Hibiscus Matters_Issue 297_17 March 2021 by Localmatters

March 17, 2021Welcome Home Property Guide pages 17-24

www.localmatters.co.nz

Your locally-owned FREE Community Newspaper BEFORE, 2018

AFTER, 2021

Wetland causes stink in Stanmore A wetland created by Auckland Council three years ago on D’Oyly Reserve has fallen far short of what was promised, according to neighbours and park users, with some describing it online as “a rat-infested, weedy mess”. By contrast, Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird, which first pushed for the creation of the wetland 10 years ago, claims it is “a major environmental success story” – a view that a number of residents agree with, saying it might not be beautiful, but it has more beneficial life in it than mown grass. The wetland, in Stanmore Bay, is the result of Council turning a piped stream into a more environmentally sustainable wetland. Previously the reserve was mown grass that got boggy in winter when a stormwater pipe frequently overflowed. As well as a place for plants, birds, insects, lizards and fish to thrive, the restoration was done to enable the community to enjoy the reserve, year-round. The project cost $1.5 million, $1.1m of which came from the developers of 20 Link Crescent, McConnell Property, in mitigation for piping a natural stream that had flowed through their land. Local residents, including Vicki Rapson, were enthusiastic about the wetland when the plan was consulted on. continued p3 Three years after it was created, opinion is strongly divided on the D’Oyly Reserve wetland. The newly planted wetland, top, has grown into what some describe as “an environmental success”, while others see “an eyesore full of mosquitoes, stagnant water and a place for vermin to breed”, left.

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz

contact us... March 17, 2021 – Issue 297 Hibiscus Matters: 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa, 0931 General enquiries ph 427 8188 Hibiscusmatters Localmattersnz

localmatters.co.nz Next issues: April 1 & 21 – Book your advertising now General manager: Jannette Thompson | gm@localmatters.co.nz Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 | terry@localmatters.co.nz Journalist: Sally Marden ph 022 478 1619 | reporter@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy | hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Online: Alysha Dudley ph 022 544 0249 | online@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 | sellit@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 24,900 homes and businesses twice a month: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Ōrewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat • Red Beach • Whangaparāoa Peninsula Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

A difficult and costly repair is about to begin on these Army Bay stairs.

Steps taken to fix stairs The stairs down to the beach in Pacific Parade, Army Bay, which are unsafe while awaiting repairs, (HM March 3) are to be fixed next month, at a total cost in the vicinity of $490,000. The stairs have been out of action for several years. Over the last decade they have been smashed by storms – these effects on coastal infrastructure are an increasing concern with climate change. Cr John Watson says that repair work was due to take place last year, but was affected by Covid-19 lockdowns and budget cuts. Work to fix the Pacific Parade steps

Todd Cooper www.toddcooper.co.nz

021 941 676

Number 1 Sales Consultant Harcourts Tandem Realty

5 offices

2018/2019 2019/2020

Tandem Realty Ltd | Licensed Agent REAA 2008

is currently scheduled to start next month. It will involve installing chain link fence to secure the boulders on the cliff as well as replacing the damaged staircase with a new one. There will also be some planting around the top of the cliff. The staircase will be constructed off site, and take eight weeks to complete. Planning and design is complete and the contractor has ordered the materials. Work at the site is expected to begin in the second week of April, and entire works will be completed in mid-May (weather permitting).

ADD ROOM, SPACE, AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME

OUTSIDER WWW.SHADESDIRECT.CO.NZ

0800 SHADES

CLEARSPAN

OUTDOOR SCREENS

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

FOLDING ARM AWNINGS

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz

Wildlife haven or smelly eyesore? “We saw a lot of pretty drawings, but it doesn’t look like that now,” she says. “There were supposed to be native trees, fruit trees and natural seating on rocks. It all sounded nice and it is disappointing to see what’s materialised.” She says in dry weather the stream vanishes beneath weeds and one path floods after heavy rain, making it unusable. Nearby residents also describe a smell of stagnant water and an increase in rats and mice. Volunteers of the Pest Free Hibiscus Coast project began trapping rats in the reserve last October, working with the students of Stanmore Bay School. Coordinator Jenny Hanwell says rat numbers don’t appear high, relative to other parts of the Coast. Since predator control began, around 60-70 rats have been removed, although bait is also used, so the number killed could be higher. The numbers caught are expected to increase in autumn and winter. Birdlife appears to be flourishing. Although it’s early in the restoration process, those working on bird count surveys in the reserve have seen paradise shelducks with young and a resident white faced heron. There

“

from p1

Trees to go in north Ōrewa

Not everyone wants a wilderness at their back door. Council is accused of neglecting the wetland and letting weeds and pests take over.

would be great if the community could be involved,” she says. Stanmore Bay principal Matt Sides says it has been a valuable area for students to study, including looking at water quality. He says a subcontractor, who was part of developing the wetland, recently approached the school for permission to work there again to improve the aesthetics. “The person feels that it has been ignored since completion. I can’t wait to see it go back to what it was originally

We saw a lot of pretty drawings, but it doesn’t look like that now.

are more blackbirds and pukekos – a trend that is higher at D’Oyly wetland than elsewhere on the peninsula. “We are keen to get the people who live around the reserve involved in trapping to help protect this site,” Jenny says. “NZ has lost 90 percent of its wetlands since European settlement, so even restoring small ones like this provides valuable habitat, as well as filtering and cleaning the water as it flows through. “To improve the birdlife we recommend further restoration work, with additional plantings of native trees. It

”

designed to look like,” Matt says. Weeds clog the waterway Creating the wetland meant losing an off-leash area to exercise dogs. Claire Tierney flagged her concerns about this at the recent Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Parks Management Plan hearing. “No other space was made available to replace that off leash area, and now it’s just a mess of weeds going to seed,” Claire says. Council’s Healthy Waters division general manager, Craig Mcilroy, says weed removal is done as required over

the year – more often in the warmer months. There were two major stints of work: the first between April and June 2019 and the second between November 2019 and the end of February 2020. He says that last year native plants appeared to be largely taking over. “The remaining weeds have recently been sprayed and we will be planting specimen trees in April/May when they are more likely to survive and establish themselves,” Craig says. “This will also help to provide shade and cool the stream.” He says organic material such as leaves and grass rot in shallow water. This uses up the oxygen in the stream and naturally produces sulphur dioxide, which can have a strong smell and turns the water a dark colour. “Although it looks and smells unpleasant, it is a natural process and will be restored when there is more rain.” He says the area is designed to receive water from the built up residential area around it and by doing so reduces the possibility of homes flooding. “There will definitely be times when the water prevents people from walking through the area and at those times people should not utilise this area, for their own safety.”

Our residential landlords enjoy a range of benefits, including: A free registered valuation annually No charges for quarterly inspections No charges for arranging maintenance

A stand of native trees at the back of this property is under threat as the site is developed. The owner and developer of the land, 16 Forest Glen in north Ōrewa, is Coastal Properties Ōrewa. The company purchased the site, zoned Mixed Housing Urban, last October for $1.3m. It is in the process of demolishing an existing bach and building three new homes. Company director Brendan Coughlan says he will “try to keep as many of the native trees at the back of the site as possible”. However, neighbours are concerned that several could be felled, including mature rimu. The three new builds on the site are being offered off the plans for close to $1m each.

