Books Aloud is a mixed bag of genres – from kids books, novels, art and historical books and everything in between. All books discussed and narrated will be available for purchase at your favorite book store or through the authors distributers along with a book giveaway or two.

Books Aloud is hosted by Catherine Scullin / Viv Bailey.

The Books Aloud programme is sponsored by:
Books and Co

This show is brought to you by Books and Co, Main Highway Ōtaki, your local independent bookshop stocking a huge range of quality books for all ages, including the best of NZ authors.

Play Episodes

https://player.accessmedia.nz/player.aspx?PID=7117b7a3-d1ae-4a2e-a3c9-a97875a89a3b&skin=light

Once each season, Levin’s historic Uniting Church is transformed into an intimate, immersive concert space glowing with hundreds of flickering candles, where music, mood, and connection come together in a truly unique live experience.

📍 Venue
Levin Uniting Church
87 Oxford Street, Levin

📅 Friday 26 June
🚪 Doors open: 7.00pm
🎶 Concert begins: 7.30pm
⚠️ Please note: Doors close promptly at 7.35pm

🍷 Included in your ticket
• Complimentary New Zealand wine (or non-alcoholic option)
• Dessert nibbles
• Immersive candlelit concert experience

💛 Music That Feels Good and Does Good
Every ticket supports Levin Uniting Church & Community Centre and the free programmes, support services, and community initiatives we provide for local whānau, including those experiencing hardship, isolation, or vulnerability.

🎟️ Seats are strictly limited to 100 and this event is expected to sell out.

Book early to avoid disappointment and experience rock music reimagined by candlelight.

✨ What to Expect
Step inside a beautifully transformed heritage church lit by around 900 candles, creating a warm, atmospheric setting for an extraordinary evening of live music.

Arrive early, settle in, and enjoy the pre-show ambience with local hospitality, dessert nibbles, and gentle live music from a talented young local musician.

Then prepare for a powerful 75-minute concert featuring reimagined rock classics performed live in strings, blending intensity, beauty, and cinematic sound.

🎻 Special Guest Artists: The Family Lockdown Quartet

Born during the 2020 lockdown, this remarkable family ensemble began performing online and quickly evolved into a sought-after live act across Aotearoa, including performances at Te Papa, Rimufest (Tauranga), and Wellington’s Cuba Classics Series.

Rupa and Donald bring decades of professional musical experience, while Lucy and Gemma are emerging classical musicians studying at Victoria University and already performing professionally.

Together they transform iconic rock anthems into powerful, emotional string arrangements.

🔥 Programme highlights include:
• Sweet Dreams – Eurythmics
• Kashmir – Led Zeppelin
• Back in Black – AC/DC
• Paint It Black – The Rolling Stones
• Welcome to the Jungle – Guns N’ Roses
• Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
• Dream On – Aerosmith
• Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
…plus more iconic favourites

🎷 Opening Performance
We are proud to showcase a talented young local rangatahi saxophonist performing live for the very first time – an inspiring opening to a night of music and connection.

To Book: https://events.humanitix.com/candlelit-concerts-rock-edition-it-s-a-night-out-that-feels-good-and-does-good/tickets?

The works of both artists – ceramics by Diane Greenwood and paintings by Jude Whitcombe – challenge conventional views on their chosen mediums and impress with the depth of their quality, sophistication and beauty.

Diane has had a long-term association with multiple forms of art, over time building a substantial practice in glass casting, painting and ceramics, initially in Auckland before moving to Waikanae in 2000.
“ln this exhibition I explore transformation,” says Diane, “presenting provocative, unsettling and mysterious human forms that seem to move between states of being; and strangely asymmetrical vessels that seem to wilt and bend under their weight in a series moving towards more basic, stronger organic forms.”

Wellington painter Jude Whitcombe has exhibited in group and solo shows in Wellington and Queenstown. Her abstract paintings are both intuitive and controlled and have been greatly influenced by some of the great American painters of the 1940s and 1950s such as Mark Rothko, Clyfford Still and Robert Ryman.

“My Tote paintings focus on the unusual alliance between science and the arts,” says Jude.
“They reflect how humanity alters paradigms and constructs new ones as we learn more about ourselves and our place in the cosmos. For example, Aristotle’s definitive proof that the earth was a round sphere was just one insight our understanding of our place in the cosmos. My paintings are born from a curiosity about humankind’s survival and evolution throughout history.”

Be entertained, even shocked, by this daring collection of unsettling ceramic heads and vessels and intriguing abstract paintings.

Event details
Where: Tote Modern Gallery, 47 Te Roto Road, Ōtaki
When: 4 June 5:30-7.00pm, then daily until 27 June.

Anzac Day remains one of New Zealand’s most significant days of remembrance. It is a time to reflect on the courage, service and loss connected to war, and to honour returned and current New Zealand Defence Force personnel.

A range of dawn, civic and retreat services will be held across the district, with commemorations taking place in Foxton, Levin, Manakau, Moutoa, Ōhau, Shannon, Tokomaru and Waitārere Beach.

