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Piha Beach - What's Happening?What is happened in Piha NZ in date order prior 2008 These events have happened in Piha, Waitakere or Auckland prior 2008. They are kept here for memories, history and examples of the wonderful things that happen in this part of the world For current What's Happening in Piha & Waitakere Go HERE 
January '09: Recycle Collection:
31st Jan: Trillian Trust Surf Boat Series Round Three @ Piha
20th Jan: President George W Bush's last day in office - What a day for celebration.
December '08: Recycle Collection:
17th Dec: Wednesday Walks - Adventure at your back door. La Trove / Taraire Track. Traverse one of the largest groves of taraire trees in the Ranges, and walk alongside the lovely Opal Pools Stream. Meet 9:50am, Karekare Beach carpark. Grade Moderate Costs $5. Walking time approx 2 hours. Only 20 spaces so book (essential) early. More info HERE
6-7th Dec: Rip Curl GromSearch @ Piha - The Rip Curl GromSearch is the longest running grommet series in New Zealand. The series comprises four events in 2008. Events are scheduled in each of the school holidays and are dotted around New Zealand. Rip Curl GromSearch events focus on participation in the sport of surfing and are held worldwide. The events offer an excellent opportunity for youngsters to meet other surfers and compete against each other many for the first time in their lives. The 2008 Rip Curl GromSearch is sponsored by Rip Curl and New Zealand Surfing Magazine.
Nov '08: Recycle Collection: 10th & 24th Who put the BEACH in Piha? pihaBEACH.co.nz
26th Nov: Wednesday Walks - Adventure at your back door.
 Arataki Nature Trail: If you are interested in NZ native plants, this walk is for you. The Arataki Nature Trail, opposite the Arataki Visitor Centre, traverses both young forest with its colomizing species and ancient forest including a grove of giant kauri. Meet 9:50am, Arataki Visitor CEntre carpark. Grade: Easy. Costs $5. Walking time approx 2 hours. Only 20 spaces so book (essential) early. More info HERE
20 - 23rd Nov: the AUCKLAND flower SHOW Alexandra Park, Epsom A team of highly experienced major event organisers and promoters has very quickly come together to save Auckland's iconic annual flower show, and the result is the The Auckland Flower Show at Alexandra Park in Epsom, This year's Auckland Flower Show at the brilliant new all-weather venue at Alexandra Park will be a much improved show for you to enjoy even more! Auckland Flower Show website HERE
21 - 2nd Nov: Woodlands Park School 50th Jubilee
Woodlands Park School 50th Anniversary Celebrations
28th Oct - 16 Nov: FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup :
15th Nov: Greatest Little Fun Run in the Universe:  13 km and 5km fun run with a difference! This fun run/walk will be in its second year with over 400 participants enjoying the unique and scenic course in the inaugural event last year.The course goes from Huia Beach (Southern Waitakere Ranges) to the Upper Huia Dam and back. Along a small gravel road through the bush, past the Lower Huia Dam, through a tunnel, over the top of a dam, and over a swing bridge. The majority of the course is gravel or bush tracks. All funds raised go to the local Laingholm Primary School - the school that serves the the area we runs so many events in.
This is a Lactic Turkey event you can bring the whole family to - we'll be doing a 10 minute course for the wee kids too! Lots of Information HERE on this run
October '08: Recycle Collection:
28th Oct - 16 Nov: FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup :
29th Oct: Wednesday Walks - Adventure at your back door. Auckland City Walk. No! It's nowhere near Auckland City. Come and see some of the best kauri forest in the Waitakere Ranges. Learn about Ark in the Park mainland island. Meet 9:50am, Cascades Carpark, Falls Road off Te Henga Road (through Gold Course) Grade Easy. Costs $5. Walking time approx 2 hours. Only 20 spaces so book (essential) early. More info HERE
25th Oct:  Halloween at Piha Library: Fancy Dress, Magic, Competitions ........... Yes its Halloween time again and as usual the wonderful women at Piha Library are doing a Halloween for the young ones of Piha. An afternoon of fun ................ BOO!
6th Feb 08 12 noon: YES! Campaign for a Cafe in Piha! (Had to leave this here!!!)
At last count 165 signed a petition at this 'Yes! we want a Cafe in Piha' Rally. Many more, who could not attend, send messages of support. Piha turned out in their numbers to show that the majority of Piha say 'YES!' to a Cafe in Piha.
December '07: Recycle Collection: 10th & 24th Every Sat 9-12: Oratia Farmers Market - Rain or Shine:
Authentic farmers' market at Artisan Wines, 99 Parrs Cross Rd. Good coffee, breakfast, EFTPOS, toilets, buskers etc. A farmers' market is a produce market selling food produce and food products, fresh flowers, plants and compost. The products are sourced locally and sold by the producer. The aim is to provide a venue for local food producers to sell their product directly to the public.
IN THE NAME OF LOVE - West Coast Gallery for all of December. Suzanne Mackenzie is a favourite of mine. I clearly remember the first time I saw her work I just had to have some. We have some of her work in the King Sized bedroom of our Kauri Suite Open Wednesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm or by appointment.
SUMMER SURF LIFESAVING PATROL: Below Piha Surf Life Saving Captain Claire French The surf lifesaving season will be extended this year thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Auckland Regional Council. Councillor Sandra Coney says the move is especially important at popular beaches like Karekare, Piha, Bethells and Muriwai where people are now swimming later and longer after lifeguards have finished for the day. "I've seen plenty of rescues after 6pm unfolding from the back of our Piha bach and have had to call the club," she says. Ms Coney says lifeguards run an efficient system and do a lot for the money they get. She hopes this extra funding will give them the boost they deserve. Paid lifeguards start work from early December and keep patrolling until 8pm during the week. (Fabulous - Bobbie)
31st:  New Years Eve at Barnett Hall Piha
Following the success of the last "NewYearsEveNeesUp" party at Piha's Barnett Hall. Best Cowboys are doing it again. NeesUp08! With this years headline Roger Perry. Along side Dan Clark, Mr Big Stuff, Clarkee and Byron. Last year sold out. Get in quick. Tickets are available from the Piha Store.
25th: CHRISTMAS DAY IN PIHA 
Don't let Drunk Drivers in their cars please - for everyones sake
23rd - 6:30pm: Santa & Christmas Carols at the Bowler: Piha Bowling Club Christmas Carols - take the kids down and warm up those vocal chords. Meals available and bar.
22nd: Piha Rescue start filming at Piha Beach again until the end of February
21st: Corbans Estate Arts Centre - Classes for the kids 
Three classes are available on Friday 21st December 10am -2.30pm Children (5 -14 yrs) have the opportunity to make a selection of gorgeous gifts at our 1 day course on Friday 21st December. Courses are $55 which includes all materials and a yummy lunch of pizza and fruit!
- Decoupage (7 - 14 yrs), TUTOR: KATIE LITTLEWOOD SMITH In this workshop you will decorate your own Christmas placemats.They will be great to personalise for someone as a special gift idea. Using your own drawings and/or photocopying from our resources, you will cut out and colour shapes to decorate your gift. These will be glazed with a choice of finishes such as a beautiful crackle glaze.
- Beanbag Buddy in a Box (7 - 14 yrs), Tutor: Tracey Henderson In this workshop, students will design a pattern and sew a material beanbag character. You can add your own special features and then decorate a unique box for it. This will be a great Christmas gift for your brother or sister all boxed up and ready to give them on that special day!
- Treasure Boxes for Christmas (5-10yrs), TUTOR: MANDY PATMORE Come and create a beautiful treasure box! Using paint, collage and treasures of all sorts, children will design and decorate their own unique box, looking at fantasy creatures and fairy tales. A special handle will be created out of quick drying clay to place on the top of the box. This will be the perfect gift for someone special to store their treasures in.
15th: 10am Barnett Hall. Come see how wonderful Barnett Hall is looking and have morning tea. Their AGM follows this.
12th: Piha R & R Nominations close for 2008 Committee.
8th 7:30-10:15pm : Coca-cola Christmas in the Park in Auckland. More details HERE
8th & 9th - 8am : Rip Curl GromSearch - Piha Beach The longest running grommet surfing event in New Zealand takes to the waves of Piha. This is a 4 star event on the surfing calendar and is not to be missed Global Surfing News Featuring our very own: Tane Wallis (Under 16 &14 boys); Elliot Paerata Reid and Dune Kennings (Under 14 boys) and Alex Poulter (Under 14 girls). Good luck to all of you.
7th: National Jandal Day for Surf Lifesavers - Support Piha SLSC  New Zealanders are being urged to show how they can handle the jandal next month on an appeal day for Surf Life Saving New Zealand. Kiwis from all walks of life are being encouraged to don jandals on December 7 to support the nationwide street collection for the voluntary organisation. The national Jandal Day is a joint initiative between Surf Life Saving New Zealand and wine range, Bach 22. Come on Piha - lets all get our jandals out and show our support.
2nd: Piha Stream Weeding: 10-11:30am Coast Care:  Corner Beach Valley and Seaview Road. Strong footwear, gloves and some spades and picks if you have. The great planting done a couple of months ago now needs an urgent good weed. Come along and help for an hour if you can. Coast Care workers heading home after helping to pull that huge pile of weeds (left) from the Beach Valley Road working bee.
 New Zealand has the highest stranding rate of whales and dolphins in the world. Project Jonah can teach you the basic skills needed to handle these animals and potentially refloat them back to safety.
November '07: Recycle Collection: 12th & 26th
NZ wins best holiday destination New Zealand has been voted the Best Holiday Destination Worldwide by readers of Britain?s Daily Telegraph newspaper. The Telegraph Travel Awards are the result of the biggest annual independent survey of the British travelling public. Some 30,000 readers are questioned on their travel habits. New Zealand previously won Telegraph reader awards for best destination in 2005 and 2004.
 How did that VW get up there? A new busines called Lion Rock Diggers came along with their new excavator 1.7 ton takeuchi and very carefully put our VW up there. To contact Lion Rock Diggers call Malcolm on 021 369095 or Mana on 021 1213242 They're the guys for the job.
Can you identify this movember photo?
This Northern Royal Albaross, weighing about 10kg, has been cared for in Piha (secret location for obvious reasons) until it was strong enough to fly off. A dedicated team of locals has been hand feeding whole fish etc to help build up its strength after it was rescued. On 14th November he/she must have thought the winds strong enough to help him/her on the way and flew off probably, I am told, to go and nest in the Auckland Islands.
Barnett Hall Make-over: Wow - Barnett Hall's Makeover is near its end. The garden is being planted now with beautiful natives. For more details and photos see the coming edition of Piha News.
