The story of Te Wananga o Raukawa Members were impressed and inspired by the achievements of all involved in building Te Wananga o Raukawa from a student base of 2 in 1981 to a fully fledged university of 6,967 learners, 92% studying part time and 74% female, with 200 staff. The average age of students is 39.5 years. Pataka Moore, an expert and author in te reo and Maori oral history also has an extensive background in resource and environmental planning told us the story of his uncle. ......
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Professor Marie Bismark The club was privileged to host and extremely interested in Professor Marie Bismark's presentation last week. Marie is a psychiatrist, public health physician, health lawyer, and company director. She divides her time between Kāpiti and Melbourne, Australia. In addition to her clinical work, Marie leads a research team at the University of Melbourne, focusing on the interface between patient safety and clinician wellbeing. Marie serves as a Director of several health sector organisations including the Royal Women’s Hospital and Summerset aged care. Her research has influenced regulatory policy in Australia and internationally. Marie completed a Harkness Fellowship at Harvard has been named as one of the Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence. Marie and her husband Matt (whom she met over 25 years ago at a Rotary Science forum!) and have three children. |
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Vanisa Dhriu One of Aotearoa’s most inspiring advocates for diversity, inclusion and equality, Vanisa is an equality champion with a strong sense of social responsibility who has worked in a variety of advocacy roles throughout her career. She has assembled an astonishing collection of skills across leadership, management, marketing, communication and strategy.Born and raised in Manawatū, she is now based in Wellington. She has served the community through a variety of both paid and volunteer commitments including previously holding the roles of National President of National Council of Women of New Zealand (NCWNZ), CEO of Volunteering New Zealand, Executive Director of 20/20 Trust and General Manager with InternetNZ. Today, she is a member of Global Women NZ, the Institute of Directors and the Global BMW Foundation Responsible Leaders Network. She volunteers with the Wellington Interfaith Council and is a Justice of the Peace. Vanisa currently holds commissioner roles with the NZ National Commission of UNESCO and the Library & Information Advisory Commission, as well as trustee roles with the Spark Foundation and He Whenua Taurikura, the National Research Centre for Countering Violent Extremism.Vanisa talked about her upbringing in New Zealand as a New Zealand born person of immigrant parents. |
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Meet the candidates An interesting and entertaining night meeting some of the candidates for the Otaki electorate.The club is very grateful for putting themselves out there for the electorate and taking the time to come along to present to us. It's a tough job. Thank you Sean, Terisa, Tim The format was each candidate was given 3 minutes to introduce themselves, after which they had to answer 5 questions, and then had 2 minutes to sum up. Introductions Terisa is a proud Levin local and the current MP. She is proud of what has been achieved in her term, especially confirmation of the new road to Levin and expanding the train service through to Ōtaki and Palmerston North. Tim talked about his 4 key themes: managing the cost of living, improving health care in Kāpiti, law and order, and the road to levin. Sean gave background including being a lawyer, travelling round the world, and involved in the New Zealand oil industry. |
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A sustainable future for all We loved the energy and knowledge of Georgie Ferrari, CEO Sustainability Trust, who could "talk through water" about sustainability, energy conservation and the awesome work the Trust is doing for our community through its charities-such as the Wellington Curtain Bank, education programmes for householders, recycling hubs (Kapiti in New Year) and new NPO electricity retailer Toast Electric, with all profits to the Trust.... |
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Call Me Brother Kate Day -author-told a fascinating story of the life and work of Dr Edric Baker and how she came to spend 7 years researching and writing his biography, "Call Me Brother". Kapiti Rotary supported Edric's work over many years to help him establish and maintain the Kailakuri Health Centre in Bangladesh -including having to smuggle funds into Bangladesh! Edric was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow by the Club in recognition of his heroic work.
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Kapiti Kindness Trust Members were privileged to hear from Martin Sloman (QSM) of the Kapiti Kindness Trust and Whirlwind Charity for men's mental health. The Kapiti Kindness Trust was runner up in the Health and Wellbeing category and winner of the Rising Star Award in the Wellington Airport Community Awards  "There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in." Archbishop Desmond TutuMartin asked us all to commit $2 month to his Kindness Trust: 06 0730 0395753 00. If every Kapitian donated $2 pm that would tally up to over $1.3 m per annum to put back into the Kapiti Community! If you know anyone in the community who is doing kind things, let Martin know so he can thank and acknowledge them.  Recipients of the Kindness Award were our own President Vic Hewson and Past President Alastair Beissel for their huge efforts in distributing the FIFA gear. Vic is pictured here receiving his award from Martin and Ruth |
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Rotary Forests of Peace, Remembrance and Community programme (Kapiti News 4 September) Whareroa Guardians had extra cause for celebration during a planting session on Sunday. The excitement started during the week when the Whareroa Guardians Community Trust won the supreme award at the Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards. The main event during the planting session was the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate a Rotary Peace, Remembrance and Community Forest. A total of 76,000 native plants were planted by Groundtruth staff and Whareroa Guardians volunteers in 2021-23 as part of the Rotary Forests of Peace, Remembrance and Community programme — a national initiative to commemorate 100 years of Rotary in New Zealand. |
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Award for Services to Life Education Trust Member Tim Mikkelsen presented (fellow member) Malcolm Leeming with a stunning trophy signifying Malcolm's Life Membership Award from Life Education Trust. Malcolm has been involved with Life Education Trust since its inception 21 Years ago. His passion for this important work has been nothing short of heroic, leading epic fundraising projects and governing the operations. Rotary has donated in the vicinity of $400,000 to Life Education Trust over the years. Malcom accepted the award with his usual modesty.
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Vision for Kapiti Mayor Janet Holborow presented the council's vision-Place, People and Partnership- for the district and was delighted that councillors, community boards and council staff are all working really well together focusing on community engagement and improved communications. They are developing and implementing plans in health, housing, culture, climate and the environment, and holding workshops for the public around the district in coming weeks, inviting questions and ideas. Her worship is pictured with member Steph Dyhrberg.
