, or a business<br />

searching for top-tier talent, EQUIP is your trusted local recruitment partner<br />

with a national reputation for results.<br />

We have expertise in the<br />

following industries:<br />

• INDUSTRIAL<br />

• MANUFACTURING<br />

• ENGINEERING<br />

• CIVIL / CONSTRUCTION<br />

• WAREHOUSING<br />

• TRANSPORT<br />

• TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT<br />

• TECHNICAL<br />

• COMMERCIAL<br />

• OFFICE SUPPORT<br />

• CUSTOMER SERVICE<br />

• FMCG<br />

We find<br />

the best<br />

people<br />

Let’s talk people 0508 327 927<br />

1/817 Jones Road, Rolleston<br />

WELLINGTON I PALMERSTON NORTH I HAWKE’S BAY I CHRISTCHURCH<br />

Jones Road auto<br />

ALL YOUR<br />

MOTORING NEEDS<br />

› While You Wait WOF’s<br />

› Courtesy Cars<br />

› Diagnostics<br />

› Repairs › Servicing<br />

› Batteries › Tyres<br />

131 IPORT Drive (Cnr Hoskyns & IPORT drive)<br />

Phone 347 4020 | www.jonesroadauto.co.nz<br />

FOR ALL YOUR<br />

POOL & SPA NEEDS<br />

• FREE computerised instore<br />

water testing<br />

• Pool & Spa Chemicals<br />

• Pool equipment sales,<br />

service and repair<br />

• Regular or one-off pool<br />

servicing<br />

• Expert advice and<br />

installation<br />

• Finance options<br />

available<br />

Swimart Christchurch<br />

12 Hendrick Lane, Rolleston 76<strong>14</strong><br />

Ph +64 27 233 9191<br />

Email christchurch@swimart.co.nz


24 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

GARDENING<br />

Landscape Supplies<br />

DIY YOUR OUTDOOR DREAMS<br />

Open to the public 7 days a week<br />

261 Manion Road, Rolleston | 03 347 9012 | www.intelligro.co.nz<br />

Simple summer tasks to set up a productive year<br />

Expert advice on what to do for<br />

your garden this week​<br />

VEGETABLES<br />

Although winter is a long<br />

way off, most winter greens<br />

should be planted by the<br />

middle of <strong>January</strong>, although<br />

Brussels sprouts generally give<br />

better crops if planted before<br />

Christmas.<br />

Cabbages, broccoli, kale, cauliflowers<br />

and silverbeet all need<br />

rich ground to give good crops<br />

and ground where early potatoes<br />

have been grown is generally<br />

suitable. A generous dressing of<br />

lime will help prevent club root.<br />

Avoid growing any members<br />

of the cabbage and turnip families<br />

in the same spot two years in<br />

a row to lower the risk of getting<br />

this soil-borne fungus.<br />

Water seedlings well until they<br />

are established and hoe around<br />

them to prevent the soil caking.<br />

Grey aphids can be controlled by<br />

spraying with a solution of soap<br />

and water.<br />

The bigger members of the<br />

Cucurbita family, marrows,<br />

pumpkins and cucumbers,<br />

should all be forming fruits.<br />

Limit the number by nipping<br />

the ends of growing shoots to<br />

reflect the plant's capacity and,<br />

especially with pumpkins, keep<br />

in mind the size the mature fruit<br />

will reach when deciding how<br />

many to let grow.<br />

Baby varieties, such as Jack-<br />

Be-Little or Peek A Boo, will<br />

produce six or seven little pumpkins<br />

per plant, while Atlantic<br />

Giant, which can produce 200kg<br />

monsters, should be restricted to<br />

one pumpkin.<br />

​<br />

Keep roses watered and be diligent with deadheading, cutting each faded bloom<br />

off just above the bud of the next five-fingered leaf. Prune ramblers as soon as<br />

flowering is over, removing old, weak growth.<br />

Most winter greens, such as cabbage, should be planted by the middle of this month. Cabbages, broccoli, kale, cauliflowers and<br />

silverbeet all need rich ground to give good crops and a generous dressing of lime will help prevent club root. PHOTOS: GETTY<br />

FLOWERS<br />

Roses appreciate a mulch of<br />

compost around them at this<br />

time of year.<br />

This feeding will improve early<br />

autumn displays and a dressing<br />

of potash will help keep black<br />

spot at bay.<br />

Keep roses watered and be diligent<br />

with deadheading, cutting<br />

each faded bloom off just above<br />

the bud of the next five-fingered<br />

leaf. Prune ramblers as soon as<br />

flowering is over, removing old,<br />

weak growth.<br />

Gladioli are summer-flowering<br />

plants, equally attractive in the<br />

vase or garden bed, whether in<br />

a mixed colour group or single<br />

variety.<br />

The Gladiolus genus, which<br />

originates from southern Africa<br />

and Europe, has more than 150<br />

species.<br />

Gladiolus nanus (the word<br />

nanus means small) is a dwarf<br />

group which includes the charming<br />

Nymph, a delicate pink with<br />

deep pink markings on the lower<br />

petals, and pure white The Bride.<br />

Among taller named cultivars,<br />

Ebony Beauty is as close to black<br />

as one gets; Plum Tart is clear<br />

purple; blues include Twilight<br />

Dream and Blue Heaven; Fireball<br />

and Stromboli are among the<br />

best reds; White Contessa is a<br />

pure white, large-flowered variety,<br />

while Priscilla is a popular<br />

warm pink with a creamy throat.<br />

These tall forms all need to be<br />

staked or tied to a fence.<br />

Gladioli corms should be<br />

grown in groups of three to five<br />

in well-drained soil.<br />

Plant them about 8cm deep,<br />

putting corms on a layer of river<br />

sand if drainage is less than<br />

perfect.<br />

Keep watered once buds<br />

appear or they will not mature.<br />

After flowering, cut off the<br />

flowering stem but leave the foliage<br />

to grow into autumn so the<br />

corm is fed for next season. In<br />

autumn, when the foliage is yellowing,<br />

lift the gladioli and store<br />

in paper bags in a cool, dry spot.<br />

When they are completely dry,<br />

remove soil and dead foliage.<br />

Each corm will produce several<br />

offsets.<br />

Save these, plant in a corner<br />

of the garden next spring and in<br />

two years they will have reached<br />

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FRUIT<br />

Raspberries send up suckers at<br />

this time of year.<br />

They often pop up some distance<br />

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should be cut as far back as possible,<br />

