Urban Explorers Urban Explorers enjoyed our walks last month in the Southern Quadrant of the central city with Graeme. Most of us no idea of the progress that has been made in that area and learnt a great deal from Graeme’s knowledge of the inner city. This month we are exploring the Northwood/Styx Mill area. Ngaire
Scribes We were pleased to have two new folk join us on Monday and we had a very pleasant session with lots of laughs. We decided that 7th December will be our last for the year and we will meet up again after ‘the silly season’ in February.
Family history group A few of the family history group met on 3rd November spending time looking at one member’s variety of family trees and it was interesting to see the differing layouts and presentations of ancestral records. Another member shared with us a real gem – the transcription of notes kept by a well travelled Victorian great grandfather; his records of school life were hair raising to say the least! We are a small but enthusiastic group of amateur genealogists who enjoy their researching. Carole and Julia
Cycling Group Cycling trip to Twizel 3-5 October Cecelia, Christine, Roger and I joined Russell & Jill at their Twizel house for a weekend getaway. We cycled part of the Alps to Ocean cycleway around Lake Ohau and Lake Pukaki on separate days. It was great being in different surroundings and the views were spectacular especially as there had been snow 5 days earlier. Luckily we cycled the Lake Ohau section the day before the terrible fire that devastated the Ohau village and surrounding area. We hope to do this again maybe in late March. Our thanks to Jill & Russell for their hospitality and showing us around the Twizel area. Cycling Group October ride This month we rode out to Lincoln on the Little River rail trail from Marshs Road. It turned out to be a glorious morning with a NE wind to help us on the way. We stopped at The Lincoln Pantry for refreshments then headed back into a stiff breeze. Next month we will meet in Hagley Park and ride to Northlands on the Northern Line beside the railway tracks then onto the Papanui Parallel cycleway to Bealey Ave and back to Hagley Park. Our group meets on the last Friday of the month. New members are always welcome.
Quarry Group The Quarry group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 10.00 am at the coffee cart next to the Quarryman’s house. We usually work for an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the task and the weather. Our latest visit was on 5 November, which was a hot day but the ranger, Nigel, found us a shady spot near the carpark, where we removed the growth around young plants. Although we take our own tools, Nigel does supply good gear if we need it. We would love some new members to join our small group as there is a need for volunteers to help with the upkeep of the quarry. Lynne
Cycling Group September Ride Our group meets on the last Friday of the month. New members are always welcome. This month we travelled out to Woodend Beach and biked along the Tutaepatu Trail to Waikuku and then back to Pegasus town for lunch. There were 9 of us enjoying a beautiful day and a very relaxed trip away from traffic. Next month we will ride from Halswell to Lincoln on the cycleway Mary
Family History group The Family History group is a small but enthusiastic group with each member intent on finding out something of their forebears. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month; the November meeting will be held on Tuesday 3rd November in competition with the Melbourne Cup and the US elections! This month two members were present, and time was spent searching on various computer sites. Carole and Julia
History Group We are nearing the end of our current online course “History and Spread of the English Language”. It has been a fascinating journey from Old English to English in Society. Our next Unit 9 covers political correctness, catch phrases, slogans, graffiti, slang, proverbs, idioms, and clichés. One more to go and then the group will be deciding on our next course for 2021.
Urban Explorers October Outing The group is exploring the South Quadrant of the central city with Graeme this month. It will be an interesting blend of the past and new, exciting future for this ever changing area. Ngaire
Travel Group Had a mini break to finish the year in style. While the weather was disappointing the food at Mosaic was delicious. Hopefully 2021 will see longer travel opportunities. Karen and Grant
Theatre Appreciation Our group has now commenced and will be meeting on the fourth Thursday of the month (next: August 27th) at 1.15pm in the Halswell Hub, cnr Sparks and Halswell Roads. Looking ahead we shall probably make up a party to attend Cas’n’ova’s production of ‘Good Grief’ early in October. Those who might be interested can look up their website for dates and we can make a decision at our August meeting. Discount for bookings of 10 or more.
Urban Explorers Urban Explorers have welcomed 5 new members in the past month. We are planning a seaside amble for August from New Brighton up to Waimari beach with a number of interesting facts about the general area.
Scrabble Group The Scrabble group has grown this year. It is great to have new players bringing new voices and opinions to our wide-ranging discussions. We can take two or three more players if you feel inclined to join us on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 1.30pm. We play at the houses of those of us who have the space (and enough chairs) to accommodate us.
Scribes We continue to meet in Halswell Library at 1 o’clock on the first Monday of the month. We have a lot of fun and always are happy to welcome newcomers to join or just in or just pop in to see what we do, no pressure.