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Bruce Cottrill "Behind Conflict" Bruce Cottrill is highly qualified in dispute resolution and has become a pre eminent teacher in conflict management and dispute resolution and a master mediation practitioner.Bruce described himself as the naked elephant in the room which is an image none of us will soon forget. He said the model he uses is enquire, rather than just advocating. "You need to be alert to the emotions and nuances in the room, observe every little thing and listen to what's really important to people: people won't listen until they feel they have been heard" A fascinating and insightful presentation.  |
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Become a Neighbourhood Supporter Cheryl Murray, Kapiti Coordinator of "Become a Neighbourhood Supporter" encouraged members to join this national movement connecting neighbours to create safer communities. Cheryl explained that there are 18,000 street groups in Wellington, South Wairarapa, Lower Hutt & Kapiti alone! and they have a youth coordinator creating Rangatahi Street on Facebook. They partner with Police, Fire & Emergency, WREMO & KCDC to assist with emergencies and build neighbourhood resilience. Cheryl advised everyone to make connections with their neighbours. |
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Firewood for Charity A number of members, including President Vic! wielded axes and chainsaws to gather firewood at Marilyn's last Saturday. All firewood is donated to folks who are unable to afford to keep warm without assistance. Great work team-another project for our community
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Sensory overload Old mate Doug in all his resplendence showing off some his kit to members and Leon Hirsch, visiting Rotarian from Pensacola, North Florida.Some of Doug's extensive "alternative" wardrobe had been acquired by the late Graeme Barrell when travelling overseas. Leon was most impressed with this sensory overload-even on Floridian scale-and undertook to make Kapiti Rotary world famous in Northern Florida. Mmmmmm!  |
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Doug thoroughly deserves his Sapphire Pin Kapiti Rotarian of 14 years since arriving in Kapiti off his Sthn. Hawkes Bay farm, Doug Hooper Smith receives a Paul Harris Sapphire Pin for his outstanding contribution to Rotary -one of the organisations highest recognitions.Doug has established and managed many fund raising projects over the years for the club including numerous firewood working bees, Otaihanga wetlands, preparing meals at Ronald McDonald House, daffodils off his family farm for schools fundraising, trailer raffle. Hilary has stood beside him all the way. Ever humble, Doug reckons it has been a two way street, with Rotary giving him opportunities, fellowship, and an avenue to contribute to his community. Doug is an exemplary Rotarian and human being  |
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Graeme Barrell It is with great sadness we acknowledge the loss of a great friend and exemplary Rotarian. Graeme Barrell passed away last week peacefully in the arms of his loving family, aged 88.Graeme had been a Rotary International member for 60 years, serving at the Hutt Valley, Auckland East and for the past 12 years at Kapiti Rotary where he became a Sapphire Pin Paul Harris Fellow for his outstanding contribution to Rotary and his community over the years. He did much to promote the clubs profile through deed and contributions to media. Latterly Graeme became an Honorary member. Graeme had a very full life, head boy at Scotts College, a champion swimmer, keen water polo player, surf life saver, rugby player and cricketer. Latterly a keen golfer and aviator. He was very successful insurance agent and went on to become general manager for Tower Insurance. Graeme has been a Justice of the Peace for 50 years and a Marriage Celebrant. His generosity and compassion was never found wanting. The end of a long life well-lived, the sympathy of many friends, both in New Zealand and overseas, go out to Shirley, Jenny, Andrew, Peter, and the extended Barrell family. He was a much loved 'Dee‘ by his grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
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Tim Costley Tim Costley, Waikanae resident and NZDF helicopter pilot spoke about his adventures flying in the Solomons, East Timor, Afghanistan and search and rescue in Aotearoa. Although he loved helicopters, and flying, it was meeting and helping people (especially children) he really enjoyed.
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Out with Old in with the New 1July heralds a new Rotary year. Last Thursday Kapiti Rotary members welcomed in Vic Hewson as its new President and his executive team and celebrated the 2022-2023 achievements of now Past President Alistair Beissel and club members. |
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Te Kahu Tiu Kapiti Rotary is a proud financial and hands on supporter of the Te Kahu Tiu programme established to provide healing and opportunity for young male offenders before they age-into the adult world of Corrections. |
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Brian Lynch Last weeks speaker Brian Lynch ONZM, member of Rotary Wellington South has had a long and illustrious career in the diplomatic corps, and senior roles in the export and voluntary sectors. |
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Life Flight Trust. Saves Time. Saves Lives  Saves Time. Saves Lives. Seb Grodd, Head of Fundraising, Marketing & Communications Life Flight gave in-depth insights into the foundations of Life Flight, its activities and exciting plans to improve their service and secure their future. These plans -which require substantial funding -will be made public toward the end of the year. Discussions are presently underway with potential significant donors. President Alistair Beisel presented Seb with a cheque for $5,000 on behalf of members.  |
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Brian Yanko NZ Police Fleet Services NZ Police Fleet Services Manager Brian Yanko gave a most insightful and interesting presentation about the NZ Police fleet of 4,000 vehicles including marked and plain police cars, utes, motorcycles, dog cars, boats, prisoner transport vehicles, helicopters and even tractors!. |
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Wisconsin Comes to Kapiti We greatly enjoyed hosting Rotarians of the Wisconsin friendship exchange. Their team leader Julie entertained us with some facts about the state and district. With a population about the same as New Zealand, Wisconsin is quintessential Mid West USA is known for its dairy farms, ginseng production, cold winters and ice cream. It is sports mad - particularly gridiron (Green Bay Packers) and basketball and with its German heritage dating back to 1830's, is famous for its beer brewing -the origin of many famous beer brands-Miller being one. Julie also gave examples of their local rotary projects, from infrastructure such as swimming pools to supporting youth development.  |
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Lewis Farms  Geoff Lewis proudly showcased Lewis Farms, famous throughout the region for its Tender Tips asparagus, strawberries and real fruit ice cream. Geoff and his wife Liz have been growing and packing 500 tonnes of asparagus for years. Asparagus which is a fern! can last for 12-13 years. Only the spears are picked.... |
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Taveuni Dental Care-Give a LittleProminent local dentist and long serving club member and Paul Harris Fellow Gary Lawrence needs our support and donations for the 2023/2024 Rotary Volunteer Dental Aid Project to Taveuni Island, Fiji.
