Celebrating 40 years of Volunteers

November 10, 2020/in Blog, Uncategorised /by Heather Ben

Celebrating 40 years of Volunteers

Tomorrow, Multiples NZ will host it’s 40th Annual General Meeting.

The intention had been to celebrate this 40th birthday in Christchurch as part of the annual Multiples NZ National Training Forum. Sadly, Covid-19’s arrival meant that this event had to be cancelled and now, for the first time ever, our AGM will be held virtually.

Forty years ago, in Palmerston North, a group of likeminded parents of multiples gathered together and determined that a national organisation was needed, to ensure that other whānau with multiples received the care and support they needed. Since then this organisation has put in the hard mahi to achieve that purpose.

Over 40 years, this organisation has been supported by many, many hardworking volunteers, and we want to make sure that those people are acknowledged. We have done our best to list everyone who volunteered for the national organisation. To collate all these names, we have scrolled through forty years of minutes, starting with paper and typewriter ink, through to printed paper from a computer and finally virtually as a PDF. Check out photos of previous AGMs and National Conferences here –

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini

‘My strength is not that of a single warrior but that of many.’

The names listed here are only a small representation of all the amazing people who have supported whānau through local Multiples Clubs, some of which have been in place for over 50 years.

1980/81	Angela Bailey, Triplets Plus Margaret Lash, Rotorua Thora Young, Manawatu Margaret Tait, Levin Frances Gray, Wainuiomata Lee Thorburn, Greymouth Trevor Miller, Otago Lyn Ellis, Christchurch	1981/82	Anne Barr, President Debbie Walton, Secretary Jessie Johnston, Vice President Irene Remnant, Treasurer Judy McCorkindale, International Liaison
1982/83	Anne Barr, President Debbie Walton, Secretary Jessie Johnston, Vice President Irene Remnant, Treasurer Judy McCorkindale, International Liaison	1983/84	Joy Brown, President Shirley-Anne Collins, Vice-President Liz Barron, Secretary Alice Hedgeman, Treasurer Judy McCorkindale, Overseas Liaison Research, Anne Barr Newsletter, Waikato Consumer Affairs, Shirley-Anne Collins Publications, Debbie Walton Library, Betty McDonald Register, Joy Brown
1984/85	Joy Brown, President Shirley-Anne Collins, Vice-President Liz Barron, Secretary Phillipa Third, Treasurer Judy McCorkindale, Overseas Liaison Research, Anne Barr Newsletter, North Shore Consumer Affairs, Rotorua Publications, Debbie Walton Library, Betty McDonald Register, Joy Brown	1985/86	Joy Brown, President Keith Jones, Vice-President Phillipa Third, Secretary Liz Barron, Treasurer Wellington Club, Overseas Liaison Research, Anne Barr Newsletter, A Doles, S Coster Consumer Affairs, vacant Publications, Waikato Library, R Jacobs Register, Joy Brown Publications, Pen, Spoon, S A Collins
1986/87	Liz Barron, President Warrick Rodgers, Vice-President Jill Doms, Secretary Colin Hamilton, Treasurer Carol Stigly, Overseas Liaison Research, Anne Barr Newsletter, Stephanie Coster, Allison Doell Consumer Affairs, vacant Publications, Virginia Lundin, Debbie Walton Library, Judy Hunter Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: Upper North Island, Anne Barr Lower North Island, Gillian Ilott South Island, Wayne Barr	1987/88	Gillian Berridge, President Joy Brown, Vice-President Gill Doms, Secretary Colin Hamilton, Treasurer Carol Stigley, Overseas Liaison Research, Anne Barr Newsletter,Jackie Gibb, Wendy Thomson Consumer Affairs, Publications, Margaret Spence Library, Joy Brown Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: Upper North Island, Anne Barr Lower North Island, Kirsteen Buckingham Upper South Island, Hilda Philpott Lower South Island, Sue McPherson
1988/89	Gillian Berridge, President Gary van der Werff, Vice-President Carla Wild, Secretary Colin Hamilton, Treasurer Megan Holland, Overseas Liaison Research, Joy Brown Newsletter,Sue Lambie Consumer Affairs, Resources, Margaret Spence Library, – Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Lyn Jelicich Central North Island, Jan Cate Lower North Island, Helen Carter East Coast North Island, Anne Corney North South Island, Hilda Philpott South South Island, Sue McPherson	1989/90	Joy Brown, President Hilda Philpot, Vice-President Carla Wild, Secretary Hilary Dineen, Treasurer Meagan Holland, Overseas Liaison Research, Meagan Holland Newsletter,Hamilton Club Consumer Affairs, Resources, Gillian Berridge Resource Officer, Anne Hodges Library, Register, Joy Brown Special Projects, Rick Hopkinson Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Rachel Donegan Central North Island, Gary van der Werff Lower North Island, Audrey Guirdham East Coast North Island Anne Corney North South Island, Pam Clark and Raewyn Derbridge South South Island, Sue Lambie
1990/91	Joy Brown, President Hilda Philpot, Vice-President Carla Wild, Secretary Hilary Dineen, Treasurer Meagan Holland, Overseas Liaison Research, Meagan Holland Newsletter,Hamilton Club Consumer Affairs, Resources, Anne Corney Publications,Gillian Berridge Library, Register, Joy Brown Special Projects, Rick Hopkinson Regional Liaison Officers: North Island Rachel Donegan Central North Island, Gary van der Werff Lower North Island, Anne Corney North South Island, Pam Clark and Raewyn Derbridge South South Island, Sue Lambie	1991/92	Bridget Car, President Vicki Campion, Vice-President Heather Newton, Secretary Hilary Dineen, Treasurer Carla Wild, Overseas Liaison Research, Newsletter/Publications,Hamilton Club Consumer Affairs, Resources, Alaine Shaw Publications, Library, Register, Joy Brown Special Projects, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Audrey Guirdham Central North Island, Kirsten Ward, Anne Marie Collins, Gael McKay East Coast North Island Margaret Fromont Lower North Island Janine Arcus North South Island, Vicki Campion Middle South Island, June Macdonald South South Island, Raewyn Alexander
