YOU October 2011

you

OCTOBER 2011

magazine

PHOTO KIRSTY GRAHAM 300911- KG-135

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Living the CHRIS’ SUPERCAR

COUCH POTATO

PINK POWER

Your Yo ur A Ashburton sh hbu burt rton rton on G Guardian ua ard rdia an pu publication ub bllic ica attio on

YOU social scene

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you What’s in

Super ha angar op pen ning

Publisher

Ashburton Guardian Co Ltd

307-7900 l ashburtonguardian.co.nz

magazine P3

who’s out and about

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COVER STORY: Karen Palmer: time to live

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couch potato

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passion: books

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who’s new to town?

Material in YOU is copyright to the Ashburton Guardian and can not be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers

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PHOTOS SARAH CHAMBERLAIN 011011-SC-183

Above (from left) – Lyn Church, Christine Todd, Katie Kennedy and Marg Lilley celebrate the opening of the Ashburton Aviation Museum super hangar.

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Rosemary Moore.

unsung hero and travel

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travel to America

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do it yourself

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your homes

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gardening

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parenting

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motoring

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foodies: French inspired

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Above (from left) – Tony and Faye Watson, Edna and Jim Burgess.

Above – Jo Goodhew, Dr Wayne Napp (Minister of Defence) and Owen Moore.

Editorial contact

Below – Chris Price, Robbie Maw, Mark Dickson and Murray Cairns.

Peter O’Neill • 307-7959 peter.o@theguardian.co.nz

Advertising contact Nancye Pitt • 307-7974 nancye.p@theguardian.co.nz 011011-SC-186

Cover photo

Above – Irene and Stephen Johnston.

Karen and four-year-old Chimtamani, members of the Hesketh-Palmer family, living in paradise in rural Mid Canterbury.

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Selling, Buying or Investing Whatever your real estate requirements, I will listen to your needs & commit to achieving the best possible results for you.

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YOU social scene

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Ashburton Business Awards

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Above (from left) – Peter and Rhonda Reverley, Margaret and Neill Chapman.

PHOTOS TETSURO MITOMO 071011-TM-137

Above (from left) – Donn McLaren, Luke McLennan, Kieran Breakwell, Emma McGuigan, Johnny Keehan and Jonny Young.

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Above left – Tania Cochrane and Mark Cherry.

Above right – Kathy and Rachel Davies.

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Above (from left) – Dave and Nadrea Whalley, Sharon Livingston and Matt Boyce.

Right – Fenn Leadley and Annette Glassey.

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Above left – Annette Lane, Jan Hide and Denise Hydes.

Above right – Ivan and Tania Fechney, and Lyndon Ball.

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Above – Sonia Booth, Courtney McDowell and Donna Brown.

creating beautiful homes Redmonds offer a full decorating service for Furnishings Flooring Curtains and Blinds. Our qualified interior consultants will help you decorate your home beautifully.

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PHOTOS KIRSTY GRAHAM 300911-KG-138

Above – Karen Hesketh-Palmer and four-year-old Chimtamani, taking time in the garden of the house the family built on their Staveley property.

Left – As the youngest of the Hesketh-Palmer children, Chimtamani has the luxury of calling the family playhouse, long abandoned by her three older brothers, her own special place.

... We’re all so held back by the fear of making change, by doing something else. Change is just a progression of yourself. You know in your heart what is right

YOU cover story

5

A life less

ordinary Life is all about making choices and sometimes that takes courage. Listen to your heart, however, and you’ll instinctively know what is right for you and you’ll find the courage to follow your dreams, says Staveley woman Karen Hesketh-Palmer. She talks to reporter Sue Newman about a life less ordinary.

I

t’s early spring. The sun’s shining, daffodils are in full bloom in her front garden, the vege patch is ready to plant and Karen HeskethPalmer is at peace with her world.

She lives with husband Fraser and their four children, in what is very close to paradise, in a home they built themselves on a 15-hectare block. The Mid Canterbury foothills are a living canvas just outside their front door. It’s a life most would envy and it’s a life that’s a far cry from the one Karen grew up with.

She’s traded materialism for me, living to work for working to live and she’s swapped a life that spun on the axis of commerce to one that turns with the seasons. It’s an ideal life, but it’s not always an easy life. That said, the life the Hesketh-Palmer family lives, is a life that puts them in control of what they do and when and how they do it, Karen says.

Is this the perfect example of self sufficiency? Yes and no Karen says. Self sufficiency is the ideal, the dream, the goal, but the reality is it makes sense for people to grow what they can and provide for themselves as they’re able, but it also makes sense for people to trade what they do and what they grow. That’s co-opera ve living.

Their life is rich on me, me to think, me to consider and me to draw strength from their environment. And with that me comes an understanding that what each person does is important and it’s valuable.

Their lifestyle is about working as a team and working in tandem with nature rather than against it. In many ways, they live as their forefathers lived.

Arriving at where she is today has been a journey and con nues to be a journey of learning and understanding. The past wasn’t wrong, it was just different, Karen said.

“I had a feeling way back then that I wanted to live in a way that didn’t cost the earth. We all have too much debt, we need to spend less rather than always wan ng to have more. It boils down to having money and no me as it is when you work really hard.”

She was raised by her grandparents, had a dad who was a member of the rock band Uriah Heep, le school the minute she turned 15 and became a successful fashion-loving,

makeup-wearing hairdresser. That was on the surface.

School and Karen never quite jelled, she hated the constant pressure to succeed and said that securing a hairdressing appren ceship represented success. It many ways it was a big achievement.

“For me, this wasn’t a shallow life. I had a lot of incredible clients with whom I had a really indepth rela onship. I would talk to them about real things, about their lives and I guess that’s what got me into counselling. I’m so grateful for this.”

The more she thought, the more she looked at her life, other people’s lives, the more she realised she needed to change.

“I was slowly realising that money just didn’t make people happy. I loved my life then, it was a means to get me here and there’s nothing I miss at all.”

Communica on for Karen, is key. It’s a learned skill, she says and a vital one. Without it people simple flounder through life; there’s a big difference between talking to people and communica ng with people.

In those early years, Karen had two goals– to own her own business and to travel to find out how other people lived.

At 19 she achieved that first goal, se ng up her own salon and a few years later she achieved, and is s ll achieving, the second. In between becoming a businesswoman at 19 and a traveller at 26, Karen worked as a drug and alcohol counsellor, met partner Fraser and along the way changed her life.

That change included buying a block of land at Staveley where the Hesketh-Palmer home now stands and becoming a member of the Hare Krishna movement.

The couple’s me overseas was instrumental in confirming that when they returned home it would be to a new way of life. They built their home and for seven years lived without electricity.

The catalyst to hook up to the na onal grid came when they became fed up with the constant ba le to provide sufficient water for their home. With their children’s educaon also uppermost in their minds they knew computers would have to feature in their lives.

They s ll supplement their power with solar and wind genera on.

Living what might appear to be the simple life does carry its own challenges, Karen says.

They largely grow what they eat, if they want to keep warm they have to chop wood and light a fire and they have just one income.

On top of that Karen and Fraser home school their four children, Ajala, 14, Maitreya, 11, Sanjara, 9, and Chimtamani, 4.

Their children are receiving a complete educa on, one that not only looks at educaon from an academic perspec ve but from a whole-of-life perspec ve, she says.

Their educa on is based on the Steiner philosophy, it follows the seasons, works with the rhythms of nature rather than against them.

“I would like them to be educated to a point where if they want to go to university that would be great, but I’m open to whatever they want to do as long as they get some sort of training so they’re not stuck on the bo om rung. What I hope for my children is that they’ll leave the world a be er place in whatever capacity that is.”

She’s a strong believer in the philosophy of children having a supported place of living as they move towards adulthood – living alongside the family home, with independence but with background support.

Her children might have a less than conven onal upbringing, but Karen believes they are growing up knowing much more about the important things in life than many of their peers.

“My kids know their rivers, their mountains and they understand about survival. They understand about their community.”

Stepping outside mainstream educa on might be risky, but Karen says in her heart she knows it is right.

“I’m just looking forward to the outcome.”

Self sufficiency in any form takes me.

Karen’s family mills its own flour to bake bread and that’s a me-consuming job, they have a large vegetable garden. They live a lacto-vegetarian diet, eschewing eggs but consuming dairy products.

Their medicine most o en comes from their garden, but they’re not dogma c or

fundamentalis c when it comes to tradi onal medicine. If that’s what’s needed, then that’s where they go.

“I believe good health is your only immunity. If you have good health, then you have immunity.”

Not a day goes by that Karen doesn’t pause and think about her life and the good things that are hers.

“I’m so grateful to live this way, the simple way of life, growing things, making things and taking me. I try to live as much as I can in the now. That’s not saying I always do that because you do have to have things to look forward to.”

They accept that living in a sustainable way s ll costs money. That means Fraser o en works away from home and it usually means what they buy is secondhand, pre-loved.

