Hello, my dear Frankies!

This past weekend, something pretty cool happened: Waiuku Softball Club was named the best softball club in the whole of New Zealand!!

Which is a massive, massive deal for a gutsy little club that only started five years ago. Seriously...when you stop and think about it, it is kind of mind-blowing . In just a few short years, they have gone from one team of rookie women - more than half who hadn't even touched a softball before! - to a club with 29 teams across all age groups from 3 years old, to 67 years old! 🤯 That takes a huge amount of heart, energy, passion, persistence, and people who really, really care.

Talking to founder and president Bex Van Dijken made me realise that this didn't happen because they were focused on building a softball club. It happened because they built a community first. A strong one, a welcoming one, one people really, really want to be part of ♥

And I think that is the bit that really stood out to me.

Making new friends as an adult is actually surprisingly hard. Finding your way into a real, close-knit community outside of your usual friends and family is even harder. I remember reading somewhere that rich, lasting social connection can actually slow biological ageing, which is a pretty good argument for all of us needing a little bit of Waiuku Softball energy in our lives!

In other news, Woofles Petfood is back this week with some very good ideas for keeping our littlest friends entertained when the weather turns a bit miserable (I'm pretty sure pets lead to a longer. happier life too, right?!). And with 18 years of local pet and pet food know-how, I feel like they are exactly the right people for the job ♥

So this week’s edition is really about good things growing in our little corner of the world. A softball club that became something much bigger for so many people. Local people creating places where others feel welcome. And super cool local businesses sharing what they know to make life a little easier, a little nicer, and a little more fun. So get out there and enjoy all that our little corner of the world has to offer!

R. and the Frankie Team xx

P.S. Haven't these sunrises been so beautiful this month?! I was a tad late for an early morning gym class because I had to stop and take a little photoshoot with the sky 😍

Best in the country: Waiuku Softball Club takes the top title

After an epic weekend, where Waiuku Softball Club was named Best Softball Club in New Zealand, I had the best chat with Bex Van Dijken, founder and president of Waiuku Softball Club. And seriously - what a cool story this is!

Because yes, Waiuku Softball Club is now officially New Zealands best - which is amazing in itself - but the coolest part of the story is how it all started, and the kind of club it has grown into along the way ♥

From one women’s team to New Zealand’s best

The beginning was actually pretty simple. Back in 2020, Bex was playing softball in Pukekohe when changes to the Franklin competition meant the women’s grade was only going to have three teams. Boring! So Bex thought of the sporty women she knew in Waiuku through her gym Rx Fitness 235, decided she could probably teach them how to play softball, and pulled together a single women’s team.

That was the entirety of the plan. But once that team got going, it was obvious there was something there...Waiuku locals were interested. Friends and family were coming down to watch. There was a lot of energy and buzz around the team.

“Throughout that season we experienced massive community support and interest,” she says. “Friends and family would come down to watch and I realised there weren’t many summer sport options in Waiuku, and thought softball could help fill that summer void.”

By the time the next season rolled around, the energy was still there, so Bex and the people around her decided to make a proper go of it. A committee was formed, club colours were chosen, logos were played around with, and when registrations opened, the response was huge. One Facebook post went up, word spread around town, and within a week 100 people had signed up!

Which is super wild when you think about it. That first proper club season ended up launching with 11 teams.

And the energy and growth hasn't stopped - this season, they had 29 teams!

That kind of growth came from more than just a love of softball...people were drawn to something local, fun and social. After lockdowns, when everyone was craving a bit of normal life again, we were all longing for that belonging.

“As the lockdowns lifted, I think people were seeking connection and normality again, and softball helped to meet that need,” Bex says.

The culture did not happen by accident

One of the things I loved most about talking to Bex was how clear it was that the culture around Waiuku Softball did not just ✨magically✨ happen. The club built it that way on purpose.

From the beginning, Bex and the committee put real thought into what kind of club they wanted it to be. Inclusive, respectful, family-friendly, good sports, good people.

“Early on we established a mission statement and club values and focussed heavily on inclusivity, respect and good sportsmanship so building our club culture has been very intentional,” she says.

And they still check back in on that every year. “Every year as a committee we review these, remind ourselves of our purpose and ensure that all of us share the vision and keep these at the forefront of our interactions with our members and our community.”