10 Nov - 2nd Dec West Coast Gallery - Piha: Sense of Shape. Preview Night 9 November 6-8pm. Phone Auckland 8128 029 Gallery open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 5pm Yes; this is Piha Residents and Ratepayers el Presidente!
23rd 9:30-11:30 on Maori TV: Maori Sports Media Awards '07 - Finalists Announced and include AIRINI MASON ? an hour-long documentary produced by Te Kauhoe Wano (Ngati Awa) from Toa TV, based in Piha near Auckland, for Maori Television. The film focuses on Kiwi surf star Mason (Ngati Awa, Rongomaiwahine) and the influence whanau has had on her international success. The documentary will re-screen on Maori Television on Wednesday November 14 at 8.30 PM.
23rd: White Ribbon Day Community March - Friday 23rd November Assemble at Waitakere Hospital at 10.15am March to Civic Centre, Henderson. International day when people wear a white ribbon to show that they do not condone men's violence towards women Takes place wet or fine! Refreshments provided. Penny Prendiville email for contact
17th: The Auckland Surf Champs - Piha's Keyhole Boardriders proudly host the Auckland Surf Champs at Piha. The Auckland Champs is the Premier event on the Auckland surfing calendar (17 November 2007, Piha), it has a long established history and prestige..Its Keyhole's turn to host it this year so we're going to keep things tight; two divisions; Open Men's and Open Women's. More details
15 - 23: New Zealand Bowls Open. Around 1,000 players are expected to compete in qualifying rounds and 460 national and internation playing will compete at the business end of the tournament. Up to 3,000 spectators per day are anticipated at the Henderson Bowling Club Waitakere City.
14 - 18th Ellerslie International Flower Show - Bobbie, left, with her long time friend from Waiheke Island at the Ellerslie Flower Show in Auckland. We had a ball. Not quite as big as Chelsea which I visited this year but just as good. I much prefer New Zealand native gardens to those English ones!
12th: 6pm. FREE Community Sausage Sizzle - CCSP Community BBQ & Goodbye. A community dinner & meeting hosted by CCSP - the university env. studies course at Stedfast Park
? Nov: Titirangi Theatre, Basement - Lopdell House, 418 Titirangi Rd
 Showing My Best Friend (a French comedy). Booking is advised as seats are limited.Tickets available at Titirangi PHarmacy or via bookings@flicksattitirangi.co.nz or 817 5884.Direct credit: 12-3100-0226879 Account name: Flicks at Titirangi
Oct 5th - 11th: Corbans Estate - Pacific Vocation Exhibition Opening: Thursday 4th October, 6pm Nathan Suniula, Janet Lilo, Sam Farquhar, Nooroa Te Hira, Siliga David Setoga
 The cultures of our world have inevitably merged as emigration and technology expand and absorb borders, exposing us to different ideas, languages and processes. New Zealand and the islands of the Pacific, however, share a unique spirit of developing new art practices that produce challenging, fresh work while preserving the core cultural identity of the artists. This dichotomy; traditional culture blending with new innovations is of course, not a new concept but it is a brave move for any artist is to look at their world, reassess, reinterpret and re-present ? reassessment often involves taking a step back surveying the past - I would suggest Pacific art steps forward, moving through traditional art forms and practice and on, absorbing, innovating . The young pacific artists included in this show have all taken a step forward and reassessed their culture and their surroundings, to produce thought provoking works, often with a touch of humour and always with a message.
11th: 7am. Leppin Off Road Run Series - Race 6 at Piha Beach.  This series started back in 2004 and Total Sport are proud to be presenting the series again in 2007. The Piha Event is limited to 300 competitors, and to avoid disappointment, as there will be no entries accepted on the day, get your entry in now Looks like fun to watch even if you don't enter. All the details here including Entry Forms
10th: Grass Fire Corner Beach Valley and Piha Roads. I heard that a fire cracker going into this grass started this fire. Locals rushed but within minute our Volunteer Fire Brigage was there and everything was under control. Cheers to our Fire Brigade.
10 - 17th: New World Netball World Championships.  16 countries and around 200 athletes and coaching staff play round robin, quarter and semi finals at The Trusts Stadium. Waitakere City is expecting some 4,000 visitors per day over this 7 day period.
10th: STAGE FRIGHT! Piha Bowling Club. Dance to the sounds of 5 old rockers cranking out the classic rock of the '70s & '80s. Come early for dinner or enjoy the band from 9pm. $15 cover charge pp.
10th: Technology Expo Day - Piha Domain: A fun family festival will have information of great  interest to property owners with onsite wastewater systems. The open day aims to show people the seriousness of rural water quality issues to ensure the future health and safety of the environment are not compromised.
10th: Oratia School 125th Anniversary. All past pupils, teachers and anyone else associated with the School are invited to attend Lots more information here
9 Nov: Titirangi Theatre, Basement - Lopdell House, 418 Titirangi Rd
For our second to last screening in 2007, Flicks @ Titirangi will screen Breach on Friday 9 November. Beautifully shot, this spell binding thriller is inspired by the incredible true story of the greatest security breach in US Intelligence History. The movie stars Academy Award winner Chris Cooper, Ryan Phillippe, Academy award Nominee Laura Linney and Dennis Haysbert. Movie screening 8pm. Wine bar open 7:15 - 10:30. Booking advised as seats are limited. Tickets available at Titirangi Pharmacy or via bookings@flicksattitirangi.co.nz or 817 5884. Direct credit: 12-3100-0226879-00. Account name: Flicks at Titirangi.
9 Nov : West Coast Gallery - Piha: Sense of Shape Preview 6 - 8pm Photography by Piha Ratepayers and Residents el Presidente!
4th: (Rain day 5th): Waitakere Fireworks Display 5:00 p.m. - 9:20 p.m.Waitakere Stadium, Douglas Track and Field. Central Park Drive, Henderson All the information you need here
4th 8-10pm: Waitakere City Orchestra Strings meet Gypsy Strings at Titirangi War Memorial Hall, 500 Sth Titirangi Road. Well-known virtuosic folk band Gypsy Strings, Eastern European musicians from West Auckland, join string players from Waitakere City Orchestra in an exciting programme of music from the Czech Republic, Romania, Hungary and Russia. Music Arranged by Miro Duna and Brigid Ursula Bisley for 8-25 players. Concert funded by the Trusts. More information here
25 Oct - 3rd Nov: KLRC World Junior Badminton Championships Black Sands Lodge welcomes players, managers, officials and spectators from all over the world, to what will undoubtedly be an exciting competition of the highest standard. The Trusts Stadium will make for a excellent host venue and we are sure you will enjoy the incredible array of experiences that New Zealand has to offer. There will undoubtledly be future world champions and Olympians on display, which can only make for a memorable event. All the powerhouse nations of the sport will be represented, including, China, Korea, Malaysia, Japan and Indonesia. New Zealand welcomes players, managers, officials and spectators from all over the world, to what will undoubtedly be an exciting competition of the highest standard. The Trusts Stadium will make for a excellent host venue and we are sure you will enjoy the incredible array of experiences that New Zealand has to offer. There will undoubtledly be future world champions and Olympians on display, which can only make for a memorable event. All the powerhouse nations of the sport will be represented, including, China, Korea, Malaysia, Japan and Indonesia. Events Schedule The Trusts Stadium
3rd: The Greatest Little Fun Run in the Universe, Waitakere City. 9am start Huia Beach Reserve, Waitakere City. 13 km and 5km fun run with a difference! The unique and scenic course goes from Huia Beach (Southern Waitakere Ranges) to the Upper Huia Dam and back. Along a small gravel road through the bush, past the Lower Huia Dam, through a tunnel, over the top of a dam, and over a swing bridge. The marority of the course is gravel or bush tracks. All funds raised go to the local Laingholm Primary School - the school that serves the the area we runs so many events in. This is a Lactic Turkey event you can bring the whole family to - we'll be doing a 10 minute course for the wee kids too! Lactic Turkey Events
3rd & 4th Trash to Fashion @ 3pm. The Trash to Fashion project is underway with primary, internediate and secondary schools preparing entries for an 'exclusive students only' show at Westfield Westcity Mall. These afternoon shows are for the whole family to attend this fun event. Registration deadline 17 August. For more info contact Jeannette Aldridge HERE
2nd: Piha Ratepayers and Residents Meeting: Discussion on Beach Valley Road pedestrian safety and parking. 7.30pm at Piha Library
Daniel is back in the kitchen at the Surf Club. Here he is, standing proud, after serving us a yum dinner. We're lucky to have three choices of eating out in Piha, Surf Club, Bowling Club and RSA not to mention The Piha Kitchen All we need now, for those that live here anyway, is a Cafe please.
Piha Accommodation - Black Sands Lodge
October '07: Recycle Collection: 1st & 15th & 29th
31st: 2007 HSBC Coastal Classic - First on handicap Division One : Piha's own Brian Ward Sailsure NZ Ltd Trophy for First on Handicap in Division One
SYSTEMS THUNDER
Brian Ward
Receives: $1,000 voucher for fine wines Congratulations Brian from Black Sands Lodge
31st Oct: Halloween
Yes, Piha gets into Halloween. Here the staff at the Piha Store pose looking their scariest. Well done guys.
The CEAC children's programme is planned around the four term school year and includes term classes and holiday courses for 5 to 14 year olds. Our classes are open to students of all abilities, and provide tuition by specialist art facilitators in a friendly, supportive environment where students have the unique opportunity to be inspired by the artists working on site, and engage with the exhibitions in the CEAC Gallery.
11 Oct - 4 Nov FIVE West Auckland Potters @ Westcoast Gallery, Piha - Richard Naylor, Leonie Clapham, Lorraine Barnett, Karen Woodgate and Lorraine Armstrong.
24 Oct - 4 Nov World Junior Badminton Championships. 36 countries and around 400 athletes and coaching staff will e based in and around Waitakere City and playing at The Trusts Stadium.
28 Oct: SURFBREAK Protecton Society Inc. AGM - This organisation is always looking for new members / supports. If you are interested be at Piha Firestation on Sunday 28th at 10:30am or around that time - I hear they're a friendly lot unless you're trying to destroy their surf breaks! Info here Surfbreak Info pdf
28 Oct:FLAVA out West. 10am - 5pm at Parrs Park  Multicultural Community Family Event by the Ezekiel 33 Trust. Free entry, free parking, free entertainment. Alcohol free, Drug free and Smoke free. Bring all your friends and family. Tell everybody and email Maori Cultural Arts exhibition with prize giving for primary schools. Performance groups include Waiata Ringa, Haka, Poi, Best Kaitiaki Tane, Best Kaitiaki Wahine, Best Tutor and more. The Youth Shout Out flava is a mix of Hip Hop, Breakdancing, Krumping, Beatboxing and Battles. More info here
If you ever doubt the effectiveness of spinifix in stabalising the sand dunes in Piha have a look at this photo. A large gap where, rumour has it, they were removed in favour of a view, the sand is now all over the car park . . . . . more rates money will be wasted moving it. 
