Mahurangi Matters_Issue 443_21 November 2022

Top students congratulated P14&15

Welcome Home

Making waves P33-39

PROPERTY GUIDE pages 25-32

November 2022

– Your essenti al property guide from

Welco m e ho m e Properties from:

Barfoot & Thompso

n | Bayleys | Fletcher

Dairy Flat to

Living | Ray White

Waipu

| RE/MAX Realty

fletcherliving.co .nz

November 21, 2022 Experience

relaxed coastal living in a brand-n We have a range ew, Fletche r Living home of 3 & 4 bedroom at Red Beach! homes, ready 7 Kuparu Lane, now. Visit our Red Beach.

Open Sat/Sun showhome to view!

10am-4pm.

Les Whale / 021 411 345

A Local Matters

www.localmatters.co.nz

Your locally-owned Community Newspaper

publication. Distribution

- 40,000 copies.

Advertising enquiries:

Mahurangi 09

425 9068 or Hibiscus

09 427 8188

FREE

Spring board

safety net spread wider Youth support group Springboard has further cemented its place in the community with the purchase of the campground that adjoins Sheepworld, just north of Warkworth.

Springboard founder Gary Diprose says when the property was put up for sale, the opportunity to buy it was just too good to pass over.

It will eventually allow Springboard to provide temporary and safe accommodation for vulnerable young people who might otherwise end up homeless.

“We’re not in a position to do this now, or even in the immediate future, but by securing the land, we know this will be possible eventually,” Diprose says.

It was only a year ago that Springboard moved from its base in Hamatana Road, Snells Beach to Sheepworld. The sale of the Snells property, which sold for twice what was anticipated, provided the non-profit group with an unexpected windfall.

It is this money, along with a six-figure donation from one person, that has enabled Springboard to buy the campground.

Diprose says that unfortunately, the need for emergency housing for youth in the area is very real. At present, these at-risk 16 to 20-year-olds who cannot stay at home for various reasons are couch surfing, being put into motels or are being shipped out of the area.

“We don’t have a blueprint for how to do this, but we do know that by providing safe accommodation alongside continued on page 2

Gary Diprose says the purchase of the neighbouring campground made sense on many levels.

WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ WWW.RDCONSTRUCTION.CO.NZ

RD RD RD RD Construction RD Construction Construction Construction Construction RD RD RD RD RD Construction Construction Construction Construction Construction Construction Construction Master Master Master Tradesmen Master Tradesmen Master Tradesmen Tradesmen Tradesmen Master Master Master Tradesmen Master Tradesmen Tradesmen Master Tradesmen Tradesmen Tradesmen Tradesmen

Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd Ltd

BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING QUALITY BUILDING QUALITY QUALITY QUALITY HOMES QUALITY HOMES HOMES THE HOMES THE HOMES WAY THE WAY THE YOU THE YOU WAY WANT WAY WANT YOU WANT YOU THEM WANT THEM WANT THEM THEM THEM BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING BUILDING QUALITY QUALITY QUALITY QUALITY QUALITY QUALITY HOMES QUALITY HOMES HOMES HOMES HOMES THE HOMES HOMES THE THE WAY THE WAY THE WAY THE WAY THE YOU WAY YOU WAY YOU WAY WANT YOU WANT YOU WANT YOU YOU WANT THEM WANT THEM WANT THEM THEM THEM THEM THEM Renovation Renovation Renovation Renovation Renovation specialists specialists specialists specialists specialists || Decks | |Decks Decks | |Decks Decks ||Decks |Decks New |Decks New Homes |Homes New |Homes New Homes Homes Homes Renovation Renovation Renovation Renovation Renovation Renovation Renovation specialists specialists specialists specialists specialists specialists specialists |Decks |Decks |Decks ||Decks |New |New |New |New |New Homes |Homes New New Homes Homes Homes Homes OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: CONTACT CONTACT CONTACT RICHARD CONTACT RICHARD CONTACT RICHARD DENTON RICHARD DENTON RICHARD DENTON DENTON DENTON EMAIL EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM 021 021 423 021 423 943 021 423 943 021 423 943 423 943 09 943 423 09 423 09 9445 09 423 9445 423 09 9445 423 9445 9445 OR OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: OR A/HRS: A/HRS: CONTACT CONTACT CONTACT CONTACT RICHARD CONTACT RICHARD CONTACT CONTACT RICHARD RICHARD DENTON RICHARD DENTON RICHARD RICHARD DENTON DENTON DENTON DENTON DENTON EMAIL EMAIL EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM EMAIL BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM BUILDRDC@GMAIL.COM 021 021 021 423 021 423 021 423 943 021 423 021 943 423 943 423 943 423 943 943 943 09 09 423 09 423 423 09 9445 09 9445 423 09 9445 423 9445 423 9445 9445 9445

Contact us November 21, 2022 – Issue 443 17 Neville Street, Warkworth, 0941 ph 09 425 9068 mahurangimatters

localmattersnz

www.localmatters.co.nz Next issue: December 5 Book your advertising now

It wasn’t just the Black Ferns who were kicking goals on November 12.

Springboard held its annual fundraising auction on the same evening, raising a whopping $231,000 – $131,000 in pledges and the balance contributed through dollar-for-dollar donations from Kennards Hire and Northwood Developments. All the money is earmarked specifically for Springboard programmes, which cover everything from youth mentoring and alternative education to employmentready programmes and family support.

News: Jannette Thompsonph 021 263 4423 gm@localmatters.co.nz Sally Marden ph 022 478 1619 reporter@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Ken Lawson ph 022 029 1899 advertising@localmatters.co.nz Marc Milford ph 022 029 1897 local@localmatters.co.nz Digital: Richie Lovelock digital@localmatters.co.nz Rosie Hutchinson ph 022 544 0249 online@localmatters.co.nz Accounts: Angela Thomas ph 425 9068 admin@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Heather Arnold design@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Mahurangi Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 14,200 homes and businesses two weekly from Puhoi to Waipu.

Views expressed in Mahurangi Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

09 425 7754

2-4 Morrison Drive, Warkworth www.farmandlifestyle.co.nz info@farmandlifestyle.co.nz FARMYARD • BACKYARD • PET SUPPLIES • STOCK FOOD • WATER TANKS • WORK GEAR AND MORE...

New link road name on hold

Springboard safety net spread wider all the wraparound services and support Springboard offers, will make a difference.”

The property covers just over one hectare and already contains a number of dwellings.

Diprose says it lends itself to multiple uses.

Springboard’s vision includes space for youth educational and leadership camps, and opportunities to provide young people, not just Springboard youth, with ways to learn bushcraft and enjoy the outdoors.

“Every child needs to experience the fun of sitting around a bonfire at night and being around animals. We’re on the Te Araroa trail, so how great would it be to drop kids in Pakiri and let them walk back to Sheepworld!”

The purchase comes as Springboard marks its 20th year.

Come & see us instore!

from page 1

From an initial group of seven young men, the organisation now caters for around 300 youth aged eight to 25 years. Through the years, the organisation has built strong links with police, schools and training organisations.

Diprose is understandably proud of the pathways many of the Springboard youth have taken, with many finding meaningful work, trades and progressing through to university. However, he says the real success has been in seeing vulnerable kids believing in themselves again.

“Sometimes all they need to know is that someone is in their corner who is ready to go into bat for them.

“This isn’t just Springboard that is making this happen – it takes a whole community.”

The proposed new name for the Matakana link road needs to be considered more widely before it can be adopted.

That was the verdict of Rodney Local Board members, who rejected a recommendation to call the road Te Honohono ki Tai Road at their meeting last week in favour of further discussion of the proposed name at a future workshop.

The meeting heard that Te Honohono ki Tai Road – or pathway to the sea – had been gifted to Auckland Transport as a name by Ngati Manuhiri.

However, Wellsford member Colin Smith said it was such an important road that he thought more people should have input into the decision, and he felt the proposed name could cause confusion for drivers.

Kumeu member Geoff Upson said he had publicised the proposed name on social media and the majority of respondents were opposed, though Warkworth member Michelle Carmichael questioned whether that had been appropriate.

“It just instigated some contentious comments,” she said. “The name is about connecting people east to west through kai moana. There’s a bigger picture of respect to be followed here.”

Board deputy chair Louise Johnston said it was a privilege to be gifted the name and going back to a workshop was disrespectful, though Warkworth member Tim Holdgate said further discussion was worth having, as all sides were making valid points.

Members voted by five votes to four to take the issue back to a workshop.

Come to Splash Water Specialists for your quality Bio Guard Pool and Spa Chemicals.

Taking Care of your Pumps and Filtration Installing and Servicing all Major Brands: Authorised Dealers for Grundfos and DAB, Master Dealers for Davey Supplier of Environmentally Friendly Products

31 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth | 09 425 9100 | splashwater@xtra.co.nz | Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-12noon | www.splashwater.co.nz

INNOVATIVE

KITCHEN DESIGNS DESIGN MANUFACTURE & INSTALL Kitchens . Bathrooms . Entertainment Units . Laundries . Wardrobes . Offices

Contact Neil: 09 425 7017 | 021 070 0643 | neiltcabinetmaker@xtra.co.nz | www.cabinetmakers.co.nz | 16A Glenmore Drive, Warkworth

2

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Pakiri sand mining battle shifts to Environment Court Appeals against all three decisions on whether sand mining can or cannot be allowed to continue off Pakiri and Mangawhai beaches are to be consolidated and all heard at once by the Environment Court next year.

The move follows the decision last month by commissioners to refuse McCallum Brothers resource consent to continue to mine sand inshore off Pakiri, yet grant conditional consent for them to take sand from a mid-shore area north of Te Arai Point (MM, Nov 7).

A separate hearings panel had previously refused resource consent in May for offshore sand mining along the Pakiri and Mangawhai embayment.

An appeal by McCallum Bros against that first decision was due to be heard by the Environment Court in February, but following the latest inshore and mid-shore decisions, sand mining opponents Friends of Pakiri Beach requested that all three matters be considered together.

At a judicial conference on November 8, the court heard that all three decisions were being appealed by various parties, including McCallum Bros against the offshore and inshore refusals, and Friends of Pakiri Beach, Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust and a raft of environmental organisations, community groups and individuals against the mid-shore consent. These are expected to include the Pakiri Te Whanau residents’ group, local Maori landowners, Ngati Wai, the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society, the Environmental Defence Society and Forest & Bird.

All parties attending the judicial conference agreed that the time needed for three individual appeals would be significantly longer than for one consolidated hearing, and that a joint case would be far more efficient.

Speaking after the conference, Friends of Pakiri Beach spokesperson Damon Clapshaw said the decision to hear everything at the same time was sensible and “very good news”, as up to now, when each consent application was heard independently, the other applications were ignored.

“Now the true, overall position can be examined, including the application of cumulative effects,” he said. “Now the whole embayment and its coastal processes can be examined, for each application as well as cumulatively.

“This has been almost a two year journey of two different hearing panels, involving many elements and considerable time and expense by many. We very much look forward to resolution at the Environment Court.”

Clapshaw said the group was “tremendously encouraged” by the offhore and inshore decisions, which he said were a win for the environment, the Mangawhai Pakiri embayment and its local communities

and iwi.

“We hope to build on this momentum and new science, which is revealing the true reality of the dredging and its environmental effects,” he said. “Even more so in light of climate change and new enlightened sensibilities and responsibilities, to ensure that after some 100 years of continuous extraction, Pakiri may be freed of its dredging burden.”

However, Save Our Sands and Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society spokesperson Ken Rayward said the decision to grant one consent and refuse another was confusing

and concerning. He said could not understand why the panels decided sand mining was not acceptable in two areas, but was okay along a strip in between.

“How they can differentiate the environmental, ecological and cultural differences that would enable them to give approval to one and not the others … it beggars belief,” he said.

“The concerning part of it is that while the new mid-shore consent comes with a set of conditions, the primary consideration is that all mining would be carried out north of Te Arai Point, which is wonderful

news for our friends at Pakiri, because they have borne the brunt of it for so long, but it refocuses everything on the Mangawhai end of the beach.

“Mangawhai would be coping with unprecedented level of mining that would be environmentally disastrous.”

However, he said everyone opposing sand mining was as strongly committed to fighting the practice as they ever had been.

The hearing has been set down to start in mid-May next year with Judge Jeff Smith presiding.

Motorway undergoes quality testing

Motorists who thought they may be able to take the fast lane to Auckland before Christmas will be disappointed.

Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) has scotched rumours that the opening of the new motorway between Puhoi and Warkworth is imminent.

Already a year behind schedule due to Covid, Waka Kotahi says there are still earthworks, surface drainage, planting, kerbing and road surfacing to be done.

Transport services general manager Brett Gliddon says extensive quality and safety tests must also be completed.

The Matakana link road is scheduled to open in tandem with the new motorway next year.

The motorway is being delivered through a Public Private Partnership (PPP). The Northern Express Group (NX2) consortium is responsible for the financing, design, construction and then maintenance of the motorway for the 25 years that will follow the build.

Gliddon says under the terms of the PPP arrangements, the road opening can only be confirmed once an independent reviewer is satisfied that all contractually agreed safety and quality assurance requirements and tests have been met.

He says building a road that meets these tests is the responsibility of NX2 and its subcontractor, Fletcher/Acciona joint venture.

“Waka Kotahi, NX2 and Fletcher/ Acciona are fully committed to working together to complete the project to the required safety and quality assurance standards as soon as possible and look forward to opening the motorway next year,” Gliddon says.

Right, the Pukerito roundabout at the northern end of the new motorway.

LOW CARBON CONCRETE Firth Readymix Matakana, Wellsford and Mangawhai | Orders 09 423 6044 | www.firth.co.nz www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

3

In brief ATMs here to stay

A rumour that banks are phasing out Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) has been rejected by at least one bank, ANZ. The issue arose after the Warkworth Liaison Group was told that an ATM machine would not be installed at the new Warehouse complex in Warkworth because banks were phasing them out.

An ANZ spokesperson says ANZ remains committed to providing banking services across the country. Currently, there 111 ANZ branches in NZ and 495 ATMs, 245 of which are Smart ATMs that allow money to be deposited.

“We do carefully consider where ATMs are placed, taking into consideration surrounding ATM capability and other banks in the area,” a spokesperson said.

“There is no charge for our customers to use other bank ATMs.” BNZ, ASB and Kiwibank did not respond.

Sayers appointments

Formal education in Warkworth will just be one of the many heritage milestones that will be celebrated next year.

Mahurangi groups invited to celebrate There was an enthusiastic turnout at a public meeting earlier this month to discuss next year’s celebrations to mark the founding of Warkworth by European settlers 170 years ago.

About 30 people attended, representing various groups interested in being involved in a year-long calendar of events.

Coordinator Dave Parker, on behalf of Heritage Mahurangi, said the year would culminate with a heritage festival in November.

The festival programme is likely to include a river pageant, walking parade through the decades, heritage walks and talks, a sister town reception, a founders’ graveside ceremony and special church services.

Parker says 2023 will be a special year for

a number of organisations. It will mark milestones such as 160 years of formal district-wide education, 160 years since the arrival of the Bohemians in Puhoi, 150 years since the start of the Morrison and Kowhai Glen Orchards, 145 years since the founding of Wilson Cement Works, 140 years since the founding of the Warkworth Brass Band, 100 years since the founding of Bowls Warkworth and 40 years since the founding of the Warkworth Theatre Group.

There will also be some major events taking place such as the opening of the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway and the Matakana link road, the opening of the Presbyterian Church and Community Centre, and the Lions 202K District Convention in late October.

Parker says he wants the celebrations to

be as inclusive as possible, so the meeting agreed to adopt the theme of ‘Past, Present and Future’.

“We would really love to see young people involved, from kindergarten to college,” he says. “It’s important that they understand what the heritage of the district is.”

Parker says he would also like to see the whole of the Mahurangi district involved, from Puhoi to Matakana, Leigh and Pakiri.

“It’s about coming together as a community in a spirit of goodwill and celebration.”

The organisers are asking anyone with ideas or celebrations they know about to contact them before mid-February so the year can be coordinated onto a calendar.

Info: Dave Parker dhparker@xtra.co.nz or phone 027 484 9935.

Auckland Council spent last week getting its house in order, making appointments to key Council committees.

Rodney Councillor Greg Sayers has been given the job of deputy chair of Auckland Council’s Expenditure Control and Procurement Committee, alongside chair Maurice Williamson.

In an interesting turn of events, Mayor Wayne Brown is also seeking to appoint Councillors Mike Lee and Andy Baker to Auckland Transport’s Board of Directors.

Sayers will also serve on the Performance and Appointments Committee and the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee, as well as the Governing Body, Transport and Infrastructure, and Planning Environment and Parks committees which all councillors sit on.

He will also sit on the Rural Advisory Panel, Kaipara Moana Remediation Joint Committee and the Te Porai o Kaipatiki ki Kaipara Committee (Parakai Reserve).

Visit us on Facebook • MahurangiMatters

works Design Manufacture Install Kitchens ◊ Wardrobes Laundries ◊ Cabinetry SHOWROOM & FACTORY

8am-4pm 12 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

09 422 2001

www.kitchenworks.co.nz

4

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Hive of activity north of Auckland AS PROJECT TEAMS CO-ORDINATE WORKS BEFORE THE BUSY HOLIDAY SEASON The call for a ban on set nets in the Whangateau Harbour is long overdue, as current rules are not policed and nets are often left unattended over several tides. Inset, netters are also responsible for damage on the foreshore.

Whangateau set net ban call The Whangateau HarbourCare Group is calling for a set net ban in the Whangateau Harbour and adjoining streams to protect the remaining marine life in the estuary.

However, the group says it is also a safety issue.

It is asking the Rodney Local Board, Auckland Council and iwi to support the ban against the indiscriminate and often dangerous practise of setting nets across waterways.

The group says a recent incident where a net was set from bank-to-bank across the Omaha River caused community outrage.

“Some of the buoys on the net were submerged and there was no identification on any part of the equipment,” HarbourCare spokesperson Elizabeth Foster says. “This is certainly not a rare incident but the community’s reaction prompted the consideration, which led to our decision.

The HarbourCare Group says the estuary is increasingly popular as a safe swimming place and encourages passive activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking, often involving children. Submerged nets could cause a safety hazard.

“At present, monitoring of illegal netting is left to the local community as the

harbourmaster is seldom available. This is putting community members at risk of confrontation.”

The estuary is a shallow, saline wetland and a breeding place for many fish species.

The group says that for many years it has been over-fished and the recent population growth in the wider area and the easy accessibility of the estuary have resulted in unacceptable and unsustainable pressures on the fish population.

“This is compounded by the continual taking of undersized snapper by visitors from outside the area, which appears impossible to police.

“Set netting is indiscriminate and wasteful and totally unnecessary in an area where other forms of fishing are permitted. Set nets leave no opportunity for rescuing undersized fish or undesirable species, and fish in the nets are often irretrievably damaged by sea lice and other predators.

“These nets also present a risk to dolphins and orca, which visit the estuary and river from time-to-time.”

The HarbourCare Group says a ban on set nets with adequate signage would make enforcement of the rules much easier and would discourage visitors leaving nets between tides.

As we build momentum towards completing the new motorway, we are now at the stage where we need to connect parts of the new road with the existing motorway and State Highway 1 (SH1), this means there will be several road closures on SH1 in both the north and the south during November and December.

We will start this work at the Northern Connection where the project team will carry out median island and northbound widening works to SH1. To carry out this work safely we must close SH1 southbound and northbound from Kaipara Flats Road to Hudson Road, from 9pm to 5am. A detour will be in place via Kaipara Flats Road and Woodcocks Road.

•

Sunday 20 November to Thursday 24 November

•

Sunday 27 November to Thursday 1 December

•

Sunday 4 December to Thursday 8 December

•

Sunday 11 December to Thursday 15 December

At the Southern Connection the project team will undertake work from the Johnstons Hill Tunnels (JHT) up to Pūhoi on the ITS gantry, signage installations and traffic management works (i.e. barrier removal, line marking). This means SH1 will be closed in both directions – Silverdale to Johnstone Hill Tunnels northbound and Pūhoi to Grand Drive southbound.

The detour will be via Hibiscus Coast Highway or State Highway 16, from 10pm to 5am.

•

Sunday 27 November to Thursday 1 December

•

Sunday 4 December to Thursday 8 December

•

Sunday 11 December

Our project team and Waka Kotahi Maintenance teams are once again working together to ensure that we capitalise on these closures and get as much work done as possible in order to minimise disruptions.

From Sunday 4 December to Sunday 11 December there will be a minor road layout change at the Southern Connection with both southbound and northbound traffic using the southbound tunnel.

Over Dimension vehicles will still have access through both work sites during these closures at specific times. Heavy vehicles can use the detour routes or take State Highway 16.

While we will try to limit disruption to traffic flows, we encourage you to plan your journey over this time and check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner before heading out https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/ We are working hard to complete this work before the busy holiday period, and we will be off the road mid-December and back early in the new year to apply the final OPGA road surface at the northern and southern ends.

Once again, we look forward to opening the project next year and we would like to thank our local neighbours and night-time road users for their patience while we undertake this important work to improve the safety and resilience of the network.

Nga mihi, Robert Jones – Project Director

For more information, call the NX2 team on: 24/7 Freephone: 0508 P2WK INFO (0508 7295 4636) Email: info@nx2group.com Facebook: Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth Web: nx2group.com

www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

5

Rodney Local Parks Management Plan: One plan for all parks The draft Rodney Local Parks Management Plan covers all parks and reserves in Rodney owned and managed by Auckland Council, amounting to around 330 parks and more than 1400ha of land.

Once adopted next July, the plan will supersede 56 existing management plans.

Just over 323 submissions were received

when the draft was released for comment earlier this year. Younger age groups, especially children but also those under 35 years, were under-represented and older age groups, especially those over 45 years, were over-represented when compared to the Rodney area demographic profile.

Most submissions were from people of

Impassioned plea for equestrian space

NZ European ethnicity, with submissions from those of Māori, Asian and Pasifika ethnicity under-represented.

Council staff describe the draft plan as “a handshake between the Rodney Local Board and the local community on how to manage local parks”. They say the aim of the plan is to guide day-to-day management in a way that reflects the values of mana whenua and the community.

Particular matters that people commented on most were: • the need for greater recognition of equestrian activities throughout the plan • encouraging people to share with care and to be considerate of other park users in busy parks/on pathways

• while there was majority support for the unmanned aerial vehicle/drone policy, many submitters also felt the policy was too restrictive • the need for play experiences for children and young people • park access and water sources for fire and emergency purposes • the need for monitoring and enforcement of overnight camping in self-contained vehicles • more clarity that scattering of ashes is not permitted • desire for paper roads to be formalised as parkland • acquisition of parkland (this is out of scope of the plan) • management of dogs (this is also out of scope of the plan).

Range of issues raised

Pony clubs across Rodney made a plea for their grounds to be protected from development during a hearing on the draft Rodney Local Parks Management Plan, which was held in Orewa earlier this month. Several club representatives including Warkworth, Matakana and Silverdale spoke at the hearing asking the Rodney Local Board for long-term leases so they can apply for grants and invest in club facilities.

There was also concern that sharing parks could lead to conflict.

The Matakana Pony Club gave the example of a pump track being proposed around the perimeter of the reserve, on Matakana Valley Road. Club representative Lydia Harris said the two uses may be incompatible.

“Pony clubs are such an important part of the community, but as the area grows, these spaces will become increasingly comprised.,” she said. “Horses need space.”

In a written submission, Wendy Simpson said pony clubs were being pushed out, farms were being subdivided and roads were now often too dangerous to ride on.

“Private facilities are expensive to hire to the point of becoming prohibitive,” her submission said. “Most of the few equestrian facilities and spaces left are out west or south, an hour float trip away for many [in Mahurangi], so a simple ride involved considerable time and cost. “The Warkworth Rodeo and Pony Club provides a safe and accessible place for horse riders of all ages in our local eastern area. Don’t take away this precious equestrian facility to become yet another soccer field or carpark. Please continue to allow local Rodney and greater Auckland equestrians, and future generations of riders, a place to ride.”