1992/93	Bridget Car, President Vicki Campion, Vice-President Anne Corney, Secretary Carla Wild, Treasurer Julie White, Overseas Liaison Research, Newsletter, Karen Dalgleish Publications, Alaine Shaw Consumer Affairs, Resources, Julie White Library, – Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island – Central North Island, Kirsten Ward, Robyn Ryan, Gael McKay East Coast North Island, Margaret Fromont Lower North Island, Raewyn Blomfield North South Island, Vicki Campion Central South Island, Sharyn Woodhouse South South Island, Raewyn Alexander	1993/94	Bridget Car, President , Vice-President Raewyn Alexander, Secretary Carla Wild, Treasurer Julie White, Overseas Liaison Research, Newsletter, Karen Dalgleish Publications, Alaine Shaw Consumer Affairs, Resources, Julie White Library, – Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island – Central North Island, Christine Payze, Robyn Ryan East Coast North Island, Jane Wilson South North Island, – North South Island, Vicki Campion Central South Island, June McDonald South South Island, Judy Brown
1994/95	Karin Dalgliesh, President , Vice-President Raewyn Alexander, Secretary Carla Wild, Treasurer Cathy Bird, Overseas Liaison Research, Newsletter, Margaret Fromont and Hawkes Bay Club Publications, Bridget Carr Consumer Affairs, Resources, Cathy Bird Library, Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, – Central North Island, Helen Hudson East Coast North Island, Jane Wilson South North Island, Margot Ferrick North South Island, – Central South Island, – South South Island, Southland Multiple Birth Club ℅ Judy Brown	1995/96	Karin Dalgliesh, President , Vice-President Raewyn Alexander, Secretary Liz Blake, Treasurer
1996/97	Raewyn Alexander, President , Vice-President Raewyn Alexander, Secretary Liz Blake, Treasurer Stephanie Gartrell, Overseas Liaison Research, Newsletter, Vikki Pflaum Publications, Carla Wild, Karin Dalgleish Consumer Affairs, Resources, Stephanie Gartrell Library, Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Alison Gardinier, Anthea Springford Central North Island, Julia Price East Coast North Island, Michelle Payne South North Island, – North South Island, -Carol Parkinson Central South Island, Christchurch Club South South Island, Dawn Montagne-Maley, Celeste Palmer	1997/98	Liz Blake, President Joy Brown, Secretary Anthea Springfield, Treasurer Stephanie Gartrell, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Vikki Pflaum Publications, Julie Price Funding Officer, Celeste Palmer Resources, Stephanie Gartrell Library, Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Alison Gardinier Central North Island, Michelle Payne East Coast North Island, – South North Island, – Julia Price North South Island, – Carol Parkinson Central South Island, Christchurch Club South South Island, Dawn Montagne-Maley, Celeste Palmer
1998/99	Liz Blake, President Stephanie Gartrell, Vice-President Joy Brown, Secretary Gillian McPeake, Treasurer Dawn Montagne-Maley, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, – Publications, Julie Price Funding Officer, Celeste Palmer Resources, Dawn Montagne-Maley Library, Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, – Central North Island, Hamilton Club East Coast North Island, – South North Island, – Wendy Eyles North South Island, – Carol Parkinson Central South Island, Christchurch Club South South Island, Celeste Palmer	1999/00	Celeste Palmer, President Gladys Billing, Vice-President Joy Brown, Secretary Gillian McPeake, Treasurer Dawn Montagne-Maley, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Gladys Billing Publications, Stephanie Gartrell Funding Officer, Celeste Palmer Resources, Dawn Montagne-Maley Library, Register, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Auckland Central Central North Island, Hamilton Club East Coast North Island, Hawkes Bay Club South North Island, – Wendy Eyles North South Island, – Nelson Club Central South Island, Carol McHaffie South South Island, Gail Shanks
2000/01	Gladys Billing, President Wendy Eyles, Vice-President Gillian Dibley, Secretary Gillian McPeake, Treasurer Celeste Palmer, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, – Publications, – Funding Officer, Celeste Palmer Resources, Celeste Palmer Library, Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, – Central North Island, Hamilton Club East Coast North Island, Hawkes Bay Club South North Island, Ciska Penlington North South Island, Diana Franklin Central South Island, Wayne Treymane South South Island, –	2001/02	Gladys Billing, President Wendy Eyles, Vice-President Gillian Dibley, Secretary Ann ter Steege, Treasurer Shelley North, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, – Publications, – Funding Officer, – Resources, Shelley North Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Website, Geraldine Bruin Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Michelle Mann West Central North Island, Shelley North East Coast North Island, Hawkes Bay Club South North Island, – North South Island, Melissa Williams Central South Island, Carol McHaffie Otago, Raewyn Alexander Southland, Joy Brown
2002/03	Wendy Eyles, President Gillian Dibley, Vice-President Michelle Mann, Secretary Natasha Melcalfe, Treasurer Verity Lockley, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Le’Anne Cox Publications, – Funding Officer, Sue Newton Resources, Gladys Billing Register, Leigh Kenney Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Website, Geraldine Bruin Research, Joy Brown Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Waitakere Club West Central North Island, Shelley North East Central North Island, Carolyn McLachlan East Coast North Island, Hawkes Bay Club South North Island, – North South Island, – Central South Island, Gillian Dibley Otago, Catherine Wilkinson Southland, Joy Brown	2003/04	Wendy Eyles, President Gillian Dibley, Vice-President Michelle Mann, Secretary , Treasurer Verity Lockley, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, – Publications, – Funding Officer, – Resources, Gladys Billing Register, Leigh Kenney Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Website, – Research, – TripletsPlus, Jacqueline Samaratanga Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, – West Central North Island, – East Central North Island, – East Coast North Island, Hawkes Bay Club South North Island, – North South Island, Winnie Earl Central South Island, Vicky Abbott Otago, Catherine Wilkinson Southland, Joy Brown
