Celebrating Horowhenua - 2018

Horowhenua

Horowhenua business and lifestyle magazine spring / summer 2018

Contents

Message from the mayor........ ................................................ 4 Welcome to Horowhenua........................................................ 5 Horowhenua Chronicle – 125 years......................................... 6 Levin Adventure Park............................................................... 8 Horowhenua A P & I Show .................................................... 13 Jelbart tractors - cranking back to life ................................... 14 Horowhenua Taste Trail ......................................................... 18 Women in business - Justine Tupara ..................................... 21 Women in business - Briar Franks.......................................... 22 Bill Doreen - floriculturalist extraordinaire ............................. 23 A century of Foxton Fizz ........................................................ 27 Foxton: Holiday destination on the map............................... 29 Celebrating the arts in Horowhenua ..................................... 31 Horowhenua’s Black Stick - Hayden Phillips .......................... 33 Shooting for the stars - a local shooter’s success .....................34 Ben Langton Burnell -Javelin at the Commonwealth Games.......35 Horse of the Year success - Louise Duncan ........................... 37 Holidaying close to home - try a ‘staycation’ ........................ 39 Levin-raised photographer Kelvin Gilbert’s big win................................................................................... 41 Cultural pride - Kapa Haka in Horowhenua........................... 42 Halberg Games success for Rawiri Tristram-Brown........................44 Sharing the bounty community fruit and veggie stands ....................................... 47 Off The Loop – the largest cable wakeboard park in NZ ........................................................... 48 125 years of Horowhenua-Ka-piti rugby ................................. 52 Local All Black history – Harry Jacob..................................... 53 Events Calendar .................................................................... 54 Editor: Sadie Beckman – sadie.beckman@nzme.co.nz Contributors: Janine Baalbergen, Julie Shapiro, Philippa Hakaraia, Holly Robinson, Darryl Butler, Janette Webb.

Welcome

to the inaugural Celerating Horowhenua magazine

S

it back and enjoy reading a wide range of interesting stories from the heart of the stunningly beautiful Horowhenua district.

From local successes, things to do, amazing projects, people profiles, business insights and other gems, this magazine is designed to showcase what this region offers.

Horowhenua is a special place with many strings to its bow.

Temperate climate, vibrant businesses, strong growth, leisure activities and cultural pride – all can be found in spades in the district. The lifestyle appeals to all ages, and it is a popular haven for those looking to live well at a relaxed pace.

A special thank you to the team who have contributed to the success of this magazine, and to Janette Webb and Darryl Butler for their stunning photographs.

Advertising enquiries for NZME’s next Celebrating Horowhenua Autumn/Winter edition are being accepted now – email vicki.timpson@nzme.co.nz.

For editorial enquiries, email sadie.beckman@nzme.co.nz

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

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Mayor’s message:

Michael Feyen – Horowhenua District Council

K

ia ora koutou katoa – Horowhenua District is a treasure on the lower west coast and a place we are very proud of.

Horowhenua has a diverse population of 32,000 and is blessed with good weather, central location and natural beauty. We have had a mild winter again this year and our beaches always have people on them walking, fishing, quadbiking, swimming or enjoying water-based activities. There always seems to be something happening.

More and more people are moving to our communities for the lifestyle and opportunities Horowhenua offers, and the future is looking promising.

We are fortunate to have State Highways 1 and 57 crossing our district, with thousands

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of visitors passing through, stopping to relax and have a bite to eat, or visiting our fantastic parks and aquatic centre. Our district is centrally-located and businesses are showing increasing interest in basing their operations in Levin in particular.

Our oldest settlement, Foxton, has a state-of-the-art new community centre, Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom. This facility houses Māori and Dutch museums. It also hosts regular exhibitions, a library, and customer service and visitor information centres. Since opening in November 2017, it has gone from strength to strength, winning three major awards. It is well worth a visit.

Horowhenua’s largest town, Levin, was also the focus of much attention this year as it embarked on a journey to transform its centre. Horowhenua District Council invited

the community to re-imagine the look and feel of the town centre, and this will provide a basis for designing its future.

Horowhenua District Council is developing a diverse, high-quality network of shared pathways for walking and cycling in our district.

So bring your togs, walking shoes and bike if you are contemplating Horowhenua for a day of fun!

Michael Feyen District Mayor

Welcome to

Horowhenua

B

etween the rugged, bush-clad Tararua mountains to the east, and the long stretches of golden sands to the west lies the Horowhenua district.

Blessed with a temperate climate and rich soils, the area is one of the country’s best growing regions, and it is a haven for food producers, market gardeners and cottage industries.

Outdoor activities are a focus for the district, with a myriad of options for adventure and relaxation to be found. Bush

or beach walks, hiking, biking, camping or tramping - all can be enjoyed here.

Horowhenua’s main town, Levin, is a bustling centre supplying the district’s agricultural and commercial operations, while nearby Foxton and Foxton Beach offer a Kiwiana vibe that makes them special, as well as a unique cultural blend of Dutch, Ma-ori and European heritage, celebrated in the newly-opened and award-winning Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, a cultural centre, museum and library.

Photo / Darryl Butler Other population centres in Horowhenua include the villages of Shannon, Tokomaru, Opiki, Ohau, Manakau and picturesque beach settlements of Waikawa, Waitarere, Hokio and Kuku, all of which offer their own individual charm.

Horowhenua locals often say their home offers a more relaxed pace of life, yet it is within reach of both Wellington and Palmerston North, meaning the region has the best of all worlds.

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

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A milestone for

community reporting

T

his year the Horowhenua Chronicle reaches the milestone of 125 years.

That means the paper has been connecting and informing the local community for a century and a quarter with quality local journalism, entertainment, events and information.

The Chronicle as we know it today is actually the result of a fusion of several newspapers published in Levin as the 19th century drew to a close, although credit for its creation is generally given to a man named William Charles Nation.

Nation and his son Charles Cecil, arrived in Shannon in 1893, having previously been the proprietors of the Wairarapa Standard in Greytown.

They started publishing the four-page Manawatu Farmer and the Horowhenua County Chronicle, with the first issue published on October 9th of that year.

After three years of tri-weekly publishing in Shannon, with slow progress, the name was changed to the Manawatu Weekly.

In Levin, a Mr Joseph Ives and former proprietors began publishing the Levin and Manakau Express and Horowhenua County Advertiser in 1896. As the Manawatu Farmer’s circulation had extended to Levin, Nation was alarmed by the oppostion, so moved his operations there too, keeping the name and same tri-weekly format as in Shannon.

Nation then acquired the Manakau Express in 1897, incorporating it into the Farmer, and carrying on with three-times-aweek publication for many years.

The business operated from a fourbedroom cottage on Oxford St, which had to be extended to accommodate the machinery. Thomas Brown was an assistant and then an editor. Annie Ethel Nation, later Mrs Plimmer, was the typesetter. The price of the Farmer was one penny.

Nation and Son also printed the Foxton Telegraph and the West Coast Advertiser for their respective proprietors from 1896 to 1900.

In 1900 a D.S. Papworth founded the bi-weekly Levin Times, which only lasted a few months. He then acquired the Farmer for the Horowhenua Publishing Company, publishing it as the Horowhenua Daily Chronicle, under the editorship of J. Knight.

In 1910, the newspaper announced it was under new management, with Herbert J. Richards as managing director, Thomas Bevan Jnr. and Frederick Roe as other known directors and G.B Brown the editor.

The Levin Chronicle became a tri-weekly again in 1917, publishing on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. In April 1917 its price went up to 1 ½ pence an issue and 4 pence a week for three issues. The increases were blamed on rising costs for newsprint because of the war.

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William Charles Nation, founder of the Horowhenua Chronicle.

The Horowhenua Publishing Company bought The Farmer in 1909 and turned it into the Horowhenua Daily Chronicle.

The balcony was used to announce election results.

Possibly the earliest photo of the building W. Nation shifted his business to in 1897, altering it from a 4-room cottage. St Mary’s Anglican Church in background.

The Horowhenua Publishing Company was bought by Herbert George Kerslake and Robert H. Billens on September 11th 1917.

Both had been journalists in Palmerston North.

Daily publishing resumed in 1920, and Herbert Kerslake was the Chronicle’s editor with Billens in the office for a few years until the firm bought an interest in a Palmerston North paper and he went to become editor there.

A covered cartway, thought to have been added by Nation when he extended

the building, was altered to become part of the interior in the 1920s, then in 1924 a large, new factory was built at the rear of the building.

Herbert Kerslake’s sons George and Tom worked in the firm all their working lives and became part-owners, George as editor and Tom as manager.

Kerslake and Billens then bought the Otaki Mail in 1934, publishing it until it was amalgamated into the Chronicle in 1946.

In 1944, Les Humphrey, who had worked in the firm since the early 1920s, became a

partner and it became known as Kerslake, Billens and Humphrey, or KBH. Around 1946 an extension of the offices was completed and a factory was built at the rear.

Around 1963, another extension was added on the northern side, giving a modern look to the old buildings and also used to extend the public office and an affiliated stationary business. The Levin Printing Works, which was started by Alex Fletcher in 1946, had been publishing the Weekly News since 1953, and this merged with KBH in 1969, with Fletcher becoming a director and factory manager. His building became Office Display Centre (later Levin Office Products Depot) and KBH’s stationery business was moved there.

The Weekly News pioneered offset printing in Levin, with the paper sent to Whanganui for printing instead of on a sheet-fed Heidelberg machine.

KBH installed its own offset equipment in 1971, becoming the first of the smaller daily papers to use this modern process.

KBH had by this time joined United Printing and Publishing – a parent company.

A company named Wilson and Horton bought all the UPP shares in 1985. Irishbased Independent Newspapers then gained a controlling interest in Wilson and Horton in 1985 and full control by 1998. In 2001, as the next millenium rolled around, INP sold its shareholding to APN News and Media.

KBH moved to the Chronicle’s current Bristol Street site before this in 1990, and the old building in Oxford Street went on to house Norca Rugs.

A major reduction in staffing occured when the press was shut down and printing moved to Whanganui in 1998. Press and dispatch staff disappeared, and a year later, when the commercial printing section was closed, photo-mechanical, bindery and composing jobs went too, with some longserving staff made redundant.

In October 1999, the Chronicle became the first daily in New Zealand to become a tabloid newspaper, and the Saturday edition was particularly popular with readers who liked the compact size. In 2000, more jobs went when administration was restructured, and some account processing moved to Auckland. The Office Products Depot was sold in 2004, and the Bristol Street building purchased by Horowhenua Motors in 2006, with the Chronicle becoming a tenant. In 2007, the Weekly News was closed and the daily paper became a six-day-a-week tabloid, with the Wednesday issue offered for free, in another first for the country.

In August 2008 though, the publication of the Chronicle was reduced to two days a week – Wednesday and Saturday, a year after it won two major industry awards.

Nowadays, some ten years later, the Horowhenua Chronicle is part of New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME), the country’s leading media company that is the result of bringing together APN NZ, The Radio Network (TRN) and GrabOne. The business is an organisation with a portfolio of radio, digital, e-commerce and print brands producing fantastic content targeted to NZ audiences. The network

Taken around 1920, after Kerslake and Billens had bought the building.

The Chronicle building in 1936.

The staff of the Horowhenua Publishing Company pictured outside the paper’s office. reaches 3.2 million Kiwis, whether reading, listening or watching, who get the content they want when they want across digital, print, radio and on-demand platforms.

The Chronicle is proud to be part of this new era of news and content creation, and hosts its own lively social media platforms and

website, as well as continuing to publish two quality editions a week, on a Wednesday and Friday from its Bristol Street premises.

The Horowhenua Chronicle – celebrating 125 years of community news.

