Retirement Today issue #8

COMPLIMENTARY!

ISSUE 8 2012

Living well and ageing gracefully in a modern society

Making it her way How Jo Seagar forged her path from a love of good food

PET CHECK DIRECT PRIZE PACK TO BE WON W in SEE PAGE 6 FOR DETAILS

Residential care

What you need to know

Preventing family feuds

Why your will is so important

NEWS I TRAVEL I SOCIETY I AROUND THE HOME I LIFE & LIVING MOTORING I WILLS & TRUSTS I LIVING OPTIONS

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE...

7 Cover Story How Jo Seagar forged her path from a love of good food 10 Profiles Dave Currie talks about his days championing our champions and Starship Foundation CEO Brad Clark’s mission to help the next generation 16 News Views and news

7 Jo Seagar

24 Society When it comes to climate change ‘keep calm and carry on’ just doesn’t cut it 31 Travel Travel tips and destinations of desire

16 Rest home horror stories

13 Brad Clark’s mission for the kids 31 Spanish getaway 4

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40 Life & Living Getting ready for the digital switchover and local spots where you can live a little 46 Pets & Animals Dealing with fussy eaters and care necessities not to be skimped

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Don’t skimp on pet care

50 Motoring Holden’s ground-breaking Volt, Kia’s hi-tech Quoris and getting more bang for your buck 56 Around the Home Bits and bobs for kitchens, living spaces and bedrooms

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64 Wills & Trusts The best way to prevent family feuds

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Kia’s hi-tech Quoris

68 Living Options What you need to know about residential care plus emergencies, money and you

60

74

Reading between the lines

42 56 2012

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BE IN TO WIN!

Issue 8: 2012 Publisher Gary Collins

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A-mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication.

Contents Copyright 2012 by A-mark Publishing. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Retirement Today

Issue 7 Winners!

Hardy and Grace Winners: Mr Dave Broad Mrs Gaye Latimer Mrs L Waanders Adele Frisby Mr I J Williams

Issue 8

2012

Impact Skin Repair Winners: David North Miss Pam Gaye Murphy Christine Nagel Mrs V J Durkin Mrs Marlene Pitt.

Cover story Jo Seagar

Making it her way

By Corazon Miller

Her first memory of cooking was standing by her mother’s side in a Hawke’s Bay kitchen back in the 1950s, helping pour fragrant vanilla essence into a fluffy white pavlova mixture.

The little Jo Seagar would watch as her mother beat the whites into soft, perfect white peaks of the long-time kiwi favourite.

This image, paired with the taste of rubber as she would gleefully lick the batter off the rubber spatula, make up some of Jo’s earliest culinary memories.

These days Jo has gone back to her country girl roots, living and running a successful café and cookery school in the inland Canterbury town of Oxford. Jo has made a life from her love of good food, turning it into a vocation and a way of giving to others.

This mother of two and grandmother of “one and a half” has graced our TV screens with her cheerful personality, waving whisks and pulling magical creations out of ovens.

She has adorned many a bookshelf with the colourful pages of her easily made delectable food and has done the hard yards as a patron for Hospice New Zealand.

Jo modestly attributes her success to “being in the right place at the right time”. But as you chat with this successful business woman, it is evident that Jo’s journey to success was so much more than luck – it was the sheer ability to recognise an opportunity, take a chance and make the leap.

Looking right at home in the ambient setting of her little café Seagars at Oxford, adorned in one of her trademark black skivvies with a row of white pearls, Jo chats a mile a minute, painting a rather descriptive and, let’s be honest, tummy teasing tale of goodness.

The journey Jo says fame was never something she had aimed for. “A life as a chef and TV personality was never anything I had imagined. I had a good career as a nurse [first], I enjoyed it. I never dreamed of being on telly, but being a chef and sharing my knowledge is a passion.”

Instead Jo’s career began in New Zealand when she trained as a nurse before heading off on her big OE to London. She began by working as nurse on the British Heart research team, which travelled around in an ambulance investigating men and heart disease.

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Cover story Jo Seagar

<< From previous page

Having learnt a lot about nutrition and health On screen through her work, she built on this by travelling Luckily for us Jo was, and still is, just as around places like Morocco, nurturing a taste passionate about sharing her knowledge. for a fantastic variety of food.

She isn’t one of those chefs who never share. “I just loved the teaching aspect. I It soon became evident that a change in career was calling, so Jo decided to go to the thought TV would be a good medium with Cordon Bleu School in London and then onto a wider reach and larger audience.” the gastronomic capital of the world, Paris, studying at the La Varenne chef’s school.

Home sweet home But like many worldly adventures, there comes a time to head home, so Jo and a nursing friend of hers headed back to Auckland where they opened up a restaurant called Harleys, which Jo ran for five years.

“It was a huge success,” Jo says. “It got best restaurant in 1981 and 1982. It was a time of the foodie boom, it was all happening.”

While running the restaurant Jo met her husband of 20 years, Ross. They married and added to their family with one baby girl and one boy. In and around growing a family, even after Jo stopped working at Harleys, she continued to dabble in the industry, writing columns for North and South, writing cookbooks and teaching classes.

It’s a full-on life, but Jo says she never tires of the kitchen. “I love cooking, though not so much the clean up.” Cheekily she adds, “Which is why I love having the staff around me to do the cleaning.

“I do have a good hubby, I do all the cooking, but he is of the mindset; why have a dog and bark yourself,” she jokes. But, Jo adds hastily, her husband is a great help. “He is great with the cleaning and the tidying, he even did the bathing of the babies when the kids where small, while I cooked.

“I’m living the dream.”

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And so began an era of Jo waving her whisk on screen, showing us just how it should be done.

But as much as Jo loved the TV aspect of things she says there was one aspect she didn’t enjoy so much. “People often ask me why I’m not on the telly more. I do have a lot of things that I have filmed that haven’t made it on the telly, but that is because I am not prepared to relinquish my independence to do the advertorial work,” she says. “I stand by my guns - I don’t want to be branded.”

Another on-screen trend she’s not a fan of is the recent fad of “master chefs” that seem to adorn our screens on a nightly basis.

“I’m over the drama queen nature of the cooking shows,” she says.

Instead Jo loves to watch foodie programmes that showcase the adventure that being a chef can be. “I love the shows that travel and try new things, like the street food in Dubai; it is cool to try something new.”

Test-tasting success Despite having numerous cookbooks full of her recipes, Jo says making things work isn’t always as simple as it seems. “It takes a lot of time to get it right. I just add a little bit here and there till I know exactly how it will work.

“Sometimes I just had one or two too many pinot noirs and I ended up with something just a little char-grilled.”

Cover story Jo Seagar

passion; Hospice New Zealand. “I get to go to Italy every year. I have to pinch myself while I am in Italy and say, yes, I am at work, I’m not dreaming.”

Jo’s own inspiration was the late American chef, author and TV personality, Julia Child. “I’ve met her and I love her. She knew and understood food – you can read her cookbooks and just taste it.”

In Jo’s own kitchen she likes to keep it easy. “I like it simple – no more than five ingredients.”

If given a choice she would much rather have the classic, yet simple Italian cuisine than pretentious French fine-dining.

“Italian cuisine is quite simple; it can be just six tomatoes and some basil. Whereas the French cuisine that I learnt while I was in Paris is all about the cream and the camembert and the six quail breasts – it is food for the rich.”

Jo casually admits she does have a love affair with the Italians. “I feel Italian in my heart, I know I’m not, but I just love the Italian hospitality. Everyone comes into the home and gathers around the table. They have a philosophy of food borne out of frugality.

Using what they grow to feed everyone.”

Simple food is what Jo says the Italians do best. “It’s about doing less things better.

The Italians know that they do it best with just a little fresh basil, tomato, mozzarella and a drizzle of green olive oil. It’s one of the simplest dishes you can make to impress.”

Her love for Italy is what led Jo to take a group of students to get an authentic glimpse of the real deal, whilst simultaneously raising money for her other

Of course, in her travels Jo has had her fair share of “fine-dining”, tasting the likes of caviar, but she says nothing can beat the taste of simplicity done well.

“Crayfish with butter, a little bit of salt and pepper… BBQ lamb eaten in the high-country with your best mate, crunchy bread that is soft and fluffy in the middle... scallops, I just love scallops… anything kaimoana – I just love seafood.”

And the list goes on. “Ooohhh… nothing beats crushing fresh raspberries on the roof of your mouth on Christmas day with icing sugar and cream – nothing can beat that feeling.”

Healthy tidbits It all sounds so decadent, but Jo’s solution to the philosoply of healthy eating is simple; “moderation”. It is also about eating local, Jo says. Something she says the Italians have had in their country forever. “It is called peasant. The Italians know how to make do with the ingredients that are all around them.”

Healthy eating is something we as New Zealanders should be able to do well, Jo says. “We have it easy with all the produce we have around us. We are the luckiest country in the world and I count my blessings every day that I get to be here in New Zealand.”

To get a taste of Jo’s cooking or to take one of her classes go to www.joseagar.com

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Profiles Dave Currie

The champions’ champion

By Karen Pasco

into the memory of Dave, former head of the New Zealand Olympic team in his role as chef de mission.

He describes it as his Olympic serendipity.

“It really had an impact on me. I remember going to the pictures and seeing it all.” What he didn’t realise then is that 40 years later, when in his role with the Murray Halberg Trust, he would accompany those two athletes to Rome when they returned to recount their memories of that very day.

On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talked about the state of the Games and those who play them.

He is a former national wrestler and Black Cap team manager, granddad, mountain biker, cancer survivor and describes himself as having a “misplaced degree of optimism”.

It was September 2, 1960. On this particular early spring day, a momentous occasion was about to take place.

Schoolboy Dave Currie was sitting at his desk along with the others in his class, tuned in to the radio which was transmitting the happenings in Rome.

This was the day New Zealand Olympic athletes Peter Snell (800m) and Murray Halberg (5000m) would win gold medals at the Rome Olympics within half an hour of each other – a momentous occasion in New Zealand’s sporting history. It is a day etched

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The job Although many know what the job title is, there are not many who understand what the role entails. “I remember when I got the job my granddaughter asked me what I was going to cook for everybody,” he jokes. The English translation is head of mission, how he describes it is general manager of the team, the “leader of the delegation”.

His role meant he wore many hats; negotiator, diplomat, project manager, leader, decision maker, co-ordinator, team builder, communicator, motivator and liaison.

His job was to ensure each athlete had the best possible environment to reach their goals and to bring the sporting codes together as a team. “What we’ve got is 17 sports. All of them come with their own culture and have distinct ways they

Profiles Dave Currie

operate. What we’ve got to do is wrap that all into a strong and secure New Zealand team.”

Currie had always wanted to attend an Olympic Games – as a competitor. It was as a marathon runner he thought he had the best chance, but not starting until he was about 40 and unable to crack the 2hr 20 minute mark, meant it was not achievable.

He arrived at the chef de mission position through a history of sporting roles. From 1987 to 1997 he was the race director of Ironman, for 17 years the executive director for the Murray Halberg Trust and latterly the Black Caps’ team manager.

In 1988 he was asked to run as a guide for a blind marathon runner at the Seoul Olympics. Through this he became involved in sports for the disabled and got the job as president of New Zealand Paralympics and was asked to take the team to Sydney in 2000.

He had seen the chef de mission job advertised but didn’t apply. Aware that previous chef de missions Les Mills and Dave Gerrard had both been Olympians, he thought he would not meet the hiring criteria. Then someone strongly recommended to him that it might be worth his while. “I was pretty pragmatic they didn’t really have too many applicants so I got it.”

The lows For the past decade Currie worked on developing a culture within the team, as well as carrying out a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work to ensure each campaign has run as smoothly as possible.

His biggest challenge, without a doubt, was the 2010 Commonwealth Games - in India. The uncertainty of whether venues or accommodation would be ready in time was frustrating and caused much anxiety in the lead up.

“It was incredibly close to the wire that we just weren’t going to bring athletes and we were just going to pull out. I was on conference calls for an hour a day with the New Zealand diplomat in India in the leadup,” he says. “What is funny though is when the athletes arrived they kept saying ‘what was all the fuss about’.”

Currie believes that the Commonwealth Games need to return to the games of old and stop trying to replicate the Olympics, which is putting countries in huge debt.

“There used to be 2,000 athletes go to the Commonwealth’s, now there are between 6,000 and 7,000. We need to get it back to a manageable size. Very few countries can afford to hold them now because they’ve just become too huge and big and costly.”

The highs The highlights of previous Olympic and Commonwealth Games is certainly seeing the medal-winning performances of athletes. Currie has huge respect for athletes who have devoted 10, 15 or even 20 years to reach the point where they are on the world platform.

“I’ve been privileged of being at every medal performance of New Zealanders since the Sydney Paralympics. To be there and be with groups of New Zealanders when athletes perform is just extraordinary.”

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Profiles Dave Currie

<< From previous page

He scrolls off the names of some of those athletes who provided the magic - Sarah Ulmer, Hamish Carter, Valerie Adams and the Evers-Swindell twins – those who showed the determination to dedicate their lives to their sport and also the courage to pit themselves against the world’s best with millions around the world watching – and come first.

He vividly remembers Valerie at Beijing, her strength and her absolute focus.

“She walked into the stadium and stared down her competitors. She walked out almost knowing that she’d won. She had the appearance that it was her domain and her space and she really kicked butt.

It was probably the most determined performance I’ve ever seen.”

The past He believes the evolution of New Zealand since the last London Games in 1948 is incredible. “In 1948 we were still pretty much an economy of Britain – we’re no longer like that. We’re a strong, united

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people, a country which has been forged by the arrival of different immigrants during the past 800 years. We’ve all been brought together in a special way to create a united society with strong respect for each other.”

It is just not the nation which has changed since 1948 - the athletes also have a far different experience. As an example he tells the story of New Zealand backstroker Ngaire Galloway, who qualified for the 1948 London Games.

About a week before she was due to leave she was told she would need a female chaperone, which would have to fund themselves, to accompany her to the Games – otherwise she couldn’t go.

After organising her chaperone, they arrived at the ship in Auckland only to find there was no swimming pool on board.