The projects goals are: 1.Provide first-world dentistry to primary school children on Taveuni Island 2.Reinstate a sustainable preventative programme within the schools and communities 3.Bring back the smile to the people of Taveuni Members of the public are encouraged to donate at Give a Little |
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Otaihanga Restoration Project
The Otaihanga Project in 2005 (celebrating 100 years of Rotary) involved clearing the wetlands of introduced species, replacing with native trees, flaxes and grasses. Another Rotary project for all of our community to enjoy and share with family and friends. |
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Mayoral Canididates The club hosted mayoral candidates Rob McCann, Murray Lobb, Janet Holborow, Michelle Lewis, Martin Halliday, Chris Mitchell-3 newbies and 3 incumbent councillors, all respectful of the other, all advocating a fresh approach and fiscal responsibility. It's going to be a tough choice |
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Pride of Workmanship Rotary clubs give boost to Pride of Workmanship.The Rotary Clubs from Kapiti and Horowhenua are inviting local businesses and community members to nominate a committed and enthusiastic employee or a local individual who is, they feel, displays “Pride in their Workmanship”. The Award is intended to cover all aspects of work performance and ethics, including quality and quantity of output, customer service, safety, initiative and sense of responsibility. The Pride of Workmanship Award enables Rotarians and Managers of local enterprises to help employees and business people achieve their goal of job satisfaction. If you would like to nominate a person who lives or works in Kapiti / Horowhenua region - please fill in the application form by 5.00pm Monday 15 August. For more information contact: Chris Tchernegovski 021 589549
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Rotary helps moves Foobank
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Janis Grummitt-Stay young, stay sane, build your brain as you age Building better brains is a personal, economic and social necessity in our ageing world. Janis Grummitt is a social anthropologist and brain building enthusiast well known in the field of mind development and effective thinking. After 30 years of conference speaking and facilitating workshops for corporate groups, she is now taking her message about the brain to everyone.Janis gave an enthralling remote video presentation from her Matakana home on how to stay young's we age. Here is a link to her presentation
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KEDA plays an active role in Kapiti's economic development Stuart Ayres, Chair of the Kapiti Economic Development Association gave an online presentation to members to explain KEDA's role in the economic development of Kapiti's economy. Stuart thinks there is tremendous synergy between and KEDA and Kapiti Rotary, as we share a similar purpose -"serving our community", Kapiti's thriving business eco system and economic wellbeing.KEDA was started by Rotary member and past President Liz Koh in 2017 to "address our economic issues and leverage our District’s assets and opportunities, to accelerate progress towards our shared vision for Kapiti" and that by 2020, KEDA would be a full blown independent economic development agency. Liz and other volunteer colleagues was concerned that there was insufficient leadership and collaboration among the business community and with the local authority and regional economic development agency. Liz & co. went on to become instrumental in the development of the district's economic development and implementation plan 2020-2023, and the formation of the independent Economic Development Kotahitanga Board formed by the council to implement the strategy. KEDA plays a lead role in the plan to...... |
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Kaleb Carter loves Rotary "I don't even know where to start with the amount of cool stuff we got up to at Outward Bound! But I'd just like to say thank you sooooo much for helping send me on the journey of a lifetime!!! "So says Kaleb Carter, an extremely grateful, enthusiatic and outstanding young man the club helped to get to Outward Bound. His words say it all "The past 3 weeks have been the most challenging, action-packed, enjoyable, happy, exciting moments of my entire life!"...The course also provided an incredible amount of self development in such a short amount of time. Once I had returned to Picton from Anakiwa, I was beaming with my new found sense of confidence, leadership ability and purpose (I still am!). I really came to understand the OB phrase 'there is more in you than you think'. So I am forever grateful to the Kapiti Rotary Club, and I cannot thank you enough for helping me go on the adventure of a lifetime!!!!" We were delighted to host you and really enjoyed your presentation last evening Kaleb. Your enthusiasm is utterly infectious and we wish you al the best on your future endeavours. We love doing this stuff! |
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Cyber Security  Gee, we'd better get with it. Be a WARE-spyware, malware, ransomware, viruses, worms, dark web are present and poised to get into prone IT systems and get into your most personal world. GTB IT Solutions Mark Ternent had members on the edge of their seats as he painted a picture of very real threats to those of us without the proper cyber security protection, passwords and back ups. That would be most of us. While we think we don't have much to give away-think access to medical records, transacting our bank accounts, family, friends information and most costly of all -system down time -and with that-the inability to do business and losing trust with customers. Some businesses won't transact with others unless they know their customer / supplier has the best cyber security in place. They don't want to be compromised by their erstwhile partners lack of care or security. You can get downloads of GTB IT Solutions e books on cyber security here Mark also strongly suggested we rethink our passwords -using Password apps. such as Last Pass, I Password etc to create / store / manage complex passwords which can be easily yet securely recalled by rightful owner when required. Thank you Mark-we need this timely reminder.
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Oh What A Night A wonderful evening celebrating Changeover 2021/22 with the changing of the guard. Many thanks for Shirleys superb leadership throughout the year and a big welcome to Murray Bell as our new President. Shirley.."My thanks go to everyone in our Kapiti rotary whanau – for their support of everything that the club has done and achieved. We are a vibrant club and that is due to the participation of us all. There are some specific thanks: To Ingrid – our caterer and her team. Each week we all look forward to our meal. The effort from you all to ensure that the food is of a high quality, varied and fresh is most appreciated. To the Board - Josie, Alistair, Murray, Kevin B, Matthew, John, Derek, Bruce, Mike, Tim, Annemarie and Sharon. To the Club Champions – these members work (often behind the scenes) to ensure that everything goes like clockwork. I have had an amazing year and am truly grateful to everyone for their advice and support. My biggest thanks go to my Kevin" Awards to:  Alistair Beissel, most deserving of the Paul Harris Fellow Award for all his tireless work for Rotary.    Ross Jordan received the The Jack Donaldson Memorial award Stuart Ayres received the Fred Burns award as Rotarian of theYear (accepted by Vic Hewson on Stuart's behalf, who couldn't attend the evening) Julie Stewart (and partner Grant) was inducted and welcomed as new a member.  Meantime the club continues to serve the community-this time Pyjamas for Foster Kids, led by Paul Adams |
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A youthful eveningAnother entertaining and heart warming evening at Kapiti Rotary with Otaki College’s inspirational principal Andy Fraser extolling the clubs role in assisting a number of his students on the Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound programmes, followed by Paul Newsome and Michelle Simpson from the Hutt Valley club representing the District’s Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) programme. For applications and more on RYLA https://www.ryla9940.co.nz/home    |
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Kapiti Foodbank May 2021Club members gave their Saturday to collect donations of food and cash for Kapiti's Foodbank. The Foodbank has been hit particularly hard over the past 12 months with theft of its stores of food and having to relocate from the Community Centre closed due to weather tightness issues. Our Kapiti community was very generous this year with an unprecedented 400 boxes (approx.) of food gathered and yet to be counted cash. Foodbank shopping trolleys remain at supermarkets for those that missed the collection. With the exception of 2020 (covid) the Kapiti Foodbank appeal has been an annual giving of the club for Kapiti's community for many years.
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Rotary Foundation Presentation Past District Governor and District Chair of the Rotary Foundation Martin Garcia presented an update on the Rotary Foundation, a non-profit corporation that supports the efforts of Rotary International to achieve world understanding and peace through international humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs. It is supported solely by voluntary contributions. Since its inception in 1917 it has contributed $4bn. to change people lives and has been a lead actor in eradicating polio world-wide. Kapiti Rotary is a "major donor' contributing over USD100,000 since the clubs incorporation 1974.
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CEO Kapiti Airport Chris Simpson the CEO of Kapiti Airport spoke to our group last week. Members were keenly interested and as expected Chris was asked a lot of questions which he answered candidly.The only question he cannot answer is what Templeton paid for the airport as they are bound by a confidentiality agreement with the vendors. Otherwise he is an open book and he has welcomed our club to a tour of the airport so as we can see first hand what is happening on the 110 hectares that the airport sits on.  |
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Nga Manu Needs Our Support Matu Booth from Nga Manu Nature Reserve spoke to the Club about the many exciting developments at one of Kapiti's finest attractions. Nga Manu has certainly suffered a drop in numbers due to Covid-19 but about two thirds of visitors have always been Kiwis who have been very supportive over the past year. Whilst the reserve has managed to contain pests and preserve wetlands, one of the biggest challenges facing Nga Manu is the surrounding and ever encroaching residential developments draw on the water table and cats.Nga Manuis run by both paid staff and volunteers. There is always need for volunteers so if you are keen to help out, contact Matt at Nga Manu directly.