2004/05	Wendy Eyles, President Stephanie Gartrell, Vice-President Michelle Mann, Secretary Yvonne Pou, Treasurer , Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Wendy Eyles Publications, – Funding Officer, Raewyn Alexander Resources, Gladys Billing Register, Leigh Kenney Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Website, – Research, – TripletsPlus, Jacqueline Samaratanga Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Susan Zwalue West Central North Island, Fiona Stokes-Rouse East Central North Island, – East Coast North Island, Robyn Boswell South North Island, Jonnece McLachlan North South Island, Marie Gardyne Central South Island, Leanne Pascoe Otago, Catherine Wilkinson Southland, Joy Brown	2005/06	Michelle Mann, President , Vice-President Pip Eagle, Secretary Margaret Fromont, Treasurer , Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Wendy Eyles Publications, – Funding Officer, Margaret Fromont Resources, Tracy McGee Register, Leigh Kenney Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Website, – Research, – TripletsPlus, Jacqueline Samaratanga Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, – West Central North Island, Fiona Stokes-Rouse Central North Island, Robyn Boswell East Coast North Island, – South North Island, Fiona McGlinchey North South Island, Monica Burrows Central South Island, Vanessa Borham Otago, Kyleen Brook Southland, Joy Brown
2006/07	Michelle Mann, President Mel Cade, Vice-President Pip Eagle, Secretary Margaret Fromont, Treasurer Tracy McGee, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Kim Prattley Publications, – Funding Officer, Margaret Fromont Resources, Tracy McGee Register, Leigh Kenney Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Website, – Research, – TripletsPlus, Jacqueline Samaratanga Regional Liaison Officers: North Island, Marlie Simpson West Central North Island, Fiona Stokes-Rouse Central North Island, – East Coast North Island, – South North Island, Fiona McGlinchey North South Island, Leonie Starkey Central South Island, Vanessa Borham Otago, Fiona Cowles Southland, Joy Brown	2007/08	Melanie Cade, President Tracey McGee, Vice-President Jackie Taylor, Secretary Margaret Fromont, Treasurer Kim Prattley, Newsletter Regional Liaison Officers: Disbanded this year
2008/09	Melanie Cade, President Fiona Purchas, Vice-President Sarah Baylis, Secretary Tracy McGee, Treasurer Tracy McGee, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, – Publications, – Funding Officer, Sarah Baylis Resources, Tracy McGee Register, Leigh Kenney Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Research, – TripletsPlus, Jacqueline Samaratanga	2009/10	Sarah Baylis, President Melanie Cade, Immediate Past President Fiona Purchas, Vice-President Ellie Chapman/Marlie Walker, Secretary Tracey McGee, Treasurer Tracey McGee, Overseas Liaison Newsletter, Terri-Lynn Mitchell Publications, – Funding Officer, Sarah Baylis Resources, Tracey McGee Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Research, – TripletsPlus, Jacqueline Samaratanga Regional Liaison Officers: Disbanded this year
2010/11	Sarah Baylis, President Fiona Purchas, Vice-President Ellie Chapman, Secretary Tracey McGee, Treasurer Newsletter, Terri-Lynn Mitchell Publications, – Grants Officer, Carol Coley Resources, Christine Charleston Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Research, – Triplets Plus, Jacqueline Samaratanga Regional Liaison Officers: Disbanded this year Archivist/Overseas Liaison – Disbanded	2011/12	Fiona Purchas, President Sarah Baylis, Immediate Past President Carolyn Lister, Vice-President Ellie Mackwood, Secretary Tracey McGee, Treasurer Terri-Lynn Mitchell, Newsletter Resources, Christine Charleston Grants and Funding, Carol Coley Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga & Carol Coley 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Roz Irwn, Fiona Purchas, Jacqui Newell
2012/13	Fiona Purchas, President Carolyn Lister, Vice-President Beate Noldan, Secretary Roz Irwin, Treasurer Ainslee Jacobson, Marketing Terri-Lynn Mitchell, Newsletter Ellie Mackwood, IT Coordinator Resources, Grants and Funding, Carol Coley Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga & Carol Coley 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Roz Irwn, Fiona Purchas, Jacqui Newell	2013/14	Carolyn Lister, President Fiona Purchas, Immediate Past PresidentAinslee Jacobson, Vice-PresidentBeate Noldan, SecretaryRoz Irwin, TreasurerTracey Warren, MarketingTerri-Lynn Mitchell, Magazine Ellie Mackwood, IT Coordinator Resources, Carol Coley Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga & Carol Coley Grants, Eloise Sime 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Roz Irwn, Fiona Purchas, Jacqui Newell
2014/15	Carolyn Lister, President Ainslee Jacobson, Vice-President Beate Noldan, Secretary Roz Irwin, Treasurer Kirsten Kyle, Marketing Terri-Lynn Mitchell, Magazine Ellie Mackwood, IT Coordinator Resources, Carol Coley Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Raewyn Alexander Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga & Carol Coley Grants, Eloise Sime 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Roz Irwn, Fiona Purchas, Jacqui Newell	2015/16	Carolyn Lister, President Ainslee Jacobson, Vice-President Beate Noldan, Secretary Vicki Fiet, Treasurer Shelley King, Marketing Terri-Lynn Mitchell, Magazine Lauren Manson, Website Resources, Jane Rumyantseva Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Dee Harrs Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Roz Irwn, Fiona Purchas, Jacqui Newell
2016/17	Ainslee Jacobson, President Carolyn Lister, Immediate Past President Beate Noldan, Vice-President Rebecca Grooby, Secretary Vicki Fiet, Treasurer Michelle Kitney, Marketing Shelley King, Magazine Lauren Manson, Website Resources, Jane Rumyantseva Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Dee Harrs Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga International, Carolyn Lister 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Fiona Purchas, Jacqui Newell	2017/18	Ainslee Jacobson, President Beate Noldan, Vice-President Bron Dutton, Secretary Vicki Fiet, Treasurer Michelle Kitney, Marketing Kirsty Saxon, Magazine Heather Ben, Website Resources, Jane Rumyantseva Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Desiree Morgan Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga International, Carolyn Lister 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Jacqui
2018/19	Ainslee Jacobson, President Beate Noldan, Vice-President Bron Dutton, Secretary Heather Ben, Treasurer Michelle Kitney, Marketing Kirsty Saxon, Magazine Lizelle Lombaard, Website Resources, Jane Rumyantseva Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Desiree Morgan Triplets Plus, Stacey Morunga International, Carolyn Lister 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Jacqui Newell	2019/20	Heather Ben, President Ainslee Jacobson, Immediate Past President Michelle Kitney, Vice-President Bron Dutton, Secretary Sally Coombs, Treasurer Amy Dean, Marketing Magazine, Kirsty Saxon Resources, Register, Joy Brown Special Needs Coordinator, Desiree Morgan Website, Triplets Plus, International, Carolyn Lister 0800 Operator, Jessica Zame, Jacqui Newell

