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Published by: Fringe Media Ltd, PO Box 60-469, Tītīrangi, Auckland 0642
Editor: Bevis England 817 8024, 027 494 0700 bevis@fringemedia.co.nz
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Writers and contributors: Moira Kennedy, David Thiele, Naomi McCleary, Fiona Drummond, Jade Reidy, John Goudge, Karen McCarthy, Kerry Lee
Every issue of The Fringe (and the Tītīrangi 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.
End of the Road?
It’s no secret that West Auckland roads have taken a battering over recent years and that AT’s ability to get things fixed (and communicate what is going on) has been sorely tested.
The road sign on the right is on a quiet suburban street in Tītīrangi. It, and an extensive array of road cones and detour signs, has been there for over two months. There is no work underway. There is no sign of any work starting soon. In fact the most interesting thing about it is the way the locals have adjusted, moving cones out of the way, ignoring the detour signs (the detour route is narrower and more dangerous) and generally getting on with life.
I suppose it’s just another sign that we really do live on The Fringe of Auckland, on the edge ... And those of us who enjoy living on the edge are a special group of people, with our own special communities and a unique outlook on life.
Ever since 2002, The Fringe (formerly the Tītīrangi Tatler) has supported our unique communities and our special events and we have told the stories that make us who we are.
But WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Please let us know what stories you enjoy reading, and what stories you’d like to see us cover in the future. We’d also like to know whether you buy things from our advertisers. And we especially want to know whether you want The Fringe to stay in print. Email info@fringemedia.co.nz today!
It costs a lot of money to print and distribute The Fringe and we depend totally on our advertisers to pay our bills.
If you have something to sell, please consider advertising in The Fringe: we will have special features over coming months (more on childcare centres, Christmas and summer specials, and much more) with special rates and editorial options available. Our 15,000 copies reach far more potential clients than any social media post or digital advertisement, and the magazines stay visible for far longer!
Please get in touch to find out more and help The Fringe survive for another 22 years!
ON OUR COVER: The United North Piha Lifeguard Service recently opened its new club house (Te Pou, ‘The Support’), complementing the award-winning lookout tower that dominates the North Piha dunes. The opening of the Crosson Architects-designed building brought to fruition a decades-long $8.6 million campaign to revitalise the surf club’s facilities.
Rain on the roof? Not a soothing sound for some locals
It is more than 18 months since the 2023 Cyclone Gabrielle storms and floods created unprecedented damage across Auckland with repair bills into the multi-millions of dollars. Significant numbers of repairs and reparation have been undertaken across Tāmaki Makaurau since then.
But for dozens of residents in Green Bay, Tītīrangi, Laingholm and Waiatarua it seems nothing is plain sailing when it comes to roadside reserve damage outside their properties. They’ve formed a group called STAR (Stickered Tītīrangi Area Residents). A spokesman says they are working as a group and doesn’t want to be personally named. The following is part of an interview he had with MOIRA KENNEDY
What is STAR’s main issue?
Roadside reserve damage repairs. At the edge of (most) properties there is a space of land between the road and the border of your property. It’s owned by Auckland Council. It’s not owned by you. It’s their land. It’s outside your boundary.
There is an unrealistic expectation that property owners should fund the repairs of this Council-held land.
Has reparation been estimated to be about $5 million in the local area?
Yes. The key point is that there is no central funding to remediate Crown or Council-owned land. To date, Auckland Council has chosen a ‘do nothing approach’ with regards to taking responsibility. We have been told that funding support cannot be provided from the Storm Recovery Categorisation process, EQC cover, private insurance or private mortgages as the damage is to council-owned land.
Sources tell us Auckland Transport (AT) has been lobbying to get funding, but they’re an agent of Auckland Council which is calling it a ‘driveway issue’ and we say it’s not.
Who have you been in contact with to try to sort it out?
We have emailed, written or spoken with the mayor,
a number of Auckland Council and local body representatives, the Recovery Minister (Mark Mitchell) and Simeon Brown (Minister of Local Government). We have walked local MP, Paulo Garcia, and local officials around a number of the impacted sites and hope to get some traction there.
How are your members coping?
There remains significant distress among those landowners. Mental health is a real problem. People have been in limbo, at risk for 18 months now. We’re sitting there with yellow stickers and can’t use parts of our homes. We’ve got people who can’t go onto their decks. Some have signs saying if they feel any movement in their homes, they should leave immediately.
Part of what the group is about is getting together to support each other. If we wake up when there’s heavy rain in the night, instead of that being a soothing thing to go back to sleep to, it’s an ‘Oh S---, is this another slip?’ moment.
We’re ever hopeful (of resolution) but council has taken an unfortunate stance and won’t do anything about it.