“We want to live in a way that whatever comes along, we can turn a hand to or can u lise. We’re such a throwaway society there’s always this amazing stuff in junk shops and it’s there for virtually nothing.”

Yes, their life might appear simple, but they s ll have to be organised and yes, there’s s ll stress, just different stress.

“To have these simple pleasures you do have to be organised. It’s not a perfect world.

We can only do what we can do and we don’t beat ourselves up over it, we’re really fortunate to be doing what we’re doing. It’s not that the way people are living is bad, but it’s nice living in a home that breathes with you. This house isn’t built to our wants, it’s built to our needs and it meets our needs.”

And living in a house that meets your needs means much of your living is done outside the house, working and simply following the rhythms of nature.

Yes, there are things Karen would like to have. She’d like to extend her kitchen, but does she want to borrow the money, acquire the debt? No. “At the end of the day, if we’re not happy doing this, then we’ll do something else. There are millions of ways to live a life, not just one way. We’re all so held back by the fear of making change, by doing something else. Change is just a progression of yourself. You know in your heart what is right.”

YOU couch potatoes challenge

6

Couch potatoes

stand up

by Amanda Niblett

F

rom couch potato to running fit, this is the ambion of five brave individuals willing to publicly tackle our new challenge.

Our recently completed Biggest Loser challenge was the talk of the town, with determined contestants including winner Maryann Heaven who lost 39kg.

We listened to your feedback, we heard that you would miss the entertaining monthly reality installment, and we are keen to help change the lives of more locals, so we have created an all-new challenge.

Our Couch Potato Challenge is fitness orientated rather than weight-loss focused. While weight-loss will s ll play an important part in our contestants reaching their goals, the measure of their success will be in

minutes rather than kilograms.

Without giving too much away, our contestants will be regularly tested over a set distance, and we will put them through some fun challenges along the way.

At the comple on of six months of training, we believe that our contestants will be able to complete a 10km run, and we will enter them into a public fitness event to show just how far a couch potato can go.

To assist our potatoes off the couch and on to the road, Rachael Rickard, part-owner of Studio Fit and the Mountain Gym, along-side Frank Connelly, partowner of the Gym Company, will give each contestant a training programme, increasing their strength and endurance.

Frank joins us again a er his success in assis ng our Biggest Loser compe tors, while Rachael has developed and run the successful Over the Line pro-

gramme, where she and her team trained everyday people to complete a half marathon.

As a mentor to the compe tors, Stephen Mealings, owner of The Frontrunner Ashburton, will be offering mo va onal support and advice on ensuring each contestant is fi ed with the correct footwear for the long road ahead. Stephen is a well recognised marathon runner who enters in many top level events, a wealth of knowledge for our contestants to call upon.

For nutri onal advice, Sally Rossiter is back a er her success with our Biggest Loser contestants, to ensure that each person is correctly fuelling their bodies to allow for gradual weight-loss, while s ll providing the required nutri on to get the most from their training.

It will be a challenging six months for our contestants, so if you see them out training, give them some encouragement toward success.

Are you ‘fat on the inside’?

SALLY ROSSITER Sally will be helping contestants with their nutritional needs on the six-month Couch Potatoes challenge

If it’s true that you are a ‘couch potato’, then you are leading a sedentary lifestyle.

Sedentary living probably includes a lot of TV watching and/or computer use, a ‘desk’ job, a car that gets a lot of use and feet that don’t.

There are more people who describe their lifestyle as sedentary than ever before and technology can be held responsible for the opportunity, but let’s be honest, sedentary living is a choice.

Though it may sound very relaxing, sedentary living can be very unhealthy for you.

The most obvious result of not moving much is weight gain. However, there are many sedentary people who are in the normal weight range who fall into a new medical category called ‘fat on the inside’.

This refers to the fact that though their BMI is healthy and they aren’t visibly over-

weight, their organs are surrounded by fat.

Being ‘fat on the inside’ is more prevalent in people who maintain their weight with their ea ng habits and don’t include physical ac vity in their lifestyle.

Being sedentary means you have to eat less to maintain your weight. O en, the amount of food and choices made don’t provide enough good nutri on.

Being a ‘couch potato’ will most probably lead to more fat on the outside, the inside or both.

The ea ng habits of ‘couch potatoes’ will most likely contribute to the condi on and the result.

Learning to fuel yourself well with good nutri on will make you feel be er and give you more energy. Ea ng well and being physically ac ve go hand in hand with good health.

Become a shadow of your former self Sally Rossiter is now available for appointments in Ashburton and Methven!

Sally Rossiter lifechanges@hotmail.co.nz

021 383 412

Learn how to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight for the rest of your life.

Sally can offer an individualised plan that includes support, a customised eating plan, motivation, education, recipes, cooking classes, tips and tricks, and more!

This is not a diet you go ‘on’ and ‘off’ it is normal eating habits for life that keep your weight steady.

RACHEAL RICKARD Racheal will be helping contestants with their fitness needs on the six-month Couch Potatoes challenge

Getting YOU started This week I was privileged to meet five people who are ready to publicly get off the couch and bravely get outside their comfort zones, open their minds to new possibili es and ul mately improve the quality of their lives. Are you ready to join them?

Ge ng mo vated is hard, staying mo vated can be harder. All of us have days where we just don’t want to get off the couch, maybe the weather is “too bad”, or perhaps we think “I should just clean out that back cupboard before I get started”.

The difference between those who stay ac ve and those who don’t is a ma er of consistency.

You’ll need to make a decision about how you are going to live your life. Deciding that today I will exercise, no ma er what the schedule looks like or how “busy” you think you are consistency is the key to a healthy lifestyle – ge ng over your excuses may be the biggest ba le.

If you a ready to make changes you’ll need to be ready to ask the hard ques ons. How did you get here? At some point you made the choice to live the way you do, it didn’t happen to you.

Look at your history and be honest about how you may have sabotaged your poten al success in the past, ask yourself when do you quit and why.

When you start to realise some truths about yourself then begin to surround yourself with people and ideas which give you successful strategies for change.

We o en think that we “know” what to do, but like a Buddhist saying goes, “if you know and don’t do, then you don’t really know”. Good luck, now drop and give me 20!

YOU couch potatoes challenge

7

PHOTOS KIRSTY GRAHAM

Geoff Laird

Jeff Withington I haven’t always been blessed with the terrific body that you see before you today.

In my rugby and table-tennis playing days I was phenomenally fit. However, the weight piled on with the breakup of my first marriage about 13 years ago, and enjoyed my company so much it has stayed with me ever since.

In July last year I had arthroscopic surgery on my right shoulder. Un l the day before the opera on I was s ll working on trucks. Basically a courier job with a five tonne vehicle. The nature of the job helped me to maintain an excellent level of fitness.

In November the surgeon was reluctant for me to return to that type of work, and so except for a couple of months of rehabili ve physio in the gym I could easily see myself becoming a couch potato if I remained out of work.

Although heavily involved with voluntary work, none is what I would describe as ac ve.

When the call was made to register for the challenge, I decided it might give me the impetus to get back to the level of fitness that I used to enjoy.

I think I’ll look forward to it, ask me again at the end!

Cathie Withington I have always been obese and never been fit. As I’ve got older, I’ve slowed down more and more and so I’m even more unfit. Jeff and I have five grandchildren, aged from 2-7, and one due next month.

I want to be able to play with them and not send them off with their parents to play when they are visi ng, because I can’t keep up.

Jeff and I are involved in Children’s Day and each year I look longingly at the AMAC bungy, knowing I’m both too big and too unfit to safely use it. Maybe next Children’s Day, I can line up with the kids!

I some mes walk or bike to work, and that’s about it for physical ac vity. My job is pre y sedentary.

Although I enjoy cycling and aqua-jogging, it’s usually too much effort to get going and actually go out to do the exercise. I can make all the excuses there are but I’m basically just profoundly lazy.

I originally agreed to par cipate to support Jeff but not, if I’m honest, really expec ng that we’d both be selected. When a colleague asked what the Couch Potato Challenge meant, my reply was “ow.

Lots and lots of ow”. My sister assures me that I’ll start to feel the benefit quite quickly. So bring on the “ow”, and let the challenge begin.

Wayne Rodgers I am married to Juanita and we have two children, Sam and Maddie. When I am not working or on the couch I help out the kids with what they are doing, school projects and taking them places. Basketball takes over the rest of my me.

Changing careers three years ago from being a courier driver to office job was a dras c change in exercise. The rou ne stayed the same, go to work come home, chill out (mainly couch orientated).

Of course the major difference is si ng in an office now. Over the past years as me goes by exercise and a good diet seemed to be something that I never got too

excited about. My best couch claim to fame was watching every Super Rugby game over the en re season a few years ago. That took a few beers and potato chips to get through, believe me.

