Indian Weekender 5 August 2016

5 AUG2016 Vol. 8 • Issue 20

NZ’s only Kiwi-Indian weekly

Auckland | Christchurch | Wellington | Hamilton | Palmerston North | Hastings | Invercargill

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CONTENTS

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Opinion/Editorial

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The road to Rio

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Entertainment

Hollywood should not be a benchmark: Varun Dhawan

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Face of the week Dr Rachel Singh: From script to screen

NEW ZEALAND

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TIME TO JOIN THE DIALOGUE Looking into the numerous challenges that international students face in New Zealand

Maya Shivam

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hile New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations for international students with student numbers steadily growing, there seems to have been little improvement in the support and services available to these students once they arrive here. Every now and again, serious issues being faced by them take the spotlight. Last year, Indian Weekender ran a series on some of the challenges that the international student community was facing, and engaged a large number of students to come out and share their stories.

The response to this series was phenomenal with our videos going viral. This also inspired a large number of support bodies around the country to stop and take notice.

In recent times, once again this monster has raised its head and brought to fore a whole new set of issues that now faces these young ones striving to make a life for themselves. Once again we are committed to starting a dialogue and engage the entire community by participating in the many areas of concern that we will bring

details of in our forthcoming issues. The encouraging part is that this time around, several government and non-government organisations and support groups are coming forward to address these.

One of the issues at hand is dealing with the problem where it all starts—the agents and representatives in India who are selling these institutions.

Often what is a matter of a child’s future can only be a sales pitch for these commission making agents. Then there is the

One of the issues at hand is dealing with the problem where it all starts— the agents and representatives in India who are selling these institutions.

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matter of what information and assistance is out there for students to learn about the reality. In a welcome move, to assist with this, the High Commission of India (rather the Ministry of External Affairs) has issued an advisory for students to be able to register with the diplomatic missions of the country they are in and are able to get help and assistance.

Once students arrive in the country, there is the issue of what supports and services are available and how do the students learn about these services. It seems like this could also be the right time that these areas need to be looked at and explored and strengthened. Although, it needs to be said that there are some very passionate people who devote a lot of their time and energy into looking after the welfare of students. The Uncle and Aunties Group is one such group supported by community leaders.

There are other initiatives such as these and Indian Weekender will be talking to these groups in upcoming weeks.

The issue of worker exploitation of students still remains. Even though much has been said and some strict actions were taken, the issue still remains rampant.

It is important to recognise that this may not be specific to the Indian community and exists in the wider community as well.

There are also changes to the NZQA Code and the IELTS assessments that are on the cards. This could trigger a significant impact on how student applications are assessed. On the matter of assessments, the issue of the “fraud” that has been going on and could potentially see students being deported is another example of how much this area needs attention.

The youth are precious. It is important that we as a community come together to make sure that they are looked after. It is a shame to see how many of these precious youth we lose to depression, suicide, hopelessness or other stress related issues such as alcohol and drugs, road accident fatalities, so on and so forth, for want of information and support. We invite you to join the dialogue on the many challenges and issues that our international students face. Keep reading our forthcoming issues or log on to www.iwk.co.nz to connect with us on Facebook and participate in the discussion.

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NEW ZEALAND

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

The Queen of Melody to dazzle Auckland A tête-à-tête with Shreya Ghoshal Maya Shivam

Maya: How did your musical journey begin and who were your role models?

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s August 20 draws closer, Aucklanders are preparing to be enthralled by the musical extravaganza. Shreya Ghoshal is all geared up to take New Zealand by storm as she arrives in Auckland on her third visit to the land of the long white cloud. We caught up with the star over Chai Latte and among many other things, here’s what we spoke about. But first, some more to get to know the star.

Born on March 12, 1984, in Berhampore, West Bengal, to Bengali parents, Sh. Bishwajit Ghoshal and Smt. Sarmistha Ghoshal, Shreya spent her formative years in a place called Rawatbhata near Kota, Rajasthan, where her father, who is an electronics engineer, was posted.

At the age of four, Shreya started learning music, mainly Bengali songs, from her first guru—her mother. At the age of six, she started formal training in Hindustani Classical Music. She learnt Classical Hindustani Music and got her initial exposure to Hindi film music and Rajasthani folk at Kota. She received training in playback singing from Padmashree Late Kalyanji Bhai at a later stage. After shifting to Mumbai she continued her training in Classical Hindustani Music with Late Mukta Bhideji.

In 1995, she won the All India Light Vocal Music Competition, New Delhi. Her first TV performance was in a programme called Awaz Nayi Andaz Wohi on EL TV. In1996, she was selected for 75th children’s special episode of TVS Sa Re Ga Ma, which she won.

Later on, she won the mega final judged by an exceptional panel of judges. In 1998, Shreya started recording in regional languages (Marathi, Bengali, etc.) and finally in 2000, Sanjay Bhansali and music director Ismail Darbarji offered her playback singing for

Paro in Devdas.

After Devdas, she has continuously been working and recording songs with many music directors. She has recorded film songs not only in Hindi but also in Assamesse, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Guajarati, Kannada, Marathi, Malayalam, Nepali, Oriya, Tamil and Telugu.

She has been performing across the world and captivating audience with her charming personality, ability to connect with the audience instantly, and above all, her musical ability.

She has been on the judging panel for many music shows and contests.

Shreya wishes to take her musical talent much beyond film music and expand her horizon in other genres, particularly in Hindustani Classical Music.

As we spoke to Shreya, we discovered a humble, down-to-earth and a beautiful human being.

Maya: Tell us a little about your formative years.

Shreya: Born in Bengal, brought up in Rajasthan for 12 years before moving to Mumbai, I consider myself lucky to have spent my childhood in a beautiful riverside remote township of Rawatbhata, where engineers and scientists who were a part of the power plant lived, a rather academic sort of environment. But also living in a place where there were no distractions of city luxuries such as movie theatres, malls, or restaurants, our home became the hub of all cultural activities, thanks to my parents, who are ardent music lovers.

I grew up loving, learning, and listening to a lot of varied and wonderful music. Mom taught me since I was little but to learn more and enrich myself in Hindustani Classical music, we found a teacher in the nearby city, and we would travel up and down. Hours of riyaz, music, and education, pretty much sums up my formative years.

Shreya: In 1994, I had started participating in various national level music competitions and winning a few gave my parents some confidence slowly that I probably have a talent, which must be nourished further.

I was nine years old when I first won a national competition and eventually I appeared in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in children’s episode when I was 11. That’s where I was first judged by Kalyanji Anandji.

He suggested my dad move to Mumbai so that I could learn from him.

At this point, I must add that it was a big decision for my dad, but he did choose all this over his own career. He selflessly made this decision for me and my future. It was his conviction and perseverance that has made it all happen today.

After coming to Mumbai, at the age of 13, I started recording for some non-film projects in Bangla and Marathi. At then in a few years, Devdas happened as I turned 16, in the year 2000.

kind of feedback all the time is distracting.

Maya: What is your favourite genre and why?

Shreya: Indian film music has all genres mixed in, that’s why it’s so much fun to be able to sing in it.

I love to experiment and evolve.

Staying versatile is essential.

Soulful music is paramount for me to be excited to sing it.

Maya: How do you think music in Bollywood has evolved and changed and how does it compare to the international music scene?

Shreya: Bollywood unique. It imbibes the flavour of the music that is being heard and m a d e

music

is

worldwide, but in the end, we create something unique that satisfies the souls and ears of Indian listeners. It is constantly evolving in sounds and styles, but we can’t take away the Indian roots in the melodies out of it.

Maya: What are your other passions besides music?

Shreya: I love travelling whenever I can, seeing new places, learn about their culture.

I also love cooking whenever time permits. And whenever I am taking those long flights, I love watching movies and reading books.

We spoke a lot more with Shreya. Watch out this space for our next issue.

Maya: How did young Shreya deal with the name and fame?

Shreya: In my initial years, I think I was too young to understand name, fame or success, or maybe there was actually no time to absorb any of it. Music moved me. I sang because I loved being on the mic, learning every day from my seniors and contemporaries.

I work hard, hours and hours of studio work, singing in all languages, and eventually performing live all over the world, all this along with my school n college studies. But all the love that I was receiving from the audience was truly like a blessing. It humbled me and gave me strength.

Maya: All performers at some point face negative criticism.

What was that point for you when you felt you had given it your best but it wasn’t received that way?

Shreya: Honestly, I never felt the need to focus on what are others saying or thinking, I have always followed my heart, and I know I am sincere to my art. I try to give my 100% to whatever I take up.

Positive criticism is essential for growth but only from people who are experienced and knowledgeable. Absorbing all

Date and time: Saturday, August 20, at 7:30 p.m.

Venue: The Trusts Arena, Henderson Tickets on sale at www.eventfinda.co.nz and can also be purchased at Eco Travels (all outlets), Yogiji’s Food Mart (Mt Roskill), Auckland Indian Sweets (Otahuhu) and Giriraj Foods (Avondale)

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

Historic exhibition of Māori portraits to open at Auckland Art Gallery

NEW ZEALAND

IWK Bureau

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ore than 150 historic oil portraits of Māori and Pākehā will be shown at Auckland Art Gallery in the largest ever exhibition of work by artist Gottfried Lindauer—New Zealand’s pioneering and most prolific portrait painter and a key cultural figure in the country’s art history.

The Māori Portraits: Gottfried Lindauer’s New Zealand will feature artworks from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It opens on Saturday, October 22. Entry would be free.

After a public search to locate further portraits by Lindauer, Auckland Art Gallery has discovered 36 bona fide artworks from around the world. At least six of these will be shown in the exhibition.

Gallery Director Rhana Devenport says this will be the most significant exhibition of Māori portraits to ever be seen and a “once in a lifetime opportunity” to view the oil paintings together.

The exhibition will bring together an array of finely detailed portraits of Māori rangatira (men and women of standing in their communities) in both traditional and western dress, portraits of colonial settlers, and large paintings depicting Māori life and customs.

Lindauer’s personal history, from his art training and migration from Europe to his artistic inventions once in New Zealand, will be highlighted, bringing new insights to the relevance of his life’s work in the 21st century.

New ways to understand how this period of change, controversy and colonisation was visually recorded will also be

investigated in the exhibition, as the role of photography in the creation of Lindauer’s portraits is explored.

Independent curator Ngahiraka Mason has been working on the project for more than four years. The gallery’s current Curator, Māori Art, Nigel Borell, is assisting Mason.

Historical photographs from the period, historic correspondence and Māori taonga (treasures) that were gifted to the artist, plus memorabilia and documentaries will give an insight into this fascinating period of New Zealand’s history.

Mason says many of the people depicted in the portraits have descendants living today.

Alongside the main show, the gallery will run a smaller exhibition, Identifying Lindauer: His Materials and Techniques.

This will look at Lindauer’s art practice and provide insights by comparing a number of his original works with real-life forgeries.

Image credits: Gottfried Lindauer, Pare Watene 1878, Auckland Art Gallery, Gift of Mr H E Partridge 1915 Gottfried Lindauer, Eruera Maihi Patuone 1874, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of Mr H E Partridge, 1915

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NEW ZEALAND

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

HOMESTART SCHEME MODIFIED: HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOU? Swati Sharma

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he government, on August 1, announced important changes to the KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme to allow more New Zealanders to buy their first home. The changes include increasing income threshold and house price cap that will allow more Kiwis with low and middle income to access the government grants provided by the HomeStart scheme.

In a statement announcing the changes, PM John Key said, “From today (August 1), the house price limits have increased by $50,000 for existing homes and $100,000 for new build homes right across the country. People will also now be able to access the scheme if they earn below $85,000 a year as an individual or $130,000 as a couple.”

The changes come as a part of National government’s comprehensive housing plan to improve housing affordability and will provide eligible New Zealanders with a grant of up to $20,000 per couple towards the deposit amount on their first home.

While the National government believes that these changes will help more first homebuyers get a foot on the property ladder, Opposition Leader Andrew Little says that the Housing Minister was forced to make the changes after the number of applications being declined or withdrawn trebles in the past year.

The Labour leader said that the Minister had no choice but to make these changes. He said that the scheme has been tailored to help it “keep up with skyrocketing Auckland house prices”.

“Nick Smith is going to have to keep raising the thresholds if National does nothing to build affordable houses in Auckland.

It is now clear the Unitary Plan is not going to provide the affordable homes Aucklanders

Changes in the house price limits AUCKLAND • The limit for an existing house is increasing from $550,000 to $600,000 • For a new-built house, the limit is going up from $550,000 to $650,000

OTHER HIGH-DEMAND AREAS* • The limit for an existing house increases from $450,000 to $500,000 • For a new-built house, the limit goes up from $450,000 to $550,000

REST OF NEW ZEALAND • The limits for an existing house increases from $350,000 to $400,000 • For a new-built house, the limit is increasing from $350,000 to $450,000.

*Other high-demand areas include Hamilton, Tauranga, Western Bay of Plenty, Porirua, Nelson, Selwyn, Christchurch, Kapiti Coast, Upper and Lower Hutt, Wellington, Tasman, Queenstown Lakes and Waimakariri

Changes in the income threshold

• For individuals, the income limit will increase from $80,000pa to $85,000pa • For couples, the income limit increases from $120,000pa to $130,000pa

What this means for you Now an average couple that earns $60,000 each can afford a $650,000 worth new-built house with a five-year investment in KiwiSaver worth $45,000 and a HomeStart grant worth $20,000 towards the 10% deposit through a Welcome Home Loan

are so desperate for.” According to the information obtained

by Labour, the number of applications declined in Auckland

has gone from 52 per quarter to 231 and in Christchurch from 22 declines per quarter to 113.

For Wellington, the number has

gone up from 9 to 59, Hamilton from 6 to 58 and Tauranga from 11 to 46. The number of applications withdrawn or failed

to go through has gone up from 65 to 327 in Auckland, from 28 to 163 in Christchurch, from 10 to 86 in Wellington, from 13 to 93 in Hamilton and from 13 to 70 in Tauranga.

Meanwhile, NZ First leader Winston Peters said that these changes are pointless and will make no difference as the market is far out of reach for the first-homebuyers.

“Raising the income and price caps is just a complete waste of time. The whole purpose of the KiwiSaver scheme is supposed to be saving for retirement anyway,” Peters said.

He further said that most of the Kiwis are not earning enough money to even enter the required caps or be eligible.

“When you have very ordinary houses selling for close to $1 million in Auckland, the new price caps make it all pointless for the great bulk of first-homebuyers.”

He suggested that instead of “playing around the edges”, the government should put “an immediate cap on the immigration and present housing supply policies”.

According to independent QV data, around 30% of all house sales in Auckland during the first three months of 2016 were below the new Auckland HomeStart house price limits of $600,000 for existing homes, a statement from the Beehive said.

In its first year, this scheme helped around 12,000 New Zealanders across the country into their first home—not just in the main cities but also in the regions—and it’s expected to help around 90,000 people over five years.