Here we have, morning after above, a vehicle stuck in the sand on the car park at South Piha. Support Piha Coast Care and their program of stabilising the dunes please . . . . . 
Here we see more ratepayers money being spent on net fencing to catch and hold the sand. What a waste of our money when the same thing can be done with planting.
20 - 22nd: NZ Labour Weekend in Waitakere: 21st: Rugby World Cup: Finals NZ Time 8.00am - South Africa takes the Ellis Cup! 
Piha Surf Life Saving Club: From left: Adrian, Blair, Chris and Shirley hijacked the Piha Surf Life Saving kitchen for Labour Weekend. They had fun and we had a great feast. 21st 1-10pm: Waitakere Diwaii Festival - A Festival of Lights @ Waitakere Trusts Stadium: India's biggest Festival! Diwali, 'The Festival of Lights' is coming to Waitakere City. Traditional; Contemporary Dances * Indoor; Outdoor Fireworks Display * Exotic Indian Foods * Indian Artifacts, Arts; Craft for sale * Rangoli (Indian Painting) Exhibition FREE 21st - 8pm: Mike Murane Quintette @ Piha Bowling Club !!! Meals as usual to 8pm. F unction from 8pm to 1am Dance the night away to the honeyed tones of Aussie Mike, of Piha, supper served from 9pm. $25 per ticket Phone Mike on 8128 038 or Fiona on 8128 514 or order tickets Email ticket order HERE What a night of fabulous music from this band. A night of great dancing and fun. 
Everyone sang a Happy Birthday to Sandra Coney, of Piha, when Peter Hosking surprised Sandra with this most delicious birthday cake which Sandra shared with us all. Yum Sandra's birthday is October 23rd 22nd 10am - 2pm: Piha Market Day: P iha Preschool are running Market Day this year, which is taking place at Barnett Hall on Monday 22 October from 10am to 2pm. Fun stalls and yummy food. To book a stall, call Sarah Boyce on 8128266.
left: Monique Davis-Olivier and Liz Hawker on their stand.
14th: Rugby World Cup: England beat the French - exciting and close game 11 - 9
13th: Phil Parks turns 50! - Piha Bowling Club
 A great night of dancing and fun celebrating Phil turning 50. The guitarist, below, seemed to have real problems staying vertical !
13th: Waitakere Local Body Election Results: Great! Bob Harvey is again our Mayor but sadly we have lost some good people out west. We retain Penny Hulse :-) as Councillor but lose Christine Sherhard as Councillor - Christine is now on Waitakere Community Board We retain Kubi Witten-Hannah but sadly lose Monique Davis & Sharon Davies Naturally Sandra Coney is still on ARC to protect our wonderful Ranges.
3th: Masquerade Ball -. POSTPONED FOR THE SUMMER Fund raiser for the West Coast Gallery in Piha. Band to be announced, cash bar light supper, MASK MAKING workshops before hand Tickets/enquiries at the gallery
13th - 2pm: West Coast Gallery (Piha) : FIVE West Auckland Potters invite you to the opening of their exhibition of their recent work. Richard Naylor, Leonie Clapham, Lorraine Barnett, Karen Woodgate and Lorraine Armstrong.
13th The Dance Halls - Te Atatu Peninsula Community Centre, 595 Te Atatu Road. Theme Queen City Big Band - More Details HERE
7th: Rugby World Cup: NZ vs France - All Blacks 18 France 20 :-( 2nd: Louise Nicholas Launches her book 'My Story' 
Louise Nicholas launched her book "My Story", co-written with Philip Kitchin, at Auckland Girls Grammer. It was a very interesting evening and meeting Louise reinforced what so many have said: "She is an ordinary, honest, open Kiwi woman". Left: We were so lucky : this is Louise signing her very first book and it was ours! We are going to try and get Louise to The Piha Library with her book, maybe
Piha Accommodation - Black Sands Lodge
September '07: Recycle Collection: 3rd & 17th This is HUGE for Helen, Bush and Beach and Waitakere and Black Sands Lodge congratulates Helen for this achievement.
Operation Spring Clean 2007 The annual Operation Spring Clean event aims to increase awareness about waste in the environment by encouraging schools, service organisation, sports clubs, church groups, community groups, businesses and individuals to take an active roll in cleaning up the environment. More details and registration HERE
30th: Daylight Saving will commence on Sunday 30 September 2007 2am becomes 3am. Remember 'spring forward; fall back'
West Coast Gallery - Piha currently has 'Timeless Land' by Irina Velman
29th - 3.30 : Meet the Candidates @ Barnet Hall, North Piha: Mayoral, Councillors, Community Board & ARC Candidates. Come along and listen and ask those very important questions. Arranged by Piha R & R. Meet the Candidates .pdf LEFT: Piha Ratepayers and Residents President who chaired the meeting. Not always an easy job uh Tony - but you do well :)
29th - 1-3.00: Official Opening of Piha's New Playground. 
The Woman who started it all - Jackie Houtwipper. Jackie had never gone through any Council 'process' to apply for such community anything. But learn she did and was today given the opportunity to talk at the opening. It was a delight to see her with Eva Rose in her arms. Eva wasn't even convieved when the process began. Thanks from all the kids in Piha Jackie. 
Left: from right: Tony Dunn (Piha Ratepayers and Residents President), Grant Jennings (Waitakere City Council) and Jacki Houtwipper (with babe in arms)  and here it is: The new Playground in Piha Domain. The kids, and parents, just love it.
Thanks to Waitakere City Council
29th: Rugby World Cup: NZ (All Blacks) vs Romania - Toulouse 11:00pm NZ Time
28th: ARC takes ownership of Stedfast Park, Glenesk Road, Piha on behalf of the Auckland Region.
25th - 7pm: Piha Bowling Club.1953 Film of Piha - Relive the atmosphere of the old 50's at Piha. Entry by 'donation' (suggestion $5 adult $2 kiddies) Very kids friendly  
Left: The kids just loved the movies at the Piha Bowling Club.  Left: some of the 60 locals who came to watch the 1953/4 movie of Piha.
Above: John Crichton, the projectionist who brought the old movie and cartoons out with his wife and Janet, left, President of the Piha Bowling Club. Popcorn, jaffas and ice creams went down well as did Tom & Jerry cartoons.
24h: Rugby World Cup: NZ (All Blacks) vs Scotland - Edinburth 3:00am NZ Time
23th: Piha Coast Care: Met today to review projects to date and discuss 07/08 season projects
 Standing: Sandra Coney (ARC) Alan La Roche, Chris Ferkins (WCC), Richard Mann, Barry Davis, Yvonne Cleverley, Ross Duder & Nigel Kearins, Sitting: Miranda Bennett, Pat La Roche (Coast Care Coordinator) Geoff Calvert, Bobbie Carroll (WebMistress) Missing: Marilyn Perko & Yvonne du Feur
22nd 10am-4pm: Storyfest ONE World - OUR World: Kelston Community Centre Cnr Awaroa & Gt Nth Roads. Calling kiddies of all ages; face painting, balloon twisting, flag and mask making, Chinese calligraphy etc etc. Story telling, clowns, puppets - FREE event for children and features several local people either performing, holding workshops or on the event team. Left: photo from last years Storyfest - aliens. Julie.Nash@waitakere.govt.nz Storyfest poster .pdf
19th: Many submittors have opinion on proposed Piha café READ about it HERE
16 - 22: Air New Zealand Fashion Week. Viaduct Harbour Marine Village New Zealand's fashion talents will be centre stage New Zealand Fashion Week URL.
15th: Rugby World Cup: NZ (All Blacks) vs Portugal - Lyon 11:00pm NZ Time Score:All Blacks 108 and Portugal 13 - we won again.
15th The Dance Halls - Te Atatu Peninsula Community Centre, 595 Te Atatu Road. Theme Downbeat Big Band - More Details HERE
14th - 16th: Going West Books and Writers Festival 2007.  The theme of this year's Going West Books and Writers Festival is 'Food for Thought' being held at Titirangi War Memorial Hall, South Titirangi Road. Award winning Irish playwrite Ursula Rani Sarma is guests Speaker. Also talking at the festival is Kiwi Tony Simpson. Enquiries contact Co-ordinator Anna Fomison
14th: The Led Zeppelin Project Classic rock meets classical music when the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra joins with acclaimed Australian musicians to present The Led Zeppelin Project at The Trusts Stadium on Friday 14 September. The Led Zeppelin Project will feature the same group of rock musicians that joined the APO to present last year?s sold-out Pink Floyd Project. The same group has recently played four sold-out shows in Australia playing the music of Queen. The concert will be the orchestra?s first concert at The Trusts Stadium in Henderson, Waitakere City.Tickets $35-$65 (plus booking fee) available now from Ticket Direct. Ph 0800 4 TICKETS or visit Ticket Direct
11th: WoAT (West of Auckland Tourism) Tourism Expo Rydges Hotel.
We had a lot of fun and enjoyed meeting an telling invited guests all about Piha and our businesses.
9th: Piha Road was closed to traffic for several hours today as this Allied  Conrete truck blocked the Road. Apparently it lost its brakes coming down Piha Road and turned into this driveway to slow down. Slow down he did! The driver walked away apparently unhurt. CLICK on these little 'thumbnails' below for more photos. 9th - 10am: Dune Planting - Piha Coastcare: Bring - spade, gloves, suitable footwear, raincoat. Venue - Meet in the Barnett Hall carpark. Piha Coastcare has been given a number rare and endangered dune plants, for planting nearer the back of the dunes than the Spinifex and Pingao that we have been planting up to now. There are several hundred of these to be put in in places away from the main traffic areas. Lots of help needed!
8th - 12noon to 4pm: Tasman Lookout Track @ Piha Library Word document details here: just CLICK the ARC has arranged with the Library to have an open day to look at the proposed plans for the upgrade to Tasman Lookout Track accessed from South Piha. This is your chance to have an input into the proposals. ARC officer will be present to discuss your feedback and hear your thoughts.
8th: Rugby World Cup: NZ (All Blacks) vs Italy - Marseille 11:45pm NZ Time. Score:All Blacks 76 and Italy 14 - we won!
