Mahurangi Matters_Issue 480_27 May 2024

Solar farm seeks fast-track approval

The company planning to develop a largescale solar energy farm near Wellsford has lodged an application under the government’s pending fast-track consent legislation.

If greenlighted for fast-track approval, Energy Farms’ project would bypass the usual notification process, under which councils invite submissions from affected and interested parties and hold a public hearing.

The news has stunned the owners of adjoining properties, who strongly oppose the solar farm and worry they may not have the opportunity to air their concerns.

Late last year, Energy Farms chief executive Todd Wilson said the company planned to apply for resource consent from Auckland Council, and intended for the process to be fully notified (MM, Nov 20).

This month, however, after a council spokesperson confirmed it had still not received a consent application, Wilson told the paper that the company had opted instead for the Fast Track Approvals Bill route, on the advice of its planners.

“The new bill provides more certainty around assessment completion timeframes, stating that if a decision has not been made within 12 months, the application will

automatically be granted,” Wilson said. The company lodged its submission before a May 3 closing date for projects to be included in the legislation, and was now awaiting the outcome, he said.

Energy Farms wants to build a 150,000-panel, 76MW solar farm on a 260 hectare site south-west of the town. Wilson

If the solar farm proposal goes ahead, the rural backdrop behind Brett and Kim Montefiore’s property is part of the area that could be covered with panels.

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Wellsford solar farm developer seeks fast-track approval

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said all the land has been contracted.

Brett and Kim Montefiore have lived for 13 years on a 10 hectare property on Port Albert Road. Over much of that time they have been landscaping to develop a wedding venue as a source of income for their approaching retirement. The sweeping rural backdrop is crucial to the venture, but now they face the prospect of that feature landscape being covered by thousands of solar panels, he said.

Montefiore sent Energy Farms a list of “mitigation” measures that he would require if its proposal were to go ahead – beginning with a 500 metre-wide buffer along the entire joint boundary, with native evergreen trees planted along the far edge of the strip.

He said, however, that no amount of planting would obscure the sight of solar panels and associated infrastructure.

“And it’s not just us – it’s everybody else around here who is affected. And you won’t be able to drive in or out of Wellsford without seeing it.”

Montefiore, who speaks on behalf of more than 60 households in the surrounding area, stressed that he supports renewable energy – he has solar panels on the roof of his house – but does not think the earmarked land is suitable. He recently visited a solar farm in Kaitaia which was on flat land and virtually invisible to passersby. (Lodestone Energy’s 61,000-panel, 33MW solar farm in Kaitaia, currently the largest in NZ, began generating power last November.)

Wilson said Energy Farms had and would continue to actively engage with all affected parties.

“We are currently developing mitigation plans to address visual amenity concerns.”

When Montefiore made a presentation to the Rodney Local Board in February, he detailed residents’ concerns, including noise, impact on waterways and endemic species, glare risk to helicopter pilots, restraints on Wellsford’s future growth and rural lifestyle activities, and property devaluation.

He noted that a recent land sale nearby

threatened to fall through when the prospective buyer lopped 20 percent off the earlier-offered price, after learning about the potential solar farm. In the end, the elderly vendor had little choice but to sell at a significant discount.

“Most people here don’t want to sell. Like us, they love it here,” Montefiore said. “But they also don’t want to sit on their front deck and look out at a solar farm.”

Kim Montefiore added that the planned development would also have an emotional impact.

“It’s a beautiful balance here, but if that whole hillside is panelled it’s going to be horrible to look out of my window or go outside and see that every day.”

Montefiore said he knew of at least a dozen other affected landowners who, like him, had written to Energy Farms to voice their concerns and opposition, and those were just the ones who had copied him in on the correspondence.

He said the company’s decision to apply for the fast-track route was perplexing.

“It fired me up all over again,” he said.

Government silence on fast-track list

The government is not releasing the names of projects that have been lodged with the Ministry for the Environment for possible inclusion in the Fast Track Approvals Bill, under which “projects of national and regional significance” would go through an accelerated consent process.

A ministry spokesperson said it could not say when, or even if, the list of projects would be released.

The bill is at the select committee stage, but over a month-long period that ended on May 3, a range of private and public sector applicants were invited to submit projects.

A six-person advisory group is now reviewing the applications, before recommending which should be included in the pending legislation, in one of two schedules.

Should the bill become law, listed projects would proceed down one of two expedited pathways. An expert panel would set conditions and seek comment from applicants and affected parties, before being referred to three ministers – Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Simeon Brown – who would have the final decision.

An image in Brett Montefiore’s presentation to the local board shows the location and extent of the proposed solar farm.

Wellsford

Watercare pipeline decision prompts retailer rebellion

The prospect of a wastewater pipeline through the middle of Warkworth’s central business district, and more than a year’s construction work alongside it, has lit a fuse under affected retailers and One Mahurangi Business Association.

Association co-chair Dave Stott says a multi-level campaign is being developed that will include a petition, a meeting with Watercare’s board and chief executive, a delegation to Mayor Wayne Brown and, if necessary, civil disobedience.

“We also plan to use the next Transport and Infrastructure Forum on June 7 to further voice the community’s opposition to the proposal, when a Watercare representative will be present,” Stott says. “Several retailers have agreed to attend the meeting and voice their dismay and anger to the forum.”

One Mahurangi says it has received a lot of feedback from local businesses distressed by Watercare’s decision, as reported in Mahurangi Matters (May 13).

“We are seeking a public meeting with Watercare so that the whole community has an opportunity to voice its opposition to the wastewater proposal,” Stott says.

“We also intend to broaden our campaign to national media, while at the same time, we will continue to develop alternative routes as viable alternatives.

“If all of this fails, we will consider a public disobedience campaign.”

One Mahurangi has penned a letter to Mayor Brown telling him that the proposed route will cut through the core of Warkworth’s CBD, a move that it fears will lead to numerous business closures.

“The domino effect could be catastrophic, potentially resulting in widespread unemployment, as business owners and employees face the daunting task of seeking

new employment opportunities,” the letter says.

“The repercussions extend beyond the immediate economic impact. Many family homes, often used as collateral for business loans, are at risk of mortgagee sales. The ensuing financial strain could lead to family breakdowns and a surge in mental health issues, adding a personal crisis to the economic one.”

One Mahurangi says CBD businesses are still grappling with the after-effects of the

Covid-19 lockdowns and motorway traffic bypassing Warkworth. Coupled with the current economic downturn, businesses are struggling to stay afloat.

They have urged the Mayor to intervene and advocate for a reconsideration of Watercare’s decision.

“We believe that alternative routes, which we have previously proposed, deserve a renewed discussion – one that prioritises the long-term viability and vibrancy of our central business district.”

The proposed pipeline will transport wastewater from new development on the north-western side of town to a pump station in Lucy Moore Park, on the southern side. Although five routes were originally under consideration, the Elizabeth, Queen and Baxter Streets option has emerged as Watercare’s preferred route. If it goes ahead, it will involve at least a year’s construction in Elizabeth Street alone. A final decision on the route is expected within the next few weeks.

Development go-slow stalls new Warkworth school planning

Progress on providing two new primary schools for Warkworth has stalled, with the Ministry of Education saying no consultation has taken place on the Woodcocks Road site it bought last year and no other potential locations being considered.

Doubts expressed locally about the suitability of the land for a school, a roadside greenfield site between Mansel Drive and Falls Road, also appear to have been dismissed by the ministry.

Leader for the north Isabel Evans said although the ministry was aware of local concerns over the siting of the proposed new school, there was “a robust process” in place for identifying future school sites that had been followed for Woodcocks Road.

“Overall, the site was considered suitably located to respond to the long-term future

growth of Warkworth,” she said.

A year ago, Evans said consultation with the boards of all state and state integrated schools whose rolls might be affected was likely to start in 2023, and that negotiations for a second site further south of the town were “well underway”.

However, on May 20, she said no consultation on the proposed new school had yet started and there were no other sites being considered at this time. She put this down to Auckland Council’s new Future Development Strategy (FDS), adopted in November to slow down live-zoning green field development.

“The timing is now signalled between 2035 and 2045+. This information is factored into our planning; however, we recognise that the timing identified in the

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FDS does not prevent private plan change applications being lodged and we will continue to monitor private changes to inform the timing for a new school, which

has yet to be confirmed,” she said. “We are continuing to monitor Warkworth’s growth and will start consultation when necessary.”

Businesses in Warkworth’s central business district are being urged to mobilise before Watercare’s decision is set in stone.

The Woodcocks Road land was bought by the Ministry of Education last year.

Call for support and funds for pump track plan

Community support and donations for a new $440,000 pump track at Matakana’s Diamond Jubilee Park are currently being sought, though a generous local donor has already agreed to fund up to half the cost.

Matakana Community Group (MCG) said the fundraising campaign had been given a huge kick-start by an anonymous local philanthropist, who had agreed to match every donation up to $220,000.

The group has been pushing to install a pump track – a looping, up-and-down tarsealed track for bikes and scooters – for at least six years, to provide a much-needed play and fitness facility for all ages.

At present, Matakana has just one playground, which is near the wharf and only for younger children.

The pump track is planned for the rear of a large piece of open land behind Matakana Tennis Club, and there are also plans to install a footpath leading to it from the carpark.

Specialist pump track provider Empire of

Dirt has come up with a design and the community group is hoping work can start in November, subject to local board and council approvals.

In the meantime, the community group has distributed a flier online and via Matakana School seeking support from parents and families.

“It will be an exhilarating recreational facility for all ages and a great addition for the children of the area, as there are currently minimal community recreational facilities in the village for children,” a spokesperson said.

As well as asking people to register their support with Auckland Council, the group is also looking for donations.

A large proportion of Diamond Jubilee Park is leased to Matakana Pony Club, which has a licence to occupy the land south of the tennis courts, although not exclusively – the whole park is open to the public. The club surrendered its licence to occupy the land behind the tennis courts

in 2020.

Some members have expressed concerns that a pump track and a pony club in the same park will be incompatible and could even be dangerous.

However, the project has solid support from council, since it aligns with its current focus on providing better play facilities, especially for older children, and on “wheeled play” throughout the Rodney region.

Head of specialist operations Martin van Jaarsveld confirmed that council supported the MCG project, but stressed that staff would be talking with all park users throughout the

Drop in the ocean

investigation and delivery process.

“We accept that the needs of other park users must also be carefully accommodated in future planning,” he said. “We are committed to working with all parties involved to determine the best outcome.

“The concept of a pump track responds well to meet the needs of young people in the area, by providing a new outdoor recreational space for them to enjoy. It also aligns with the Rodney Local Parks Management Plan.”

Van Jaarsveld added that the although the project would be funded and delivered by the community, there would council oversight throughout. The next step will be for MCG to ask the Rodney Local Board for formal landowner approval.

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Auckland’s Long Term Plan has allocated $200,000 toward management of the invasive weed caulerpa, which is decimating the seafloor in areas around the Hauraki Gulf. The money will come from the Natural Environment Targeted Rate, which is expected to raise $32.6 million during the next annual budget. The rate will increase by 3.5 percent a year from the 2026 financial year and will also fund the Regional Pest Management Plan.

H y b r i d

H i l u x F i n d o u t h o w i t s e a m l e s s l y a d a p t s t o t h e r u g g e d d e m a n d s o f N e w

Matakana

Matakana

The pump track will be tucked into the back corner of Jubilee Park, behind the tennis courts (see inset right).

Loop bus route concerns raised

Auckland Transport (AT) is being urged to rethink the location of a new bus stop in Mansel Drive, outside Summerset Retirement Village, which is on the 999 route of Warkworth’s loop bus service trial due to start in July.

Six new bus stops will be built next month, ahead of the launch. But Summerset resident Glyn Williams says the Mansel Drive stop should be re-located to within the Kowhai Falls Retail Centre.

In a letter to One Mahurangi, criticising what he felt was Rodney Local Board’s failure to consider the Kowhai Falls option, Williams says that that shopping centre builder Dobbyn Construction has offered a suitable location for the stop.

“This has either been ignored or overlooked and, if this is the case, I am disappointed that this ‘no brainer’ opportunity has possibly been lost,” he says.

Dobbyn project manager Bevan Morrison says he proposed a stop on the Warkworth Toyota side of the road, between the car yard and the roundabout, but was open to other suggestions.

“This road is part of the retail centre, so owner Glen Inger has the ability to approve our reshaping of the berm and footpath to accommodate a bus stop,” Morrison says. He adds that his family is also willing to construct a stop at the top of Morrison Drive, next to or opposite a proposed NZ Health site, subject to AT approval.

from the park and ride – one going clockwise into town and then back out Woodcocks and Hudson Roads with the other going anti-clockwise down Hudson Road, Kowhai Falls Retail centre and so on. This would better utilise the park and ride beside the showgrounds.”

However, this would require smaller buses to achieve this regularity, which board member Michelle Carmichael says AT has already ruled out as not an option due to “investment required in ‘out of usual spec’ bus assets”.

Morrison says there are options for companies to sponsor these buses and some property developers have offered already.

“And who knows, perhaps there are some bus drivers in Summerset who would be keen to do a few hours driving. Outside these peak hours, we could probably drop the service to once every 30 minutes with just two buses but again, one going clockwise and the other going anticlockwise, so that people can board in either direction, depending where they want to go.”

Board member Carmichael responded to Williams’ email by stating that the final route was not resolved and would go out for consultation. However, the only “consultation” that appears to be happening is an AT information letter to selected households along the route, outlining where the six bus stops will be located.

“To provide a practical and usable alternative to shoppers parking in town or workers parking in town or up Mansel Drive, we need to have a bus service every 15 minutes in the morning, 6.30 to 9am maybe, and evening (4.30-6pm) departing

Bureau shift

The letter ends with an invitation for householders to supply relevant information or ask questions, rather than provide feedback.