It’s not a driveway issue. Council says we have to reinstate our own driveways. We know that, and if the council-owned land is fixed we will pay to put a driveway over it.
The ‘funding requirements’ are not for the repair of privately owned assets. That view is completely misleading and has resulted in the current situation. The need is for the council-owned land to be reinstated to its condition prior to the damage, allowing affected residents to address the damage to their property, mitigating the risk of further landslips and allowing them to move forward with their lives.
STAR would like to hear from residents in Titirangi, Green Bay, Laingholm and Waiatarua who would like to join the group. Email stickeredtitirangiresidentsgroup@gmail.com.
Council grants available
Auckland Council has opened applications for the next round of Auckland Climate Grants.
The grant programme supports local communities by providing financial support for initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, build resilience to climate impacts, and support responses to climate disruption.
Response Grants (ranging from $1,000 to $15,000) are aimed at fostering community participation in climate action while Strategic Grants (ranging from $15,000 to $50,000) are designed for larger projects.
Auckland Transport will also provide additional funding for sustainable transport projects.
Applications close September 23. For visit https:// livelightly.nz/.
Applications can also now be made for funding through Auckland Council’s Regional Historic Heritage Grant Programme . The programme preserves and enhances our special taonga and treasures to ensure they can be enjoyed by future generations and grants of up to $50,000 are available.
The closing date for applications is October 7. To find out more or learn how to apply through a grant workshop, email grants@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
A belated mid-term update
Recently, Mayor Wayne Brown called Councillors together and asked how we thought we each and the Council had done so far.
I said, that in most cases, we were heading in a good direction. I observed that Mayor Brown had moved the big pieces around the chess board, but that this was only half of what is needed: standing all the small pieces in the right places was just as important.
The methods we’re using to address Council’s problems are still your classic corporate intervention. Big moves like swapping Airport shares for a Future Fund will not, on its own, tackle the cause of Council’s poor performance.
We have to make changes that give back initiative to delivery-level personnel by going department by department and weeding out duplicated and overlapping management so that staff on the ground are more agile in their performance and delivery. I have always believed this, and I have seen nothing in the last 18 months to change my mind.
The departing advice from Mr Jim Stabback, our last CEO, was “reduce your unfunded policies and rationalise the 1458-strong minor asset portfolio” but we have enacted 300 unfunded policies which cannot be implemented but must be
Local paper artist Delphine Pujol was recently invited to make some A5 gift cards for international fashion house Dior. What followed was an intense seven days cutting and shaping 2750 individual strips of paper to create paper beads or ‘teardrops’ which were then used to decorate the card, above. With about 75 beads per card, Delphine created 22 cards in seven days. More of Delphine’s work can be seen at the Upstairs Gallery and she can be contacted through https://www.facebook.com/pujoldelphine.
considered by staff. We have no rational overview of our small assets such as community halls and sports facilities, and fail to see or understand the real costs that insufficient maintenance and poor management is causing.
For example, the proposal to privatise Council’s 42 swimming pools was based on their “reportedly” extremely high operational costs. However, when questioned by the Mayor and Councillors, staff could not provide a simple breakdown of reported overheads.
The Mayor wondered why simple key business indicators like a per-square-metre overhead cost were not present. He asked for the total square metres covered by the 42 aquatic centres to do the simple calculation himself, but the staff couldn’t provide this information either.
Our management processes are inconsistent and unreliable. This can only be fixed by a bottom-up process. We must reverse-engineer our poor outcomes and repair or remove the bureaucratic disconnects before advancing to the next project.
To summarise, and in the words of a seasoned bureaucrat who has provided me with much assistance, “this term has brought about a more fiscally responsible attitude within the council.” The potholes are still a problem, and there’s a long way to go, but I’m feeling encouraged.
– Ken Turner, WestWards
How to connect?
Let’s cut to the chase. How many times have you gone into a gallery, taken a quick look, and abandoned all hope of understanding what is going on, and exited, probably muttering under your breath?
I have a particular problem with video installation art; my head tells me that in all likelihood something important is being said; my heart wants me to get the hell out! It clearly indicates that I am impatient; unwilling to stay and give it respectful attention. Nowadays, I consciously force myself to stop and look. It’s usually painful at first; head full of irrelevant chatter, but, most often, and eventually, an ‘aha’ moment. Let’s face it, video is, along with other digital interventions, incontrovertibly of this age.
I haven’t yet been hit by AI in a gallery, but it is only a matter of time. Or would I recognise it?
My challenge is to talk about contemporary art in a way that might open a few doors, even just a chink. A perfect opportunity presented itself with a recent opening at the Homestead Galleries at the Corban Estate Arts Centre (CEAC); Kia Ora Whaea is a group exhibition by artists, who identify as Māori, responding to a theme of maternal mental health.