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

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Levin’s Adventure Park is considered one of the

nation’s best hairdressing

beauty therapy

93 Oxford Street (next to the Adventure Park) PH: 06 368 4498 info@patriciafarrow.co.nz patriciafarrow.co.nz

I HAIR

&BEAUTY

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L

evin Adventure Park has something for everyone. Tumbling drums, a ropes course, a climbing wall, children’s playgrounds, a fitness trail, a thrilling flying fox, volleyball and basketball courts and a separate dog rest and exercise area are just some of the offerings at the renowned facility.

Free mini-train rides on weekends and holidays are always popular, and for younger children there is a separate designated area with age-suitable equipment.

The park, which TripAdvisor awarded a coveted certificate of excellence with five stars, is open during daylight hours and closes at dusk, making it one of the best spots in Horowhenua to keep the young, and the young at heart, entertained all day long.

The driving forces behind the park’s creation were Collis and Helen Blake, a local couple known for their many and varied contributions to their community.

Helen, who grew up in Wellington moved to Horowhenua after marrying the late Collis Blake, with the pair moving to Levin 15 years later, where they ran a beef farm for three decades.

The Blakes had a hand in many things that benefit the community around Levin in particular. Roller skating, the AP&I Show complex, Waiopehu College’s health centre, the town’s hockey turf and the Horowhenua Aquatic Centre are just some of the achievements they have been involved in.

Their biggest contribution by far, though, was the Adventure Park.

The park itself sits on the spot where Levin Primary School used to be. The school had burnt down in a fire and the site became an illegal dumping site for all sorts of rubbish.

“It had really been neglected,” says Helen.

“Collis used to come home growling about the state of the place. It was used as a dump. He used to complain that it was a shocking entry point into the town.”

She said that one day when he’d really had enough of the situation, her husband

approached the then mayor Brendan Duffy and demanded something be done about it.

He was rebuffed with the words, “You’re on your own mate,” she says.

“So we did it ourselves.”

“We had it cleaned up and then decided we wanted something useful for children to be built in its place.”

The couple’s daughter Susan, who had two primary school-aged children got on board too when she heard about the idea.

Come in and enjoy all things that make us unique!

• Unique cinematic & dining experience • Comfortable relaxed surroundings • Quality food & beverages • Fully Licensed • Open 7 days 7 nights

www.focalpointcinema.co.nz Phone 06 366 0330 www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

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“She drew designs for specific areas, such as a space for babies, a junior and senior challenge, a paddock for games and a dog exercise area,” Helen recalls.

She remembers the many tractors and trucks that were needed to clean the site too, and that dozens of truckloads of rubbish were removed.

Helpfully, the Blakes had a rubbish tip on their farm and a lot of debris ended up on their own property.

“People told us we were crazy doing it,” she says.

The process of creating the park actually began with the vital toilet facilities, and beginning how they meant to go on, the organisers did an excellent job, even winning Keep NZ Beautiful’s Best Loo competition in 2008.

The toilets were followed by what is now known as the kiosk, which, like the loos, has hot water available. There are also basic kitchen facilities and dining tables and chairs, so there is always somewhere sheltered and comfortable for families.

Art plays a part in the park too. A mural competition was run five years ago and three Horowhenua College students produced the stunning murals at the park.

Helen says the rewarding project to create the Adventure Park was a team effort.

“We didn’t do it all ourselves,” she says.

“We had lots of help from others, including contractors, who donated time and materials to build the Adventure Park. There were also donations from many people around the district.”

To safeguard the park for future generations a trust was formed by the Blake family in 2001 to run it. An official opening was also held that year. From 2008, Horowhenua District Council took over the maintenance of the park.

However, the park is still very much a community-owned place for everyone.

“The assets of the Adventure Park belong to the people of Horowhenua,” says Helen, who still delights in watching children enjoy the end result of the vision she and her husband had all those years ago.

FACTORY * Fully equipped on-site Service Centre * Manufacturing of Gipsy Caravans & Motorhomes * Installations, modifications & upgrades * TV, satellite dish & solar panel installation * Repairs & maintenance * Custom rebuilds * Panel & paint work * Assessments & repairs for all insurance companies * Gas, Electrical & Self Containment Certification

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ACCESSORIES SHOP * Gipsy Club, NZMCA & Kiwi Holiday Park member discounts * Huge range of RV appliances, parts & accessories * Caravan & Motorhome Valuations Purchase in store, by phone or online

www.gipsy.co.nz (free shipping on orders over $150.00)

WELCOME TO BENNIK’S EGGS & FARM SHOP, THE GARDEN DEPOT & SALT & PEPPER CAFE Horowhenua has a new iconic shopping destination on the corner of SH 1 and Buller Road.

Bennik’s Eggs is a family owned and operated business and after BENNIK’S EGGS 50 years at the 35 Buller Road site, has moved the farm shop to a more eye-catching and trafficfriendly location, stocking quality produce from local businesses around the Horowhenua.

Current owner/operators Harry and Rhonda Bennik pioneered modern cage-free egg farming in New Zealand and were the first to be accredited for good animal welfare practice. The business is one of only a few egg farms approved by the Ministry of Primary Industries to export eggs.

Chickens farmed at Bennik’s Eggs have more in-house space than most commercial free-range farms, with small commercial flock sizes ranging from 2500 to a maximum of 4000.

“Our philosophy is that happier hens produce better quality eggs, and the feedback from our customers and our taste buds shows that this is true,” Mr Bennik said.

“Our chickens are able to express all their natural behaviours. They are free to roam, they have nests to lay in, litter to scratch and dust to bathe in, and room to perch and socialise. Our cage free flocks have the added advantage of a protected environment from predators, paddock contamination and harsh weather conditions”.

Local shoppers can enjoy eggs fresh from the farm from the new unmissable shop with its red barn style finishing’s. Also available to purchase from the new shop are other reputable Horowhenua brands such as award-winning Thoroughbread products, Genoese pestos, locally produced honey and chocolate, frozen table hens, fruit, juice and apple cider vinegar.

Winner: LNI People’s Choice for Cafe of the year 2018

The Garden Depot and Salt and Pepper Café also remain on the Buller Road site, giving shoppers a one-stop destination for giftware and gardening supplies and/or a delicious meal or coffee from the Lower North Island People’s choice café of the year winner.

“We are excited to expand the shop and showcase not only our eggs, but other local businesses and produce to people travelling through and around Horowhenua,” Bennik’s Poultry Farm Owner and Manager Harry Bennik said.

All 3 businesses are found at 4 Buller Road, Levin (south of Levin on SH1)

Phone: (06) 368 7270

Bennik’s Eggs & Farm Shop The Garden Depot Phone: (06) 368 3662

BRINGING THE BEST OF THE COUNTRY TO TOWN!

WELLINGTON ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

• Billy Black Woolman Show • Andrew Wilson Magician • Live Bands & Local Music Groups • Baby Animal Nursery • Axemen & Axewomen • Trade Space • Kids Zone • Show Rides & Side Shows • and much more

FOR BOTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

To take up this offer you need to apply at the Showgrounds Office prior to Friday 18th January 2019, 5pm. Telephone 3686539 for more information.

DAILY ADMISSION PRICES ARE

Adults $12.00 • Children $5.00 • Pre-schoolers FREE Family Pass: $30.00 for 2 Adults & 2 Children Become an AP & I member for $40.00 prior to Showtime and get your family concession tickets for the whole weekend - Total value $90.00.

DON’T MISS HOROWHENUA’S FAVORITE SUMMERTIME EVENT

Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th January 2019.

BIGGER & BETTER THAN EVER!

Become a member for JUST

$40.00

For further informationTelephone Jo on 368 6539 or Visit the website www.levinapishow.co.nz

TICKETS AT THE GATE

For this you receive • 1 Members ticket - admits Member & 2 Children up to age of 15 • 2 Guest tickets • 1 Car Pass For Saturday & Sunday

A century of the

Horowhenua A P & I Show

H

orowhenua’s A P & I show is one of the region’s premier events, with a history spanning more than a century.

A P & I stands for agricultural, pastoral and industrial, and the event, which is the third largest in the lower North Island, showcases the best of these categories and more.

Organisers say the philosophy behind the A P & I show has remained throughout the years - showcasing the best of rural to the urban. However, it has expanded to include innovation and trade, entertainment and creativity as well as being the highlight of many people’s social calendars.

The show features activities such as shearing and woodchopping competitions, sheepdog trials and an ever-popular Grand Parade of the district’s top examples of agricultural stock and industrial machinery, from brand new to vintage.

A comprehensive equestrian programme is also an important part of the celebrations, with top riders and showjumpers demonstrating their skill in 150 event classes over several days.

The A P & I show is a great day out for all the family, with hands-on experiences meaning people can get fully involved.

Petting and cuddling baby farm animals is always a huge hit with the children, as well as enjoying the games, entertainments and music on offer throughout the enormous Horowhenua Showground site.

Exhibitors and stall holders from far and wide bring their best wares to the show too.

Food trucks, food vendors and the region’s best food producers offer all manner of delicious dishes and produce to fill hungry bellies, while fairground favourites delight young and old alike.

A huge contingent of home industry producers and crafters also showcase their hobbies, with many demonstrations and products on show, helping to preserve traditional knowledge and skills.

For those who prefer a bit more adrenalin, the funfair sideshows are a popular attraction, adored by the young and recalled with nostalgia by the more mature, just make sure you don’t eat too many hotdogs or too much candy floss first!

With so much on offer, it’s little wonder the Horowhenua A P & I Show is an important

part of the calendar for so many people. The show’s centenary was in 2006, and as a special marker, ‘Royal Event’ status was granted for the event, by the Royal Agricultural Society of NZ for the dairy cattle and sheep sections.

Special ‘Royal Event’ medals were able to be presented to the champion exhibits in each section, which was a first. An historical photo display also marked the centenary.

Organisers say the show will continue and evolve, hopefully well into the next century, as it has done over the last one. With firm foundations laid down for the show since its inception, it looks likely to survive and thrive, even if the standards and ideals surrounding it have changed since it started out all those years ago.

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

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Vintage tractor cranks

back to life A

local, machinery-loving family scored a major victory at this year’s Horowhenua AP& I Show, when one of their beloved vintage Jelbart tractors suddenly burst into life after almost four decades of silence.

After some major tinkering, the Jelbart tractor, one of several owned by the Prouse family of Levin, awoke from its slumber, having been displayed at the show for years.

In the 1950s, it had even been part of show highlight the Grand Parade, but it had sat in a paddock for nearly 40 years since, rusting away and almost, but not quite, forgotten.

The tractor is a unique piece of history as it is the first tractor bridging the gap between steam and stationary tractor. It runs on light crude oil as well as a mixture of petrol and kerosene. The Jelbarts were manufactured around 1918 in Australia by George and Frank Jelbart, and imported by Pattersons in Auckland.

The Prouse family also has a long history in the area, having bought land near Levin in the 1890s to farm and mill timber.

The tractor’s current owner, Stephen Prouse, says his grandfather bought the tractor in 1912 and when it finally arrived in Levin by train in 1918 or 19, it made life and

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work at the sawmill a lot easier. Until then all sawing was done by hand.

“The Jelbart was driving the firewood bench saw, has been used to clear land” he says.

The family eventually owned six Jelbarts.

Number 216 in the manufacturing line-up has been in repair for a few years, while number 215 sits under a tree on the farm and is used for spare parts. The eighthorsepower machine was used on the farm well into the 1960s, Stephen believes, when more modern tractors replaced it.

A small article in a 1918 edition of the Wairarapa Daily Times described the thennew machines and their specifications: “George and Frank Jelbart founded the Jelbart Bros. firm at Ballarat, Victoria in 1911 and were pioneers in Australian internal combustion engine design. Around 1914 they installed one of their “No. 8” oil engines in the first Jelbart tractor,” the article reads.

