The Big Bike Film Night is returning to Forum North on March 18. Boasting the best cycling short films from around the world, the programme offers action, drama, humour and inspiration. Tickets from $15 concession and $26 for adults, available from eventfinda.co.nz.
Dog owners warned
Dog owners are being warned to keep their pets away from highly toxic karaka berries and algal blooms this summer, and to contact their vet immediately if their dog has swallowed them. The New Zealand Veterinary Association encourages owners to walk dogs on a leash if toxic algae or karaka berries are nearby. The karaka tree fruits between January and April, dropping orange berries which can be poisonous to dogs. Consumption of the berries can lead to impaired neurological function, respiratory failure, and even death. Toxic algae appears in rivers and lakes as black, green, or brown slime on rocks, and as brown or black ‘mats’. Symptoms can include panting, lethargy, muscle tremors, twitching, and convulsions.
Stolen taonga
Taonga jerseys and boots stolen from the Motukohu Rugby Clubrooms have yet to be returned, despite widespread publicity. James Fisher-Harris is gutted someone has stolen his 2021 NRL premiership-winning boots from a Hokianga rugby club. The Warriors' recruit and Kiwis captain is deeply connected to the Motukohu Rugby Club in Kohukohu, where he grew up. He donated the boots as part of an auction to help the club raise money to host an annual Labour weekend tournament. The boots were displayed in a cabinet alongside other memorabilia. Unfortunately, both boots and four of five precious rugby jerseys were stolen earlier this month. Anybody with information can call 029 02016240 to arrange a pick-up, no questions asked.
Village Arts
To celebrate 20 years Kohukohu’s Village Arts will have some interesting exhibitions and events coming up. The first offering is The Directors' Show, featuring new work from the gallery’s four directors; Marg Morrow, John Wigglesworth, Lindsay Antrobus Evans and Lynne Stewart, who are all well established in their individual art practices. The Directors' Show opens 11am on February 15 to March 23. Raumati, the summer show, continues to February 9, with the exhibition recently refreshed.
Free snorkel day
Experiencing Marine Reserves is running a free community-guided snorkel day at Taupō Bay on February 8 from 10am-3pm. Advanced safety procedures will be in place on the day, which will be suitable for ages 5 and up. People can explore the waters of Taupō Bay, learn about native freshwater and marine life, and gain awareness about the current challenges oceans and rivers face. People can take their own gear or get free hire of masks, snorkels, fins and wetsuits. The event is funded by the Ministry for the Environment through Our Wai Connection Project. Additional support on the day provided by Kaitiaki Whangaroa and Ecopulse Solutions. For more details: mountainstosea.org.nz.
