Take five in Palmy Discover our local favourites - ISSUE EIGHT - Palmerston North City Council
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
ISSUE EIGHT
Take five in Palmy
Discover our local favourites
KŌANGA | SPRING 2020
pncc.govt.nz
Palmerston North’s new Star Path lights up the Manawatū River The name of the path is an old whakataukī (proverb) of Rangitāne: Tini whetū ki te Rangi, Ko Rangitāne nui ki te whenua. Like the myriad of stars in the sky, So are the people of great Rangitāne upon the land. The kowhaiwhai pattern, which is close to the Albert St entrance, was designed by Rangitāne Tohunga Whakairo Warren Warbrick. The path contains small stones which absorb the light during the day and then cause the path to glow at night.
INSIDE
Welcome to PalmyProud
ISSUE EIGHT
Please send any ideas or submissions to:
Paper-plane PalmyProud@pncc.govt.nz
PalmyProud is a free
quarterly magazine.
Updates are available
online at pncc.govt.nz. Stay safe
Palmy
Let’s Get Social
Keep up to date on what
is happening in Palmy through
our digital channels. 6 7
6 7
@PNCityCouncil
pncc.govt.nz
PalmyProud@pncc.govt.nz
COVER PHOTO:
Regent Arcade,
Palmerston North 8 10
BACK COVER PHOTO:
Revellers at the
Brazilian Kids Carnival,
Festival of Cultures 2020
(Photo by Brad Boniface)
This publication uses vegetable
based inks, and FSC® certified papers
produced from responsible sources.
16 18
4
INSIDE
Inside
this issue
Content proudly created and
curated by Palmerston North
City Council with guest writers
and photographers Central Economic
Development Agency (CEDA),
Te Manawa, IPU New Zealand,
Carly Thomas, Warwick Smith and
20 22 Akanisi Taumoepeau.
COVID-19 Update.....................................6
Urban Eels now open.............................. 7
Streets for People Party..........................8
Take five in Palmy................................... 10
Palmy Palms relocation......................... 16
Take Me 2 the World.............................. 18
24 26
Neat Places in Manawatū.................... 20
A new home for Tamariki
at Te Manawa.......................................... 22
IPU New Zealand
celebrates 30 years.............................. 24
Art Trail Manawatū returns.................. 26
Proud of Palmy
– Manawatū Leaders ........................... 30
Crafting a life in the arts....................... 32
30
The Dust Palace returns
to Palmy in style..................................... 36
Palmy Community.................................. 38
Spring Events Guide............................. 39
36 32
5
WELCOME
Stay safe
Palmy
COVID-19
update Welcome from
from the
PalmyProud team our Mayor
A s this edition of
PalmyProud goes
to print, New Zealand is
Kia ora koutou,
returning to Alert Level 2
after cases of COVID-19 were
confirmed in the Auckland
S pring is the season of
rejuvenation and that’s
fitting as our city focuses on
visitor or a long-term local, we have
something for everyone here!
community. We take a look at what’s going on
recovery post Level 4 COVID-19
in the arts and community sectors,
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern lockdown. Our diverse economy,
including an update on the exciting
reiterated that our COVID-19 with many sectors that are
development underway at Te
success to date has been consistent performers during
Manawa. The Manawatū Arts Trail
because of our go hard, go economic highs and lows, has
is back this November, with artists
early approach, and that is what not had the strong disruption
throughout the district opening
we are continuing to do, with experienced by other parts of
their physical and virtual studio
each of us playing our part. New Zealand. As a city, we are
doors to present this much-loved
weathering the COVID-19 upheaval
In this issue of PalmyProud we event in a whole new way. We
reasonably well. We are seeing
share stories that demonstrate also feel the heat from the forge
exciting growth in areas such
the resilience of our community with internationally celebrated
as building consents, retail and
and a real sense of optimism local artists Paul and Fran Dibble,
hospitality activity, and our events
about our future. We have a who are busier than ever in their
sector coming back, coupled with
fantastic calendar of events Palmerston North foundry.
low city unemployment numbers.
planned for your spring/summer In all, the future is bright and our It’s great to see the events
which, at the time of print, are city is thriving. calendar starting to fill up again
still going ahead. across the city. IPU will once
Although the battle against
That said, this is a developing again host the picturesque Sakura
COVID-19 continues, in this issue,
situation. We will be closely Celebration event in September,
we highlight the revival of the local
monitoring the Government’s and we can’t wait for the return
travel sector as domestic tourism
advice and will update our of circus artists Dust Palace with
replaces international travel for the
website pncc.govt.nz with their new show Ithaca in early
foreseeable future. This includes
changes to services and events December. A full events guide is
the inspiring story of Take Me 2 the
as we go. included in this issue so you don’t
World, a local business pivoting to
miss a thing this spring in our
Thank you for your support offer high-end travel experiences
thriving city.
– let’s keep looking after each within New Zealand. We also ask
other, and stay safe. Palmy locals to share their favourite Kia Kaha.
ways to explore and enjoy our
The PalmyProud team Mayor Grant Smith JP
city – whether you are a first-time
Palmerston North City
6
Interesting Facts
Releasing the tuna (eels)
Urban Eels now open
T he Manawatū River will once
again be a safe haven for
tuna (eel) after a rāhui was placed
some of our local streams, their
population is declining and any tuna
weighing more than 10kg is a rare find.
Museum of Art Science and Heritage,
Massey University, Palmerston North
City Environmental Trust and the
on the awa during the opening This decline is largely because of the Manawatū River Leaders Accord.
of Urban Eels on 31 July. historical destruction of tuna habitat
Some tips for taking care of our eels,
by swamp drainage, pollution, loss of
Urban Eels is a platform on the and yourself.
feeding grounds and the deterioration
Turitea Stream just metres from the
of riparian margins. • Please do not try to hand feed the
entrance to the Manawatū River.
eels. Eels can occasionally bite.
At the dawn blessing on 31 July,
The platform, which you access by
a rāhui was placed on the stream and • Eels are carnivores, so if you
walking part of the He Ara Kotahi
surrounds of the Manawatū River, want to take some food along,
pathway, is made from recycled
meaning no one is allowed to catch meat is best.
concrete pads that were used in
or consume the tuna. This means
the construction of the Turitea • Eels are generally nocturnal, so
the waterways will become a
Bridge on the pathway. your best chance of seeing them
sanctuary for the tuna and will allow
is around sunrise or sunset.