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Kapiti Rotary assists with disaster relief in FijiA letter of thanks from the Executive Director of the Emergency Response Kit programme. The club has been a regular donor over many years, providing much needed relief for families following disasters around the Asia /Pacific region.
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THANK YOU KAPITI ROTARY A thank you from Kaleb, the first of nine students selected to undertake self development programmes at either Outward Bound or Spirit of Adventure, where they push the boundaries to find what they are capable of. The funds to enable their adventures were raised by Kapiti Rotary, the students themselves and by the programme providers. Feedback like this makes all the hard work fundraising so worthwhile. Evidently Kaleb is going to remember this experience for along time. Congratulations and our very best wishes Kaleb. You will be always welcome at Rotary-we're here to help you on your ongoing journey of you want. "I don't even know where to start with the amount of cool stuff we got up to at Outward Bound! But I'd just like to say thank you sooooo much for helping send me on the journey of a lifetime!!! I really appreciate it and I will never forget those experiences! I met so many interesting and amazing people who I will likely stay in touch with for the rest of my life! The past 3 weeks have been the most challenging, action-packed, enjoyable, happy, exciting moments of my entire life!..  .  |
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Trailer Raffle Drawn Winning ticket # 257 was drawn under police supervision last night for the club's annual Trailer Raffle. The winner has been notified. The trailer and goodies therein are valued at $5,000. Proceeds from the raffle go to supporting Kapiti Youth and the Wellington Childrens Hospital. Club members in front of the trailer enjoying an island themed evening on an appropriately beautiful Kapiti evening (ahem!)...and the winners are ...,..
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Annual Golf Tournament The club’s annual golf fixture was held at the Paraparaumu Beach Golf course, raising a record amount. Beneficiaries were the new Wellington Regional Children’s hospital (Trish Lee), $5,000 - towards the fitout of the Rotary whanau rooms (a Rotary D9940 centennial project). A further $1000 was donated to Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club (Murray Armstrong) for Junior golf. The balance of the funds raised will be used for a wide range of local youth projects that the Rotary Club of Kapiti supports. President Shirley Stratton expressed thanks to all of the supporting businesses who contributed funds or prizes, particularly principal sponsor Kapiti Hire (Tim Mikkelson). |
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MenzShed Kapiti Tony Annanadale, (President) and Cliff Daly (Projects Manager) from the MenzShed gave an interesting and inspirational account of the development of the Menz Shed Kapiti (Waikanae Beach) into one of the largest and most successful clubs in New Zealand, with 140 members of which at least 40 regularly turnout on Tuesdays and Thursdays at their property at Waikanae Beach. "A place where men can do what men do......... |
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Serious Walkers Rosemary and Barry Ward came to share with us the adventures of their intrepid journey from Cape Reinga to Lyall Bay in Wellington. The Te Araroa Trail snakes for 3000km through New Zealand and over their Christmas Break Rosemary and Barry walked the trail down through the North Island. |
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Fund Raising for End Polio Now Superb day for a sausage sizzle at Mitre 10 to raise funds for End Polio Now. In excess of $500 was raised - including donations. This was on top of club member's efforts at the Ride the Train to End Polio event to promote World Polio Day last week. |
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Farewell to Betty Betty Fatima came to NZ in January 2020 on a 6-week scholarship to study early childhood education, leaving behind her husband and 2-year-old daughter. 9 months later she was able to return home to Dili, East Timor on a repatriation flight.We were fortunate to have Betty join us as a club guest for our weekly meetings (including those on zoom). She joined in with many of our club activities and gave us an insight into her life and Rotary in Dili. At her last meeting before the long flight home, President Shirley gave Betty a Kiwi Rotary badge and a souvenir to remember her time in Kapiti. Betty presented a traditional handwoven tais to President Shirley in appreciation of the club’s hospitality. |
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Rowtary Terry McCarthy and Deidre Burke, Celebrated Coaches and Life Members of the Wellington Rowing Club together with Champion Rower and Club Member Richard May (he demonstrating in the rowing "suit") facilitating a fun evening for members. |
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Steve (the Enforcer) Hinds Our guest speaker and chief entertainer for the Paul Harris Fellow / Club 43rd anniversary evening was Marist St Pats Rugby club and Wgtn representative legend Steve (the Enforcer) Hinds regaling us with some of his memorable and also less salubrious moments on the field from back in the day, no cameras and only one ref to manage the game. Where matters were dealt with and left on the paddock. However in 1992 cameras and citing had to be introduced to protect players from increasingly foul behaviour well beyond the pale. A gentle giant off field Steve turned from poacher to gamekeeper becoming a citing commissioner who went on to officiate at a number of World Cups as the World Rugby Citing Commissioner, where he has met many wonderful people. He reckons the citing regime has saved many serious injuries. |
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Paul Harris Fellow. Evening
Rotary established the recognition in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships. Many other notable figures have been named Paul Harris Fellows, including U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, U.S. astronaut James Lovell, UN Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar, and polio vaccine developer Jonas Salk. The number of Paul Harris Fellows reached the 1 million mark in 2006. Read more about the background to The Paul Harris Fellow |
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Candidates Night It was easy to warm to each of the OTAKI electorate candidates as they each presented their case and answered questions with eloquence and good humour at Thursday’s meet the candidates meeting. A great turnout of members, partners and friends . Couldn’t help think Otaki electorate will be well represented with passion whatever the outcome. From left Wayne Grafton, ACT; Shirley Stratton, President Kapiti Rotary; Tim Costley, National; Martin Frauenstein, New Conservative; Terina Ngobi, Labour; Amanda Vickers, Social Credit; Bernard Long, Green.
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Daffodils for Cancer Bruce and Doug picked 195 bunches of 12 on Friday, at Doug’s family farm Waitahora, selling at the Waikanae and Otaki markets on Saturday. Surplus bunches were donated to local retirement homes. Proceeds to Cancer Society , and the Garden project |
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Onesie DayMembers were delighted to have the opportunity to sport their Onesies on club night in support the Wellington Free Ambulance. One wonders what else they may have in their wardrobes!   |
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Off the Page Anne Russell and Rosemary Emery from Off the Page, designers of fun, educational e books tailored to older emergent reader explained to members that it all started when they discovered there were literally no books available for teenagers with reading difficulties, so they set about doing something about it. They have now written three series and are selling their motivating and inspiring books worldwide. |
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Raechel Osborne receives Paul Harris Fellow Raechel Osborne CEO of Kapiti Youth Support or KYS, was presented with the Paul Harris Fellow recognition for her outstanding contribution to the Kapiti community, particularly to youth through KYS. Kapiti Rotary has been a financial supporter and advocate of KYS for many years because it is an effective provider of health and support services for youth, a sector that club members are particularly interested to see have every chance to get ahead.Raechel has community Rachel has over 30 years' experience in heath, social services and youth development. Raechel has been a member of various regional and national groups, including as a member of the Regional Youth Mortality Review Committee; she has served on the University of Auckland Youth Health Specialisation Advisory Group and as an Executive Member of the national Youth One Stop Shop (YOSS) network Past president Chris Tchernovski presents the Paul Harris Award to Raechel
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African region declared free of wild poliovirusRotary and its GPEI partners celebrate a monumental achievement, say global eradication of wild polio is possible with the continued dedication and persistence of Rotarians
Visit endpolio.org to learn more and donate. |
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Rotary challenge to Kapiti youth Kapiti Rotary invites youth to apply for financial assistance to personal growth programmes. Rotary Club of Kapiti are inviting applications from up to 10 Kapiti youth aged 16-19 to attend a 21 day Outward Bound or 10 day Spirit of Adventure programme by 31 August 2021. Rotarians Vic Hewson and Stuart Ayres have raised $15,000 from generous donors for undertaking the Tour Aotearoa, an epic self supported bike packing ride of 3000km from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Application forms here.