Project details can be found here: https://at.govt.nz/projects-roadworks/ warkworth-bus-loop-service

The Citizens Advice Bureau clinics in Warkworth have moved from the Warkworth Town Hall to the old Masonic Hall, in Baxter Street, next to the library. The free and confidential advice clinics are held on Fridays, from 10am to 1pm. No appointment is necessary. Trained volunteers can help with a range of issues including family matters, financial, benefits, property, consumer dispute, nuisance and employment concerns.

Drive through

Wharehine staff did a great job of sharing their knowledge of trucks with Matakana School students recently. They stressed the need for children, in particular, to be careful when they see the big rigs on the road. However, we’re not quite sure everyone was quite getting the message. When it came to question time, one student popped her hand up and asked enthusiastically, “What do you have for lunch?”

Pushing boundaries

It feels like Rodney Local Board has been discussing the possibility of changing its subdivision boundaries as part of the latest electoral representation review for ever and a day. Members have discussed, debated and digressed over what may or may not be the best way to ensure the fairest way to represent rural communities during at least four recent workshops and monthly meetings. Six different options have been dissected and considered, in minute detail and at length. One option was supported one month and rejected the next, while at the May meeting, there was a desperate, if understandable, bid made to forget the whole thing and keep things as they are. However, after three close votes, a choice was finally made and the matter put to rest, much to the obvious relief of Kumeu member Geoff Upson, from whom the heartfelt plea was heard, “Please, can we never speak of this again?”

Mangawhai pathway

Work on the Mangawhai shared pathway along Molesworth Drive is steaming ahead, with crews extending the path outside the Hub and near Old Waipu Road. Between Old Waipu Road and Mangawhai Central crews have been excavating beneath the pathway and installing new stormwater drainage. An undeveloped section opposite Longview Street is being left, pending construction of an upcoming medical centre. On the Heads side of the estuary, between ITM and Moir Point Road, workers are installing drainage, and doing kerb, channel and footpath preparation. Once completed, the pathway will provide a seamless off-road link between the village and Heads.

Mistaken identity

In our story publicising a community consultation day for Te Kohuroa Rewilding Project (MM, May 13), we included a photo that we believed was of one of the speakers, Helayna Tane, of the Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust. Unfortunately, it turns out that it wasn’t Ms Tane and we apologise for the mix-up.

Protest called for

I read with interest your edition of May 13.

While on one hand, we read of the progress being made in Warkworth with new businesses now occupying vacant shops, the future is bright for our township.

Proposed developments in and around are giving reassurance of prosperity for both the retail and commercial sectors.

On the other hand I, like many others, are extremely disappointed and concerned with Watercare’s proposal to pipe wastewater via our main street, from the

showgrounds to the new pumping station in Lucy Moore Park. Without doubt, this executive decision on the part of Watercare will disrupt and potentially destroy some of our existing businesses.

I believe there are a number of less disruptive alternative routes for this pipeline, which have been put aside. Thanks must go to the representatives of One Mahurangi for their efforts in trying to avoid such a decision.

If I ran a main street business and with public support, I would gather in strong protest in the same way as we did to save our weir. In addition, and prior to any

demonstrations, I suggest that there is consultation with our Councillor and Mayor.

Dave Parker, Snells Beach

Sympathy for horses

I just had to comment on the letter from Gerald Turnbull regarding ‘Horses that served’ (MM, May 13). I too read the article with great sadness to hear most of the horses were destroyed at the end of the war and it is just so very unfair and sad. His letter was amazingly put and so thoughtful. Lisa Murdoch, Algies Bay

Big Omaha wharf seawall upgrade underway

Seawall work is underway at the Big Omaha Wharf. Auckland Council is replacing a damaged section of the existing concrete seawall as part of a seawall extension to remediate erosion at the road edge.

Contractors are on site, with work expected to finish in August. Rodney area manager for parks and community facilities Geoff Pitman says contractors will be working between the tides and the completion date is dependent on factors such as the weather.

The work includes removing a cracked and damaged section of the existing concrete seawall where the former long-drop toilets with holding tank once sat, and replacing it.

Pitman says the total length of seawall will be extended to 40 metres to protect the eroding bank edge of the road and parking area.

The new seawall will be built of rock grouted masonry with a strip of coastal low growing plants planted on the top edge of the wall. The contractor is Mason Contractors and construction will cost an estimated $260,100.

Pitman added that there were archaeological remains of piles in the seabed near the boat ramp, which would be protected during the works.

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An archaeologist will brief the contractor about the site requirements around the boat ramp.

Archeological Site

Boat Ramp Wharf

Storage area Works area

Viewpoint

Colin Smith, Rodney Local Board colin.smith@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Method or madness?

After many years advocating for better outcomes in roading and drainage for the Wellsford subdivision, including the last eight years elected to bring these issues into the long-term plan, a good result was achieved last week. This has been a team effort, with Councillor Greg Sayers lobbying the politicians at the governing body for many years on my behalf.

Mayor Brown understands the needs of rural communities and has allocated $124 million to address the underspend in Rodney’s unsealed roads. Councillor Sayers has asked that the money is front loaded due to the cost of inflation.

This is where my frustration starts, both as a local board member and a former contractor. As a local board member, I have vigorously advocated for roading trials to identify the best methods and material to produce a high standard road, resistant to environmental impact and general deterioration through use. As a former contractor with many years of experience, I have seen what does and does not work regarding roading maintenance and construction.

In 2016, there were four different trials using different surface sealants. These trials were carried out with Hutchinson Consulting and Auckland Transport (AT) engineers. Full reports were completed and brought to the local board. The reports were debated, approved and passed by the governing body.

The first of the four trials utilised the existing surface metal. Extra metal was added together with 1.5% of cement. The material was rolled out and tar sealed, with the result being highly successful. Unfortunately, the other methods failed. I would hate to think of the cost involved

Transport plan city focused

with the unsuccessful trials that were approved.

Previously, the Araparera targeted rate money that was introduced by the former Rodney District Council, was used in a trial by AT to suppress dust on our unsealed roads. The trial was conducted on a section of Woodcocks Road in Warkworth. The Woodcocks Road section is now six years old and has had very little maintenance, yet it is still in good condition.

AT has now decided to use a new product called Polycom© to strengthen the base layer of rural roads. Will this product work? Only time will tell.

AT needs to be instructed by the governing body to use dust suppressing road maintenance and construction methods based on a solid foundation of what actually works, rather than using poor methodology.

Drainage

The governing body has also approved the drainage boards for Te Arai and Okahukura that were previously removed when we went to Auckland Council. It has been eight years working to get these rural communities the right to decide the outcomes for their own catchments.

Footpaths

Wharehine contractors are progressing well with the footpath to Centennial Park on SH1/Rodney Street, which is another part of the Greenway programme. The completion of the programme involves the construction of a crossing over SH1, near the Wellsford Police Station, and the footpath from Matheson Road to Centennial Park.

Thank you all for your support.

Auckland Transport is asking for feedback on its draft Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP), but there is little in the plan for Rodney residents. The bulk of the $63 billion worth of investment over the next 10 years will be spent on finishing the City Rail Link and other inner city transport options. The only major projects identified in the north are the SH1 Dome Valley and surrounds slip and flood management funded by Waka Kotahi/NZ Transport Agency, and the yet-to-be funded SH1 Warkworth to Te Hana motorway. The $19.7 million set aside for Hill Street intersection improvements is 32 on a priority list of local road improvements. Unsealed roads have a priority rating of 68, with a total of $25.7 million earmarked to be spent over three years. Consultation on the plan closes on June 17 with the final RLTP due for submission on August 1. Further reading: https://haveyoursay.at.govt.nz/hub-page/rltp

Old SH1 gets new name south of Warkworth

The former State Highway 1 between Warkworth and Puhoi is to be given a new name – Pōhuehue Road.

The name was the preferred choice of Auckland Transport (AT), which will formally take over the 16.5km stretch between Billing and McKinney Roads from NZTA Waka Kotahi on July 1.

There were two other options on the table for consideration by Rodney Local Board members at their meeting on May 15 – Schedewy Road, after the hill and suggested by the Puhoi Heritage Museum, and Hikauae Road, the pre-European name for Schedewy’s Hill, gifted by the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust.

AT road corridor team leader Len van der Harst said Ngāti Manuhiri had originally gifted its own name, wanting to call the road the Ngāti Manuhiri Highway, but he said former state highways could no longer be called ‘highway’.

“As soon as they heard that we had dropped the name highway, they wanted to withdraw the name. They didn’t want to have it called Ngāti Manuhiri Road, so they withdrew it,” he said.

“That’s when we consulted and got the name Pōhuehue, and they were totally supportive of that and have endorsed it.”

Geoff Upson pointed out that several former sate highways had kept that name, such as Hibiscus Coast Highway, Dairy Flat Highway and Albany Highway, and suggested the old SH1 should be Pōhuehue Highway.

Van der Harst said the naming rules had since been changed to avoid confusion between state highways, which are the responsibility of NZTA, and all other roads (AT).

“You’re absolutely correct, but NZTA has changed its directive since then and it’s not something AT has the ability to control. This is a local road and can’t be called a highway,” he said.

Michelle Carmichael wanted to call it Mahurangi Highway, or Road, as it connected Mahurangi East and Mahurangi West.

However, van der Harst said that suggestion had been rejected by Land Information NZ, which has to approve new road names, as there were already several roads using the Mahurangi name, including the new O Mahurangi Penlink highway.

Colin Smith brought up the surfeit of names for the former state highway once it got into Warkworth itself, saying it was confusing for everybody – from McKinney Road to Whitaker Road, it’s called Auckland Road; from Whitaker Road to Hill Street, it’s Brown Road, and from Hill Street north to SH1, it’s Great North Road (or Twin Coast Discovery Highway, according to Google Maps).

Smith thought it should all be Great North Road.

Members voted to approve the name Pōhuehue Road for the stretch south of Warkworth, with Upson voting against.

What’s in a name?

Pōhuehue was the father of Ngati Manuhiri leader Tenetahi Te Riringa. It is the name of the area north of Moir Hill Road that the old SH1 runs through, passing over the Pōhuehue viaduct and past the Pōhuehue reserve, stream falls and bushwalk. Pōhuehue is also the name of a native climber that was valued by Māori for its tenacity.

Equipment failure causes sewage spill

Equipment at the Mangawhai wastewater pumpstation has been repaired after a series of failures last month led to a temporary health warning for the harbour for 10 days.

A power failure occurred at the outfall pumpstation on Thelma Road South at night on April 8, and a back-up battery, which powers an alarm, also failed, a Kaipara District Council spokesperson said.

The station has eight hours storage capacity before overflowing, but because the alarm had failed, the overnight on-duty operator was not alerted.

The overflow was only identified the following morning. A sucker truck was dispatched to clean up residual wastewater and sanitise the affected area.

As a result of the incident, some wastewater was expected to flow into Mangawhai Harbour, and council erected health warning signs at entry points to the estuary.

The warning was lifted on April 19.

“We assessed the equipment and the need for repairs to the electrical cabinet for the pump station was identified,” operations manager for infrastructure services Helen Ronaldson said.

“These have been completed. After all assessments were completed, we tested the pump station’s reaction to an outage and it continued to work as it should.”

Notification of tara iti habitat

enhancement works at Waipū & Pākiri

Tara iti, or NZ fairy tern are one of NZ’s rarest endemic birds with fewer than 40 individuals remaining. They breed in only four locations in Northland/ Auckland; Pākiri, Papakānui, Waipū and Mangawhai. The Department of Conservations Tara iti Team will be transporting 35 tonnes of shell to Waipū Spit and Pākiri beach front to create and enhance safe shell patches in the foredunes for tara iti to nest on. This method has successfully been used to create tara iti nest sites at Waipū, Mangawhai and Papakānui in the past. The shell has been sourced from near Marsden Point and is a by-product of dredging in the Whangārei Harbour. The shell will be flown to site by helicopter in June 2024. It is anticipated there will be no more than 4 hours of flight time at either location.

Any queries relating to this operation can be sent to: taraiti@doc.govt.nz

Shell being dropped at Waipū in 2019. Credit: Ayla Wiles, DOC

The road takes its name from the Pōhuehue area, which includes a reserve, stream, bushwalk and viaduct.

School life

Memories spanning 80 years of school life in Warkworth have been captured in a documentary that will have its world premiere at the Warkworth Town Hall on Saturday, June 29.

Bullrush & Mudpies is a 70-minute-long film, produced by local filmmaker Jon Waters, assisted by volunteer Nicola Jones. Three generations of the Waters family and two generations of the Jones family attended the school so the project was dear to both their hearts.

The idea for the film emerged when the decision was made in 2016 to demolish the original Warkworth School buildings, which had stood on the site since 1947.

“I was gutted when I heard the old school was being ripped down,” Jones said. “It was an iconic building of our town and so significant in so many peoples’ lives.”

PTA chair at the time, Georgia Barnes, supported the idea of recording the significance of the old buildings and their place in local education, and Jones says it just snowballed from there.

The film is a montage of images and interviews with former pupils and teachers, some of whom have since passed away. Among those remembering their school days are Don Sinclair, Maureen Young, Warren Agnew, Judy Waters and Jamie Thompson.

Although it is specific to Warkworth School, many of its themes will strike a chord with anyone who was at school in NZ in the 1900s and early 2000s. There are stories of milk monitors, Marmite and chip rolls and, of course, mud pies and fiercely contested games of bullrush.

Waters said an enormous amount of time was spent on research to ensure the film was as accurate as possible and properly reflected the participants’ memories and opinions.

archive of photographs, and the Board of Trustees and PTA were thanked for taking “a great leap of faith” in contributing to some of the costs.