People will be able to stand on the them to thrive again.
platform, watch and feed the eels, and • Be careful on the concrete
Urban Eels is a partnership project
learn why they are so important to platforms if the stream or river has
led by Tanenuiarangi Manawatū
Māori and the health of our waterways. been high as it may be slippery.
Incorporated and Gordon Consulting
Ancestral records show that tuna lived in collaboration with Ngāti Hineaute • A rāhui is in place so that means
in abundance in the Manawatū River Hapu Authority, Te Rangimarie, no eels can be caught.
and some longfin eels weighed as Palmerston North City Council,
Horizons Regional Council, Te Manawa Learn more about the Urban Eels
much as 40kg. While tuna still inhabit
project at pncc.govt.nz
7
COMMUNITY 8
Streets for
People Party
We were thrilled to have you come
and celebrate with us at our Streets
for People opening Party! The party
held on Saturday 8 August marked the
official completion of the first stage of
the Streets for People project. Large
crowds enjoyed exploring the space
with entertainment from fire dancers
to DJs, kids face painting, storytime
and retailer stalls. People who made
a purchase during the party were also
invited to contribute items to a time
capsule to be buried in the road.
The Streets for People project aims to
make the city centre more vibrant, fun
and pedestrian-friendly. Find out more
at pncc.govt.nz/streets-for-people
9
Lifestyle
Take five in Palmy
Palmy locals share their favourite eateries, one-of-a-kind
experiences and top tips to entertain visitors.
M ost people know Palmerston North for its
windmills, The Square and the green-and-
white of the Manawatū Turbos. However, the
Jess Wawatai, Photographer at
Jess Hope Shoots
My favourite way to start the day in Palmy is
city deserves to be famous for so much more.
with coffee and a salmon bagel at Cyclista. I
Whether you’re after Saturday brunch inspiration,
love how chill it is, the service is great and I
or need ideas for entertaining your weekend
can just sit and read the paper. @cyclistacafe
visitors, we’ve got you covered.
Layla Davis, co-owner of Zero
We talked to five Palmy locals to find out their
Gravity Cheerleading and owner
tried-and-tested favourites.
of Paperjam Designs
Best way to start the day The Little Coffee Shack in Milson
Danielle Balmer, Marketing and Communications (1a Wiltshire Place) has the most delicious food
Manager, Palmerston North Airport and coffee and Sarah is always so bubbly –
it’s the perfect way to start the day. The other
We love taking the dog for a walk along the cart is The Grub Hub, which I can conveniently
Manawatū River Pathway – you can’t beat it on a walk to from my work as they are located at
good day. Then we head to LOCAL – Licensed 7 El Prado Drive in Milson. Be sure to check
Café & Eatery for brunch. You have to try the LOCAL out their daily menus on Instagram – their iced
breakie bowl! @localcafeandeatery chocolates are a must try!!
Rhia Taonui, Manager, Tupu Aotearoa - Manawatū- @thelittlecoffeeshack80 | @thegrubhub_pn
Whanganui/Hawkes Bay Regional Partnerships, Mark James, Manager,
Ministry for Pacific Peoples Palmerston North i-SITE
Best start to the day is a feel-good coffee from Treat yourself to brunch at Café Esplanade
Sublime Coffee Roasters – as you walk down followed by a leisurely walk through the nearby
Cuba Street, let your nose follow the aroma. rose gardens. Then, if time allows and you
Fresh hot coffee is served with a hearty smile feel like reliving your youth, have a go on the
– it’s a combination of great location, top-quality Miniature Railway, one of the largest of its
product and great customer service. type in New Zealand. @cafeesplanadepn
@sublimecoffeeroasters
10Where to find the best views
Mark James
Visit the He Ara Kotahi bridge and take
a leisurely walk along the river. At night
the bridge takes on a new dimension
as it is lit up and truly spectacular. I also
recommend the Manawatū Gorge walk
and Sledge tracks – you’ll need good
walking shoes for these though!
Danielle Balmer
Start your day with great coffee Definitely Te Motu o Poutoa which is just
over the Fitzherbert Bridge towards the
Summerhill Drive off-ramp. On a clear day,
this clifftop park has views that expand
to both Mt Ruapehu and Mt Taranaki
(Egmont).
Jess Wawatai
The Manawatū Observatory – I love the
views of our gorgeous awa from there
and an evening walk at the steps is a
great workout too. My other favourite
requires hitting the road and heading up
to Whariti Peak. Not only are the views
of Papaioea and the Manawatū river
second to none, but if you're lucky like we
were, in the winter you might even find
Take in the views from some snow up there.
ManawatūNZ.co.nz Te Motu o Poutoa
Lit up He Ara Kotahi bridge at
night with people walking on it
Victoria Esplanade Scenic Railway
Night skies at the Manawatū Observatory
11A one-of-a-kind
‘only-in-Palmy’ experience
Rhia Taonui
One of a kind in New Zealand for the rugby-mad
individual is a visit to the New Zealand Rugby
Museum – Palmerston North. Full of history and visual
content (be prepared for the random kids’ questions
while you’re in there), including testing your skills
in the ‘Have a Go’ area. Rugby is not for everyone,
but this place has everyone doing something.
rugbymuseum.co.nz
Danielle Balmer
The Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery Centre
in the Esplanade is a one-of-a-kind in Palmerston
North. The facility provides a place for native wildlife New Zealand Rugby Museum
that have been treated at Massey University’s
Wildbase Hospital to recover from their illness or
injury. The centre also has an interactive education
centre where people can learn more about the native
species living in the facility. wildbaserecovery.co.nz
Jess Wawatai
Definitely check out Sushi Workshop. I'm a sushi
fiend and I'm prepared to call it and say it’s got to
be some of the best sushi I've had in Aotearoa,
be sure to check it out if you're in Palmy. It's also
beautiful. facebook.com/palmysushiworkshop
Layla Davis
We love the new glow-in-the-dark path near the
Albert Street river access. It’s truly a magical
experience for the kids and a first for Australasia! Central Energy Trust
Wildbase Recovery Centre
Get up close at Wildbase
12George Street George Street shopping
Where to treat yourself
or snap up a bargain
Danielle Balmer
Caroline’s Gardens is a short 15-minute drive from
Palmy’s city centre and offers some incredible
boutique pieces for everyone’s tastes at really
affordable prices too! This hidden gem is like
stepping into another world of interior design and
home décor pieces that will sweep you off your
feet. designanddesire.co.nz
Layla Davis
As a busy mum of two boys and running two
businesses, I know how important it is to take some
time to treat yourself. My treat is to sit down, relax
and get my nails and lashes done. Tara at Xo Nails
and Emilee at Emilee’s Eye Studio are my go-to nail
and lash technicians in Palmerston North.