People love their parks and reserves if the wide range of submissions on the draft Rodney Local Parks Management Plan is anything to go by.

One of the more contentious items raised during the submission process was the use of the spit at Sandspit.

The Kawau Island Advisory Committee called for the current classification of Allotment 340 to be changed from recreation to local purpose reserve.

In its submission, the committee said that the Kawau Island community provided funds to the Rodney County in 1962 to support the purchase of land at Sandspit, specifically to ensure that Kawau Island community has access to parking, storage of waste and provisions, and shelter while awaiting the departure or arrival of boats.

Meanwhile, the Sandspit Residents and Ratepayers said carparking was already extending beyond Allotment 340 boundary.

It was in the process of compiling its own management plan and opposed any increase in the amount of reserve land used for parking, but recommended better management of the problem.

Further north, Margaret Fishlock said it was imperative that the land and reserves that bordered Spectacle and Slipper Lakes at Tomarata was left in the hands of ratepayers playing a targeted rate and Healthy Waters. She said with no proper management of the drainage from the lakes, surrounding farmland could be flooded for weeks.

One submitter complained that there was too much mowing at the Omaha Beach northern end, while another opposed the removal of freedom camping from Mathesons Bay. There were calls for more destination playgrounds, flatter camp sites at Tawharanui and a dunes management plan for Omaha.

Any idea of creating a wastewater dispersal field on the Whangateau Reserve was opposed, with one submitter calling for better drainage in the domain.

Concerns were also raised about the competing uses of the Rainbows End reserve, where there was increasing tension between swimmers and boaties.

The Rodney Local Board is expected to adopt the final plan around July next year.

Chris Penk

MP for Kaipara ki Mahurangi

Your local MP A| P|

134 Main Road, Kumeu 0810 09 412 2496

Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Chris Penk, 134 Main Road, Kumeu 0810.

6

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

VISIT SEE OUR WEBSITE

OUR STORE OR

W E

C A N

D E L I V E R

T O

Y O U R

D O O R

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM SEE US ON FACEBOOK

A luxurious sleep in the

Oasis 36

$2699.00 2 only

Queen Mattress and Base

One of the submissions to the draft Rodney Local Parks Management Plan called for better drainage in the Whangateau Domain. Perhaps not everyone would agree that that was a good idea. Pictured are Hadley Gibson and Kane Wright enjoying the benefits of the temporary swimming pool that appeared in the domain after recent rain.

NZ made, 10 year warranty, Full edge support, Euro - Top mattress design, 50mm Natural latex, 50mm Density Memory Foam

Plan criticised for being non-specific The Rodney Local Parks Management Plan was criticised for not including specific detail on individual reserves during a hearing in Orewa earlier this month.

Both Omaha Beach Golf Club representative Richard Brabant and Coatesville resident Rowena Mortimer said there was a lack of information about exactly what Council was proposing.

Mortimer said what Council had put forward was not a management plan.

“A plan gives a community a clear view on what is intended so that submissions can have value,” she said.

“Council has drafted principles for the management of reserves, but that does not constitute a plan for individual reserves.

“The ‘management intentions’ in the ‘plan’ are that Council commence discussions with community groups, but this should have happened first so that the ‘plan’ has

some certainty.”

Mortimer felt the balance of power in any negotiations would rest in Council’s favour.

Brabant said the management plan was complex and not user-friendly and had been done without site visits or any consultation with the residents’ association.

“As a result, it is superficial and not focused on the needs of individual reserves,” he said.

Another submitter made the following observation: “ … for many individuals and organisations, the documents are rather unwieldy and interpretation could well beyond most lay people, preventing meaningful engagement via the submission process. In some instances, planning documents referenced in the Management Intentions for specific parks were difficult or impossible to find. This makes it impossible to provide considered feedback on those intentions.”

Last one A5 Adjustable bed Queen size with the Mazon 225 mattress. $4799.00 RRP

I only $2999.00 Floor Stock

Cordless remote • 15 year warranty on mattress • Easy wash removeable cover

Spoil someone this Christmas with one of our wonderful Armchairs from $899.00 Scullys Baby Gift pack $39.99

Waxed Cheese baker Caravan Cups $38.99 Baby and Mom Gardener gift Cheese knives Tea Towel set of 10 gift pack $90.00 set $34.99 from $8.99 $10.99 $4.99

Windfall Jams, Jelly’s, Chutney’s, Pickles and Sauces from $12.50

Passionfruit Cheesecake Cheats Ready in 5 minutes 250g cream cheese, at room temperature 1 cup thickened cream 125ml double cream 1/4 cup caster sugar 1 lemon, rind finely grated 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 small mango, peeled, thinly sliced Passionfruit pulp, to serve Mint leaves, to serve Beat cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Add

thickened cream , double cream , sugar and lemon rind . Beat for 2-3 minutes, until thick and creamy. Stir through lemon juice until combined.

Dollop some cream cheese mixture in the base of four 250ml glasses. Top with sliced mango. Continue layering and finish with mango slices. Top with passionfruit pulp, ( Windfall Foods make an excellent Passionfruit dessert sauce), mint leaves for decoration.

DON’T MISS OUT! Offers valid to 30th November 2022 (or while stocks last)

DRUMMERS & CO. HOMESTORE

09 423 9077 • sales@drummers.co.nz • 225 Rodney Street, Wellsford 0900 • Open Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm WWW.DRUMMERS.CO.NZ

www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

7

the record

off

YouSay

We welcome your feedback but letters under 300 words are preferred. We reserve the right to abridge them as necessary. Unabridged versions can be read at www.localmatters.co.nz/opinion.

Letters can be sent to editor@localmatters.co.nz or 17 Neville Street, Warkworth 0910

Paper the cracks

There is hardly a single driver in the Rodney region who has not had to endure the decrepit state of our rural roads.

Auckland Transport (AT) does not seem to care and when this august body decides to do something they just “paper the cracks”.

They do this by having people who decide which roads to fix and how to do it who have no idea about engineering proper road surfaces and maintaining correct drainage into water tables, or ensuring all culverts are not blocked!

Recently, they made a big effort on Old Kaipara Flats Road. Graders, rollers, trucks and metal. Looked great. But three months

later, it is back to potholes and corrugated surfaces. No proper base was put down so all that expenditure was wasted.

Another example is Carran Road. This road has been destroyed by logging trucks and trucks involved in the motorway construction so AT finds a pothole full of mud and puts tarseal over it. See photo showing about 10mm of tarseal on top of mud. The first truck to drive over this squirted it out. Again, no knowledge, no control and no accountability, just a total waste of money.

12 Days giveaways

Water supplies counter dry

In true Christmas spirit, local businesses are reaching into their Santa sacks and pulling out some incredible prizes for the Mahurangi Matters 12 Days of Christmas giveaway this year.

It might have been a tough year for some, and you’d be forgiven for thinking that businesses would surely be tightening their collective belts against the festive gluttony, but not these generous donors. How about a succulent Christmas ham worth $200 from Warkworth Butchery to feed those hungry hoards? Or a $250 voucher for Vivo Salon or Skin Clinic to help with those dark circles from all the late-night celebrations. There are surf lessons for a family of four worth $280, thanks to Summer Sessions, and even a service for your vehicle at STR Automotive worth $300. These and many more will be listed daily on the Mahurangi Matters facebook page from December 1-12, from midday each day. Winners will be announced three days later. Good luck!

Peter Georgetti, Warkworth

Auckland Council has established 21 permanent community water sites around rural Auckland to help mitigate summer water shortages and assist with future drought management.

Northern locations include the Wellsford Community Centre, Leigh Hall, Warkworth Town Hall, Kaipara Flats Hall, Sinclair Park Kaukapakapa and Whangateau Reserve.

A further 10 sites will be added when the project is complete.

Project manager Uys de Wet says that as the summer rolls around, it’s a timely reminder for rural residents to think about their water supplies.

“If you’re reliant on rainwater tanks for your drinking water, check the tank levels regularly, use water wisely and book a delivery early,” de Wet says.

“Forward planning is key to avoiding the experience of 2019-20.

“The sites used during 2019-2020 drought

Sandspit shellfish monitoring call The annual shellfish monitoring session at Sandspit by Friends of Awa Matakanakana will be held next month and organisers are hoping to attract a few more volunteer helpers.

Coordinator Mark Foster says the group needs small teams to measure the shellfish in the bay along set transects.

“It’s fun, involves less than three hours of light physical work and a bit of brain activity, and takes place in beautiful surroundings beside the Sandspit estuary,” he says.

“Basically, it involves digging up shallow samples of sand, sifting out the live shellfish and counting them. Finally, we measure

the tuangi (cockles) and record the data.

“This is a great activity for families as it gets young people involved in learning about the ecology of an estuary, understanding how humans’ activity can impact the environment, and it helps them apply and develop their numeracy skills in a practical way.

“For those of us ‘not so young’, it’s just as rewarding because it’s a simple way of doing our bit to help protect and enhance the environment for future generations.”

The monitoring will be held on Saturday December 3, from 9am to 11.30am. All ages welcome.

Info: Mark Foster kiwi3mfs@gmail.com or text 021 2662769.

Some budding business entrepreneurs from Kaipara Flats Road got some extra publicity for their “patties” when they became a minor sensation on Facebook.

Keeping it simple

Water stations like this one at Kaipara Flats are permanent fixtures in various locations around Mahurangi.

have been made permanent, with new sites added to give good coverage for all rural Aucklanders.”

Bollards (drinking fountains) will provide a back-up drinking water supply in an emergency, where residents will be able to collect 20 litres of water per person per day; they will provide water for the filling of water bottles year-round.

Council have selected six weather stations to represent the areas of the region. Rainfall at these six rain gauges is monitored for dry spells and hoses will be attached when needed to make the filling of larger containers easier. All sites meet current drinking water standards.

Competition winners Congratulations to Bob Marshall who won the double pass to Aotango.

Congratulations also to Rob Donaldson, who was the lucky winner of a copy of the book Becoming Pākehā by John Bluck in our recent draw.

Newly elected local board members could be forgiven for struggling to get their heads round the complexities of Auckland Council’s myriad budgets, plans and reports – it can take years of reading agenda and deciphering balance sheets before the mists begin to clear and Council-speak starts to make sense.

A case in point occurred at last week’s first full Rodney Local Board meeting, when members were asked to support a transfer of funds earmarked for a new Huapai sports centre from one budget to another, to keep the money in the Board’s control – or, as Council put it, “reallocate the $1 million Rodney Local Board contribution from the Rodney Local Board One Local Initiative budget line to the Rodney Local Board Locally Driven Initiative Capital fund. Reallocating the budget back into the Rodney Local Board LDI capital budget is regarded as a prudent step for the local board to optimise use of the LDI capex budget in future financial years”.

Not surprisingly, at least one new Board member needed a little clarity on what this actually meant in real terms – where was the money going exactly and could it be used for anything else?

Luckily, Council work programme lead Angie Bennett was able to cut through the Council-ese and make everything crystal clear.

“You’re getting $1 million from your savings account and putting it into your cheque account, but you don’t get your cheque book until 2027-28,” she said.

• Drainlayer • Plumbing • Gasfitting • Septic Tank Systems & Design • Supply & Install Water Pumps & Filter Systems SERVING THE RURAL DISTRICT

Phone: 09-422 9051

Email: warkworth@laserplumbing.co.nz

RECRUITING NOW! 8

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

BEST BED DEALS

Viewpoint

No Pressure | Friendly Service | Open 6 Days FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ON SELECTED PRODUCTS

Marja Lubeck, Rodney-based MP marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz

Affordable childcare For many working families childcare is one of the biggest household costs. That’s why, as part of our Government’s work to support New Zealanders with the cost of living, we’re making childcare more affordable for low and middle income families. The Prime Minister recently announced that we are significantly expanding childcare assistance, cutting costs for working parents and supporting more children into early education. On top of this, we are further boosting Working for Families and the Best Start payment, providing more support to help ease the pressure.

These changes will kick in from the beginning of April next year. The exact amount families will save on childcare costs will depend on the number of hours they work, the wages they are on, the number of hours of childcare per day, and the cost of their early childcare education centre. For example, a family with two parents both working 40 hours per week on $26 per hour with two children under five, who will not have been eligible for childcare assistance, now will be eligible for $252 per week.

Childcare assistance has been neglected for more than a decade, since income thresholds were frozen by National in 2010. I’m really proud that the changes we’re making will see thousands of parents given back the choice to do what’s best for their family – I know what a difference this will make.

By reducing financial barriers and better

supporting parents who want to enter work or further training, we’re also helping fill labour shortages, which is good news for families, local businesses and our economy.

These next steps build on the work that our Government has already done to ease cost of living pressures on New Zealanders in the face of global inflation, including our cost of living package, which includes half price public transport, the fuel tax cut and more. We are also taking action on supermarkets to make sure Kiwis are paying a fair price at the checkout, because we are fed up with supermarkets earning $1 million a day in excess profits while people are paying a premium for the basics.

As well, we are taking action with new measures to help small businesses get paid on time. The Business Payment Practices Bill has passed its first reading. As we know, timely payment for goods and services is crucial for the financial health of any business. Small businesses, in particular, are less resilient to poor payment practices, which can cause stress and uncertainty, not just for the business owner, but also for their staff and families.

At a time when families are feeling the cost-of-living spike, our Government is investing in what matters most. I’m really proud that we are now taking the next step to make sure childcare is within reach for parents and that families have more support to cover other costs.

Auckland Mayor in hot seat

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

The first Governing Body meeting of the new Auckland Council term got off to a rocky start when all three Samoan councillors – Alf Filipaina, Fuli Lotu and Josephine Bartley – found themselves seated together.

Filipaina, who arrived late to the meeting, was concerned that they had been “put into a little box”.

“That is how I personally feel and it is important that I say this now … to ensure that that is not the case,” Filipaina said.

He also pointed out that his name was misspelt on his placard, and was unhappy when Mayor Wayne Brown laughed at the issue.

“As you know, Your Worship, the spelling

of anybody’s name is crucial to their whakapapa – I just didn’t like the fact that you laughed at that, Your Worship.”

Brown said he was hoping to mix the councillors up rather than mirror the party split seen in central government.

“I did not really want to have it looking like Parliament where we had all the blues on one side and the reds on the other,” Brown said.

“If you notice, unfortunately, I have managed to get a lot of Pākehā together as well, but there was no intention there either, all right?”

All three Samoan councillors are Labour affiliated, so Brown’s attempt to step away from party splitting appeared unsuccessful.

Cr Filipaina was allowed to swap seats after the discussion.

Marja Lubeck Labour List MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi For appointments and assistance please phone:

0800 582 325 (0800 LUBECK) marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz 5/62-64 Queen Street, Warkworth

SIERRA 1 POCKET SPRUNG MATTRESS AND BASE* SINGLE $649 KING SINGLE $749 DOUBLE $890 QUEEN $990 5 year warranty

*Headboard is not included

S2 MATTRESS WITH M10 ADJUSTABLE BASE LONG SINGLE was $3999

Now $1999

LAST TIME AT THESE PRICES

KING SINGLE was $4599

Now $2299 QUEEN was $5999

Now $2999 SUPER KING was $7999

Now $3999 Limited Stock

50off %

ADJUSTABLE OVER BED TABLE $349

Pillows | Beds, Linen | Bedroom furniture | Adjustable beds

8 Mill Lane, Warkworth 09 422 3120 warkworth@bedsandmore.nz www.facebook.com/bedsandmoreWarkworth

Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

9

18 Mansel Drive Warkworth

2012 SUZUKI SX4

GLXFCB2 2.0 5DR Ltd Hatch, 8.5L / 100km Carbon emissions 203 grams/km

$

8,990

Hybrid, G1.8 CVT FWD WAS: $25,990 Hatch, 4.2L/100km Carbon emissions 99 grams/km

38,670

WAS: $39,990

2017 TOYOTA COROLLA

Fielder, 1,496cc Station Wagon, 3.9L / 100km Carbon emissions 92 grams/km

$

2017 TOYOTA RAV4

GX 2.5P/4WD/6AT SUV, 9.5L / 100km Carbon emissions 220 grams/km

25,990

2018 TOYOTA C-HR

$

All new & used enquiries Sheldon Pienaar 021 786 402 | 09 425 1094 sheldon@warkworthtoyota.co.nz

22,580

WAS: $23,490

2019 TOYOTA COROLLA Sport Hybrid Hatch, 3.9L / 100km Carbon emissions 91 grams/km

35,990

$

$

2015 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

2019 TOYOTA RAV4

GXL 3.5P/4WD/6AT/SW SUV, 11.8L / 100km Carbon emissions 283 grams/km

25,990

GX 2.0P/CVT SUV, 6.7L / 100km Carbon emissions 152 grams/km

35,990

$

2016 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

2018 TOYOTA C-HR

$

36,990

For all Service related enquiries Danny Wah 09 425 8439 | 09 425 1092 service@warkworthtoyota.co.nz

WAS: $42,990

2WD GSX D/C W/S 6MT Ute, 9.6L/100km Carbon emissions 256 grams/km

35,990

27,800

WAS: $29,990

2017 TOYOTA AQUA

Hybrid, 1,496cc Hatch, 3.8L / 100km Carbon emissions 90 grams/km

$

Hybrid, 1,797cc Hatch, 4.2L / 100km Carbon emissions 99 grams/km

$

MAZDA BT-50

$

$

GXL AWD 3.5P V6 6AT WAS: $25,990 SUV, 11.8L / 100km Carbon emissions 283 grams/km

All new & used enquiries Rob Young 027 733 9757 | 09 415 7859 robert@warkworthtoyota.co.nz

28,990

2019 TOYOTA COROLLA

GX 2.09P/10 CVT Hatch, 6.7L / 100km Carbon emissions 154 grams/km

25,990

$

For all Service & Parts related enquiries Jack Griggs 09 425 8439 | 09 425 1092 service@warkworthtoyota.co.nz

Fixed Price vehicle SERVICING at Warkworth Toyota.* All Brands welcome. 09 425 8439 *Terms & conditions apply 10

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Leigh volunteers step up for long-awaited honours night By a Leigh correspondent

Leigh Volunteer Fire Brigade members gathered for a long-overdue honours night recently after numerous postponements due to Covid.

A great evening was had by all who attended, with a good feed and an equally good band.

The evening’s awards began with the presentation of a Fire and Emergency New Zealand 14-Year Long Service and good Conduct Medal to Alan Borich. The award was made by recently-appointed Waitemata Area general manager Katie Pocock.

This was followed by United Fire Brigade Association (UFBA) awards presented by Ian Davies. Ian began his fire career at Leigh and then moved to the Warkworth brigade where be became chief fire officer.

He was the UFBA representative.

Three-year certificates were presented to Gideon Dolan, Mark Brockie and Brook Sanderson. Brook was then presented with his five-year medal along with Paul Smith.

Carmel Simmonds, Mark Simmonds and Dave Johnson received a silver bar for nine-year service. Errol Murray and Martin Lefley received their 13-year bars.

Chief fire officer Kevin Lawton and Tony Enderby were presented with 17-year bars.

Nick Torkington received his 23-year bar, Mark Borich received his 27-year bar and Steve Paddison was presented with a 47year bar. The Warren Cup for outstanding service to the brigade was awarded to Martha Stafford, who is soon to leave the brigade to take up work in Nelson.

The awards ceremony was followed by a great supper, thanks to Bramble, Viet Q and New World. A fantastic team from the Leigh Library kept the full plates and glasses coming and the empty ones going all night. Thanks also to the brigade social committee who organised the event. The latter part of the evening was aided by great music from the band Boom Boom Delux.

The brigade has had a disjointed few years

Deputy chief fire officer Nick Torkington congratulates Alan Borich on his 14-year Long Service and Good Conduct medal, along with chief fire officer Kevin Lawton and Waitemata general manager Katie Pocock. Photos, Tony Enderby.

Brook Sanderson received his three-year certificate from Ian Davies.

with Covid seriously curtailing training and causing a drop in callout numbers.

This year, to date, the brigade has been called to more than 90 emergencies. The erratic callout pattern saw two periods of

30 days or more when no callouts were received. However, no matter what the new normal is, the team from Leigh Volunteer Fire Brigade will be there to support their community.

Martha Stafford with the Warren Cup for outstanding service to Leigh Brigade.

2023 is closer than you think Need a job change? Or maybe even a life change?

We can help you find your calling and get into the job of your dreams right here in Te Tai Tokerau. At NorthTec| Te Pūkenga we can guide you onto the right path to the industry of your choice and support you through the whole journey.

We offer hands-on, practical learning to teach you the skills you need to get into the career you want. With onthe-job, online, and on-campus learning readily available you can fit study around your life, wherever you are.

There are also full-time and part-time options available, so you can work at a pace that fits your lifestyle.

Kaitaia Kerikeri Kaikohe Whangārei Dargaville

Now is the time to plan for the year ahead. Where ever you want to go, we can help you get there. Stay Close, Go Far.

 0800 162 100  northtec.ac.nz

www.localmatters.co.nz

Auckland

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

11

New Showroom is a game changer for Chesters Plumbing & Bathroom in Warkworth ADVERTISEMENT

Six months after opening as a trade centre, Chesters Plumbing and Bathroom Centre is proud to open their brand new showroom to the public at 37 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth. Branch Manager Nick McGregor says “This is such an exciting opportunity. I’m proud of our amazing new Showroom. It’s fantastic to now be able to provide the full Plumbing and Bathroom package to our Local Customers. Can’t wait to see you! We look forward to helping you any way we can”.

Chesters Plumbing and Bathroom Centre was established in 1973. From small beginnings the company has grown into a well-known and highly respected plumbing merchant with eighteen branches nationwide.

Today Chesters offer the very best in bathroom products, with unmatched customer service to tradies, homemakers and renovators. Their reputation for after sales service and quality products gives them a competitive edge.

With so many permanent and holiday homeowners in areas like Mangawhai and Matakana, Chesters showroom will be a big asset for the Warkworth region. Residential customers can now get the advice they need including recommending the right plumbing tradesperson to complete the job right first time.

Plumbers can also send their customers in to see Fran to discuss product options. Showroom consultant Fran Smith has a background in interior design and is passionate about bringing creative and functional solutions to your bathroom. Many of the items in the showroom have been handpicked by the Warkworth team including the Amara vanity and Soji mirror cabinet both by Athena.

The showroom displays the latest innovations and products in modern bathroom styling. Bathroomware is like fashion, ever changing. Chesters can ensure you will see the latest trends from all the top local and international brands.

So whether you are an experienced tradesman or just handy around the house, Chesters has the right products and the right advice to give.

They will even provide your plumber or builder with the correct specifications, saving on possible costly mistakes and making it a more enjoyable and pleasant experience all round.

All it takes is a chat with Nick or Fran and the team at the newly opened showroom.

Proud supplier of

Bathroomware for New Zealand Homes

WARKWORTH SHOWROOM OPEN 37 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth (09) 777 4004 chesters.co.nz SHOWROOM TRADING HOURS: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.00pm Saturday 8.00am-12 noon 12

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Council report: Targeted rates delivering

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

Auckland Councillors have been told that the various targeted rates introduced by Council over recent years are delivering solid outcomes.

The natural environment and water quality rates alone will raise $880 million over 10 years and have funded the planting of 2.5 million native trees and shrubs, delivered 2230 hectares of pest plant control in regional parks, upgraded more than 100 kilometres of walking tracks to protect kauri, and cleaned up waterways across the region, enabling the removal of longterm public health warnings at numerous beaches and bays.

Managers of the targeted rates have put together reports for Local Boards to help raise awareness for what they have achieved over the year.

For the Rodney Local Board area, the water quality targeted rate funded one water quality investigation at Snells Beach which is still underway after a contamination issue was identified. The source is still unclear.

The Closing The Gap programme, which looks to control sedimentation on small building sites, conducted 697 site visits in Rodney with a 74 per cent compliance rate.