Clue one: almost all contemporary art is both personal and political. And it has ever been so, but traditionally more veiled in its presentation and expressed in traditional art forms. My first observation on entering the gallery was the diversity of the work. Much of it was beautiful; some powerfully readable; some decidedly less so. I spent some time with it, noticing the detailed crafting in each piece, moments when I could identify and others that were a complete mystery.
During the obligatory speeches, I picked up that there would
be an artists’ talk the next morning at 11.00. My normal modus operandi is to think, although that’s a great idea, I am far too busy to make the extra effort. This time, knowing that I wanted to tackle this subject, I hauled myself out of bed on a sunny Saturday morning and drove over to the gallery. What a gift I received. Each woman stood by, and spoke to, their work. The depth of thinking, feeling, revealing in each presentation took me, and sometimes shook me, deeply into each piece. There was pain and laughter – sometimes all mixed up. Stories around the experience of birthing that were both personal and universal; stories that were traumatic but through the creative process held a level of resolution. The techniques described were complex; layers of crafting that talked to traditions in ways that enriched my viewing.
Of interest: Kia ora is not just a greeting, an acknowledgment of someone’s presence, a hello, or a thank you. More deeply, it acknowledges one’s well-being and, through that, their mana and the tapu that surrounds them. Kia ora – be well – is a way to say, I celebrate you
So, clue two: Try to give each artist’s work the respect it deserves, and foremost that is time spent with it. Not everyone can, or will, go to artist talks, although for me this recent experience has been a breakthrough. But read the information provided with each work; then look again in the light of that knowledge. Be conscious of the courage it takes each artist to share their inner self, or to put it bluntly, expose their guts. More than ever we need artists to dig for meaning; arrest us in our busy lives; stop us in our tracks and say ‘this is worth noticing’.
For further clues I went to the experts and asked curators
He Manawa tītī Posters by Kate Stevens West, on display at Corban Estate Arts Centre.
Photo by Tatiana Harper.
Art & About with Naomi McCleary
Cora-Allan Twiss from CEAC, and James Gatt from Te Uru, to respond to a couple of questions:
As a curator in a contemporary gallery, what drives and guides your decisions?
Cora-Allan: My decisions are guided by what I think are important stories to be told in our community. I enjoy providing an opportunity for artists who may not have had the option to share their stories before, or who have stories that are different to those we are usually being told. Art is for everyone to share their stories. Some stories are shared more than others so I like to find ways to incorporate new stories for our communities so we can learn about each other’s experiences.
James: Mainly artworks. (This is how artists speak to us and share culture). Our strategy at Te Uru is to embrace the rich diversity of practices in the global art world. We do this by balancing what’s on offer over the course of a yearly programme. The question is: How do we do this meaningfully and inclusively in the context of Aotearoa?
What simple advice would you give someone with little experience of contemporary art, but with a desire to engage and learn more?
Cora-Allan: Like all art, contemporary art is a way of expressing how we feel and we have moved on from only using
paint, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, etc. As technology moves on, so do new ways of making visual connections. Some people don’t have access to materials that we traditionally know as art making ones. So they use what they have access to; they use what feels closest to represent their ideas.
James: Visit exhibitions of contemporary art, read wall labels, reviews and essays, go to talks, listen to podcasts.
Join mailing lists and art groups to stay informed. Te Uru offers a wide range of ways to engage with contemporary art including talks, workshops and a volunteers programme.
When visiting galleries, avoid trying to absorb everything. When you find works you like, ask yourself why. Likewise when you find work that challenges you. Respond to what’s in front of you rather than trying to make it fit your definition of art.
Artists often intend for their work to ask questions; it’s possible the question you ask is the meaning.
American critic Roberta Smith made a career by precisely describing what she was experiencing in simple language. Try it yourself.
In these two responses you get a perfect example of how personal and beautifully subjective are the ways in which we approach art. There are no wrong answers and huge riches to be mined.
New propeller plane flight path for Titirangi
Places to go – Things to do
Out and About 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 if possible, especially over the festive and holiday season
Exhibitions
w – 1, A Book of Hours, an exhibition by Steve Tollestrup, is an artistic journey into a mythic and elemental realm of deeper organic time beyond a fabricated measure counted in increments of productivity and schedule; Upstairs Gallery, first floor, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
w – 28, Kāinga, Briana Duffy explores connections between her whakapapa to the Cook Islands and Aotearoa; Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson. Phone 838 4455.
w – 28, Kia Ora Whaea, Alix Ashworth, Caitlin Rose Donnelly, Emma Kitson, Jenn Rendall, Kate Stevens West, Piupiu Maya Turei, Turumeke Harrington and Vicki Marie Lenihan exploring maternal mental health; Corban Estate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson. Phone 838 4455.
