Taieri Network Newsletter - September 2025

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September 2025

From the Community Connector

Welcome to our monthly newsletter.

We’re excited to share that we’ve now reached 500 subscribers! To keep things running smoothly, we’ve upgraded the platform we use to send these updates — a milestone worth celebrating.

This month, I (Teresa, Community Connector), have had two weeks leave, and have come back feeling refreshed ready for the last part of the year. I am moving on at the end of the year, so my position has been advertised (here is a link to view the role).

I've had time to reflect on the past three years and look forward to what the future will bring. I feel extremely privileged to have worked in such a great community, with amazing people, supported by a strong, visionary board and connecting with loads of organisations, businesses and people who deliver great services and programmes to people in Taieri who live, work and hang out here.

Advert for the Community Connector's role

This newsletter is for the community, so if you, or an organisation, club or sports group you belong to wants to share highlights or celebrations, get in touch with us. We are happy to celebrate and share about the amazing mahi (work) done around the Taieri, as well as recognising people and their achievements.

September: I was unable to attend the Otago Regional Counicl 'Lets Talk Flood Protection for the Lower Taieri' drop in session, but from what I have read, there seemed to be good opportunities for people to drop in and ask questions and seek information.

A project we have been working on is getting English Language classes in Mosgiel. This has been quite a process as the Goverment provides funding for those who meet certain criteria. If you would like to know more, please contact me via email [email protected].

It was great to be able to organise a 'Meet the Candidate' evening - a feat to figure out logistically. I was away but heard it was well attended. I hope those that attended were able to ask candidates those questions that can help inform the voting process.

If you haven't already voted, here is information about the voting process STV.

I popped along to the last Mosgiel Taieri Community Board meeting to give an update about what Taieri Network was up to, spoke to our application to apply for some funds to go towards A Very Taieri Christmas. Thank you for the $1,000 contribution that the Community board approved.

I acknowledged the liaison between Taieri Network and the Mosgiel Taieri Community Board, and thanked Kathryn Anderson for the regular catch ups and brainstorming. We [both organisations], want the same thing - maximize resources, enhance community well-being, and drive meaningful change. "By working together, we can build a more connected, resilient, and engaged Taieri community. So thank you for your support and we wish you all well in the up and coming local body elections - whether you are standing again or moving onto other things.

We look forward to meeting the future Community Board members and hope that we can continue to work together in the future."

Catch you next month!

Teresa Christie

Business: EverGrow Bags

Helping Urban Gardeners Grow Big in Small Spaces

From her home in North Taieri, Jackie Thomas has been quietly helping transform backyards, balconies, and even rental patios into thriving mini orchards. For the past year, Jackie has been sewing EverGrow Bags — sturdy, fabric containers designed to support compact, high-yield fruit trees. Working three days a week, she distributes the bags via post and through local outlets like Wal’s Plant Land and Mitre 10 Mega.

Originally designed in New Zealand by horticulturalist Fred Field around 30 years ago, EverGrow Bags are built with a clever purpose: to grow portable trees that flower and fruit prolifically. The secret lies in how the bags manage root growth.

“When root systems are restricted, reproduction takes priority,” Jackie explains.

“More of the tree’s energy is directed into producing flowers, fruits, and nuts.”

The bags achieve this by subtly containing and guiding the roots. When planted, fine roots grow through the fabric and into the surrounding soil. As they expand, the outer material gently squeezes them, reducing their vigor. This redirection of energy leads to increased flowering and fruiting. For trees grown above ground, roots are naturally air-pruned, promoting a healthy cycle of new root growth.

Jackie, who purchased the business a year ago, sews each bag herself using industrial machines. The bags are versatile — they can be used both above and below ground, and even inside decorative pots as long as there is an air gap between the pot and bag, so no root binding. They make the trees not only more productive but also more portable.

She’s especially excited about what EverGrow Bags can offer to city dwellers and aspiring self-sufficiency enthusiasts.