Under the safe septic programme, 28 Rodney properties received subsidised septic inspections with help for ongoing maintenance.

Under the natural environment targeted rate, one hygiene station was installed to protect kauri at Parry Kauri Park this year, and trackwork to protect kauri is planned at Matheson Bay Reserve and Kowhai Park.

Cat, rabbit, rat and mustelid control efforts were funded with particular efforts made in Te Ārai Regional Park and Tāwharanui Regional Park. Council is also undertaking pig control at Te Ārai Regional Park.

Council partnered with Trees for Survival, getting schools involved in planting efforts

along waterways and educating students.

The planting was jointly funded by the natural environment and water quality targeted rates.

Fourteen local schools attended planting days and 30 planting days were held in Rodney.

One private landowner in Rodney received a $35,500 grant for stock exclusion fencing

through the rate.

Pest Free Leigh received funding for a support coordinator and pest control tools.

A total of $370,339 was spent to fund community initiatives in Rodney.

Both of the rates were due expire in 2028, but have been extended to 2031.

Mike Lee gives his ‘not so maiden’ maiden speech

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

Newly-elected Councillor Mike Lee says councillors need to take a new approach in order to fix Auckland Council.

At the Governing Body meeting on November 1, all newly-elected councillors had the chance to give a maiden speech including Waitematā and Gulf ward’s Mike Lee, who said he was not a “maiden in any form”.

Lee sat on the Auckland Regional Council more than 30 years ago and was elected to Auckland Council after the amalgamation.

He said he felt his return to Council was because the organisation was in a crisis.

He said the crisis was financial but also cultural, in the way “Council is perceived by the people”.

“It is not one particular CCO or company or section of the super city that is failing.

“It is failing across the board and … the failing starts at the top and only can be fixed at the top.”

Lee said there were some who misguidedly believed Council was doing well and any challenges were because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said Council needed to “own the problem” before being able to fix it.

There will be a quieter celebration in Matakana this New Year’s Eve, which should make for happier neighbours.

The meeting followed the announcement that nearly 1000 bus services were being suspended by Auckland Transport.

“The people of Auckland have been paying well over the odds in an endeavour to get a world-class public transport system but yesterday, we learned that rather than going ahead, we are going backwards.”

Lee also looked to issues of confidentiality and said Council needed to make sure there was good legal grounds for meetings to exclude the public.

“Up on the 26th floor of 135 Albert Street there (is) a sign that says a lot. It is on its own wooden stand and it seemed it must be used so routinely that it stands there as a permanent fixture. The sign says, ‘Confidential, public excluded’.”

He said the prevalence of confidentiality happened at the local board level as well, with public-excluded workshops.

The most common complaint he heard during his campaign was around consultation rather than rate increases.

“Council and the CCOs almost inevitably have their way and there is a surprising amount of resentment.”

Lee ended on an optimistic note with hope for reform under Mayor Wayne Brown’s leadership and the promise of a “brand new start”.

Lasers replace noisy fireworks

Animal owners in Matakana will be able to enjoy New Year’s Eve in relative peace next month after Sculptureum announced that it has cancelled its fireworks display.

The venue is replacing the fireworks extravaganza, which has ruffled a few feathers over the past two years, with a laser light show choreographed to music.

“We want Sculptureum to be a valued member of our community,” general manager Doug Clements says.

“While we want to continue providing an event that brings in the New Year with wonder, we felt the laser show could accomplish that and address the concerns of our animal-owning neighbours.”

Horse owner and local resident John Toon, who has previously complained to Sculptureum for the distress caused to his livestock, says he appreciates that they are no longer having fireworks.

The prospect of a quieter, calmer night has reassured Toon enough that he will be returning to Sculptureum as a customer.

“We used to be big fans of the restaurant but as soon as they let off the fireworks, we stopped going. Now we will become customers again,” he says.

Clements says it is a win for guests who may not have experienced a laser show before and it is a win for the business as it delivers on its events objective.

Strawberry

2022

Pick Your Own www.localmatters.co.nz

Check our website, facebook and instagram pages for details of open days and times. www.matakanaberryco.co.nz

www.facebook.com/matakanaberryco www.instagram.com/matakanaberryco

Bring Your Own Container, Bucket, Bag or Bowl EFTPOS/PAYWAVE 90 Jones Road, Omaha www.matakanaberryco.co.nz November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

13

Dux winner Zoe Knapp Spens-Black.

Proxime accessit was awarded to head boy James Webb.

Head girl and boy for 2023, Grace Richards and Tobey Sykes.

Dux and proxime accessit winners, Mikaila Isla and Eve Hampson.

Colleges celebrate high achievers at senior prizegivings Mahurangi College

Rodney College

During an evening celebrating its high achievers, Mahurangi College principal Tony Giles awarded dux recipient Zoe Knapp Spens-Black the Patricia and Alan Schedewy Family Cup. She also won the Withers & Co Chartered Accountant Scholarship ($2250), the Insight Legal Award ($250) and the SBA Chartered Accountants Prize for classics.

The Alon and Audrey Shaw Trophy for proxime accessit was awarded to head boy James Webb, who also won the Argyle Schoolwear Scholarship ($1500), the University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship (up to the value of $28,000), the Rodney Lodge of Freemasons Upstanding Young Man prize ($250), the Warkworth Lions Cup and Prize for Excellence in Public Speaking ($200), and the Friends of Mahu prize for head boy.

Head boy and girl for next year will be Tobey Sykes and Grace Richards.

Scholarships Warkworth Driving Academy ($300), Jordan Teio and Isla Ward-Stewart;

Leggoe Electrical Future Apprenticeship ($400), Nicholas Schollum; Warkworth Community ($500), Maia Collins Bowman, Lucy Butler, Terrayne CollinsMaginley, Daniel D’Urban Burgess, Alyssa Gore and Logan Jones; Binsted Family Cup and Award ($500), Lexx Meale; Bayleys Real Estate ($500), Elouise Balfour and George Williams-Mart; Academic Excellence ($500), Ava Bravenboer and Eliza Eyre; Macdonald Adams Optometrists ($500), Isabella McCormick; Redstone Creek Management ($500), Alexandra Gordon, Caitlin Johnson, Kyla Ruthe and Nadia Schedewey; Mahurangi Physio & Hand Therapy ($1000), Deja Pareta; Southern Paprika Pasifika Futures ($1000), Elaine Ebaraima Anatete; Sue Wynyard Maori Pasifika Health Studies ($1000), Grace Lewis; Dolly Wynyard Trust, Isabella McCormick ($500), Ava Bravenboer ($1000), Ruby Oliver ($1000), Noah Barclay ($1500), Madeline Martin ($1500) and Lexx Meale ($1500); Bailey Earley Memorial ($2000), Joshua Burgess; Prime Minister’s Vocational Pathway

Award ($2000), Grady Collis; University of Canterbury Hiranga ($5000), Daniel D’urban Burgess and Jared Membery; University of Canterbury Horomata ($6000), Amelia Burton; University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance ($6000), Ashlie Bissett, Lucy Butler and Finn Stevenson; University of Otago Māori Pacific Peoples’ Entrance ($14,000), Elaine Ebaraima Anatete; Victoria University of Wellington Raukaraka ($10,000), Amelia Burton; Auckland University of Technology ‘Find Your Greatness’ (up to the value of $22,920), Ava Bravenboer and James Glassford; University of Waikato ‘Ko Te Tangata’ School Leaver, Maddeline Brooker ($5,000), Déja Pareta ($7,000) and Katie Rhodes ($7,000); University of Waikato ‘Te Paewai o Te Rangi’ for Outstanding Academic Achievement (up to the value of $28,000), Amelia Burton, Daniel D’Urban Burgess and Jared Membery; University of Auckland Top Achiever (up to the value of $28,000), James Webb.

This year’s dux winner, Mikaila Isla, was awarded the Wrighton’s Cup and PTA Award ($1000), University of Auckland Academic Potential Scholarship ($6000 over three years), and Izard Trust Scholarship ($1000).

Proxime accessit Eve Hampson was presented with the Kevey Cup and PTA Award ($500), as well as Victoria University Tangiwai Scholarship for Excellence ($5000) and University of Otago 150th Entrance Scholarship ($13,000 over two years).

Head boy and head girl next year will be Toby Henderson and Norah Williams.

Scholarships McDonald Optometrists ($500), Jaide Collinson; Michelle Moir Art ($1000), Michael Hodge; Wharehine Contractors Civil Engineering Pathway ($1750), Montel Vemoa; Prime Minister’s Vocational Pathway ($2000), Courtney Prictor; Poland Motors Vocational Pathway ($2500), William Anderson; Poland Motors Academic Financial continued next page

LABOUR'S ENSURING MORE PEOPLE HAVE WARM, DRY HOMES 3,500

New public houses

3,000

we’ve added!

3,047 2021

2,178 2,074

2,500

2019

2,000

1,143

1,500

2020

1,683 2022

2018

1,000 500

265 2010

252

189

2011

2017

0 -500

-1,000

-282 2012

-1

-486 2013

2016

-674 -744 2014

2015

NET CHANGE IN PUBLIC HOMES PER FINANCIAL YEAR

Marja Lubeck

Labour List MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi 0800 582 325 | marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz Source: Ministry of Social Development and Kāinga Ora. Authorised by Marja Lubeck MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

14

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

COLLECTION SERVICE Let us remove the clutter in your home. Our skilled collection crew will show up, load up and sweep up - you won’t have to lift a finger!

Your collection load will be hand sorted at our Community Recycling Center, sending as much as we can to our re-use stores for a second life, recycling the rest, and only leaving landfill as a final option.

EMAIL US NOW FOR A COLLECTION QUOTE:

hello@mahurangiwastebusters.nz

CALL US:

09-945 3980

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

New head girl and boy, Norah Williams and Toby Henderson. from previous page

Assistance ($2500), Tiger Amodeo; Mary J Partington Music ($3000), Charlie Balle; Waitapu Farms ‘Helping Hand’ ($3000), Mackenzie Whitaker; University of Otago 150th Entrance ($13,000 over two years), Natalie Pearson; University of Auckland Moana (up to $18,000), Charlie Balle; University of Otago Māori Entrance ($20,500 over two years), Jaide Collinson.

Right, music scholarship winner, Charlie Balle.

Are you thinking about having a cleanup at your place in time for Spring?

Third from right, head boy John Hampshire with head girl Carla Fraser, with principal Dirk Smyth behind, plus prefects for 2023.

Otamatea High School

Sweeping the board this year at Otamatea High School, dux winner and head girl Billie Le Mesurier-Cowbourne received the Mr & Mrs L Mitchell Trophy. She also won the DA Finlayson Cup for General Excellence by a Senior Student, and the Fonterra Cup for Best Aggregate of Science Subjects. She received the Principal’s Award for head girl, as well as a Raukaraka Scholarship to Victoria University ($5000), and a Top Achiever Scholarship to Auckland University.

Proxime accessit Alana Yardley won the Mr & Mrs J Morrison Cup and the Jessie Vaughan Trophy for Senior Citizenship.

She was also awarded a Top Achiever Scholarship to Auckland University.

Also awarded Raukaraka Scholarships to

From left, Dux Billie Le MesurierCowbourne with principal Dirk Smyth and proxime accessit Alana Yardley.

Auckland University were Sarah CampbellWinter ($5000) and Michael Ferguson ($5000).

Head boy and girl will be John Hampshire and Carla Fraser.

Our Re:Sort Transfer Station is OPEN 7 DAYS for all your waste & recycling needs. Whether it be general refuse, greenwaste or recycling, we can help take care of it all!

WE ARE OPEN 183 SANDSPIT ROAD

FOR ALL YOUR TIMBER, HARDWARE & BUILDING SUPPLIES WARKWORTH ITM

Ph: 09 425 1021 E: sales@warkworthitm.co.nz www.localmatters.co.nz

MANGAWHAI ITM

Ph: 09 431 4963 E: sales@mangawhaiitm.co.nz November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

15

Vale

Jamie Goodwin Thompson

T

he Warkworth community lost one of its “larger than life” characters in July with the passing of Jamie Thompson. An unashamed petrolhead, Jamie’s love of all things motorised was legendary and was surpassed only by his love for his family – wife Julie, their children Darren, Bryce, Carl and Brieana, and two grandchildren.

Born at the Warkworth Cottage Hospital, Jamie made a statement from day one, weighing in at an impressive 11lbs 3oz. He was the youngest of Claude and Betty Thompson’s four children.

He spent a carefree childhood growing up on the Mahurangi River and around Lucy Moore Park, getting into mud fights with friends on the riverbank and rowing his Dad’s dinghy up the river to the weir. He learned to swim at the cement works and belonged to the Boys Brigade for a few years. His lifelong interest in cars and trucks surfaced early, with one of his first birthday cakes being a truck carved out of a loaf of bread by his father.

His teenage years involved a lot of cruising in cars – always as the chauffeur for a good night out,

which often ended with the rising sun on Sunday morning. He was well known on the streets of Warkworth as he owned a Ford Prefect which changed colour every week to hide its identity, even to the point of impersonating a police car.

He left school around 14 and went to work with his brother Peter, before heading to the mines in Australia in 1978.

It was a big move for a young Warkworth lad, but his skill as a machinery operator was soon recognised. It was said that he could hop on to almost any machine, start it up and drive it.

Eventually, he returned and went into business with Peter, working on various development, construction and transportation projects, locally and nationally. He was the first person to get a Vehicle Piloting Certificate and he specialised in transport machinery. He was a great problem solver, particularly when it came to anything transport-related. There was nothing he liked better than hearing someone say it couldn’t be done. He had an eye for detail and a job wasn’t finished until it was done properly. Jamie also enjoyed passing on his knowledge to the next generation of workers and was heard on more than one occasion to say, in his measured way, “I’ll tell you this once and once only, that this is the right way to do it. Have you got it?”

Classic cars and car racing were his passion, particularly Bathurst and, in later years, drift racing. He was the catalyst

21 March 1960 - 3 July 2022 in his son Carl’s drift racing career, was a member of the crew and his endless support is what drove Carl to become a talented drift racer in his own right.

Jamie’s love of speed also extended to boats. His jet boat Skid Row used to race up and down the Mahurangi River, which was not always appreciated by nearby residents.

One of his greatest projects was Shed 99 on the Carran Road property, which housed quirky artwork, sculptures and humorous signage, as well as classic cars and even a Kenworth prime mover. His passion for history turned the shed into a museum filled with memorabilia, much of it about the local district. He even created a Dunny Room, which showcased toilets through the eras from pull chain to push button, that was featured on national radio. The shed became a venue for weddings, funerals, Christmas parties and Hot Rod Club get-togethers. With his love for GT Falcons, Jamie became heavily involved in the GT Falcon Club in NZ and was made a Life Member just before he passed.

Friends described Jamie as loyal, warm, approachable, loving and loads of fun, and the model of what a best mate should be. He was also remembered by friends and family as a renowned prankster.

Jamie was diagnosed with heart disease three years ago. He spent his last years completing projects on his property and spending quality time with his family.

Honouring the essence of life

09 422 2534 24/7 | hello@besoul.co.nz 12 Gumfield Drive, Warkworth | www.besoulfunerals.co.nz 16

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Lily Watson, Manager Funeral Director

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

The new team at Warkworth Bin Inn, from front, Monica Guimaraes, Jill Gabriel and Samuel Cunningham.

Bin Inn Warkworth

T

he new owner of Bin Inn Warkworth, Jill Gabriel, can give many reasons for shopping in her store in Elizabeth Street, but high on the list is the savings customers make by controlling the portions they buy.

“Buying only what you need means less expense and less waste,” she says. “Plus, if you bring your own containers, you get a discount.”

Jill, alongside her son Sam and retail manager Monica, took over the wholefoods and specialty groceries store earlier this year. They have spent the intervening months rearranging and restocking, as well as investing in modern dispensers for some of the bulk food items.

Sam says the aim is to develop a store where customers feel valued and appreciated, reminiscent of the general stores of yesteryear.

“We offer an alternative to the supermarkets because we have specialty lines, particularly for people with special dietary requirements, and an increasing range of local products exclusive to Bin Inn Warkworth,” he says.

www.localmatters.co.nz

“The previous owners did a great job of establishing the business and now we want to grow it.”

Some of the local products include glutenfree bread, honey, milk, cookies, coffee, hen and quail eggs, and a health tonic.

Locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables are also in store when available.

Jill says that carrying local goods is a way to showcase the amazing producers in the area.

Sam says he welcomed the opportunity to leave Auckland and move to a smaller town where there is still a strong sense of community.

“I grew up in Nelson where there is the same feeling of being part of a community and where a warm smile and a friendly hello greet you when you pass each other in the street.”

Jill, who has more than 30 years’ experience as a supply chain manager in the food and grocery industry, has been house-sitting in the area while she decides where to buy.

“We want the shop to reflect our interest in environmentally safe and friendly products, organics and bulk foods that cut down on unnecessary waste.”

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

17

Vale

Matua Te Haki (Jack) Ripia

T

he fact that Te Haki (Jack) Ripia touched many people’s lives, from many walks of life, was evident when his memorial service was held at the Mahurangi East Community Centre on November 11.

Tributes were paid by the Mahurangi East Fire Brigade, Warkworth Police, Mahurangi College, Mahurangi East Library, Mahurangi Rugby Club and Springboard, as well as whanau. Former employer Al Mason, who could not be present, sent words of sympathy, which acknowledged Jack’s work ethic. While each tribute painted a slightly different picture of Jack, the common themes were pride in his Ngapuhi ancestry, warmth and friendliness, compassion, a keen sense of humour and a good appetite. He was described as a man with mana.

Jack grew up on a farm at Ngawha, in the Bay of Islands, the youngest of 17 children and the only one to be born in hospital. According to family members, there were no luxuries in Jack’s early life.

Fields were ploughed with a horse-drawn plough, the “fridge” was the nearby creek and baths were taken in the drains fed by geothermal streams. Eight of his siblings never survived to adulthood, succumbing to diseases such as polio and diphtheria.

His whanau remembered him as a “cheeky

1 February 1948 - 30 October 2022

kid who was a little spoilt and never short of a whare to stay in. He grew up knowing he was loved”.

His working life started at a supermarket in Kawakawa and then he moved around for a few years, before finally settling in Warkworth about 50 years ago. At various times, he worked for the power board, drove trucks, was a courier for the Rodney Times, a caretaker at Mahurangi College and a bus driver for Gubbs.

Mahurangi East chief fire officer Jason Connolly said it was uncanny how Jack always seemed to know when the station was having a BBQ. He became a social member of the brigade eight years ago, doing general jobs like keeping the bar stocked and helping with children’s parties. Senior Constable Hamish Buick said Jack was the sort of man that after five minutes of meeting him, you felt you’d always known him.

“He had every class of licence and could drive anything with wheels, tracks or rollers,” Buick said. “He assisted when youth offenders were brought in and was very much part of the police family.”

Former Mahurangi College teacher Kipa Rangiheuea said Jack had played a key role in the development of kapa haka at the school and the Te Whakawhitiwhiti wharenui.

“He drove the bus on countless marae and sports trips, and had the ability to have fun with the kids, but never to lose their respect.”

Librarian Fleur Coleman said Jack had helped strengthen Kaupapa Maori at the library and was the instigator of the first Matariki hangi at Mahurangi East Library.

Mahurangi Rugby club president Chris Jujnovich acknowledged Jack’s long and loyal contribution to the club, whether it was hanging doors, stepping in as club captain or sorting out skirmishes on the sideline.

“He was the ultimate gentleman and gave fantastic service to the club,” he said.

Springboard founder Gary Diprose said Jack had been one of the organisation’s earliest supporters, recognising the need to champion young people who were not having an easy time. “He was a natural encourager, and always generous with his knowledge and his time,” Diprose said.

Jack’s ashes were transported from the community centre to the Mahurangi Rugby Club by a fire truck with a police escort, where a more informal farewell was held.

Jack died at home of a suspected heart attack, leaving behind daughters Rochelle and Justine, and three grandchildren.

I was really delighted when WDHB booked my colonscopy at Rodney Surgical.

A previous one at North Shore Hospital had meant more stress with traffic, extra time involved and it added to the normal pre-procedure nerves.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rodney Surgical for the convenience it offers, the friendliness of the staff, and the feeling of calmness and care you get as a patient.

If you are having an endoscopy through the public health system, ask if you can have it done at Rodney Surgical.

Jacqueline Mitchell Stanmore Bay resident

The best surgeons offering you day care surgeries right here in Warkworth.

Ask your GP if your day care surgery can be done at Rodney Surgical.

w w w. r o d n e y s u r g i c a l c e n t r e . c o . n z • 0 9 4 2 5 1 1 9 0 18

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

MODERN

• PROFESSIONAL• LOCAL

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Eye Doctors Dr Mark Donaldson, Eye Doctors https://eyedoctors. co.nz

A closer look at lenses Recently, I have had to accept that “sick” may now mean “really good”. At least, for those under 20. Cataract surgery has taken a similar casual linguistic slide.

Cataract is not a self-explanatory word either. Appendicitis, for instance, is much easier to grasp because the problem tissue is named up front – the appendix.

When we talk cataracts, we are talking about the lens of the eye. The lens sits behind the iris and pupil, and focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye. If there is a cataract that means the lens, which should be transparent, has gone cloudy or even opaque and the affected eye can’t see as well as it should, even with the best pair of glasses.

In cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed from the eye and a clear plastic lens is inserted. The plastic lens is a static bit of plastic: its focal length is set. Usually, the focus of the replacement lens is set for distance and glasses are required for reading as having both eyes focused on the same plane adds to the measurable quality of the vision.

A vast range of artificial lenses are now available for implantation. The youthful human lens changes its shape to autofocus – at 20, you can see clearly the leaves on a tree and return to your book without even realising that there are motors driving your lenses to perform this amazing task. No artificial lens can do this.

The industry has addressed the problem of middle age focusing difficulties

(presbyopia) with a range of lenses that, to put it simply, have two focal points. If the rest of the visual system is in very good health, the brain chooses which focus (near or far) to attend to and the recipient of the lens has a convenient solution to their focusing requirements. It is important to know that these lenses are not working the same way as the youthful lens does and the measurable quality of vision is not as good in the multifocal and extended depth of focus lenses compared to the single focus artificial lenses.

People who have cataract surgery for refractive reasons may not have cataracts at all. They have a focusing problem with their lenses, which could easily be fixed with a pair of glasses. Therefore, it has proved useful to change the name of the operation – cataract operations undertaken for refractive reasons are now referred to as lens exchange surgeries.

Another solution to the problem of presbyopia would be a medical approach like an eyedrop. There are such eyedrops undergoing trials. University of Auckland researchers have been working hard in this area of endeavour and Professor Paul Donaldson’s (no relation) team summarise their philosophy as follows: “We are attempting to identify drug targets against which novel therapies designed to delay the onset and progression of presbyopia and cataract can be developed.”

Polarised prescription lenses

Phone/fax: 09 425 7002 starting from * 09 425 7002 $ Email: Phone/fax: admin@mahurangivision.co.nz Phone/fax: 09 425 7002 Email: Visit:admin@mahurangivision.co.nz 23 Neville Street, Warkworth 09 425 7002 Email: Phone/fax: admin@mahurangivision.co.nz Email: Visit:admin@mahurangivision.co.nz 23 Neville Street, Warkworth spend $100 spend $400

250 *Expiry date 31.12.2022

Swipe here and save!

Swipe here and save!

or more

10 10

or more

spend $100 or more

20 20

spend $400

OR

OR

or more

09 425 7002

Owned by

Sarah Denny, Optometrist

admin@mahurangivision.co.nz | 23 Neville Street, Warkworth

Online service for vulnerable babies

The Petal Foundation is reaching out to help give babies born to mothers who use drugs or alcohol a better start in life. The foundation runs the only specialist care facility in Tāmaki Makaurau for these babies. Their kaupapa provides much needed respite and expert care for baby while mothers, whānau or carers get the break they need. “Babies born addicted can be challenging to care for, with underlying health problems,” a spokesperson says.