Multiples NZ Volunteer Awards 2020 Winners Announced!

November 2, 2020/in Blog, Uncategorised /by Penny Wallace-Patterson

The purpose of the 7th Multiples NZ Volunteer Awards is to highlight the volunteer effort required to support families with multiples in New Zealand. The Awards recognise individual achievement, while publicly acknowledging all voluntary effort. These awards are an opportunity for members, clubs and Multiples NZ to publicly express thanks to our hard working and committed volunteers!

Congratulations to everyone who was nominated and thank you to all those who submitted nominations this year. The winners are listed below:

EMERGING VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2020

Awarded to a volunteer who has stepped up and made a difference in their club or the New Zealand multiples community in their first 18 months as a volunteer (either on a committee or in a specific volunteer role e.g. starting a sub-branch, running a playgroup, being a contact person). The award highlights not only their contribution thus far, but their potential/intention to contribute to the multiple’s community in the future.

The volunteer must be a financial member of a Multiples NZ affiliated club or Multiples NZ.

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winner’s local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Joint Winners for 2020:

SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR 2020

Awarded to a volunteer who has provided exceptional service by supporting a family or families with multiples in the past year.

The volunteer must be a financial member of a Multiples NZ affiliated club or Multiples NZ

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winners local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Winner for 2020:

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2020

This year the nominees of the Volunteer of the Year award will be made up of the award winners of the Volunteer of the Month Award. All monthly winners from September of the previous year through to the month of August will be considered as nominees for the Volunteer of the Year award. For 2020 winners of the Volunteer of the Month Award from March 2020 to August 2020 will be eligible for this award.

The Volunteer of the Year is awarded to a volunteer who has provided exceptional service for the betterment of families with multiples within their local area or nationally.

The volunteer must be a financial member of a Multiples NZ affiliated club or Multiples NZ

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winner’s local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Winner for 2020

COMMUNITY DEDICATION 2020

Awarded to a volunteer who has made an outstanding contribution to their club or the New Zealand multiples community for at least five years regardless of their role – from committee members to those people helping behind the scenes.

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winner’s local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Winner for 2020

CLUB OF THE YEAR 2020

Awarded to a Multiples NZ affiliated club that encompasses all or some of the following attributes:

Has built and/or maintains a strong sense of belonging in its members.
There has been significant membership growth and retention of members.
Develops and implements innovative projects that support the needs of multiple families
Is governed by a committee that acts in the best interests of its member families, understands its responsibilities and has systems in place to exercise them properly.
Shows a willingness to share ideas and experiences at a national level.
Grows and maintains positive relationships with the wider community, support agencies and national sponsors.
Recovered after facing significant challenges such as dwindling membership, lack of committee or finances.

$300 cash prize

Winner for 2020

Congratulations again to all our winners and all those nominated!

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH – WINNER OCTOBER 2020

November 2, 2020/in Blog /by Penny Wallace-Patterson

Alisha Peter – Multiples Canterbury

Alisha was nominated by Carolyn Lister.

Carolyn says:

” Alisha only joined our committee in July when we put the call out for a new magazine editor. She has hit the ground running and done an incredible job transforming our club magazine. The magazine was ‘tired’ and needed a good overhaul. Alisha with support from Caroline, another of our new volunteers, has given it a whole new lease of life. She engages regularly on our club page to connect with members and source content as well as connecting nationally and sourcing content through ICOMBO. As a result the content has been strengthened and members have responded very positively. A whole new design upgrade was rolled out for the October/November issue.

Alisha is also extremely organised, always delivers on time and sets clear goals for the magazine which ensures that a range of interesting content is included in the magazine. Alisha has succeeded in increasing member engagement and making the magazine more relevant for them. Her friendly manner makes people want to be involved in both magazine contributions and the wider club community. Some of the feedback we have received on the magazine includes:

“Love the formatting Alisha- very professional”

“Hey Alisha it looks amazing! Well done on a stellar job!”

“Awesome job!!! 👏🏼💘🥰💞”

In addition to her magazine role Alisha is always looking out to connect with members and committee. Caroline (our marketing volunteer) lives in Haast but visits Christchurch every so often, so Alisha has arranged a get together to ensure Caroline gets to meet some more of the committee and feels a part of the group. She also is always volunteering to pick people up to take to events. Alisha has also volunteered to be a buddy for two expectant members who live close to her. Every club needs an Alisha!

Congratulations Alisha!

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH – WINNER SEPTEMBER 2020

October 13, 2020/in Blog /by Penny Wallace-Patterson

LIZ CAMPBELL – Multiples Otago

Liz was nominated by Hannah Harrex.

Hannah says:

“Liz has been the backbone of this club through our toughest years, her motivation and vision kept the club afloat when we weren’t sure how we would keep going. With only 3 members on our committee for a long time, we were lucky that Liz was one of them. Her drive was one of the major factors that got us to where we are currently. (A strong committee of dedicated members and lots of new members).