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Rotary International President 2022-23 Congratulations to Jennifer E. Jones, a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Canada, on being nominated to become Rotary International’s president for 2022-23, a selection that will make her the first woman to hold that office in the organization’s 115-year history.A current Rotary Foundation trustee, Jones has been a member since 1997 and has served Rotary as vice president, director, training leader, committee chair, moderator, and district governor. |
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Just what we do Fifteen Rotarians, 6 chainsaws, a thorough Health & Safety briefing, 4 trailers, heaps of nice dry gum, scrumptious lunch, plenty of banter and great camaraderie on a beautiful day in Te Horo resulting in beautiful firewood for those in need. Over the 6 weeks we have been able to deliver 20 cu m to the needy, and sell 37 cu m raising $3700 for the youth of Kapiti. Job well done. Winners all round. Thats just what we do at Rotary.
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A letter from Kapiti Foodbank Dear Rotary Members,
The committee and I would like to pass on to the members of Rotary our heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful people that helped the Kapiti Food bank move premises last Friday. We could not have done it without you. The people power, the truck, the van, the cones, the trolley lifts, the laughter, the energy, the giving was such a joy to witness and be part of. You're a great asset to our community and the giving is done with such generosity. Thank you from all of us. Please feel free to pop in and see what the finished premises look like. Kindest Regards Kerry Lovell and Committee Kapiti Food Bank. |
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Who We Are, What We Do, Our Mission, Our VisionRotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
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Entertainment Book20% of your Membership renewal purchase goes directly to Rotary Club of Kapiti.  
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Guest Speakers Peter and Sharon CreanGuest Speakers Pete and Sharon Crean
The Rotary Club of Kapiti was recently addressed by two outstanding New Zealanders who are involved in a variety of charity projects, particularly in East Africa. Their main Charity is known as “Beyond Water”. |
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Congratulations Marilyn Stevens We are so proud to announce that our very own member Marilyn Stevens has been selected as the District Governor Nominee Designate for the 2022-23 Rotary year. |
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ZOOM MEETING #2 MORE FIRSTS  More firsts at this week’s second Zoom meeting – a virtual induction for new member (Nic) and an introduction to the newest member of the Kapiti Rotary family – Leo (3 months). 41 members, 1 exchange student and several family members attended. Matthew and children – Isabelle, Archie and baby Leo gave the opening/closing thought from their moon setting. “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” (Theodore Roosevelt) Our own Richard May was the guest speaker. Hong Kong Reflections 1974 – 2020.
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FIRST ZOOM MEETING Kapiti Rotary’s First Virtual Meeting  30 linked into the zoom meeting on Thursday 2nd April – 31 Kapiti Rotarians, 1 Exchange student and several family members.
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Guest Speaker: Peter Wilson
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INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY 2020 International Women’s Day (8th March) 2020 was celebrated on the Kapiti Coast on Friday 6th March at Southwards    Organised and co-hosted by the Kāpiti Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Group and Kāpiti Rotary, the internationally recognised event celebrated #eachforequal and raised funds for the Kāpiti Women’s Centre. |
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Guest Speaker Eric Holliday Introduced by Mike Olsen and with President Annemarie, Eric Holliday, Fish Safety Foundation.
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5 Minute Speaker- Raumati South SchoolRob Klasseen introduced pupils Ben and Caitlin from Raumati South School, to talk about the William Pike Challenge that the Year 7 and 8 students are undertaking. The William Pike Challenge is an exciting youth development programme run by educators that develops young people’s wellbeing and 21st-century skills like resilience, confidence and leadership. More can be found at https://www. Rotarians are invited to attend the launch on Wednesday 11 March.  |
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Measles Epidemic in Samoa
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WHY I JOINED KAPITI ROTARY President Annemarie Tiffen ... Annemarie is a well known Kapiti restaurateur and businesswoman, a dynamic personality who has been a very active, giving and valuable club member since joining in 2015.