taking care not to damage<br />

the parent plant.<br />

Check young apple, pear and<br />

plum trees put in last winter and<br />

cut any overly strong shoots to<br />

keep the trees growth balanced.<br />

Mature trees can have a light<br />

pruning to maintain their shape.<br />

Apply pruning paste to every<br />

cut to keep disease at bay.<br />

Double and triple-grafted fruit<br />

trees should be checked for even<br />

growth on each variety.<br />

If one looks weaker, remove all<br />

fruit so that leg puts all its energy<br />

into growing a strong stem, not<br />

into fruit production.<br />

Raspberries send up suckers at this time of year. They will often pop up some<br />

distance from the main plant and should be cut as far back as possible, taking care<br />

not to damage the parent plant.<br />

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starnews.co.nz<br />

PUZZLES <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 25<br />

CROSSWORD<br />

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8<br />

9 10<br />

11 12<br />

13 <strong>14</strong> 15 16 17<br />

18 19 20<br />

433<br />

SUDOKU<br />

Every row, column and box should<br />

contain the digits 1 to 9.<br />

WordBuilder<br />

WORDBUILDER<br />

E G R<br />

I D B<br />

333 333 6<br />

I D B<br />

many words of three or more letters,<br />

How<br />

including<br />

many<br />

plurals,<br />

words<br />

can you<br />

of<br />

make<br />

three<br />

from<br />

or<br />

the<br />

more<br />

six<br />

letters, using each letter only once? No foreign<br />

How words or beginning with a capital are<br />

from many<br />

allowed.<br />

the words<br />

There's<br />

six letters, of three<br />

at least one<br />

using or more<br />

six-letter<br />

each letters,<br />

word.<br />

only<br />

including once? plurals, can you make from the six<br />

TODAY<br />

letters, Good using 19 each Very letter Good only 24 once? Excellent No 30 foreign<br />

No words beginning with a capital are<br />

words Solution or words 332: ace, beginning aced, acre, with acred, a adze, capital arc, are<br />

allowed. allowed. arced, are, There's cad, There’s cadre, at least car, at card, one least care, six-letter one cared, six-letter<br />

cedar, word.<br />

word. craze, CRAZED, cred, czar, dace, dare, daze, dear,<br />

ear, era, race, raced, TODAY rad, raze, razed, read, red.<br />

Good 19 Very Good 24 Excellent 30<br />

Solution 332: ace, aced, acre, acred, adze, arc,<br />

arced, are, cad, cadre, car, card, care, cared, cedar,<br />

craze, CRAZED, cred, czar, dace, dare, daze, dear,<br />

ear, era, race, raced, rad, raze, razed, read, red.<br />

letters, including plurals, can you make<br />

21 22 23 24<br />

25 26<br />

27 28<br />

Across<br />

1. Momentum (7)<br />

5. Substance also known as marsh<br />

gas (7)<br />

9. Scour (5)<br />

10. Infamous (9)<br />

11. Anyone or everyone (3,6)<br />

12. Musical instrument (5)<br />

13. Poisonous (5)<br />

15. Disentangle, get free (9)<br />

18. Minor point, distraction (4,5)<br />

19. Unspoken (5)<br />

21. Incendiarism (5)<br />

23. Amenable, open to reason (9)<br />

25. A life of luxury and indulgence<br />

(5,4)<br />

26. Requirements (5)<br />

27. Boundless (7)<br />

28. Chance your arm (colloq) (3,2,2)<br />

Decoder<br />

Down<br />

1. Immediate (7)<br />

2. Puzzled (9)<br />

3. Forbidden (5)<br />

4. Foolish (9)<br />

5. School subject (5)<br />

6. Anarchist (9)<br />

7. Amidst (5)<br />

8. Nature, character (7)<br />

<strong>14</strong>. Customers (9)<br />

16. Forthright, emphatic (9)<br />

17. Building designer (9)<br />

18. Wrap (a baby) (7)<br />

20. Act of betrayal against the state<br />

(7)<br />

22. Not gas or liquid (5)<br />

23. Traces (5)<br />

24. Unit of imperial currency (5)<br />

Crossword<br />

Across: 1. Impetus, 5. Methane, 9. Scrub, 10. Notorious, 11. All comers,<br />

12. Organ, 13. Toxic, 15. Extricate, 18. Side issue, 19. Tacit, 21. Arson, 23.<br />

Receptive, 25. Dolce vita, 26. Needs, 27. Endless, 28. Try it on.<br />

Down: 1. Instant, 2. Perplexed, 3. Taboo, 4. Senseless, 5. Maths, 6.<br />

Terrorist, 7. Among, 8. Essence, <strong>14</strong>. Clientele, 16. Trenchant, 17. Architect,<br />