5th: The Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Bill was to have had its second reading in Parliament on Wed 15th Aug but the Maori MPs had to be absent from the house (while attending the first anniversary of the death of the Maori Queen at Turangawaiwai). As their four votes are essential, the bill will now be delayed until the 5th Sept.
Sep: Titirangi Theatre 'Serial Killers'. Witty and wildly funny this is Titirangi Theatres next production in September. A behind the scenes look at TV soap written by James Griffin and directed by Syd Mannion. This will be a very popular show in association with the Going West Books and Writers Festival (above). Group Bookings or as a fund-raiser night refer Titirangi Theatre Website HERE
August '07: Recycle Collection: 6th & 20th
Left: This is a thumbnail so click to see larger photo. It is a huge excavation on Glenesk Road - phew just look at the size of the cars to get an idea how big the hole is.
CAFE AT PIHA? This POLL is now CLOSED. Results and analysis in Piha News due out 1 Sep Notification arrived to Piha Residents today (3/8/07) for Preserve Piha Ltd to open a new Cafe  at the old Post Office site 20 Seaview Road. This is going to be veeeery interesting. . . . . . ''Plans by television personality and former All Black Marc Ellis and four surfing friends to build a cafe at Piha on Auckland's west coast have taken another step. . . . . .' 'Mr Higgs said the cafe would be open from 7am to 7pm throughout the year and would not serve alcohol.' . . . . . 
Piha Residents and Ratepayers Association president Tony Dunn said most people had strong feelings on the proposal." This issue is going to be very interesting to follow . . . . Click on thumbnail on left for a great hardcase photoshop pic. Article in Sunday Herald 19/8/07 'Gloves off over Piha Cafe' Waitakere City Council Notification Letter HERE Preserve Piha's Main Resource Consent Application to WCC HERE Online Submission form WCC Resource Consent LUC-2007-252: 20 Seaview Road, Piha Preserve Piha's Resource Consent Application to ARC HERE Online Submission form ARC HERE including submission form
28th: Eva Rose Houtwipper joins the Piha Community:
 Well congratulations would have to go to Jacki, clever girl, producing such a darling wee daughter in 90 minutes!!! (Well 9 months and then 90 minutes)
Eva Rose was born on Tuesday afternoon at Waitakere Hospital and now Jacki says " . . . . home today after 3 nights in Waitakere hospital - back to beautiful Piha, and to a busy and special time ahead looking after our new little one" Congrats to you all.. . Piha will need a 2nd school bus soon.
28th: ARC buys Boys Brigade Camp at Piha: The Auckland Regional Council has bought a Boys' Brigade's camp near Piha, to ensure it stays as an outdoor educational facility. The eight hectare Camp Steadfast cost the council $1.5 million and will be added to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. The council says it's an important piece of land for Aucklanders especially because city children need the chance to learn outdoor skills and about the rainforest on their doorstep. Steadfast Park used to house the Piha saw mill which had a tramway down the Piha coast.
27th - 2 Sep 8: 00am Photo Exhibit of Local Dads celebrating Focus on Fathering Week. Waitakere Central Railway Airbridge, Railside Avenue. This is the first of a number of events ocurring during the week, all focussing on fathers. There will be a photo exhibit of local dads showing for the entire week. FREE
21Jul - 26 Aug: Pardo Jackson at West Coast Gallery. 'Heaven, Hell and what lays between.
24th Local Government Candidates Announced:
 6 nominations for Mayor 63 nominations to stand as a Councillor 39 nominations for Community Boards 19 nominations for the Waitakere Licensing Trust
24th Local Government Candidate nominations close. Details HERE
23rd: Beach Valley Road Pedestrian Safety: Thank you Tony (R&R) and WCC; at last something is being done to the protected pathway to South Piha Beach, along Beach Valley Road, that had become impassable by prams or littlies etc. It's being fixed .... yay
18th The Dance Halls - Te Atatu Peninsula Community Centre, 595 Te Atatu Road. Theme 'Mobsters & Molls 1920's' - More Details HERE
17th: Flooding at Piha : Below are some photos taken at 2am and the morning of Aug 17th. Bridge going from Glen Esk Road to Stedfast Park covered in debris from flooding. An Iconic tree in Stedfast Park, Piha, took a tumbles in the floods last night. This magnificent tree is being looked at by arborists to see if it can be saved. This is a thumbnail so click on it to see a bigger more detailed photo. These plants were only planted last weekend and the flood waters swept over them. Good thing they already had good roots and were planted well because inspection shows none were lost. Beach Valley Road stream side planting. Above: 3 photos taken at approx 2am this morning on the corner of Sylvan Glade and Beach Valley Road (my restoration project) showing the water pipe being over run with water and finally spilling right over. I don't think I lost any plants but I sat there, soaking, watching just in case - yes at 2am!!! The madness of gardeners . . . click to get bigger impressions Below: Click on these thumbnails below to see effects of flooding on Piha Beach - phew!!  
16th 7:30-9:30pm Maui Dolphin Sanctuary Proposal. Kelston Community Centre, Awaroa Road, Glen Eden. Mark Bellingham, Forest and Bird North Island Field Coordinator, will outline the Society's sanctuary proposal for the Maui dolphin and how it will affect the Waitakere-Kaipara coastline. Glenys Mather
15th: Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Bill will finally get its second reading on Wednesday (15th Aug). If it passes the final deliberations will be in September. We don't have details of times etc but if you do want to listen in check with Lynne Pillay's office Waitakere waitakere.eo@xtra.co.nz or phone: 09 818 6871 or Wellington 04 470 6968
12th - 10:00 - 2pm Oratia Settlers Market 569 West Coast Road, Featuring local creative talent and fine country fare, many indoor and outdoor stalls, live music , Settlers Cafe and so much more
9th - 7:30pm Bloody Can Do: Lopdell House Gallery Corner Titirangi & South Titirangi Roads Intrepid West Auckland adventurer, Jack Finn, will give a presentation about his inspiring kayaking expedition in the sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands to raise awareness of haemophilia. $5 with all funds raised going to Harmophilia Association
7th: The Big Picture - Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey - Filming in Waitakere
 Thousands of jobs and an industry worth millions of dollars a year is in jeopardy if severe restrictions are placed on film activities.
That's the warning from Waitakere mayor Bob Harvey whose Council today made a presentation to the Parks and Heritage sub -committee of the Auckland Regional Council (ARC).
The ARC is considering restricting film and television activity in key locations such as Piha, Karekare and Anawhata beaches. It also intends restricting activities such as weddings and sports events.
Today, ARC Councillors were told that in the past decade Waitakere City has carved itself a niche as "The Hollywood of the South Pacific".
Literally thousands of feature films, television shows and commercials have been shot in and around the City.
"The Auckland region and in particular Waitakere is home to around 70 percent of New Zealand's screen production activity. To place severe controls on that level of activity is just crazy," Mayor Harvey says.
Later this month the country's largest film studio and sound stage will open in Henderson, said Mayor Harvey. At a cost of $7 million it will employ around 250 people.
"So on one hand the private sector is pouring millions of dollars into developing infrastructure, and on the other they are being told they aren't wanted."
Mr Harvey says that as the ARC's proposals stand, gatherings of more than 50 people could be restricted. "That means things like school trips to the coast could be jeopardized. I can't imagine that is what the ARC intends but it does show what a blunt tool these sorts of restrictions are."
"Everybody acknowledges how special and sensitive the Ranges are," says Mayor Harvey. "But we have to balance good stewardship with commonsense."
He adds that nationally film and television make a significant contribution to New Zealand's economy and export earnings. Statistics New Zealand's first Screen Industry in New Zealand survey (published in November last year) showed a gross revenue of $2.6 billion in the 2005 financial year - comparable to those of the forestry and logging and the horticulture and fruit growing industries ($2.8 billion).
"This is big business. It's a serious business," says Mayor Harvey. "And the ARC simply has to show some leadership and common-sense to nurture and grow it." (Published on WCC URL)
7th 12:12pm: For the Sake of our Children & Sensible Sentencing Trust ask all New Zealanders to "come out onto the street, outside the office or classroom, stop their car or truck and stand outside their vehicle -- and make a symbolic stand against child abuse for three minutes at 12:12pm."
6th: Mandy Patmore - Piha Arts Bridge. 7pm CEAC Gallery. Many is currently designing the new 'Piha Arts Bridge' (see photo above) due to be built in 2008. Many will speak about this process as well as her current and past art practice.
6th: Waitakere City Councillor Ewen Gilmour resigned for personal and business reasons. Mayor, Bob Harvey was sorry to see Ewan go but 'totally understood the reasons'.
6th - 12th: Conservation Week 6- 12 August Auckland's Manawa | Coordinating Auckland's environmental care groups events calendar for volunteer planting days, public talks, and art exhibitions to celebrate Conservation Week.
5th: 10am - 11:30am Lion Rock Corner - Coastcare Planting. Bring: Spade, strong footwear, gloves. We have a supply of spades if you don't have your own. A fabulous group turned up for this. I didn't count but I'd say 20 plus would have been there. I thoroughly enjoyed the planting and chatting to Piha folk I don't often have the chance to get to know followed by a cuppa and lots of laughs at Helen and Ross Duder's home. Below from left: Coast Care's fabulous co-ordinator Pat, Kath Dewar and Steve Skidmore 
  Below a group of volunteers getting stuck in.