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2019 Trailer Raffle ResultThe winning number of the trailer raffle was 1082. The draw was supervised by a police sergeant from the training college. |
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AED installations .JPG) .JPG) Kapiti Rotary has facilitated and contributed to the installation of 3 community AEDs in the past few months. The Te Atiawa Courts AED is in an area used by many sports codes and visitors. The courts are used by netball in the winter and tennis in the summer, the adjacent fields are for softball and baseball in the summer and rugby in the winter and alongside is the BMX track and a playground. The Paraparaumu College AED is located at the entrance to the gym which is used by students during school time and by many diverse groups after school and in the weekends. Paraparaumu College Parents’ Association had been fundraising for the AED and Kapiti Rotary was able to donate to the fund and then facilitate the installation with WFA (Wellington Free Ambulance). The Matai Road Reserve AED is on the outside of the Kapiti Arts and Crafts building beside the Senior Net Kapiti building. Many seniors (and younger) visit these buildings and the adjacent playground area. Kapiti Rotary has worked in collaboration with other service groups, businesses and locals In all of these installations. Some of the important facts are:
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Kapiti Rotary Charity Golf  Charity Golf Tournament Thursday 7 November 2019 Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club Shotgun start - 12.30 pm Registration at 11.30 am Individual prizes Ambrose Format For more info and an entry form please contact Kevin Stratton kevinjstratton@xtra.co.nz 021 689797 |
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Lunch and Charity Auction |
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Mayoral Candidates Forum.png) Meet the Mayoral candidates at our next Rotary Meeting Thursday 22nd August This is your opportunity to
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High Honour accorded to John Granville/DSCF2118b.jpg) High Honour Accorded to Kapiti Resident The Rotary Club of Kapiti recently recognised the consistent contributions and achievements of one of its members, namely Captain John Granville RNZN (retired) spanning some 53 years of service. “We recognise his service to the nation, to Rotary the organisation, to our community, both local and international, and to people of all ages, creeds and ethnicity. This person is a true Kiwi; a good bloke who has shown that he will quite literally do anything for anybody”, said the Club President Chris Tchernagovski Following a 35 year career in the service of his nation, including the prestigious command of HMNZS Canterbury, the Leander Class Frigate, there have followed nearly 19 years of impressive service of a quite different kind. This includes chairman, membership and support of at least 3 charitable trusts. He has served as President, chair of multiple committees and secretary, as well as oft repeated tenure as Vice President of the Kapiti Rotary Club, supporting many new Presidents in their duties and their personal development paths. This member has held lengthy appointments at Rotary District level, including Assistant District Governor and District Youth Chair and co-chaired a ground breaking action Central Rotary District conference in 2014. John Granville has been a Member and served variously on the Executive of The Paraparaumu Memorial RSA since 2008. He has been a lynchpin of the welfare support to local veterans and their widows as well as being a strong vocal and active supporter of the rescue initiative which, in partnership with the Kapiti Club, saved the Paraparaumu Memorial RSA from descending into all but memory. As the co-chair of a 2014 WW1 centenary concert at Southwards he was responsible for a significant sum of money being raised to support local youth services and veterans welfare. “In particular, this member’s contribution to support and development of our youth is worthy of special mention. It covers physical and mental health development and education in the arts and sciences as well as support to the development and growth of young local business and community leaders. As chair of the Rotary District 9940 Youth Committee he has enabled, supported and participated in some of Rotary’s most important programmes such as RYLA and RYPEN”, said the President. Since 1996 he has been tutoring Kapiti regional boat users in the art of inshore navigation raising awareness and safety standards in the Kapiti Recreational boating community through the Coastguard Boating Education Service. Mr Granville’s work with charities over his years of service have contributed to the raising of hundreds of thousands of dollars subsequently disbursed through his involvement with charitable trusts to the widest range of local community, national and international good causes. A recipient of a Fred Burns award in 2000/01, a Paul Harris Fellowship in 2006/07, The Jack Donaldson award in 2012/13, A District Sapphire pin in 2013/14 and more recently the Selly Hyde trophy, awarded only 3 times since its creation, this member has earned much deserved recognition as a Rotarian. “But what marks this member’s service more than anything else is his selflessness and humility, his generosity of spirit and seemingly limitless belief in the the inherent goodness and potential of the people with whom he comes into contact. He is fond of describing himself as an ordinary Rotarian. The truth is that he is an effective, but quietly inspiring leader, mentor and coach, whose contribution seems never ending, delivered with mischievous humour, charm and an energy that eclipses many younger than he. He has never sought nor would he ever expect any of the recognition afforded him over his many years of service, said Chris Tchernagovski, The Kapiti Rotary President. |
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Otaihanga Domain Working Bee  .JPG)  .JPG)  History · The Western Wetland in Otaihanga Domain was cleared and replanted with native plants by Kapiti Rotary and others in 2005 to celebrate 100 years of Rotary International · Over the years several working bees have been held by club members to remove debris, clear weeds and replant where necessary · 2 years ago, 3 floods covered the whole Domain. The wetland, being the lowest part of the Domain, was badly affected and many flax and cabbage trees were partly destroyed, and the area was covered in silt. Some plants are now showing regrowth · Many of the native trees have survived including Rimu, Kahikatea, Pukatea, a Nikau Palm, Karaka and a stand of Swamp Maire · The Carex plants (native tussock) are thriving and are successfully filtering the water runoff from the roads, before it enters the Waikanae River As at Saturday 23 March · Last week a large stand of blackberry was pulled out and removed from the site by 3 club members · Today 13 members and helpers (including the photographer) tackled the following jobs: Cleaned and scrubbed the Rotary sign Bashed through the undergrowth to clear 4 informal tracks down to the stream to give easier access for the council worker Chain sawed several dead trees and branches and removed them from the site Cleaned lichen off the trunks of the Rimu trees and cabbage trees Cleared weeds from around the base of the native trees and left them to rot on site Pulled old leaves off the cabbage trees and flaxes and used them to line the tracks Pulled out the bulbous invasive weeds and removed them from the site The future · Working bee to be held every few years to keep the area under control .JPG)  |
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Life Education Trust Supporter HonouredLife Education Trust Supporter Honoured Well known Kapiti businessman Malcolm Leeming, has been involved with assisting the Life Education Trust for over 21 years. He has served as a Trustee for that time, and has been personally responsible for the raising of over $500,000 in that time to assist the Life Education movement in the greater Kapiti district. The Life Education mobile classroom, is a large truck and trailer unit, which is staffed by qualified teachers delivering educational assistance to primary school students in the greater Kapiti District. The teaching incorporates emphasising the importance of traditional food, harmful effects of drugs, social relationships, self-esteem, and good choices and decisions. Combined Rotary Clubs in the Kapiti District, originally set up the Life-Education Trust in our territory, and has continued to sponsor and to promote the ideals of this worthy adjunct to routine education. Rotary Clubs will continue with this support. At a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Kapiti, Mr Leeming was presented with a Paul Harris Sapphire Pin, which is a high Rotary honour, for his outstanding contribution to the Life Education Trust. Photo Caption: Malcolm Leeming (L) receives has Sapphire pin from the President of Kapiti Rotary Mr Chris Tchernegovski. |
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Guest Speaker: Paul Wah/paul-Wah.JPG) Guest Speaker : Paul Wah Paul Wah shared his thoughts on the current economic and cultural relationship between NZ and China. Paul is a fourth generation Chinese New Zealander and the first Chinese to be appointed as principal of a state secondary school in New Zealand. Paul described our current economic situation, with a significant value of our exports going to China, and the trade surplus being in favour of NZ. He said economically, we are closely related to China. Paul explained how China’s culture has being around for over 4000 years, and has developed key values strongly influenced by Confucius teachings and the Han ethic grouping. These values include having a strong emphasis on family and education. Paul talked of the communist party, and how it is omnipresent in Chinese society. Paul explained the reasons for why the communist party continues to stay in power, and spoke of his views of why Chinese influence in New Zealand is here to stay. |
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Community Firewood ProjectLast week, on a very hot Kapiti Saturday (9/2/19), 19 Rotarians and partners worked to chop and split logs and then delivered 13 big loads of firewood to deserving households in our area. Our efforts mean that these families will be more comfortable in their homes in the winter. The recipients were all very grateful and below is a message received from 1 of them.
The firewood has just been delivered, and I can't thank you enough for thinking of me. It is an absolute Godsend to me, and I am stoked. Many, many grateful thanks.