“They give people with small sections or apartment balconies a real chance to grow their own fruit,” she says. “You can even grow citrus and subtropical trees in colder areas because you can move the bags around to catch the sun or shelter from wind and frost. They’re great for people living in subdivisions or rentals where space and permanence are limited.”

For Jackie, the biggest reward is knowing that these simple, durable bags can help more people enjoy the satisfaction — and thrill — of growing their own food.

For more information visit Jackie’s Website: https://evergrowbags.co.nz/

Written by Sandy McKay

Images supplied: Jackie Thomas with EverGrow Bags

Mosgiel Volunteer Fire Brigade

On Saturday evening the Mosgiel Volunteer Fire Brigade held thier 2025 Honours Awards Function to recognise the service of our members to their community. We also took the time to invite and recognise our employers who support and enable us to respond to incidents and attend training courses.

Congratulations to those members who received the following:

Back Row: SFF Alan Taylor (Silver bar, 15yrs service), SFF Scott Baird (Silver bar, 9yrs service), SO OS Russell Turnbull (Gold bar, 49yrs service), SO Ben Parker (17yrs service)

Front Row: SFF Martin McCorkindale (Silver bar, 19yrs service), SFF Aaron Thompson (Silver bar, 19yrs service), SFF Stefan Thorburn (Silver bar, 7yrs service), FF Ryan Greenheld (Silver bar, 9yrs service), SFF Paul Falconer (Gold bar, 27yrs service), FF Liam Sheridan (Silver bar, 7yrs service), SSO Scott Lanauze (Silver bar, 21yrs service)

Absent: FF Simon Greenall (Silver bar, 13yrs service), FF Jono Copley (Certificate, 3yrs service)

As your community, we acknowledge what you do and celebrate with you! Thank you 🥰

Seeking Volunteers

Dunedin Diwali Festival

Experience the magic of Diwali, the Festival of Lights, and be part of one of Dunedin’s largest cultural celebrations. Held on the 26 October the 2025 Diwali Festival is expected to draw thousands of attendees for a vibrant day filled with traditional dance performances, delicious food stalls, cultural workshops and more.

No prior knowledge or expertise in Diwali or Indian culture is required and we encourage people from all backgrounds and accessibility needs to join the volunteering team.

All required training, including the health and safety induction will be provided on the day. Volunteers will be fed as thanks for their support of the day and you'll have plenty of opportunity to get involved with the many goings-on at the festival too!

Apply to Volunteer Here

Webinar: Chronic Illness - 'Coping with loss & change' with Lucy Hone

Living with a chronic illness can bring all kinds of difficult emotions. Even after processing the initial grief of a diagnosis, people often live with a continued sense of loss. The experience of unresolvable grief can arise unexpectedly or be a hidden but persistent undercurrent. And it doesn’t just affect the person with a chronic illness; those closest to them feel it also. They, too, may grieve the loss of what was – how life used to be – adding another layer of complexity to the experience of living with loss.

Dr. Lucy Hone, an expert in resilience psychology and grief, will be talking about ‘living losses’ and ‘hidden grief’, sharing practical insights and tools from science to help people cope with compassion, courage and grace.

During the Zoom session you will learn:

About hidden grief and living losses, and how they can be experienced in relation to chronic illness
What the science of resilience research offers us in our everyday contexts
Strategies for individuals (and their loved ones) to build resilience as they navigate life and chronic illness

Our goal is for you to feel equipped with learnable, practical tools that will enable you to live a more resilient, hope-filled life, despite your challenges.

This event is a fundraiser for Mastering Mountains, celebrating 10 years of operation, and is offered in collaboration with Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand.

Date: Tuesday 9th December
Time: 7.30pm – 8.30pm
This event will not be recorded
Cost: $15*
You will receive an email 24 hours before the event with a link

Book Your Ticket Here

Please note:

Registration closes at 5 pm on Monday, 08 December. Roughly 24 hours before the event, you will receive an email reminder that contains the Zoom link you’ll use to access the seminar.
*If you have any questions or cannot afford this session, but would like to attend, contact Nick at Mastering Mountains, [email protected].
This event is a fundraiser for Mastering Mountains Charitable Trust and is offered in collaboration with Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand.
This event will not be recorded, so don’t miss out – register today.