“Babies end up involved in everyone’s trauma and it’s very sad. Petal is here to lovingly care for baby, particularly in the crucial first four weeks of life, which can significantly improve their future outcomes.” The foundation has recently upgraded its online presence to showcase the important mahi it does. The website features kaumatua Rangi McLean and Mereteowai Pou, as well as the voice of māmā and support staff.

Info: https://www.petal.foundation/

CELEBRATE NYE AT FREDDIE'S! BRING YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY AND JOIN US FOR: LASER LIGHT SHOWS | GARDEN LIGHTING| LIVE MUSIC | LAWN GAMES & MORE!

TICKETS $15 PER CHILD & $25 PER ADULT

Pet therapy extended

BOOK NOW: SCULPTUREUM.NZ/WHATSON 40 OMAHA FLATS RD, MATAKANA Visit us at 6 Morpeth St, Warkworth UN TD

OW

N

“Teeth for Life”

www.localmatters.co.nz

ST

YS T

ET

H

RC

RP

ST

PE

MO

A OT

Y TO

ICK

LL

ES

T

NW

NE VI

LN

6 Morpeth St, Warkworth | 09 425 8476 | www.warkworthdental.co.nz

MILL

We go the extra mile to put a smile on your dial

Open: 8am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, 8am to 4pm Friday.

AL

CO

With 8 dentists and 2 Oral Health Therapists we have the experience and expertise to cater ALL aspects of Dentistry

CHURCH H ILL

The St John Therapy Pets programme has partnered with Summerset Retirement Homes to gain more visibility within the community. The funding provided by Summerset will contribute toward the recruitment of more therapy pet volunteers, set up costs and pet assessment costs, as well as cover the cost of uniforms for both the volunteers and the pets. The programme involves regular visits to the retirement homes, where pets build invaluable relationships with the residents.

M

OR

WARKWORTH DENTAL HE

PE

TH

ST

XH

AM

ST

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

19

Making Christmas happier for women and children

Fishing legend Bill Hohepa will share his stories.

Get together planned for grieving men

A charity that usually helps women who have been bereaved or experienced trauma is broadening its scope to include men as well.

The Feeling Fab Foundation was established nine years ago in Rodney to run regular pampering days to nurture and support women who have experienced loss or grief, in a bid to bring some joy back into their lives.

Now founder Elizabeth York and her team of volunteers are turning their attention to men who have faced the pain of loss or serious illness, with a Men’s Wellness Afternoon at Dairy Flat on Sunday, November 27.

Unsurprisingly, the format will differ somewhat from the usual make-up, massage, manicure and hair styling sessions provided for women. Sunday’s event will be more about having a yarn, enjoying a barbecue and relaxing over a few 0% beers, although all attendees will get a traditional Feeling Fab goodie bag to take home.

“There will be no pampering at the men’s day,” York says.

“This is our first event, so we’re treading lightly.”

Guest speaker will be Kiwi fishing broadcaster, writer and Maori fishing calendar producer Bill Hohepa. As well as

being an angling guru, York says the former Snells Beach resident is also a classic car enthusiast and has a raft of entertaining stories. There will also be someone from Men’s Shed to discuss what they get up to, a man who has started his own gin distillery, plus a few guitars if anyone fancies playing or listening to a song or two.

“If we can just help a few men to talk and to bond, it will be amazing,” she says. “What we’re trying to do is get the men there to talk and open up about their mental health in a relaxed environment.”

York says the inspiration for the men’s day came from women she had spoken to in palliative care, who told her they were worried about how their husbands and sons would cope after they had died, and it is hoped to hold further men’s events next year.

Anyone who is interested in attending, or who knows someone who might benefit, should email Feeling Fab on hello@feelingfab.org.nz

The wellness day will be held from 1.30pm to 4.30pm at the Waste Management offices in Landfill Access Road, Dairy Flat.

Please don’t forget mums and teenage boys – that’s the request from Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge this year, as its annual Christmas gift appeal gets underway.

The charity says the generosity of businesses and individuals throughout Rodney and the Hibiscus Coast region is always “amazing”, but older kids and mothers sometimes get left behind in the present stakes.

“Kids always get remembered, everyone buys toys for them, but teenagers, especially boys, and mums get forgotten,” a spokesperson says.

One of the easiest and best solutions is to donate vouchers, so the recipients can choose something they really want or need, she says. Other possibilities could include clothes, bath or bodycare sets and non-perishable food items.

There are appeal drop-off points throughout the region: • The Warehouse at Albany, Snells Beach and Silverdale • Neighbourhood Recycle store, Matakana • Ravish, Matakana • Westpac Warkworth • Northern Union Gastro Pub, Silverdale • Ship Shape Tattoo, Dairy Flat Gifts and vouchers can also be left at the Hestia op-shop, The Kowhai Tree, at 29F Silverdale Street in Silverdale, though they must be clearly marked for the Christmas appeal, or they may end up being on-sold.

The drop off deadline is December 12, or December 15 at Neighbourhood Recycle and December 19 at The Warehouse.

Hestia asks that all gifts are unwrapped, as it is important to see exactly what is being donated, and says gift wrap and sticky tape is also needed, so mums can wrap presents for their children themselves.

Cash donations are also always welcome and can be made via Hestia’s fundraising page at https://givealittle.co.nz/org/ hestia Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge provides a confidential and safe 24-hour service for women and children experiencing family violence or abuse throughout north Auckland.

Info: Visit www.facebook.com/hestiarodneywomensrefuge or email claudia@hestia.org.nz

FOR THE BEST ADJUSTABLE BED PACKAGES! PRE-CHRISTMAS SPECIAL! Only $1 (Yes One measly Dollar!) to deliver and set up any adjustable Bed Package anywhere from Auckland to Whangarei AND only $1 to take away your old bed!

Queen Refresh Adjustable Base with King Koil Hawea Plush Pocket Spring Mattress! Value $4594

SHOP 3 SILVERDALE CENTRE

(NEXT TO THE ‘RIB ’N ROAST’ SHOP) 09 421 1307

20

Super King Split Refresh PACKAGE PRICE Adjustable Bed with King Koil ONLY

PACKAGE PRICE ONLY

$2895!

16F LINK DRIVE WAIRAU PARK

(BEHIND ‘RUGS AND MORE’) 09 444 0244

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

$4990!

Hawea Plush Mattresses!

Value $6098

waitematabackcarebeds.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

SMITHS SPORTS SHOES WHAN NZN67

CUSTOMER: REP ID:

23/11/2019 11:54:27 a.m.

11/28/19 1/2 PG HZ

PROOF TIME LAST RUN: SIZE:

NZ-11270033AC

Sweetappreciation

U

with chocolatebrown

1

Congratulations to Maddy Long who is this week’s recipient of a gift box of chocolates from Chocolate Brown. Maddy was nominated by Rachel Mills, who wrote ...

CUSTOMER: REP ID:

23/11/2019 11:54:27 a.m.

11/28/19 1/2 PG HZ

PROOF TIME LAST RUN: SIZE:

NZ-11270033AC

P R R F F O % 0 5 O UP T ES ARE

Every year, “Maddy organises

a community Halloween event, preparing a map and the sharing of lollies.

It provides a great event for kids and, by having specific houses for kids to knock at, it eliminates those who don’t want to participate. It creates a great sense of community.

SMITHS SPORTS SHOES WHAN NZN67

F SHO 100’S OF PAIRS O CLEAR REDUCED TO

0% OFF RRP 5 O T P U P R THIS WEEKEND ONLY WEEK ONLY UP TO 50% OHFOFESRARTHIS E F SHOES ARE 100’S OF PAIRS O CLEAR TO ED REDUC

SALE ENDSTHIS THIS FRIDAY SALE ENDS SATURDAY

S 0’S OF PAIR”S OF EAR 0 1 Send your nominations to editor@localmatters.co.nz REDUCED TO CL Know someone who deserves a big “thank you” for their community spirit? Tell us and they will receive acknowledgement in Mahurangi Matters and an amazing hamper from Chocolate Brown, 6 Mill Lane, Warkworth. Send your nominations to editor@ localmatters.co.nz (subject line: Sweet Appreciation) or post to: Sweet Appreciation, Mahurangi Matters, PO Box 701, Warkworth. Kindly refrain from nominating members of your own family.

WEEKEND ONLY

ENDS THIS SATURDAY

garei

CED TO CLEAR

THIS WEEKEND ONLY SALE ENDS THIS SATURDAY Cafe, Gifts,

Whangarei

Chocolaterie Ph 422 2677 6 Mill Lane, Warkworth

Warkworth

SALE ENDS THIS SATURDAY Street 72 Cameron

40 Queen Street Phone 09 422 2212

Phone 09 430 8063 Whangarei

Warkworth

72 Cameron Street 40 Queen Street 1/18 Neville Warkworth Phone 09 430 8063 Street, Phone 09 422 2212

Phone 09 422 2212

Open

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 2pm

Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 2pm

Tired of Myths?

“You have #1 #2 “Club food to be connected

to someone in Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm the Defence Sat 9am - 2pm Force to join” False: We are a community club open to all.

Warkworth & Districts RSA Inc.

Whangarei THIS WEEKEND ONLY

40 Queen Street Phone 09 422 2212

Open

40 Queen Street Phone 09 422 2212

2021 MODELS REDU

Warkworth Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pmOpen

72 Cameron Street Phone 09 430 8063

Warkworth

n Street 30 8063

20-40% off RRP

is not up to scratch” That may be true if you don’t like ribs, roast, bangers & mash, sirloin steak, chicken parmigiana or the best burgers in Mahurangi

PLEASE READ ALL COPY CAREFULLY. CHECK SPELLING AND PHONE NUMBERS.

“Myths about the #3 RSA. It’s just a watering

hole for older folk” I know I have said that PROOF before but I forgot to mention the other activities like fishing, golf, darts, pool/8ball, housie, cards and a vibrant women’s section.

Once proof is approved NZME. will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or layout.

28 Neville Street, Warkworth | 09 425 8568 | www.warkworthrsa.co.nz

PLEASE READ ALL COPY CAREFULLY. CHECK SPELLING AND PHONE NUMBE

Summer looks for less

Once proof is approved NZME. will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy o

$4

PLEASE READ ALL COPY CAREFULLY. CHECK SPELLING AND PHONE NUMBERS.

PROOF

Once proof is approved NZME. will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or layout.

$8

$5 PLEASE READ ALL COPY CAREFULLY. CHECK SPELLING AND PHONE NUMBERS. Once proof is approved NZME. will not accept responsibility for incorrect copy or layout.

www.localmatters.co.nz

Turning second-hand goods into first class care Te Hana, Wellsford and Warkworth. www.harbourhospice.org.nz/shop-with-us PROOF

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

21

Christmas display no more After 16 years of lighting up the lives of so many in Warkworth each Christmas, Brian Oakes is moving to Silverdale.

A regular and much-anticipated feature of the festive season, his dazzling light display at his Ashmore Crescent home will be sorely missed by locals.

Last year culminated in more than 30,000 lights illuminating his house every day for three weeks, with the introduction of a laser light display, as well as music and atmospheric smoke.

“It’s sad, but it was getting to the point that it was becoming a chore,” Brian says. “It took a month to set it all up and meant I had to be out there every evening, even on Christmas Day.

“Then it was two weeks to take it all down.

I kept saying each year was my last, but I enjoyed doing it. It was just hard thinking of new things each year.”

Inspired by how big America does Christmas, Brian sourced much of the equipment from there, and then with his training as an electronic technician he was able to create the spectacular display that raised a whopping $21,000 for the hospice over the last 10 years.

As a teacher and chairman at Senior Net, Brian will still be around Warkworth, but his lights will not.

Some of the lights have been sold, while the remainder will move with him to Silverdale where he will no doubt light up many more Christmases to come.

Having raised a whopping $21,000 for hospice, Brian Oakes says it is time to hang up the lights and say goodbye to Santa.

Inspiring decorations

The Christmas tree display never fails to bring a smile to visitors’ faces.

Anyone looking for some Christmas inspiration need go no further than the Old Masonic Hall in Warkworth, from November 28 to December 4.

The Lions Club of Kowhai Coast is back after Covid with about 70 trees in its annual Treemendous exhibition.

The event is a major fundraiser for the club, which donates the proceeds to community projects. Pre-Covid, this was around $5000.

The trees are individually themed and this year, decorations will be for sale.

There will also be a trading table and raffles, Santa’s grotto and a show-stopping centre piece themed around Santa’s Workshop.

Club projects director Liz Price says club members are excited to be putting on the show again.

“It’s a good social activity for members and our reward is watching the children’s faces light up when they see the trees and play with the toys,” she says.

Treemendous will be open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday, from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, and from 10am to the close of the Santa Parade on Sunday. Entry is $3 for adults and $1 for children.

Price says the club is always keen to recruit new members.

“We do a lot of good work in the community and have a lot of fun doing it.”

Info: 425 0969 or 027 620 6006.

A life less ordinary Two Bedroom light-filled apartments from $950k Our luxury apartments have high ceilings, two bathrooms, undercover parking, and large, spacious balconies overlooking beautifully landscaped gardens

Some remaining two-bedroom villas are also available from $1.125m M E E T JAN AND M ICHE LLE The Botanic Show Home 44 Evergreen Drive The Botanic Silverdale, Auckland Open 11am-3pm, Monday to Saturday

The Botanic is the Hibiscus Coast’s newest, resort-style retirement village, designed to offer a great lifestyle surrounded by nature and world class facilities.

22

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

0508 268 264 (0508 BOTANIC) hello@thebotanic.co.nz | thebotanic.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

What's On

Environment

CHRISTMAS

Christine Rose

christine.rose25@gmail.com

MARKET

Farewell, Duggie When I first met Duggie he was throwing his bowl around. He put his head down for a scratch on the noggin. He told me his name was Duggie. It was love at first sight.

He was smarter than any dog, more loyal than a cat. He had a sense of humour, loved to play and was very wilful. Duggie knew his own mind and knew ours, too. It just so happened that the form of his character was as a round, furry lop-eared rabbit.

Rabbits are easily house trained and very clean. They easily adapt to indoor life, and Duggie was part of the family, ever present.

He loved visitors. Well, most visitors … the child who touched him rudely did get a nip. He loved being part of the action. In winter, his favoured spot was as close to the fire as he could get. He had routines and knew ours. When people talk about their cats and dogs being part of the family, it was no different for Duggie.

Rabbits can be misunderstood because we vilify wild rabbits for their environmental harm and breeding propensities. But pet bunnies are incredibly cute. They have twitchy little noses, their mouths are shaped like a Y on a line, with velvet ears and feet like ballet slippers. So soft and loving. All too often, pet rabbits are kept in tiny cages like little live ornaments.

Bunnies need lots of space, lots of care; they have sensitive stomachs and because they’re so smart, they can go mad in a cage.

So Duggie was free range in our house and deck, and in earlier, wilder years, loved being in the garden. He did love to chew electrical leads – a guitar lead, midchord, vacuum cleaner leads, zips, shoes, bags, plants, clothes, bedding; many were the casualties. But gosh he was cute. He

2022

SUNDAY 11TH DECEMBER 10AM-2PM

Photos with Santa, face painting, food trucks, amazing stalls and much much more

King Duggie liked the good life.

would come when you called, sometimes; would stand ‘up’ on command, when he wanted to; would ‘run the run-around’ for a treat. Dinner time, the fridge opening, the pantry door’s squeak, were all triggers.

When he sat in the hallway, we couldn’t pass without paying a toll, ‘paying the tax’ with a scratch on the head.

Our alphabet poem for Duggie reads: ‘A bunny called Duggie eats fresh greens, he is jolly jumpy joy, king-like on his mat, naughty on purpose, quite round, soft and tender until very wild, exQuisite with his ‘y’ on a line, and zzzzs in the bed.’

Bunnies can live up to 15 years, but usually life is short. Duggie was almost nine when the black rabbit of death came for him.

He had survived many threats before, but this time the black rabbit won. My darling Duggie is gone. Out there in the vege patch is at least one wild bunny, and there’s a literal black rabbit in the paddock over the road. There’ll never be another Duggie, but rabbits will prevail.

Email info@warkworthtownhall.nz to secure a table for $25 or for more information 2 Alnwick Street, Warkworth | 027 527 8869 | info@warkworthtownhall.nz | www.warkworthtownhall.nz

Biodiversity funding on offer A fund for community-led efforts to protect threatened species and at-risk cultural heritage has opened for applications.

The Department of Conservation’s Community Fund will make $9.2 million available for community conservation groups nationwide in the next year, supporting critical, grassroots work to halt the biodiversity crisis.

Acting Minister of Conservation Meka Whaitiri says the fund has been aligned with achieving the outcomes of the Biodiversity Strategy/Te Mana o Te Taiao.

“New Zealand’s biodiversity is a rich tapestry of animal and plant life, from wonderful snails and rare lichens to endangered birds and lizards, and the unique and special ecosystems they are a part of,” she said. “Many of these species are on the brink of extinction and the places they live in are highly degraded.

“This fund recognises that community groups play a vital role in protecting wildlife and places. We need these groups if we’re to turn around the biodiversity crisis.”

www.localmatters.co.nz

AT THE

The

12 days of

Christmas on

This year’s fund is divided into two streams: • $7.2 million for biodiversity projects that reduce the extinction risk of priority threatened species or protect priority ecosystems; • $2 million to protect cultural heritage sites and maintain visitor infrastructure in the backcountry.

“This funding will also enable heritage sites to be preserved for future generations and Visit www.localmatters.co.nz/mahurangi-xmas-22 to tell the public about important stories every day from December 1-12 to go in the draw to win on our conservation estate,” Whaitiri says.

There was no DOC Community Fund something special from a local business. round in 2021 due to the focus on the Thank you to the following businesses for their support: Department’s Jobs for Nature programme and COVID recovery, so $9.2 million is available this year asWINE a BLENDING double funding EXPERIENCE Become a winemaker for the day and round. learn how to create your own wine.

SUPER GOLD THURSDAYS This 1-hour experience will teach you the basics wine tasting and Community groups,blending, iwiplusof you and hapū, as $45 for a sampler antipasto platter & take a 375ml two glasses of wine or wine tasting bottle of your own creation home. well as private landowners throughout the paddle. Perfect for two people. $100 for 2 people. Bookings essential. country can apply for the funding.

Applications close on January 31 and successful applications will be announced presents CELLAR DOOR OPEN 6 DAYS WED - MON 11am - 4pm from late April.

Support the businesses that support our community.

n, so a se e iv st fe e th te ra b le ce To a day t n se re p a y a w a g in iv g re a we ber! for the first I2 days of Decem

Bookings recommended.

For SuperGold card holders only.

Wine tasting & Platters

Info: www.doc.govt.nz/get-involved/ funding/doc-community-fund/

568 Matakana Rd, Matakana Book online: www.matakanaestate.co.nz or Phone: 0800 568 686

Terms & conditions on each giveaway post.

NEW ES T DA

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

23

11th – 12th FEB and 16th - 19th FEB 7pm & 13th and 19th FEB 2pm @ Warkworth Town Hall

Tickets available from: www.wwtheatre.co.nz

Come fly

Councillors want greater transparency

Science

By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter.

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

Emeritus Professor Ralph Cooney ONZM, FRSNZ

r.cooney@auckland.ac.nz

Water quality future New Zealand, despite being counted as a wealthy first world country, has seriously poor and fragmented water quality management. This failure is demonstrated clearly in quantitative comparisons of regional water quality measures of NZ compared with those for regional centres in the UK. These benchmarks indicate that Auckland and NZ regional water quality measures are about 70% below counties such as Yorkshire and are much poorer than all UK centres examined in that study. It is not surprising, therefore, that NZ experiences major public health crises arising from this failure. These facts have been included in a report released in June last year, titled Transforming the System for Delivering Three Waters Services: A Summary of Proposals.

A panel of leading NZ medical scientists in the journal *Public Health Expert (July 2022) have reviewed the nature of those national public health problems associated with poor water quality. This review summarises the 2016 case history of Havelock North, which experienced a campylobacter outbreak that made most of the 8000 population of the town sick, with 58 hospitalisations and four deaths. This outbreak was attributed by a government inquiry to serious flaws in the NZ regulatory system for drinking water. It is conservatively estimated that about 34,000 people get sick as a result of drinking water in NZ each year. From 2009 to 2016, 96% of all bacterial exceedances came from small population supplies. It is estimated that small or rural supplies will require a 13fold increase in the current water charges to meet safe future needs. The review gives two key issues that need to be considered in resolving these water quality problems.

Firstly, the current approach to water services is far from adequate to protect public health and, secondly, individual councils cannot afford to support the necessary upgrades in water services without major rates increases.

The issue of managing the massive cost of major upgrading is tied up with scale. Larger scale, according to the head of water management in Scotland, which has a similar population to NZ, is the best way that major essential infrastructural and human costs can be aligned, shared and so minimised. Larger scale ensures that the improvements will be affordable to and accessible by the smaller communities and rural towns.

Water New Zealand has estimates that the water sector will require an additional 6000 to 9000 skilled workers over the next 30 years if safe water quality standards are to be met. It is unrealistic and impractical to expect that each of the 67 councils will be able to recruit the professional hydrologists, engineers, spatial data specialists and public health specialists necessary to make the local transformation to safe water supply. The aging plant and pipe upgrading costs have been estimated to be up to $185 billion over the next 40 years. This enormous economic burden is obviously beyond the capacity of smaller councils and communities. Increased scale makes this transformation accessible to small communities.

The Government has stated that it is willing to consider changes to improve water reforms after a coalition of mayors proposed an alternative approach to the ownership and governance of the new regional water organisations. It is to be hoped that a national consensus is reached that ensures future generations, especially those in the small rural communities, will have access to safe and affordable drinking water. * This report can be read here: https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/ pubhealthexpert/three-waters-reforms-are-neededto-protect-public-health-and-ensure-changes-areeconomically-sustainable-and-efficient/ – The Transforming the System for Delivering Three Waters Services: A Summary of Proposals can be read with this story online

Read more columns online at www.localmatters.co.nz

Auckland Council’s financial discussions went behind closed doors on November 10, prompting unease from several councillors. At the Extraordinary Governing Body meeting, Cr Mike Lee said he was uncomfortable with council’s financial matters being dealt with in secret.

“We are reporting to the people of Auckland who are going to foot the bill in the end,” Lee said. “It is important that we use plain language. If you are proposing asset sales, well call them that rather than ‘recycling’.”

He said Council needed to have good reasons to go into a confidential session and those reasons were set out in the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act. “The declarations we all made the other night are still ringing in my ear about that particular piece of legislation.

Going into workshops routinely is really bypassing that Act.” Hibiscus Councillor John Watson asked Council staff for options beyond those mentioned in the meeting report, but was told those options would be discussed in the confidential workshop.

“There are probably members of the public who would be interested in what our response is going to be,” Watson said. “Today might have been an opportunity to signal that in the open meeting, hence the question.”

Cr Lotu Fuli had a different tack on the confidential workshop, instead trying to move for the open discussion to close before other councillors could ask their questions.

“I am eager to get to the workshop because I know that we have got a lot of mahi ahead of us, lots of questions, lots of options and advice that we will get from our staff and so, Your Worship, I would like to move that the motion be put so that we can get to that important mahi,” Fuli said.

Fuli’s motion was ruled out of order by the governance advisor.

Chief executive Jim Stabback responded to concerns around confidentiality.

“What we intend to do in the workshop is simply to create an environment where officers can provide free, frank and open advice to elected members,” Stabback said.

“That is the purpose of the workshop. It is not intended to bypass what ultimately needs to be a process of public consultation.”

After the meeting, Cr Wayne Walker said there was no reason why the workshop had to be held behind closed doors.

Making your place a green space

Growing spring veges?