She stepped down as President when we desperately needed a Treasurer but continued to give direction and leadership within her role as Treasurer. Liz is one of the hardest working people I know and does it all while being an awesome Mum to her beautiful twin girls. Liz always has the best interests of our members at heart and we are all so lucky to have her.

This nomination has been a long time coming and we want to acknowledge everything she has done for this club. To list everything she has done would take forever, she’s been the real MVP of Multiples Otago for the last few years!”

Congratulations Liz!

Multiples NZ Volunteer Awards 2020

September 9, 2020/in Blog, Uncategorised /by Penny Wallace-Patterson

The winners of these awards will be announced virtually this year from 8pm on the 5th of October via Facebook Live on the Multiples NZ Facebook page.

Congratulations to everyone who has been nominated and thank you to all those who submitted a nomination.

EMERGING VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2020

The volunteer must be a financial member of a Multiples NZ affiliated club or Multiples NZ.

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winner’s local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Nominees 2020

Anna Havrankova – Multiples Auckland North

Christine Pugh – Wellington Multiples

Ella Garnham – KāpiMana Multiples

Heather Craig – Multiples Canterbury

Jo Otukolo – Multiples Auckland NorthMalama Caskie Multiples Auckland North

SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR 2020

Awarded to a volunteer who has provided exceptional service by supporting a family or families with multiples in the past year.

The volunteer must be a financial member of a Multiples NZ affiliated club or Multiples NZ

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winners local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Nominees 2020

Abby Harding – Multiples Canterbury

Amy Teague – Wellington Multiples

Emma Bentley – KāpiMana Multiples

Lynley Stringer – Multiples Auckland North

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 2020

The Volunteer of the Year is awarded to a volunteer who has provided exceptional service for the betterment of families with multiples within their local area or nationally.

The volunteer must be a financial member of a Multiples NZ affiliated club or Multiples NZ

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winner’s local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Nominees 2020

Desiree Morgan – Multiples Counties Manukau

Georgie Manning – Wellington Multiples

Helen Johnson – Multiples Canterbury

Jane Dempsey – Multiples Auckland Central

Lucie Brooks – Multiples Bay of Plenty

Tori Pinfold – KāpiMana Multiples

COMMUNITY DEDICATION 2020

Prize includes $50 cash and $100 to the winner’s local Multiples NZ affiliated club.

Nominees 2020

Kirsty Saxon – Multiples Canterbury

Rachel Smith – Multiples Canterbury

CLUB OF THE YEAR 2020

Awarded to a Multiples NZ affiliated club that encompasses all or some of the following attributes:

Has built and/or maintains a strong sense of belonging in its members.
There has been significant membership growth and retention of members.
Develops and implements innovative projects that support the needs of multiple families
Is governed by a committee that acts in the best interests of its member families, understands its responsibilities and has systems in place to exercise them properly.
Shows a willingness to share ideas and experiences at a national level.
Grows and maintains positive relationships with the wider community, support agencies and national sponsors.
Recovered after facing significant challenges such as dwindling membership, lack of committee or finances.

$300 cash prize

Nominees 2020

KāpiMana Multiples

Multiples Canterbury

Multiples Counties Manukau

Wellington Multiples

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH – WINNER AUGUST 2020

September 9, 2020/in Blog /by Penny Wallace-Patterson

DESIREE MORGAN – Multiples Counties Manukau President

Desiree was nominated by Heather Ben, President, Multiples NZ

Heather says:

“Desiree is that hidden gem we all dream of finding! Far from an easy road to joining our community, she works tirelessly to help others even when her personal load is huge.

Desiree joined our committee as a support person, she has experience with losing a baby (her multiples were triplets and she sadly lost one early on) her boys – known as the duo, also had a traumatic birth all these things are woven into the fabric of the support and comfort she has for scared new mums, Desiree has a way of sharing how things sometimes don’t go to plan without freaking people out.

When after 12 months of telling the committee that I was stepping down as President, no one showed any interest – Desiree quietly came to me without any fuss and said – there is no way I am going to let all the hard work of so many be lost, I’ll do it! From that moment on I have seen a new person – fiercely determined, strong sense of justice and direction – this lady knows what needs to be done, rolls up her sleeves and gets stuck in!

This has also been a whole family effort, due to location it has meant a 4-5 hour round trip for the entire family to attend committee meetings (including getting home very late sometimes) cos us ladies can talk. Saturday mornings again the whole family at the Equipment Storage shed greeting new members, organising equipment for them and letting them know it will be OK.

Desiree is happy to share her knowledge and story, she has 4 kids with different diagnosis all technically “special needs” although I am loath to use that term because they are amazing kids and that is a testament to the patience, resilience, advocacy and love that their Mum (and Dad) provide them.

This lady is constantly fighting – for her children, her club members, the wider community to get the support they deserve.

I have held back from submitting this nomination for months knowing that I “technically” possibly shouldn’t BUT actually people like this need to know how greatly they are seen, appreciated and respected.

Desiree I am constantly in awe of the work you do, and am a much better person for knowing you. Kia Kaha.”

Mātauranga Māori in pregnancy and birth

September 7, 2020/in Blog, Uncategorised /by Barnaby Haszard Morris

Kirsty Saxon (Multiples New Zealand) talks to our multiple mamas about the resurgence of mātauranga Māori in pregnancy and birth.

The word whānau means both to give birth and family, and hapū means both pregnant and clan, illustrating the significance of pregnancy and childbirth to Māori. The whakataukī (proverb) ‘Mate i te tamaiti he aurukōwhao; mate i te wahine he takerehāia’ (the death of a child may be overcome, but the death of a woman is a calamity) shows the importance of producing children. When a family line was in danger of disappearing through lack of children it was called a whare ngaro (lost house).

Amy Black (Multiples Tauranga) is one of an increasing number of multiple mothers who are using mātauranga Māori practices with their babies. Mum to almost two year old girls, Bethany and Millie, Amy was gifted wahakura by her iwi, Ngāi Tahu. Ngāi Tahu gift wahakura to all new babies registered with the iwi. Amy saying, “We were so grateful to receive them and they were exceptionally handy to have so we could take their beds with us wherever we went. I love how flax is a natural product for my babies to sleep in and they smelt really good too… and best of all we have them as a gorgeous keepsake to keep in the family for the future!”