Thanks to all the helpers for the tools, their skills and their labour. Also thanks to Camille for the logs and to Mike Klassen for the use of his wood splitter. All working together for the good of the Community. |
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Community Firewood ProjectCommunity Firewood Project - Still time to volunteer register on ClubRunner or at this week's meeting Saturday 9th February 143 Huia Street Waikanae Anytime between 9am and 3pm Names of recipients for the free firewood delivery (including past and present Rotarians) to Shirley at sstratton@xtra.co.nz or 021 375008 |
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International Women's DayInternational Women's Day - Friday 8th March 2019 at Southwards Details in next week's bulletin but you can register now on Clubrunner
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Community Firewood Project.jpg)
 SIGN UP NOW FOR THIS AMAZING EXPERIENCE !!!! Community Firewood Project Saturday 9th February 143 Huia Street Waikanae Anytime between 9am and 3pm (even for 1 hour) Volunteers needed to help with wood splitting, chain sawing, stacking trailers, delivering wood, refreshments Gear needed - wood splitters (1 has been hired), chainsaws, trailers On sign up sheet please indicate time available, job you are volunteering to do, and any gear that you are able to provide |
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Rotary Golf Tournament Benefits Kapiti Junior Golf The recent ‘Kapiti Hire’ Golf Tournament organised by the Rotary Club of Kapiti, was the most successful event in this event’s history.Proceeds raised from the Tournament will benefit Kapiti Youth projects, which include a donation to the Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club for assistance with their Junior Golf Academy. Last year the Kapiti Rotary sponsorship grant was applied to help two promising juniors to enter local and regional tournaments. One of those juniors is Harry Ward currently aged 14 and playing off a 1 handicap. Harry recently shot a 67 in the Club Senior Strokeplay. The following week he won a Wellington schools event with a gross 68. In the words of the Paraparaumu Beach Gold Club’s Men’s Captain, Ray Jones, ‘Harry is a superb golfer and someone to watch for in the future’. The Club Captain is contemplating taking some of the Club’s promising young players to a national event, and some of the Kapiti Rotary grant will be applied towards offsetting the associated costs. Photo Caption: From rear; L-R Leo Barber PBGC General Manager; Glen Robinson, Club Coach, receiving a cheque from Kapiti Rotary President Chris Tchernegovski; and Tim Mikkelsen, proprietor of Kapiti Hire, the principal sponsors of the Golf Tournament, and a group of keen 8 year olds, who are being coached for the future. |
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Trailer raffle 2018 Kapiti Rotary Trailer Raffle Winner Stunned By WinGordon Bell of Paraparaumu is this year's winner of the annual Trailer Raffle with ticket number 1207, conducted by the Rotary Club of Kapiti. The prize consists of the trailer, plus two junior bicycles, a TV set, and a large quantity of grocery items. Total value is around $5000, and the surplus proceeds after costs amounting to approximately $8,500 will be distributed to local Kapiti youth charities. Organisers of the raffle, Tim Mikkelsen and Murray Lobb, both members and past presidents of Kapiti Rotary, commented that "this has been our most successful raffle to date and we will continue with this project because it carries a great deal of appeal to those who participate, and provides funds for assisting youth projects in Kapiti". Mr Bell has lived in the Kapiti District for over 20 years, and is delighted with his win. "The trailer itself is a wonderful prize let alone the bikes, television, and food items. This is the first time in my life that I have ever won anything" said Mr Bell on receiving the prize from Kapiti Rotary President Chris Tchernegovski. Photo Caption: Chris Tchernegovski(Rt), President of Kapiti Rotary, congratulates Gordon Bell on being this year's winner of the Kapiti Rotary Trailer Raffle. |
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Josie Adlam: The secret life of bees and their keepers Guest Speaker – Joise Adlam and “the secret life of bees…and their keepers” Josie had her audience all abuzz with her tale of becoming a bee keeper, also know as insect keepers! Some facts about bees include:
 Bees use their honeycomb cells to raise their babies in, and to store nectar, honey, pollen, and water. Josie explained the process of honey production. There are 5 products from a hive: honey, beeswax, pollen, propolis, and royal jelly. Josie talked about the components of a hive, and displayed the different types of ive frames available. Being a beekeeper is an all year job, and its especially busy when they get the bees reqady for the manuka season when the trees are flowering. |
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The Big Blood Pressure Check Kapiti Rotarians participated in the Big Blood Pressure Check on Saturday, 6 October, where they were involved in checking the Blood Pressures of 136 people. 18 of these were referred to their GPs for follow up as their readings were in the higher than normal range.Caption: The morning team of volunteers. We received very positive feedback from the volunteers and participants (and non-participants too – many of whom had only recently been for BP checks). Thanks to Kapiti New World for advertising the event and providing the testing site in their cafe, WFA paramedic Roberta, trainee paramedic Daniel, 2 trainee nurses and nurse Dianne Boyce for taking the Blood Pressures and to the Kapiti Rotarians for their enthusiastic rounding up of participants. Caption: Full house with 3 participants having their BPs checked. |
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ROD BADCOCK: ELECTRIC AIRLINERS - NZ'S CONTRIBUTION Rod Babcock- Electric airliners – the NZ contribution. Dr Rod Babcock works for the Robinson Research Institute, an applied science and engineering research organization. The Institute is famous for its inventions including developing high temperature superconductivity applications. Rod explained the current big problem for the aviation industry is its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Air travel is growing exponentially. There needs to be a significant improvement in fuel efficiency in aircraft engines if NZ is to meet its climate change target. One solution is the development of a new type of plane called a hybrid turbo- electric aircraft. There is significant international research and investment in electrified air transport. As normal electric motors are too heavy, superconducting motors are the only means to build an electric airliner. The institute’s expertise in superconductivity means it is heavily involved in the design of a superconducting draft motor. Photo Caption: President Chris thanks Rod Babcock for his presentation. |
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Honours and cash for Kapiti Youth Support (September 2018) A fascinating update provided by Kapiti Youth Support tutor Darcy Hata, had the Kapiti Rotary Club and guests very interested with the excellent results that they are achieving by putting local youth onto the right track in life. Rotary has had a long-standing relationship with Youthquest when it was established 11 years ago. Some of the original funding came from the JR McKenzie Trust, and several Kapiti Rotary members have taken a very active part with it’s development. Unfortunately, Youthquest lost a significant part of its funding and had to close its doors, and has subsequently merged with Kapiti Youth Support, and the good work together with qualified key personnel, has been successfully integrated into the KYS environment. They have now expanded their activities from solely dealing with teenage boys, and now include primary schools thorough using a different programme. During the evening with the Rotary Club, Mr John Dow (organiser of the Gold Wards) complimented the KYS staff on it’s outstanding results in Kapiti. He explained that Regional Gold Awards are presented each year at Presentation Functions whereby all Finalists from their City receive a Certificate, and then further functions are held to re-present the Category Winner Trophies, plus everyone gets a photo with their Mayor. Wellington and Hutt City have most the most businesses involved each year. This year we had a finalist from Kapiti, in TOMM which is a health and welfare service for young people developed by Kapiti Youth Support (KYS) and the digital agency Luvly. To add to the proceedings, the President of Kapiti Rotary Mr Chris Tchernegovski, then presented a cheque for $10,000 to the KYS representatives as further funding towards their excellent endeavours. He also added, that continuing Rotary Club interest will be accorded to KYS, and that funds from our Trailer raffle; golf tournament and other activities will be considered for future assistance. Photo Caption: (From left) Liz Koh, (Kapiti Rotary) John Dow (organiser of the Gold Awards) Darcy Hata (KYS Senior tutor); Raechel Osbourne (KYS manager) Kapiti Mayor Guru Gurunathan |