3rd - Henderson Valley School Art Auction. This is a 'silent' art auction to fundraise for the repair and upgrade of the school pool. The action will be held in the Henderson Valley Hall at the school from 8pm and is NOT suitable for children. Tickets $15 and include finger food and free glass of local Waitakere Wine, coffe, hot chocolate and non-alcoholic drinks for sale. MC for the evening is 'Poi Terei' and music by Yair Katz. Includes stone carvings, paintings, sculptures and mosaics. More information (fundraising co-ordinator) Michelle Duff HERE
July '07: Recycle Collection: 9th & 23rd Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Bill The Bill is shortly to have its second reading and with the MP numbers needed to pass it being rather reduced (approximately 61 - 60) it may not go through unless some lobbying is done. It was suggested that the names of some MPs to contact would be Peter Dunn, anne.small@parliament.govt.nz T.Phillip Field, taito.phillip.field@parliament.govt.nz
John Key, emma.holmes@parliament.govt.nz Winston Peters, wpeters@ministers.govt.nz Nick Smith, nick@nick4nelson.co.nz Mark Blumsky, mark.blumsky@prliament.govt.nz T Flavell teuruoa@parliament.gov.nz H Harawira hone.harawira@parliament.govt.nz P Sharples Pita.Sharples@parliament.govt.nz T Turia tariana.turia@parliament.govt.nz Lyn Pillay, lynne.pillay@parliament.govt.nz David Cunliffe, dcunliff@ministers.govt.nz Chris Carter ccarter@ministers.govt.nz Email these MPs NOW to support the Bill please 27th: Montana Poetry Day: Calling all Waitakere Poets "Poetry in the City. Click on the left hand photo for more details about Poetry in Waitakere timetable. 21-22nd: Titirangi Painters 15th Winter Exhibition. Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 10am - 4.30pm at Titirangi War Memorial Hall, South Titirangi Road, Titirangi. 600 paintings on display. Meet and talk to the artists. Vote for Peoples' Choice award. All welcome to browse or buy. Enquiries Margaret HERE 23rd - 15 July: MATARIKI "Nga Tuahine Matariki" (Sisters of the Matariki) West Coast Gallery - Piha. Mixed media, local women's response to the Matariki season. Helga Strewe, Claire Inwood, Christine Robson, Danielle Donald, Lisa Bearsley, Mandy Patmore, Jasmine Clark & Tanu Richardson. 20th: 6pm. Preview - Pardo Jackson at West Coast Gallery. 19th @ 23:22: Welcome Lisa Grace Doggitt. Victoria and Adrian have brought Lila home to Piha. Another wee beaut in our Community. Better get another extension to the Pre-school!. 16th: 7pm. Sandra Coney @ Piha RSA 'Gone West' Sandra is giving a talk Piha's Kauri Bushmen & the First World War.. Sandra Coney shares insights into the lives of the men from Piha Sawmill commemorated on the WW1 Roll of Honour on Lion Rock at Piha . . . for some of the men, their connection with Pihga goes back to the earliest days of Pakeha settlement at Piha in the 1860's. .FREE 8th: 10am. Piha Coastcare planting on frontage of 32 & 34 Garden Road with ARC June '07: Inorganic Rubbish Collection 1 & 25 May 24th: 10am Piha Coastcare planting at 66 Garden Road. 23rd - 15 July: MATARIKI "Nga Tuahine Matariki" (Sisters of the Matariki) West Coast Gallery - Piha. Mixed media, local women's response to the Matariki season. Helga Strewe, Claire Inwood, Christine Robson, Danielle Donald, Lisa Bearsley, Mandy Patmore, Jasmine Clark & Tanu Richardson. 26 - 17 Jun: 'Summer on the Rocks' West Coast Art Gallery - Piha. As part of Auckland Festival of Photography our local gallery features the above from local photographers. 23rd: Piha Preschool celebrate Matariki:  Piha preschool are once again holding a Matariki Hangi 1pm onwards at Barnett Hall - contact Preschool for tickets 8128013 What does Matariki mean?
Matariki has two meanings, both referring to a tiny constellation of stars; Mata Riki (Tiny Eyes) and Mata Ariki (Eyes of God). What is Matariki?
Matariki is the Maori name for the group of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster or The Seven Sisters; and what is referred to as the traditional Maori New Year.
21th: International Surf Day: By Surfing Magazine
 Surfers from across the globe unite to celebrate International Surfing Day. The annual observance, now in its third year, was established to inspire waveriders everywhere to take a day to share and acknowledge their mutual love of surfing and our beach and ocean environments.
17th: 10am. Piha Coastcare & ARC Planting: Planting Day at Tasman Lookout Track. Meet in far Piha South carpark 10:00am 6th: Minke Whale washed up on Piha Beach. What a sad sight on North Piha Beach. The local Ranger suggested the Minke Whale had been dead at least 24 hours as its skin had started to come off. The whale will be buried on the beach. 1 - 24th: Lopdell House: Matariki '07 "Whanaungatanga" Meaning 'kinship' or 'connections' features Whakairo (carving) and Manutukutuku (kites) from local Maori artists and invited Migrant and Refugee organisations. Opening Night 31 May 6-8. 4th: Queen's Birthday 4th: Sunday Night - Queens Birthday Ball - Piha Bowling Club This is a great Piha Occasion - get your ticket now 7pm - Midnight. Tickets $35 a head - full supper included. Tickets at the Bowling Club or Piha Domain Camp Office 8128 815 - Fiona 3rd: Piha Coastcare - Monster Planting Piha Stream Beach Valley Road 10:00am Coastcare have over 500 plants to be planted by the Piha Stream - beautiful grasses and sedges. Please phone Pat if you can help 8128202 so she has a realistic idea of how many can get in the ground or email her Pat la Roche but if you don't get around to this just turn up. May '07: Inorganic Rubbish Collection 14-18 May 26 - 17 Jun: 'Summer on the Rocks' West Coast Art Gallery - Piha. As part of Auckland Festival of Photography our local gallery features the above from local photographers. 24 - 27th. Auckland Writers & Readers Festival. The Auckland Writers & Readers Festival is New Zealand's liveliest and largest literary festival, and one of Auckland?s most successful arts fixtures. The 2007 festival will be held from May 24 - 27 at the Aotea Centre, Auckland and will feature up to 20 international writers and 120 New Zealanders in around 60 events. Writers Festival Website. Enjoy then bring your books to Piha to enjoy. 27th: Gareth Morgan - The Investment Adventurer Seminar Series 2007  High profile economist, author, investment manager, columnist & philanthropist; always entertaining, Gareth's presentations are an opportunity not to be missed. Seats are limited, admission not guaranteed without registration. $15 cash admission is payable at the door, with proceeds matched dollar for dollar by the Morgan Family Charitable Foundation. Attend the Waitakere Seminar on May 17th and support the Karekare Surf Life Saving Club. Book Here 4-27th: "Cabbage Tree Dreaming - Lopdell House. Artworks in 2 & 3D by Maurice Van Cooten and Pamela S. Wood. Waitakere artists inspired by their surrounds and the spirits that dwell therein. 21st: Annette Presley - Krozzy's Family Bistro 18G Clark Street, New Lynn - Guest Speaker at the Waitakere Working Women's Club called Dub, Dub, Dub 6:30-9pm(www) duh! From Computer Programmer to the owner of one of the largest ISP's in NZ, TV Star, Patron of Dress for Success and busy mum of two. 2 course buffet only $15 per head. 11th: Bobbie (webmistress) and Ju's 20th Anniversary. We're in Paris celebrating . . . . as one should after 20 years. 28th Apr - 20 May: Paintings by Jeff James at West Coast Gallery, old Fire Station, Piha. April '07: Recycle Collection: 2nd, 16th & 30th 28th: Futurama @ Piha Bowling Club c//run Saturdy April 28th Brother Jay The Piha Bowling Club "details//:twendydollar presale//twentyfive at the door house rules: THEME DRESS- 'futurama'//supper provided// PROMPT.exe//:A PIHA COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER > 22nd: West Coast Gallery (Piha) - Gillian Harrop 'Holding the World'. Another great 'Mixed Media' exhibition at the Art Gallery. Hasn't Glenys done a great job with the gallery . . . . 25th: Anzac Day - Anzac display at Piha Library - last years was wonderful so visit and have a look at this wonderful asset of Piha's. Anyone wanting to drop a display off phone Gabrielle 8128913 or Norma 8128097. 24th: ARC's Draft Annual Plan. Comments are welcomed by the ARC at www.arc.govt.nz or email info@arc.govt.nz for a full copy of the draft plan. Deadline for input 5pm 24th April. 21st: 9.30 am Awareness Rally Western Park Nationwide Protest Action As NZ Govt Moves to Outlaw Vitamins Cnr Hepburn Street & Ponsonby Rd. More details 18th: Gone West - Piha's Kauri Bushmen and the First World War Arataki Visitors Centre 7-9pm. $5 adult $2 children or $12 for family. For some years now Sandra Coney has been researching the lives of the men from the Piha Sawmill who are commemorated on the WWI Roll of Honour on Lion Road at Piha. Sandra has offered to share her insights into the lives of these men, and her findings throw light on the workings and social networks of Kauri milling - an industry that has made an indelible impact on the Waitakere Ranges - an impact from which the Ranges are only now recovering. Please book beforehand - just a phone call to (09) 366 2000 to let them know you are coming. 6 - 9th: History of Piha Library - an interesting display, at the library, of its own history. Do visit. 8th: Easter Sunday: Kareoke and Buffet Dinner - Piha Bowling Club -  6:30-10pm. $25 Yes - its Karaoke Time again. Tune up the voices, take a drink from the bar for some courage, if you must, and go for it. Tickets from the Bowling Club or Piha Domain Camp Office. 8128815. 5th: Last day for ARC submissions - Canyoning in the Waitakere Ranges. ARC Parks has received applications for consent to undertake guided canyoning operations in the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. The applications relate to existing consents due to expire on 30 July '07. Read the letter ARC Letter re Canyoning in the Waitakere Ranges. Read this then send a submission if you wish. ARC Submission Form here March '07: Recycle Collection: 5th & 19th 2nd - 24th: 'Sea and Sky' - Recent Oil Paintings by Stefanie Kroeger 24th - Local Water Agenda Group Meeting - Barnett Hall, Piha Sat 24th 2 - 4pm. Onsite Wastewater Systems. The Piha-Karekare Local Water Agenda Group invites you to a public meeting to discuss recent information regarding onsite wastewater systems in our community. What is the expected performance for opnsite wastewater systems here? How many of our systems really operate at this level? What are the issues for the community? .... the environment? How might we be affected personally? How can each of us help?