Doing the Couch Potato Challenge would be good for me to break the habit that I have managed to perfect over recent years. Trimming off a few kilograms, that would definitely not be missed.

I want to get myself fit for a few reasons, running around with my kids and being able to buy regular size clothes off the rack, and not having to wear boring plain large size shirts.

For the long term it has got to be a lot be er for your health.

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Curves Ashburton Strengthening Women.tm

My wife and I moved to Ashburton just over three years ago from Nelson. We don’t regret the move one bit as we both love it here. Over the years I have held a wide range of jobs, from a freight dispatcher to a bank manager. I now care for the elderly and am employed by the CDHB as a healthcare assistant at Tuarangi Home. This is the most sa sfying job I have ever had.

I was impressed with the results people achieved in the last challenge and the difference it has made to them. I see the challenge as a great opportunity to improve my fitness and overall health with professional support. Help from my family and friends will also keep me mo vated as I work towards a successful outcome.

222 Havelock Street Telephone 308 4085

Rachel Robertson Hi, my name is Rachel Robertson I am 40 years old, married, and have a 15-year-old son.

I live in the country town of Hinds, just south of Ashburton.

I thoroughly enjoy car racing and am a member of the Ashburton Car Club.

I also really enjoy motorbikes and am a member of the Waimate Motorcycle Club.

I am really hoping to lose weight through this challenge, possibly 15 to 25kg, and I am looking forward to increasing my fitness.

My biggest mo va on to par cipate in the challenge is that I want to improve my health for the long term. I do not want to be this big for the rest of my life.

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YOU and your passion

Boys are big on

books

By Susan Sandys

T

he Upfold boys are big on books.

Seth, 15, Callum, 13, and Timothy, 10, borrow about 30 from the Ashburton Public Library each week.

The three are home-schooled by mum Sharon on the Winslow dairy farm where they live.

Seth, a keen fisher and hunter, likes reading just as much as his outdoor pursuits.

He said a book allowed him to see many pages and pictures on his chosen subject, which was be er than clicking through web pages on the internet.

“I think they help you speak a lot be er, the language you use and stuff, they have great stories and informa on.”

Mrs Upfold said her boys like reading so much she finds herself limi ng how many pages they are allowed before it is lights out each night.

She said reading had always been a family ac vity, it was something they could all do together, and it had been nice to see Timothy’s older brothers si ng with him to go through a book. Computers just did not have the same appeal.

“It’s really nice to sit down and relax and read.”

The family is originally from South Africa and moved to New Zealand several years ago.

They have been in Mid Canterbury for about 18 months.

“Every me we have moved from town to town the first place we have found is the library, I always say we can’t be too far away from the library, we use it a lot,” Mrs Upfold said.

The Upfold boys do use computers and the internet for their learning, but it is more so as a supplement to books.

Seth’s favourite books are the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings series, and he has a special interest in war and history, both in the non-fic on and fic on areas.

Callum likes ac on and adventure, par cularly the Narnia and Jimmy Coates series. When it comes to non-fic on, he has a par cular interest in chemistry. He gets many ideas for experiments, and Mrs Upfold is used to finding all sorts of concoc ons around the house.

As for Timothy, he likes history when it comes to non-fic on, and finds books are more fun than television when it comes to his love of pictures. He is a comic fan, par cularly liking the Asterix and Obelix and Tin Tin books.

PHOTO KIRSTY GRAHAM 290911-KG-014

Passionate about books – the Upfold brothers (from top) Seth, 15, Callum, 13, and Timothy, 10.

YOU new to town

9 PHOTO CARMEN ROONEY 290811-CR-020

The Taumaoes’

lucky break

By Sue Newman

F

or Monica and Falaniko Taumaoe, becoming New Zealanders was very much like winning a lo ery.

The Samoan couple had lived in Auckland, tried to do the paperwork that would ensure they could stay, but had given up in despair.

Their two children were born in New Zealand, but that didn’t make Poe-Joseph and Gregory New Zealand ci zens.

Back home in Samoa, Monica and Falaniko realised their only chance of making a new life in New Zealand lay in the ballot box, Samoa’s quota system. This allows up to 1100 Samoans a year to win the opportunity to move to New Zealand. If they’re married, then their husband or wife and children are part of the deal. The ballot is wildly popular and it’s a total lo ery. The Taumaoe family got lucky.

That was in November, but it s ll took un l March before they could return to the country they so desperately wanted to call home.

The previous two-and-a-half years in Auckland were spent near family and friends; they’re now a long, long way from any family support in decidedly colder Ashburton.

That, however, has made li le difference to how they view their adopted country.

Yes, it’s cold, says Monica, but it’s home.

The reason they came to New Zealand was a simple one – money, and advantages for their children. They came to Ashburton for work, but say it was one of the best decisions they’ve made.

“We realise this is one of the best towns to develop our family, it’s so safe, so quiet. A lot of people in Auckland want us to move back up there, but we say no,” Monica said.

There are many, many benefits in living in New Zealand, she says; medical care for their children is be er, educa onal opportuni es are be er.

“In Samoa you work so hard, but you’re paid so low. The cost of living is so high.”

If there’s any downside, it is that Monica can not work in her chosen field, teaching.

“I was a teacher in Samoa but I have to go back to school to teach here because of all the different systems. I’d love to do this but I’m not sure when I can because I have no-one to look a er my children.”

Instead of working as a career professional she works shi s at KFC. But she’s philosophical about the way her working life has changed. She works with good people and meets many new people each day and that’s a big reward, she says.

In Samoa Falaniko ran a taxi service; in New Zealand he works at CMP – night shi s. That means the mes they share at home together are rare, but it also means mum or dad are always there for their children.

They’re well se led Kiwis now, but they con nue to dream of the day other family members will join them.

“One of my goals is for my whole family to come here as well,” Falaniko says.

Rugby has brought one brother to New Zealand, he’s playing on the West Coast.

Falaniko has another big goal, one many Kiwis take for granted – buying his family a home.

For now they’re ren ng, saving and enjoying knowing that their children will have a future with opportuni es. That doesn’t mean they don’t miss the life they knew, however.

Their visits home to Samoa are infrequent. The cost of going back is just too high, not just in terms of airfares, but also in the expecta ons of extended family when they do return.

“It is part of our culture when you go back, it’s not just your own family, it’s all your rela ves, their expecta on is you’ll give them money as well.”

And when you’re from Samoa, your family is your community and that can run into dozens of people.

Moving away from the support of a strong community was tough, but Ashburton’s growing Samoan community has been a huge support, the couple say. They also find support from their church. Samoa will always be in their hearts, but in August the family became New Zealand ci zens.

“We’re now New Zealanders,” Falaniko says.

Right – Celebrating a new life in a new country, the Taumaoe family, mum and dad, Monica and Falaniko and children Gregory (rear) 5, and Poe-Joseph, 3.

YOU unsung hero/ and your travels

10

PHOTO KIRSTY GRAHAM 270911-KG-033

Volunteer Brian Cherry takes Princes Court residents Margaret Sheehan and Bert Parkin for a walk.

James and Charlotte McLaren check out a spectacular waterfall and rainbow.

A helping hand

By Erin Bishop

T

en years ago, Brian Cherry went for a walk and ran into Lanae Hill from Princes Court.

She asked if he’d be interested in volunteering at the resthome. He said he’d give it a go.

The rest is history.

The ming was good for him. He’d suffered an aneurism at age 59 and a er weeks in hospital he’d had to give up work as a transport manager, and decided he could no longer drive.

He had me on his hands, and over the past 10 years he has used much of that spare me volunteering and through his cheerful manner and helpfulness, he’s forged life-long friendships along the way.

He’s a rarity. Resthomes are typically female dominated when it comes to the workforce and volunteers, so Brian quickly found there was a place for him.

He assisted with men’s ac vi es ini ally, doing jigsaws and building Meccano with residents, but soon helped form the Elevenses, a social group where men would sit around and talk about manly things like rugby.

Over the years though, the level of care goalposts shi ed. Residents have become more dependent and are less able to express themselves, so the group faded out.

Now he spends his me assis ng Lanae, taking people for walks and visi ng residents, many of whom don’t get many visitors.

He started at Princes Court, but he now shares his me between three resthomes.

“I came (to Princes Court) for a few days to see how I would go with it and I’ve just been coming back ever since,” Brian said.

He was taken on as an employee at Princes Court for a me, assis ng nurses in the evenings, but his doctor put an end to that as he didn’t want Brian under too much stress.

So he went back to his volunteering and along with his work at Princes Court, he now assists physiotherapists at Coldstream House and takes residents out for walks in wheelchairs at Cameron Courts.

And he loves it. He even requested he receive proper training on how to handle elderly people correctly which means he’s now able to walk in and get to work with no instruc on.

And for resthome staff, having someone like that to call on is a bonus.

Picture perfect in Canada – Pete, James, Charlotte and Tim McLaren.

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One of the many spectacular waterfalls found along the way.

