Spotlight on special species in the Waitākere Ranges
Conservation efforts in the Waitākere Ranges are no small feat as we work towards the shared goal of reaching pest-free status.
The area is home to a fascinating array of local and national natural taonga (treasures), including many native and protected species.
Pest Free Waitākere Ranges Alliance (PFWRA) is shining a spotlight on these special species with a monthly campaign promoting a native species, each connected to a different area in the region.
The PFWRA receives significant support from the Waitākere Ranges Local Board, including $95,000 for the association’s coordinator in its latest environmental work programme.
Waitākere Ranges Local Board Chair Greg Presland says that the PFWRA is a key board-supported organisation that works towards the protection and enhancement of local native biodiversity.
“Raising awareness around the importance of conservation is key to ensuring the protection of species in our area, and for the identity of the Waitākere Ranges as a whole,” Greg says. “This initiative is a fun and engaging way to draw interest in our biodiversity and bring together our local communities to get involved.”
The project aims to raise awareness about protecting the unique biodiversity in the region and the importance of pest-free conservation efforts.
It also aims to raise funds to support ongoing conservation projects through givealittle campaigns and a work of art by a local artist for each special species. Each artwork will appear on merchandise available for purchase through the PFWRA website.
The kererū, July’s species for Oratia, highlights a group of local volunteers that are gaining ground on a significant restoration project on the Oratia Sunnyvale floodplain.
Waiatarua got the wētā in August, a nocturnal species that is hoping for a boost with the Waitākere Ranges Dark Sky Project. The initiative, designed to reduce light pollution and supported by the Waitākere Ranges Local Board, could significantly increase wētā numbers.
The giant kōkopu, a threatened native species of ray-finned fish, was featured as Tītīrangi’s species in September. It stands to benefit from ongoing restoration efforts by the community-led South Tītīrangi Neighbourhood Network, in collaboration with the Mountain to Sea Conservation Trust – Whitebait Connection.
There are eleven more species to come in the spotlight series – keep an eye out to see if your favourite critter or creature is featured!
Game, set, match for Glen Eden Tennis Club
It’s ace news for Glen Eden Tennis Club, with key upgrades set to be served up after $170,000 in funding was awarded to spruce up its facilities.
It comes from the Auckland Council Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund, which awarded $13.6 million to 18 sports organisations across the city.
For Glen Eden Tennis Club, the funding is a major contribution to facility upgrades, including installing LED floodlighting, re-turfing the four courts and clubroom building work including improving drainage.
Waitākere Ward Councillor Shane Henderson says the funding supports the ongoing operation of an integral part of the sporting legacy of Glen Eden and wider West Auckland community.
“The club has been delivering tennis to Glen Eden and the West since 1928, and after almost 100 years is still going strong. It was an honour to vote this through and support the club to continue to provide the facilities for locals of all ages to learn and enjoy tennis.”
The Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund was approved for financial year 2024/2025 by Auckland Council’s Planning, Environment and Parks Committee.
Whau pool one stroke closer
The proposed Whau Aquatic and Recreation Centre is one stroke closer to coming to life.
It follows a funding time line, totalling more than $89 million, being agreed by the council’s Planning, Environment and Parks Committee. The decision gives the facility a projected construction start date of 2031.
Whau Local Board chair Kay Thomas says the board is delighted with the decision.
“We have strongly advocated for an aquatic centre in our area since 2017, and we are delighted that we have reached this point in the process. We are acutely aware that there is a gap in pool facilities in our area. A pool in the Whau will not only provide a facility for the benefit of our community but will also service surrounding areas where existing pools are nearing capacity.
“This funding will ensure potential sites for the pool are thoroughly investigated and from there, planning for construction of the centre can begin.”
The time line lays out the required funding for each stage of the project – design, consenting and construction. $300,000 of funding was allocated FY26 for identifying and investigating potential sites, followed by $6 million in FY27 for potential purchase of land.
The remaining is allocated for design and consents starting in FY28, with construction projected to begin in FY31.
Delivered free to letter boxes, post boxes, libraries and selected outlets throughout Tītīrangi, Glen Eden, Green Bay, New Lynn, Konini, Wood Bay, French Bay, Waima, Woodlands Park, Laingholm, Parau, Cornwallis, Huia, Oratia, and beyond.
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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.
Crown Lynn’s former home recognised
New Lynn’s Ceramic House, the former home of Crown Lynn pottery, is to be added to Auckland’s heritage schedule.
Newly built Ceramic House in 1969. CreditAuckland Libraries Heritage Collections JTD11A-04005_
“Though built not that long ago, Ceramic House is an important and quirky expression of New Lynn’s ceramics industry when it was at its peak in the 1960s. It’s one of two places in the area remaining from that time. The other is Ambrico Kiln, which is also on the heritage schedule,” says chair of Auckland Council’s Planning and Policy Committee, Councillor Richard Hills.
Ceramic House, located in Totara Avenue, was built for Consolidated Brick and Pipe Investments, best known for the Crown Lynn pottery brand. It was built in 1969, when Crown Lynn pottery could be found in around 60% of New Zealand households. Displaying the versatility of the company’s products was part of the brief for the building and they feature throughout – from ceramic door handles and toilet roll holders, to the reinforced brick walls.