In our next issue, we will discuss the issue further with the opinion of the housing experts and the potential first-homebuyers. If you wish to give your views about how these changes will affect you, feel free to write to us before Tuesday, August 9, at reporter@ indianweekender.co.nz.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

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Senior Best Chef: Hand-medown recipes from Indians IWK Bureau

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elevised cooking competitions have taken the world by storm, providing viewers with endless hours of entertainment. But a new cooking show currently being filmed at NZMA Sylvia Park is aimed at much more than pure entertainment.

Senior Best Chef NZ has been launched as a way to help integrate the older generation of Indian immigrants into the local Auckland community. It will showcase the culinary skills of a group of talented over 55-year-olds, who will be cooking secret recipes passed down to them by their parents or grandparents.

Dishes prepared by the 50 contestants will be judged by a panel of eight of Auckland’s most acclaimed chefs.

The brainchild of the Life International Charitable Trust, the competition aims to boost morale and build self-esteem among the older Indian population in Auckland.

“Many of our elders have struggled to make a new life for themselves here. They’ve left family and friends behind in India, and find it difficult to forge new relationships due to age, language and cultural barriers,” said the Trust’s Janesh Kharbanda.

“Competing in this event will give our seniors a sense of pride and achievement and also motivate other seniors to get out there and give things a go.”

Competition judge and head of NZMA’s School of Culinary Arts Jasbir Kaur is expecting some mouth-watering

A participant at the cooking competition

competition dishes. “The contestants are all incredible cooks, and they’ll be sharing their most treasured family recipes. I think some of the dishes will be pretty mind-blowing,” said Jasbir. “Everybody comes from a diverse range of backgrounds and walks of life. Some are just regular people who have a love of cooking, whilst others have previously been chefs or owned their own restaurants back in India. Our oldest contestant is 85!”

But regardless of background or age, the contestants share a love of food and a desire to forge meaningful, rewarding lives for themselves in Auckland.

Senior Best Chef NZ will screen nationwide on APNZ TV in August, and a cookbook featuring the winning recipes will be out later in the year.

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5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Asian community raises more than $48,000 for child cancer research IWK Bureau

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lympic medallist, TV presenters, entrepreneurs and Auckland mayoral candidates teamed up with the Asian community at a gala dinner on Friday, July 29, to help raise more than $48,000 for child health research.

Funds raised at the Panpan Mission fundraising charity will go to Cure Kids, the largest non-government funder of child health research in New Zealand, who support vital research into a wide range of illnesses that affect children.

Cure Kids chief executive Frances Benge said the funds from this event were to be directed particularly at supporting child cancer research and the work of Dr Mandy da Silva who, alongside world-class paediatric oncologist Dr Andrew Wood, is conducting research into genetic mistakes driving childhood leukaemia.

“The work that Dr Wood and Dr da Silva are undertaking is at the cutting edge of paediatric oncology. The support of the Panpan mission will significantly help advance this project,” said Ms Benge.

The Panpan Mission Campaign team

Items auctioned during the fundraising charity event

Dr Wood’s research requires additional funding and the more than $48,000 raised at the Panpan Mission event will be used for this purpose.

Initiated by three associations, Taiwanese Business Association of NZ, Taiwanese Junior Business

Association of NZ, and the Asian New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, the event sponsored

by Stamford Plaza in Auckland was attended by about 220 people including mayoral hopefuls John Palino and Victoria Crone.

Organisers Pin Cross-Cultural

Design Solutions and their partner Brand Magic are thrilled with the outcome of the event.

“As part of the Chinese community we wanted to work with our Kiwi partner to bring a true cross-cultural charity collaboration to life. In this instance we selected Cure Kids as the recipient of our efforts” said Joyce Liu adding, “It was a great start to use technology, social media and languages that the Asian Community are familiar with as a way to contribute to a charity as well as communicating with a wider New Zealand audience in a different way.” Also among the guests at the fundraiser named

after Panpan—a toy bear with a red love heart on his face—were TV presenters, entrepreneurs, fashion editors and two-time Olympic medalist Bruce Kendall who hosted the auction for the big prize of the night—a bottle of cognac, which went for $8,880.

Other prizes included bespoke jewellery, Chinese art, photographs, a traditional Chinese Qipao dress and Richard Clayderman concert tickets.

Alongside treating patients at Starship Children’s Hospital, Dr Wood conducts research at the University of Auckland.

Panpan means hope in Chinese—the love heart on Panpan’s face represents hope.

igniting minds Hei Whakahihiko Hinengaro

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

SOUTH LINE

News-in-brief from South Island 2016 Sensational Selwyn Awards under the Arts and Culture category. More than 300 people attended the event during which nine Selwyn businesses, groups, ore than 200 people were mesmerised and individuals were recognised for last weekend when Christchurch their excellence. hosted its first-ever qawwali muqabla “The awards recognise individuals in between the city’s very own Fijian-legend the community who provide service and Avinash Dass and the ever-green Khalid inspiration to the wider community and Hussain of Auckland. through their efforts help make Selwyn a The four-hour long event was great place to live. They are an opportunity emceed by Vinesh Prakash, Secretary, to recognise individuals, groups and Christchurch Fiji Association, and was businesses that excel in their fields,” noted supported by the Babasiga Seqaqa Selwyn Mayor Kelvin Coe. Football Club.

Grand qawwali muqabla in the city

Christchurch school in racism row

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he city’s Christ’s College was under fire recently when claims of racial abuse were made against its under-14 rugby team.

The alleged incident happened during the College’s rugby game with St Thomas of Canterbury College.

It was alleged that a Christ’s College player racially abused a Fijian member of St Thomas College, with the latter taking the formal complaint to the Canterbury Rugby Union.

Meanwhile, the Christ’s College management, after an internal investigation, noted that they were unable to substantiate the racial abuse claims made against its under-14 rugby player and that the college is open to any external investigations.

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Indians take up Kiwi citizenship at the City’s 160th-anniversary celebrations

Kiwi-Indians awarded at 2016 Sensational Selwyn Awards

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Candle-light vigil shows solidarity with Kabul victims

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candle-light vigil was held in Christchurch on July 25 by the Afghanistani and the wider community to show solidarity with the victims of the recent bomb blasts in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Condemning the barbaric act against civilians and demanding justice, the organisers—young Afghanis living in Christchurch—noted how their community has been deeply affected by the recent events in Kabul.

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he husband-wife duo of Surinder Tandon and Archna Tandon, who have been living and celebrating the multiculturalism of the Selwyn district near Christchurch since the 1980s, were award nominees at the recently concluded

special citizenship ceremony was held on Sunday, July 31, in Christchurch’s famous Botanical Gardens to mark the 160th anniversary of the founding of Christchurch, in which two Indians, Ravi Kiran and Kamiya Devi, were among the 32 people from 12 different nationalities, who became New Zealand citizens.

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel, Internal Affairs Minister Peter Dunne, and a number of local MPs attended the function.

Interestingly, Christchurch became a city

by Royal Charter on July 31, 1856, making it officially the oldest established city in New Zealand.

“Citizenship ceremonies are always very special, joyful occasions but this one was extra special because it is occurring on the

160th anniversary of the founding of this great city,’’ Mayor Dalziel noted.

The Minister too welcomed all new Kiwi citizens and thanked them for “making New Zealand a genuine melting pot of all cultures”.

Get fit, Bollywood style

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hawn Thomas, the young man behind the recently-staged Bollywood musical in Christchurch Meri Padosan PK, is now ready with his new initiative—Get Fit Bollywood Style.

Touted as the fusion of Bollywood dance moves with splashes of exercise and fitness routines thrown in, the event is being organised on August 20, with many more sessions planned at later stages.

Compiled by Gaurav Sharma

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5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

FROM THE BEEHIVE

New partnership to provide more than 700 youth opportunities from family and the community,

Minister’s fund helps Kiwi kids get into sport

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port and Recreation Minister Jonathan Coleman has awarded a number of grants to enable more Kiwi kids to play winter sport.

“Participating in [a] sport is a key part of Kiwi childhood. It helps keep our kids active, making them healthier and happier, and teaches them valuable life skills,” says Dr Coleman.

“However, for some kids and their families, the costs associated with sport, such as gear, uniforms and membership fees, are a real barrier to participating and competing. To help with this, I partnered with the iSport Foundation to distribute the $44,000 Sport and Recreation Discretionary Fund to Kiwi kids who need a hand to reach their sporting goals.”

Almost half of the fund went towards providing grants of up to $100 for 175 deserving kids across New Zealand aged between 12 and 18 years of age to help pay for their gear and fees. Twenty-nine of the $100 grants have gone to Ruapehu College, a decile 2 school in Ohakune.

$44,000 Sport and Recreation Discretionary Fund to be distributed among Kiwi kids

“In Ruapehu College’s two rugby teams a number of players have been playing in borrowed boots. These grants mean that this winter, players will be on the field in well-fitting boots,” said Dr Coleman. A further $4,400 was shared among four high schools: • Waitakere College received $4,000 worth of sporting equipment and $1,000 towards sports uniforms • Papakura High received $2,900 for sporting equipment • Dannevirke High School received $2,400 to help the rugby, football, netball, basketball teams travel to games away from school

• Dargaville High School received $1,500 towards rugby fees and uniforms and $1,500 towards entry fees and transport for their basketball teams The fund also went towards supporting a small number of promising youth athletes.

The iSport Foundation, founded by former All Black greats Richie McCaw, Dan Carter and Ali Williams, has been supporting 12–18-year-olds achieve their sporting goals since 2009. They do this by providing grants and a crowdfunding platform, sports gear, leadership, and inspiration.

creative sector programme that helps young people from disadvantaged backgrounds make positive life changes will receive $90,000 under a new partnership between the government and Te Aratika Trust, Youth Minister Nikki Kaye announced on August 2.

“The government will contribute $30,000 and Te Aratika Trust will contribute $60,000 to support at least 770 young people to participate in the programme, which will be delivered by AdairBeatz,” says Ms Kaye.

“This new partnership will target young people from disadvantaged communities living in Rotorua, Hastings and Christchurch.

“The programme will consist of workshops delivered over several weekends, and will support participants’ personal development through the acquisition of skills such as performance and technical skills, marketing, teamwork and leadership.

“There are incredibly talented young Kiwis out there who are living in situations where positive opportunities are limited.

“This partnership is about reaching out to these young people and, along with support

supporting them to overcome issues such as violence and substance abuse and chart a positive new path.”

The funding announced will support AdairBeatz to provide the workshops over 2016–17.

Invitations to take part in the programme will be made via schools and social media, etc., to young people living in the targeted communities.

“The partnership with Te Aratika Trust is the second I’ve announced under a new approach to youth development in New Zealand. This new direction is seeing the government co-invest with philanthropic and business partners to increase the number of youth development opportunities available.

“Last month, I announced the first partnership under the new approach. This partnership, with The Vodafone Foundation, will support around 1,500 mentoring opportunities in Auckland and Waikato.

“I expect the new approach to increase the number of youth development opportunities from 50,000 to 70,000 annually, with the overall funds targeting disadvantaged youth increasing from 18 to 30%”

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Final recommendations on Auckland Unitary Plan

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uckland Council published the recommendations provided by the Independent Hearings Panel on the new planning rulebook for Auckland, the Auckland Unitary Plan.

The panel’s report sets out detailed recommendations on the final shape of the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. Mayor Len Brown described the release of the recommendations as a major milestone for Auckland. “The process from here is that we as a council need to consider the panel’s recommendations and make final decisions,” he said.

Deputy Mayor and Auckland Development Committee Chair Penny Hulse said, “There is now a very clear legal process for councillors to follow. This is a crucial time for Auckland as we consider the recommendations of the panel.”

The Unitary Plan aims to provide a single set of rules to manage how Auckland’s housing and infrastructure develops over the coming decades. Among the many issues covered, the report includes recommendations that the panel says aim to: ¡¡ Focus urban growth on centres, transport nodes and corridors to achieve a quality compact urban form ¡¡ Retain the Rural Urban Boundary but expand it to include 30% more land and enable it to be changed by private plan changes

Auckland Council publishes the Independent Hearings Panel’s recommendations

¡¡ Enable a development pattern to meet

demand for the next 30 years and double the feasible enabled residential capacity to exceed 400,000 dwellings ¡¡ Ensure sufficient capacity for the next seven years ¡¡ Enable the growth and development of new or existing rural towns and villages ¡¡ Provide live residential and business zonings for some developments on the edge of existing urban areas The full version of the Unitary Plan can be viewed on www.aucklandcouncil.govt. nz/unitaryplan The panel has also provided with maps, which represent its recommendations in relation to rezoning, precincts, the location of the Rural Urban Boundary and the extent of the overlays. These maps are available through the council’s GIS viewer.

JOE.

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With an AT HOP card, you will pay for one entire journey from A to B, instead of paying for each bus or train separately. Simply count the number of zones you travel through to work out your fare.* During your journey you can use up to five buses or trains within four hours, with a maximum transfer time of 30 minutes between each trip. Tag your AT HOP card on and off each bus and train.

There is a monthly pass option available.

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*Excludes SkyBus services. If you are travelling within a zone overlap area as part of a journey and paying with an AT HOP card (this means tagging on and off within the same zone overlap area) this may count as travelling through a new zone. From 14 August 2016 you can refer to AT.govt.nz/journeyplanner for the correct fare.

Terms of use and registered prospectus for the AT HOP cards are available at AT.govt.nz/athop or at the Transport Information Centre, Britomart. The obligations of Auckland Transport under the AT HOP cards are unsecured.

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NEW ZEALAND

POWER COLUMN

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Protecting our native species John Key Prime Minister

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here are many things that make New Zealand special, but without a doubt one of the most remarkable is our unique environment, which draws people and praise from around the world.

While we rank among the best in the world on almost all environmental indicators, where we can improve is by ensuring we give our native wildlife better protection.

New Zealand is home to many unique native creatures and plants that are central to our national identity from Kiwi to kākāpō and tui and we must do more to protect them.

That’s why last week I announced we are working towards the ambitious goal of New

Zealand becoming predator free by 2050.

We want to rid every part of New Zealand of rats, stoats and possums.

The impact of these introduced pests cannot be overstated; they kill around 25 million of our native birds every year. They also threaten our economy and primary sector, with their total economic cost

estimated at around $3.3 billion a year. It is our collective responsibility to do more to address this. The National-led Government is leading the effort, by investing an initial $28 million in a new joint venture company called Predator Free New Zealand, to drive the programme alongside the private sector.

The announcement has been welcomed by many organisations, philanthropists and conservation groups and has also attracted positive international media attention.

This new company will be up and running by early next year and be responsible for identifying large, high-value predator control projects and attracting co-investors to boost their scale and success.

This new funding is on top of the $60 to $80 million already invested in pest control by central government every year and the millions more contributed by local government and the private sector.

This is the most ambitious conservation project attempted anywhere in the world,

Protecting our future

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Phil Goff Labour MP

uckland is a great place to live. It is New Zealand’s only city of scale. We offer choice and opportunity in learning, in work and in play.