OPEN 7 DAYS

Let us help

Grandad’s garden mix • Compost • Topsoil • General fertiliser • Sheep pellets • Blood & Bone and everything in between 371 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth • Call 0800 638 254 or 09 422 3700 • www.wyatts.net.nz 107 Mangawhai Heads Road, Mangawhai Heads • Call 09 431 5445 24

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

November 2022 – Your essential property guide from Dairy Flat to Waipu

Welcome home Properties from: Barfoot & Thompson | Bayleys | Fletcher Living | Ray White | RE/MAX Realty

fletcherliving.co.nz

Experience relaxed coastal living in a brand-new, Fletcher Living home at Red Beach!

We have a range of 3 & 4 bedroom homes, ready now. Visit our showhome to view!

7 Kuparu Lane, Red Beach. Open Sat/Sun 10am-4pm. Les Whale / 021 411 345 | Mahurangimatters www.localmatters.co.nz November 21,or 2022 A Local Matters publication. Distribution - 40,000 copies. Advertising enquiries: Mahurangi 09 425 9068 Hibiscus 09 427 8188 | 25

Wellsford 70 Spindler Road, Wayby Valley A masterclass in lifestyle living!

Undeniably elegant, this magnificent 580sqm (approx.) family home is set amongst an idyllic 6.5ha of pasture, vineyard and established grounds, with great attention to maximising the beautiful rural views and providing a home suitable for both family living and entertaining. The property continues to impress from the movement you come up the driveway - make the time to see for yourself!

6.5ha

Warkworth 725 Woodcocks Road

5

4

3

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 15 Dec 2022 41 Queen Street, Warkworth Phone for viewing times John Barnett 021 790 393 john.barnett@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

Take a virtual tour: vimeo.com/766682024

Villa 725 - perfect harmony

11.9ha

Set within a picture-perfect landscape, presiding over 11.9 ha of rural tranquillity. You will be captivated by the main residence – the wraparound verandas, high stud ceilings, architraves and period features. But there is no compromise here on your modern-day wish-list, with four bedrooms including master with ensuite, a spacious country kitchen, separate living, and formal lounge. Villa 725 is a very special kind of property, one not to be missed, and we recommend you secure your viewing today.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 30 Nov 2022 41 Queen Street, Warkworth View by appointment Dianna Coman 021 790 307 dianna.coman@bayleys.co.nz Shailenne Parkes 021 117 9142 shailenne.parkes@bayleys.co.nz

4

2

2

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1203234

bayleys.co.nz/1203239

Warkworth 38 Rivendell Place

Warkworth 27 Melwood Drive

Riverside retreat

4

Resting comfortably on the edge of the Mahurangi River Reserve, and spread over two separate levels, the upper featuring an open plan lounge with a cosy woodburner and handy heatpump, dining, kitchen, and wraparound deck, as well as two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, and a laundry. The lower level is a welcoming open-plan space with a further two bedrooms and tiled bathroom with laundry. Set on 813sqm, with snapper fishing from your jetty, or launch the boat to explore further up the Mahurangi Harbour, out into Kawau Bay, and beyond.

Auction (unless sold prior) 10am, Thu 1 Dec 2022 41 Queen Street, Warkworth View Sun 1-1.30pm Anthony Shaw 021 234 9797 anthony.shaw@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/1203235

2

3

1

4

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

Owners have purchased and are committed to selling New flooring throughout, internal and external paint, modernised bathrooms, LED lighting, and double glazing. North-facing, and bathed in natural light all year round. Entertain from the spacious living room with gas fireplace, or open plan dining, kitchen, and family room with ranch sliders onto the patio and flat, fully fenced garden. Carpeted garage with internal access, large carport, laundry room, full insulation, two heat pumps, and more.

706sqm

3

2

2

Auction (unless sold prior) 1.30pm, Thu 24 Nov 2022 28 Northcroft Street, Takapuna Anthony Shaw 021 234 9797 anthony.shaw@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1203232

bayleys.co.nz 26 | Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022 26 WelcomeHome

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters November 2022

www.localmatters.co.nz November 2022

| 27 November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters 27 WelcomeHome

28 | Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022 28 WelcomeHome

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters November 2022

www.localmatters.co.nz November 2022

| 29 November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters 29 WelcomeHome

30 | Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022 30 WelcomeHome

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters November 2022

ALL OVER

COASTAL Millwater 22 Arriere Lane

We are confident our total price and value package will not be beaten. Phone Roger or Leanne today for a no obligation chat.

Leanne Wallace 021 594 022 | leanne.wallace@bayleys.co.nz Roger Sumich 029 666 6666 | roger.sumich@bayleys.co.nz Sabrina Foster 021 024 52545 | sabrina.foster@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

ALL OVER THE

PENINSULA Whangaparāoa 27 Manly Park Avenue

Cushla Fell 027 681 8609 | cushla.fell@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

www.localmatters.co.nz November 2022

| 31 November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters 31 WelcomeHome

Spectacular sections.

Selling now!

An enviable location to live, perched elegantly above the northern edge of Warkworth and just 45 minutes from the Auckland CBD, you’ll find Warkworth Ridge.

These 53 hectares of rolling hills and stunning views will be home to a collection of carefully considered sections that combine the things that matter most — connection, nature, and wellbeing.

Warkworth Ridge is created with harmony in mind, expect greenery and open spaces, attractive street appeal and house sites positioned for sunshine and rural views. Leading edge urban design will complete the picture of a neighbourhood with its own parks, cycleways, footpaths, community centre, café, and playground.

Living a life of plenty, surrounded by nature.

Artistic Impression

Artistic Impression

Anthony Shaw 021 234 9797 anthony.shaw@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

32 | Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022 32 WelcomeHome

Joneen Smith 021 464 557 joneen.smith@bayleys.co.nz

Sales Suite Open 11am-2pm Wed-Sun 2 Clayden Rd, Warkworth

www.warkworthridge.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters November 2022

feature making waves

Insurance at sea

From a simple jump start to something more serious, non-urgent assistance is free for Coastguard members. Membership starts from just $130, but if you’re not a member, a callout will cost at least $280 an hour. By signing up, you have a peace of mind of knowing that help is just a call away and you are supporting a valuable local volunteer service. To join, go to: https://membership. boatiesbestmate.nz/join/ details

Lifejacket promotion

Skipper Thelma Wilson says being part of Coastguard gives volunteers the opportunity the learn a range of search and rescue skills.

Coastguard volunteers come from many different walks of life, from fencers and retired flight engineers to homemakers and retirees, but all share a love of the sea. They also undertake regular training in Kawau Bay.

The Coastguards Old4New Lifejacket Campaign is back. If your lifejackets need upgrading, head down to the Snells Beach boat ramp, Sunset Boulevard, on Monday, December 19, between 2pm and 5pm. Find out more about the best lifejackets at Boatie’s Best Mate https://www.boatiesbestmate.nz/lifejackets

Kawau Coastguard volunteer patrols keep boaties safe Nobody heads out for a day’s fishing, kayaking or sailing thinking that something could go wrong. But if it does, the Kawau Volunteer Coastguard has your back.

The service operates out of Sandspit and covers from Bream Tail to the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, including all the way out to the 12-mile limit, Great Barrier and the Mokohinau Islands.

It is currently operating with 24 volunteers who work in three teams. Their primary role is saving lives at sea and they aim to provide rescue cover around the clock, seven days a week.

And, in case you missed it, this is a service run by volunteers – retirees, homemakers, fencers, civil engineers and so on. Just ordinary people who share a love of the sea and are prepared to put their lives on the line to help others if necessary.

A duty crew trains every Sunday in rotation, subject to callouts, where the practice search and rescue techniques, medical and mechanical training, towing and callout procedures.

Kawau president Paul Steinkamp says the local Coastguard is averaging two callouts a week.

“We’re expecting a busy summer so it’s good to make people aware of some of the issues and to educate them about the dangers at sea,” he says.

Number one on the safety list is make sure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket.

“We fished five fishermen out of the water in February after their boat capsized and they only survived because they were wearing lifejackets.

“Secondly, try to take two forms of communication. Cell phones are only

person to person, whereas a marine radio tells everyone in the area if you have an issue. Use Channel 16 or Channel 60 if you have a mayday. For an issue that needs Coastguard, then channel 60 works fine in this area.”

Here are some more top tips: • Weather changes, so take spare clothing/ waterproofs and be aware of changing conditions.

• Take extra food and water in case you are delayed, maybe after a breakdown • Check the batteries in torches, handheld VHFs and GPS units. Check the terminals on your engine batteries, as dirty ones may mean the batteries don’t charge as well. Electricity often lets you down at sea.

• If you have a portable battery jump pack, then take it. You might use it, or

you may help someone else.

• Check your fuel is okay and topped up.

We often go to boats with no fuel, two stroke oil or hydraulic fluid.

• If you get into trouble, call Coastguard before you get into a more dangerous situation.

“Take extra care if you are coming back late.

We went to a boat at the end of April that turned the wrong way and ended up on the rocks at the mouth of the Mahurangi River.”

Finally, Steinkamp says don’t underestimate the value of doing some boating education.

“Coastguard runs several very good courses starting with a basic day skipper course through to more detailed boatmaster courses, as well as courses on GPS, radar and engine maintenance. See: www.boatingeducation.org.nz”

Need water? We can help!

• Fast delivery • Easy ordering • Easy payment options

0800 50 44 50

www.raincloud.co.nz November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

33

feature making waves

Matakana Marine - Your One-stop Marine Shop!

09 422 7822

50A Matakana Valley Rd, Matakana, Auckland sales@matakanamarine.co.nz • www.matakanamarine.co.nz Mon-Fri 8am-5pm 34

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

access the Poor Knights, Mokohinau, Hen and Chicks, and Great and Little Barrier Islands for periods of up to a week. Her fitout includes a spacious interior, bunkstyle accommodation, a large galley, bathroom with hot shower, and crew cabins. For Bennett, the recreational market has presented a unique challenge.

“We are promoting the hire of the vessel to all dive centres and clubs across the country, as well as tour operators,” he says. “The Hawere, a vessel rich in local history, will be available to everyone, and help expose visitors to the beauty of the Hauraki Gulf.”

It is rare for one vessel to prove so adaptable, and rarer still for one to stimulate such sea changes as the ones Hawere seems tipped to provide for the local industry. Since Hawere entered their care, NZ Oceanic Charters have expanded their team. The skipper, Wayne Taylor, will be joined by interns from local colleges as they start to forge their careers on the waters of Aotearoa. The internship programme, created by NZ Oceanic and New Zealand Diving, helps train and qualify two local students as deck crew, with this year’s recipients being Wyatt Collins and Kael Marsh, both hailing from Rodney College.

“Such an opportunity will allow them to participate in a wide range of work that equips them with essential industry experience,” Bennett says.

Beginning with the history of the island from which it took its name and echoing through to many long years of research and exploration within the Mahurangi region, Hawere’s history is a fabled one, and one which seems set to enter a bright new chapter under the ownership of NZ Oceanic Charters.

New chapter for historic Hawere

By Samuel Chitty

An iconic local vessel has entered a new chapter under the stewardship of NZ Oceanic Charters, based out of Warkworth.

Hawere is named for Mahurangi’s own Motu Hawere, or Goat Island. An area rich in history, the island is said to have been the landing place of Ngāti Manuhiri’s ancestral waka, provided the centrepiece of the nation’s first marine reserve in 1975, and is a hub for fishery research, marine biology and aquacultural development.

It is fitting, then, that the island’s nautical namesake, Hawere, began life as a research vessel for the University of Auckland, commissioned to aid the Leigh Marine Laboratory with estuary surveys, overnight research cruises and dive trips. According to Dr Richard Taylor, from the University of Auckland’s School of Biological Sciences, Hawere helped create new and groundbreaking information on a “huge range of habitats and locations in the Hauraki Gulf and beyond”.

Recently, she enabled them to carry out deep-sea photography of ocean scallop beds, needed to aid sustainability research.

Come today, Hawere can be found moored at Scott’s Landing, and under the care of the newly-formed NZ Oceanic Charters.

Over the last few years, the dive industry has had to contend with particularly harsh winters, increased compliance regulations and, of course, the circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic. This has resulted in a downturn for the local charter market, something which NZ Oceanic Charters, buoyed by the acquirement of the Hawere, hopes to change.

United by a shared passion for the sea, the company has come about as a collaboration between three owners – owner and director of international brokerage SeaBoats Geoff Fraser, owner and operator of New Zealand Diving in Warkworth Neil Bennett, and managing director of cleaning company A-Jet Services Mike Collins.

Outboard Service & Repairs  Experience in all leading brands  Outboard installations  Sterndrives  All electrical requirements & maintenance  Fully mobile service  Computer diagnostics  30 year’s experience

In anticipation of the coming summer, NZ Oceanic has dedicated the past winter to giving Hawere a complete overhaul. Various refurbishments, renovations and refits have helped ensure Hawere is summer-fit, and that all operations can go ahead without a hitch. Hawere’s specs are impressive – she houses two powerful Caterpillar 3126 engines capable of reaching cruising speeds of 19 knots, giving her a wide operational range, especially when partnered with a 2000-litre fuel capacity.

In her new role, the Hawere is intended to help stimulate two main markets. The first is marine research. Fitted with commercial features such as hoists and winches, she is well-equipped to assist researchers, and has already supported organisations such as NIWA. Recently, she enabled them to carry out deep-sea photography of ocean scallop beds, needed to aid sustainability research.

The second market is recreational liveaboard charters. Working in tandem with New Zealand Diving, Hawere is capable of taking clients on adventures to the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, allowing them to

GETGET READY READY

FOR SUMMER FOR SUMMER Water courses & charters Gear packages packages & Gear & deals deals Hydrotesting & servicing

CONTACT TODAY

KAWAU BAY MOBILE OUTBOARD SERVICE

PHONE TODD 0800

502 013

09 422 3599 dive@nzdiving.co.nz Unit 2, 9/23 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

35

feature making waves

AUTOMOTIVE

&

AUTOELECTRICAL

EUROPEAN CAR SPECIALISTS BATTERIES | DIAGNOSTICS

Get your air conditioning sorted with us before summer ... book now!

HOURS: MON-FRI 8am - 5.30pm ALTERNATE SATURDAYS 9am - 1pm COURTESY CARS AVAILABLE | Honest, Friendly Service

09 422 3222

27 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth www.strautomotive.co.nz

When you’re looking for a relaxing holiday, not far from home Quiet achiever sets sailing A lifetime in the making – Tony Armit with his book.

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.

09 422 6199 | 261 Pakiri River Road, Pakiri

info@pakiriholidaypark.co.nz | www.pakiriholidaypark.co.nz

36

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

record straight at last Martins Bay resident Tony Armit may be approaching his 90th birthday, but that’s not all he’s celebrating, as this month also marks the publication of his first book.

What many people may find surprising is that it’s a book recording an incredible, but largely unrecognised and unknown achievement from his youth – the time when he and a mate became the first New Zealanders to sail around the world.

Speaking from his clifftop home overlooking the Hauraki Gulf waters he’s sailed all his life, Armit explained that, at the time, making history was the last thing on his mind.

It was 1954, he was 21 and he had spent the last three years building a 28-foot wooden yacht, which he called Marco Polo, and he was keen to test its mettle and seek adventure on the high seas, After teaming up with old school mate Brian ‘Tig’ Loe, and a few trial runs in the Hauraki Gulf, they threw in their jobs and studies and set off with no real plan except to travel for as long and as far as they cared to.

“We never actually wanted to go round the world, we just wanted to go sailing,” he said. “Blokes were sailing up the Pacific, drinking and playing with girls. As a young bloke, that sounded like a good idea to me.

We were single with no responsibility to anyone.”

Their equipment was virtually nonexistent – no computers, no phones, not even lifejackets. All they had was one

lifebuoy ring, four old flares, a borrowed inflatable life raft and an ex-war radio that had to be hand-cranked. There were also maps, books and a wood-burning stove.

First stop was Australia, then across the Indian Ocean to South Africa, where a storm nearly ended not only their adventure, but also their lives. In a raging gale with eight metre waves, Marco Polo was knocked flat on its side and Armit was flung over the side.

“It was the worst possible thing that could have happened. I could feel the boat sinking on top of me and I was tied to the boat,” he recalled. “I thought you know, this could be the end of us.”

As Armit struggled to untie himself, he surfaced and managed to drag himself back aboard, only to find Loe in an even worse state, having gashed his leg open falling through a window. After drifting for days in their damaged boat, sick and hallucinating, the pair somehow found their way to Port Elizabeth, where they spent two months recovering.

After a spell in the doldrums and a navigational hiccup off Cape Verde, the pair abandoned plans to sail north to the UK and crossed instead to the Caribbean and North America, before eventually passing through the Panama Canal, across the Pacific and back to New Zealand.

The journey took three years all up, with countless stops, adventures and characters continued next page

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

from previous page

in between, all of which Armit relates with great humour, colour and down to earth candour.

Armit, who moved to Mahurangi with wife Annabelle more than 30 years ago, says he always intended to write a book about his epic voyage, but remains unsure why it took him nearly 70 years to get around to it.

Anyone who enjoys a rollicking good yarn voiced by a self-effacing, can-do Kiwi will be glad that he did.

Marco Polo by Tony Armit is available from Matakana Village Books, The Photo Store and Paper Plus in Warkworth, Boat Books Westhaven, Nationwide Book Distributors and Kindle.

l ... loca up r u Yo e justcal ... o Y’orurrloads.t up we e ju e h r ’ t we ad. the ro

Armit en route, aboard the Marco Polo.

Book giveaway Mahurangi Matters has a copy of Marco Polo to give away. To enter, just email reporter@localmatters.co.nz with ‘Marco Polo’ in the subject line, plus your name and a contact number. Competition closes Monday, Nov 28.

& HIRE CENTRE ENTRE

C & HIRE OW NWE ANGE: HAVE NOW EXTENDED O OUR RANGE: UR R

DED Stock a full range E NBlack E X Tof • PlyAboard N O W equipment, Efishing V H Magic E W timbers • Interior framing and interiorr finishing finishing timbers ly board Ptackle and inaccessories d interio n a g •• Insulation material m a Interior fr al •• Morelalandscaping tion materi timbers • Insu g timbers in p a sc land • More Now selling bulk mulch, galrldinegn bmuilxk se anN d obwuildegrasrm deixn. mix mulch, ers mix. and build

D AY S O P E N 7Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm to OPEN 7 DAYS ay Mond - 4:00pm

: 8:00am 8:00am Monday Saturdayto Friday: 0pm - 5:00pm :00am - 3:0 Saturday: Sunday: 98:00am - 4:00pm Sunday: 9:00am - 3:00pm

n Road, o i t a t S 9 2 Station Road, 29 Wellsford Wellsford 11 9 423 78hardware.co.nz 0 09 423 7811 mer ham wellsford@ wellsford@hammerhardware.co.nz

Paddleboarders are being encouraged to use a leash, wear a buoyancy aid, know the conditions and tell someone where they are and what time they expect to return.

Paddleboarding interest grows The fact that Kiwis love the water is borne out by latest Maritime NZ/Ipsos research that shows more than 2.1 million Kiwis undertook some form of recreational boating in the three months to June 2022.

Kayaks and powerboats are the most popular way people engage with the water, followed by the increasing popularity of paddleboarding.

Stand Up Paddling (SUP) safety officer Bill Dawes says the market has changed dramatically over the last five or six years, due to an influx of cheap boards available from high street stores and online.

“In the northern hemisphere, participation numbers have gone through the roof over the last few summers, and it is entirely probable we’re going to see the same here this summer,” he says.

“That has also led to an increase in incidents and rescues.”

At Wenderholm in 2019, a novice paddleboarder, who was also a fulltime swimming teacher and lifesaver, died after her leg rope became entangled around a buoy when she fell from her board. In 2015, a teenager died in Whangamata Harbour when she was dragged under a boat by the current and her leg rope became entangled

in the boat’s keel.

The Coroner who delivered their findings on the Wenderholm drowning incident earlier this year made a number of recommendations, including: • The need for appropriate equipment for the conditions, such as quick-release waist leashes in moving water • Novice paddleboarders should start in sheltered waters and familiarise themselves with hazards before setting out • Personal flotation devices should be worn, where appropriate.

However, Dawes says education is the key.

“Don’t assume that because you’re experienced in other water activities, you’ll automatically know what’s best for SUP. “If you are starting out as a newcomer to the sport, we recommend getting a lesson if at all possible. Planning is also essential.

“It’s only when you understand what the risks are and what they look like, that you can counter them. The first part of SUP safety is gaining this knowledge.”

Both the Safer Boating NZ and NZSUP websites have safety information, helpful guides and free courses.

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

37

feature making waves

History Bev Ross, Mangawhai Museum

www.mangawhai-museum.org.nz

An unfortunate whale that beached itself at Mangawhai in the 1920s.

A whale of a tale

MATAKANA MOBILE VALET

PREMIUM VALET & CERAt.4!IC COATING SPECIALISTS

fDU �i

I� J �_, n �1

�,i;;;....a.,LU-r:,,,E<e�he boat ramp or marina

___ ,Due to our harsh weather conditions, your boat starts deteriorating as soon as it hits the water. Salt build up, UV damage and oxidation are all common problems boaties face.

Our Premuim Ceramic coating can help stop the salt sticking and by adding an extra layer it helps stop fading and damage from the harsh UV rays. Whether you're an avid fisherman or just like crusing the blue, our Ceramic Coating can el�JttPu keep your vessel looking its best. � VALET SERVICES * Full Cut and Polish * 2-Step Teak Treatment * Oxidation Removal * Stainless Polishing * Gelcoat Rejuvenation * Ceramic Coatings

This true event happened in December 1970, when three fishermen left sleepy Mangawhai to go fishing from their 22foot launch near Sail Rock, off Mangawhai Heads. There was retired farmer Harold Browne, his 14-year-old grandson Lawrence Torckler and sheep farmer Cliff Bowmar.

After setting up and throwing out their lines, they relaxed while waiting for fish to bite, when they noticed a pod of whales swimming nearby. One of the humpbacks at 70 feet long, began circling their launch and managed to hook itself on to the anchor warp. Cliff quickly made a couple of turns around one of the boat’s bollards with the anchor rope and held on, but then with a lurch, the whale went churning away in spurts – putting on speed as it went. Cliff tried desperately to hold the rope and burned his hands doing so.

Harold estimated it travelled at speeds of up to 10 knots, on a choppy sea, before slowing down after about 15 minutes when it broke free, taking a lot of anchor, chain and rope with it.

When asked if they were at all afraid that the whale might have taken the boat and them down into the depths, they said they

were prepared for that outcome and had a knife ready to cut the rope and set the launch free, if necessary.

The NZ Herald wrote that, “Apart from a whale of a tale of the ‘one that got away’, all that the three fishermen had to show for their trip away was one snapper”. I’m sure they would have lived on that experience for many a month. Actually, the story was retold for many a year.

Another Mangawhai whale story involved a whale that beached itself in the 1920s.

Men for miles around came to look at the large creature as it lay quite dead and alone.

The men decided they would cut it up and share it about the district. Some took meat for the dogs, others concentrated on getting flesh that they could get oil from. That oil was then used to moisturise harness, that was worn by their horses, and leather that was part of the furniture on the gigs and traps that they used for driving about in.

Unfortunately, along with the oil went a strong unpleasant smell that lasted for years. One of the daughters commented just how embarrassing it was to take a ride in one of their gigs or carts after the leather work had been given the ‘treatment’.

