The tranquilizer gun

The tranquilizer gun now used all over the world was invented by New Zealand Veterinary Surgeon Colin Murdoch from Timaru who patented the gun in 1959.

The problems he faced in designing the gun included being able to deliver a varied dose according to the animal’s size plus a controlled projectile speed according to distance and thickness of the animal’s skin. No matter how far away from the animal the needle needs to just stick into the skin without braking a bone.

The invention was waiting for an expert in gun making, animal physiology , ballistics, pharmaceuticals and anaesthesia. … Continue Reading

Wellington Regional Council notes

What exactly does the Greater Wellington Regional Council do is a question I am often asked when I talk to people around the district. Anyone who uses the train regularly is probably aware that the Council manages the contracts for all the public transport in the region including the trains, buses and ferries. If you are a farmer with a waterway running through your property then you will absolutely be aware of the environmental role that GWRC plays through both catchment management and resource consents.
Both these roles are certainly the major players but are by no means all that the council does. Did you know that GWRC operates a contact centre which handles nearly twenty thousand calls per month? Did you know that it is responsible for safety in Wellington Harbour including maintenance of navigation lights and the mooring chains on Barretts Reef? … Continue Reading

WHAREKAKA NEWS

Summer seems to have come and gone rather too quickly at Wharekaka, but it’s not stopped us from enjoying the outdoors and surrounding areas.
Residents enjoyed following one of our nurses, John, and Toby’s recent biking trip from Cape Reinga to Bluff. We are so proud of their achievement.
We have been on outings to Pinehaven for ice-creams and Lake Ferry for afternoon tea. We always take our quiz book along to practice for our monthly quiz at Cartercourt Rest Home.
Visitors have included Bell Street early learners and we have the new entrants back reading with the residents again. This is very enjoyable and lovely to watch the childrens’ confidence grow.
The Auxiliary and Friends of Wharekaka continue to have a wonderful input to activities. A recent luncheon at the golf course was enjoyed by all.
Pilates on Mondays with Jane Flowerday also has members from the community joining in.
We have an Easter raffle at the moment if anyone would like to come in and try to win a big basket of Easter goodies.

Dawn Geddes enjoys a real fruit ice cream

WHAT’S ON IN THE VENTANA GALLERY?

Sheyne Tuffery – Silhouettes and Shadows 10th March – 24 April Woodblock prints, relief prints and much more from Wellington artist Sheyne Tuffery

Bella Foster and Oscar Clarke 28 April – 19 June – Two young Wellington artists showcase their photography and intricately detailed hand drawn pieces

3 – Recent Works by Megan Campbell, Janie Nott & Kathy Bartlett 23 June – 21 August Paintings and small sculpture works from three Wairarapa artists. Landscape, interiors and magical creatures. Join us for the opening party Friday 23 June 5.30pm.

Perspectives: Rebecca Kempton and Tim McMahon  25 August – 23 October Alternative views of the familiar.