The building was designed by notable architect Neville Price, who was asked to design the entire building so it could fit the new computer, which took up a whole room. It’s one of the first ‘computer buildings’ in Tāmaki Makaurau and a rare example of when computers defined the form and function of a building.
Free Tyre Recycling
Locals can now dispose of their old tyres for free, thanks to a new national product stewardship scheme called Tyrewise.
The Waitākere Refuse & Recycling Transfer Station, (50 The Concourse, Henderson) will accept up to five used tyres per customer, per visit – free of charge. The tyres will then be used as a substitute for coal in cement making.
ON OUR COVER: The giant kōkopu, illustrated by Anna Crichton, was recently announced as Tītīrangi’s ‘special species’ as part of a campaign by the Pest Free Waitākere Ranges Alliance (see page 2). Previous announcements have designated kererū as the special species for Oratia, illustrated by Monique Endt, and wētā as the special species for Waiatarua, illustrated by Kendra Stoner. Piha’s species is to be announced in early October.
The Tītīrangi Volunteer Fire Brigade turns 75
The Tītīrangi Volunteer Fire Brigade celebrates 75 years of service to the Tītīrangi community this month.
FIONA DRUMMOND talked to Rob Stephens, Station Officer at Tītīrangi Fire Brigade.
“In the early days, we received notifications from the local manual telephone exchange. The first person to receive the 333 emergency call would frantically wind the phone handle to activate the phone circuit (connected to all firemen’s homes) for 30 seconds and repeat twice where the fire was located. This was often done by the wife or family, while the fireman would hurry to get to the station to set off the siren.
“Nowadays we all carry pagers that tell us the nature of the call and the location. We also use a phone app.
“Fire Appliances are now much safer than when the Brigade started. The early appliances were open to the elements, such as our historic “Old Inter”. This 1942 machine still operates today for special occasions such as the annual Lolly Run a
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few weeks before Christmas, a tradition since 1950.
“Our protective clothing has also become much more advanced. Our jacket and over-trousers are now able to keep us much safer from fire and heat, whilst also keeping us warmer and dryer. We also have specialised clothing for certain tasks. Our helmets are much sturdier than the old plastic helmets of the 1970s or the “Cromwell” Keystone Cop cork ones from earlier and now have built in visors.
“Breathing apparatus has also improved. It has positive pressure and microphones that can connect to a fire fighter’s hand-held radio. No more shouting through your face mask.
“Health and Safety is very, very important nowadays. Decontamination is undertaken at every call to wash away toxins and carcinogens and minimise health impacts. Protective clothing is bagged and sent away for commercial cleaning. Gone are the days of getting back in the fire truck covered in soot and smoke, and putting the same gear back on for the next call.
“The Tītīrangi Brigade has four career fire-fighters who work from 7am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 31 volunteers who cover all other times and also respond during the day if there is a major incident or weather event.
“The Brigade responds to about 180 calls every year –although, when weather events such as Cyclone Gabrielle occur, there is a large spike in calls. Even thunderstorms can generate an increase in calls for flooding or roofs lifting. We attend all sorts of calls: building fires, vegetation fires, car fires, car crashes, trees down blocking roads and drives, power lines down, animal rescues, chemical spills, smoke investigation and fire alarms going off. We also respond to a lot more medical calls nowadays.”
For more information, and to volunteer, visit https://www. facebook.com/TitirangiFire/.
A new swimming pool gets closer
A much-needed new swimming pool for inner west Auckland is getting closer to becoming a reality.
Auckland Council has allocated $300,000 (from a total budget of $89 million), to prepare a business case for a new pool next year.
The need for a new pool to serve the inner west was first identified as long as 25 years ago, and the demand has only intensified along with population growth. The key question now is, will it be in Avondale or New Lynn?
The council already owns some land in the New Lynn town precinct, west of the transport hub, although more would need to be purchased, says local board chair Kay Thomas.
Back in 2019, the board turned down an offer of land from the owners of the Avondale Racecourse, the Avondale Jockey Club (AJC), for a pool adjacent to the new Avondale community centre.
Negotiations with the AJC on retaining green space and/ or land for a new pool are back on track but it’s a lot more complicated now.
In 2020, legislation was passed to try and save the ailing racing industry, which means all the club’s assets at Avondale may legally be vested in New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing to use for developing other racecourses. In preparation for
Impacted by the 2023 floods?
You are not alone, help is here.
a sale, the jockey club has applied to the council for all 35 hectares to be rezoned for terraced and apartment dwellings. Whether the new pool is located in Avondale or New Lynn, the number one criterion is that it be sited close to a Western Line rail station, as the pool will serve communities over a wide area.
Whau Local Board member Ross Clow is backing Avondale. “I’m looking forward to the business case proving that Avondale is the best spot for the pool.”
There are no concept plans for what the new facility will look like as yet but the board has been assured that the budget is sufficient for a modern leisure centre. The pool is the first of three new pools coming on stream, the other two being for Henderson-Massey and Flat Bush.
