Girls Smash is a fun cricket programme for girls in school years 3-8. Sessions involve activities and skills followed by a six a side game. The whole session takes about an hour and is held after school for six weeks. Our focus is learn-as-you-play, and every girl is supported to participate at their own level. All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary, and every participant receives a tshirt!  The cost of the programme is $30 per participant

Your local hub is at Wakefield Park on the grass field next to the Turf. Sessions will be held on Mondays from 4.00-5.00pm starting on the 23rd of February.

Participants can register via  https://www.playhq.com/new-zealand-cricket/register/0d8d15

If you have any questions please contact sarah@cricketwellington.co.nz

At Read to Kurī, at Kilbirnie library, you will book in for a 15-minute one-on-one reading session with a therapy dog from our friends at Canine Friends Pet Therapy. You will be able to choose a book and curl up somewhere cosy in the library to read with the specially trained dog. The dog's handler will be present at all times.

Read to Kurī aims to help tamariki improve their literacy, self-confidence, and self-esteem in a relaxed, non-judgemental environment. All dogs have been trained and tested for health, safety and temperament, and many have experience working with young children.

Research shows that therapy dogs:

• can increase a child's relaxation while reading

• listen attentively

• do not laugh, judge or criticise a child's reading level

• allow children to proceed at their own pace

• can be less intimidating to practice reading with than a child's peers

This programme is perfect for tamariki aged 5+ who would like to practice their reading skills, or older rangatahi and teens who need some time and space to de-stress, while making a new canine friend at the library. The programme runs from 3.30pm - 4.30pm on Thursdays during term time. Bookings are essential as spaces are limited. Call in to Kilbirnie library or phone 04 3871480 to book a 15 minute time slot.

Wellington Junior Chess Club 

Learn • Play • Improve • Compete  

When? 

Every Thursday (during school term) from 6:30 to 7:30pm 

Term Start Thursday 5 February 

Where? 

Wellington Bridge Club, 17 Tinakori Road Thorndon 

Who is it for?  

Student of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced junior players. Players are grouped by ability where appropriate.  

What we offer  

• Structured coaching using the NZ Chess Federation (NZCF) Badge Scheme  • Clear learning pathway from beginner to club-standard chess  

• Fun challenges, puzzles, and mini-tournaments  

• Friendly and supportive environment  

• Preparation for interschool and junior tournaments  

Contact:  

Gordon Lyall 

FIDE Instructor & FIDE School Instructor 

National Arbiter 

NZCF Director of Training 

gordon@crazyhorsechess.co.nz