She had the builder create a paddling pool she could use during the six-week journey to at least give her legs a kick-out. Ngaire overcame the odds and although she didn’t win a medal, Currie says her story of determination is just one that is used to motivate the team.

Profiles Brad Clark

Wish upon

a star

There’s nothing quite like a sick child to shatter your illusion about life being fair, a reality that close to 120,000 New Zealand children live in each year.

This is the world the Starship Foundation faces daily, as it battles to fundraise within the framework of an increasingly tough marketplace, where instant brand recognition doesn’t automatically translate into dollars.

Corazon Miller talks to Brad Clark, the CEO of the Starship Foundation, who since 2010 has been working with dedicated people to ensure that not only do our children get the healthcare they deserve, but they receive the “gold standard of care” that is among the best in the world.

Each year this social-profit organisation works hard to raise funds for New Zealand’s

national children’s hospital; Starship Children’s Health; a dedicated paediatric healthcare service and major teaching centre that provides care to children and young people throughout the country and the South Pacific.

Annually, the Auckland-based hospital treats close to 120,000 children for a range of ailments; from something simple like a broken leg to the more life-threatening illnesses faced by the young oncology patients. The cost borne by the foundation to ensure, in the face of some very trying times, these children and their families receive world-class health-care, is between $6 – 10 million annually – a cost that is over and above what the Government provides.

These valuable dollars go towards a variety of initiatives such as building refurbishments, new technology, vital research, better family support, preventative programmes and staff training.

In addition $1.5million of this is given to the Starship National Air Ambulance Service which ensures children in need of emergency care can be brought in from all around the country.

A reason to give Brad’s constant reminder of just how important his job is lies in a little toddler close to his heart - his only child. “Today she is a two year old that melts my heart daily.”

When Brad took the role at Starship, little Kaitlin was only six-weeks old, but he says she had already given him reason to see just how important the work of the Foundation was. “As a relatively new dad at the time, this gave me another reason to help. I saw this new role as a way that I could help.”

Armed with his extensive management experience with a variety of large corporates such as Sovereign and American Express, Brad was well equipped for the challenge.

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Profiles Brad Clark

<< From previous page

His role immediately prior, general manager of marketing and fundraising for CanTeen, the cancer support group for young people, had him well prepped for the realities of the fundraising discipline.

Brad admits it’s challenging, but knowing that you are making a difference in people’s lives made it well worth the while. “It [CanTeen] was my first full-time role within this sector. It felt good; it felt like the right place for me to be able to connect with those people on a day to day basis. It was special to be able to help them.”

Joining the team at Starship was therefore quite a natural progression for Brad. “It was a brilliant role to come to,” he says, paying homage to his predecessor and the staff who had laid down all the ground work before him. “They created a brand and a reputation and a presence in the country as being here for kids. It is a world class Foundation, with a great board of trustees.

These are the people that I relished the opportunity to work with.”

The cost of gold What Starship Children’s Health would be like without the help of the Foundation is what Brad describes as the year’s $8.5 million (the target they have set for this year) dollar question.

Every year the Foundation needs to raise between $6 – 10 million dollars, to ensure that every child receives the “gold standard of care”.

Without the Foundation, Brad says the hospital would not be what it is today.

“We wouldn’t have the hospital we have.

We wouldn’t have the equipment or the adequate nursing training. We would probably lose the air ambulance; the cost of this would fall back on DHB’s around the country or on the consumer.

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“I doubt others would be able to pick up that cost. The Government does do a lot; I believe they do the best they can for healthcare. But we need more than what the Government can provide to achieve a gold standard in healthcare. We deserve the best for our kids.”

Strained healthcare system It is no news that the health sector is facing an increasing strain on its services and its budgets. Hospitals are often full to the brim, surgical waiting lists are long and medical professionals are often tackling increased workloads.

“It is no secret that Starship is currently working near to capacity all year around at the moment,” Brad says. “Historically the reality was that it was busy during the winter and there was down time during the summer.

But now we are finding that Starship is at, or near capacity, for most of the year.”

Brad says while the responsibility and the long-term solution to the problem lies in the hands of the Government and the local District Health Boards, the Foundation does play its part in helping to provide solutions and “continues to be a part of the conversation”.

Profiles Brad Clark

many other good causes around he says it is certainly a privilege to be remembered.

“It is a sign of the strength of connection that the Foundation has with families, who even after their children have left Starship continue to remember all that the Foundation has done.

“It is a privilege to be a part of their thoughts. We are lucky that the community thinks of us. They can help anyone but we are fortunate to be chosen by them.”

One example is the nearly completed $5million project which was aimed at redeveloping the 6th floor of Starship, the Neuroservices and Medical Specialities wards. The redesign will enable better provision of services, within a more family centric area and a better environment for staff to work in. The new ward will host mainly single rooms with parent beds, playrooms for the children and family rooms.

“We see ourselves playing a bigger and better role in the future, finding reasons, cures and treatments. We would like to see us working in collaboration with others around the world, sharing resources for research and education in order to find solutions.

“Our role is as an enabler.”

One young girl who is paying it back is 14 year-old Aucklander, Ruby Seeto. Her story with the hospital began when she was only nine years old. Two weeks after she returned from a family holiday, she felt unwell and her mother found a lump in her side which turned out to be a rare type of cancer.

During the space of a year she spent a lot of time in Starship and while it was certainly tough for Ruby, all the staff’s work and the top-class facilities, helped to make things just that little bit easier.

Five years later Ruby is happy and healthy, giving back to the place that helped her to battle through the tough times, by designing and selling teatowels and donating all the proceeds to the foundation.

Bittersweet

It is certainly exciting and fulfilling work; in any given day Brad says he might receive a message of thanks from a grateful parent or child who has received care from Starship, a corporate partnership might be formed, or a large unplanned donation might fall on his desk.

Brad says dealing with sick children and their needs on a daily basis is of course very emotional - but it is also inspirational.

“My contact with patients is not as often as I like, but this is the aspect of the job that I do enjoy. It is what grounds me and helps me to go the extra mile,” he says. “They face such big challenges yet the manner in which they face them are inspiring. It’s inspiring to see how resilient they are.

Brad says it is particularly heart warming when the community gives back. With so

“Sure it is emotional but you can direct that back to driving success.”

Community spirit

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News

Elderly care horror stories can’t be ignored

The Government can no longer turn a blind eye to “festering” problems in the aged care sector following more disturbing revelations of elderly rest home residents being treated poorly, Labour’s Aged Care spokesman Kris Faafoi says.

tomorrow to see today’s rest home residents better looked after,” Faafoi says.

“The findings of a report into Rangiora’s Wiltshire Lifecare and Hospital found many residents were suffering dehydration, unmanaged weight loss and lacked proper levels of basic care.

New Zealand First associate senior citizens spokeswoman, Barbara Stewart says the elderly who require care in such facilities have a right to be treated with dignity and respect.

“Despite the Government’s assurances that its auditing and monitoring system is working, there’s still far too many similar cases being reported. It’s not good enough.

“Human Rights Commissioner Judy McGregor called time on this earlier in the year, highlighting on-going problems with inadequate staffing levels in our rest homes and the continued undervaluing of the sector.

“While the Canterbury District Health Board is moving to lift the standard of care at Wiltshire, the Ministry of Health needs to ensure the systemic issues that allowed this situation to fester are addressed.

“That includes introducing minimum staffing levels, more robust and regular monitoring of care facilities and better reporting of audits.

“Our elderly population is set to skyrocket over the next 14 years, hence one of the biggest challenges New Zealand faces right now is ensuring it can provide a level of care we would all expect and that older New Zealanders deserve.

“We can’t wait until tomorrow to start planning for that and we can’t wait until

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New Zealand First is also demanding the Government does more than carry out random audits and monitoring to ensure elderly rest home residents are cared for properly.

“The really scary thing here is that Wilshire rest home is unlikely to be the only care facility providing substandard care.

“The Government must assure New Zealanders that they are taking good care of their elderly loved ones. To do that requires far better monitoring standards than a random audit or occasional site visit.

“The Government must take action now so the elderly receive the standard of care they deserve,” she says.

News

Longevity revolution means broader role for chiropractors has “a vital part to play in reducing pain and the need for pharmaceuticals, increasing joint mobility and improved overall quality of life by helping to maintain function and a positive attitude”.

Research is beginning to point at chiropractic as having a role to play in the multi-disciplinary management of people with conditions such as sarcopenia (muscle loss), and osteoporosis.

However, Dr Dobson warned that it is important for chiropractors to evaluate older patients carefully, to take account of factors such as osteoporosis, multiple interactions of prescription medications, as well as the risk of falls.

Increasing life expectancy means a broader role for chiropractors in helping people with decreased muscle or bone density, and balance issues, which add to the risk of falling.

According to Chiropractor, PhD candidate and principal investigator of the study, Dr Kelly Holt, falls often occur due to a decline in nervous system function with advancing age. This can lead to a loss of balance, or poor control of the limbs, which dramatically increases the risk of falling.

This is the message delivered to a conference of New Zealand, Australian and International chiropractors in Auckland.

“Already it is estimated that in New Zealand slips, trips and falls cost almost $300 million per year in treatment and rehabilitation costs and as the population ages this will likely get worse,” Dr Holt says.

The conference, organised by the New Zealand College of Chiropractic, heard that the implications of the baby boomer generation reaching retirement age meant healthcare providers needed a better understanding of the unique role chiropractic can play.

“Falls result in approximately 450 deaths per year in New Zealand and for older adults in particular, a fall can lead to a downward spiral that involves a loss of confidence, a cessation of day to day activities and eventually increased frailty and even death.”

New Zealand College of Chiropractic technique department director, Dr Graham Dobson, told the meeting that chiropractic

For further information on the New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association visit: www.chiropractic.org.nz

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News

Collective Care In a new initiative launched by the Government, older people will be able to take a proactive approach to ensure neighbourhood safety.

The Government’s decision to connect Office for Senior Citizens Volunteer Community Coordinators (VCCs) with Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) will mean older people, get to work alongside Police to provide an on-going, valuable service to the community.

The VVC is a group of older people who will work with the Police to address local issues such as elder abuse or neglect. They will seek to identify individual problems, offer help and support and contribute to the development of older people.

The VVCs will work with the Ministry of Social Development’s Office for Senior Citizens, Police and the local community to look out for those people who may need assistance, and backing Police to ensure successful neighbourhood policing.

Senior Citizens minister Jo Goodhew says “This is a fantastic initiative and one that will go a long way to help older people feel safe in their own home and help Police reach out to those who are socially isolated.

“The first VCC to be linked with an NPT is now working on the ground with Police in Naenae. By creating this connection, the VCCs can work with Police on the best way to engage with older people, and offer advice on the appropriate response,” she says.

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“We need to do all we can to help support older people in the community. I’m confident that this initiative will go a long way to achieve that and make a positive difference to their lives.”

So far 33 NPTs have been established in 11 districts throughout New Zealand and in the next 12 months plan to create more teams, with another four already set in place.

Now the VVCs are joined together with officials, older seniors can now feel safe in their own homes and have peace of mind now that community support is available right on their doorstep.

News

Staying safe around the home New Zealand residents reminded how home falls can have big consequences The old expression ‘home is where the heart is’ is well and good, just so long as you watch your step!

Top tips on creating a safer home

ACC figures show that nationally, more than 280,000 home injuries happened because of falls. Injuries in and around the home are the biggest cause of ACC claims – accounting for over 40 percent of all new claims received in 2011.

• Waterblast, scrub or spray mossy areas with moss removal products

Northland had the highest number of claims at 75 per 1,000, and Marlborough the lowest at 33 per 1,000.

Secure power cords

What may surprise many is the risk associated with seemingly benign objects, such as rugs and power cords, which can cause a fall-related injury at any time of the year.

ACC Insurance and Prevention Services general manager, John Beaglehole says one small trip or slip can have big consequences.

“It’s not just older and younger people who fall at home – last year, over 40 percent of all home falls happened to people aged 25-64 years.

“An injury can completely change your life for a while. It can stop you from doing the things you enjoy, like catching up with friends or playing with your children.

“People often need to take time off work too, affecting their income. ACC figures show 10,000 people are off work for a week or more because of a fall at home.”

John says the good news is there are some simple things you can do around the home to greatly reduce the risk of you or someone in your family having a fall.

“We are asking Kiwis to fight five common hazards to reduce the risk of injury at home – moss, rugs, power cords, chairs and puddles.”

Remove moss

• Cut trees and shrubs back to prevent shade – conditions which moss thrives in • Build new decks with grooved timber.

• Get cords out of harm’s way, with cord clips, quick-release power cords or multi-boxes • Secure loose cords or wires to the wall.

Fasten rugs and mats • Secure them with anti-slip tape, or spray on a non-slip coating • Use carpet grips for mats • Repair damaged carpet on stairs • If you’re buying a new rug, look for one with a non-slip backing.

Avoid using chairs as ladders • Use a ladder or step ladder to reach high objects • Store heavy, regularly used objects down lower • Use long-life smoke alarms and light bulbs so you don’t have to change them often.

Wipe up spills • Wipe up spills as soon as they happen, with mops, sponges or cloths • Use floor mats to absorb excess water • If renovating, install non-slip flooring in wet rooms (bathroom, kitchen and laundry).

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News

Think before you click Top tips for online shopping

Getting a little retail therapy fix or sorting Christmas and birthday presents with a simple ‘click’ can be brilliantly simple, efficient and fun – but there’s a fair amount of ‘buyer beware’ when it comes to online shopping.

Yes, the fastest and easiest way to score a great deal may be online, but shopping on your computer, tablet or smartphone also creates opportunities for cybercriminals to attack.

So here are five top tips from AVG to protect against malware attacks and identity theft.

1. Be a scrooge to public wi-fi Anyone can download software that steals your information from public networks.

Online gift shoppers should wait until they’re home or on a secure network and avoid public Wi-Fi networks when sharing financial or sensitive data.

2. Naughty or nice? Check the URL twice Mobile devices come with super small screens that don’t show the full web address. Hackers may add to the end of URL addresses which will lead shoppers to corrupt sites. Consumers should check before they click. Whether on a computer or mobile phone, it’s important to make sure the URL begins with “https” before credit card information is entered. The “https” confirms the site is secure.