Sand dune care

Northland Council has raised concerned about the damage done to sand dunes by vehicles, weeds and animal pests. CoastCare coordinator Laura Shaft says it’s easy to take sand dunes for granted but they have many important values. “They’re home to specialised native plants and wildlife, they help protect land and infrastructure from coastal erosion, they often contain important cultural sites, and they help maintain a healthy beach,” Shaft says. She says there are two key native species on our fore dunes – tihetihe/kowhangatara (spinifex) and pīngao. “Both are sand-binders, helping to trap wind-blown sand while still allowing some sand movement which is vital for a healthy dune.” Those in the north wanting to get involved in a CoastCare group looking after their local beach can find further information at www.nrc.govt.nz/coastcaregroups or contact CoastCare@nrc.govt.nz

Long Lasting Finish Stain Resistant, UV Protection Deep Gloss Shine

"Protect Your Assets, Keep Them New For Longer"

021 236 8561 WWW.MATAKANAMOBILE.CO.NZ 38

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

[Ci] .-:aII •

•

Supplying a range of • Beach and All Terrain Wheelchairs • Powered All Terrain Wheelchairs • Kayak & Beach Carts • Boat and Jetski Dollies Check out our range on www.beachwheels.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

UNDER N EW MANAGEMENT

Vehicle service Wheel alignment WOF Mechanical repairs Maintenance Light engineering GT radial tyres Falken tyres available on site

Snells Beach Motors

Electric bikes stockist

Don’t be ‘That’ guy Water Safety NZ is calling on everyone, but particularly men, to step up this summer and take safety around water seriously.

Last year, of the 90 people who drowned, 76 were male. Already this year, 70 families have lost one of their own in a drowning incident.

Water Safety chief executive Daniel Gerrard says around 30 Kiwis, mostly male, will drown over the next two months.

“Some might make it to celebrate the festive season with their family, but most won’t get to see the New Year,” he says.

“No one is planning to become ‘That Guy’, but it’s now or never to make a real effort about being safe in, on and around

water as we enjoy our beaches, lake and rivers. While these spots become summer playgrounds and pantries, let’s make sure that don’t also become our graves.”

Gerrard says pakeha males in power boats, Maori men gathering kai underwater, Asian men fishing from rocks and Pasifika men fishing from boats are consistently over-represented in drowning tragedies.

He says it is blatantly obvious that Kiwis are underestimating their risks while around water.

“By knowing the conditions, supervising the kids, wearing a lifejacket and remembering that you’re not as good as you were when you were 20, you will make it home at the end of the day.”

425 5355

1 Hamatana Road, Snells Beach snellsbeachmotors@gmail.com

Check ‘em out or take one for a test ride!

Come and say HI to Matt and the team!

Drowning insights: if you’re male and 55+, pay attention Last year, Māori, Asian and NZ European drowning deaths of males aged 55+ were the highest numbers on record.

The current 55+ males cohort is one that appears to be risk takers (shown through drowning fatality numbers) throughout their adult lives.

The proportion of incidents over time for males over 55 has also increased, possibly indicating that the boomers remain more active in their older years than earlier generations.

Older males fatalities and incidents occur largely when boating. It is more likely to be powered boating than sail, oar or

paddlecraft. The people involved are more likely to be NZ European and live in the upper North Island.

In the majority of boating fatalities, the boat sank or capsized, or the person fell overboard and could not get back on board. Many incidents were also the person involuntarily entering the water but also included injuries on board the boat It is not particularly an alcohol problem, it is a lifejacket problem. Seventy-seven per cent of 55+ boating fatalities were not wearing a lifejacket correctly.

Source, Water Safety NZ

09 422 6925 142a Pakiri Road, Leigh dive@goatislanddive.co.nz www.goatislanddive.co.nz www.facebook.com/goatislanddive Hours 7 Days, 8am-5pm

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

39

In brief

Christmas brunch at Snells

The Mahurangi East community is invited to brunch on the beach at Snells on Christmas Day, from 11.30am. A tradition pre-Covid, an organiser Katie Burton says it is a great chance to meet the neighbours and share some Christmas cheer. Anyone attending is asked to provide a gift suitable for a child, wrapped and clearly labelled with gender and age, which can be dropped at the Warkworth Police Station before December 21. Food and salads can be delivered to the Sunrise Boulevard Road Reserve (by the flying fox) on the day between 10am-10.30am. Further donations can be made to bank account no: 12 3105 0020 458 02.

The bad weather alternative venue is the Mahurangi East Community Centre.

Info: Moana 021 024 61732 or Katie 021 701 779.

Businesses collaborate on food truck fare.

Permanent

food truck stands for

growing

partnership

Matakana businesses 8-Wired Barrelworks and Sculptureum have joined forces to site a permanent food truck at the Barrelworks premises in Matakana called Sculptureum Kitchen.

Barrelworks general manager Darren De Graff says he was keen to move away from the rotating food trucks he’d had in the past and provide something more consistent, while still retaining the food truck vibe.

The menu has been designed by Sculptureum’s executive chef Josh Hazel.

He says the idea is to keep it along the lines of what people would expect from a food truck, but making it slightly more

approachable for a brewery offering.

“We have incorporated a selection of 8 Wired beers in some dishes and are looking to grow on this concept moving forward,” he says.

Following the success of Sculptureum’s temporary food truck last autumn, Hazel approached De Graff to gauge interest on leasing the kitchen space on a permanent basis and from there Sculptureum Kitchen was born.

“Our hope is for the partnership to continue growing and building a strong following in the community,” Hazel says.

Kaipara College students in Kaipara Kapa Haka Festival in 2019.

Kaipara Kapa Haka festival

The Kaipara Kapa Haka Festival will be held hosted by Helensville Primary School on November 26. Around 20 local schools will be participating including Kaipara College, Warkworth School, Otamatea High School and Mahurangi College. The festival will include access to a number of hau ora (health and wellbeing) stalls including ARDS (child dental), and vision and hearing technicians. There will also be free Mr Whippy ice cream, a sausage sizzle and popcorn. Te Tai Tokerau MP Kelvin Davis and Labour List MP Marja Lubeck will attend.

Mountain curry cuisine Great menu selection at

great locations

warkworth HOURS

wellsford HOURS

45-47 Queen St, Warkworth Ph 09 425 0505

95 Rodney Street, Wellsford Ph 09 945 2525

Wed-Mon 11am - 9.30pm

40

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

7 Days 10am - 9.30pm

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Canine capers and doggy delights at Snells skatepark Calling all canines, pooches, hounds and mutts – Mahurangi East Library Friends and staff are organising a special Dog Day Out next month at the Goodall Reserve skatepark in Snells Beach.

The celebration for dogs and their families will feature a dog show competition, dogrelated stalls, hot dogs to eat and doggy dress-ups for the kids.

The show competition will feature a wide range of classes, including biggest dog, loudest dog and dog that looks most like its owner. The show entry ‘fee’ is the donation of a dog food product, all of which will be given after the event to the Country Retreat animal sanctuary at Pohuehue.

Library manager Fleur Coleman said the

idea for the dog-themed day came as a result of the changes in dog access rules that have been brought in to protect shorebirds at the northern end of Snells Beach.

“We thought ‘what’s something positive we can do for dog owners?’, so came up with this to promote Goodall Reserve as an excellent place you can walk your dog offleash,” she said.

The Dog Day Out celebration will take place on Saturday, December 10 from 10am to 2pm.

Anyone who would like to know more or enter the dog show should call in at Mahurangi East Library or contact them via Facebook.

Fundraising for hall refurbishment The Matakana Hall Society hopes to raise $20,000 over coming months to cover improvements to the kitchen and toilets, and a general tidy up.

Secretary Jenni Francis says the renovations will help make the hall more attractive for events such as weddings.

“The current kitchen is almost as old as the 60-year-old hall, so the plan is to put in new cabinets, a steriliser and stainless-steel benches, and give it a paint job,” Francis says.

“Then there is a new roof, outside painting, a big tidy up of the grounds, and more to come.”

The land was donated to the community and the hall was built by local labour and lots of volunteer weekends, and still relies heavily on community support.

It is regularly used for yoga, dance, fitness classes, table tennis, youth drama, guides, the Matakantata Choir, floral arts and bee keeping meetings.

On December 10, there will be a sales table outside the hall with gifted and donated items – new and not so new – baking and preserves.

Then on Sunday, December 18, there will be a community Christmas event with carol singing, Santa, entertainment, junk play, BYO picnic, plus a pizza van and Mr Whippy.

“It came about because we realised many new families in the local area may not have even been in the hall so this is a chance to get together with the children for a community Christmas event,” Francis says.

“This is not really part of the fundraising, but any koha will go towards it.”

with the new resident kitchen

Summer Opening Hours from 22nd November TUESDAY 12-9PM WEDNESDAY 12-9PM THURSDAY 12-9PM FRIDAY 12-9PM SATURDAY 11-10PM SUNDAY 12-7PM Ramping up to 7 days in the New Year!

The best beer and food match in town!

New Release and Soon to be Released from the Brewery!

NZH-101 Bract Project NZ Pilsner

www.localmatters.co.nz

Kingsnake West Coast IPA

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

41

Cuisine Lauraine Jacobs

www.laurainejacobs.co.nz/blog/

Ham glorious ham The festive season is already underway and one of the luxuries of this time of year is the Christmas ham. It seems that a special birthday party, a wedding buffet or an extravagant end of year celebration is where we are most likely to see a large pink ham taking pride of place, glistening in all its glory.

Although the expense is large, ham is often the staple that will see the family through the holiday season. Once the main feast is over, there are endless ways to enjoy ham beyond the good old ham sandwich. It is the investment in the fridge that keeps on giving!

I think it is well worth seeking out the best ham you can. Look for a ham that’s not oozing too much moisture, often a sign there’s been rather too much water injected in the curing process to plump up the ham. Most butchers and supermarkets carry hams of all sizes to suit their customers, and I’d like to think that discerning diners would support our farmers who produce New Zealand raised pork.

Our family which is small, usually orders a half ham, and I prefer the ‘champagne’ ham, which despite its name, has nothing to do with that bubbly wine. It is a ham with almost all the bones removed, generally chunkier and rounder than the traditional ham on the bone, and much easier to carve into even slices.

Folk often ask why a cooked ham needs to be glazed. It is this step that makes ham really celebratory and adds crunchy interesting flavour. If you wish you can go all out, and decorate it with pineapple or orange slices, once the glaze is cooked onto the ham. When serving a ham I like to do the glaze about two or three hours before guests arrive.

That way it is still warm and can be carved once eating commences.

Once the feasting is over, the best way to keep a ham fresh is to use a ‘ham bag.’ These are simple bags made from rough cotton with a convenient drawstring to keep the freshness in. A ham bag should be soaked in a mixture of warm water and half a cup of cider vinegar before being wrung out. Keep the ham in the bag in the refrigerator and every second day, take the ham from the bag, rinse the bag well and once again refresh it with water and vinegar.

Leftover ham makes for brilliant holiday season breakfasts. Cut slices quite thickly to fry gently alongside eggs, or if you’re feeling creative you can always whip up an impressive Eggs Benedict by tucking slices of ham under the poached eggs. Slice the ham into finger sized julienne strips and add them to salads, omelettes and cheesy pasta dishes. And there’s no doubt that having a ham in the fridge may be the best thing ever for midnight snacks for hungry revellers.

Glazed Christmas ham 1 cooked ham on the bone (6kg to 9kg) For the garnish 3 tablespoons cloves For the glaze 1 ¼ cups dark beer or orange juice 1 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon ground cardamom 2 tablespoons English mustard powder

If your ham has a thick skin, that will need to be removed first. To a make this step easier, place the ham in a preheated 140°C oven for about 10 minutes, which will warm the ham and allow the skin and the fat underneath to separate. Carefully cut around the skin at the shank end of the ham, leaving about a little of the skin on the end of the bone, and using your fingers, work your way under the skin to loosen it, leaving a good coating of fat on the ham.

Use a very sharp knife to score the surface of the fat

into small, even diamonds, cutting down no more than 1cm. Stick to cloves into the fat in an even pattern to decorate and add flavour. Place the ham in a large baking dish and pour over 1 cup of the beer or orange juice.

Slowly bake the ham in an oven preheated to 160˚C for about 10 minutes per kilogram (hams generally weigh between 6kg and 9kg).

About 15 minutes before the total cooking time is up, remove the ham from the oven and turn the heat up to 200˚C. Mix together the sugar, cardamom and mustard with the enough of the remaining beer or juice so it is moist but not runny. Spread this over the ham and return to the ham oven for the last 10-15 minutes so the skin is nicely glazed. You can turn up the upper element in your oven to get a good glaze but it’s important to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Allow to cool and slice as you need it. The ham can be prepared well ahead, but keep it refrigerated until just before serving.

WHATS ON THIS MONTH AT THE

Warkworth RSA

LIVE BANDS EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT, NO COVER CHARGE

Visitors Most Welcome

Saturday 26th November 7.30pm $30 per ticket at the bar.

ALL WELCOME

Friday 2nd December

Scratch Friday 9th December

McSweeney’s Bros and Marian Burns

Mens Snooker Wednesdays 12 noon Housie Monday 5th December, 7pm Housie Wednesday 7th December, 1.30pm Thursday 500 Cards at 1pm Ladies Pool Thursdays at 1pm Darts Club Thursdays at 7pm Final raffles Friday 16th Dec

Gunners Restaurant OPEN Thursdays & Fridays from 5.30pm.

Closed for Christmas period as of 17 December

Friday 16th December

Dave Ewart Jnr

28 Neville Street, Warkworth | Phone 425 8568

42

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Santa Sleigh Ride

Santa Claus makes welcome return

The Warkworth Santa Parade is back to set the festive scene on Sunday, December 4, starting at 11am.

After a two-year hiatus, it will leave from Baxter Street (Neville Street end), travel through Queen Street into the Paper Plus carpark and behind Bayleys, then return along Queen Street, go down Kapanui Street to the wharf and up Wharf Street back onto Baxter Street. It will then turn at Lucy Moore Park and head back along Baxter Street, Queen Street, to Paper Plus carpark again and finish down at the wharf for prize giving.

For anyone who is unable to make the parade, or who just wants to soak up some more of Santa, there is another chance to see him, accompanied by Mrs Claus, and escorted by the town crier in his sports car.

On Monday, December 5 at 5.30pm, this jolly crew will start at Tyre Power, head towards town and back past New World, around through the streets to Pulham Road, then on to Woodcocks Road, over the river at Mansel Drive, down Hill Street, round the town via Queen Street and Neville, then back to Tyre Power to end. Children are encouraged to be out on the streets ready to greet Mr and Mrs Claus, who may also have some lollies to share.

Snells Beach can also expect a visit from the Christmas couple on December 7 at 5.30pm. Starting at the Bayside Café, the procession will be mostly along Mahurangi East, dipping into the residential streets on the east side up as far as Gordon Craig Place, then over the west side to Dawson Road, before ending at the Warehouse.

Tyrepower 2 Mill Lane 5 Dec 5.30pm

Anyone keen to enter a float or walk with the town parade on December 4 should email murray@onemahurangi.co.nz Volunteers welcome also.

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

E D A R A P A T N A Sarkworth 4th Dec

W Drop in for breakfast or lunch and enjoy delicious home baked sweets and savouries paired with Rush coffee.

Take away or enjoy our friendly hospitality and beautiful outlook, fully fenced and child/pet friendly.

Just a short scenic drive from Matakana!

Open Wed to Sat 7-2pm, Sunday 8-2pm | 09 973 3235 1199 Matakana Valley Road, Whangaripo | www.whangaeats.co.nz

www.localmatters.co.nz

Parade is back! orth Santa w k r a W s, the 2 year r e t f A

11am to 1:30pm New route arf & along Wh reets Queen St

www.onemahurangi.co.nz/santa-parade-2022/

Proudly supported by:

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

43

O'MALLEY CONTRACTING LTD CONCRETE SPECALISTS FOUNDATIONS HOUSE SLABS | STAIRS RETAINING WALLS DRIVEWAYS |CARPARKS EXPOSED AGGREGATE COLOURED CONCRETE COMMERCIAL| RESIDENTIAL LICENCED BULDING PRACTITIONER FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

Family owned & Operated Kevin O'Malley | 021 2200 198 | www.omalleycontracting.com

GREENWOOD GROUNDSPREAD LIMITED 09 423 8871 • TIPPERS

LIMESTONE, HARD METAL AND POST PEELINGS

• TRACTORS

MULCHING, CULTIVATION, LOADER WORK, SCOOPWORK

• Fertilizer SPREADERS

Wellsford School Ag Day success

A heavy downpour failed to dampen the spirits of those attending the Wellsford School Ag and Gala Day on Saturday, October 29. Thankfully, the rain stayed away long enough to allow for the judging of the calves, lambs and goats. The day marked a re-brand of the Wellsford School ag and gala day with a new management team, Board of Trustees and PTA on board at the school. As well as being able to view well raised and cared for animals, visitors were able to see students participate in classroom activities such as photography, colouring competitions, edible gardens, scarecrows, recyclable creations, pet rocks and ‘bake and decorate’. The day included bouncy castles, jousting, food, drinks, raffles, silent auctions, quick fire raffles, and a plant and produce stand. Just over $15,000, was raised, which will go towards school projects. Organisers extended a huge thank you to sponsors, the community, parents, staff and PTA members for their support in making the event such a success.

• DIGGERS DRAINAGE, EARTHWORKS

ADD ROOM, SPACE, AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME

www.shadesdirect.co.nz

44

0800 742 337

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

OUTSIDER

CLEARSPAN

OUTDOOR SCREENS

FOLDING ARM AWNINGS

Contact us for no obligation measure and quote

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

RECYCLED CARDBOARD RECYCLED CARDBOARD • Animal Bedding • Compost / Worm Farms

Lorem ipsum

Lorem ipsum

• Animal Bedding • Composting Toilets • Compost / Worm Farms • Composting Toilets

• Garden Mulch • Multiple other uses

• Garden Mulch • Multiple other uses

• Animal Bedding

Ph: 0274 341329 / 0274 350758 sales@airlyte.co.nz / www.airlyte.co.nz

Ph: 0274 341329 / 0274 350758 sales@airlyte.co.nz / www.airlyte.co.nz Lorem ipsum

• Garden Mulch

RECYCLED CARDBOARD • Animal Bedding • Garden Mulch 1916 State Highway 1, KAIWAKA (Next to The Apple Basket) • Compost / Worm Farms • Multiple other uses Lesley 0274 341 329 | Grant 0274 350 758 | sales@airlyte.co.nz • Composting Toilets

www.airlyte.co.nz | OPEN: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm Phone first to confirm

• Composting Toilets • Compost / Worm Farms • Multiple other uses

Di Jensen took out the Champion of Champion Rose award.

Ph: 0274 341329 / 0274 350758 sales@airlyte.co.nz / www.airlyte.co.nz

Gloria Wilmot won Best in Show for these beautiful gladioli.

Besoul Funerals was awarded the Wilkinson Salver for An Aesthetic Contribution to Warkworth and Districts.

Flowers don’t disappoint The Warkworth Garden Club celebrated a major milestone when it held the annual Rose & Flower Show at the Warkworth Town Hall on November 11.

In its 101-year history, the show has only been cancelled three times – twice during World War II and last year, due to Covid.

The club was established in 1921, but due to last year’s forced cancellation, celebrated its centenary this year.

Show convenor Annette Sharp said there had been some concerns about how many entries would be received, given recent weather conditions.

These proved unfounded, with a good turnout of both entries and visitors.

She said entries from the children of Warkworth School showed their creative ability and were much admired.

The show was opened by long-time competitor Norma Miller.

Results: Campbell DÁrcy Cup, most points Section

A – Di Jensen 1, Norma Miller 2, Sally Greenwood 3. Flora Reilly Cup, most points Section B – Lynne Crump 1, Lyn Wade 2, Shona Huxtable 3. Candlesticks, most points Section C – Sally Greenwood 1, Gloria Wilmot 2, Julia Snelling and Sarah Clark, 3 equal. Helen and Henry Phibbs Trophy, most points Section D – Gloria Wilmot 1, Jennifer Hart 2, Gayleen Brown 3. Cruickshank Cup, one rose judged on merit – Section B winner, Lynne Crump. Sesquicentennial Cup, Best in Show winner, Gloria Wilmot.

Champion Certificates – exhibition rose, Lynne Crump; decorative rose, Lynne Crump; full blown rose, Di Jensen; large stem, Shona Huxtable; small stem, Gloria Wilmot. Freda Holt Trophy, Champion of Champion Rose, Di Jensen. President’s Cup, Sally Greenwood. Perpetual Challenge Rose Bowl (most points in sections A, B, C & D) – Gloria Wilmot 1, Lynne Crump and Sally Greenwood, 2 equal. Grange Trophy for Best Local Garden, Carmen Bailey. Wilkinson Salver, Besoul Funerals.

BRAKES • COOLING SYSTEMS • WOF • SERVICING • ALL REPAIRS - ALL MODELS • CAMBELTS • BIKE WOF PLUS SERVICING & REPAIRS TO MOTORHOMES UP TO 6T

CAMERON AUTO SERVICES PHONE: 09 425 7575 • 6/14 Glenmore Drive, Warkwor th • PHONE: 09 425 7575 www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

45

Wellsford

VET CLINIC

We provide: • Care for all your veterinary needs.

• Four dedicated Vets and friendly office staff, who deliver a comprehensive service.

• A Saturday morning clinic.

• An after hours emergency service in Wellsford.

116 Rodney Street, Wellsford (opposite McDonalds)

Phone 423 8008

www.vetsonline.co.nz/wellsfordvet

RODNEY SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

PHONE 09 422 7166 OR 027 494 6370

Animals Nena Nepia, Wellsford Vet Clinic https://wellsfordvet.com/

Rat bait danger Most of the domestic rodenticides used in NZ are baits containing anticoagulants, with the same mode of action in that they prevent the production of vitamin K, which is needed for blood clotting. Poisoning of dogs generally occurs through eating the baits directly rather than secondary poisoning (where the dog eats a rat that has died from the bait).

As vets, we see one of three scenarios when we get the call of rat bait poisoning in dogs: • “My dog just ate some rat bait.” If you can get your dog to us within a couple of hours of ingesting the bait, we can cause vomiting and essentially stop the poison being absorbed into the body at all.

Sometimes you observe your dog eating the bait directly, but another useful sign is finding blue or green colouration on the tongue, teeth or gums of your dog, as rodenticides are required to be dyed.

• “I think my dog ate rat bait, but I don’t know when. He seems fine though.” This is where you find the overturned bait bucket where the dogs were rummaging yesterday, or you notice that their faeces are an odd blue colour (see scenario 1). The poison has been ingested and absorbed into the body, so too late to make them vomit. It takes about three to five days from ingestion for the poison to disrupt the body’s ability to clot, so here we can usually time a blood test and look for delayed blood clotting.

We then give the antidote, which is a

vitamin K supplement that needs to be given daily for as long as the poison is active in the body (usually four weeks).

• “My dog is sick, could it be rat bait?”

Some days after eating the poison the anticoagulant effect now means there has been a significant amount of bleeding (often internally) and the dog is in a serious condition. Signs can include weakness, lethargy, pale gums, difficulty breathing, coughing, vomiting, blackened tarry faeces, bleeding from the gums, bruising, shaking, abdominal distention, and eventually death. If there has been significant blood loss, your dog will need a blood transfusion in addition to the antidote and lots of supportive care to get them through.

You can see the scenarios increase in seriousness from one to three, and they also increase in cost moving up. My advice is to be vigilant! Know what your dogs have access to, know who uses rat bait around you, and store and use bats carefully if you have it yourself.

A side note – the other type of rodenticide available over-the-counter is cholecalciferol (Vitamin D). It essentially causes the body to take in too much calcium which leads to damage and dysregulation of multiple organs, then death. It acts fast, a fairly small quantity is toxic, and there is no antidote.

I don’t recommend you ever use this bait.

Tell mozzies to buzz off

LOOK OUT FOR US AROUND TOWN!

DOES MY SEPTIC TANK NEED CLEANING? Yes, every 2-3 years. Why? Because septic tanks are a filter. You clean your car filter and your water filters regularly and yet one of the most important filtersgets forgotten - your septic tank. Keep your environment clean and green.

Summer invariably brings unwanted guests to the barbecue such as mosquitoes.