@xo_nails_nz | @emileeseyestudio
Rhia Taonui
Every now and then I would drag the teenagers
out on a Saturday morning to visit all our local thrift
stores in Palmerston North. Did you know there are
more than 10 in our city? With the high cost of living,
it can be hard to fork out for new clothes, or new
anything really. But second-hand, boutique, op-shop
or thrifty stores are abundant here and the thrill of
finding something special is part of the journey –
and knowing it helps a good cause can’t be beaten.
Cuba Street
13He Ara Kotahi bridge
Top tips or recommendations
for visitors or locals
Jess Wawatai
If you love street art like me, I recommend hitting
the streets of central Palmy on foot and spotting the
beautiful artworks that have been painted all over
the city. streetprints.org/street-art-maps
Layla Davis
Te Manawa Museum is a must-see place,
especially if you have children. They have a fantastic
play area and often hold many cool family events.
temanawa.co.nz
Danielle Balmer
The Halo Salt Rooms offer the ultimate chance
to sit, relax and heal. The room is set to a warm
temperature of 22 degrees with low lighting
and music to help anyone relax from the stresses
of the everyday world, all while breathing in
the natural benefits of salt! Give it a go today.
halosaltrooms.co.nz
Mark James – There are multiple walking tracks
around Palmerston North, which can be accessed at
many points. Walk just one section or, if time permits,
complete the city loop walk. Within reasonably short
driving distances there are also some outstanding
bush walks. Palmerston North has so much to offer
that planning is essential. Visit the Palmerston North
i-SITE in The Square and get qualified advice and
directions, the team are there to help.
manawatunz.co.nz/visit/plan-your-trip/visitor-
Church Street information-centres
14Street Prints Papaieoa
('Squishee' by @swiftmantis)
Te Āpiti o Manawatū
Te Āpiti o Manawatū
15Moving the Phoenix Palm trees 16
MAJOR PROJECTS
Palmy Palms relocation
The Central Energy Trust Arena has been the scene of much
development in recent months, with the announcement of a new partnership
and the relocation of some very special residents.
W ork is well underway on the
development of a new entrance plaza
at Central Energy Trust Arena, as part of the
design process around the site and its history,”
says Males.
“Moving them to their new location in the new
Central Energy Trust Arena Masterplan.
entrance plaza to the Arena [currently under
Central to the new entrance plaza environment construction] ensures their presence within the
are the iconic Phoenix Palms which have been city and association with the Arena entrance
transplanted to align with the new design. continues. This is important both from a cultural
and historical perspective, and continues to
“Treescape carefully excavated around the
ensure a sense of arrival to the Arena in the
tree root balls and craned them into the new
new plaza.”
locations - on average they weighed in at
approximately 17 tonnes,” explained Dan Males, The trees are being structurally supported and
Director at Local Landscape Architecture they are being boosted with plant food.
Collective.
“Phoenix Palms are relatively
It has been important to keep the Phoenix easy to move compared with other trees,
Palms as they have been on the site for more there are some risks to their ongoing health in
than 80 years and are part of Central Energy moving them but with some continuing love,
Trust Arena’s history. they should continue to thrive in their new
locations,” Males says.
“The Phoenix Palms are a key landmark in
the city. Memories of entering the Arena As development at Arena continues, you’ll see
among them were recalled by many in the the grounds also enhanced with plantings of
community during early conversations in the native trees.
Council announces partnership with Mercury for heritage stakeholders to present a story of the site’s
landmark city lighting feature diverse community and recreational use through time.
Palmerston North City Council has secured a three- Mayor Grant Smith says the Arena is unique as it is
year partnership with Mercury to develop a unique LED located in the heart of our city centre.
bridge lighting display at Central Energy Trust Arena, as
“This lighting display will provide a memorable welcome
part of the Central Energy Trust Arena Masterplan.
and a ‘wow’ factor to one of the region’s most used and
The immersive sound and lighting experience will be loved facilities. The Arena Masterplan Steering Group
almost a metre high and will extend the length of the and Council appreciates Mercury’s support in enabling
30-metre long, eight-metre-wide timber overbridge that us to include this fantastic feature.
will lead from the Arena’s new Entrance Plaza.
It’s the ‘icing on the cake’ that will make the Arena
The entrance plaza design work was undertaken in a nationally prestigious stadium offering a unique
consultation with a Rangitāne artist and community entertainment experience for visitors.”
17MAJOR PROJECTS
Nats Subramanian and Uma Natarajan
18BUSINESS
Take Me 2 the World
Local travel business weathering the COVID-19 storm.
W hat do you do when your
livelihood is threatened
by the unimaginable?
Nats confesses that they panicked
when governments started closing
their borders. This year, after all, was
It also needed a fundamental change
of tack.
meant to be Take Me 2 The World’s If Kiwis could not go overseas,
That is what happened to Nats
breakout year, not a heartbreak then Nats and Uma would
Subramanian and Uma Natarajan with
one. Nats and Uma grappled with bring those experiences to
their tourism business when COVID-19
cancellations and postponements, Kiwis through a new small
hit across the globe. Passionate about
resulting in their cashflow dropping group product called “Slice of
building up their travel business over
from the black into the red. the World in New Zealand.”
the last eight years to near seven-
digit revenues, Nats and Uma faced After the first two weeks of lockdown, It started with Slice of India in
what no one ever plans for – closed they knew they needed help from Queenstown, a high-end product
borders around the world. the Central Economic Development targeting the cruise market. This fused
Agency (CEDA). Queenstown’s attractions with Indian
A passion for people
Nats describes the first stage as being culture and food and is now one
After more than two decades of of nine products that the company
in a lifeboat.
working in the IT Industry, Nats gave offers, along with European and Latin
up a six-figure salary to start Take American experiences.