Give to Grow Ōtepoti

Give your unwanted tools new life and share the joy of gardening!

Give to Grow accepts any tools and equipment in good condition that are ready to use or can be easily repaired for use, and redistribute them to people to use to grow their own food. If you have spare tools that you would like to donate, please contact [email protected].

Breaking news: Nichols have made it easier for you to share your surplus garden resources across Ōtepoti. You can now drop your unwanted garden tools to Nichols' Dunedin store and we will get them out into the community to people who need them to grow food. Thanks so much, Karen from Nichol's Garden Centres for spearheading this initiative and to the whole Nichols' team for supporting it.

International Day for Older Persons

From the team at Presybterian Support Otago

This International Day for Older Persons – Wednesday, 1 October 2025 – we’re inviting you to pause and reflect on the incredible value older people bring to our communities.

At Presbyterian Support Otago, we believe that wisdom, resilience, and insight are earned through years of living, learning, and adapting. That’s why we’re proud to bring you Enliven’s nationwide survey, which asks New Zealanders of all ages to share their views on ageing and how we can better respect and support older people.

Take the Survey Here

It only takes a few minutes, and your voice matters.

Whether you're an older person yourself, a family member, a caregiver, or simply someone who values intergenerational connection – we’d love to hear from you.

Please share this link with your networks – friends, whānau, colleagues – and help us build a more inclusive, respectful society for older New Zealanders.

Otago Vintage Machinery Club & Taieri Historical Society

Open Day

When: Sunday, 12th October 2025

Time: 9:00am - 4:00pm

Cost: Donation appreciated

Step back in time and experience the golden age of machinery at our Open Day!

Join us for a fascinating showcase of vintage tractors, engines, and classic machinery, including rare models like the 1927 Stuart truck.

You will see in action the one and only working 1952 Caterpillar D4D in the world, as well as the fully restored 1029 Ruston 7HE diesel engine.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a machinery lover, or just looking for a great day out with the family, there's something for everyone. Enjoy live demonstrations, chat with passionate collectors, and explore the stories behind these iconic machines.

But wait! There’s more … in the same location is the Taieri Historical Society!

Collections and displays of early Taieri memorabilia, heritage buildings, farm equipment and household items, giving a glance back in time to the rich history of Taieri, are open to public viewing.

Check out the history of the above 1927 Stewart Truck - donated by a local farmer and currently under restoration. The truck originally had a large box body for transporting various goods, including clothing, pans, tools, and farm supplies. It was a traveling shop, akin to a haberdashery, selling items farmers needed. The truck's starting mechanism involved a handle to wind up the engine to get it started. George Gamble owned and maintained the truck until he swapped it for a historic tractor.

What is Ride for MS?

It’s a fully guided cycling journey through Cambodia, designed by Inspired Adventures. Think palm-lined roads, vibrant culture, and ancient temples, all while riding for a worthwhile cause. It’s a chance to meet with other New Zealanders who are community minded and have a connection with MS.

When:3–10 November 2025

Distance:15–45 km per day

Who:Anyone connected to MS – people living with MS, friends, family, supporters, and YOU!

The trip has been tailored to be challenging yet achievable, with daily distances between 15-45km. E-bikes are an option.

What It Costs

Each participant commits to:

Covering their trip costs: $2999 NZD
Plus flights, insurance, and a few incidentals
Fundraising a minimum of $3000 NZD for MS

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS:

We appreciate that Ride for MS is not accessible for everyone, however, it is a chance for some to prove their diagnosis won’t stop them, or for friends and families to ride in honour of a loved one. It’s also a chance to do something a bit different while raising vital funds for MSNZ and Regional MS Societies.

If you sign up and nominate MS Otago, MSNZ will allocate us 1/3 of the funds you raise. Therefore, if you reach your target of $3000, we can put $1000 to support our local services! The balance will be retained by MSNZ to fund national advocacy, information and education initiatives, and continue the support they provide to us at MS Otago.