In the interim, Kay says the local board is negotiating with Avondale Intermediate School to have its pool open to the public during the school summer break. “That was very popular last year, so we hope to obtain it again.”
Reach up to 40,000+ readers... ...for as little as 0.005c each. Contact The Fringe by email info@fringemedia.co.nz
Visionwest is offering up to ten free and confidential counselling sessions for those impacted by the 2023 Auckland weather events.
Following the 2023 weather events, many West Aucklanders are still grappling with some tough emotions. If you are one of them, here’s your opportunity to talk to someone.
You’ll receive:
• Professional Counselling
• Individualised Support
• Support for the whole family
We are situated at 97 Glendale Road, Glen Eden. To schedule an appointment or for more information, contact:
Reflecting – yet again!
Some recent powerful theatre experiences have given me pause for thought, and a moment to consider the role of live theatre in reflecting back to us the moods and concerns of our era.
The prompt has come from experiencing In Other Words at Q Theatre; a heartbreaking story of love and the complex, often confusing, descent into Alzheimer’s. Its potency, heightened by casting real-life couple Michael Hurst and Jennifer Ward-Lealand, and by the haunting sound of Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me to the Moon, took me to tears. And dementia is such a real and urgent issue and one we cannot turn our back on.
I reflect back over the last year. Prima Facie at Lopdell Theatre, a piercing one-woman show about rape and the fearsome inadequacies of our court system. Things That Matter by our local, renowned playwright Gary Henderson, based around the life of Middlemore intensivist David Galler, laying bare the total chaos of our health system and the personal agony that plays out in the lives of ordinary people. I found myself saying that it must be taken to Wellington and made compulsory viewing for all politicians!
Our local drama group, Tītīrangi Theatre Inc, is also choosing plays that reflect our times. Duncan Milne’s recent production of The Illiterate Book Club took a look at the hidden work of women and the power of whānau in a comedy of laughter and tears. Earlier this year, It’s Never too Late, directed by Paul Norell, demonstrated that, in this age of gender politics, individual identity has nothing to do with labels and preferred pronouns; that self-worth is not about convincing others but about convincing ourselves. These productions may have had a lighter tone; possibly could
PRESLAND and CO
be described as ‘comedies of manners’, but they still nail the zeitgeist.
Right now Te Pou Theatre at the Corban Estate is part-way through their Kōanga (Spring) Festival. This is where new work, new partnerships, new ideas are given the stage.
A ‘co-pro’ between waiata and New Zealand opera; a rehearsed play reading of an indigenous work from Australia, as director Tainui
Tukiwaho describes, ‘to see if the themes can cross the ditch’; a new work about growing up in cults; and finally, two nights of play readings from emerging playwrights.
By the time you read this, Kōanga will be over, but note it for the future and keep watch on the Te Pou website; everything that hits the stage there will inspire, confront, entertain and arrest you. Te Pou is the only Māori-led theatre in Aotearoa. The extraordinary team that brought this dream to fruition is legendary. To go there is to experience a welcome that warms your heart as you enter. From the outside it sits in an industrial shed; through the door you experience a beautiful foyer and bar and the most stylish toilets in town!
It’s not new that great theatre reflects and delves deep into life and times. And that much of it is timeless. But what is so very apparent is that the big issues of today, the things we want to experience powerfully through theatre, perhaps in a cathartic way, are confronting in a way that can only be described as ‘grunty’.
Despite all that, I’ve been thinking of that ineffable magic that is there in almost every live transaction between audience and performers. It’s that silent, outreaching connection: ‘believe me’ – ‘yes, I believe you’. And in that moment, we’re hooked; and we so want to be hooked. I believe that it takes us back into the power of story, and that is an ancient tale.
Corban Estate open day: October 12.
OPEN ARTS DAY
Corban Estate Arts Centre: Saturday October 12, 11.00am to 3.00pm
A day to poozle in an arts-rich environment, activities, experiences, connections. Explore the Homestead Galleries and shop, meet artists in their studios, indulge in food and market stalls, experience the Pacifica Arts Centre, visit the Waitākere Arts Exhibition (Shed 2), view the Sunday Girl pop-up show in the Barrel Store.
Waiatarua Library and Playcentre –celebrating 50 years
On October 19, 10am-2pm, the Waiatarua community will remember a special anniversary.
Exhibitions by local artists, talks, displays and more will celebrate the first ever craft fair in the Waiatarua Hall when a group of Waiatarua artists collaborated to raise funds to buy books for the Waiatarua Library in 1974. The Library and Playcentre will be open and food will be available. Look online to download the colouring competition. https:// waiatarua.org.nz/kereru-colouring-competition/
Council rubbish collection changes
From December 2, 2024, prepaid rubbish bin tags will not be required out West. Instead, residential rubbish collection will be funded through property rates. On collection day, simply wheel your rubbish bin out.
Auckland Council is standardising waste services so that every residential property receives the same level of service, types of bins and payment options.
Having everyone on the same collection services, including recycling and food scraps, gives us the best chance to influence waste minimisation and reduce emissions as we work towards Auckland’s goal of zero waste by 2040.