YOU and your travels

11

Family fun in America PHOTOS SUPPLIED

By Erin Bishop

J

ayne and Pete McLaren were a er a basic, simple holiday full of family fun.

So they planned a five-week trip through America and Canada with their three children, James, 7, Charlo e, 5, and Tim, 3.

And they got exactly what they were looking for.

They flew to San Francisco and headed to Oakland where they hired a nine-metre camper and set off on a memorable journey.

They didn’t have a planned route set in stone and didn’t have the pressure of having to meet anyone along the way, but they did have a map which showed them where they’d find camping grounds.

They also didn’t have GPS; but it didn’t take long to work out they needed one. So they got one and went from California, up through Oregon and in to Washington State.

They had 13 days in their camper before they had to be in Sea le, so they just drove, took in the sights they came across on the way and spent their nights in what turned out to be the perfect camping grounds for them.

The family, which wasn’t used to camping, found the camping grounds they stayed at to be family friendly, each with a pool and plenty of entertainment for the children.

They were in America for the fourth of July holiday weekend and had their own celebra on with people they’d met and watched the spectacular fireworks displays.

A er 13 days in the camper, they hired a rental car and headed into Canada, and drove through the Rocky Mountains where they passed the local wildlife including bears.

For the Canada leg, they stayed in hotels and a er 13 days of five people in the confined space which was the camper, having more space was great.

They each had their own highlights for the trip; Jayne’s was simply the family fun they were able to have, and for the kids it was the endless swimming and the wildlife they saw, while Pete’s was going to the Calgary Stampede. But the massive rodeo was a hit with the rest of the family too.

And they all enjoyed the final leg of the trip – a four-night stop-off in Hawaii where they were able to relax a er a month of non-stop travelling.

It took two years of saving and six months of planning, and while it might not sound like everyone’s perfect holiday with three young children in tow, the McLarens loved it.

“I’d recommend it to other. Kids really do travel easily, they just need the basics,” Jayne said.

And when they’re as young as the McLaren kids, they’re just as pleased with a stop-off for a swim and a cheap ice-cream as they are with an expensive trip to a theme park.

1 – The 26-foot camper in which the McLaren family travelled part of America in.

2 – Pete and James McLaren in the Redwood Forest, Oregan.

3 – The Calgary Stampede, a massive rodeo, in Canada.

4 – Crashed out in the camper are Tim and Charlotte McLaren.

5 – Charlotte and Tim McLaren take in the sights at a look out in Bamff, Canada.

6 – Checking out the Colombian icefields is Jayne McLaren, with children James, Charlotte and Tim.

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Cancer – talk about it

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When Peter Weily was diagnosed with breast cancer it came as a complete shock, but with the continual support of his wife Jenefer, he is back to fighting fit.

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“Every journey is different but we all share the same hope” Mid Canterbury businesses supporting Pink Ribbon Month October 2011 Rugby, fast cars, hot women and beer. Some men talk about these topics for hours on end, but one topic that usually gets brushed under the rug is breast cancer, especially when it is a man who has been diagnosed with it.

“I think I’ve got a bit of a lump here.”

As these words passed through the lips of local man Peter Weily to his wife Jenefer, it started a journey that would dramatically change his life.

“Well you better go and see the doctor,” was Jenefer’s reply, and it was just as well that Peter took his wife’s advice and had it seen to immediately.

Peter and Jenefer grew up in Methven and farmed at Highbank for many years before retiring in Ashburton. Fit as a fiddle and known by friends and family to be an active and energetic man, Peter felt relatively bullet proof, and had never even considered that one day he would be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Spending years upon years farming meant that Peter was subjected to relatively harsh environmental conditions, and had a few suspectlooking spots removed from his hands and arms.

A little more than a year ago he also discovered a strange blister in his lower lip that didn’t seem to ever heal. The doctor diagnosed that this was a form of cancer known as a carcinoma, and arranged to have it removed.

This was close to five months before Peter discovered the irregularity in his breast.

“It was more of an indent really, it was hidden partly behind a nipple. There was no redness and no soreness, so it wasn’t apparently obvious that there was anything wrong.

“I was given an appointment with Josie Todd, a surgeon from Christchurch that visits Ashburton. I didn’t have any idea that anything would be wrong, so I went to the hospital myself.

“When she told me I had breast cancer, well you could have blown me over.

“I didn’t know how to react, I thought I’m not going to be able to handle this alone so I asked her to phone my wife. Jenefer came to the hospital, and I have to say, without her support I don’t believe I would have been able to come through this as well as I have.”

A date was set for Peter’s operation to take place at Christchurch Women’s Hospital, as this is where all breast surgery takes place in Christchurch.

The date set for the operation was February 22, 2011.

At 12:51pm when the magnitude 6.3 earthquake hit Christchurch, Peter was in his gown and was prepped for surgery. His wife Jenefer had left the hospital 20 minutes prior.

Jenefer was driving down Straven Road when the earthquake hit.

“If felt like the back wheels had come off the car, I had no idea what was happening, the car was being thrown violently from side to side.

“I arrived at the motel that I had booked to stay at for two nights during Peter’s recovery and the

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liquefaction was bubbling up everywhere. The motel had no power so we didn’t have any television and didn’t fully understand the severity of what had occurred,” Jenefer said.

Meanwhile, there was panic at the hospital. The power remained on so patients and visitors could view the horrific events unfolding on the television.

“We weren’t allowed to leave. Many people were panicking about their friends and family, but we were told that we were in the safest place in Christchurch, and that we should stay where we were.

“I was worried about Jenefer. She would often shop in the middle of the city to avoid the malls,” Peter said.

After a hectic and anxious six hours, Jenefer and Peter were reunited and they headed home to Ashburton.

Peter’s operation was scheduled for a fortnight later, on the March 9, in Ashburton.

Peter described the operation as virtually painless.

“The incision is a large area, from the middle of my chest around to my side. I had a full mastectomy, meaning they removed my entire breast. They also removed 18 lymph nodes. It was virtually painless though, I had a drip inserted where I could receive morphine, but I didn’t require any.

“I had drains inserted to remove excess fluid, so palliative care would visit me every day for 10 days at home to look after that for me.

“I had a bit of excess fluid build up under the operated area, which caused a bit of tightness, but this is common. I called the hospital and they saw me right away to remove the excess fluid.”

After the operation, preventative treatment was discussed with Peter.

“I was told that there was no need for chemotherapy, and I had an option of radiation therapy or a hormonal pill that I could take for five years. The oncologist believed that radiation therapy wasn’t completely necessary, so now I just take a pill every day.

“The only side effect of the pill I have had so far is hot flushes which have accounted for a few sweaty nights, but overall I consider myself to be very lucky.

Peter wishes for other men to feel comfortable discussing breast cancer, as he believes talking about it can be therapeutic.

“Being a man, I don’t believe the mastectomy is as traumatic as when a woman has to have the operation. I feel deeply sorry for women who have to go through this.

“I have found being open and talking about it has helped me through it. A lot of men don’t want to know and are reluctant to talk about it, but I think you need to get it off your chest to get through it ok.

“Recognise the symptoms and get onto it quickly.

Don’t ignore them. I had a friend that ignored the symptoms and refused to see a doctor for years and by the time they were seen to, it was too late.

“The support from my wife and family has been fantastic. Without her, I don’t think I would have come through this as well as I have.”

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“Every journey is different but we all share the same hope” Mid Canterbury businesses supporting Pink Ribbon Month October 2011

ncer

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER ACTION MONTH

Des Millar Fords Road Asshburton (03 3) 308 9936 02 27 4323 25 58

“Every year in New Zealand over 2700 women (and around 20 men) are diagnosed with breast cancer: that’s seven a day.

Around 650 women will die every year from breast cancer.”

The NZBCF is chal allenging New Zealanders to take action againstt Breast Cancer this October, and help save the seven women a day who are diagnosed with b breast cancer in this country.

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Please take ac ction by being breast aware and going for a ma ammogram if you are a woman over 40 years o of age. These are free through BreastScreen A Aoteatora for women aged between 45 and 69 9. Encourage loved ones to be breast aware an nd go for a screening.

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For a mammogram phone BreastScreen Aotearoa: 0800 270 200

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YOU great gardens

15

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“Every journey is different but we all share the same hope” Mid Canterbury businesses supporting Pink Ribbon Month October 2011 Ra ainer nerr IIrrigation rrigation Ltd. Cnr McN Nally & Robinson Sts Ashburrton (03) 307 9049

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Ryal Bush Transport Ltd. (0 03) 307 8136 6 (027) (027 7) 431 9524

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advertissin ng feature

“Every journey is different but we all share the same hope” Mid Canterbury businesses supporting Pink Ribbon Month October 2011 Think breast cancer doesn’t hit blokes? Think manboobs are immune to all that? Think again.

Yes! Men get breast cancer too.

Everyone seems to know someone with breast cancer, more than 2500 women a year are diagnosed in New Zealand.