Beachfront property sale This 1229sqm property, 305 Hibiscus Coast Highway, opposite Ōrewa town centre, sold last week – the first on the beachfront with commercial zoning to be sold. It was first offered for sale in 2014, but eventually withdrawn, before being put back on the market recently. Colliers Real Estate agent Tony Allsop says a local has purchased it. A total of eight sites on this part of the beach have commercial zoning, opening the way for beachside businesses. Two others, neighbouring sites, were withdrawn from sale in 2018.

Contact our experienced local property manager Kathlyn Raddock for a free, no obligation appraisal. P: 09 421 1550 www.morisonproperty.nz 1/14 Tamariki Avenue, Orewa

Professional Property Managers on the Hibiscus Coast Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

Feedback

Value for money

I have a question relating to the piece regarding David Rankin being appointed CEO of Auckland Council’s property arm Panuku Development on a salary of $520,000 (HM February 17). In light of this huge salary, can Council inform us of Mr Rankin’s Key Performance Indicators please? How else can we taxpayers measure that we are getting value for our money from his efforts? Marcia Krska, Stanmore Bay (abridged) Panuku chair, Paul Majurey, responds (abridged): In accordance with the Local Government Act, Auckland Council’s annual Statement of Intent (SOI) for Panuku Development Auckland details its activities and intentions for the next three years. The SOI also includes performance measures and targets and is publicly available at www.panuku.co.nz. When setting the chief executive’s salary, Panuku follows Council’s practice of obtaining market remuneration

www.localmatters.co.nz What’s on your mind? Readers are welcome to air their views. We do not publish abusive or unsigned letters. Letters may be abridged and full versions are at localmatters.co.nz/opinion. Address on p2 or e:terry@localmatters.co.nz

information from independent experts. Salary ranges are reviewed against market data from both private and public sector organisations using best practice methodology. Panuku salaries do not include variable components such as bonuses or incentives, which are common in most private sector organisations and some public sector entities. David Rankin is a widely respected and hard-working leader who has devoted his life to public service for Tāmaki Makaurau.

Carpark help valued Recently the carpark at the St John ambulance base at Silverdale was extended. This allowed for extra staff parking and off street parking for those who rent the hall. As we would have to do major fundraising for the sealing, we left the extension just with gravel – this caused problems with the gravel being spread. We would like to acknowledge the assistance from Fulton Hogan who helped us with the sealing and organised for the lines to

be painted. The team, led by Ewould Botha, allowed us to have the parking area fixed and although we continue to fundraise we have been able to get the job done earlier than expected. Lorraine Sampson, Area Committee member St John Hibiscus Coast (abridged)

the record

Passengers in a helicopter spotted this while flying over Stanmore Bay on March 7. Did the person say ‘yes’? If you know, email terry@localmatters.co.nz

Rates rise rejected Watercare says it should be able to fund its plan without higher than normal price rises. However, we are told that the service charge will be 7 percent and the growth will be 12 percent. This is to cover reduced revenue, yet they congratulated us on saving water in 2020. They can’t have it both ways. Auckland Council is proposing to raise rates by 5 percent. Both organisations are affected by reduced income in 2020 due to the effects of Covid-19. So is everyone else. We all suffered, so Watercare and Council, do the right thing and leave the increases to no more than the usual 3.5 percent. Michael James, Ōrewa

Stars of pet lookalike competition They say people choose pets that look like themselves, and Hibiscus Matters wanted to find locals who fit the bill, so we asked readers to send in photos with their lookalike pet. Thank you to everyone who entered – we enjoyed seeing all your creative photos. Most chose dogs, but there were also cats – and even a chicken! Thank you also to Pets in the City, Vets North and Pet Naturals for sponsorship. See more photos on Hibiscus Matters’ website.

Clockwise from left, Benjamin and Marlo won a Pets in the City $200 gift hamper. Dani and Roxy won a full service pamper groom from Pets in the City. Shana and Bonnie won a $50 Pet Naturals voucher.

DARING TO BE DIFFERENT

off

Showhome open to view: Wed to Sun 11am-4pm 68 Maurice Kelly Rd Milldale

We love the fact that everyone is different. That’s what inspires us to continually create original designs and details. Our latest showhome in Milldale is testament to that, built with the renown Maddren magic you’ve all come to know and trust.

0800 666 000 maddrenhomes.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Toffee apple for teacher

Whangaparāoa College teacher Susanne Wilson got a lovely surprise when a student baked her a cake. Contactless delivery was arranged – it was to thank the teacher and also gave the student something to do in lockdown. The toffee apple cake with chocolate mousse layers, cream cheese icing and dulce de leche caramel swirl was so spectacular, it saw Susanne lost for words.

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz

Feedback cont...

No footpath

56.7%

Normal at this tim e of

Friday March 12,

2021

year

I read with interest your article ‘Dangerous walk for highway residents’ (HM February 17). We are also in that situation but our issue is the lack of footpaths. We are a small preschool on Brightside Road in a converted house. The centre has been there for about 12 years. In the seven years that we have owned the centre traffic has increased, especially with the supermarket just down the road. I have tried on numerous occasions to contact Auckland Transport/Council. The only result has been a job number and nothing else. We are only able to go out for walks but we have to cross straight in front of the centre. We are only able to do this if a teacher goes further up Brightside to stop any traffic. This is not ideal. The lack of footpaths around the Coast affects a lot of us. Katie Gibbs, Manager/Owner, Montessori

80.8%

Marja Lubeck

Beginnings Preschool (abridged) Auckland Transport spokesperson Mark Hannan responds: This request for a footpath is on our list but unfortunately does not have high enough priority when measured against other projects. It has been on the list since 2016 and is assessed every year. There are a very large number of “missing links” in the footpath network throughout Auckland. Auckland Transport can’t deliver all these connections at the same time, so we have to use the available funding to target locations that have higher pedestrian numbers. In addition to Auckland Transport funding, local boards also have some discretionary funds for local walking and cycling projects. We would suggest that the preschool approach the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board to see if it can help.

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

Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Your grief is like your fingerprint – unique to you alone After a loss, grief is the way your mind and body gradually adjust to the reality of what has happened. It is a process. You’re not able to do it all at once and as you grieve you’re likely to experience a wide range of emotions, thoughts and reactions.

Opportunity missed

Everyone grieves differently. Find ways to grieve that suits you – there is no “right” way to experience grief. There is no set timetable, no rules, no secret method that will take your grief away, it is a process. Take all the time and space you need and for as long as it takes.

Our household are big America’s Cup fans – and really enjoyed your feature on the locals involved (HM March 3) – but even we are thinking now was it really worth all the money? Covid has cut a huge margin through it and benefits to Kiwis and local businesses seem few and far between. Which is why I was so angry to see Council’s lack of support for a club that just wanted to show the races in its clubrooms (HM March 3). There can be no reason to block any opportunity for Kiwis to make a buck from the Cup, especially given the circumstances. Well done for bringing this behaviour out into the open. Sharon Elliot, Gulf Harbour

Grief can affect every part of your life, your mind and thoughts, your emotions and feelings, your body and physical reactions, your spirit and what you believe about life and death, your social world and relationships with others. Sometimes it is necessary or easier to seek help from others outside of your closer friends and family. Sometimes you don’t want to ‘burden’ those close to you, or perhaps friends are there to help you enjoy the good times rather than remind you of the sad times. Don’t be surprised or embarrassed if you need help at this particular point. Because we realise grief is different for everyone, and as part of our commitment to the families we look after, Forrest Funeral Services offer a bereavement support service to assist you through this time.

Water watch

39 Riverside Rd, Orewa 09 426 7950 www.forrests.co.nz

Hunua Ranges • Waitakere ranges

$15 Discount with Driving Miss Daisy Total Mobility Cards Accepted. Wheelchair accessible vehicle available 7 days. $15 off your first wheelchair ride with us. Hibiscus Coast area only.