Bex says communication has also been a huge part of building a safe and inclusive community. For new members, especially nervous beginners or families trying a new sport for the first time, clear information and practical support can make all the difference. So the club made it easier. Have-a-go days. Gloves and gear to borrow or try on. And lots of support for coaches and managers.

“I tried to put myself in others’ shoes, and anticipated obstacles and challenges and provided solutions before the problems came up.”

That thoughtfulness has shaped the whole community. Waiuku Softball is a club where people know your name, where volunteers and local supporters are hugely appreciated, and where parents cheer for kids who are not even their own ♥

A big gift to Waiuku kids

For Bex, the heart of the club is the juniors.

She is passionate about what sport gives young people - not only the physical side of it, but the habits and confidence and friendships that come with belonging to a team.

“The lessons that youth sports give - teamwork, respect, resilience, how to win and lose gracefully, applauding good plays, striving for excellence - all help to build a growth mindset.”

That belief has shaped a lot of the club’s decisions when it comes to the junior side. Bex has always wanted softball to feel possible for all Waiuku families, so fees have been kept low, even though that means the club has to work hard behind the scenes with fundraising, sponsorship and grants in order to make the numbers work. The payoff is that more local kids get the chance to step onto the diamond, fall in love with the game, and see where it might take them. Already, around 15 young players have travelled to tournaments in Australia, and around 50 have played for reps teams that have toured around New Zealand - not bad for a club that is still so young!

A real part of the community

This is also a club that has folded itself right into the life of Waiuku.

There are the big club days, with game after game running at the Waiuku Softball park and food, coffee and ice cream trucks adding to the atmosphere. There is the support for local schools, raffles and junior registrations. There is the Sullivans Cup softball day, where club volunteers coach and umpire local Year 7 and 8 students and introduce even more young people to the sport! There are local sponsors and businesses who keep showing up when help is needed.

But it's often the smaller moments that show what a club really means to people.

A Mother’s Day raffle goes up and raises more than $1,000 in under 24 hours for Waiuku juniors representing New Zealand. Coaching and umpiring clinics get a huge turnout because people want to help. Parents show up on the sidelines week after week - in Waiuku caps, with fold-out chairs and snacks for half the team. Friendships formed on the diamond spill over into real life.

This is a real community Waiuku Softball is building.

More than a title

And while the warm, welcoming community is probably my favourite part of this story, the truth is, they can play too!

In just five years, Waiuku Softball Club has built some seriously good teams. There have been championship wins, proud moments, and plenty of proof that this little club has real talent running through it - including Luna, the original women’s team, winning their first championship last season! The club has also brought big softball moments to town, hosting major events in Waiuku and giving local kids the chance to watch - and play in - high-level games right here at home.

And they have built a really healthy culture around competition too. “Fun is at the heart of everything, and everyone knows the more you win the more fun you have!” Bex laughs. She says winning teams want to train, want to get better, and are willing to put in the reps to build strong foundations. And while success is exciting, what matters more is the way they go about it. “It’s more important to want to win - fair and square - than the actual winning itself.”

That feels pretty true of the club as a whole.

Winning Best Softball Club in New Zealand is obviously huge, but the best part of the story is still the kind of club Waiuku Softball has grown into.

“The people we have are just so genuinely good, and I can’t even take credit for that - I’m just so lucky that they chose softball and our club to be a part of it.”

And that really sums it up...Yep, Waiuku Softball Club is now the best in New Zealand.

But what really stands out is the way it has given people here something to belong to. A summer sport. A team full of friends. A sideline full of familiar faces. A place for kids to grow in confidence. A club and community that is full of so much heart.

A huge congratulations to Bex and everyone who has helped build it. Waiuku is super proud!

Follow Waiuku Softball on Instagram, and Facebook​!​

kralblap

Unscramble the letters above to find the Franklin-related phrase! Answer at the bottom of the newsletter!

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Rainy day? Try these easy games for your dog - with Woofles!

Woofles turns 18 🎉🎉 But they're not moving out of home just yet! Instead, they're spending their birthday month with us! So stay tuned for fun, helpful ideas for dogs, cats, and the humans obsessed with them Find Woofles here!

We all love our dogs so so much. We love them like little children who need to be clothed, fed, watered, and most importantly, mentally happy! So when it’s absolutely bucketing down outside and they’re stomping around the house like grumpy little kids who are personally offended by the weather, we need something to do!

The good thing is, a dog doesn't always need a huge muddy walk to have a good day. Sometimes they just need something fun to do with their nose, their brain, or their dinner!