Also an update on some exciting events planned for 2007 . . . . Kubi Witten-Hannah (Chair) 027 248 0282 and Simon Brown. 18th - Day Light Saving ends :-( Turning clocks back 1 hour at 2am. 18th: Miles Jackson @ The Piha Community Library 2:30pm A hugely successful classical and Flamenco guitarist is giving a once only performance in Piha. Be quick, tickets will not last long. Tickets are $20 and available to the public (after Friends of the Library get first dibs) at the library or phoning Yvonne on 8128231 17th & 18th: Billabong Grom Series - Piha 17th: Art on the Beach - Piha 17th: Coastcare - Weed Working Bee 9 - 11am beside Piha Stream at the Firestation end of Beach Valley Road. 10th: Corona Crown Super 16 Event - South Piha, March 10th '07.  he Corona Crown Super 16 is a showcase of New Zealand's sixteen best surfers competing in the Grande Finale of this year's NZ Pro Surfing Tour. One day event. Piha Accommodation Email Here 9th & 10th: Pasifika Festival - Western Springs Park & Stadium "To develop, promote and celebrate the diversity and unity that is Pasifika". One of Auckland's best weekends - love it! About Pasifika 4th: EcoDay 2007: Olympic Park New Lynn - Waitakere 10am - 4pm -  This ever popular, free community event, now in its 5th year, will be held in Olympic Park, New Lynn in close proximity to the Sustainable Living Center and Now Home. The aim of EcoDay is to provide visitors with information about products and services which are available to enable them to live in a more environmentally sustainable way. Eco Day Website 1st: Line Dancing - Barnett Hall, Piha. Yes, Line Dancing is finally coming to Piha - beginners classes start Thursday 1st Marhc and every Thursday after that. 7:30 - 9pm $10 per class. No partners required. Great way to keep fit. Enquiries Val 8129011 FEBRUARY '07: Recycle Collection: 5th & 19th Steadfast Park - Piha: The ARC has announced that they have expressed an interest in 'aquiring' the 8022 hectare Steadfast Park, at Piha, using the 'Public Works Act 1981' to secure it at a 'fair and reasonable price'. Piha folk, and there is a lot of chat about it, have estimated it will sell for anything from NZ$800,000+ to NZ$M1 - 2. Chair of the ARC Parks and Heritage Committee Sandra Coney, who has a holiday home at Piha Beach, says the land holds important strategic significance for the ARC and the regional parks network. Watch this space. Late Jan - Feb:Rubicon Films Ltd filming 'Johnny Kapahala'.A television movie, part of which is being filmed in Piha is a family oriented television movie baased in Hawaii about a young man returning to his homeland and discovery a new addition to his family. 24th: Fire at Piha Beach - Threatened several houses.
 Winds fanned a fire at South Piha today between the Piha Domain and the South Piha Beach.
The Piha Volunteer Fire Brigade was quick to get it under control, along with lots of locals from the beach, as it appeared to threaten several houses close by. Instead it headed up the hill toward 'summer dry' trees throwing flames high into the air. Smoke could be seen from most of Piha attracting many viewers. It appears, other than the bush, the most harm done was to volunteers feet from the heat. 
This photo was taken at approximately 11:15am from the Piha Store.
This photo was taken on the same day approximately 5 hours later from beside the Piha Library 24th: BIG Wave Classic: South Piha Beach. T he Piha Big Wave Classic was another fabulous day at South Piha Beach. For some great photos have a look Here 4th: TOGA Party - Piha Surf Life Saving Club 15th: Email from West Coast Gallery "Hi Bobbie, just to let you know why the gallery is shut and will most probably be until late next week - the council was supposed to be putting my new doors in on Monday, somehow the alarm kept going off and it may take till tomorrow friday until that gets sorted so taking the time to replaster and paint most of the inside. Big sorry to all potential customers but have to go with the flow!!! Take care, Glenys 10th: Piha Surf Life Saving Club Day: All members welcome for a fun day of friendly competition. Junior and Senior events, with trophies and awards presented at the club prize giving. The days competition is then followed by: 5pm. BBQ on Webbers front lawn and Boat races by the Boatsheds. 8pm. DJ at the Surf Club for some dancin' Volunteers needed to help with all sorts of things. See Club Captain on the day. 3rd: Hawaiin Night Barnett Hall. Hosted by United North Piha Surf Life Saving Club. 3 - 25th: 'In the Raw' a celebration of the body. Piha Art Gallery - Old Fire Station. Calling all Waitakere artists for 'In the Raw' mixed media group exhibition. 3rd: Opening Festival 'In the Raw' 1 - 4pm Piha Art Gallery. Body painting, taa moko, drumming, stalls, workshops and parade. Paint yourself and each other, and celebrate! January '07: Recycle Collection: 8th & 22th TWILIGHT BOWLS: Each Friday at the Bowling Club. Draw 5:45-6pm. Play 6:30-8pm each Friday then pop in the Piha Bowling Club and dine! 28th: Karaoke at Piha Domain Camp 7pm - cost: . . . Koha please . . .  Bring a blanket, picnic if you want, your dancing feet and tune up your singing voice. A spontanious Karaoke happened at the Piha Camp last weekend and it was so much fun. We danced, sang and laughed so much that Fiona has organised another for Anniversary Weekend. The photos below show how much fun we all had. Come along. . . 27th: Saturday Night Fever | Disco at Piha Beach Bowling Club. $20 a head. 27th: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Round Robin 14th: Duncan Clark resigns as a professional surf life saver: Shame on those who pay Duncan and all the other professionals such a paltry sum for risking their own lives to save others day in and day out. Duncan: we are pleased to hear you'll still volunteer but we will miss your stewardship at Piha - a huge thanks from all of us at Piha and everyone you have had a hand in saving. Please read the story two down on December 12th and see why these Heros of Piha should be paid heaps more 13th: James Kyle Wilson asks Kathryn Mary Lander to marry him in Piha This photo, left, is James with the 'princess setting' diamond ring before going to Piha Beach to surprise Katie, supposidly just visiting Piha with a friend. See here for photos of James and Katie when they first stayed and dined at Piha Beach Accommodation's Kauri Suite. 12th: Rescue of the Month at Piha: Press Release Surf Life Saving: Climatech Regional Lifeguards win the December Real Groovy Rescue of the Month for Rescue at Piha Climatech Regional Lifeguards based at Piha have taken out the Surf Life Saving Northern Region ?Real Groovy Rescue of the Month? award for their outstanding rescue at Piha on 28 December 2006 announced Andy Kent Surf Life Saving Northern Region Development Officer today. The Climatech Regional Guard Service will be presented with a certificate, Real Groovy vouchers and two Hutchwilco lifejackets and as part of the award. Andy Kent says that the Real Groovy Rescue of the Month is a token of appreciation to lifeguards for the great service they provide to the community. Details of Rescue: Name of Club / ServiceClimatech Regional Lifeguard Service - Piha Date of IncidentThursday, 28 December 2006 Time of Incident1615-1830hrs Names of Lifeguards Involved Duncan Clarke, Daniel Lacy, Ian Weaver, Scott Douglas, Kris O?Neil, Mitchell Johnson, Rob Pidgeon, Jamie Piggins Location of Incident Camel Rock, South end of Piha At approximately 4.15pm on Thursday, 28 December 2006, Piha?s Climatech Regional Lifeguard Service (RLS) Lifeguards Dan Lacy and Ian Weaver were in an inflatable rescue boat (IRB) helping surfers stuck in Patiki rip when they noticed a man face down clutching onto the rocks of Camel Rock, being pounded by three metre waves. After signalling for assistance Dan tried unsuccessfully to swim to the rocks to assist the patient, leaving Lifeguard/Cameraman Scott Douglas to crew the boat with Ian Weaver. About this time Kris O?Neil and Mitchell Johnson arrived on the scene in a second IRB. Kris attempted to swim to the rocks, again being forced back by the huge waves. Patrol Captain Duncan Clarke radioed to SurfCom to request the Westpac Rescue Helicopter for a potential winch rescue. It was then decided to attempt to reach the patient by swimming through the Key Hole. Kris took his boat and crew into the bay on the land side of Camel Rock and on this second swimming attempt Kris was able to reach the patient and yelled to the IRB crew standing by that he would require help. Dan Lacy then followed Kris through the Key Hole, out into the open ocean, facing the same three metre plus conditions that were pounding Kris and the patient. Details were relayed back to Duncan at the Piha tower that there was the possibility of a spinal injury to the patient, and this was rapidly relayed to SurfCom who contacted Ambulance Services. Duncan then sent Mitchell Johnson through the Key Hole with a back board, neck brace, extra tubes and a radio in an aqua bag. With radio communications now established it was made clear that the patient was in a stable condition and did not have any serious injuries. While this main rescue was being performed, lifeguards also went to the aid of, and secured, the patient?s female friend who was in a distressed state, clutching the rocks and nearly being swept through the Key Hole herself. In the treacherous conditions, and with the lack of a safe area to winch the male patient off Camel Rock, it was decided to swim the patient off the rocks and out to a waiting IRB. This near-impossible task was completed speedily and with utmost professionalism, despite the extreme risk to all the lifeguards involved. With both patients safely returned to the beach, without serious injury, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was stood down. The male patient was transported to the Piha Surf Life Saving Club?s First Aid room and treated by Rob Pidgeon and off-duty lifeguard Jo Piggins for severe cuts and abrasions, and monitored until an ambulance arrived. The female friend was also transported to the Piha SLSC and treated for minor grazes. Throughout the entire rescue Jamie Piggins maintained the flagged area at the south end of the beach ensuring up to 60 people in the water remained safe. The other Climatech RLS lifeguards at the United North Piha end of Piha maintained their flagged area and beach with a skeleton crew of two lifeguards. Had all lifeguards involved not reacted the way they did, and shown their outstanding skills and expertise in such difficult conditions, the situation would have likely ended in tragedy. 8th: 10am. Niky Hartley Life Drawing Work Shop at (Piha) West Coast Art Gallery. Enquiries 8128029 7th: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Veterans 7th: Piha Ratepayers' and Residents' Association AGM 7:30pm Barnett Hall. 6th: Vice-a-Versa Piha Surf Life Saving Club 2nd - 6th and 8th - 13th: Piha Yoga: Barnett Hall 10:30-11:45 $12. Christmas Holiday Classes with Melodie Batchelor - certified 'Iyengar Yoga' Teacher. Melodie teaches Yoga at the Barnett Hall, North Piha, for the enjoyment of people spending their holidays at Piha. The daily classes are designed to introduce you to yoga in an informative and accessible way, take you on a journey and enlighten you to a path of yoga. Phone 021 895988 or Yoga Website 6 - 28th: surface tension - new works from 'ms maggat'. Opening 2pm Saturday 2nd January '07 Piha Art Gallery - Old Fire Station - open Wednesday to Sunday 10am - 5.30pm 5th: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Womens Doubles Piha Tennis Club 4th: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Mens Doubles 2nd: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Juniors 1st: Childrens Programme PIha Domain. 10am-12noon: Clowns, treasure hunt, waterslide. Meet at marquee. All ages welcome. 11:30 Puppet Show - marquee. 2pm-4pm: Volleyball. Competition on the beach. Look for the ReaLive banner. Register your team early at the marquee in the camping ground or at the beach. Prizes for the winners.