We have the diversity that makes Auckland a really interesting place to be.

We also live in a great environment. Our natural setting is outstanding and marks our city out. We enjoy three harbours, a thousand beaches, the volcanic cones across the city, our regional parks and public open spaces around Auckland. Even in winter, our climate is moderate and not hard to live in.

Our attractiveness as a city to live in means more than 50% of New Zealand’s entire population growth is occurring here.

This also creates the biggest challenge the city faces.

Population growth, at 800 extra people a week, is putting pressure on the quality of our life. We need to ensure that we cater properly for growth and not let it undermine what makes Auckland a special place to be.

Ensuring our infrastructure is built as we grow is critical.

We need an international class public transport system because, with 800 new cars in the city registered each week, we are becoming congested and headed towards gridlock on motorways.

We need thousands of more houses. As demand exceeds supply, it is becoming unaffordable to buy or even rent

homes. We are already the third least affordable city in the world because we haven’t planned for the growth in demand and prices have gone through the roof.

The other area we need to be mindful of is preserving the beautiful environment we live in.

That hasn’t got much attention or debate so far in the mayoral campaign but it is really important. Water quality is one issue. The Auckland Council State of the Environment report last year suggested that in 28% of our beaches, pollution meant that swimmers risk getting sick. It’s nowhere near as bad as Rio but it is still unacceptable.

It is a problem we need to fix.

Obsolete sewerage and storm water systems and runoff from our roads are part of the problem.

We need a major upgrade of infrastructure.

but I believe if we all work together as a country we can achieve it.

This is just the latest step in the National-led Government’s commitment to protecting our environment and our track record speaks for itself.

This includes our decision to establish the world’s largest fully protected ocean sanctuary in the Kermadecs and our efforts to improve the quality of our fresh waterways.

We are the first government to set national water quality standards and we have increased spending on fresh water improvement ten-fold.

It’s important we continue to protect our unique and awe-inspiring environment for future generations and the Nationalled Government is committed to doing just that.

We want to show the world what is possible and reinforce New Zealand’s reputation as a worldwide leader in conservation.

One in six Auckland families have a boat and fishing is a popular form of recreation. In the Hauraki Gulf, our snapper fish stocks have been reduced to 19% of their original size. What many regarded as our birth right, being able to catch a feed of fish for our families, is under threat.

We have to stop the increasing sedimentation of the Gulf, which is damaging the habitat for fish.

Commercial fishing techniques such as bottom trawling are also doing huge damage to fish spawning habitats and need to be stopped.

Thirdly, carbon emissions are something we have to play our part in dealing with. Last year at Paris, New Zealand accepted the obligation to cut emissions to reduce global warming. One way to do that is to speed up the change from petrol and diesel

buses and cars to an electric fleet.

Council can help promote that change starting with its own large 800 car fleet. Having an efficient, clean electric light rail system will also make a difference for the future.

Planting more trees in our city, especially mature trees helps absorb carbon. It also helps reduce runoff, protecting coastal and stream areas against erosion and providing a barrier to phosphates, nitrate and sedimentation getting into our waterways and destroying their quality.

As Mayor of Auckland, implementing these changes to protect the environment, which makes our city such a special place to live will be a priority for me. We need to preserve for our children and grandchildren the heritage we have and enjoy.

Asian families need better support to thrive Denise Roche Green List MP

H

ow well are different communities faring in New Zealand? That’s the question that the recent Families and Whānau Status Report asked about the many different ethnic communities that make up New Zealand, which was released last week.

Kiwis’ experiences differ across regions, age groups and family sizes, but one thing that stood out for me was the challenges that Asian individuals and families

are facing. Thirty-two per cent of Asian families say they can’t easily express their identity. On reflection, this is not surprising given that in 2012 nearly one in five Asian New Zealanders had recently experienced racism—in the workplace, on the street, or in their community, Everyone should feel that their identity is valued and celebrated, no matter their background. We should be supporting the many wonderful community groups who promote different identities, cultures and religions in New Zealand by increasing the funding available to them.

Another glaring issue in the report is the 53% of Asian families who feel dissatisfied with their working hours and pay

and the 19% who say they have experienced unfair discrimination in the past year.

One reason that some Asian families are feeling more vulnerable is that people who have recently arrived in New Zealand are more at risk from exploitation in the workplace.

We have seen too many stories this year about migrants and young people being underpaid, made to work excessive hours, and being refused their basic rights.

The government needs to step up to make sure that there is better enforcement of labour laws and that people are being treated fairly.

Of course, what has made the situation worse for some people

is the National government’s 90-day trial experiment, which allows anyone to be fired in their first 90 days at a new job, no questions asked. The idea was that employers would take a chance on someone new who they might not have otherwise hired.

Independent research by MOTU, paid for by the taxpayer, shows that this policy hasn’t worked. Instead, it’s made it easier for businesses to fire people unfairly and not be held accountable.

But the government refused to revisit the plan, despite it not doing what it was intended to.

This inaction is another symptom of National’s refusal to do anything than the bare minimum on crucial issues

facing New Zealanders. The Superu report also told us that a massive 58% of Asian families are paying for unaffordable housing. It’s outrageous that so many people will struggle to save enough money for their children or their retirement because they are spending far too much on accommodation.

The Green Party has a better plan for housing that will help more New Zealanders to have affordable, safe and warm houses for themselves and their families.

It’s a fundamental part of Kiwi values that people who work hard should be able to afford their own home, and we want to make sure that this is a reality for current and future generations.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

National assisting first homebuyers The answer to New Zealand’s long-term housing challenges is a wide programme of reform of which KiwiSaver HomeStart and the Welcome Home loan scheme are just a part.

We are reforming New Zealand’s planning system, building laws, investing in record numbers of apprenticeships, supporting councils with infrastructure costs and directly building homes through the Crown land housing programme.

The Green Party wants to reduce house prices over time by 50%. Labour has said they would not support that. How does this work alongside their so-called pre-election Coalition Agreement, which they said at the

Kanwaljit Bakshi National List MP

T

he government has made important changes to its KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme as part of its comprehensive plan to address housing issues. The government has increased the income and house price caps of the KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme to ensure it meets its objectives of helping New Zealanders buy their first home.

KiwiSaver HomeStart is about helping first homebuyers pull together a deposit with a grant for a couple of up to $10,000 for an existing house and $20,000 for a new home. We are adjusting the income and house price caps to take into account increases in both since the scheme was announced.

The income caps increased on Monday, August 1, from $80,000 to $85,000 for a single person and from $120,000 to $130,000 for a couple.

The house price caps have increased from the $350,000, $450,000 and $550,000 depending on region to $400,000, $500,000 and $600,000 for an existing home, and to $450,000, $550,000 and $650,000 for a new home. This reflects the $50,000 increase in the national median house price since the scheme

began. We are deliberately increasing the cap for new homes by an additional $50,000 to help drive growth in a new residential building.

The house caps of $600,000 existing/$650,000 new apply to Auckland, the $500,000 existing/$550,000 new applies to those areas gazetted in Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, Queenstown, Nelson, Tasman and Selwyn, and the $400,000 existing/$450,000 new to the other areas of New Zealand.

These increases will also be applied to the Welcome Home loans. These loans enable first homebuyers to buy with a 10% deposit and because they are government guaranteed and are exempt from the loan-to-value (LVR) ratio limits from the Reserve Bank.

time was something new and refreshing for NZ politics? In fact, their so-called coalition agreement is turning out to have been a media stunt and a very cynical electoral deal for votes—nothing at all to do with being honest with New Zealanders before they vote as to what a Green-Lab government would actually do in government.

This is not the first time that Labour and the Greens have talked to each other—for example, Auckland’s urban limit, which Labour wants to scrap but the Greens want to keep.

And it almost certainly won’t be the last time it happens either.

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FIJI

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

FIJI Doctors from India in Fiji to perform free screenings

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group of seven Indian doctors from the Deoyani Multi Speciality Hospital in Pune, India have begun conducting free screenings in Fiji.

This is the first time the group visited Fiji to conduct their free screenings in cardiology, advanced orthopaedic and oncology under the leadership of Doctor Shrirang Limaye.

The team, supported by Sahyadri Speciality Pacific Hospital Limited, tended to around 70 patients at Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva on Thursday, July 28.

On Friday, July 29, they saw four patients at the Labasa Hospital and the next day they saw patients at the Savusavu Hospital.

Group co-ordinator Durdamya

Munibhargav said the aim of this programme was to create health awareness because they believed prevention was better than cure.

“Early diagnose is very important and the doctors are present at first hand providing people many options for living a healthy life,” Munibhargav said.

“We are happy to provide free screening at [an] early stage so that patients are made aware and given options of what kind of treatment is best.

“So that they can act fast and liaise with the respective medical department and make [an] arrangement if they wish to visit our hospital in India.”

Dr Limaye said his hospital had treated five Fijian patients since December last year and it was successful. “Our specialists

Left to right: Specialists from Deoyani Multispecialist Hospital Dr Saurabh Mohite, Dr Anju Shrivastava, Dr Shrirang Limaye, Dr Netra Vishwakarma, group coordinator Durdamya Munibhargav, Dr Prajakta Chhabra, Dr Priyanka Bhusari and Dr Abhijeet Wahegaonkar at Labasa Hospital | Photo: Shratika Naidu

carried out a successful invention surgery on a Fijian patient where her brain tumour was removed through the nose without opening the skull,” Dr Limaye said.

“We are very happy to assist Fijian patients and this is why we are here in Fiji to conduct free seven days screening. We are making an appeal to the public to take

54 athletes, 32 officials for Rio Olympics

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he remaining 19 athletes and officials departed Fiji for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on July 31, making it the country’s biggest contingent to the Olympics.

Team Fiji will participate in 10 of the 42 sports disciplines, archery, athletics, boxing, football, judo, rugby sevens, shooting, swimming, table tennis, and weightlifting.

“The only thing left is to enjoy it for now on and perform at their best.

“The athletes alongside our officials need to make sure their times and other data are recorded so that they can perform at their highest level,” said Team Fiji deputy chef de mission Wayne O’Connor.

“We had a team bonding session two weeks ago where we mentioned some of the difficulties they may encounter in Rio. During

Some of Team Fiji atheletes at the Nadi International Airport on Sunday, July 31 Photo: Waisea Nasokia

the competition they became aware and we prepared for anything that comes their way.”

The 86-member team consists of 54 athletes and 32 officials including the chef de mission, coaches, section managers and medical personnel.

“Some of the challenges we’ve faced so far are confirming team members and that all had to be

confirmed by July 18,” O’Connor said. “I’d like to thank the government and all our corporate sponsors as well as FASANOC for all their continued support.

“Also to our families and friends who have always been behind us.

“These contributions have enabled Team Fiji to pay for their preparation and participation expenses,” he said.

advantage of this free service.

Anyone, even those from the streets can come and visit us.”

Doctor Anuj Shrivastava said they would be doing dobutamine stress echoes, which would be the first for Fiji.

“We would like to thank the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Ministry of

Group co-ordinator Durdamya Munibhargav said the aim of this programme was to create health awareness because they believed prevention was better than cure.

Social Welfare, Ministry of Local Government and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Government of India, Indian High Commission in Suva for their support,” Dr Shrivastava said.

“They have co-ordinated so well to make all the arrangements and we are indeed thankful to them.

“The hospital staff are very friendly and accommodative.”

Suva Juniors win football cup

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he inaugural Dominion Insurance Junior Football Cup ended on a high note at the University of the South Pacific’s Vaturara Park in Suva on Saturday, July 30.

The Olivier Jutel-coached Suva Junior Football Club (SJFC) A side won the tournament after impressive victories in the round-robin matches.

Jutel said the tournament was a huge success and praised the performance of players.

“The main idea for organising the tournament was to assist in the development of players in the country and we are impressed with the performance of players,” he said.

“There are a lot of talented players in the school system and playing in such tournaments would assist in the development.

Jutel, a former Northern FC and

Otago Under 13 coach in New Zealand, said the development of school players are very important.

“It is important we have a good football structure and focus must be at the school system as this where we can nurture good players and bring them up to that level playing for the national teams.

“One of the contributing factors of success for the New Zealand football are the development of players at age group levels and Fijian footballers are equally good as well and this is one way we can nurture players.”

Jutel, who is a lecturer at the University of the South Pacific, was fascinated with the talented players in Suva schools that made him forming the Suva Junior Football Club.

“The club comprised players from Fiji and Pacific Islands,” Jutel said.

FNU welcomes new Vice Chancellor

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iji National University (FNU) welcomed their newly-appointed vice chancellor Professor Nigel Healey on August 1.

Professor Healey is excited about the role and the opportunity to help further develop Fiji National University.

He said earlier that he wanted FNU to become the university of the first choice for students seeking successful careers.

Professor Healey was head of the College of Business, Law and Social Sciences at Nottingham Trent University in the UK before joining FNU.

Anticipate Fiji of tomorrow: Healey With more than 30 years of experience in a number of universities around the world, Professor Nigel Healey aims to set a new benchmark for Fiji National University.

He said that Fiji has important contributions to make to the economy and the social development of the nation.

“I think one of the reasons in particular most of us come to university is because we know first-hand the transformational role universities can play in the life chances of young people.

“I think higher education is now a completely global sector and we are a part of [the] global knowledge society,” he said.

Professor Healey added that he hoped he would bring that experience and global networks to support the development of the research and teaching for the advantage of the students. “Their future career is important for the students and for both economic and social development of Fiji.”

Professor Healy said the university needed to put their best foot forward in preparing the Fiji of tomorrow and to listen to the voice of the students

Newly-appointed vice chancellor Professor Nigel Healey

and understand what their concerns were. “We should know what the students are

concerned about, how we can respond to their concerns and work cooperatively with the student association.

“I know in the past students had issues in a range of things.

“First thing I want to do is review all the programmes being offered at FNU.” He said he would review the number of applications for the programmes also review the graduate employment rate of FNU students.

“We look forward to Professor Healey utilising his experience to give FNU a new direction,” FNU Chancellor Ikbal Jannif said.

FIJI

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

Transforming disabled kids’ lives

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undreds of disabled children recently took part in a sports day organised by Central Eastern Council of Special and Inclusive Educators (CEACOSIE) at the National Gymnasium.

The event brought together students of eight special needs schools in the region for a day of fun sporting activities.

Among the students were several whose lives have been transformed after being provided with wheelchairs under the Mobility Device Service (MDS), an initiative of the Spinal Injury Association of Fiji (SIA).

Mother of nine-year-old student Talei, Vika Cagilevu said, “Before Talei received her wheelchair five years ago, she could only crawl to get around. Since being fitted with a wheelchair by SIA it is so much easier for me to take her

around. The aunt of disabled 13-year-old Yash, Sashi said, “Before we heard about SIA through Hilton Special School, Yash just had a normal wooden chair that was too small for him, and he was not able to feed himself. Now he can eat by himself and his posture has really improved. He is going for a reassessment with SIA soon to fit him with a bigger chair. We are very happy about that.”