Family history group This month’s discussion was ‘Searching Parish Records’ mainly in Australia but also in general. Members shared the sites and/or methods they have found to be of use. Members then shared how their research was developing. Following this we spent some time looking at old photos. This raised some good laughs as well as comments on the fashions of the days and the ‘looks’ of the subjects in their posed settings. It certainly showed the benefits of having labelled and/or dated photos but why do the recorders only use nicknames? We had no answer for that but many suggestions. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.30pm. Anyone is welcome to attend.
Quarry Group Following Covid-19 and then several wet Thursdays we are hoping for future fine days so that we can continue our work releasing young plants and trimming foliage on the tracks. We welcome more assistance. We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 10.00 am at the Quarryman’s house for one and half hours.
Cycling Our group meets on the last Friday of the month. We had our first ride since Lockdown last week with a trip into town from Halswell on the Quarryman’s Trail. It was great to get together after so long. We have lots of different rides planned for the coming months. Our next ride at the end of August will be on Old Tai Tapu Rd to The Store for a coffee and back. New members are very welcome.
Ferrymead Heritage Garden Group One of our interest groups maintains the Cob Cottage and Church gardens at Ferrymead. Members turn up on the 1st Thursday of the month at 10:00am to enjoy the company of others while keeping the area tidy, weeding, planting, raking leaves and cropping seasonable vegetables. If you enjoy gardening and like to be involved in a community activity, then you are very welcome to join this team.
A report of the recent popular Ferrymead Night Market which is held on the 1st Saturday of the month, $2 gold coin entry.
“I was at Curragh House for the Night Market last Saturday, the first since the “lockdown” in March. The Park was heaving, the car parks were full, Curragh house was packed to the gunnels. I was on duty in the dining room in Edwardian costume. Boiling the kettle on the coal range, running a continuous teapot, serving cups of tea, food was available to be bought in our kitchen. Our volunteers do a sterling job baking up a storm and selling their scrumptious food very cheaply – fund-raising. For the first time we had a “white elephant” stall in the school room. Plus, for the first time we had a licence to have a bar in the Park – I think that may have been an attraction for more than a few.
To be honest I think the management were overwhelmed with the numbers on a cold night. We had five open fires roaring. I forgot how messy they are to be lit and grates cleaned out and they consume so much firewood. Certainly, it takes you back in time and brought back some long lost memories.
This month we rode around the Wigram area starting at
Meshino’s cafe. The weather was unsettled but by 9.30am it had stopped raining
and 5 of us had a lovely ride led by Colin. It was great to see the new areas
from a different viewpoint. We rode for about an hour covering 15kms.
Next month we will ride around Kaiapoi starting near
the old Waimak bridge.
New members are always welcome. We ride on the last
Friday morning of the month.
Family History
The family
history/genealogy group had this month’s meeting on Tuesday 1st June. Those
writing ‘My Life’ shared a memorable event in their lives followed by
discussion on progress of their writing. Some who are researching their family
ancestors brought along sites which could be helpful. With winter upon us there
will probably be more time to follow these interests. Last month’s visit to
Archives NZ was revisited and we are fortunate to have such an invaluable
resource so close to us. Next meeting will be on Tuesday 6th July. Carole
Quarry Group
Five members spent and
hour and a half spreading mulch around the latest plantings in the quarry below
the rock face. If you are in the quarry,
it is worth having a look at this newly planted area. There are more plants to
go in over the seasons planting days. Lynne
May 2021
Current Affairs
A successful start to 2021 with the
discussion on introducing a “tax on sugary drinks” and a visit to the Living
Earth (green waste) processing facility in Bromley.
The April meeting will discuss “dietary supplements and whether they are essential for good nutrition” and in May the group will discuss “how good is the New Zealand school education system”. We meet on the 3rd Wednesday at 10.00am in the Halswell Service Centre/Library. If you are interested in joining the group, contact Graeme McNally
Cycling Group
Twizel trip at ANZAC weekend
7 of us enjoyed a lovely weekend in Twizel thanks to the hospitality of Jill and Russell. The first ride was beside Lake Ohau on the A2O track from the weir around to the township. It was devastating to see the houses that were lost in the October fire but encouraging to see lots of new buildings going up. It was a lovely sunny day but the wind did come up around lunchtime so we had to find a sheltered spot to stop. The next day we rode from Twizel to Lake Pukaki again on the A2O track across typical MacKenzie country and then back along the canal which was so picturesque with the autumn colours. I am sure another trip will be planned sometime later in the year.
U3A Cycling April ride
This month we rode from Birdlings Flat to Little River on the Rail Trail. It was a beautiful morning with no wind. The scenery around Lake Forsyth was great with lots of wildlife on the lake. We stopped at the Little River Café and Store for coffee then returned to our cars. Next month we will ride around the Wigram area. New members are always welcome. We ride on the last Friday morning of the month.