18. Swaddle, 20. Treason, 22. Solid, 23. Reins, 24. Penny.<br />

WordBuilder<br />

Bed, beg, berg, bid, bide, bier, big, bird, bred, bride, BRIDGE, brig, deb,<br />

die, dig, dire, dirge, dreg, drib, erg, gibe, gibed, giber, gird, grid, ire, rebid,<br />

red, rib, ride, ridge, rig.<br />

DECODER<br />

Each number represents a different letter of the alphabet. Write the<br />

given letters into all squares with matching numbers. Now work out<br />

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26 | <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> starnews.co.nz<br />

CLASSIFIEDS<br />

YOUR GUIDE TO<br />

TRUSTED TRADES AND<br />

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES<br />

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contact Heather Hood<br />

021 372 481 or email<br />

heather.hood@ncnews.co.nz<br />

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Phone Tim 347 6693


starnews.co.nz<br />

CLASSIFIEDS/MOTORING <strong>Selwyn</strong> <strong>Times</strong>, <strong>January</strong> <strong>14</strong>, <strong>2026</strong> | 27<br />

YOUR GUIDE TO<br />

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PUBLIC NOTICES<br />

Škoda’s next-gen Kodiaq<br />

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Edwin 027 220-7154<br />

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PROTEKT<br />

SERVICES<br />

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021 222 6<strong>14</strong>4, 7 days<br />

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0274 332 082<br />

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days.<br />

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needing repairs ok or<br />

any condition. Ph 027<br />

622 0011<br />

MILITARY EXERCISE<br />

West Melton Rifle Range<br />

22 <strong>January</strong> <strong>2026</strong><br />

The general public is to be advised that a New<br />

Zealand Army Exercise will be conducted at<br />

the West Melton Rifle Range over the period<br />

as above.<br />

The exercise will involve up to 30 personnel<br />

of 2/1 RNZIR, Depot Company from Burnham<br />

Military Camp.<br />

Training will involve soldiers conducting<br />

grenade training on the 22nd <strong>January</strong>. All<br />

activities will be conducted at West Melton<br />

Rifle Range. The exercise will also involve the<br />

movement of troops and vehicles by day and<br />

night.<br />

The New Zealand Army takes fire risk seriously<br />

and will ensure fire mitigation is present.<br />

For more information please contact:<br />

2/1 RNZIR OP Cell on 021 674 341<br />

WANTED<br />

PENNYLANE RECORDS<br />

always buying records.<br />

Excellent prices paid.<br />

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE<br />

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Motoring with Bob Nettleton<br />