A wahakura is a woven sleeping bassinet for a baby up to six months of age, based on a traditional design, which has been revived for modern use by Māori doctor David Tipene-Leach. A wahakura is made using the traditional art of raranga (weaving). Māori parents can maintain the cultural tradition of keeping their babies with them in bed, but provide a protected space for a baby. Sleeping in the same bed as young babies puts them at greater risk of SUDI (Sudden Unexplained Death of an Infant). It also promotes breast-feeding and bonding with baby.

Another mātauranga practise Amy has embraced, is burying her babies placentas. The word for the placenta, ‘whenua’, is also the word for land. The placenta is the organ that nourishes and protects your baby in the uterus and is considered sacred by many. The umbilical cord close to a baby’s body is the pito. The whenua was taken after birth and buried on ancestral whenua, which linked the baby with their tribal land. It is now acknowledged that the placenta is considered precious by many, and is to be respected. Traditional Māori practice is to bury the placenta and return it to the land. This is because the earth mother, Papatūānuku, birthed all living things and the land is her placenta or whenua. When we bury the whenua we return it to its place of birth. The Māori of New Zealand are Tangata Whenua, people of the land and so the word whenua means placenta, but also land. Amy’s mother buried her whenua under fruit and nut trees at her home. “Whatungarongaro te tangata toitū te whenua” – As man disappears from sight, the land remains. — Māori proverb.

Amy Walsh, Multiples Hamilton, is pregnant with her twins and has purchased muka ties for their umbilical cords. “I went to the Hapū Wānanga Antenatal class and Kelly who runs it sells the muka ties. I had already heard from several people about them. I was instantly interested as I never liked the plastic clips with my older children, but wasn’t aware back then of any other options.”

Muka, a flax fibre with anti-bacterial properties has been used by Māori families for centuries to tie the umbilical cord, instead of medical clamps. Mirielle de Ridder, from Kerikeri, is making pure cotton cord ties. “Fifteen years ago we moved to the South Island and saw the beauty of pounamu, and our connection was instant. Thus our journey began with the sacred kōhatu. We connect, listen and learn with every stone, and follow the path she takes us on. To be able to help connect baby and their journey earthside to Aotearoa by using pounamu to create cord ties and pito cutters, we believe we are truly blessed.” de Ridder’s pito cutters are specially crafted with a knife edge blade for cutting the umbilical cord, and are a great natural alternative. After the pito has been used they can be then sent back to have the knife edge taken off and fashioned into a wearable toki to be treasured for generations. They are crafted from pounamu which is the stone of good luck and love.

Other Matauranga Māori practises which continue to be used are mirimiri (massage), karakia (prayer), and waiata (song) during pregnancy and birth, and beyond.

Whakawhanau pēpi

Other Matauranga Māori practises which continue to be used are mirimiri (massage), karakia (prayer), and waiata (song) during pregnancy and birth, and beyond.

Maakarita Paku is a Consumer Reviewer for the New Zealand College of Midwives. She has seen a rise in Māori whanau implementing Mātauranga Māori into the birth of their babies, she propses that this increase is linked to the Kohanga Reo movement. She says there is a generation of Kohanga Reo kids who are now parents, and many of them have been exposed to mātauranga Māori and traditional birthing practices.

Te Whare Tapa Wha

September 7, 2020/in Blog, Uncategorised /by Barnaby Haszard Morris

Kirsty Saxon (Multiples Canterbury/Multiples NZ Executive) explores mental health from a Māori perspective.

The topic of mental health is something I am really passionate about, as a mum who suffered from Postnatal Depression (PND) with both my singleton in 2011, and my twinkles in 2013/2014; and also someone who still struggles with depression. Mothers of multiples are at a higher risk of experiencing PND – approximately 1 in 5 mothers of twins and triplets are diagnosed by their health professional as suffering from (PND). A further 1 in 5 mothers think they may have had PND, but do not receive medical confirmation or treatment. (Dr. Erika Fraser, TAMBA, 2010). When I was reflecting on these statistics, I decided to explore this topic from a Māori perspective. This Māori philosophy is based on a holistic health and wellness model called Te Whare Tapa Whā, developed by Dr Mason Durie in 1984. Mason Durie KNZM is a New Zealand professor of Māori Studies and research academic at Massey University (psychiatry). He is known for his contributions to Māori health. Durie is currently Emeritus Professor of Māori Research & Development at Massey University.

Te Whare Tapa Whā can be applied to any health issue, whether it involves physical or psychological well-being (wairua and whānau). Wairua is also linked to connection via mother and child through the whenua (body) and birth (karanga, sacred lifting of tapu and replacing with noa). This is what makes it holistic opposed to westernised version of wellbeing such as the biomedical model. The biomedical model of health focuses on purely biological factors and excludes psychological, environmental, and social influences. It is considered to be the leading modern way for health care professionals to diagnose and treat a condition in most Western countries. This might be an interesting lens to look through for PND.

Te Whare Tapa Whā

The model is underpinned by four dimensions representing the basic beliefs of life – te taha hinengaro (psychological health); te taha wairua (spiritual health); te taha tinana (physical health); and te taha whānau (family health). These four dimensions are represented by the four walls of a house. Each wall is necessary to the strength and symmetry of the building. Connection with the whenua/land and roots forms the foundation. All of these kaupapa are interrelated, as when one becomes “sick” or “unstable” the others are affected too. To me, this holistic approach of ensuring all four dimensions are strong in order to create a strong parent and whanau are a valuable tool in our kete when creating happy and healthy families.