Mayor Bernie Wanden says Anzac Day continues to hold deep meaning for communities across Horowhenua.

“Anzac Day gives us the chance to stop, reflect and remember those who served our country, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It is also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together as a community, pay their respects and acknowledge the lasting impact of service across generations.”

People are encouraged to attend a local service and take part in this year’s commemorations.

Anzac Day observances in Horowhenua on Saturday 25 April 2026

Foxton 28th Māori Battalion Service

5.45am – Head to cenotaph for Foxton Dawn Service
6.30am – Service at St John’s Methodist Church, Avenue Road, following the Dawn Service

Foxton Dawn Service

5.30am – Assemble on Clyde Street, outside Foxton Memorial Hall
5.45am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.00am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place in Foxton Memorial Hall

Foxton Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, Main Street
9.35am – Parade assembles on Wharf Street and moves off to Cenotaph
9.40am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place inside Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom

Levin Dawn Service

5.45am – Assemble on the corner of Kent and Winchester Streets
6.00am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
6.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
6.45am – Return parade down Kent Street
Wet weather alternative: Service will take place at Levin RSA

Levin Civic Ceremony

10.00am – Parade assembles on Kent Street, past Thompson House Gardens
10.10am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
10.15am – Cenotaph Service begins
Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō

Levin Retreat Ceremonies

4.45pm – The Avenue Cemetery
5.15pm – Tiro Tiro Road Cemetery

Manakau Special Memorial Service

7.20am – Assemble outside Manakau Hall to march to the War Memorial in Honi Taipua Street

Moutoa Civic Ceremony

9.00am – Moutoa Memorial Gates, Foxton-Shannon Road

Ōhau Civic Ceremony

3.00pm – Formal reflections and acknowledgement of Anzac Day at Ōhau Community Hall
3.30pm – Tea, coffee and Anzac biscuits, all welcome

Shannon Civic Ceremony

11.15am – Parade assembles at the corner of Vance Street and Plimmer Terrace
11.25am – Parade moves off to Cenotaph
11.30am – Cenotaph Service begins

Wet weather alternative: Ceremony will take place in Shannon Memorial Hall

Tokomaru Civic Ceremony

10.00am – RSA and Country Club, Matipo Street

Waitārere Beach Civic Ceremony

8.30am – Tea and coffee at Waitārere Beach Bowling Club, Park Avenue
9.00am – Service begins

Road closures

Some temporary road closures will be in place to support the safety of participants and the public during parades and services. People are asked to follow signage and allow a little extra time when travelling on the day.

Wet Weather contingency

If bad weather is forecast, ceremonies will move indoors where possible. Any venue changes will be announced on Council’s Facebook page (@HorowhenuaDC) on the morning of Anzac Day.

Lest we forget.

The Awards brought together recipients, whānau and supporters for an evening acknowledging service, commitment and local achievement. The event highlighted the many ways people contribute to the strength and wellbeing of Horowhenua, often quietly and without seeking recognition.

Hosted by Mayor Bernie Wanden, the ceremony honoured three Civic Honour recipients, four Certificates of Recognition recipients and fifteen outstanding young people through the Youth Excellence Scholarships.

Mayor Bernie says the Awards were an opportunity to reflect on the difference people make when they choose to support their community.

“These recipients are the people who step forward when something needs to be done. They give their time generously, they support others, and they help create a district where people feel connected and supported. Their impact is significant, and we are proud to recognise them.”

“It is a privilege to celebrate individuals whose actions strengthen Horowhenua. Their commitment, compassion and willingness to help others make a real and lasting contribution to our district. The Awards remain one of the most meaningful and uplifting events of the year,” Mayor Bernie adds.

Youth Excellence Scholarships were presented in arts and culture, sport, community service and academia. These scholarships recognise the effort, talent and leadership of local rangatahi and provide practical support as they work toward their future goals.

Civic Honours were awarded to:

Mary Davis
Jeffrey Paulin
Wayne and Debra Kaye

Pictured below: Civic Honours recipients with Mayor Bernie, (from left to right) Wayne and Debra Kaye, Mary Davis and Jeffrey Paulin.

Certificates of Recognition were presented to:

Corey Prouting
Frank Taylor
Jack Gibson
Robert Ropata Remihana

Pictured above: Certificate of Recognition recipients with Mayor Bernie, (from left to right) Ropata Remihana, Frank Taylor, Corey Prouting and Jack Gibson.
Pictured below: Civic Honour and Certificates of Recognition recipients with Mayor Bernie.

Youth Excellence Scholarships were awarded to:

Arts and Culture

Haewon Kim
Hunter Kahukuranui Pakau
Pusa Fonoti
Saoirse Williamson

Community Service

Tyson Jones
Sienna Laplanche
Dycen Taituha
Owen Winstanley

Sport

William Dunsmore
Fletcher Warren
Anahera Easton
Finn Pedersen

Academia

Tareesha Kiran
Liam Roach
Youan Salt

Pictured below: Youth Excellence Scholarship recipients.