Here are some simple precautions to prevent them from setting up residence in your backyard: • Empty all containers that can hold water. Safely overturn anything you have outside that could hold water • Dispose of old tyres and drill holes in the bottom of tyre swings • Fill or drain hollows in the ground that could hold water • Cover venting pipes on septic tanks with mosquito-proof covers • Seal or cover rainwater tanks • Empty and clean pot plant saucers and drip trays • Empty and clean animal and pet drinking water containers • Check gutters and drains are clear of standing-water and blockages. Keep them clean.

• Some pot plants such as bromeliads, hold water in their leaves – empty the water out at least once a week, a turkey baster or pipette is a good tool for this.

Info: https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy-living/environmental-health/ pests-and-insects/mosquitoes/stop-mosquitoes-breeding

Is your future covered?

We offer straightforward tailored advice for both personal and business insurance, advising on cover that suits your current situation and budget. We will ensure you have exactly what you need and nothing you don’t.

Spratt Insurance Brokers are locally owned, with over 30 years experience in financial services specialising in health, life, trauma, mortgage & income insurance.

To find out more, reach out to our local adviser Sarah Hanson, to chat further.

Proud sponsors of North Harbour Rugby referees

46

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Est 1992

P: 021 337 556 E: sarah.hanson@sprattfinancial.co.nz or visit www.spratt.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

OneMahurangi Murray Chapman, Manager https://onemahurangi.co.nz

How many shopping days until Christmas?

As I was writing this, I looked up how many shopping days there were and it said 48! My first thought was that given how quickly this year has gone by, Christmas will be here before we know it. I realise that people hear One Mahurangi promoting Buy Local all the time, but imagine how easy your Christmas shopping would be if each of your presents to family or friends was a gift voucher from one of our local businesses.

This could be the easiest Christmas shopping you have ever done and to make it fun on Christmas Day, put them in different sized boxes so no one knows what they are getting.

Vouchers for things like haircuts, a meal out, flowers, coffees, a car service, car valet, fuel, clothing, a house clean … the list is endless. Imagine how happy any busy professional would be if they received a gift of a deep clean for their house. It’s not too hard to think outside the box when given the chance to imagine what a good gift could really look like.

The really nice thing about buying local is that it keeps all the money that may have been spent either down in Auckland City or online in our town where it can be recycled and used to keep someone employed or on advertising within the town. Perhaps it might be the money that is used in sponsoring your sports club or school.

It has been great to see some of our local shops starting to open on the Sundays

leading up to Christmas and the more that do it, the more attractive it becomes for people to come in on a Sunday to shop and have a meal out. We will be having two late shopping nights in the build up to Christmas and these will be December 15 and 22, where we are encouraging as many retailers as possible to stay open until 7pm on those Thursday nights. Spread the word among your networks and we could have a lot of people coming into town to Christmas shop.

Don’t forget that the Warkworth Santa Parade will on Sunday, December 4, starting at 11am in Baxter Street, going through town, and finishing on the wharf with prizegiving.

I look forward to seeing lots of community, school and business floats in the parade.

Contact me for a registration form. murray@onemahurangi.co.nz or visit https:// onemahurangi.co.nz/santa-parade-2022/ for more information including the event route and timetable.

We will also be taking Santa and Mrs Claus out in the Sleigh around Warkworth streets on December 5 and Snells Beach on December 7, so keep an ear out for those bells!

Let’s support our own people and businesses this Christmas by shopping local and keeping the local business community stronger together.

Read more columns online at www.localmatters.co.nz

d n a t r o p Sup ! l a c o L e Lov

Extend your Christmas spirit a little wider this year and help families in our community celebrate Christmas too.

We are collecting now: • Vouchers PERFECT • Toys, sports equipment, games & books for children (preferably new, or in very good secondhand condition) • Something special for a parent • Christmas food & treats Gifts don’t have to be wrapped, but if they are, please note on the outside who would be the ideal recipient (ie boy or girl and age group) Mahurangi Matters Christmas Appeal Supporting:

Homebuilders Rodney Women’s Centre Mahurangi Presbyterian Church Gifts can be left in the Mahurangi Matters reception area, 17 Neville Street Warkworth during normal office hours.

Thank you in advance for your support and generosity!

www.onemahurangi.co.nz

A great team you can trust Protecting you investment. Maximising your returns.

For a fresh approach in Property Management, with proven results.

Serving Puhoi to Ruakaka.

www.localmatters.co.nz

Sam 021 1966 391 / Shona 021 539 391 | rentalsitn@bayleys.co.nz November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

47

W

re th

ce

(NZ ) LTD

ea

e diffe

ren

First Aid Courses Wa r kw o r t h First Aid

$154 +GST 8 & 9 Dec, 1 & 2 Feb, 20 & 21 Feb Salty Dog, Snells Beach 8.30am – 5pm

Pschological First Aid

$150 +GST 9 Dec, 2 Feb, 21 Feb Salty Dog, Snells Beach, 1 – 5pm

48

Need a refresher ?

Has it been more than two years?

Are you aware of your Health & Safety obligations?

Do you have two staff on site at all times with a current certificate ?

We can help, our consultant is a Paramedic with over thirty years frontline experience. Choose local.

Look into it today, tomorrow could be too late.

NZQA: 6402, 6401 (6400 also available)

Contact: simon.townsend@promed.ac.nz 021 478 655 | www.promed.ac.nz

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Local skaters Lily, Paige, and Archie enjoying the pump track at Leigh.

Leigh pump track opens A pump track at Leigh School will officially open on Sunday, November 27 with a skate and bike competition.

The track was the brainchild of Leigh School principal Kerrin Jamieson, who was inspired by a similar track at Kerikeri Primary School.

The track cost just over $58,000 and was funded from the School Improvement Package.

The project was led by Board of Trustee members Tim Haggitt and brothers Andy and Richard Reid, and was completed in March.

The official opening – Pumporama 22 – will include competitions for riders of all ages, with prizes donated by local businesses such as Summer Sessions and Underground Surf & Skate.

There will also be a fun run, bands and fish burgers provided by Leigh Fish, as well as their infamous ice slide.

The PTA hopes to raise much-needed funds for new school-branded sports uniforms.

Registrations will be taken from 10am onwards, for an 11am start. Cost of entry is $5. The rain day is December 10.

Thieves target the young

The likelihood of your car being stolen is far greater if you’re under the age of 25, according to AMI Insurance. According to AMI’s claims data, young drivers have their cars stolen at a rate about three times higher than the general population.* Over the past three years, 26% of AMI’s theft claims were for cars owned by drivers under 25 years, even though they make up less than 10% of AMI’s customers. Executive general manager claims Wayne Tippey says that young drivers tend to drive cars that are smaller and older, making them a target for opportunistic thieves. “Compared to the rest of the population, younger drivers are more likely to drive an older, second-hand car that won’t break the budget – an older Mazda Demio or Suzuki Swift are both good examples.

Unfortunately, that also makes young drivers more susceptible to theft. Many older, imported vehicles lack security features such as car alarms and immobilisers which deter thieves from attempting to steal a car in the first place.” *The one-year average theft rate for under 25-year-olds is 2.9% v 1.0% for those aged 25 and over.

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Athletics secures new coach Warkworth Athletics has recruited recordbreaking para athlete Mitch Joynt as their new coach.

The former Mahurangi resident, who is now based on the Hibiscus Coast, is an accredited coach with Athletics NZ. Committee member Casey Eden says the club is excited to have Joynt on board.

She says he will add a lot to the children’s enjoyment of athletics and she hopes that some children will be encouraged to take the next step towards regional or national competitions.

The club had an unprecedented number of registrations this season – 220, compared to last year’s 100 – for ages ranging from three to 14 years. Interest was so high, the club had to close registrations and start a waitlist.

Joynt says he hopes to see the club continue to grow over the next few years.

“Athletics as a sport can struggle to keep kids and teens through to adulthood, so my aim is to showcase what an amazing sport it is to this next generation,” he says.

Following a terrible work-based accident when he was just 17, which resulted in a below-the-knee amputation, Joynt took up athletics in late 2017. He then represented New Zealand at the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships in Dubai, where he achieved a national record in the men’s 200m T64.

Not surprisingly, Joynt is encouraging children with disabilities to “give athletics a go”.

“There is a vast amount of disabilities that can integrate seamlessly into a regular club night and for the ones who need a bit more attention or specialised equipment, I would happily put them in contact with the right people.”

Joynt grew up in Tauhoa and attended Mahurangi College. He says he is happy to be home and part of the sporting community that was such a big part of

TYREPOWER WARKWORTH PROUD SPONSORS OF

SCOREBOARD SUPPORTING LOCAL SPORT

A round-up of sports activities and events in the district

Mitch Joynt at this year’s Oceania Area Championships held in Mackay Queensland. Photo, Casey Sims

his childhood.

“I have always loved sport. I played rugby and hockey for Mahurangi College, and was a JR Archery World Champion as a teenager, and now I am a New Zealand rep sprinter.”

Eden says the club has a new committee running the club post-Covid and they are always looking for helpers, regardless of whether or not they know about athletics.

The club is also interested in sponsors, especially for weekly prizes and the end of season prizegiving.

Athletics is held at the Shoesmith Domain on Wednesdays.

Pumporama 2022 Leigh Pump Track, Leigh, November 27, 10am registration, 11am start. Leigh School fundraiser for all keen skaters, BMXers. $5 entry. (Rain date, December 10.)

Christmas show jumping practice day Matakana Country Park, December 11, 3pm.

Registrations necessary. Info: www.ecohorse.co.nz/products/practice-show-jumping-day-matakanadecember Auckland Downhill Mountain Bike Club Marshalls urgently needed for two events.

First event December 10, second February 18. Both events will be held at Kraack Road, Dome Valley.

Warkworth roller skating classes Macarena Roller Skating, Warkworth Scout Hall, 2.30-3.30pm. There are still a few more classes being run before Christmas. Get your skates on! www.heymacarena.co.nz/bookonline Experiencing Marine Reserves Tawharanui Snorkel Day, Anchor Bay, Saturday, November 26, 10.30am-3.30pm. Booking essential via www.eventbrite.co.nz Kowhai Swimming Club The pool at Mahurangi College is now open.

Info: kowhaiswimming@gmail.com Mahurangi East Tennis Club All visitors and casual players are welcome. Adult coaching is available along with organised club days and member events. Info: www.mahutennis.co.nz Leigh Swimmers Join the facebook page to share swims, information, and to support each other along Leigh, Omaha, Point Wells, Matheson Bay and Pakiri coast.

Sandspit Yacht Club New season yearbooks and membership cards are available for pickup at the club office. More info and membership: www.sandspit.org.nz Cowboy Challenge North Auckland First points approved competition of the season, December 3 & 4, 8am-3pm. Classes for: open, intermediate, rookie, youth. Round 1 Saturday, Round 2 Sunday. Camping available. Social BYO dinner on Saturday night.

Info: www.cowboychallengena.weebly.com Leigh Bowling Club Junior coaching and fun games night every Friday, 4.30pm. All welcome.

Canoe and kayak adventures Bioluminescence kayak tour, regular dates through November to January, 7.30-9pm. Bookings essential. Every trip includes a donation to help support local community projects. Info: www.canoeandkayak.co.nz/tours-page/

List sports news FREE by emailing online@localmatters.co.nz

2 Mill Lane, Warkworth 0910 283 3495 | 022 489 7477 (Ah) warkworth@tyrepower.net.nz www.tyrepower.co.nz

UNO KITCHENS EXCLUSIVE TO ITM IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A DESIGNER KITCHEN THAT WILL EXCEED YOUR EXPECTATIONS, LOOK NO FURTHER. UNO kitchens offer a wide range of cabinetry designs made to order to your measurements, and with a variety of colours to choose from, you won’t have to compromise on design.

16 State Highway 1, Warkworth

P: 09 425 1021 E: sales@warkworthitm.co.nz

188 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

P: 09 431 4963 E: sales@mangawhaiitm.co.nz

www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

49

TRADE & SERVICE DIRECTORY Advertise your business here for only $68+gst per insertion. Phone 425 9068 or email advertising@localmatters.co.nz or local@localmatters.co.nz ACCOUNTING | APPLIANCE SERVICES | ARCHITECTS | AUTOMOTIVE | CIVIL ENGINEERING | CONSTRUCTION | CONTRACTORS | ELECTRICIAN | FARM SUPPLIES | FURNITURE

Callaghan Appliance Servicing Ltd

The first choice for small businesses 30 min free consultation!

Cnr Mil Lane & Elizabeth Street 09 973 5589 www.sba.co.nz warkworth@sba.co.nz

Now servicing Warkworth and Snells Beach Areas Most makes and models 35 yrs experience

WRIGHT DESIGN L.B.P 117345 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER - N.Z.C.A.D brianwright@xtra.co.nz

Brian Wright 25 Lupis Way, Kaiwaka, 0573

Phone: 09 425 0563 • Mobile: 021 987 616

W.D.S.

WRIGHT DESIGN 021 276 7389

3 x Moving Trucks now available from $100 per day + 50c per km

AUTOMOTIVE & AUTOELECTRICAL

Drive on Car Licence

EUROPEAN CAR SPECIALISTS BATTERIES | DIAGNOSTICS High quality valet services at a site of your choosing from Wellsford to Warkworth and surrounding areas

www.matakanamobile.co.nz

Warkworth Car & Truck

09 422 3222

Rentals

27 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth www.strautomotive.co.nz

New Zealand Certified Builders Association

· · ·

Geotechnical Structural Roading, Stormwater, Wastewater Resource Consents Building Consents

· ·

Structural, Civil and Geotechnical Consulting Engineers

P: 09 425 9422 • warkworth@haighworkman.co.nz www.haighworkman.co.nz

Over 30 years experience Quotes given

09 425 7599 | 0274 836 660 info@warkworthcarrentals.co.nz www.warkworthcarrentals.co.nz 41 Woodcocks Road, Warkworth

Concrete Driveways

NZ CB

Ryan Bridgens 021 560 889 info@bridgens.nz www.bridgens.nz

Ian D’Ath 0800 QUOTME

Specialists in residential construction

MICK BERGER CONTRACTORS Phone: 09 422 0688 • Mobile: 0274 930 806

50 years experience D I G G E R

L.B.P 117.345

PARKER CONTRACTING

B OB C AT & DIG GER HIR E Footings, pile holes, landscaping and driveways

P.C.

S E R V I C E S

• Farm Dams & Drainage • House Sites • Driveways • Pole Drilling • Mulching • Bulldozer & Scoop Services • Transport up to 18 Tonne • Truck Hire • Metal Supply

Phone Wayne 021 953 527

Dams ● Winching ● Bulldozing ● Driveways House Sites ● Landscaping ● Earthmoving ● Sub Divisions

Mark Parker phone/text

021 492 939

A E Inger Electrical

ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE & INSTALLATION

All aspects of electrical work for farms, housing and industry.

Your local Electrician - Domestic and Commercial 24 hour service cover (No mileage charge).

09 423 7003 | 021 423 735

Alwyn Inger - Registered Electrician | alwyninger@hotmail.com

50

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

“Totally Dependable” Domestic | Commercial | Industrial 24-Hour Call Outs | Maintenance & Servicing Heating | Air Conditioning & Ventilation

10% discount available to Gold Card holders (proof to be shown to the electrician while on site) 09 422 3226 | Unit 1, 3 Morrision Drive, Warkworth warkworth@laserelectrical.co.nz | www.laserelectrical.co.nz

OUTDOOR FURNITURE Tables to order Chairs • Swingseats Benches • Umbrellas New Zealand made quality built to last 25 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale (next to BP) Ph 09 426 9660 • em clipper.furniture@xtra.co.nz www.clipperfurniture.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

GLAZING & WINDOWS| HANDYMAN | JOINERY | LANDSCAPING & SUPPLIES |LOCKSMITH | MOVING & STORAGE | MOWING | PAINTERS & PLASTERERS | PICTURE FRAMING | PLUMBING

WG

Domestic and Commercial Glazing Glass Showers Splash Backs Mirrors • Cat Doors Windscreen Replacement and Chip Repair

arkworth lass & lazing

We will match or better any competitors quotes!

20 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth 09 425 8678 • 021 952 077 wwglassandglazing@xtra.co.nz

Wellsford

ALUMINIUM & GLASS GLASS & ALUMINIUM

FOR ALL YOUR GLASS, GLAZING, AND ALUMINIUM NEEDS

53 Station Road, Wellsford • Phone (09) 423 7358 Email: wellsfordglass@xtra.co.nz

1 STO P SH OP F OR 1RSTOP UR AL MOWI G SHOP FORNHANDYMAN SERVICES 1 ST OP SH OP F OR R UR AL MOWI N G Peter Ride-on Mowing Peter 1 Building STOP SHOP FOR HANDYMAN SERVICES Ride-on Mowing Peter 021 912Large 805 Lawns 021 912 805 Building PeterMaintenance 021 912 805 Large Lawns 021 912 805 tickidiboo@orcon.net.nz tickidiboo@orcon.net.nz Maintenance tickidiboo@orcon.net.nz tickidiboo@orcon.net.nz Repairs Lifestyle Blocks Repairs Lifestyle Blocks Local and Reliable Cleaning Orchards & Vineyards Cleaning Orchards & Vineyards

andfor Reliable Mowing for you!Local www.MatakanaGlass.nz Mowing you!

Phone Peter 021 912 805

We specialise in: • Vantage Aluminium Joinery • Bi Folds, Sliders, Entrance Doors • Thermally Efficient options

09 425 7510

7 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth

sales@compositejoinery.co.nz • www.compositejoinery.co.nz

0800 638 254 www.wyatts.net.nz

• Retaining Walls/Decks • Fences • Paving/Concreting • Planting • 1.7 tonne digger and operator hire Ph Jeff - 021 368 552 | warkworthlandscaping@gmail.com www.warkworthlandscaping.co.nz

MASON CONTAINERS LIMITED CONTAINER SALES

WE CAN •Sand•Metal•Shell•Pebble•Scoria •Mulch•Garden Mix•Topsoil•Compost

SELF-STORAGE

Beautiful lawns & gardens by your local Jim FREE QUOTES

0800Visit833 323 us at

Franchise enquiries welcome

Unit 1, 12 Gumfield Drive, Warkworth www.masoncontainers.co.nz

admin@masoncontainers.co.nz

info@locksmart.co.nz www.locksmart.co.nz

371 Woodcocks Road, WARKWORTH • OPEN 7 DAYS! Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm Sat: 8am-4pm Sun: 9am-3pm

FULLY INSURED AND SECURITY CHECKED ALL WORK GUARANTEED

CONTAINER HIRE

0800 334 122

DELIVER! •Tirau Gold•Pine Chip•Cambian Bark

CALL FREE 0800 454 654 or book online: www.jimsmowing.co.nz

CraigthePainter

Since 1997

• Residential Specialists • Interior | Exterior • Plus Stopping & Skim Plastering

021-858 524 | 09-423 After 8521 Hours Email: craigthepainter@xtra.co.nz

Premium Painters Ltd Your solution to quality painting

Exterior/Interior/Roofs/Staining • Repaints & Restoration • Interior Lockwood home painting • Villa and Bungalow • Roof Painting & Coatings • Plastering repairs • House wash and more ... Husband & Wife team • harley.mcvay@xtra.co.nz

Harley 021 0220 8727 or 09 423 9012

CUSTOM FRAMING

Framing all things you love.

Making your special memories last a lifetime.

Paul Leggett 021-053 2896 timelessframingnz@gmail.com www.timelesscreationsnz.com Jade River Place, Warkworth

www.localmatters.co.nz

• Interior • Exterior • Re paints

• New builds • Renovations • Staining

Phone: 021 135 7769 Email: painter0276@yahoo.co.nz

A quality touch Painting and Decorating. Interior 8' Exterior House Washing

11

luke.raphaella@gmail.com Ph: Luke 021 507 463

TRUE BLUE

We offer the following services:

Plumbing drainage septic systems water tanks pumps & water filters jetting machine drain camera

GAS & PLUMBING LTD

Certified Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers

www.trueblueplumber.co.nz

021 102 4561

tttplumber@gmail.com

021 446 064 November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

51

PRINTING | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | SCRAP METAL | SECURITY | TANK CLEANING | TILING | TRANSPORT | WATER

www.positiveimage.co.nz

A great team you can trust

For any queries, please contact diane@positiveimage.co.nz

P: 0272 761 761 E: info@wellsfordgas.co.nz

For a fresh approach in Property Management, with proven results.

Serving Puhoi to Ruakaka.

Sam 021 1966 391 / Shona 021 539 391 rentalsitn@bayleys.co.nz

16A Flexman Place, Silverdale

SECURITY & INVESTIGATION

Buyers of: Copper • Brass • Aluminium • Lead • Steel Stainless Steel • Batteries • Cable • Machinery • Electric Motors • Cars • Car Removal. Pick up or drop off bins available

09 425 7113 www.insitesecurity.co.nz admin@insitesecurity.co.nz

Phone 0800 14 15 30 • 09 426 9150 35 Forge Road, Silverdale

Hibiscus Tiling

24/7 Patrols

24/7 Monitoring

the tank cleaning specialists

Time for your water tank to get a clean?

Phone Brett today, 021 169 4479

info@matakanatankcleaning.co.nz | www.matakanatankcleaning.co.nz

Alarm/CCTV

LIBERTY SHUTTLES TOURS NZ & AIRPORT DIRECT

ABSOLUTE CONCRETE

• Events - golf, fishing and more • Other options on request • Discount for group bookings

Wall & floor tiling • Accredited Waterproofer Underfloorheating • Free consultations and quotations • 23 years experience

Phone Darcy 021 482 308

MATAKANA TANK CLEANING

Your Local Trusted Security Service

Moosome Concrete Troughs!

09 431 2211

Neale Stevens (owner operator) 0800 99 55 11 | 09 420 5366 or 021 447 455 libertyshuttles@gmail.com | libertyshuttles.co.nz

sales@absoluteconcrete.co.nz

Pumps & Filters Water Treatment Spa & Pool Shop Water Testing Valet Service Water Blasters Tanks & Sprayers 24 Hour Mobile & Workshop Service

SUPPLYING QUALITY HOUSEHOLD WATER IN THE LOCAL AREA FOR OVER 37 YEARS

425 8454 0800 747 928 or 027 556 6111 www.rhodesforroads.co.nz

Call Steve today 0212 787 427

31 Woodcocks Rd, Warkworth 09 425 9100 splashwater@xtra.co.nz

REGISTERED DRINKING WATER SUPPLIER IN NZ

0800 278 288 | www.aquaworks.co.nz

Shop hours Mon - Fri 8am-5pm Sat 9am-12pm

Classifieds 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.

DRIVEWAYS MAINTENANCE Grading, rolling & metalling for rural Driveways.

No job too BIG or small. Ph Trevor 021 0225 5606 DVDS & VIDEOS

DVD

V I D E O S TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Phone or txt Tetotara Video 021 777 385.

52

GARAGE SALE

HOME & MAINTENANCE

HORSE TRUCKS & FLOATS

LAND WANTED

HOUSEHOLD STUFF, Camping gear, tools, crab pots & lots more. 26 & 27 November 8am, 73 Waiteitei Road, Wellsford. 021 115 0554

COLLINS ELECTRONICS HAVE YOU LOST PRIME?

REID EQUESTRIAN ENGINEERING, Wellsford. Float rebuilds, horse truck conversions, etc. Dog kennels made to measure. Quality work. Ph Ron 423 9666

BUSH BLOCK OR BARE LAND

HAIR & NAILS

MOBILE HAIR & NAILS

Working around the greater Warkworth Region. Offering hairdressing, manicure and pedicure services, in your home.

Call Rebecca 021 0825 8242 HOME & MAINTENANCE

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

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

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

Ph Paul 09 422 0500 or 027 29 222 04 GROUND CARE SERVICE Tree-work, Hedges, Pre-sale property grooming, Weedmating & Mulch Application, Garden & Section Tidy ups, Weed & Shrub cutting, Green-waste Removal.