We want to do what is best for the environment while keeping costs as low as possible. A universal rates-funded rubbish collection will give everyone access to an affordable service no matter where they live in Auckland.
The annual amount you pay (targeted rates charge) for your rubbish collection will depend on the size of your bin. You can choose the bin size that best meets your needs. Bin tags will be required on your council bins until Friday November 29 in Waitākere. After this date, you can get a refund for unused bin tags until Friday 31 January 2025.
If you live in a rural zone, please email ratesfunded@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz if you would like to continue using bags. For more information, including how to request a refund for unused bin tags, please visit aucklandcouncil. govt.nz/ratesfunded
Discovering the Corban Estate; the glades, the heritage buildings, is to take a walk back into the pioneering wine legacy of Henderson. Advertisement
The Thin White Ukes are coming to Ato in New Lynn.
The Melbourne-based trio are touring New Zealand for the first time, with support from our own The Nukes. They will be performing the songs of David Bowie including both his smash hits and astounding obscurities, lovingly reassembled for precision acoustic strings and three-part vocal harmony. Put on your red shoes. They’ll be floating in a most peculiar way. The concert is on October 17. Tickets (strictly limited) and further information at www. thenukes.co.nz.
Garcia
by Paulo Garcia, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
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
October
w – 20, Community is ... what we create together: the Emerging Artists exhibition; Upstairs Gallery, first floor Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 4278.
w – 20, Milkstars: Sound Constellations in The Chartwell Collection, works that use sound to map relationships; Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
w – 27, Rider Instinct, paintings by Séraphine Pick; Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
w – November 10, From Elsewhere, works and installations by Newell Harry (Australia) and Peter Simpson (Aotearoa); Te Uru, 420 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 817 8087.
w 5 – November 23, Diamond – Circle – Rectangle, ceramic and clay works by Georgia Arnold from her residency at Driving Creek, Coromandel; Corban Eatate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson. Phone 838 4455.
w 5 – November 23, Blue Nylon, works by Bena Jackson and Max Fleury stemming from a study of the iconic Parnell Baths and an interest in the ways that communities craft, use and maintain public spaces; Corban Eatate Arts Centre, 2 Mount Lebanon Lane, Henderson. Phone 838 4455.
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, Creative Fairy workshop for fairy believers. The Shed Collective, 99 Parrs Cross Road, Henderson; 10am-12noon; $40. fairyways.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 12, Spring Craft Market; Green Bay Community House, 1 Barron Drive, Green Bay; 9:30-12:30. Phone 09 827 3300.
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 Community House presents Whānau Movie Night; Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 6.30pm; Free. Phone 817 7448.
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.
w 17, Upcycle Fashion Redesign with Robyn Robertson (five-week course for ages 16+); Tītīrangi Community House, 500 South Tītīrangi Road; 4.306.30pm; $75. Phone 817 7448.
w 17, Waitākere Forest and Bird presents The Red Admiral Story with
Jacqui Knight of the Moths and Butterflies of New Zealand Trust; Ranui Community Centre, 474 Swanson Road, Ranui; 7.30pm; koha appreciated. Phone Liz 027 476 2732 or email lizanstey@hotmail.com,
w 19, 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 19, Tītīrangi Volunteer Fire Brigade anniversary celebrations: 9.30am, Procession of Fire Appliances from Craigavon Park, Connaught Street, Green Bay, along Godley Road and Titirangi Road, finishing at Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall.
10am to 12.30pm, Open Day at Tītīrangi Fire Station, 525 South Tītīrangi Road with a fire safety display, colouring in competition, escape maze, kitchen fire demonstrator and more.
Phone 817 7878 for more information.
w 25 – 28, Pop-Up by Philip Burnett. Upstairs Gallery. Level one, seminar room. Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 09 817 4278.
w 25 – November 10, Far Horizons, photographs by John Scott from a 40-year personal odyssey to explore some of the world's amazing spaces; Upstairs Gallery. Level one, Lopdell House, 418 Tītīrangi Road. Phone 09 817 4278.
w 22, Tītīrangi U3A – informal learning for people 50-years plus, guest speakers, study groups; West Lynn Garden, 73 Parker Avenue, New Lynn; 1pm. Contact Jan George, 027 478 4119 or jan@jangeorge.co.nz. www.u3a. nz.
w 25, 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 26, 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 27, Tītīrangi Village Market: art, craft, produce and music; Tītīrangi War Memorial Hall; 10am-2pm. Contact tvm.manager@gmail.com or phone 022 631 9436.
w 30, Tītīrangi Community House presents a DIY craft workshop making a Diwali decor lamp; 500 South Tītīrangi Road, Tītīrangi; 3.45-4.45pm; Free. Phone 817 7448.
w 31, Halloween party with games, entertainment and much more; Community House, 1 Barron Drive, Green Bay; 3-5pm. Phone 09 827 3300.
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
Places to go – Things to do
At the Libraries
Our local libraries have a great selection of activities planned for October and the school holidays.