To make a booking, contact Driving Miss Daisy Hibiscus Coast today: Ph: 09 428 4490 Mob: 021 035 0431 Email: hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz

Mark Mitchell

MP for Whangaparaoa For appointments and assistance please get in touch 7 Tamariki Avenue, Orewa 09 426 6215 mark.mitchellmp@parliament.govt.nz

Viewpoint with Mark Mitchell, Whangaparāoa MP Mark.MitchellMP@parliament.govt.nz

Pandemic pressures We recently had the second level 3 lockdown in the space of two weeks; I know it is putting a lot of stress on our community and local businesses. The uncertainty that these yo-yo type lockdowns creates is tough and I want to acknowledge your continued resilience and thank our frontline and essential workers. Many of you may have noticed media headlines recently relating to a sharp increase in gang numbers and activity. We have not been immune to this, with the Hells Angels having purchased a commercial property in Silverdale and establishing a gang pad (HM June 17, 2020). I have zero tolerance for gangs and organised crime nationally, but especially in my own community. I held a meeting in my office about six weeks ago with our Police Area The uncertainty Commander, councillors and the chair and deputy chair of our local that these yo-yo type board. The purpose of the meeting lockdowns creates is was to ensure our local Police knew they had the full backing of local tough and I want to representatives to police the gangs acknowledge your in a proactive and determined way. We also began a discussion around a continued resilience wider gang action plan. The Police are and thank our always most effective when they are supported by and work with their local frontline and communities. Gang membership is essential workers. up by 35.6 percent in the Waitemata area. Last week the CEO and executives of NZTA appeared in front of the Transport and Infrastructure committee, of which I am a member. They were asked for an update on Penlink and confirmation that construction would start this year. General Manager Transport Services, Brett Gliddon, stated that “it will be subject to funding and confirmation of the full programme”. We have since learned, through Annual Reviews, that allocated funding for projects under the NZ Upgrade Programme are being revisited to re-establish any new timelines and cost estimates for these projects. I am going to keep pressure on the Government to ensure there are no funding or timeline changes for Penlink. This remains a top priority for me. Let’s keep encouraging and supporting one another as we continue to tackle the challenges a global pandemic brings. I remain available for any assistance you may need. If I can help in any way, please get in touch on 09 426 6215, or at Mark.MitchellMP@parliament.govt.nz.

“

Authorised by Mark Mitchell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

”

Monster Housewash and Gutters is a father/daughter run business, run by Tony and Ashleigh Jillings. They have lived on the Hibiscus Coast for almost 30 years. Both Tony and Ashleigh take great pride in their work, ensuring customers get an excellent job from quoting right through to invoicing, with before and after photos always supplied. They can help with all your waterblasting needs: House Washing // Gutter Cleaning // Driveway Cleaning // Deck Cleaning // Fence Cleaning // Industrial Buildings // Commercial Buildings // Vehicles and much more Free Quotes

Editor’s note: Waka Kotahi/NZ Transport Agency advises that Penlink has been approved through the NZ Upgrade Programme with $411 million allocated. Waka Kotahi is currently planning to start construction by the end of 2021.

Watercare has new CEO

Jon Lamonte has been appointed chief executive of Watercare. He is currently chief executive of Sydney Metro and joins Watercare on April 6. Covid-19 restrictions mean there may be a period when Mr Lamonte will carry out his role while offshore. His salary has been set at $585,000, in line with council policy that chief executive salaries across the council-controlled organisations be set lower than previous incumbents and the Auckland Council’s chief executive. Previous incumbent Raveen Jaduram’s $775,000 salary was the highest of any chief executive in Council. Mr Jaduram resigned last year.

info@monsterwash.co.nz

Whangaparāoa Coastal Plan meetings rescheduled

www.monsterwash.co.nz

The dates for community meetings about Auckland Council’s new Coastal Management Plan for Whangaparāoa (HM February 17) have twice been changed by Covid-19 lockdowns. Therefore, the ones printed in Hibiscus Matters’ March 3 edition are no longer current. The latest details are expected to be confirmed this week and will be posted on Hibiscus Matters’ Facebook page when they are available.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz

Majority heeds warnings

Siren This month sees a new community police officer on the beat in Ōrewa, and he’s already a familiar face to many. Senior Constable Wiremu Waretini, known to many as Moo, has lived on the Coast with his family since 2000. He’s been in the police for 30 years, having worked first in South Auckland and the central city before transferring to Ōrewa as an intelligence officer five and a half years ago. Now he’s taking to local streets in a more visible role to work with residents, business owners and community groups to build partnerships, run crime prevention programmes and tackle relevant issues at grassroots level. “People will see me around,” he says. “I’ll be out walking the beat. I want people to know they don’t need to be worried that something’s happening when they see a police officer.” The patch he covers goes way beyond Ōrewa and Red Beach, from Waiwera in the north almost to Albany in the south, and out as far as Coatesville, Dairy Flat and Waitoki. y Silverdale fire crews and local St John Ambulance officers have been called to several road accidents in recent weeks, the most serious of which happened at the junction of Whangaparāoa and Vipond Roads on February 23. The three vehicle crash caused lengthy traffic hold-ups and three people were injured, one of them seriously. St John Rodney territory manager Megan Fairley said it was a timely reminder to drive carefully and to the conditions. “It’s easy to get frustrated when there are many other travellers on the road, so patience is essential,” she said. “Often these crashes are not only traumatic for those involved, but also for the patients’ families and friends, and they can have long-term life impacts.” y Fire crews have been called to tackle a number of local grass and scrub fires in the last month. Silverdale Fire Station senior officer Jim Maclean warned that everywhere was still dry, despite recent rains, and said that care was still required. “It is still a restricted fire season, so remember a permit is required to light a fire in the outdoors,” he said. “If unsure, just Google ‘outdoor burning in Auckland’ and follow the links.”

The tsunami threat that followed earthquakes off the east coast of the North Island on March 5 created a stir in Ōrewa, as the area is vulnerable to tsunami. There was no tsunami warning issued for Ōrewa – the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) advice was to stay away from the shore, due to the possibility of strong and unusual currents and tidal surges. However, many expressed confusion on social media about whether evacuation was called for. High tide on March 5 was just after 1pm. The vast majority heeded the warning: “Do not go to the coast to watch unusual wave activity.” However, a handful of people were on the reserve by Ōrewa surf club, cellphones at the ready, at high tide; cars lined the seaward side of the carpark, and a few were out surfing small waves. A police car was in attendance. A small number of people of all ages were on Moana Reserve, closely watching the incoming tide. Auckland Emergency Management duty controller, Parul Sood says it is important to follow the advice issued by NEMA and Auckland Emergency Management (AEM). AEM, a division of Auckland Council, is tasked with activating tsunami sirens (and other forms of communication) if evacuation is needed as well as providing up to date advice. “However, if you feel a strong earthquake, or a weak rolling one that

lasts a minute or more; see a sudden rise or fall in sea level or hear loud and unusual noises from the sea, don’t wait for official advice but go immediately to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can, taking the route that is quickest for you,” Parul says.

Siren test due

• Ōrewa was identified in 2017 as having the highest risk of tsunami exposure in Auckland. • The Hibiscus Coast’s first tsunami sirens were installed by Council in Ōrewa last September. • They are on Centreway Reserve, at the western end of the carpark on Riverside Road, and at the entrance to Brunton Park on West Hoe Road. • The sirens produce a tone and voice instruction. • The next tsunami siren test, which includes the Ōrewa sirens, takes place over Easter weekend.