Talking about the scheme, Executive Director of Spinal Injuries Association Joshko Wakaniyasi said, “These stories really demonstrate the difference that proper assessment of wheelchair users need and proper fitting of chairs by trained professionals can make.

“But if we are to meet the demand and continue to change the lives of people [such as] Talei and Yash we need continued support from the public and private sectors.”

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Disabled student Yash was a part of the Central Eastern Council of Special and Inclusive Educators (CEACOSIE) at the National Gymnasium

China helps Fijis 7s

F

iji’s ‘Road to Gold’ campaign to fund the Team Fiji’s men’s and women’s rugby teams’ participation in the Rio Olympic Games received another financial boost from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama received a financial donation of $10,000. The PM, who is also the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) president, thanked the Chinese ambassador to Fiji Zhang Ping.

The Ambassador extended his well wishes to Team Fiji at the Olympic Games, which began in Rio de Janeiro on August 5.

American Embassy official opens New Saint John’s College Sick Bay

T

he newly opened sick bay at Saint John’s College, Cawaci, in Ovalau, is expected to benefit more than 500 students at the school. It was officially opened by United States of America Embassy deputy chief of mission, Doug Sonnek, on August 2.

School principal, Father Ekuasi Manu thanked the American Embassy for the school’s new sick bay room.

“As you know that our school was badly affected during Tropical Cyclone Winston and the school didn’t have a sick bay.

“Now we will be able to treat our students at school rather than referring them to the main hospital.” He said sometimes they had no choice but to look after the students at their dorms. Father Manu said the number of students had decreased prior to the cyclone because of overcrowding,” he said.

Boxing coach remains positive

T

eam Fiji men’s boxing coach Napolean Taumoepeau is confident that welterweight boxer Winston Hill would have a positive outing at the Olympic Games.

The 22-year-old is the country’s lone boxing rep to the Olympics after a 28-year lapse. “Winston is a world class boxer and in those levels; anything can happen,” Taumoepeau said.

“I’m happy with the way he has taken off in training. It is not his physical fitness but his mental preparation for Rio... When we are [at] this level of competition, it can go any other way, but I feel very good.”

He said their last week of training in Suva was the hardest.

Furthermore, Hill says, his last training session with Kwadjo had actually a helped him lift his performance.

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Thought of the week

Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.

—George Bernard Shaw

Editorial

From the desk of the Managing Editor

“

As Gladwell concludes the introduction: “What the Israelites saw, from high on the ridge, was an intimidating giant. In reality, the very thing that gave the giant his size was also the source of his greatest weakness. There is an important lesson in that for battles with all kinds of giants. The powerful and the strong are not always what they seem.

“David came running toward Goliath, powered by courage and faith. Goliath was blind to his approach—and then he was down, too big and slow and blurry-eyed to comprehend the way the tables had been turned. All these years, we’ve been telling these kinds of stories wrong. David and Goliath is about getting them right.

“The battle is won miraculously by an underdog who, by all expectations, should not have won at all. This is the way we have told one another the story over many centuries since. It is how the phrase ‘David and Goliath’ has come to be embedded in our language—as a metaphor for improbable victory.” ~Malcolm Gladwell from David and Goliath

A

lthough the author of the above passage is trying to make another point in his book, but I still wanted to use parts of this passage to make the point of what I always believe. I believe that life’s battles do not always go to the smarter or the faster person, but to the one who thinks he can.

While giants may seem intimidating, it is just a matter of bracing yourself, not giving up your faith and taking on the giant facing you.

We carry a prelude to the Olympics in this issue—the sporting field is another place where we often see the underdogs overthrow the giants. It’s a matter of grit and persistence. We will bring you updates as they unfold.

The various issues about international students have been in discussions now and again. This week we initiate a dialogue and invite students and members of the community to participate in this and support the cause.

Housing overall and especially the housing prices in Auckland continue to remain an issue. The government has now introduced changes to the KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme in a bid to help first homebuyers. There are several factors at play here and this is another discussion that we would like to initiate. As the dream of owning a home gets further and further away from the common man, any help or support is welcome if it can actually increase the chances of this dream turning into reality.

This seems to be the season of when star performers are on their way to entertain New Zealand and there are concerts lined up in the next few weeks. We hope our readers enjoy these, we will be carrying the reports and reviews of these as they happen.

Until next time Giri Gupta

Pick of the week

Hot Rock Spiking from inky storm clouds, a white-hot thunderbolt spears the plateau during a summer storm in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. (Photograph by David Rankin National Geographic)

Indian Weekender : Volume 8 Issue 20 Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited Managing Editor: Giri Gupta | girigupta@xtra.co.nz Editor: Annu Sharma | editor@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | reporter@indianweekender.co.nz Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | iwk.rizwan@gmail.com Reporter: Esha Chanda | iwk.eshac@gmail.com Chief Reporter - South Island: Gaurav Sharma Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | designer@indianweekender.co.nz Accounts and Admin.: accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Sales, Marketing & Distribution: 022 3251630 / mahesh.iwk@gmail.com Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent the views of the team at the Indian Weekender Indian Weekender is published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, Auckland Printed at Horton Media, Auckland Copyright 2015. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

Māori Phrase: Tau ke Aotearoa!

English translation: Awesome, Aotearoa!

Tip from the trenches

It’s snack time!

Combat those hunger pangs by nibbling on these healthy alternatives • Almonds are a great source of protein and contain essential nutrients • Low-fat popcorn will satisfy your craving for something salty and crunchy • Protein bars, the ones packed with fruit, nuts and are fewer than 200 calories • Crunchy and spicy wasabi peas are rich in protein and fiber and will keep you energised • A block of dark chocolate

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

OPINION/EDITORIAL

17

Sanders may have endorsed Hillary, his supporters may not Saeed Naqvi

B

alloons in blazing colours billow down the ceiling of the Democratic Convention arena in Philadelphia.

Then the cameras pull back, enveloping the Obamas and the Clintons in a shower of confetti, as they walk away from the carnival.

A similar show had ended the previous week in Cleveland where Donald Trump became the Republican nominee. In both instances, it was the razzle-dazzle of democracy in the television era.

Narendra Modi’s campaign in 2014 had these trappings too. A total convergence of the media in his favour made it the most expensive campaign ever. It gave him a powerful tail wind. The trio of Mother, Son and Manmohan Singh, by contrast, looked limp.

The Indian establishment had made up its mind. Modi won.

The world’s most powerful establishment has been working overtime not just to plug a hole but to block a torrent what Bernie Sanders calls “The revolution”.

And it has succeeded in keeping the choices to the Right of Centre. There were many in Philadelphia who, in their detail, are indistinguishable from those gathered in Cleveland.

In recent years, two movements surfaced in the United States: The

Bernie Sanders

Tea Party, a conservative ginger group within the Republican Party, and Occupy Wall Street, a quasi-Socialist wail against inequality.

Trump is the Tea Party candidate. He has leapt over precisely 16 candidates before being crowned in Cleveland.

Who could be a stouter pillar of the Republican establishment than the Bush family? Jeb Bush was knocked out flat early in primaries.

In other words, Trump has come through a trial by fire. All the dirt thrown at him in Philadelphia had already been hurled at him by fellow Republicans in their attempt to block his way up the nomination ladder. It did not work. Why would “muck” thrown at him in Philadelphia stick?

It is an easy story but it requires a little research. When did the

Democratic Party set its heart on Hillary Clinton as the Presidential nominee? Come wind come weather, the Democratic establishment had made up its mind. The rule book and the rigmarole about super delegates just came in handy.

Even in the Democratic Party there was continuous chatter that Hillary was “untrustworthy”, “dishonest”, that the ghost of ambassador Christopher Stevens would haunt her from distant Benghazi, that investigations on her use of personal computer for “top secret” work would not leave her untainted and so on.

All of this would be ammunition in the hands of the Republicans.

Why then would the Democratic Party go to such lengths despite risks for the November outcome?

So faithful to rules was the party that it would risk losing the

election to Donald Trump? Most opinion polls suggested that, in a direct contest, Bernie Sanders would beat Trump. Hillary would lose.

There is an overlap in the ruling classes controlling Republican as well as Democratic Party affairs.

The picture is not dissimilar to the one in India—Britain, Spain, Italy, Indonesia everywhere.

Corporates in Mumbai have in their hands strings to the ruling party as well as the opposition— heads we win, tails you lose.

It turns out that a “socialist” such as Sanders was anathema to the controlling elites of both the parties which work in conjunction in the face of such threats as Socialism. The spirit of Joseph McCarthy can be resurrected, not of Edward Murrow, Clarence Darrow and Arthur Miller. The irony is that the Death of a Salesman still draws full houses on Broadway as well as the West end. Possibly the greatest play of the 20th century could well be a contemporary parable on the American Dream and its delusions. And it has massive audiences.

The most poignant moment at the convention was the chant of “Bernie, Bernie, Bernie” by delegates, some crying copiously and waving Sanders placards when he stood up to endorse the party’s nominee.

When Hillary Clinton won the nomination, the camera cut to Sanders who had earlier endorsed her in the spirit of Democratic decency. I could not help noticing a wave of sympathy that occasionally erupted in tears. The audience here was in sympathy with the candidate who apparently lost because of institutional machinations.

Sanders’ endorsement of Hillary within the framework of the Democratic Party does not necessarily result in his supporters augmenting Hillary’s vote share.

Film-maker Michael Moore has advanced the theory of17 the “depressed” voter who may drag himself to the polling booth but will not have the passion for persuading, say, five other voters for doing the same. He would have persuaded 10 for Sanders.

This “depressed” voter is not angry with Trump. He is angry with the pro-Clinton Democratic machine. If he is 20, or 24 years old today, he can wait until he is 24 or 28. He was for constructive change under Sanders. In his frustration, he may begin to see merit in the other antiestablishment candidate— Trump, not because he likes him but because that would stir things up. And four years will pass just like that, in a flicker.

Job creation will drive next phase of reforms Abhik Ghosh

O

n the 25th anniversary of India’s economic reforms, a general consensus seems to have emerged within the country and without that the next phase reforms must address what has so far eluded agreement among the principal stakeholders: land and labour. Make in India will not happen if these two main factors of production remain entangled in political one-upmanship.

The government has made some overtures in the domain of land reforms, but the issues surrounding it have not yet fully crystallised. Unless there is clarity and consensus around land reforms, including land acquisition for implementing government’s industrialisation and infrastructure development projects, the vision of converting India into a global manufacturing hub will remain unrealized. It is essential to pursue efforts towards a comprehensive land reforms policy relentlessly to bring the matter to a satisfactory conclusion.

In the field of labour, the exercise for rationalisation and consolidation of labour laws undertaken by the government in the last two years has suddenly

It is essential to pursue efforts towards a comprehensive land reforms policy relentlessly to bring the matter to a satisfactory conclusion

taken a breather. Despite earlier attempts to push the agenda forward, the feeling that the main stakeholders were not taken fully on board has provoked angry reactions among the major trade unions, which have threatened a nationwide strike in September.

Recognising the possible implications of unilateral action, the Prime Minister has reportedly decided to proceed more cautiously in future by taking the workers’ representatives into confidence.

Industry lobby FICCI had set up a special tripartite group to consult the stakeholders and make suitable recommendations for the government’s consideration. As convener of the special group, I held extensive consultations and submitted my report making a host of

recommendations. Among other things, I advocated gradualism and proposed an incremental approach to labour law reforms in place of the wholesale reforms that were being attempted.

There really is no alternative to dialogue, compromise and consensus in the realm of social re-engineering. The efforts may appear tardy and frustrating at times, but sustainable results can be achieved only if we are able to hone the strategy of tactical retreat with a view to eventually finding the winning formula that will be acceptable to all.

The rolling back of government’s publicly announced EPF policies earlier this year is a case in point. The massive street protests in Paris in April and May 2016 against the French government’s labour reforms that

were perceived as pro-capitalist portend social unrest that may become intractable if such sensitive matters are not handled with understanding and empathy.

The fact that recent amendments to the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act encountered widespread criticism from academia, social activists, international organisations such as Unicef and others exposes the absence of broadbased dialogue and consensus building that is the cornerstone of progressive and sustainable labour reforms architecture.

Despite all the wishful rhetoric over the last two years of the present government, it is now common knowledge that enough jobs, especially decent quality jobs, are not getting created in the economy, particularly in the organised manufacturing sector.

The government would do well to ensure that the frustrations of youth poised to enter the job market are effectively contained.

Towards this end, the recent announcement about the massive injection of funds for skilling and re-skilling potential job seekers is most opportune.

The concerned department and agencies of the government must quickly respond by setting up capacity and infrastructure to absorb the funds and put them to best advantage. The youth is

impatient and care must be taken to ensure that the burning embers are not allowed to be stoked by “indosceptics” who have a problem with every solution.

Clearly, job creation is the single most important direction to follow in the next phase of reforms. If adequate numbers of jobs are available in the marketplace, the resistance to labour reforms on the part of the traditional trade union movement will surely mellow.

Meanwhile, the government should re-establish confidence and trust among employers’ and workers’ representatives by organising impartial and meaningful tripartite consultations on labour reform proposals that are doable. There is no point in biting off more than you can chew. The priorities and pace of reforms must be carefully calibrated so that the achievements can endure in the long run.

The government has three more years to go in its first term.

There is sufficient time to readjust the trajectory so that results start showing before it must inevitably return to the hustings. Alarm bells are not ringing just yet, but a gentle reminder is not out of order.

18

INDIA

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

INDIA

GOVT TO REVIVE MARITIME TIES WITH CHINA, PAKISTAN

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he government, on Monday, August 1, said it is trying to revive the historic maritime cultural and economic ties with 39 countries, including China, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Qatar, under a new initiative called Mausam.

“Our country has taken a big initiative in the form of this Mausam project. It is our Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to establish this link between 39 countries, of which China is an important and integral part. We (two countries) are working on this project. China is definitely an integral part of this project,” Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma informed the Lok Sabha during Question Hour.

Other countries include Vietnam and Mauritius as well.

Among others, Bharatiya Janata Party member Dushyant Singh wanted to know whether the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has approached its Chinese counterpart.

The minister said that both

The minister said the project aims to explore the multi-faceted Indian Ocean world, collating archaeological and historical research in order to document the diversity of cultural, commercial and religious interactions in the Indian Ocean extending from East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula to the South-east Asian archipelago.

To a supplementary from Sugata Bose (Trinamool Congress) on whether there has been any hurdle to the project from any of the 39 countries, Sharma said India has already started working with Qatar and China.

To another query from Biju Janata Dal member B. Mahtab on the national maritime museum, the minister said, “We are in the process of setting up more maritime museums.”

The scheme is at the conceptual stage as of now, he said. The Cuttack Museum in Odisha is the only maritime museum in the country so far, Sharma said.

Union Minister Mahesh Sharma

the ASI and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts are working with 39 countries on this issue along with departments concerned in China.

Congress member K.V. Thomas said Kerala has considerable maritime history and thus there is scope for tie-ups between Kerala and the countries in the Gulf region as also Europe.