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3. Unbelievable deals Beware of online ads promising free products or extremely large discounts.

Consumers should download free link scanning software, which prevents online users from going to sites designed to steal financial and other personal information, before starting their holiday shopping.

4. Keep kids savvy Most adults know they’re not the only ones on the family computer – kids are online too, surfing stores’ websites to create their holiday wish list. Free online safety tips about smart online use and safeguarding the family computer are available from AVG and New Zealand government sites such as Child Safety Online.

5. ‘Tis the season for pickpockets When shoppers venture out to the mall, they should keep the data on their mobile phones out of harm’s way. Security software exists for both computers and mobile phones that can help protect consumers from viruses, phishing scams and identity theft. Even pickpockets can be thwarted as owners can now remotely wipe personal data from any lost or stolen device.

News

Do you have a legal Will?

In response to the astounding news that only half of New Zealanders have a legal Will, an enterprising Auckland law firm offered new clients half price rates during October 2012 when they get their personal affairs sorted by drawing up a will.

This initiative by trust and property law specialist Tammy McLeod is interesting, but perhaps more so is the fact so many Kiwis live without wills.

“It’s really important to have a legal will that informs people what you want to happen to your estate and assets when you die”, says Tammy who specialises in helping people create wills and trusts.

Everyone, both young and old, needs a will otherwise the family left behind may have to face huge legal hurdles and an emotional rollercoaster to sort out the subsequent mess – unfortunately something lawyers have to deal with too often, she acknowledges.

deteriorates so rapidly it’s not uncommon for them to be deemed to be in an unfit state of mind and therefore unable to sign off their wishes – then the whole family are left wondered and sometimes feuding over who gets what.

Ultimately it pays to be better prepared and to have your Will organised before any of this happens.

When completing a will a person needs to consider what their assets are at the time of making the Will, who they want to leave their property to and also consider what the competing claims from family members can potentially be.

Wills should also be updated when there is a change in circumstances (such as getting married or divorced). Transferring your assets to a trust during your lifetime is a good way of ensuring your assets are dealt with as you wish upon your death. This can certainly discourage unhappy children from making claims against your estate as you have no assets in your personal name to claim against!

“As lawyers we have a social responsibility to help people prepare their estates for their inevitable death and we really want to help reduce the number of people who don’t currently have a legal will.”

It’s also true that the majority of wills are hastily put together during a person’s dying days comments Tammy. When this happens it often means that there is little time to really think about the choices one makes and it can also put unnecessary strain on the person, as well as their family, as they desperately try to get things prepared In unfortunate circumstances it can also be a matter of trying to do too much too late. For example when a loved ones health

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Finances

Grim outlook for the over 65s?

Being debt free by retirement no longer a silver bullet Kiwi retirees face the need to be extra cautious throughout their retirement even if they manage to be debt free by the time they turn 65. That’s the grim reality faced by New Zealanders in the years ahead, according to a survey commissioned by the 50+ community website, GrownUps. More than 600 Kiwis from the 50+ community revealed the state of their financial health in a GrownUps survey, with results showing the economy is having a detrimental effect on the retirement plans of everyday New Zealanders.

Almost 41 percent of people are feeling worse with regards to their savings and financial situation than they were 12 months ago.

While 90 percent of respondents plan to be debt free by the time they retire, nearly a quarter (22 percent) say they won’t be.

A further 78 percent said they will be debt free by the time they retire however, will still struggle to meet their living costs which is of real concern for the aging population of New Zealand.

Additionally, more than 75 percent of respondents believe the Government pension is not enough to cover their living costs, and a further 40 percent of retirees do not believe they have enough money to last them through their retirement.

Richard Poole, co-founder of GrownUps, says people are continually seeking new options to fund themselves through their retirement, such as living a more conservative lifestyle or downsizing their

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properties, which is becoming a crude reality for many, when before it was a choice due to the children leaving home.

“Of particular interest is the majority of respondents stating that they started saving for their retirement between the age of 40 to 45, which is quite early by most people’s standards.”

The survey found 36 percent of people had previously invested in a finance company with a concerning 40 percent of the companies invested in having gone into receivership in the last five years.

Further information •

45% of respondents are enrolled in KiwiSaver

•

46% of people plan to take their money out of KiwiSaver as soon as they turn 65

•

63% of people regularly check the balance of their KiwiSaver account

• 38% of respondents contribute 2% of their income to KiwiSaver fund annually •

52% of respondents contribute 52% of their income to KiwiSaver fund annually

• 10% of respondents contribute 8% of their income to their KiwiSaver fund annually •

66% of respondents own their home freehold

•

40% of respondents believe they will need up to $400,000 to last them for their retirement

•

31% of respondents predict they will need up to $700,000 to last them for their retirement.

Finances

The big financial mistakes older people make

By Alan Clarke, an authorised financial adviser with 24 years’ experience in the finance sector Spending too much Pretty obvious, do your homework and budgeting. However you may plan to gradually spend your money and “die broke” (easier said than done). Be smart and find independent advice to help you monitor how fast you are spending your money. Then if you “live too long” hopefully you won’t have to live out your golden years in poverty.

Spending too much on housing Not much good owning a $500,000 house and having only $50,000 in the bank to supplement your (rather lean) govt super of $26,000 pa. Don’t get to retirement living in a castle with too little cash to supplement your super.

Not learning enough about investment before retirement Knowledge is power. Learn about investments as you save for retirement, and probably avoid the disaster some people incurred when they put all their money into one or to finance companies.

Helping children too much and leaving themselves short Love them or not, they may have 25 to 40 years of working life in front of them; you don’t!

Not getting on-going financial and planning advice leading up to retirement If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Get advice – if it costs say $150 to $200 pa that is peanuts compared to what it might do for you. It might get you organised. It might save you thousands.

An independent adviser might help you see the wood from the trees.

Failing to understand what diversification really means You can’t pick the hot investments, no one can. Rather diversify properly, and you will make good money in good times, and survive the bad times pretty well too.

Moving house too often while looking for utopia Utopia does not exist yet. I have seen people move up to seven times in five years looking for it. Imagine the moving costs, real estate agents fees, cost of new carpet, or curtains, or kitchen etc. It’s money down the drain!

Not living and spending too little You can’t take it with you. Get advice and find out how much you can safely spend if you are worried.

Not realising how much you can do in NZ on less than you might think There are dozens and dozens of free things you can do in NZ with an ordinary car and an inexpensive caravan. Be adventurous, go on the road and enjoy it all, we have a beautiful country.

Believing that you can (or the “experts” can) pick the hot investments No one can, rather buy quality and diversify widely. Beware of some apparently wonderful companies; the costs can be too high. After all someone has to pay for their big buildings and glossy brochures - and it will be you.

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Society

Ask an Advisor

The RSA is one of the largest voluntary organisations supporting our community with over 117,000 members.

RSA offers assistance to war veterans and ex-service people in the local community by giving advice on government entitlements and other services widely available to all ex-servicemen and women.

You don’t have to be an RSA member to receive advice or assistance.

New Zealand war veterans and exservicemen and women may be entitled to a War Disablement Pension and appropriate assistance from the Government. War Disablement Pensions are available to everyone who has a health concern or disability that they can link to their service in the New Zealand Defence Force before 1 April 1974, or in operations that have been recognised for inclusion in the war pensions’ legislation since then.

Case study 1 Tommy has a scheduled check-up at the hospital.

Due to his stroke he is no longer able to drive. His son is away on holiday and there is no one else to help him. Tommy approaches the local RSA to ask if someone can drive him to the appointment. The answer is yes, and the person who takes him in will also wait and take him home.

Case study 2 John has hearing loss and tinnitus from serving in the artillery, and heart disease and emphysema from smoking cigarettes he was given in his ration pack whilst on active service. His RSA Advisor helps him to complete the appropriate application form and ensure that he has all the available medical evidence to set the process going.

As John is a veteran he is also entitled to claim a Veterans’ Pension, which is based on his service and level of accepted disability. At over 65, John has to have a War Disablement Pension of at least 70% to qualify. His 60 year old brother Tommy is

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RSA aims to ensure that no ex-serviceman or woman suffers undue hardship. The Advisor at your local RSA is the first point of contact for all support enquiries. They have knowledge of Government assistance and other help within the local community, and support administered by the RSA national body. RSA support services are available to the entire ex-service community and range from monetary grants to help with practical tasks, visiting the sick, providing assistance with transport, meals-on-wheels, and offering friendship and support in times of need.

Contact your local RSA if you wish to talk about RSA support. Your RSA Advisor will treat your enquiry in complete confidence.

Members of the public are encouraged to call the local RSA if they are concerned about the wellbeing of any ex-service person. RSA undertakes to approach each individual with tact and offer appropriate assistance without offending their dignity. also receiving the Veterans’ Pension as he too is a veteran but is no longer able to work after a stroke, and therefore qualifies. When John told his RSA Advisor that Tommy was having difficulty living on the Invalid’s Benefit, the Advisor recommended Tommy change to the Veterans’ Pension, which is paid at the same rate as New Zealand Superannuation.

A Surviving Spouse Pension may be granted to widows/widowers or partners of ex-service people whose death was attributable to their service in the New Zealand Defence Force before 1st April 1974. For service after this date, it is only payable in connection with a recognised operation. John asked his RSA Advisor if his wife Mary will receive part of his War Disablement Pension after he dies.

His Advisor told him that she will receive a pension in her own right if his death is directly due to his service, or he was or could have had 70% War Disablement Pension, and that it won’t be taxed or treated as income for means tested benefits. He also reassured John that an RSA Advisor would help Mary when the time came.

The RSA is dedicated to supporting ex-servicemen and women and their dependants. It provides material assistance to thousands of men and women each year, through grants for financial help and through practical action, such as taking them to doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; appointments or visiting them in their homes and hospitals. The RSA also provides advice on applying for War Disablement and Surviving Spouse Pensions, as well as Work and Income benefits and assistance.

If you need assistance of any nature you can call your local RSA Advisor. You do not need to be a member to receive support.

The contact details will be in your telephone book or you can find an RSA online at www.rsa.org.nz.

If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need our help, but would yourself like to help those who have served New Zealand, your gift or bequest will help to provide support to ex-servicemen and women and their dependants, whether they are RSA members or not.

Contact us: Margaret Snow National Manager Support Services RSA National Office P O Box 27 248 Wellington 6141 (04) 384 7994 margarets@rsa.org.nz Margaret Snow National Manager Support

Services

The RSA will celebrate its first centenary in 2016, 100 years after the first Anzacs returned from Gallipoli.

We look forward to sharing the celebration with you.

www.rsa.org.nz

Society

The case for

Government health help There’s nothing more important than your health and a call has come asking for government incentives to help elderly people maintain their health insurance.

Accuro Health Insurance CEO Bruce Morrison says too many elderly people are cancelling their policies because they can’t afford them, just when it’s important they should determine their own future health needs.

He says these people end up in the public health system and their ongoing requirement for shoulder, knee and heart surgery takes a significant share of the health budget.

“Their government has an effective public/ private model and, as a result, nearly half of Australians have health insurance, up from 30 percent in 1999. In comparison less than a third of New Zealanders have health insurance, down from 48 percent in 1990.

“If health insurance remained at the same level 20 years ago there’d be a public health saving of $300-400 million.”

Bruce Morrison acknowledges many older people can’t afford private health care, but others would be able to contribute to ongoing health insurance if the government offered an incentive.

Bruce Morrison argues that a subsidy such as a tax rebate to retain health insurance for the over 65s is far more valuable than a range of Gold Card concessions for bus travel and cheap cinema tickets.

He says this is essential because of the ageing demographic. In addition older people should be able to enjoy their lifestyle without spending their superannuation on new hips and open heart surgery.

Fringe Benefit Tax should also be scrapped on business health insurance. Many employers would love to provide health insurance for their staff but it’s “too hard and too expensive”.

“Between 2004 and 2010 the government’s health spend increased from $7.6 billion to $12.7 billion, an increase of 41 percent. The government will face an inability to fund the public system within 20 years,” he predicts.

He strongly recommends Minister of Health, Tony Ryall should study the Australian model which provides an incentive for everyone on private health insurance.

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“I would encourage Tony Ryall to consider the benefits of incentivising the right behavior and encourage people to look after their own health choices.”

Accuro is inviting discussion on the issues of retaining older people in the private system and is keen to explore ways in which it can work with the government to strengthen the relationship between public and private providers.

Society

Zero

Staring down

the barrel

tolerance

By Karen Pasco Miller

By Corazon

It’s difficult to find a hotter topic right now than climate change and the extent of our impact upon it.

Considering what’s at stake, the old stiff-upper-lip approach of ‘keep calm and carry on’ doesn’t really cut it, and this is where CarboNZero comes in.

The carboNZero programme was established in 2001 by Landcare Research New Zealand Limited. The programme is based on more than a decade of research on climate change, greenhouse gas measurement and carbon monitoring.

Its goal is to provide robust tools for individuals, organisations and events to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions or carbon footprint with the highest level of credibility and integrity.

Retirement Today talks to carboNZero acting chief executive Ann Smith about the programme, her role in it and what they’re trying to achieve.

What is the carboNZero programme?

“The carboNZero programme is a scheme that provides the rules and guidance for individuals, companies’ products and services to be certified as carbon neutral.”

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^ VnC Cocktails are CEMARS certified Why was it introduced?

“Initially, the carboNZero programme was introduced for individuals and companies wanting to take action to reduce their climate change impacts. Individuals were concerned about the impacts of their air travel. Companies were concerned about the impacts of energy use and freight to overseas markets. In the mid-1990s there was an overseas campaign that targeted the “food miles” associated with New Zealand exports.”

What research prompted its introduction?

“In the early 1990s, Landcare Research had a number of research programmes that focused on measuring greenhouse gas emissions and carbon monitoring. This research linked the concept of rewarding landowners for restoring native forest on land where production was marginally profitable with companies wishing to

Society

reduce the impacts of their carbon footprint. Through this research, Landcare Research created the first carbon credits in New Zealand and facilitated the first examples of companies becoming carbon neutral. The carboNZero programme resulted from this research.”