OO S G N

NI OPE

Gastropub, Entertainment & Brewery

An atmosphere of togetherness. Fun and frolic, flavourful food, sports streaming, live music and brews!

719A Whangaparāoa Rd, Whangaparāoa • www.paraoa.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz

3RD APRIL - 10TH APRIL 7-DAY MEASURE ONLY COMPETITION

100,000 IN PRIZES TO BE WON

Be in to WIN a $45,000 Marco Boat & Yamaha Outboard Package Join us at the Omaha Golf Club for prize giving on Saturday 10th April. Enjoy live music, a charity auction and a chance to meet your rescue crew and helicopter. TICKETS & MORE INFO AT

arht.fishingcomp.co.nz Adults $70 & Kids $20. All proceeds go directly to support the Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz

Residents hopping mad as rabbit numbers rise Parts of Gulf Harbour are seeing a dramatic rise in rabbit numbers. Residents spoken to by Hibiscus Matters say they are frequently seeing rabbits in their gardens and on neighbouring properties, as well as on a nearby reserve, and that this is very unusual. Advice given to residents by Auckland Council was to purchase poison pellets called Pindone. Some are hesitant to put these out, however, because of the potential harm to pets. Council advises they have seen no increase in rabbits at Shakespear Regional Park nearby. However, rabbit numbers are up on the golf course at Gulf Harbour Country Club. Course superintendent Ryan Taylor

says rabbits are especially bad on the back nine holes where there is still a lot of undeveloped farmland, building sites and reserves.

“We currently only undertake rabbit control on a couple of golf holes,” Ryan says. “We can safely block off these holes to the public while we

undergo controlled shootings by a competent shooter – this is one of the most humane methods available.” He says the idea of using poison to control rabbits doesn’t sit well with him, as there are too many household pets that venture onto the golf course. “I would hate to see something happen to them,” he says. On the other hand, Whangaparāoa Golf Club, in Army Bay, says it has no major problems with rabbits. Green superintendent Scott Challenor says this could be in part because they see quite a few cats from nearby households on the course. He says his dog is also very good at chasing rabbits!

Hand-carved Ōrewa estuary seat repairs a long time coming Seats carved for Te Ara Tahuna, Ōrewa Estuary walk/cycleway, which were vandalised several years ago, could be repaired after a renewed effort by Hibiscus and Bays Local Board member Julia Parfitt. They were hand-carved by master carvers who were inmates of Paremoremo Prison, using macrocarpa felled during the establishment of the walkway. The benches were unveiled at the end of 2012. It was not long before vandals removed the end pieces of some of the seats but at the time it was thought those could not be replaced.

Some of the hand carved seats had their end pieces removed.

Recently the damage was again drawn to the attention of Hibiscus Matters by a local resident. As a result, Mrs Parfitt has raised it with Corrections and Auckland Council’s community facilities team

RAINCLOUD TRUSTED WATER DELIVERY

to see what can be done. “In my view it would be good for one of the carvers who created them to fix it if possible,” she says. “The seats were funded by the local board so repairs should be funded by our renewals or

general maintenance budgets. We have a number of these carvings in our local board area and they have been well respected over the years and cared for by the community. The only damage has occurred here in Ōrewa,” Mrs Parfitt says.

www.Raincloud.co.nz | 0800 50 44 50

Easy-to-use website that makes water delivery a breeze Get water now, pay later We’re the first to bring you Laybuy

L AY B U Y See www.raincloud.co.nz for details

GET WATER NOW. PAY LATER

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz

Garage Door Repair Man LTD Servicing Hibiscus Coast & Rodney Garage Doors for 25 years Fast professional Garage Door & Garage Door Opener Repair/Replacement

0800 63 63 48 10/22 Highgate Parkway, Silverdale

M: 021 535 367 E: info@garagedoorrepairman.co.nz

Janne Adams

Selling all over the Hibiscus Coast Call me now for a no obligation appraisal of your home in this buoyant market!

Mackys Real Estate Ltd, Bayleys, licensed under the REA Act 2008

021 50 80 98

Writer blooms with Daisy Inspiration for first-time author Pat Backley’s novel Daisy came from an unlikely source – a rather dry factual book about British state housing. Pat, aged 69, lives in Ōrewa and began writing during last year’s first Covid-19 lockdown. “My husband of 26 years dumped me and I was on my own during lockdown so I thought ‘why not write a book?’” She grew up in a state house in the UK and says a book she was reading about those houses triggered the idea for Daisy – a historical family saga. “I spent two weeks, day and night, writing,” she says. She recently self-published her book, which she says was “a minefield”. She got through it with the help of The Self Publishing School online, her “publishing shepherd” in the States, as well as an editor, as she wanted the book to be professional.

“

I was on my own during lockdown and thought ‘why not write a book’

”

Set in Alabama, Harlem and London, it spans almost 100 years from 1887 to 1974. It tells the story of Daisy, born into poverty in London, and a young man in Alabama who comes from a wealthy family.

Hibiscus Coast Service Centre

Pat Backley – writing her first book opened the door to a whole new career.

Pat, whose career includes working in a bank, owning businesses, fundraising for charity, being a home educator and consulting to the construction industry, says she has found her niche with writing. Her memoirs are already with a publisher in the States, she is working on a sequel to Daisy and contributing to two anthologies – including one called Serendipity, which is a fundraiser for Duffy Books in Schools. Her next three novels are partly written. “A whole new career has opened up, which at my age is so exciting.”

WIN this book

2/23 David Sidwell Place, Whangaparaoa

Hibiscus Matters and Pat Backley have two signed copies of Daisy to give away. To go in the draw, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters on Facebook and message us your name and contact phone number with ‘Daisy Giveaway’ in the message. Or, write your name, address and daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Daisy Giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Avenue, Ōrewa 0931. Entries close Friday, April 9. Daisy is available at Auckland Libraries, or on Amazon or Book Depository online.

• WOF • Wheel Alignment • Electronic Diagnostics • Full Service • Electrical Repairs • Lube Service • Shock Absorbers • Euro factory ECU Diagnostics • Brakes • Cam belts • Tyres • Battery Service and repairs to all makes and models

, incl GST

Firewood from $60 per cube

BUY DIRECT FROM THE SAWMILL

Get it now before winter!

700 Kahikatea Flat Road, Waitoki • Phone 09 420 5485

sales@cypress-sawmill.co.nz • www.cypress-sawmill.co.nz • Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Cypress.Sawmill

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz

Protect your lenses. Protect your eyes. Look great! Ask the experts at Visique Hawkins Optometrists for a coating that will enhance your lifestyle. This core group of volunteers is undertaking weed and pest control in their neighbourhood.

Community’s war on weeds

Shop 20, 175 Millwater Parkway, Silverdale P: 426 5308 E: millwater@seriouseyes.co.nz www.seriouseyes.co.nz

Sea Cleaners removed rubbish from under the Weiti River dock.

New bore in Northern Ōrewa

Watercare is leasing a new private bore in Ōrewa, which will be available to water tanker drivers. The bore is in developer AV Jennings’ Ara Hills 84.5ha subdivision on the western side of the Grand Drive motorway exit in northern Ōrewa. The bore will provide 600,000 litres of water per day-enough to fill up 60 average water trucks and reduce travel times for many drivers. The water is treated by a modular unit, designed, and installed by Lutra-water treatment specialists. The other local fill-up stations are in Silverdale and Whangaparāoa. Watercare’s programme improvements manager, Anin Nama, says one of the advantages of the bore is that it won’t affect water supplies on the metropolitan network.