December '06: Recycle Collection: 11th & 26th TWILIGHT SPORTS: Each Friday at the Domain 6-7pm, Primary Age Welcome TWILIGHT BOWLS: Each Friday at the Bowling Club. Draw 5:45-6pm. Play 6:30-8pm each Friday then pop in the Piha Bowling Club and dine! NOTE: To attend both functions below you can buy a $30 ticket from Piha Store and that will get you into both functions. Both functions will have tight security so any hoons from the city looking for trouble 'Go Elsewhere' !!! New Years Eve 31st: New Years Eve Knees Up: Barnet Hall, Piha. From Sunset to 2am. Special Guest from Longdon 'Roy the Roach' with locals Dan Clark, Clarkee and Roachy. Tickets limited $20 from Piha Store or on the door. New Years Eve 31st: Last Light 06: Piha RSA. $15 on the door. 'Sure to Rock'. 31st: 10am-12noon: Childrens Programme Piha Domain. Puppet Show and activities in the marquee. 27th - 31st: Piha Yoga: Barnett Hall 10:30-11:45 $12. Christmas Holiday Classes with Melodie Batchelor - certified 'Iyengar Yoga' Teacher. Melodie teaches Yoga at the Barnett Hall, North Piha, for the enjoyment of people spending their holidays at Piha. The daily classes are designed to introduce you to yoga in an informative and accessible way, take you on a journey and enlighten you to a path of yoga. Phone 021 895988 or Yoga Website 31st: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Womens singles 30th: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Mens Singles 28th: Piha Tennis Club - Summer of Tennis Mixed Doubles Xmas Eve - 24th: Roll Up at Piha Bowling Club - BBQ for all. 19th: Local Government Commission DecisionCommission announces decision on representation arrangements for the Waitakere City Council. After considering appeals and objections against the Council?s proposal, the Commission has decided that: Council will comprise a mayor and 14 councilors elected as follows: Massey 4, Henderson 4, New Lynn 4 and Waitakere 2 - Yay and yippdedooo. There will be a community board for each ward. The Waitakere Ward is extended to more closely follow the area identified in the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Bill presently before Parliament, and includes Laingholm and Titirangi; and The Waitakere Ward will be represented by two councilors instead of one. A copy of the Commission?s determination is available on the Commission?s website at www.lgc.govt.nz 11th: Shark Bites Elliot Paerata, of Piha, at Raglan - Piha's Elliot, visiting Raglan's Manu Bay, had a 2-3m shark take a bite of his left foot requiring stitches. Well we don't have them at Piha! Come home Elliot - we love you 9 Dec thru 3 Jan: Winter Tides 9 Dec thru 3 Jan: Winter Tides- new works by Michael J. Rowland.  . Piha Art Gallery - Old Fire Station 1st - 24th: Christmas Wonderland at Corbans Estate Art Center - 6:45 - 9:15pm each night. By Waitemata Theatre Inc. Come and meet Santa and his Elves. Admission $3 - under 1yr free. Bring your camera for a photo with Santa! A portion of the admission fee goes to James Forsyth Trust (see above) 2nd: Karekare Beach Horse Races. 11:30. This is just the best day out - don't forget to car pool. Save the hassle of Beach Race Day parking and catch the shuttle bus to Karekare. Departing Piha Domain approx every half-hour from 10am (also returning from Karekare, approx every half hour, last trip around 3.30pm) Cost: $3. 1st: Piha Beach BBQ Party - featuring le bop; 'Modern Jive'. 3:30 - 9:30pm at Barnett Hall. A cruisy afternoon dancing and a yummo BBQ! Bring a plate. $5 to cover hall hirage. Get a group together, stash some energy and lets do it! 2nd: Waitakere Christmas Festival. 5 - 9pm Parrs Park, Oratia. November '06: Recycle Collection: 13th & 27nd TWILIGHT SPORTS: Each Friday at the Domain (Fire Station end) 6-7pm, Primary Age Welcome 25th: Waitakere Kapa Kaha Competition - 10 - 4pm. Parrs Park. 24th: White Ribbon Day: Prevention of Violence against Women. Departs Waitakere Hospital 10:30am and ends at the new Civic Centre in Henderson at 11:00am. Join key community leaders in a march against family violence to show your support for violence free families. Contact WAVES 838 4834 or DHB 4868920 Exn 6359 for more info. 19th: West Auckland Songwriters Performance Night - Elevation Cafe 7:30 sharp $10 at the door. Performers: Paunation, Fiona McEwen, Lisa Crawley, Charlotte Johansen, Stewart Allan 18th: New Lynn Santa Parade - 10am Gt. North Road, New Lynn. 18th: Glen Eden Xmas Parade - 1:30pm Glendale Road. 14th: The International Awards for Liveable Communities : Waitakere takes GOLD as the most 'liveable' city according to the United Nations LivCom Awards. The Council also won the silver award in the Environmentally Sustainable Project section. ?In fact, that award is for work in the area of environmental rehabilitation but we successfully argued that we have such programmes going on in the Waitakere Ranges, but none of them will last without protection of the environment itself. We submitted that the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Bill now being considered by Parliament provides that protection?. 12th: Coastcare Working Bee: Dune Planting 10:30. Beside Piha Stream, opposite Lion Rock Corner. Bring spades and gloves. Adjacent property owners putting on a BBQ for workers so please let Pat know if you are attending (8128202). Vehicle access from Marine Parade South but best to park in main carpark near Surf Club or pedestrian access via Lagoon Bridge from the Domain. 12th: Lopdell House 20th Birthday. 10 - 3pm. Street performers, tours that include the fascinating history of the house and children's art activities such as mask making. 11th: Barnet Hall - Live Jazz 1 - 4pm. Free - please do NOT bring alcohol. 11th - 3rd Dec West Coast Gallery, the old Fire Station, Piha. "Animal, Vegetable, Mineral" group mixed media 11th: Community Day Out at the 'old' Tui Glen Caravan Park 10 - 2pm. This park is now being developed for Community use. This day is in support of building a new Community Resource Centre. Free activities for the kiddies, Travelling farmyard, face painting, pony rides etc. Piha Preschool has a stall there. 5th: Interclub Surfing Competition Piha. 14th - 05 Nov: Spirit of Piha - Kristen Waite - West Coast Gallery - Piha There is always a neat array of Art for sale at this Community Run Gallery in the Old Fire Station in Piha. Well worth a visit. 4th Nov: (rain day 5th) Guy Fawkes - Waitakere Fireworks & Laser Light Show: Douglas Track & Field, Central Park Drive, Henderson. 6 - 9pm Family $25, Adult + 1 child $15, Youth $5. NO alcohol. 3rd, 4th & 5th Nov:Yoga Retreat with Melodie Batchelor. Just recently returned from India Melodie would like to share her passion for Yoga over this weekend. Includes Ayurvedic cooking, massage demonstration, yoga tuition, meals and accommodation. Contact Melodie by email here October '06: Recycle Collection: 2nd, 16th & 30th > 29th TradeMe - Mike Jolly Surfboard signed by Andy Irons, Joel Parkinson, Mick Fanning, Bruce Irons, Maz Quinn, Bobby Hansen and Daniel Kereopa - wow. All funds to Piha Kids Charitable Trust. Bid Here on TradeMe 'mindbodyspirit' Michael, from Auckland, got a huge bargain - sold on 29th for $950 cheap. 29th: Get Rich Slow - Mary Holm at the Piha Community Library 2:00pm . Mary's latest book has already sold out, after its launch at The Women's Bookshop, and on its 2nd print run. Now at our own Piha Community Library to sign her book, answer questions etc. Afternoon tea afterwards - yum Left: Yvonne Dufaur, Marilyn Perko and Mary Holm at the Piha Library gathering. 
Another great gathering at the Piha Community Library today. Mary Holm gave locals a fabulous presentation on her latest publicaton 'Get Rich Slow' including her Top Ten hints about finance. Left: Mary was presented with a mug, as thanks, with 'Get Rich Slow' on it made by the potter Lynda Harris on Karekare. You can purchase Lynda Harris pottery at Piha Gallery - Old Fire Station 29th: 'What Now' 8:00am Channel Two. Being filmed live in Piha and broadcast by satelite. Here, on 'Piha Beach Accommodation's front lawn, is the satelite dish ready to transmit live to 'What Now' TV program. Who is going to be the 'Wake Up' Victim? 28th 3pm - Halloween Party & Magic Show at Piha Community Library for Junior Friends  f the Library 12 years and under. There will be a prize for the best halloween costume and prizes for a colouring-in competition. The competition has been divided into three age groups. To get your colouring-in picture and entry, call in at the library and ask the librarian on duty for details. After the magic show and prize giving we will serving party food for the entrants in the competition. 27th: Trivia Night with quizmaster for the evening Ewen Gilmour - Oratia Settlers Hall, West Coast Road. Doors open 7pm; games start 7:30. Tickets $10 or Teams, 8, $80. Kelly 8179175. 23rd - Labour Monday: Market Day 
Run by Piha Preschool in conjunction with West Coast Community Art Trust Always an amazing day and lots of surprising goodies to be got. 21st - Labour Weekend: Vodafone Surf Sessions at Piha  2006 features: Andy and Bruce Irons, Joel Parkinson, and Mick Fanning will represent 'The World'. Representing NZ will be Maz and Jay Quinn, Daniel Kereopa and Bobby Hansen. It was an incredible day at Piha last year and promises to be similar this year. Photos being uploaded now Vodafone Surf Session 06 Photos 14th - 05 Nov: Spirit of Piha - Kristen Waite - West Coast Gallery - Piha 13th- 7pm: Radio Piha Fundraiser Party - Barnett Hall, North Piha. $5 door and cash bar.  Left: Radio Piha DJ Mark Mitchinson with Bobbie & Julia from Piha Beach Accommodation. Great night from Piha Radio thanks guys 12, 13, 14, 19, 20 & 21st Oct: Waitatarua Performing Arts - Waiatarua Community Hall "What's for Pudding?" (Directed by Christine Healy) & "Last Tango in Waiatarua" (Directed by John King) Both wirten by David Tristram. Bookings: Gary 8148737 or email Email for tickets 8th: Waitakere City Charity 11km Fun Run & Half Marathon. In support of the Don Oliver Youth Sport Foundation. Details on Fun Run and Half Marathon here 8th: Wildcoast Surfing Competition - Piha Secretary: Janet 8128197 1st: Day Light Saving: 2am suddenly becomes 3am NZ Time. Spring forward - Yay! September '06: to 23rd Sep: Books & Writers Festival - Going West. 