“By 1917 they were offering two models, an 8 hp and a 12 hp, which were unusual in their use of a segmented belt drive from the engine to the transmission. Many Jelbart tractors were custom-built for the buyer, and their rugged simplicity appealed to the Australian farmer.”

“The Jelbart is a light and powerful tractor that will do all the work on the farm trashing, harvesting, ploughing, chaff cutting road haulage, etc. It will work in wet and boggy ground where horses cannot work.

The fuel used is crude oil; cost of fuel and lubrication, 15s a day. With every machine an expert is sent to run and operate the tractor for 28 days free of cost.”

With the 28 days assistance offer well and truly expired, these days it is down to Stephen and the family to work the tractor by themselves, and Stephen says driving a Jelbart is no mean feat.

“You have to stand behind the wheel and the canopy with a steam outlet on top that is so big and high it is hard to see where you are going, even for very tall people,” he explains.

He believes there are three models of the Jelbart tractor still in New Zealand.

Only one of them was still working and is fully restored, believed to be in Tauranga.

However, it is now joined by the Prouse’s tractor after its startling new lease of life.

“We have slowly over the years repaired the bits that had rusted away, there is still a bit more to be done,” says Stephen.

“We’re chuffed it is finally running.”

Horowhenua’s tastiest event

just got a little tastier

M

ore delicious food experiences than ever before will be on offer at the third annual Horowhenua Taste Trail this November.

The event, first held in 2016, has grown enormously over the past three years, and last year attracted foodies from throughout New Zealand.

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Antony Young, Chairman of the Horowhenua Taste Trail Trust, says the region grows and produces excellent food.

“We want to showcase the variety of quality food producers in the Horowhenua to our local community and the rest of New Zealand,” he said.

“We are delighted to bring participants an even more delicious offering this year.

We have new producers on board, and new food experiences to take people around the Trail.”

Showcasing Horowhenua’s specialist food producers as well as a farm tour, the Taste Trail, which will take place on Saturday 24 November 2018, is a unique experience.

Once a year when producers open their doors, it provides an opportunity to experience the “paddock to plate” journey, see how the food is produced and then enjoy it in its finest form directly at the source.

The event has grown so much since its inception that an event manager has been brought on board to organise the major event logistics and ensure a seamless event across multiple sites in the district.

Executive Director Catherine Lewis says that each year, the organisers want people coming back for more, so are conscious of the need to constantly grow the experiences on offer.

“We are a Taste Trail, so let me just say this will be the tastiest event around,” she said.

“This year we are showcasing the food in its simplest but most beautiful form. You will walk away having sampled Horowhenua’s freshest produce at its best.”

This year the food offerings have been expanded, and for the first time there will be a variety of food options available at five of the event’s sites.

This year we have enhanced our food offering so you are enjoying the very finest in Horowhenua produce. These dishes are brought to you by cafés and restaurants that have partnered with our producers to offer a gourmet food experience. The hero of our menu is the Horowhenua Taster Plate.

• Horowhenua Taster Plate - New to the Taste Trail this year, these are entrée size plates of food showcasing the produce in its finest form created by top chefs from throughout New Zealand. These can be pre-purchased as a part of the main ticket (outlined below). A limited number will be available on the day, for an additional cost, so it’s best to pre-purchase if you want a true foodie experience.

• Taste Trail Treats – These are small offerings of prepared food that are an accompaniment to the main event, the Taster Plates. These will tempt your taste buds and can be purchased on the day.

For the first time the Taste Trail will offer a variety of ticketed options to cater for all participants no matter what your taste buds – or appetite. Buy your tickets online or at Te Takeretanga o-Kura-hau-po- in Levin or Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom in Foxton before November 24th. Tickets will not be sold on the day, so you need to pre-purchase if you don’t want to miss out!

Ticket information includes: 1. Main ticket - includes entry to all eight sites + the five Horowhenua Taster Plates, or Horowhenua Taste Trail Lunchbox for under 12s.

• Over 12 Year old $55 • Under 12 Year old $15 2. Deluxe Ticket – a bus tour from your chosen location. Join a VIP day out, including; a tour guide - Horowhenua Taster Plates at five sites or Horowhenua Taste Trail Lunchbox for under 12s, and a Horowhenua Taste Trail Tote Bag. • $90- $125 dependent on tour start point. See website for available tours.

3. Entry Tickets – Includes entry to all eight sites.

• Over 12 Year old - $15 • Under 12 Year old - FREE Taste Trail Tip- For the best value Horowhenua Taste Trail experience purchase a Main ticket where your Taster Plate is already included.

Passionate foodies can extend their Taste Trail experience and sign up for a series of Savour events to wrap around their day. Get in early as places at Savour events are strictly limited.

Before the Day – Friday 23rd November Food of the Horowhenua 6-10pm | Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-po-, Levin $75 | Includes strawberry liqueur cocktail on arrival, canapes and two course dinner | Cocktail dress On the Day - Saturday 24th November Lewis Farms Champagne Breakfast by Ocean Beach Eatery 9 – 10am | Lewis Farms – Tendertips Asparagus, Poroutawhao $35 | Breakfast and a glass of Mumm bubbles (or juice) and a private tour Chef’s Talk with Annabelle White Two sittings – 11am and 12.30pm | Genoese Pesto, Levin

$20 | Includes canapes and a complimentary glass of bubbles, sparkling water or juice Dairy Masterclass with Jude Messenger 10am | Bagrie Dairy Farm, Waitarere $15 | Includes demonstration and tasting.

Wind Down Burgers and Beers at Turks 3.30pm – 6pm – Drop in anytime | Turks, Foxton $19 | Includes burger, beer and entertainment Go at your own pace or sign up to a guided tour.

Anyone wishing to join in the Taste Trail can purchase tickets or find out more information at www.tastetrail.co.nz or on the Facebook Page @horowhenuatastetrail

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19

the

e t a m i t l co. u

g g e

For all your b

ee range ar n and fr

egg needs

‘’Thank you for supporting a positive change in poultry welfare” The Ultimate Egg and Poultry Co was originally established in 1992 as Valleyview Farms by Nick and Katherine Bennik and is situated on the fertile flats of the Horowhenua District under the backdrop of the picturesque Tararua Ranges. With mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, the area lends itself well to the production of high quality barn and free range eggs.

From 1992 to 2018 Valleyview Farms grew from its humble beginnings of 2500 hens to 56,000 layers. Over the last 5 years 3 other like-minded farmers chose to become involved and the Ultimate Egg and Poultry Co was born, comprising of a production base of 93,000 layers on 6 separate sites.

All Ultimate Egg and Poultry Co production sites meet the recent changes to the Animal Welfare Act 2012 and in fact, exceed these minimum standards by 20% for available free range area.

All Ultimate Egg and Poultry Co sites are independently, audited once yearly (to the same specifications as the NZSPCA free range/barnlaid standards) with five sites currently SPCA Blue-tick accredited. To ensure authenticity of our barn and free range eggs Ultimate Egg and Poultry Co has No involvement with factory/cage farming (many farms in NZ which produce barn and/or free range eggs also have battery cages on them think about it!).

All production sites have been extensively upgraded over the last decade to produce the most animal friendly, high quality and hygienic eggs available. Similarly our packhouse has received a major upgrade to export standard.

With over 25 years of experience, our 'state of the art" production and food safety systems backed by a reliable distribution network, makes Ultimate Egg and Poultry Co the only logical choice when looking for a genuine barnlaid or free range egg supplier.

One of Ultimate Egg’s Free Range production sites

YOUR BARNLAID AND FREE RANGE EGG CHECKLIST Supplier has No involvement with any "cage" egg production system Has a registered Risk Management plan for food safety Production methods meet or exceed all requirements under the Animal Welfare Act 2012 Comprehensive and reliable distribution network Fast, friendly and honest service

The Ultimate Egg Philosophy

"To produce the highest quality barnlaid and free range eggs at cost competitive prices while maintaining a strong emphasis on animal welfare and customer satisfaction"

To discuss your requirements and pricing, contact us:

www.ultimateegg.co.nz

the

e t a m ulti gg co.

e

ultimateegg@actrix.co.nz

Businesswoman credits Horowhenua background with

successful journey to the top

L

evin’s Solway Street might seem an unlikely stomping ground for New Zealand’s newest CEO, but it is where Justine Tupara grew up.

Justine runs J T Property Wash in Lower Hutt, a multi-million dollar business operating around the country, and still only in her 30s, it is an impressive achievement.

Justine says her Horowhenua upbringing prepared her well for the future. “I had really good role models,” she says.

“My parents and grandparents have had businesses in Levin and my mum is a super star.”

Growing up in the town, Justine says the biggest problem she had was not knowing what she wanted to do with her life. She became a young mum at just 17 and studied for a travel diploma in Palmerston North. However, it seems one of her biggest influences for future success was her own mother.

“I had an amazing family network,” she says.

“My mum is so accomplished. She’s owned businesses, was a midwife and has a PhD in bio-ethics.”

It wasn’t until her mid-20s that Justine found her niche, prompted by a gentle push by her parents to spread her wings.

A business degree at Massey University followed but despite the knowledge she gained, it didn’t seem to help with finding employment.

“I soon found I had a head for business and that I enjoyed the processes and the analytical side of figuring out things,” she says.

“I graduated full of hope only to find out that my degree was meaningless. I couldn’t get a job.”

Working her way up from a call-centre job in Wellington, Justine says her potential was eventually spotted and she had roles as project administrator, then manager, then operations manager.

Then, JT Property Wash came into the picture, where Justine had the role of operations manager. The family-run business suited her philosophy.

“My immediate boss was the managing director,” says Justine.

“I took time off to have another baby, and when I returned to work I said I wanted to progress my career.” The pitch worked and boss Ray Tomlinson asked her if she wanted to run the company.

“Justine is the perfect person to take our family’s company to the next level,” he says.

Justine Tupara credits her Levin background with her successful business life.

“For the past five years, she has implemented world-class systems and processes which have been key to our recent growth and preparation for the future. She brings fresh ideas while fully promoting family values within our staff, and in the service we provide to our loyal customers.”

Justine can’t wait to lead the company she’s thrived in.

“I am honoured to have been appointed as CEO and I have grown a lot here at JT Property Wash,” she says.

“I believe inclusive workplaces like ours really let people thrive.”

Buying or Selling your Home?

“For the love of people and food” Dine-in • Takeaway • Catering Services Restaurant Open for Private Functions 685 Waitarere Beach Road Waitarere Check out our Facebook, or ring (06) 3687474

Call

Lorraine Rankin 021 067 1451 Team Group Realty Limited Licensed Salesperson REAA 2008

lorraine.rankin@harcourts.co.nz www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

21

Levin education a

pathway to success

F

ormer St Joseph’s and Waiopehu College student Briar Franks has made it big in the global entertainment industry. At just 26 she has been appointed General Manager of a new Australian branch of a leading London performing arts academy called Associated Studios.

“I am thrilled to be able to continue in a role much closer to home,” she says. A trained dancer and graduate from Victoria University with a degree in Arts and English, Briar gave up her dream of being a dancer in favour of roles in production.

She got a real taste for the production side of theatre while doing an internship at Disney World in Florida five years ago. “It was my gap year from university in which I really discovered the entertainment industry and found I loved it,” she explains.

After graduation the following year she spent six months back home in Levin doing odd jobs while looking for her dream job in entertainment. She found that with StarNow, a global casting platform for entertainers.

“I started in an entry level job but after nine months became an account manager, dealing with a lot of Australian clients,” she says.

A year into that job she was asked to move to the London office.

Within a year, Briar was at Associated Studios, working as an operations manager.

“I was keen to be involved more in education,” she said of the move.