But what if it was your dad, your uncle or your rugby coach?

Sally Rossiter – Life Changes Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance (0 021) 383 412

How do men get breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that starts in the breast tissue. Men have breast tissue too, comprised of fat, fibrous tissues, fine ducts and glandular elements or lobules. The majority of breast cancers begin in the ducts (ductal cancer).

A small number start in the sacs or lobules (lobular cancers).

Within these two groups there are different sub-types of breast cancer.

Some grow very slowly. Others develop more rapidly.

Breast cancer can spread to lymph glands and to other parts of the body, such as the bones and liver.

How common is breast cancer in men?

About 1 per cent of all breast cancers are in men. That means that each year, in New Zealand, about 20 men are diagnosed with breast cancer.

Symptoms Some breast changes may be early signs of breast cancer, including: • a lump or lumpiness • thickening of the tissue (this is the most common change); nipple changes; for example, a blood-stained discharge from a nipple, an inverted nipple (unless the nipple has always been turned in), or a rash on a nipple • skin dimpling • a change in shape

• a painful area • a rash or red marks which appear only on the breast.

Breast cancer is often thought of as a women’s disease and this can make men feel embarrassed to seek help, and when given a breast cancer diagnosis.

Don’t delay – if you have a breast symptom get professional advice. Most breast symptoms in men are not due to cancer.

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YOU

do it yourself

17

Is your deck in need of some love?

N ow that the warmer weather has finally arrived it is me to think about spending some me outdoors.

If your outdoor furniture and decking is anything like mine it may be looking a li le red and in need of some love.

Decks and wooden furniture s ll in sound condi on can easily be rejuvenated with a quality stain, varnish or paint.

As wooden furniture pieces have already been stained to withstand the rigours of outdoor use, you are just restaining them, so it is the perfect do-it-yourself job.

Wooden outdoor furniture and decks can be stained with any type of wood stain or oil from the local hardware store and, as with any paint or stain, surface prepara on is the key to a successful finish.

Wood stain is a type of paint that allows the pigment of your top coat to soak properly into the pores of the mber. It is be er to spend a li le more on a good quality product as exterior surfaces like furniture and decks are subjected to harsh condi ons day in and day out, so a good stain will last much longer, saving you me and money in the long run.

Like paints, stains are available in oil-based and water-based formulas. Water-based stains offer be er adhesion to surfaces that have been previously painted or stained with oil-based stain. Water-based stains are also recommended for woods that have a natural resistance to ro ng, such as cedar, redwood and cypress. Oil-based stains are generally recommended for decks and other areas exposed to par cularly harsh condi ons as they are not easily penetrated by the elements.

There are some newer latex/oil stains that offer benefits of both oil and water-based stains.

Water-based stains are breathable, so they won’t trap moisture. They also don’t produce harmful fumes.

Oil-based stains offer be er penetra on and durability and dry more slowly than water-based stains and thus maintain a more even finish.

Oil-based stains are more durable than water-based stains and require far less maintenance.

Unlike paint, which coats the surface, stains penetrate and allow the natural texture of the surface to show through. Whether you choose to accent the grain with a semitransparent stain or mask the grain with an opaque stain, all stains provide some measure of protec on.

The opacity of the stain determines the

amount of visible wood grain on the surface. A finish with low opacity will have less pigmenta on, resul ng in a natural wood grain appearance. If you select a stain with a high level of opacity, there will be more pigmenta on, resul ng in the wood grain being covered or masked. Opaque stains last the longest but hide the grain and the colour of the wood.

Opacity is an important factor in determining the longevity of a stain product. A stain with a low opacity level contains less pigment and will generally have a shorter life. The more pigments present in the stain/finish, the longer the product life will be.

Some stains are formulated to perform much like varnishes and soak into the wood but also form a film on the surface. Sounds great, but the problem with film-forming stains is that when they eventually fail and you go to restain your deck or furniture, you must completely strip and remove the old film, and that’s a tough job.

If you prefer a splash of colour, a good enamel paint will give your garden furniture a durable hard-wearing surface that won’t rub off and will withstand the elements. Again, the key is surface prepara on and a good quality primer/undercoat.

It is easy to prepare a previously stained deck or furniture for recoa ng if you use a penetra ng oil/stain finish, so let’s do that.

I’m old school and prefer oil-based, but the new water-based formulas are very good these days, so choose one and s ck with it.

To prepare the surface, if it’s in a fair condion, simply clean with a deck cleaner or sugar soap, a scrubbing brush and garden hose. If it has been a while between drinks, a waterblast is the best and quickest way to remove mould, moss and lichen.

Allow to completely dry then give it a light sand to remove any bumps or rough bits. This gives a be er finish and allows the stain to soak deeply into the pores.

Wipe the sanded wood with a damp cloth to remove any dust and apply the stain with a brush or roller, working it into the mber.

Wipe excess stain off with a co on rag if you want a perfectly even finish.

Some stains and certain colours cover nicely in one coat but applying two or more coats will increase the life of your garden furniture or decks.

The secret is keeping the stain up to them every couple of years so it becomes less of a job in the long run and looks the part.

Shane Woods

Ordinary Kiwi bloke Shane ‘Woodsy’ Woods is handy around the house with a hammer. Each month we’ll check in on what his latest DIY project has been.

Above left – Shane Woods applies stain to a deck. Using a good quality stain will save you time and money in the long run.

Above right – Your outdoor furniture will look a million dollars with a fresh coat of stain, varnish or paint.

*Catalogue terms & conditions apply.

SKIP-2-IT

240 Burnett Street, Ashburton Phone 308 0266

18

YOU house

advertising feature

Cosmopolitan to country Story: Amanda Niblett Photos: Kirsty Graham Living on the border of the Ashburton township provides the best of both worlds. Partly rural to encompass peace, serenity and relaxa on, yet close enough to town for prac cality.

Vivienne and John Hill enjoy the serenity of their new home in Ashburton, a er reloca ng from Wellington.

These a rac ons appealed to Wellingtonians John and Vivienne Hill, who a er 30 years in Wellington joined the Ashburton community in February.

Both were familiar with Ashburton from their younger days John was born in Ashburton and le in 1964, and they have family nearby in Rakaia, Methven, Fairlie and Timaru. The move will certainly save on ferry trips across Cook Strait to visit loved ones.

The move signifies a change in lifestyle from cosmopolitan to country, a er a ba le with cancer led to early re rement. They realised that a change in living would best suit the future they wanted to live together. “Our home in Wellington was built on more than one level and had poor pedestrian access, not ideal for a relaxing lifestyle. The thought of carrying recycling bins and laundry up and down stairs daily as we aged did not appeal,� Vivienne said.

A self confessed book lover, Vivienne likes that it is only a 20-minute walk to the library from home,

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a big change from the drive through Wellington traďŹƒc that she was used to. The view of the Southern Alps during the stroll into town adds to the beauty and serenity.

To allow for early re rement, John and Vivienne released the capital they had invested in their Wellington home and took advantage of the excellent land prices in the environmentally friendly subdivision of Geo Geering Drive.

The Ashburton District Council won an environment “green ribbon� award in 2009 from the Ministry for the Environment for this ini a ve, which promotes household sustainability, therefore pu ng less strain on environmental resources.

The Ashburton District Council purchased the land in 1985 and commenced the subdivision in 2003. The houses are built to promote energy eďŹƒciency using concrete floors, double glazing on all exterior fenestra on, increased insula on, solarpowered or geothermal hot water and an on-site storm-water catchment facility for the purposes of garden irriga on.

This appealed to John and Vivienne, because the cheaper land price oset the increase in building costs to bring the house up to the environmental requirements, and being fully insulated with an external hea ng source, the money they will save in the future will make re rement more aordable. story conĆ&#x;nues on facing page

From design to installation if you want a quality job trust Murray Milne Joinery Murray Milne can design, manufacture and install custom-made cabinetry and furniture. • Kitchen Joinery • Wardrobes • Doors & windows • Stairways • Sash & Door repairs

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P 03 308 8018 M 027 432 7617 www.murraymilnejoinery.com 40 great home designs.

That’s really, really Versatile.

See more pictures of Richie’s new Versatile home at versatilehomes.co.nz

Richie McCaw Versatile Carrington home owner

364 West Street, Ashburton

0800 VERSATILE ( 0800 83 77 28)

versatilehomes.co.nz

YOU house

The kitchen exudes modern luxury, every item prac cal yet stylish. Accessibility to each working area is spacious and unclu ered, making meal prepara on a breeze.

Ample storage is perfect for hiding away all of the kitchen accessories, while ingenious built-in features, such as the crumb slot, keep clean-ups easy. from proceeding page...

“This is the home we hope to remain in; we don’t plan on building again, so the features needed to be suitable for us now, and as we age.”