Škoda’s largest SUV, the seven-seat Kodiaq,<br />

is also one of its biggest sellers and<br />

has now passed the baton to a secondgeneration<br />

model, ready to write the next<br />

chapter in this model’s success story.<br />

The previous version was an instant hit<br />

when it launched here in 2017, offering a<br />

winning blend of space, pace, style, and<br />

all-wheel drive – an ideal combination<br />

for tackling our demanding roads and<br />

variable weather conditions.<br />

The Czech manufacturer’s latest SUV<br />

flagship enters the market confidently,<br />

with increased dimensions and state-ofthe-art<br />

infotainment systems, including<br />

a 13-inch screen on the Selection turbo<br />

diesel we tested. The styling isn’t a radical<br />

departure from the old model, yet it is<br />

distinct enough to feel entirely new.<br />

The three-model range begins with a<br />

pair of front-wheel-drive 110kW 1.4-litre<br />

turbo petrols.<br />

The entry-level model is priced at<br />

$57,500, with a higher-spec variant,<br />

featuring more of the trappings of modern<br />

motoring, retailing for $64,500.<br />

From there, it’s a substantial $<strong>14</strong>,000 step<br />

up to the $78,300 Selection we reviewed.<br />

This flagship holds the top spot for<br />

now but will soon be superseded by the<br />

performance-oriented RS, which boasts<br />

a muscular 195kW 2.0-litre turbo petrol<br />

shared with the Škoda Superb wagon. At<br />

the time of writing, RS pricing had not<br />

been confirmed.<br />

The Selection may be the obvious pick<br />

for those seeking a more practical and<br />

versatile engine option for this side of the<br />

automotive world with its <strong>14</strong>2kW 2.0 litre<br />

turbo diesel.<br />

Frugal, strong, hard working, and now<br />

smoother and more refined, what isn’t<br />

there to like. Clearly work has gone on<br />

behind the scenes at Skoda to add more<br />

polish to this gem of an engine.<br />

Along with the more expensive Toyota<br />

Land Cruiser Prado it’s one of the few<br />

remaining diesels fighting the good fights<br />

in our large SUV corner these days.<br />

Throttle response isn’t jaw-dropping<br />

quick, but has plenty of urgency,<br />

especially in the low to mid rev range,<br />

where diesels excel.<br />

The Volkswagen-sourced seven-speed<br />

automatic transmission is excellent,<br />

shifting effortlessly. Whether you need<br />

a quick downshift to overtake or want<br />

to lock a ratio for energy-sapping uphill<br />

climbs, this gearbox handles it smoothly<br />

and reliably.<br />

One of the Kodiaq’s standout features<br />

is its spacious cabin, offering ample<br />

passenger and cargo space.<br />

The revamped interior and new<br />

control layout elevate the experience<br />

further. Two additional seats in the third<br />

row are standard in the Selection.<br />

The two cargo compartments<br />

under the boot floor are now made of<br />

aluminium, and the vehicle features<br />

door-edge protection. There is even a<br />

QR code in the boot linking users to an<br />

instructional video on making full use of<br />

the luggage and storage compartments –<br />

a clever touch.<br />

The Škoda Smart Dials introduce three<br />

intuitive multifunction controls below the<br />

​Rating out of 10: Performance 7, Handling<br />

7, Build Quality 7, Comfort 7, Space 8,<br />

Fuel Economy; on road test average<br />

consumption 8.6L/100km, Value for money<br />

6, Safety, Five Star Euro crash rating<br />

Price: $78,300<br />

Overall points out of 10: 7<br />

infotainment display, each with a digital<br />

color screen.<br />

The center Smart Dial manages up to<br />

four user-selected functions, including<br />

infotainment volume, fan speed, air<br />

direction, climate control, driving modes,<br />

and map zoom.<br />

For the first time in the Kodiaq,<br />

the central infotainment display is<br />

free-standing.<br />

For those who enjoy a touch of<br />

nostalgia, the standard 10-inch<br />

infotainment system retains a traditional<br />

radio.<br />

Four USB-C ports are standard (two<br />

front, two rear), each providing 45W,<br />

enough to charge laptops, smartphones,<br />

or tablets. A 15W USB-C port is mounted<br />

on the back of the interior mirror.<br />

The Canton 12-speaker sound system<br />

includes a subwoofer located in the<br />

space-saver spare wheel. Škoda really has<br />

thought of everything.<br />

Safety tech in the Kodiaq is extensive,<br />

with many new features such as turn<br />

assist, collision avoidance assist,<br />

crossroad assist, and exit warning.<br />

Crossroad assist uses radar sensors<br />

and a front camera to warn of crossing<br />

traffic, cyclists, or pedestrians when<br />

pulling out of a driveway or blind exit,<br />

and can automatically apply the brakes.<br />

Exit warning alerts the driver visually<br />

in the exterior mirror when a door is<br />

opened while traffic approaches from<br />

behind, covering a range of 35m.<br />

Škoda has also updated its attention<br />

and drowsiness assist system to combat<br />

driver fatigue, monitoring behaviour<br />

and triggering visual and acoustic<br />

warnings if needed.<br />

Safety is further enhanced with nine<br />

airbags, including a central airbag<br />

between the driver and front passenger,<br />

and side airbags for the second row,<br />

all standard on New Zealand-bound<br />

models.<br />

From day one, the Kodiaq has<br />

excelled in ride comfort and road<br />

holding, handling our varied surfaces<br />

effortlessly.<br />

While the low-speed ride in town<br />

could be slightly more compliant,<br />

overall it hits the sweet spot. The spring<br />

and damper rates subdue rough roads<br />

well, as proven during testing on gnarly<br />

rural routes.<br />

Steering is direct and communicative,<br />

representing a strong step up over the<br />

previous model, matching the overall<br />

improvement in the vehicle.


Summerset Prebbleton<br />

Open Day<br />

Summerset Prebbleton is a growing village with a vibrant community. Our village centre is underway,<br />

and once complete, will feature fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities for residents to enjoy.<br />

A range of two-bedroom villas are available with flexible pricing starting from $665,000*.<br />

“We’ve met a lovely group of people around our age that are just like us, active and get out and<br />

do things. We’ve made more friends now than we’ve ever done in our whole life. It was the best<br />

decision we made” NOEL & MARIE, RESIDENTS AT SUMMERSET PREBBLETON<br />

We know that moving to a retirement village is a big decision. So why not come along to our first<br />

Open Day for the year, and see for yourself why our residents love the Summerset life.<br />

Love the life you choose.<br />

Open Day<br />

Thursday 22 <strong>January</strong>, 10am - 2pm<br />

Summerset Prebbleton<br />

578 Springs Road, Prebbleton<br />

03 353 6312 | summerset.co.nz/prebbleton<br />

*Flexible pricing arrangements are subject to a bespoke deferred management fee. Price and stock levels correct as at 20 November 2025, only villa 84 left at this price.<br />

All Summerset homes are sold under a licence to occupy and are subject to availability. Summerset does not offer rental accommodation. Images are indicative.<br />

SUM9180_FP


LIFT OUT<br />

FEATURING THE BEST<br />

PROPERTIES ACROSS<br />

THE SELWYN DISTRICT<br />

PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY<br />

WEEK COMMENCING WEDNESDAY, <strong>14</strong>TH JANUARY <strong>2026</strong><br />

Exceptional design, effortless living<br />

Striking street appeal and superior craftsmanship define this<br />

exceptional single-level Inline Building residence. Spanning<br />

around 256sqm, it showcases thoughtful design throughout,<br />

with a bold double-gable profile and a blend of cedar and<br />

plaster finishes setting the tone for the quality within.<br />

A welcoming entry with custom joinery leads into a spacious,<br />

light-filled living zone featuring high raking ceilings and a<br />

beautifully appointed kitchen. Warm tones, quality appliances,<br />

bespoke cabinetry, and a discreet walk-in pantry combine style<br />

with everyday functionality. The kitchen sits centrally, flowing<br />

effortlessly to the dining and informal living areas, while a<br />

separate formal lounge offers a refined retreat with built-in<br />

cabinetry and impressive ceiling height.<br />

Multiple sliding doors frame the north-facing outdoor living,<br />

opening to two alfresco spaces ideal for entertaining or<br />

unwinding.<br />

The accommodation wing includes four generous double<br />

bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, supported by a tiled family<br />