Having started at Associated Studios in January of this year, Briar’s UK work visa is about to end, but she found the academy wasn’t about to let her go.

“My boss, Leontine Hass, has spent time living and working in Australia and both of us have extensive networks in the industry there, so she came up with the idea to start a Melbourne branch for our academy,” Briar says.

“When dealing with Australian clients in the past I met a lot of choreographers, and agents, so I’m not starting from scratch.”

Briar will initially be the only employee of the new branch.

“We will be applying the same business model we have in London, so everything is organised and it is a model I am familiar with,” she says.

“Eventually there will be more staff.”

Briar is expecting to be home in Levin in December and January and will move to Melbourne in February.

Among the services it offers, Briar’s new branch of Associated Studios in Australia will offer a foundation course for those who have not had any training and a more intensive course to help those who have had training to refine their skills.

Superminx is full of summer shoes and other lovely things..... ou our favourite brands are Minx and Fly London.

Come and enjoy our personal award-winning service from the team of gorgeous girls who will make you feel inspired and fabulous!!

Pop out the back of our Levin store to enjoy a 50% clearance area full of bargains from previous seasons.

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Briar Franks says she owes much to her Levin education.

Now she is the one offering support and mentoring, but Briar reckons she wouldn’t be where she is today without the education and support she received herself during her time at St Joseph’s School and later Waiopehu College.

“Waiopehu’s teacher support was amazing,” she says.

“They set me up for this new role. They went above and beyond to accommodate and nurture my talents.”

Briar says she believes there is plenty of incredible talent in Levin and the wider Horowhenua, and she hopes to have a chance to tap into that resource one day.

She says she intends to hold auditions in New Zealand for Associated Studios courses and looks forward to seeing people fulfil their dreams, just as she is doing.

In memory of a pioneer

Horowhenua flower farmer G rowing lilies was what William Doreen wanted to do from a young age.

From the time he studied horticulture at Massey Agricultural College as the 1940s drew to a close, William, known as Bill, was focused on the opportunities afforded by the striking yet delicate bloom.

At the time Bill graduated with his horticulture diploma, New Zealand gardeners could only get two varieties of Lily -Christmas and Easter, so he bought some bulbs from his teacher and mentor Dr John Yeates, who he had also worked for during his study years.

Bill bought four hectares of land on Fairfield Rd in Levin, met and married his wife Carol in 1953, then went on to become largest flower wholesaler and exporter of lilies in the country, through their business Lilies International. His most famous lily hybrid is called Casa Blanca, and is still widely available.

The science behind the flowers became a big part of the business, and later, when the couple’s four children grew up to join their parents’ business, they set up a tissue culture lab, as well as giant freezers and cool stores, glasshouses and a state-of-the-art pack-house.

Bill and Carol retired from their business in 2002 and Bill decided to share his wealth of knowledge through book writing. His renowned book Lily Species throughout the World was launched in Christchurch in 2009, with the author saying his motivation had been not wanting the knowledge gained throughout 60 years of growing lilies to be lost.

Bill had become a world-renowned authority on flower-growing and was internationally recognised for his

contribution to lily breeding, writing and lecturing globally. He was recognised locally for his achievements too and as having been a major employer in Levin during his time in business at Fairfield Rd. In 1997, he was named New Zealand Floriculturalist of the Year.

Bill Doreen passed away in July 2018, but will always be fondly remembered for his contributions to both his community and the wider horticultural world.

Buying or Selling Property?

Talk to me first!

Murray Doreen is extremely passionate about Horowhenua being Levin born and raised. With a Diploma in Horticulture, Murray went on to develop a globally successful floriculture business, Flowercorp Ltd. Employing hundreds of local Levin people, he recieved the 1996 Electra Business and Exporter of the Year award.

Murray transferred his business competence and extensive knowledge of Horowhenua to a career in Real Estate 14 years ago. Since that time he has achieved sales of more than $100 million in property value in Horowhenua.

Experience counts a lot when you are buying or selling property.

Engage Murray Doreen and be confident you are working with a truly focussed professional.

Murray Doreen

Residential/Lifestyle/ Commercial Sales Consultant M 027 490 4773 P 06 366 0662 E murrayd@pb.co.nz

pb.co.nz Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

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23

YOUR TRUSTED BUSINESS ADVISORS have governance and senior management experience, with John having chaired Central District Cricket for many years and Andrew working as a Statutory Manager for the Ministry of Education, assisting schools in financial difficulty.

We are a leading Chartered Accounting Practice focused on providing superior solutions for small to medium sized businesses and individuals. John Fluker and Andrew Hyslop lead an experienced team based in the Horowhenua, also serving clients across New Zealand and overseas.

We put you at the centre so that you become our most important client whenever we are working with you. As Chartered Accountants you have the assurance that we are professionally qualified to give you the best possible advice. We get alongside you to listen and come up with solutions that are tailor-made to your needs.

We aim to build long-term relationships that allow your business and financial position to successfully develop over time. We speak in your language to make matters as easy and as stress free as possible.

Both John and Andrew have presented on succession planning and business

valuations, and work intimately with clients on buy and sell transactions; key areas that we can help get you the best deal possible. We offer the full range of wrap around services, including partnering with trusted investment, tax and legal specialists, Payroll and Human Resources advice, and accounting software implementation.

John and Andrew are also the only qualified auditors in the Horowhenua and provide audit and assurance services to a wide range of clients, including charities and other not-for-profit entities. We also

Phone: 06 367 9900

Our dedicated team work for builders, plumbers and electricians; Māori Incorporations and Trusts; farmers, agricultural contractors and growers; retailers and cafés; doctors, engineers, economists and lawyers; kindergartens, schools and tertiary training organisations; property investors and developers; Churches and service clubs; Companies and Trusts; retirees and personal investors; and others, small and large. These are our people, this is our firm.

Our commitment is to provide best practice advice that gives you peace of mind and contributes to your success. Please call and we can start talking.

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Photo / Darryl Butler 26

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

Foxton Fizz still the favourite

after a century

F

oxton Fizz, the iconic Horowhenua fizzy drink company, and one of the country’s oldest, celebrated a century in business earlier this year.

The Kiwiana brand is a niche soda company known for its wooden delivery crates and old-style bottles full of fizzy treats.

Founded by an A. Stevenson a hundred years ago, it was then owned by the Perreau family for 70 years before being purchased by a group of Wellington investors in 2006.

The new owners moved production to Auckland in 2008, ditching the 90-yearold bottling machinery that remains at the Foxton factory.

The old practice of washing and refilling thick glass bottles was still used at Foxton Fizz until the 2006 sale. Current managing director Matt Watson says the rewashable bottles were not only quite heavy and more expensive but also limited sales to the Foxton area.

“Moving to one way glass enabled us to send the product out of Foxton,” he says.

“At the end of the day that was the major change that has enabled the business to

grow. Now it can be sent right around the country.”

Despite a market dominated by global soft drink giants, Matt says business is growing.

“As the craft beer and soda markets grow, so does Foxton Fizz,” he says.

“There is renewed interest in smaller artisan brands. People want unique and different - it’s fun, sparks their imagination and evokes memories of good times.”

Matt reckons Foxton Fizz embodies the essence of “Kiwiness,” as it is a really small player in a big market “making a good go of it.”

He credits the company’s longevity to the Perreau family who he said ran it very well.

“It also helped that many small town soda companies left the market, allowing Foxton Fizz to become well known,” he explains.

Foxton Beach resident Murray Perreau was the last in his family to own Foxton Fizz and says he still drinks one now and again with “a jot of rum”.

His father bought the company in 1936, involving his children after school and during the holidays. Murray says he stepped into his father’s shoes after coming home from overseas in the early 1970s, and that at one time they even had a home drop-off service.

Like milk, people would get a crate of bottles, then leave the empties at their door to be swapped for freshly-filled Foxton Fizz.

Matt says that despite the location change, the company would keep Foxton Fizz true to its roots, and that even now, Foxton locals still get a special discounted price on the popular drink.

The business continues to support the Foxton community, and has a national charity scheme called Cap Collection, where cafes can fills a jar with bottle caps, and then nominate a charity for Foxton Fizz to donate to.

A special centenary celebration earlier in the year saw many locals turn out to indulge in some drinks, fizzy drink ‘spiders’ and Foxton Fizz memorabilia while reminiscing about their memories of growing up in the drink’s heyday.

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27

A QUALITY EDUCATION IN A CARING AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT At Manawatu- College we have a friendly, positive and safe learning environment in which students are: • Encouraged to find pleasure in learning.

• Challenged to work to the full extent of their abilities.

• Helped to gain the skills and knowledge they will need as citizens of the future.

Specifically we are placing emphasis on • Excellent academic achievement.

• High expectations of student behaviour, with any issues resolved restoratively.

• The provision of quality guidance and pastoral care.

• Involvement in co-curricular activities and daily fitness & conditioning.

HOW WELL ARE WE DOING? The College is going well! But please don’t just take our word on it. Check us out!

• 60 minute day-time tours of the College-in-action, conducted by the Principal, are available on request.

SPECIAL FEATURES • Small class sizes Over the last three years junior classes have averaged 19 & senior NCEA classes have averaged 12 in size.

• The Manawatu- College Certificate of Educational

Achievement (MAC) MAC has had a significant impact upon achievement in the Junior School, with flow-on benefits to the senior school.

• Pleasing academic achievement levels in the senior school as well as the junior school.

• A comprehensive leadership development programme for students at Years 10 to 14.

• High Performance Sports Programme, which is producing national champions and age-group representatives.

principal@manawatucollege.school.nz Ph: (06) 363 6550 • Website: www.manawatucollege.school.nz Facebook: Manawatu College

Foxton a perfect

holiday destination F

inding a fantastic holiday destination that offers something for everyone might be closer than you think if you take a look at the up-and-coming towns of Foxton and Foxton Beach.

Fast shaping up to become one of the best holiday spots in the lower North Island, the easy charm, relaxed Kiwiana vibe and surprising range of attractions and activities on offer in “the fox town of New Zealand” make it appealing to people from all walks of life.

Blessed with an array of beautiful geographic features, such as its stretch of golden sand, thriving estuary wetland and stunning views, the area is one of Horowhenua’s major drawcards.

Cute beach baches can still be found among the modern residences of people who have made the beach settlement their permanent or summer home, while the township’s main street is being tastefully upgraded to reflect its growing needs as a destination. Some interesting and quirky

shopping is on offer, from a vintage opshop stocking treasures to a huge store packed with Indonesian trinkets. There is also the Flax Gift Gallery housing creations by local artists.

Foxton Beach Summer Markets are also not to be missed for a fun family day out.

You can find handcrafted gifts, bargains at the car boot sale, fresh produce and preserves. It runs from 10am-2pm on Saturday February 10, Saturday March 10 and Saturday April 14.

Renowned for adventure sports, the beach is already a mecca for kitesurfing enthusiasts, with local business Wind Warriors the only registered provider in the lower North Island. It is also home to Off The Loop - the largest cable wakeboarding park in the country, and will soon boast a brand new asphalt pump track at Holben Reserve.

If slightly gentler pursuits are your preference, there is a network of walking tracks in the area, easily accessible from Holben/Te Wharangi Reserve, which is a great place to park the car and head into nature. From here you can walk to some of the best bird watching spots in the region, where you can see wading and migratory birds and access the extensive walking tracks.

The reserve also has ponds, a children’s playground, a bike skills area, basketball hoop, tennis courts, a skating area and is a popular family picnic spot in summer, where you’ll often see people enjoying an ice cream while their kids run around.

With something for everyone, Foxton should be on the map for your next holiday break.