Family History
The family history group had a very interesting visit to Archives New Zealand. We were taken on a tour of the facility, shown the various areas, and told of their functions. After touring the repository, we were taken to the Reading Room where a variety of documents from the archives were set out for us to look at. Police Gazettes, a probate file, records of Admissions to the Sunnyside Hospital and a will with a notebook where a widow had recorded how her possessions were to be distributed were some of the items. Early Christchurch Land records books, impressive with their immaculate copperplate writing, were also viewed. If you are interested in pursuing your family’s history, you are welcome to come along to our meetings which are held on the first Tuesday of each month starting a 1.30pm. Contact Carole
Scribes
We’re still having fun meetings, sometimes if we’ve felt unable to write we just talk and laugh. Our next meeting is Monday 14th May at 1 pm. Halswell Library. We would welcome anyone who may like to just sit in and see what we get up to. Regards Trish.
Scrabble
The Scrabble Group has currently 10 members and 3 ladies waiting to join. If prospective members contact Vivienne, she will collate any information to enable a new group to be formed.
Theatre Appreciation Group
Recently a party from our group attended the play ‘Gladys and Daphne’ at the Lyttelton Arts Factory, a delightful tale artfully portrayed by two very accomplished actors, Lynda Milligan and Julie Edwards. The season runs until 16th May and we would all recommend everyone to see it. Some of us have also been to see ‘Ladies Night’ at The Court Theatre, lots of excitement there! Our next regular meeting is on Thursday 27th May at The Hub 1.15pm. Plenty of room for newcomers to join us. David
April 2021
Current Affairs
A successful start to 2021 with the discussion on introducing a “tax on sugary drinks” and a visit to the Living Earth (green waste) processing facility in Bromley. The April meeting will discuss “dietary supplements and whether they are essential for good nutrition” and in May the group will discuss “how good is the New Zealand school education system”. We meet on the 3rd Wednesday at 10.00am in the Halswell Service Centre/Library. If you are interested in joining the group, contact Graeme McNally.
Cycling Group March
Ride
This month we combined a few cycleways to make a round trip. We started at Pioneer Stadium on the new Nor’west Arc cycleway and headed for the University. The track wasn’t completed but was still a pleasant ride. Then we went through the University and rode along the Uni-cycle cycleway that took us into Hagley Park via Riccarton Bush. We had coffee at the Museum Café then back via the Quarrymans Trail for some and the Addington-Southern Motorway cycleway to Aidanfield for some others. There were 10 of us which was great. We have 7 of our group going to Twizel for another few days cycling over Anzac weekend. Our next ride will be Birdlings Flat to Little River. We meet on the last Friday of the month and new members are always welcome.
Quarry Group
A small group work in the Halswell Quarry on the first Thursday of the month from 10.00 am for an hour and a half to two hours. We would love more helpers to join us.
Genealogy
The family history/genealogy group met on 6th April. Many memories surfaced as members shared their experiences of their school days and compared those days to those of today. That was the task for this month’s unit in preparation for writing our life stories. Our next task is ‘I remember the day when. .’. What memories will that evoke – one can but wonder? Concurrently we continue with the research of our family trees. Our next meeting on Tuesday 4th May will be a visit to the National Archives confirmation and time to follow. If you are interested in this visit, please contact either Carole or Julia.
Scribes
Scribes
are still meeting 1 pm Halswell library first Monday of the month, except for 5th
April which is Easter Monday so we will meet on the 12th. We were
pleased to have 2 new members at our last Scribes but would welcome more. Happy
scribbling! Trish
Scrabble
We have 10 members meeting twice monthly at present. Because we meet in each other’s homes we are unable to enlarge the group at present. If others wish to play Scrabble I am happy to keep a list of those people, and facilitate their formation of a new group. Vivienne
Theatre
Appreciation Group
At our Theatre
Appreciation meeting in March, we were privileged to host a visit from Lara
Macgregor, currently starring in “Things I Know To be True’ at The Court
Theatre (an absolutely brilliant production by the way! Not to be missed.) Our
April meeting is on the 22nd at which time we will organise a visit to see
‘Gladys and Daphne’ at the Lyttelton Arts Factory. Gladys is widowed.
What’s left for her but a ticking clock and cheese rolls for one? But then
comes Daphne. This play is the much-anticipated sequel to LAF’s 2020 hit
show Gladys and Alfie. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll love
it. Featuring two of New Zealand’s finest – Lynda Milligan and Julie
Edwards. David
March 2021
Current Affairs
A small number of places are available to U3a members to join the Current Affairs Group on their visit to Living Earth (who process all of our green waste) -17 March. If you are interested in joining this visit, contact Graeme McNally for further information.
