Good morning Scoopers,

The first week back at school has started and we want to know what you stay at home Mumma’s did to relax without the little ones running a mock. “Reply” and share the details!

In today’s Tauranga Scoop:

• Community Rallies After Ōropi School Break-in

• Sam Ruthe Youngest to Win NZ National Senior Title

• All the Events You Can’t Miss

SPONSORED BY YARD BARBERS

Community Rallies After Oropi School Break in

Oropi School was broken into over New Year’s with thieves stealing power tools, including drills, sanders and multi-tools. Principal Andrew King believes the shed, was intentionally targeted.

Despite the setback, King praised the overwhelming support from the community, calling it “heart-warming.” Donations from groups like Menzshed Omokoroa, retirees, and landscaping businesses have helped the situation a lot.

Security footage is still being reviewed to determine the exact timing of the break-in, and King remains unsure whether an insurance claim or police report will be filed. The school will reopen on February 3.

Valentine’s Day: Handpicked for Love ❤️

Make Her Day with a Bouquet

1. Little Belle Flowers: Wild, romantic, modern and fun!

2. Flowerette: Stunning selection of fresh and dried bouquets!

3. Amy’s Flowers: Lots of amazing colours and styles to choose from!

Love on the Menu

1. Umami Fusion Kitchen: A great spot for those looking to try something different and enjoy those bold Asian flavors.

2. Sugo: The house-made pasta and pizzas are crazy good!

3. Osteria: Another Italian inspired restaurant, the lamb shanks just fall off the bone.

Spoil your Valentine

1. Bethlehem Jewellers Boutique: Such a gorgeous showroom. You’ll be blown away!

2. Hammon Diamond Jeweller: Really knowledgeable, and helpful. They know the way to the female heart.

3. The Luxe Club: From earrings to handbags, you’ll definitely find something special for your loved one!

Because Love Pairs Well with Wine

1. Mount Wine Barrel: Looking for something special after a dinner out. Check these guys out.

2. Mount Boutique Liquor: A boutique full of stunning wines & spirits for that special night.

Sam Ruthe Youngest to Win NZ Senior National Title

Tauranga’s 15-year-old Sam Ruthe has made history as the youngest man to win a national senior track and field title, claiming victory in the 3000m at the Potts Classic in Hastings.

Clocking a world-best time of 7:56.18 for his age. Ruthe powered through the final lap to finish nearly 10m ahead of his more experienced rivals.

He is coached by Craig Kirkwood, who also mentors two-time Olympian Sam Tanner and two-time Olympic triathlon medallist Hayden Wilde.

This Week's Buzz!

If you're looking for something fun and meaningful to do on Waitangi Day, there are some awesome free events happening across Tauranga!

First up, the Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day dawn service is going ahead at Mount Drury Reserve in Mount Maunganui. Everyone’s welcome from 6 AM, with the service starting at 6:30 AM. Expect a welcome from Tangata Whenua, Kapa Haka, and guest speakers.

Mid-morning, Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival is at Historic Village from 10 AM to 3 PM. There’ll be live music all day, cultural performances, and hands-on workshops like calligraphy, kawakawa balm-making, and harakeke (flax) jewelry. Plus, you can walk the Treaty Storyboard Trail to learn more about the history of Tauranga and the Treaty of Waitangi.

Heaps of cool stuff happening, so if you're keen to celebrate the day, there’s something for everyone!

Music & Concerts 🎵

Bob Marley Tribute Show

• When: 06 February 2025, Waitangi Day

• Where: Cornerstone Bar

• More Info: Bob Marley

Thistle & The Shamrock

• When: Friday 7 February, 11am-12:45pm

• Where: Holy Trinity Church

• More Info: Thistle & The Shamrock

Beacon Bloom - Live at Totara Street

• When: Saturday 8 February

• Where: Totara Street

• More Info: Beacon Bloom

Comedy & Screenings🎭

Open Mic Standup Comedy

• When: Thursday 6 February

• Where: Tauriko Pub Co.

• More Info: Standup

Waterfront Family Movie - Encanto

• When: Saturday 8 February

• Where: The Strand

• More Info: Waterfront Movie

Bridget Jones’ Diary

• When: Friday 7 February

• Where: Village Cinema

• More Info: Bridget Jones

Di Filippo Marionette

• When: Sunday 9 February

• Where: 17th Avenue West

• More Info: Di Filippo Marionette

Festivals & Special Events 🎉

Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival

• When: Thursday, 6 February

• Where: The Historic Village, Tauranga

• More Info: Tauranga Moana

Te Puke A&P Show

• When: Friday, 7 February

• Where: Showgrounds Rd, Paengaroa, Te Puke

• More Info: Te Puke A&P Show

Sunday Funday

• When: Sunday, 9 February

• Where: The Crossing

• More Info: Sunday Funday

THANKS!

Thanks for jumping into the Tauranga Scoop today! If you found something juicy, go ahead and share it with that friend who thinks tomato sauce belongs on everything. Catch you next edition!

— Storm, Tauranga Scoop