But there is no doubt the project was a labour of love for Waters and Jones.

“We started filming in 2018 just before demolition started and shot every weekend for a couple of months,” Jones says.

“There’s a little history to set the scene and then the rest plays out like a normal school day – how kids got to school, playtimes, favourite teachers and so on. Jon locked himself away in his little garden shed for

Every time I watch

it,

I laugh and I cry … it is such a heartwarming experience.

PTA chair Kate Moore

months to do the editing.

“We feel we’ve created a beautiful little gem of a film.”

There will be two screenings on June 29 – one at 2pm and a later screening at 7pm. Money raised will help refit the junior school sandpit. Tickets are $25 and they can be secured by emailing bullrushandmudpies@gmail.com or can be purchased at the Warkworth School office. Tickets are selling fast, so organisers are

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From left, documentary creators Nicola Jones and Jon Waters, with PTA chair Kate Moore.

The late Audrey Shaw in front of the camera.

Senior Constable Katie Hawkins, Police

Not all bad news

When the boss comes out of the office and barks “you need to write 480 words about community policing for The Matters and they need it by the 15th”, there’s an accompanying feeling of unease. I’m no wordsmith. My writing style is very much ‘just the facts please’. The chances of entertaining or engaging the reader with content that has the artistic flair of the average shopping list is remote indeed. If you’ve made it this far … congratulations! And you’re right. This opening paragraph is clearly a filler, has nothing to do with the subject and has only been used to reduce the word count by 109 words. The main issue with writing anything about policing, or police work, or crime is that people are continually bombarded with exactly those topics. I’ve just picked up today’s Herald, (sorry to mention a rival publication, Matters) and the front page is given over to the just unveiled police response to the ‘gang issue’, pages six and seven consist entirely of disturbing accounts of various criminal acts, and scattered throughout the balance of the newspaper are other related articles of lesser significance.

Good news, at least on police-related topics, seems hard to find. In point of fact, certainly at a local level, there is plenty to be happy about. The Warkworth policing

Stadium safe

area, which includes all the satellite towns like Snells Beach, Pūhoi, Kaipara Flats Matakana, Omaha and Leigh, consistently has one of the lowest rates for volume crime in Waitemata District. That’s offences like burglary, theft from vehicles, and unlawful taking of cars. I’m not playing a statistics game with that, either. The offence numbers are genuinely low, averaging only one or two crimes of this nature a week. Those that are reported seem mainly to be opportunistic, with valuables left visible or vehicles and homes unlocked.

Please spare a thought for the security of your property when you leave it unattended, even if it’s just for a short time. Get to know your neighbours. If you’re planning a break somewhere sunny over the winter, pay equal attention to planning for the security of your home while you’re away. Have someone keep an eye on the place, and make sure they know to contact the police if they see anything untoward taking place. If you do need to make contact with the police, the way to think about it is like this: If you think it’s something the police should check now, use 111 on your phone; if you think it’s something police should know, it’s the 105 number.

Editor’s note: Well done, Katie, but just pointing out that your column was 51 words short!

Auckland Council has agreed to spend $33 million on the North Harbour Stadium over the next 10 years, despite earlier calls for the stadium precinct to be sold. Cr Richard Hills said he was glad to see the sale of North Harbour taken off the table. “It is an important community asset, but it’s not well used and we need to be doing something different,” Hills said. There are plans to change the way the stadium is run. It is currently managed by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited.

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Vape culture raises health issues in schools

By Sandie Foster Mahurangi College Gateway student

More than one-third of high school students have tried vaping and one in five regularly vapes, according to the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation.

But pinning those figures down in a local context is difficult because Mahurangi College has never surveyed students on their vaping habits.

Deputy principal Jon Blyth says that although vaping became more commonplace about eight years ago, nationally there are still poor rules and regulations around vaping.

He feels vapes shouldn’t be available to school students, who are being set up to make poor decisions.

“The marketing of vapes is aimed at the youth market, which you can see with its sponsorships, festivals, branding and flavours,” he says.

Blyth says studies in America and Australia indicate that vapes have health effects on young people, but it will be 10 years before the evidence is clear.

He says that he gets his information from ASH – Action for Smokefree NZ – and does not believe that vapes are better than cigarettes. Teens vape because the vapes are easily accessible and because it is natural for teenagers to want to take risks and try new things, he says.

Blyth estimates that half of Mahurangi College’s middle to senior students have tried vaping, but fewer are regular users.

“The worst years are Years 9 to 11.”

Blyth says that the school has vape detectors in certain areas, which notify people when someone is vaping, and he plans to get more installed.

When students are caught vaping, or with vape products, the consequences depend on how many times they have been caught and the circumstances, such as whether or not it was during class time. Repeat offenders face the possibility of being stood

down and any student caught vaping has to complete a vape education booklet, which outlines the dangers of vaping.

A Year 10 student said she started vaping because of peer pressure, which is a common reason. She had been vaping for five years and knew about the health risks, but didn’t care.

She gets her vapes from Albany with work money and spends $30 to $40 on vaping products per week. She said vapes cost from $20 to $40, and she vapes for the “head-spins” and as stress relief. Her father also vaped and didn’t care that she vaped.

A Year 11 student said vaping helped with stress. She spent money from a part-time job to buy $20 vapes, which her brother bought on her behalf. She vaped for a year but stopped when her mother found out.

A Year 13 student started vaping when she was 16 “because it was fun”. She had been a cigarette smoker before she vaped and her mother gave her money to spend on vapes. However, she recently stopped because she realised the damage it was doing to her

body, skin and health.

School counsellor Marinette Shield said the whole community needed to be involved to stop the “student vaping pandemic”.

“It can’t be left to just teachers and parents,” she said.

Shield added the issue had increased in the last two years, with students as young as 12 and 13 (in Years 7 and 8) vaping.

Her advice to students who had a vaping problem was to reach out sooner rather than later. Like any addiction, it is a mental health problem which affects a person’s ability to sleep and eat, as well as causing skin and breathing issues.

School nurse Donnah Penniall said it was hard to help students who vaped.

“There’s not a lot known specifically about the physical effects on children,” she said. “While it’s not as harmful as tobacco, it has the same level of addiction.”

Penniall said vaping affected a student’s ability to concentrate. Like any addiction, there were withdrawal symptoms, which meant students would be in class thinking

more about how they needed to vape rather than focusing on their school work.

She said it was disappointing to see the problem getting worse and nicotine was one of the hardest drugs to stop taking.

“Current students are the first generation vapers so research is still new about the effects on their health.”

NRT nicotine replacement therapy is produced for adults and correct pediatric doses aren’t known.

“Quitline is not able to help and GPs have not yet been given guidelines for management of nicotine withdrawal in under 18s,” Penniall added.

The proximity of vape shops to schools is also an issue. Legally, they have to be at least 300 metres away from a school – the closest shop to Mahurangi College is 500 metres away, but many students pass it on their way to school.

A vape shop owner was approached for comment, but they said that legally they could not share information about vaping with anyone under the age of 18.

Deputy Principal Jon Blyth said, “The first vape I confiscated looked like a cigarette because smokers were the people they were first marketed to.”

Budget promises rural road spending increase, but when?

Auckland Council has earmarked $124.6 million for unsealed road improvements over the next 10 years, but there is still no indication of when the money will be spent.

Similar large sums have been allocated in previous budgets, but with only a fraction spent in years one and two.

Rodney councillor Greg Sayers says he is advocating for the money, which is for capital long-term fixes, including sealing, to be “front-loaded”.

“As well as this, additional money has been allocated by Auckland Transport to improve ongoing maintenance service levels,” Sayers says. “Instead of just one grading crew to cover the entire Rodney area, there are now five.”

Cr Sayers says the Rodney Local Board has received a massive funding increase to $48.5 million for the next three years to further support community programmes.

“This will be on top of an additional increase to $102.7 million for building new, and restoring old, council facilities such as toilets and community centres.

“No other local board received such a dramatic increase in funding. These significant wins go a long way towards closing the inequality funding gap Rodney has unfairly experienced since the

formation of the Supercity.”

Sayers says he is pleased, too, for the Okahukura and Te Arai communities, who received approval to self-manage their large area land drainage projects.

He says the other big win in the budget was the $19.7 million for the Hill Street intersection upgrade.

“There were concerns this project would be cancelled with the removal of the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax, which partially funded it. However, the void has been successfully plugged through redirecting local rates and development contributions into financing this project.”

Residential property owners are looking at rate increases of 6.8 percent, 5.8 percent, and 7.9 percent respectively, in the next three years, and then no more than 3.5 per cent each year after that.

A refuse targeted rate will be introduced in Rodney in 2025/26, which will apply to all residential and lifestyle Separately Used and Inhabited Parts (SUIPs) to which the service is available, and all other SUIPs to which a council refuse bin is assigned.

Most of the $10 million increase in Auckland Transport’s budget will go to public transport.

Subdivision support decided

The ongoing saga of if and how Rodney Local Board subdivision boundaries should be altered to allow better rural representation was finally concluded at its monthly meeting on May 15.

Members voted for a Northern Action Group (NAG) proposal that allows for five subdivisions – North Rural, South Rural, Warkworth, Dairy Flat and Kumeu, but this time for a version that would still provide north Rodney with four elected members. Board members had originally voted in principle to support bringing in the same number of subdivisons in March, but in that version, the North and South Rural boundaries were drawn differently. That would have meant only one local board member for North Rural, three for South Rural, two for Warkworth, two for Kumeu and one for Dairy Flat, effectively losing one northern member – at the moment, there is one for Wellsford and three for Warkworth.

On May 15, Michelle Carmichael and Colin Smith suggested the alternative version, where the North Rodney area would run further south, almost to Kaukapakapa, meaning it would have the population numbers to justify having two

members instead of one.

However, the decision to vote for that option only came after more lengthy debate, three separate motions and amendments, and public appearances by two members of NAG and Rodney Community Voices, two of the groups pushing for better rural representation.

While Carmichael and Smith eventually won the day by a whisker, it was not before chair Brent Bailey pushed to stick with the board’s March decision and Warkworth member Ivan Wagstaff tried to abandon support for any changes and stick with the current boundaries.

NAG founder Bill Foster told the meeting that while rural advocates still favoured having one large rural area with four members at large, the latest North-South Rural option that members voted for was the best compromise available.

“We have to be practical,” he said.

The final decisions on whether the changes will take place rest with council’s governing body and, ultimately, the Local Government Commission, and there will be opportunities for the public to submit their views and be heard throughout the process.

Preserving precious family memories since 1990

Local board meeting broadcasts trialled

Anyone who has ever wondered exactly what goes on at a Rodney Local Board meeting will be able to see for themselves from next month, after members voted to record and broadcast their monthly business meetings online.

The move to video meetings came from Warkworth member Michelle Carmichael, who said recording what went on would allow for greater transparency and support democratic accountability.

She said some local boards were already doing this, as were Auckland Council committees and the governing body.

“Various members of the community have said to me that they are not able to attend our meetings during the day and wished recordings of the local board were available to be viewed at a time convenient to them,” she said. “It’s about getting what we do out there to the public a bit more.”

Mahurangi Matters made a submission in support of the proposal, saying that not only would it enable journalists to cover meetings more effectively, the practice was already well established elsewhere such as at Kaipara District Council, which broadcasts

all its meetings via YouTube.

Two members expressed concerns about security issues around putting recordings onto a public streaming site, and effectively giving people the opportunity to download, adapt or take content out of context.

Mark Dennis said he didn’t think the benefits outweighed the risks and cost.

“We’re a very relaxed board and I know the chair, myself and others, we do say things out of context and people who do not watch the full footage may not get why we’re saying certain things,” he said.

“It’s a bit of a risk. It’s different with the other boards and other departments, they’re big important bodies. Not a lot of people would benefit from it here.”

Guy Wishart agreed, and was also worried about members grandstanding in front of the camera for political ends, but said in the end that the transparency argument swung it for him.

“Recordings could be used and clipped in a way that could be used repeatedly online, where things are taken out of context to mean something completely different to

what they were,” he said. “That’s why it has to remain a trial, because if anything like that happened, we would need to revisit it and decide whether we should carry on.

“There are risks, but I think for transparency’s sake, it is worth a trial.”

Chair Brent Bailey thought it could even put people off standing for the local board.

“We’re all going to end up as memes, you know that, don’t you? This is going to be a reason not to run and participate in this process.”

Carmichael said recording meetings could actually help members by providing an accurate record of who said what.

“At the moment, people can say what they like and if that happens, we don’t have any proof after the event, so I think it’s a protection for us as well,” she said. “It works both ways.”

Members voted to record all local board business meetings for a six-month trial, starting June 19, and share video links on the Rodney Local Board Facebook page, with a review of the process in November. Dennis and Bailey voted against.

• Wide range of doctor and nurse led services including accident and medical services, immunisation, minor surgery, vasectomies, immigration, dive and insurance medicals.

• Wide range of visiting specialists.

• Warkworth is open Monday to Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-12 noon.

• Snells Beach is open Monday to Friday 8am-5pm

• Low Cost access for enrolled patients under 14 free, young people $13, adults $19.50 (ACC costs differ).

• Pharmacy, Labtest, Physio on site.

• Flu and Covid -19 vaccinations available.

Surgery at Unit 2/347 Mahurangi East Road

Surgery at 11 Alnwick Street

Ready for their close-ups – Rodney Local Board members have voted to video their monthly meetings.

History

From small Plunket beginnings

In the early 1900s, for every 1000 live births, 88 babies would die – scary statistics for a young mother. Dr Truby King an Edinburgh-trained doctor, living in Dunedin was concerned with the poor health of newborns, mainly from poor nutrition and failure to thrive. Breastfeeding was out of fashion and the replacement food inadequate. He set up a small unit at Karitane, north of Dunedin, in 1906, to care for babies, educate mothers and encourage local women to help new mothers in their homes. Lady Victoria Plunket, wife of the then Governor General, travelled NZ championing this work, and the organisation adopted her name in 1914.