At Tītīrangi, there is Codey Rocky Robots (October 1 and 2, 2-3pm), Lego Space Station (October 4, 10.30-11.30am), and a chance to meet the author of The Squeakling at a special family Storytime (October 7, 10.30-11.30am). Other events include Ngā Rau o Parekura – Parekura’s Feathers with the team from Arataki Visitor Centre (October 8, 10.3011.30am), Decoupage Memory Jars (October 10, 10.3011.30am), and Origami Art Folders (October 11, 2-3pm.
Tītīrangi Library is also holding two events for the Auckland Heritage Festival. Folk duo Celtic Ferret present a free, interactive, historical workshop on October 5. Book at Humanitix/Titirangi Library/dogs and ferrets. Also on October 5 (1-2pm), the library will present resources that are available for researching convict ancestry. Book at Humanitix/Titirangi Library/researching convict ancestry.
Glen Eden Library’s school holiday programme includes an Egyptian Papyrus and Hieroglyphics Workshop (October 1, 10:30am), Mermanda the Mermaid (October 3, 10am), Tamariki Gardening Workshop (October 4, 2pm), Family Movie and Craft (October 7, 2pm), a Science Session with the Physics Pathfinders (October 8, 3pm ), and Melting Clock Clay Craft (October 11, 2pm).
Contact your local library for more information.
Hayatt Al Joborry (pictured left) plays Eva Perón and Gabrielle Salazar plays Eva Duarte in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical masterpiece Evita being performed at the historic Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre this October 12 – 26. Set in Argentina between 19341952, Evita is one of the world’s most popular musicals telling the story of the meteoric rise of the legendary Eva Perón from poor beginnings to winning the adoration of a nation. Evita features some of the best loved songs in musical theatre including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, Buenos Aires , Another Suitcase in Another Hall, and High Flying, Adored . Don’t miss this amazing biographical musical about one of the most influential women in history. Book at Eventfinda or http://www.playhousetheatreinc.com.
Tītīrangi Theatre’s pantomime returns
It’s been seven years since Tītīrangi Theatre produced a pantomime and it is proud to present the world première of Jack and the Giant Kauri Tree this November.
This fun, family-friendly, pantomime with a Kiwi twist has been lovingly crafted by two local writers Kerynn Walsh (right) and Ella Bernstone. Ella and Kerynn wanted it to be local, relevant and fun; and a performance in which the audience might recognise themselves.
The 90-minute show sees young, plucky but dim, Jack and his worldweary mum needing to raise money fast, before the greedy Baron evicts them. Fortunately, luck is on their side as the Baron is distracted by cats killing native wildlife and a forest ranger fixated on kauri dieback. There’s also the issue of a large kauri that has erupted in the middle of the village roundabout (blocking the path to the market), and the fabled creature that lives above the clouds.
Kerynn Walsh is also directing and believes this will be an entertaining night out whether you're seven or 100 years old.
Put November 5-16 in your diary and bring your family to see if Jack can save the village. “Do you think he can do it? Of course he can!”
https://www.titirangitheatre.co.nz/
5 - 16 November
written by Kerynn Walsh and Ella Bernstone
Jack giant & the kauri tree
The World Premiere of
Excited about being prepared
“Should a disaster happen in our patch again, we’ll face it on the front foot, not come from behind.”
Green Bay Community House operations manager Sara Mihaere is reflecting on last year’s tropical Cyclone Gabrielle which caused devastation around the country including significant damage to homes, properties and roads here in the West. Repairs are still underway and the bills are in the many millions.
Sara says the community house team “felt useless at the time. There was this disaster and we thought … well, we’re open, we have power, we have hot water. We put messages on community pages saying that, but felt that it just wasn’t enough.”
Now the team is underway developing a disaster resilience network to connect and prepare communities for any future disasters or extreme weather events.
But what does a disaster resilience network do? Simply, Sara says, it brings a range of people, and businesses, from across the community together to plan and prepare a raft of skill sets needed should a disaster or severe weather strike.
“It may include information sharing, setting up systems and contingency plans, educating the community, forming relationships, running community events and much more,” she says. “We already have a number of individual householders from Green Bay neighbourhoods and they’re all really invested in getting our community prepared should disaster strike.
“We want to step up and do more now and that’s really driving us. I’m excited to be involved in being prepared. We’re open to connecting with all sorts of people with all kinds of skills. It might be someone who has a chainsaw who could help with fallen trees or someone with a digger who can help clear roads before emergency services can get there.
“We have a lot of vulnerable people in our community – some wouldn’t be able to clean out their own drains and the like – so the network’s database will let us know how we can scope our own space to help us help them,” she says.
“We’ve been prompted by what happened during Gabrielle and if in future we can support ourselves for the first few hours in a disaster, that’s a good thing to do.”
The network is producing a booklet (similar to one done in Karekare following Cyclone Gabrielle) with loads of local information including locations (churches and schools, for example) and emergency hubs where help will be provided. It is due out early next year.
With the Green Bay community plans underway, the Tītīrangi Community House met with community members at the end of last month and is now working on its own community resilience disaster network.
The manager of Tītīrangi Community House, Bev Mossop, says both will share knowledge and learn from each other.
“While we’re all individuals, there are there are cross-overs between the Green Bay and Tītīrangi communities. We’ll share those processes and that’s great,” she says.