w 6 – 9, Oscillations, a pop-up exhibition by Max Maclaurin; Seminar Room, first floor, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
w 6 – 22, Moments in time – a visionary voyage, a solo exhibition by Judith Moresby; Upstairs Gallery, first floor, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
w 28 – October 20, Community is ... what we create together: the Emerging Artists exhibition; Upstairs Gallery, first floor Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
September
w 1, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride. Phone 027 499 1732.
w 7, ‘Special Species’ announcement with representatives from Te Kawerau ā Maki and South Tītīrangi Neighbourhood Network; Tītīrangi Library, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 11am-12pm. Phone 817 0011.
w 8, LOVE TENNIS open day, give tennis a go!; Glen Eden Tennis Club 42
Glendale Road, Glen Eden; 10am-2pm. Phone Anne 021 103 3786 or Raema 021 208 0725.
w 10, West Auckland Historical Society Family History Group meeting; Henderson Central Library West Auckland Research Centre; 10-11.30am. Phone Gary Snow 832 5098, 021 618 434 or email gary@snofam.co.nz.
w 12, ‘Special Species’ craft event for children; Tītīrangi Library, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 3.30-4.30pm. Phone 817 0011.
w 12 and 13, Habadash presents an evening of laughter and captivating tales with Melissa Katherine; Tītīrangi RSA, 502 South Tītīrangi Road; 8pm; $25, book at www.melissakatherinecomedian.com/habadash. Phone Melissa 021 683 431.
w 13, West Auckland Men’s Rebus Club, guest speaker and morning tea; Friendship Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn; 10am-12noon. Phone Vince 021 189 6822.
w 13, Ladies’ Probus Club, fellowship, fun, speakers, and a monthly day trip; St John’s Hall, 247 Edmonton Road, Te Atatū South; 9.45am-Noon. Phone Betty 09 832 0484.
w 14 and 17, Introducing the KonMari Method for creating greater harmony in your life; Tītīrangi Library, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 11am-12pm. Visit Humanitix/Titirangi Library to register.
w 14, Tītīrangi Poets with a guest poet and readings by members; Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 2-4pm. Phone Ron Riddell 021 181 6698.
w 14, Tītīrangi Folk Music Club AGM, with performers from the club’s Friday Folk gatherings; Tītīrangi Beach Hall, bottom of Tītīrangi Beach Road; 8pm; $15, members $10, under 18 free. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.
w 16, Henderson Falls Combined Friendship Club; Henderson Bowling Clubrooms, 2/20 Alderman Drive, Henderson; 10am-noon. Contact Joy 837 4646 or 021 267 3544.
w 19, Waitākere Greypower Association Spring Lunch; Hobsonville RSA, 114 Hobsonville Road, Hobsonville; 1.30pm; $35 a person. Phone 09 838 5207 by the 17th with number and names of members attending.
w 19, Waitākere Forest and Bird presents What's wonderful about wetlands?, with Karen Denyer, co-author of the book What we do in the Shallows; Ranui Community Centre 474 Swanson Rd, Ranui; 7.30pm; koha
A Cornwallis photographer who likes to be known as Delwyn has been out and about again, capturing tree roots that help to stop coastal erosion and kererū finding a new place to sit ...
Places
appreciated. Phone Liz 027 476 2732 or email lizanstey@hotmail.com.
w 21, New Lynn Lions Club $1 Book Sale: Books, Magazines, CDs, DVDs, LPs and jigsaw puzzles; New Lynn Friendship Club Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn (down the driveway by the traffic lights); 8am-4pm. Contact Mary Hibberd on 027 487 0639.
w 24, Tītīrangi U3A – informal learning for people 50-years plus, guest speakers, study groups; West Lynn Garden, 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn; 1pm. Contact Jan, 027 478 4119 or jan@jangeorge.co.nz. www.u3a.nz.
w 26 – 28, Dramatic Differences, three short plays by the students of Tītīrangi Theatre’s acting classes for children, directed by John Goudge. www.titirangitheatre.co.nz.
w 27, Glen Eden Combined Probus Club: company and fellowship, interesting speakers, morning tea and monthly outings; Ceramco Park Function Centre, 120 Glendale Road, Kaurilands; 9.45am. Phone Brian Holt 838 5857.
w 27, Waitākere Greypower General Members Meeting with guest speaker, Sue Atkin from the SPCA; Te Atatū South Community Centre,247 Edmonton Rd, Te Atatū South; 12.30pm. Contact Mate Marinovich 09 838 5207.
w 27, Tītīrangi Folk Music Club presents Friday Folk, an informal gathering of musicians, singers and listeners; Tītīrangi Beach Hall, bottom of Tītīrangi Beach Road; 7.30pm; $5. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.
w 28, New Lynn Repair Cafe organised and run by DEANZ (Doughnut Economics Advocates NZ). Bring your broken items and work with skilled volunteers to fix them; New Lynn Community Centre, Tōtara Avenue, New Lynn; 11am - 2pm; Koha. Phone Surbhi Gupta 022 507 0905.
w 29, Tītīrangi Village Market: art, craft, produce and music; Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall; 10am-2pm. Contact tvm.manager@gmail.com or phone 022 631 9436.