Cycling Group
February Ride
This month we met at Ferrymead Heritage Park and biked to Scarborough Beach in Sumner. There were 12 of us which was a fantastic turnout as it was a cloudy drizzly morning, but we all enjoyed the ride. Next month we hope to try the new Nor’west Arc Cycleway if it is finished. We are also looking at having another weekend away in Twizel possibly in April. We ride on the last Friday of the month and new members are welcome. Mary
Quarry Group
A
small group work in the Halswell Quarry on the first Thursday of the month from
10.00 am for an hour and a half to two hours. We would love more helpers to
join us. Contact Lynne through the website.
Book
Discussion
A very friendly group who meet at
10:00am on the 2nd Monday of the month at the Halswell Library. We
subscribe to The Book Discussion Scheme which supply 10 books per year at a
cost of $70. The first book for 2021 season is distributed at the May
meeting. Maximum of 12 members and for the new season there are currently
2 vacancies. Let me know if you are interested. Ros
Genealogy
Tuesday 2nd March found the genealogy/family history group
holding their first meeting for the year. This year, as well as tracing family
history we are investigating various ways of recording our own and the lives,
as much as we can find out, of our forebears. By the end of the meeting most of
the group had decided on their starting point and we look forward to hearing of
their progress (or lack of) at our next meeting Tuesday 6th April. If you are
interested in coming along, please contact Carole or Julia.
History Group
This year we are studying Renaissance Italy following the U3Aonline programme. We meet at my home on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 10:00am. Our first meeting had a lively discussion on the history of Italy and why the Italian Renaissance flourished in 15th century Florence. These online courses prompt further research for a better understanding of the subject. All members can access the online course for individual study. Please ask for the login and password if interested. Ros
Scribes
Scribes are still meeting 1 pm Halswell
library first Monday of the month, except for 5th April which is
Easter Monday so we will meet on the 12th. We were pleased to have 2
new members at our last Scribes but would welcome more. Happy scribbling! Trish
Scrabble
We have 10 active members enjoying twice
monthly meetings in each other’s homes and meeting challenges related to word
settings. Vivienne
Other Learning
Opportunities
SWU3A online courses
Members can use the on-line courses our group has subscribed to by logging on to our website. Please ask for the login and password if you are interested.
UC Connect
These are a series of lectures on Wednesday evenings on a wide variety of subjects. To find out what is offered go to https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/public-lectures/ in your browser. On that website there is also the ability to watch u-tube versions of earlier talks.
January 2021
Cycling Group January 2021 ride
This month we met near PMH and biked out to Ferrymead following the river on bike tracks or quiet roads. There were 10 keen riders and we all enjoyed getting together after the summer break. The weather was cloudy with a SW breeze but luckily no rain. Some of our group biked from Halswell/Aidanfield. Our next ride at the end of February will be from Ferrymead to Sumner. We meet on the last Friday of the month and new members are welcome to join us.
November 2020
Urban Explorers Urban Explorers enjoyed our walks last month in the Southern Quadrant of the central city with Graeme. Most of us no idea of the progress that has been made in that area and learnt a great deal from Graeme’s knowledge of the inner city. This month we are exploring the Northwood/Styx Mill area. Ngaire
Scribes
We were pleased to have two new folk join us on Monday and we had a
very pleasant session with lots of laughs. We decided that 7th December will be our last for the year and we will meet up again after ‘the silly season’ in February.
Family history group
A few of the family history group met on 3rd November spending time
looking at one member’s variety of family trees and it was interesting
to see the differing layouts and presentations of ancestral records.
Another member shared with us a real gem – the transcription of notes
kept by a well travelled Victorian great grandfather; his records of
school life were hair raising to say the least! We are a small but
enthusiastic group of amateur genealogists who enjoy their researching. Carole and Julia
Cycling Group Cycling trip to Twizel 3-5 October Cecelia, Christine, Roger and I joined Russell & Jill at their Twizel house for a weekend getaway. We cycled part of the Alps to Ocean cycleway around Lake Ohau and Lake Pukaki on separate days. It was great being in different surroundings and the views were spectacular especially as there had been snow 5 days earlier. Luckily we cycled the Lake Ohau section the day before the terrible fire that devastated the Ohau village and surrounding area. We hope to do this again maybe in late March. Our thanks to Jill & Russell for their hospitality and showing us around the Twizel area. Cycling Group October ride This month we rode out to Lincoln on the Little River rail trail from Marshs Road. It turned out to be a glorious morning with a NE wind to help us on the way. We stopped at The Lincoln Pantry for refreshments then headed back into a stiff breeze. Next month we will meet in Hagley Park and ride to Northlands on the Northern Line beside the railway tracks then onto the Papanui Parallel cycleway to Bealey Ave and back to Hagley Park. Our group meets on the last Friday of the month. New members are always welcome.