Te taha hinengaro (psychological health)

This refers to psychological health, with a focus on emotions. It is understood that the mind and body are inseparable, and that communication through emotions is important and more meaningful than the exchange of words. Taking care of taha hinengaro is important for everyone, regardless of whether or not you’ve experienced mental illness or distress. When your taha hinengaro is strong, you can better cope with the ups and downs of life. You can express your feelings and reach out for support from friends, whānau and hoamahi/colleagues if you need to. The kupu in te reo Māori is Whakawhanuangatanga – to build relationships, relate well socially, and communicate. Some things you can do in this area could be spending quality time and talking with whānau, friends, workmates and neighbours, connecting with support groups or programmes, volunteering your time, or getting outside for exercise and reflection. Reinforce that there is strength in asking for help. With new mums, they may not admit it themselves, but do your best as a family member or friend to assess the situation, is this new mama/whanau coping? How can her village wrap it’s support so tightly around her she will never be let down?

Te taha wairua (spiritual health)

This refers to spiritual awareness, including when considering the spiritual attachment between mother and baby. It is recognised as the essential requirement for health and well-being. It is believed that without spiritual awareness, an individual can be lacking in well-being and therefore more prone to ill health. Wairua explores relationships with the environment, people and heritage. Feeling comfortable in your identity, values and beliefs helps you feel secure in who you are and what you stand for. When you are content with yourself it is easier to cope with challenges, build strong whānau relationships and discover the things that uplift you. Connect with your special places/tūrangawaewae (place of belonging) or a place that recharges you, Find a spiritual practice you can become completely absorbed in, such as meditation, investigate your heritage/whakapapa, who you are, where you are from and where you stand; skilfully reflecting on the past can enhance our appreciation of the present moment. But how do parents of multiples find time for self and spiritual care? Charles Buxton said, “You will never find time for anything. If you want time you must make it.” Be intentional about your spiritual goals, write them down, find a moment which is yours alone.

Te taha tinana

This refers to physical health and growth and development as it relates to the body. This focuses on physical well-being and bodily care. Tinana suffers when a person is under emotional stress, or is unwell. Pain in different parts of your body is tinana communicating what is going on consciously or unconsciously. Trying to nourish and strengthen your physical wellbeing will help you to cope with the ups and downs of life, this can include nourishing your body with food as medicine and rongoā Māori (natural remedy, traditional treatment, Māori medicine). Feeling physically well helps us to feel mentally well. Having strong taha tinana means we can be there for our whānau and take leadership in helping our loved ones live longer, healthier lives too. It’s important to acknowledge that sometimes your taha tinana may not be as good as you’d like it to be, and this might be beyond your control. What’s important is that you take care of your taha tinana and do what you can to nurture it, regardless of your current physical abilities. Make a commitment with your whānau to make healthier choices together, get involved in a sports group or club, be aware of what triggers less healthy behaviour – for me this is eating when I’m stressed, get out there and be adventurous – physical activity helps prevent or manage a lot of health conditions. Exercise, if you love or hate it, you can not deny that it does something awesome for your body and mind. It releases endorphins and makes you feel better. So whatever you love doing, do that. For me, it is dog walking with friends (walk and whinge) and crossfit. Get what you love in your schedule.

Te taha whānau

This is the most fundamental unit of Te Ao Māori . Whānau may include up to three or four generations, and its importance will vary from one individual to the next. The beliefs, expectations or opinions of the whānau can have a major impact on the career and personal choices that an individual makes. They can also be used as a strength, to allow mama to rest or to share their parenting tips. Traditionally this is what the Kuia and Kaumātua roles were within the hapū. Mothers went gathering, fathers went hunting and Nanny and Papa taught and nurtured the mokopuna. Often hard to translate into today’s society as our whānau structures have changed and adapted to a more western version of family. Spending time with whānau, doing things for them and getting involved gives you a feeling of purpose, connection and wellbeing. It benefits you and builds the strength of your whole whānau. As a core source of strength, support, security and identity, whānau plays a central role in your wellbeing. To nurture your family, spend time with your kids, make time for your friends and wider family, get outdoors – go for a walk, have a picnic. Treasure our extended and elderly whānau … invite them for meals; help with their laundry, cleaning or dishes; or take their kids for a walk while mum has a decent shower.

The wharenui (meeting house)

This is the symbol used to illustrate these dimensions of well-being. Just as each corner of the house must be strong and balanced to hold its structure, each dimension of well-being must be balanced for health to exist. Developing self-awareness is key to creating balance and harmony in all aspects of life. All four walls are needed, and must be in balance, for the house to be strong. So taking care of your physical health is important, but to live your best possible life, you also need to pay attention to your mental health, spirituality and the strength of your whānau. The good news is there are lots of everyday things you can do to build health in these four areas. You’re probably doing a lot of them already – it’s just a case of recognising their value and making them a priority.

Whenua

Whenua is the place where you stand. It is your connection to the land – a source of life, nourishment and wellbeing for everyone. Whenua includes soil, rocks, plants, animals and people – the tangata whenua. We are linked physically and spiritually to the land – it is the earth through which you are connected to your tūpuna/ancestors and all the generations that will come after you. You can also think about whenua as your place of belonging – that means the spaces where you feel comfortable, safe and able to be yourself. It could be around your friends, at home with whānau, as part of a sports team or even at your place of study or mahi/work. Everything in the Māori world has a life force, the mauri, and when our natural resources are not looked after, this life force is weakened. This has a direct impact on mental health and wellbeing. Get your whānau together and explore your local maunga/mountain; challenge yourself to produce less waste. It’s amazing to see how much we use each day that isn’t necessary! There are plenty of tips online for how you can reduce, reuse and recycle; or plant trees or a vegetable garden.

Reflection

On a personal level, I still struggle through some days, but they are few and far between now. What helped was purely time … time with my children, time with myself, and just taking one day at a time. My parenting journey has been one of definitive highs and lows, but through it all I have learned to take each moment, hour, day, as it comes, and know that things will eventually get better; to enjoy the little things, as one day you will look back and realise these are the big things in life; surround yourself with people who will love, support, listen, laugh and cry with you; and most importantly of all – everything happens for a reason. It is never apparent at the time, but there are lessons there eventually. When one door closes, another opens. As a parent of multiples, it is a delicate balance, finding the time to make sure I am nurturing Te Whare Tapa Whā. But it is something I am becoming more mindful of as the years go by.