8 9

6 1 7 5

1 7 9 4 8 6 2

4 7 1 2 3 3 1 3 8 5 2

www.seriouseyes.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

1 6

Medium – www.sudokupuzz.com

Sudoku

T H E N U M B E R S G A M E

Solution page 38

shared their concerns that the rubbish might leak into the estuary and discussed the issue with the Auckland Council community parks ranger,” Rachael says. “Eventually, Council’s community facilities and waste management teams organised for Sea Cleaners to remove the rubbish – all 2000 litres of it!” Finally, the cracks in the dock were sealed to avoid further dumping. Join the war on weeds Other areas that would benefit from weed control projects like this are being investigated, and suggestions from the community are welcome – email info@restorehb.org.nz with any potential sites.

Fill in this grid so that every column, row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.

A group of residents of Riverhaven Drive in Whangaparāoa are working together to rid their local reserve of weeds and animal pests. Their efforts are being supported by not-for-profit initiative Restore Hibiscus & Bays and the Forest & Bird Pest Free Hibiscus Coast project. Restore Hibiscus & Bays ecological restoration advisor, Kane Kvasnicka, has been running weed control workshops for neighbours living near the Fairhaven Walkway, alongside the Weiti River. This area has one of the last mature coastal broadleaf forest habitats in Auckland’s north, but dense patches of wild ginger are preventing the regeneration of native trees. To date, around 15 residents have controlled approximately 80 percent of the wild ginger along the walkway and coastal edge. They have also learnt skills in controlling jasmine and monkey apple. The next step is to focus on private bush areas bordering the reserve – with neighbours helping neighbours on each other’s properties. Restore Hibiscus & Bays manager Rachael Randal says this is a great example of the collaboration that they hope to replicate elsewhere on the Hibiscus Coast. Another positive environmental spinoff is that residents’ concerns were addressed regarding rubbish dumped inside gaps in the concrete dock on the Weiti River. “Our ecological restoration advisor

VISIQUE HAWKINS OPTOMETRISTS

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

localbusiness

INTRODUCING n

The Biltong & Braai Shop What started as a hobby making classic South African sausages and snacks for himself and friends has evolved into a fully-fledged shop and business for expat Conrad Muller. “I was working at Electrix and used to make biltong and sausages as a side-line for my friends and work colleagues,” he says. “Everybody started noticing I was doing sausages and it just took off.” He opened The Biltong & Braai Shop at 8d Moana Avenue in Ōrewa last year with shop manager Semona Cornelesen and they make and sell a wide range of fresh and frozen meats, boerewors, biltong, spices and barbecue accessories. “We sell anything to do with barbecue – steak, ribs, chicken, pork rashers – and spices and meat rubs,” he says. “We’re not just another South African shop.” All the meat is bought in bulk from premium supplier Hellaby before being cut, spiced and processed by Conrad. He makes five different wors, the traditional long South African sausage that is coiled into a round – the classic boerewors, kaas wors (cheese), garlic wors, cheese and jalapeno wors and sosatie wors (curry) – as well as three different biltong flavours, plus cabanossi and droewors. Everything is made and prepared on the premises using traditional methods and premium ingredients.

C H A N G I N G P L AC E S n

Shalome Williams

City Carpets

Semona Cornelesen and Conrad Muller

The shop also has a number of shelves packed with a huge number of spices, salts, barbecue rubs and sauces, and a range of accessories, including biltong choppers, bottle carriers, aprons, tongs and charcoal. They are also starting to do online sales this month. Conrad and Semona have faced several major challenges since first opening the shop last July, including several lockdowns and a fire in the roof space that forced them to close their doors from October until the end of January. “But we’re still going – we’ve got a lot of loyal customers,” Semona says. Conrad agrees. “With hard work, hopefully we’ll get there. It’s like this,” he says, pointing to a framed picture above the counter that reads ‘Have big dreams and you will grow into them’.

A local family with more than 50 years’ combined experience in the flooring trade has given its business profile a boost with a move to a new showroom at 611 Whangaparāoa Road. City Carpets was previously in Karepiro Drive, but when a site on the main road came up late last year, business founder Dexter Richardson, together with daughter Shalome and her husband Michael, snapped up the more prominent site. As well as displays and samples from leading global manufacturers, the shop carries a good range of offcuts and end of lines in store, meaning there are always bargains to be had. “One of our niche things is that we’ll buy clearance lines, which means we can pass on huge discounts on our stocks of vinyl, carpets and laminated vinyl planks,” Dexter says. “A lot of carpet shops don’t carry the stock we have these days.” Another strength is City Carpets’ mobile service, where they visit homes

and businesses for free consultations, even if that means working after hours and at weekends. “We’re happy to travel anywhere in the Auckland and Rodney region,” Dexter says. “We’re a service business, so we’re up for that and oblige by doing whatever we have to do to make it work for people.” Dexter has been selling and installing all types of domestic and commercial flooring in the Stanmore Bay area for 30 years, while Shalome and Michael have been running the showroom for six years. The family also owns the Flooring First branch in Warkworth. Dexter says the biggest change he’s seen is a huge improvement in the quality and performance of artificial carpets, which has led to a move away from wool. City Carpets has recently entered into a partnership with Sleepyhead to use its New Zealand-made underlay instead of imported to support local manufacturing.

Solution Dyed Nylon 50oz Carpet Two colours available. Hurry, while stocks last.

WAS $199 NOW $169/LM Mon: 9am-5pm • Tues-Thurs: 9am-3pm Fri: 9am–5pm • Sat: 9.30am–1pm

Freephone 0800 268 407

Mon-Fri: 9.30am- 6pm • Sat: 9am-3pm • Closed Sunday

8D Moana Ave, Orewa • 09 218 6853

Unit C, 611 Whangaparāoa Rd, Whangaparāoa Ph 424 3266 | administration@citycarpets.co.nz

www.citycarpets.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

localbusiness

Whangaparāoa wastewater included in Covid-19 tests

INTRODUCING n

Orewa Nails & Beauty

Making customers feel welcome, relaxed and comfortable is the top priority for Ōrewa Nails & Beauty’s manager, Katy Nguyen. She and her team have transformed the salon in Moana Place since taking over in December, bringing in all-new decor, equipment and products. “Everything is brand new,” she says. “We wanted it to feel like home, with everything comfortable so people enjoy it here.” With many customers retired, Katy brought in foot spa chairs with easy access and fully upholstered armchairs in the nail salon, instead of the officetype chairs on wheels that are more common. “I’ve worked in nails for 10 years, in Ponsonby, Parnell and the CBD. Customers there were young, working in offices and in a hurry. When I came here, I felt it needed to be relaxing. The people are more relaxed – we talk with them, we serve water and tea, we don’t forget them.” Katy’s team offers the latest dipping powder nail treatment, where an adhesive base is applied, then the nail is dipped in fine coloured powder and sealed with a clear top coat. Katy says this technique helps nails to be healthy and strong, it dries quickly, doesn’t chip and stays shiny for four to six weeks. As well as dipping powder, the salon offers traditional manicures and

Katy Nguyen

pedicures, including spa treatments, plus a full range of waxing services from top to toe, as well as eyelash and brow tints and extensions. And there are nearly 1000 different shades of nail polish and powder on offer. Katy says cleanliness and hygiene is paramount in everything they do, from single use nail buffers and files to disposable liners in foot spas. They also like to add value where they can, such as offering free sugar scrub for spa pedicures and top of the range nail colour for the same price as standard.