During World War I in Warkworth, Isabella Hamilton campaigned for a Plunket nurse in the area. Her cousin, Bella Wilson, was one of the early nurses trained by Dr King. Isabella travelled the area in her horse and gig, and later in her sister-in-law Florrie Hamilton’s car, talking to women about a Plunket nurse service. By 1926, a working committee had formed to raise funds for a room, a nurse and transport. A Baby Queen Carnival was the first event held. In 1927, the Warkworth branch of the Plunket Society was formed and Florrie supplied the first room, a disused service entry to the Hamilton Building shop in Queen Street. This was converted and painted, a bench built and kitchen scales provided to weigh the babies. The first nurse was Jean McCall. After the Queen Street fire in 1931, Mrs Tom Warin provided a better room at the front of Broomfield House. Jean visited mothers in outlying areas on horseback and, due to her small stature, there were many stories

of her climbing fences and the like to mount the horse. Eventually she was given a Baby Austin to drive, although she never mastered reversing. This meant she would drive until she found a space wide enough to turn around in, unless there was a man handy who could lift the back of the car and swing her round!

In 1935, Mr A. Warin donated land for proper rooms for the nurse, at the corner of Mill Lane, where they remain today.

The Warkworth branch and its nurse were responsible for a large area, with many sub-branches. The nurse held weekly, bimonthly or monthly clinics in Matakana, Leigh, Wellsford, Kaiwaka, Maungaturoto, Mangawhai, Helensville, Waimauku, Kumeu, Silverdale and Dairy Flat. She would also do home visits during those first critical weeks following the birth. The committee held monthly meetings with reports from the sub-branches. Isabella Hamilton was president for many of those early years. Her daughter, Flora McNaught, was president for a while in the 1940s. By the time the Warkworth branch held its 50th anniversary in 1977, many of those sub-branches had their own nurses and clinics.

Just after World War II, a Queen Carnival was held to raise funds to extend the Plunket rooms and include a flat on top for the nurse. Many of us have been grateful for the support of our Plunket nurse and her wisdom, still operating from those rooms set up so many years ago. I am sure Dr King and his many dedicated nurses and volunteers would be thrilled that the death rate is now only 3.2 deaths per 1000 live births.

In Leigh

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The Mill Lane clinic.

Fancy dress fundraiser.

stephanie@ppetal.co.nz 17 Neville Street, Warkworth

DDI: 09 425 0968 | Phone: 09 425 7701

Auckland Office Level 5, 26 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD Phone: 09 912 8500

Property and Commercial Lawyers specialising in sale and purchase of real estate and business, company law, trusts and estates, protection of assets, and separation and division of relationship property.

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Office A, Level 3, Kowhai House (behind Snap Fitness)

Entrance off Alnwick Street or Warkworth Lane, Warkworth PO Box 732, Warkworth 0941

Ph: (09) 425 7701 | Fax: (09) 425 7706

AUCKLAND OFFICE

28 Anzac Ave, Auckland Central 1010 PO Box 5530, Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141

Ph: (09) 912 8500 | Fax: (09) 912 8518

community work? an opportunity

Would you like to assist people with budget advice in the Warkworth/Wellsford/ Mangawhai area?

Can you spare up to 4 hours a week?

Full training provided and costs reimbursed.

must have reliable transport.

Ph: 09 423 7123 | Mobile: 021 423 788 | Email: admin@wwbudgetservice.co.nz Website: www.wwbudgetservice.co.nz | Facebook: Warkworth/Wellsford Budget Service

Homebuilders

Mike Hanne, Family Services board member www.homebuildersfs.org

Framing poverty

We use unconscious “frames” or “images” to think about most issues in our lives, and it makes a big difference which of the available frames we choose. For instance, talking about our healthcare system as “undernourished” leads to very different policies from talking about it as “broken.” It’s useful to look at the frames we employ, especially around social and political issues, to see whether they are still serving us well. Two contrary images or frames are widely used in relation to poverty in New Zealand. The first, “Life is a race” means there will inevitably be winners and losers – and poor people make up the families who’ve come in last. That image views us as individuals and assumes that everyone is running on the same level track. If, however, you view us all as “a family” or “a community”, the emphasis will be on ensuring the wellbeing of every member, making sure no-one is disadvantaged.

Imagining the wealth of the country as “a cake” allows a valuable perspective on poverty:

The fact that 1% of the population has a 21% slice of the wealth has been widely discussed. Less often mentioned is that the top 10% own almost 60% of the wealth, while the next 40% own just 40% (which seems pretty fair?), and, surely shocking, that the bottom 50% have just one percent of the wealth cake.

While most people would say between 2% and 5% are really poor in this country, the reality is that 50% have so little in reserve that they are at risk of becoming acutely

Division of Wealth in NZ

poor. If you are well-off (in the upper 10%) you have infinitely more choices in housing, schooling, healthcare, family life and so on. The bottom half have limited choices and the least well-off, especially Māori and Pasifika, have almost no choices – they start the “race” far behind the upper 50% and cannot possibly be expected to catch up. In this context, the question of framing becomes even more interesting. The poor are generally forced to see their existence and future through a much narrower “frame” than those who are welloff.

Another useful image when thinking about poverty is the “slope” between the poorest and the richest. That “slope” has got twice as steep over the last 40 years (Max Rashbrooke). So much for playing (or racing) on a level playing field! We can lessen the steepness of “the slope” by redistributing income, but just as important is improving the quality of social infrastructure, so that all families can be assured of decent, warm, long-tenure housing, being close to public transport, with adults’ and children’s healthcare always available, and the children attending consistently well-resourced schools. Then, the anxieties which plague low-income people in NZ – will we have to move? How can I pay for the car repair? Can we afford to go to the doctor? and so on – will be much less prevalent. The benefit to our whole society, if all under-resourced families had access to these services, would be immense.

Pete Sharp Raoul Robertson

(Figures from Max Rashbrooke’s Book Too Much Money, Bridget Williams Books, 2021).

Record feedback for Kaipara plan

Kaipara District Council (KDC) received a record number of submissions on its Long-term Plan (LTP) for the 20242027 period – a three-fold increase on the number submitted during the previous LTP process.

LTPs, which are local government works and budget programmes, usually cover a 10-year period, but this year the central government permitted Kaipara and seven other councils to adopt unaudited, threeyear plans, focusing on recovery after last year’s floods.

By the time the month-long public consultation period ended on May 4, KDC had received 742 submissions, from individuals, organisations, community groups, iwi and businesses. By comparison, 246 formal submissions were received in 2021, in connection with the 2021–31 LTP.

Councillors and KDC staff also held 13 face-to-face and drop-in events across the district from April 6 to May 1, answering questions arising in the draft plan. Public hearings were held in Dargaville and Mangawhai on May 15 and 16.

“It has been great to hear so many different community voices speak up for Kaipara,” Mayor Craig Jepson said. “We are working through every single piece of feedback that

Budget climate options

A significant element in the draft LTP related to climate change policy. Council asked for feedback on whether it should earmark money for a dedicated climate resilience programme.

It offered three options:

• a budget of $500,000 across three years, which would see council deliver climate adaptation services, but not climate mitigation services

• a budget of $700,000 across three years, under which council would deliver climate adaptation and

was sent in, and listening to those who chose to speak to their submission.”

Jepson said there were more “hard yards” for the council ahead.

“We always said we would keep working to make further inroads to reduce costs, and soften any rates increase wherever possible,” he said, adding that all elected members would look to end up with figures lower than the earlier projections.

“It is a really delicate balance between rates affordability and delivering the level of service our community expects. We are doing everything in our power to strike that appropriate balance.”

In its draft plan, council proposed a programme of action that would require average rates increases of 15.1 per cent, 8.4 per cent and 3.4 per cent in each of the next three years.

mitigation services, and reintroduce two programmes that were suspended late last year – emissions accounting and reporting, and developing a climate policy setting out council’s approach to climate change (MM, Oct 9)

• a budget of $0. Council would have no dedicated work programme or budget towards climate adaptation, action or resilience

Council recommended the zero budget option, arguing that it already does work in the climate area, such as land drainage

On June 5, council will discuss any changes or updates to the draft programmes and budgets, before the LTP is formally adopted on July 31.

schemes in Ruawai and Raupō, for which council collects a targeted rate.

It said climate resilience was already considered as part of the development of a new District Plan, and that each of its activity groups must consider climate resilience when setting their work programmes. Council also pointed out that it was part of the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee for Northland governance group, and Climate Adaptation Te Tai Tokerau, which focuses on climate change adaptation.

Seal extension works shown in yellow. Flood recovery works shown in orange.

Ahuroa Road repairs continue

Work is continuing on the repair of Ahuroa Road, which was severely damaged in last year’s summer storms.

An Auckland Transport (AT) spokesperson says that three of the eight underslips have mostly been repaired with five remaining. The large slip that closed the road near 900 Ahuroa Road is largely completed and access reopened to residents on May 8. There are still some minor works, such as barrier installations to be finished at a later date, which will only require a lane closure stop/go.

Work at the hairpin slip near 849 Ahuroa Road was being worked on last week. Work is also ongoing opposite number 859 Ahuroa Road with a lane closure in place. This work started on May 1.

All timber poles have been installed and backfilling has started.

Slip repairs were due to start on the road, 50 metres east of J Tolhopf Road, today (May 27). This work is expected to take about four months, weather dependent, and lane closure with a stop/go will be in place.

In addition, road sealing work is occurring and as part of that, the contractor is putting in two retaining walls as part of the flood repair works.

AT says the road will remain open, following completion of the major slip west of J Tolhopf Road.

Artists share their skills

Anyone with a creative itch to scratch should head for Mangawhai over the coming weeks, as a number of new art classes and workshops are being run. Painting, sculpture and creative writing all feature in the Mangawhai Artists programme, which runs at its Mangawhai Art Space in Moir Street.

For those wanting to give painting a try in an informal and fun atmosphere, Janet Colle’s Bottled Up! paint and sip evening on Thursday, June 6 might be a good place to start.

No previous painting experience is necessary and all materials, an apron and refreshments are provided. Colle says participants simply need to bring along their imaginations, a sense of humour and their favourite beverage.

For those wanting to delve a little deeper into painting, Elena Nikolaeva is running two five-week Creative Acrylics courses on Thursday and Friday mornings, starting on June 6.

Aimed at people with any level of artistic experience, the course allows students to work on their own projects, explore acrylic

painting techniques and develop their personal artistic style.

Nikolaeva, together with Howard Esler, will also be running soft cement sculpture workshops on the weekend of June 22 and 23. All materials and tools to make a garden sculpture will be provided.

For those who prefer to express themselves in words, author Jude Tindill’s five-week Creative Writing for Beginners course might be of interest. The member of the NZ Society of Authors, the International Writers’ Workshop and the Historical Novel Society of Australasia will teach participants how to capture a concept and transform it into a compelling read.

The sessions will cover all the main elements of storytelling and creative writing, including plot and structure, characterisation and dialogue, and conflict and resolution.

The course starts on Thursday, July 4 and runs in the afternoon.

Info and bookings: https://www. mangawhaiartists.co.nz/workshops-andclasses-2024.html

Fight the Tip update meeting

As Waste Management NZ’s efforts to develop a massive new landfill south of Wellsford drag through the courts, local opposition group Fight the Tip is holding a public meeting next month to provide an update on the latest developments.

The hui will take place on Sunday, June 9 at the Wellsford Community Centre, starting at 3pm, and will also include the society’s annual meeting.

Fight the Tip executive member Michelle Carmichael said attendees would hear about then next stages of the fight to stop the dump, both inside and outside the courts.

Environment Court judges issued an inconclusive “interim decision” in December, saying said that while WM’s

plans were non-complying, highly contentious and its impacts would be significant, a modified application, with improved design and more certain conditions and management plans, could meet the key purposes of the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) and Resource Management Act.

This effectively gave WM another bite at the cherry, by offering the global waste giant a chance to take further steps to address the court’s concerns.

Two opponents, Ngati Whatua and Forest & Bird, are currently appealing that decision in the High Court.

The Fight the Tip meeting will run from 3pm to 5pm. Koha and bumper sticker purchases welcome to help fund the cause.

Quilt challenge winner

Warkworth Quilters’ president Jenny Warren is the inaugural winner of the Alison Letcher Memorial Challenge Trophy. Alison was a keen quilter and former club official. Following her death in 2021, husband Jim donated money to the club to set up the challenge in her memory. This year’s challenge theme was Kiwiana and was judged by Jim, accompanied by his daughter Karleen. Next year’s theme is a child’s quilt. Alison and Jim Letcher were long-time retailers in Warkworth, who at various times owned a sports shop, supermarket and variety store. The quilt club meets at Shoesmith Hall on the third Tuesday of the month, from 10am to 2pm. The programme includes teaching sessions, speakers and demonstrations. Guests and new members most welcome. Info: 021 084 17108

Choir comin’ to carry us home

They say ‘home is where the heart is’ and that will be the theme of two concerts by Matakana-based choir Matakantata next month. The programme will include a mix of spirituals, classics and contemporary songs full of feeling and emotion, and a little humour. Spokesperson Jenni Francis says the songs will remind audiences of the place in their heart where home resides. The choir will perform at the Matakana Hall on Friday, June 21, starting at 7.30pm, and at the Warkworth Town Hall on Sunday, June 23, starting at 4pm. Tickets are available from Hart Pharmacy or Gull Matakana, and cost $25 for adults and gold coin for children. Info: Jenni 0274 364 363

Fundraising tea in the pink

Warkworth’s Old Masonic Hall was awash with every shade of pink last week, when Warkworth Library organised a Pink Ribbon Morning Tea as a fundraiser for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.