Theatre, Exhibitions and more for full details on this 'must do' see Going West - Books & Writers Festival 9th: Going West - Book Market & Poetry Slam
9am - 2pm Book Market - Titirangi Memorial Hall. Come and browse through hundreds of books on sale from some of the region's finest second-hand booksellers. 7pm: Third Annual 'Going West' Poetry Slam. Come along as a poet or a voting member of the audience. $5 at door. Going West website 7th & 9th: 2006 Waitakere Tourism Expo: 10:00 - 4:30 each day (2.30 on Sat). Lopdell House -  Upper Level Gallery - Titirangi. The EXPO will showcase the scenic and other attractions, activities, accommodation and tours of Auckland's unique Waitakere Coastal Rainforest region. There will also be an added focus on Arts & Crafts and Food & Wine of the region. Come to the EXPO and take the opportunity to also visit the McCahon Exhibition at Lopdell House Gallery. This Exhibition of international significance is a tribute to former Titirangi resident Colin McCahon. Left: Piha Beach Accommodation's display at the Expo 2nd: KiteKite Waterfall: Spotted; Jenny Shipley, husband and guests walking the track to and from Waitakere's beautiful walk to Kitekite Waterfall. Reports are that Jenny was looking slim, fit and happy. August '06: Aug: Helipad at Piha to be re-developed: Read the story on-line here 30th: Arataki Plant Nursery Tour. View the running fo the Arataki Plant Nursery. Brendan, the nurseryman, will reveal some of the secrets in successfully propagating native plants. Be prepared to get those hands dirty! Meet: Arataki Visitor Centre carpark. Grade - easy. $5 and register by emailing Register with Kay Lindley 19 Aug - 10 Sep: Niki Price: "Divas" Paper Funk - West Coast Gallery 
West Coast Gallery, Piha. Open Thursday to Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm Support local Waitakere Artists. 9th Aug: Mary Holm - Financial Author, of Piha, launches her latest book 'Get Rich Slow' by Penguin Books. 
Left: Mary Holm with Carole Beau (right) of the 'Women's Bookshop' where Mary chose to launch her book. Right: Mary Holm's book 'Get Rich Slow' 22 July - 13 Aug: 'the hope of the Cross' - paintings by Debbie Ironside.  West Coast Gallery, Old Fire Station, Piha. Open Thursday - Sunday 10:30am - 4:30pm. Phone 8128 029. West Coast Gallery - Piha July '06 20th & 21st July: Parliament comes to Waitakere Please join the Waitakere Ranges Protection Society, the Auckland Region, Waitakere City and Rodney District Councils plus many community groups as they try and convince the Select Committee that we need to secure the future of Auckland's iconic Waitakere Ranges. If you can make any time to come along, please do - whether or not you made a submission. This is the culmination of 30 years' work and advocacy and we need a good show of numbers because there are as many opponents of the Bill presenting as supporters! When: The hearings run 9am to 5.30pm Thursday 20 July (lunch 1pm-2pm) and 9am to midday Friday 21 July. The Councils who are promoting the Bill start things off on Thursday morning followed by the Waitakere Ranges Protection Society, Environmental Defence Society, Ratepayer Groups, West Auckland Green Party and others. Where? The Trusts Stadium, Central Park Drive, Henderson 24Jun - 16 Jul: "Nga Tuahine Huanuku" (The Magical Sisters) Opening 2pm Saturday 24 June at West Coast Gallery, Piha. Matariki celebration seven artists working in mixed media, representing the seven sisters of the Pleiades Star group: Heather Elliott, Tanya Ruka, La Robinson, Ronn Kupa, Ngadia Paul, Janna Gilligan and Kelly King. June '06:28th: NZ's 3rd National Self-Esteem Day. 27 May - 18th June: 'Lion Rock - NOT!' - West Coast Gallery.  We figured that as Lion Rock is the most photographed icon in our city it would be good to stretch imaginations and see what everyone comes up with. So, the exhibition will be anything 'but Lion Rock' subject pertaining to the wild west coast and the Waitakere region. Submit work ready to hang, and preferably for sale, not more than two pieces each. Work must be at the gallery by 21st May - $5 per entry.
14th & 17th: Streams - Our forgotten neighbours! Find out about the great places our streams can be and how the plants at your place can make a huge difference. Forgotten Neighbours .pdf information 4th 7pm: Piha Queen's Birthday Ball - Theme: Royal Yacht Brittania!  Barnett Hall @ 7pm. $35 a ticket or $300 for a table of 10. Cocktail on arrival, lavish food, live music and of course the Beau and Belle of the Ball. Those who attended last year at a wonderful time. Tickets: Email Fiona
Did we have fun? The band played and played keeping us on the dance floor most of the night - great. Left: Belle, Robin Clarke, and Beau of the Ball, Joe Viskovich with their prizes - beautiful hand made, gender correct, dolls made by local Claire and available at West Coast Gallery More photos Here 3rd June 7:30pm & 4th June 4:00pm: Waitakere City Orchestra Free Public Concerts. Conductor Brigid Ursula Bisley. Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre, 15 Glendale Rd., Glen Eden | Bach Suite No. 2 in B minor. Samuel Adagio for Strings. Beethoven Piano Concerto No.5 "The Emperor". Soloists: Luca Manghi - flute, Lisa Chou - piano. Sponsored by WCC. Bookings essential phone 818-4021 10-5pm. Waitakere City Orchestra WCO Free Concert Flyer .pdf 2nd - 7:30pm: Piha Ratepayers & Residents Meeting: WCC present Draft plan for Domain Playground to to this meeting for their endorsement before being presented to Waitakere Community Board - phew, its a looooong process isn't it? May '06: 31st: Arataki - The Nature Trail The Nature trail is a handy loop walk which starts opposite the Arataki Visitor Centre. The trail winds down through regenerating bush to a tranquil Kauri grove and back again. this is a great walk to combine with a look around the recently upgraded visitors centre. Meet: Arataki Visitor Centre (by the Pou), Scenic Drive. Grade: Easy-Medium $5 and register by emailing: Register with Kay Lindley 23rd - 30th: Chelsea Flower Show based on Waitakere -  The Chelsea Flower Show has opened in London and the New Zealand entry has already been given the thumbs up by green fingered experts. The garden features all New Zealand natives and has taken months of preparation, but will be on show for just five days. The garden is inspired by the Waitakere coastal beaches on Auckland's west coast and unlike its neighbours at Chelsea there is hardly a flower in sight. To recreate the rugged coast, 9,000 plants were shipped in from New Zealand. Desiged by Xanthe White (photo) the NZ entrance has received a 'Silver Award'! NewZealand.com
24th & 27th: Streams - Our forgotten neighbours! Find out about the great places our streams can be and how the plants at your place can make a huge difference. Forgotten Neighbours .pdf information 20th: 10am - midday. Draft Design for Domain Playground - Piha Domain Bowling Club. Everyone welcome. 7th 3:00pm: Waitakere Ranges Protection Society Invitation to the launch of its book Waitakere Ranges - Ranges of Inspiration. Held at the Titirangi War Memorial Hall South Titirangi Road. Enquiries to Email Enquiries Waitakere Ranges Protection Society April '06:30th - 10:30-midday: Coastcare - WCC Streamside Restoration Workshop - Beach Valley Road Cnr.  Ngaire Tyson from ARC and Estee Farrar from WCC have put a lot of time into planning this presentation. The first part of the presentation is 'general exploration of the principles of riparian planting'. the second part of the workshop is to 'apply the knowledge learned to planning the restoration of the section of the Piha Stream' on the corner of Seaview & Beach Valley Roads - and doesn't it need it! Everyone is welcome to come along to this consultation and workshop of the control of weeds and planting of this really unsightly corner. If wet meet at the Library. Left: Estee Farrar and NgaireTyson at Piha Library 29th 10am - midday: Piha Domain Playground.  Come for community consultation and to discuss your thoughts /issues on the playground developement as well as return your questionairs. From the feedback and submissions received WCC a draft design will be drawn up with a followup meeting - see May. If wet then in the Bowling Club. This is important for our ever growing young population. Left: Jackie Houtwipper, other Mothers and their children along with Waitakere Council staff at the meeting. 29 APR - 21 May: James Drumm - Another Day Rising.  West Coast Gallery - Piha. Paintings in Acrylic and Indian Ink . Opening Saturday April 29th 2:00pm 25th: Piha Domain - Playground Survey Form One of the most noticeable changes in Piha Beach, over the last five or so years, is the large increase in the under 5yr population and younger families living here. To cater for this incredibly valuable sector of our village there is mooted the idea to relocate and upgrade the playground for them. PLEASE print out this .pdf file, fill it in and send it off to Council. Ju and I are strong advocates for young children and families and urge you to support this facility. 25th: ANZAC Day (Australian & New Zealand Army Corps) (Public Holiday)  Piha RSA: Assembling at Piha RSA, on Beach Valley Road, Piha to depart 1.45pm, March along Beach Valley onto Marine Parade, finishing at Lion Rock for 2pm service. Wet or fine, the Waitakere City Council and local Returned Service Associations will hold a candlelit dawn service at the Waikumete Cemetery cenotaph in Glen Eden on Anzac Day. People should assemble at the cenotaph, on the corner of Glenview and Great North Roads, at 5.45am for a 6am service. 23 APR: Mid Beach Reserve & Review of Little Lion Rock Corner Project A year ago a trial project was undertaken at Little Lion rock to improve the parking area and rationalise beach access. Are there improvements that could be made? How can we provide for dune restoration? Is protective fencing required? Should the timber carpark barriers be replaced ? A drop-in day is being held Sunday 23rd from 10am - 2pm to gain input and suggestions. 21st: Ryan Hawker (Piha Beach) has defended his Quiksilver King of the Groms title today at St Clair Beach Dunedin. In clean 1.0m waves with barely a breath of wind, Hawker surfed through his semi final and then dominated the final from the outset. For his efforts, he was awarded airfares and accommodation courtesy of Quiksilver to France for the international grand final, August 1 ? 6. 17 - 25th: ANZACs remembered by Piha Community Library Piha Library are for the week preceeding Anzac Day having a Tribute to the memory of the members of the forces who died during the wars. |
The 2006 Arato Chargers Pro is in full swing with entries streaming in thick and fast. Many of NZs high performance bodyboarders have thrown their name into the proverbial hat ready to stake their claim to the available bounty. It's still not too late to enter, however divisions are filling up with a cut off time for late entry's being placed on Friday 14th April at 8pm at the registration.
Cancelled on March 26th due to rain now being held on APRIL 9th. A great day not to be missed.
Lynda Harris: West Coast landscapes and birds - on canvas and clay
A madcap medieval tale of magic and mirth set in a time when men were men, women were women and a knight couldn't get his armour off! Life revolved around a "Hey Donny donny", complicated by romance, intrigue and plain dirty deeds.
