Sir Paul Callaghan was born in Whanganui and became one of New Zealand's most eminent scientists. He was said to have the ability to "direct nuclear magnetic resonance as a choreographer directs a dance". He was named New Zealander of the Year in 2011 for his work as a physicist. He died in 2015 and in 2018, documentary filmmaker, Shirley Horrocks interviewed Sir Paul's brother Jim along with a number of his colleagues and friends for her film Dancing with Atoms. Horrocks will be in Whanganui to introduce the film which will screen at Sarjeant on the Quay next Wednesday. See details below.
ALL WEEK
Whanganui Summer Programme Where: Various locations Details: See Saturday's Chronicle for next week's programme. Pick up a programme and make bookings at Whanganui i-Site Visitor Centre or at whanganuiheritagetrust.org.nz
Whanganui East Pool When: Open 11am-6pm Monday to Thursday and 11am-5pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Where: 67 Tinirau St Details: Entry $4 adults, $3.50 students/seniors, $3 children (5-16), and $2.50 for a hydroslide pass. $1.50 charge for preschoolers/spectators.
Waimarie Paddle Steamer Cruise When: 11am-1pm all week Where: Waimarie Centre, 1a Taupo Quay Details: A unique and authentic cruise aboard New Zealand's only coal-fired paddle steamer. Book at the centre or call 06 347 1863.
River City Artists When: 9.30am-4pm Where: Christ Church Community Hall, 243 Wicksteed St Details: Beginners to established artists. Contact Val 343 6316 or 027 459 9448.
Even Angels Get the Blues When: 6pm to 8pm Where: Mud Ducks Cafe, 31 Taupo Quay Details: Urban Angels Terry Sarten and John Scudder play a two hour set of rhythm & blues with a hint of Americana.
Thoughtful Thursday When: 6.30pm Where: Confluence, 15 Watt St Details: Soldiers Without Guns: NZ documentarian Will Watson (Haka and Guitars) tells the story of how the 10-year Bougainville Civil War was ended by some guitar-toting Kiwis. $10 (cash) at the door or book at www.confluence.kiwi or call 06 281 3474.
SATURDAY
Whanganui River Traders' and Farmers' Market When: 8.30am-1pm rain or shine Where: Downtown Whanganui riverbank Details: Local produce and plants, street food, artists, crafts and collectables.
Birthday Extravaganza When: 10am to 1pm Where: 65 Hakeke St, Whanganui East Details: Library and community centre first birthday. Music, sausage sizzle, bouncy castle, face painting, book sale. All welcome.
Walking tours When: 10am and 2pm today and Sunday Where: Whanganui i-Site Details: Learn about Whanganui's history, buildings and people. $10 per person. Book at Whanganui i-Site. To book another time phone 349 0508.
Creating Space Within Aotearoa When: 10am to 3pm Where: Kowhai Park Details: Health and wellbeing is the focus of this free event. It's about giving, without expectation to receive. Kaimoana, wild pork and vegetables will be served at 12pm. Bring own plates and cutlery.
Take the plunge or have a quiet splash at Whanganui East Pool.
SUNDAY
Hipango Park Special Wairua riverboat cruise When: 10am Where: Departs from 1 H Taupo Quay Details:Adults $49, Children $16, Under 5 Free. Bring a picnic, sturdy shoes, a coat, sunscreen and a water bottle. Tea and Coffee are provided. Limited places are available. Bookings and enquiries 0800 WAIRUA (924782)
Sunday Grand Jam When: 6.30pm Where: Grand Hotel Irish Bar, St Hill St Details: Free. A relaxed sing-around session for acoustic musicians, singers and listeners. All abilities and styles of music.
ASKYA x James Abberley When: 6pm to 9pm Where: Lucky Bar + Kitchen, 53 Wilson St Details: Visiting Australian folk and electronic talents to play in Whanganui. $15 entry.
Scout Group Open Day When: 6pm to 7.30pm Where: 13 Swiss Ave, Gonville Details: Baden Powell Scout Group Whanganui invites children aged 5 years to 14 years and their families to an information evening with fun and engaging activities for children.
Badminton When: 7.30pm Where: Whanganui Badminton Club, 24 Sedgebrook Street, Wanganui East. Details: Feather shuttles, timed games. $8 per session. $6 16yrs and under. Contact Jude Hildreth 343 7669 or Kate Matthews 027 776 6015.
TUESDAY
REBS Farmers' Market When: 2.30pm-5.30pm Where: All Saints' Church hall, Moana St, Whanganui East Details: Local growers selling fruit, vegetables and free-range eggs.
Hanging up the Car Keys When: 9.30-11.30am Where: Summerset, Whanganui East Details: Hanging Up the Car Keys – a panel for seniors, their families and professionals. Morning tea & resources. Free. Booking essential: call Age Concern 345 1799
Knit and yarn When: 10am-noon Where: Ladies' Rest, 75 St Hill St Details: All knitters welcome. Gold coin entry.
Paul Callaghan: Dancing with Atoms When: 7pm Where: Sarjeant on the Quay, 38 Taupo Quay Details: An invaluable survey of the work and legacy of Whanganui son and 2011 New Zealander of the year, Sir Paul Callaghan. Filmmaker Shirley Horrocks will present an introduction prior to the screening. Tickets $7 from Sarjeant on the Quay or call 06 349 0506.