The home features spacious areas, with wide door frames and a wide passageway, suitable for a walking frame if required further down the track, while

19

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The exterior features a lovely blend of colours to create an a rac ve exterior, while maintaining privacy and peacefulness. The outdoor area captures warm a ernoon sun. Hot-mix and exposed aggregate concrete create a hard-wearing yet a rac ve entrance leading to the front door and garage.

the walk-in wet bathroom is prac cal and unclu ered.

Their ideal home was able to be built with John and Vivienne located in Wellington. They only visited once during the construc on, and felt confident that the team at Versa le could turn their vision into a reality.

“We visited a few show homes in

Rylock® Ashburton 8a John Street, Ashburton rylock.ash@xtra.co.nz

the Wellington area, including the Versa le display at Plimmerton. Later, when visi ng Ashburton, we visited the Versa le site on West Street. We were really looking for garage ideas but Dean said to us ‘we can do be er than build your garage, we can build your house too’.”

We had a look at some of their plans and realised that they could build exactly what we were looking for, and they were able to adapt the plans to suit what we needed.

“We visited and Graeme from the local Versa le team took us on a supplier’s tour, so we could Whether you are select our carpet, les, fi ngs and renovating or building new so forth. But we were able to use we offer practical window our own suppliers too, we weren’t and door solutions to suit any style of home or living. dictated as to whom we had to use.

Suppliers of Double “Graeme knew our budget and Glazing, Euroslider®, organised all of the details for us.

Eurostacker®, Foldback® The process was very professional Bifold, Pacific Suite® and easy. We had complete and the Atlantic Suite®. confidence in their ability, and the end result speaks for itself,” John said.

The home features sky-ligh ng in the hallway, allowing natural Fax 03 308 8410 light to illuminate the heart of www.rylock.co.nz the home, which further saves on power.

The warm home is naturally healthy, the insula on combined with the ven la on system means no condensa on, so the chance of respiratory ailments is greatly reduced, and the home heats up quickly on winter mornings.

The home shows that even when you build for prac cality, you can s ll have some opulence, and added luxury features, such as a central vacuum system, and the ingenious crumb slot in the kitchen.

The solar hea ng give plenty of hot water and a highly recommended kitchen accessory is the underbench instant hot water system for those important cups of tea.

The outdoor area is surfaced in a stylish exposed aggregate, with a shade sail for shelter from the extremes while s ll le ng in warm light. John and Vivienne enjoy this relaxing area in the a ernoon, a chance to appreciate life, relax and look forward to their future.

Ph 03 308 8493

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YOU great gardens

20

PHOTO KIRSTY GRAHAM 270911-KG-127

Father and son team, Paul (left) and Kevin Woodhouse, vegetable growers extraordinaire.

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YOU great gardens

21

The Woodhouse blokes –

keepin’ it green

By Sue Newman

W

hen it comes to green fingers, the Woodhouse blokes have them in numbers.

The father and son team, Kevin and Paul, can be found most days po ering in their Ashburton backyard, nurturing the thousands of seedlings that will find their way into countless gardens around the Ashburton District.

These men definitely know their way round the vege patch. Growing things is their hobby, their passion and, if they’re lucky, their pocket money too.

It’s been a long road to becoming small- me, backyard plant growers, a road that started in a big way in Auckland.

Dad Kevin had a strawberry garden and for son Paul, it was logical that he would end up working the family plot.

Kevin grew strawberries for 15 years, but always yearned to make his way back to the South Island. Re rement provided that opportunity. He might have re red, but Kevin wasn’t ready to slow down.

“When I got down here I decided to do this to keep the old mind occupied,” he says.

Keeping his grey ma er cking over ini ally meant growing thousands of strawberries on a Pendarves farm, but a er 15 years the farm was sold and Kevin found himself looking for something else to do.

That something else involved digging up his backyard, calling in son Paul. They started with a small tunnel house; today that’s stretched to three and growing. Their vegetable garden has disappeared under one tunnel house, but a new one is under construc on. The pair happily admit they’d dig up their

en re backyard and turn it into a garden.

“Why have a lawn that’s doing nothing for you if you can have a garden that will feed you?” Kevin says.

For Paul, joining dad in the backyard was an opportunity too good to pass up. He’s the vic m of a bike smash and with a life me legacy of pain from a broken neck, regular work is not an op on. Growing things is.

“If I joined them it also meant mum and dad didn’t have to go into a piddling council flat,” he says.

These passionate gardeners are about more than just growing a few plants to keep their own patch in business, they grow plants to share. For them the real pleasure in what they do is knowing they’re making vegetable gardening affordable for people on limited incomes.

They save as much seed as they can from each year’s harvest to kick start their next year’s crop, supplemen ng this with commercially grown seed.

“We grow everything that’s vegetable, with a few herbs too and now we’re trying a few flower plants as well and that’s been a mission and a half. Neither dad nor I know anything about flowers, but people kept asking for them so we’re giving it a go,” Paul says.

The two men are pre y sa sfied with their life. They’re doing what they love and they feel they’re helping other people along the way.

“We aim to make vege gardening affordable. It’s about helping the poorer people. I’ve been there for so long, I know all about that.”

They’re finding an increasing number of people who are finding their way to their door and who want advice along with their plants.

October –

vege-planting time O

ctober is the month of rapid growth in the vegetable garden and it’s also the me when it’s safe to make a start of plan ng for summer harvest.

Most seeds can be sown this month and with a li le protec on, even frost-tender plants such as tomatoes can be sown outside in sheltered spots. Just keep frost covers hand for chilly nights.

It’s also a month when you need to make sure your garden is well watered before plants start to wilt to minimise stress. Also, pay par cular a en on to weeding, feeding and spraying.

Vegetables to sow include beans, peas, carrots, radish, sweetcorn, beetroot, silverbeet, spinach, carrots and parsnip.

Le uce, cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli seedlings can happily be planted out and in sheltered spots plant cucumber, courge es, peppers, pumpkin and tomatoes.

Transplant vegetable seedlings into the garden a er you have prepared your soil using generous amounts of compost and a dressing of garden fer liser and lime.

To kick start growth, regularly feed plants with liquid fer liser.

Plant new herb plants, including parsley so that new plants are established before exis ng plants go to seed.

If space is limited, you can s ll have fresh veggies by plan ng your crops in pots. Just remember to be extra vigilant about watering.

The quick way to a vege garden is to bypass sowing seeds for some crops and instead, spend a li le more to buy a pack of plants. Make sure you check the labels so you grow the right variety for the season.

If you’re a small family, then the combo packs are a great idea. These usually contain two plants of three different vegetables, usually cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli.

If you’re a er salad veges, then the combo packs o en contain three different varie es of le uce. Planting is ideally done in cooler weather, if this isn’t possible then in the evening would be best.

It is important to water the plants well before planting out, li the plants carefully out of the pack separa ng them from one another, plan ng them in the ground at the same depth they grew in the pack and gently firm the soil around the roots. It is important to have the soil firm otherwise on a hot day the roots will burn off resul ng in a dead plant, and the wind will blow them over.

Your garden will require much less water if the ground has been properly dug over, allowing plant roots to find water at a lower level. One good soaking once a week is far more effec ve and beneficial to the plants’ needs.

An oscilla ng sprinkler is by far the best; it covers a wide area giving the ground a good soaking-without the water pressure causing the soil to compact.

“It’s great to see people ge ng out there and wan ng to grow things. I love seeing the young ones and the elderly, they come in here asking all sorts of ques ons. That educaon side has been the really rewarding part of this,” Kevin says.

You don’t need to sell the benefits of vegetable gardening to the pair. The wins are endless when you put in a vege patch – health, exercise and sa sfac on of a job well done, they say.

“It’s be er than si ng in front of TV any day.”

When it comes to producing top quality vegetables there are few secrets, the Woodhouse men say.

Harden off your plants before they are taken from punnet to garden and make sure you aerate the soil.

“That’s the really important thing. Hoe around each plant and let the air into the soil. Don’t just throw them in and hope they survive. You need to have a good hoe a er it rains and a er you water,” says Paul.

Gardening was not just a ma er of luck, it did involve care and for the Woodhouse men, it also involves a healthy dose of blood and bone to the vege patch.

For new gardeners feeling their way through the puzzling world of what to plant and when, the men say you can’t go past the Kiwi gardening bible, Yates Gardening Guide.

They’re year-round gardeners, both in terms of having plenty of seedlings coming on and plenty of vegetables for the pot.

Like all gardeners they have their favourites. Currently, when it comes to spuds, its the new variety on the block, Victoria, but if you’re talking tomatoes, then you can’t go past the tried and true potentate, Kevin says.

22

YOU spring clean

advertising feature

Spring is in the air Story: Amanda Niblett Blossom is sweet in the air, daffodils sway in the warming nor-west breeze, lambs and calves skip merrily across lush green fields and birds are serenading.

Spring is upon us, and while Mother Nature is pu ng on her glorious show of beauty, our homes may feel like they are stuck with the winter blues.