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29

Welcome to

HOROWHENUA COLLEGE

At Horowhenua College our vision is to grow successful young men and young women. This has been our focus since our college was built in 1940. Academic achievement is our primary objective - we have a proud heritage of quality teaching and learning so students are equipped to confidently enter the career of their choice.

Physical activity is encouraged and our students engage in a wide variety of sports and activities in the outdoors. Our extensive grounds, gymnasium, rock climbing wall and 33 metre swimming pool are well used by our students.

Language, identity and culture are explored and developed in each of our students. Every student is unique and we work hard to develop each students’ individual talents and abilities.

Growing successful young men and young women is a pleasure and a privilege and we are proud of our students and what they achieve.

Head Boy, Matt - “Horowhenua College has provided the opportunities and the support to help me grow into the successful person I have become”.

Head Girl, Sina - “5 years at Horowhenua College has taught me that when you believe in your inner abilities, despite who you are, you already have the first key to success”.

65-73 Weraroa Road, Levin | 0800 467 694 | www.horowhenua.school.nz

Celebrating the

arts in Horowhenua H orowhenua is a haven for creativity and the source of plenty of artistic talent.

Artists, creatives and craftspeople from all walks of life contribute to a colourful and thriving art community in the wider district.

From those who have moved out of the larger city centres to enjoy the more relaxed pace and great lifestyle in Horowhenua, to locals who have lived here for generations, the creative offerings are many and varied, perhaps inspired by the natural beauty found in the area.

Horowhenua Arts Society, in Levin, was founded in 1949 and now has over 100 members who enjoy a range of regular art groups working in different mediums, including watercolours, acrylics, oils and drawing. The society has for the last decade been housed in their own, custombuilt, future-proofed art rooms, where works are often displayed and everyone is welcome.

For a specialised approach to an individual medium, there are also many clubs in the district with a particular focus. Levin Pottery Club operates from its sunny studio in the grounds of Thompson House on Kent St, where both electric and gas kilns, electric pottery wheels and a range of specialised tools are available. At the same property, you can learn your weft from your warp at the Spinners and Weavers Guild, where handspinning, weaving and woolcraft are taught, practiced and preserved as an art that has lasted through the centuries. The

fine art of woodturning is also represented in the district at the local woodturners’ club, where members can learn or refine this beautiful and functional art form and marvel at the shapes and forms that emerge from the laithe.

From the mountains to the coast, the stunning natural beauty of Horowhenua certainly lends itself well to photography, and the area is home to many photographic creatives, including some who have gone on to achieve international recognition. New Zealand’s youngest photography Grand Master, Kelvin Gilbert, was born and raised in Levin, while a stunning exhibition named Peace in 10,000 Hands was held at Levin’s cultural centre Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō. The latter was a project by acclaimed photographer Stu Robertson, who travelled the globe to photograph a single white rose held in the hands of people from many different countries, including a galaxy of international stars of film, music and sport, all in the name of peace.

Of course art isn’t just visual or tactile, it also includes music, and Horowhenua is home to many talented musicians across all kinds of genres. From the Levin and Districts Brass Band, which has been entertaining crowds at local festivities for many years, to the emerging live hip-hop scene in the district, there is musical talent to please every ear and taste. A locally produced event to celebrate NZ Music Month pulls in the crowds and presents live musicians at multiple locations all around

Levin as part of a music-packed day of fun for all the family. The colleges in the area punch above their weight in producing musical talent too, and Horowhenua has always been well represented in regional and national youth music competitions and events. The music of different nations is celebrated here too, with vibrant cultural performance groups calling Horowhenua home.

With so much on offer for those of the creative persuasion, no matter what your medium, Horowhenua is the perfect place to tap into that inspiration and find your muse.

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31

Waiopehu College Proudly growing good people, where a sense of family is at the heart of everything we do Nga mihi nui kia koutou Waiopehu College is a vibrant co-educational College, with around 640 students, situated in the town of Levin. The College was established in 1973 and has a spacious and attractive campus with excellent facilities throughout.

We pride ourselves on meeting the individual learning needs of students through the provision of quality education programmes and pathways. We have a proud record of achievement in academic, sporting and cultural areas.

Our teachers and support staff are this College’s most valuable resource. It is the quality of the staff that is the most important factor in determining that successful learning takes place.

Central to our success are our core ‘Pehu PRIDE’ values along with a caring sense of family, enabling safe and effective learning relationships upon which growth and achievement are based.

Quality teaching and learning are our core business and all students are encouraged to aim for excellence and become the very best they can be. A high standard of engagement and personal conduct is expected. We are future-focused and we want our students to be collaborative, connected, creative and curious as they mature into young adults who are capable of contributing positively to their communities and to wider society.

So far my college experience at Waiopehu was w better than I could ever have imagined and I’m dooing o better education wise and socially. I have made m so many friends and memories in my small tim m here me and look forward to the many more that wiill come.

Khaliah Hori Te Pa Williams YEAR 9

74 Bartholomew Road, Levin 5540 New Zealand d T: (06) 368 8303 E: secretary@waiopehu.ac.nzz

www.waiopehu.ac.nz

Black Sticks prestige

for young Levin player

N

ew Zealand national men’s hockey team, the Black Sticks, brought home a silver medal from this year’s Commonwealth Games, with a Horowhenua player in their midst.

Hayden Phillips, 20, hails from Levin, and though he has already spent a few years living in Auckland, where he studies at Massey University’s Albany campus, he still considers the Horowhenua town home.

The Gold Coast Commonwealth Games was Hayden’s first, but the atmosphere wasn’t entirely new to him as he had already been to an Olympic Games. He started playing hockey at the age of five or six, because his mum was coaching his sister in the sport at the time.

Hayden went on to play for Levin and then for Manawatū Under 15s, when he was at Palmerston North Boys’ High School. From there he progressed to Central Hockey and then their Under-21 squad and eventually the Junior Black Sticks, before being picked for the prestigious Black Sticks.

“I like hockey because it requires a lot of skill and is very fast paced,” Hayden said.

“Also, in hockey you need to be able to do everything, defend as well as attack. It is a well-rounded sport.”

The current Black Sticks are a 25-strong squad, and get selected in December/ January each year for the next 12 months.

“From these guys a team is selected for each tour,” said Hayden, who has been a Black Stick for three years now.

The Black Sticks are ranked ninth in the world and fourth for the Commonwealth Games, behind Australia, India and England.

And while the team didn’t manage to bring home the gold, with Australia’s Hockeyroos proving too strong for the Kiwi men, Hayden is rapt with his achievement, which certainly brought pride back to those who supported his Horowhenua grassroots beginnings.

LEVIN FREE DELIVERY LOCALLY 521 Queen Street Ph: 368 2268 | E: levin@mitre10.co.nz www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

33

Shooting for

the stars

L

evin builder Ryan Taylor finished his long career as a prone shooter with a fifth place at this year’s Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

At his fourth Games, Ryan, who had reached the finals in the past, had been hoping for a medal position, but still found the experience “unforgettable.”

Ryan was a member of New Zealand’s 11- strong shooting team at the Games, having already attended two Olympics Games and three Commonwealth Games.

As a prone shooter the Horowhenua contructioncompany owner spends many hours during competition and training lying on the ground staring at a tiny target 50 metres away.

“Eighty per cent of it is mental and 20 percent is physical,” he says.

“You have to concentrate too.

Focus is everything.”

The men’s 50-metre prone is the biggest shooting event, and is regulated by strict rules.

Several shooters work at the same time with just over a metre of space between them.

Ryan is one of about 12 Kiwi shooters who have been travelling the international circuit for the past 20 years.

34

“You need international experience to qualify,” he says. And that is not easy to do, because few shooters get any funding or sponsorships.

Financing his own expenses so far has been a challenge, with guns and specialist ammunition costly, with Ryan’s particular supplies made specifically for his gun in the UK. These days international travel with guns and ammunitions in tow isn’t easy either. Guns have a bit of a stigma attached to them, something that could mean shooting is dropped from the Games.

However, despite the hurdles to his passion, Ryan says being at an Olympic or Commonwealth Games is an incredible experience, and for him, it is the culmination of years of training and practice, having started shooting at just ten years old.

Nowadays, Ryan says prone shooting is hard on the body.

“With limited funds, you need to train smart,” he says.

He also credits the pressure competitions put on him.

“I do better when I am competing overseas than at home due to that pressure.

I thrive on it. It has taught me a lot.”

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Local javelin-thrower at

Commonwealth Games

L

evin’s Ben Langton Burnell was part of New Zealand’s track and field team at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games earlier this year.

Ben, who goes by the moniker “Javmanben,” was New Zealand’s only javelin-thrower at the Games and ranks 32nd in the world. He needed a throw of at least 80 metres to qualify, and made the

team with a personal best last year of 82.44 metres, guaranteeing him a spot.

Standards for the Games are very high, he explains, especially in Athletics.

“For example, the 100-metre sprint means you need to be able to run 12-15 metres ahead of any All Black going for the try-line, you need to do it in 10.1 seconds, which is blisteringly fast,” he says.

“In Athletics there are so many people competing that qualifying is quite hard.”

Ben’s hopes for a Commonwealth Games medal were high after making the cut and getting his shot, but he ended up in ninth place with a best throw of 75.29 metres while the gold medallist reached 81.22 metres.

He was still proud of making it that far though, and says he was originally inspired

by Stuart Farquhar, who was silver medallist at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

“I watched him on TV competing at the 2008 Olympic Games and was hooked,” he says.

Ben, who attended Levin’s Fairfield School and then Palmerston North Boys’ High School, has been throwing javelin for eight years, and while he lives and trains in Hamilton these days, he was born and bred in Horowhenua and still represents his Wanganui-Manawatū club.

He says high school gave him the chance to train for the javelin, and he initially reached distances of up to 50 metres, however with training and experience that increased.

“You just focus on the technique a lot, but growing up I never thought I’d one day be going to the Commonwealth Games,” he says.

Though he specialises in javelin, during training Ben practices other sports including sprinting, jumping, gymnastics, gym work and hurdling, in order to achieve holistically.

“Your whole body needs to be in tune to achieve a good throw,” he says.

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35

Cycling Around Horowhenua from Levin have competed at the Junior Track World competition.

Encouraging cyclists of all ages, Levin Cycling Club has been hosting the NZ Secondary Schools Cycling Championships for 50 years.

Horowhenua is a popular cycling destination, with both flat and hill options. The strength of the recreational riders has led to the establishment of the Levin Cycling Club, which dates back to 1900.

Not everyone is a competitive rider, and the non-competitive riders are also catered for – the Levin Velodrome track is open Tuesday and Thursday nights in winter for people to safely train off the roads under lights, with Track cycling training beginning in October. New members of all abilities are welcome to come and join us!

With a velodrome at Levin Domain, Levin Cycling Club has produced many representative riders who have broken NZ track records and flown the flag for New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games. In 2018, two junior riders

If flat or track cycling is not your thing, and you would like to explore the off-road scenery and tracks, Horowhenua also has the Levin Mountainbike Club. With weekly Sunday morning rides from 9am at various destinations around the region, this is a great way to safely explore off the road. The rides are posted on the Facebook page, with weather updates posted by 8am. Get on your bike!

For more information, go to Levin Cycling Club

For more information, go to Levin Mountainbike Club

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Local success at

NZ Horse of the Year

A

Levin woman achieved significant success at the country’s premier equestrian competition earlier this year, taking home a host of accolades at Horse of the Year.

Louise Duncan, riding Don Ivanno, took out the title of Grade IV Para Equestrian Horse Of The Year at the Hawke’s Bay competition, placing first in the Para IV Team Test, Para IV Championship Test and Para IV Musical events.