How does it work?

“You measure your carbon footprint, put in place a plan to reduce your carbon emissions and offset your remaining unavoidable emissions by purchasing carbon credits. The carboNZero programme then audits your carbon footprint and emissions reduction plan and certifies that you have met the requirements or rules of the programme.

Companies that measure and reduce their carbon footprint can choose to be CEMARS certified (Certified Emissions Measurement and Reduction Scheme).”

What impact has its introduction had?

“The carboNZero programme has influenced the development of the voluntary carbon market in New Zealand and what actions are required to become carbon neutral. Over 700 organisations and many products across five countries have been certified through the programme. Over the past five years, the carboNZero programme has certified carbon footprints that add to more than New Zealand’s annual national footprint which is around 70 million tonnes of greenhouse gases. These companies are actively working to reduce their emissions.

“NOTE: the greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (from burning fossil fuels), methane (mainly from agriculture and landfills), nitrous (mainly used in electricity transformers); these gases have different impacts or global warming potential in the atmosphere; they are collectively measured as tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents where carbon dioxide has an impact of one.”

What are the major steps New Zealanders need to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

“Burning fossil fuels for activities such as transport and electricity generation are generally where most New Zealanders emissions come from. But the most important contribution that individuals, communities, organisations and businesses can make is to understand how their dayto-day activities cause emissions and take action to manage and reduce the largest sources of these emissions (you can use our free calculators on our website to do this).

“Where emissions cannot be further reduced or are unavoidable, some organisations and people choose to invest in projects elsewhere that reduce emissions.

This is most often done by purchasing and cancelling offsets from trusted carbon credit projects overseen by governmental or international agencies with the authority to issue tradable units or carbon credits created by these projects.”

What are some easy ways businesses/ farmers could reduce their greenhouse gas emissions?

“Farms are businesses and like most businesses, farms can look at energy and fuel being used in various parts of their farm. If you can reduce your usage, you are reducing emissions. And, by the way, you will reduce your costs, which can really help farmers. Just need to be smart about using resources.

“A large proportion of agricultural emissions come from livestock and fertiliser use. Although it seems there is not a lot that can be done about this, there is some great research being done by Landcare Research and the other Crown Research Institutes – have a look at the greenhouse gas projects reported on their public web pages.”

Continued on next page >>

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Society

<< From previous page

What is your role at the carboNZero programme and your main objectives?

“I manage technical strategy for our programme and lead a team of dedicated environmental experts and auditors who are passionate about reducing greenhouse gas emissions. I am also responsible for the technical development and quality of the programme and related research.

I also participate in the development of international standards for greenhouse gas accounting and reporting to ensure that the certification of our clients is based on international best practice.”

What prompted you to take up this role?

“I was using the science and stories from the carboNZero programme as examples in my teaching in the UK before I came to live in New Zealand. I was running a Masters programme in environmental management for business and all my students were middle and senior managers from business and industry. Later, I joined Landcare Research and I was delighted when I was asked to be programme leader for the carboNZero programme. I felt that the research programme had the potential to be a successful business.

“We need our planet to be safe and healthy in the widest possible sense. Every little bit helps no matter where you are.

Through the carboNZero programme I can help make a difference.”

Where do you want the carboNZero programme to be in the next five years?

“I would like the programme to be world leading through its credibility and integrity.

I would like our programme tools and guidance to be easily accessible, practical to use and able to be integrated with existing business systems. I would like our brands to become symbols associated with clients and consumers who have made the environmentally responsible decision to reduce their footprints. I would like our programme to be making a difference for organisations and the environment on a world-wide scale.”

“There is a real opportunity to take our expertise to the world and make a real, tangible difference in reducing emissions. I want to leave the world a safe and healthy place for my grandchildren to grow up in. I can’t do that alone.

“We only have the one planet to live on.

No company would set out to trash the planet in its business plan. So the converse implies that the majority of businesses want a safe and healthy planet. If we needed to find another suitable planet to live on, we should have set out to find it 50,000 years ago.

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^ J.Friend and Co - carboNZero certified

Travel

Spanish abyss Montserrat

The slow climb on the Montserrat cable car leaves plenty of time to be taken in by the awe-inspiring view of Spain’s Catalonia and the overarching beauty of the jagged mountain towering majestically above the region.

Montserrat, home to one of Spain’s most important religious sites, is full of innate beauty combining nature, culture and history all in one place. On the mountain is the Santa Maria de Montserrat, which hosts the Virgin of Montserrat (the Black Madonna) sanctuary, the Benedictine Monastery and is also thought to be the location of the Holy Grail from Arthurian legends.

The original legend of Montserrat traces back to the day when shepherd children living in the mountains at the time, saw a bright light shining from a cave and singing. A figure appeared telling them to go to the grotto where the statue of the Black Madonna was discovered.

After being contacted, church authorities ordered the statue to be taken to Barcelona, but with each step the half-life sized statue became heavier. And so the

men decided the image should remain where it was found – on the mountain, where it still sits today. The Benedictine monks then chose to build their monastery around the statue.

Today Montserrat can be reached quite easily, for a day trip from Barcelona or for an overnight visit, via the Aeri de Montserrat cable car. Once there, enjoy the local food, walk around the day market providing authentic Catalan produce, visit the museum, the monastery and the chapel.

Take a trip up to the highest point of Montserrat, Sant Jeroni, which can be reached by a footpath from the top-station of the Funicular Sant Joan - from here almost all of Catalonia can be seen and on a clear day the island of Majorca is visible.

It promises to be the ideal destination for the spiritual, the nature lovers, the art enthusiasts, architecture lovers, historians and anyone ready to appreciate beauty in one of its most majestic forms.

For more information go to: www.cremallerademontserrat.com

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Travel

10 Things you didn’t know about your next favourite island destination Rarotonga is the capital island of the Cook Islands

The Cook Islands enjoys lovely weather all year round

Lots of people think that Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are two different places, or they think that Rarotonga and Tonga (a separate country) are the same place. Not so. Rarotonga is the capital island of the enchanting Cook Islands, 15 in all. Aitutaki is another of the 15 - named by Getaway show host Catriona Rowntree as the most romantic place on Earth (then again, she did have her honeymoon there).

Best time to go? Frangipani Season from November through to March is a stunning time of year because it’s typically warm and balmy (not too hot or wet), fragrant frangipani and flame trees are in bloom, mangoes are ripe, and the days are longer (‘more sunshine for your dollar’ so to speak), plus sizzling tropical sunsets.

A delicious time of year to visit.

Rarotonga is in the very heart of the South Pacific

Small but perfectly formed

Both geographically (it’s just west of Tahiti) and because it is still very much a ‘paradise, from the heart’ – with warm, natural, unaffected island people.

When you touch down on Rarotonga, you’re minutes away from starting your vacation Not a further 2-hour coach ride, small plane or boat ride away. Just 3.5hrs hours from Auckland and you’ve found yourself in the South Seas!

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Rarotonga is one big playground - at just 32km in circumference, it’s small enough to easily get around, but big enough to pack in heaps of activities. Enjoy the freedom of the island on scooter, bicycle, car or soft-top jeep - or the friendly island bus. In the centre of the island are majestic high mountains clothed in lush cloud forest, perfect for a cross-island trek or the island’s most popular tour, a Raro Mountain Safari Tour. Rarotonga is fringed by beautiful white sand beaches, and beyond the reef is deep ocean, perfect for diving or gamefishing. Leave the knitting at home.

Travel

The Island’s Best Snorkelling Spot

Location, location, location

Is the decade-old Aro’a Lagoon Marine Reserve, directly in front of the Cook Islands’ signature resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. The resort offers complimentary snorkelling lessons and snorkelling safaris, and also an extra-special treat, night snorkelling. Or you can feed the reef fish straight off the restaurant deck. Whatever way you do it, making friends with the lagoon locals is fascinating fun for the young and the young at heart.

For that delicious ‘easy like Sunday morning’ feeling every day of your vacation, nowhere compares to The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Enjoy the island’s best beach (with all-day sun), off-beach snorkeling (all-tide Aro’a Lagoon Marine Reserve), best shows, best free activities, best range of facilities and services, and best sunsets. If you’ve ever wanted to dance the hula (‘ura), make a lei (ei), play the ukulele or husk a coconut, this is definitely the place to learn! It’s also ideal for a multi-generational family holiday as it offers KIDS STAY, PLAY & EAT FREE! Visit www.TheRarotongan.com or email info@ rarotongan.co.ck for more info.

Then there’s all the eating and drinking you can do The island has about 50 cafes, bars and restaurants dotted around the Circle Island Drive. On Wednesdays The Rarotongan offers an authentic Umu feast slowcooked in the earthoven, with succulent coconut-fed island pork, fresh gamefish and traditional vegetables, followed by a riveting show of island drumming and dancing. You’ll soon realize why Cook Island drummers and dancers are considered the best in the Pacific. To kick up your own heels, board the funbus for The Rarotongan’s Friday NiteLife Tour of the island’s colourful bars and clubs (never too old!). Atone on Sunday at one of the uplifting Cook Islands Christian services held in the island’s historic coral churches; the hymn-singing is out of this world.

Now’s good Leave it all behind and getaway to Rarotonga or Aitutaki for a complete break away from it all. If you feel like you’ve ‘been there, done that’ and are searching for a fresh new destination for your holiday, then we know just the place …

This ain’t no shopping mecca But a lot of fun can be had at the Saturday morning Punanga Nui Market for local handicrafts, pareus (sarongs), T shirts, island CD music, ukuleles, carvings ~ and the all important Cook Islands black pearls in mysterious hues of peacock blue, green and gray. For your dose of cultural enrichment, go on a tour of the island’s art galleries which range from funky to high art. And it’s all using the great-value New Zealand dollar too!

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journey Where the

becomes a destination

Interislander travels between the North and South Islands of New Zealand and is one of the most spectacular three hour cruises in the world. As you travel on Interislander, take a stroll on the decks, enjoy a meal, a drink or even catch the latest movie releases. Or of course, you could just take in the breathtaking view.

To book today, visit www.interislander.co.nz, see your nearest travel agent or call 0800 802 802.

Travel

“...one of the

most beautiful

ferry rides in the world” Wine Spectator Magazine, USA

Kaitaki Plus Lounge

Interislander operates three ships, the Kaitaki, Arahura and Aratere, for you and your vehicle.

With up to 11 sailings a day, you’ll always have a wide choice of travel times.

Apart from the fantastic views, Interislander gives you plenty to see and do on board and the friendly staff are committed to making your journey enjoyable.

With a range of cafes and bars onboard, you can enjoy some of New Zealand’s renowned wines and beers, have an award-winning coffee and a light snack or hearty meal.

Kaitaki Plus, Interislander’s premium lounge onboard Kaitaki is without question the most luxurious way to cross Cook Strait. A Kaitaki Plus ticket allows passengers to access a private lounge which includes free internet access, Sky TV, newspapers and magazines, complimentary beer, wine, tea, coffee and finger food.

You can upgrade to Kaitaki Plus for only $45 at the Wellington or Picton Terminals or onboard at the shop. Alternatively, Kaitaki Plus can be purchased as an upgrade fare when making your Interislander booking.

Taking a vehicle with Interislander is as easy as parking in a car park building - just drive on and drive off. As well as the travel convenience of taking a vehicle between the two islands, passengers with vehicles do not have any luggage restrictions.

Combining spectacular scenery and great service, it is easy to see why Interislander has been described “as one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world,” by Wine Spectator Magazine, USA. Make sure you take advantage of Interislander’s great senior discounts.

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Travel

Indonesia’s island collective

Gili Islands

Just a short two hour, exciting (or terrifying – depending on how much of a thrill-seeker you are) fast-boat trip away from the Bali shores, are a set of picturesque atolls which promise a tranquil island holiday.

Crossing the Wallace line from the oriental region over to the northernmost tip of the Australasian region, you will find the West Nusa Tenggara province and three of its most attractive gems – the Gili Islands of Gili Meno, Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.

Gili Meno is the smallest of the three islands, and with its castaway feel is perfect for honey-mooners or those simply wanting an escape from civilisation.

Gili Air is probably the least developed of the three and provides a real Indonesian island community experience for those who fear the tourist masses, and Gili Trawangan is the most popular of the three atolls and as a result is commonly called the party island, with its spattering of bars and restaurants.

However, unique characteristics aside, all three idyllic atolls are home to the powdery white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters, which provide an idyllic time away from the rowdy shores of Bali.

With its clear turquoise blue waters and stretches of white beach and island marine-life, it’s a holiday that is both relaxing and exciting. Go diving or snorkelling, watch the marine life dart by, see the pretty corals in their glorious colour and watch the turtles laze in the warm tropical sun.

Cat-haters beware, being trapped on the island these feline creatures have bred and now rule the roost, basking on the beach or in a café chair – just look before you sit.

Being car-free may seem like another problem to city slickers, but these islands are so small going for a walk around doesn’t take long at all; and if you do get tired on your way back there is always one of the horse-drawn taxi carriages.

For those staying the night there is a range of accommodation suited to all budgets; from the five-star villas with all the perks to a small beach-side bungalow.

For more information go to: www.gili-paradise.com

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Travel

The real Spain Andalucia’s golden triangle

Spain’s most southerly region is the true home of the authentic Spanish region. Bullfighting, tapas, flamenco, the guitar – all began in the beautiful area of Andalucia in the south of Spain.

All this tradition blended into today’s modern Spain can be seen and celebrated in Andalucia’s golden triangle, which is made up of three cities, Granada, Cordoba and Sevilla.

Its fiestas are notorious for being the noisiest and most colourful, its Easter processions are vibrant, the Spaniards lively and boisterous, it is a land of surprises and contradictions.

Contemporary Andalucia is more cosmopolitan and fashionable with towns and cities, full of hip boutiques and hip bars, stylish restaurants and pumping nightlife pulsating with life while maintaining their historic charm.

To grasp the tranquillity of Spain, a trip or extended stay into the country-side is a must-do.