Nearly 90 people in pink hats, clothing, wigs and masks enjoyed music, coffee and cake, as well as an honest and inspiring talk from Tracey and Kevin Lawton on living with a

breast cancer diagnosis and its aftermath.

Local businesses and library users donated a huge number of auction and raffle prizes, including a range of bags and accessories by Trelise Cooper.

One of the organisers, Katie Mitchell, said the event had been a huge success, raising nearly $4000, and she expressed heartfelt thanks to supporters.

Painting fun for farmers

Calling all artistic agricultural types – the Dairy Women’s Network is organising a Paint ’n’ Sip social art evening in Wellsford next month.

Organisers stress that no painting skills are necessary, all materials will be provided, and that family and friends are welcome as well.

“Whether you fancy yourself as the next Picasso or prefer drawing in stickmen, come along to enjoy a night of painting,” they say.

Members

Non-members

Tertiary

School-age

“All you need to bring is yourself, and what you would like to drink for a night of fun.”

The Paint ’n’ Sip night takes place on Monday, June 10 at Wellsford Community Centre. Doors open at 6pm, and the event itself runs from 6.30pm to 9pm.

Tickets cost $30 per person, including nibbles and art materials, and registration is necessary by June 1.

Info and registration: https://www.dwn.co.nz/events/

Then look no further than Pakiri Beach Holiday Park. One of New Zealand’s best beaches right in your backyard. Superbly located, overlooking the stunning white dunes of Pakiri Beach, there are plenty of activities to keep you and children occupied or you can just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of our location only 15 minutes from Matakana or 90 minutes from the heart of Auckland.

You will find accommodation to suit everyone’s style and budget. If you want stunning views and the ultimate relaxation, book the lodge or a beachfront cottage and watch the sunrise over Hauturu (Little Barrier Island) from the comfort of your bed.

If you’re looking for a fun adventure, book the riverside glamping tent, life long memories will be created in this beautifully appointed safari tent, complete with a wood fire, ensuite, and kitchen, the kids will love it.

If you want a cheap and cheerful option there are basic cabins with enough beds for a family of five or you can bring your tent, caravan or motorhome for a relaxing stay.

It’s the perfect time to reconnect with nature, and our family-friendly park has many great activities to enjoy. The jumping pillow, playground, outdoor chess set, petanque pitch and outdoor ping pong table will keep the kids entertained. If the weather turns the indoor games and theatre rooms provide a lovely space for more family fun.

Peter Henderson was MC.

Best-dressed prizewinners, from left, Kelly Hall and Maxine Axford.

Alternatives to Pine on your farm FIELD DAY

Want to grow some trees on your farm, but not pines?

This is an ideal chance to make a change in your life and try something different with a great company. If you are thinking of re- joining the workforce or looking for extra hours this role may well suit you.

Come and see some great examples at free field day in Wellsford. Learn about the benefits of planting alternative species. NZ Farm Forestry members will share their experiences of what grows well and where, success and failure, costs and returns.

We are looking for permanent PartPart Time and Casual On CallCall School Bus Drivers.

Wednesday 29 May, 10am – 1.30pm, Wellsford Enrol on our website (https://www.nzffa.org.nz/events/) or scan this QR code if you want to attend the field day. It will take you to more information and the registration form. Everyone is welcome. Tea and coffee will be provided.

What you need: What

• Class 2 Licence

• P endorsement (we can help you obtain this)

• A responsible and caring approach

Book Reviews

The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo, author of the Netflix-adapted series Shadow and Bone, returns with her new standalone novel, The Familiar. The story follows Luzia, an orphaned scullion with an ambitious nature. She is gifted with abilities she doesn’t fully understand, which she uses to make her difficult life easier to bear. But once she’s exposed, she’s forced to perform, and the situation escalates beyond what she is prepared to deal with. Now responsible for her future and the fates of those she serves, Luzia must compete against other miracle performers in the Royal Court under the guidance of a man she isn’t sure she can trust.

School Bus Drivers Needed -

School Bus Drivers Needed - Warkworth

If you want to be part of a business that is making a difference in your communitythen we want to hear from you!

Warkworth

Get on Board with Go Bus Transport and come join our great team in Warkworth.

Bardugo perfectly captures the essence of an unusual setting and uses it to her advantage to tell a unique and thrilling story. The Familiar is incredibly characterdriven and is shaped by the temptations and ambitions of the central characters, rather than the circumstances that brought them together. Full to the brim with magic, danger, politics and a touch of romance, I’d recommend this book to all lovers of fantasy romance.

Reviewed by Juniper Elder

Our recruitment process includes a Drug and Alcohol Test and Police Vetting check.

This is an ideal chance to make a change in your life and try something different with a great company. If you are thinking of re-joining the workforce or looking for extra hours this role may well suit you.

Get on Board with Go Bus Transport and Get on come join our great team in Warkworth. join Warkworth.

We are looking for permanent Part-Time and Casual On-Call School Bus Drivers.

What you need:

Don't let this role drive by! let

• Class 2 Licence

• P endorsement (we can help you obtain this)

• A responsible and caring approach

Apply now and email Carol now email onon carol.monteith@gobus.co.nz

If you want to be part of a business that is making a difference in your community then we want to hear from you!

Our recruitment process includes a Drug and Alcohol Test and Police Vetting check.

This is an ideal chance to make a change in your life and try something different with a great company. If you are thinking of re- joining the workforce or looking for extra hours this role may well suit you.

Don’t let this role drive by!

Apply now and email Carol on carol.monteith@gobus.co.nz

We are looking for permanent PartPart Time and Casual On CallCall School Bus Drivers.

What you need: What

• Class 2 Licence

• P endorsement (we can help you obtain this)

• A responsible and caring approach

If you want to be part of a business that is making a difference in your communitythen we want to hear from you!

Our recruitment process includes a Drug and Alcohol Test and Police Vetting check.

Don't let this role drive by! let

Apply now and email Carol now email onon carol.monteith@gobus.co.nz

Sisterhood by Cathy Kelly

Lou is a people pleaser who never puts herself first. She is the one everyone relies on to make their lives easier, never recognising the anxiety and depression constantly biting at her heels. Lou’s sister Toni is strong, successful and in the public eye. The kind of person that many would envy, yet her life may not be all that it appears. A bombshell dropped on the night of Lou’s 50th birthday sets off a chain reaction that takes the sisters on a journey, which may be life-changing for both of them.

This is an extremely enjoyable novel that is easy to read. The characters are relatable and I imagine most women readers will have moments when they think that the author is somehow channelling their own inner thoughts.

Reviewed by Abby Soffe

Lulu & the Dance Detectives

– Ravenous Rooster Stake-out by Sally Sutton, illustrator Lily Uevil

This is the latest adventure from the Dance Detectives and is aimed at six to eight year olds. Both Sutton and Uevil hail from New Zealand, but their work could apply to any child-friendly audience.

I read this 100-page book to my seven-year-old grandson, Asher, over four sessions and he thought it was “great”. It is busy, fast-moving and full of action once you get into the story. Asher came across words new to him [always a bonus]. He also liked the artwork and, like many kids, loved the scary bits, the messy bits and, of course, the part where the goodies beat the baddy. It is always an enjoyable experience when both kids and adults can enjoy ‘the ride’ together. Given how expensive children’s books can be, this series is also value for money.

Reviewed by Barbara Leslie, assisted by Asher Wattam

Northern tsunami sirens upgrade

The Northland tsunami siren network is being upgraded, with existing sirens being replaced by new models said to be more effective, resilient, and compliant with new safety standards. In a joint project, the four Northland councils are replacing the current sirens with 94 new ones, which are designed to provide greater sound coverage, preprogrammed voice warning messages and multi-tone siren sounds. They can also be activated via cell phone networks and satellite, and have back-up solar power systems. Since they have greater sound coverage, fewer sirens will be required, in fewer and more effective locations. “As each siren is part of a network, sites are strategically chosen to ensure effective sound coverage and early warnings against tsunami, not only for that community, but for the entire region,” the Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group says. Sirens will be located at Mangawhai Museum, Mangawhai Heads Holiday Park, the Mangawhai Domain, Moirs Point Christian Centre on Estuary Drive, Langs Bay, Waipu Cove, Waipu Cemetery and Waipu Reserve.

Island animals given special care

Wearing a head torch to assist with surgeries when the power went out was just one of the challenges Warkworth vet nurse Natalie Knight faced during her recent stay in the Kingdom of Tonga.

Natalie was one of six vets and vet nurses who undertook a week-long field clinic treating several hundred animals this month. The trip was organised under the auspices of South Pacific Animal Welfare (SPAW).

“On our first weekend, we were invited to Pangaimotu, one of the small outer islands, about a 20-minute boat ride from Tongatapu,” Natalie says.

“Two male dogs, Coconut and Uzi, needed desexing so we packed up all our gear and the surgeries were our first two of the week. As well as desexing, the dogs were

vaccinated and given flea, tick and worm treatment, which they desperately needed.

“Their owner was extremely grateful and put on a beautiful lunch for all of us as a thank you. We all came away feeling very happy and it gave us a positive vibe to start our busy week.”

In total, the team performed 149 surgeries and 213 consultations.

“There is no permanent vet in Tonga so being able to provide much-needed veterinary care to the local animals was very satisfying.”

This was Natalie’s second tour with SPAW, having worked for a week on Vava’u last year.

She said this trip wasn’t such a culture shock and she was better prepared for the heat, adding that the although the conditions were challenging, the people

were so grateful to the team that it was very rewarding.

“On one day, we had torrential rain for about 24 hours, which caused some flooding in our outdoor area, making it hard for people waiting with their animals before and after surgery. This rain also made driving home after clinic rough as some roads were full of water. When the power went out, we were left operating with only head torches for light.”

Natalie and the team were also involved in the rescue of a wild dog that had fallen down a concrete chamber.

“We had very limited resources, with no catch pole or anything that you would probably use in New Zealand. In the end, we tied two leads together and used a piece

Covering Auckland North to Kaipara

rural round-up feature

Caring for animals

South Pacific Animal Welfare (SPAW) provides free veterinary care to animals living in Pacific Island communities. It operates regular field clinics staffed by trained veterinary professionals on islands where there is no, or limited access to, regular veterinary care. SPAW is often the only lifeline to medical care for animals that are injured or sick. A key initiative is helping to reduce the stray dog and cat populations through regular desexing clinics. Last year, SPAW provided $1.3 million in aid to multiple island partners, treated 1958 animals for free and recruited 57 vet and vet nurse volunteers, who provided 2750 professional hours to the programme. SPAW was founded by Matakana resident Karen Schade in 2010 and exists solely on donations and some sponsorship.

Info: www.spaw.org.nz

of wood to lower a slip lead down into the small hole and coax the dog into the corner where we slowly placed the lead over its neck. We then lifted the very frightened dog up and out of the hole. We couldn’t get near her, so the safest call was to release her wearing the slip lead, which would fall off, rather than trying to get it off ourselves and risk being bitten.”

Natalie said the whole trip was an amazing experience.

“You feel like you have really helped so many animals that would not have had any treatment if we had not volunteered our time and skills.

“The experience was invaluable and meeting the local people and learning a little about their culture made it doubly worthwhile.”

Natalie Knight at work in Tonga.

Possums, pigs and pampas – taming pest threats at Tapora

For more than two decades, the small, remote community of Tapora has been quietly punching well above its weight when it comes to taking care of the local environment.

Only around 400 people live out on this remote peninsula on the Kaipara Harbour, which is a good 40km drive west from Wellsford down winding, narrow roads, but the community’s commitment to planting and pest control would put many much larger settlements to shame.

Local farmers, orchardists, residents and students have worked together over many years to plant hundreds of thousands of indigenous plants along waterways and in wetlands, while mounting a concerted attack on introduced pests and predators.

Tapora Land & Coast Care Group founder Wally McConnell has lived and farmed in the area since the mid-seventies, now raising beef, a handful of alpacas and running the local campground.

He said locals first started talking about an organised approach to pest control in the mid-1990s, when Tāwharanui was getting started over on the east coast, and the group was formally incorporated in 2004.

The aim was to make the peninsula predator free, and the initial focus was on possums. To give some idea of the scale of the problem, McConnell said 50,000 were trapped and killed in just one year.

Current chair Earle Wright remembers those

early days, when shooting 500 possums a night was not uncommon, and said that although the population was now under control, constant vigilance was still required, not least since possums and other pests had just enjoyed a bumper breeding season.

“Everything has gone really well this year. We were down to three percent possums on the peninsula (three possums caught for every 100 traps laid), but there are still hotspots,” he said. “Then you’ve got rats, stoats and other pests – it’s never-ending.”

Wright’s other main bugbears are wild pigs and pampas grass, both of which thrive here, especially in the Okahukura conservation area just across from the extraordinarily beautiful Manukapua Island, the largest of two long, lean strips of dune system that shield Tapora’s coastline.

The group is targeting two wetland areas in the north and south of the coastal reserve strip just across from Manukapua. Initially smothered with impenetrable pampas, gorse and wilding pines, only a heavyduty 33-tonne digger was able to clear and mulch the giant weeds enough to allow replanting in the north section.

“We’ve planted 50,000 trees here in three years, that’s about five hectares, but there’s 1000-plus hectares of land, so it’s like a jigsaw puzzle,” he said. “We’ve been battling the pampas grass throughout with spot-spraying. It’s just horrendous, ongoing work.”

Next for the big digger treatment is the southern section and the group is currently scoping a third wetland for restoration management as well.