Louise also placed second, third and second respectively in those categories, which are points-based, on her other horse, the creatively-named Wolkenstien BC. Para Equestrian gives people with mild to severe disabilities the opportunity to train and compete at dressage competition on equal terms. It became the fifth discipline in Equestrian Sports NZ in 2009 and is different from Special categories, which include athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Participants compete at a certain grade based on their level of impairment, or against able-bodied riders if they choose.

Louise, who suffered a series of strokes and endured extensive rehabilitation after contracting meningococcal disease as a teenager, has fought her way determinedly up through equestrian competitions in New Zealand, competing in both Para and able-bodied categories as well as running her own successful hair design business in Levin.

Alongside her Para achievements, she and Wolkenstien BC also placed fifth in the North Island Zilco Accumulator, an able-bodied category based on accumulated points throughout the year at various events, as well as a final performance at Horse of the Year.

They were also ninth overall in the Level 5 title, and Reserve Champion Grade IV Horse of the Year.

Louise says it was her first time competing at Horse Of The Year in Para categories, but she had competed for a number of years on horses and ponies in both dressage and showing.

“I was very proud to have qualified in able-bodied and Para classes, and to finish in the top ten able-bodied classes with a fifth in the National Accumulator, [as well as] coming home with Champion and Reserve Para,” she says.

“Being a Para equestrian always has challenges. My Para grade 4 dressage tests are equivalent to a level 3 able-bodied dressage test, and up to level 5 able-bodied in our freestyle which includes Walk, Trot and Canter, Flying Changes, Half Pass, Shoulderin and other lateral work.”

She trains alongside her mother Frankie Webb, who is an Equestrian Sports NZ coach and also works with top-level international coaches John Thompson and Andrea Raves.

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37

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Passion for Horowhenua, creating lifestyle developments and love for his family, past, present and future, are what drive Horowhenua builder/developer Wayne Bishop.

Speldhurst is his biggest development to date. What began as a 25-year plan for 450 to 500 houses, with current momentum looks like it is going to be completed in about a decade.

Building houses is in Wayne Bishop’s blood and the motivation behind his work is his passion for his job, his district and his family. This project is not just about building houses, it is about creating a community where those who have chosen to make Speldhurst their home have many and varied opportunities to build community together. “I am fiercely parochial towards the Horowhenua, my home and have done all I can to employ and support local business throughout my developments,” Wayne says.

More than 100 homes are taking shape at Speldhurst and another feature in the works is a 120-seat restaurant within The George, the community centre at the heart of the Estate, which will be open for use to the wider Horowhenua community later this year.

HOLIDAYING IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD: TRY A STAYCATION IN HOROWHENUA

W

ith the holiday season not too far away, many of us might be starting to think about trips away, but if you’re planning on staying in the district this summer, there is plenty to do on our own back doorstep. Writer Sadie Beckman checked out some places to stay, wine and dine in Horowhenua.

Horowhenua is a beautiful region, there’s no doubt about it. Lush green paddocks rolling into the distance, market gardens and friendly towns that still retain their rural charm characterise this neck of the woods.

Tucked away you can find all kinds of gems if you look, which is what our plan was during a recent weekend ‘staycation’.

It might not always cross our minds to stay somewhere else when not too far away from home, but I highly recommend considering it for a change of scene, some peace and quiet and a chance to take some time out from a busy life, which is after all, what holidays are all about.

My husband and I found Woodlands Park Lodge, a beautiful B&B homestead a few kilometres from Levin on the road to Shannon, where a feeling of relaxation kicked in as soon as we drove up the treelined driveway on a still Friday evening.

Owned by Chris Wood, Woodlands Park feels like an oasis away from the hustle and bustle. Chris has worked hard to create her sanctuary, which she gets great joy out of sharing with her guests, who, if they’re anything like us, feel like welcome visitors in her home.

The house itself seems to be the perfect blend of stately and homely. Although only 20 years old, it has been built to incorporate elements of a bygone era, including the use of repurposed features, such as beautiful woodwork, sash windows and beams. Set on 13 acres of idyllic rural land, the property has plenty of places to explore, or sit and read.

A loop track takes you past small lakes where weeping willows dip their tendrils onto the still surface, birds flit from branch to branch and the sunlight through the greenery makes the place feel timeless. Back at the house, arbors, vegetable gardens and roses speak of the many hours Chris must spend tending the grounds, although she says she welcomes ‘woofers’ to help her - people,

often young travellers, who work for a period of time on a property in return for bed and board.

The two guest rooms themselves are comfortable and peaceful, and Chris makes delicious breakfasts with attention to detail - we had the continental with homemade preserves, cereals and stewed rhubarb, although there is a cooked breakfast option for the hungrier visitor too.

Breakfast was sorted, but dinner needed exploring, so we headed to Manakau’s Quarter Acre Bistro that evening, where we found a friendly, popular place with a menu full of fresh, seasonal produce. We tried the Quarter Acre spicy chicken wings with blue cheese sauce which was a zingy taste explosion, paired with a cheeky little Cottier Estate ‘Emily’ Chardonnay. I chose their Aoraki salmon as a main and the baked fillet arrived atop a potato rosti with tasty pea puree that reminded me of an upmarket version of English chip shop mushy peas - a childhood favourite. Caramel ‘drop tarts’ for dessert took decadence to a new level - a pastry basket coated in white chocolate filled with rich, dark chocolate ganache, topped with droplets of caramel. A glass of local Ohau Gravels Pinot Gris, which is soft and sweet, finished things off nicely and we

headed back to the comfort of Woodlands Park Lodge to digest.

Saturday allowed me to indulge in a favourite pastime - scouring the op shops, of which Levin has quite a few, before a visit to Ohau Gravels vineyard cellar door where trying the full complement of their award winning wines left me feeling very relaxed, as well as glad I wasn’t driving.

Later, excellent Flight coffee at Foxton Beach’s Little White Rabbit cafe was a great afternoon pick-me-up. The cafe is a popular spot, where fresh and local ingredients are the priority, the ambience is funky, beachy and retro and the people are friendly and welcoming.

The day was capped off in a perfectly Kiwi way with a walk on Foxton Beach with fish and chips for tea from the fabulously named and award-winning Mr Grumpy’s takeaways - a chip shop so popular on Trip Advisor it even draws international visitors during the summer months.

Back in the sanctuary of Woodlands Lodge, I reflected on the weekend, coming to the conclusion that finding some time for yourself in the hectic pace of life is vital, whether you venture away for a new experience or stay put and look at your own surrounds with a different perspective.

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

39

THE ANCHORAGE

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Address: 35 Kent Avenue, Waitarere Beach, New Zealand

Local photographer a

national award-winner

A

Levin-born and raised photographer was awarded the prestigious title of Illustrative Photographer of the Year at the NZ Institute of Professional Photographers (NZIPP) IRIS awards.

Kelvin Gilbert, who is now based in Palmerston North where he co-founded creative agency Origin Eight, is also NZIPP’s youngest photography Grand Master, one of his profession’s highest accolades.

Kelvin, whose images are multilayered in meaning and touch on the slightly dark or macabre, says the awards pushed him to create and improve his photographic style.

“When rewarded, it shows that the hard work and persistence is worth the effort, as there is no better feeling than to have something you have worked so hard on to be recognised by your peers and industry professionals as worthy to represent New Zealand photography,” he says.

The NZIPP IRIS awards, which are supported by photography giant Nikon, have recognised the country’s most accomplished practitioners across a range of photographic disciplines for 35 years.

They provide a platform for both public and peer recognition of technical excellence, creative originality, and a desire to excel using both digital and traditional techniques.

The judging panel is comprised of New Zealand and international experts, and honours the best in contemporary photography both in New Zealand and abroad.

Gilbert has earned recognition here and overseas too, and last year, the former UCOL student was named Overseas Photographer of the Year by the Australian Institute of Professional Photography.

His love of photography started early, after he was introduced to it at a young age by his grandfather.

He says image making proved to be a powerful creative outlet, and he later enrolled in UCOL Palmerston North’s Diploma in Photographic Imaging, where he rapidly developed into a highly skilled photographic re-toucher and creative imaging professional.

Gilbert and his Origin Eight co-founder Amy Fowler now supply a full spectrum of creative services to clients around New Zealand and Australasia.

Photo / Darryl Butler

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

41

Kapa Haka pride

C

elebrating the region’s Māori culture is important to many young people, with plenty of opportunities for them to showcase their talents throughout the year. Here are images of just some of the past year’s performances.

Foxton Beach School

Levin North School

Foxton Primary School

Levin East School

Property Management

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44

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

sporting achievements

R

awiri Tristram-Brown is a Horowhenua nine year old who loves swimming, basketball and rugby.

Even though he can’t walk, he gives his all to the sports and last year competed at the Halberg Junior Disability Games as the only Horowhenua competitor, winning the prestigious Spirit of the Games award.

Born with spina bifida - an incomplete closing of the backbone and membranes around the spinal cord - and a dislocated hip, Rawiri lives with his grandparents and attends St Joseph’s School in Levin.

Last year, the plucky young athlete had a fantastic time at the Games, an event that attracted 146 disabled and visually-impaired athletes, aged

eight to 21 years, representing 12 regional teams across 21 sports, including athletics, swimming, triathlon, football, golf and waka ama.

It was held at Auckland’s King’s College.

Rawiri’s grandmother, Mabel Tasker, says despite his physical disability, Rawiri is a spirited and motivated child who gives things his best effort.

He learned to swim only a few years ago, after being initially scared of the water, and now swims in 25-metre and 50-metre races across all the strokes, completing a total of six lengths at last year’s games using only his upper body. The brave youngster, who has undergone continued surgeries throughout his life, says that

he can’t walk normally on land, but in the water he can.

“I like that when I go under the water it’s really quiet, and when you relax you can’t feel anything,” he explains.

He also enjoys rugby and basketball, playing on an indoor court with special wheels on his wheelchair.

Wheelchair sprint races are another favourite, and he scooped top times in several events last year.

“I was a bit nervous when we all lined up but as soon as we got started I whizzed away,” he says.

Mabel says Rawiri formed a strong bond with older buddies and mentors at the Halberg Games, and meeting Paralympians had been lifechanging for him.

“When the Paralympics is on TV he gets up at 6am to watch,” she says.

“He’s really interested in the [runners with] bionic legs - he says he wants those instead of his own legs when he’s older so he can run too.”

Mabel says Rawiri continues to practice hard in all his sports, including special swimming lessons where he is rapidly improving his stroke techniques and has learned to do tumble turns.

“I run around a lot in my wheelchair too and I race around the shops,” he says.

“If my Nana wants me to find something in the supermarket I go and find it really fast.”

“I want to go to the Paralympics one day.”

“ If my Nana wants me to find something in the supermarket I go and find it really fast.

I want to go to the Paralympics one day”

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45

Photo / Darryl Butler

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Share your bounty –

initiative going strong

N

ew ways to share surplus produce and combat food waste are spreading around the country, and Horowhenua is no exception.

Levin man Antonio Cioffi set up a community fruit and vegetable stand outside his lifestyle block in Gordon Place earlier this year and says it has proven very popular.

The stand is a place where people can help themselves to the produce, as well as to drop off any they may have spare, to share with others.

There is no obligation to directly swap food - the stand is there for those who need it, and as long as the system is respected there should be no issues, Antonio says.

Antonio explains he first saw the initiative on social media, where there are photos and stories about successful up-and-running stands in other places around the country.

He and his family often had a lot of extra fruit from the orchard on their property, and had previously offered access to the fruit trees on Facebook, but that had resulted in a lot of people misunderstanding that they were to pick it themselves and knocking on his door at inconvenient times.

“They kept waking the baby up,” he says.

He now knows the stand is a much better way to offer the free food, and that while an honesty box could have been an option, he didn’t need, or want to involve money.

