February 27, 2019
The header picture shows flax in the swampy area below the playground just a few years ago. It has now completely vanished. This is due to a return of the harakeke yellow-leaf disease, which triggered a decline in the flax industry in the early 1900s.
The disease is caused by a bacterium and transmitted by a native flax plant hopper. Plants have pronounced yellowing of their leaves, stunted growth and premature flowering. It can take a few months or years to kill a plant. As leaves die off, greener leaves are left, giving the illusion that the plant is recovering. Flax growing in the shade seems to be less affected. Affected plants should be dug up and burnt, as they are a source of infection.
Sonic Tonic Sound Bath with Yee Ley
On Wednesday 6 March at the community hall from 7.45 pm – 9.15 pm, there is a unique event happening. Locals are welcome to come along.
It’s a lovely evening where you get to sit or lie down and relax while Yee Ley creates soundscapes using different instruments including crystal bowls, a harp, chimes, her voice, and other instruments to create a soundscape around you. It’s a bit like the relaxation at the end of yoga whilst floating away on sound. For parents it’s a wonderful indulgent opportunity to lie down and relax uninterrupted, and it leaves you feeling nourished and relaxed.
Bring: mats/cushions blankets if you wish to lie down and a comfortable folding chair or cushions for sitting on the hall seats. Cost $20.
For more information visit: www.yeeleylau.com
Looking for a Hall Co-ordinator
Ngā mihi ki te hāpori i Haewai! Greetings to the community. We are looking for a special person to take care of the bookings for our community-owned hall. This is not a time-consuming role, and is perfect for someone who is friendly, outgoing and loves our community. If that’s you, we will cover reasonable costs for your role. We would love to hear from you! Contact Ken.
Koha Coffee this Saturday
It’s the first of the month again and Koha coffee is being held in the community hall from 10.30 – 12.30. Come and meet the locals and enjoy chatting, swapping, drinking coffee and eating home baked goodies.
Feedback on our town belt horse grazing
WCC are asking for feedback by March 30 on two tenancies for horse grazing on the town belt. One is on Happy Valley Road and one is off Houghton Bay Road. These leases are for 10 years. If you want to give feedback, then the link is https://wellington.govt.nz/your-council/meetings/committees/regulatory-processes/2019/02/13 (Item 2.3) (link not current)
(129 recipients, 100 opens)