“Coming out of the devastation that happened with Gabrielle, we really need a plan in place to get help quickly to the community. We have a lot of elderly people in our area and having a plan in place is something we need to do.”
Both Green Bay and Tītīrangi community house teams are keen to hear from anyone – of any age – in their communities who wish to join the network. For Green Bay, email gbcommunityhouse@gmail.com or phone 827 3300; for Titirangi, email admin@titirangihouse.co.nz or phone 817 7448.
– Moira Kennedy
Build
Sara Mihaere (right) and Letitia Maine: excited to be working on Green Bay community’s disaster resilience programme
Introducing Loft Skin Clinic
Loft Skin Clinic has been your go-to for skin, beauty, and wellness since 2013, and we’re thrilled to bring our award-winning clinic closer to our family home in Tītīrangi.
Our new location, at 298 Tītīrangi Road, is more than just a change of scenery: it’s a space designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind. Whether you’re a long-time client or new to our services, you’ll find a welcoming environment where you can escape the stresses of daily life and focus on your well-being – with the added advantage of having six complimentary car parks available outside what was previously the Face and Body clinic.
We specialise in personalised skin treatments that address a variety of skin concerns, from acne and aging to pigmentation and sensitivity. We proudly use DMK and Lira Clinical skincare, known for their exceptional ability to deliver visible, lasting results.
Our approach combines these advanced skincare lines with our expertise, ensuring your skin looks and feels its absolute best.
Relocating to Titirangi isn’t just about a new location—it’s about becoming an integral part of a vibrant, close-knit community. We’re genuinely excited to meet our new neighbours, share what we love doing, and help you achieve your skincare goals. To make it easy for you to find time for selfcare, we’re open from Tuesday to Saturday, with a late night on Wednesday until 7pm. There’s always a perfect moment to unwind and treat yourself, whether you’re seeking transformative skin treatments or just need a little relaxation.
Visit us at www.loftskin.co.nz, follow our journey on Instagram @loftskinclinic or phone 09 817 4807. We can’t wait to welcome you to Loft Skin Clinic and become part of your journey to glowing, healthy skin.
OBSERV: Visual Skin Analysis
Margaret Walsh, Tītīrangi resident, previous owner of Face & Body Tītīrangi and owner of OBSERV New Zealand has been distributing OBSERV skin analysis diagnostic devices to skin clinics and medi-spas throughout New Zealand for the last 12 years.
Margaret Walsh is an experienced practitioner of the most advanced skin diagnosis methodologies and understands the importance of credible diagnostic tools.
Margaret is a globally respected specialist providing expert training in the use of the OBSERV and can also provide proven initiatives that show you how to implement a credible diagnostic procedure into your skin care and medi-spa practice.
But wait – What is OBSERV?
OBSERV skin analysis systems reveal the invisible on, and under your skin. The device helps and guides the therapist or registered nurse in your aesthetic and skin consultations. It shows the condition of all skin
layers, including the deepest ones, in detail for you and your patient. This allows you to work based on realistic insights rather than assumptions. That sounds magical, which it is.
Using the OBSERV system for the first time is an eye-opening experience, where a new world opens right in front of you. OBSERV joins with you to confirm skin types and the exact skin conditions the client has. We use these insights to create an effective annual treatment plan with precise retail homecare product selections. Let’s get beyond “hope in a jar”.
OBSERV is the crucial first step in your clients’ journey towards healthy skin: results-based consultations that become your communication link with all your patients and clients.
#journeybeneaththeskin #skinnerds #observnz.
Website: OBSERV.co.nz, Phone 027 473 5914.
Facebook: Observ Skin Diagnostic Device – New Zealand.
Pets are a personal responsibility
Desex, microchip, and register your animals. That’s the message Raewyn Taylor of Raewyn’s Cat Rescue (RCR) has for anyone who wants a new pet.
Every year hundreds of animals are adopted in West Auckland only to be abandoned or surrendered when caring for them becomes too much. For 35 years Raewyn has trapped stray cats, and with the help of a veterinarian clinic in Lynfield desexes them before releasing them where they were found.
Raewyn sometimes finds cats living in colonies as large as 20 in the wild and will (if needed) form new colonies with the cats that have been desexed in areas far away from human habitation.
This is to try and keep them safe from people who might decide to catch and kill any strays they find.
She monitors and feeds the colonies once a day. This helps to keep them healthy and can prevent them from roaming around in search of other food sources, notably native birds.
During the mating season, the kittens these colonies produce are captured, desexed, and rehomed. In December, January, and February Raewyn’s house in Te Atatū becomes an ad-hoc foster home and sometimes can hold as many as 100 kittens.
While this is not ideal there is no other choice as RCR’s policy is to not release them.
“What can you do? You have to take the kittens away, I don’t put kittens back and a lot of rescue teams don’t either because that’s just increasing the colony. I get a lot of sick animals, some of them get put to sleep.”
Microchipping and registration is something that Raewyn thinks more people need to know about. While owners may
microchip their animals it means nothing if the owner's name and details are not recorded on the chip.
“We have a huge issue with microchips not being registere. Lots of people think that when you get your animal chipped, the vets will register it. It costs to have the vet do that.