bathroom and an additional guest toilet. The main bedroom<br />

features a fully tiled ensuite with underfloor heating, a<br />

spacious walk-in wardrobe, and private garden access.<br />

Practicality is well catered for with extensive storage, a walk-in<br />

linen cupboard, and a dedicated laundry with outdoor access.<br />

The triple-car, fully insulated and carpeted garage includes<br />

attic storage and a rear door for secure trailer or boat parking.<br />

69 Whitehorn Drive, Lincoln<br />

Ducted heating/cooling ensures year-round comfort, and<br />

zoning for Lincoln Primary and Lincoln High enhances family<br />

appeal. Contact Bianca or Nathan for further details or a private<br />

viewing.<br />

Price: By negotiation<br />

www.bayleys.co.nz/5528818<br />

Whalan and Partners Ltd, Bayleys<br />

Licensed under the REAA 2008<br />

Bianca Davidson<br />

Mobile: 027 322 9055<br />

bianca.davidson@bayleys.co.nz<br />

Nathan Collett<br />

Mobile: 027 826 1535<br />

nathan.collett@bayleys.co.nz<br />

Viewings available by appointment<br />

All Over <strong>Selwyn</strong><br />

Lifestyle | Residential | Developments<br />

Local knowledge and experience matter when it<br />

comes to achieving the best result for your property.<br />

With a trusted team focused on delivering great<br />

outcomes and quality service, you can feel confident<br />

that your property sale is in good hands.<br />

Thinking of selling in the New Year or curious<br />

about your property’s value? We’d love to<br />

hear from you.<br />

027 220 5043<br />

chrisjonesbayleys.nz<br />

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS,<br />

LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008<br />

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services


2<br />

HAPPY<br />

NEW YEAR<br />

AND SAFE HOLIDAYS<br />

Wishing you a Happy New Year. With continued demand for lifestyle properties<br />

around West Melton and Rolleston, now is a great time to start planning your<br />

next move. If you’re thinking of selling in <strong>2026</strong>, I’d welcome the opportunity to<br />

discuss buyer interest, pricing, and the best strategy to achieve a strong result.<br />

Rolleston 644 Waterholes Road<br />

Boundary lines are indicative<br />

Rolleston 251 Curraghs Road<br />

Boundary lines are indicative<br />

West Melton 442 Halkett Road<br />

West Melton 224 West Melton Road<br />

West Melton 1023B Newtons Road<br />

West Melton 473C West Melton Road<br />

Proud to support Moral Compass<br />

Moral Compass is a mentoring program that supports local youth<br />

through outdoor education and character development, helping<br />

them build resilience and make positive life choices.<br />

As part of his commitment to the cause, Andrew has pledged to<br />

donate $500 from every settled real estate sale to support the<br />

programme. His ongoing support reflects a strong belief in the<br />

impact Moral Compass is making in the lives of young people.<br />

To learn more or get involved, visit moralcompass.org.nz<br />

Andrew Taylor | 027 435 5930<br />

andrew.taylor@bayleys.co.nz<br />

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008<br />

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services


3<br />

Boundary lines are indicative only<br />

Lake Tekapo 35 D'Archiac Drive<br />

Ultimate home and income retreat<br />

Tactfully understated on external appearance and exquisitely bold on internal features sits the epitome of a home<br />

and income property in Lake Tekapo. Comprising two distinctive components; a state-of-the art architectural home<br />

along with three holiday accommodation studio units returning strong commercial lease income to the owner.<br />

Whether your escape from the farm or office, retirement with passive income, or luxurious short-term<br />

accommodation investment capable of a sizeable income; this property ticks all your boxes.<br />

Contact Agent for more information and to schedule a viewing.<br />

6 4 5 1<br />

Deadline Sale (unless sold prior)<br />

2pm, Fri 23 Jan <strong>2026</strong><br />

View by appointment<br />

Wayne Frewen 021 <strong>14</strong>1 1723<br />

wayne.frewen@bayleys.co.nz<br />

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008<br />

bayleys.co.nz/54629276<br />

NEW LISTING<br />

Southbridge 39 Taumutu Road<br />

Move in and enjoy<br />

Built in 2008 of low-maintenance permanent materials and set on a generous 1,282sqm (approx) section, this<br />

standout property delivers the lifestyle buyers dream of - modern comfort, effortless living, and a peaceful semirural<br />

setting right on the edge of Southbridge. Lovingly owned for 17 years, this immaculate home has been<br />

beautifully maintained and tastefully styled throughout, offering a genuine move-in-ready opportunity. From the<br />

moment you step inside, the open-plan kitchen, dining and living area creates an inviting sense of space. Designed<br />

for everyday ease and perfect for entertaining, this delightful hub opens seamlessly to a sunny patio and expansive<br />

lawn. The contemporary kitchen features a breakfast bar, generous bench space and excellent storage, perfect for<br />

home cooks and hosts alike.<br />

3 1 2 2<br />

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty<br />

(unless sold prior)<br />

2pm, Tue 27 Jan <strong>2026</strong><br />

Suzy McPherson 027 695 0519<br />

suzy.mcpherson@bayleys.co.nz<br />

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008<br />

bayleys.co.nz/5529006<br />

bayleys.co.nz


4<br />

Greendale 21 Bridge Road<br />

Scan for more<br />

Spacious idyllic lifestyle awaits<br />

Set within beautifully established, park-like grounds, this well-appointed 1.0138 ha lifestyle property offers space and comfort<br />

in the rural setting of Greendale, just a short stroll from the primary school and local domain, and just 10 minutes from<br />

Darfield. The four-bedroom home is designed for easy family living, featuring a generous open-plan kitchen, dining, and living<br />

area, complemented by a separate adjoining lounge. Both living spaces open seamlessly to a large, north-facing deck and<br />

outdoor fire. Accommodation is well supported by a family bathroom, separate toilet, and an ensuite off the master bedroom.<br />

Practicality is well catered for with a separate laundry providing external access, along with an internal-access double garage.<br />

