Exploring the snow this winter
28 Jun 2017
Exploring the snow this winter You don’t need to be an expert to have a great day on the mountain. Many ski novices – or those who skied in their youth but haven’t seen the snow for a few years – can be put-off by the thought of high costs, dicey access roads and potential failure on the slopes. It doesn’t have to be that hard. There are so many options in the South Island for skiing holidays that are easy to get to, reasonably affordable and realistic for any skill level. One of the big differences is the choice between the commercial and club fields. At the first you’ll have access to all the gear and facilities, while the latter is a more intimate experience with less pressure. Below are a few tips to get you and your family on the mountain this winter – whether you want to push yourself to the top or just sit back and enjoy the scenery. *1. Accessibility – you don’t necessarily need a 4WD* Many of the big fields, like Coronet Peak and the Remarkables, now have fully tar-sealed access roads. Even some of the smaller clubs, such as Craigieburn, Broken River and Mt Cheeseman, are gravelled. So, as long as...
Read the full postLow student numbers result in Southland Civil Plant programme closure
9 Jun 2017
Low student numbers result in Southland Civil Plant programme closure Declining student numbers in Tai Poutini Polytechnic’s (TPP’s) Southland‐based Civil Plant Operation programme have made it unviable to continue and the programme will be closed as soon as current students have completed their studies. TPP has been consulting with staff and union representatives over the future of the Southland Civil Plant Operation programme in recent months. With just five students enrolled in 2017, it has been decided that it is not economical to continue the programme. The Polytechnic is working with the staff affected by the decision to discontinue the programme in order to appropriately address employment matters. The closure of the programme in Southland will have no direct impact on other TPP Civil and Mining programmes around the country, which continue to attract strong enrolments. TPP Chief Executive Alex Cabrera says the decision to close the Southland Civil Plant Operation programme was not an easy one. “We are acutely aware of the contribution the programme makes to the local economy and of the future of our staff in Southland. Unfortunately, it simply became unviable to continue to offer the programme with such low student numbers. “The closure relates to the ongoing sustainability improvement work currently underway at TPP. It was a difficult decision, however, it is a financially prudent step...
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Greymouth and Westport Campus Open Day
28 May 2017
Greymouth and Westport Campus Open Day Greymouth and Westport Campus Open Day
Read the full postMAINZ Auckland Campus Open Week
28 May 2017
MAINZ Auckland Campus Open Week 12 to 16 July 2018
Read the full postMusic students learn real-world skills
22 May 2017
Music students learn real-world skills MAINZ music and audio students are living the dream this week, as the tertiary school’s real-world pilot programme rolls out. Students will get a taste of real-world production and recording as the entire institute comes together to write, record, produce and distribute a new album. MAINZ Programme Manager Kingsley Melhuish says the week aims to encourage students to work together to achieve a final product, as they would have to do in the real world. “We want to encourage those collaboration skills that are essential to working in the music industry. You can’t work in isolation, particularly here in New Zealand. You need to be able to draw on all the resources you have and create the best end result,” he says. Collaboration Week will see teams of student from across the MAINZ disciplines (performance, production, audio engineering and business) come together to deliver a new album in just one week. They will have to write and perform the songs, plan and book recording sessions and coordinate the album release. The albums will then be release on YouTube, SoundCloud and MAINZ’s own Radio Teapot. The concept is inspired by a model used by partner school the Pop Akademie in Germany, which runs a similar programme for its summer school students. Mr Melhuish says...
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Paddy Hill Graduation Gown
2 May 2017
Paddy Hill Graduation Gown Jack Mathews Graduation 1937 2 A heirloom graduation gown that has been passed down through four generations made its latest appearance at the recent MAINZ Bachelor in Audio Engineering and Production graduation ceremony. Graduate Paddy Hill, 23, says wearing the gown that originally belonged to his great-grandfather made his capping ceremony that much more special. “My great-grandfather, who went on to be a Reverand, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Otago University in 1937. Since then, his gown has also been worn by my great uncle and my mum, who graduated from Lincoln University in 1987. “Mum always kept the gown and I know she hoped that I’d get to wear it one day. It definitely made the day more special, knowing I was carrying that history with me when I graduated. I looked a little different – the older gown is heavier and bulkier – and I needed to get the right hood, but my classmates thought it was a nice touch.” Paddy completed the MAINZ degree in 2016, after first enrolling in the Certificate and Diploma programmes. He says studying for his Bachelor’s degree was a big undertaking, but it was worth all the extra effort and commitment. “I’ve now got...
Read the full postWinter’s coming – are you and your car ready?
26 Apr 2017
Winter’s coming – are you and your car ready? Make sure your car is ready for winter with a few easy checks and preparations. Remember, if you’re not sure, your local garage will always be able to help or advise. Tips for getting your car winter-ready Check fluid levels: this includes your engine and automatic transmission oils, brake fluid, coolant(water) in your radiator and expansion tank (check if it has antifreeze in it), and windscreen wash. Tyres: check your tyre pressure and tread depth, although 1.5mm is the legal limit, you really want at least 3mm of tread around the full width and circumference of the tyre during winter. Don’t forget to check the spare! Snow chains: practice fitting on a sunny day so you’re ready when you need them. Unsure? Ask your local supplier or a friend for help and ensure you have the right fit for the car. Battery: your battery hates cold mornings as much as you do. You can ask your local supplier to help you check. Auto2 *What if the battery is flat? How do I jump-start my car?* A. Removes the keys from both vehicles and ensure lights are off. B. Connect the jump leads as set out below - make sure...
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