Senior Net
SeniorNet is a community training network that supports and motivates people aged 50 plus to enjoy and use technology in their everyday lives. Join in the fun and learn how to do everything from simple word-processing to sending emails and searching the internet. In small, friendly and stress-free classes, you'll gain the skills and confidence you need to get the most out of information technology.
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A Little History
SeniorNet was established in the USA some years ago. The first group outside the USA was formed in Wellington in 1992. Nelson was next, and there are now 74 in NZ with membership in excess of 15,000. Groups are independent, but share information and ideas through the national body, The Federation of N.Z. SeniorNet Societies.
The local group started in a small way in 1999, and has grown to 160 members, most from the Waimakariri District, but with some from as far away as Greta Valley, Waiau and Hawarden, and from north Christchurch.
Prior to the Christchurch earthquakes it was based in the Hanson Building in Kaiapoi which has been demolished.
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SeniorNet offers a variety of courses and workshops
Courses range from the basic "introduction to computers" for those getting started, to more advanced ones for those wishing to develop their technology skills, for example using programmes like Excel and Powerpoint. Courses run for weekly two hour sessions over two to four weeks.
Workshops are usually a single two-hour session on just one topic. Workshops have included…
· surfing the internet
· sending and receiving emails
· internet banking
· using Trade-Me
· contacting others on Skype
· loading photos to your computer
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And a couple of special interest groups
If you wish to take to the air, a flight simulation group meets monthly, giving you the chance to "fly" different aircraft in and out of aerodromes around the world.
And if you wish to develop your family tree, a genealogy group also meets monthly.
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Where do we meet?
SeniorNet has a 'learning centre' at 178 King Street, Rangiora, in the grounds of the Methodist Church. It features six modern computers, which ensures that classes are small and friendly.
A monthly social afternoon enables members to get together. Usually there is a speaker on a computer related topic, followed by afternoon tea. Fourth Tuesday of the month (February to November), 2.30 p.m. upstairs at the Kaiapoi Club.
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Becoming a member
Annual membership is $20.00, with a monthly newsletter emailed to you – or $30.00 if you wish the newsletter posted. With different courses and workshops each month the newsletter lets you know what is coming up.
Membership also entitles you to discounts available nationally. They are listed on the national Federation of SeniorNet Societies' website: www.seniornet.co.nz
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Contact SeniorNet
If you wish to discuss anything about SeniorNet, or are just curious to see what the learning centre looks like, feel free to pop in on any Thursday morning, 10.30 to 12.30, to the learning centre at 178 King Street, Rangiora.
You can contact us by mail at that address.
Or ring or email:Kay, ph (03) 310 6984, email [E-Mail not displayed], or
Barry, ph (03) 327 7841, email [E-Mail not displayed]