Call Anton - Mahurangi Groundcare 021 133 8884 WINDOW CLEANING/ HOUSEWASH/GUTTER CLEANING Local professional service. Ph Pat 022-646-5849.

www.localmatters.co.nz

Sudoku

Solution

Anyone interested in taking a $400k boat as a deposit on land, plus cash.

Call David 021 507 608 PUBLIC NOTICES JUSTICE OF THE PEACE SERVICE DESKS

The deadline for classified advertising for our December 5 paper is November 30. Send classified advertising enquiries to design@localmatters.co.nz

Warkworth, at the Council Offices Monday 10am – 2pm Matakana, Cinema Complex Tuesday 11am-1pm Snells Beach, at the Library Friday 10am – noon Warkworth RSA Fridays 4pm to 5pm No appointment is needed. There is no cost.

Supported by Mahurangi Matters

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

Classifieds SITUATIONS VACANT

PART-TIME WASTE-BUSTER WANTED Mahurangi Wastebusters is a community-led, zero waste, charitable organisation.

Our focus is on reducing, repairing, reusing and recycling as much as possible for the benefit of our people and our environment.

We are looking for a Customer Service and Resource Recovery waste-busting superstar to join our awesome team! This is a hugely varied role working over multiple sites in Wellsford and Warkworth.

Duties may include: Driving our small truck (full drivers license required) Operating our 5t digger Operating our forklift Collecting second hand goods from residential properties Measuring, calculating and charging customers for waste.

Operating our Point of Sale and eftpos Diverting recycling and reusable goods from landfill Helping out in our re-use second hand shop.

The ideal person is: Fit and strong (this can be a physical job at times) Computer literate Confident calculating waste loads Enthusiastic about reducing waste A great team player Able to work autonomously Loves people!

The following is advantageous but not essential: Forklift experience • Digger experience • First Aid trained If you enjoy physical outdoor work and are not afraid of getting your hands dirty, love interacting with people and have an exceptional customer service ethic, please apply!

The position includes at least one day in the weekend plus flexible hours between 8am-430pm Monday to Friday.

For a detailed job description and to apply email: manager@mahurangiwastebusters.nz

METER READER

WANTED TO BUY

Read the full report online online at www.localmatters.co.nz

Sudoku the numbers game 5 ganized Simply Or

7

9 3

4

2

9 4 3 1

Advertise with Mahurangi Matters online www.localmatters.co.nz/jobs

Mahurangi Matters can be picked up from the following businesses: WARKWORTH: Mahurangi Matters, Paper Plus, Warkworth iSite, Countdown, New World, Z, Mitre 10 • PUHOI: Puhoi Pub, Puhoi Store • SNELLS BEACH: Snells Beach Dairy, The Food Market, Gull • MATAKANA: Matakana Four Square, Gull, Matakana Information Centre • Point Wells Store • OMAHA: Omaha Superette • LEIGH General Store • WELLSFORD: Caltex, Top Shop 4 Square, Port Albert Store • KAIWAKA: Jacques 4 Square, Caltex • MANGAWHAI: Mangawhai Village Supervalue, Mangawhai Club

www.localmatters.co.nz

development.

It has a focus on communities that are in the greatest need of investment and large-scale community sport facility development projects that can leverage additional investment.

Applications for Stage 1 close on January 31, with Stage 2 applications to be invited on March 10 next year.

Funding decisions will be made by the relevant Governing Body committee next September.

To discuss a proposal or for any questions about the process, contact sportandrecreation@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz The full eligibility criteria and funding priorities are explained in the Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund Guidelines, which can be read with this article online.

WORK WANTED NEED A HAND with something give me a call anything considered. Call Will or txt on 021 0847 5188.

Hiring?

$

Sport and recreation groups in Mahurangi are being encouraged to apply for funding under a new contestable fund from Auckland Council.

Council is putting aside $150 million over 10 years for its Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund (SRFIF).

For next year’s funding round, which is open now for applications, $13.4 million will be available for planning and development of sport and recreation facilities.

Active Communities acting general manager Dave Stewart says the fund looks to address sport and recreation infrastructure shortfalls and respond to changing preferences by Aucklanders.

“Its focus is on creating the best outcomes for the community while ensuring value for investment is achieved, while getting Aucklanders, especially tamariki, more active,” Stewart says.

The SRFIF is open to non-council organisations for significant facility

7 MEDIUM

4

3 2 7 5 5 9 2 1 4 6 7 If it’s local,

let us know!

www.puzzles.ca

Meter Reading Services is a division of Arthur D. Riley Co. Ltd, a kiwi based/owned company operating since 1909.

We read Power, Water and Gas meters for local retailers throughout New Zealand.

We are seeking a standout Meter Reader in the WarkworthWellsford or surrounding area to join us on a permanent basis Are you able to rise to the challenge and say yes to the following?

• Can you accurately record numbers on a device?

• Will you pass a pre–employment drug and alcohol test?

• Do you have a good level of fitness?

• Are you happy to enter a property that has a dog on site?

• Would you be willing to work outside in all weather conditions?

(Pouring rain through to dry hot sunshine) • Do you enjoy working by yourself, or as part of a larger team?

• Are you a fan of modelling bright orange high Viz? • Can travel to other regions Then we want to hear from you! We will provide: • On the Job Training • Full Uniform • Tools you will require to get the job done • Work only vehicle Please submit your CV and covering letter to hr@adriley.co.nz or call Michelle Atkins-Gilbert 021 874 951

Big dollars for sports clubs

SOLUTION page 52

Mahurangi 425 9068 FILL IN THISMatters GRID SO THAT EVERY COLUMN, EVERY ROW AND EVERY 3X3 BOX CONTAINS THE DIGITS 1 TO 9.

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

53

National record for Kaiwaka strong man Kaiwaka powerlifter Bernie Hall has come away with a new national record and a trophy at his first competition in 16 months.

The 47-year-old successfully lifted 267.5kg to beat the NZ record in his Masters 2 category at the Day of the Deadlift event held at ACTN3 – Performance Athletes, a specialist strength sports club in Browns Bay, on October 29.

Hall also took out the Heaviest Male Deadlift of the Day trophy at the competition, which had a Day of the Dead theme and featured many competitors in costume or wearing zombie make-up.

Hall said he was especially pleased with the result as it was his first competition since July last year and he had changed the way he carried out deadlifts in the meantime.

“I changed my starting technique as I was starting to get a build-up of injuries on my left side,” he said. “So it was different and I was a bit slower to start with.”

The winning lift is the next stage in Hall’s bid to crack 272.5kg and maybe even his category world record weight of 275kg. To put that in perspective, try to imagine lifting a vending machine, grizzly bear or a baby grand piano, all of which weigh in at around 250kg.

With these targets in mind, Hall is continuing his regular training sessions at Kaiwaka Fitness Center and keeping in touch with

the NZ powerlifting community for news of upcoming events and competitions.

“Since Covid, a lot of events have been

Tennis players in the Mangawhai area are spoilt for choice this summer, with social sessions, club champs and coaching available for all ages and abilities.

New this year is Monday night men’s tennis, a first come, first served evening with singles or doubles matches, depending how many players turn up at 6pm. The session is already proving popular and can be quite competitive, so players ideally need to be at an intermediate level or better.

Another recent addition to the schedule is senior men’s doubles tennis on Tuesday and Friday mornings, which is aimed at any men aged 50 or over. Players are organised into groups of four, according to ability, and non-members are welcome to attend two sessions without having to join the club.

There is also women’s tennis on Monday and Wednesday mornings, junior coaching every Thursday afternoon, and a popular Thursday night mixed doubles tournament where players range in age from their mid-teens to late 70s. The courts are also available for public hire.

2:40am 3:41am 9:09am 9:51am 4:21pm Tide Tide 3:03pm 9:23pm Times Times 10:24pm

Moon Moon

4:35am 0.4 2.7 3:28am 9:57am 3.4 1.0 10:45am 5:14pm 0.5 2.7 3:54pm 11:14pm 3.3 1.2 10:15pm

5:59am 7:16am 8:18pm 5:39pm

Sun Sun Fishing Fishing Guide Guide

Thu Sat

1:39am 8:36am 2:10pm 9:01pm

5:28am 0.3 2.7 4:17am 11:35am 3.4 1.0 10:47am 6:03pm 0.5 2.8 4:46pm 3.3 1.1 11:07pm

2:42am 9:26am 3:14pm 9:52pm

10:18am 3:47am 10:45pm 4:20pm

12:45am 0.3 1.1 12:00am 7:06am 3.4 2.8 5:58am 1:05pm 0.5 0.8 12:33pm 7:29pm 3.0 6:37pm

5:57am 7:13am 8:21pm 5:41pm

Best Best At At

BF

11:11am 4:51am 11:38pm 5:22pm

1:29am 3.2 1.0 12:55am 7:51am 0.4 2.9 6:53am 1:47pm 3.3 0.7 1:29pm 8:11pm 0.6 3.1 7:36pm

5:57am 7:12am 8:22pm 5:42pm

Best Best At At

BF

Wed Mon

Nov Aug30 9

12:04pm 5:52am 6:20pm

Thu Tue

Aug Dec 10 1

1:52am 2:12am 7:53am 8:35am 2:28pm 2:29pm 8:35pm 8:53pm

5:57am 7:11am 8:23pm 5:43pm

Best Best At At

BF

3.1 0.9 0.6 3.0 3.3 0.6 0.6 3.2

12:29am 6:47am 12:55pm 7:13pm

3.0 0.8 0.7 3.1 3.2 0.6 0.7 3.3

Wed Fri

Aug Dec 11 2

2:52am 2:56am 8:57am 9:18am 3:27pm 3:11pm 9:35pm 9:36pm

5:57am 7:10am 8:24pm 5:44pm

Best Best At At

BG

7:38am 1:20am 8:02pm 1:44pm

Thu Sat

Aug Dec 12 3

3:40am 3.0 0.7 3:54am 10:02am 0.8 3.2 10:03am 3:54pm 3.1 0.5 4:25pm 10:21pm 0.7 3.3 10:34pm

5:56am 7:09am 8:25pm 5:44pm

Best Best At At

GG

Info: www.mangawhaitennis.co.nz or email mangawhaitc.secretary@gmail.com

RayWhite

8:25am 2:09am 8:48pm 2:32pm

4:26am 2.9 0.6 4:57am 10:47am 0.9 3.2 11:05am 4:40pm 3.1 0.5 5:22pm 11:07pm 0.7 3.3 11:30pm

5:56am 7:08am 8:26pm 5:45pm

Best Best At At

GG

Sun Fri

Aug Dec 13 4

9:10am 2:56am 9:32pm 3:20pm

5:12am 2.9 0.6 5:56am 11:34am 0.9 3.2 12:01pm 5:29pm 3.0 0.5 6:15pm 0.7 3.3 11:56pm

5:56am 7:07am 8:26pm 5:46pm

Best Best At At

GG

Mon Sat

Aug Dec 14 5

9:55am 3:43am 10:17pm 4:07pm

6:01am 3.0 0.6 12:23am 6:51am 0.9 3.2 12:24pm 6:22pm 3.0 0.6 12:52pm 3.3 7:07pm

5:56am 7:05am 8:27pm 5:47pm

Best Best At At

FG

Tue Sun

Aug Dec 15 6

10:39am 4:31am 11:02pm 4:56pm

1:12am 0.7 0.6 12:47am 6:53am 3.0 3.1 7:41am 1:20pm 0.8 0.7 1:39pm 7:21pm 3.0 7:55pm

5:56am 7:04am 8:28pm 5:48pm

Best Best At At

GG

Wed Mon

Aug Dec 16 7

11:25am 5:21am 11:49pm 5:47pm

1:58am 1:42am 8:26am 7:50am 2:23pm 2:22pm 8:42pm 8:25pm

5:56am 7:03am 8:29pm 5:48pm

Best Best At At

GG

0.6 3.2 3.1 0.6 0.8 3.1 3.0 0.8

Thu Tue

12:13pm 6:14am 6:41pm

0.6 3.1 3.1 0.7 0.8 3.0 3.0 0.8

Aug Dec 18 9

2:41am 2:41am 9:09am 8:53am 3:05pm 3:28pm 9:26pm 9:30pm

5:56am 7:02am 8:30pm 5:49pm

Best Best At At

GG

Wed Fri

Aug Dec 17 8

12:38am 7:10am 1:03pm 7:39pm

3:45am 0.6 3.0 3:22am 9:58am 3.1 0.7 9:49am 4:33pm 0.8 3.0 3:46pm 10:33pm 3.0 0.9 10:08pm

5:56am 7:01am 8:31pm 5:50pm

Best Best At At

GG

Thu Sat

Dec Aug 10 19

1:28am 8:09am 1:54pm 8:40pm

Sun Fri

Dec Aug 11 20

4:50am 0.6 3.0 4:00am 11:02am 3.1 0.7 10:28am 5:34pm 0.8 3.1 4:27pm 11:32pm 2.9 0.8 10:48pm

5:56am 6:59am 8:31pm 5:51pm

Best Best At At

GG

2:20am 9:11am 2:46pm 9:42pm

3.0 0.7 0.7 3.1 3.2 0.9 0.7 2.9

5:56am 6:58am 8:32pm 5:52pm

Best Best At At

GG

®

Best Best At At

GG

10:12am 3:12am 10:42pm 3:37pm

New First First Full Moon Quarter Quarter Moon Rise Rise 6:31am 3:42am Rise Rise 7:26am 4:39am Rise Rise 8:31am 5:33am Set Rise12:02am 6:23am Set Rise12:54am 7:07am Set Rise 1:34am 7:47am Set Rise 2:07am 8:21am Set Rise 2:36am 8:52am Set Rise 3:02am 9:21am Set Rise 3:27am 9:50am Set Rise 10:20am 3:53am Set Rise 10:52am 4:21am Set Set 12:54am 4:53am Set Set 5:29am 2:05am Set Set 6:11am 3:16am Set Set 6:59am 4:22am Set Set 7:53am 5:22am 1:28pm Set 2:13pm Set 3:05pm Rise 4:03pm Rise 5:05pm Rise 6:10pm Rise 7:16pm Rise 8:23pm Rise 9:29pm Rise 4:33pm Rise 5:36pm Rise 6:39pm Rise 7:42pm Rise 8:44pm Rise 1:01pm Rise 2:00pm Rise 3:06pm Set Set 9:53pm Set 11:02pm Set 9:43am Set 10:57am Set 12:09pm Set 1:19pm Set 2:25pm Set 3:29pm Set 10:36pm Set 11:44pm Rise 11:28am Rise 12:11pm Rise 9:41pm Rise10:33pm Rise11:18pm *Not *Not for for navigational navigational purposes. purposes.

Mick Fay 54

5:06am 0.3 2.7 12:01am 6:18am 3.4 0.9 11:38am 5:40pm 0.5 2.9 12:21pm 3.3 6:47pm

Tue Sun

Nov Aug29 8

members, but it could do with a few extra members on the committee, which meets every six to eight weeks to organise such things as working bees, leasing arrangements and the club’s annual open day.

The club, which is based at Mangawhai Domain in Moir Street, held its annual open day on November 6, with a stream of visitors checking out the six all-weather courts and club facilities.

Club secretary Neisha Voot said the club was currently thriving with around 200

Ray White SeaSea Watch Auckland Area Watch

Nov Aug28 7

5:58am 7:14am 8:20pm 5:40pm

Best Best At At

BB

Mon Sat

Nov Aug27 6

5:58am 7:15am 8:19pm 5:40pm

Best Best At At

BB

Sun Fri

Nov Aug26 5

Smashing time – members and visitors enjoyed tennis and treats at the Mangawhai club’s annual open day.

Don’t Delay call Mick Fay today!

021 544 769

S

Wed Fri

“I’m definitely going to hit 272.5kg in 2023 and maybe even the world record.

I’m feeling positive and strong.”

All set for summer with a packed programme

Want Your D L House O Nov Aug25 4

cancelled. I’m not sure when the next Nationals will be, but I’m hoping they’ll put up a calendar in December,” he said.

Bernie Hall weighed in at 97.8kg and lifted a record-beating 267.5kg.

Photos, Wonder Grove Photography

GG

Good Good Fishing Fishing

FF

Fair Fair Fishing Fishing

BB

Not Not So So Good Good

www.tidewiz.com www.tidewiz.com

www.tidespy.com www.tidespy.com

www.ofu.co.nz www.ofu.co.nz

Graphic Graphic supplied supplied by

by OceanFun OceanFun Publishing Publishing Ltd. Ltd.

Licensee Agent Snells Beach 021 544 769 E. mick.fay@raywhite.com W. https://mickfay.raywhite.com/

| Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

Support the advertisers who support Mahurangi Matters

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

November 21

NZ Blood Service donation day, Warkworth Town Hall, 10am-3pm

21

Community Sing-along, Warkworth Library, 5.30pm

21

Aotango Quintet, A Century of Tango, Warkworth Town Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets $33.30, concessions $25.25

23

Christmas gift fun, Women’s Centre Rodney, Morpeth Street, Warkworth, 9.30am-2.30pm. Create Christmas gifts/decorations, $20

24

Kaipara Flats Christmas Night Market, Kaipara Flats Sports Club, 4-8pm. Stalls, food and raffles, with proceeds to the sports club extension.

24

Open Mic Night, Matakana Village Pub, 6.30pm

25

Faces of Christmas Concert by Matakanatata Choir, Point Wells Hall, 7.30pm

25

Roger Skinner, Warkworth RSA, 6.30pm

25-27

ART-full weekend, Matakana Village Hall, 10am-4pm. The Kowhai Art and Craft annual exhibition and sale. Free entry.

CHARITY SAUSAGE SIZZLE

IF YOU WANT TO L, SUPPORT MORE LOCA T NO Y WH EN TH JOIN US!

In the last year, generous Aucklanders like you have helped Aucklanders in need ...

25-27, 30-Dec 3, Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves, Warkworth Town Hall, 7pm. Nov 27 and Dec 3 also 2pm. Pantomime presented by Warkworth Theatre Group. Tickets $20, children $10, under 5s free, group of eight $160 26

Super sausage sizzle supporting Warkworth Volunteer Fire Brigade, outside Warkworth Butchery, 10am-2pm

26

Warkworth Big Band, the Tahi Bar, 7pm

26

Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Show, Warkworth RSA, 6.30pm

26

Cellar Door Live Sessions, Matakana Estate, 11am-4pm

26

Wellsford Santa Parade, 10.30am, from Wellsford District Community Centre

26

Frisky Business – Flashback to the 80s, Leigh Sawmill, 9-11pm

26

Kaipara Kapa Haka Festival, Helensville Primary School, 8am (see story p40)

27

Puhoi Village Market, Riverside Park, 9am-1pm. Live music, stalls, treasures, food and the Community Table produce and plants. To book a $20 stall space, phone Jenny on 020 4020 6154

27

Warkworth Country Market, Warkworth Showgrounds, 9.30am-2pm

27

Feeling Fab Men’s Day, Waste Management offices, Landfill Access Road, Dairy Flat, 1.30-4.30pm. Wellness day with guest speaker Bill Hohepa.

Info: hello@feelingfab.org.nz (see story p20)

27

Trapping Spring Reboot, Forest Bridge Trust, Ranfurly Hall, midday-2pm

27

Matakantata Choir’s Face of Christmas Concert, Mahurangi Presbyterian Church, 2.30pm

27

Matakana Night Market, Matakana Country Park, 5pm onwards

27

Skate and bike competition, Leigh School’s pump track, $5 entry, 11am. Ice slide, fishburgers, fun run (see story p48)

COME ALONG AND SUPPORT

Saturday 10 December 8am - 1pm next to St Leonard's Church Matakana

28-Dec 4 Tremendous Christmas Tree Show, Old Masonic Hall Baxter St (see story p22) 30

Puhoi Village Market, 9am

December 2

Barfoot and Thompson Free Tradies Breakfast, all tradies welcome. Enjoy a free brekkie and coffee outside the Warkworth Hotel, 7-8.30am

2

Daddy Long Legs, Leigh Sawmill, 8pm

2

Horizon School Arts Festival, Snells Beach, 5pm. Food trucks, market shopping stalls, live music, art exhibition, crafts and gifts.

3

Point Wells library stock sale, Point Wells Hall, 9am-12pm

3

The Great Kaiwaka Community Event, Four Square, Kaiwaka, 6-9pm

3

Donkey Day at Highfield, 11am-2pm. Free community entertainment.

COME ALONG AND SUPPORT

Saturday 17th December 10am - 2pm next to Warkworth Butchery KINDLY SPONSORED BY

4 Christmas Market, Matakana Country Park, 8am 4

Warkworth Santa Parade, 11am (see story p43)

4

Ahuroa Christmas BBQ, 3pm. All welcome.

5

Santa’s sleigh ride through Warkworth, 5.30pm (see story p43)

5

Community Singing, Warkworth Library, 5.30pm

7

Santa’s sleigh ride around Snells Beach, 5.30pm start (see story p43)

7

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

10

Warkworth & Districts RSA Market, 8am-1pm

10

Makers Christmas Market: Pottery, Art and Crafts for sale. Matakana Hall, 9am2pm. Contact Rachel @pakiri.clay

Coast & Country

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

www.localmatters.co.nz

November 21, 2022 | Mahurangimatters |

55

Hunter Stanbra, playing for the Snells Beachbased team Spartans, heads for the try line.

Wild Things’ player Marshall Lee put his foot down during a game against Matakana.

Mahu junior touch

in winning form Ollie Hughes, who plays for Matakana’s Can’t Touch Us team, was in winning form.

A record 670 players, representing 67 teams, are participating in the Mahu Touch Rugby junior competition at the Warkworth Showgrounds this season.

The competition, for Years 1 to 10, is being coordinated by Alexa McDonald and Sara Cavanagh.

McDonald puts the rise in player numbers – up by nearly a 100 on 2020 – down to the increasing number of families moving to the area and good promotion of the competition in schools.

“We’re looking at introducing play for Years 10 to 13 next year, but will probably have to play over two days, as we are limited at the moment by the number of fields available,” she says.

Play in the first two grades is about participation, with prizes for first, second and third in the higher grades.

The teams are made up of a mix of boys and girls. There are

10 in a team, with six players on the field at any one time, of which two must be girls. McDonald says attracting girls has been an issue in the past.

She says referees, who are recruited through the high school, have been doing a good job.

“This is the first season Sara and I have coordinated the competition. It’s been very busy and a bit chaotic at times, but so far everything has gone well.”

The teams are put together by parents who also arrange sponsorship for uniforms. McDonald says players can sign up individually and will be allocated to a team. Some teams are school based, but other are mixed school teams.

The 14-week season will wind up early next year.

McDonald thanked major sponsors Ryco Hydraulics and the Bridgehouse for their continued support.

For a full range of family medical care, including A&M services in an integrated system 24 hours a day, across our region, including public holidays For further information and new enrolments, please contact any of our clinics

Wellsford Medical

Urgent Accident + Medical Care + Lab Test + Radiology Xray

OPEN 8am - 8pm • 7 days

09 423 8086

220 Rodney Street, Wellsford

Mangawhai

4 Fagan Place 09 431 4128 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Matakana

74 Matakana Valley Road 09 422 7737 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Maungaturoto

138 Hurndall Street 09 431 8576 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Paparoa

1978 Paparoa Valley Road 09 431 7222 Open 8am-5pm, Tuesday & Thursday

Snells Beach

145 Mahurangi East Road 09 425 6666 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Waipu

11/7 Nova Scotia Drive 09 432 1190 Open 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday

Health Hub Warkworth

Urgent Accident + Medical Care + Pharmacy

OPEN 8am - 8pm • 7 days HEALTH HUB

WARKWORTH

09 425 8585

77 Morrison Drive, Warkworth

Call 09 423 8086 for 8pm to 8am • 7 days URGENT DOCTOR SERVICE - WELLSFORD 56 | Mahurangimatters | November 21, 2022

www.localmatters.co.nz