They had to find new ways
Me 2 The World with his wife, Uma.
of generating business To protect their existing markets,
Uma is no stranger to managing a
and improving cashflow. Nats and Uma have worked hard
business, having run a web design
The Government’s wage to keep those connections alive by
company before starting Uma’s Indian
subsidy was invaluable. clocking up about 150 presentations
Vegetarian Cooking Classes.
on New Zealand to overseas travel
The couple enjoys talking to people, The Regional Business Partner’s
specialists since the lockdown.
learning about new cultures and, of programme COVID-19 Business
course, travelling. This motivated Advisory funding allowed them to Last year they organised a group
them to start Take Me 2 India in April work on business continuity and of high net worth tourists to visit the
2013, with the aim of offering authentic strategy planning and, as a Qualmark- Manawatū-Whanganui region and its
Indian experiences to Kiwi travellers. endorsed tour operator, they were luxury lodges.
They later added another brand - Take able to access Tourism Advisory
They are proud to showcase the
Me 2 New Zealand - to showcase Support Services.
region they call home right alongside
the real New Zealand to international Bringing overseas experiences the golden route of Auckland,
visitors. They added more destinations to Kiwis Rotorua, and Taupo. As they are
over the years as demand grew. currently bringing a slice of the world
Today, the business operates under Take Me 2 The World was able
to Kiwis here, perhaps a slice of
one brand - Take Me 2 The World, to survive the storm and keep
Kiwiana to the outside world may
and, prior to COVID-19, arranged abreast of events in the industry
be their next product. What is
authentic travel experiences to by attending specific webinars
certain is that Take Me 2 The World
Latin America, Morocco, the such as those delivered by CEDA
cannot wait to showcase the region
Mediterranean, Adriatic & Nordic on digital marketing and managing
and New Zealand abroad.
Europe, Australia, New Zealand and through adversity.
the Indian subcontinent.
19lifestyle
Johnny Gibson and Marcia Butterfield
Neat Places in Manawatū
In its purest form, Neat Places is an urban guide to a select number of cities and towns of
New Zealand and this spring they will be adding Palmerston North city and Manawatū to the list.
N eat Places was founded
by Marcia Butterfield in
December 2010 as a response
Neat Places consists of a small
team of content creators who spend
time on the ground uncovering all
This content is nicely packaged and
shared on their website, Facebook
and Instagram, and in their printed city
to the Christchurch earthquakes the aspects that make a town or (‘Pocket’) Guides.
when residents were saying region great, as well as getting to
CEDA has partnered with Neat Places
there was nothing to do and know the people behind the scenes.
to promote Palmerston North city and
nowhere to go in the central city.
Manawatū from a fresh and genuine
It started as a hobby with the They love great coffee, food, perspective. Curated articles will be
purpose to show the cynics and fashion and design, and shared on the official regional website,
disbelievers there were still loads their favourite way to travel is ManawatuNZ.co.nz, to showcase to
of places to eat, drink and shop to go off the beaten track our locals and visitors the neat things
in Christchurch after the September to discover how a place ticks. to do in Manawatū.
earthquakes. Then in 2015 Marcia
The team create easy-to-follow There’s a certain process and criteria
met Johnny Gibson, and the two
itineraries, business directories of for businesses to be featured on
quickly became friends and started
the places worth hanging out in Neat Places, ensuring that only the
collaborating, turning a hobby into
and conduct interviews with the truly neat and unique places are
a full-fledged business which
‘neat people’ to help their audience covered. A ‘neat place’ is defined by
expanded into Wellington and more
experience the place like a local. the customer's experience - which
locations over time. needs to be positive and unique in
one form or another.
20lifestyle
When selecting a ‘neat place’, some And why does Neat matter more Our focus is on quality content: We
of the criteria the team look at are: than ever? As Johnny says, it’s about don’t rely on photography and copy
providing quality curated content that provided by clients, instead we
1. Do they support is validated by someone who has generate our own unique content.”
local suppliers? actually experienced it.
Neat Places is made up of mostly
“There are so many information locally owned, often owner-operated
2. Are they locally owned sources out there that it is hard to businesses whose business is their
and operated? differentiate what is credible and livelihood. It’s important we all spend
what’s not. Now more than ever our money with them to keep each
3. Do they provide food people want the recommendations city and region unique. Without
preference options - and opinions of trusted resources, independent businesses adding
gluten and dairy free etc? whose opinions they respect and diversity to the cities, urban life would
value,” says Johnny. be very dull. It’s a shift in conscious
4. In the design, have they consumerism which has been brought
tried to be innovative? “Our focus is to become to surface more than ever by COVID.”
that trusted curated
Keep an eye out for Neat Places
resource where users go back
5. Quality of product. Manawatū in Spring 2020 and find out
to time and time again.
more about the many neat places right
here in the city.
Neat Places
pocket guides
21Katelyn & Jacob Payne
playing at Tamariki
22community
A new home for Tamariki
at Te Manawa
Te Manawa’s popular children’s area is undergoing its most significant
transformation yet and, at the halfway point, the buzz is very real among
visitors who have had the chance to experience its changes.
I n July, just in time for school holidays, the
hoardings at the Museum of Art, Science
and Heritage came down to reveal part one
Phase one of the redevelopment tackled the
right-hand side of the space: the red kitchen
and the purple bedroom. Everything was
of a two-part project: a new kitchen, reading stripped back to its bones. The patterned
nook, interactive games and a name-change. PVC board on the walls – attractive but a
maintenance challenge – is gone, replaced
“KidsTM” is now simply “Tamariki” which
with stained wood, for a more sustainable
means children. In 2018, the Manawatū
and contemporary look. The modular design
Journeys gallery was the first of the museum’s
also makes keeping the walls in good nick
semi-permanent exhibitions to have a
much easier.
major update. It was clear that KidsTM needed
to be next in line. “We’ve had to be very conscious of who
we’re making it for, and what the age
“The nature of semi-permanents is they
bracket is,” says Graeme.
have a shelf life,” explains Te Manawa
programme developer Imogen Stockwell. “We’ve dropped the text panels down, dropped
“They need to be refreshed or redeveloped the furniture down – brought the whole thing
at some point. closer to the kids’ level.”