Comfort is assured year-round with excellent heating and ventilation, including two heat pumps, a log burner, heated tiled<br />

floors in the bathrooms and kitchen, double-glazed joinery, and an HRV system. Outdoors, the property is completed by two<br />

fully fenced paddocks, a separate three-bay lockable shed with power connected, an additional two-bay woodshed. A superbly<br />

presented lifestyle opportunity not to be missed!<br />

4 2 2 2<br />

Deadline Sale closes Wednesday 11th February, <strong>2026</strong> at<br />

12.00pm, (unless sold prior)<br />

View Sun 18 Jan 1.00 - 1.30pm<br />

Web pb.co.nz/DFL203231<br />

Willy Parker<br />

M 021 632 039<br />

Fliss Cox<br />

M 021 354 779<br />

E willy.parker@pb.co.nz<br />

E fliss.cox@pb.co.nz<br />

AN AUCTION EVENT<br />

GEARED TO GET YOU<br />

MORE!<br />

The BID DAY OUT auction extravaganza<br />

features a discounted marketing programme,<br />

more qualified buyers, more competition and<br />

ultimately, more money in your pocket.<br />

If you want to get SOLD, there is no better<br />

opportunity this summer.<br />

Don’t miss out; call us today on 03 929 0306<br />

FEBRUARY <strong>2026</strong><br />

Scan the QR code, or visit<br />

pb.co.nz/bdo for more details.<br />

Terms and Conditions apply | Licensed REAA 2008<br />

Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz<br />

Proud to be here


5<br />

NEW LISTING<br />

11 LANCELOT CLOSE, LINCOLN<br />

Grass digitally enhanced<br />

SPACIOUS & PRIVATE WITH TWO MASTER SUITES!<br />

Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac in the sought-after Rosemerryn<br />

Subdivision, this private rear-section home delivers space, comfort and<br />

flexibility, all within easy reach of local amenities.<br />

The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area features real timber floors, a<br />

90cm freestanding oven, dish drawers and a large butler’s pantry.<br />

Multiple stacking doors open to an alfresco area, creating effortless<br />

indoor/outdoor flow. Ducted heating and a log burner provide yearround<br />

comfort, with a separate lounge and dedicated study adding<br />

versatility.<br />

All bedrooms include walk-in wardrobes, with the added rarity of two<br />

master suites, each with its own ensuite. Outside there are established<br />

gardens with fruit trees and vegetable beds, and secure gated parking for<br />

a camper, boat or trailer complete the package.<br />

A private, well-appointed home offering lifestyle flexibility and<br />

accommodation for extended family or guests.<br />

4 3 2 2<br />

DEADLINE SALE, CLOSING WEDNESDAY, 21ST<br />

JANUARY AT 3:00 PM (unless sold prior)<br />

th<br />

VIEWINGS Saturday 17 <strong>January</strong><br />

th<br />

Sunday 18 <strong>January</strong><br />

HOLLY SIDDONS<br />

holly@mkrealestate.co.nz<br />

020 4153 5251<br />

250m² 907m²<br />

12:00 pm - 12:30 pm<br />

12:00 pm - 12:30 pm<br />

MKREALESTATE.CO.NZ Powered by Ownly Ltd. Licensed REAA 2008


6<br />

New Listing/Open Home<br />

New Listing/Open Home<br />

DEADLINE SALE<br />

90 Neave Road, West Melton<br />

4A2B2L2J<br />

FOR SALE<br />

7 Cowley Lane, Rolleston<br />

3A2B1L1J<br />

• Central location<br />

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms<br />

• 4 hectares<br />

• Cracking arena<br />

• Great sheds and storage<br />

• Quiet Road<br />

Deadline Sale<br />

2pm Monday 2nd<br />

February <strong>2026</strong> (unless sold<br />

prior)<br />

View<br />

Thursday 4.00 - 4.30pm<br />

Saturday 10.00 - 10.30am<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

• Completed in 2023 by Green<br />

Homes<br />

• Modern kitchen with<br />

engineered stone benchtops<br />

• Master bedroom with ensuite<br />

and sliding door to patio<br />

• Double glazed with argon gas<br />

and thermally broken<br />

aluminium joinery<br />

For Sale<br />

Offers Over $675,000<br />

View<br />

Saturday 11.00 - 11.30am<br />

Nicola van Keulen<br />

027 609 4101<br />

nicola.vankeulen@raywhite.com<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32667<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32669<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

Open Home<br />

Open Home<br />

FOR SALE<br />

55 Brenley Drive, Rolleston<br />

6A3B3L3J<br />

FOR SALE<br />

45 Bonecrusher Street, Lincoln<br />

4A2B1L2J<br />

• 300m2 (approx.) main home<br />

with 5 bedrooms & 2<br />

bathrooms<br />

• 70m2 self-contained granny<br />

flat with open plan living, ideal<br />

for those with mobility issues<br />

• Triple garaging, separate<br />

laundry, excellent storage<br />

• 1018m2 fully fenced section<br />

For Sale<br />

$1,350,000<br />

View<br />

Saturday 11.30 - 12.00pm<br />

Amanda Cherry<br />

027 340 6955<br />

amanda.cherry@raywhite.com<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

• Surprisingly spacious 165m2<br />

(approx) floor plan<br />

• Open plan living with triple<br />

sliders to fully fenced garden<br />

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms<br />

• Master with outdoor access,<br />

WIR and ensuite<br />

• Double garage, smart wiring<br />

and more!<br />

For Sale<br />

Offers Over $779,000<br />

View<br />

Sunday 2.00 - 2.30pm<br />

Fiona Shearing<br />

021 229 6009<br />

fiona.shearing@raywhite.com<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32661<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/LIC31163<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)