Homegrown produce is the main feature on many stands around the country, but other items can be seen too, such as canned food, preserves, packaged non-perishable items, seedlings, flowers, eggs and more. Antonio says he has no problem with any useful food items being dropped off at the stand.

The first stand was started by Mark Dennis, who now runs a thriving Facebook page with updates and an interactive map to show where stands are operating or under construction.

Mark says he put up the first stand in the project outside his own property earlier this year, and the movement had grown hugely from there.

He says there were a few initial concerns about vandalism or people taking too much, but that had not happened.

“Everyone thought there would be [problems] but the public have been amazing,” he says.

Mark says the Levin stand is well appreciated, and since Antonio had volunteered to build one, there had been

interest in starting stands from people in other parts of the town too. He says that for anyone interested in the initiative, the national Community Fruit and Veg Stands group page is www.facebook.com/groups/ communityfruitandvegstands So, if you find yourself with surplus fruit or vegies from the garden and can’t bear the thought of produce going to waste, a community fruit and veg stand may be the answer.

community and the world.

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47

Watery thrills: Foxton’s cable

wakeboard park is NZ’s largest

W

ater sports thrill-seekers from across New Zealand have been flocking to Foxton, since the country’s largest cable wakeboarding park opened there earlier this year.

The innovative new park has been built from scratch by three windsurfing enthusiasts in a venture that could well be a tourism coup for the district.

The park adds a whole new level to Foxton’s already-thriving wind and kitesurfing culture, and with the town’s main street upgrades and massive new community hub, it has been definitively put on the map as a fantastic holiday destination.

The park, called Off The Loop, features a man-made lake that is 185 metres long, separated by a bank in the centre, with a double counter weight cable tow system suspended nine metres above the water, between a tower at each end.

Wakeboarders hold onto their bar and are whizzed up and down the watery route on an electronic pulley system, at speeds tailored to the rider.

Learners, or riders who want to take it easy can pace themselves more slowly, while skilled boarders who want to bust some moves can turn up the heat.

The park caters for all levels, with one section left clear for learners and the other full of ramps and sliders to test the mettle of those with more experience.

Off The Loop is New Zealand’s third cable wakeboarding park but arguably the best, due to a unique setting and the tallest towers around.

LEVIN COSMOPOLITAN CLUB INC. Members, Affiliated Members and Guests Welcome

BARS - RESTAURANT - GAMING - TAB

47-51 Oxford Street, Levin | Phone: 06 368 2571 | www.levincossieclub.co.nz The Levin Cosmopolitan Club occupies 7000 square metres of land encompassing a Clubhouse of 2000 square metres, a large sunny private sheltered outdoor BBQ Picnic area, large off street tar sealed vehicle parking area which easily accommodates members and visitors’ vehicles, motorhomes and caravans. This area is floodlit at night and with 24 hour surveillance cameras.

The entire clubhouse is fully air-conditioned and boasts above average bars, function rooms, licensed restaurant, pool and darts areas, dedicated TAB facility (operator assisted and self service) and gaming room with 18 modern pokies. The large outdoor picnic BBQ area has a huge shade sail, umbrellas, BBQ’s and garden furniture. The grounds are groomed to a high standard and often used for private gatherings of likes of business house socials, family birthdays and weddings etc.

On tap is a wide selection of beers and cider plus a large bottle selection of Kiwi, craft and international beers including low alcohol ales, soft drinks etc. Hot comfort food is available

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during bar opening hours and a full coffee vending service at modest prices.

The Club’s Tararua Restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday inclusive for lunch and evening dining and the menu, prepared by our international Executive Chef, offers quality family dining at an affordable price.

The Cossie Club has always been very strongly community orientated with financial support from its income going to the Arohanui Hospice and to the Horowhenua Health Shuttle. It also provides other financial grants to community organisations, especially those with a focus on children.

The members also donate

generously to the local Christmas Food Bank Appeal.

Membership of the Club also brings eligibility to join any of its sporting adjuncts - both indoor and outdoor - Golf, Bowls, 8 Ball, Cards, Clay Shooting, Darts, Fishing and Line Dancing.

Another very busy adjunct is the Seniors which meets every Wednesday, with frequent hosting of visitors and excursions away from the Club. Housie, Texas Hold’em Poker, Quick-fire Raffles, Trivia Knowledge Quizzes and “Flip the Joker” to Win Game are other popular attractions.

The Club operates 3 shuttle coaches to bring members and visitors to and from the Club at a nominal cost.

There are many other benefits of membership, kindly visit our website.

Club premises and picnic area are also available for business and community club meetings and gatherings on a by arrangement basis.

Membership fees are $46.00 per person or $69.00 per couple.

The lake is also the largest, and these attributes mean it is sure to make a splash on the wakeboarding scene.

Set just off the Manawatu River Loop, the fresh, clean water actually comes out of an in-ground spring to fill the engineered lake.

Surrounding the park is some of the region’s best scenery, and there are full facilities, including tiered decks for viewing, “hang out” spaces, changing rooms and a kiosk with refreshments. Everything is provided on site for riders, and the park complies with rigorous safety requirements, and is run by experienced professionals, including owners Glen Butcher, Dean Stella and Ange Cook.

The idea for creating the park came from a “necessity to ride”, says Glen.

“We are all board riders and when there is no wind we still like to ride boards. That is what this park is about, so we can ride in all weathers.”

He said it also provides the opportunity to push your boundaries and do jumps without getting hurt.

Glen and Dean put their heads together and engineered the park’s towers and pulley system, before having it signed off by a specialist engineer.

“We are a farmer and a kite surfing instructor, what can’t we do?” Dean says.

Glen says wakeboarding is a popular competition sport around the rest of the world and is increasing in popularity in New Zealand.

Off The Loop hosts events, and sends crews of riders to top competitions in other locations too.

Open

Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00 Saturday - Sunday 9.00 - 4.00 We have a groomer onsite phone the Petshop to book

Weraroa Shopping Complex 31 Oxford Street - Levin

3679934

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

49

Your Holden, Suzuki & Mazda dealership

Established in 1990 with origins dating back to 1928.

HMC Levin is a locally owned & operated dealership.

With a supportive, friendly and experienced staff environment, we’re flexible to our customers’ needs and pay close attention to the finer details of motoring.

We serve our customers with technical expertise while giving them value for money with quality vehicles for their motoring needs.

• Best value new & used vehicles Used Vehicle Sales • Comprehensive repair & 360 Oxford Street, 06 367 3925 maintenance options New Cars & Service Department • Practical pick up and drop off 15-19 Bristol Street, 06 368 7169 service • Guaranteed genuine parts & w hmclevin.co.nz accessories WHERE JOURNEYS BEGIN

Team Group Rentals Ltd Residential Letting and Property Management Specialists

For an informative chat or to arrange a FREE no obligation rental appraisal call Dot now on 0508 4 RENTAL or 027 200 7456

Dot Scott

Business Development Manager Harcourts - Team Group Rentals Ltd

dot.scott@harcourts.co.nz With over 30 years experience in property, your property is in safe hands

offers a number of services you may not be aware of.

• Urinary Tract Infection (U.T.I) Treatment • Erectile Dysfunction Treatment • Medico Compliance Pak • Blood Pressure & Blood Glucose Monitoring • Coeliac Disease Screening • Zinc Testing • Emergency Contraceptive Pill • Paediatric Gastroenteritis Treatment • Shingles Vaccination 209 Oxford Street Levin

(06) 368 2560

From packaging to

all purpose vehicles Ayrpak KGP Limited Our locally owned packaging business has been supplying the Wellington and local region since 1995. While still specialising in food packaging, our product range has vastly extended over the years to provide packaging products for virtually any business. Typical customers include supermarkets, caterers, bakeries, food manufacturers, takeaway outlets, growers, farmers markets, retail shops, industrial pants, offices, workshops, warehouse, cleaners, in fact there isn’t a business we would not have daily used products for. Our wholesale shop is open to both public and business alike. With a well developed distribution network, we supply products throughout the country with many customers choosing to shop online using our website and we provide regular van deliveries throughout the local and greater Wellington area. Ayrpak was one of the first packaging businesses in New Zealand to fully embrace environmentally responsible packaging by importing our own range of compostable and biodegradable food packaging under the brand name KiwiGreenPak. This was started back in

HAWK

All Purpose Vehicles Electric & Petrol 2wd/4wd

2000 and continues to grow through the KiwiGreenPak brand and together with other strategic partners. We are able to offer what is arguably the largest range of environmentally friendly packaging available. Continuing on the environmental theme, we also introduced a recycled cardboard shelving system which is now widely used in retail outlets, for domestic use and trade show stands.

HAWK APV’s Hawk All Purpose Vehicles were introduced to the New Zealand market in 2016. The principals of Lifestyle Direct Imports Ltd had a clear focus in mind - source a range of APV’s that were reliable, functional and at a price that everyone could realistically afford. With the backing of a well established overseas company run by ex-Yamaha and Honda executives, a selection of vehicles were rigorously tested in New Zealand conditions before being released to the market. The range consists of 2 engine types being electric and petrol. The electric models consist of a standard 4kw 2wd and a newly introduced 5kw 2wd with high and low ratio. Both are available with either

a fold out rear seat which extends to a generous size carry tray or a sturdy steel pneumatically assisted tilt tray. The petrol models have a 2wd 200cc single cylinder engine and a 4wd 400cc fuel injected engine model. The 200cc models are available in the same configuration as the electric models while the 400cc is available only with a pneumatically assisted tilt tray. All models come with rollover protection, seat belts, indicators, LED lights, roof, windscreen, back covers, choice of AG tyres, road tyres or turf tyres and the XY400 model also comes standard with a winch and tow bar. Prices range from $9995 to $12,750 including GST.

Lifestyle Direct Imports Ltd

82 Aotaki Street, Otaki 0800 222 353 www.hawkapv.co.nz

Electric

EV40RS EV40TT

EV40RS

$12,750 (incl GST)

XY200

$9,995.00 (incl GST)

Available in 2wd with rear seats that fold out to a large carry tray or with a tilt tray. Options for road tyres, ag tyres or turf tyres. Travel up to 80 km’s on a single charge at speeds up to 35km/h.

Petrol Visit www.hawkapv.co.nz for details

XY200RS XY200TT Available in 2wd shaft drive with rear seats that fold out to a large carry tray or with a tilt tray.

Options for road tyres, ag tyres.

Economical single cylinder

XY400TT

XY400TT

$12,750.00 (Incl GST)

Available in: White, Army Green, Apple Green, Orange, Red, Blue, Carbon Fibre, Camouflage

The work horse go anywhere 4wd with rear wheel diff lock, high/ low ratio, fuel injected single cyclinder 400cc engine, shaft drive. Available with generous size rubber lined tilt tray. Comes standard with winch, tow bar, ROP, Roof, Back cover, Wndscreen 12 month warranty. All parts available ex stock

Retail Packaging, Industrial Packaging, Food Packaging, Cleaning & Janitorial Supplies, Label Printing, Recycled Cardboard Shelving Compostable - Coffee Cups, Cold Cups, Deli Containers, Takeaway containers, Rubbish Bags, Cardboard pizza and food boxes & trays Recyclable - Cups, food containers, Plastic Trays, Foil Trays Cardboard boxes, Corrugated Cardboard, Polybubble, Tape, Paper handle carry bags, Coloured Tissue, Coloured paper bags, Cellophane bags, Resealable plastic bags, Strapping, Pallet wrap, Wrapping paper Custom printing on Coffee Cups, Boxes, Paper Bags, Plastic Bags and Custom printed labels in any shape, colour, size or quantity

Warehouse and Shop at 82 Aotaki Street, Otaki.

Ph: 06 364 6609 - 0800 46 56 66 info@ayrpak.co.nz www.ayrpak.co.nz Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

51

125 years: History of

Horowhenua-Ka-piti Rugby Football Union

T

he union was founded in 1893 at a meeting of officials from Shannon, Levin, Manakau and Otaki clubs.