The team at Woofles Petfood know a thing or two about keeping pets happy, healthy, and well fed, so this week they’re sharing a few easy rainy-day games to try at home.

rainy day ideas from woofles

1. The treat hunt​
Hide a few treats or bits of food around the room and let your dog sniff them out. Start easy, then make it a little trickier once they get the idea. It’s simple, fun, and makes them feel super clever!

🦮 Try the Daisy Delights Beef Jerky for your dog. You can come instore or shop online!​

2. The towel roll-up​
Sprinkle treats through an old towel, roll it up, and let your dog work out how to unwrap their treasure. Super easy and cheap. And weirdly thrilling for everyone involved 🤭

🐕‍🦺 Can't go wrong with Daisys Delights Lamb Puff Bites 70g - find instore or shop online!​

3. Window watch station (with something to chew on!)​
Set up a comfy lookout spot near a window with a mat or bed so they can watch the world go by, while still staying warm and dry. For bonus points, give them a super chewy treat - a good long-lasting chew can help settle a restless dog on a wet day.

🐩 Our favourites for chewing are the Daisys Beef Paddywack 22cm 2 pack - find instore or shop online!​

And that’s one of the best things about Woofles. They’re not just there to hand over your pets dinner and send you on your way. They really are local pet people - they know that feeding your dog well is only one part of the picture. Happy pets need good food, yes, but they also need fun, stimulation, and little moments of joy.

So next time the rain rolls in and your dog gives you that "right then, what’s the plan?" look, try a game, a sniff, and a little inspiration from the team at Woofles.

Because a tired dog is a happy dog. But a dog who’s had a fun little rainy-day mission? Even happier!

So follow Woofles on Facebook, and check out their website...but most importantly - visit them instore at 222 King Street and say happy birthday!!

Thursday

🎳 Housie 78 Nelson St — 11:00am–1:00pm A fun mid-week housie session running for two hours. More info here​

🏘️ Village Open Day at Karaka 241 Park Estate Rd — 10:00am–2:00pm Come explore the village and see what's on offer at this open day event. Check it out!​

🧠 Quiz Night at Pukekohe Golf Club Pukekohe Golf Club — 6:30–8:30pm A great night out with trivia and good company at the golf club. All the details here​

🍹 Cocktail Happy Hour at Little Ed Little Ed — 6:00–7:00pm All your favourite cocktails at a little bit of a discount for one hour only.

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Friday

🎙️ Live Music at the Kentish Hotel 5 Queen St — 6:00pm Free entry live music at the Kentish Hotel — a great start to the weekend. More info here​

🎨 Youth Creators Waiuku Community Space — 3:30–5:00pm A creative session for young people in the community. Check it out!​

🧠 Bucklands Best Brains: Quiz Night 18 Logan Rd — 7:00pm Test your knowledge at this fun local quiz night. All the details here​

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Saturday

📚 Theophila Pratt: Author Talk 12 Massey Ave — 11:00am–12:00pm Hear from local author Theophila Pratt in this one-hour talk. More info here​

🍰 The Cheesecake Shop Grand Launch 75 Hingaia Rd, Karaka — 10:00am–2:00pm Celebrate the grand opening with free daily treats, cakes, quarters and slices. Check it out!​

🌿 Bokashi & Composting Workshop 5 Hosking Place — 10:00am–12:00pm Learn practical composting skills at this hands-on community workshop. All the details here​

🛠️ Working Bee and practice at W.A.R 58 Bird Rd — 9:00am–3:30pm Lend a hand at this community working bee. More info here​

🎁 The Giving Table 94 Bungard Rd — 10:00am–12:00pm A community giving initiative — come along and see what it's all about. Check it out!​

🎀 Pink Ribbon High Tea Pokeno Hall — 2:00–5:00pm Join RE/MAX Stars for a fabulous high tea in support of the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, with bubbles on arrival, raffles, and a goodie bag — dress in pink! All the details here​

🛒 Tuakau Community Market Central Park, corner of George St and Jellicoe Ave, Tuakau — 9:00am–1:00pm Local market with produce, crafts and more in the heart of Tuakau.

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Sunday

🌲 Glenbrook Country Market Glenbrook War Memorial Hall — 9:00am–2:00pm A lovely community market with local goods and produce.