“KidsTM was incredibly high use. It took a Revisiting all the interpretive panels in the
beating, and maintenance issues developed exhibition was a golden opportunity to centre
over time,” continues Imogen. “A refresh the use of Te Reo Māori.
addresses some of those issues while adding
new content.” “Te Reo will now be core aspect of the
concept,” says Imogen.
She and production manager Graeme Slimin
began preliminary planning work in late 2018, At the heart of this was the change of name to
drawing on the experience and lessons of the Tamariki. It was among the first decisions made,
just-completed Art Gallery refresh. to mark this new chapter of the space’s life.
The original 2011 concept was to create a The hoardings will go back up again soon as
house. Each room had a different theme, a the second phase begins with support from
way to explore yet also offer a tactile learning Westpac and Beca who came on board early
experience in a familiar and comfortable in the development. It will feature even more
setting. Visitors to the completed stage one will things to discover including an electric car
see that the house theme remains. with a charging interactive, and an interactive
“The idea’s so solid because the audience is rescue helicopter.
always rotating - it’s always a brand-new thing Tamariki stage two will re-open late November,
for someone,” says Graeme. “A child might to coincide with the opening of the annual
first come in at the age of three, and as they Santa’s Cave – a festive favourite drawing more
progress through to the age of eight they will than 11,000 visitors every year.
have different experiences in that space.”
Te Manawa is open daily from 10am-5pm with
free general admission to the public.
23Education
IPU students at Sakura Festival
IPU New Zealand
celebrates 30 years
Nestled atop the very idyllic Summerhill is the Institute of the Pacific United (IPU) New Zealand,
a gem in the Palmerston North tertiary education crown.
W hen IPU New Zealand’s
founder Hiroshi Ohashi
first visited New Zealand in 1987,
IPU has always been an active
member of the local community, taking
part in events like Relay For Life,
The festival is opened every year by
the local Rangitāne iwi and supported
by performances from community
he wanted to create a series of Festival of Cultures, hosting public groups. The meat and potatoes of
internationally minded tertiary performances and volunteering. the festival are, undoubtedly, the
institutions around the Pacific Rim international food stalls with flavours
and Palmerston North quickly A highlight of Palmerston from all corners of the earth.
became the perfect location for the North’s events calendar for
Thanks to the challenges presented
first campus. Fast forward 30 years the past 20 years has been
by COVID-19 and the need to be
and the IPU name can be found in the Sakura Festival, which
responsible hosts, the organisers
five countries. celebrates the melting pot of
have come up with a creative
cultures in our city.
In 1990, the institute, a fusion of reworking of the festival theme for
Japanese and New Zealand After three decades of growth, the 2020. This year, the festival will
culture, became a landmark and an cherry blossoms lining the main retain all of the qualities that the
example of how education can driveway at IPU New Zealand are a Palmerston North community has
bridge countries and cultures. Since prominent, local attraction bringing come to love and expect, albeit on
then, thousands of international the community to the campus to take a smaller scale compared to previous
students have called Palmerston photos under the blossoms. years. Bring your families for a
North their second home. Many left celebration of colour, culture and
after graduation, but some returned to IPU students make up a large part 30 years of existence for IPU
settle down with their families. of the festival, running food stalls, New Zealand. Picnic under the
providing entertainment and creating cherry blossoms, enjoy cultural
interactive cultural displays for the performances and indulge in some
thousands who attend each year. international food flavours.
Sakura Festival, 12 September 2020, IPU New Zealand campus. Find out more at ipu.ac.nz
24Pipers Cultural performances
Traditional Japanese drumming
25Works by Belinda Paton
Belinda Paton and friend Belinda Paton in studio
Photos by Warwick Smith
Belinda Paton at work
26ARTS
Art Trail
Manawatū returns
The Art Trail Manawatū has added in a few new layers this
year making it even more accessible.
A n artist’s studio can be many things.
It can be a quiet step away from the
hustle, a chaotic colour splash, an elbowed
"To ensure that the trail can go ahead
regardless of pandemic status, a virtual art
trail will now also be hosted on the Square
corner of a shed or it can just simply be Edge website. The virtual trail will run
a re-purposed end of the kitchen table. alongside the physical event, ensuring
But one thing all of these spaces have in greater access and sustainability.
common is that they are places to create.
Online artists’ profiles will now
This year’s Art Trail Manawatū is giving you a
include video studio tours and works
chance to have a nosey behind the doors of
which can be purchased online.
people’s artistic processes and to look through
the windows of their creative endeavours. This means that people can attend the
During this free two-day event, more than 80 tour and purchase art works even if they
artists will welcome you in from Palmerston can't leave home'."
North to Pohangina, Foxton to Feilding and a The Art Trail is a really great magnifying glass
few places in between. And the art will cover to hold up to the region’s arts community. It
a wide range of mediums including painting, is one with a DIY culture of inclusiveness and
photography, sculpture, fibre art and glass experimentation and the trail gives an insight
work. into the need to create that drives artists.
Karen Seccombe is Square Edge Community For first time art trailer Gavin Dodd, painting is
Arts artistic director and she says that this year’s something he feels a real pull to. He may be a
Art Trail will have some added extras. newcomer to putting brush to canvas but he is
making up for lost time - often spending three
“We are including an online feature hours painting after putting in a full day at work.
magazine, The Artists, which offers He says he can easily spend a whole weekend
insight into the art making processes in his art room.
and approaches of those participating.
“I am really loving it. I am a pretty reserved
"We are also teaming up with Caccia Birch person and I guess I use art somehow as an
and Snails to offer three main city hubs for emotional release. It’s an expression for me.”
artists and events, and are delighted to
Belinda Paton says her artistic drive started
be hosting some of the Kimbolton Sculpture
from an early age and was wholeheartedly
Trust's artists also."
encouraged by her mother. Pursuing a career
Getting the Art Trail off the ground with the as an artist was a natural step and high in the
worldwide COVID-19 pandemic to contend Pahiatua hills she has settled and set up her life
with has been extra challenging, says Karen. of sculpting, painting, creating and teaching.
But who better to ask to do some out-of-the-
box thinking than a bunch of creatives.