Foxton club, formed in 1880, had been a founding member of the Manawatu Rugby Union in 1886 and didn’t transfer to Horowhenua until 1911.

The new union struggled through its early years and for three years, 1895-97, no club championship was conducted. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that rugby became better organised in Levin.

Ma-ori enjoyed the sport and played a prominent part in the growth of the game.

In Levin, the Winiata family were great enthusiasts and seven brothers became Horowhenua representatives, with three, Martin, Walter and Tom, also appearing for NZ Ma-ori. A total of 27 players represented NZ Ma-ori, the majority during the 1910-1929 period. The most recent representatives were Graham Hurunui and Carlos Spencer, both members of the Ma-ori team which made the historic tour to South Africa in 1994.

Over 30 Horowhenua representatives served overseas during World War One, the most decorated being Bernard Freyberg who was awarded the Victoria Cross, the DSO and two bars. As commander of the NZ Division in World War Two he was awarded a fourth DSO and after the war served a term as Governor General.

For many decades the player-strength came from the clubs in Shannon, Foxton, Levin, Manakau and Otaki and only in recent times, since the late 1960s, have clubs on the Ka-piti coast become a force. To acknowledge the Ka-piti region the union, in 1997, altered its title to Horowhenua-Ka-piti Rugby Football Union.

Success in representative games were few for many years and in 1925 the union merged with Manawatu for rep fixtures. Under the captaincy of All Black Harry Jacob the Ranfurly Shield was won in 1927 and twice successfully defended before losing to Canterbury. In 1933 the Manawhenua union was dissolved.

All Blacks Codie Taylor and Dane Coles with the Bledisloe Cup after beating Australia in Dunedin last year. Photo / Brett Phibbs There was an unusual happening in 1949 when Horowhenua players were involved in internationals on successive days. Six players were in the combined Manawatu-Horowhenua team that played Australia at Palmerston North. The next day, these six turned out for Horowhenua against a shadow All Blacks team preparing for the tests against the Wallabies.

Shannon wing Michael Moynihan set a record likely never matched in international rugby.

Moynihan scored a try against both the Wallabies and All Blacks on successive days!

When the national provincial championship was introduced in 1976 Horowhenua competed with the other smaller unions in the lower division until 1993 when the Third Division was won and the union was promoted for one year. In 2006 the competition was restructured into a 12-team Heartland Championship. The union’s best season was in 2017 when Levin hosted the Meads Cup final. Whanganui won the trophy but the occasion provided the region with a new-found belief HorowhenuaKa-piti rugby can succeed at the top level of Heartland rugby.

At the National Sevens tournament in 2010, at Queenstown, Horowhenua-Ka-piti won the Bowl competition, beating Wellington in a semi-final, then Auckland in the final - a remarkable achievement against big teams.

Being a small union sandwiched between Wellington and Manawatu, the HorowhenuaKa-piti union, these days, serves as a nursery, or feeder union, to the major rugby centres.

Talented players like Carlos Spencer, Christian Cullen, Dane Coles and Codie Taylor are soon recognised and attracted to major unions to further their promising careers. The union and local supporters take much pride in seeing local talent gaining All Blacks honours.

However, many outstanding players have remained with the union and seven achieved 100 games for the union, the most recent being Keith Milligan. Barry McLennan, Warren ‘Big Bird’ Robinson, Robbie Puklowski, Phil Manu, and Don Laursen also played over 100 games.

In earlier years, Martin Winiata and Harry Jacob were standout players who inspired their teams.

Leading administrators over recent decades include Sonny Sciascia, Don Ryan, Barry Cross, John Mowbray and Corey Kennett.

34 Primary Schools

7 Secondary Schools

9 Clubs

4008 Players

210 Coaches and Volunteers

125 Years of History

Cnr Bristol & Stanley Streets, Levin 5510 • 06 3678059 • www.hkrfu.co.nz 52

www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz

Hohepa ‘Harry’Jacob.

Vickers has been in business in Levin since 1987.

We proudly provide outstanding customer service with the simple concept of paying what you can afford per week.

We have a huge range of products, including first aid kits, small appliances, nursery, toys, manchester and much more.

Open an account today with low payments from $10 a week and no interest. Plus get a credit limit of up to $1500!* * Terms and conditions may apply. Details provided when opening an account.

All Blacks with

HorowhenuaKa-piti connections

T

he Horowhenua-Ka-piti region can claim to have influenced the early rugby careers of over 20 All Blacks but only one, Harry Jacob, played out his entire career with Horowhenua.

Before playing for Horowhenua seniors, the big 18-year-old forward was plucked from the Koputaroa club for the 1913 NZ Ma-ori tour to Australia.

He became a regular in NZ Ma-ori teams and gained All Blacks selection for the tour to Australia in 1920. World War One interrupted his rugby career but he distinguished himself at Gallipoli and France and was awarded the Military Cross.

During the early 1920s, Harry Jacob captained Horowhenua and later Manawhenua (Manawatu and Horowhenua unions combined) until 1927 after leading Manawhenua to win and then defend the Ranfurly Shield in three games. Jacob was regarded as being one of the standout wing forwards of his time and his All Blacks career would probably have been extended if he had moved to Wellington or Auckland to play.

Joe Karam is the only other player to appear for the All Blacks while affiliated to a Horowhenua club. He had spent a year at Shannon school

before boarding at St Patrick’s in Silverstream. After two years in the Wellington representative team he returned to Levin in 1971 for one season before heading back to the capital, where he was picked for the 1972 tour to Britain. Playing for Paraparaumu in 1975 he was the All Blacks fullback in the ‘water polo’ test against Scotland at Eden Park.

Terry McCashin, an All Black hooker in 1968, was officially an All Black from Wellington, that union having nominated him for the early-season trials. He had played for Horowhenua 1963-64 before moving to Wellington. He returned to live in Levin in 1968 and played for Horowhenua 1968-69.

All Blacks to have their early education and/or play club rugby within the HorowhenuaKa-piti region include Henry Dewar, Cliff Porter*, Nelson Ball, Rod MacKenzie, Vince Bevan, Brian Molloy, Kevin Eveleigh, Gary Knight*, Mark Shaw*, Carlos Spencer*, Christian Cullen*, Paul Steinmetz, Dane Coles, Codie Taylor, Liam Squire, and the Whitelock brothers.

All Blacks Sevens representatives Owen Scrimgeour and Andrew Knewstubb also have Horowhenua-Ka-piti backgrounds. (* Represented HorowhenuaKa-piti at senior level.)

Shop now

pay later Flexible payments that suit your lifestyle

We make all our First Aid Kits on-site in various sizes and contents and can tailor make for your business including personalised labels with your company branding

Open an account today, with payments starting from as low as $10 a week and receive a

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Car First Aid Kit with your order

08005 08005

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53

EVENTS

CALENDAR 5th October Age On the Go Horowhenua Events Centre, Victoria Street, Levin For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz 14th October Women’s 5th Annual v8 Car Cruise For more information, go to www.events.nz.com/horowhenua 21st October Foxton Spring Fling Main Street, Foxton For more information, go to www.foxtonandbeach.co.nz 24th October Special Olympics New Zealand Swim Meet Levin Aquatics Centre, Corner Salisbury & Queen Street, Levin For more information, go to www.aquatics.horowhenua.govt.nz 25th October Waste-free parenting workshop For more information, go to www.facebook.com/HorowhenuaDC/events October (date to be confirmed) Halloween At The Pools Levin Aquatics Centre, Corner Salisbury & Queen Street, Levin For more information, go to www.aquatics.horowhenua.govt.nz 2nd November – 15th December No Shame No Silence Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, Main Street Foxton For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz 7th-10th November Diwali Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz 11th November Footprints in the Sand Fun Run event Hosted by Foxton Lions Club at Foxton Beach For more information go to www.foxtonlions.co.nz 11th November Armistice Day– 100 year Anniversary For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz

17th November Swim m The Strait For more information, go to www.aquatics.horowhenua.govt.nz 17th November Te Aw wahou Nieuwe Stroom’s 1st Birthday Celebrations Te Aw wahou Niewe Stroom, Main Street, Foxto on For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz 18th November A Day at the Fair Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz 24th November Horo owhenua Taste Trail Held at various venues throughout Horow whenua For more information, go to www ww ww.tastetrail.co.nz w 29th November Horo owhenua Annual Civic Awards For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz

54

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2nd January Big Dig For more informattion, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz 19th & 20th Janu uary Horowhenua AP&I Show Horowhenua Even nts Centre, Victoria Street, Levin For more informattion, go to www.levinapishow w.co.nz 5th February Chinese New Yea ar Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō For more informattion, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz

Throu ughout December 2018 Festival of Lights – Light Up Levin Various businesses and homes throughout Horowhenua For more information, go to www.harveybowler.co.nz

6th February Waitangi Day Hosted by Muaūp poko Tribal Authority Day event at Lake e Horowhenua, Queen Street Wesst, Levin Celebration also at Te Awahou Nieuw we Stroom For more informattion, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz

1st December Sinte erklaas For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz

March (date to be confirmed) Shannon Health Day For more infformattion, go to www.aquatics.horo owhenua.govt.nz

1st December Horo owhenua Christmas Carnival Christtmas Parade, Santa Claus, Christtmas Market and outdoor movie!

For more information, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz

10th March Art In the Park Hosted by Horowhenua Arts Society at Thompson Hou use and green For more informattion, go to www.facebook.com/HorowhenuaArt

9th December Swim m School Pool Party Levin Aquatics Centre, Corne er Salisbury & Queen Street, Levin For more information, go to www.aquatics.horowhenua.govt.nz

31st March Levin Swimming Club Autumn Meet Levin Aquatics Ce entre, Corner Salisbury & Queen Street, Levin For more informattion, go to www.aquatics.horo owhenua.govt.nz

14th , 15th & 16th December Aven nue of Trees Salvation Army Hall, Durham Street, Levin For more information, go to www.harveybowler.co.nz

Events will be pu ublished on the Events Calendar of Horowhenua District Council’s website, www.horowhenua.govt.nz/events, as details become available.

Horowhenua Taste Trail 2018: Event information

• Horowhenua Taste Trail • Ticketed event • Date: Saturday 24 November 2018 • Time: 10.00am-4.00pm • Location: Various sites around the Horowhenua district Producers: The ten producers on the Trail create and grow a variety of excellent food and produce. This year’s producers

Sunday 16th Deccember Christmas Carols in the Carpark Salvation Army ca arpark, Durham Street, Le evin For more informattion call Phone: (06) 368 8177 or email levin_Corpss@nzf.salvationarmy.org

are: Woodhaven Gardens, Lewis Farms (home to Tendertips Asparagus and fresh strawberries), Genoese Pesto, Turk’s, Woody’s Free Range Farm, Levin Eel Trading, Thoroughbread Foods, The Ultimate Egg, The Baked Dane, and Bagrie’s Dairy Farm.

Tickets: On sale from Monday 1 October 2018. Buy your tickets online

or at Te Takeretanga o-Kura-hau-po- or Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom before November 24th. Tickets will not be sold on the day, so you need to pre-purchase if you don’t want to miss out!

Website: www.tastetrail.co.nz Facebook: @horowhenuatastetrail Instagram: @ horowhenuatastetrail

LO AN CA D LLY OP O ER WN AT E ED D

Proudly locally owned and serving our community

21 Bath Street, Levin Mon to Sun: 7.00am - 10.00pm Phone: 06 368 6538

THE MINI STORE WITH

MIGHTY SAVINGS

508 Queen Street East, Levin 8am - 8pm, 7 days.

Phone: 06 368 6286

LEVIN