Sharma said Kerala is part of the project for which Rs 15 crore has already been sanctioned.

Lok Sabha passes bill for quicker, easier debt recovery

T

he Lok Sabha, on Monday, August 1, passed a key bill empowering banks to take possession of the collateral, except for farm land, in the case of loan default, even as Finance Minister Arun Jaitley asserted that a culture should not be promoted where banks only are responsible for the recovery of loans.

“We should not create this culture where somebody can just take loan and be under an assumption that now it is the headache of the bank, I will sleep well, and bank should be answerable,” Jaitley said while piloting the Enforcement of Security Interest and Recovery of Debts Laws and Miscellaneous Provisions (Amendment) Bill, 2016.

The bill, which seeks to amend four laws—the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002, the Recovery of Debts due to Banks and Financial Institutions Act, 1993, the

Indian Stamp Act, 1899 and the Depositories Act, 1996—aims at faster recovery of debt by PSU banks, which are grappling with Rs 4 lakh crore of NPAs and Rs 8 lakh crore of stressed assets.

Jaitley ruled out any waiver in the event of education loan defaults, saying “some compassion” has to be shown if someone is unemployed, though clarifying that the loan cannot be written off totally.

The bill was passed by a voice vote after the amendments moved by opposition members were either withdrawn or negated.

Replying to queries from Lok Sabha members, the Finance Minister said the new law will empower the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to examine the statements and any information of Asset Reconstruction Companies related to their business.

The bill further empowers the RBI to carry out audit and inspection of these companies, and the central bank may penalise a company if it fails to comply with any directions issued by it.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

India must try to become a developed country by 2030: Jaitley

U

nion Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, on Saturday, July 30, said that India needs to see if the target of becoming a developed country can be achieved by 2030, having missed keeping former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s target of 2020.

“We have missed the bus for Kalam’s vision of making India a developed country by 2020. The date needs to be pushed further,” he said during the first Memorial Lecture on Kalam.

“Instead of 2020, if we push it to 2030, India has to follow a roadmap. It will need all investments from [the] private sector and on the global sphere as well, larger resources and push from the banking sector,” he said.

The government will always do investment, but investment from the private sector will come only if India becomes the best place to invest, he said.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley

“For that, India needs an easy business environment and needs to get rid of corruption.

“We may have opened up foreign direct investment, but in the land and construction requirement, India still ranks 183 out of 190 nations,” Jaitley said, adding, “This change needs to come at the state level else adverse

environment is created, which leads to [a] loss [of] revenue.”

On the taxation front, he said the indirect taxes have to be best in comparison to the world.

Hinting towards Goods and Services Tax (GST) coming in soon, he said: “The whole idea of one nation, one tax gives ease and freedom from any form

Climate Change Centre to come up at IIT Kharagpur

T

he Union Department of Science and Technology is planning to set up a Centre of Excellence at Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, to focus on climate change science, adaptation and mitigation, the institution’s director said on Sunday, July 31.

“The project will include water resources, biodiversity, agriculture, ocean and marine ecosystem, coastal and island vulnerability including sea level rise, extreme events, disaster risk reduction and management, Socio-economic vulnerability and Livelihood,” IIT Kharagpur director Partha Pratim Chakrabarti told the media after the institute’s 62nd convocation.

The project, which is expected to have a total budget of Rs 10 crore for five years, will focus on vulnerability and risk assessment

The Union Department of Science and Technology is planning to set up a Centre of Excellence at Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, to focus on climate change

due to various environmental drivers in a climate change scenario over eastern India.

The objective is to develop an integrated modelling system using coupled models, machine learning and data analytics to predict extreme events.

It will help in carrying out risk and vulnerability assessment of various environmental drivers and propose remedial solutions,

said Chakrabarti. The project will also provide comprehensive analysis and understanding of various extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones, pre-monsoon convective activity, extreme ocean waves and storm surges, sea level rise, extreme rainfall patterns, flash floods and their interactions in the overall assessment of vulnerability and risk in climate change scenarios.

of corruption.” Noting India has made progress towards infrastructure expenditure and has highways comparable to the best in the world, he also stressed that it should also move towards being a pensioned society.

“All developed countries of the world have pension and insurance, something India is still finding hard to accept. Some of the recommendations in my last budget for 7th Pay Commission...

I found employees didn’t like the idea of insurances and pension.

“The hallmark of a developed society is that it must become a pensioned society and insurancesecured society. You must be secured in your old age by what you have invested during your earning career, that is extremely important,” Jaitley said.

The government has also launched financial inclusion scheme, where every Indian family has to get a bank account, and the Mudra scheme, where

W

company subsidiary said in a statement. The deal is expected to be completed in September after regulatory approvals.

The 46-year-old Givon tier-1 supplier to original equipment manufacturers makes structural parts and assemblies for fuselage, wings and empennage of an aircraft.

With three manufacturing plants, including two in Israel and one at Everett, Washington in the US, Givon is also Israel’s largest manufacturer of

metallic aero-structure parts and assemblies, specialising in precision machining and sheet metal fabrication with a specialty in titanium. It has 290 employees.

“Givon has a tradition of expertise and enduring client relationships. We are confident of being a significant force in key markets with synergies from our combined portfolio and location proximity,” said the subsidiary’s chief executive Pratik Kumar.

The Wipro arm had set up the country’s first aerospace actuator

19

people who are not able to get jobs can turn entrepreneurs so that skills can be developed, he added.

The finance minister said that the government will fulfil targets of electrification of every village by 2018 and give road connectivity to every village by 2019, but said India also needs a network of educational institutes to move towards a developed society.

He said that Kalam had realised that India being an over-populated country needs to convert its human resource into an educated resource to achieve the aim of being a developed country.

“If India has to achieve the target by 2030, we have to avoid policy diversions from the agenda of development. Matters of region, religion, caste, etc. can deflect the development agenda.

We need a closure on these diversions,” he added.

We must focus on research, innovation in technology: Modi

P

rime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, July 31, said that the country needs to focus on research and innovation in the field of technology to fulfil former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s dream.

“We can only fulfil Kalam’s dream if the next generation works towards developing technology to which can be used in day-to-day life,” he said during his radio address Mann Ki Baat.

He added, “Technology keeps changing from time-to-time, you can’t hold technology.

The coming century is technology-driven.

Therefore, we must focus on research and innovation in technology.”

He further said that the government has launched ‘Atal Innovation Mission’ to create

an ecosystem for innovation in technology. “Let us aim to innovate. The NITI Ayog is promoting Atal Innovation Mission which will create an ecosystem for innovation, experiment and entrepreneurship.

This will also create employment opportunities”, he added.

Modi also said that the government has allocated separate funds to set up tinkering labs and implementation centres for Atal Innovation Mission.

“The government will sanction Rs 10 lakh to set up tinkering labs in schools. The government received as many as 13,000 applications from schools to set up tinkering labs.

“We have also allocated Rs 10 crore to set up new implementation centre [to] strengthen existing ones,” the Prime Minister added.

Wipro arm buys Israeli aerospace firm

i p r o Infrastructure Engineering, a division of Wipro Enterprises Ltd., on Monday, August 1, announced it has acquired Israel-based aerospace firm H.R. Givon for an undisclosed amount.

“The acquisition will help us to broaden product portfolio, expand [the] global footprint and forge deeper customer ties in the aviation and aerospace industry,” the city-based

INDIA

manufacturing facility at the Devanahalli special economic zone near the Bangalore international airport.

Being strategic to the company’s future, plans are underway to expand the facility into multiple product lines and enter into technology tie-ups with leading aerospace firms.

“Joining hands with Wipro gives us an opportunity to bring to the market an expanded range of offerings,” said Givon chief executive Ronen Givon.

With 1,700 global workforce and 13 production units across India, Europe, the US and Brazil, the infrastructure engineering arm is one of the largest hydraulic actuator manufacturers worldwide.

Wipro Enterprises Ltd., hived off from the IT services business from April 2013, is a global hydraulic solutions provider with expertise in designing and making custom hydraulic actuators and precision engineered components for a range of applications.

20

INDIA ABROAD

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

INDIA ABROAD

DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION TURNS SPOTLIGHT ON INDIAN-AMERICANS Arul Louis

T

hree leaders from the Indian American community took the stage before the 4,765 national delegates and the national media as the Democratic Party Convention turned the spotlight on the community, recognising its rising role.

The president of the Center for American Progress Action Fund, Neera Tanden, made an impassioned speech in support of the party candidate for President Hillary Clinton, declaring: “Hillary will always have our backing.”

She spoke of her family’s travails after her father divorced her mother when she was five and how the public safety net saved them and helped her eventually get an Ivy League law degree and to become Clinton’s adviser.

Congressman Ami Bera of California was presented as a leader reflecting the diversity of the Democratic Party in Congress.

Raja Krishnamoorthi, who is running for Congress from Illinois, came on stage as a “New Leader of Tomorrow.”

If elected, Krishnamoorthi will be the fourth IndianAmerican to serve in the House of Representatives.

Krishnamoorthi, a lawyer and a technology and environmental entrepreneur, joked that he probably had a “mutant gene” that made him turn to politics in a community that focuses on careers in medicine, technology and education.

He said his family was in “dire economic straits” and had a difficult time when he was a baby, but the “generosity” of the United States helped them come out of it.

Reflecting the rise of the IndianAmerican millennial, an 18-yearold delegate from Iowa, Sruthi Palaniyappan, introduced her state delegation’s announcement of its votes during the Convention roll call on July 26. She said that she “definitely” plans to run for public affairs. A Hillary delegate, she said she started at the local precinct level and worked her way up to get elected as a national delegate.

Among the young IndianAmericans starting out in politics is Neil Makhija, a candidate for State Representative in

Raja Krishnamoorthi

Shekar Narasim

Pennsylvania. The 29-year-old said that while people are more focused on the presidential elections, issues that directly affect the people such as education

Sruthi Palaniyappan

are decided at the state and local levels. Samai Kindra from Maryland has taken a year off after high school to work as an intern with the state Democratic Party

working on mobilising people to register to vote.

While an exact count of IndianAmerican delegates was not available, according to party sources there were about 300 Asian American delegates and a “sizable” number of them were Asian Indians. There were also scores of Indian-Americans volunteering at the convention.

Even though Indians are less than 1% of the US population, they can play a crucial role in the “battleground states”— the six or so states such as Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio where both parties are almost evenly balanced—according to Toby Chudhuri, a former White House strategy and communications adviser.

Saudi Arabia steps in to aid Indian workers as V.K. Singh arrives in Riyadh

T

he Saudi Arabian government has “taken serious note” of violation of labour laws by a construction company resulting in financial crisis for thousands of Indian workers, Minister of State for External

Affairs V.K. Singh said on Wednesday, August 3. Singh, who reached Saudi Arabia early on Wednesday in the wake of reports that Indian workers in the Gulf kingdom were facing a financial and food crisis, said that he had a “very good meeting”

with Saudi Minister of Labour and Social Development Mufrej Al Haqbani.

“It was brought out that the problem is because of one company which has not provided the humanitarian facilities as per the law of the land,” Singh said in a

NEW ZEALAND FIRST LIST MP

MAHESH BINDRA BASED IN AUCKLAND

Contact Auckland Office

Level 1, 21 East Tamaki Rd, Papatoetoe, Auckland 2025 Ph: 0800 BINDRA (246372) mahesh.bindra@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Mahesh Bindra, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

statement following the meeting in Riyadh.

“The Government of KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) has taken serious note of this lapse and has taken immediate action to ensure all camps where Indian workers were staying are provided facilities like medical, food, hygiene and sanitation.”

Singh said that the Saudi government was also providing free passage to all those Indian workers wishing to go back home.

“They have [also] agreed to allow transfer to any other company within Saudi Arabia,” Singh stated.

He said the Indian embassy was also preparing lists for workers for filing claims and of those who wanted to go back to India and thanked the Saudi government “for very positive action and magnanimous attitude exhibited”.

Saudi Ambassador to India Saud Bin Mohammed Al Saty told media in New Delhi that his country’s authorities have taken serious note of the lapse on the part of this one company.

On Tuesday, giving a breakup of the figures, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup said 4,072 workers belonging to construction company Saudi Oger in Riyadh were being provided shelter in 10 camps: nine in Riyadh and one in Damman.

“In addition, there are 2,153 Indian workers belonging to Saudi Oger in six camps in Jeddah all of whom have been provided food by the Indian consulate,” Swarup said.

There are over three million expatriateIndians in Saudi Arabia, most of whom are blue collar workers.

FEATURES

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

21

EDUCATION

NEW SOCIAL PLATFORM FOR YOUTH

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new social platform was launched on July 26 to help New Zealand youth make the best possible start to life after study.

YouthHub.co.nz connects youth, educators, service providers and businesses together to inspire and support students through education, training and employment.

“It’s a bit like LinkedIn for students and recent graduates,” explains Youth Hub founder and creator Senthil Perumal.

“Youth Hub will become the one-stop-shop for students and young people aged between 16 and 24 to read inspiring stories about their peers, tell their own story, and connect with prospective employers or others who can help them as they go through study, training and launch their careers.”

From the one platform, students create a profile and gain access to youth-friendly job

YouthHub.co.nz connects youth, educators, service providers and buinesses

listings, services and training such as CV writing workshops, and read inspiring stories about other youth embarking on their careers. A small group of students have been given early access to test the Beta version of the platform. Their feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

“It’s been great and super easy to use,” says 17-year-old Wellington East Girls College student Maddie Wright.

“It’s got the class talking about what we want to do when we leave school. It’s an awesome way for the community and youth to reconnect. Youth Hub has the potential to give us a better future,” adds 22-year-old Beta tester Jasmine Pene.

And it’s not just students full of praise for the new platform.

“It is clear many students want to get involved with this platform and understand the

value it provides as they build their profiles and share who they are. The teachers and parents I’ve spoken to about it have all been really impressed and can’t wait to get involved,” says Wellington East Girls College Te Reo Maori Head of Department Matiu Julian.

Perumal says he built Youth Hub with youth at heart.

“Although there are fantastic services, businesses and educators doing great things for youth, there has been no central system to achieve collective

Media Design School ranked #1 internationally

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edia Design School has been ranked as the world’s top tertiary provider for both graphic design and photography by a panel of internationally renowned judges, beating 479 other schools from 77 countries for these top honours.

Formerly known as the CG Student Awards, The Rookies aims to “...discover and showcase the outstanding talent emerging from higher education facilities and help launch them into careers at the world’s top studios.”

The judging panel included industry veterans from internationally recognised studios including Weta Digital, Framestore, Double Negative, Hell Studios, Thornberg & Forester, SONY Imageworks, and Pixar.

Of the nine international finalists for The Rookies Graphic Designer of the Year, two of the students selected were third year MDS Bachelor of Media Design students. Sherylene Chan was awarded the Runner-up in this particular category, whilst Bailey Hancox was awarded Highly Commended for her digital portfolio.