More information is at: www.inspiredadventures.com.au/event/msnz-cambodia-2025/ or speak to the team at MSNZ on 03 366 2587 or Jillian Smith at Inspired Adventures [email protected] to learn more.

Don’t forget to mention MS Otago and help us raise vital funds for MS services in Otago!

EVENTS COMING UP

Mosgiel Study Hub

Mosgiel Presbyterian Church is opening its doors to the Taieri College community by providing a place for Yr 9-13 students to study after school.

Children and family worker Ian Thomas says, “We want to provide a warm and friendly space for students to do homework or study for their exams. We have experienced volunteers to help the students, and we will provide food and tutoring free of charge. We aim to help students in our local high school achieve their academic goals.”

The Study Hub will run every Tuesday during terms 3 and 4 from 3:00 pm until 5:30 pm. The address is 11 Church Street, Mosgiel.

Further details can be found by contacting Mosgiel Presbyterian Church at [email protected], or by contacting Ian Thomas at 021 222 6861.

Operatunity

Thursday 6th November

Nearly Fully booked!

Step back in time with us to the golden era of rock 'n' roll with Fabulous 50s, an era which defined the optimism, romance, coolness, and charm of the 1950s. From timeless classics to upbeat rock 'n' roll anthems, this concert includes songs such as Runaround Sue, Jailhouse Rock, Only You, Rock Around the Clock, Tutti Frutti and Why Do Fools Fall in Love. Don't miss out on this sensational showcase of the best songs from a defining decade in music history.

Book soon either online, or by calling our friendly Concert Team on 0508 266 237 or email us on [email protected].

Please ask about our wait list availability if your venue is sold out.

More details about upcoming daytime concerts is here.

Youth Mentoring Network

Our popular workshops provide professional development opportunities for people who work with young people, including: mentors, mentor programme providers, youth workers, educators, school counsellors, pastors, central and local government agency staff and community workers.

Each workshop has been designed by a team of experienced youth workers, mentors, & educators with the aim of building practical youth mentoring skills.

Registrations are now open for the Dunedin workshop on Wednesday 15th October 2025.

There is a registration fee of $200 plus GST and booking fee. Catering is included and you will also receive a comprehensive workbook to take back to work with you.

To Register or for More Information

Online Security Basics for Individuals

Tuesday 7 October, 10:00 am – 11:00 am

For: Anyone wanting to learn where to start with online security, what the current biggest threats are and how to be safe online

Presented by John Mollo and Sam Barris

From online shopping, to banking and social media, we are all connected to the digital world. That means we are all potential targets for online scams and cybercrime. In this practical and easy to understand session, experts from TradeMe and the NCSC will share the most common threats facing every day New Zealanders, and the simple steps you can take to stay safe online.

Register Here

Otago Cavy Club

Spring Guinea Pig Show - Dunedin

More Information Here

Sunday 12th October 2025

Carisbrook

School Hall, Dunedin

10am – 2pm

Gold Coin Entry – Everyone Welcome!

Show Timetable:

• Championship Purebred Show – 10:00am

• Pet Show Entry – 11:00am to 11:20am

• Mega Pet Show – 11:30am

A huge thank you to our major sponsor, Topflite

Championship Purebred Show – starts 10:00am

Free entry for Junior Exhibitors & Novice Exhibitors – perfect way to start your showing journey!

Mega Pet Show – starts 11:30am

Pet Show Classes:

Member Pet Show – $5 per guinea pig
Junior (13 & under): Smoothcoat, Roughcoat, LongcoatSenior, (Over 13): Smoothcoat, Roughcoat, Longcoat
Novice Pet Show – $7 per guinea pig
Junior – Owner 13 & under
Senior – Owner over 13

Fun Spring-Themed Pet Classes – $2 each:

Spring Sprout – for young cavies
Buzziest Personality – most energetic piggy
Freshest Fur – shiniest coat
Sunshine Smile – cutest face
Best Buds – best same-sex pair
Springtime Superstar – most impressive look
Garden Party Star – most social & curious
Spring Sweetheart – most affectionate
Blossom Booty – biggest butt
Fancy Dress Garden Glow-Up – guinea pig & owner dress-up fun!