October
w 6, Pony Rides, Huia Road Horse Club; 436B Huia Road, Laingholm; 3-4pm; $5 per child per ride. Phone 027 499 1732.
w 8, West Auckland Historical Society Family History Group meeting; Henderson Central Library West Auckland Research Centre; 10-11.30am. Phone Gary Snow 832 5098, 021 618 434 or email gary@snofam.co.nz.
w 11, West Auckland Men’s Rebus Club, guest speaker and morning tea; Friendship Hall, 3063 Great North Road, New Lynn; 10am-12noon. Phone Vince 021 189 6822.
w 11, Ladies’ Probus Club, fellowship, fun, speakers, and a monthly day trip; St John’s Hall, 247 Edmonton Road, Te Atatū South; 9.45am-Noon. Phone Betty 09 832 0484.
w 12, Tītīrangi Poets with a guest poet and readings by members; Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 2-4pm. Phone Ron Riddell 021 181 6698.
w 12, Tītīrangi Folk Music Club presents Ian Bartlett, floorsingers in first half; Tītīrangi Beach Hall, bottom of Tītīrangi Beach Road; 8pm; $15, members $10, under 18 free. www.titirangilivemusic.co.nz or text Cathy on 021 207 7289.
There is so much happening in and around our community, including many regular events, that we can’t fit everything into these listings. If you can’t see the event you’re interested in, visit: www.fringemedia.co.nz/ourplace
Spring arrivals
561 Blockhouse Bay Road
Blockhouse Bay Village (opposite the Library) Tues – Fri: 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm Closed Sun and Mon Ph 09 626 5633
Takeaway | Dine in | Deliveries
Lunch 11am – 2.30pm; Dinner 4.30pm – 11pm (Takeaway & Dine in discount offer: Monday – Thursday)
Seating capacity for 50 people for special events, e.g. Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, Christmas, Valentines, New Year’s Eve or any social events. Email: indiankitchentitirangi@gmail.com Website: www.titirangiindiankitchen.co.nz www.facebook.com/indian.kitchen.titirangi 2/421 Titirangi Road, Titirangi, Auckland (Behind Gull Petrol Station, Titirangi Village) Kia Ora!
“Art is how I see the world”
After traveling to multiple countries and experiencing art, music, and pottery, Ronald Boersen (right) and his husband Ofer finally found their happy place in Tītīrangi, writes KERRY LEE.
Born in Holland, with Dutch and Dominican ancestry Ronald grew up unsure of where he belonged.
At a young age, he developed a love of music and at age six began playing the viola, later joining a local music conservatory. He describes his time there as being very ‘international’, and instead of being the Dutch or the Dominican kid, he was treated as just another student. Later as a teenager he would go on tour and play in other countries such as Ireland, Germany, France, and Scotland.
Unfortunately, his budding music career came to an end due to injury. It was around this time he met his soon-to-be husband Ofer, and after tying the knot they decided to settle down in Israel. While there, he decided to step away from music and began focusing on the producing side of things. He became a manager of Israel’s leading music contemporary ensemble, and later the head technician at one of the country’s experimental concert halls.
Blockhouse Bay Library Upgrades
Work to repair the roof and increase the usable space at Blockhouse Bay Library will begin in October.
The work will take around nine months, and the library will be temporarily closed while it takes place.
Services will be available at libraries in surrounding areas – Avondale and New Lynn libraries, as well as Tītīrangi and Glen Eden – and staff from Blockhouse Bay will be relocated to Avondale and New Lynn libraries while the work is completed to support an increase in visitors.
“We know that the library is a popular hub for our community and that the temporary closure will be inconvenient to all,” Whau Local Board chair Kay Thomas says. “While it’s unfortunate the library will be temporarily closed, it is important that we go ahead with the repair of the roof.
“These necessary works will ensure the library is a longlasting facility fit for community use in the future.”
Damage sustained during the 2023 Auckland Anniversary weekend floods has affected the use and weather tightness of the building. Currently, rainwater is entering the building through the internal courtyard during heavy rainfall.
The project will install a new wide gutter between the two main roofs, which will include changes to the internal courtyard and library entrance. To improve water collection and runoff, the internal courtyard will be included as part of the internal building, creating more space for library users and other facilities in the building.
Eight years later they moved to Canada where Ofer got a post-doctoral fellowship in Vancouver, while Ronald pursued a PhD in computational creativity at Simon Fraser University.