One sparkling jewel in the vista of the Spanish countryside is Lake Iznajar.

Anywhere around this coast are a range of places to stay and enjoy in the beauty and peace of these surrounds.

Spend a night in a 150 year old Finca with its olive and fruit trees, vegetable and herb gardens as well as a beautiful swimming pool, partake in cooking classes from a professional chef, a horse riding adventure, painting classes or simply relax in the beauty.

For more information visit: www.golearnto.com

Away from the mass-tourist resorts you will find a taste of the real Spain. With some of the most pristine beaches in the country, green hills, olive groves and white villages, nature reserves and snow-capped mountains.

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Travel

Thai adventure

Jungle Trek

It is not your typical beach holiday, but Northern Thailand is the perfect destination of holiday goers who don’t like to sit still.

With its rough and mountainous scenery it has been a popular destination for many adventure seekers. The perfect gateway for an adventurer’s Thai holiday is the country’s northern city of Chang Mai which leads straight into the Thai jungle. Rest up in this gorgeous city, which is the perfect blend of big city and small town, both before

and after your trek. Just an hour north out of town is a range of stunning jungle, waterfalls and wild rivers, Doi Chiang Dao national park, the Maetang river area and many other natural beauties. To the South West of Chaing Mai lies the Doi Intanon, the country’s tallest mountain with numerous waterfalls and jungle trails. It promises to be an adventure of a lifetime – just watch out for wild elephants and snakes.

Mitiaro HOME STAY “For your itiki experience”

The people of the island of Mitiaro bring you the ‘itiki experience’.

The word ‘itiki’ in the Cook Islands is synonymous with the island of Mitiaro’s renowned delicacy, eels from it’s lake, but ‘itiki’ also means ‘bringing together of cultures’ or ‘sharing of experiences’ or ‘love’.

The ‘itiki experience’ is about our History, Culture, Lifestyle and Environment.

Mitiaro Home Stay is a must to visit, and at great value for money we provide you with comfortable and unique facilities and lifestyle experience.

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Phone: +682 20 639 Email: reservations@cookislandstours.co.ck www.mitiarohomestay.co.ck

A fate worse

Life & Living

than death A study of people’s worst fears placed death at number seven. It seems we find at least six things to be far worse than death, with the most feared of all being speaking to a group.

By Karen Degen

Countless surveys and studies over the years have placed the fears in different order, but the number one fear never changes – fear of public speaking. In one study over 40 percent of people ranked it top of their list.

The vast majority of administrative roles involve some level of public speaking, from participating in meetings to giving presentations to clients.

It is rare for people to divulge this fear so it goes undetected and untreated, with the result being ongoing inferior performance in this area, or complete avoidance of the situation. It is quite common for someone to call in sick on the day of a presentation.

And if left unaddressed, this fear can carry though for the entirety of someone’s life. One size does not fit all when it comes to treating this problem. It’s essential to look beneath the fear and find the contributing factors.

One common contributor is the loathing many sufferers have of being looked at or being the focus of attention.

Underneath this will be yet another contributing factor, often the fear of being judged or falling short of the task.

Underpinning this will be the core issue, which will be unique to the individual, as we all have different life experiences.

Sometimes the core issue is a time we have failed in front of other people in the past, often in childhood. For many it is not something obvious, like having given a poor speech in the past. Far more common with sufferers is a situation in the past when they got something wrong and everyone looked at them. The feelings of embarrassment and humiliation remain in the subconscious mind waiting to be triggered by the next time they are looked at by a group of people. That ‘group of people’ may be any situation where more than one person is present.

If more than 40 percent of people rank their worst fear as speaking to a group, it’s likely that someone in your workplace and or sphere of influence is hampered by it. Are you?

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Life & Living

a community services card, or receiving an Invalid’s Benefit or a Veteran’s Pension, or be former recipients of an Invalid’s Benefit or Veteran’s Pension who have converted to New Zealand Superannuation.

The package includes funding for the communication with potential eligible people, supplying, delivering and installing the set-top box, aerial or satellite dish and cabling if required, and teaching new users how to use the new equipment.

“To keep watching TV, all New Zealanders need to go digital by getting Freeview, Sky or TelstraClear,” broadcasting minister Craig Foss says.

New Zealand’s transition to an entirely digital television network is under way – so what does this mean for you?

Going digital means you will get better picture and sound quality, more channels and advanced features, but it can cause confusion and fuss for older people who are not quite tech-savvy in the fast and everchanging world of technology.

But fear not, for help is at hand. Making the digital switch can be done with the assistance of the Going Digital Targeted Assistance Package. Launched by the Government, the package is aimed directly at seniors who have physical, financial, or technical constraints.

Seniors will receive all the necessary equipment including a set-top box, cable, one UHF aerial or satellite dish, as well as an aftercare helpline which provides 12 month technical support and a standard warranty service.

Goingdigital.co.nz states that to be eligible, people must be watching only analogue television and be either aged 75 or over with

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“Nearly 80 percent of Kiwis have already done so and are enjoying more channels, better pictures and new services. People are going digital all the time and we expect nearly 90 percent of New Zealanders will have gone digital by May 2013.

“However, the Government recognises that a small group of people could need financial, physical or technical help to switch over. Our Targeted Assistance Package is focused on those most likely to be in genuine need, and will directly help elderly people on fixed incomes and people with disabilities make the transition to digital television.

“Digital TV will bring big benefits to New Zealand,” he says. “It will allow the use of 4G technologies, which could have economic benefits worth over $2 billion in the next 20 years.”

The digital changeover in New Zealand has already begun with the next region to go digital the South Island – excluding the West Coast, St Arnaud, and Murchison= on Sunday, April 28, 2013; followed by lower North Island and East Coast on Sunday, September 29, 2013, and then the upper North Island on Sunday, December 1, 2013.

Life & Living

Delights of the harbour capital

As the local saying goes - you can’t beat Wellington on a good day. True, Wellington has its fair share of less-than-good weather, but there are plenty of reasons why the weather won’t get in the way of a good day in the capital. There are numerous delights well within the central city; so pack an umbrella and pull on a pair of well-soled shoes and enjoy what Wellington has to offer – whatever the weather.

Local Wellingtonian Clare Bycroft shares her favourite city hotspots.

Eat at Memphis Belle café Memphis Belle is a haven of hipster culture without a hint of pretentiousness. On the triangular corner of Manners and Dixon St. enjoy coffee made by award-winning baristas and lunch served by super-cool wait-staff. “Chillax” in the heart of the city with the newspaper and watch shoppers wander by in their weekend-best. For more information call 021 244 8852 or visit www. facebook.com/memphisbellecoffeehouse

down-right strange. On a sunny day the Square is a geometric spectacle of shadow and light. Just across the Square is the City Gallery, well-known for its innovative and exciting range of art works and exhibitions, it is usually free to enter and always worth a visit. For more information go to: www.citygallery.org.nz

Watch a film or a play in one of Wellington’s best theatres The Embassy Theatre has had a make-over and the new decor feels, at once, regal and relaxed. The cinema still has its luscious curtains which are drawn back at the start of each film, and its new below-floor bar feels remarkably like you’re in a ‘70s Bond film.

Alternatively, support local theatre and see a play at the Gryphon Theatre on Ghuznee St, just off Cuba St. This cute theatre offers an eclectic season of live plays performed by entirely local players.

Relax in Wellington central If you’re feeling like a quiet read the Wellington Central Library is kept nice and cozy and contains a wide range of books, music, DVDs. Its mezzanine floor café (Clarke’s Café) has a prime view of Civic Square, which itself contains a number of sculptures: monolithic, symbolic, and some

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Life & Living

Two Degrees - Pinot Noir 2009 For a nice red to warm you up, this stunning Otago Two Degrees Pinot Noir is the one to savour. It was awarded this year’s Royal Easter Wine Show Champion Pinot Noir Trophy, overtaking 200 other contenders for the prize.

RRP: $37

This 2009 Pinot Noir has a wonderful purity of fruit, it is a fuller bodied pinot with an intense plum and dark cherry note. The tannins are silky smooth and the finish goes on and on. But be quick – stock won’t last forever, especially not when it’s this good.

Available from: Selected wine stores and restaurants throughout the country or order online at www.2degrees.co.nz

Huntaway Reserve - Pinot Gris 2011 Huntaway wines, known for their distinctive characteristics, include both mainstream and specialty varietals from Marlborough, Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay. Since Huntaway Reserve was launched in late 1996, the range has been awarded no less than six gold medals and three trophies, reflecting the outstanding quality of these wines.

RRP: $23.99

This wine represents a blend of pinot gris from some of its finest vineyards in Gisborne.

In the glass, this wine is straw in colour with green tinges. A lifted bouquet of pear and melon with hints of spice is evident.

There is a rich, oily-textured palate, layered with pear and spice flavours and an underlying savoury complexity leads to a lingering off-dry finish.

Available from: wine outlets nationwide

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Elliott Stables Ladies heels battle the cobblestone paths in alleyways set aglow by the warm lamp-lights. A mellow, melodious atmosphere fills the air.

Each doorway shows a glimpse of another country. It’s a scene reminiscent of the era of European elegance and the horse-drawn carriage.

To relive the nostalgia of 19th century Europe, one no longer needs a time-machine. Nor does one need to spend 24 hours cramped into a plane seat crossing the globe, when hidden in the heart of Auckland city’s concrete suburbia is Elliott Stables.

Set in the original Archibald Clarke and Sons warehouse of the 1800s the stables are a piece of stylish Auckland heritage, housing not horses but “Auckland’s favourite marketplace,” on Elliott Street.

Around the large village-like commons distinct market-style artisans sell their wares, from organic meats and cheeses, to wines, cakes, liqueurs and whisky.

All this is infused with gourmet eateries ranging from Spanish tapas, French creperies, Italian bruschetterias and German sausage makers. There are choices aplenty.

Authentic French Walking into Torchon Creperie you are greeted by an array of red-chequered table-cloths. French staff call-out a cheery, “Bonjour!”

In true French style be seated and enjoy a traditional sweet crepe or savoury galette for breakfast. The crepes are exactly as they should be – thin, warm and soft in the mouth.

Sweet or savoury – both offer a culinary dream, infused with a taste of France.

Life & Living

A decadent taste of European elegance A bite of Spain The place to go for an eclectic lunch date or a romantic dinner is El Faro Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar. With its scrumptious green lipped mussel pots, delicious organic meats and vegetarian dishes – the best way to enjoy the Spanish experience – is by mixing it up with a range of tapas dishes.

Romantic Italian To make your own episode of Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp” – share a delicious plate of spaghetti with your significant other, only to tangle yourselves into a kiss – look no further than De Niro Ristorante.

Giving dessert its just desserts This restaurant mixes art and dessert with stylish panache. A real chocolate soup to make a chocolate lover swoon, the meltin-your-mouth traditional kiwi pavlova and the twisted lemon meringue pie – there is a dessert for everyone. Regular art exhibitions, combine with dessert tasting and discussions around art to bring a new meaning to the term creative dining.

Elliott Stables is open Monday to Sunday from breakfast until late. To find out more visit www.elliottstables.co.nz

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Life & Living

Wonderful Waipara

By Kayte John

As the well-known wine critic Bob Campbell puts it, “Canterbury’s stunning Waipara region is one of the unsung heroes of the wine industry.”

It has become the fastest growing wine region in New Zealand with around 80 vineyards in the Waipara Valley, covering more than 1,200 hectares of plantings.

There is no surprise that it has quickly become one of the great wine capitals of the world. Waipara is now synonymous with fine wine and great food and it’s right on our doorstep!

Only a 40 minute drive north of Christchurch, Waipara’s wineries currently produce in excess of 250,000 cases of wine each year (and growing). Warm summers with nor-west winds and sloping terrain harness the sun, which provides ideal conditions for growing grapes.

Waipara has more than 15 wineries with cellar doors that are open to the public. Here you can drop in, taste wines and at some, enjoy a meal, a lunch platter or a coffee.

As I arrive the rain has vanished and the sun emerges through the dark clouds encasing the vine-covered hills.

My first stop is the impressive Pegasus Bay Winery where I meet marketing manager, Edward Donaldson. The family run business is famous for its award winning wines and renowned world class restaurant.

It’s a Wednesday afternoon and I expect the place to be fairly quiet – I was wrong.

The restaurant is full for lunch and a flock of tourists have assembled in the tasting room.

Donaldson explains that tourists are still visiting and the locals are making up for the short-fall. He also explains that Pegasus Bay has a large international market and a sizable percentage of its wines are imported all around the world. As I leave a family from Seattle tells me they came all the way from the US to taste our fine wine – leaving me and Donaldson smiling.

Before I head to some of the smaller wineries I make sure I pop into The Mud House Winery and Café - always a great place for lunch and to sample its broad wine list.

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Life & Living

The manager, Jenny Anderson is very welcoming and the staff more than happy to talk you through the wines.

As I walk outside with my chilled riesling a helicopter gracefully lands and a couple emerge looking very eager to have lunch.

Anderson explains that heli lunch tours are very popular with tourists and even locals, as it provides a quick way to reach Waipara from Christchurch.

Wineries not open to the public offer tastings by appointment only. This shouldn’t stop you from getting in touch and booking - and it’s happily advised by the owners.

Crater Rim, Muddy Water, Black Estate and Dancing Water are just a small handful of these boutique wineries. It would be a sin not to visit some of the smaller wineries as they offer a personal touch and the wines are truly out of this world.

I visit Greystone’s/Muddy Water’s cellar door and sip on a pinot noir, savouring its silky plum taste. It’s easy to get caught up in conversation as I did with Jacinda Amer, the cellar door manager. I was even given a tour by their viticulturist, Nick Gill who explained the grape types and gave me a little history about the vineyard.

Last year Greystone won the 2011 Winemaker of the Year award - a true test to their hard work and commitment that goes into its wines. Many visitors will be keen to visit the Waipara Valley, not only for tastings of superb wines, but also for excellent food that’s also on offer. Wineries such as Waipara Springs, Mud House and Pegasus Bay all provide a great lunch menu. Last year, Pegasus Bay was voted ‘Best Winery Restaurant’ in New Zealand for the fourth consecutive year.