Nails and Beauty Manicure & Pedicure • Dipping Powder Waxing • Eyelashes • Eyebrows

10% off all services

Offer available from March 15 to April 2, 2021

8 Moana Ave, Orewa Ph 09 947 5551

Machines have been out and about on the Hibiscus Coast taking sewage samples and analysing them to see whether the Covid-19 virus is present. The process is part of the Institute of Environmental Science and Research’s (ESR) wastewater testing that followed the most recent community cases and lockdown. Samples taken in Whangaparāoa last month, as well as from other parts of Auckland and centres around the North Island, all returned negative. The wastewater testing project is led by two ESR scientists – Dr Joanne Hewitt, head of the organisation’s environmental virology laboratory, and Dr Brent Gilpin. Dr Gilpin says Whangaparāoa was included because samples were already being collected as part of normal operations in the area and it was a good opportunity to test a few more areas as part of the increased sampling that week. “We are not planning on doing it routinely, but it demonstrates we can do smaller areas if we need to,” he says. Dr Hewitt says while most of the samples were pumped automatically from large wastewater pipes, the ones taken in Whangaparāoa are known as “grab samples”, taken directly from manholes.

% off

Rather than continue to do it this way, ESR may try different approaches in future, such as using passive samplers that can capture viruses from wastewater as it passes through it. These could be rapidly deployed at locations across the sewage network. The ESR website says that while it is theoretically possible to detect a single person shedding the virus from wastewater, that is unlikely in practice. It says that the test appears to be “sensitive enough to discover approximately 10 cases in an area of 100,000 people”. Scientists believe this research is going to be useful for other viruses longerterm. According to ESR’s website, wastewater epidemiology is a burgeoning area worldwide. “Illicit drugs and infectious viruses are just two of the possible areas that wastewater analysis may allow us to understand. The smart toilet of the future may analyse what you deposit in your toilet to help with personal wellbeing and health.” Initial work on the Covid-19 wastewater testing project was funded by the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment’s Covid-19 Innovation Acceleration Fund, with the Ministry of Health funding further application of the work as part of New Zealand’s Covid-19 response.

Resene Premium Paints, Wood Stains, Primers, Sealers, Wallpaper, Decorating Accessories and Cleaning Products

Come in and see us today at your local Resene ColorShop! Silverdale:

Cnr Hibiscus Coast Highway and East Coast Rd, (09) 427 9560 Discounts off the normal retail price of Resene premium paints, wood stains, primers, sealers, wallpaper, decorating accessories and cleaning products until 13 April 2021. Available only at Resene owned ColorShops and participating resellers. Paint offer also available at participating Mitre 10 MEGA and selected Mitre 10 stores. Valid only with cash/credit card/EFTPOS purchases. Not available in conjunction with account sales, promotional vouchers/coupons or other offers. Excludes trade, ECS, WallPrint, wall decals, Crown products and PaintWise levy.

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

Business & technology feature

business&technology



F E AT URE

Drone technology makes images like this possible without a satellite or helicopter. Photos, Mark Yelavic. Mark says he is inspired by the ever-changing natural beauty of the coast.

Drone technology unlocks creativity Initially it was the practical and fun applications of drones that got people excited, but increasingly photographers are exploring their possibilities as a creative tool, including Stanmore Bay photographer Mark Yelavic. He first used a drone 10 years ago and says the technology has advanced fast since then. “It was very basic – you had to attach your camera to the bottom of the drone and the range was around 600700m,” Mark says. “Now it’s done with your phone, connects to Wifi and can go up to 7km away.” He is now on his sixth or seventh drone, saying he has put a few “into a watery grave”. But mostly getting new

drones has been about keeping up with the latest technology. His current drone is around 70 percent smaller than his first one and the camera quality is rapidly improving. Mark has always been interested in visual arts – as a 13-year-old he stole his parents’ Handycam to take videos of his friends skateboarding. A scholarship to Avalon Film Studios for film and media studies followed, and he then worked for Sky TV as a sports cameraperson. These days he is in IT, which, he says, “pays the bills and allows me to buy drones”. His first use of drones involved experimentation and real estate videos.

But his creativity was unlocked as the camera became integrated with the drone controller. “I used to strap a GoPro to the bottom of the drone, so you couldn’t see what you were filming and had to wait and see what you had,” Mark says. “Once the camera allowed you to look at a bird’s eye view, I began exploring Stanmore Bay and noticing beautiful rock formations and the way the ocean meets the sand from this whole new aerial perspective. It’s totally captured my interest and is forever changing.” His work became more and more abstract and artistic with one of his recent images, of his son floating in a “secret” rock pool, causing huge

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

interest online. “In the past to get these images you had to hire a helicopter, but drones have vastly reduced that cost and time barrier and made it super accessible to photograph from a height. I can just walk to the beach and take these images in my lunch break.” The recent lockdown gave him the opportunity to walk about more with his camera and he is now offering art prints for sale, and hoping to one day have an exhibition at Estuary Arts Centre. “I want my photos to showcase the Hibiscus Coast and encourage people to explore – get away from the computer and go and look around with your kids.”

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

Business & technology feature

IEN

N TS EW WE LC OM

DOUGLAS ACCOUNTING

For all your accounting requirements

• Monthly and end of year accounts and tax returns. • Business planning and advice • Personal Tax Returns • ACC Coverplus Xtra • Cashbooks, Xero & MYOB software • GST, PAYE, FBT • Agent with Inland Revenue Department PO Box 308 001, Manly Whangaparaoa 0952 Phone: 09 424 4684 Mobile: 021 912 184 Fax: 09 424 4688 greg@douglasconsulting.co.nz www.douglasconsulting.co.nz

The latest machinery has been employed to lay asphalt for the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway project. These two machines work together on the paving.

Puhoi motorway paver first in NZ Innovative machinery, and a new asphalt plant being set up in Silverdale, are designed to speed up the process of paving the Puhoi to Warkworth motorway and improve the quality of the asphalt used. Motorway construction company Fletcher Acconia recently imported a machine that can pave the whole width of the motorway in a single sweep – the process normally takes two or more passes. The two-part machine, which is the first of its kind in New Zealand, consists of an asphalt paver, and a shuttle buggy. They travel together during the paving process – trucks tip material into the shuttle buggy, which dispenses it into the asphalt paver. The Pūhoi to Warkworth project is a Private Public Partnership between Government and the Northern Express Group (NX2). NX2 chief executive Vicente Valencia says the use of this innovative method of paving will enhance the quality and longevity of the asphalt. Sourcing enough asphalt for the project was another hurdle to be overcome. With 18.5 kilometres of motorway under construction, the motorway requires around 140,000

tonnes of asphalt. Mr Valencia says the most efficient way of obtaining this volume of asphalt was to establish a dedicated local plant, which is currently being built in Peters Way, in the Silverdale industrial area. Asphalt production is set to begin there this month. The plant will produce 2000 tonnes of asphalt per day at its peak. Upon completion of the motorway project, the plant will remain in production and supply other Auckland roading projects. The base course layer (the first part of the road surface) has already gone down at several locations on the northern and southern ends of the motorway and these will be the first to receive the asphalt. The project uses open grade porous asphalt, which Mr Valencia says helps reduce road noise. It also assists with water runoff, increases resistance and makes the road safer for motorists. The motorway construction is making good progress and is likely to meet its completion date of May 2022. Waka Kotahi/NZ Transport Agency expects to submit a proposal to toll the road to the Minister of Transport next month (HM March 3).