Quarry Group The Quarry group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 10.00 am at the coffee cart next to the Quarryman’s house. We usually work for an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the task and the weather. Our latest visit was on 5 November, which was a hot day but the ranger, Nigel, found us a shady spot near the carpark, where we removed the growth around young plants. Although we take our own tools, Nigel does supply good gear if we need it. We would love some new members to join our small group as there is a need for volunteers to help with the upkeep of the quarry. Lynne
October 2020
Cycling Group September Ride Our group meets on the last Friday of the month. New members are always welcome. This month we travelled out to Woodend Beach and biked along the Tutaepatu Trail to Waikuku and then back to Pegasus town for lunch. There were 9 of us enjoying a beautiful day and a very relaxed trip away from traffic.
Next month we will ride from Halswell to Lincoln on the cycleway Mary
Family History group The Family History group is a small but enthusiastic group with each member intent on finding out something of their forebears. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month; the November meeting will be held on Tuesday 3rd November in competition with the Melbourne Cup and the US elections! This month two members were present, and time was spent searching on various computer sites. Carole and Julia
History Group We are nearing the end of our current online course “History and Spread of the English Language”. It has been a fascinating journey from Old English to English in Society. Our next Unit 9 covers political correctness, catch phrases, slogans, graffiti, slang, proverbs, idioms, and clichés. One more to go and then the group will be deciding on our next course for 2021.
Urban Explorers October Outing The group is exploring the South Quadrant of the central city with Graeme this month. It will be an interesting blend of the past and new, exciting future for this everchanging area. Ngaire
August 2020
Travel Group Had a mini break to finish the year in style. While the weather was disappointing the food at Mosaic was delicious. Hopefully 2021 will see longer travel opportunities. Karen and Grant
Theatre Appreciation Our group has now commenced and will be meeting on the fourth Thursday of the month (next: August 27th) at 1.15pm in the Halswell Hub, cnr Sparks and Halswell Roads. Looking ahead we shall probably make up a party to attend Cas’n’ova’s production of ‘Good Grief’ early in October. Those who might be interested can look up their website for dates and we can make a decision at our August meeting. Discount for bookings of 10 or more.
Urban Explorers Urban Explorers have welcomed 5 new members in the past month. We are planning a seaside amble for August from New Brighton up to Waimari beach with a number of interesting facts about the general area.
Scrabble Group The Scrabble group has grown this year. It is great to have new players bringing new voices and opinions to our wide-ranging discussions. We can take two or three more players if you feel inclined to join us on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 1.30pm. We play at the houses of those of us who have the space (and enough chairs) to accommodate us.
Scribes We continue to meet in Halswell Library at 1 o’clock on the first Monday of the month. We have a lot of fun and always are happy to welcome newcomers to join or just in or just pop in to see what we do, no pressure.
Family history group This month’s discussion was ‘Searching Parish Records’ mainly in Australia but also in general. Members shared the sites and/or methods they have found to be of use. Members then shared how their research was developing. Following this we spent some time looking at old photos. This raised some good laughs as well as comments on the fashions of the days and the ‘looks’ of the subjects in their posed settings. It certainly showed the benefits of having labelled and/or dated photos but why do the recorders only use nicknames? We had no answer for that but many suggestions. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 1.30pm. Anyone is welcome to attend.
Quarry Group Following Covid-19 and then several wet Thursdays we are hoping for future fine days so that we can continue our work releasing young plants and trimming foliage on the tracks. We welcome more assistance. We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 10.00 am at the Quarryman’s house for one and half hours.
Cycling Our group meets on the last Friday of the month. We had our first ride since Lockdown last week with a trip into town from Halswell on the Quarryman’s Trail. It was great to get together after so long. We have lots of different rides planned for the coming months. Our next ride at the end of August will be on Old Tai Tapu Rd to The Store for a coffee and back. New members are very welcome.
Ferrymead Heritage Garden Group One of our interest groups maintains the Cob Cottage and Church gardens at Ferrymead. Members turn up on the 1st Thursday of the month at 10:00am to enjoy the company of others while keeping the area tidy, weeding, planting, raking leaves and cropping seasonable vegetables. If you enjoy gardening and like to be involved in a community activity, then you are very welcome to join this team.
A report of the recent popular Ferrymead Night Market which is held on the 1st Saturday of the month, $2 gold coin entry.