7<br />

<strong>Selwyn</strong>'s largest locally owned & operated<br />

property management company<br />

Paul Clement<br />

Business Development Manager<br />

bdm.redchili@raywhite.com<br />

027 522 8210<br />

April Nicholls<br />

Business Development Manager<br />

redchili.bdm@raywhite.com<br />

027 212 9619<br />

Contact Paul or April for a free rental appraisal<br />

Cara Callister<br />

Manager/ Senior Property Manager<br />

027 247 4083<br />

Donna-Marie Bell<br />

Senior Property Manager<br />

027 456 1133<br />

Ilze Erasmus<br />

Property Manager<br />

027 227 7663<br />

Jane Lowe<br />

Property Manager<br />

027 255 9850<br />

Ray White Red Chili Property Management<br />

Rolleston | West Melton | Lincoln | Prebbleton<br />

rwrolleston.co.nz | rwwestmelton.co.nz | rwlincoln.co.nz | rwprebbleton.co.nz | redchilipm.co.nz<br />

Red Chili Property Management Ltd. Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

FOR SALE<br />

68 Vernon Drive, Lincoln<br />

4A2B2L2J<br />

FOR SALE<br />

<strong>14</strong>A Stonebrook Drive, Rolleston<br />

4A2B1D2J<br />

• 261sqm floor area with<br />

multiple automated skylights<br />

• Formal lounge + everyday<br />

living opening to covered<br />

alfresco area<br />

• Kwila deck & outdoor gas fire<br />

• High-spec kitchen with walkin<br />

butler's pantry<br />

• Ducted central heating<br />

For Sale<br />

$1,295,000<br />

View<br />

by appointment<br />

Rowan Shepherd<br />

027 303 1565<br />

rowan.shepherd@raywhite.com<br />

Georgina Christie<br />

027 523 2641<br />

georgina.christie@raywhite.com<br />

• Built 2013, 201m2 home on<br />

799m2 established section<br />

• 4 bedrooms with a study at<br />

the front of the property<br />

• Beautiful outdoor area with<br />

louvered pergola and 3 zip<br />

track sides<br />

• Established pear, plum and<br />

feijoa trees<br />

For Sale<br />

Offers Over $825,000<br />

View<br />

by appointment<br />

Leisa Webster<br />

027 722 5537<br />

leisa.webster@raywhite.com<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/LIC31000<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32602<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)


8<br />

Open Home<br />

DEADLINE SALE<br />

42 Fairmaid Street, Lincoln<br />

4A2B2L2J<br />

FOR SALE<br />

Lot 15 Pinewood Grange, Rolleston<br />

3A2B1C1J<br />

• Brand-new, freshly completed<br />

• Luxury feel throughout - 2.55<br />

ceiling height & 2.2 internal<br />

doors<br />

• Separate lounge/media room<br />

• Prime Location close to local<br />

amenities<br />

• Year-round comfort with<br />

ducted heating & cooling<br />

Deadline Sale<br />

3pm, Tuesday 20th <strong>January</strong><br />

<strong>2026</strong> (unless sold prior)<br />

View<br />

Saturday 1.00 - 2.00pm<br />

Sunday 10.15 10.45am<br />

Jaspal Singh<br />

021 058 2551<br />

jaspal.singh@raywhite.com<br />

• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom -<br />

brand new build<br />

• Situated in a growing, familyorientated<br />

subdivision<br />

• Low maintenance gardens<br />

• Close to schools & parks<br />

***Please note that the photos<br />

are from a previous build and<br />

are examples only<br />

For Sale<br />

$709,000<br />

View<br />

by appointment<br />

Georgia Schofield<br />

027 887 7282<br />

georgia.schofield@raywhite.com<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32654<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32549<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

Open Home<br />

FOR SALE<br />

Lot 213 - 4 Peek Lane, Rolleston<br />

3A2B1L2J<br />

FOR SALE<br />

Lot 200 Ed Hillary Drive, Rolleston<br />

4A2B1L2J<br />

• Under construction in Falcon's<br />

Landing - completion approx<br />

March/April<br />

• Ideal investment or first/<br />

family home!<br />

• A short stroll to playground &<br />

the LINK to be built <strong>2026</strong><br />

• Great quality build by Summit<br />

Developments<br />

For Sale<br />

$759,000<br />

View<br />

by appointment<br />

Leesa Barrie<br />

027 947 1200<br />

leesa.barrie@raywhite.com<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

• Brand-new 182sqm home,<br />

completion due Dec/Jan<br />

• Open-plan living & dining area<br />

• Designer kitchen, complete<br />

with stone benchtops<br />

• Two expansive Kwila decks -<br />

front & rear<br />

• Fully landscaped 429sqm<br />

section<br />

For Sale<br />

$839,000<br />

View<br />

Saturday 11.45 - 12.15pm<br />

'Big Red' Shefford<br />

027 224 4733<br />

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com<br />

Georgia Schofield<br />

027 887 7282<br />

georgia.schofield@raywhite.com<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32659<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)<br />

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32567<br />

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)