Graphic Design Lecturer Jim Murray says that this result is a reflection of the high calibre of the students selected to undertake Media Design School’s Bachelor of Media Design.

Sherylene Chan was awarded the Runner-up in this particular category

“This result represents a significant achievement for the school, our students and the Bachelor of Media Design programme alike,” says Murray.

“By introducing our students to project-based learning and live briefs from their very first day at Media Design School, they are able to produce works that appeal to the global design community. We are exceptionally proud of Sherylene and Bailey’s achievements,” says Murray.

Two recent graduates of Media Design School’s Bachelor of Art and Design degree, Brock Ennion and Phillip Chang, were selected as finalists in The Rookies Photographer of the Year category.

Landscape photographer Phillip Chang, who is currently working as an Assistant Technical Director at

Landscape photographer Phillip Chang took out the Rookie of the Year award in Photography

Weta Digital, took out the Rookie of the Year award in Photography.

Associate Lecturer Rafael Bonatto, who teaches all of the degree’s photography components, says that in their first year of the Bachelor of Art and Design degree, students are introduced to essential photography principles that they utilise throughout their degrees.

“These fundamental photography concepts are applied to the student’s 3D work, where they are constantly improving their photography skills as they are in total control of their cameras, lighting, and composition,” “This enables them to visually communicate a story, which is the most important aspect of photography,” says Bonatto.

“Phillip was a very dedicated student who constantly strove to

improve his photography skills in and out of the classroom.

We are thrilled to see his hard work pay off.”

Media Design School’s awardwinning third year Bachelor of Art and Design student short film Escargore, also fared well, winning the Runner Up prize in The Rookie’s Animated Film of the Year category.

What’s more, Karl Davis, a recent Bachelor of Art and Design graduate, was awarded one of the three Oceania Internship opportunities on offer.

Last year, the then-CG Student Awards ranked Media Design School among the top three schools in the world to provide VFX/Animation and Game Development qualifications, making it one of the best tertiary providers in its field globally.

impact. Youth Hub has all fundamentals of social media user experiences that our youth are so conversant with.

“We live in an incredibly exciting time for youth because they’ve got more options available to them than ever before. Our children can truly become anything they set their minds to and work towards. That’s an awesome opportunity but it can also be quite overwhelming for some youth, so our platform is there to help guide and inspire them to make the best possible start to whatever career they choose.”

Youth Hub is a free service for students and those educators, services and businesses who would like to profile themselves on the platform. It’s been more than two years in the making with input and support from a wide range of stakeholders around the country.

Schools urged to make submissions on Education Bill

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roposals to update the Education Act for the 21st century reflect a need to think about the flexibility schools and others need in their legislation, says Acting Secretary for Education Katrina Casey.

The present Act came into force in 1989 and has been amended more or less every year since then.

The Ministry of Education held an initial round of consultation last year, with over 1800 submissions received in response.

This feedback has helped to shape the draft legislation that will be forwarded to Parliament’s Education and Science Select Committee in the coming months.

There will be a further consultation period as part of the Select Committee process and Ms Casey urged schools to look for the draft legislation when it reaches Select Committee and to make their own submissions on it.

If enough submissions are received from around the country, Select Committees may ‘go on the road’ to give submitters a better opportunity to speak to them directly, she says.

The Ministry of Education is already aware of some schools’ plans to use the legislative process as an opportunity for their students to learn about the way Parliament creates laws and how the public are able to participate in that process.

22

SPORTS

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

SPORTS

THE ROAD TO RIO

We take a look at the Indian and New Zealand contingent who gear up for their Olympic dream

Esha Chanda

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io de Janeiro has been in the news since it was chosen to be the host of the 2016 Summer Olympics, and lately more so because of the numerous problems that have cropped up in the last couple of months. While every host city has had their share of problems, Rio seems to be facing the most—foreign contingents have complained about the unhealthy and inhabitable Olympic Village, Russians have been caught in a doping drama, the suspension of the anti-doping laboratory six weeks prior to the opening ceremony, and the Zika virus is doing its rounds (an outbreak that led to many athletes backing out of the Olympics).

While naysayers are shaking their head in disapproval, those who stood by the decision of choosing Rio over more stable venues say that the city has been transformed. Rio’s Mayor (and its most faithful cheerleader) Eduardo Paes is doing the best to address the problems.

Ignoring the issues in the build-up to the games are athletes who have been gearing up for the big day. The 28th edition of the Games kicked off in Rio on August 5. In the following days, the world will witness 10,500 athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees who will compete for 306 sets of medals in 28 sports.

India’s 120-strong contingent

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ndia will sorely miss silver medallists shooter Vijay Kumar and wrestler Sushil Kumar along with bronze medal winner Mary Kom, but the country stands a strong chance to grab medals as it sends its strongest contingent ever with 120 athletes.

Among them is champion shuttler Saina Nehwal—who heads into her third Olympics—the country’s best bet to score a medal in badminton. Eyes are also set

on the 23-year-old Kidambi Srikanth.

But the young player will have to cross many hurdles—that includes facing tough adversaries from Mexico and Sweden— before he makes his way to the end.

Archery lost its charm for Indians when the women’s team, ranked second in the world, lost in the first round in 2012. The country and its players can still feel the sting of the loss from four years ago. But this year, 22-year-old Deepika Kumari along with Laxi Rani Majhi and Bombayla Devi have the possibility of brining back home a medal.

In shooting, India stands a chance to bag more medals. There is hope as the country has sent its largest shooting contingent to the Olympics that includes bronze medallist Gagan Narang (2012), gold medallist Abhinav Bindra (2008), and world No 2 in 50m pistol shooting Jitu Rai. Eyes are also set on 22-year-old Dipa Karmakar—the first woman gymnast to qualify for Rio.

Olympic firsts for New Zealand

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he country’s Olympic team has evolved over the years. From 21 competitors in 1932 to growing to a team of 54 in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics held nearer to home,

the size of the team has been increasing and now a close to 200-strong contingent is all set for this year’s Games. Hopes are high from New Zealand women’s hockey team who narrowly missed out on winning a medal in the 2012 Olympics held in London. Hearts were broken when the Dutch won the match in a penalty shootout.

This year’s team consists of five players who have played more than 200 tests, including Kayla Whitelock, who is returning for her fourth Olympics.

With golf back in Olympics after its last appearance in 1904, New Zealand confirmed three leading golfers for the Games this year: world No. 1 Lydia Ko and the country’s top-ranked male golfers Ryan Fox (son of the legendary All Black Grant Fox) and Danny Lee. In another first, New Zealand will also have three 1,500m runners for Rio: Julian Matthews, Hamish Carson and silver medallist Nick Willis (2008).

Elizabeth Cui made a splash this year when she became the first New Zealand Olympic diver in 24 years. She is the only diver to be chosen to represent the country and will be competing on her 19th birthday.

In rugby, 24 athletes—12 players in each in men’s and women’s teams—were named on July 3 to represent the country in a sport close to the Kiwi heart. Rugby returns to the Olympics after 1924. The two teams will be led by Scott Curry and Sarah Goss.

Rio Summer Games begin

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io de Janeiro will host “great” Summer Olympic Games despite last-minute problems, International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach said.

The IOC Executive Board wrapped up its meeting to evaluate the status of the Games in four hours, with all the members’ questions addressed, Bach said on Sunday, July 31, reports Efe. “We have the expectation that we’re going to have great Games, although, as always, we’ll have some last-minute challenges. But the Brazilians have shown us that they are capable of dealing with these challenges, including in the short term,” the IOC chief said during his first appearance before the media at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Park’s Press Centre.

“We’re sure that we are going to have some great Olympic Games Brazilian style,” Bach told the hundreds of reporters from around the world who are in Rio to cover the Games, which started on August 5.

“Brazilian-style Olympic Games are games full of passion and the joy of living,” Bach said in response to a question about whether his comment referred

IOC president says Rio will host “great” Summer Olympic Games but can expect some last-minute changes

to last-minute problems on the part of Brazilian organisers in completing facilities.

Bach acknowledged that after receiving complaints from different teams about electrical and water problems at the Olympic Villa, the first thing he did after arriving in Rio de Janeiro was to inspect the housing facilities.

“But when I got there and spoke with the athletes and chiefs of the delegations, I saw that they all

had positive views of the Olympic Villa. They admitted that there had been problems with water leaks a day earlier, but everything had been fixed. The consensus is that the villa is beautiful, fantastic, with spectacular amenities and has everything you need,” the 62-year-old former Olympic champion fencer said.

The rest of the Olympic facilities and venues, including the much-criticised Guanabara Bay, the polluted body of water where

the sailing competition will take place, are all being monitored thoroughly, Bach said.

“At this time, we are doing four examinations per day that show that the water in the bay meets World Health Organisation standards,” the IOC chief said.

The IOC Executive Board discussed several issues, including doping among Russian athletes, and members’ concerns were all addressed, Bach said.

“As you can tell from the fact

that a meeting scheduled to last two days ended in half a day, everything was very efficient. The main topic was the presentation of the Rio Games. We received a report from the organising committee and all the members were able to ask questions,” the IOC chief said.

The board discussed Rio’s “Olympic legacy,” such as the new Metro line, the port’s revitalisation and new highways built exclusively for buses.

SPORTS

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

INDIA TO HOST KABADDI WORLD CUP IN OCTOBER

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ndia will host 12 teams in the Kabaddi World Cup scheduled to take place in October, the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) announced on July 31.

The US, Canada, UK, Australia, Iran, Poland, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Korea, Japan, Kenya and India are set to take part in the competition.

Kabaddi became a part of Asian Games in 1990.

“The International Kabaddi Federation is immensely proud that kabaddi is growing in popularity so fast and is all set to breakthrough on a global stage with the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup scheduled in India.

“We are committed to nurturing the sport across the globe,” Janardan Singh Gehlot, president of IKF said.

“The phenomenal success of Pro Kabaddi and the participation of players from around the world is a testament to kabaddi’s promise as a global sport.

“We are delighted and proud to have India host 12 countries for the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup,” Gehlot added.

Mohammad Raza Maghsodlou, vice president of the Asian Kabaddi Federation and secretary of Kabaddi Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, stated that the 12 participating countries are engaged with training and other preparations for the World Cup. “Iran sees a global future for Kabaddi. Of course, the team from Iran is very good and

India will host the Kabaddi World Cup this year, featuring 12 countries, in October

we will participate with a view of lifting the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup,” Maghsodlou said. The Iranian team gave the Indian side a close fight in the final of the 2014 Asian Games Kabaddi competition.

Several Iranian players are star performers at the Star Sports Pro Kabaddi league and much sought after by the league franchises.

IKF officials point out that they are taking special care to ensure that the selection of the participant teams for the World Cup is representative of every Olympic geography.

23

Hamilton wins fourth race in a row

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ewis Hamilton of Mercedes took advantage of a good start to win the German Formula One Grand Prix and boost his overall standings lead over his team-mate Nico Rosberg to 19 points in Germany on Sunday, July 31.

Hamilton claimed his fourth consecutive win as he finished ahead of second-place Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen who completed the podium, reports Efe. Hamilton’s fellow Mercedes driver, Nico Rosberg, had started in pole position but slipped back after a poor start in front of his home fans and was later penalised for performing what race officials ruled had been a dangerous manoeuvre that forced Verstappen off the track.

Rosberg crossed the line fourth-placed as Hamilton claimed his 49th Formula One win, the sixth victory this year.

Hamilton now joins greats such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Ayrton Senna, Jackie Stewart and Fernando Alonso as a three-time German GP winner. The 31-year-old English driver heads into the holiday break with 217 points before racing resumes toward the end of August at the Belgian circuit of Spa-Francorchamps.

FEATURES

24

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

By Manisha Koushik

Manisha Koushik is the talented daughter and associate of world renowned celebrity astrologer Dr Prem Kumar Sharma.

A practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and fengshui consultant is based in India but maintains a global presence through the online channels. She is available for consultations online as well. Let her tarot cards do the magic and numbers make you understand which choices in life will be best for you! E-mail: support@askmanisha.com | Website: www.askmanisha.com Contact: +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +919015607139

WEEKLY FORECAST: AUGUST 5 TO AUGUST 11

TAURUS

ARIES

GEMINI

CANCER

(March 21-April 20)

(April 21-May 20)

(May 21-June 21)

(June 22-July 20)

There is some reservation in your mind in taking up a job. Review it properly before signing the dotted line. You derive much pleasure and immense happiness in togetherness by seeking the company of a partner. Job seekers and those self-employed can expect a good break with excellent returns. An enjoyable social evening is on the cards. An outing does magic for the mentally tensed and physically fatigued. You manage a difficult task well at work.

Lucky No.: 11 / Lucky colour: Peach

A busy week is indicated that will keep you engaged in work related issues. Stars are favourably poised for a long-term affair or marriage. Now is the time to reap the full benefits of your good financial planning. Positive happenings all around will keep you happy and contented. An invitation to marriage or party may be received. Don’t take risks on the road, as stars appear unfavourable. A difficult phase begins on the academic front, so tighten your belt.

Lucky No.: 5 / Lucky colour: Purple

Engineers, doctors and other professionals may find this week to be productive. On the marital front, there is a likelihood of tension with the partner. So, don’t provoke or get provoked. A monetary issue needs to be settled amicably. Not sticking to a fitness regime is likely to affect your health adversely. There may be some more avenues open on the academic front, so explore them all. An outing may not be as much fun as you had anticipated.

You are likely to keep a laid back attitude at work during the beginning of this week. At home, lethargy may not cut ice with the partner, so perk up and make yourself useful! Job interviews or job-related activities are likely to take some time to bear fruits.

It is important to remain positive. A minor ailment irritates, but not for long. Your wait for something important is likely to be over soon. Prepare well for an exam or competition.

Lucky No.: 9 / Lucky colour: Coffee

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

(August 24-Sep 23)

(Sep 24-October 23)

You are likely to spend some quality time with likeminded people this week. Exchanging sweet nothings with lover will help to satiate your love pangs.

Spending on inessentials is certain to weigh heavy on your pocket, so remain judicious. A family member may need your attention on the academic front. If you get a chance to see a new place, don’t miss the opportunity. You may get motivated to take up an outdoor sport, just to remain fit.

The attention that you are getting nowadays on the romantic front will keep you beaming for long. A loving and caring person is likely to strike a friendship with you. You will soon taste the satisfaction of climbing the ladder of success on the professional front. You gain mental balance, physical strength and emotional harmony. A new field of work is likely to fascinate you and push you to take it full time. You enjoy excellent health.

Lucky No.: 15 / Lucky Colour: Red

(July 23-August 23) Your efficiency at work will come in for praise by those who matter. Don’t shy away from taking help on the academic front. Be careful with whom you associate romantically as a two-timing individual may prove disastrous for your peace of mind. Those contemplating a joint business venture should postpone it by at least a month. Those with allergies or some medicine intolerance need to be careful.

Learning new skills or driving is possible for some.