The Waipara Valley also hosts some of the best food and wine events of the year. Not to be missed is the Waipara Valley Wine and Food Festival. Taking place in March, it’s one of the most exciting wine and food events in New Zealand. More than 20 wineries and many local food producers come together, serenaded by music from Herbs, Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra and Christchurch Pops Choir.

For more information on the Waipara food and wine events visit: www.thewinerytour. co.nz and www.waiparawineandfood.co.nz

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Pets / Animals

Is your dog a

fussy eater?

Dogs have a reputation for eating anything and everything - especially your leftovers, but some can actually become fussy eaters. Dogs do have different appetites - what is normal for one dog may not be for another. But when your dog approaches the bowl, sniffs and looks up at you in disgust - what do you do?

The first thing is to consult your vet, as going off his or her food can be a sign of illness. However, if illness has been excluded, don’t start to teach bad habits by feeding your dog(s) what you eat. I know - it’s hard to resist those big, sad eyes, but this is how fussy eating can become a problem. This needs to be addressed - for the good of you both.

Cutting out bad habits For the most part, fussy eaters are made not born. Dogs are smart characters, and often they will neglect their food because they’ve learned that they can get attention, and hand-fed tasty food, by refusing what is in their bowl.

The sneaky, clever ones will also know that, if they hold out just long enough - they might get offered some delicious food from us instead of their usual dog food. To change fussy behaviour, the first step is to identify the ways you might have encouraged it, whether by accident or on purpose.

Your dog also may be sneaking extra meals somewhere - or from someone else. A quick check with your neighbours, other family members and the rubbish bins, may explain why dinner is left untouched. If all members of a large family are providing treats, this may be filling your dog up. This is unlikely to be providing a healthy and balanced diet.

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What to do You can try any number of approaches to give dogs back their appetite for appropriate food. If you are petting or hand-feeding, try stopping for a while.

Try gently warming dog food in the microwave to release its aromas.

Feeding dogs during the family meal will make them feel socially included, but ideally this should be in a separate area, and always ignore them if they beg at the table - shutting them out of the room if necessary.

Praise them when they eat from their own bowl, only leave food on offer for 15 minutes; if it’s not consumed, remove it and offer a fresh bowl of food a few hours later.

A lifestyle change You could also try switching to a dry complete food. These formulations tend to be very concentrated, so your dog won’t need to eat as much to receive an equivalent level of energy.

Dry foods also contain higher levels of oil, which can make them more appealing to your dog. Specially formulated and sensitive recipes have a high level of digestibility, which can also sometimes encourage a fussy eater. Fussy eating can be a challenging behaviour to cure, so avoid it developing by not feeding your dog from the table and limiting treats to training tools only.

Encourage them to eat their own food away from the table and keep them fit and healthy with lots of exercise. Consult your vet if they continue to refuse food.

I TRAVEL TO YOU SO

LESS

STRESS FOR YOU AND

YOUR PET Mobile Veterinary Nurse to your door No cold exam table No strange smells No time wasted in the waiting room No stress getting cats into cages or dogs through the vets front door.

Chrissy MacPherson - NCVN Call 03 360 3860 or 027 479 5005 chrissy@petcheckdirect.co.nz www.petcheckdirect.co.nz

Pets / Animals

Don’t skimp on pet care

during tight times When home finances are stretched, things that fall under the category of ‘discretionary spend’ often get the chop. However, caring for your pets shouldn’t fall under this banner and pet owners should never skimp on the health, care and wellbeing of their cats or dogs.

Now most owners will not stop buying their cat or dog the pet food they love, but there are some important health care needs that owner might not take because they are thought to be too expensive or unnecessary.

Desexing Desexing is one of the most important things pet owners can do, but is often avoided due to its expense. Thousands of unwanted kittens and puppies are abandoned or brought into animal rescue organisations each year, simply because too many dogs and cats are being allowed to breed without care or thought of the consequences. Desexing is not only vital for controlling the population of unwanted animals in the community, it is also better for a pet’s health. Research shows that desexing dogs and cats reduces risks of some cancers and can assist in controlling unsociable behaviours like roaming, territory marking and aggression.

Behaviour Behavioural problems in pets can also lead to situations of abandonment or maltreatment by owners facing difficult times. Behavioural problems in dogs, such as excessive barking or destruction

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of your property, can cause undue stress in a household. For basic training, check out obedience classes that are available through local dog clubs, or for more severe problems, consult with an animal behaviourist for professional advice.

Regular health checks A regular health check-up for pets is another common casualty of hard economic times. Keeping parasite treatments and vaccinations current is vitally important for protecting your cat or dog from a number of serious and potentially life threatening diseases, such as distemper, hepatitis and kennel cough. A check-up from your veterinarian is the simplest and best way to ensure your pet is happy and content throughout their life. Take good care of your pet, and they will continue to care for you as a loving companion through a financially tough year.

What you put in your pet’s bowl can affect their life now–and in the future Once again voted one of the best pet foods in the world – The Whole Dogfood Journal.

What you feed your pet directly affects how long they live and the quality of their life.

There is an array of choices when it comes to pet nutrition available in the marketplace today and not all choices may be suitable for all pets. To help consumers with the responsibility of making the best choice when it comes to their pet’s nutrition and specific needs, CANIDAE offers a wide variety of premium, all natural formulas to choose from.

From our four meat protein diets, to our single protein source diets, we invite you to see the difference feeding CANIDAE and FELIDAE can make in your pet’s diet.

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Motoring

Electrically charging ahead

Holden’s ground-breaking long-range electric car, the Volt, is set to charge onto the road later this year with its new, more superior and advanced safety features protecting those behind the wheel.

Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning will be offered for the first time in a Holden, ensuring Volt offers some of the most advanced vehicle technology and cutting edge safety features in New Zealand.

The Volt’s Forward Collision Alert is powered by front sensor indicators positioned on the windscreen alerting the driver via an audible alarm if they are travelling too close to the vehicle in front.

A Lane Departure Warning camera is also positioned on the windscreen and detects if the driver veers or swerves out of a marked lane without indicating. Volt’s safety is further enhanced with the inclusion of eight airbags and a rear view camera.

Holden New Zealand Managing Director, Jeff Murray says that Holden has specified the Volt for its launch in New Zealand.

“Volt has already won numerous awards around the world and now we are offering some of the most advanced technologies that ever arrived on our shores,” Jeff says.

“The Holden Volt proves that electric cars don’t need to be small and unusual looking to make a statement. This car is the perfect package of advanced technologies which boast premium features and of course, design.”

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As well as its impressive safety-features, in its latest release, the Holden Volt also promises drivers an entertaining drive with a full infotainment system; 7-inch colour LCD touch screen, satellite navigation, audio interface including voice recognition and Bluetooth®, DVD playback, MP3 plug and play functionality and USB input with iPod® compatibility.

A 30GB inbuilt hard drive enables users to store their own music tracks while audio is delivered through a six speaker premium Bose® audio system with amplifier and sub-woofer.

“This is an incredible car to drive with great road handling and has all the performance customers have come to expect from a Holden vehicle. It also removes Long Range Anxiety with the Volt being able to travel more than 600km without compromise,” Jeff says. “Given what the Holden Volt has to offer with its technologies, design and features, this car becomes a very compelling choice for the customer concerned about the environment without having to sacrifice style, space and comfort and it is all here in one car.”

This car ticks all the boxes for those who considered an electrical car before but were concerned about space and style.

Prospective Volt buyers can now place an order with their local specialist dealer with the first cars scheduled to be delivered to customers before the end of the year.

For more information go to www.holden.co.nz

Motoring

Kia soars with jet plane technology

Ever dreamed of flying a jet-plane, but life just got in the way? Well it’s not to late to simulate the experience and what better way than jumping into Kia’s latest luxury car, with its jet-plane-like modifications.

From the automatic transmission, to an advanced high-tech display that is used on advanced fighter jets, a navigational system which warns drivers of imminent dangers – Kia’s new Quoris promises the closest to flying a plane you can get while keeping your wheels on the ground.

Kia has introduced a wave of new technology on its Quoris luxury flagship model, which recently went on sale in Korea and is expected to launch internationally later this year.

Among the most advanced technology is a new shift-by-wire system that activates the automatic transmission, instead of using a mechanical shift. This technology is similar to the fly-by-wire systems used by aircraft manufacturers on their latest passenger planes.Kia says the new transmission system used on the Quoris makes gear shifts much smoother and we could see it used on other models in the near future.

Other aviation technology included on the Quoris is a high-tech Heads-Up

Display (HUD) system. Used on very advanced fighter jets, the Kia system uses a full colour HUD system that projects important information onto the windscreen of a vehicle. The system supplies the driver with the information and data on the vehicle’s current speed, navigational data, danger signals, rear and side obstacles. It also warns the driver when the vehicle veers off track.

Also new is a Flex Steer system that enables the driver to select a wide number of driving modes from normal to eco, snow and sport modes, with each of them regulating the engine, transmission, steering and suspension to create an optimal balance between driving comfort, performance and fuel economy.

This technology is also likely to permeate down to other models in the Kia range, especially the SUV and Crossover vehicles, making them safer on dangerous surfaces.

Adaptive Cruise Control is another safety feature of the Quoris which automatically adjusts the car’s distance from other vehicles. The Quoris will be one of the first cars outside Europe to offer this advanced feature.

So keep an eye out for this aviation powered car that promises an experience second-to-none.

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Motoring

Small things make the

biggest difference

Suzuki have spent 100 years perfecting the art of small. They’ve learnt how to pack more value into smaller spaces and use smaller amounts of valuable resources. With cars that are designed to be efficient and affordable without compromising performance, comfort, style or safety. And to put a smile on your face every time you drive.

If it’s plain old fun you’re after, you can’t go past Swift, New Zealand’s favourite supermini. Splash adds a dash of practical perfection to the mix, with more interior space and fantastic all-round visibility. The 1.0 litre Alto is the perfect choice if you happen to be

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budget and environmentally conscious.

It boasts one of the lowest CO2 emissions for a petrol-powered car, and fuel economy as low as 4.5 L/100kms.

Suzuki’s ‘biggest’ small car, SX4, is built for the modern adventurer, with a nimble 2.0 litre engine and the choice of 2 or 4-wheel drive. While Jimny offers the kind of off-road capability and performance that others have long tried to emulate.

Whichever you choose, real value pricing and consistently higher resale values mean you’ll save money long after you take delivery. So, it really does pay to talk to the small car experts.

Motoring

New cars give more

bang for your buck

While the motor industry has long promoted the idea cars represent increasingly good value, proof is now available courtesy of Statistics New Zealand.

In a report on the price movement of new cars between 2001 and 2011, Statistics New Zealand data shows in real terms, the price of new cars actually decreased by around 1.5 percent on average during that period.

MTA spokesperson Ian Stronach says this data doesn’t really come as a surprise to anyone familiar with the motor industry, but it’s good to get some statistical evidence.

“Over recent years cars have steadily offered more features, room, power and convenience to buyers, usually without increasing fuel or real purchasing costs.

Smarter manufacturing methods, currency shifts and tighter margins have meant a better deal for buyers.”

In its survey, it looks at the movements in car prices as measured by the consumers price index (CPI). According to Statistics New Zealand, any movements should reflect changes in price, but not the effect of changes in the features of cars.

To remove the effects of any changes in quality, Statistics New Zealand ‘quality adjusts’ the retail prices, based on the value of the changed features to consumers – that is they deduct the value of any additional features or improvements over the original car.

Not surprisingly, the difference between the quality adjusted prices and retail prices tends to increase over time, because of new features being added when new models are introduced.

In the case of new cars though, during the period surveyed, the retail prices of the cars tracked in the CPI increased 19.1 percent, but the ‘quality adjusted’ prices actually went down by 1.5 percent.

The survey looked more closely at two specific cars – a large sedan and a small hatchback.

During the survey period the retail price of the large sedan increased from $49,700 to $54,100 (8.8 percent), but the quality adjusted price decreased from $49,700 to $49,200 an overall decrease of 1.0 percent.

The price of the small hatchback increased from $29,500 to $36,000 (22.0 percent), with the quality adjusted price decreasing from $29,500 to $28,900, an overall decrease of 2.0 percent.

This is the same process car manufacturers use when comparing the ‘actual price’ of one vehicle to another.

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Making the Right Choices for Homecare Being involved in helping a close relative, friend or neighbour choose an in-home care provider can be a stressful task. Or maybe you need some help yourself now that you are getting older and can’t manage everything like you used to?

e.g. First aid, safe lifting techniques, medication administration.

• What is included in the price you will be charged? Check to make sure there are no hidden extras.

• What will happen if your homecare worker is unwell or on holiday? If you are reliant on someone coming into the home you need to be assured the service will continue if the person becomes unavailable.

• How do you give feedback about the homecare worker? There should be a formal process in place for giving compliments and complaints. Make sure you are provided with information regarding your rights to complain.

How do you know the person you choose will provide a good standard of care, will they be reliable and flexible and most of all, will they be trustworthy in your home?

There are a few things you can check and ask for that can minimise the risk of making the wrong choice and make the process a lot easier. Many homecare workers in New Zealand are employed through a company or agency that specialises in providing homecare.

• Finally who is the person you contact in regards to your homecare worker and what are the methods of contacting them? Make sure this is clear and easy to understand so that whoever needs to, has easy access to the person responsible for the homecare worker.

The following checklist provides some essential points for you to review and check before you make that final decision; • What previous experience does the homecare worker have? Ask how much experience they’ve had.

• What references does the person have?

Ask to see them, or to speak to a current client that is receiving care.

• Does the person have a clear criminal record check? Many companies will have checked this prior to employing the homecare worker.

• What training does the homecare worker have? Many homecare workers are required to complete essential training,

For more information please feel free to call Melinda McLaren on: 0508 HOMECARE / 0508 466 322 Contact Geneva Care Phone: 0508 466 322 Email: homecare@genevacare.co.nz Website: www.genevacare.co.nz

The Trusted Choice In Homecare Choosing an in-home care provider is a big decision so it's reassuring to know Geneva Care has a large team of highly-trained and experienced Registered Nurses and Carers available nationwide.