Youth Excellence Arts and Culture recipients also shared performances during the evening, offering a glimpse of the talent and creativity present across Horowhenua.

“The Awards highlighted the value of giving back to the community. When people choose to contribute their time, energy and skills, it strengthens the whole district. These recipients show what community in action looks like, and we appreciate all they do,” Mayor Bernie ends.

Applications are now open for the Horowhenua District Council Tertiary Education Scholarship, offering a $1,000 scholarship and a paid summer internship with Council during the 2025-2026 over summer.

You’re eligible to apply if you can answer yes to these two questions:

• Are you living in Horowhenua?
• Are you a school leaver planning on studying for a tertiary qualification in 2026 or continuing tertiary study in 2026?

Council Chief Executive Monique Davidson says the scholarship is about supporting local talent and helping young people see a future for themselves in local government Horowhenua.

“We want to back our rangatahi and show them they can have a real impact on their community,” says Monique.

“This scholarship helps with study costs, but just as importantly, it gives students a foot in the door. You’ll work alongside our teams, learn how local government works, and contribute to projects that make a real difference for Horowhenua.”

Davidson says this is part of Council’s wider commitment to young people, from youth spaces and development programmes to creating hands-on opportunities that connect students to their community.

Applications close at 5pm on Monday 20 October 2025. So get your application in today at horowhenua.govt.nz/Scholarship.

For more information, contact Sue Fifita-Tovo at suehtp@horowhenua.govt.nz or call (06) 366 0999.

The spirits of Halloween have infested the library and warped beloved fairy tale characters into monstrous versions that thirst for blood and horror! Survive the hideous Seven Dwarfs, escape the deformed Three Little Pigs, and keep an eye out for the creature stalking the shelves – the Big Bad Wolf…

Careful which corner you turn, or you’ll find yourself trapped in a terrifying nightmare from which there may be no return!

Beginning in the Youth Space, courageous participants will be taken through a twisting path by guides that winds through all areas of the library, and (hopefully) end up alive and well at the Main Entrance.

Saturday October 25th. Doors open at 4:45pm
“Fright Sessions” start from 5.00pm – for families and younger children
“Terror Sessions” start from 8.00pm – for older children (recommended 12+)

Each session runs for approximately 15 minutes and has a maximum limit of 20 participants – session priority will be given to pre-purchased ticketholders. Please arrive 10 minutes ahead of your session time.

If the experience becomes too frightening, staff will be available to remove affected participants.

https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2025/haunted-library-once-upon-nightmare/levin/tickets

A favourite across New Zealand, the UK, and Australia, he’s performed across the globe since 2004 at festivals, clubs, auditoriums and concert chambers, on the back of trucks, near some motorbikes, at a rodeo, on TV and Radio but never on a podcast. Winner of the prestigious Fred award at the 2010 NZ International Comedy Fest.

Also featuring Reon Materman, Siobhan Barnard, Manish Latch and MC Kajun Brooking.

What: Wilson Dixon live in Levin

Where: Levin Little Theatre

When: August 29 – 8pm

Tickets: https://kiwiticket.co.nz/events/wilson-dixon-and-friends-in-levin-29-08-2025

Every year Council asks the community to provide feedback on how satisfied they are with the services and facilities we provide.

This year we asked more than 8,000 residents for their views, and when we crunched the numbers their overall satisfaction rate was 63 percent. That’s up slightly from last year’s 62 percent, and it’s much better than the 49 percent satisfaction score from 2022.

‘While there will always be more work to do to improve the amenities and services we provide, we’re proud of this result,’ says Chief Executive Monique Davidson.

‘It shows that the hard work being put in by your Council and its kaimahi is paying off – and that you’re seeing the results.’

Things people liked included our libraries, which recorded a 94 percent satisfaction rating, and kerbside rubbish collection, which scored 92 percent.

On the other hand only 39 percent of respondents were satisfied with footpath maintenance, and just 40 percent believed Council is open and transparent with its decision-making.

The Net Promotor Score (NPS), which measures customer loyalty and satisfaction and can range from 100 to –100, dropped from –9.5 last year to –13.2.

‘We appreciate the frankness with which people have told us we can do better in some areas, and we’re working hard to improve,’ says Monique Davidson.

‘The survey is so useful to us. It allows us to celebrate when the community tells us we’re making a difference – but it also helps us focus closely on what isn’t working as well.’ 

You can find out more about the survey and see a summary of the results here: https://www.horowhenua.govt.nz/Council/Participate/Have-your-say/Resident-Satisfaction-Surveys

On Sunday 3 August violinist Monique Lapins, cellist Ken Ichinose and pianist Gabriela Glapska will perform music by Beethoven (the famous “Ghost Trio” trio from which the ensemble has taken their
name).

There will be brief items by Japanese composer Takemitsu and New Zealand’s Glen Downie before the trio perform Shostakovich’s Trio No 2. Written in 1944 when the world was in turmoil this is one of the composer’s most forceful and moving works.

WHEN: Sunday August 3 at 2.30pm

WHERE: Waikanae Memorial Hall.

Information: www.waikanaemusic.org.nz