Lucky No.: 1 / Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky No.: 6 / Lucky colour: Dark Green

Lucky No.: 1 / Lucky Colour: Cream

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

SCORPIO

(Oct 24-November 22) You are good at what you do. Continue to do a good job and you will soon find yourself climbing the corporate ladder. A journey planned with family may not turn out as enjoyable as anticipated. You manage to recover money invested in a bad deal, but not without your share of hiccups. Unfounded fears threaten to disturb end of this week on the academic front. You will keep the promise given to someone, even if it inconveniences you.

Lucky No.: 2 / Lucky Colour: Sky Blue

PISCES

AQUARIUS

(Nov 23-December 11)

(Dec 22-January 21)

(Jan 22-February 19)

You will need to remain guarded to protect your interests. Influencing someone to turn things in your favour may meet with mixed success. Those planning a family are in for some good news. Those connected with export and import can expect a windfall. Overdoing anything this week on the fitness front may cost you dear. Don’t leave anything to chance on the academic front. A responsibility needs to be discharged on the social front. Do so at the earliest.

Lucky No.: 18 / Lucky Colour: Pink

If you are facing turbulence in your relationship and finding faults with partner, remember it takes two to tango! On the academic front, a much-awaited outcome will be in your favour. Project yourself in a befitting manner, if you want to get noticed by those who matter on the professional front. Do a bit of financial planning, before you start thinking along the lines of investment. Your resolve to get back in shape is admirable.

Lucky No.: 3 / Lucky Colour: Maroon

Work is likely to chase you and make you panicky.

An important event will make you all excited and raring to go. Someone may approach you in a matter related to your profession. Being fully prepared on the academic front is a misnomer, so keep at it! You and your beloved coo like two lovebirds! Job dissatisfaction is likely to make you look for greener pastures. Expect an eventful journey. You are likely to regain lost energy.

Lucky No.: 17 / Lucky Colour: Orange

(Feb 20-March 20) A conniving person is likely to sway your opinion against someone and get you into trouble, so be careful. Take advice from everyone, before giving the green signal for a domestic project. Your romantic endeavours are likely to bring excellent results. A timely investment done previously may prove a goldmine. On the work front, you are likely to display extraordinary commercial acumen. Find ways to remain focussed on the academic front.

Your health initiative will prove beneficial.

Lucky No.: 8 / Lucky Colour: Dark Red

SOULSPACE

Breathe it right Yogi Ashwini

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f you trace a person from being an infant to a full grown adult, you will notice, in most cases, a progressive decline in the skin texture and complexion. A baby is glowing pink whereas most adults, even in their prime youth, are plagued with a diseased skin and dull complexion. This is because, in the process of growing up, one is exposed to certain unnatural practices and stimuli from which it was kept protected in the womb.

For instance, the simple act of breathing. If you observe a baby breathing, you would notice a pronounced abdominal movement. The stomach inflates as it breathes in and deflates as it breathes out. If you observe your own breathing patterns, most likely you will find it to be the opposite with little or no abdominal movement. This breathing pattern holds the key to the way you look and your present state of health.

Abdominal breathing maximises the up and down movement of the diaphragm and ensures that lungs function at their optimal level, that is, they throw out spent air completely and adequately replenish the body with fresh air. A decreased

Yogi Ashwini

Our hyperactive lifestyle and artificial environment result in decreased activity of the chakras hampering the the next layer, commonly known proper exchange as the aura, which comprises of prana various energy centres and

lung activity causes toxic residue to stay put in the body manifesting as disease and loss of natural radiance.

Our physical body, formed of the five elements, is a reflection of

channels, called chakras and nadis respectively. The physical lungs and respiratory system, for example, are a reflection of the functioning of the anahat chakra in the etheric body.

These chakras interpenetrate the physical and etheric layers, spiralling three-and-a-half times in clockwise, and three-and-ahalf times in the anti-clockwise

direction. When a chakra moves clockwise, it is pulling fresh prana in, and while in reverse motion, it is throwing out heavy prana.

Our hyperactive lifestyle and artificial environment result in decreased activity of the chakras hampering the proper exchange of prana. As a result, there is a congestion of prana in the pranic layer and hence, the physical body being a reflection of the pranic body, shows symptoms of old age and disease. My book Sanatan

Kriya: The Ageless Dimension details specific practices from the Sanatan Kriya to stimulate and ensure optimal functioning of the various chakras to prolong youth and radiance. For the specific example of the act of breathing, one may practice the Ujjai pranayam.

Yogi Ashwini is the spiritual head of Dhyan Ashram and can be reached at www. dhyanfoundation.com

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

Samsung introduces Galaxy Note 7 @Maheshk

Performance wise, it packs Exynos 2.3 GHz Octa-core processor coupled with 4 GB of LPDDR 4 RAM. It also packs a 3,500 mAh battery and comes with Android Marshmallow based skin. The phone does feature fast charging and in a first, it also has a USB Type-C port.

Like its predecessors, Note comes bundled with S Pen too.

This time the stylus is much more accurate due to a smaller 0.7mm tip. After various complaints with the Pen in Note 5, Samsung has made it idiot-proof this time, which means users would not damage the device if they insert the stylus incorrectly. The pen is also water-resistant just like the phone itself and it recognises 4,096 different pressure levels to bring that ‘ink on paper’ feel.

Among the new features, it lets you take a quick memo without unlocking the phone and ‘pin’ the memo on the screen. It also lets you easily create and share GIF animation files. The Pen also enables the user to easily ‘Magnify’ and ‘Translate’ by just hovering the stylus on the phone.

Another highlight of the phone that was long rumoured and

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ast week, Samsung dropped its flagship phablet Galaxy Note 7 on the world.

The phone had its global launch on August 2 at Samsung Unpacked event in New York. After a runaway success of Galaxy 7 and Galaxy 7 Edge, Samsung seems to be on a winning streak here as the industry lauds what the all-new Note 7 brings to the table. Just in case you are wondering where Note 6 went, Samsung did away with that generation to bring the new Note at par with Galaxy 7.

With the Note 7, Samsung has stuck to the design language introduced and honed in for the last couple of iterations of the Galaxy series. As a result, it does look a lot like Galaxy 7 when you first set your eyes on it. It does have a huge 5.7-inch screen but the phone retains the slickness and smooth curves. The display is cutting edge or dual-EDGE to be more specific. It is a QHD AMOLED panel with stunning 518ppi. Needless to say, media consumption would be a treat on this screen.

FEATURES

25

turned out to be true was the inclusion of an iris scanner to enable additional security. The phone still has a fingerprint scanner but just adds a layer of security. Of course, you need to set it up when you use the device for the first time. Once it is set up, all you need to do is look at the device to unlock it. Although it is the first iteration of this feature on a Samsung device, the company seems to have spent a lot of time perfecting this feature and it is evident in the smooth and swift unlocking. Now, if the users are happy in the real world with this feature, it might soon become a norm on all the phones, just like fingerprint scanners have become.

The smartphone will soon go on sale in August and be available through carriers globally. In New Zealand, the unlocked phone might be priced around $1200.

When is it time to upgrade your kit lens?

Jeffery Chan

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ost entry level DLSR cameras are sold with kit lens. What is a kit lens? It’s a general purpose lens that can capture good images when there’s good amount of light.

It is catered for beginners who are starting out and discovering the world of photography. It is great for the most part of the day when there’s sufficient light but will struggle when the light starts getting dimmer and as a result, your photos start to get underexpose.

When that happens, what can you do?

You could try a few things: 1. Increase your ISO 2. Shoot at the widest aperture of your lens 3. Turn on the built-in flash or use on-camera flash/speedlight 4. Find a better lit location Each action above will have its own drawback. Increasing ISO will increase noise. Noise in photographic term referring to the grainy effect that appears in an image. It will look more obvious in darker areas of the image and less so in brighter areas, so that’s one reason you don’t want to increase your ISO too high. Professional DSLR is build to better handle high ISO and that is one of many

1 reasons they cost so much more.

Entry level lens usually has their lowest aperture settings at f3.5 or f4. At this aperture setting, the out of focus areas (bokeh) will not be as creamy as compared with f1.8.

Working with built-in camera flash or on-camera flash while it does the job of lighting your subject, but the results are not always flattering. A straight on flash will create harsh shadows and often makes skin tone too washed out. You can overcome this to some extent by using a diffuser.

A diffuser is usually a piece of translucent material that spreads the light source into a larger area.

It softens shadows and makes the subject look more natural.

Sometimes a well-lit area might not have the desired background or it might be too distracting. This week, we shall look at upgrading

your kit lens to overcome issue number two above.

As I mentioned in my last article, I would highly recommend your first upgrade to be a 50mm f1.8 prime lens. All lens manufacturers have this lens in their collection and most are not overly priced.

It is when you choose to go with f1.4 is when the price almost doubles. A prime lens has no zoom capability and you have to use your feet if you want to zoom in or out.

On a side note, most entry level DSLR comes with crop sensors (APS-C). Usually, it’s either 1.5x for Nikon or 1.6x for Canon. What this means is that when you have a 50mm lens on, it gives a field of view equivalent to that of a 75mm lens on a full-frame or 35mm film camera. Meaning if you use a 50mm lens on a full-frame camera, you will get a different

field of view compared to using it on an APS-C camera. See diagram 1. A prime lens, like the 50mm f1.8, has a wide aperture that can give you about four more levels of light (stops) compared to the kit lens with apertures of f3.5.

Four stops increase your ability to overcome underexpose problem when in low light, avoid the use of flash, reduce the need to increase ISO and gives you the freedom of more shooting location.

Since there’s no zoom capability, a prime lens is less bulky and weighs almost nothing.

The best part about it is that it’s reasonably priced. The 50mm f1/8 was one of my first lenses I bought and I still use them today. It is a very versatile lens that will work for a variety of photography.

The major disadvantage of a prime lens is there’s no zoom capability. Sometimes you might not have enough space to move

back or you are too far from the subject and can’t get closer. To overcome this, you will need to get a variety of prime lenses such as the 35mm or the 85mm. However, you then face the problem of carrying all three lenses and needing to get a camera bag to fit them all.

You might want to upgrade your kit lens if the focal length is not sufficient for what you photograph. If you want to photograph your kids playing football, you are going to need a lens that can zoom out to 200mm.

If so, then a general purpose lens such as the 18-200mm lens will be my recommendation.

Most lens manufacturers have some sort of image stabilisation built into the lens that helps when you are zoom out to 200mm.

Although much heavier than your kit lens, it gives you the added zoom capability and makes for a great travel lens as well.

Jeffery is the owner and photographer at STUDIO81 photography, which is located in Newmarket and East Tamaki. STUDIO81 is one of Auckland’s leading portrait photography studios and specialises in modern glamour transformation. Jeffery is an award-winning photographer.

26

KIDS ZONE

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Join the dots

Colouring

The clever thief

D

evan was a clever thief. He robbed the rich and gave all to the sick and the needy. The other thieves were jealous of him. They planned to get rid of him. They challenged to steal the Kingís Pyjamas. Deven accepted the challenge.

After that, he prepared to execute the new challenge. He charted out a plan to steal the King. He prepared himself mentally to carry out a plan.

He went to the Kingís Palace. He found the King sleeping. He opened a bottle of red ants on the bed. The King was badly bitten. He cried for help. The servants rushed in. They pretended to look for ants. Deven removed the Kingís Pyjamas and escaped. Other thieves were dump founded.

They accepted Deven their leader.

Moral : Be clever

Did You Know Mark Twain, one of America's best-loved authors, dropped out of school when he was 12 years old Victoria Woodhull became the first woman candidate for the US presidency on April 12, 1872 Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, was actually afraid of the dark Sir Edmund was the first to climb Mt Everest and return Send us stories, drawings, poems and other contributions by your little ones along with their photographs for this page. E-mail us at editor@indianweekender.co.nz

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28

ENTERTAINMENT

Anupam Kher’s The Headhunter’s Calling to premiere at TIFF

V

eteran actor Anupam Kher’s film The Headhunter’s Calling, which features Scottish actor Gerard Butler in a key role, will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The

film festival will take place from September 8 to 18.

Kher, honoured with Padma Bhushan, shared the news on his Twitter handle and even posted a video. “My film The Headhunter’s Calling with Gerard Butler is premiering at Toronto Int Film Festival,” Anupam wrote.

In the accompanying video, the actor says, “I came to the city of Mumbai on June 3, 1981, with Rs 37 in my pocket, which is half a dollar and I can say that I have done fairly well.

“I want to share a great news with you that my film The Headhunter’s Calling, which also stars Gerard Butler and William Dafoe, has been selected at International film festival at Toronto.” By citing the example of how a “Rs 37 guy from Mumbai will be attending a film festival”, he wanted to convey: The 61-year-old, who essays an Indian-American paediatric oncologist in the film, attended the TIFF in 2012 for the premiere of his Hollywood film Silver Linings Playbook, which also starred American actors Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence.

The Headhunter’s Calling is directed by Mark Williams and written by Bill Dubuque.

Kajal to play a homely wife in Ajith’s next

M

ost popular for playing urban, glamorous roles to a tee, actress Kajal Aggarwal will be seen playing a homely wife to Ajith Kumar in his yet-untitled next Tamil outing. “Kajal will be seen as Ajith’s wife in the film.

Unlike her previous roles, she will be seen in a homely avatar,” a source from the film’s unit said.

To be helmed by Siruthai Siva,

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

the shooting of the film will commence in Bulgaria from next week. “The crew has already left.

The actors will leave over the weekend and Kajal will join in the second week of August. The team has planned to shoot for

40 days across several locations in Bulgaria. They might also extend the trip,” he said. Tipped to be a spy thriller, predominant portions of the film will be shot abroad. The film has music by Anirudh Ravichander.

Sanjay Dutt says Munnabhai 3 to release in 2018

A

ctor Sanjay Dutt says that the much-anticipated third part of the successful franchise Munnabhai will release in 2018.

At a media interaction on the occasion of his 57th birthday, Sanjay said, “My movie with (Vidhu) Vinod Chopra sahib will start in November, it is called Marco. And after that, I am doing a film with Mahesh Manjrekar, it is a remake of De Dhakka, and then there is a good line-up

Sanjay’s Munnabhai, had stated that the film has got delayed as Hirani’s biopic on Sanjay with Ranbir Kapoor in the lead is yet to go on floors despite initially being set to begin in June.

Asked about the biopic, Sanjay said, “First of all, I am not acting in it; I think it would be shot in February.”

A special appearance maybe?

“I don’t know that I will ask Raju sir about it.” He also said, “I have started working out, I do martial arts. I spend four hours in the gym in a day. I have quit drinking. You should not drink alcohol. There is a very strict diet for me, grilled fish, grilled chicken and you have to eat what you eat in the hospital.”

Sanjay was released from jail this February, after serving the remainder of his five-year sentence for illegal possession of arms.

Anurag ’s film honoured in South Korea

F

i l m - m a k e r Anurag Kashyap’s psychological thriller Psycho Raman (Raman Raghav 2.0) has won the Best Asian Genre Film at the 20th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) in South Korea. Kashyap, who is popular for films such as Gangs of Wasseypur and Ugly, took to Twitter to share the news.

