Rhonda Hira making a return to competitive softball
One of New Zealand's greatest ever players is returning to the softball diamond at 55.
Rhonda Hira will lace up her cleats and play in this weekend's Fastball 45 tournament in Christchurch, as a pick-up player for the Kaiapoi Queens.
Hira, who is studying to become a personal trainer, said she was "actually quite motivated'' to help the younger Kaiapoi players and, after training with her teammates, is confident she won't let them, or herself, down.
Hira played for Hutt Valley and at five world championships. She is not the only veteran on a softball roster.
Current White Sox assistant-coach Melisa Tupuivao (nee Upu), another Sydney Olympian, will mark her 46th birthday as player-coach of the Hutt Valley Kotuku Raiders at the central qualifying tournament on December 4-6.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.3% Yes
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21.8% No
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Age Concern Christmas Social Hubs for the Hutt Valley
Meri Kirihimete - Merry Christmas
Come and join our fun Christmas Hubs:
Upper Hutt - Te Kupenga o Rongomai - Maidstone Sports Centre, Wednesday 11th Dec at 12pm featuring the Hutt Ukulele Orchestra.
Lower Hutt - Walter Nash Centre, Thursday 12 December 1:30pm
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.