“We get all these awesome animals; they belong to someone, but they’re not registered,” said Raewyn.
A spokesperson from the SPCA said that more than 30,000 animals came through their centres last year. Some were lost pets or unwanted litters. There were several reasons why an animal might be surrendered, including the increased cost of living, a change of living conditions, or changes to the needs of the animal. Whenever possible the SPCA does its best to keep animals and their owners together but only if it is in the best interest of both the pet and owner.
Before adopting a new pet, people must understand that they will be looking after the animal for its entire life and they must consider if they are prepared to do that. Pet owners are responsible for microchipping, registration, and equipping their pets with a collar for identification.
They are responsible for choosing the right animal for them and their living conditions, providing both preventative and therapeutic healthcare, and giving them adequate food, shelter, and exercise.
For more information about what is involved before adopting a cat, visit https://www.spca.nz/images/ assets/38598/1/cat-care-brochure-national-web.pdf, and for more information on what to do if you find a cat colony go to http://www.alleycat.org/Trap-Neuter-Return.
– Kerry Lee
Raewyn Taylor holding an award she was given by the GovernorGeneral in October 2012 as well as an SPCA medal.
Free community weed bins here for another year
Residents living in and near the Waitākere Ranges can continue getting rid of pest plants, with community weed bin weekends returning for another year.
Last year, locals cleared almost 95 tonnes of weeds such as Chinese privet, climbing asparagus, honeysuckle, moth plant, plectranthus, tradescantia, and woolly nightshade through these bins.
“These efforts make a real difference in combating a major threat to the beloved native bush that is a defining feature of the Waitākere Ranges,” says Mel Ward, from EcoMatters Environment Trust which administers the community weed bins.
The weed bins are provided, thanks to funding from the Waitākere Ranges Local Board and Auckland Council, so that residents can dispose of invasive weeds from their own properties at no cost.
“Each year we see people getting better at using these bins in the right way. For example, we ask that people use the bins just for wild ginger seed heads and roots, as these are the parts that can regrow. Wild ginger stems and leaves can be composted at home or left on the ground in the property’s bush area, which leaves more room in the community bins for other accepted invasive weeds,” says Mel.
Weed bins will be located at community sites across the Waitākere Ranges area on various weekends between October 2024 and June 2025.
“We’d also love to see more people learning composting methods for environmental weeds at home so they don’t have to move plants off-site. That’s something we’re looking forward to talking to people about at the Pest Plant Roadshows we’re planning,” said Mel.
To find out more, including where and when to find a community weed bin, accepted weed types and event dates, please visit ecomatters.org.nz/weedbins
The Hidden World of Drains: A PrePurchase Insight
Moving into a new home is like opening a fresh chapter –a blank canvas awaiting your personal touch. But before you pick out paint colours or arrange furniture, let’s talk drains – the unsung heroes that keep your home dry, your sanity intact, and your property value high.
At Drain Ranger we’ve seen it all too often. You’ve scrimped, saved, and signed the dotted line. Your dream home awaits. But as you unpack boxes, you discover a not-so-charming feature – a mini river flowing through your living room. Surprise!
As certifying and registered drainlayers, we know our way around pipes. Our PrePurchase Drainage Inspection is more than a fancy name. Here’s the drill:
• We check all internal and external sewer and stormwater drains. No nook escapes our gaze.
• We write down our findings – a dossier of drain drama (if any).
• Armed with our report (and quote), you can negotiate. Price adjustments? Repairs? It’s your call. Your solicitor holds the purse strings. When we invoice, you nod, and they release the funds. No drama, no fuss. You move in, knowing your drains won’t surprise you with impromptu water features.
The Fringe makes space on these pages available for current advertisers and non-commercial organisations, at no charge. To be included in our next issue, email info@ fringemedia.co.nz before October 11.
And there you have it – peace of mind. No midnight panic when the heavens weep. No effluent escapades. Just smoothly functioning drainage systems, silently doing their job. And you can focus on the fun stuff.
So, dear homebuyer, let’s make this transition drama-free. Contact Drain Ranger on 021 709 783.
WEED BIN WEEKENDS
Got invasive weeds? Get rid of them at your local community weed bins.
2024
2025
Oct 5-6 Laingholm Waiatarua Huia
Nov 9-10 Glen Eden Titirangi
Dec 7-8 Swanson* Te Henga
Jan 11-12
Laingholm Waiatarua
Feb 8-9 Glen Eden Titirangi Huia
Mar 1-2 Swanson* Te Henga Huia
Apr 5-6 Laingholm Waiatarua Huia
May 3-4 Glen Eden Titirangi
Jun 14-15 Swanson* Te Henga
*Central Landscape Supplies hours 9am – 4pm only
♥ Bins onsite from 8am Saturday
Glen Eden Konini School, 44 Withers Rd
Huia Huia Domain, Huia Rd
Laingholm Laingholm Community Hall, 69 Victory Rd
Swanson Central Landscape Supplies, 598 Swanson Rd Te Henga Pae o Te Rangi Regional Park, 114 Te Henga Rd
Titirangi Zig Zag Track, Park Rd Waiatarua Waiatarua Community Hall, 911 West Coast Rd
Chat weeds with us at a Pest Plant Roadshow. For events and to check which weeds are accepted at the bins, visit ecomatters.org.nz/weedbins
♥ EcoMatters staff member onsite for weed advice Saturday 9am – 3pm
♥ Permanent weed bin at Piha Domain arriving 21 October
for Waitākere residents
‘Views
right over the harbour’
Yeah gidday. Lizard here. How’s it?