I can never be a director: Alia

A

lia Bhatt has showcased her acting prowess and singing skills as well as her fashionable side, but the actress says she will never wear the director’s hat for any project.

The daughter of film-maker Mahesh Bhatt and yesteryear actress Soni Razdan added that she can plunge into the filmmaking business as a producer, but never as a director.

“Maybe I can produce (films) one day, but I don’t think I can ever be a director because being a director takes a lot. I don’t think I have that capability,” Alia said.

“Psycho Raman wins Best Asian genre film at BIFAN (Korea) and Rohit Mittal’s ‘Auto Head’ wins Best Actor for Deepak Sampat,” Kashyap tweeted.

The film-maker also shared a document, which read: “European Fantastic Film Federation Asian Awards has been attributed to Psycho Raman directed by Anurag Kashyap by the European Fantastic Film Federation Asian Award jury of the 20th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, composed by Guy Delmote and Daniel Cohen.”

Psycho Raman is based on a notorious serial killer, who operated in Mumbai during the mid-1960s. The film was also premiered at the Cannes Film Festival this year.

Once Upon a Time... role was challenging: Emraan

A

of movies.” About De Dhakka, he added, “It is a family film and it’s about how a broken family reunites. He (Manjrekar) has adapted it well, let’s see what happens.”

Asked about Munnabhai 3, he said, “2018.” Asked the reason for the delay, considering the excitement in fans for the film, he replied, “That you should ask Raju Hirani and Vinod sir. Even I am waiting for Munnabhai.”

Recently, Arshad Warsi, whose character Circuit plays sidekick to

Since her debut project Student of the Year in 2012, she has delivered laudable performances in films such as Highway, 2 States, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, Kapoor and Sons and Udta Punjab. Her only setback was last year’s Shaandaar.

Asked if she takes any guidance from her family, she said, “While making the film no advice comes from my parents. All advice comes from my director.”

The actress will next be seen in director Gauri Shinde’s upcoming Dear Zindagi alongside superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The film will release on November 25.

ctor Emraan Hashmi said that playing the role of gangster Shoaib in the hit 2010 film Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, which clocked six years of its release, was both challenging and enjoyable for him.

Directed by Milan Luthria, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, which released on July 30 in 2010, also featured Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut, Prachi Desai and Randeep Hooda.

“One of my favourite films!

Shoaib was a challenging but enjoyable role to portray! Six years of Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai,” Emraan posted on Twitter.

“Thanks for making the film a great experience! Ajay Devgn, Prachi Desai, Milan Luthria, Randeep Hooda and Kangana

Ranaut,” he added. A sequel to the film, titled Once Upon a Time in Mumbai Dobaara! released in 2013.

Envy people who wear uniforms: Akshay Kumar

A

ctor Akshay Kumar, who will be seen in the role of a naval officer in his upcoming film Rustom, says he envies people who wear uniforms and that wearing a uniform brought about a change in his style of walking.

“When I’m getting ready, I wear my navy trousers and a banyan inside, till that time I am okay, normal. When the uniforms used to come, the badges, the cap, my walk completely changed; I started gliding. There is something about uniforms that it gives you a certain kind of responsibility; it just tells you, ‘you are the man, you take the charge, you do everything’.

“When you see the movie, you will see that my walk has changed while I’m entering the courtroom or anything. So I envy these people who wear [a] uniform. That’s why I also did

the contest that whenever you see a guy in a uniform, have a selfie,” Akshay said. Akshay has previously donned the uniform as an army officer in Holiday, an anti-terrorism secret agent in Baby, an Indian Air Force officer in Andaaz and as a police officer in films such as Aan: Men at Work, Khakee, Mohra, Main Khiladi Tu Anari, and Khiladi 786. He will also be seen in a lawyer’s uniform in Jolly LLB 2.

About his preparation for a naval officer, he said, “I didn’t especially sit down and took books to learn about the navy rules and regulations. I didn’t interact with any naval men, only there was one naval officer who was guiding me throughout about how the salute is, how the badges are to be worn, how the uniforms should be and how the walk should be.”

Akshay plays a Parsi in the film. About how he prepared for the Parsi character, he said, “I have a Parsi secretary-manager, she is the reference point and my best friends in my school time, there was a guy whose name was Rustom, we used to call him Dodo. I know Parsis very well.

I can speak a little bit of the language. The only thing I did was that I copied my manager’s father’s moustache.”

ENTERTAINMENT

www.iwk.co.nz | 5 August 2016

29

Hollywood should not be a benchmark for success: Varun Dhawan

A

ctor Varun Dhawan says that Hollywood should not be a benchmark for success in the Indian film industry and that our industry should not ape them, but retain our culture.

At the launch of the Filmfare cover featuring him, Varun said, “I don’t think it should be a benchmark; it’s wrong.

We are Indians, we have our own culture, we have our own standard. Obviously, there are so many things they do better than us, there are [a] lot of things that we do better than them as well.”

“We have our own style. Technology-wise and VFXwise, they are quite ahead and we should get inspired.

But I don’t think we need to ape them. We have our own storytelling styles and methods and where song and dance [are] concerned, that is a part of Indian culture, part of Indian movies and I believe that should stay,” the actor added.

About Indian stars doing blink-and-miss roles in Hollywood, Varun said, “I think if an actor is really big over here, somewhere we have a responsibility to our fans, so we should do films where we could impact that film more, and the role has more meat as a performer and I think Priyanka and Deepika are really big, actresses, brilliant actors and they are really making us proud.”

Actresses Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone have ventured into Hollywood and their films are scheduled to release soon while actors like Irrfan Khan and Om Puri among others have featured in substantial parts in numerous films.

Oscars are another important part of Hollywood, which are widely-discussed every year. Is Varun also obsessed with it? “I am not really obsessed with Oscars. I watched it because they do the shows really well, they make it entertaining to watch. Actually, I don’t like it when people say that Filmfare is the Indian Oscars; I don’t think it is needed.”

Television has huge connect with people: Jacqueline

B

ollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez, who is making her small screen debut as a judge on the ninth season of Jhalak Dikhlaa Jaa, says television has a huge connect with people.

Asked if she feels if TV is a stronger medium than films, Jacqueline said: “Everyone may not go and buy a ticket to watch a movie but everyone has a television at home. It definitely has a huge reach and a huge connect with the audience.”

Although she believes TV has a “fantastic connect”, she says she doesn’t know if it is a stronger medium than cinema.

“People do love, admire and emulate film stars as well. The reach is undoubtedly very large. I don’t know if I would want to compare it to cinema,” added the actress.

Talking about the celebrity dance-based show, co-judged by film-maker Karan Johar and choreographer Ganesh Hegde, the star feels she has a huge responsibility on her shoulders as she would be mentoring the contestants.

“Yeah, it is a huge responsibility because these contestants are celebrities...and have a huge fan following. They are really very talented so for me it’s kind of like ‘How do I judge them?’, ‘How do I judge people with so much talent?’ and at the same time ‘How can I help them to fulfil their dreams?’,” said the 30-year-old.

But being a judge is a “daunting task” says Jacqueline.

“Filmfare doesn’t have any affiliation to the Oscars, Filmfare is the Filmfare of India. That’s the standard we should lay,” Varun expressed. Varun’s recent film Dishoom had a good opening weekend at the box-office.

Starring Dhawan, John Abraham and Jacqueline Fernandez, the movie has managed to enthral Indian audiences. The actionadventure film has minted Rs 11.05 crore on its opening day. Dishoom, which released on July 29, opened to fantastic reviews and has proved to be a complete entertainer by garnering thumbs up from the audience.

Apart from them, the film also stars Akshaye Khanna in a negative role.

Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and presented by Eros International, the movie revolves around India’s top batsman, who goes missing in the Middle East and two police officials from either side of the Arabian Sea team up for a 36-hour manhunt.

Meanwhile, Dishoom has been banned in Pakistan.

“Really upset that Dishoom is banned in Pakistan. I don’t think the film eventually shows any country in a bad light. It’s a wrong decision,” Varun tweeted.

Hardworking ones get lucky in Bollywood: Lisa

T

here is a common belief that Bollywood is a tough nut to crack for outsiders.

But model-actress Lisa Haydon says that in the long run, only hard work and persistence matter, not “film families”.

When asked whether it is difficult for an outsider to break into the industry, Lisa said it is the will to succeed that drives people in the industry.

“If you are hard-working, talented, reasonably charming or good looking and determined, you have a chance to make it.

There are pros and cons on both sides. In the end, the hard working and persistent ones are the ones that get ‘lucky’—whether in or out of film families,” Lisa said. After a successful stint as a model, the tall

and dusky beauty made her acting debut with the 2010 film Aisha and went on to do films such as Rascals, Queen, The Shaukeens and Housefull 3.

Before heading to the tinsel town, Lisa walked into the fashion world as a model and then did a spate of television commercials.

The actress says she picks projects on the basis of her instinct regarding the script, director, co-stars as well as all aspects that go into making a good film.

She asks: “What is a good script without a good director or a good director without a good actor?”

For now, Lisa is co-judging India’s Next Top Model with celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani, while MTV VJ and actress Anusha Dandekar and grooming expert Neeraj Gaba will be the mentors of the contestants. The show is aired on MTV channel.

What about her future projects?

“There are two projects up for discussion shortly,” said the actress, who will be seen in a cameo in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.

30

FEATURES

5 August 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN

A producer, scriptwriter and a production designer—Dr Rachel Singh dons many hats while working on a film. A part of Dreamz Productions—the production house that has brought movies such as Urban Turban and Twisted Families—Singh started her journey in the television industry and then moved on to capture the silver screen. Indian Weekender spoke to Singh to find out more about her passion for stories and her latest film, Feeling Lucky.

Esha Chanda IWK: A producer, writer, and production designer; how do you manage to juggle the different roles?

Dr Rachel Singh

Rachel: It’s not easy but I am passionate. Earlier, I only produced movies but with each film, my role has become bigger and bigger. New Zealand is a young country (related to feature films) and many may not understand feature film creative and related production requirements. I’ve spent more of my time over and above writing–producing and so production designing came naturally.

IWK: What inspired you to venture into film-making?

Rachel: Initially, we were only in TV production. In fact, if you can think of a TV show, most likely I would have worked on it. But there came a time when I felt that I need to push my boundaries beyond television. I had the support of my team and so I took the plunge. The silver screen was where I found more satisfaction and joy and now I love every moment of it.

IWK: Comedy seems to be the common thread binding all your productions. Any particular reason for choosing comedy over other genres?

Rachel: I love comedy, which is the most difficult genre. For me, until I get challenged and I push myself, it’s not exciting. Therefore

distributors with no known or famous blockbuster names.

Especially with the traditional Indian audience, it’s the star power that generally becomes the driving force no matter how well a film is made. But fortunately, with the younger generation that has now changed.

It’s the younger generation that in many ways comes across as a more matured audience who are open-minded and look for good content, something they can relate to and that for film-makers such as us is a saving grace. Today, the younger generation is smart and aware. I truly enjoy this part of reaching out to the growing pool of younger minds. Also, seeing my writing and characters come alive on the big screen is truly thrilling.

IWK: What do you think the audience will take away from Feeling Lucky?

I see myself writing romcom, bromance, thrillers, and suspense all with one common factor—comedy.

IWK: As a scriptwriter, what according to you is the most important aspect of character building?

Rachel: Most of my stories are inspired by some event and generally from real-life situations.

This helps me to ponder, question, reason, and challenge my thoughts

that not only leads to developing the concept but also helps me with building my characters who drive the story forward.

So being organic and keeping it true, simple, and real are some of the ways I adopt in building my characters.

IWK: What is the most difficult and the most enjoyable part of being in the film industry?

Rachel: Most difficult by far is trying to sell the film to

Rachel: As much as this film is an all-out comedy, it has a jawdropping suspense. And the credit goes to the director who has been so smart and secretly successful in keeping that suspense a real suspense from all the cast and crew who are eager to find out.

Now you might ask me how the suspense has been kept a secret? I have no clue myself.

Let’s put it this way—it’s an art that Devesh has mastered. The audience is in for a real shock that is not common in a laugh out loud comedy. The director has done a great job with his team with Feeling

Yoga course for beginners

Date: Monday, August 8 Time: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Venue: Yoga in Daily Life Centre, 368 Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland The beginners’ course covers all the foundations you need for an ongoing yoga practice. Experience yoga postures, breath techniques, meditation and relaxation, and gain knowledge about basic yoga philosophy and a healthy lifestyle. It’s an ideal course for beginners and those looking to deepen their practical experience of yoga. Tickets are priced at $108. Door sales only. Concession tickets are priced at $90 and include two bonus classes to use within the course. For booking enquires, call 095508040.

Paryushan

Date: Monday, August 29 to September 5 Time: Time varies on each day Venue: 44F Portage Road, New Lynn Jain community members are invited to participate in the celebration of Paryushana Maha Parva that will see full-day programmes starting from August 29. For more details, call Parag Shah on 021 278 8912 or check the website nzjainsangh.org.

Lucky. It is a truly awesome film that brings the best out of the cast, new and old alike. Watch out for the release date and measure the film. Its content and production sit at par with any other film out there.

IWK: Any advice/suggestion for the young talent who are just starting out?

Rachel: Films are difficult to come by (particularly in New Zealand), and I have seen what happens in the industry. But if you have a dream to be a part of films, whether as an actor, writer, musician, or any other department (creative or technical), you must know it’s a long road ahead with a roller coaster ride.

However, if you are willing to take the challenge, then go for it, as nothing is impossible. It is a matter of patience, being focused, and persistent. Also, it is what and who you surround yourself with, and who you allow to enter into your space. Sometimes that may determine the road you travel and the life you live.

IWK: As a Kiwi-Indian, how do you think the two different cultures have influenced/ helped you with your work?

Rachel: It has given me a lot of advantage knowing the two dynamically different cultures, and it is fun exploring them and bringing them together through my films. It’s indeed a thrill and sometimes a challenge.

Open day event at Gandhi Nivas

Date: Friday, August 19 Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Venue: 40 Station Road, Otahuhu Gandhi Nivas invites the Indian community for an Open Day event on August 19 where there will be having a talk every hour starting at 10:30 a.m. on the hour. RSVP by calling Sucharita Verma on 09 280 4064 or drop an e-mail at info@sahaayta.org.nz.

Auckland Family History Expo 2016

Date and Time: Friday, August 12, 5pm-6pm Saturday, August 13, 9am-7pm Sunday, August 14, 9am - 6pm Venue: Fickling Convention Centre Auckland Libraries and the Genealogical Computing Group of the NZ Society of Genealogists proudly present ‘The Wonderful Melting Pot of New Zealand Family History’.

This weekend-long event will cover a wide range of topics related to researching genealogy and family history including for the first time a session on recording family history for people of Indian origin. Free entry, no booking required (except for Friday’s opening event at $10 per person)

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