9


10<br />

Price drop of $75,000 - 6.74% net yield<br />

Show homes help when choosing a builder<br />

For Sale<br />

871 Jones Road, Rolleston, <strong>Selwyn</strong>, Canterbury<br />

For Sale - asking price of $2,225,000 + GST (if any)<br />

Annual rental<br />

$150,000 +<br />

OPEX + GST<br />

Courtney Doig<br />

021 991 251<br />

Modern<br />

2016-built<br />

premises<br />

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67036861<br />

37 on-site<br />

car parks<br />

Annabelle Bramwell<br />

021 845 885<br />

Prime strategic<br />

location<br />

Land area<br />

1,734 sq m<br />

(more or less)<br />

South Island Commercial Limited,<br />

Licensed under the REAA 2008<br />

Show homes are a great way to gather<br />

ideas with the latest trends in design,<br />

home features and building materials on<br />

display.<br />

If not sure what to build, a plethora of<br />

house designs can be discovered on the<br />

websites of building companies while visiting<br />

their respective show homes allows<br />

you to visualise how given designs could<br />

work for you and to gain a feel for the<br />

space in given rooms.<br />

Building company representatives will<br />

work with you, adapting a favoured plan<br />

to meet your family’s needs then guiding<br />

you through the building process.<br />

Most companies cover the gamut of<br />

builds though each is likely to have a<br />

particular focus. Talk to their people so<br />

you understand where the company sits<br />

on the spectrum, from highly specified<br />

architecturally designed houses to more<br />

economic family homes.<br />

Look at the finish and quality of the<br />

show home and ask where you can see<br />

other homes the company has constructed.<br />

Ascertain whether the features<br />

and fittings in the show home are their<br />

standard or a step up on what is offered<br />

in the basic package.<br />

Some building companies have designers.<br />

Others prefer to work with their<br />

own library of plans, adapting a chosen<br />

one rather than starting from scratch.<br />

Enquire as to whether there is a fee for<br />

any concept drawings, changes to existing<br />

plans or new plans, before getting too far<br />

down the track.<br />

If you cannot find a plan you like, you<br />

might work with an architectural draftsperson<br />

or architect. When a plan is<br />

finalised, you can then invite selected<br />

building companies that specialise in the<br />

type of build you are seeking, to quote.<br />

Once you have all the information<br />

together – the design, cost of building,<br />

build timeframe, and progress and final<br />

payment timeframe – you are in a position<br />

to select a building company. Until<br />

you sign on the dotted line, you are not<br />

committed to a given company and can<br />

walk away though there may be a charge<br />

for any plans drawn up if you do not<br />

proceed.<br />

Remember to compare ‘apples with<br />

apples’. Check that what is quoted is the<br />

same in each case. Changes to fixtures,<br />

fittings and other features can make a<br />

difference to the quoted price with the<br />

variances in quotes being due to disparities<br />

in quality and type of product used.<br />

Before committing to a build, organise<br />

finance based on the features you have<br />

chosen. Remember, each and every variation<br />

will affect the price, usually upwards.<br />

Get this sorted before the build starts.<br />

Most building companies will guide you<br />

through the choice and costing phase.<br />

Once the price is set avoid making<br />

changes to ensure the project keeps<br />

within budget. After all, the last thing you<br />

want is stress over money when moving<br />

into your lovely new home.<br />

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL<br />

Your national team.<br />

PGG Wrightson Real Estate are your national<br />

team of trusted property experts, connecting<br />

people with rural, lifestyle and provincial<br />

residential property around the country.<br />

Book a personalised appraisal for your rural,<br />

lifestyle or provincial residential property during<br />

<strong>January</strong> or February and you will go in the draw to<br />

WIN one of five Weber Family-Q barbeques.*<br />

WIN<br />

one of 5<br />

Weber<br />

Family-Q’s<br />

Scan the QR code to<br />

book your appraisal<br />

and enter the draw.<br />

*T&Cs Apply<br />

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008<br />

Helping grow the country


11<br />

AUCTION GALA<br />

Summer<br />

EDITION - 11 FEB <strong>2026</strong><br />

LIST. BID. SOLD.<br />

Get ahead of the pack this summer!<br />

If you’re planning to sell in <strong>2026</strong>, don’t wait for the New Year rush.<br />

Join our Summer Edition Auction Gala and take advantage of<br />

our expert marketing and sales team<br />

to achieve the best possible result for you.<br />

0800 789 1011<br />

fourseasons@harcourts.co.nz<br />

harcourtsfourseasons.co.nz<br />

We make it possible<br />

Licensed Agent REAA 2008<br />

Four Seasons Realty<br />

Four Seasons Realty<br />

TOP SALES CONSULTANTS<br />

FOR EACH OF OUR OFFICES FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER<br />

RHIANNON MOSS<br />

Belfast Office<br />

JACKIE FRAME<br />

Hanmer Springs Office<br />

MIKE BROWN<br />

Hornby Office<br />

EMMA GILLARD<br />

Kaiapoi Office<br />

JAN GREEN<br />

Lincoln Office<br />

COREY O’LEARY<br />

Prebbleton Office<br />

LISA TIPPEN<br />

Rangiora Office<br />

VICTORIA THOMPSON<br />

Ravenswood Office<br />

KATIE HARRISON<br />

Rolleston Office<br />

MITCH & MANA<br />

The Palms Office<br />

A big thank you to our clients for their trust and support, and congratulations to our top achievers!<br />

Our award winning team consistently delivers results, and we are committed to providing the highest level of service to our clients.<br />

If you are looking to buy or sell a property, contact us today. Work with us and experience the best choice for all your real estate needs.<br />

0800 789 1011 | harcourtsfourseasons.co.nz Four Seasons Realty 2017 Ltd | Licensed Agent REAA 2008


12<br />

homes start in<br />

CHRISTCHURCH SOUTH<br />

Brendan and his experienced team are dedicated to making your dream home a reality.<br />

Bringing award- winning Stroud Homes designs to the Christchurch South region.<br />

Brendan Ross is a seasoned builder with over 30 years of industry experience.<br />

3 Kentia Lane - Rolleston Price: $680,000<br />

Land size: 259m 2<br />

Floor Size: 130m 2<br />

3 2 1<br />

151 High Street, Leeston Price: $792,000<br />

Land size: 678m 2<br />

Floor Size: 180m 2<br />

3 2 2<br />

Lot 722 Wilfield Rise, Weedons Ross Road, West Melton Price: $1,085,000<br />

Land size: 900m 2<br />

Floor Size: 245m 2<br />

5 3 3<br />

925a Sandy Knolls Road, West Melton<br />

Price: $1,605,481<br />

Land size: 10000m 2<br />

Floor Size: 282m 2<br />

4 3 2<br />

Call in and see us at our brand new display centre.<br />

We aim to build a home that is<br />

for your family, budget and section.

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