Issue 9 Autumn 2011
$5
Winnie’s horsey holidays Maka surf park plans revealed
Wainui neighbours win New Zealand surf titles
hungry? eat burgers.
Relax Restore Rejuvenate The Juve team - from left to right, Katrina Jamieson - Beautician, Mandy Honey - Beauty Therapist, Sally Wright - Specialist Skin Technician, Gabrielle Fox - Aesthetician, Debbie Moorcroft - Clinic Executive, Amberly Moorcroft- Clinic Assistant, Kerry Cook - Colour and Figure Consultant, Natalie Hovell – Aesthetician.
Local Icon Rejuvenated
There have been some significant changes at Juve, formerly Gisborne Skin and Body Specialists, previously Jillz Beauty Therapy Clinic. This is where owner Sally Wright started care range is recommended by both her beauty therapy career before heading dermatologists and plastic surgeons. It is overseas to work and complete advanced virtually non allergenic, has both UVA and training in London and South Africa. UVB protection, and will leave your skin There has been a complete make looking and feeling more radiant. over — a new name and a fabulous new To continue at the forefront of the look clinic that is both sophisticated and industry all the staff attend regular stylish — you could say training programmes, the business has been featuring the latest The friendly “rejuvenated”. technology, practices and team at Juve The changes have products. been steadily progressive collectively have They all love their jobs and well thought out, and are committed to over 40 years of providing a professional which is typical of Sally. experience in Things must be “just so” service at all times. It is for her loyal clientele and the skin care and this dedication along with nothing less than superior their values of honesty and beauty industry. integrity which led them service and the finest quality products will do. to become finalists in the The friendly team at Juve collectively 2009/2010 New Zealand Beauty Industry have over 40 years of experience in the Best Clinic Awards. skin care and beauty industry. You can be Healthy skin for men and women completely confident you are receiving combines healthy living with specialist the very best treatment from dedicated care by qualified skin technicians professionals who use treatments using highly advanced skin care and and skincare products that have been beauty products. Call any one of Sally’s thoroughly researched and tested to the professional team for a consultation and most exacting standards. analysis of your unique skin type. Let In fact their fabulous colour range them devise a skin treatment regime so of mineral make-up by Jane Iredale you can enjoy beautiful, healthy skin for Mineral Cosmetics and the Environ skin a lifetime.
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Live for today
Deli Delicious
Deli Perfect Lamb Shanks By Gisborne Deli chef Darryn Clyne Place Turihaua Lamb Foreshanks or Ovation Prepacked Hindshanks (one per person) in a roasting dish with carrots, onions, celery and a whole clove of garlic. Roast for 1 hour at 180º Celsius to brown meat and provide sticky caramelised meat and vege juices. Remove from oven and take shanks and roasted vegetables and reserve in a large cooking pot. Tip excess fat from the roasting dish and add 1 cup of red wine. Bring to boil on the stove top, using a wooden spoon to scrape all the sticky goodies off the bottom of the dish to blend into the wine to make a rich gravy liquid.
We’ll take care of tomorrow Health Insurance Life Insurance
Simmer to reduce roasting pan liquid by ½, then pour it into the stove top cooking pot with the cooked lamb shanks and roasted veges. Add a tin of tomatoes, cover with stock or water, add a couple of bay leaves and bring to the boil. Season or flavour further to your liking. Turn down once boiling. Simmer with lid for further 1 hour or until the lamb is tender. Test to see when the meat shakes off the bone! Remove shanks from pot. Strain and thicken the gravy. Serve with mash potatoes and other seasonal vegetables and a big glass of big red wine. Cheers!
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4 | BeachLife
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contents
.................................. PUBLISHED AND PRINTED BY Design Arts & Wainui Print ..................................
paparazzi 6-7
PUBLISHING EDITOR Gray Clapham 90 Moana Road, Okitu Wainui Beach, Gisborne Phone 868 0240 Fax 867 7010 ..................................
Tsunami surge riders, the longboard finalists. Jay Quinn’s home and away girlfriend.
community news 8-9
News from the Wainui-Okitu Community Group.
beach forum 10-11 Publisher’s comments. Councillor Cranston on local issues. Makorori road works aired.
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Heidi Clapham ..................................
beach news 12-21 Plan for surf park at Makorori Point. NZTA and GDC answer critics of roadworks. What we
CONTRIBUTORS
think of the bollards. Locals looking after their sand dunes. Local implications of Coastal Policy Statement explored. Latin Zumba at school hall. Surf casters comp a good survey of local fish stocks. Property market reviewed. Native tree group active in local plantings. Wainui neighbours win both men’s and women’s surf titles.
Kelly Ryan, Cory Scott Andy Cranston Norman Weiss, Maryanne Egan Maja Harris, Jo Ferris Jenny Harré HIndmarsh ..................................
beach weddings & beach babes
ALL LETTERS, ARTICLES & CORRESPONDENCE TO info@beachlife.net.nz ..................................
22-25 Locals tie the knot and new arrivals boost our population yet again
beach life
26-27 The summer in pictures.
ADVERTISING Gray & Sandy Clapham Phone 868 0240 Fax 867 7010 info@beachlife.net.nz ..................................
beach history 28-33 Winnie’s Horsey Holidays: A never-before-told story of the unique children’s riding holiday camps that were run at Wainui Beach from 1955 to 1974 by Miss Winifred Lysnar.
COVER: NZ men’s champion surfer Jay Quinn and girlfriend Ashley Cheadle head for an evening surf on Wainui Beach.
beach people
34-40 Sarah and Trudy Aitken’s Lysnar Valley equestrian venture. Anna Harris and her Antarctic flight of remembrance. A tribute to nurseryman Rob Bayly. The Mason family and their fabulous surfing adventures. Britain family off on adventures. Clubbies take medal haul.
surfing 42
Wave Rave with Kelly Ryan: Surf stories, tsunami surges and a few results
All BeachLife pages can be viewed online at www.beachlife.net.nz Gisborne’s coastal lifestyle magazine is now available for sale at the Wainui Store, the Okitu Store and the BeachLife office at 90 Moana Road.
Historical photographs and assistance courtesy Tairawhiti Museum PILATES
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Tsunami surge riders
TIDAL EXTREMISTS: Finalists in the Makorori First Light Longboard Surfing Classic defied tsunami surge warnings on March 12 as the tide rocked from low to high every ten minutes through the afternoon exposing the reef as the ocean oscillated in the wake of the Japan earthquake. The open event was won by Daniel Proctor (green) with Nicolas Brikke (black) second, Kelly Ryan (blue) third and Peter Varey (pink) fourth.
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6 | BeachLife
GIRLS DAY OUT: Makorori First Light women’s finalists were (from left) Gina Samson first, Lisa Moore fourth, Stacey Te Rekia second and Caroline Emerre third. FULL RESULTS ON PAGE 47.
paparazzi
Summer romance for surf champ and Aussie beach star
W
ainui’s surfing hero Jay Quinn not only won the New Zealand national open surf title this year, he also won the heart of a beautiful Australian celebrity beach girl who has recently guest starred on the TV soap “Home and Away”. The lady in question is 23-year-old Ashley Cheadle who has a certain all-round fame back home in Oz. Ashley is an Australian surfer, model, TV presenter and actress who was first discovered at the age of 14 by Billabong – and at just 16 was made the official “Face of Billabong” in Australia. Since then she has appeared in many magazines worldwide including Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Cleo, Dolly, Girlfriend as well as other major sports and surfing magazines. According to her website bio her pop-culture popularity led her to guest spots on Australian television including roles in “Blue Water High”, and co-hosting guest presenter roles on MTV, Nickelodeon, Channel V and in the feature film, “Fool’s Gold”, with Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson. She’s also the Australian face of Proactiv, a skin care product sold by Guthy Renker. Commentators say Ashley’s arrival at the beach changed the traditional perception of the Aussie surfer girl – the look moved from the classic blonde “beach babe” to a more exotic and intelligent brunette who could “really surf ” and with an attitude of “keeping it all real”. In 2008 she was accepted into the Stella Adler Acting Studio in New York City, indulging her passion in the dramatic arts. Last year she starred as one of the lead roles in a short film called “No Dice Hollywood”, and was a guest presenter for MTV live on the Gold Coast. Late last year she was acting in a guest role on the popular teen soap “Home and Away” which was seen on New Zealand television in March. For most of the past summer she spent her time at Wainui Beach, staying with new boyfriend Jay Quinn and his flatmate Rory Grant in their flat along Moana Road. Growing up in the small coastal town of Culburra in southern New South Wales Ashley told BeachLife she just loves it here at Wainui. “I’ve travelled a lot and it’s the first place I’ve felt such peace,” she said. “It’s like I’m part of a big family here.” Ashley first met Jay when she was just 15 or 16 when Jay became mates with her big brother, fellow pro-surfer Luke Cheadle. She was then surfing competitively herself in the pro-junior women’s circuit and says she “wasn’t into boys” then. They met again last year after connecting on the internet by Skype. After finishing his pro surfing commitments in Hawaii Jay made a detour to Sydney on his way home to catch up with Ashley. She followed him over to Gisborne for the New Year and then returned to hang out at Wainui for most of January and February. Interestingly she left the beach, heading back to Australia to pursue her acting career, on St Valentine’s Day. Ashley admits she hadn’t been surfing regularly for a number of years until she came over to Gisborne. Her last contest was when she was 17. However she soon had her form back surfing most days with Jay in front of the house at Lone Pine or over at Makorori. She also surfed at Whangamata when Jay went up there to compete in the Billabong Pro. When not surfing she was happy in the kitchen, baking cakes and cooking gourmet dinners for Jay – and Rory – who she says “will surely be the godfather of my children!” Heading back to Oz she admitted to being distracted from her acting career by the romance with Jay and at the moment is “just taking life as it comes”. She said she has made some great friends at Wainui and will no doubt be back soon. a
PERFECT MATCH: Jay Quinn and Ashley Cheadle spent the long hot summer surfing and basking in the golden warmth of Wainui Beach.
BeachLife | 7
community news
Septic tank inspection discussed Chance to repair before replacement big concern
Fare thee well Muriel Jones FAREWELL MURIEL. We will miss your sweet disposition and your cheerful smiley face, your kind eyes and your sharp intellect. Your love for our community was genuine, unbounded and enduring. When on Council, you represented the interests of Wainui-Okitu with passion and heart. Your challenging spirit and your confronting attitude often took other councillors by surprise as you fought for the community you loved so much. But to portray you as the tenacious advocate that you were is to miss the other half of who you were. You were soft-spoken and gentle and loved nothing more than a quiet walk along Wainui Beach or a potter in your beautiful garden or a chat with one of your neighbours. Many of us will also miss the yummy luncheon exchanges that were a regular part of your later years. You are already missed and you will live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew you, which would be almost everyone in Wainui-Okitu. On behalf of the community, and in particular the members of our residents association, I want to thank you for all you have done through the many years for Wainui and Okitu and the city of Gisborne. We know you are up there in heaven looking down on us and keeping an eye on things. And we know that you will appreciate the appreciation we feel for you. NORMAN WEISS
GDC WANTS TO put in place district-wide regulations for on-site wastewater systems and their maintenance. This would include some sort of warrant of fitness for septic tanks and other on-site wastewater systems. The schedule for this project is as follows: GDC staff have gathered input from communities and will write up and notify a proposal by June. Accept submissions in July. Hold hearings in September. Expect a decision from Council before the end of 2011. GDC officers conducted a workshop at the Wainui School hall on February 9. There were about 80 locals in attendance. Here is a summary of responses to the questions: Who should check systems? They should have no vested interest in the outcome and independent of suppliers and drainlayers. It makes sense for tank cleaners to be the inspectors, but some thought Council staff should be involved in the inspection process as well. Some thought it should be a two-step regime with tank cleaners first and the GDC if there were problems. How often should systems be checked? Most thought every 3 to 5 years but that it should be tailored to the property and occupants. If problems exist, intervals should be shorter. In other words, one size does not fit all. What should systems be checked for? Council presented five sample checklists from other districts. The items on these included such things as smells, effluent on surface, damp/lush field, tank access, etc; physical condition of the tank walls, floor, outlets, access, lids, vents/mushrooms, filters, etc. There was general agreement that these were reasonable things to be checked. What if a system did not pass inspection? Most people felt that not all problems required system replacement. People wanted good clear diagnostics and the opportunity for a second opinion. People should be given the chance to repair tanks and clear or replace effluent fields when possible. The time frame for repair or replacement should be reasonable and fair. Most people want to, and will do, the right thing but do not want to be forced into doing something that may not be necessary. People want to be able to repair their systems in full knowledge of Council. At the moment, it seems Council is dogmatic about replacing systems no matter what the problem is. So people make repairs behind Council’s back.
When is system replacement required? It was strongly expressed that replacement should be required when a system is unable to be repaired and it is clear that it cannot be. At replacement time, people do not want to be forced to put in an advanced treatment plant. They want to be able to choose a system that is suitable for their property. As with repair, people want adequate time to replace. How would information get back to the GDC? It was suggested that Council maintain the database. Cleaners gather the data and pass it on to Council on-line. It would be good for the location of tanks and fields to be included in Council site maps and LIM reports. Council or cleaning services could notify property owners when it is time for their regular cleaning/inspection. How could the scheme be made affordable? It was clear that people want a scheme that is simple, with minimum cost and no monopolies or vested interests. Having cleaners do the inspections at the time of cleaning with a standardised cost added to the cleaning fee was an obvious way to keep costs down. Retrofitting and repair rather than replacement as a first option would also keep costs down. What arrangements need to be made if a scheme is introduced? The most reasonable approach would be to introduce the inspection scheme over time (years), bringing properties into the scheme as their normal servicing/cleaning is done. This time period would have to be limited to prevent noncompliance. Other things discussed. People want upto-date educational information that is easy to understand. They want to know what a healthy system looks like as well as what is good for and what is bad for their systems. They think that Council should be proactive in encouraging real estate and property management companies to provide septic tank location and care information to new owners and renters. Many people said that Council still has not presented any real proof of environmental and/or health risk and want Council to demonstrate this more clearly. Those present expressed a desire for a lighthanded, transparent approach from Council that involves a minimum of bureaucracy. They want regulation that results in a better environment without being onerous.
Supporting the Wainui–Okitu Community 8 | BeachLife
Information on these pages provided by the Wainui-Okitu Community Group
Wainui/Okitu Project and Strategic Community Plan WE HAVE BEEN waiting almost three years for this project to begin. Many communities in the District have had Council assistance in developing township plans that identify priorities and things that can be done to improve the quality of life in these communities. Tolaga Bay, Ruatoria, Manutuke, Te Karaka and others have completed this process with Council. Since Council voted against reticulation in 2008, we have been waiting for Council to assist us in developing a community plan for Wainui/Okitu. Most people out here want a plan that preserves and enhances the quality of life we have come to know and love. We do not want to do it without Council involvement because Council may choose to reject anything that we decide independently of them. We want Council on-board for this important project. Preliminary work on it had been scheduled to begin in 2011. However, the Council person in charge of this, Kim Smith, has just gone on leave and will be away from Council for the next 5 months. Shona Munro is to meet soon with Wainui/Okitu Community Residents Association Committee members to discuss this project. If you are keen to be involved in this, then shoot an email to Norman Weiss at info@wainuibeach.org.nz.
Local submissions to GDC’s Annual Plan proposed BY THE TIME YOU are reading this, you will have already missed the Annual Plan meeting for the Wainui/Okitu Community. It was held on 17 March at the school hall. It seems that there was a hiccup with delivery of the summary brochure and notice, and many on the Wainui side of the bridge did not receive either. If you were one of those left off of the delivery, it is worthwhile to phone Council and let them know as they have paid for these brochures to be delivered. Of particular concern to the Wainui/Okitu Community are the Wainui Stream Catchment Study and the Wainui/Okitu Strategic Plan Project. Questions on these two items will have been asked at the meeting. If you missed out on the local meeting and would still like to hear what Council has planned, as well as to put in your two cents about it, there are still meetings you could attend. The final one is scheduled for 29 March in the H B Williams Library. Phone Council for information on others. The Wainui/Okitu Community Residents Association will most likely put in a submission following discussions at the 17 March meeting. Submissions close on 31 March.
Council’s Plan Change 38 worth keeping an eye on THIS IS A VERY significant undertaking on the part of Council. It is a review and tightening up of the policies and rules around developer contributions (both financial and property). It seems that the intent of the changes is to ensure that developers pay the costs of infrastructure required for their developments. This includes things like water, sewerage, stormwater, roads, street lights, reserves, etc. The catch is that developers are intended to fund these sorts of things when Council does not have them included in over-arching plans. This is why, for example, the developers of the Sponge Bay Estates on Wainui Road were required to pay for all infrastructure needed to connect to the city’s water and sewerage systems. If reticulation for Wainui/Okitu had gone through in 2008, then the Sponge Bay developers would have been off-the-hook for these expenses and ratepayers would have footed the bill. Council recently decided to implement all sections of this plan change that had either only supporting submission or no submissions. The sections with opposing submissions will be dealt with in upcoming hearings.
A reminder about what the Residents Association is? THE WAINUI/OKITU RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION INC, better known as the Wainui/Okitu Community, was formed following the big reticulation debate in 2008. Our mission statement is “Beach Voice for Beach People”. We are recognised by Council as a stakeholder organization in affairs relating to our community. We aim to represent the ideals and values of the people who live in Wainui and Okitu, especially in relation to GDC activities and plans that may affect our community. However, we are only able to represent our members. The greater our membership, the stronger our voice. If you would like more information on becoming a member, contact our secretary, Robyn at robnden@xtra.co.nz. If you have seen our classy Wainui/Okitu t-shirts around and would like to order some for yourself and family and friends, contact Craig Jenkins at caj_nz@hotmail.com. We need a website savvy person to manage our website. Contact Norman Weiss at info@ wainubeach.org.nz.
www.wainuibeach.org.nz
Study of effects of development on Wainui Stream COUNCIL HAS BEGUN a study of the Wainui Stream Catchment. The intent is to determine the effects that a fully-developed catchment would have on the Wainui Stream and the beach at its outlet. Measurements and historical data have been collected and analysis is underway at this moment. A report on findings will be available to Council and the community around May or June of this year. Joss Ruifrok is in charge. The primary undertakings of this study are: 1. Determine the catchment boundaries (all areas that drain into the Wainui Stream). 2. What a fully developed catchment would look like (if all possible developments within the boundaries were completed) 3. What the impact would be on the Wainui Stream from stormwater from a fully developed catchment 4. How to manage the Wainui Stream Catchment now and in the future. Lloyd George Road residents along the stream and Pare Street residents can already see the impact of the Sponge Bay Development with only four homes completed. A fully built out Sponge Bay together with other developments that may be in the pipeline could have a devastating effect on the Wainui Stream. What we would hope is that the study might lead to limits being placed on further developments within the Wainui Stream Catchment. For example, Sandy Cove II and the half nearest Wainui of the big earthworks underway along Wainui Road near the Rutene Road intersection are within the catchment under study. If this is of importance to you, then be sure to get your copy of the study when it is finished and make known your personal views.
Quiet in the valley IT HAS BEEN VERY quiet on the Scarly’s Way development project in Lysnar Valley. Submissions closed in November 2010. Hearings were set for early April, but may not occur until late April at the earliest. Kim Smith at Council says that the developers told Council to put the hearings on hold while they consulted with various agencies and made adjustments to their plans. As of this writing, the developers had not yet gotten back to Council. If you have an interest in this project, keep on the lookout for the hearings date.
BeachLife | 9
Publisher’s Comments
by Gray Clapham
Time comes to pay for BeachLife
I
f you’re reading this you already know that BeachLife was not delivered free to your letterbox this issue. You happily paid $5 at your local store and are settling down for a good read about all sorts of happenings and news about people in your local community. The decision to start charging for the magazine was not taken lightly but was a necessary move if we are to keep the publication going into the future. The size and quality of the magazine means we simply can’t continue to provide it at no cost to readers – and make it a business worth continuing. We tried earlier with the concept of a “voluntary subscription” campaign but that didn’t work. From the 750 homes delivered to we had less than 100 responses. And we sincerely thank those really nice people who did send in their cheques. So for now BeachLife comes with a cover price of $5 and is on sale at the two local dairies. Of course we’re hoping there’s been a mad rush to the shops and the issue is nearly sold out already! We’ll review how the pay-to-read concept has worked as time progresses. This issue is packed full of news and information and takes us from a lovely long hot summer into the cooler months of autumn. There’s always some sense of nostalgia for each passing summer and I am sure one day people will look back on old issues of BeachLife, as we do with the old Photo News, and reminisce about the “good old days”. What really amazes me is how many of the new-born babies we presented in the first issues are now nearly three year olds! And we are now announcing the arrivals of their little brothers and sisters. I do sincerely thank all the mums and dads who have allowed us to go with the BeachLife Baby Photos concept – and I appreciate you letting us into your homes and private lives to share your joy at the arrival of each brand new human being – all lucky enough to be born into our rather unique little beach neighbourhood. On the subject of neighbours, the Mason family arrived home at Christmas after six years living in Australia. Within hours of pulling into their home along Moana Road, next door to the BeachLife office, the family of eight was out in the water in front of their house on a variety of wave riding devices. Surfing, stand-up paddling, kite surfing – I’ve never seen so much energy. A few weeks later daughter Airini had won the New Zealand women’s surfing title for the second time, then little
TV doco filming at our beaches
W
ainui and Makorori beaches are to be included in a television documentary currently being produced by South Pacific Pictures to be shown later this year. The programme is called “Wild Coasts with Craig Potton”. The five 1-hour episodes follow Craig Potton, world-renowned photographer, conservationist, surfer and ocean-lover, as he explores New Zealand’s rich and varied coastline. South Pacific Pictures say: “Craig will talk with people who have lived by, and love New Zealand’s coast. He’ll engage with scientists, sailors, swimmers, artists, iwi, boaties and bach owners and visit a few of the offshore islands that surround the mainland. “As a conservationist he will explore the biodiversity of our coastal areas and examine the threats to habitats and the worldleading efforts of New Zealanders in protecting our coast and its natural treasures.” The visit to Wainui and Makorori on March 22 was part of an episode following the east coast from Mahia to Whangara. With a particular focus on the surfing culture of Wainui and Makorori he spoke to, amongst others, pioneer surfer John Logan, and if the waves permitted, he went surfing with Dave Timbs and Ian Moti Proctor. At the time of going to print we were still awaiting his visit to film here. a
10 | BeachLife
sister Sarah starting winning nearly every surf contest she entered. Next thing we know she is going head-to-head with the women’s world champion, Stephanie Gilmore, in the Roxy Pro back on the Gold Coast. The story of the Mason family is told in this issue on page 39.
T
he main feature of the issue is a long-awaited story about Winnie Lysnar’s horse riding holiday camp which operated at Okitu from 1955 to 1974. I have thought about writing this story for several years but, oddly, could not find any definitive historical resource and realised information about Winnie Lysnar’s later years was mostly anecdotal – just stories and memories passed along. Then I stumbled upon former Wainui resident and freelance journalist Jo Ferris, who was a “helper” at Winnie’s operation for several years in the 1960s. Jo jumped at the opportunity to reminisce and the result, starting on page 28, is a delightful and historically significant feature length piece that not only provides lots of factual detail but also gives us a colourful view of a unique New Zealand venture, run by a wonderfully unselfish woman, from a time of innocence long since vanished. Well done and thanks Jo. Wainui-based strategic research and planning consultant Jennie Harré Hindmarsh takes a serious look at the 2010 New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement on page 16 and asks the question: “What’s in it for us?” She also reports on the activities of a local dune care network on page 15. On page 36 we pay a tribute to the “man in the hat” – nurseryman Rob Bayly who spend most of his years in the Wainui Beach vicinity, a legend in the garden, who died late last year. And, of course, we say goodbye to dear Muriel Jones – the “little lady with the huge soul” – who died in February at 84. I think it goes without saying that she will be hugely missed and possibly never replaced. Let’s give it some collective thought, and surely we can name one of our reserve areas as a memorial to her and a reflection back of the love she had for this coastal community. In many ways Muriel is just as legendary as Winnie Lysnar! The detailed story of Muriel’s amazing life was the feature of the first issue of BeachLife in the spring of 2008. That story can be read online at www.beachlife.net.nz under Archived Articles.
O
n pages 12 and 13 we report on the road works at the south end of Makorori which have significantly altered the quiet, rural tranquility of the Makorori Point surfing area. At first I was totally angered by the steel crash barriers and the apparent mess they have made of the surfer’s car park and general meeting place, known as” Red Bus”, which I consider almost “sacred ground” to Gisborne’s surfing culture. But after a bit of research and thinking, talking to other surfers and a meeting with Nikki Searancke of the Ferris Family Trust– I had to agree that just one death on the roadside at Makorori would be one too many. Something had to be done to stop a fatal meeting between a half dressed surfer and a fully-laden logging truck. We now have to turn this issue into an great opportunity. BeachLife reveals that GDC is bound to an agreement to landscape this area as part of its purchase deal with the Ferris family. There is already a Makorori Reserve Co-management Plan in a draft state at the council which has the broad aim of providing protection, maintenance and enhancement of the natural value of this reserve area for the benefit and enjoyment of the public. Before they start anything permanent – let’s call for intensive, creative collaboration and consultation over how best to naturally landscape this land to accommodate the needs of all users. We need a car park with a grassed seaward berm allowing room for surfers to wax up and others to sit and watch the waves. We need a large grassed area to become the local “marae” for surfing events – a place to erect marquees and stalls during surf contests, and where families can sit of the beach edge and watch the surfing. But these are just my ideas – let’s get organised and work towards something exceptionally good happening here. a
beach forum
Beach boys identified
Barriers, bollards and bindings By GDC Councillor and Wainui resident Andy Cranston
I
was surprised to receive quite a few calls about the roadworks along Makorori. This is not GDC work but we know the area has long been tagged as “an accident waiting to happen”. I agree the barrier is quite imposing but the only solution offered to me – carving into the hillside – was totally impractical due to stability and affordability. It has been put to me that this is pandering to the forestry industry but this is not true. The logging trucks are obtrusive but there is a lot of other traffic also imposing risk. It is a highway. We might just need to change the way we approach our favourite beach access. I understand many of us don’t feel an affiliation to the forestry industry. But we need to understand that thousands of hectares of wood is ready to harvest and it is a hugely important employer in our region. Like it or not we all need to appreciate what they bring to the area and realistically look at what would happen to Tairawhiti without it. The impact would be huge. We need to continue to work together for the benefit of all. The reason I drove so hard for the purchase of the Makorori car park was to make progress towards the development of a Makorori surfing reserve. The purchase was very much phase 1. It was actually quite a difficult battle to get the seven votes required and we only just got the vote to purchase. Phase 2 was getting the area listed as a surf protection area. It was always the intention to enhance and protect the area and I am certainly continuing this focus. There will need to be compromises along the way (e.g. the barriers). Current affordability issues however will mean this is going to be a bit of a drawn out process. The car park area is the next focus and I am concerned that the land purchased for the car
park does now seem to allocate less for parking than was the expectation. Congratulations to all who have gotten in behind the dune care initiative at Wainui. It has been going long enough now that we can actually see the sand binding at work. The soft approach is so much more agreeable in so many ways. And if we can continue to have success with more of the establishment phase then it is a sustainable solution. As a protection option it is much more environmentally friendly, unobtrusive and scores hugely on affordability. This last point is very much due to so many of you taking ownership and managing sectors. The community meeting on wastewater systems was very well attended and I believe the current Wainui-GDC collaboration is going from strength to strength. I frequently walk and jog the full Wainui, Okitu and Makorori reserves. I often return grumpy. Litter, green waste dumping, detrimental free camping, dune damage and extensive vehicle damage are so often observed. So many people are inconsiderate and selfish. This poor conduct was a reason for the bollards and these were determined to be the lesser of two evils. I know the first impression caused some criticism and highlighted some improvements and there is still discussion but I have noticed that the bollards are acting to counter so much of the negative impacts we are unfortunately forced to manage. If any residents have a matter of concern with Council, it is not an imposition to call me. I expect it. Quite often issues are being dealt with in a reactionary way when proaction could have smoothed the process. My contacts are 06 8681160 or 0272 733 192. Or email a.cranston@xtra.co.nz. a
Have your say in BeachLife Forum. Email your stories, opinions, questions to info@beachlife.net.nz
RICHARD SMYTHE EMAILS FROM NOOSA HEADS: “I SAW THIS photo in Issue 2 of your great magazine on the lifestyle on the East Coast of Gisborne. Have just seen it again on page 10 of Issue 8. I’m Richard Smythe, “Charlie” to some from those days – the guy on the left with the rippling six-pack that I’m sure is still under there somewhere waiting to burst forth again. The guy in the middle is Ian ‘Proto’ Steed who was at the reunion last year. On the right is Bill Carey, who lives in Mooloolaba now. I’ve lived in Noosa Heads since ‘74. The photo would have been taken around ‘66 or ‘67 – we were probably 16. Yes, it was damn cold without wet suits, that’s where the fire on the beach came in. Sometimes we camped out there and the fire went all night but we got the first waves at dawn. Then it got crowded, like perhaps 8-10 surfers. Cheers and hello to all my old surfing buddies in Gisborne.” EDITOR NOTE: At BeachLife’s request Richard has since emailed a much longer (and humorous) reminiscent story of the early days of surfing which we plan to run in the next issue.
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beach news
Plans for surf park at Makorori Point revealed
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formal plan to landscape and manage reserve land around Makorori Point was already in motion long before recent roadworks took away roadside car parking at the popular surf beach. GDC and the Ferris Family Trust have been drafting a Makorori Point Co-management Plan since the year 2000. This evolved from negotiations that finally saw the original owners sell two strips of strategic beachfront land to the Council last year. On behalf of the people of Gisborne, GDC bought the 0.4209ha triangle at “Red Bus” and the rectangular 0.3175 ha strip at “The Creek”. Both these blocks are popular car parking areas and provide traditional access to the beach for surfers and other beach users. The trust says it received $715,000 over two payments with the deal settled in 2010. GDC also leases two other blocks from the Ferris Family Trust. They are the steep Makorori hillslope below the hilltop viewing area overlooking “The Point” (pictured) and the relatively unused strip of wild foreshore between “Red Bus” and “The Creek”. The leases are into their third year of 12 year deals (with rights of renewal). With the lease agreements comes a GDC commitment to allow the Ferris Family Trust, all descendants of the pre-European Maori owners of Wainui and Makorori, a continued input into how the land is used and managed. The co-management plan is still only a draft but it contains proposed policies based around the concept of “encouraging and promoting the provision, protection and enhancement of open space for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of New Zealand”. Both GDC and the Ferris Family Trust says the co-management plan gives the Ferris family no dictatorial powers and is purely an agreement to give the original owners a “voice” in any decisions regarding development of the land which was originally a summer fishing village, or pa, of the Rakaiatane people of Ngati Oneone, who had their main settlement at Wainui. The co-management draft plan contains
ARTISTIC CONCEPT ONLY
STAIRWAY TO SURFING HEAVEN: A viewing platform below the road on Makorori Hill and stairs down to the beach are suggested as a first priority in the plan for a Makorori Point surf park.
aims and objectives regarding the protection of the “natural values” of the area. One of its key objectives is: “to encourage the sport of surfing in establishing the first dedicated Surfing Reserve in New Zealand”. This was suggested long before the NZCPS named Makorori Point as a “protected” surf break late last year. Ferris Family Trust secretary, Nikki Searancke, says the Ferris family have always supported the sport of surfing by allowing access to the surf over their beachfront lands at Makorori for over 50 years. One of the reasons for selling the lands at “Red Bus” and “The Creek” to the people of Gisborne was to ensure surfers had beach access for all time. The flat leased area on the beachfront, linking the two car parks, will have new access turning bays off SH35 as NZTA continues its current work. It is suggested this park-like strip be used for recreation such as picnics, walking and school nature study visits. There is a suggestion that this strip may be “chained off ” at night. While overnight camping is not permitted on any of the reserve, Ferris Family members would retain the right to camp there if desired. Toilets and parking areas will be located on
the GDC-owned land adjacent. For the steep Makorori hillside, the draft plan suggests a walkway down to the beach from the look out and car park at the top of the hill. A viewing platform just below the brow of the hill is also suggested. Nikki Searancke says the viewing area at the top, for a long time used by NZTA as a “gravel dump”, is subject to a claim by the Ferris Family Trust that will bring this piece into the reserve as well. Upgrading the rough parking area on the hill top would be a priority. While the Ferris Family Trust are obviously keen to play a vocal role in the ongoing management of the proposed “Makorori Point Surf Park”, it would be in a co-operative partnership with all other interested parties through the Gisborne District Council. “The Ferris Family would have no more decision making powers than all other public users of the reserve,” says Nikki Searancke. Asked about how the plan would be funded she says GDC, as part of its 12 year lease, pays $5000 per year for the upgrading and maintenance of the reserve. There is already around $14,000 in the kitty to start implementing the plan immediately. a
Plan accepted, money available for Makorori surf park
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he plan to manage and improve the surfing reserves at Makorori Point has been finalised and is ready to proceed, says Ferris Family Trust secretary Nikki Searancke. She says the trust is now looking to consult with the surfing community as part of its co-management arrangement with local beach-users, represented by GDC. Sorting out details of the Makorori Point Co-management Plan had been held for up some time due to confusion over
12 | BeachLife
detail between the land leased and the land eventually purchased by GDC from the trust, said GDC’s property services manager, Terry McMillan, in late February this year. However trust secretary Nikki Searancke told BeachLife this week they have now agreed on the details of the final draft and they wish to proceed with it as soon as possible. The management plan includes provision for the Trust to suggest names for the reserve areas with a regard to the land’s heritage.
Once a name or names have been decided, GDC will arrange appropriate signage. There is also provision for the establishment of a “heritage area” within the reserve with signage, plantings and seating. The plan reiterates that “nothing in this lease shall limit the ability of the landlord to exercise their customary traditional rights in relation to the foreshore and seabed”. According to the draft plan Makorori hilltop was the site of a summer village, or pa, which the Maori living at Wainui used to
beach news
Safety reason for barriers
PROTECTED SPECIES: Surfers now park their vehicles behind the “safety” of steel crash barriers after traditional access to the surf at Makorori was blocked by recent road works.
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akorori Beach has been changed significantly by recent road works. NZ Transport Agency has erected a solid steel crash barrier from the top of Wainui-Makorori hill to beyond a new turning-bay entrance to the Red Bus car park. They’ve also widened and realigned SH35 along the entire length of the beach. As part of the project they have “fenced off ” the surfers’ car park area at “Red Bus” behind the “safety” of steel crash barriers. Both NZTA and GDC say it had become dangerous the way surfers parked their cars along the narrow strip beside the highway to gain closer access to the areas they wished to surf – particularly from logging trucks. Some surfers are angry and say logging trucks and forestry can been blamed for “insidiously changed the way of life at Wainui and Makorori” making it necessary for NZTA to protect surfers from being killed on the roadside by fast moving trucks. The roadworks have been undertaken just months of Makorori Point being designated a surf break of national significance. According to the NZCPS surf breaks of national significance must be protected
access the rich kaimoana resources offered by the reef areas along Makorori Beach. Archeological surveys of the headland area have revealed evidence of middens relating to this activity. As the tenant of the land GDC has agreed, in addition to rent payable, set aside and spend on the premises a minimum of $5000 per annum. GDC has carried out some maintenance on the leased land over the past three years with a total of $1580 spend on litter pick-up, removal of dumped rubbish, monitoring of illegal camping, some weed control and
by “ensuring that activities in the coastal environment “do not adversely affect the surf breaks”; and “avoiding adverse effects of other activities on access to, and use and enjoyment of the surf breaks”. NZTA has responded to BeachLife queries with a statement saying: “We’re very aware of the importance of the surf break and its national and international significance. This was at the forefront of our minds as we carried out this work. To be sustainable, access to the break must be safe and recognise the increasing traffic volume on SH35. “The car parks that have been removed are only those that were using the roadside parking on the uphill slope and that was dangerous both in terms of the risk of collision with passing traffic during the manoeuvring phase, and in terms of the risk to people moving around parked cars so close to the traffic lanes “We’ve significantly improved the entrance to the facility, ensuring safe access to the beach for all. The work is not yet finished, and we will be installing a right turn bay at the gap in the guardrail where beach access is gained. “In terms of access to the beach, a
recent mowing and weed-eating. The annual expenditure has been well below the expected $5000pa leaving an accumulation of $13,420 waiting to be spent on improvements or maintenance. Council has also installed a new toilet on the adjacent car park at a cost of over $25,000 and has maintained the toilet, car parking, litter bins, access stairs and general mowing and edging. Mr McMillan says that while not actually on the leased land the car park it is often seen by staff and the general public as one reserve.
GDC says landscaping is part of the deal THERE IS A requirement for the Council to develop and implement a landscaping plan for the surfers car park area at southern Makorori. This requirement was part of the purchase agreement with the vendors of the land. Council intends to consult with all affected parties over this, says Hans van Kregten, GDC’s Group Manager Environment and Policy. Explaining the lack of early consultation over the works he says: “A non-notified resource consent application procedure was followed. While the natural heritage aspects were considered, the overriding consideration was safety improvement, and on balance a decision was made to grant consent. The barriers do not impact on the integrity of the surf breaks, and in my view the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement has not been compromised.” “The barriers and the purchase and upgrading of the car park all contribute to improving safety for surfers and beach visitors, as well as highway users at this iconic spot. “Safety in this area, which was subject to heavy traffic levels, was being severely compromised by random and informal parking. The combined efforts of the Council and the New Zealand Transport Agency have significantly contributed to improved safety levels in this area. Mr Van Kregten says the car park is now in Council ownership: “The total cost to Council to date far has been approximately $650,000 for the land purchase. This does not include the highway improvements undertaken by the New Zealand Transport Agency.” a formed and metalled track has been created southwards along the beach in front of the area where surfers work their way down to the beach to get to the sea. Previously there was no track there, and this presents a significant enhancement for beach access.” a
“It is proposed that we agree on a level of maintenance for the leased area and use any surpluses that may have accumulated over the past three years to carry out improvements as outlined in the Comanagement Plan. This may be spread over the coming three year period,” Mr McMillan wrote. The plan can be reviewed every three years. Nikki Searancke says the trust now wishes to liaise with interested representatives of the surfing community to see how the reserve can best reflect the idea of a “surfing park”. “Let’s get on and do it,” she says. a
BeachLife | 13
beach news
Bollards get a bollocking G
DC’s erection of bollard fencing around several beach access car parks in the Lysnar Reserve along Moana Road at Okitu has not been totally well-received by Okitu residents. The car park fencing is just the start of a plan to erect similar bollard barriers along the entire roadside perimeter of the reserve. The Lysnar Reserve Management Plan calls for this style of fencing to stop vehicles driving on to the dunes and other grassed areas. Locally there has been a mixed reaction to the appearance of the bollards which have, so far, had little control in keeping vehicles off the dunes. Some beach-users, those with 4WD vehicles particularly, have seen the bollards as simply a challenge and have forged new access routes to areas of the dunes that were traditionally parking areas but are now off limits. A letterbox survey of Okitu residents showed that more than a third of the 30 people who responded thought the bollard idea should be scrapped altogether and a “softer approach” be made to the problem of stopping vehicles wandering over the dunes unchecked. The rest of the respondents had a mix of opinions from loving the bollards unconditionally to not liking them but begrudgingly accepting they would protect the dunes. There was a general consensus that the should only be used in the car park areas and not along the entire perimeter of the reserve. Opinions were expressed that the bollards have ruined the open nature of the reserve. Others thought the parking areas are too small or not in the right places. Note was made of an incident where an ambulance could not negotiate into a bollarded area. GDC’s former community facilities asset manager (recently resigned) Terry McMillan said: “Bollards have proved effective in other beachside reserves both in New Zealand and overseas, notably Australia. The concept is supported by our coast care consultants and local coast care groups.” He admitted there was “not much discussion” about the bollard concept during the drafting of the management plan which he said “is not unusual.” The bollards are made from timber harvested from GDC forests which was milled some years ago and are relatively inexpensive. They cost about $10 each and about the same to install. “Over the years we have tried mowing, signage, peer pressure, education and low-key sensible options. These have not worked. If people continue to drive around the designated parking areas then we will need to make that more difficult for them. Installing bollards is one solution.” Mr McMillan acknowledged there was some concern by residents over the siting of the fenced off car parks. When asked if a local protest could lead to a reversal of the bollard work Mr McMillan said: “A protest would be one option – it worked in Egypt.” However he hoped before this happened GDC staff could first
BUGGER THE BOLLARDS: Some beach-users are parking their vehicles within the bollard determined car parks along Lysnar Reserve but many are beating their own paths cross country.
meet with those residents concerned to reach some agreement or compromise: “If users would show some respect for the dunes and the reserve, less formal and restrictive measures might be required.” The implementation of the full bollard plan is due to continue when the new GDC budget is announced in July. In the meantime, persuading beach-users to keep their 4WDs off the dunes and within the allotted parking areas may be the key to stopping the full bollard plan going ahead – if that was the community consensus. The car parks are used mostly by people from Gisborne city and other visitors to Wainui Beach seeking beach access. Reverting to the original car park dimensions, better defining the mown grass areas, allowing closer access to preferred beach locations and some educational signage have been suggested as better methods of stopping vehicles wandering “off-trail”. Then there may be no need to proceed with the full plan to fence off the entire roadside boundary of the reserve from the Okitu Store to the Whales Grave. One resident voiced: “There was nothing wrong with the way things were – keep the natural grassed areas and no gravel.” Another said: Council needs to consult properly and efficiently with local community and high-end users of these areas.” Another said: “There seems to be some people who think Lysnar Reserve is some sort of precious environmental eco-system and should be kept as a protected nursery for native grasses. When Winnie Lysnar gave it to us it was a well-used horse track! She wanted it to be kept “natural” as she saw it – a place for people to view the ocean and have easy access to their favourite beach areas.” a
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beach news
Dune care network busy at the beaches
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network of Wainui and Makorori beach residents with a passion for protecting the natural character of our beaches is evolving locally. It’s an informal group of people enthusiastic about restoring sand dunes and protecting local foreshore areas. The group evolved from beach “walk and talk” seminars last year and from a workshop late January arranged by GDC with New Zealand dune care experts Wayne O’Keefe and David Bergin. A nucleus of people at the January workshop decided it was an opportunity to activate a Wainui-Makorori Beach Coast Care Network. Already the group is gaining ground with successful spinifex and pingao plantings. They are also experimenting with driftwood arrangement techniques to trap drifting sand and they’re erecting signs. The network keeps in touch about what’s plants and ideas are working where – as well a sharing resources, supporting initiatives, tapping support networks and keeping a liaison flowing with GDC. In one initiative a group of beachside residents just south of the surf club, coordinated by John Logan, have united to look after about 250 metres of dunes in front of their properties. They have planted and are maintaining 1200 spinifex plus some pingao so far. Signs, created by artist Tony Ogle, have been placed every 30 metres – two metres from the edge of the dunes and calibrated to regularly record sand movements. This information is being shared with GDC to increase the collective understanding of local beach patterns. Wainui Beach School has been helping with spinifex and pingao planting in the area and has also been actively involved in planting and weeding the “Schools Access”. Some effective signs by children about protecting the dunes have been added to the tape-fences on top of the Lysnar Reserve dunes near Okitu Store. This is an approach that has worked well in other regions. At the southern end of Wainui Beach others are caring for the spinifex they have planted on their foreshore as well as rearranging driftwood and researching sandbag and sand-sculpting techniques to hold sand and restore their dunes.
All along the beach residents are busy fertilising spinifex and pingao plantings when it rains and several people are more actively rearranging driftwood on their daily beach walks along the edge of Lysnar Reserve or in front of their properties to trap sand and to enhance plant protection. Some people have collected and are trying out the long process of sprouting spinifex and pingao seeds to create a local nursery resource. In the meantime, more spinifex plants are on bulk order for planting this winter. There’s also an idea afloat to look at a project to revegetate Makorori Headland. National networks and other beach and coast care groups have been accessed, tapping into their experiences and resources. There is potential to apply for Ministry for Environment and other funding when needed. Bay of Plenty dune scientist Wayne O’Keefe is preparing a planting plan for dune restoration for specific areas and it is intended that this will assist in the GDC’s review of the Wainui Beach Management Strategy and in a Makorori Beach Management Plan later this year. Residents interested in becoming involved can contact: • Makorori Beach – Kauri (Karen) Forno, kauri_99@yahoo.co.uk phones 867 4149 or 021 125 9442 • Wainui Beach - John Logan, phone 868 8266 or Jennie Harré Hindmarsh, jenniehh@paradise.net.nz • Gisborne District Council – DeArne Sutherland, 867 2049 Useful websites: www.dunestrust.org.nz – for inspiring stories about what has been achieved by communities and regional councils working together elsewhere. www.scionresearch.com – for interesting information about how to protect and plant spinifex and pingao, two key plants for our local beaches. www.landcareresearch.co.nz – for information on funding available for community and council projects, and examples of several projects around the country. JENNIE HARRÉ HINDMARSH a
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BeachLife | 15
beach news BEACH PROTECTION: The Resource Management Act 1991 requires a New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (NZCPS) to guide local authorities in their day-to-day management of the coastal environment. Local authorities must give effect to relevant provisions of the NZCPS in planning documents and resource consent authorities must have regard to relevant provisions when considering consent applications. The first New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement was first issued in 1994. A new statement took effect from December 2010.
New coastal policy: What’s in it for us In December of 2010 the new New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement formally took effect. This new document makes significant demands of local bodies – in our case the Gisborne District Council – to identify and protect the natural character of coastal environments within its jurisdiction. In this article beach resident and planning consultant JENNIE HARRÉ HINDMARSH explores the NZCPS 2010 to find out what makes it important and relevant to our lives here at Wainui and Makorori?
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hat is the NZCPS 2010? How will it be introduced locally and what can we as beach residents expect from it? The new policy statement is the outcome of a review process undertaken over six years. The final stage in 2008 attracted 538 submissions nationally, of which at least 12 were from WainuiOkitu people. They saw the significance of this document and made submissions to the Board of Inquiry that was preparing recommendations to the Minister of Conservation. Several of the Wainui submitters also requested that the Board hold one of its hearings in Gisborne to enable locals to present and discuss their submissions and experiences directly to the Board. A predominant theme in the Wainui submissions was to strongly support the context and direction of the then draft version of the NZCPS, and to argue for it to be even stronger and more detailed in some areas. Why? Because the draft NZCPS echoed the concerns and values being expressed by Wainui-Okitu residents and ratepayers who were at the time arguing to “retain and better protect the natural character of our coastal environment”. Most local submitters were even more motivated to submit after becoming aware that the Gisborne District Council’s own submission argued to remove or substantially decrease the power of several aspects of the NZCPS – in particular those policy sections that Wainui submitters actually supported the most and wanted strengthened! GDC, as the authority in control of the issuing or rejection of applications to create subdivisions and other changes in use, is now also 16 | BeachLife
responsible – through the guidelines of NZCPS – for the protection of the “natural character” of our coastal environment, including our sense of community . This includes land use and activities, surf breaks, public access, water quality, storm water, other discharges and coastal hazards, erosion and also historical heritage. The scope of the “coastal environment” to which the NZCPS applies is defined by the seaward limit of 12 nautical miles offshore from roughly the high tide line. Inland definitions will vary from region to region according to local geography and other factors, including onshore structures and facilities, that impact on the coastal environment. The NZCPS policies are not hard and fast rules. They are directions which must be weighed up alongside other matters when reaching a Resource Management Act decision, including private plan change proposals and resource consents. These directions must be reflected in documents such as regional policy statements, regional plans and district plans – all documents which must “give effect” to relevant provisions of the NZCPS. In deciding how they do this, council must involve the public and take account of local issues and priorities. To “give effect” to the NZCPS 2010, the GDC is required to make changes to the Regional Policy Statement, the Regional Plan and the District Plan, which for the draft NZCPS amounted to a total of 19 plan changes locally. This is more changes than many other councils around the country. All changes will be subject to public consultation. Whether a local authority, in our case GDC, makes amendments gradually, or makes them all at the same time, will be a matter for the authority to decide – although there is clearly a requirement to act expeditiously, with speed and efficiency. How will NZCPS 2010 protect the coastal environment from “inappropriate” land-use? The Statement contains directions on the preservation of natural character and protection from inappropriate subdivision and use. It calls for the protection of outstanding natural landscapes (including seascapes) and features, the protection of indigenous biodiversity and habitats, the control of sedimentation and other discharges and the improvement of water quality. It requires a “precautionary approach” where the effects of a proposed activity or development is uncertain, unknown or little understood – but potentially significantly adverse – and introduces the requirement of more effective monitoring.
beach news What effect will the NZCPS have on future subdivisions and other land-use changes? The Statement provides more explicit and specific direction to councils on strategic and spatial planning in Policy 7. This means that GDC, in consultation with the public, will need to develop plans that give intending subdividers and communities more certainty about where new development will be appropriate, where it may need careful consideration, and where it should not happen at all. Some New Zealand law firms have commented that the new policy appears to set heavy restrictions on coastal development and will have implications for those wanting to ‘develop’ along the coast if their site is identified as an area where further subdivision is considered “inappropriate”. More specifically, the Statement require councils to identify – through strategic planning with their communities – those areas where subdivision is not appropriate and provide protection for these areas. It is also stated that the rate at which new housing development is required to meet population growth must be set without compromising the other values of the coastal environment. Consolidation of existing urban areas is to be encouraged to help avoid more urban sprawl and sporadic settlement patterns. Of significance for us here at Wainui is that councils are required to take a more integrated, coordinated and precautionary approach, especially where “significant adverse cumulative effects” are already occurring or might be anticipated. What difference will the new NZCPS make to the “natural character” of our coast and communities? The Statement defines “natural character” broadly to not only include natural features and landscapes (including seascapes), but also a range of values (shared and recognised) including memorability, naturalness, spiritual and cultural values plus historical heritage. Processes by which councils should identify and preserve natural character and related values are outlined in the Statement. Policy 14 is interesting because it also requires planning documents to be amended to promote the restoration or rehabilitation of the “natural character” of the coastal environment. The Council will be obliged, where practicable, to impose or review restoration or rehabilitation conditions on resource consents, including applications for the continuation of uses and activities. This could include requiring applicants to restore indigenous habitats and ecosystems. And could also involve the removal of redundant existing structures and materials. How does the new NZCPS address Maori interests on the coast? The Statement contains updated policy on how planning and decision making should recognise Maori values in relation to the coast, and the relationships Maori have with certain coastal places and resources. This includes Maori interests in protecting special sites (such as wahi tapu) and in using resources and developing places (e.g. gathering kaimoana, developing papakainga and marae). What effect will the NZCPS have on our local surf breaks? In the Statement surf breaks, along with associated community values that make up local surf and beach culture, are defined as part of the “natural character” of our coast. Several of our main surf breaks from Tuamoto Island to Makorori have been identified as nationally significant, thus requiring preservation. It may be arguable that further intensive subdivision or other changes at Wainui Beach could impact on the quality of the surf experience through increased sedimentation or other discharges from increased storm water run-off affecting water quality. Sedimentation could also detrimentally effect the sand bars and reefs associated with the surf breaks. How will “coastal hazards” be identified and managed? The Statement substantially updates directions for the improved management of coastal hazards (including tsunamis). The focus is now more on avoiding or reducing risk and considering a broader range of options where existing development is under threat. Policy 24 requires assessment of risk over the long term (at least 100 years) taking account of the expected effects of climate change. Alternatives to hard protection works (e.g. seawalls) are encouraged where practicable, to minimise long-term costs and adverse environmental effects.
What effect will the new NZCPS have on improving water quality and reducing damage from sedimentation and other discharges? Three policies – 21, 22 and 23 – require councils to identify situations where water quality has been compromised and to take steps to address this deterioration where practicable. Plus they are to require that developments do not result in creating significantly more sedimentation or problematic discharges, including storm water. What effect will the NZCPS have on dune protection? The Statement says very little, so far. A policy recommended by the Board of Inquiry on the protection of dunes of national significance raised potential issues of fair process for landowners who would be affected. The possibility of including a policy on dunes protection is to be further explored, with an opportunity for affected parties to comment. Policy 14, “restoration of the natural character” mentions the need to rehabilitate dunes and restore or enhance such habitats for indigenous species. What does the NZCPS say about driving vehicles on our beaches? Policy 20 gives stronger direction to consider tighter control of vehicle use, apart from emergency vehicles, on beaches, foreshores, seabeds and adjacent public land to avoid damage to ecosystems and environments. Non-Resource Management Act action will be necessary to work out a system for an effective response. Collaboration between councils and the police will be needed to enforce these controls. How do we get involved? How can we get more information? For all the above reasons the NZCPS 2010 is immediately relevant to those who care about the natural character of the coastline, beaches and coastal communities around Gisborne. The NZCPS requires local public (community) involvement in the GDC’s process of identifying and defining the specifics – importantly, to identify and define the “natural character” of our coast and its communities. We must work out together what is valued and significant enough to preserve and protect within the guidelines of the Statement. GDC had hoped to provide a paper to the Environment and Policy Committee meeting on March 16 outlining proposed actions for GDC to give effect to the new NZCPS. This is not on agenda so watch the www.gdc.govt.nz for any future meeting agenda item and paper. In the meantime let your councillors know what you think – especially those councillors on the Environment and Policy Committee – Manu Caddie, Andy Cranston, Alan Davidson, Pamela Murphy, Rehette Stoltz, Craig Bauld (Deputy Chair), Pat Seymour (Chair) and the Meng Foon (Mayor, ex officio). Committee meetings are open to the public, and usually start at 1pm. The full NZCPS 2010, background information and more summaries are on www.doc.govt.nz . Free copies of the full NZCPS are available by emailing your postal details to nzcps201@doc.govt.nz. a Jennie Harré Hindmarsh has lived at Wainui Beach for nearly seven years and has been connected to the Tairawhiti coast all her life. She has a Doctorate in Philosophy and has a Diploma in Maoritanga from VUW. As a Commonwealth Scholar she completed her Masters degree at the University of London. Her BA Hons is from Massey. Her career covers more than 30 years working in the social services, health, education and arts and heritage sectors (mainly in Wellington, and before that in Palmerston North and London). She has been a university lecturer and has held directorships in various national organisations including director of Te Papa National Services Te Paerangi and acting-director of the Tairawhiti Museum in 2004. She has worked with NZQA writing unit standards and designing qualifications, and with TEC and ITPQ improving QA systems. Since 2005 Jennie has worked part-time as research coordinator for Ngati Porou Hauora and also undertakes independent strategic planning, research and evaluation contracts for mainly national clients. Jennie’s voluntary roles include representing the community on the Tairawhiti Development Partnership having input into the the area’s economic, social, cultural and environmental development strategy since 2008. She was a community member on the GDC’s Public Engagement Working Group in 2010 and was a member of the working group which led to the formation of the current Wainui-Okitu Residents and Ratepayers Association.
BeachLife | 17
beach news
PARADISE FOUND: Photographer Phil Yeo and his fiance Lorna have decided Wainui Beach is the place to settle down for a while.
position and Phil started up his own freelance photography company from their home in Frances Street at Okitu where he has a modern, fully-equipped studio. He also volunteers with the Gisborne Coastguard. Phil covers weddings, journalistic, fashion, school and advertising work but portraiture is the mainstay to the business which is focused on a quality product. “Sessions include a makeover to ensure clients are beaming with radiance. Families, couples or individuals are catered for with the session including studio and exterior work in a number of outfits. After which photos are shown in the viewing lounge on a large screen and chosen for final production. Packages include CDs of the images, photo books and framed prints. “As well as the studio work, bespoke portrait sessions can be undertaken on location or at client’s homes – photography sessions are offered without charge with clients simply purchasing pictures, products or packages from the session. For more go to www.philyeo.com. a
English couple latest to fall in love with Wainui
O
ne thing that is great about living at Wainui is the regular arrival on our sandy shores of people from abroad who discover at this beach the same things those of us who have lived here nearly forever still hold dear. Phil Yeo and his fiance Lorna are such people. Originally from Cornwall they found Wainui after a New Zealand North Island holiday tour last year after living and working on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. “We both surf which was the primary reason we came to Gisborne originally, says Phil. “We have been fortunate to travel and surf some beautiful places in the world but since our arrival here, we are fully sold by what this area has to offer. “New Zealand offers everything that we had in England but with better, more powerful waves, less extreme seasons and extremely friendly, community-orientated people – something that is lacking in the UK with over 60 million people on (roughly) the same land mass as New Zealand. We also enjoy the straight forward, no-bull approach of the people here. We are hoping to start a family when our residency is finalised.” Phil has recently gained accreditation to the NZIPP (New Zealand Institute of Professional Photographers) in portrait photography. He is the only qualified member of NZIPP in Gisborne. Lorna is a teacher at Awapuni School. Phil gained his Diploma in Photography in the UK and went on to run a lifestyle photography business before they set sail on an adventure to sample the lifestyle of the Southern Hemisphere, ending up on the Sunshine Coast for a year. Here Phil worked in portrait, glamour and model photography. After moving to Gisborne Lorna gained a teaching
LATIN MOVEMENT: Local Elena Ogle is running regular Latin Zumba fitness classes at the Wainui School hall.
Latin beat at the school hall
I
f you’ve been walking past Wainui Beach School over the last few months you may have picked up on Latin-American music, reminiscent of Cuba or Brazil, emanating from the school hall. It’s the sound of Zumba Fitness which is now here in Wainui. Wainui resident and licensed instructor Elena Ogle got hooked on Zumba over a year ago after five years of post-maternity hiatus. Elena says: “After a few months of Zumba Fitness I suddenly had to buy clothes of smaller sizes! The kilos melted away, without even noticing. I was going to classes for the fun and enjoyment of these adrenalin-pumping rhythms. I felt safe amongst friends and people that were there for the same reason, to have fun while keeping fit. “The steps can look hard to start with but by your second or third class you realise they are the same as the previous class so your muscles remember and you get better every time. At each class we become more and more aware of what our body can do. I love seeing big smiles on the participants as they follow my lead but let the music drive them! “We don’t speak much or count out the rhythm at Zumba – we want people to just feel the music. I absolutely love the rhythms, they are full of energy and life. Several years ago I even travelled to Cuba and immersed myself in the world of Salsa, and having a sports science degree from Australia meant I had to combine these two passions. “Wainui and Gisborne residents are already very active which is great, lots of walkers and runners around the street and beaches, surfers and cyclists! It is great to be able to add to the types of fitness available especially as the colder months set in. Zumba is for everyone, women and men, it’s easy to do, effective and totally exhilarating!” For more information on Zumba Fitness at Wainui or a timetable, please contact Elena on 021 991 867 or elena@vivazumba.co.nz. a
PHIL YEO
PHOTOGRAPHER
18 | BeachLife
beach news
Surfcasters test fishing resource
T
he Gisborne Surfcasters Club have been running Twilight Fishing competitions at Wainui for the past three years attracting between 30 to 40 Anglers each night. A competition is run for six weeks prior to Christmas and another six weeks after Christmas, on Tuesday evenings between 6pm and 8pm with the weekly weigh-in held in the Lysnar Reserve. Wainui Beach is an ideal venue for this competition because there is a plethora of species to be caught and the beach offers good structure for idyllic surf fishing, says club spokesperson Karla Tardieu. Tolaga local, Dion Milner was the winner of this year’s Twilight Competition with a total bag weight of 6.48kg over the 6 week period. His bag gives an indication of the type and size of fish that can be caught currently off Wainui. He caught 1.78kg, 1.34kg and 1.52kg Kahawai, a 0.72kg Snapper, and a 1.12kg Trevally. Second place was Charles Oti with bag weight of 3.66kg consisting of 2.04kg, 0.66kg and 0.96kg Kahawai; and third was Tony Smith with a 3.44kg bag of a 2.02kg and 1.42kg Kahawai. While sizes in the recent competition were not huge, in past competitions anglers have had good catches including 6.08kg Elephant Fish, a 10kg Tope and 6kg Kingfish. a
Dave Timbs celebrates 60 years
ABOVE: Dave Timbs with his children Robson and Darnelle on the night of his 60th birthday in January this year.
Property prices well off valuations
N
eil Walker of Walker Realty reports that there have been steady sales at the beach so far this year – with six sales to date following a total of 17 sales during all of 2010 – by all agencies. Much the same level as the previous three years he says: “Values are finding their own level and are generally well off the rating valuations set at September 2008. Beachfront values are below $1m, with the last four beachfront sales selling well short of that mark. On the positive side there are plenty of cashed up buyers wanting to buy at the beach.” Two recent sales along Moana Road saw one property sell for $573,000 after spirited bidding by at least five potential buyers. A neighbouring property sold earlier for what BeachLife believes was $520,000. Agenets says these give a true indication of current perceived values. Bronwyn Kay agency has recently sold four properties at Wainui Beach. Lysnar Street at $480,000 and Douglas street $550,000 late last year – and Wairere Road at $870,000 and Ocean Park $635,000 in January: “The enquiry at Wainui is at a fairly low rate at present although if we have willing buyers and willing sellers, it is moving,” says Bronwyn. Ray White Gisborne says there has recently been a “real surge of interest” in Wainui properties and a lot of enquiry regarding beachfront: “Buyers, especially ex-Gisborne people living overseas, are very interested in light of recent beachfront sales all being well under $1m. Offers have been presented on certain properties but it is taking a while to get vendor expectation down to what the buyers are prepared to pay at the moment. There is a real demand in the lower end at Wainui with buyers hoping they can now get into the market under $400,000,” says Christine. a
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BeachLife | 19
beach news
Rocking up the beach
ABOVE: Wainui School’s recently formed rock band “Deep Green” put on an impressive performance for the assembled school. The band is a result of music teacher John Minogue’s lessons over the past year or so. The group played a couple of “Deep Purple” covers with reworded lyrics to suit the younger audience. The band is from left: Cameron Morrell on bass, David Barker (tambourine), Jacob Scammel (lead guitar), Kyle Hannah (drums), Ethan Hannah (vocals) and Bree Allan (keyboard). BELOW: Meanwhile, at the other end of the age scale Wainui’s resident jammers “Bigwater” played a live gig at the Cantina over the summer. The band has released a new CD entitled “Conversation”, a collection of guitarist/singer Pete Stewart’s most recent songs. The CD is for sale at the Wainui Store. The band is from left: Pete Stewart, Lincoln Wright and Trevor Herk.
Accounting Services Taxation and Audits Business and Farm Accounting Investment and Trust Advice MYOB Computer Systems PO Box 625, Gisborne Tel: 06 867 0015 Fax: 06 867 0016 20 | BeachLife
GOING NATIVE: Women’s Native Tree Project volunteers Kauri Forno (left), Jenny Manttan and Bredna Overend at Makorori Beach recently.
Native tree group active locally
M
akorori resident Kauri Forno is one of a group of locals on a mission to encourage and nurture the replanting of native trees and plants throughout our district. Originally from the Manawatu, Kauri is a secondary school science-chemistry teacher with an ambition to focus on environmental education. “I joined The Women’s Native Tree Project Trust over 15 years ago as I felt an overwhelming need to cloak Papatuanuku back in native flora,” Kauri says. “I saw a flier in a cafe, rang up and never looked back – gradually becoming more involved as the more I realised how important and rewarding volunteer work is. “The Trust is all about growing and gifting native trees to community spaces. The Trust has been active in Tairawhiti for over 20 years and has planted thousands of trees. “I have come to love our group’s regular “weed and feed” working bees – some hard mahi followed by delicious shared kai. The trust provides a fun and supportive environment to develop a love of native trees. “Volunteers are most welcome at working bees. We are child and man friendly – and keen to share our knowledge and love of nature. We are a diverse group with a wide range of skills and backgrounds. “So why do we voluntarily give up our time and energy? Many reasons, mostly for the love of it and because we enjoy being around people who love native trees too. We actively manage plantings on Kaiti hill, Sisterson’s lagoon, Waimata River, Taruheru river tributary, Wainui School, Makorori playground and Makorori sand dune restoration. “Seeds are eco-sourced locally and raised in our native tree nursery. All trees are donated free to local schools, marae, community reserves etc. If you know someone or somewhere that needs native trees –or wish to get involved yourself call me, Kauri Forno, on 8674149, or email kauri_99@yahoo.co.uk or find The Women’s Native Tree Project Trust on Facebook. If anyone wishes to help out there are working bees planned for April which included flax and spinifex planting on Sunday, April 3 at the Makorori children’s playground at 2pm; and a general working bee at the Wainui “Schools” beach access on Sunday, April 10 at 2pm. a
beach news
Wainui winners
JOURNEY TO PERSONAL HAIR CARE PERFECTION
HE DID IT AGAIN: Jay Quinn with the national open surfing trophy he won for the second time at the 2011 championships in January.
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ew Zealand’s current men’s and women’s surfing champions live just two doors apart on Wainui Beach. Jay Quinn (above) won the men’s open title at the national surf championships in Dunedin in January and Airini Mason (right) won the women’s open title on the same day. It was a double for both of them – Jay won the open title for the first time in 2008 and Airini in 2004. New Zealand’s two top surfers have home bases along Moana Road and call the same part of the beach at Lone Pine their home break. Amazingly, Wainui Beach surfers have held the New Zealand open men’s surfing championship title for eight of the last 14 years – Jay Quinn (2008 and 2011); Maz Quinn (1996, 2000, 2004 and 2006); Damon Gunness (2002) and Blair Stewart (2003). Wainui Beach women surfers have held the open women’s title six times – Holly Quinn (2002); Lisa Hurunui (2000, 2001, 2006) and Airini Mason (2004 and 2011). a
AND SO DID SHE: Airini Mason with the 2011 women’s national surfing trophy which she first won in 2004.
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BeachLife | 21
beach weddings
Sunny garden ceremony for Nova and Gidi
ABOVE: Anna Wright, Anna Schmeltz and Fiona Duncan catch up over a glass of bubbly. ABOVE: Nova Chambers, daughter of Fleur Ferris of Lloyd George Road married Gidi Avni in February. Gidi’s parents Uri and Ella Avni travelled from their home in Israel for the occasion which blended a mixture of Jewish and New Zealand wedding day traditions. Nova’s father, Darshenn Chambers came over from Australia. Friends and family celebrated the wedding on the family property at Wainui.
BELOW: Lilly Shanks and Rhian Griffiths were the obliging bartenders at Nova and Gidi’s garden wedding reception. BELOW LEFT: Cousins and friends abounded at Nova’s wedding. Briar Ferris and Bridgette Donnell catch up with brother and sister Tanya (Brockob) and Vaun Ferris.
“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” ~ Joseph Addison
22 | BeachLife
beach weddings
A remarkable occasion
A picture in Brown
ABOVE: It was “double Brown” day when Nancy, daughter of David and Liz Brown, returned to Wainui Beach to marry Vaughn Brown, son of John and June Brown of Pukekohe. They were married on February 5th, on the lawn at the Wairere Road home of Nancy’s parents, followed by a reception at the Wainui Surf Club. Nancy and Vaughn have been working in London for over ten years and will be returning there to live.
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• A programme designed to work for you to achieve your goals, whether it be for losing weight, increasing muscle mass or having more energy. • A programme designed around your food preferences, lifestyle and other needs. ABOVE: Pare Street local Julian Thompson married Gisborne girl Susanna Martin in Queenstown in July last year. The couple met while studying at Waikato University and Julian proposed on top of The Remarkables in 2009. They were married in the old stone St Peter’s Church in Queenstown and guests were conveyed via gondola to a reception at the Skyline Restaurant. After a honeymoon in Rarotonga they couple now live and work in Western Australia and have just set off on a travel tour of Europe. MILES HOLDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
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BeachLife | 23
beach babes
Second time around for first issue families
ABOVE: Another boy for Hayley and Tom Dalton of the Boardroom with Neko Jake Dalton arriving on Sunday, November 28. At 8lb 1oz he was a little lighter than big brother Jett who came into the world nearly three years ago at 10lb 10oz.
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ABOVE: Amber Elizabeth Stirton arived on 7 December 2010 at 1.30am. She was 8 pounds 12. Her mum is Leanne and her dad is Kane Stirton who have a home at Makorori. She has a big sister, Jade, who is delighted to have a sister in the family. Grandparents are Jan and John Stirton of Sirrah Street, Okitu.
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24 | BeachLife
WORTH EVERY BIT OF
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beach babes
Our three sons LEFT: Three’s a crowd for the Hill-Wests of Douglas Street. Naome and John welcomed 8lb Reef Neo West-Hill on Saturday, February 5 – a little brother for Tigher (in the middle) and Ziggy, who made his appearance in BeachLife #2 in 2008.
It’s a boy! LEFT: A son for Jake Stevens and Karin Lohmann and a sixth grandchild for Bronwyn Kay – Kobi Eli Stevens was born on Saturday, January 22 at 8lb 5oz.
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Head coach Greg Meade Phone 867 0698 BeachLife | 25
beach life
Lysnar crew party roadside Lysnar Street residents gathered on the street in December to celebrate the arrival of summer and to share the Christmas spirit. LEFT TOP: Chloe Lawrence, Daniel Polson, Mike Aldridge, Andrea Skuse, Gina Samson, Gavin Virtue and Matt Skuse. LEFT MIDDLE: Dennis and Sharon McLean with Jerram and Bronwyn Fielder. LEFT BOTTOM: Jess Willson, Steve Hannah and Craig Willson.
ABOVE: If you were wondering why BeachLife baby photographer Phoebe Gander’s name wasn’t credited to any of this issue’s baby photographs – this photo will explain the reason why she’s been taking it easy. Phoebe, Tim and 2-yearold Sennen are expecting a new arrival themselves in April.
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26 | BeachLife
beach life
ABOVE: The girls were back in town! Katie Jensen and Honey Dalton (on the right) had time off from their international super yacht crew jobs to catch up with Miriam Allan, Kerri Welsh and Sarah Whitehead at the Cantina Calienté.
A summer of sunshine and friendship
ABOVE: It was always a pleasure to be served by the smiley staff at The Wainui Store this summer– especially these two ambassadors of good service, Grace Lloyd-Jones and Esther Robinson.
ABOVE: Willie Baty and Fiona Duncan at the popular Wainui Store surf swap which was recently halted after the Gisborne District Council decided it couldn’t continue without conditions and permits.
ABOVE: A long hot summer it was for school girls Stella and Jasmine Smith and Abby Logan who decided a daily ice cream was the best way to keep cool.
BeachLife | 27
beach history
Winnie’s horsey holidays By Jo Ferris
THERE HAS ALWAYS been the idea of writing a story about Winifred Lysnar – particularly her later years when she ran the famed Okitu Riding Holidays on her farm at the northern end of Wainui Beach. Initial research revealed little detail about “Winnie” from this era, apart from information contained in cursory Gisborne Herald articles on her retirement and later her death in 1974. So this feature, written by JO FERRIS – freelance journalist, Wainui expatriate and a former “helper” at Winnie’s in the 1960s – is a major writing effort and in itself an historic achievement. It is a lengthy saga – but it celebrates the life of one of our most famous, yet most enigmatic Wainui personalities. It paints a colourful picture of the life of a woman born in 1901, who grew up amidst wealth and privilege and in later years gave away most of what she owned to live a spartan, spinster life at Wainui Beach, dedicated to good deeds and the well-being of children. 28 | BeachLife
A
s the years pass I am reminded just how much childhood experiences influence adult lives. I have kept a store of trivial memorabilia from just about every phase of my life. Treasured photos, tucked away in boxes – along with archived high school reports and job references – which, until researching for this article, had not seen the light of day for several decades. My substantial library of photographs contains less than 20 images from an era I now consider were the most important years of my young life – my years at Winifred Lysnar’s Okitu Riding Holidays. I have no photographs of Winifred Lysnar herself, other than a tattered page from an ancient Gisborne Photo News, and my recall of those days in the distant 1960s is not clear and complete. I could excuse my memory deficit to the time I was knocked senseless by a flying stirrup iron after a horse called “Socks” bolted down a small hill on Miss Lysnar’s property following a prankster’s hearty slap on the rump. There are some experiences and people lodged vividly in my memory – others I have little recollection of. After being asked by BeachLife to write this article I scoured The Gisborne Herald archives, where I learned that more than 6000 young people passed through the gates at the end of Moana Road during the Okitu Riding Holidays’ 19-year existence from 1955 to 1974. In an
beach history
During the school holidays, Mrs Joyce Tomb and Miss Winifred Lysnar conducted another of their popular Riding School Holidays at Okitu, overlooking the beach. As well as the fun and thrills of holiday with a horse, the young people who attend are also taught to ride and care for their mounts. Others, who bring their own horses, gain further experience. There is accommodation for 12 and others can come each day. The house is run like a Guide or Scout camp, where each one takes a share of the day’s jobs. Above: Miss Lysnar (left) and Mrs Tomb (right) with Ken Herivel, Frances Low, Valerie Lennie and Tony Carlin. PHOTO NEWS JUNE 1960
interview on its closure, Miss Lysnar stated that in the final years there were 425 bookings a year – some children attending for several weeks. Participants came from all over New Zealand and even from overseas. I am unable to describe the early and the final years of the riding holiday – I can only give my impressions of the 1960s. How it was in the ‘50s or how it became in the ‘70s, I can only speculate. This just happens to be my version – with information gleaned from the few archives that do exist and recent nostalgic discussions with a handful of others involved who still live in the Gisborne district. Primarily these journalistic allies were former senior helper Erle Tucker, Miss Lysnar’s former trustee Michael Chrisp and one of Miss Lysnar’s few remaining relatives, her niece Jillian Charteris (nee Lysnar). Despite the odd occasion since my time at Miss Lysnar’s, I didn’t continue riding, though horses remain in my life. The same is probably true for the majority of young people who attended Miss Lysnar’s holidays – work, marriage and parenthood overtaking horse riding as a life priority. My few after-Winnie riding experiences were treks. The kind where somewhat lazy hacks follow nose-to-tail in tedious fashion with minds of their own. Okitu Riding Holiday was not a “horse trek”, it wasn’t a pony club and it wasn’t a riding school. Everyone was equal and it was totally casual. In the 1960s we didn’t wear hard hats. Jodhpurs were for naffs and gumboots ruled. The emphasis was on the word “holiday”. This was an era when horse riding was only readily available to farmers’ children or those with parents who moved in “horse circles”. That was the true beauty of what Miss Lysnar accomplished – she brought horse riding to ordinary children from all walks of life, and allowed them have fun while doing it. Riding in the Winnie Lysnar environment was all about gaining self-
confidence, learning values and collecting life-skills. Horses were simply the medium. And while we didn’t realise it at the time, what she offered was a very rare opportunity. Cost wise, it must have been an enormous challenge. I can only surmise her family heritage and position in life gave her the freedom to do so. BeachLife’s earlier extensive historical feature on the settlement of Wainui Beach outlined the significant land holdings of Winifred’s father, William Douglas Lysnar. While there is much documented about the life of W.D. Lysnar – Member of Parliament (1919-1931) and Mayor of Gisborne (19081911) – it’s odd that there is so little written about his only child and sole heir to his substantial estate. In the course of his own research on W.D. Lysnar, Gisborne lawyer Michael Chrisp read three of Miss Lysnar’s diaries, now held in storage at the Tairawhiti Museum. He says he found little to provide an insight into Miss Lysnar’s personal feelings or opinions. Acting as her trustee, Michael knew Miss Lysnar well but acknowledges she was a very private The writer Jo Ferris started her writing career in the 1960s at Radio 2ZG as an advertising copywriter. Her father, the late Ted Dumbleton, was editor of the Gisborne Herald who in his later years lived at Makaorori. She married Wainui boy Dein Ferris in 1970. They lived at Wainui and built homes in Murphy and then Lloyd George roads. Children Tanya and Vaun are both Wainui born and bred and both currently live at Wainui. Jo later worked at The Gisborne Herald and then moved to Tauranga in the early 1990s to a take on a job as sole reporter with an INL community newspaper. Following redundancy she has since worked as a freelance writer based in Papamoa. She spends most of her time commuting between Auckland and Wainui to vist her children and six-year-old granddaughter Yula.
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PORTRAITS OF MISS WINIFRED LYSNAR: Aged two in 1903, nine in 1910, a young woman in her 20s and then in her 50s around the time she started the riding school venture. Below: As Girl Guides camp nurse in 1955.
person – one who chose a spartan life and was “incapable of holding a negative thought about anyone”. “She saw all people as angels”, says Michael, who was often concerned by the way she would gather strangers from the beach and take them into her house. He remembers her being extraordinarily generous, in her own frugal sort of way. Considering what is known about Miss Lysnar’s upbringing and her father’s substantial holdings, I can only assume that, as an only child and single all her life, Miss Lysnar was reasonably wealthy – not to mention a fair “catch” in her youth. She displayed nothing of any apparent wealth in later life. Her dress, demeanour and lifestyle were the antithesis of affluence. She lived frugally and dedicated her life to young people. How and why she ended up a somewhat eccentric spinster living alone in a ramshackle farmhouse at the end of Wainui Beach is the mystery of the woman and the enigma that she remains. Born in 1901, the young Winifred Lysnar must have been a young lady of some standing in Gisborne and even the wider New Zealand community. She would have enjoyed the finer things of life and more than likely was presented as a debutante in the highest social circles. It is known she was presented to the Queen, possibly more than once. She often travelled abroad with her father, their departures and arrivals mentioned in the nation’s press. Like her father, Miss Lysnar learned to ride at a young age. While abroad she achieved considerable ability as a horsewoman, honing her skills in France and England and qualifying as an instructor there. She must have retained riding contacts in England, as I can recall her sending several star pupils there to further their careers. Miss Lysnar’s ability to break in horses would have been a major achievement for a woman of her day. She learned methods used by the late James Andrews, the Whangara farmer who bought part of Makorori Station from her father. In a 1974 Gisborne Herald interview Miss Lysnar recalled how in the 1940s reliable horses were needed by older men who were asked to return to work on farms to release the younger workers as they went off to war. In later days Miss Lysnar ventured into breeding. Probably due to her time in France as a young woman, she gained a penchant for the 30 | BeachLife
Percheron, a breed which dates back 12 centuries to the small district of La Perche in north-western France. The Percheron was a cross between Arabian horses, abandoned by the defeated Moors at the Battle of Tours in 732AD, and massive Flemish stock native to the rich, fertile province of Flanders. Miss Lysnar’s stud Percheron colt, “Kadlunga Templar”, was bought at auction from a closing Sydney Percheron stud in 1939. She crossed the breed with lighter mares in this country to create a true utility horse – sound station hacks which were also good jumpers. They were mostly greys. I rode some of those horses. One on which I competed in some obscure gymkhana at the Gisborne showgrounds with others of “Winnie’s Mob”. It was my sole attempt at competition. I remember our being looked upon as total ruffians, not at all the right stuff for Pony Club. Despite the solid foundation of the Percheron breed, my understanding is that Miss Lysnar’s breeding programme wasn’t regarded highly by Gisborne’s equestrian elite. This was confirmed by Erle Tucker, who had a lot to do with breaking in many of her horses. She was deemed somewhat eccentric by then – a square peg out of a round hole. But while Miss Lysnar certainly had some splendid eccentricities, those who remember her have nothing but warm memories of this extraordinary woman. If it hadn’t been for Miss Lysnar and her horses I would never have had the opportunity to ride, let alone compete. That’s what Miss Lysnar instilled in us – a sense of achievement. Even when those wily old horses would swerve the logs dotting the house paddock rather than jumping them, Miss Lysnar would call out: “wonderful” or “you’re doing splendidly”. Life with Miss Lysnar was, indeed, splendid! Youngsters were introduced into Miss Lysnar’s riding holiday experience from around 10 years old – the starting age of what would become a regular school holiday ritual with children spending weeks at a time at Okitu. Locals would be collected in Miss Lysnar’s grey Morris Minor van – she actually picked children up, rather than expecting their parents to drop them off. Sometimes she was helped by volunteer drivers. Other kids who came from around the country, or even from overseas, stayed in Miss Lysnar’s house. It was the ultimate school holiday camp.
beach history Each camp ran Monday to Saturday with a parent-day finale on the Saturday, the culmination of a week at Winnie’s. Children were divided into groups according to ability. They were allocated a horse befitting that ability on which to participate in a variety of activities each morning and afternoon. Children were taught not only the basic skills of riding but also the responsibility of looking after a horse, grooming and saddling their own mounts each day. Miss Lysnar had several adult helpers. Most memorable was Mrs Joyce Tomb, her “right-hand woman” and the leader of our expedition rides. I don’t know whether or not Miss Lysnar was still riding herself when she began her venture in 1955 though photos suggest she might have. I never saw her on a horse in my time from 1962 to 1967. Mrs Tomb joined Miss Lysnar about a year after the venture began and was there until the very end. I know nothing of Mrs Tomb and Miss Lysnar’s friendship or their business arrangement in terms of the riding holiday. Only four years of age between them, they were very different yet totally compatible. Miss Lysnar was genteel – a soft but firm smiling face with white hair always tucked up in two buns under a hair net. Her uniform of choice being a neck scarf, shirt and a calf-length skirt (invariably fastened with a safety pin) worn above crumpled stockings and sandals. She was also known for wearing a beret, possibly a penchant she picked up from her time in France. Mrs Tomb was down-to-earth with snow white hair and, like Miss Lysnar, it was also worn under a net. As the riding leader she was an experienced horsewoman, having spent her life around horses. She had broken them in, shown hacks and jumpers at the A & P Show and was the first commissioner of the district’s pony club. She was always dressed in pants, an Aertex shirt and a Swandri jacket with a packet of tobacco and papers ready in her pocket. Her deep, throaty laugh crackled and everyone wanted to ride alongside her. She lived an unassuming life with her husband, Dr John Tomb, in their beachfront home along Pare Street. The other adult helper was Les Woodward – huntsman, pony club instructor and show judge – who was there for a short period during my time. A sergeant who served in both world wars with the mounted rifles, Mr Woodward was an experienced rider with a soft demeanour, a huge heart and a big laugh. On busy weeks he would come to help with the treks. Other times he could be found be down in the yards working with young horses. Other helpers during my time included the “A-team” – the late Bob Whiteman, Erle Tucker and occasionally Neville Rogers. By the 1970s a Mr and Mrs Bruce Holt were helping, in what way I do not know, because I cannot trace them. Miss Margaret Kemp also helped in a nonriding capacity. She passed away two years ago, aged 60. Younger brother, Stephen Kemp, while not a helper, was a regular rider as were so many other local children. A Mrs Russell arrived in the mid ‘60s, a dressage specialist, who instilled a higher level of riding discipline into those who aspired to greater horsemanship. The dressage ring was sited on a picturesque spot later donated by Miss Lysnar for public ownership as the Okitu Bush Reserve. The flat arena was beyond a legendary ride that was known as “Tucker’s Trail”. This dirt track was devised by Erle Tucker for the parents’ day finale, a gully trail that followed the corner sweep from Okitu as the road leaves Moana Road towards Makorori. Erle’s experience at Miss Lysnar’s started earlier than mine. The grandson of Bob and Alice Craill of Douglas Street, and growing up with them, he suspects he was sent off to Miss Lysnar’s each holidays to give them a break. Like others over the years who spent a lot of time at Miss Lysnar’s, Erle was eventually hand-picked when at high school to become a “helper”, a role of responsibility and youth development that required teenagers to
Children pose for the Photo News with a 66 year old Miss Lysnar in 1967.
assist in all areas of the riding holiday routine. Erle later became heavily involved assisting Miss Lysnar breaking-in and working with young horses she bred on the former W.D. Lysnar-owned Arowhana Station. Tucker’s Trail was a perfect amphitheater. Parents lined up on the ridge overlooking the gully to watch the eager-beavers as they paraded in military fashion, beaming with pride It was the encore to a Saturday show as that week’s class put their mounts through their stuff – trotting and cantering in circles, jumping over logs and hurdles. Chests were puffed and parents were impressed by their kids’ staggering accomplishments. Splendid stuff. Everyone wanted more – and they got it. They came again and again each new school holiday, eager to renew friendships; the boys keen for more rough and tumble; the girls desperate to rekindle crushes on the likes of Bob, Erle or Neville. Adoring kids secretly hoped one of their idols would arrive from the yards following a call-up from Miss Lysnar to tickle up their sluggish horse with a quick whirl of a whip and a hearty kick in the guts. Erle can’t recall quite when he mapped out the trail named after him. It became a centre feature of activity and known by some as an afterhour escape for the pursuit of teenage romance. Considering he mapped it out, one can only assume Erle knew all the best spots! Bob Whiteman was a few years older than Erle and was another local lad from Wairere Road who became passionate about horses and injected further personality to the place. Either working with horses in the yards at Okitu or around on Waimoana Station, Bob and Erle were idols to the younger riders. The fundamental pattern of a week at Winnie’s revolved around riding lessons in the house paddocks with Miss Lysnar before being let loose on the beach or hills with Mrs Tomb and the helpers to experience the thrill of trotting and cantering in an open space. Popular was the circuit along Wainui Beach, then up and over Waimoana Station. The first stage was either along the beach at low tide or through the sandhills, jumping the ditches and trotting wellworn paths through the dunes to the Pines and up Lysnar Road and onto Waimoana Station. The trail through the hills would wind along the upper ridges before returning down through horse paddocks that backed on to Miss Lysnar’s house. Makorori was a longer and spectacular trek, either up through the hills and down to the beach, or via the road to enjoy the full stretch of Makorori’s flat sand at low tide. Nothing could match the wind in your face and the exhilaration of a full-throttle canter along Makorori Beach. Riding over the dunes was normal through the 1960s but I doubt it is allowed today. Horse riding on the beach, however, is still part and parcel of recreation at Wainui – and long may it reign. I’m not sure when Miss Lysnar’s house was built but it was probably the mid-1950s. A derelict building stood in the paddock adjoining her home, which added to the rustic charm of the place – apparently this was the original homestead of Makorori Station, a sizable acreage bought by W.D. Lysnar in 1897. A photograph taken in 1908 of a colonial style cottage is presumably BeachLife | 31
beach parties Active imaginations conjuring a fervent belief that wads of notes were stashed there among cobwebs. The room was as much an enigma as Miss Lysnar herself. Holidays and Saturdays with Miss Lysnar became part of my life until I left high school. In essence, it was such a short period in my life, yet it had such an impact. I can’t remember how many riding holidays my late parents paid for while I learned the ropes. I can’t even remember the moment I was actually invited to be a “helper”, which is odd, given it was so important to me. Everything focused on riding at Miss Lysnar’s and being one of an elite group. Being a helper was a huge honour, far surpassing any kudos earned as a school prefect. In hindsight, Miss Lysnar’s helpers were pivotal to the entire operation. With up to 50 children attending each week and tutors “Winnie’s Mob” compete in a pony club gymkhana at the Gisborne showgrounds. From left: Kerry Edwards, Sally Bethune, Jo Ferris, Prue McLeod, Lyn Green and in their 60s – a fit, tight-knit group of youths if you can identify the two on the right let us know. was needed to do the heavy work and help out during riding sessions. the same derelict building of my memory, where a young Winifred There were horses to round up each morning, tack to look after and would have spent time when the Gisborne-based family travelled out to horses to bridle. There was hay to put out in paddocks, troughs to fill, the farm. Both the original cottage and Miss Lysnar’s newer home are and manure to dispose of. Newcomers needed to be watched as they both long gone. The property since subdivided and named Sirrah Street. groomed and saddled their mounts – and to rein in at times and mentor, Little evidence remains of Miss Lysnar’s presence. just as I had been. The location was perfect for the venture – a mix of flat land with The routine was generally the same, but the adventure was never gullies and hills. Stock yards and sheds were down by the road where boring. It wouldn’t happen today of course. OSH would have a hernia. there are now houses overlooking the beach. A separate gate led into this Just getting started for the day, the horse round-ups were straight out of corner of the property. The original entrance was a gated drive further the Wild West. north and up what is now the rise of Sirrah Street. This was the job of the “A-team” which I joined only a few times. W.D. Lysnar had bought land from Maori owners which, at the time, Riding bare-back, bare-headed with a stock whip in one hand, charging extended from the top of Tatapouri Hill to the Hamantua Stream. He up the hills at Okitu to round up the herd and drive them downhill into sold the northern part of the station in 1919 to Whangara farmer James the yards. I now struggle to believe we did this. Andrews, the remaining farm behind Okitu known then, and still is, as Erle Tucker looks back with head-shaking incredulity as well. The Waimoana Station. daily muster he and Bob used to undertake was something akin to a Though Miss Lysnar went on to sell the land to Ian and Sue Fraser in cowboy movie; the sight of horses charging down those hills was pure 1969, access for treks remained throughout the riding holiday’s history, theatre. People used to stop their cars on the highway to watch. just as she retained access to Makorori. Once the horses were in and, following the obligatory mug of cordial Okitu’s beachside sand hills also belonged to W.D. Lysnar. As part of at morning tea at Miss Lysnar’s house, there was a human stampede a quest to develop a seaside village at Okitu in the 1920s, he donated to the yards and a competitive scramble for a spot on Mrs Tomb’s old 22 acres of this beachfront land to the Gisborne Borough Council to truck. Being driven to the yards was a bonus adventure. provide permanent public beach access. Miss Lysnar gave the remainder Preparing the horses was probably the biggest part of the day. Helpers of the dunes to the Crown in 1957, creating the W.D. Lysnar Domain in the tack shed, handed out bridles. They’d rush to the yard rails, and ensuring public access to the beach for all time. Michael Chrisp scramble to the top and hang bridles over the side, a chorus of names remembers Miss Lysnar’s first act of charity in 1954; donating to repeated as helpers caught the horses for kids to hitch up at designated Gisborne the riverside Kelvin Park. Wyllie Cottage was sold to the spots. council the same year and marked Miss Lysnar’s permanent move to Each horse had their own hitching position – the likes of old “Leon”, Okitu. “Rajah”and albino “Foam” inside the shed, the parade of others tethered Miss Lysnar’s house at Okitu had two wings joined by a type of garage along the yard rails. Some, like a grumpy old ruffian named “Sam”, that served as a meeting place. Those who had come from around the needed space, ears flattened before kicking any horse that dared verge country, sometimes for weeks at a time, would be housed in bedrooms within hind reach. Every horse was an individual with its idiosyncrasies. in one wing. Miss Lysnar’s wing (her bedroom aside) housed lounge and “Socks” was a bolter. So was “Tarquin”, the chestnut with a tail the same kitchen areas which the children has free use of. Floors were bare boards, colour as my hair back then. Dare to raise a hand suddenly in front furniture simple, as was the food. of him and he’d bolt as he did one wet day along the entire length of Menu items that return to mind include weak orange cordial served the sand hills with me on board after sneaking out with a friend to the in plastic mugs, sliced white bread, luncheon meat, saveloys and tomato Okitu Store for supplies. sauce. There was also Mrs Tomb’s famous scones and vegetable soup. Miss Lysnar owned the horses, buying the more dodgy ones from lord Both were as synonymous with Mrs Tomb as her green, flat-deck truck knows where, or from riders who outgrew the fad. She also borrowed with its rickety side-rails penning in the hoards of kids who jostled to horses – usually flighty ones that had been bought by unknowledgeable hop on board. parents, only to discover the horse was more capable than their child. The doors were always open to Miss Lysnar’s house and children were Mounts would end up at Miss Lysnar’s for steady work or remaking by welcome to treat it as their own – except for her bedroom. That room helpers as we honed our own skills under Miss Lysnar’s ever-watchful was the realm of myth and fantasy. I can’t remember the blinds ever eye. Part of that early scrutiny included a disciplined seat position – being raised. Nor did I ever grab even the sneakiest of peaks as Miss thumbs atop the reins and regimented stirrup iron with ball of the foot; Lysnar came or went from this inner sanctum. It was an utter mystery. heels down and weight on the big toe. Miss Lysnar would come at you 32 | BeachLife
beach history with amazing fortitude as she tested that foot strength. Young riders Sadly, I am sure there are many, like Bob Whiteman whose Humber dared not have their legs flayed backwards for fear of being ousted from Super Snipe was as much an icon on the place as he was, have passed on the saddle. before their time. A fearless rider, it’s ironic that Bob’s untimely death at Apart from the Lysnar family of Lysnar Road themselves, many other 47 in 1995 was due to an accident with heavy farm machinery. Wainui families had a strong association with Miss Lysnar’s. Whiteman, Considering the level of freedom in the place, injuries were Tucker, Craill, Ferris, Searancke, Rogers and Low to name a few – surprisingly low. There were the tragic ones. When breaking in a numerous children at some stage spending time at Miss Lysnar’s. The stunning looking but brute of a horse named “Robbity Bob”, Les riding holiday was an integral part of the community, as much as Miss Woodward was kicked in the head. Miss Lysnar had the horse put Lysnar herself. down and Mr Woodward was never the same again. He fell to his death Her niece, Jillian Charteris, remembers her “Aunt Winifred” in much from a cliff just before Easter 1973 while walking around the Makorori the same light as I. And she has further memories – of stout shoes and headland. a brush; prerequisite items everyone was asked to take for a week’s Luckily, most mishaps were self-inflicted, often the result of a careless riding. Being family, Jillian also had insight about that mysterious fall, or an over-boisterous fun fight. And how we never burned down the bedroom. Quite barren, apparently, apart from an old wire-wove bed. hayshed, while sneaking a puff out of sight from Mrs Tomb, I’ll never She also remembers cheques stashed in a chest of drawers, much to her know. father’s concern. Accountant Wathan Lysnar helped with the bookwork, Catering at times for children with disabilities at the riding holiday, it apparently not an easy task with Miss Lysnar. was logical for Miss Lysnar to also help start Gisborne’s Riding for the She might have had a gentle outward demeanour, but she also had Disabled Club. She donated horses and equipment from the outset and an iron will, an attribute no doubt inherited from her father. Jillian when she shut up shop, Miss Lysnar donated more horses, bridles and remembers dinner party invitations at her aunt’s where guests were saddles. given a number at the door and designated to a certain task. When Miss Lysnar wound the venture up and sold that part of her On one occasion, Jillian recalls turning up for a social gathering, only to meet Miss A typical school holiday group in front of the Lysnar driving down the yards overlooking Wainui Beach in the late 1960s. hill, all thoughts of dinner banished from mind. There were also the odd incidents when Miss Lysnar apparently forgot about young charges in the back of her van after a routine pick-up for Bible class. Commitment was part of Miss Lysnar’s ethos. A devout Christian she attended church regularly and ran the children’s Bible class. She was also largely involved with Girl Guides and St. John Ambulance Cadets. Miss Lysnar put huge trust in the many who enjoyed holidays at Okitu, allowing horses to be borrowed during school terms property to Mr and Mrs J.H. (John) McGuinness in 1974 it became by those who had grazing available in town. known for a short time as Turanga Farm. The McGuinnesses held Inter Helpers either had one of Miss Lysnar’s horses designated as their Schools Christian Fellowship camps, three of which were held each year own or they owned them outright and grazed them on her paddocks. on Miss Lysnar’s property. They kept some horses, I believe, aiming to The list of people touched by Miss Lysnar and those around her is long. cater for the occasional rides. But by this stage I was long gone. And The yarns are endless. Nothing before or since has ever came close to when they sold to John Harris in 1980 the property was developed into Okitu Riding Holidays. Horses were synonymous with their riders – as the subdivision of today. individual as the people themselves: Margaret Graham and “Ginger”, All that remains of the Okitu Riding Holidays has disappeared into Lyn Green and “Fashionette”, Diane Quinn and “Cabana”, Libby Jones the questionable memories of those of us fortunate enough to spend and “Mr Ed”, Erle Tucker and “Flek”, Jill Bradley and “Rumba”, Stuart time there. Hanlen and “Gypsy”. Miss Lysnar died, aged 74, in December of 1974. A simple tombstone The 1960s’ roll call is a lengthy one – Roddy Walker, Alison Findlay, at Taruheru marks her burial and names her as the loved daughter of Prue McLeod, Kerry Edwards and Sally Bethune to name a few. I wonder William Douglas and Ida Eleanor Lysnar. Joyce Tomb died at the age of if Clive Alcock’s formula for picking a race winner still works. I wonder 83 in 1988, 18 years after her husband. where Lyn Turnbull, Lyn Laracy or Hugh Graham are. I stayed in touch Though active to the end, in the year of her death Miss Lysnar with Toni Izzard long after she left town. Friendships crossed into other donated the remaining belt of Okitu dunes to the council for a reserve, phases of life as people connected, either through work, romantic flings along with the bush and headland at the end of Moana Road. She sold or marriage. her Okitu property just months before she died. Chris Milton, by sheer fluke, is now my neighbour in Papamoa. Diana Jillian cannot recall where Miss Lysnar moved to after the sale of the Dobson’s ongoing association with horses led to a management position farm but she does remember visiting her when she was ill in Chelsea with New Zealand’s equestrian team. Stuart Hanlen’s passion led him Hospital. Jillian believes Miss Lysnar almost willed herself to die and to breed quarter horses as well as running Gisborne’s RDA for a while. it doesn’t surprise me. I believe Winifred Lysnar had the capacity to Still breeding, he now lives in Clevedon, a photo of Miss Lysnar sitting achieve anything she set her mind to. It is sad yet poignant to me that in his tack room. The string of local family names associated with Miss such a remarkable woman had the perception to accept with dignity the Lysnar’s is almost endless. end of such a splendid era. a BeachLife | 33
beach people
EQUESTRIAN EVANGELISTS: Mother and daughter Sarah and Trudy Aitken provide opportunities for people of all ages and walks of life to enjoy the benefits of horse riding at the Lysnar Valley Equestrian Centre.
Sarah and Trudy carry on equestrian tradition
T
he spirit of Winnie Lysnar’s riding holiday venture remains at Wainui Beach with the Lysnar Valley Equestrian centre now in its sixth year of business. Lysnar Valley Equestrian is a joint-venture by mother and daughter Trudy and Sarah Aitken on their 16 hectare property at the end of Lysnar Street on what was once part of the larger Waimoana Station. Trudy’s parents, Ian and Sue Fraser, bought the station from Winifred Lysnar in 1969 and while Trudy grew up on Hikatu Station at Whangara and honed her equestrian talents there, she holds on fondly to the memories she does have of old Winnie Lysnar. Daughter Sarah Aitken, at 28, has no first-hand memories but says she has sense of a connection to Winnie and realises she is in some ways following in the old lady’s footsteps. She is reminded of this connection by the dozens of people who have driven up to take a look at her equestrian centre and want to stop and talk about how they “used go to Winnie’s riding school”. While Sarah – who is the qualified riding instructor and horse trainer at the centre – runs school holiday “Pony Camps” for beginners in the vein of old Winnie, she also trains and coaches horses and riders up to grand prix competition level. There’s seldom a quiet moment in the Lysnar Valley with the centre providing a wide programme of classes for riders of all ages. With up to 25 ponies and horses on the property there is a regime of daily feeding and general horse care. The horses must be fed and maintained, exercised, have their blankets changed daily and their shoes reshod every six weeks. As well as the dozen “school ponies” on the property they also look after another 15 by agistment (people paying to have their horses 34 | BeachLife
pastured and looked after). Sarah originally wanted to be a policewoman. She mastered criminal psychology at university but finished her studies a little too young to join the police force. To fill in a few gap years she and mum Trudy and dad David set about developing an all-weather equestrian arena on the family land. It was a business concept – but fuelled by a passion for horse riding: Trudy a pony club committee member of over 20 years and a competitive rider in her own youth; Sarah, a talented rider who had represented Gisborne in dressage, show jumping and eventing with a gift for teaching young people equestrian skills. Trudy and Sarah are both passionate about the benefits of teaching young people to safely enjoy every aspect of being involved with ponies. With up to 45 children and several adults coming to the centre for classes each week for group and private riding tuition, ladies’ mornings, twilight rides, adopt-a-pony mornings, YMCA Oscar and other youth group programmes Sarah’s thoughts of a career in criminology have been put aside, possibly permanently. She also has NZQA Equine Sport Horse qualifications to level four which she studied for three years at Nga Tawa School in Marton. As well as teaching beginners, Sarah also trains horses to show jump and coaches top competitive riders while continuing to compete herself at many equestrian events. Partner Tom Lane runs his own horse breaking business from the centre. She is also mother to two-year-old Toby who is already learning to ride his own miniature pony. For the full details on the many options available at the Lysnar Equestrian Centre prospective riders should phone Sarah on 021 806 081 or 06 867 6066. Or Trudy on 0274 998 911 or 06 867 2677.a
beach people
Poignant flight of remembrance for Ana Harris
A FLIGHT TO REMEMBER: Ana Harris of Okitu prepares to join the group of air crash victims’ relatives who made a special Flight of Remembrance to Antarctica 32 years after Air New Zealand TE 901 crashed into Mount Erebus.
By Maja Harris
I
n February my Mum did something amazing. Her name was chosen by ballot and she joined 103 others on the Erebus Remembrance Flight to Scott Base in Antarctica. Mum, then Ana Meier and aged just 22, lost her only brother, Jürg Meier, on that fateful day in Antarctica 1979 when an Air New Zealand DC10 crashed into Mount Erebus killing all 257 people on board. Jürg, who was living in New Zealand at the time, bought the scenic flight to Antarctica as a birthday present for his Kiwi girlfriend, Victoria University law student, Kay Dean. The crash happened on the day of her birthday. She was in her early 20s, Jürg was 24. Kay’s mother Joan from Reporoa, now 86, was also successful in the ballot of over 200 air crash victim relatives and was able to meet up with Mum on the remembrance flight. The flight had been two years in the planning involving Air New Zealand, the New Zealand and United States’ Governments and various other organisations. Air New Zealand flew Mum down the day before from Gisborne to Christchurch. There she was taken to the Antarctic Centre and kitted out with extreme weather gear including felt-lined boots from Norway that came half-way up her calves! There followed a briefing by the chief executive of Antarctica New Zealand who talked about the history of Antarctica, its discovery and development, and the important scientific programmes being carried out. In the evening Mum joined the other relatives for a special dinner. She realised this whole journey was pretty special. Everyone there was connected by the tragedy and each person had their own story to tell. The group was informed about the decisions that needed to be made in determining whether the flight would actually go ahead – there had already been four test flights in preparation. Two succeeded but two had failed due to unsuitable weather conditions. In the end the flight was cut short due to the weather. On Wednesday, 16 February, Mum was woken up at 5.15am to prepare for a 9am departure. The Royal New Zealand Air Force Boeing 757 flight took just under five hours – passengers were invited to visit the pilots in the cockpit and a guide explained what they were seeing out the window at every step of the way. Mum says the views were incredible. She saw massive floating
icebergs, glaciers flowing down to the sea, the famous Dry Valleys void of ice or snow, and areas where it looked like the ice had been whizzed up in a blender. They landed at Pegasus Air Field on United States territory. The passengers were told to wrap up – it was minus 15 degrees outside. Air New Zealand chief executive Rob Fyfe greeted passengers as they disembarked and then they were driven by Terra bus around the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf to Scott Base. Everyone gathered for a memorial service led by the Very Rev Peter Beck from Christ Church Cathedral. Mum, and all the relatives, received a stunning framed photograph of Mt Erebus taken by musician Dave Dobbyn, who was spending the summer in Antarctica through a New Zealand arts fellowship. Due to the weather closing in the visit was cut short, so Mum only had time for a quick look around Scott Base and to enjoy “high tea” prepared by chefs in the Scott Base kitchen. As the plane left Antarctica, the clouds cleared to reveal Mount Erebus and the area where the crash happened and Mum managed to take some amazing photos from the aircraft. Mum made several spiritual journeys that day – all with different meanings and highlights. She made one journey on behalf of her father Arthur Meier, 79, who lives in Switzerland and is no longer able to make the trip out to New Zealand. She also made a journey for her children – Daniel, Romy, Toby and I. She took with her something that belonged to each of us to show Jürg what she had been up to since he left – a necklace of mine, a lifesaving medal of Toby’s, a pair of Daniel’s boardshorts (!) and a horse key ring of Romy’s. But most importantly she was able to finish her brother’s journey – to go down and see Antarctica and come back. While Jürg’s body is no longer in Antarctica, Mum believes his spirit is there. Mum was still living in Switzerland at the time of the crash and first came to New Zealand with her parents in the aftermath of the tragedy. Later she returned to see more of New Zealand and was making a solo tour of the country by motorbike when she called into visit Graham Mudge and his Swiss wife Lisette in Gisborne. At the Mudges’ she met my dad Kim Harris and this led to her marriage, having our family and settling in New Zealand. a
BeachLife | 35
beach people
Horticulturist and nurseryman Rob Bayly left a colourful legacy across the North Island.
Green fingered genius will be missed
H
e was a horticulturist of some significance. He was one of the early curators at Taranaki’s Pukeiti rhododendron garden. He came to Gisborne at the invitation of W. Douglas Cook to create a nursery at Eastwoodhill. He pioneered the propagation of hibiscus plants in New Zealand. His name is synonymous in Gisborne with the knowledge of all things to do with gardening. The man in question is Rob Bayly who for 35 years was the driving force behind Bayly’s Plant Nursery – which had its beginnings in Lysnar Street at Okitu and then on Wainui Road on what is still often referred to as “Bayly’s Bend”. Rob passed away from a stroke on November 13 last year at the age of 78. He and his wife and lifelong partner in business Claire had retired back in 1996 and were living in Lytton Road. It all began on April 4 of 1932 when Robin Bernard Bayly was born in New Plymouth to milkman Keith, and Annie Bayly. He was the youngest of four children – two sisters and a brother. From an early age he was keen on amateur radio operating and was keen to pursue a career in this direction. However a P&T technicians apprenticeship was the compromise until at age 16 he was offered weekend work in a plant nursery, Purdie’s Begonia Gardens. Recognising Rob’s hard work ethic and talent for horticulture the owner, Alex Purdie, offered Rob a fulltime position and he left the Post Office for good. Around this time Rob had caught the eye of Bell Block dairy farmers’ daughter Claire Bracegirdle. After a four year courtship the couple were married in April of 1953. Rob was just 21 and Claire was 19. In 1954 their first child Jenni was born, followed by Irene in 1957 and Paul in 1959. In 1956 Rob was successful in applying for the job of head curator of the recently established Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust Gardens. The
Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust was conceived by a forward thinking group of intellectuals who formed the New Zealand Rhododendron Association in the 1940s, one of the founders being William Douglas Cook of Eastwoodhill near Gisborne. A suitable 63-hectare block of land was found near New Plymouth which Douglas bought and eventually donated to a newly-formed Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust. The garden was officially opened in 1951 with Cook cutting the ribbon at the gate. Rob Bayly was the third full-time curator of the garden starting work there in 1956, following on from Arthur Gourdie and Les Boisen. On their arrival at Pukeiti he and Claire and toddler Jenni were provided with accommodation in Pukeiti Lodge which was at the time without power. It was here that Rob Bayly showed his brilliance as a man who could “turn his hand to anything” . In a book about the history of Pukeiti he is described as – “a brilliant fellow. The hours he worked were quite ridiculous. He’d be working until 10 at night and up again at the crack of dawn. His labour was one of love, not money driven.” One of his first projects was supplying the lodge, the glass house and a water pump with power by building a water wheel in a nearby stream which drove a small generator. Mains power arrived in 1961 but Rob’s water wheel has been restored and is a historic feature of the garden to this day. Rob and Claire had Irene and Paul while at Pukeiti and then in 1961 they were made an offer which seemed too good to refuse. The celebrated Douglas Cook asked them to come across to Gisborne to help with the continuing development of his Eastwoodhill Arboretum project. The deal was that they would work three days a week in the
Rob Bayly showed his brilliance as a man who could “turn his hand to anything”.
36 | BeachLife
beach people arboretum and then be free to develop their own plant nursery business accepted the opportunity and in 1970 they moved the nursery from on 25 acres of land offered at a good price by Cook. Lysnar Street to the curve on State Highway 35 that soon became known Just eight months after shifting to Ngatapa, sharing a house with the as “Bayly’s Bend”. At the same time they moved to a bigger location in eccentric Cook, they were looking for new employment. The promised the Kaiti Mall where the business became known as Bayly’s Plant and land was not forthcoming, wages weren’t paid and the arrangement had Floral Centre with Claire utilising her talent as a florist. turned sour. The Baylys could have returned to Pukeiti but, with a deal The business then flourished for many years. Rob discovered a already in place to supply Gisborne Sheepfarmers Supermarket with passion for hibiscus trees and with cuttings brought in from Australia seedling plants, they decided to stay in Gisborne and start their own he supplied hibiscus plants to garden centres all around New Zealand. business. At one time he had over 10,000 specimens growing in 130 varieties. A suitable plot of land with a house was found at 30 Lysnar Street at He also studied the new science of tissue culture, working day and Okitu and thus began the Bayly’s night in the nursery and in the long association with Wainui shed the family called his “Holy Beach. And so also began Bayly’s Place”. Here he had his ham Plant Nursery which grew to radio gear and his tissue culture become an icon of Gisborne equipment, experimenting with gardening. Eldest daughter Jenni the propagation of the daphne was a first day pupil at Wainui plant particularly. School and both Paula and Irene Rob took on the grafting also attended the local school. of grape plants in the wake of The nursery was established on the 1980s phylloxera epidemic, the Lysnar Street property which eventually growing 50,000 grapes had a lower level next to the plants annually for the wine Hamanatua Stream and on leased industry. At the same time he land across the road. Early in the landscaped and planted many venture a freak flood swamped rural and urban private gardens the low-lying sections behind around Gisborne. Lysnar Street and the couple lost Rob was also largely responsible their first year’s propagation. for the replanting of the grand They had to start again. To old pohutukawa tree outside the make ends meet Claire went Gisborne courthouse which blew out to work as a waitress and over in Cyclone Bola. kitchenhand at the Chalet After Cyclone Bola in 1987 the Rendezvous which had recently Bayly’s closed the Kaiti Mall shop opened along Moana Road. For and moved the business out to a few years Rob worked for the the Wainui nursery and then into Gisborne City Council as assistant town beside Pak‘NSave in 1994. to the superintendant of reserves. In 1996 they sold the nursery When the Lysnar Street nursery property to Murray and Mary became established they were able Webb and retired to town, thus to lease a small section of empty ending 35 years living at and near land in the Kaiti Mall between Wainui Beach. the supermarket and Smythe’s Rob was a quiet man, happiest A GROWING RELATIONSHIP: Rob and Claire Bayly on their retirement Pharmacy and here began the with his head down working but from the plant nursery business in 1996. Bayly’s foray into the retail side he left behind a huge legacy from of gardening. Around this time his love and passion for plants. He Rob also gained a contract to grow all the tomato plant seedlings for the was recognised for his work when Pukeiti named a rhododendron in Wattie cannery field tomato operation on the Poverty Bay flats. his honour a few years ago. And he can also be remembered each time Chance was to play its hand again for the Bayly’s when pharmacist Gisborne gardeners admire their bright hibiscus flowers, for chances are Warren Smythe’s father died leaving a five acre plot of land with a house that Rob Bayly’s green fingers were instrumental in their creation. a along Wainui Road to be sold. He offered it to Rob and Claire who
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That was a big summer! KIA ORA KOUTOU KATOA me nga whanaunga o Wainui!! I thought it would be apt to start this article in Maori as so much around us recently has been centred around the Maori Culture.
few and many supporters. Wainui School was privileged to have Te Iti Kahurangi perform for them as a treat. WOW!
Starting this of course was Rhythm and Vines and the awesome visitors and jovial festivity this provided.
March 4th saw the annual Hangi Fundraiser at Wainui School. In one word, “yummy”! Thanks to the whole community for supporting this event and myself in teaching Waiata at Wainui School. A huge thank you to the Coulstons as well as the many kaiawhi, kaimahi and ringawera. Awesome job!
During the day hordes of people flocked to Wainui, Makorori and Okitu to enjoy the surf, sun and icecreams. In the evenings they came out for fish‘n’chips and vino on the beach and at picnic tables in the reserve and were often treated to gorgeous sunsets.
March 19th and 20th was the Maz Quinn–King Of The Groms Surfing Comp, an inspirational event to show off our talented younger surfers with some great prizes and proudly supported by the Okitu Store.
The month of January saw a number of weddings on the dunes and partying at the Wainui Surf Club a few of which we catered for.
We also had the awesome but mammoth catering contract for the O’Neill Cold Water Classic 6-Star International Surfing Event held March 23rd to 29th right here in Gizzy. Actually happening as this magazine arrives on the shelves this week. The best surfers in the world on our doorstep of paradise. YEAHAA!!
After a typically busy summer with its awesome weather we have had an even busier time with a number of amazing events.
February saw love in the air on Valentine’s Day with picnic rugs, wine and snacks on the reserve as well as lots of other romantic and balmy summer evenings. Unfortunately February 14th saw the funeral of a well-known surfer Colin Cranston who died doing what he loved at Makorori. It was a privilege to be able to cater for his family at his funeral and farewell a happy-go-lucky bloke who only hours before he died was happily chatting away with us at the Store after buying surf wax and his standard lasagna topper. RIP mate! February also saw an en masse arrival of the best Kapa Haka performers in the world descend on Gisborne for Te Matatini O Te Ra held from February 16th to the 20th. Wainui was buzzing with groups from Te Iti Kahurangi, Waka Huia, Whangara Mai Tawhiti to name a
If you see me wondering around lost over this time please place a sign around my neck and send me back to the Okitu Store to find myself again! Some of the proceed of our catering input will be going to the Gisborne Boardriders Club and the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal ... so please support. After this of course its Easter and a change to our weather and our winter hours of business, the perfect time to escape to Bali and re-energise! Gizzy is the Shizzy this year for sure and there’s not much we don’t have at the Okitu Store! Enjoy! MARYANNE
CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS! 14 New Zealand open titles amongst them. New Zealand’s latest men’s national surfing champion Jay Quinn (2008, 2011) with past winners Daniel Kereopa (2007), Blair Stewart (2003), brother Maz Quinn (1996, 2000, 2004, 2006), Richard Christie (2005) and Iain Buchanan (1983, 1984, 1985, 1976, 1987). PHOTO BY CORY
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beach people
Surfing success is a family affair
ALL IN THE FAMILY: The Mason’s of Moana Road have returned from six years in Australia to reestablish their lives in New Zealand. From left – Chris and Reremoana, Matewawe, Blake, Airini, Sarah, Molly and Canning. Three of the children are refugees from the recent Christchurch earthquake while Sarah has been taking on the best women surfers in the world in pursuit of a career as a world class professional surfer.
W
ainui has a number of high profile surfing families – but none would be as dynamic at the moment as the 8-strong Mason family who have who have recently moved back to the local beach after six years in Australia. Within weeks of being back in the country 21-year-old Airini Mason, who is the current 2010 Australasian Pro Junior women’s surf champion, had won the prestigious New Zealand Open Women’s surfing title for the second time. Her first win was in 2004 aged 13. While the family was still settling in at home along Moana Road and Airini was preparing to head to Christchurch to start a university degree course, her 15-year-old sister, Sarah Mason, stepped up to win two major pro surfing contests in a row. As a result of this success, she gained entry to the Roxy Pro Trial event on the Gold Coast. After winning the trial she then went head-to-head with four-times world WCT surfing champion, Stephanie Gilmore, as a wild-card entrant in the WCT Roxy Pro event. She was ousted by the experienced Gilmore this time. But remember, Sarah, as a wild card, had beaten the world champion in their last encounter at an ASP world tour event in Taranaki last year. It’s never a dull moment for the Masons – for while Sarah and her mum and dad, Chris and Reremoana Mason, were supporting her at the Roxy Pro in March, Airini and her two brothers Blake and Canning Mason were escaping Christchurch in the wake of the earthquake. Airini has decided to put her surfing career on the backburner and had attended just two days of studies for an Environmental Science degree at Christchurch University when the quake struck. Brother Canning, 18, had also just enrolled on an engineering degree course and big brother Blake, 23, was in his final year studying for a Civil Engineering degree at Christchurch. The three were lucky to escape unhurt from their badly shaken accommodations and after realising the university was not going to reopen any time soon, plus the worry of another quake, they all bailed back to the safety of Gisborne for a while. While the two pro surfers in the Mason family get most of the press the other siblings are equally talented in a variety of ways. Canning
showed promise as a batsman in Australia making the Gold Coast first grade cricket side last year and was a potential starter for the Queensland team. He was hoping to make a start on his New Zealand cricket career in Canterbury but the earthquake has halted that plan for the time being. His brother Blake was the dux of the New Zealand Correspondence School before going onto Canterbury in 2008. The oldest of the Masons is 29-year-old teacher Wawe who taught at Ilminster for a short time after graduation in 2002 and is now teaching in Otaki. The youngest is 13-year-old Molly, who with Sarah, is now attending Lytton High School. Molly has a great deal of talent as a pianist and has a very clever hand as an artist. The children were all educated at home via the New Zealand Correspondence School during the six years they lived at Tugun on the Gold Coast. The family moved there 2005 so Airini, then aged 15, could chase a career as a professional surfer. From the Gold Coast the family as a group sallied forth regularly in their Landcruiser up and down the length of Australia’s east coast attending women’s surfing events. Airini also competed in events at famous surfing locations around the world. Father Chris makes a living as a shaper of surfboards – he around shaped 15,000 surfboards while in Australia – and Rere keeps a happy home for them all. As the middle kids began voicing desires to study at university it seemed the wise thing to return to the house they owned along Moana Road which the bought after moving to Gisborne in 2002. With Airini backing off from her quest for “world surfing domination” she has made room for her equally-talented sister Sarah to take up the quest. To fulfill that dream – to have a shot at the world women’s champion title – she must first win her way into the elite 17-strong Women’s Contest Tour (WCT). To do that, with the support of her family, she must literally travel the globe this year, contesting a number of women’s World Qualifying Tour (WQS) events. After beating the 15-year-old in the Roxy Pro WCT event first round a couple of weeks ago, current world champion Gilmore said to Sarah prophetically: “See you on the tour soon.” A big challenge for a teenage school girl from Okitu – but after you meet the family, you’ve got to know she just might do it. a BeachLife | 39
beach people
Family heads off on new adventures
T
he sky above Wainui will be a little quieter and a lot less entertaining after the departure of Sandy Britain and his family this summer. Sandy’s the guy who’s been flying the little aircraft hanging below a parachute wing, known as a “paramotor”, over our beaches for the last few years. Sandy, wife Fran and their son Jack have been living at Wainui for seven years. They first visited Gisborne in 2003 after leaving their home and jobs in Snowdonia, North Wales for a year of travel and surfing. They returned to North Wales to sell their house and went looking on the internet for a house to buy at Wainui and eventually bought Owen Williams beach house at 29 Moana. Sandy worked in a university at the time doing research and development work in learning technologies – he eventually got a job helping develop eLearning capability at the Gisborne Polytechnic, then went on to work as a consultant to the Ministry of Education in the same field and also started his own photography business in Gisborne. Fran first worked at Girls’ High then went on to specialise as a blind and low vision teacher working for BLENNZ. She also pursued her creative passion for painting. Her work can be seen at www.franceswatling.com. Jack first went to Wainui Beach school for a year, then to Ilminster and finally onto Campion College where he last year graduated as dux. He is now heading to the UK where he has applied to a number of London universities for
PLACES TO EXPLORE: Sandy Britain, Fran and Jack are leaving Moana Road for now. Sandy and Fran are off to work in Brunei and Jack is to attend university in England.
a place to start history studies in September. His first choice is University College London, followed by Birkbeck and London School of Economics. Sandy’s photography work was mostly for the real estate industry but his real passion is taking aerial photographs from his small foot-launched flying contraption called a “paramotor”. “I guess I have become quite a familiar sight to Wainui and Makorori people buzzing about the sky when the wind is light and onshore. I have taken a number of shots around the area which can be seen in the Wainui Store and on www.airshots.co.nz,” he says. While Jack heads off on his own to the UK, Sandy and Fran are heading to South-east Asia. Sandy is taking on a contract “he couldn't refuse” as an information systems architect for the Ministry of Education in the Malaysian state of Brunei. “The contract is for a year in the first instance and will give us a wonderful opportunity to explore the waves in Indonesia and the Philippines as well as travel through other parts of South-east Asia while we are there,” says Sandy. “But I have no doubt that we'll be back in Wainui at some point in the future. We have gained many true friends in our time here and I'm sure that they, combined with whatever it was that captured us about the place the first time around, will bring us back here again before too long!” a
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Medals of all colours for local surf club WAINUI’S FEET-FOOTED sprinter Toby Harris has added significantly to the local surf club’s historic tally of gold medals after the recent New Zealand Surf Life Saving Nationals at Mount Maunganui. He won the U19 beach sprint title then helped the Wainui U19 sprint relay team to gold soon after. His team mates were Pera Gibbs, Oliver Puddick and Jamison Gibson-Park. Wainui’s women canoe paddlers made double gold also with the crew of Bayleigh Harrison, Carolyn Hibbert, Courtenay Waikari and Rachael Williams winning both the short and long-course finals. Oliver Puddick won silver in the U19 board race and bronze medals in both the U19 ski relay and ironman. A bronze by Wainui juniors in the ski relay is a major step up for the local club which has traditionally been a strong board paddling club at the expense of success on the skis. The trio of Pera Gibbs, Puddick and Benjamin Tinnelly give promise for the future in this discipline. a
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Before and after images of a patient treated for varicose veins using advanced treatment techniques by Dr Geoff Olsen.
Non-surgical solution for problem veins AS SUMMER FADES some people feel a sense of relief as they can start covering their legs again with full length trousers or skirts. One in three women and one in five men suffer from varicose veins or related venous problems at some point, but with modern treatments, even the most severe varicose veins can be treated with no downtime and minimal scarring. Skin Deep Aesthetics recognised a growing demand for these treatments in the Gisborne region and started a monthly phlebology (vein) clinic with Dr Geoff Olsen. Dr Olsen is one of New Zealand’s most experienced phlebologists (an expert in non-surgical vein treatments). He has broad expertise in the detection, investigation and treatment of all aspects of abnormal veins. Eight years ago Dr Olsen founded The Fraser Clinic in Tauranga and has treated more than 1000 legs since then. Non-cosmetic procedures like this are covered by most insurance companies. Abnormal veins develop for a number of reasons and can cause medical as well as cosmetic problems. There are three main types of abnormality in veins, spider veins - which are fine red capillaries; reticular veins - slightly larger blue veins, and varicose veins, which are the larger bulging veins. Hormonal fluctuations from puberty, pregnancy and menopause as well as use of contraceptive pills can worsen veins in women. Other predisposing factors include obesity, age, immobility, standing occupations as well as previous venous thrombosis and leg injuries. Problem veins can lead to a variety of symptoms including pain, fatigue, heaviness, aching, burning and cramping as well
as restless legs. Untreated, more severe cases can lead to inflammation of the skin (phlebitis), hardening of the skin and underlying fat (lipodermatosclerosis), blood clots (thrombosis), dermatitis, varicose eczema or even ulcers. Early detection and treatment of abnormal veins helps prevent these complications. Advances in ultrasound and laser technology make it is possible to successfully treat varicose veins without surgery. Veins are mapped using ultrasound before any treatment. This is a simple non-invasive process that allows assessment of the abnormality in order to plan the most appropriate treatment. Treatment options vary depending on the abnormality. Microsclerotherapy consists of small injections directly into fine visible veins. This is the best way to treat spider veins. Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy (UGS) is used to treat deeper or hidden veins. A foam is injected directly into the vein, visualised with ultrasound. Both these procedures take about half an hour and no general anaesthetic is required. Compression stockings are fitted and patients are up and walking immediately. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) was developed over ten years ago to treat large deep veins. Before that the only option was to surgically strip the veins which left multiple scars. With EVLA a fine laser fibre is introduced into the vein under ultrasound guidance. Laser energy is then used to collapse the vein shut. Remaining superficial veins may require further sclerotherapy or UGS. Again no hospital admission or general anaesthetic is required and patients are encouraged to walk immediately. Generally one leg takes about an hour to treat.
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Clinic: 41 Stout Street Phone: 06 8632688 www.skindeep-nz.com BeachLife | 41
wave rave
Tsunami surges bring end to an intense summer SURF REPORT BY KELLY RYAN
H
i again beach residents and local surfers. Welcome to another edition of Wave Rave. I have to mention the incredible effect the tragic 8.9 earthquake in Japan had on our coastline on the weekend of the 12th and 13th of March. Surfers witnessed the sea rise and fall with dramatic regularity over the two day period – and particularly during the afternoon of the First Light Longboard event at Makorori on the Saturday. The Pacific was visibly upset and we were obviously witnessing a watered-down version of what the northern hemisphere experienced. The tides came and went as normal but every twenty-minute period throughout the day the sea level fluctuated dramatically. There would be a period of extreme high water followed by an incredible low. The movement was very fluid – not rapid or dangerous but gentle and consistent with sea levels see-sawing for over 48 hours. To the average beach-user the surges would have been nearly unnoticeable. But to an astute surfer watching for the right tide at their local break, the surges were alarming and exciting and much more pronounced than the tsunami we witnessed in 2010. During the running of the longboard event competitors would paddle out directly off the beach as the tide surged in and at the end of the heat faced a difficult walk in over the exposed rocks as the bay drained back out.
P 867 1684 W www.surfboards.net.nz Waves were visibly smaller with sets failing to gain any form when the arena at Red Bus drained out – but when the tide surged back in the waves were pushed back over the reefs and banks and resumed full size. The entire Makorori Point reef system would be visible one minute then submerged the next. The biggest surge came shortly after noon on Saturday when a series of waves washed almost up to the top of the beach. The tsunami weekend possibly signalled the end of the summer. A summer that was short but intense. The heat wave that was February subsided into the welcome freshness of March. Water temperatures over the past two months have been exceptionally pleasant with official readings of over 20 degrees C being registered well into March. Throughout the month of February water temperatures hovered around 23 degrees C. With these temperatures wetsuits were simply not required.
ROCKY WALK: The more dramatic side of how the Japan earthquake-generated tsunami was observed at our beaches on March 12 and 13 was the bottom end of the surges as the sea drained outwards exposing super low tide reef areas at all stages of the tides. 42 | BeachLife
PHOTO BY CORY SCOTT/CANON
wave rave
SOL SEARCHING: Blair Stewart joins fellow Wainui locals Jay and Maz Quinn and Richard Christie in the Super Sixteen who will contest the final of the $50,000 Sol Surf Series which will be a mobile contest across the top of the North Island in early April.
There have been some excellent waves, especially from swells generated by northern cyclonic low-pressure systems. There has also been a fair amount of rubbish surf as well and an absence of south swell has been noted this season. Very soon the “dawny” will become a thing of the past for working surfers as daylight savings finishes. The morning offshore will carry a chill that will see surfers dusting off their full suits and enjoying what I consider to be the East Coast’s premier surfing season. Early southern ocean low pressure systems will soon begin to generate south swell and left over tropical lows, brought close to the South Pacific by the balmy water temperatures, will provide the essential ingredients for intense and memorable surfing sessions. Time to take advantage of modern wetsuit technology and put some hours in over the winter.
T
he SOL Series has drawn closer to a conclusion with the final to be ready to go anywhere the surf is happening across the top of the North island. It’s known as the mobile Super Sixteen where the top sixteen surfers on the rating compete in a showdown type event. With the completion of the 5th event the Rip Curl Pro at Ruapuke Beach just south of Raglan the Super Sixteen has four local invitees
confirmed with Jay Quinn, Maz Quinn, Blair Stewart and Richard Christie all qualifying. Raglan local, and WQS competitor Billy Stairmand won the Rip Curl Pro convincingly with Maz Quinn, Christie and Stewart all bowing out at the semi final stage. Jay Quinn, current SOL Series leader and 2011 National Open men’s surfing champion was not present for the Ruapuke event but still holds down first place on the SOL Series ratings with his incredible three wins from four contested. Jay won the O’Neill Sequence Surf Shop Pro in Gisborne before winning the Hyundai National Surfing Championships down in Dunedin. He then placed 2nd to Richard Christie at the Billabong Pro in Whangamata before winning the Power Balance Pro at Mount Maunganui.
G
isborne-based teenage surfing sensation Sarah Mason caused a major stir when she won the Roxy Pro trials event at the Quiksilver Pro on the Gold Coast in early March. The Lytton High School Year 10 student clocked a combined two-wave score of 14.16 to defeat South African Sarah Baum (11.90), Coolangatta surfer Brodie Doyle (11.50) and South African Bianca Buitendag (10.67)
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wave rave
WATCH THIS SPACE: 15-year-old Sarah Mason of Moana Road is a growing force on the world women’s surfing scene. A win in the Roxy Trials recently saw the Lytton High schoolgirl going head-to-head with world champion Stephanie Gilmore in the Roxy Pro.
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44 | BeachLife
Providing high-speed wireless broadband to Wainui and Makorori since 1996 Uncapped no-limit internet service Voice capable for Skype and other IP phones Providers of wireless high-speed internet services in the Gisborne region from Hicks Bay to Wairoa and Matawai
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Ronald Brice 867 6384 0r 021 466 438
wave rave As the trials champion Sarah Mason won a place to compete against the world’s top 17 women surfers in the Roxy Pro main event held in conjunction with the Quiksilver Pro – the first stop on the men’s and women’s WCT Dream Tour, which was held at Snappers Rock. As a wild card the road is never easy and with no seeding you are always drawn against the top surfers. Sarah drew 2010 Women’s World Champion Stephanie Gilmore and a seriously in-form Tyler Wright. Wright went on to blitz both Mason and Gilmore and left Mason fighting for her life in the elimination 2nd round. Mason again drew Gilmore who left nothing to chance eliminating Mason from the event. Gisborne is lucky to have the Mason girls, Sarah and Airini, living and studying here again and if you get a chance to see the girls on the water be prepared for some fireworks, they are very sharp young surfers!
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he Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour rounded its series out in style at Port Waikato early in March in solid six to eight foot surf. The Port event was stop number five on the Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour that saw Longboarders traveling from Piha to Dunedin to Sandy Bay, and Mt Maunganui. This year was also a first in that Sandy Bay hosted a World Longboard Qualifying Series event within the 3rd event. Many traveling international professional longboarders stayed on and attended the rest of the Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour raising the bar on the usual event standard. Kiwi Longboarders were left with two options, get beaten or find a way to beat the internationals. Phil Morris of Auckland proved to be a kiwi of concern for the internationals and took down a raft of big names, including USA’s Taylor Jenson in the Sandy Bay LQS event. Morris booked himself a place in the final and finished a very credible 4th. Morris ended up 3rd overall on the series. It was however, Australia’s Josh Constable with a 2006 World Longboard title to his name who managed three wins out of the five events on tour to take top honors overall. Constable won the first event at Piha, the third event at Sandy Bay and the fourth event at Mt Maunganui. He also placed 2nd at the final event at the Port. Gisborne-based longboarders completed an indifferent year on the circuit with Troy Conole making an impression in the one event he attended, Sam Johnson finished 23rd overall, Sean Hovell finished 14th on the Longboard Tour and also placed a very credible 3rd in both Stand Up Paddle and Stand Up Paddle Race divisions. Daniel Procter and Kelly Ryan both slipped inside the top ten finishing 8th and 9th respectively on the Hyundai Pro Longboard Tour overall.
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he First Light Makorori Longboard Classic event was held at Makorori on Saturday March 12th and despite Tsunami warnings, four to five foot waves and a strong southerly wind, the event ran very well. The competition has a long and proud history and can now boast being the first held in the new GDC-owned car park at Red Bus. It
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Gas refills, cylinder testing and dive services at new drive-in location
Dive Gas
CYLINDER TEST LABORATORY & WAINUI DIVE SHOP NEW DRIVE-IN PREMISES Cnr Childers Road & Carnarvon Street
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“We have rebranded and relocated to new customer convenient drive-in premises in the former laundromat building just down from the Countdown car park.” CLIFF BLUMFIELD
BeachLife | 45
wave rave proved a test of its design leading up to the Cold Water Classic due to start the following weekend. Dave Timbs must be thanked for his efforts in organising and running the event every year and the sponsorship from Blitz Surf Shop saw everybody again come away with a very decent spot prize. The draw for the Over 50s division read like a who’s who of Gisborne’s finest watermen from days past and out stripped the Open Men’s division in numbers. Some of the often comedic highlights were: James Tanner, open men’s event champion from 2009 and 2010, finishing dead last in his first heat after flying back from Australia to specifically attempt the hat-trick. Moananui Boardriders Club President, Ian (Moti) Procter, being eliminated in the first round of the over 40s (himself, aged in excess of 50) despite wearing lurid Speedos again, riding a board in excess of twelve feet and attempting to simulate the pose he has forever been immortalised with on the official event t-shirt. Lincoln Stone, winning his first heat of the open with the highest heat score of the round and then missing his second round heat because he went to surf “Pipe”. Nicolas Brikke from France turning up without a board, riding a different board in every heat and almost winning the open men’s division. Sunny Brown wining a pink Roxy handbag as a spot prize. Neil Walker donating $250 worth of travel as a spot prize and winning it himself. Of course he put it back in for a redraw. I could go on but the whole thing is starting to sound like a bit of a sideshow disguised as a surfing event. The results were as follows: Over 50s: 1st Chris Ransley 2nd Tommy Swann 3rd David Timbs 4th Larry Foster
Open: 1st Dan Procter 2nd Nicolas Brikke 3rd Kelly Ryan 4th Blair Lambert
Over 40s: 1st Andy McCulloch 2nd Mick Williams 3rd Peter Varey 4th Sven Intemann
Women: 1st Gina Samson 2nd Stacey Te Rekia 3rd Caroline Ryan 4th Lisa Moore
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Juniors: 1st Sunny Brown 2nd Adam Grimson 3rd Te Aorangi Pearless 4th Kobe Johnson
FUTURE PROOF: The junior division was keenly contested with Sunny Brown (right) winning the event from Adam Grimson in white. Te Aorangi Pearless was third and Kobe Johnson came fourth.
ROARING FORTIES: Andy McCulloch in blue won the over-40s division from Mick Williams in green. Peter Varey in pink was third and Sven Intemann in white was fourth.
Surfer meets his fate at Maka Point
I
eard a bit of banter on the beach lately about Stand Up Paddle Boarders (SUPs)and their place in the line-up. No surfer has any right to pass judgment on who should be able to surf our local breaks and what sort of craft they ride. To pass judgment is to denote ownership. No one owns waves. In saying that, surfers who choose to ride larger boards have a responsibility to be aware of what is happening in the lineup and think of others, read the situation and adjust their movements accordingly. Well, that just about wraps up another thrilling ride that was Wave Rave for this issue. Hopefully in the next issue we’ll have a full report on the O’Neill Cold Water Classic – a 6-star ASP World Tour event happening right here in our neighbourhood! a
t was a sad day at Makorori Point on Monday, February 14, when surfer Colin Cranston died in the water. The 51-year-old was brought to shore but could not be revived. A coroner’s report was inconclusive but a heart attack was suspected. Colin was the younger brother of Wainui resident, surfer and district councillor Andy Cranston. Originally from Morrinsville, Colin had worked in Gisborne in the 1980s, returning to live here six years ago to make a fresh start for himself and his family. “It was truly a good move for them all,” said Andy. “This community had been good to Colin – he made friends and had been accepted. “I saw Colin a couple of hours before the event. It was hot and he was working at Makorori and fully amped to get out to The Point. He was happy and from all accounts was hooting and hollering and just having a ball. The end was quick and while far too soon – it was the kind surfers hope for.” a
p 027 432 6180 e cozza@ihug.co.nz 46 | BeachLife
Just up the road from the beach AN AFFORDABLE HOME IN ONE OF WAINUI’S FAVOURITE STREETS: Stylish interior graces this solid three bedroom home with large windows allowing for plenty of light and warmth. Open plan living areas, terrace and modern deck provide the right ingredients for entertaining guests. Large garaging and spacious lawn enhanced with plants capture the beach lifestyle. This is a home you will love to call your own, in a fantastic off highway location in the tranquil Lysnar Street neighbourhood. Contact Diane Ritchie 0274 441 073 or 0800 342 663
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THE WAINUI WAY: When you live at Wainui you are looking at a total lifestyle. Ray White have an amazing selection of sections for sale so you can actually build a home that suits your own personality and needs. We have sections with beach views, rural views and entry level at $180,000. If you are wanting executive beachfront living we can also help you with that. If you want Wainui give us a call as we have confidential listings available that you won’t see on the Internet or in the newspapers. And if you are wanting to sell your beachfront property we have buyers lined up. Give Ray White a call anytime. We have the local Wainui knowledge.
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INTRODUCING MIKE VITA: Mike Vita is joining the Ray White Gisborne team. Mike is born and bred in Gisborne and has lived at Wainui for 35 years. Having recently qualified as a real estate salesperson Mike brings to you as part of the Ray White Team 25 years of business marketing and sales experience, good old commonsense and a fresh perspective. Call Mike on 021 867 867
For more information on coastal property phone: WAINUI BEACH Christine Gunness 021 536306 Diane Ritchie 0274 441073 Kerry Low 027 5145979 Mike Vita 021 867 867
Ray White Works www.rwgisborne.co.nz
MAHIA Jenny Krzanich 06 838 8888 A/H 06 837 5095 Des Blake 06 837 5512
Gisborne Property Shop Ltd MREINZ Tel: (06) 867 0060 Fax: (06) 867 0064 468 Gladstone Road Gisborne gisborne.nz@raywhite.com
Phone 06 867 0060
anticipation is half the enjoyment ...
Walker Real Estate Ltd
at walker real estate we’re anticipating exciting changes ahead
Proud sponsors of • Wainui Beach School • Wainui Surf Lifesaving Club •Wainui Mens Soccer • Makorori First Light Longboard Surfing Classic