Then there’s work going on to protect and restore Manukapua itself. It’s a popular spot for fishing, walking and birdwatching – the name means ‘bird cloud’ – but also for four-wheel driving and hunting enthusiasts, which some feel are not compatible with wildlife preservation and the island’s sacred sites, as Wright’s brother Tarb pointed out.

Local residents, landowners and farmers are working to instil that message via educating visitors about how precious the coastline and islands are and how important it is to protect them from damage, and from fire, such as one that burnt for a week in 2013. There is also a rāhui in place in a bid to stop people taking vast quantities of kai moana from the harbour waters.

In addition, farmers are putting in fencing to protect the coast and waterways, Tapora School students are regularly taking part in mass plantings as part of the Trees for Survival education programme, and a new native plant nursery is being established behind the community hall. (see panel right) While the workload remains pretty constant, the results of all this community mahi are certainly bearing fruit, most notably in the return of native birds, such as the Australasian bittern, or matukuhūrepo.

Although rarely seen and with a “nationally critical” conservation status, these big brown birds are doing well in Tapora – so well, in fact, that Earle Wright saw six of them take flight together from his land in March.

It’s a similar story with other species. Ecologist Andrew Marshall regularly visits

“Manukapua is the birthplace of Ngati Whatua – it was one of the first landing points of the Mahuhu Ki Te Rangi waka continued next page in the 1300s,” he said. “The aim of mātauranga Māori is to create balance in all the realms around here.”

Land & Coast Care chair Earle Wright.

One of the wetland areas being restored.

Wright is restoring wetlands and laying paths through his farm. Pampas and pines next to a replanted site.

Tapora to monitor what’s happening in the wetlands and he recently heard banded rail, spotless crake and fernbirds in one spot –anywhere else in the Auckland region, and he would only expect to hear one of those species at a time.

“This place is just so special, the strength of community action to do something,” he said. “Other parts of Auckland might have better restoration, but it’s council-led. This is a really ground-up thing, where local people really want to make a difference.”

Wright says that’s down to everyone getting on and being willing to do their bit.

“It’s about walking the talk, and doing it yourself. My Dad always said you start on your doorstep and work your way out. That’s what we’re doing on the farm, in the community and across the whole peninsula.”

His only real concern is over future funding, as budget cuts cast a potential shadow over previously stalwart supporters Auckland Council and DOC.

“We’ve come a long way in the last few years, but we’re quite concerned about funding,” he said. “We’re increasing our levies, but we’re always looking for more, and to create more interest in what we’re doing out here.”

Info: https://www.

taporalandandcoastcaregroup.co.nz/ or Tapora Land & Coast Care Group on Facebook

Planting potential

One of the latest weapons in Tapora’s battle to restore the environment and increase biodiversity is a new nursery being developed behind the community hall, school and tennis courts.

In typical fashion, Land & Coast Care Group members are using local knowledge, contacts and initiative to get the job done with maximum efficiency and minimum outlay. Lotto funding is being stretched with donated items, such as metal, fence posts and shade cloth from local avocado and kiwi orchardists and landowners.

Group chair Earle Wright says the nursery is being set up for taonga species, such as swamp kauri and kahikatea, rather than focusing on more common canopy plants like flax and cabbage trees.

“We’re going to have a shade-house, a covered area for potting and an outside area for hardening plants off,” he says.

“We’ve been collecting seeds locally for years and I reckon we’ve got room for 50,000 plants here.”

The nursery will also include a gate through to Tapora School grounds, so students can come in to learn about raising plants and the importance of re-establishing native forest.

“The nursery is there for us, not to sell on plants, apart perhaps for some for conservation volunteers at Atiu Creek Regional Park,” Wright says. “We want to bring the birds back here.”

ALL RURAL FENCING

Mahurangi Land Restoration Programme

FUNDING ALERT

Attention rural landowners and groups in the Mahurangi catchment! Time is running out to apply for funding that will cover up to 60% of costs for activities that help reduce sediment run-off.

Funding is available for: buying native plants & planting labour fencing materials & labour site preparation & maintenance alternative water supply stream bank erosion mitigation fish passage improvements (fully funded)

An applicant's contribution can include in-kind / voluntary labour, cash, or funding acquired from another source.

Winter 2025 will be the last planting season for the Mahurangi Land Restoration Programme (MLRP).

Please contact Holly Fleming as soon as possible to secure funding through our programme!

Mob: 021 548 818

Email: hollyfleming@terrapura.co.nz

She will arrange to meet you on-site, help you scope the project, and compile the information you'll need for your funding application.

See funding guide at www.ngatimanuhiri.iwi.nz/mlrp

Join us for a community planting day at Te Muri Regional Park

Access by bus only - buses leave Pūhoi Pioneers Memorial Park at 9:00 and 9:45 am

Bring whānau and friends to help plant some native trees and enjoy morning tea and a sausage sizzle together.

You will need: clean, sturdy footwear weather-appropriate clothing (event will go ahead unless torrential rain) a drink bottle

Buses leave Puhoi at 9am & 9:45am. Limited to 22 passengers per trip 9am - 2pm Sunday, 16 June 2024

All planting equipment provided

Manukapua Island lies just off the coast.

Big rigs carry safety message

Levers were pulled, buttons pushed and a driver’s secret lunch stash uncovered when Wharehine held a safety awareness session at Matakana School on May 16.

The Wellsford-based contractors parked two large truck and trailer units in the school carpark and invited the students to

familiarise themselves with the size of the equipment.

Wharehine general manager Andy Booth says the idea was to raise awareness with the older primary school students about the potential dangers of road traffic.

“We will be taking these large truck and trailer units to a few schools in the district so that the kids can look around them, sit in the driver’s seat and just engage around the blind spots and size of some of the vehicles driving through their communities,” Booth says.

“As a large local construction, quarrying, concrete and transport business, we strive to do everything we can to keep our staff, their families and the local community safe.”

According to Waka Kotahi, in 2022 there were 51 fatal crashes in NZ, 166 serious injury crashes, and 539 minor injury crashes where trucks were involved.

Transport manager Sam Dingemans covered some of the safety issues around stopping distances for trucks.

Phil Airey helped students get acquainted with what it was like to sit in the driver’s seat.

Andy Booth talked to students about the safety zones around trucks.

New rules for power security

Powerline companies will be able to remove vegetation on private property if it obstructs local lines, when amendments to the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations come into effect later this year.

Energy Minister Simeon Brown says the change will ensure greater security of electricity supply, particularly during severe weather events.

“Trees or parts of trees falling on powerlines is one of our most common causes of electricity outages, particularly in high winds,” Brown says.

“During Cyclone Gabrielle, out-of-zone tree outages interrupted electricity supply to 68,000 households. These interruptions and outages underscored how important it is to proactively manage risks to local electricity infrastructure.

“Many of the outages experienced during the cyclone could have been prevented if these proposed regulations were in place.”

Amendments to the regulations will target trees directly surrounding existing Growth

Limit Zones (GLZ) by creating a ‘clear to the sky’ zone to prevent vegetation hanging over lines. GLZs vary according to the voltage of the powerlines, but generally range from 0.5 metres to 2.5 metres.

The regulations will also create a ‘notice zone’ of one metre around the GLZ. If vegetation enters this zone, the line owners will be able to alert tree owners about the risk of the encroaching vegetation.

“Repairing damages lines is a costly and time-consuming exercise,” Brown says.

“By introducing the ‘clear to the sky’ zone and increasing the notification zone by one metre, we will both protect lines from damage, and reduce costs to lines companies.”

Consultation will also start shortly on further possible changes to reduce the risk to powerlines from ‘at risk’ trees outside the GLZ falling onto lines.

The amendments to the hazards from trees regulations are expected to be gazetted in September.

Large Central-Wellsford Freehold Investment FOR SALE

4 Port Albert Road, Wellsford

Offering a prime, unencumbered, freehold investment at the heart of Wellsford. Its elevated position overlooks the busy SH 1 & SH 16 intersection with Caltex and McDonalds.

The 2011 steel portal and tilt slab warehouse and the original office building have a secure seismic rating of 85%NBS. Since the vendors’ purchase in 1991, the property has been a Farm Supply Centre and is currently tenanted by PGG Wrightson's Real Estate office & Farm Supplies warehouse.

All in all, providing for a well maintained, secure investment. Contact us today for more information and to secure this great opportunity! Auction (unless sold prior)

Friday 31st May 2024 at 2.00pm View By Appointment naiharcourts.co.nz/WR45548

Peter Peeters M 027 487 6349 peter.peeters@naiharcourts.co.nz

Dan Lemkus M 022 525 9220 dan.lemkus@naiharcourts.co.nz

Paul van den Berg M 021 183 5165 paul.vandenberg@naiharcourts.co.nz

The new rules are aimed at protecting electricity lines from vegetation encroaching or trees falling on them.

Gardening

DOES MY SEPTIC TANK NEED CLEANING? Yes,every2-3years.Why?Becauseseptictanks areafilter.Youcleanyourcarfilterandyourwater filtersregularlyandyetoneofthemostimportant filtersgetsforgotten-yourseptictank.Keepyour environment clean and green.

Andrew Steens

Winter care

It looks likely that this will be a cold winter if autumn temperatures are anything to go by. Maybe not in terms of overall average temperatures, but certainly in terms of some hard cold snaps. Many gardeners have been lulled into a false sense of security over the past few years with consistently warm, if somewhat wet, winters. It’s been a while since we have had hard frosts, but rest assured, despite overall global temperatures increasing, polar vortices can and do move into our latitudes from time to time. So, what are the implications for gardeners in this situation? Well, it’s not all bad. For a start, cooler climate trees such as plums, apricots, peaches and apples will flower better this coming spring, and with decent pollination conditions, that will lead to a good crop. Some bulbs like daffodils, tulips and hyacinths, also prefer a colder winter and will produce more and better-quality flowers once the weather warms again. I might even leave my peony pot outside rather than putting it in the fridge for winter.

More crucially, many pests will take a hammering during frosty conditions, particularly those of subtropical or tropical origins like tomato psyllid, guava moth, armyworms and passion-vine hoppers, so fingers crossed these will be less of a problem next summer. Some diseases will also take a bit of a hit, such as rust fungi. However, this is balanced by an increase in plant loss due to root diseases such as phytophthora, which attack weakened or damaged tissue.

This leads me to one of the most important tasks for gardeners leading into winter – make sure your plants have the best drainage possible, as nothing kills plants faster than cold, wet feet. Cut field drains or swales between trees or around the edge of the garden if that is possible. Building raised beds for any gardens and even trees that are on soggy ground is also effective at improving drainage. However, this should be done earlier in the season so the root systems have time to adjust to the change in soil height.

Mulching gardens and trees with woody mulch helps in several ways. The organic matter helps break up the soil particles and it improves drainage, provides food for soil micro-organisms that compete with root rots, and the blanket of mulch helps insulate the roots from the cold. Don’t mulch with materials that will turn soggy and mushy though, as this will aggravate the root rot issues.

Any plants that are prone to cold or frost damage will probably need covering to pull through this winter. The best way to cover plants is to use frost cloth that is suspended over the plant, rather than in direct contact. Old umbrellas make a great frame for covering individual plants and I’ve recycled a cheap 9x3 metre gazebo by duct taping the joints, anchoring the legs with sturdy ground pegs and covering it in an insect mesh that doubles as a light frost cloth. Hopefully, this will give you some ideas for protecting your precious plants.

Catchment funding offered

Catchment groups in Mahurangi have been invited to apply for grants from the Westpac Water Care Project.

The project is aimed at encouraging locally developed environmental, community and economic goals.

Since its inception in 2022, it has provided funding for a range of initiatives, including maintaining an extensive landscapescale predator control programme in Te Tairāwhiti, restoring īananga spawning sites along a river in Waipu, providing benchmark river monitoring in Canterbury and Otago, and protecting a significant lake system in Marlborough.

Each year, six grants of $10,000 each are

allocated to small-to-medium emerging catchment groups for new initiatives not already funded.

Eligible projects need to demonstrate that the project will deliver good ecological outcomes, which may require volunteer input to achieve. There also needs to be strong local landowner and land manager engagement, as well as tangata whenua engagement.

Applications close June 28.

For an application form, see this story online at localmatters.co.nz or go to: https://landcare.org.nz/wp-content/ uploads/2024/04/NZLT_Westpac_GrantApplication.docx

Wark Worth Civil

Unlock the Hidden Potential of Your Land

At Cato Bolam, we specialise in helping you unlock the value of your property.

Gaining clarity about your options is essential if you’re looking to maximise your property’s development potential. From your property’s zoning to utility services, there are many factors to consider.

Our integrated team of professionals, including planners, architects, engineers, ecologists, and surveyors, can assist you in exploring your options and to successfully deliver your project from concept to completion.

“Cato Bolam has over 50 years of experience delivering rural and countryside subdivisions. Our team are here to guide you on the best option for your property,” Myles Goodwin, Environmental Director and rural subdivision expert at Cato Bolam, Orewa.

Expertise You Can Trust

Whether you’re seeking a rural subdivision, a transferable title, or a boundary relocation, our experienced team of land development experts will partner with you at every stage of the development process to deliver a project that aligns with your vision and maximises your property’s potential.

Enhancement based subdivisions

We can work with you to explore the potential benefits of enhancement-based land development in pursuing in-situ subdivisions or selling transferable sites (if zoned for). This process involves establishing natural area protection covenants to safeguard native bush or wetlands to optimise your subdivision yield.

Ready to unlock your land’s full potential?

Contact Myles Goodwin and the team for an obligationfree discussion to learn about our rural subdivision and ecology services.

Free call 0800 2 CATOBOLAM.

Meet the Environmental team. Right to left: Myles, Tristan & Joshua.