“I was at Curragh House for the Night Market last Saturday, the first since the “lockdown” in March. The Park was heaving, the car parks were full, Curragh house was packed to the gunnels. I was on duty in the dining room in Edwardian costume. Boiling the kettle on the coal range, running a continuous teapot, serving cups of tea, food was available to be bought in our kitchen. Our volunteers do a sterling job baking up a storm and selling their scrumptious food very cheaply – fund-raising. For the first time we had a “white elephant” stall in the school room. Plus, for the first time we had a licence to have a bar in the Park – I think that may have been an attraction for more than a few.
To be honest I think the management were overwhelmed with the numbers on a cold night. We had five open fires roaring. I forgot how messy they are to be lit and grates cleaned out and they consume so much firewood. Certainly, it takes you back in time and brought back some long lost memories.
We are trying to get as a many people out into their gardens for an hour
to count the birds they see or hear. I know that U3A members are
incredibly public spirited and eager to help, especially when it comes
to citizen science. I am really hoping we can get the message far and
wide to get people out counting.
If anyone would like to share photos of themselves getting ready to
count, warming up for the occasion or while they are counting, please
don’t hesitate to send them through back to me, or add them to our
social media channels.
General info
At the end of June, we begin our 14th national Garden Bird Survey, New
Zealand’s longest running citizen science project, and we’d like your
help!
The New Zealand Garden Bird Survey is an annual citizen science
project organised by Manaaki Whenua –Landcare Research. It takes place over nine days between June 27 and July 5. People count the birds they see or hear in their backyards. How you can help
Share the details to your networks, about the survey and how people can be involved.
Last year, more than 4,000 people took part nationwide. Our goal this
year is for substantially more people to share what birds they can see
(or hear).
Here’s how people can get involved
1. Visit the NZ Garden Bird Survey website to get started.
2. Select a garden, or a local park or school grounds.
3. Choose any ONE day between June 27 and July 5, 2020.
4. Look and listen for birds on that day for ONE hour.
5. For each species, record the HIGHEST number seen or heard at one time.
6. Submit the results online at the NZ Garden Bird Survey website
Why the survey is important
Garden birds are important to study as they act as an environmental
indicator for the health of our ecosystems, so every sighting
matters. The information we gather from this survey helps inform
conservation decisions and further research, not just in New Zealand but
worldwide.
Resources for you to share with your community
We have provided some resources that might come in handy. You are
welcome to distribute as appropriate for your networks. Attached to this
email is:
· A tally sheet
· A banner image
· A “What’s That Bird’ identification poster
Follow us and join the conversation on social media
Activity will start to ramp up from mid June. We appreciate the sharing
of content and encouragement of your audiences to participate in this
survey.
· @NZGardenBirds on FacebookTwitter and Instagram
· Join the Facebook group: NZ Garden Bird Survey
· Contribute to the conversation #NZGardenBirdSurvey
There is also a Facebook frame that people can add to their Facebook profiles
And finally, in case anyone asks …why do we do this in winter?
It may seem odd – but in fact it makes sense. We are more likely to see
birds in our gardens in winter, because they’re attracted in when
there’s less food for them in the wider environment. This means that we
get better results, showing the true state of our garden birds
August “Golden Hill” by Francis Spufford
Richard Smith arrives in New York in 1746 from England with a bank draft of £1,000, a fortune. The novel is written in 18th Century style, very descriptive and wordy. The character of Richard behaves in a deliberately secretive manner so there is much gossip as to why he is there and who he really is. The end is somewhat of an anti-climax, but a good meander through that time period.
July: “The Language of Flowers” by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
The life of an abandoned baby destined to spend her childhood in numerous foster homes, unable to recognise the complexities of human relationships – sabotaging efforts of those who mean to help her. Her salvation comes through her passion for flowers and their meanings.
June: “I Do Not Come to you by Chance” by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani
An expose of the greed and stupidity of those who are duped by the known treacherous world of the “Nigerian scam”. An expose of the perpetrators who are initially driven by hopelessness and poverty, but soon realise the riches to be had in finding gullible “victims”.
May: “Old Filth” by Jane Gardam – an acronym for “Failed in London try Hong Kong” – refers to Sir Edward Feathers, a retired Judge, once a Raj orphan, renowned for his legal expertise and long career of note, who moved back to the UK, a lonely man unknown and living in isolation. He returned to his birthplace Malaya where he felt at home the most. – A poignant, fascinating tale of colonial years gone by governed by expectations and duty, a life half fulfilled.
Our April Book was “How To Be An American Housewife”. Not as silly as the title suggests. The story winds around cultural differences and the introduction of a manual for Japanese War Brides, who met and married American GIs in Japan, and returned to live in an imagine utopia in the United States post war.