27Kate Wilson-Bryant
Photos by Warwick Smith
Work in progress
Tools of the trade by Kate Wilson-Bryant
“I have always been very Upstairs Colin Hoare is another prolific creator.
inspired by nature and the If you sit still long enough, he will probably
shapes that you find there. take your photo and paint your portrait; Colin
is always seeing the colour and light play in
I’m really very tactile and I love working in 3D, I people’s faces.
don’t really do flat or ordinary. My pottery work
is very organic and all the shapes are hand built “Faces have all sorts of colours, you just have
and asymmetrical, the quirky bits just grow from to know how to look.”
there.” Take some time to have a look at Colin’s fluid
Kate Wilson-Bryant also finds her surroundings brushstrokes and step through the many other
are an inspiration and wanting to capture their open doors at Square Edge during the Art
magic is a big motivation to sit down with a Trail. The building will be humming with activity
pencil. She lives in Apiti nestled into the base during the two days and will be a good place to
of the Ruahines. The hills are something she start your intrepid art journey.
carries in her mind when she settles down to And don’t forget the outskirts - like Fiona
work in her Square Edge studio, “there are big Graham’s arty offering just out of Feilding,
open spaces and there is a wildness to it”. Nicola Gregory in Ashhurst and Jill Walcroft
in Pohangina. Be intrepid, be inspired and be
Horses with flowing manes and nosey because doors will be opened, windows
tui for friends, flowers and mountains on artist’s worlds will be wide open and the
flow from her pencil, as does Manawatū will put its best and most paint
laughter - Kate’s laugh is well known splattered foot forward.
and loved in the art deco building.
The 2020 Art Trail Manawatū runs over the weekend of 14 and 15 November from
10am to 4pm daily - this event is FREE to attend
Trail guides will be available from Square Edge Arts Centre from 15 October for a $2 donation
For more information please visit: communityarts.org.nz
28Gavin Dodd at work
Gavin Dodd Works by Colin Hoare
Photos by Warwick Smith
Works by Colin Hoare
29Business
Dr Farah Palmer
Proud of Palmy
Manawatū Leaders – our Global Ambassadors
P almerston North and Manawatū
produces quality, our region
is rich in creativity, innovation and
Born, bred and educated in
Palmerston North, Robin attributes
his time working for an accounting
Farah has pursued her passion for
women and Māori in leadership roles.
Farah became the first woman to
talented people who are making firm in our city and gaining a broad be appointed to the board of New
their mark on the world and we need understanding across accounting Zealand Rugby in 2016, she is the
to celebrate this. practices for his early success in the Chair of the New Zealand Māori Rugby
global financial world. Board and in 2018, she joined the
In 2018 The Central Economic
Sport New Zealand Board.
Development Agency (CEDA) Robin stepped down from his CFO
launched Te Aho Tāmaka role in 2017 but is still very much Farah moved to Manawatū in 2006
Manawatū Leaders, an initiative that involved in business as the Audit to take up a position at Massey
acknowledges and celebrates our Committee Chairman on three University where she is now Associate
region’s highest achieving leaders company boards in Germany. Dean for Māori, Massey Business
across all fields, leaders who are School, and a Senior Lecturer in the
As an ambassador for Accounting
making a difference in New Zealand School of Management.
for Sustainability, Robin inspires
and globally. Behind these leaders'
businesses to recognise their social Palmerston North is now her kainga
journeys, Palmerston North and
and environmental responsibilities. or home. “The city speaks to me of
Manawatū have played an important
He promotes the positive impact lifelong learning, of working together
role in shaping who they are today.
finance divisions can have on helping in harmony, and of quiet yet strong
Robin Stalker a company make a difference. leadership, he waka eke noa, we are
all in this together.”
Robin’s career has taken him from Dr Farah Palmer
Palmerston North to London, Asia, the Farah believes we need to
As the former captain of the Black
United States, and Germany where challenge the way we perceive how
Ferns leading the team to victory
he was Adidas Group Chief Financial success and excellence are achieved,
at three consecutive World Cups,
Officer (CFO) for 17 years. and what ‘effective’ leadership is.
30Business
She encourages people to think “Growing up in Manawatū for me Linda Jenkinson
about what they are doing and was about knowing people,” says Global Entrepreneur and
what impact it has on others. She Vanisa, “knowing who people in our Chair of Unicef New Zealand
is deeply involved in programmes region were, who we could ask for
Simon Moutter
that encourage diverse women to support from, and who we could give
Former Spark CEO and one
pursue leadership without losing sight back to. We are a well-connected
of New Zealand’s most successful
of their own values and identities. bunch, and we have such a diversity
change-makers
of people that connections can reach
Vanisa Dhiru
right across the globe.” Gerard Gillespie
As a Commissioner for the NZ Co-founder of Ezibuy, NZ Cricket’s
Commission for UNESCO, former Other Te Aho Tāmaka Advisory Committee
President of the National Council Manawatū Leaders: Col. Helen Cooper
of Women New Zealand and
Sir David Moxon Former Deputy Chief NZ Army
the only Kiwi in the BMW Foundation
Archbishop of the New Zealand and President of the International
Responsible Leaders Global Network,
Dioceses and the Archbishop Peacekeeping Training Centre
Vanisa Dhiru has packed a lot into her
of Canterbury’s Representative to the
life and career already. Paul and Fran Dibble
Holy See in Rome.
Internationally renowned
Her passion for equality, developing
Sir Brian Elwood artists in bronze sculpture
young people and cultural relations
Former Chief Ombudsman and and painting
stems from growing up in Palmerston
Palmerston North City Mayor
North where her parents owned and
ran two grocery stores. Vanisa credits Hon. Steve Maharey
the sense of community that went Former Senior Cabinet
with working in the family dairy for the Minister and Massey University Vice
direction she has taken in life. Chancellor
Te Aho Tāmaka Webinar Series
Each of these leaders has recently shared insight, inspiration and advice through the popular Te Aho Tāmaka Webinar
series – He rā kitua, Embracing Change. You can view the recordings of these webinars via the CEDA website.
For more information visit: manawatunz.co.nz/te-aho-tamaka
Robin Stalker Vanisa Dhiru
31Fran and Paul Dibble 32
ARTS
Crafting a life
in the arts
In a foundry north of the Palmerston North CBD, Fran and Paul Dibble are hard at work.
They have six commissioned sculptures to finish and a book launch to prepare for.
“ We can’t keep up with the orders,” says
Fran, who believes more people are
investing in art in lieu of overseas travel.