You might recall, about a month back, I sold an Aussie joker a ride-on mower. Well, Oz and me have become good mates but he’s the kind of bloke that, if there’s one turd in a field, he’ll tread in it. So it comes as no surprise that he found himself in a spot of bother. It's probably easier if I get him to explain.
“Everyone, this is Oz. Oz, this is everyone.”
“Gidday. It all started when Lizard gave me his car.”
“Oz. I sold it to you. You still owe me a grand. And it’s a mower. Not a car.”
“Who’s telling this story? Straight up, mate. Any hoo, I took the blade off the ‘mower’ and drove around exploring the place. I gotta say, the Waitākere Ranges’ bush is absolutely bonza, although Lizard did say that it’s all regrowth. The early comers chopped down every original tree they could but it’s still bloody amazing compared to back home.
"Down the back of Lizards’, deep in the scrub, I came across an old bus and just kinda moved in. It was perfect. Me swag fitted the back seat bang on and out the back window was a view across the harbour. Magic.
“That was until this bloke turned up. All SWAT gear and reflective sunglasses and said because there are protected ferns growing under the bus, I have to bugger off.
“I pointed out that I had rigged up a system to catch water off the bus roof to irrigate the ferns but nuh, still bugger off. Lizard argued that the bus was an old railways bus, so technically the government’s responsibility. They smashed heaps of tea tree down when they dragged it off.
“Lizard, being a good bugger, gave me…"
“Sold you”
“Whatever. Sold me, on tic, an old dog kennel from Whosagoodboy, that Mopey Jesus, another good kiwi by the way, didn’t need. We put this on a trailer and I towed it behind the car."
“Still a ride-on. Not a car”
“I drove down to where the bus used to be and set up camp. Very cosy kennel I must say. But… you guessed it. That same bloke turns up. How the hell does he know I’m here? He explains that the kennel doesn’t have a dunny, so yep, bugger off.
“You can’t keep an ocka down mate. With my 'Crocodile Dundee' big-as knife, I chopped up all the tea-tree and
branches and that, and knocked up a quite adequate bivouac. I used Nikau fronds for the roof. Cosy as. But when I popped me noggin out one morning, there he was. He sure jumped back when he spotted Pete sitting on me hat. Pete was my pet wētā, who had taken a liking to cruising around on me hat brim. Pete is also, apparently, a protected species, so they took Pete away. I swear, when Pete looked back, he had a tear in his eye. I know I bloody did.
“They smashed down me bivvy. Even took my hat. Bastards.
“I didn’t know where I was heading. I just walked off. I walked all night. In the morning I was so tired and down beat I stumbled over some huge tree roots. Getting back on my feet, I walked out to the end of these roots which became enormous branches extending out over the harbour. I put my doona down on the leaves in the crook of the end branch, and went to sleep.
“I loved it up there. I made a rope ladder so I can shimmy down for a wash. It’s brilliant. Views right out over the harbour to the airport.
“One day, Lizard and Mopey Jesus came up to the tree house for lunch. We had just finished a cuppa when we heard screams of ‘Help! Help! Somebody please help!’ We looked up the harbour and there, to our astonishment, was the same bloke that had been such a pain. Lizard said, ‘Is that the same bloke that’s been such a pain?’
“Turns out his outboard motor hadn’t been tied on securely and had literally fallen off his boat. He had been drifting for hours. I let down the rope ladder. ‘Grab on,’ I yelled. He jumped for the ladder and managed to haul himself up.
“Well, that was a few days ago. The bloke has been back a few times. Even scored me a tarp. He said that because I’m not tethered to the land or sea but suspended in the air I can legally stay put.’
“So here I am. Happy as, up in my tree house. Meanwhile, Lizard found an unmanned aluminium boat drifting on the harbour. It’s now for sale. Mopey found a lady friend who bought the railways bus from the council. But that’s a story for another day. By the way, guess who was living in the bus headlight. Yep. Pete. Shhhh. Mopey Jesus may have dropped by with me old mate who just maybe has taken a liking to my new hat. Heehee.
“Stay cool and remember, we’re ANZACs.” Oz.
Percival and Son
Watkins Plumbing Services Ltd
RYMAN’S AWARD WINNING LIFESTYLE
Our residents and their families have spoken loud and clear: Ryman is their top choice in retirement living. We’re proud to be recognised by Canstar Blue for having the Most Satisfied Customers, which complements our tenth win of Reader’s Digest’s Most Trusted Brand.
As we celebrate 40 years since opening our first village, these recognitions reinforce Ryman’s commitment to exceptional care and excellence in retirement living.
DISCOVER THE LIFESTYLE SEARCH ‘RYMAN’