Another fascinating insight into another world, that I personally never gave a thought to. It was both irritating – the main character stuck resolutely to her Japanese upbringing, and sad that she had such a lonely life in America. There was an upside – a story narrated through the daughter’s eyes when she made a journey back to Japan to meet her family, as her mother was too ill to go.
August 9th
Super turnout yesterday, Alison, Sandra (newbies), Jill, Sue, Mary and me. We weeded and tidied up, it’s amazing how much stuff went into the sheep bags. I think I am keeping the rabbits at bay with my potent cayenne pepper and garlic concoction. The broad beans, brassicas and poppies have survived, as have the camellias. And the last remaining rose that was outside the church, against all odds, has new greenery on it, so it obviously loves the warm little corner it now as. It was touch and go as to whether it would survive. Although not spring as yet, green shoots are popping up everywhere. Mary brought along some rhizomes to plant, it will be a surprise to see what flowers!!
Alison attacked the rose trimming and with plenty of encouragement from all of us she finished pruning – and it looked good.
With the departure of Jason Harris (Manager) and his daughter Madison there is a renewed vigour from the office management, especially with the return of Rebecca. I am again back on the email distribution list for the Ferrymead Heritage Park so shall forward the newsletters to you. You can get a feel we are but a small, but much appreciated, cog in the bigger wheel of the park. We continue to receive many compliments about our garden work.
And, a bonus, Josh, on talking to Council staff re the great piles of mulch we can see across the road from the park. We are allowed to help ourselves (I mean for Park use), so rather than get a trailer, I am suggesting fill a few bags as and when needed.
We have generally agreed that miniature, evergreen azaleas would look great where the grotty buxus hedge used to be. They are more suited to the dappled environment. I think I have found a “cheapie” place for same.
* Next month I think we are ready to plant more vegies. Maybe potatoes, bit early for tomatoes and perhaps more corn. Carrots would look good, but Peter Rabbit may think the same, but will spray with my concoction. So we are trucking along ever so nicely, many thanks for your continued support.
* I’ve got heaps of seeds I have collected from the Zinnia and Echinacea, and others, so will sprinkle these and see what pops up.
* All seeds and propagation welcome. There are plenty of other bits of garden around the park that could do with a bit of brightening up.
Last Thursday, (2 May) we were the lucky recipients of a bonus. It was Toddler Thursday, which means the day was especially for babies, their Mums and Dads and their Grandmas and Grandads. It was a warm and glorious day. We had quite an audience, all keen to know who we were and what we were doing. With much admiration for our gardens and our work. We are approaching a winter garden now. Four of us, Ros, Mary, Maureen and me weeded and tidied the garden. Tomatoes and potatoes were harvested. Further horse poo was acquired from our favourite Riding School up the valley, this was dug in and winter greens planted, to be dug in for soil nutrients. I popped down later to work on the restoration of the garden that was damaged by ARA students who were painting nearby recently. God help their future clients!
Garden planning is still fermenting in our minds, while we decide what can we planted in the church gardens. Bearing in mind it is a wedding venue so the focus is on creating a background of colourful, flowering plants that are hardy and drought resistant, and essentially need little care, and of course, rabbit proof.
2018: The winter garden produced cold weather and weeds but we persevered weeding and tidying, and in autumn we raked leaves and planted seedlings. Our broccoli heads were very much admired as was our rhubarb and silverbeet. The rotted horse poo – acquired from a local riding school – certainly did the trick. Chicken wire is protecting the strawberries, the birds were just too vigorous, they loved the pea straw. And I think we are winning against the never-ending rabbits. Sprinkling blood and bone around the perimeter seems to be the trick, plus continuing to establish plants that the rabbits do not seem to have an appetite for!
Miraculously we have discovered a long forgotten pile of crusher dust at the Heritage Park which had disappeared under a mat of weeds. This will be dispersed over the cob cottage paths forthwith. Spring has sprung, our flower plants are growing ferociously. I watered all of the cob cottage garden and church garden weekly during early summer. The ground was dry as a bone.
We would welcome further members to this very worthwhile group. As always lots of chat, fun and laughter, and a cuppa with cake/biccie.
January 2021:
This month we met near PMH and biked out to Ferrymead following the river on bike tracks or quiet roads. There were 10 keen riders and we all enjoyed getting together after the summer break. The weather was cloudy with a SW breeze but luckily no rain. Some of our group biked from Halswell/Aidanfield. Our next ride at the end of February will be from Ferrymead to Sumner.
We meet on the last Friday of the month and new members are welcome to join us.
November:
Well a very keen group of 7 ventured to Bottle Lake Forest Park last Friday for an adventure. Well……..
We cycled along the edge of the forest for about 6 km and then found a convenient cafe. The weather was overcast but not really cold. The return showed all the type of tracks through the trees which opened a few eyes to the attraction of this.