The Dibbles have lived in Palmerston North
for more than four decades. Fran was a
teenager when her family migrated from
the United States and Paul moved from
The book, titled Paul Dibble: A Decade of
Auckland to Palmerston North to teach art
Sculpture 2010-2020, will be launched on the
at Massey University.
10th day of the 10th month at 10am in Auckland.
“I always wanted to be a full-time artist but in
“It’s by a weird coincidence, not by design,”
the early days it was quite hard because there
says Fran.
just weren’t enough buyers,” says Paul.
As part of the book launch, the Dibbles are
“But we had a big breakthrough when I won
working on two large bronze sculptures – one
a competition to design and build the New
called Woodpigeon over Manuka and the
Zealand War Memorial in London. We started
other, yet to be named, has Paul’s signature
selling a lot of work in England, Australia and in
huia and gold kowhai.
New Zealand.”
The name Dibble is You can buy a Fran Dibble painting at
synonymous with art. Zimmerman Art Gallery in Palmerston North
and a Paul Dibble sculpture at the
Fran is a well-known painter and has exhibited Gow Langsford Gallery in Auckland, Milford
many times around New Zealand. Paul is Galleries in Dunedin and at Zimmerman.
an internationally renowned sculptor who
designed the New Zealand War Memorial in “I insist on showing our work
London and is recognised for his work with locally because I like the idea of being
bronze. involved in the community,”
In Palmerston North alone, Paul has eight
says Paul, who sometimes has joint exhibitions
public sculptures – Ghost of the Huia on The
with Fran at Zimmerman.
Square; Who’s Afraid in front of the Regent
Theatre; Pacific Monarch outside Te Manawa; For his contribution to art, Paul was awarded
All Creatures Great at the Central Library; The a New Zealand Order of Merit, received an
Nectar Eaters in front of UCOL; two pieces at Honorary Doctorate in Visual Arts from Massey
the Globe Theatre; and, his latest and largest University and was made an Honorary Fellow of
local work, Dawn Chorus on the Fish of Māui at the Universal College of Learning (UCOL).
Victoria Esplanade.
For her services to art, Fran was awarded
Every year, he makes about 100 sculptures. the Queen’s Service Medal and was also
made an Honorary Fellow of UCOL.
“Paul designs about 50 different sculptures a
year. But then we might make a whole edition Last year, the Dibbles were inducted into the
of one – some of them might be an edition of Te Aho Tāmaka ambassadors programme
five - or we might make only one of another,” which recognises leaders from the Manawatū
says Fran. who have made a difference in New Zealand
and around the world.
“It’s a lot of work,” admits Paul.
“A lot of young people ask me about a career
“When you live by your craft using in art,” says Paul.
your hands, you’ve got to work quite
“You don’t want to discourage them but at
hard, no question about it.”
the same time you mustn’t let them think that
it’s great – it’s difficult. I mean I worked for
20 years before I sold much at all. I tell them,
‘get a part-time job and see how you go’.”
33Checking the temperature
of the molten bronze
Taking the crucible out of
the furnace using "grabs". Welding cast sections together.
Burning 'flashcoat' (a releasing
agent) off a sand-mould.
34Team tea break
Ghost of the Huia, 2010, situated on
Applying 'patina' to colour the metal. The Square in Palmerston North.
35EVENTS
Cirque Cabaret returns
to Palmy
Venues & Events Palmerston North will bring life to
Fly Palmy Arena with superhuman feats of cirque artistry by
The Dust Palace’s performance of Ithaca on 5 December.
T he past meets the future in
Ithaca, a cirque cabaret through a sci-fi
scope which features contortion, aerial
pushing the limits of their physical and
cognitive abilities, it creates this sensory,
engaging and magical experience! That’s
ladder work, Spanish web, harness work, why we get up in the morning,” says Eve.
chair stacking and dance. Described as
Ithaca is set to show audiences the true
an evening of suspense and decadence,
lengths the human body can be pushed to.
the audience will be taken on a journey of
intergalactic proportions, nothing short of Venues & Events Manager John Lynch
spectacular. advocates the value of supporting home-
grown performers who, in turn, become
The athletes and performers from New
great ambassadors for the New Zealand
Zealand’s leading cirque company return to
performance industry.
Palmerston North after the success of their
2018 show, Le Cirque Volé. Live music, cirque “These shows are a great boost for
and aerial acts stunned the near 3000-strong Palmerston North City, not only because
crowd. of the flow-on effect of economic benefit
for the region, but also because they
The theatre company sets themselves apart by
continue to make our city a creative and
making storytelling their primary focus, starting
exciting place to live,” says John.
with an emotionally complex and engaging
story which utilises physical skills and theatre “It amplifies how our city has found its place
to unravel the trip an audience will take. on the New Zealand tour and performance
circuit, and the ongoing benefits of supporting
Ithaca is focused on Odysseus, a legendary
national talent.”
hero in Geek mythology, who journeys across
space to be reunited with his love, Penelope. A retro soundtrack will set the atmosphere,
with live music from the 1980s for this
The Auckland-based company was founded
one-night-only show featuring world-class
by Eve Gordon and Mike Edwards, who have
performers.
featured on New Zealand screens in shows
like Shortland Street, Filthy Rich, Almighty It will be a wild ride with cirque artistry and
Johnsons and Spartacus. theatre encased in a love story for the ages.
“When extraordinary performers Tickets on sale early September
communicate with an audience by venuespn.co.nz/event/ithaca
36EVENTS
Ithaca performers
37COMMUNITY
Palmy Community
Diwali
15 November
The 150th badge for Palmerston North City was designed by Toi Warbrick - Rangitāne artist,
Warren Warbrick and Virginia Warbrick, a descendent of 19th century Rangiotu flax millers.
Palmerston North City is preparing to mark its 150th year in 2021. This is an exciting
opportunity to celebrate the unique heritage and future of our city, with a regular calendar of
events set to be complimented by specific 150-year activities throughout the year.