In November 2022 the couple immigrated to New Zealand and felt that Tītīrangi would be the perfect place to settle.
Ronald had decided against continuing his PhD and instead took up pottery full-time. “I always wanted to do pottery. One day I saw a workshop and said, ‘We’re doing this let’s go’. I loved it and thought maybe I should do a class or something.
“For me, art’s not what I do, it’s how I see the world and about creating things. I like the making aspect of it, it’s a form of expression and exploring.”
For Ronald there’s a disconnect between the cheap twodollar mug, bought at a discount store, and something handmade that you might have a personal connection with.
“I have gotten rid of every commercial, plate, cup, and bowl that I’ve ever had, and it’s all been replaced with things that I’ve made, things that friends of mine have made.”
For Ronald it isn’t enough to use something simply for its function. When he wants a cup of coffee, he could easily get a cup, but in his words, it would make a pretty boring cup.
“When I drink coffee out of some pottery where I can feel and interact with it, it’s more than just drinking coffee, there’s a connection to feeling the cup that I’m drinking out of, becoming aware that I’m drinking coffee and not just putting caffeine into my body. I want the action to be meaningful beyond just a nice cup of coffee.
“It’s not up to me to decide whether I’m a great potter. But I hope I will be able to teach people, share the creative process with them, and mentor them into different ways of seeing the world and making things.”
lakes surrounding Zarasai in Lithuania where she was born.
“Through my art, I strive to encourage viewers to reconsider their relationship with the natural world, to pause, observe, and appreciate the wonders that surround us,” says Marina. “I am hoping to invoke a sense of responsibility to protect those wonders, to make small changes to reshape and protect our natural world.”
The exhibition is on display in the Seminar Room, first floor, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road, September 14 – 18.
Re-Imagining World is an exhibition of works by Marina Pauliukova (left), a nature artist who was inspired by the forests and
Actions for a healthier planet
A recent Ipsos Global Advisor Survey found that 80% of New Zealanders are concerned about the impacts of climate change but only 31% agree the government has a clear plan in place for how we can work together to tackle this challenge, reports FIONA
DRUMMOND
The survey also showed New Zealanders generally believe many actions (including recycling, growing/producing food, using less packaging and buying fewer items) have a far greater impact on reducing emissions than they actually do. And the fact that industry, electricity and heat production are top contributors to global warming is recognised by only 12% of New Zealanders.
It appears that we are ill-informed as to the main contributors to global warming. (New Zealand has the fourth highest emissions per capita in the OECD.)
So what actions can make a real difference?
Although some big changes require government changes and infrastructure, there are significant shifts individuals can make to reduce emissions and lower their carbon footprint.
Over a third of the average household’s emissions come from transport, about a quarter come from the food we eat, another quarter comes from the way we shop and seek recreation and about an eighth relates to housing and household energy use. So the biggest steps we can take are:
• Changing our transport mode (using public transport, cycling, electric vehicles)
• Moving to a vegan or vegetarian diet
• Renewable-based heating and electricity
• Energy efficient construction, refurbishment and renovation
• Reduced consumerism
Echoing these trends a recent carbon footprint survey sent to schools by the Ministry of Education found that the vast majority of a school’s carbon footprint is associated with staff and student commuter travel, construction, energy and purchased goods and services.
Though we are making inroads into diverting waste from
landfill at my workplace at Green Bay High School, the carbon footprint of this is tiny compared to the bigger carbon contributors of travel. What we need to be doing is encouraging more people to walk, bike, carpool or drive electric vehicles for their school commute.
Telecommuting and working from home are among the most important actions we can take to reduce global warming. This has been a positive outcome of the Covid pandemic and many employers have seen evidence of equivalent or increased productivity from those working at home. A 2022 survey by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research found that almost half of New Zealand workers have a choice about working from home. Some industries can embrace telecommuting better than others, but there seems to be a large proportion of companies now allowing employees to work some days of the week from home. The increasing number of co-working spaces is another positive trend.
Although recycling and reducing waste are important ways to reduce our impact on the planet, less fossil-fuelled travel (including international flying), a vegetarian diet, and using off-grid power solutions such as solar are far more important. To analyse your own carbon footprint, take this survey: https://www.futurefit.nz/questionnaire.
Plans for a National Butterfly Centre underway
Jacqui Knight of the Moths and Butterflies New Zealand Trust is on a mission to make butterflies commonplace in Auckland again, writes FIONA DRUMMOND.
Our butterflies and moths are under threat from development, loss of wild spaces, pesticide use and a general lack of awareness of their importance as significant pollinators.
Concept drawing for the MBNZT National Butterfly Centre
Jacqui and the Trust’s dream is to create a National Butterfly Centre in the Auckland region. This would be an education centre as well as a breeding facility for our native butterflies. Jacqui recently presented at an Auckland Council Planning, Environment and Parks Committee meeting to remind local politicians that the trust is still looking for a possible site for the centre and trustees are making similar presentations to many of Auckland’s local boards.