To quote ‘we must have an open mind to different experiences’ Hahaha.
September:
Great location, new, interesting, area and good group.
For those not there. We met at the Halswell bowling club and car shared to Woodend Beach where the trail commences through to Waikuku. We rode this first and came to the Ashley River Lagoon. A lovely view and bird watching site.
We rode back along the same track but diverted to Pegasus where we stopped for a light lunch. Then biked back to cars and returned home.
August:
We went via the Quarry trail the whole way into the city to have coffee. We returned via our previous route thru Addington and cycle way alongside the Motorway, Wigram and back to Halswell.
July:
Nine members arrived for our trip. In very foggy and misty conditions we commenced our ride and proceeded to the Raspberry Cafe just off the Old Taitapu Road. 43 Minutes, as predicted by Mary, for the outward trip. Lovely warm welcome at the Cafe and after a coffee break a return into a slight headwind.
I think the continuous nature of the ride had its effect, as opposed to many rides which have a stop start component. Thereby having the ‘sore bum’ effect.
Great to see so many.
June:
Marshes Road Prebbleton, outside Texture Plants. 10am start. Tracking thru to Lincoln. 90% on cycleways.
May:
We will start from the car parking area opposite the Princess Margaret Hospital and we will cycle thru to Ferrymead for coffee.
10am. The Forecast is good.
April :
As you are aware, the last ride was changed to last Monday to allow you all to plan around the National memorial.
Well, Monday was the most beautiful morning and the fear over parking was confirmed. However we set off at a leisurely pace through the suburban streets to Linwood Avenue and then after a trip along the boulevard we were taken off road by the front cyclist, along a track none of us had ever seen. A lovely stop at Ferrymead, coffee and a view over the estuary. Another leisurely ride back to town and all under two hours.
March : Postponed
Ride this Friday starts at Worcester Street, Latimer Street end . Parking is interesting. We will follow the ride through the eastern suburbs to Linwood avenue and out to Ferrymead for a coffee and return.
It is not a long ride but an interesting addition to the city’s Cycleways..
February : From Hagley Park to Northlands and return. Pleasant. All most all off road cycle lanes using a circular route.
January: No.2. : Lovely intricate route from Rose Street, Hoon Hay to The Tannery, great coffee and return via totally different route.
January : No.1. : Lincoln to Motukarara. This was a stiff ride with a pleasant break for a picnic lunch at Motukarara, visit to local interest places. 32Kms.
2018
December: From Marshes Road to Lincoln. A ride along rural cycle lanes which is very smooth and encourages some to stretch their legs, great coffee.
November: Nice ride in fresh conditions from Ferrymead Carpark to Scarborough for coffee at Scarborough Fare. Back wind home.
October : Retreat Road to Brighton( clocktower cafe) Pleasant ride through the red zone along cycling tracks with minimum roadway usage.
* After the recent storm I should imagine there will be tidying up to do. Our strategies for the bunnies seems to be working. It is quite clear that they don’t touch what they don’t like, ie prickly leaves, tomatoes – which are thriving – buttercup pumpkin, rhubarb, potatoes, raspberries and marigolds. I continue to sprinkle a little blood and bone …..
* The church garden is looking a little sick as are the gardens around the picket fence. They look rather bare, whether plants have died or been eaten is a mystery. I have been waiting a year for the hedge in front of the church to grow so we can attempt to level it, and lo and behold, some idiot has trimmed it at the different levels, instead of levelling it off – beggars belief …..
* I think we have to give some thought to planting more hardy plants around the church. The roses don’t do that well because they get little sun and the two in front of the church are barely alive – it was pointed out to me they live in an almighty cold vortex, which doesn’t help. So put your thinking caps on please, any ideas on hardy plants. I find self sown plants all over my garden and have transplanted many plants from this source, ie Solomon Seal, ferns, marigolds, daisies, Mabel Island Lily, and I have transplanted veggies and strawberries, surplus to requirements, as some of you have also done. I have grown some hydrangea cuttings that are ready for planting, plus I am trying to grow some wisteria and jasmine cuttings.
Anyone else with green fingers that can grow some cuttings from hardy plants in your garden, or know anyone with host as that need splitting up, or anything hardy that can be split – all welcome!!
The very excellent news is: Justin told me that lots of people are stopping at the cob cottage garden and make positive comments, the park management is exceptionally happy with our progress, and at the recent U3A Co-coordinators Meeting this morning it was noted that our super duper work promotes the values of U3A by taking part in a community service. So pat yourselves on the back folks!
We would love more people to help out, weeding, planting, raking, chatting and a lot of laughs is the order of the day – 1-2 hours a month.