We specialise in: • Personal and domestic care • Companionship (day and night) • Dementia Care • Palliative Care • Post Surgical Care

Super Gold Card holders discount!

Geneva Care is accredited by Health and Disability Auditing NZ (HDANZ), are an ACC contracted preferred provider and a member of the NZ Home Health Association (NZHHA). Geneva are also members of the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association (RCSA).

Simply call us free on

0508 HOMECARE / 0508 466 322 Visit us online

genevacare.co.nz

Around the Home

Chic cushion wear Bolt of Cloth cushions Choose from one of the many unique designs Bolt of Cloth (linen or cotton) has wrapped around its nice comfy cushions; from the New Zealandinspired “Tui in Red” cushion cover, to the more exotic “Las Senoritas.” If these don’t fit your style – call Bolt of Cloth and it can, more often than not, custommake a design to suit your needs.

Available from www.boltofcloth.com

RRP: From $39.99 $89.99

Stylish lying

RRP: $2935 + cost of 6 metres of fabric

Line One Chaise Designed by award winning furniture designer, Bob McDonald who lives and works in Auckland, this lounge chaise brings definition to the word custom made. It comes with its standard mainframe and cushion that will be covered in a fabric design of your choosing, making it match perfectly with the vision you had for your new living room.

It’s a sofa and bed rolled into one, with a flat-slat suspension which offers superb comfort for sitting or sleeping.

The main frame is powder coated in a low-sheen silver, with a stainless steel back frame and trim.

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Available from: The Poi Room, 17 Osborne Street, Newmarket or www.thepoiroom.co.nz

Keep your nearest and dearest fire safe.

Call the Fire Service on 0800 693 473 to request a free copy of our Home Safe Home fire safety book.

Around the Home

Nurse Maude enabling greater independence in your own home

Being able to hire and buy specialist equipment and supplies is a large part of people being able to retain independence in their own home when they’re getting older or while recovering from illness.

With a long history of leading the way in community nursing Nurse Maude understands, better than most, that access to these products and this equipment, backed by experienced staff and advice, goes a long way toward people maintaining independence.

Nurse Maude’s Health & Mobility Supplies shop at 24 McDougall Avenue in Merivale, Christchurch is specifically designed to make that happen.

The wide range of equipment and products stocked is specifically designed for those who are experiencing age-related health issues, disabilities or who are recently recovering from surgery.

Many items, including wheelchairs, walking frames and shower stools are available for hire, as well as sale. Products for personal care for sale at Nurse Maude include specially designed ergonomic eating and drinking utensils, continence products, underlays for beds and a new range of specially designed pillows.

The range of health and mobility products will continue to expand over the following weeks and Nurse Maude is happy to hear about any new items customers may want, that staff can assess for future sale or hire.

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The Health & Mobility shop also stocks Meals To You; a range of pre-prepared frozen meals that can heated in the microwave at home.

These are ideal not just for older people who may not feel like cooking, but for professional people with limited time or for parents to give to their teenagers who are out flatting and believe that somehow pizza and hamburgers will deliver all the essential nutrients they need to survive.

Meals To You offers vegetarian and gluten free options and the extensive menu varies according to the season. Meals can also be ordered and delivered, or larger quantities pre-ordered and either delivered or collected from the shop.

Advice on the best products for your needs is always available at the Health & Mobility Supplies shop.

Open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm at 24 McDougall Avenue in Merivale, the Health & Mobility Supplies shop has off-street and disability parking available right outside.

The shop may be contacted on (03) 375 4240 and Nurse Maude’s website www.nursemaude.org.nz is a great source of information about Nurse Maude’s other services.

The Health & Mobility Supplies shop is an integral part of Nurse Maude’s commitment to providing the necessary care and support for people to remain independent for as long as possible in their own home and community.

Around the Home

Art for your floor Super Shag rug Retro seventies style is back and back big. If you want to wiggle your toes into something that is soft, warm and pure 100 percent New Zealand wool, look no further than to the Super Shag rug.

It ticks all the vital boxes; quality, luxury and distinction.

RRP: $9.87

Per Metre

This modern textured design holds its durability and impressive 70s interior design flair. Undeniably this rug can brighten up any part of your home. You wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even be blamed for framing it on your living room wall showcasing the best wool in the world.

More info at: www.trenzseater.com

Coffee art Bugatti Diva espresso machine The Case Bugatti Diva espresso machine is the queen of all fine Italian design. Available in striking red or stunning chrome this product features a 12-bar pump, 16-bar steam pressure, thermo block heating element, one litre water tank, a steam nozzle for frothing and heating milk and an be used with both coffee pods or ground coffee for 1-2 people. An innovative drop system stops any coffee escaping. With a quick warming time of 2 minutes this is truly an investment for your morning fix.

Available from: www.whare.net.nz

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RRP: $2,099

D N E Z

W Z

W

E A

N

E

E

N

A

L

R

A

O

U

N D

B

A

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PRODUCTS LTD

F

STAY DRY

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Manufacturer of Environment Friendly Washable Products: • Incontinence Underwear

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE MAIL ORDER CATALOGUE PO Box 183, Whangamata • P: (07) 865 9647 • F: (07) 865 9649 E: products@staydry.co.nz • Visit our website www.staydry.co.nz

Around the Home

Bedside illumination Futura Reading Light The Futura Reading Light is the perfect side table friend that can flex and lean in whichever direction you need a little illumination. For those of you who love to read, this cube-shaped themed lamp offers simplicity and style with functionality. It comes in a smooth polished chrome body and has a flexible neck. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good lighting for a good read, or it can be used to create a touch of ambiance in living spaces.

RRP: $595

Available from: www.harveynorman.co.nz

Wake up in style RRP: $4,450

Tambour alarm clock A stylish wake-up call can be had anywhere you travel with this Louis Vuitton portable alarm clock and watch.

Its quartz face is strikingly set in its silver backdrop. Light and chic it can easily be packed away into its equally chic, canvas case for protection, before slipping it into your pocket or purse.

Available from: www.louisvuitton.com

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let incontinence get in the way of your active lifestyle...

provides a wide range of incontinence and healthcare products, incl.

Mobility aid, Bathroom aid and a variety of accessories that will help you maintain your independence and confidence.

Order Online or by phone

www.SuperCare.co.nz 0800 888 787 Or visit our showroom

66 Carbine Road, Mt Wellington, Auckland

Incontinence Products

Mobility Aid

Bathroom & Toilet Aid

Daily Living Necessities

Wills & Trusts

Preventing family feuds Not making provision for your children in your will can have serious repercussions. There can be hurtful accusations, lengthy appeal processes and at worst, a complete disintegration of the family.

A recent case in Levin has highlighted the obligations of parents and also shown how a family can be torn apart if fair provisions are not made.

In 2009, Irma Murray died leaving her children, Nathan Murray, Melissa Kirby

Help shape the future of our planet Leaving a lasting legacy for future generations with a gift in your Will to WWF is a thoughtful way to reflect your commitment to a living planet. WWF is one of the world’s most respected independent conservation organisations working to build a future where people live in harmony with nature. We do this by working with local communities, partnering with government and business — as well as advocating change and effective conservation policy. And all this is made possible by people like you. Leave a lasting legacy in your Will to WWF.

Kiwi release with Oxborrow family © NZLandcare Trust

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For more information please contact: WWF-New Zealand, PO Box 6237, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 P: 04 499 2930 or 0800 4357 993 E: info@wwf.org.nz

Wills & Trusts

(both adopted) and John Birch (Irma’s son from a previous relationship), only a small portion of her estimated $3.7million estate.

The majority of the estate was gifted to her nieces and nephew, Carmel Fisher, Peter Wakem and Melanie Wakem.

When Irma’s children appealed, the High Court found that their mother had breached her moral duty to her children and dramatically increased the amount they were to receive. Carmel, Peter and Melanie appealed this decision (Fisher v Kirby) but were unsuccessful in their bid to have the amount Irma’s children were to receive reduced. In its final decision the Court awarded John $500,000 (AUD), Melissa $700,000 and Nathan $600,000.

Many factors had to be considered by the court throughout the appeals process.

These included; the mother’s relationship with her children, the history of the family estate including the provisions made in their father’s will and the financial status of the children.

Because of the need to provide evidence to back up the claims of each party, the Court hearing was an opportunity for each side of the family to berate each other and make public personal details which would normally be private. Among other things, allegations of Irma’s drinking, criticism of Nathan’s farming style and the estranged relationship between Irma and all three of her children became public fodder.

Retirement Today asks Otago University Faculty of Law Professor Nicola Peart, author of Relationship Property on Death, how a similar situation could be avoided.

Continued on page 67 >>

The gift of a great life Spectrum Care is an independent charitable trust that provides services for children, young people and adults with disabilities and their families.

At present, we support nearly 400 people in 80 residential houses in the greater Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

Our emphasis is on inclusion and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to live great, fulfilling lives in their communities.

A bequest or endowed gift keeps giving forever and even modest gifts can provide lasting benefits.

The generosity of our benefactors increases our ability to make a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities and your bequest will contribute directly to helping achieve our vision of ‘People with disabilities live great lives’.

270 Neilson Street, Onehunga, Auckland 1142 Phone: 09 634 3790 Email: info@spectrumcare.org.nz Web: www.spectrumcare.org.nz

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For cremation or burial, more and more families are choosing EcoCoffins for their simple classic styling, affordability and the added advantage of being easy on the environment.

Availability: EcoCoffins are available through selected Funeral Directors across New Zealand. Remember to ask for the honeycomb original EcoCoffin or call 0800 27 28 29 or visit our website to find a stockist nearest to you.

Weight: EcoCoffins are lightweight, weighing only 16kgs.

Strength: EcoCoffins are certified by Lloyds British Testing Ltd to carry up to 200kgs (30 stone).

Size: A standard size EcoCoffin is 188cm long x 56cm wide.

Please contact us if other sizes are required.

Colour options: EcoCoffins come in medium and light wood lacquer or white, with matching wooden handles and lid screws.

Usage: EcoCoffins are suitable for cremation and save energy with approximately 30 minutes less time required in the cremation process.

EcoCoffins are also an environmentally friendly alternative for burials.

Construction Utilising recycled paper and water based, non toxic glues and lacquers, each EcoCoffin is constructed utilising traditional wood veneer methods on top of honeycomb cardboard.

EcoCoffins around the world: EcoCoffins have been used for years in other countries including the United Kingdom, Asia, Australia and Europe.

To find out more and receive a brochure call 0800 27 28 29 or visit our website www.ecocoffins.co.nz

Low cost cremations in Christchurchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest, most advanced, New Zealand made cremator.

03-3797707 or info@maincrem.co.nz Approved by Canterbury District Health Board and consented by Enviroment Canterbury

<< From page 65

Wills & Trusts

What obligations do parents have to their adult children when it comes to acknowledging them in their will?

did not give them any less entitlement than they would have had if they were her biological children.

The starting point is testamentary freedom.

So, in principle a parent can leave their estate to whomever they please. But this freedom has always been expected to be exercised in a morally responsible manner; that is that testators are expected to meet their moral obligations to their family members, especially those who are dependent on them. So parents have a moral obligation to provide for their children, regardless of age or financial need, unless their estate is too small to do justice to all competing moral claimants.

What happens to the portion of estate assigned to other beneficiaries in the event the children are successful in contesting a will?

What are the repercussions if you do not make provision for them?

The children may make a claim under the Family Protection Act. If they have been disinherited or left only a small amount and there is no disentitling conduct on the child’s part and the competing moral claims of beneficiaries are not so strong as to use up all of the estate, then a child is likely to succeed.

What rights do adopted children have versus natural children?

Exactly the same rights! The fact that two of Mrs Murray’s children were adopted

The amount awarded to the claimants comes out of the estate and the rest is distributed in accordance with the will.

If a will is not left, who legally gets priority to the estate?

The deceased then dies intestate and the Administration Act then dictates that the surviving spouse or partner takes the personal chattels plus $155,000 and then if there are children, he/she takes 1/3 of the rest, while the children take 2/3. If the deceased leaves no spouse but does leave children, the children take it all.

What advice would you give to people in regards to wills and their family?

Seek legal advice from a lawyer who deals with estates; do not disinherit your children and unless there are good reasons not to, treat your children equally. If there is a surviving spouse or partner, the paramount duty is to provide for the spouse or partner.

Child Connection Trust is currently developing a new intergenerational programme called “Love Heritage”. This programme is prepared for families in particular to recall, acknowledge and record games/plays that our grandparents used to play with their children, and maybe, still play with their grandchildren. If you are able to recall and describe some of this plays/games and maybe share it with us plus pictures and videos it would be great.

www.childconnection.org.nz | info@childconnection.org.nz

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Living Options

Ocean Shores

“ Resort Living” by the Beach Ocean Shores Village at Mount Maunganui has independent villas - living in your own home without the stress of home maintenance. It has apartment living where you can live independently or become fully serviced. Residents are free of many of the chores, preserving their health and energy to enjoy life.

The beauty of village living is you are still very independent. You can join in village activities, go to Probus or golf, meet family or friends for lunch or simply put your feet up and relax.

Prospective residents are looking for “peace of mind”, around the “what if...”. None of us want to think about having a fall, being unwell or in poor health but the reality is our needs change as we age. Ocean Shores has a 24 hour emergency response system.

One of Ocean Shores greatest benefits is the sense of community and the companionship. Many older folk become isolated and lonely, particularly

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after losing a loved one. In the village there’s always someone to talk to and have a coffee with. There simply is no need to be alone unless you want to be.

There’s always lots of activities to join in and even a shopping bus.

As your needs change, after you move into the village, you have the ability to transfer from a villa to an apartment where you can remain fully independent or stop cooking and enjoy the luxury of being fully serviced.

Ocean Shores is a little special – it was built at a time when people valued having land and space around them, its not crammed in. It’s like living in your own home but with resort-like facilities and an easy walk to the beach.

Shopping and medical facilities are all close by and it is all flat walking. Add to that a team of committed staff providing a range of services – from gardening to simply changing a light bulb – what more could you want?