Westpac ambassador Richie McCaw helping with tree planting at Waipu, part of a project to restore īananga (below) spawning sites.

Restoration work on Pūhoi walkways progresses

Volunteers are continuing work to restore walking tracks around Pūhoi after damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle last year, with planting days, winter weed control efforts, and the construction of picnic tables to replace those swept away in the flooding. Some track sections remain closed to the public due to slips or storm damage, Pūhoi Community Forum secretary Sorrel O’Leary said.

Walking options around the village include the 40-minute loop track, which takes visitors through established and regenerating native bush to the ridge overlooking the village, and the river walkway, which follows the Pūhoi River through the Domain. Longer trails incorporate sections of the Te Araroa walkway, such as the 28 km Pūhoi to Dome Valley trail.

Loop track

O’Leary said the loop track has now been reopened to the public, following the clearing of extensive slips and mowing of the track by volunteers. Auckland Council has resumed its mowing maintenance of this track, which provides views over the historic village and down the Krippner and Pūhoi valleys.

“Visitors should bear in mind that parts of this track are steep and slippery in winter conditions,” she cautioned.

The loop track was conceived and constructed by Bill Marcroft and Arthur

Dunn in 2007, when council purchased a large block of land connecting Pūhoi Pioneers Memorial Park with the Department of Conservation reserve to the west, and leased this to the newly incorporated Pūhoi Community Forum to manage for the community. There are memorials along the walkway to Arthur Dunn, a farmer and conservationist who died in 2008, marking his contributions to the environment and the community.

River walkway

The river walkway is also now open to the public, thanks to the efforts of volunteers who repaired the fences and mowed a year’s growth.

Last August, council contracted the Citycare Group to clear blockages from floods that effectively cut off the river walkway near its entrance. Sorrel said the blockage was around three metres high and six metres long – “quite a barrier”.

“The flooding also extensively damaged the fencing along the walkway and it has taken dry weather to tension and repair the fences to ensure stock exclusion,” she said. “The trail remained unmown until recently, when volunteers were able to reestablish the track, enabling council contractors to begin regular maintenance.”

Planting along the banks, which volunteers had undertaken over a decade, was severely damaged by flooding in the summer of 2023. Sorrel said extensive infill planting

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and major weed control operations were necessary. Planting days have been scheduled for July 21 and August 11, and all volunteers are welcome.

The river walkway was established in conjunction with riparian planting after fencing was completed in 2013. Over a 10year period, volunteers planted successive stages of the riverbank, winning an Auckland Council environmental award in 2019 for their efforts.

O’Leary said the Pūhoi River Park Group has two further slips to repair along the upper ridge track, which links the loop track to the Te Araroa track heading west. The group was working on a plan to route the track around those slips, she said.

“In addition, we are currently deciding on the route for a new track, which will connect the end of the Pūhoi river walkway to the ridge track section of Te Araroa, just before it enters the DOC reserve.”

The plan was a further step towards the goal of having a series of walking tracks throughout the greater Pūhoi River Park, accommodating different levels of fitness for the local and wider community.

“We will be continuing our revegetation efforts, both with infill planting along the river walkway to counter the devastation from the flooding last summer, and in other areas of the park.”

For updates and more information: www.puhoicommunityforum.org

A volunteer mows the river walkway.

Photo, Pūhoi Community Forum

The view from the loop track. Photo, Pūhoi Community Forum

Environment

Christine Rose christine.rose25@gmail.com

Mahurangi shark attack

Autumn is a lovely time in the Mahurangi. The water can be calm and clear, and still warm from summer’s seasonal lag. Beaches are deserted, but the seas are alive with wildlife. So over the last few weeks I’ve managed to get some camping in at Lagoon Bay. It was not too chilly in the tent and I’m still swimming, although immersion is harder than it was. While kayaking one day, we saw a pod of bottlenose dolphins feeding around us and across the bay. Thousands of fluttering shearwaters fluttered around us, creating a sound and vision maelstrom whenever they saw food, and we saw inky sea hares in the rocky reef. Sea hares are molluscs with their shell on the inside and multiple little fleshy antennae. Sort of slimy and cute, they release ink when threatened – or when stood on, which is how we noticed them.

One recent special kayak trip was out to Motuora. After the eight-kilometre paddle, we came ashore over tropical sapphire water and white sand. I had a swim and we sat on the beach with a cup of tea. Our friend spotted some splashing and before we knew it, we saw a great white shark thrashing airborne several times in truly awesome breaches. The length and girth of the shark were tremendous. If there was an archetypal shark leap, that was it. We saw the shark’s gleaming pale underbelly, its spread pectoral fins, its stubby snout. It was beautiful, but we were quite glad we were on land.

We’ve seen a lot of sharks in the Mahurangi – hammerheads, mako, and recently, a large circling bronze whaler. On one return trip from Motuora, we were near Ōtarawao/ Sullivan’s Bay when a bronzie, larger than our kayak (4.5m), leapt straight out of the water several times nearby.

One twilight, I was swimming in the phosphorescent shallows when a shark suddenly loomed out at me. It was caught on a line further down the beach but the hauling brought it inshore right where I was swimming. The fishermen pulled it in, took some photos and then dragged it back out to sea.

Sharks are a common and respected presence in the Mahurangi Harbour for me. I love to know they’re there, as essential characters in a healthy marine ecosystem. Mahurangi historically had shark-rich waters. Competition between Māori was fierce for the tauranga mangō shark fishing grounds. It was a source of thousands of sharks, which were dried and provided food over winter.

These days, there are fishing quotas for many shark species including school shark, rig, ghost shark, pale ghost shark and mako. Great white sharks were protected in 2007, but continue to be sad victims of by-catch. Set nets in the Mahurangi/Omaha area and wherever they’re allowed, kill otherwise healthy sharks for no good reason. The problem is not shark attacks on humans, but the ongoing attack on sharks.

Family owned & Operated

ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

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ToTalspan Rodney 229 sTaTe HigHway 1 waRkwoRTH pHone 09 422 3149 a Roundup of spoRTs acTiviTies in THe disTRicT TOTALSPAN RODNEY PROUD SPONSORS OF

Junior squash tournament Warkworth Rackets will hold a one-day junior squash tournament on Sunday, June 2. Open to all graded juniors.

Info: squash@warkworthrackets.co.nz

Mangawhai golf Registrations are open for women’s beginner golf classes at Mangawhai Golf Club. Classes run every Friday, from 3-4pm, from May 31 to June 21. Classes are designed for women new to golf who want to learn the basics while making friends. No experience required. Clubs available, $80pp. To register, call: 09 431 4807 or email golfshop@mangawhaigolf.co.nz

Scottish dancing The Silver Oaks Scottish Country Dancing Club meets every Friday, from 10am-noon at Shoesmith Hall. For the young-at-heart to keep bodies and brains working safely. The club is registered with the Live Longer, Live Stronger programme endorsed by ACC, so you can join via a green prescription. You do not need a partner. Please wear soft-soled shoes, bring your water bottle and your smile.

Quiz night The Lower Northland Masters Tennis Club will host a fun and social quiz night at Warkworth Rackets on Saturday, June 22, from 6.30-10pm. Info: Jodie 021 866 078

Free netball tickets Kids can watch the Northern Mystics play the Bay of Plenty Magic for free at the Trusts Arena on Monday, June 24. Buy one adult + child general admission ticket for $27 and get a child’s ticket for free.

Info & tickets: https://www.northernmystics.co.nz/tickets-2024/

Family tennis Families are invited to play tennis at Mahurangi East Tennis Club on Saturday mornings from 9-10am. Free for members of the club or $5pp for non-members. Racquets available. Info: clubcaptain@mahutennis.co.nz

Indoor bowls While the Mahurangi East Community Centre undergoes renovations, indoor bowls will be held at the Snells Beach Community Church, opposite the Mahurangi East Fire Station, every Monday from 12.30pm. Visitors and new members are encouraged to come along. Info: Pam 425 6405.

WARKWORTH PHONE 09 422 3149 0800 TOTALSPAN (0800 868

TRIBUTE SHOW

They will take you back to re-live one of the most memorable and outstanding musical experiences of the late 60’s to the 80’s hits including - ‘Gypsy’, ‘Gold Dust Woman’, ‘Dreams’, ‘Rhiannon’, ‘Go Your Own Way’, ‘Don’t Stop’, ‘Songbird’, ‘The Chain’, ‘You Make Lovin’ Fun’, ‘Albatross’, Jigsaw Puzzle Blues ‘Oh Well’ and ‘Black Magic Woman’. Close your eyes and be surprised by the uncanny likeness in sound to ‘Stevie Nicks’ and ‘Christine McVie’.

This is a show not to miss!

have to be a member

TTE DESIGNS

TTE DESIGNS

ThomasF.ErringtonDip.Arch.ARIBA

ThomasF.ErringtonDip.Arch.ARIBA ArchitecturalDesigner

ArchitecturalDesigner PO Box 83

Warkworth

Ph 09 425 0512

Fax 09 425 0514 Mob 0274 532 495

HEATING

Hibiscus Tiling

AERIALS

REDDING ELECTRONICS

Freeview Installs, Satellite Dish, UHF Aerial. Installation & Repairs. Ph Dave 09 422 7227 or 027 458 5457

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/ Simpson dryers. Prompt service 021 168 7349.

BUILDING CONSULTANT

Residential Advice, 30 years exp. Phone Steve 021 489 330

DRIVEWAYS

MAINTENANCE Grading, rolling & metalling for rural Driveways. No job too BIG or small. Contact Trevor tlc.trev@hotmail.com

DVD

DVDS & VIDEOS VIDEOS TRANSFERRED to

DVD/hard drive. Phone or txt Tetotara Video 021 777 385

Blue Skies Cleaning

Window Cleaning, Soft Bio House Wash, Gutter Clean, All Exterior Cleaning, Water Blasting, Roof Treatment, Local Professional service.

Ph Pat 022-646-5849

COLLINS ELECTRONICS

HAVE YOU LOST PRIME?

Or need your Freeview box tuned for the new channels? TV repairs, microwave oven repairs, Freeview installations.

Classifieds

Secured 1st mortgage and PG. Paid monthly. Min $100k. Ph 027 229 1914 INVESTMENTS

EARN 10% RETURN

Ph Paul 09 422 0500 or 027 29 222 04 CHURCH

WINDOW CLEANING/ HOUSEWASH/GUTTER

CLEANING Local professional service. Ph Pat 022-646-5849.

PEST CONTROL

PEST CONTROL Eradication of rats & mice. Competitive Rates. Ph 426 2253 Ph 027 286 7321, www.noratsandmice.nz

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the Warkworth area: Warkworth Fellowship Monday 7.30pm, Catholic Church Hall, 6 Alnwick Street, Warkworth. Open to Visitors. Wheelchair Access. Steps & Traditions Warkworth Wednesday 7pm, Anglican Parish Hall, 43 Percy Street, Warkworth. Wheelchair access. Visitors welcome. Snells Beach Big Book Meeting Thursday 7.30pm, Mahurangi Christian School, 410 Mahurangi East Road, Snells Beach; Open to Visitors. If you want to drink, that is your business, if you want to stop, we can help. Phone/text 0275 773 689 www.aa.org.nz | www.12steps.nz

Supported by Mahurangi Matters www.localmatters.co.nz

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE SERVICE DESKS

Warkworth, at the Library

Monday 10am – 2pm

Matakana, Cinema Complex

Tuesday 11am-1pm

Snells Beach Community Church

325 Mahurangi East Road Friday 10am – noon

Warkworth RSA Fridays 3.30pm to 5pm

No appointment is needed. There is no cost.

Supported by Mahurangi Matters

Bayleys Warkworth, 41 Queen Street, 6.30pm, Monday 10th June 2024

CATHOLIC CHURCH

Holy Name Church, 6 Alnwick Street Saturday Vigil: 6.00pm Sunday: 10.30am Holy Mass Timetable: Phone 425 8545 PUHOI SS. Peter & Paul Church Sunday: 8.30am www.holyname.org.nz

WARKWORTH

If it’s local, let us know! Mahurangi Matters 425 9068

Mahurangi Matters is a fortnightly paper. Deliverers needed for runs in the Snells Beach, Warkworth, Wellsford and Mangawhai areas.

Contact phone Tanya Milford by txt or email 021 066 0838, tanyamilford@hotmail.com www.reach.nz/walker-signup

NZTA wants to reduce funding for SH1 median barriers

NZTA Waka Kotahi is proposing a 78 per cent cut to funding for median barriers on the Wellsford to Whangārei stretch of State Highway 1, due to changes in government priorities.

The Northland Regional Council (NRC) says NZTA proposes cutting combined funding earmarked for the installation of median barriers along two sections of SH1 from $45 million to $10 million in the 2024-2027 period. As a result of the proposal, NRC has reopened a consultation process on its draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP). Public consultation on the RLTP had closed on March 15, but NRC member Joe Carr says new public consultation is legally required in the event that “significant changes” (amounting to at least $7 million per project) are made to financial figures after consultation has closed.

As that had happened in this case, a new public consultation is required – on this specific issue only. It will run until May 29. Carr, who chairs the Northland Regional Transport Committee, says NZTA

informed council that it had amended some of the safety proposals in the draft document, as a result of “changes in government priorities and funding”.

The two affected SH1 sections are in the “southern tranche” of the motorway, which runs from Wellsford to the southern side of the Brynderwyn Hills, and in the “central tranche”, a 17 km stretch from Port Marsden Highway to the northern end of the Brynderwyns.

According to NZTA, flexible median barriers can reduce deaths and serious injuries by up to 65 percent. They prevent head-on collisions, which is how most people are killed or seriously injured on NZ roads.

Carr says NZTA advised council that the redirected funding will go towards other State Highway safety initiatives, including implementing lower cost safety retrofits in high-risk locations.