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PETER DUNNE & THE EIGHT PRIME MINISTERS One of New Zealand’s longest ever serving parliamentarians, Peter Dunne, recently addressed the Kapiti Rotary Club. The Hon Peter Dunne served as a busy politician for over 33 years, and retired from Parliament in April 2017. During his time as a politician he served as a Cabinet Minister or Associate Minister for both Labour and National led governments, and held 11 different portfolios. In 1995 he became an independent along with some members of both Labour and National, and formed the United NZ Party which later became the United Future Party. In due course he became the Party leader. His time with the Kapiti Rotary Club was mainly devoted to explaining his working with the eight Prime Ministers that had led the New Zealand Government during his 33 years. Some very amusing anecdotes were recounted, which had the audience highly interested and eager to hear more. At question time, he was asked his opinion on who was the best Prime Minister he had worked with. His response was, that all of the eight worked extremely hard for the benefit of the country, and it is difficult to rank them, because each of them held strengths in different form. He did go on to mention the ability of John Key as a very capable Chairman and economist, and Helen Clark as a very clever politician and negotiator. He regretted the fact that Bill English was not enabled to realise the plans and policies he had outlined prior to the last election. In thanking the Hon. Peter Dunne for an outstanding address, Dr. Ken Milne of the Kapiti Rotary Club congratulated him for the informative insight into the life and trials of a New Zealand politician. Photo Caption: Kapiti Rotary President Chris Tchernegovski (Left), and Dr Ken Milne congratulate Hon. Peter Dunne (Centre), on a most outstanding and informative address. |
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PAUL ATKINS : ZEALANDIA The Valley That Managed To Transform a CityMr Paul Atkins, Chief Executive of the well-known Zealandia Bird Sanctuary recently visited with the Kapiti Rotary Club, and presented facts about the preservation of wild-life in and about Wellington that interested a large audience. Many species of native birds including Tui; Kakapo; HiHi; Korimako; Kaka and Fantail, have been provided with a predator-free safe haven within a fenced valley, in which to breed and live naturally. This has had the effect of bringing bird-life back into the surrounding suburbian gardens, and residents can once again enjoy the benefits of watching and listening to the attractive calls of native birds in their own surroundings. Zealandia staff have been actively involved in the encouragement of a predator-free Wellington. Rats, opossums, and stoats have now been eradicated from the suburb of Miramar. There is an initiative to give priority to bringing about a Wellington that can boast being the ‘world’s first pest-free capital’. Zealandia attracted almost 73,000 visitors in the past 12 months, and these included 4,600 cruise-ship passengers from all over the world. Comments relayed to staff have been very complimentary, and many overseas organisations have expressed intentions to emulate the wild-life preservation example that has been set in Wellington. When asked about the future, Mr Atkins replied that ‘Zealandia is leading a transformational change in the way people think about the value of nature, and learn how to nurture and live with it in the places we live’. Photo: “Paul Atkins Left), CEO of Zealandia Wildlife Park is congratulated by Rotarian Tim Beere (Right) on his outstanding address to Kapiti Rotary. |
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John Christian Pitcairn Island Guest Speaker John Christian - Pitcairn IslandJohn spoke about the settlement of Pitcairn island, which was initially settled by the mutineers of the Bounty. John's descendants came from the Isle of Man so he is probably related to Fletcher Christian. John wove a story of great adventures, sailing ships, mutineers, brave men in small boats, dastardly and wicked deeds, beautiful women, deserted islands, faulty maps and postal stamps. For more information his presentation is here. Pictured: John being thanked by Stephen Lange |
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Hinemoa Street now has a Defibrillator AED installation in Hinemoa Street (July 2018) Kapiti Rotary (in conjunction with WFA) has now completed its 5th installation of an AED (automated external defibrillator). It is on the Coast Community Church building in Hinemoa Street. Visitors to the Church, local residents and businesses in the northern end of the Hinemoa Street area will now have fast access to an AED if someone has a cardiac event. Donors for this site were Kapiti Rotary, Coast Community Church, Geethal Data Systems, Kapiti Lions and the Combined Probus club of Kapiti Central. A dedication/unveilling ceremony for all interested groups will be held at a date to be advised. |
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Australian High Commissioner (2017) His Excellency Peter Woolcott, Australian High Commissioner to New Zealand visited with the Kapiti Rotary Club recently, and surprised the audience by announcing that he will be returning to Canberra shortly as Chief of Staff for the Turnbull Government. The Commissioner presented an outstanding address regarding the special arrangements that exist between Australia and New Zealand, particularly relative to economic issues, trade, and security. In the relatively short term of his position here, he has developed a deep fondness for New Zealand, and admires the magnificent scenery. He is equally impressed with the race-relations situation, and the overall friendliness of New Zealanders. He sees New Zealand as a very confident country, with a buoyant economy, and is equally impressed by the manner in which we weathered the world-wide financial crisis through excellent economic guidance and foresight. New Zealand and Australian governments have regular and meaningful meetings to manage the largest combined economic relationship at this time. These meetings also comprise methods for a working methodology on a host of matters, with a strong emphasis towards national security, and intelligence issues. Both nations have proactive roles in shaping our futures together, and do work together as trusted partners. We take into consideration humanitarian disasters, where we help each other in such as the Christchurch earthquake, and the Ash Wednesday fires as examples. ‘Both nations have so much in common that we are always maintaining awareness for keeping our paths for the future on a similar course. There are 610,000 Kiwis living in Australia, and 65000 Australians living in New Zealand. Tourism between the two nations is huge, and on a combined basis, we present an attractive destination for tourists from around the world. There will always be a friendly rivalry between our countries on the sporting field, but that is healthy. My family and I have thoroughly enjoyed our sojourn in your great country, and take wonderful memories with us back to our homeland’ said the High Commissioner. Photo: Past-President of Kapiti Rotary, Roger Sowry, (r) thanks His Excellency Peter Woolcott for an excellent address and presents a parcel of locally made product for his time and speech. |
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Gary has taken a team of dentists to the island of Taveuni since 2010 to attend to the oral health of primary schools children. They have no care otherwise and their teeth are typically in a very poor state, manifesting in many poor general health outcomes. The project was interrupted in 2019 /2022 by the pandemic. 
Murray Lobb, Rod Lingard, Martin Hening, Gary Lawrence, Kevin Stratton, Richard May (not in photo) after a recent clean up working bee at the Otaihanga wetlands. 
The Kapiti Foodbank is now located in new premises within Coastlands Off Rimu Rd beside the Vape Shop And the Laundrymat.
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute above and beyond to Rotary and their community.
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