Living Options

Residential care – the who, what and how Are you thinking about moving into a rest home, or helping somebody else to make the move?

Here’s some information about residential care for older people that Age Concern finds is sometimes missed, or not fully understood.

1. How is residential care provided?

Residential care in New Zealand is provided by private companies and not-for-profit organisations. In most cases the cost of care to the individual is subsidised by government funding known as the Residential Care Subsidy.

Residential care falls into four levels: rest home care, long term care hospital, dementia care, and psycho-geriatric care.

Some homes provide all the levels of care and some do not. (NB In what follows, the term rest home is used to refer to all these levels of care.)

2. What determines whether I can move into a rest home?

To be eligible for government-subsidised residential care you must first be formally assessed as ‘needing care’. The assessment, called a ‘needs assessment’, must be carried out by a Needs Assessment and Services Coordination agency (NASC). Your GP can help arrange for an assessment to be carried out.

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The bar for entry to residential care is higher than many people expect. You are likely to be eligible for residential care if you have ‘high’ or ‘very high’ needs, and cannot be safely cared for at home.

3. Do I have to move?

Deciding to move into a rest home is a major decision involving many factors that you will want to weigh up. The end result should be an improved quality of life.

Older people say that the move into a rest home is easier when the decision is ultimately their own.

4. What can I do to find a rest home that suits me?

You can get a list of rest homes in your area from the District Health Board, your local Age Concern, or the NASC agency. Age Concern recommends shopping around; visit the homes and compare them. There are checklists available to help you which are available on the Consumer Magazine and Alzheimers New Zealand websites.

It is a good idea to start looking as soon as you think you might need a rest home, as it may not be easy to do so once you actually need the care. When you find a home you like, ask to have your name put on the waiting list. You can do this even if you have not yet been assessed as needing care. If the rest home of your choice doesn’t have a vacancy when you need it and you have to move into

Living Options

another home instead, ask to transfer to the home you prefer as soon as a suitable place is available.

amount of the maximum contribution varies slightly from District Health Board to District Health Board.

The Eldernet website lists rest home vacancies nationwide.

The maximum contribution covers the care that you have been assessed as needing and must include:

5. What government funding is available to help with the costs?

Once you have been assessed as ‘needing care’ the person who carried out your needs assessment will explain how to apply for the Residential Care Subsidy. Government helps to fund the cost of care through this subsidy. It is means tested and depends on the level of your assets and income.

If your assets are equal to or below the asset threshold, you will qualify for the subsidy to pay for most of the cost of your care. The income test then determines what you will have to contribute to the cost of your care from any income you receive.

To get full details about the Residential Care Subsidy and find out if you might qualify, contact the Work and Income Residential Subsidy Unit. They can also be contacted on their helpline 0800 999 727.

If you don’t qualify for the subsidy, you will have to pay your own way. However you can ask for a review of your means test at any time if you think you might have become eligible for the subsidy.

6. I don’t qualify for the subsidy – how much will it cost?

If you have been assessed as needing residential care and move into a rest home that has a contract with the District Health Board, you will pay no more than a maximum weekly amount set by the District Health Board to cover the care you have been assessed as needing. This is known as the ‘maximum contribution’.

This limit is set every year by the District Health Board and is currently set at just over $800 per week (2012). NB the

• Accommodation • Food • Laundry • Nursing and care • GP visits • Prescribed medication • Continence products • All health care prescribed by a GP • Transport to health services.

If you had not been assessed as ‘needing care’, there would be no restriction on how much you could be charged for your care and you would not be able to apply for the Residential Care Subsidy.

7. Can I be charged more than the maximum contribution?

Yes, but only if you choose to receive extra services or facilities over and above the care you have been assessed as needing.

Extra services or facilities could include: • A ‘premium’ room e.g. with en-suite facilities, a good view, garden access etc.

• Specialist visits (that are not publically funded) • Transport to other services or to outside social events • Toll calls • A private phone or cell phone • Newspapers, books or magazines Continued on next page >>

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Living Options

<< From previous page

• Personal toiletries • Recreational activities that are not part of the normal programme • Hairdresser • Dietician, podiatrist, or other services that have not been prescribed by a doctor, and are not publicly funded • Glasses, hearing aids and dental care.

You have the right to refuse all the extras, or you can negotiate to find an arrangement that suits you.

Extra charges are something to be careful about. Problems over fees can be very stressful if they come to light after you have moved in. When visiting rest homes initially, ask them to: explain their fee structure and what happens if you change your mind later about an extra service? What would happen if there are changes to the fee structure or conditions after you move in?

It is a good idea to take a blank copy of their Admission Agreement home to read. If you do decide to receive extra services that incur charges, the rest home must specify these in your Admission Agreement. If, at a later date you choose not to receive the extra service, inform the manager of the rest home and your Admission Agreement will be amended.

8. More about the Admission Agreement Information about what services the rest home will provide, and what you have agreed to pay are written into your Admission Agreement. This is the contract you sign with the rest home before moving in.

Take your time before signing this agreement. Treat it as you would any other legal document or contract. Have someone you trust look over it. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and don’t sign up to extra services and charges if you don’t want them.

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9. What are the rules about giving away assets?

There are rules about giving away assets (gifting) before moving into residential care. Currently (2012) there is a gifting limit of $6,000 per year which applies for each of the five years before applying for a residential care subsidy.

Gifts of more than $6,000 in each of the five years before moving into a rest home are taken into account when eligibility for the residential care subsidy is assessed. Also, gifts of more than $27,000 per year, made before the five year gifting period, may be added into the assessment.

10. How is the quality of residential care monitored?

Rest homes must meet the Health and Disability Services Standards NZS 8134:2008, and be certified to operate by the Ministry of Health. They must also meet the requirements set in their contract with the District Health Board.

The Ministry of Health arranges both regular and ‘spot’ audits of all rest homes to ensure they are continuing to meet both the Standards, and the District Health Board contract requirements. The District Health Board and the Ministry of Health will carry out additional inspections if needed.

Summaries of audits for all residential homes are available for the public to read on the Ministry of Health’s website.

Living Options

11. How are complaints made?

If problems arise once you have moved in, don’t be afraid to raise your concern or to make a complaint. Every rest home is required to have a written complaints procedure. Start by talking to the rest home manager. You have a right to have a support person/advocate with you such as a friend or family member.

If you are not satisfied, then there are other agencies available to help: • Your local Age Concern for information, advice and support, or specialist elder abuse prevention services • If the concern is about the quality of care, contact your local Health and Disability advocate (part of the Nationwide Health and Disability Advocacy Service) telephone 0800 555 050 • You can also contact the older people’s portfolio manager at your local District Health Board

• If the concern is about financial issues that you cannot resolve with the rest home, then contact the Disputes Tribunal • You can also contact the Ministry of Health on its information line 0800 737 777.

12. Who will make decisions for me if I can’t?

Age Concern recommends that everyone should set up an Enduring Power of Attorney – the earlier the better and at least before moving into a rest home. This enables you to appoint the person of your choice to manage your affairs and make decisions on your behalf if necessary.

If you do not do this yourself, and you needed someone to look after your affairs, the Family Court might have to appoint someone for you.

If you need information about other support services see your local Age Concern office or visit the website www.ageconcern.org.nz

2012

Issue 8

Retirement Today

73

Living Options

How to read

speed read

By Robyn Pearce

In any large major metropolitan weekend paper today we receive more material in one weekend than the majority of people living in the 1700’s would have had access to in their entire lifetime (apart from the rich and well-educated). So don’t be surprised that you constantly feel overwhelmed!

Although our understanding of the human brain and our ability to live in a world of dramatic and swift change have developed over the centuries, our ways of learning and processing of information haven’t changed that much.

So what can you do to keep sane, up to date with what’s relevant and able to block out that which you don’t need?

The first thing I’d strongly suggest you look at is exactly what you spend your time reading. Do you read as much as you’d like, or as many of the books you’re interested in as you’d like?

How do you feel about that? And faced with that knowledge, are you happy with the selections you’re currently making? The time spent on today’s reading prevents you reading something else. Life is one of choice - make sure your choices take you in the direction you wish to go.

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Retirement Today

Issue 8

2012

A different way of reading My biggest recommendation is to attend a rapid reading course (sometimes called speed reading). During the years I’ve attended three quite different programmes, all good, and my experience is that the most important element is the on-going practice.

Each time I’ve become better, but if you don’t practice you’ll quickly drop back to your old habits. You’ve been reading in a certain way for most of your life and that style isn’t going to shift permanently after a few hours of training. You are the most important ingredient in your success.

But you need to attend a course to be pushed to significantly higher levels of competency, because only an external person can push you past the comfort zone of your eyes, your brain and your current beliefs about your abilities.

30 Rest Home beds â&#x20AC;˘ 13 Studios â&#x20AC;˘ Set in a large, peaceful garden.

Providing excellent quality of care from a dedicated team, with owner/operators as the management team.

For more information please contact Helen or Tony.

Phone: 03 544 4099 49 Wensley Road, Richmond, Nelson email: wensleyhouse@xtra.co.nz www.wensleyhouse.co.nz

Living Options

Emergencies, money and you

By authorised financial advisor Alan Clarke We are told by most financial commentators to pay off our mortgages as fast as we can. If you have some surplus income or money, you will hear the same story again – reduce your mortgage, and in theory this is the correct advice.

However, what about building up an emergency fund? There are good reasons to do so and all too often this is overlooked in New Zealand. If you were to build up an emergency fund, you would have room to move in the midst of a financial crisis, or tough times and keep the bank (or other creditors) off your back.

It is usually quite easy to borrow money when all is well, but almost impossible to borrow if things are bad; like if you are made redundant, cannot work, are ill, or have had a bad accident.

Remember that “A bank is an organisation that will lend you an umbrella when the sun is shining, but they will want the umbrella back when it starts to rain.”

For all the reasons given above, it would be very wise to build up an emergency fund.

How much should be in your emergency fund?

One rule of thumb is three to six months income. Rocket science is not needed here though, and any amount is better than none.

Getting started is the most important step.

Liquidity (access to money) Emergency funds need to be liquid - they must be easily accessed. There is not much point having an emergency fund unless it is readily available within say two weeks.

Where not to put it The first consideration is not in the bank where you have your mortgage. If you miss a mortgage payment, the bank can move money from one of your accounts to another without even consulting you.

Rental property, beach houses, forestry and commercial buildings are not suitable as emergency funds either, as they are not liquid. Money from these assets can take months, if not years to unlock.

Where should emergency money be invested?

Hopefully you will never need the money for an emergency, and so it should be invested, but in a conservative place. Ideally it would be invested in a conservative, diversified portfolio, with a portion offshore.

If it is invested, it will grow, and if it is never needed, it will become part of your retirement funding.

2012

Issue 8

Retirement Today

77

Affordable housing for people over 55 The difficulty of buying a home is often seen as a problem for younger people.

However, Auckland’s Cosmopolitan Retirement Village site manager, David Foster says the lack of affordable housing is often much more difficult for those over 55.

“We understand your preference to have time and cash for holidays, rather than spending it maintaining an expensive house.

“Our units are reasonably priced and we can also assist with finance at bank interest rate. Stage One is sold out, but brand new apartments in stage Two are now available.”

Even better, the weekly fee, which covers rates, insurance, shared facilities, security and 24 hour medical alarms and includes free Internet start from just $59 per week for a studio, $99 for a one bedroom apartment and $129 for a two bedroom apartment.

“We’ve been able to achieve these rates by foregoing the swimming pool and some of the other luxury facilities some complexes offer, but many residents just don’t need,” he says.

“We also provide different levels of service options, so unless specialised care is needed, you can be confident of not having to move again.

“The well insulated units also have low running costs. On average, studio residents pay about $30 per month in electricity. But with the $320 annual electricity company dividend each of our residents received this year, it almost covers the year’s electricity bill,” David says.

Your unit will have everything you need for comfort and convenience and you’ll enjoy the village’s weekly outings, activities and its wonderful facilities, which include a lovely landscaped courtyard, lounge, gym, movie theatre and library with Internet access and massage chairs.

“You can do so much in your retirement – for example, we run free computer classes at the village; some of our residents have learnt to use the computer, Internet, email and play video games on Playstation and Wii,” David says.

But the proof, as they say, is in the pudding. “The purchase of my unit is the best decision I’ve ever made,” says Mrs French. “I value the security. I feel totally blessed to live here.”

This is a sentiment shared by Miss Evans. “I was happy to find independent living, close to amenities and within a safe, caring environment,” she says.

“I like the location and the affordability. I feel very safe, comfortable and happy. I enjoy my surroundings; we are a great crowd,” Mrs White says.

“Here I have a feeling of belonging. I can have both companionship and privacy. The movie theatre is my favourite place in the village,” Mr Allen says.

You don’t have to be retired to purchase your spot at the Cosmopolitan Retirement Village. The minimum entry age for the village is 55 and some of the residents, like Mr Large, are still working. He uses the apartment as his weekday crash pad, while spending his weekends at his bach.

“We also have Kiwis retiring overseas, but wanting to keep a base in Auckland, and they think the village is a very affordable way to do this,” David says.

For more information or to make an enquiry, call the Cosmopolitan Retirement Village sales office at: (09) 828 9812

00 $79,0 39,000 m o r f 1 s Studio oom from $ 89,000 r 1 d e $ One B room from d e Two B

Lovely courtyard: Residents find the courtyard to be a sunny and sheltered rendezvous.

Big screen: An in-house movie theatre is just one of the village’s wonderful facilities on offer.

Are you aged 55+ and...

• Worried about your personal safety?

• Would you like the security of 24 hours emergency call?

• Want to retain or enhance your independence?

• Sometimes feel lonely?

• Fed up with the hassles of maintaining your home?

• Want to have time and money to enjoy yourself?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions then the lifestyle of the retirement village environment is just the solution for you!

17 Geddes Terrace, Avondale, Ph: 09 828-2885 Beckett Real Estate Licensed Agent REAA 2008 Ph: 09 828-9812 • A/H: 09 828-7978 or 021-629 066 Em: jim@gaowoo.com • www.cosmopolitancare.com