🧘 Sunday Stretch Sessions with The Stretch Collective RXFitness235, 42 Belgium St, Waiuku — 9:00am A 45-minute stretch session open to all — booking required. More info here​

🎯 The Franklin Open Darts Competition 8:30am Come and compete or spectate at this open darts event. Check it out!​

🐾 Sausage Dog Meet 12 Massey Ave — 10:00am Bring your dachshund along for this delightful community meet-up. All the details here​

🌳 Forest Event 5: Waiuku Forest North Waiuku Forest — 10:00am Head into the forest for this outdoor community event. More info here​

🌱 Waiuku Predator Trap Library Open Day 5 Hosking Place — 2:00–4:00pm Learn about local conservation efforts and borrow traps to help protect our wildlife. Check it out!​

🎵 Sacred Sound Journey: Return to Flow Hilltop Haven, 473 Whiriwhiri Rd — 4:00pm A deeply relaxing sound journey experience in a beautiful setting. All the details here​

🏹 Open Airsoft Game Day 58 Bird Rd — 8:30am–3:00pm A full day of open airsoft action — all welcome. Check it out!​

🌾 Franklin Country Market at Pukekohe Park Raceway Pukekohe Park Raceway — 8:00am A big market experience with homegrown produce, handmade crafts, food trucks, live music, and more. All the details here​

🎨 Guided Mood Boarding Session 152A Manukau Rd — 2:00–3:30pm A creative guided session to help you visualise your goals and ideas. More info here​

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monday

☕ The Wellness Run Club Your Local Coffee, West St — 5:45am A 5km loop run for all levels, followed by coffee — the perfect morning kick-start.

🧶 Waiuku 'UFO' Crafting Circle 5 Hosking Place — 7:00–8:00pm Bring along your UnFinished Objects and enjoy a relaxed crafting evening with others. Check it out!​

🧠 Quiz Night at Appetite Appetite — 7:00pm A fun Monday quiz night to kick off the week right.

🧠 Quiz Night at Good Home Pukekohe 65 Edinburgh St — 7:00pm Another great Monday quiz option — booking recommended.

🎲 Board Game Evening at Otakumart Otakumart — 6:00pm Free entry board game night — bring your own or play from their collection, everyone welcome.

🌸 Monday Reset Room with The Pause Society Hilltop Haven, Whiriwhiri Rd — 9:30am (arrive 9:15am) A gentle session to help you relax and reset your nervous system for the week ahead. All the details here​

🍳 Good Food, Bright Minds Breakfast Cafe Queen, Waiuku — 7:00–9:00am A community breakfast programme for school kids in Waiuku during school term, brought to you by Cafe Queen and Sanctuary Retreat.

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Tuesday

☕ Coffee Cupping at Your Local Coffee Roasters 173 Manukau Rd — 10:00–10:30am A short and sweet session to explore and taste different coffees. More info here​

🎨 Painting Club at Franklin Arts Centre Franklin Arts Centre — 6:00–8:00pm Two hours of dedicated painting time with fellow local artists — term time only.

🏃 STRIDE TRIBE Run Club 21 Martyn St, Waiuku — 7:00pm A free, fun, pressure-free 3km walk or run for everyone — zero expectations, great vibes. Check it out!​

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Wednesday

🏃 Fire Station Run Club Fire Station Eatery, Pukekohe — 5:30pm 2.5km and 5km options with spot prizes and bar menu discounts afterwards.

🏃 Flying Mullet Run Group with Carl Read Waiuku College Running Track — 5:00–6:00pm Run technique, intervals and race prep for just $5 a session — contact Carl at reado79@gmail.com.

🧠 Malt N Steel Quiz Night Malt N Steel, Waiuku — 7:00pm Teams of 2–8 with prizes to be won — booking recommended.

😂 Comedy Quiz Night at The Village Bar, Patumahoe The Village Bar — 7:00pm Free comedy pub quiz with quizmaster Jim — call 09 236 3571 to book your table.

🤝 Anti-Social Social Club for Teens 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe — 3:30pm A safe, inclusive after-school space for teens of all personalities — introverted, extroverted, neurodiverse, all welcome. More info here​

🌿 Plant Bingo at Good Home Pukekohe Good Home Pukekohe — Doors 6:30pm, game starts 7pm Hosted by Aligned Hart Wellness — a fun night of plant-themed bingo, bookings essential. More info here​

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Word Scramble answer: Ballpark

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