Another of MBNZT’s big projects at the moment is to reintroduce the Red Admiral to the Auckland region. Earlier this year trust members released some butterflies (raised locally from larvae collected in the King Country) in the Blockhouse Bay Recreational Reserve. They hope these butterflies thrive and multiply and ask locals to look out for them, particularly in the Blockhouse Bay/New Lynn area.
The Fringe offers current advertisers editorial space at no charge. To be included in the October issue, email info@ fringemedia. co.nz before September 13.
Discover the Tranquillity of Floating
The Red Admiral’s host plant in the wild is the endemic Ongaonga or Giant Tree Nettle, Urtica ferox. The Yellow Admiral also lays its eggs on nettles. If you are a butterfly enthusiast, plant nettles in littlevisited parts of your property to attract the Red and Yellow Admirals.
The Monarch Butterfly, though not endemic, is our best known butterfly in New Zealand. The summer of 2023 was challenging for them due to wasp predation. Winter is when you'll find clusters of monarch butterflies overwintering in mature trees, more than likely on the northern (sunniest) side, and sheltered from the prevailing wind.
The MBNZT has just set up a project on iNaturalist (www. inaturalist.nz) where numbers of overwintering monarch butterflies can be recorded. If you are aware of a site where monarchs overwinter, Jacqui and the trust would appreciate you adding photos and any information to the project. You could also email your photos to jacqui@nzbutterflies.org.nz. You can support the work of the MBNZT directly. Find out more at https://www.nzbutterflies.org.nz/. Donations towards all their projects can be made at https://www. nzbutterflies.org.nz/donate/.
Are you seeking a sanctuary to escape the daily grind and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul?
Tītīrangi Float Club is that perfect spot. Nestled amongst the peaceful bush in Tītīrangi, you will start feeling that post-float bliss from the moment you arrive to well after you’ve left.
Imagine immersing yourself in a warm cocoon of Epsom salt-infused water, weightlessly drifting away from the world’s noise and demands. Our state-of-the-art float pods create a haven of sensory deprivation, allowing your mind to unwind and your body to deeply de-stress.
Regular floating offers myriad benefits including stress relief, pain management, enhanced creativity and improved sleep. Join our community of float enthusiasts and experience the transformative power of regular floating. Our flexible membership options cater to your needs, ensuring you can seamlessly integrate this practice into your lifestyle. Our two-week unlimited trial for only $150 is the best way to start. Visit www.floatclub.co.nz today and embark on a journey to a more relaxed, revitalised you.
Childcare in the West
Discover Lifewise Early Childhood Education Centre
When it comes to your child's early years, choosing the right environment is crucial.
At Lifewise’s early childhood education centres, we’re redefining what exceptional care and learning looks like for young children. Our mission is to provide high-quality education while removing financial barriers, so that every child can experience the enriching environment they deserve.
We understand that each child is unique, and our approach reflects this belief. We start by creating a personalised care plan that places your child’s needs and preferences at the forefront. Our experienced educators collaborate closely with you to tailor a plan that nurtures your child’s development and supports their individual journey.
Our commitment to respecting each child’s individuality is evident in everything we do. We listen attentively to your child, giving them the time and space to grow at their own pace. By valuing their voices and wishes, we create an environment where children feel valued and empowered.
Nature plays a pivotal role in our philosophy. Lifewise centres are designed to emphasise outdoor play and minimise plastic use, fostering a connection to the environment that engages all five senses. Through creative free play and a focus on nature, we encourage children to explore and thrive. Families are invited to be a part of this journey, strengthening the bond between the centre, children, and whānau.
Building strong community relationships is at the heart of our approach. Our educators form meaningful connections with each child, participating in activities and allowing children to lead group interactions. This not only supports emotional and social development but also creates a supportive network for parents. At Lifewise, kindness and positive behaviour are more than just ideals, they’re integral to how we interact and build our community.
The positive feedback from parents speaks volumes about the impact of Lifewise. One of our parents attests, “Both my children have flourished since they started here. They are more confident and have learnt so much. I’m very grateful.”
Contact Ali our Centre Manager at our Glen Eden Early Childhood Education Centre at 09 818 0212 or 021 336 838.
Nurturing the child and creating a love of learning
At Woodlands Park Community Kindergarten, we believe in nurturing the whole child through a deep connection with the natural world and a strong foundation in care and aroha.
Our beautiful surroundings offer endless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and growth. We weave the richness of te reo Māori into our daily routines, creating an environment where language, culture, and respect for the land are valued and celebrated.