With Labour Day next weekend, it’s the perfect opportunity to roll up your sleeves, slap on a pair of gloves and get your house back in p top condi on.

Easier said than done? Here are some ps on how you can make some small changes, which will make a big difference to your living environment.

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The fireplace Many fireplaces come with glassfronted doors, which over winter become stained and unsightly. Many of us will try to clean the glass using the same chemicals that we would use to clean the kitchen bench.

O en this doesn’t do the trick, it’s expensive and ineffec ve. However, there is a cost effec ve, simple free-solu on!

Through simple science, the ash itself from the fireplace will effec vely clean the glass.

Ash had been used for many centuries as the main cleaning agent within soap. One theory as to the origin of soap comes from a Roman legend according to which rain would wash down through the ashes and animal fat of the burnt animal sacrifice area of Mount Sapo into the clay banks of the Tiber River where the local women washed their clothing, and they no ced that this clay mixture made their wash cleaner.

To test this theory for yourself, take pieces of paper towel, dip them in water and then coat well in the ash.

Use this to clean the glass, which should become clean within a few seconds.

Use more paper towel to wipe the glass clean of ash and then dry.

A handy hint – a er you’ve finished reading The Guardian, use a piece of newspaper spread under the open door to catch the drips as you clean.

off is to wrap a piece of cloth soaked in vinegar around the tap, a er a day or so the stain will wipe off.

The ace c acid in the vinegar removes the calcium, so with a bit of a polish up, the sliver will sparkle like new.

Pet hair We love our so fluffy friends, but pet hair is unsightly, annoying and can cause allergic reac ons in many people.

Pet hair grabbers and rollers can be expensive and o en frustra ng to use.

A quick solu on is to grab a rubber washing up glove, wet it under the tap and rub it over the surface you want to remove the hair from.

The hair will s ck right to the glove, ac ng in a similar way to a s cky roller, but with no cost.

Labour weekend can also provide much needed rest and relaxa on a er a long winter, so perhaps the best p on offer is to escape with your family for a few days to unwind and pay someone else to look a er the cleaning while you’re gone.

Time saver p Only dust as high as your tallest friend

Bathroom taps Do you have unsightly stains at thee bo om of your bathroom taps? Th he stains that supermarket cleaners o en struggle to remove? Here is an inexpensive theory which will leavve your fi ngs looking fi er.

More o en than not, the stains arre caused by calcium deposits in the water. An easy way to get the stain n

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YOU and your family

23

Midwife’s holistic approach

By Susan Sandys

M

id Canterbury Midwives’ newest member, Ruth Davison, has brought a new aspect of the profession to the

district.

Mrs Davison, herself a mother of two adult sons, moved here from Auckland a month ago.

She has been a midwife for 23 years, and about 15 years ago undertook an acupuncture course for midwives, and has been offering the treatment as part of her pre-natal and birthing care.

She said placing acupuncture needles in the meridians, or energy pathways, on areas of the body such as the legs, arms or back can be just the right thing for a mother preparing to give birth.

The treatment can help bring on birth, and assist in correc ng the posi on of a baby lying breech or posterior.

“It’s basically balancing the body,” Mrs Davison said.

“By pu ng them in the certain points, you can help get the body into a balanced state.”

Mrs Davison has undertaken addi onal courses, and also offers homeopathy and herbs to her clients.

Her homeopathy kit has dozens of small bo les of tablets with diluted herbs in tablet form, and just taking a couple of those can

make a big difference to a birthing mother.

Aconite, for instance, eases fear and anxiety, arnica helps with healing from bruising, and pulsi lla helps change the posi on of the baby.

Herbs are in a liquid form and pa ents can consume a few drops at a me.

“I find they work pre y well but they do taste horrid,” Mrs Davison said.

The herbs could be a very effec ve for a mother-to-be heading for an induc on.

“Usually three days of herbs will put them into labour, but there’s no guarantees, you have to be ready.”

Mrs Davison also uses aromatherapy, and the scent of burning oils can be a soothing experience for birthing women, par cularly combined with the experience of Ashburton Hospital’s birthing pool.

“Different oils are calming and relaxing in labour, different ones will help s mulate contrac ons.”

For this reason women needed to be careful with them in early pregnancy. Some did not like the smells altogether when they were pregnant, so they could not be used in all cases.

She said she had enjoyed learning about the natural aspects of midwifery, to offer alongside mainstream care.

“The main reason I learned of these things was to benefit the women I look a er,” she said.

Freshen up your function

By Amanda Niblett

A

karoa Salmon, delicately poached in warm spiced olive oil, served on potato ros and refreshing tomato salsa with sauce Vincent.

Has that got your mouth watering?

Salmon Tales in Rakaia is THE des na on for salmon, and with the ability to comfortably host up to 90 people, it is the perfect venue to host your next func on.

Their new chef Rod Paguio specialises in exquisite Italian dishes and has a flair for sensa onal seafood. The result is a new menu featuring delicious tastes to delight every palate, from garlic prawns, to tender scotch fillet.

Whether it be tea and scones in the sun beside the fish filled pond, or a fine dining experience amongst the modern surrounds,

Kaye and the team can create a memorable affair to suit any budget requirement.

Within the same building as the Salmon World complex, Salmon Tales can offer fun and interac ve ac vi es to make your func on one to remember. Take an exci ng journey through Mid-Canterbury’s finest loca ons on the 4D movie experience ride, and then witness the wonder of the live marine life at the aquarium.

These facili es can be opened on arrangement exclusively for your func on members to enjoy.

With a new out-door dining area, Salmon Tales is a supreme des na on for luncheons, just discuss your requirements with a friendly staff member, and they are able to present op ons to suit all tastes and cater to any budget.

Succulent salmon, decadent dessert and atmosphere plus, Salmon Tales is an exci ng des na on for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Salmon Tales Cafe & Resturant Opposite the Big Salmon, Rakaia Licensed Café & Bar • Arts & Crafts • Visitor Centre

Mid Canterbury Midwives’ newest member, Ruth Davison, uses herbs, homeopathy and acupuncture to help her mums-to-be with their pregnancy and labour.

The Ultimate

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PHOTO KIRSTY GRAHAM 290911-KG-008

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Relax and enjoy a meal and a drink in our restaurant or on our peaceful deck over looking the salmon pond. Before dinner, why not take a tour through Salmon World and watch a 4D movie.

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Give us a call or just visit us today.

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State highway 1 Rakaia - Ph 03-303-5450 www.salmonworld.co.nz - email: enquiries@salmontales.co.nz

YOU car mania

24

A car with some serious muscle Vehicles of all shapes and sizes are seen on Mid Canterbury roads. One that will certainly catch the eye is Chris Davison’s ZR1 Corve e. Just for YOU, Jonathan Leask looks at his American muscle car.

T

PHOTO KIRSTY GRAHAM 300911-KG-060

Above – Chris Davison and the Corvette ZR, a modern American muscle car.

Below – The ZR1 is a head turner.

300911-KG-101

he 2010 ZR1Corve e is a modern American muscle car.

A supercharged 6.2 litre V8 speed machine boas ng 640 horsepower capable of going from 0-100km in just 3.3 seconds.

It’s the most powerful Corve e ever made.

It’s all power on the outside but inside the carbon fibre shell, it’s all luxury.

It has a leather interior and digital controls for almost everything you can think of and a holographic dashboard.

As well as a regular dashboard with all the gauges, including the G-force gauge, the ZR1 displays the important stuff in front of the driver’s eyes on the windscreen.

In the ZR1, old-fashioned American muscle met the best of European technology in forming a supercar.

It would make a perfect show car to display power and precision, but not for Davison.

“I got one to use and drive around, not just sit there.”

He already had three Corve es, a 1973 S ngray, a 1987 C4 and the 2003 Anniversary model.

But the lure of the ZR1 was too much, it was out with the old and in with the new.

“I wasn’t allowed the new one

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300911-KG-097

un l I had sold the others. It took them to pay for this one.”

A er spying the ZR1 he trolled the internet for the right one and using Ebay he tracked one down, had it checked out by a trusted car dealer and decided to buy.

It was an agonising wait a er making the purchase.

“It took way too long to get here.

“This par cular one came from Los Angeles and was shipped here via China then Melbourne and then came into Ly elton.”

But now that it’s here, and has been made road legal as a le hand drive, all he has to do is drive it.

“I’m an ex-mechanic but I won’t touch this. Changing the spark plugs is probably all I can do.”

The ZR1 does come with its own hassles though.

Driving a car capable of speeds in excess of 300km on the open road comes with obvious tempta ons, and the fact the car almost taunts you into it brings thoughts of a classic Hollywood chase scene, but this car would leave any chasers well behind.

“The tempta on is there and somemes it feels like the car is begging for it. But the only problem is it’s a rare car so they would know where to find me,” Davison said.