“He ōranga ngākau, he pikinga waiora”

Positive feelings in your heart will enhance your sense of self-worth.

This whakataukī refers to emotional, spiritual and family waiora dimensions of an individual. Expanding on this, an individual’s waiora is maintained by a balance between all four wellbeing dimensions and this whakataukī draws on being positive.

Kirsty is mum to Ruby (8), Xavier (5) and Lilian (5). Their whānau have recently moved from 90 Mile Beach in the Far North, to Methven in Canterbury.

References:

Māorimenshealth.co.nz

Mason Durie, 1984

MHAW.nz

R2R.org.nz

Tamba.org.uk

Stacey Ruru, Maree Roche, Waikaremoana Waitoki; Journal of Indigenous Wellbeing, June 2017

Special thanks also to Hermione John

VOLUNTEERS

August 27, 2020/in Blog /by Desiree Morgan

Volunteers: the un-sung heroes who all deserve a moment of praise!

A 2006, Sport NZ funded, study of sport volunteers noted that at some level, all volunteers want their contribution to be acknowledged. The annual Multiples NZ Volunteer Award programme is one way that our organisation acknowledges those volunteers within our community, who dedicate time to supporting whānau with twins, triplets or more. Now in it’s 7th year, the programme has undergone a few changes to make it even easier to publicly thank our people. In 2020, the Volunteer of the Month award was introduced, and has been a well received category. One winner, Georgie Manning, had this to say about winning the June Volunteer of the Month:

“Winning Volunteer of the Month was such a lovely surprise. I think when we volunteer it can be hard to translate the value of what you’re doing with your time to family and friends who aren’t seeing the direct results but being able to say- “hey, look what people said about me, My effort has been recognised for being extraordinary!” People get it. It’s validation that, especially as a “non-working” mum, I don’t often feel that from peers because it’s not like a regular job where if you do well you get a pat on the back from the boss or a bonus. And who doesn’t love seeing nice things said about them! Volunteers are the un-sung heroes and I think we all deserve a moment of praise!”

All the winners of the Volunteer of the Month Award are put forward for the Volunteer of the Year Award, just one of the categories that make up the Multiples NZ Awards programme. Other categories include Emerging Volunteer, for volunteers who have only been volunteering for 18 months or less. Then there is the Community Dedication award for volunteers who have been volunteering for over five years. The Support Person of the Year Award is for volunteers who specifically support a local family or families, and the Club of the Year award. Nominations open each year at the beginning of NZ Volunteer Week in June and close at 11pm on the 1st of September. The awards are usually presented at the evening function of the annual Multiples NZ National Training Forum, however this year, the awards will be presented virtually.

Jodie McCartney, from Multiples Auckland North, sums up the value of winning Emerging Volunteer of the Year in 2019: “I was totally surprised to be nominated by my fellow volunteers from Auckland North for the annual Multiples NZ award. I think you become a volunteer because you naturally like to help people and want to give back in some way. To make a difference in someone’s life is what makes me happy, and then to have this recognised without thinking you have actually done much at all makes you want to do it so much more. It was an absolute honor to win the Emerging Volunteer award and my certificate is presented proudly in my office to remind me that we can all make a difference.”

Jodi McCartney receiving her award from Ainslee Jacobson

The nomination period for the Multiples NZ Volunteer Awards closes at 11pm on the 1st of September and we encourage our families, stakeholders and volunteers to get a nomination in. The volunteer you nominate will love you for it.

https://multiples.org.nz/event/multiples-nz-volunteer-awards-2020/

References
Sport NZ. (2006). Finding and Keeping Volunteers: what the research tells us. https://sportnz.org.nz/assets/Uploads/attachments/managing-sport/officials-and-volunteers/Finding-and-Keeping-Volunteers.pdf

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH – WINNER JULY 2020

August 7, 2020/in Blog /by Penny Wallace-Patterson

HELEN JOHNSON – North Canterbury Contact and Under 5’s Team

Helen was nominated by Heather Craig, Secretary – Multiples Canterbury

Heather says:

“Over the last 18 months there has been what can only be described as a twin-boom in the North Canterbury area. Providing support and connecting with these new members has presented some challenges for Multiples Canterbury, as the majority of volunteers and events have been centred on Christchurch and the Selwyn District to the south.

Helen is mum to a seven-year-old boy (Finn) and two-year-old twin girls (Willow and Bree) and lives in Rangiora, North Canterbury. She has stepped into the role of North Canterbury Contact without missing a beat. Seeing the need for a place for new multiples parents to connect, she offered to host a coffee group at her house every week. This group runs right through the school holidays and up until Christmas. Even during lockdown, Helen arranged regular online chats and check-ins. I really think that Helen represents what our club volunteers should be about, everyone in the area knows they can turn to her for advice, a pep-talk, or a cup of coffee and a laugh. The amount of time she puts into keeping in touch with everyone and making sure that any issues are identified to the wider club is a significant personal investment.

On a personal note, I am one of the North Canterbury newbies. My first contact with the club was responding to Helen on a facebook post. She invited me over, let me cry on her shoulder, introduced me to other multiples families, and encouraged me to become more involved in the club (resulting in me being elected secretary at last years AGM). Talking to the other North Canterbury mums we all have similar experiences, where Helen reaching out has transformed our support system from struggling comparing ourselves to our peers with singletons to having a core group of multiple parent friends – and we all know the amazing value of this! I have full confidence that Helen’s openness and friendly approach will mean that future multiples parents will also be brought into this valuable support system.

In terms of more official duties, Helen is currently setting up the North Canterbury Playgroup through Ministry of Education channels. She has also secured us an appropriate venue (no easy feat in this area for such a number). Helen also organises Tumbletimes and other events in Christchurch for the Under 5 age group and is a regular helping out at club events such as Christmas parties, fundraisers, and club picnics”