Our kaiako (teachers) are passionate about fostering a love of learning in every tamaiti (child), ensuring they feel supported, valued, and encouraged to express themselves. We see each child as an individual, recognising their unique strengths and interests, and guiding them to develop confidence and resilience.
Our kindy is not just a place of learning; it’s a community where whānau are welcomed, involved, and integral to the experience we offer.
We invite you to visit our kindy, explore our spaces, and meet our kaiako. See for yourself how we blend care, nature, and culture to create a warm, nurturing environment that could be the perfect fit for your child. Come and discover the special place that is Woodlands Park Kindy, where every child’s journey is cherished.
A good day’s work never harmed anyone ...
Yeah gidday. Lizard here.
A couple of weeks back, I was sitting on the porch in the sun, rubbing Plumbless on the ear. We were enjoying seeing a bee courting a spring flower I had planted last winter. I was rather bloody proud of it. I'd never planted bulbs before.
Just as Shaz was bringing out a cuppa, our neighbour Bob, popped his head over the fence with an odd and suspiciously cheery, “Morning neighbours. Can we have a wee chat? I have a favour to ask.”
This was unusual because we'd never really got on. Bob is a very vocal National supporter who is endlessly spouting on with stuff like, 'if they’d only apply themselves, there are plenty of opportunities in this wonderful country of ours for everyone', ‘They need a rocket up the jacksey’, and 'An honest days work never hurt anyone.’ I'd always leaned more towards sitting in the sun under the umbrella of a welfare system. But, whatever.
"What’s up Bob?”
“You would have noticed the For Sale sign outside my dwelling?” We hadn’t. “Well. It’s sold. A lovely family bought it, sight unseen on Trademe. Incredible. Money's already in the bank. The thing is, they move in next week and it's got me a bit on the hop. I’ve made plans for Julian and my good self to be in Rarotonga next week and they are non-refundable tickets. I was praying you and the darling Shaz could oversee our garage sale tomorrow?”
I'd seen those Garage Sale signs all over the place and always thought it weird how many people wanted to sell their garages. But, what the hell. Bob said it would be quite straightforward and all the advertising etc. was sorted.
Shaz said,”Why not. It will be fun.”
Bob then went on to say, “You’re a godsend. Everything must go. Give it away if you have to. It’s sad really, to think, that we’ll never see the house again. We think we may look around Karekare when we get back. Anyway. We’ll stay in touch. Toodles.”
So the following morning, Saturday, I went next door. For a bloke that wanted to sell his garage, he sure had left a lot of stuff inside. Must have been a couple of hoarders really because most of it was junk and still had the prices on it.
For most of the morning nothing much happened and I was about to bugger off when the guy from across the street walked in. From the outset you could tell he was Australian.
"Gidye spawt. Hey gaan? Avva nys weegend? Is the ride-on for sale?”
"Yep. Bob said everything must go.”
"Emma Chisset?” he asked.
"A grand." I said.
“Cracker,” he said. We chatted for a while. I asked him what he's into. He said, “Just the usual typical Aussie stuff. You know, Crowded House and that.” I thought how many people he had living in his house was between him and his landlord.
“ You can drive it home now if you want.” I asked.
“Cown! We evn god ool dye! Doosa fiver mate wea? Can ya lendis a grand til Mundy?”
Long story short. To help Bob out, and as he wanted everything gone, I dismantled the garage and Junior and me took it back to ours. It was one of those bolt together steel jobs. Bob rang the following Wednesday and I said I’d sold everything. Nothing left but the clean garage floor. I thought it only fair that I pay him a couple of grand for the garage plus the grand I got from Oz, so Bob was thrilled when I said I’d deposit three grand into their joint account.
“Wow. Three thousand for our old bits and pieces. Fantastic! Has the family moved in yet? Were they surprised I’d left them the boat? Julian and I hardly use it nowadays and thought it would be a lovely gesture to welcome them to Huia.”
I said, “So they really bought the place, sight unseen?”
He said yes, so once again, Junior helped me home with our new speed boat. Finders keepers right?
The new family did move in and yes, they were lovely. The father, Frank, said he had a classic Jaguar so would need a garage. I said I could sort that if he wanted, as I’m pretty handy. We agreed on five grand. Again, with Junior, we bolted the garage back in place. Frank was thrilled.
“It’s perfect Lizard. It’s like it was made for the place. While you’re here, do you know anyone local who could cut our lawns. We think it needs someone with a ride-on?”
“I just might know of someone. He could do with the money because he has a very crowded house.”
Frank, Oz and me go fishing quite often now. Doesn’t matter who lands the fish, we share the catch between us. Frank said, “I thought the boat would be far more bumpy?”
"Why’s that?" I asked.
"Because it’s called Bob’s About.” Later, Lizard.
Ra y Percival and Son
have received their share of 29 schools and organisations $250,000 from the