Springtime Extras:

Raffle • Café & Treats • Kids’ Colouring Table • Guinea Pig Products & Displays

Entry packs out soon – email [email protected]

Join Toitū Otago Settlers Museum and Our Food Network to celebrate the history of kai cultivation in Otago.

From Mahika kai, to the gardens of early European settlers, to the large scale agricultural operations of today, this land has always had a special relationship with food.

From 10am – 2pm, Sunday 5 October 2025, take part in family friendly, free activities in the Josephine Foyer.

Make a smoothie while riding a bike, learn how to preserve food, make seed tape to plant in your garden, learn where in the world your food comes from, master the art of dunking a biscuit, and much more.

Dig up items throughout the museum galleries with our special ‘Digging In!’ gallery trail. Collection items displayed throughout the galleries take you through the entire food process, from seed to plate and everything in between.

From 12.30pm hear from locals in the Auditorium for ‘A History of Homegrown Food’, short talks centred around the history of feeding Otago.

Sue Smith (Puketeraki), James Beattie (Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Garden), Peter Cox (Harraways Oats), and Kim Reilly (independent vegetable grower) will take you on a journey from traditional kai gathering practices, to the market gardens of early Chinese Settlers, to the vegie gardens of today, and everything in between. From the smallest gardens to the biggest industrial operations, they’ll explore how Otago has fed itself through the years.

Dunedin INVADES

The Spring Races Day Party 2025

Friday 17 October 2025 at 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Wingatui Racecourse

Otago Racing Club, 285 Gladstone Rd North, Mosgiel 9092

👀Batten down the hatches folks, we're in for a classic.
Bringing Disc Jockeys, punting and ponies a plenty, we thought it would be rude not to go down in the party capital of NZ for a Races Day Party.

What to expect:
DJs between & after racing
INVADES private enclosure
INVADES Tiktok team on site
Transport to and from the event

Buy Tickets Here

Seddon Park Cycling

Open Day

Saturday 11th October

11am - 4pm

Come along for a full day of cycling fun – whether you’re new to the sport, a long-time rider, or just curious about what Cycling Otago is up to. Bring your mates, check out the action, and get involved!

What’s On:

Track Taster Sessions – 11am, 12pm, 2pm (pre-book via ticket link: webscorer.com/cyclingotago). Bikes available, bring cycling gear, helmet, shoes and pedals (if you have them).

Exhibition Track Racing – 1pm

Swap Meet – 11am–3pm ($20 per table to sell second-hand gear in the clubrooms) contact: [email protected] to book a table.

Social Road Ride for all abilities – starting and finishing at the track, ride time to be confirmed.

Prizes + Club Info + More!

Don’t miss this chance to ride, find out more, or just hang out!

Older People Staying Safe Online

Wednesday 8 October, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

For: Older adults who use the internet for everyday things and want to feel more confident and in control. You don’t need any tech knowledge.

Presented by John Mollo and Age Concern

Being online is part of everyday life, whether it’s keeping in touch with loved ones, doing banking online, or booking a GP appointment. In this practical webinar, we’ll walk through everyday situations people might face online—and how to handle them with confidence. Whether it's a strange text claiming to be from your bank or a suspicious email asking you to “click here,” we’ll show you the simple ways to stop in their tracks and stay in control.

Register Here

Join psychologist Martina Bruwer for this informative, skill-based workshop 'Introduction to Emotional Regulation'.

Explore the meaning of emotional regulation, unlock practical strategies for personal wellbeing, and walk away feeling empowered to support others in times of challenge.

8 October - Kaitangata (11am - 2pm)

11 October - Benhar (9.30am - 12.30pm)

16 October - Milton (9.30am - 12.30pm

Cost: $50

Suitable for: