The Fringe, March 2019 by Fringe Media

ISSUE 179, MARCH 2019

community news, issues, arts, people, events

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contents

Titirangi toilets to be relocated.................................................... 4 One wheelie bin a year – “We’re just a normal family”............... 5 LegaSea: Maximum use, minimum impact................................... 6 Free Yourself at Titirangi Festival of Music........................ 7 – 11 Places to go: Events listing................................................. 12 – 13

Cycle-Powered Cinema débuts at EcoWest Festival................... 14 Kauri Karnival returns to Parrs Park............................................ 15 Bandstanding: Angus Ramsay..................................................... 16 Art and about with Naomi McCleary.................................. 17 – 18 A fabulous fun day of ‘ferocious football’; On stage: news from our local theatres..................................... 19

Where are you going this year?; At the libraries........................ 20 Naturally West: the mystical morepork; Cartoon Corner........... 21 Live @ the lounge...................................................................... 22 Advertisers Directory.................................................................. 23

On our cover: A detail from Nakilamai creations (2019) by Railala Gade, presently on display at Corban Estate Arts Centre. See page 17 for more information. Photo courtesy of Corban Estate Arts Centre.

letter

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Dear Editor, It is with a heavy heart that I write this but I hope that I can make a difference. Tragically, in the early hours of the morning on December 20 last year our treasured son, Morgan, was killed on Godley Road, Green Bay. I say ‘killed’ as opposed to ‘died’ or ‘passed away’ as Morgan’s death was entirely avoidable. Just five days before Christmas we went from organising our family Christmas Day lunch to organising the funeral of our 15 year-old baby of the family. A precious life taken bitterly too soon. Morgan was the passenger in a vehicle which collided with a power pole. His friend, the driver – who survived – was home in time for Christmas. Many factors made this tragic event preventable: • The driver was on a learner licence and with no accompanying adult/fully licensed overseer. • The hour was late (outside of licence). • The weather was appalling (driving needed to be managed to suit conditions). • High speed was involved (yet to be officially established but assumed purely from the impact on the vehicle). All of these factors are far too common and sadly a blind eye is often turned. We all, as parents, peers/mates, fellow road-users, etc., need to stand up and make it known that this is not okay. Continued on page 22 >>

Every issue of The Fringe (and the Titirangi Tatler before it) since April 2011 is on-line at www.fringemedia.co.nz. Like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ FringeWest) to hear when each issue is available and get other updates. please support our advertisers – they support us

21,000 copies delivered free to letter boxes, post boxes, libraries and selected outlets throughout Titirangi, Glen Eden, Green Bay, New Lynn, Kelston, Konini, Wood Bay, French Bay, South Titirangi, Waima, Woodlands Park, Laingholm, Parau, Cornwallis, Huia and Oratia.

Published by: Fringe Media Ltd, PO Box 60-469, Titirangi, Auckland 0642

Editor: Bevis England 817 8024, 027 494 0700 bevis@fringemedia.co.nz

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Features: Moira Kennedy 021 723 153 moira@fringemedia.co.nz

Writers and contributors: Jade Reidy, David Thiele, Naomi McCleary, Susannah Bridges, Fiona Drummond and Mick Andrew.

Advertising deadline for April 2019: March 15 The Fringe MARCH 2019

our place

Titirangi toilets to be relocated Locals and visitors wanting to ‘spend a commercial development. The sale of the penny’ in Titirangi Village will have a new land by Council stipulated the right to toilet facility at their disposal later this build new toilets on a portion of it but that year. option was discarded as unsuitable last The Waitākere Ranges Local Board has year, for a variety of reasons. approved the site and design for the new “We hope to have the new toilets in Permaloo. Situated behind the bus stop at place by the middle of this year, subject the city entrance to the Village, the twoto the necessary consents and approvals,” cubicle toilets will be covered in art work An artist’s impression of the new toilet block, supplied says Greg. to blend in with the bush environment. A by Waitākere Ranges Local Board. Temporary toilets will be provided in the timber shingle roof will match the bus stop. One cubicle will be fully Village if the old ones on the corner of South Titirangi and Titirangi wheelchair-accessible. Roads are demolished before of the new ones are installed. The toilets “For the Board, the decision was clinched for several reasons,” says are being funded through Waitākere Ranges Local Board’s community Greg Presland, the Board’s chairperson. “It’s easily visible for visitors facilities programme. and user safety. At the same time, being tucked back into an alcove Work on the long-awaited development for the corner of South minimises the toilet’s visual impact on the Village. There’s parking Titirangi and Titirangi Roads is due to start this month with work on the nearby, connections for utilities, and it’s also convenient for bus 18 car parks that will be part of the project. Consent has been granted passengers and drivers.” for a two-storey building with retail and commercial premises above Potential designs were consulted on with the Village community late the car parks. Overall, the plans are smaller in size compared to those last year. While a majority of the 18 submissions supported the chosen previously consented. They are now out for tender. The developers, design, the owner of the premises leased by the Thai Chef, Kerry Broadway Property Group, intend to retain ownership of the property Titchener, points out that the location of the toilets was presented as for the long term. “the only current suitable option.” – Jade Reidy “I’m incredibly disappointed,” says Kerry. “It’s going to be a real eyesore which will be there for decades to come. It’s the first thing visitors will see, and this bulky structure will block the view of the lower part of the iconic rimu tree, which is a scheduled Notable Tree.” (An arboriculture assessment commissioned by Auckland Council reported that no impact on the tree itself is anticipated.) The need for a new public toilet arose because the existing ones, now on private land, are being demolished to make way for a consented Local property owner Kerry Titichener created and positioned this mock up of the new toilets based on the detailed plans he received from Council’s design company Stellar. “I realise the proposal will have painted walls but the exercise was one of bulk and location,” says Kerry. “It’ll be an eyesore.”

Further public consultation on a new national plan, and options for the best type of agency, to protect kauri into the future are now open. Biosecurity New Zealand is coordinating this third and final round of consultation, which follows two rounds held during 2018 that helped to shape the proposals. A series of meetings and hui are planned throughout the kauri regions over coming weeks. These will offer an opportunity to hear more about the plans, how they will work and the impact on our community. Consultation closes on March 18. Further details can be found at www.kauridieback.co.nz.

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people

One wheelie bin a year – “We’re just a normal family” One jar of rubbish a month. One wheelie funky socks and his friends’ parents bin going to landfill in a year. Sounds hard embraced that idea. It was lot of fun. to believe but that’s what Glen Eden couple “He wants to go rock wall climbing Coralie and Stephen Archer achieved with with his friends on his next birthday so their recycling, reducing and reusing efforts we’ll explore more experiences as gifts last year. for the children.” Coralie says they were always a “wasteful” So how do you get started when family, putting out two full rubbish bags a so many of us are stuck in a mindset week on average to be sent to landfill. of binning everything? “It’s hard to “We were a busy working family and didn’t move away from that and you do need think twice about the amount of waste we to be well organised. Lots of people were creating through a mixture of laziness do their shopping on the spur of the and not really knowing how to prioritise our moment but this way you need to waste as an area to work on.” remember your bags, taking your own Their change started in 2014 when Coralie cup if you’re going for coffee, having a started using cloth nappies for one of their list,” says Coralie. children. The couple have four youngsters “I’ve gone to on-line shopping so I’m under the age of 10, with another due later not tempted to pick up little bits of junk this year. along the way. It saves a lot of money. The switch to cloth nappies meant a We do try to buy quality and look at decrease in their rubbish. Then came the long term rather than just getting composting and that was another rubbish something because it’s convenient. decrease. Last year the couple took the next Switch to reusable nappies or other step – their goal for the year was to only put Coralie Archer and two-year old Charlie. “Now we’ve reusable, natural products. Composting out one bin to landfill for the whole year. started, we can’t go back.” is easy. And we save $200 a year by not That’s averaging just one jar a month. They achieved it. buying bin tags each week.” “Now we’ve started, we can’t go back,” says Coralie. “To be honest If you’re doing renovations around the house the amount of waste we didn’t really start this for environmental reasons. It was more about created can be an eye-opener too. “We still managed to keep within our making the switch to cloth nappies. We were trying to save money and ‘one bin’ aim but it took quite a bit of thinking about the scrap metal: we’re still using the reusable nappies we bought second-hand four what was still usable, where it could go to be reused by someone else. years ago.” “It’s not actually that hard. A lot of it is common sense. Just do your She says the family got into composting accidentally. “Then we best and don’t beat yourself up if you can’t deal with it all the time, realised how much we enjoyed not putting out so much rubbish, especially if you’re unwell. Bit by bit. and started to consider the environmental aspects. We learnt about “We’re just a normal family and anyone coming into our home landfills and started seeing how much people around us wasted. We wouldn’t know how much recycling and reusing we do,” Coralie says. realised then that was just not OK.” The family’s aim for this year is the same as last year: one wheelie bin Coralie says the reduce-recycle-reuse lifestyle now comes of rubbish to landfill for the 12-month period. Or perhaps one wheelie automatically to her and Stephen, an air scientist, and it’s become bin in two years. Even with a new baby. second nature for the children too. “They’re very much on board with Coralie’s keen to run workshops to help out like-minded people. She it. Our eldest (10) has given talks at school on it and our six-year old can be contacted via practicallygreen@gmail.com. asked people not to give him presents for his birthday last year. I still – Moira Kennedy wanted him to have the magic of birthdays so he agreed to ask for

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Maximum use, minimum impact “It’s a very simple concept. If you’re going to catch “Quota management hasn’t been a fish, use it, consume it, make the most of it. Don’t effective for good environmental just waste it and that applies to both recreational management, he says.” fishers and commercial fishing.” Sam says if we’re going to catch fish, Titirangi local Sam Woolford grew up on the our domestic market has to come first. Manukau Harbour and always had a passion for the “We need to feed our people and it’s marine environment. Today he’s the project lead important to think about value-added for LegaSea, a not-for-profit organisation set up by concepts such as foods and snacks the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council to share similar to pork crackling, and finding information about a variety of processes important to uses for fish skins. the sustainable management of our fisheries. “The status quo isn’t enough. We can A former dive instructor, Sam did volunteer work do better. We should always be striving with environmental fishing advocate friends Trish Sam Woolford: ‘We can do better.’ for more. Being more creative.” Rey and Scott Macindoe before going overseas. On his return five Sam says a good example is the Kai Ika pilot project where LegaSea years later he was shocked to find that the damage to the fishing works with the Tamaki Drive-based Outdoor Boating Club and a local environment was “really obvious.” marae. Since the end of 2016 they’ve been collecting fish parts (frames “The abundance wasn’t there,” says Sam. “It was noticeably different and heads) from fishers and sharing them with the community. in that five years and that spurred me to do something to make “Since it started 25 tonnes of fish heads and frames have been a difference. I have two little kids and I want them to have the collected. Those are the most revered parts of fish for Māori and experiences [with the marine environment] I had.” Pacifica peoples and that food – about a tonne a month – was LegaSea’s aims of finding sustainable ways to protect a Kiwi lifestyle previously going to waste. that depends on abundant fisheries and a clean marine environment “That’s maximisation. Give it to someone who cares. Share it. are a perfect fit for Sam’s ideals. Appreciate it. The Kai Ika project is now employing people to do the “LegaSea’s vision is for more fish in the water and a healthy marine work so it’s not only repurposing food, but creating employment too.” environment. We all need to work with that to make it a reality. Our With SeaWeek running in the first two weeks of this month, Sam and dream is to see fisheries’ management changes with more conservative his local team will be out and abut, doing clean ups and connecting decision-making. We need decisions now. It’s now or never. We have to with people. They need to raise funds too to support their advocacy, be more proactive in the way we approach our environment,” he says. research and education. “But that’s not exactly sexy environmentalism. “We have some serious issues with the quota management system. We need to be doing the work as well,” Sam says. This is not an anti-commercial or anti-practice conversation. It’s about Visit www.legasea.co.nz for more information. minimising the impact on the environment and about maximum use. – Moira Kennedy

Focussed on the issues: Titirangi Toilets

For years people have called for the Titirangi public substantially reduced purchase price. Council gives nine reasons for removing the public toilets (now 50 years old) to be renewed. At the same time this otherwise empty section of toilets from this property including: (1) “It is not land owned by Council.” land has been embroiled in debate about how best to (2) “The current landowners don’t want it there.” develop it. In the middle of this, Council sold the land (6) “There is no agreement with the current landowner for what many felt was a very low price, bringing even in regard to service connections.” more controversy. In simple language, Council made a poor job of What few knew is, that when Council sold this land, Council also established a legal ‘encumbrance’ writing their ‘encumbrance’. it only establishes their (which remains valid today) giving Council the ‘right’ to ‘right’ for a toilet building but failed to stipulate a ‘right’ to utilise the landowners private waste water piping as retain public toilets on the land. Now knowing of this ‘encumbrance’ I can see an a means of connecting to the public sewer. So, some newcomers to Titirangi get our land for understandable reason for the low sale price. Finally this issue made it to the Waitakere Ranges bottom prices and landowners who have served our community for over 30 years, get a toilet in front of their Local Board business agenda. Agenda item 12 stated: “The existing public toilets in building, with no compensation for the negative effect Titirangi are due to be demolished as they are on land that is arguably being transferred to their land’s value. Too many of Council’s projects contain poor no longer owned by Council and the site is subject to a decisions, incompetent actions and procrastinated consented commercial development.” Three Options for where to place the toilets are given timetables and these situations are draining public and Council has chosen the option which places confidence and the public coffers. But we cannot prolong this them outside the old post office saga further and must contain (opposite end of town). costs, so I supported the Board’s So, why are the public toilets preferred option. shifting from this property? After all, the new owners have been – Ken Turner compensated for keeping the toilets within their land by the http://www.westwards.co.nz

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titirangi festival: the village comes alive

Free Yourself at TFM 2019 The Titirangi Festival is all about bringing the community together so, in addition to the ticketed events (which are selling fast), the festival will encourage everyone to get involved with loads of free entertainment in this year’s programme – including everything from award-winning electronic dance music and a legendary guitar group to a colourful and noisy kids parade. There will be many covered spaces, including a giant stretch tent, making this a rain or shine event! The entertainment starts with a bang at Friday night’s LOCAL EXPLOSION on the Marquee Stage in the giant stretch tent at the Festival Hub (see map on page 8), 5.30-8pm. You’ll shake off the working-week as West Auckland pop genius SJD performs a special dusk dance-set, supported by 2018 Battle Of The Bands winners Blu Fish. Also on the bill and helping to create a local, colourful atmosphere are festival favourites African percussion ensemble Mhara Marimba led by Fraser Bruce (left) and, with us for the first time, the 16-strong Titirangi Community Choir led by Brigid Ursula Bisley (who ran the Waitakere City Orchestra for many years). On Saturday, noon-4pm, at the FAMILY FIESTA, again in the giant stretch tent, feel free to ‘laugh out loud’ with magician extraordinaire Le Cirque De JP (left) as he hosts an afternoon of family-friendly music and fun activities, including ukulele trio The Nukes with a combined orchestra from local schools, Lee Majors’ (from 95bFM’s Kids Show) Kids’ Disco, Kimata’s African Tribal Drumming (with lots of opportunity to join in), and the brilliant marching band Superhero Second Line. The afternoon finishes with prizes and a superhero-led parade where children can show off their creations from the Te Uru Art Trail. The TE URU ART TRAIL will take place in the Festival Hub, noon-4pm. This year’s art trail is inspired by global street carnivals. Morph into a spectacular exotic bird by making a funky percussion instrument to wear around your neck with chiming bells, sequins and feathers. Then create a vibrant bird mask with dazzling plumage and finish it off with face painting to transform into a musical work of art ready to join the parade with Super-Hero Second line from 4pm. There will be prizes on the day and lots for the kids to do. Continued on page 9 >>

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titirangi festival: the village comes alive

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Yourself, continued from page 7

Up in the Village, noon-3pm, the SKOOLS OUT stage (see map) invites you to make some noise with high school students from Green Bay, Avondale College and Rudolf Steiner School (including recent graduates and SmokeFree RockQuest finalists Bad Dog – pictured right) as they strut their stuff outside Glovers, while the COCKSPURS STAGE invites you to join rocker Labretta Suede as she hosts DJs and performs live, 3-6pm Also in the Village GITBOX REBELLION will perform at Te Uru, 1.00-1.45pm. Get your gat fix with this acclaimed guitar group inspired by King Crimson’s Robert Fripp. The concert will be set in the second floor photo exhibition by Gavin Hipkins. TITIRANGI LIBRARY will have a programme of free events on the Saturday afternoon, starting at 1pm with an Urban Sanctuaries Panel discussion. There is a growing commitment among neighbours in Titirangi and surrounding areas to reverse ecological decline and restore the biodiversity in our local neighbourhoods. Continued on page 10 >>

Proudly Supporting the Titirangi Festival and the Local Community Two years ago the practices of Thomas & Co Lawyers Ltd and Titirangi Law Centre merged. Don and Ray’s many years of experience in the Titirangi and New Lynn areas has combined with the wider range of skills and resources offered by the directors and staff of the combined practices. This has meant we have been able to maintain and improve the level of service for our community and clients. The combined resources in the new firm means there is always someone available with the necessary knowledge and experience to assist with any legal matters that might arise. Give us a call, come in and visit us with any questions you may have, or see our website www.thomas.co.nz for more detail on our history and personnel. Also on the website our ‘Contact’ tab provides details of our office location and on-site parking. We are handy to the Bus/Train Interchange and have on-site parking and lift access. Visiting our offices is convenient and easy. .

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titirangi festival: the village comes alive >> Free

Yourself, continued from page 9

Special guest Dr Margaret Stanley, Associate Professor in the School of Biological Sciences, Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora will discuss how neighbours can establish urban sanctuaries and the challenges they need to be aware of. The panel will also explore the benefits of urban sanctuaries and connect attendees to local neighbourhood action groups they can join. This will be followed by the Fringe Ukes at 2pm and Green Bay High School Singers at 3pm. The Festival will see two events take place at TITIRANGI THEATRE with a programme of music movies on Friday night and the Creative Jazz Club performing The Confluence of Ways on Saturday, 8pm. The final event of this year’s Festival takes place at TE URU WAITĀKERE CONTEMPORARY GALLERY on Sunday, March 31, 5pm. With topnotch classical musicianship – minus the formalities – the NZTrio (left) will perform The Americas. Ashley Brown (cello) welcomes back Andrew Beer (violin) and Stephen De Pledge (piano) for a programme containing elements of New York nightlife, the Wild West, jazzy blues, and a liberal dose of spice from south of the border. It’s classical music, but it’s wearing boots to the party so dress casual, bring a compadre and enjoy the ride. The performance will be followed by complimentary wine and nibbles with the musicians. Tickets start at $25 and places are limited. Contact Te Uru for more information and bookings. The 2019 Titirangi Festival will be a great couple of days, with lots of fun, food and funkiness on offer – and a rain or shine guarantee. Put it in your diary now!

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places to go

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

Event organisers: Do you have an upcoming event you’d like listed in The Fringe? Send the details, including a contact person and number, to info@fringemedia.co.nz. Readers: While we take care to ensure listings are correct, errors may occur. Check with the contact person wherever possible.

march w – March 17, On the Horizon, oil paintings by Dale Cassidy; West Coast Gallery, Piha. Phone 812 8028. www. westcoastgallery.co.nz. w – May 26, In The Rough, Parts 1, 2 & 3: Emma Fitts references the practices and biographies of three modernist female artists Anni Albers, Romaine Brooks, and Eileen Gray; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. w – April 7, Masi in my Blood, contemporary artworks featuring Masi designs by Fijian artist Rowena Rooney; Corban Estate Arts Centre. Phone 838 4455. w – April 7, The Ulumate Project, Daren Kamali and Inise Eremasi present the practice of indigenous Fijian wig making; Corban Estate Arts Centre. Phone 838 4455. w – April 7, Nakilamai Creations, Fijian barkcloth designs by Railala Gade; Corban Estate Arts Centre. w – June 2, The Homely II, an exhibition by Gavin Hipkins; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087. w 1, West Auckland Men’s REBUS Club for retired or semi-retired men, guest speaker and morning tea; Kelston Community Centre; 9.30am. Phone Roger 834 7945. w 2 – May 19, Blood Water Earth, the New Zealand premiere of an exhibition and performance series by artists Santee Smith and Louise Potiki Bryant; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087.

w 2 – May 19 Drop the Ball, a collaborative live performance project by local artist Mark Harvey with Woodlands Park Primary School students; Te Uru, 420 Titirangi Road. Phone 817 8087. w 3, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride. Phone 027 499 1732. w 6, Ocean Oases, a film extravaganza presented by Robin Kewell as part of Seaweek; Seminar Room, first floor, Lopdell House; 418 Titirangi Road; showings from 10.30am to 7.30pm; free. Information at www. flickscinema.weebly.com. w 8, Ladies’ PROBUS Club: fellowship, fun, speakers, and a monthly day trip; St John’s Hall, Te Atatū South; 9.45am-Noon. Phone Betty 09 832 0484. w 9, Titirangi Folk Music Club's Friends on Friday (on Saturday this month), an open mic singaround; Titirangi Beach Hall, bottom of Titirangi Beach Road; 7.30pm; $3. Phone Cathy 021 207 7289. w 10, Dallies in the Valley, the Dalmatian Cultural Club invites you to an afternoon of entertainment, exhibits, food and wine; Waitemata Rugby Club, 96 Swanson Road, Henderson; Noon–6pm; Free. w 12, West Auckland Historical Society Family History Group meeting; Henderson Central Library Research Centre; 10-11.30am. Phone Gary Snow 832 5098, 021 618 434 or email gary.snow@ihug.co.nz. w 15, Green Bay Street Food fiesta; Green Bay Community House, 1 Barron Drive; 5-9pm. Contact Marc Hershman, greenbaystreetfood@gmail.com. w 16, Lions Club Book Sale; New Lynn Friendship Club Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn; 8am-4pm. Phone Mary 027 487 0639.

All you need for your summer BBQs

w 16, EcoWest Festival Opening Night: Cycle-powered

cinema; 1909 – 1949 Great North Road, Avondale Shops. See www.ecowest.org.nz for details. w 16 – April 14, ECOWEST FESTIVAL, more than 120 events across Waitākere Ranges, Henderson-Massey and Whau Local Board areas. Visit www.ecowest.org.nz. w 17, Children's Day, bring a picnic and join in the family fun and games. Check out the Monarch Butterfly House and wander through the gardens; WestLynn Garden, 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn. Phone 827 7045. w 18, 25 and April 1, I.C.E (In case of emergencies), three workshops to help prepare for disasters; Green Bay Community House, 1 Barron Drive; 6 - 9pm. Register via www.bit.ly/icegreenbay. w 19, SeniorNet West Auckland: speaker, morning tea and chatting about computers; Kelston Community Centre; 10am. Phone June 021 179 3635. w 21, Waitākere Forest & Bird Talk presents a Seaweek event: Karen Baird, Forest & Bird Seabird Advocate, shares her knowledge of how fish management practices (and their absence) influence our seabirds; Kelston Community Centre, corner of Awaroa and Great North Roads; 7:30pm; Koha appreciated. Phone Liz 027 476 2732 or email lizanstey@hotmail.com. w 22, The Combined Probus Club of Glen Eden: fellowship, speakers, monthly trips; Ceramco Park Function Centre, Glendale Road, Kaurilands; 10-11.30am. Phone Brian Holt 838 5857. w 22 Titirangi Folk Music Club presents Danny Priestley in concert, Titirangi Beach Hall, bottom of Titirangi Beach Road; 8pm; $15. Tickets can be booked in advance – details on the club's Facebook page or phone Cathy 021 207 7289.

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places to go w 23, Green Bay Autumn Clearout, a family friendly

There is so much happening in and around our community, including many weekly events, that we can’t fit everything into these listings. To find out more about whatever you are interested in, from Air Scouts to yoga and almost everything in between, visit:

www.fringemedia.co.nz/ourplace

Earth Festival a local first

l WHERE IT’S AT: • Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mt Lebanon Lane, Henderson; 10am–4.30pm daily. 838 4455. • EcoMatters Environment Trust, 1 Olympic Place, New Lynn; Wednesday – Sunday 10am-2pm. 826 4276, info@ecomatters. org.nz. • Flicks cinema, Lopdell House Theatre. 818 2489, www.flickscinema.weebly.com. • Kelston Community Centre, corner of Awaroa and Great North Roads, Kelston. • McCahon House Museum, 67 Otitori Bay Rd; Wednesday – Sunday, 1-4pm, except public holidays. 817 6148, mccahon@ mccahonhouse.org.nz. • Playhouse Theatre, 15 Glendale Road, Glen Eden. 818 5751. • Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery, 420 Titirangi Road, Titirangi; 10am–4.30pm daily. 817 8087, info@ teuru.org.nz. • Titirangi Theatre, Lopdell House Theatre; Titirangi. 817 5812, infoline 817 5951, www.titirangitheatre.co.nz. • Upstairs Gallery, Level 1, Lopdell House; 10am–4.30pm daily. 817 4278, www. upstairs.org.nz. • West Coast Gallery, Seaview Road, Piha; Wednesday – Sunday, 10am–4pm. 812 8029, www.westcoastgallery.co.nz.

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A first-time festival next month, aiming to invoke inspiration and new ways of thinking and to strengthen community connections, is hoped to become an annual event. Being held at the Titirangi Rudolf Steiner School on April 6, 9am-7pm, the Titirangi Earth Festival will create a space for locals to strengthen their relationships with each other and the rich diversity within the area's natural environment says spokesperson Amanda Hookham. Part of EcoWest Festival 2019, the event will include a symposium of national and international speakers discussing the inter-relationship among the different parts of the local ecosystem including water ecology, mangrove restoration, forest regeneration, climate changes and holistic health. "There will be a rich selection of workshops, for children, teenagers and adults," says Amanda. Food, drinks and music will also feature. For more information phone Amanda Hookham on 021 285 4100 or visit www. titirangi.steiner.school.nz/calender.

WEST LYNN GARDEN and Butterfly House Te Mara Kahuku

Put yourself in the picture at West Lynn Garden. Bookings open now for your wedding, party or special function - indoors or outdoors. (West Lynn Garden welcomes new volunteers.) Open daily 10am – 4pm 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn www.westlynngarden.org.nz Phone: 837 7434

Public Meeting Health in West Auckland Hon Carmel Sepuloni, MP for Kelston, and Dr Deborah Russell, MP for New Lynn, with guest speaker Hon Dr David Clark, Minister of Health

Tuesday 26 March 7pm Kelston Community Centre Authorised by Deborah Russell, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

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WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

market featuring secondhand treasures; Green Bay Community House, 1 Barron Drive; 10am - 1pm. w 23 – April 22, Raranga by the sea, flax weaving by Jacqui Birch; West Coast Gallery, Piha. Phone 812 8028. www.westcoastgallery.co.nz. w 26, Titirangi U3A with a range of activities including study groups, discussions, speakers and more; West Lynn Garden, 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn; 1pm; gold coin. Contact 817 5519 or maggie.u3a.titirangi@gmail.com. w 26, Glow Titirangi Festival’s first meeting for 2019; Titirangi Fire Station, 525 South Titirangi Road, Titirangi; 7pm. w 29, Waitākere Grey Power Association General Meeting with guest speaker Hon. Phil Twyford, Minister of Housing and Transport; Te Atatu South Community Centre, 247 Edmonton Road, Te Atatu South; 12.30pm. Phone 838 5207. w 31, Titirangi Village Market: art, craft, produce and music; Titirangi War Memorial Hall; 10am-2pm. Contact Tess on tvm@gmail.com or phone 022 631 9436. w 31, KAURI KARNIVAL, family fun, food and music, presented by Waitakere Ranges Local Board; Parrs Park Meadow (behind The Waterhole); 11am-3pm.

places to go

Cycle-Powered Cinema to make West Auckland debut

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

EcoMatters Environment Trust has revealed the full line-up for Auckland’s biggest annual environmental festival and West Aucklanders are now counting down to more than 120 EcoWest Festival events from March 16 to April 14. “EcoWest is all about celebrating our stunning natural environment and what we can do to care for it, and we’re excited to be kicking off festivities with a Cycle-Powered Cinema on opening night – something that’s never been seen before in West Auckland,” says festival manager Myrthe Braam. “On Saturday, March 16 at 6pm, the Avondale shops are coming alive with performances and food trucks, as well as locally-made short films that will be projected by the pedal power of volunteer bike riders throughout the night. Complimentary hot chocolate will be available for those who bring their own mugs to this free, family-friendly event,” says Myrthe. Cyclists who are up for the challenge are invited to volunteer to hop on a bike to keep the wheels spinning. Email info@ecomatters.org.nz if you are interested. Over the course of the festival, a diverse range of events in six categories mean that there will be experiences, exhibitions and workshops to cater for all ages and interests. “This year, we’re excited to introduce a new category – Arts on Climate Change. Come along to explore some new perspectives on environmental issues from artists, performance artists and other creatives,” says Myrthe. Among the highlights in each category are: Stay ON THE MOVE at the EcoWest Festival Opening Night: CyclePowered Cinema. Bike-bling hits the Avondale Shops, along with live music, food trucks and the main event: bike-powered screenings of locally-made and thought-provoking short films. Artists Emma Olphert and Eva Fuemana will complete a stunning new installation.

EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS with a Forest Therapy Walk. ‘Forest bathing’ (shinrin yoku) is both fun and relaxing. Come along and slow down, open your senses, connect with nature, other participants and yourselves through a series of exercises and shared stories, ending with a tea ceremony. Join our MAKERS’ MAYHEM with DIY Natural Skincare. Learn how easy it is to make your own natural personal care products. Stop wasting money when you can make your own natural and budgetfriendly alternatives! Take home two lip balms, two hand cream bars and a sugar scrub. View ARTS ON CLIMATE CHANGE at LungSong. LungSong invites you up to the Lopdell House rooftop for a special open-air performance by choreographer Carol Brown and sound artist Russell Scoones. Developed through a residency at NIWA’s Atmospheric Research Station in Lauder, LungSong is a testimony to, and measure of, the temper(ature) of our times. Learn CONSCIOUS LIVING tricks at One Family, One Year, One Bin. Learn how the Archer family of six went from putting out two bags of landfill waste every week to a single wheelie bin. Get your FOODIES’ FIX at Green Bay Street Food. Come for dinner and enjoy a relaxing evening with family, friends and neighbours. This cosy event brings quality street food to Green Bay, attracting some of the best street food vendors from near and far while raising awareness about waste minimisation with its zero waste ethos. To find out more and see full details of all EcoWest Festival events, visit www.ecowest.org.nz. EcoWest Festival is organised by EcoMatters Environment Trust and hosted by a range of West Auckland organisations, with generous support from Waitākere Ranges Local Board, Henderson-Massey Local Board, Whau Local Board and Panuku Development Auckland.

16 MARCH - 14 APRIL E COWEST.ORG.NZ

EcoMatters 14

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places to go

WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN IN THE WEST...

FREE

KAURI KARNIVAL Waitākere Ranges Local Board shares an invitation to all to join the fun at their annual Kauri Karnival. This free, family-friendly activity day celebrates the mighty kauri and provides many opportunities to learn more about the environment. Entertainment will include bouncy castles, face painting, circus skills workshops and other activities which will help keep the children entertained. Council Biosecurity and Environmental teams will be on hand with information, workshops and activities. Everyone is welcome – bring a picnic or make the most of the range of food stalls. This is a smoke-free and zero-waste event.

Sunday 31 March 11am - 3pm

Anne Maree Gardens, Rest Home & Hospital Respite & Day Care, Specialist Hospital Dementia Care and Young Persons Disability Care

We believe that inclusiveness, enjoyment and fun, contribute to a resident’s holistic well-being. Phone: Resina Rakai on (09) 828 3741 / 021 835 743 www.annemareeresthome.co.nz 24 Coronet Place, Avondale

Parrs Park meadow behind The Waterhole, Glen Eden

Linda Cooper

Councillor for Waitakere Please feel free to contact me 021 629 533 linda.cooper@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz 135 Albert Street, Auckland Private Bag 92 300, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142 www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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A fun family day to celebrate our kauri trees and environment! • Live music and performances • Children’s entertainment and activities • Environmental workshops • Food stalls A smoke-free and zero-waste event. Find out more: phone 09 301 0101 waitakereranges

The Fringe MARCH 2019

bandstanding: music in the west with susannah bridges

‘You make a real connection when playing music together’ Long term Titirangi resident, saxophonist, computer geek and Titirangi Festival of Music Trust member Angus Ramsay is enjoying the summer. “One of my earliest memories in Titirangi was of long hot summer days like we are experiencing this year.” But lazing in the sun isn’t on the cards for Angus as TFM 2019 approaches fast. Angus began his musical journey with a recorder at the age of 4. “My mother was a fabulous piano player and there are certain pieces, mostly Chopin I think, that take me right back to childhood whenever I hear them. My father sang in choirs and had a large Baroque and classical record collection, he was also a founding member of the Auckland Early Music Society. “Our house was regularly filled with music and my parents obviously believed music was important. I don’t recall ever being asked if I wanted to play music or not: weekly music lessons just became a part of life and by the time I was 12, I had had many years of recorder and piano lessons and a few months of violin.” During his formative years, Angus discovered a long list of different artists – Sting, Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Joshua Redman, and more. “Then, to my parents’ horror, I rebelled from the classical upbringing, and when asked what instrument I wanted to learn next, I said saxophone”. Instead, Angus was introduced to the clarinet – it is an orchestral instrument at least. “But the clarinet teacher at Avondale College also taught saxophone and at the end of that year he took back the school clarinet we had hired and sent me home for the holidays with a saxophone.” Other high school teachers also opened Angus’s eyes to possibilities outside of orchestras and concert bands. “When I was about 15 a teacher who played jazz trumpet professionally started at Avondale College. He started jazz combos, rock bands, funk bands and big bands. He inspired me and many others to aim higher. During the last few years of high school the seeds were sown for a lifelong love of music and especially jazz. There is a VERY long list of local and international musicians who are Avondale College alumni from that era.” A current member of the West City Jazz Orchestra, Angus occasionally

heads down to the open mic night at the Titirangi RSA, and is always looking out for opportunities to play. “I have become less picky or snobbish of any musical styles and just love music for what it is, although jazz is definitely still my thing.” With many musical highlights to date Angus hopes they are not over yet. “Music has introduced me to more amazing people and taken me places I never could have imagined. I was a member of the Rodger Fox Big Band for 20 years and through that I had the privilege to support the international artists he brought out to New Zealand and to perform at international jazz festivals in America.” Whether playing or listening to music, Angus reckons it’s best done in the company of others “You make a real connection when playing music together and I have made life-long friendships with people that I only ever see at rehearsals or on stage.” Angus met TFM director David Parker through music. “We have played together a number of times, although I am not sure what possessed him to ask me to join the Trust!” Angus says TFM is special: “Our whole family gets involved. Initially it was a community event and we all looked forward to attending for the great music. Now we are volunteering as well. There is something special about community events like this and Titirangi is blessed with quite a few. I love seeing so many different people come out and mingle for a common cause. I still bump into old friends from Titirangi Primary School in the ’70s at events like this. “There are many people who gave their time and expertise to help me when I was starting out so these days, when the opportunity is there, it feels right to pay some of that back to the community.” Angus’s role at TFM this year has been to arrange sponsorship but he’s also helping wherever needed. Along with full-time work in IT at Auckland Council, house renovations and watching his kids grow, Angus is also regaining an appreciation of the Baroque and classical music his father loved so much. “I still pick up the recorder occasionally.” You can contact Angus at Angusr1973@gmail.com and see pages 7 – 10 for more about TFM 2019.

Harcourts Blue Fern Realty Ltd, Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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The Fringe MARCH 2019

09 813 1633

Unit 1/141 West Coast Road

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art & about with naomi mccleary

Understanding contemporary art Contemporary art! I was going to talk about this in relation to my For me, the ‘standing still’ has always been a challenge. In particular, own, baby boomer, generation. But the challenges, the joys and, it took me a long time to be patient with video projection work, which sometimes, the frustrations of the modern art scene are actually is often, in part, about slowing down the brain to take in a different relevant to all ages and persuasions. reality. Occasionally I’ve felt a motherly concern for Firstly, it is so diverse. The conversation that took the artist’s sanity, but mostly I’m filled with admiration place a few decades ago as to whether photography and gratitude for the passion and bravery that has our was a legitimate art form that could join painting artists expose their inner workings; their stories, their and sculpture in reputable galleries is long gone. concerns, their unique view of our world. And it’s OK to Artists such as Fiona Pardington with her rich and not like some exhibitions; less OK to approach an artist’s sensual still life works or Ben Cauchi with his subtle work with a closed mind and a lack of willingness to and mysterious images (both past artists at the engage with the intent of what is before you. McCahon House Residency) are examples of how Two of our local public galleries, Te Uru Waitākere that conversation is completely irrelevant. Today’s Contemporary Gallery (Te Uru) and Corban Estate Arts artists draw on a seemingly unlimited source of Centre (CEAC), are currently showing exhibitions which materials and ideas, including engaging with the epitomise all of the above. online and/or digital world. Their work may be At CEAC three exhibitions all focus on some aspect of reflective of cultural and ethnic histories and are Fijian culture. often more concerned with issues than decoration Nakilamai Creations by Railala Gade: As a young child and beauty (which is, as we know, in the eye of The Ulumate Project: 21 years in on the island of Moce, artist Railala Gade was brought the beholder). Rather than engaging the viewer in the making. up surrounded by the making of Masi (Fijian barkcloth). a passive relationship, much contemporary work demands that the As she grew older, making Masi became a way to earn her living and viewer tangles with the artist’s deeper purpose. she would eventually learn to make and design beautiful pieces for One may discover arcane and esoteric ideas and research or political herself using specific patterns from her island. issues that are of particular or universal concern. Whatever it is, The Ulumate Project by Daren Kamali and Inise Eremasi: Ulumate the effort will most often be rewarded. Interpretive text supporting or ‘Dead Head’ was the ancient practice of wig making by indigenous exhibitions is helpful, indeed essential – especially when it is expressed Fijians over 200 years ago. Normally practised during the time of less in obtuse ‘artspeak’ and more in accessible language. Justin Paton, mourning, the drau-ni-ulu (hair) is cut and made into a wig, then worn one of our most esteemed curators and arts writers, has written a until the hair beneath grows back. The Ulumate Project has been 21 book, How to Look at a Painting. I highly recommend it as it explains years in the making and this exhibition features the research and in clear and often humorous text the road to understanding a painting, journey the artists have taken. >> Continued on page 18 or indeed any artwork. Much of it is about taking time to stand still.

Striking a balance will not be easy ... The lodging of the consent for the Waima Watercare treatment plant is imminent. It is fair to say that the proposal is problematic. It is proposed that a significant amount of bush will be cleared and the potential disruption to the local area caused by construction would be considerable. It is also proposed that a very large reservoir will be constructed in the middle of some significant kauri and us locals are very attached to our kauri. No one wants to see this happen. But water is one of those things that we cannot do without and the existing plant is well past its use by date. I had expressed an earlier desire that the development uses smart technology, is as small as possible and the construction causes as little disruption as possible. I wondered if the filtering could happen at the dam site thereby removing the need to construct a separate filter station. I was also a fan of recycling of as much of the existing site as possible. I am afraid that it appears this may not happen. Ken Turner suggested, and the board endorsed, an alternative proposal for the site. It was in the area currently being used by Watercare to tip sludge, not far from the Nihotupu lake. The benefit of that site was that disruption to the neighbourhood would be limited, the sludge would have to be cleaned up and the bush cleared would have been of low quality and no significant trees would be affected. Watercare has declined to accept this suggestion on the basis that there were operational risks to the water storage in an emergency and operating costs would be considerably higher because of the need to pump water up hill. I am disturbed that the community liaison group, which

has met regularly and provided considerable comment on proposals presented to it, will not be able to consider or respond to the final proposal before it is filed. This means the process from now on will inevitably be much more adversarial. As part of the mitigation measures, Watercare proposes to establish and fund a Charitable Public Trust to provide funding to private groups for pest and weed control and other environmental projects in the Waima catchment. It also proposes that the intersection of Woodlands Park Road and Scenic Drive be upgraded and the current car park improved. Watercare has also proposed that remedial work to the abandoned historical Nihotupu Filter Station be carried out. The application will be publicly notified. This means that local residents and groups can submit on the proposal. The local board will be presenting a submission. I have asked the ‘powers that be’ that we are provided with sufficient resources to enable us to do this properly. The application will be an interesting test of the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area legislation and the mandate Auckland Council has to protect the heritage area. Striking a balance that everyone can live with is not going to be easy. Greg Presland, Chairperson Waitakere Ranges Local Board

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art & about with naomi mccleary >> Understanding

contemporary art continued from page 18

Masi in my Blood by Rowena Rooney: Masi in my Blood (right) presents contemporary artworks that tell the story of how Masi designs were woven into the practice of New Zealand-born, Fijian artist Rowena Rooney. Her personal connection with Masi, through passedon tradition, culture and language can be seen in these recent pieces, with elements drawing from the artist’s Melanesian roots. I asked Cora-Allan Wickliffe, exhibitions manager at CEAC, for a personal statement about her role: A piece of art in a gallery is called an ‘art work’. That second part, the word ‘work’, is usually what it takes to understand art. Being able to understand art, to know what it is, or to think critically about it, requires work. If you think about it, artists are complex, crazy, creative, political and passionate. That is unlikely to lead to objects in a gallery that are easy to understand at first glance. Also audiences want different things. I want to be challenged and to walk out with my mind blown, but that comes with the territory of being an artist and curator. Going to a gallery doesn’t have to mean that you get it, but that you made an effort to support your local community by going along to see what they are getting up to. Because behind all the art works are people who have something to say and being able to listen to their work through the act of looking is better than if you didn’t turn up at all. At Te Uru in Titirangi the diversity is even more remarkable. Christchurch-based artist Emma Fitts’ In the Rough: Parts 1, 2 & 3 brings together the practices and biographies of modernist women Anni Albers (weaver), Romaine Brooks (painter), and Eileen Gray (interior designer), as well as Fitts’ own past exhibitions.

In No Reasonable Offer Refused, Zoe Brand uses sheets of aluminium in an exhibition that draws from the language of commercial or retail situations. In Jupiter, Sorawit Songsataya draws us towards the horizon, an in-between space that binds, yet remains neither land or sky. In this zone the humble form of the kite connects local traditions with a grander social fabric; the handmade with the digitised; land with clouds. Blood Water Earth is an immersive video installation and ceramic display arising out of an international indigenous collaboration between Kahnyen’kehàka artist Santee Smith and Ngai Tahu video/dance artist Louise Potiki Bryant. Drop the Ball is a collaborative live performance and exhibition project by local artist, Mark Harvey in collaboration with Woodlands Park Primary School’s Year 5/6 students, who have invented sculptural forms to be used in a performance. So, if you’re not familiar with contemporary art – or have found it baffling – make March a time to experiment with looking intently, reading a little and getting beneath the skin of what our artists are saying to the world. You will be rewarded. All the exhibitions described are on show throughout March.

Uplift your Spirits

Upstairs Gallery invites you to create small works for its upcoming group exhibition (Uplift your Spirits, April 27 – May 19). The gallery is looking for works that cheer the viewer up, creations that bring joy, creations the viewer needs to possess. Art is not what you see, but what you make others see. – Edgar Degas

Susannah Bridges

c e ra m i c o b j e c t s a n d l i g h t s

Flame Bowls – available locally from Te Uru, Titirangi

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our place

A fabulous fun day of ‘ferocious football’ “It’s all about friendship through football and making a time for small communities to shine and have their day in the sun. You don’t have to speak English – the language is football.” Glen Eden’s Heather Tanguay is talking about Ethkick West, a sevenaside annual football tournament taking place this month. It’s hoped there will 35 teams (both men and women) taking part this year. The concept was Heather’s brainchild when she was on Palmerston North Council’s community development committee before she became mayor there in 2004. “There was a big problem in the city with racism in a variety of ways,” she says. “We were working with the police and thought this was a good way of bringing people together using different ethnicities, different religions and different schools as everyone was equal on the football field. It’s about friendship through football.” Ethkick is now held in eight different cities with the finalists competing for the Police Communities Cup, held in Auckland last year. This month’s tournament is the third in the West, with the Afghan team taking the men’s cup in the last two. Last year a Japanese team (pictured left) won the women’s cup and this year there will be an award for a social grade. There’s been strong support with teams from many refugee communities who’ve played football all their lives, while others come from football clubs in the West with ethnic players. “But,” says Heather, “we need more, and teams with players from multiple countries are welcome.” There is no charge to register and the tournament comprises qualifying rounds in groups of four in the morning and the semis and finals in the afternoon. “It’s a wonderful fun day. It’s ferocious football because everybody wants to win the cup,” Heather says. Kick-off is at 8am, Saturday March 16 at Fred Taylor Park, Massey. Email mandy@communitywaitakere.org.nz or phone 022 504 3003. – Moira Kennedy

Here we are again, another year and another full programme of excitement and drama at your own local theatre. We kick off the year with a New Zealand première, A Bunch of Amateurs, by Nick Newman and Ian Hislop. Stratford’s local dramatic society is about to fold, so they decide on one last hurrah – King Lear. They invite famous but fading American actor, Jefferson Steele, to play the lead. He arrives in Stratford, pumped with excitement at the thought of spending time with Dame Judi Dench, Kenneth Branagh, et al, only to find that it’s not THAT Stratford. On the point of walking out, he is persuaded to stay by the group’s leader, and finds that he has abilities in fields other than acting. The movie of this funny, tender play starred Burt Reynolds as Jefferson Steele, but our Allan Howie is every inch a match for him. The cast includes regulars such as Karen Soulje, Richard McFadgen, Nicola Chapman and Alsa Kemeys, and we welcome several newcomers, Including Bob Lack and Justine Ricketts. Director Rae McGregor is widely known in Auckland’s theatrical community for her directing and stage managing skills, as well as appearances on stage at Howick Little Theatre, Ellerslie Stables and Dolphin Theatre. A Bunch of Amateurs opens at Titirangi Theatre on March 12 and runs until March 23. There will be matinees on Saturday March 16 at 2pm and March 17 at 6pm. Bookings can be made online at www.titirangitheatre.co.nz or at Titirangi Pharmacy, 817 7658. And keep an eye out for news of our second production this year, The Pink Hammer, a comedy by New Zealand writer Michele Amas. A group of women enrol in a woman-only woodworking course, to be run by Maggie. When they arrive for the first lesson, they find that Maggie has done a bunk, and the classes will now be taught by grumpy Woody. Conflicts ensue and the woodchips start to fly. And then the relationship between Maggie and Woody is revealed….. The Pink Hammer will be directed by Patricia Wichman, and auditions will be held in the theatre on Sunday, March 24 at 1.30pm. The cast comprises four women and one man. For more information on bookings and auditions and all things Titirangi Theatre-related, visit www.titirangitheatre.co.nz. – Phoebe Falconer

1 MARCH TO 31 MARCH 2019 LOCAL WEED BIN SITES FOR WAR ON WEEDS HENDERSON-MASSEY LOCAL BOARD 1 2 3 4

HENDERSON MPHS carpark, 27 Corban Ave TE ATATŪ PENINSULA Harbourview Orangihina, off Gloria Ave MASSEY Massey Library carpark, corner Westgate Drive and Don Buck Road SWANSON Central Landscape Supplies, 598 Swanson Road

WAITĀKERE RANGES LOCAL BOARD 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

LAINGHOLM Laingholm Hall carpark at 69 Victory Road, opposite Laingholm Primary School PARAU 695 Huia Road, Parau KAURILANDS Outside Konini Primary School, 44 Withers Road TE HENGA Regional Park carpark, next to 110 Te Henga Road PERMANENT WEED BINS TITIRANGI Otitori Bay Road, French Bay carpark PIHA DOMAIN Seaview Road TITIRANGI Tangiwai Reserve carpark, Huia Road HUIA DOMAIN Huia Road WAIMA Corner of Boylan Road and York Road For more info, visit www.ecomatters.org.nz/war-on-weeds WAIATARUA Waiatarua Community Hall, 911 West Coast Road Problems with bins or dumping? Phone 09 301 0101 HENDERSON VALLEY 17 Mountain Road

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desirable destinations

Where are you going this year? Kiwis are such prolific travellers, the pressure is always on to find the next ‘hot’ destination, the new horizon. Based on 2018 enquiries for travel in 2019, here are three destinations emerging at the top of the nation’s travel desires. JAPAN – The charm of Japan should never be underestimated. Prepare to be surprised! A highlight for many is the food – fresh, delicious and revered – and for others it’s the people – unfailingly polite and friendly. Amidst the hustle of Tokyo you’ll find an orderly metro system, and beautiful gardens hidden amongst the skyscrapers. Outside the cities you’ll find forests and mountains, macaque monkeys soaking in natural hot springs, and traditional thatched houses that wouldn’t look out of place in the Swiss Alps. Go in spring for the cherry blossom season, or go for the rugby this year and catch the autumn foliage of Hokkaido. PANAMA – Take the engineering feat of the Panama Canal, add in lush jungles teeming with wildlife, endless tropical beaches, a lively culture and the best coffee in the world, and there’s no wonder Panama is in demand. Spanish colonial architecture, pirate history and the epic Panama Canal

story add to the diversity of this tiny nation lying between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This is Central America at its best. CUBA – Cuba is a place like no other. Emerging from an embargo and the influence of Fidel Castro, the Cuban people are opening up their homes and hearts to visitors. Visit wonderful old Havana with its rich Spanish heritage, the “living Museum” of Trinidad, the beautiful Vinales Valley, and more. With candy-coloured veteran American cars cruising past, music seeping out of town squares and the wonderfully relaxed way of life, you may never want to leave. Where will your new horizon be in 2019? – Tina Ripley, YOU Travel New Lynn

At the Libraries

Titirangi Library has a number of events planned for March: Saturday, March 9, 2-3pm: Exercise is your Friend. Join Sue Nash from ‘Turning Tide Pilates’ for an informative talk on the many surprising benefits of exercise. And take your questions as this is a presentation, not a class. Thursday, March 28 – 30: Titirangi Library will again be part of the Titirangi Festival of Music. It will be hosting a panel discussion on the worst Waitākere weeds, be part of a kid’s fiesta-themed art trail, and will host performances by The Fringe Ukes and Green Bay High School musicians. See the library’s Facebook page (Titirangi Community Library) or the TFM website (titirangifestival.com) for all details. Saturday, April 6, 10.15-11.30am: Miller’s Coffee is a boutique coffee roasting company run by local businessman Craig Miller. Craig has generously offered to run a small event where participants will learn the fine art of espresso making on their home machines, as well as learn more about the origins of New Zealand’s coffee culture. Crown Lynn crockery will be on display in the Library and will also feature in this presentation. Numbers are strictly limited, first come first served: email titirangi.library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or phone 817 0011 to register. Members of Titirangi Painters regularly exhibit in the Library – be sure to check out their ever-changing exhibition when you visit. For the kids: Magic Sparks is our new kid’s Unicorn club, which will meet every Tuesday in March. Unicorns love crafts, slime and cooking. Register interest now or, for more information, contact debra.comber@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz. The Minecraft club is back on Thursdays from 3.30-4.30pm. Meet other crafters for social gaming. Swap tricks and learn new techniques. Your own device and Minecraft log-on are required. Suitable for 5+ years. Find Titirangi Community Library on Facebook to learn about other Library events. Continued on page 21 >>

213 – 215 Woodlands Park Road, Titirangi, Auckland 0604 Phone: 09 817 8495 or 09 817 6188 www.kenturnermotors.co.nz

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naturally west with fiona drummond

The Mystical Morepork Despite their elusive nocturnal nature, the morepork or ruru is one of my favourite native birds and one of only two species of owl in the North Island. Sighting them at dawn walking our bush track I have sometimes seen one swoop stealthily across my horizon, or have come across a family of them roosted in a tree on the side of the track. I will always stop and have a chat, in awe of their trusting and striking yellow eyes. They appear to be fearless in such interactions. I once had an eerie experience when a ruru launched off the ground straight towards me like I was prey it could wrap its talons around, only for it to swoop silently past. Their silent flight is due to soft fringes on the edge of the wing feathers. Where I live they tend to start tentatively calling from late afternoon, which always amuses me. Why can’t they wait for nightfall to make their presence felt? At night their call has a haunting quality. After all, they have a monopoly on birdsong at this time and are one of the few natural sounds heard in the evening other than crickets and the rasping weta. Ruru that appear to be calling together in a ‘duet’ are usually rival males duelling. The ‘more-pork’ call is the most characteristic and often heard call, believed by Māori to denote impending good news. They also utter a repetitive ‘quork-quork’ and a rising ‘quee’ call, the latter Māori believed indicated bad news. Ruru are reasonably abundant throughout New Zealand with the exception of the east and central South Island. They have a short incubation of less than a month, laying 1-3 eggs in tree cavities, making the nesting female particularly susceptible to predators such as >> At

rats, cats, mustelids and possums. They in turn can hunt rats, small birds, mice and invertebrates such as weta, beetles, moths and spiders. In Māori mythology the ruru is strongly associated with the spirit world – a watchful guardian or a messenger to be heeded, and sometimes feared. For example, it is believed that if a ruru exhibits unusual behaviour, such Photo by Julie Mudge. as sitting conspicuously nearby or entering a house, that might signify the arrival of important visitors or impending death. In times gone by, these strong beliefs led some Māori to eat ruru, believing that it would prolong their lives. In some Māori tradition the ancestral spirit of a family group is known as Hine-ruru or the 'owl woman'. It is believed that these owl spirits can act as kaitiaki or guardians and that they have the power to protect, warn and advise. It is important to retain old native trees or plant new ones to provide nesting places for ruru in your gardens so that you can enjoy their calls secure in the knowledge that those wise, yellow eyes are watching over you through the night.

the Libraries continued from page 20

At Glen Eden Library, on March 27, 6.15-7.30pm, there is to be an author talk by Iona Winters, a Dunedin-based librarian who grew up in Glen Eden. She will be launching Then the wind came, her debut collection of short fiction and poetry. Regular programmes at Glen Eden include Toddler Time, every Thursday at 10.30 am, and Wriggle and Rhyme, every Friday at 9.30am and 11am. The Makerspace group meets on March 12 at 4pm and the Lego Club meets on March 14 at 4pm. The Library’s Book Chat group will meet on March 6 at 10.30 am, and the library’s knitting group, Stitching Together, a monthly opportunity for knitters and

other needlecraft enthusiasts to meet-up will take place on March 10, 10am-noon. New Lynn Library is hosting Pasifika Storytime on Wednesday March 13 at 10.00am, an opportunity for the young ones to celebrate Pasifika. On Saturday, March 9, 1-4pm a Whau Libraries Family Day has been organised with storytimes, tribal games with Sports Waitakere, a Lego pit, talks, information about local organisations and more. Deaf Aotearoa and The Brainwave Trust will also be running special sessions. There will be something for everyone to enjoy. Note, this event takes place at the Blockhouse Bay Library, Blockhouse Bay Road.

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live @ the lounge Lizard starts looking for the ideal Overland Beast with 4Motion Auto Space technology ... Yeah Gidday. When I was eight or maybe nine years old, Dad worked nights at the Second-Use Horse Plant in Avondale. They made brown school tape you had to lick to stick. I can still taste it. Mum would warn us not to lick the sticky tape too much or weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be sick. No place back then to be a vegetarian. Even stationery contained meat. Sometimes, Dad would bring home the company ute. It was an Austin A55, the only utility vehicle I had ever seen. All the other neighbours in our street, if going to the dump, had a tow-bar fitted to their cars and would hitch on a repurposed boat trailer made of an axle with Ford Zephyr rims and plywood sides, always painted with green oil-based fence paint. The other day, when Shaz and I were coming home after collecting kauri cuttings from Karekare, we noticed that one out of four vehicles was a four-door 4x4. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as if, over night, we all realised we needed a multi-purpose vehicle with which we can transport, not only the lawnmower, wheel barrow and spare tyre, but kids in the back seats as well. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to look like a sissy driving a sedan so I began some ute research. I started at Ute-R-Us but Shaz said it sounded kind of gynaecological. So it was off to the Internet and then to the dealerships. I already knew Jeep made a Cherokee Trailhawk, Overland, Grand Summit, Renegade Longitude and Compass Latitude. Sure, these offer upscale styling and comfort features including a bright chrome grille but they were really an SUV. Shaz was attracted to the Mitsubishi >> Letter

to the Editor, continued from page 3

Time and time again, the outcome of ignoring the problem is just too catastrophic, heart breaking, and life changing. Parents: Take the keys off your children if you know that the rules or laws are not being respected. Communicate with the parents of your childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friends. Peers/mates: Stand up to what you know is wrong or doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel entirely right. Being a speaker and leader is nothing to cower from and it may just save your life. Driving is a privilege, not an entitlement, and we all deserve to feel safe on our roads. We all deserve to make it to our destination and home again. As drivers we need to understand that we are responsible for the lives of our passengers, fellow road users and pedestrians. From this heart-wrenching experience one thing that has become particularly highlighted is that we live in an amazing community. I could

Triton because it was now in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;beast modeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. There was no mistaking the muscular front as it breaks through the bush or powers down the highway, both working hard and playing hard. All very good but is it built on a unique frame designed to take a lot more punishment during high-speed off-road adventuring? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d kind of set my mind on forged aluminium upper arms and cast aluminium lower arms allowing greater suspension travel, so the Ford Raptor was looking tasty. Mind you, the Hilux now gets an attitude injection for its 50th anniversary, looking even tougher and more resilient with the ability to perform in demanding conditions. SsangYong Action always runs easily off the tongue. I tested the Colorado, Navara and VW Amarok Canyon 4Motion AWD but didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be too flash. We drove the Everest, D-Max Auto Space 4X4, Arena, Great Wall Steed and an always trusted name in motoring history, the return of a Leyland powered truck. Those were the days. The P76. The Allegro. The Maxi. After thousands of miles, including two trips to the South Island, combining testing with family visits, we went home confused. The kauri shoots had been dipped into hormone root growth so had begun to sprout. Shaz went by Whitevan to plant them out. I noticed she gave him a tender pat on the bonnet and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when it hit me. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to spend a hard earned ninety grand just to achieve the ultimate work and lifestyle balance. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what beer is for, surely? Plus, I think Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got an Anglia rear end lying about the place just asking to be a trailer. Later, Lizard.

not thank the Titirangi, Oratia and Green Bay communities enough for their love and support. It has certainly at times helped us as a family navigate our way through what often feels like an unbearable journey. I also wish to express heartfelt gratitude and my utmost respect for the first responders â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fellow local residents who gave up their time to be presented with a truly traumatic scene. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so sorry that you had to experience this. We are now working on initiatives to present to authorities in the hope of making our roads safer. No more talk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; time for action. I dread the thought of anyone else going through what we as a family still are. Please keep our especially precious youths safe. In kindness, Sherry Tosh

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