It will also go towards improvements such as accelerating four-laning of the motorway from Wellsford to Whangārei, as part of the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) initiative.

“We are seeking submissions from Northlanders to inform us whether they agree or disagree with these proposals and to provide us with their comments.”

An NZTA spokesperson says the agency cannot comment specifically on future planning and funding for individual projects until the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS) is finalised in the coming months.

The GPS includes expectations for NZTA to deliver safety improvements via the RoNS programme, enhanced maintenance and other priority safety projects that focus on high risk locations.

NZTA included a summary of its RoNS

position, including potential funding options and proposed delivery timeframes, in its State Highway Investment Proposal, released on April 12.

Once the GPS is finalised, NZTA will provide further advice on how it intends to deliver against the government’s expectations and priorities, in the lead up to adopting the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), which will confirm the project priority and funding. NZTA expects the NLTP to be adopted in late August.

Submissions on the Northland RLTP can be made to: submissions@nrc.govt.nz

More info: northlandproject@nzta.govt.nz

Mahurangi

Median barriers on SH1 at Dome Valley. Photo, NZTA

Netball numbers grow despite upgrade delay

The Netball Rodney Centre has started its 2024 season with a massive boost in numbers, attracting nearly 800 members and 88 teams to play on its Wellsford courts every week.

Competing under the Centennial Park lights every Friday night are 26 senior sides from throughout Rodney, Kaipara and Northland, up from 15 last year, while on Saturdays an astonishing 62 junior teams from Years 1 to 8 take part.

Although Netball Rodney was hoping that Auckland Council’s multi-stage redevelopment and upgrade of Centennial Park would be underway this season, the exceptionally wet weather early last year meant the work has been delayed for another year.

This means that games are once again being split between four out of six netball courts that remain usable and the Centennial Park tennis courts.

Centre president Kelly Ayres said the delays and having to play between two sites was frustrating, but work was due to start at the end of the season in the spring.

In the meantime, the netball centre and other park users are advocating to ensure they end up with the right number of courts, pitches and other facilities for the numbers of people using them.

“We’ve employed a consultancy firm to do a feasibility study for all park users and all sports codes,” she said. “They’re also doing a study for Netball North around all our

netball spaces and competitions to see if we have enough courts for the growth of Auckland.”

Ayres added that, although hugely popular, the sheer number of Rodney teams meant the centre’s committee of five was under considerable pressure and could use some help.

“If there’s anyone out there who’s got some knowledge around funding, that would be great, because we’re always looking to upgrade equipment and so on,” she said. “And if anyone would like to help on a Friday or Saturday, they’d be welcome –we’re all volunteers, and there are only so many hours in a day.”

Info: Netball Centre Rodney on Facebook

Subpar surface win for courts

Tapora tennis and ball sports fans will be getting an unexpected bonus later this year, thanks to a mishap during renovation works.

The two tennis courts between Tapora School and the community hall have been undergoing a $63,790 facelift funded by Rodney Local Board to improve drainage, install a new chain link fence and lay a new concrete surface for tennis, pickleball and a basketball half-court.

However, according to Rodney area manager for parks and community facilities Geoff Pitman, the court surface was not completed to Auckland Council standards, so contractors now need to add an extra layer.

“While the surface is still playable, and will not delay the use of the facility, there are a number of imperfections on the courts,” he said.

“We have asked the contractor to apply a layered acrylic sports surface paint system to the current concrete finish. We expect this will be done by the end of this year, once warmer weather conditions permit.” Pitman added that the courts should be open to the public in the meantime, once the main work is finished at the end of this month, and that any additional costs for adding the extra sports surface paint later on would be met by the contractor.

1:26pm3.0

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6:44am3.3 12:49pm0.5 7:19pm3.4 1:17am0.7 7:38am3.3 1:40pm0.5 8:09pm3.4 2:08am0.7 8:30am3.2 2:28pm0.5 8:57pm3.4 2:58am0.8 9:20am3.2 3:15pm0.6 9:44pm3.3 3:47am0.8 10:08am3.1 4:00pm0.7 10:30pm3.2 4:36am0.9 10:55am3.0 4:44pm0.8 11:16pm3.1 5:24am1.0 11:40am2.9 5:29pm0.9 12:02am3.1 6:12am1.0 12:26pm2.9 6:17pm1.0 12:48am3.0 6:59am1.1 1:13pm2.8 7:08pm1.1 1:35am2.9 7:47am1.1 2:03pm2.7 8:02pm1.2 2:23am2.9 8:36am1.1 2:56pm2.7 8:58pm1.2 7:24am 5:14pm 7:24am

7:51am3.0 1:47pm0.6 8:11pm3.2 2:12am0.8 8:35am3.1 2:29pm0.6 8:53pm3.3 2:56am0.7 9:18am3.2 3:11pm0.5 9:36pm3.3 3:40am0.6 10:02am3.2 3:54pm0.5 10:21pm3.3 4:26am0.6 10:47am3.2 4:40pm0.5 11:07pm3.3 5:12am0.6 11:34am3.2 5:29pm0.6 11:56pm3.3 6:01am0.6 12:24pm3.1 6:22pm0.7 12:47am3.2 6:53am0.6 1:20pm3.1 7:21pm0.8 1:42am3.1 7:50am0.7 2:22pm3.0 8:25pm0.8 2:41am3.0 8:53am0.7 3:28pm3.0 9:30pm0.9 3:45am3.0 9:58am0.7 4:33pm3.1 10:33pm0.8 4:50am3.0 11:02am0.7 5:34pm3.2 11:32pm0.7 7:16am 5:39pm 7:15am

The tennis court renewal is almost finished, but the concrete surface is sub-standard.

Mahu Senior Blue vs Tomarata White.

Warkworth Blue vs Waipu Senior.

See www.localmatters.co.nz/whats-on/ for a full list of upcoming events

27 Big Bike Film Night, Matakana Cinema, 7.30-10pm. Cycling short films from around the world. Tickets & Info: https://www.trybooking.com/nz/events/ landing/11075

28 Warkworth Ladies Rebus general meeting, Besoul, 3/12 Gumfield Drive, 10am. Club & guest speaker. New members welcome. Info: Pam Chapman on 09 945 3316.

June

2 Tāwharanui Planting Day, 9am-1pm. Follow signs to planting site. 5000 trees to be planted. Wear suitable clothing & clean sturdy footwear. Lunch provided.

5 Warkworth Liaison Group meeting, Warkworth RSA downstairs, 7pm. All welcome.

5 Retired Men’s Coffee Morning, Euro Patisserie, 70 Matakana Valley Road, 10.30am. Camaraderie and chat with Men’s Rebus. Visitors welcome. Info: Ron 422 3111

6 Back Bar Jazz, The Bridgehouse, Warkworth, 6.30pm. Free, all welcome.

6 Book Club for Tweens, Warkworth Library, 3.30pm. Join our book club where every page turn leads to endless adventure and afternoon tea. Meets fortnightly. Info: warkworth.library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

7 Land and water resilience seminar, Matakana Hall, 9.30am-3pm. Free, but bookings essential. Info and booking: foamfacilitator@gmail.com

8 Warkworth Wellness Open Morning, Warkworth Bridge Club Clubrooms, 2 Alnwick Street, 10am-1pm. Free mini-sessions and information from local wellness providers. Info: www.wellnesshub.nz

8 Family Constellations presentation with Brian Berneman, Warkworth Bridge Club Clubrooms, 2 Alnwick Street, 2pm. Entry $15. Info: www.wellnesshub.nz

8 Matheson Bay Planting Day, 9am-12pm. Meet at Grand View Road carpark. BYO clean, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, clean gloves and spade (if you have them) & a drink bottle. Info: Auckland Parks on Facebook.

9 The Wellsford Variety Music Club, Wellsford District Community Centre, 1-4pm. Light afternoon tea. Bring a plate if you wish. $5pp or $15 for two adults and two children. Performers encouraged. Info: Andrew 422 3424

9 Fight the Tip meeting, Wellsford Community Centre, 3pm. Court case update and AGM. All welcome (see story p18)

9 Fabric Rescue Market, Matakana Hall, 10am-2pm. Fabrics, quilting cottons, furnishings, wool, notions, sewing, crafting supplies, fabric crafts, working sewing machines, and needles. Sewing machine advice and repair and scissor/ blade sharpening. Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/945450260921351

10 Dairy Women’s Network Paint’n’Sip evening, Wellsford Community Centre, 6pm for 6.30pm. Info and registration: https://www.dwn.co.nz/events/ (see story p19)

13 Goodall Reserve Planting Day, 9.30am. Meet at end of Hamatana Road, Snells Beach.

14 Tea & Talk ‘Pioneers of the Mahurangi’, Warkworth Museum, 10am. Speaker Lyn Wade. $10pp, bookings essential. Email: warkworthmuseum@xtra.co.nz

15 Andrew Joyce & Jian Liu, Warkworth Town Hall, 4pm; presented by Warkworth Music. Members $30, non-members $40. Info: www.warkworthmusic.org.nz

16 Te Muri Planting Day, 9am-2pm. Bus leaves Puhoi Pioneers Memorial Park at 9am & 9.45am. BYO clean, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing & a drink bottle. Buses leave Te Muri at 1pm & 1.45pm. Info & register: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/

16 Wellsford Planting Day, 10am-12pm. Meet at 30 Worker Road. BYO clean, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, clean gloves and spade (if you have them) & a drink bottle. Info: Auckland Parks on Facebook.

17 Warkworth Mens Rebus meeting, Shoesmith Hall, 10am. Guest speaker. Retired and missing your mates? This could be for you. New members welcome. Info: Ron 422 3111.

21 Winter Solstice Celebration, Brick Bay Restaurant, 6pm. Live music, four-course set menu. Info: https://www.brickbay.co.nz/winter-series

21 Matakantata Choir presents Home, Matakana Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets from Harts Pharmacy or Gull Matakana. $25 adults or gold coin for children. Info: Jenni 0274 364 363 (see story p18)

22 Enviro Expo, Warkworth Town Hall, 9.30am. Family friendly day looking at Rodney conservation projects. Virtual reality station, demonstrations, sausage sizzle, free tea and coffee. Info: Enviro Expo on Facebook

List your event by emailing the details to online@localmatters.co.nz

Join us for magical winter evenings, celebrating food and wine in a beautiful setting with great company *

Events:

Winter Solstice Celebration

Celebrate the start of longer days ahead in the glow of the Glass House with live music and a 4-course menu 21 June, 6 PM

Truffle & Wine

Fresh truffle from TePuke Truffles. 26 July, 6 PM

Pharos 2020 Wine Release

A celebration of food & wine for a special release! 30 August, 6 PM

Fire and Feast Dinner

A flame-lit evening with a menu that pays homage to the art of smoke and fire cooking. 27 September, 6 PM

Tickets & info:

www brickbay co nz/winter-series *BYO great company.

Wellsford

It only took 22 years, but on Saturday, May 18, Stu Oldfield, 41, clocked up his 300th game of premier club rugby.

At a special celebration after Saturday’s win over Horahora, the Wellsford stalwart was thanked for his countless hours spent training, playing and coaching, both senior and junior teams. Over the years, he has played in most positions in the team including half-back, winger and now in the front row.

Club captain Ross Neal described Oldfield as “the heart and soul” of the club.

“His impact on Wellsford rugby over so many

years has been immense,” Neal said.

“Even when he was young, he had leadership qualities and was someone that other players looked up to.”

In other tributes, Oldfield was thanked for his “relentless work ethic, sportsmanship and leadership, on and off the field, which have set a standard for what it means to be a true grass roots rugby player.”

One of the highlights of Oldfield’s career was playing in the Wellsford side that won the Northland Southern Districts premiership title in 2015.

Wellsford sets sights on premiership berth

Wellsford Rugby was in the mood to celebrate on Saturday May 18 – not only was it Stu Oldfield’s 300th game (see separate story), the premiers trounced Horahora 55-28.

After the game, coach Ross Neal said that with five rounds left in the round robin competition, Wellsford was a strong contender to finish in the top four.

“With the teams we’re facing in the final rounds, we think we’ll be in a good position to make a strong run home,” he said.

Neal was head coach in 2015 when the club won the Northland premiership.

“We’ve got a mobile forward pack with some good attacking players in the backs. We’ve scored some great tries when we’ve got the ball out wide.”

Neal says injuries, particularly among players in key positions, have tested the team’s resources.

Nonetheless, Wellsford is also well represented in Northland rep sides – half back Jayden Kemp, 23, has joined Liam Hallam-Eames and Jordan Trainor in the Northland squad, and fullback Shaye Te Haara and centre Kingi Herewini are in the Northland development squad.

Neal says Wellsford prides itself on its strong club culture.

“If you’ve got good club culture and team camaraderie, then the boys play for each other and that delivers good results.”

However, like many clubs, declining numbers meant Wellsford didn’t field a reserve team this year. Neal says player numbers ebb and flow, and he doesn’t see this as a long-term trend, particularly given the good numbers in junior competitions.

Wellsford has 60 juniors playing in U7, U9 and U11 teams, as well as a good contingent of players in the Central Kaipara Whai catering for U13, U14 and U16 players.

Neal says recent events in Auckland have highlighted the need for an ever-greater focus on player welfare. He welcomed the introduction of blue cards, which take a player off the field if either the ref or club officials see something that might require an assessment.

Wellsford Rugby will hold a Quiz Night on June 15, starting at 7pm, to help raise money for a kitchen refurbishment project. There are still spaces available and the club is keen to hear from any generous businesses, which might be able to sponsor prizes. Contact Juanita Oldfield on 021 120 5339.

rugby celebrates player’s milestone

Stu Oldfield

Photos, Anna Thoroughgood.