As part of these celebrations, the City Council has allocated a contestable funding pool
known as the 150 Year Community Seed Event Fund. We’re inviting community groups Pasifika Language
from all sectors to put forward their ideas for showcasing and celebrating the city’s unique
heritage and its bright future, through small-scale events. Weeks
Successful applications must meet the funding criteria, including that the event is public- Tonga Language Week:
facing and held within Palmerston North, supports our city's vision. 6 - 12 September
Tuvalu Language
For further information about the fund, and to apply, head to our Week: 27 September
Smarty Grants page at pncc.smartygrants.com.au/Palmy150R1. – 3 October
Welcoming week
12-20 September
pncc.govt.nz/welcome
Block Party Street Festival
Last Thursday of each month
The Square, Palmerston North
Block Party Street Festival is back! Come join us for a unique outdoor dining experience with Moon Festival
a fantastic line up of food trucks and stalls. Held every last Thursday of the month until the and Chinese
end of 2020. Block Party is hosted by The Crafted and Co. in conjunction with PNCC. Language week
blockpartystreetfestival.com Begins 20 September
38Spring Events Guide EVENTS
Mahuru September
Cringe Worthy Sunday Script New Zealand Red Cross Annual
22 August – 13 September Sessions Blood Drive Book Sale 2020
Centrepoint Theatre 30 August - 27 September 3 September 4 – 6 September
Cringe Worthy is a groovy, 7.30pm 9am Central Energy Trust Arena
tubular, dynamite blast from Centrepoint Theatre Palmerston North Not just books (though
the past that is equal parts Conference and Function there’s plenty of those) , also
nostalgic, humiliating, and Actors, artists, directors and
playwrights from across Centre comics, sheet music, jig saw
hilarious. Taking you back puzzles, games, Dvd’s, vinyl.
to NZ in the 1970s when the the Manawatū and beyond, Please come along and
combine for an epic creative donate blood. It isn't every And not just bargains also
cultural cringe was in full hard to find treasures, books
swing, it’s a smorgasbord collaboration. day you can do something
to save someone's life - but from your childhood and old
of contagious songs served collectables.
with a side of bell-bottoms that's exactly what you do
and a huge dollop of cheesy centrepoint.co.nz every time you donate blood.
comedy.
redcross.org.nz
venuespn.co.nz
centrepoint.co.nz
Aotearoa Country Venus Rising
Music Awards 9 September
5 & 6 September 7.30pm
5pm The Regent on Broadway
Globe Theatre Ease out of the winter
The 4th annual Aotearoa darkness and experience
Country Music Awards, with Venus Rising: glowing,
MUST judged finalists battling it out hopeful, a celebration of
SEE!
Blindspott on stage at the finals concert new beginnings and a new
chapter in dance.
on Sunday. Contestants of
4 September, 7pm all ages will be performing
Central Energy Trust Arena throughout the day on both of
the Globe Theatre's stages. regent.co.nz
Don’t miss this one-off opportunity to witness one of our
greatest rock bands performing live, one of NZ’s greatest rock
albums. Blindspott will be revisiting the album that touched so
many kiwi's lives and instantly made it a classic! globetheatre.co.nz
venuespn.co.nz
Free Event Costs Theatre Arts Sports Family Culture Music Comedy Dance
39EVENTS
Mahuru September
Sakura Celebration Farah Palmer Cup Houstoun – Mitre 10 Cup –
12 September, 11am - 4pm 12 September Fox In Concert Manawatū Turbos
IPU New Zealand Campus 11am 20 September vs Otago
Come enjoy a family day Central Energy Trust Arena 2.30pm 20 September
out and celebrate the arrival New Zealand's top women’s The Globe Theatre Gates open 11am
of spring at the IPU New rugby players – including
Zealand Sakura Celebration. Concert featuring New Central Energy Trust Arena
members of the Black Ferns Zealand iconic classical
and Black Ferns Sevens These teams last met in
Enjoy cultural performances pianist Michael Houstoun Round 4 of the 2019, in a
by community groups and teams will be in action for the featured alongside The
revised 2020 Farah Palmer Ranfurly Shield match. A
the famous IPU Taiko Drum Rodger Fox Band and special strong second half from
team. Sample international Cup (FPC) Draw. Canterbury guest vocalist Erna Ferry.
have won the last three FPC Otago saw them retain the
cuisine from the range of food Shield, so another strong
stalls and picnic under sakura titles – can the Manawatū
Cyclones blow them away performance is expected from
(cherry blossom) trees, which globetheatre.co.nz both teams when they meet
are at the height of their with an upset at home…?
again.
vibrant pink beauty.
farahpalmercup.co.nz
turbosrugby.co.nz
ipu.ac.nz
Volunteering Friends The Secondary School Bathtime Bubbles:
Expo 2020 Musical Parody National Basketball A Messy Magic
24 September 24 September Championships Adventure
10am to 2pm 7.30pm 29 September – 3 October 29 September – 10 October
Palmerston North The Regent on Broadway Central Energy Trust Arena 11am
City Library So, no one told you life The Secondary Schools Centrepoint Theatre
Come and talk to was gonna be this way, nor Championships have been
Brief Description: Spray and
organisations that have did they tell you about the running for over 50 years
Wipe are faced with their
volunteering opportunities, hilarious new musical that and has a proud history in
greatest adventure yet. With
get to know the services lovingly lampoons one of TV’s New Zealand sport. It is New
they provideand how slippery soap that won’t stay
all-time greatest shows in the Zealand’s biggest national
you can be part of it. still, splashing water and
hit New York and basketball event in the
The event is provided to GIANT BUBBLES... it’s bathtime!
Las Vegas show Friends! country with up to 600 players
inform, engage and connect The Musical Parody. travelling from throughout
thecommunity through the nation to compete for the
volunteering. It is suitable for national crowns. centrepoint.co.nz
all ages and backgrounds.
regent.co.nz
nz.basketball
volunteercentral.nz
Free Event Costs Theatre Arts Sports Family Culture Music Comedy Dance
40EVENTS
MUST
SEE!
Manawatū
Tattoo 2020
27 September
Manfeild, Feilding
Manawatū Tattoo is a two-hour action-packed show
inside Manfeild Stadium. The programme includes
special guest artists ‘Piping Pink’ and ‘Bras and
Brass’ - an 83-piece all-female brass and pipe band.
Included in the cast of around 200 are local, national
& international performers. Tattoo 2020 will not only
highlight support for Breast Cancer Research but to
promote enjoyment of pipe and brass bands, music,
singing and most of all inspiring females to play
music and be actively involved in the arts.
manfeild.co.nz
Free Event Costs Theatre Arts Sports Family Culture Music Comedy Dance
41You can also read