“I would be keen to give it run around Ruapuna raceway but the risk is too high. One mistake could be disastrous which is why it’s just for driving.”

It’s a rare speedster. Davison’s is number 1412 of only 1570 made.

“It’s the only one in the South Island and as far as I know there are only two others in Auckland. There was one down in Arrowtown but the guy wrote it off.”

Indeed it’s a head turner, which is nothing new to the long- me Corve e owner.

He had an interes ng reac on when he took his 2003 anniversary model out for its first spin.

“I was taking it out for the first me and a guy in a Corolla pulled over and as I went past he flipped me the fingers.

“But that was a one off, most people come up to take a look.”

The ZR1 has already been a rac ng plenty of a en on.

“As well as looking the way it does, it doesn’t come with any badges to idenfy it so people come up to ask what make and model it is.”

Davison can simply tell them it’s a corve e ZR1, a supercar.

YOUmotoring 25

25

advertising feature

Tougher than you can

Imagine Story and photo by: Amanda Niblett There was no cyclone or flood to ba le through, no volcano or landslide to out-run, but as I slid into the sporty interior of the new 4WD Toyota Hilux SR5, the back did feature a monkey with a hokey pokey ice-cream, even if it was just a s cker on the window. Toyota’s new television advert is receiving a lot of talk because of its crea vity, so I was keen to see if the vehicle’s performance lived up to its hype.

There was only 88km on the odometer, and for the next hour and a half, this brand new beast was mine. I’m not a motoring expert and never will profess to be one; I’m just an average driver, keen to experience what the new Hilux had to offer. Forget the technical jargon; this is all about the experience.

From the exterior, the changes from the predecessor models is fairly obvious, the new Hilux is definitely more a rac ve, the frontend redesigned with a new grille to suitably impress, as well as nted windows for added privacy and smoking-hot good looks.

On the side of the vehicle it says “Tougher than you can imagine” and I was keen to put that to the test around some of Ashburton’s tough off-road tracks.

First stop was a local gravel yard to test the vehicle stability control and trac on control features. I needed somewhere where I could really give it some herbs and get a bit out of control, where there was no chance of me crashing into anything. I needn’t have been worried; the Hilux’s technology surpassed all of my stability and control expecta ons.

When I purposely tried to skid out of control, the vehicle safety technology took over, correc ng my path and gripping the tyres to the surface. It was incredible how

quickly it worked too, even through thick patches of gravel. Bo om line, I always felt safe and in control.

The new Hilux also has eight air-bags, protec ng passengers and driver from impact from mul ple direc ons, as well as ABS braking.

Next stop, some rough off-road and river tracks to test the tough-as-nails theory. For the passenger I had taken along for the experience, it was definitely a “hang on to your steak and cheese mate” moment, because this is where it got interes ng.

The Hilux bounded through pot-holes and gripped slippery mud and uneven terrain with ease. It nego ated its way up steep, bumpy tracks powerfully, and crossed water tracks and creeks with no indica on of ge ng stuck.

It felt like a tank, effortlessly charging toward its des na on, nothing too tough for it to power through.

Over the bumps I was apprecia ng the comfort of the interior and how well the suspension cushioned the impact of the rough terrain. The drive seemed effortless.

There are some very cool features to be enjoyed from the interior too. I can’t men on them all, we would be here all day; however some that stood out for me was the excep onal sound quality produced by the stereo, which also featured an LCD touchscreen display. The SD card slot and USB connec on allows for photos to be uploaded, so your favourite family photos can be with you no ma er where you are travelling.

When I returned to Ashburton Toyota, the Hilux was suitably covered in mud and I had a grin from ear to ear.

For a powerful exhilara ng ride, and to experience the impressive new features for yourself, head to Ashburton Toyota to test drive the new Hilux SR5.

CHOOSE A NEW TOYOTA.

THEN CHOOSE YOUR DEAL.* Recent events mean you’ve been a bit limited for choice at your Toyota Dealer. But now, you can take your pick from the largest range of new vehicles in NZ. What’s more, when you buy any new Toyota before Dec 31, you get to choose from 1 of 4 great offers valued at up to $4200.

Pop into Ashburton Toyota now or visit ashburton.toyota.co.nz/greatoffers to learn more.

“What would you choose”

RAV4 R AV4 Ltd Ltd AAuto incl ,590 GST* $

41

RSP

Excludes On Road Costs

Highlander H ighland Ltd Auto RSP incl* ,990 GST* $

59

Excludes On Road Costs

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Left – At home under the hood; Vali Nicoloiu from Ashburton Toyota will be travelling the South Island to support his nation’s team, Romania, in the Rugby World Cup.

King Tony 320pc Pro Toolkit* *While stocks last. See over for more details

Cnr East Street and Walnut Avenue, Ashburton. Phone 307-5830 anytime. www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz OPEN SATURDAY 9AM - 1PM

26

YOU must have YOU

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foodies

27

Food from New Caledonia

F

rancoise Belpadrome, her husband and son moved to New Zealand at the beginning of last year, leaving behind another son, a daughter and a grandson.

It’s taken some me to adjust to New Zealand culture, most of their meals s ll originate from their homeland, New Caledonia.

Mrs Belpadrome said New Caledonian food isn’t so dierent but is high in calories.

They struggle to find some ingredients like venison, calf, mangrove crab and certain spices and vegetables in New Zealand for some of the country’s tradi onal meals such as bougna, salad of venison and curry coconut crab.

In New Caledonian cooking, chutneys, jams and marmalade are not o en used.

Below is the recipe for fish salad with coconut milk, which is beau ful served with warm rice, Mrs Belpadrome said.

Recipe of the month Congratulations to last months winner

PHOTO AMANDA DURRY 230911-AD-014

Barker’s Lime Syrup Cake

Margaret Thorpe, Ashburton

Everyone has a lemon cake recipe but with Barker’s Lime syrup you can entertain with a Lime and Yoghurt Cake, just a bit different, and delicious - and the cake is prepared totally in a food processor.

Cooking Time: 45 mins Ingredients:

Francoise Belpadrome from New Caledonia shares a French-inspired dish from her homeland.

1 cup sugar 125g butter, melted 3 Size 7 eggs 1 cup natural or Greek yoghurt 1 cup desiccated coconut ½ cup Barker’s Squeezed New Zealand Lime Fruit Syrup ½ tsp salt 1 ½ cups Self Raising Flour

Topping - Simply mix together:

Ÿ cup Barker’s Squeezed New Zealand Lime Fruit Syrup 2 Tbsp sugar

Fish salad with coconut milk Method • Cut the fish into small cubes (about 2cm square). • Marinate the fish for one hour in the lemon juice with onion slices. S r every 15 minutes. • A er one hour, drain

Ingredients 1 kg of fish (tuna or other) Lemon juice 1 can coconut milk 1 carrot 2 tomatoes ½ cucumber 2 hard boiled eggs 1 onion (cut into small pieces) 2 green onions for garnish Salt and pepper to taste

well and discard the lemon juice. • Cut vegetables into pieces. • Put the fish in a salad bowl and add the vegetables and coconut milk. • Add salt and pepper. Mix well. • Then add the boiled eggs (cut into small pieces). • Serve topped with green onion.

Serves 4

Method: 1. Preheat oven to 180ºC. 2. Butter and our a 23cm spring form cake tin.

3. Place the sugar into food processor and with blades turning slowly add the butter and process until smooth and creamy.

4. Add the eggs, one at a time whilst still processing.

5. Whilst still processing add the yoghurt and coconut, then syrup and salt.

6. Open the processor, add the our, replace lid and process only enough to mix in the our.

7. Pour into prepared tin and bake for 45 minutes, or until the sides shrink from edge, the centre springs back when pressed and a skewer comes out clean.

8. Remove from oven and brush over the topping.

Allow to sit in tin for 5 minutes before removing and serving warm with lashings of yoghurt.

Handy Hints:

Serve hot as a dessert cake.

Mix 2 Tbsp Barker’s Lime Syrup into 1 cup natural yoghurt and serve with the cake.

Add 1 Tbsp freshly grated lime zest to the sugar syrup topping.

Replace the butter with 1 cup light cooking oil.

WIN

Four Fo ou Pea eaks k Pla laza za a Talb Ta a bo ott Str tree et,, Gerral a di d ne e Open Open Op en 7 Day a s 9.

9 00 00am am to 55..300pm m Ph Phon hone/ e//Fa Fax: x 03 6993 9727 2 27 Em mai ail: ba barkker e s. s sh hop o @ @b bar a ke ers rs.co. o nz n

w w w. barker ww e r s. s co c .n . nz

Barkers S Summer Gift Tub Post your self addressed envelope to: Barkers Giveaway, Amanda Niblett, PO Box 77, Ashburton 7700. E-mail: amanda.n@theguardian.co.nz, subject header: Barkers Giveaway.

Fish salad with coconut milk.

230911-AD-006

Please include your name, address and phone number. Only complete entries will be included in the draw.

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