For more stories visit our website www.localmatters.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

Business & technology feature

Night Skies with James Smith, Hibiscus Coast Astronomical Society hibiscuscoastastronomy@gmail.com

Renovation specialists “Renovating Rodney one home at a time” New builds, additions, kitchen, bathrooms 0210 294 7883 | www.scr.co.nz |

auckland_renovate

Mars a red hot topic

Be even more super

Leave the accounting to SBA

enquire with sba

$15k worth of prizes to be won! Just mention BE SUPER instore or enter at www.sba.co.nz/besuper

TWO HANDY LOCATIONS 8 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale. 689 Whangaparaoa Rd, Stanmore Bay. Phone 09 428 4748 l www.sba.co.nz

This year is going to be the Year of Mars. It is the year that we learn a lot more about our sister planet than ever before, thanks to three space probes. The Emirates Mars Mission was the first to arrive at the planet on February 9. This is an orbiter mission – it will not actually land on the planet but orbit around, analysing daily and seasonal weather cycles. It will also study hydrogen and oxygen loss from Mars. The second probe arrived on the surface of Mars on February 18. This is the NASA-built Perseverance rover, which had a picture perfect landing on the red planet. Already we have seen some amazing pictures from the surface. This is just the beginning. Once the rover gets going, we should see some awesome photos. Built into the rover is another amazing machine. For the very first time, NASA will launch a helicopter drone, named Ingenuity, on another planet. Ingenuity will demonstrate the technology for rotorcraft flight in the extremely thin atmosphere of Mars. This will enable scientists to fly around the surface and take a close look at items of interest that would otherwise be inaccessible to the rover. The primary mission of Perseverance is to look for possible life that existed on Mars millions of years ago. It will also be looking at the geology on Mars and how it has changed over time. The third mission to the red planet is Tianwen-1, a Chinese orbiter and rover. It arrived on Mars on February 10, but will remain in orbit for about two months before attempting a landing. If all goes well, the lander will deposit the rover onto the surface where it is planned to function for 90 days. The objectives of the Chinese mission relate to the geology of Mars, the current and past presence of water, the internal structure of the planet, the identification of minerals and different types of rocks on the surface, as well as the characterisation of the space environment and atmosphere of Mars. The name Tianwen comes from a long poem of the same name written by poet Qu Yuan (about 340–278 BC). It means “questions to heaven” or “quest for heavenly truth”. These three missions are vital for our understanding of whether life evolved on Mars, as well as whether we, as a species, could one day settle and live on Mars. Elon Musk has already stated his desire to see a colony on Mars and is working hard to make this a reality. His new large rocket, designed specifically to get people to Mars, is in its final stages of testing, with an earth orbit planned for later this year. He plans to send people to the Moon by 2032 and then to Mars shortly after. Our local rocket company, Rocket Lab, has just announced development of its own large rocket. Although it has not been said yet, it would also be capable of taking equipment, or people, to the red planet. We are certainly living in exciting times, particularly when dreams about living on Mars seem more likely to become reality. My question is: Have we learnt enough about how we treat our own planet before we start living on another?

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

April/May 2021 – Your essential property guide from Dairy Flat to Waipu

WelcomeHome Welcome Home

Y A D N OPE 0 3 & 9 2 MAR

-2p m a 0 1

The BEST decision ever made Quality designer apartments, with relaxing resort facilities, uniquely placed right in the centre of Warkworth Town. The perfect retirement lifestyle.

OPEN TO VIEW

Weekdays 9am to 3pm. Weekends 10am to 2.30pm

FOR MORE INFORMATION call Sylvie on 027 314 5767 or (09) 425 8766

oaks.reception@realliving.co.nz

2 bedroom apartments from $699,000

The Oaks on Neville, 9 Queen St, Warkworth www.realliving.co.nz/warkworth

3 Bedroom apartments from $990,000

A Local Matters publication. Distribution - 39,750 copies. Advertising enquiries: Mahurangi 09 425 9068 or Hibiscus 09 427 8188

large affordable sections yes, you can build new! book your viewing now great location stunning rural views

Evolution Realty Limited Licensed REA 2008

Mahurangi heights The latest releases are selling fast, secure one of the remaining sites today! Pay just 10% for your preferred site and pay the rest when titles are issued, approx September 2021. Affordable sections - welcoming enquiry over $390,000. All sites are upwards of 600 square metres. Enjoy the lovely rural outlook and peeps of the Mahurangi Inlet, from some sites. Why buy an older home with potential problems, when a warm, dry, beautiful new home is well

within your grasp? Stage 1 has set the tone of the development, with a mix of impressive homes and a neat bunch of people. Rest assured you are becoming part of a great community. Well, all of this makes me want to buy one, what about you?!

steffan meyer | 021 055 4346 steffan@meyerrealestate.co.nz www.meyerrealestate.co.nz www.meyerrealestate.co.nz www.meyerrealestate.co.nz

WelcomeHome

April/May 2021

Evolution Realty Ltd Licensed under the REAA 2008

SNELLS beach 19 Woodlands Ave

just sold!

3 2 178sqm 4 94 Enquiries, 55 inspections, 11,697 website views and 1 pre auction offer accepted 20 days into the auction campaign saw this gorgeous bush clad property’s auction brought forward. With 2 bidders and 11 bids, 19 Woodlands Ave sold unconditionally on our online auction platform well above reserve, Sold by online auction hitting a street record and resulting in very happy vendors and purchasers!

steffan meyer | 021 055 4346 steffan@meyerrealestate.co.nz

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz

Evolution Realty Ltd Licensed under the REAA 2008

SNELLS BEACH 30 tamatea dr

runs a good sales campaign! “Easy to work with, good listener, communicates and runs a good sales campaign. Steffan is positive but realistic which is a great help to make important decisions. No pressure and is a team player.”

Selling? Call Today 0800 877 653

Vendor, Snells Beach

www.meyerrealestate.co.nz

April/May 2021

WelcomeHome

JUST LISTED

49 Ashmore Crescent Warkworth Be Impressed Spacious home with open plan living areas, separate formal lounge, fully fenced flat section. 10 min walk to town. LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

66 Manu Drive Kaiwaka Exceptional Lifestyle Lake & Harbour Views

A larger landholding within the estate, bordering DOC esplanade reserve, North facing with lake views to Takahoa Bay.

LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

594 Matakana Valley Road Matakana

750m2

Set Date Sale 06 Apr 2021 at 5pm (unless sold prior) View ljhooker.co.nz/DD8HAY Wendy Milne 021 784 942

Magical and Private Charming home with barn and sleepout, set above a large sunny pond surrounded by bush going up the hill.

LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

wendy.milne@ljhooker.co.nz

JUST LISTED

For Sale $1,495,000 View ljhooker.co.nz/DCSHAY Craig Kenyon 027 485 6833 craig.kenyon@ljhooker.co.nz

Marie-Dominique

12.18 Ha

021 490 039

marie.lennan@ljhooker.co.nz

Lot 3 Duders Bay Kawau Island

3.97 Ha

For Sale By Negotiation View ljhooker.co.nz/DDRHAY

4005m2

Your Private Blank Canvas Private tree-clad, elevated site with views through the trees to Bon-Accord & North Cove with access to the beach & wharf.

LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

For Sale $395,000 View ljhooker.co.nz/DDGHAY Abigail Harress-Blaas 021 924 267 Viv Wyatt 0274 976 046

JUST LISTED

7 Mountain Road Kaiwaka Escape Suburbia! Modern Home in the Country

Here is your 1.08Ha property situated handy to State Highway 1 just north of Kaiwaka Village, fully fenced.

LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

1.09 Ha

For Sale By Negotiation View ljhooker.co.nz/DDVHAY Craig Kenyon 027 485 6833 craig.kenyon@ljhooker.co.nz

107 Jumna Road Maungaturoto

Come Discover This Coastal Gem On the banks of the Wairau River, a tributary of the Kaipara Harbour, private property with panoramic views. LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

JUST LISTED

2.16 Ha

For Sale By Negotiation View ljhooker.co.nz/DBPHAY Craig Kenyon 027 485 6833 craig.kenyon@ljhooker.co.nz

Be in to WIN

and make the most of the Sizzling Hot Summer Days

1870 State Highway 1 Kaiwaka Private & Family Friendly, Welcome Home

Solid built Lockwood home, situated within easy walking distance to Kaiwaka Village shops. Semi open plan. A must see.

LJ Hooker Warkworth 09 425 8589

You could be relaxing under this umbrella in the comfort of your new bean bags, sipping a glass of Moet or Heineken, as your selections from the Master Butcher sizzle away on your new Weber BBQ...

890m2

List exclusively with us for 90 days before 31 March 2021 to be in to win.

For Sale By Negotiation View ljhooker.co.nz.DDZHAY Craig Kenyon 027 485 6833 craig.kenyon@ljhooker.co.nz

Terms & Conditions Apply

Call for an appraisal today

09 425 8589

Broadbents 2001 Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008. All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided. Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

WelcomeHome

April/May 2021

WelcomeHome

Realty Group

www.remax.nz

Northern Properties Ltd

WelcomeHome

Each office independently owned and operated |

Licensed REAA 2008

ADDRESS 11 Neville Street, Warkworth, AUCKLAND 910 OFFICE 09 425 0261

April/May 2021

Inspire and Engage Buyers Digitally with Barfoot & Thompson, Warkworth “87% of potential buyers feel that our on-line tools create a better buying experience”

The secret to a successful sale is capturing the attention of an emotional buyer. When viewing properties online, they should be able to imagine themselves being there in person and making them want to visit the first open home. Our exclusive digital marketing package achieves the best outcome and is available for any property type. This exceptional marketing starts with magazine quality lifestyle photography that emphasise the unique character features of your home. The emotional feeling is then enhanced by providing a 3D virtual reality tour that can be viewed on any device anytime from anywhere in the world, with or without a VR headset. In fact, 69% of buyers quote to have a rich, more engaging experience, spending more time viewing each listing. For a special home or location, we can take this to the next level by introducing a professional walk-through video with relaxing music and a drone to capture the proximity to the coastline and amenities. Social media is a great place to promote images and videos, to gain opportunistic buyers!

Peace of Mind!

NOBODY DOES IT BETTER!

The Most Secure Lockbox in the World

With so many interactive remote on-line viewing options during Alert Levels.

Exclusive to Barfoot & Thompson Clients

Maximum exposure worldwide and the opportunity to sell to anyone, anywhere with registered bidding online.

Once you have their attention, why not let them see how their layout will suit, with interactive floor plans. 2D floor plans provide accurate dimensions, whilst 3D floor plans provide a doll’s house view that can be rotated. Listings with 3D floor plans have been proven to generate 17% more buyer enquiries than those without and buyers are 77% more likely to attend an open home. Not sure if your furniture will fit? No problem. The “furnish” tool allows you to place an array of furniture into living spaces. In fact, 2 out of 3 consumers believe that it tends to attract more committed buyers. Sometimes it’s not easy to visualise what the important room would look like if it was a different colour. The “Photo Styling” tool allows buyers to change the colours and styles of flooring, cabinets, splashbacks and countertops to suit. 7 out of 10 consumers believe that it will help you fall in love with the idea of living there! We provide all these initiatives to increase the time that potential buyers spend looking and engaging with your property online. This builds an emotional connection with your property, which in turn, increases the number of enquiries about your property.

Visit our Experience Zone in Store Now!

Research conducted by TRA (tra.co.nz) 2019 and diakrit.com.

WARKWORTH Coast & Country April/May 2021

LIVE IT, LOVE IT, SELL IT LIVE IT, LOVE IT, RENT IT

09 425 8742

7 Queen Street, Warkworth barfoot.co.nz/warkworth

WelcomeHome

TIME FLIES... IT'S OUR SECOND ANNIVERSARY! We would like to take the opportunity to reaffirm the presence of Telos Group Commercial, owned and operated locally. It has been two years since we started our commercial division and what a great journey it has been so far considering the number of listings and results we have achieved. We owe our gratitude to all the clients who have put their trust and confidence in the Telos Brand to get the job done. This is evident from the testimonials we have received from our vendors, purchasers, landlord and tenants. With 16 years of real estate experience behind us we have the skill set to close deals in this challenging new environment around us. If you are thinking of selling, leasing or buying we welcome the prospect of meeting you over coffee in our well-located office in Silverdale and showing you the Telos point of difference. UNIT W/8 Moana Ave, Orewa

7/15 Karepiro Dr, Stanmore bay “I approached Mustan for some general advice in respect to a property that I was looking to purchase, and found him to be generous with his time and knowledge. Since then Mustan has sold a property for me. I found his knowledge of the market to be up to date, he is hard working, very responsive, and he was able to secure a great sale for me. ”

MULTI-TENANTED INVESTMENT

Prime Corner Location

For Sale | Price by Negotiation

Unit L/8 Moana Ave, Orewa

4G Manga Rd, Silverdale

- Matt -

19/2181 East Coast Rd

Mustan bagasra

021 470 315 | mustan@telosgroup.co.nz Telos Group Ltd | Licensed Under the REAA 2008

WelcomeHome

April/May 2021

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Retirement village terms under microscope With seven retirement villages on the Hibiscus Coast, and at least two more planned, a recent report by Consumer NZ into the contracts offered by villages should attract considerable interest. The report, released this month, reviews contracts offered by six major retirement village operators – including Bupa, Metlifecare and Ryman Healthcare, which all operate locally. It found terms that Consumer thinks unfairly favour the village and risk leaving residents out of pocket. Consumer also suggests those terms could also fall foul of the Fair Trading Act. Consumer’s head of research, Jessica Wilson, says her organisation has had concerns for some time about the fairness of retirement village contracts. “We undertook this research to take a closer look at the terms and conditions residents are faced with when they move into a village,” she says. The research included a survey last year, which 1680 people responded to. A key issue – also flagged by Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson in a discussion paper released last December – is that residents do not get any capital gain when they sell their units – this is retained by the village owner/operator. It was the number one complaint among those that Consumer surveyed. Most villages offer a licence to occupy, costing anywhere from $200,000 to more than $1 million for a one-to-two bedroom unit. Before moving in, you

sign an “occupation right agreement” which gives you the right to live in the unit but no ownership rights. Income for the operator is forecast on selling a licence to occupy several times within a relatively short period. The average tenure of a unit is about seven years. In addition to purchasing the licence, residents usually pay a weekly fee to cover the village’s operating costs. When you leave the village, a large slice of what was paid for the licence is taken as a ‘deferred management’ or ‘exit’ fee. This can be 20 to 30 percent of the licence cost. So if you paid $500,000, and the village charged a 30 percent deferred management fee, you’d get back $350,000. The contracts of the six operators Consumer reviewed all include retention of any capital gain. “Terms allowing the village to retain the capital gain clearly benefit the operator. But we think they significantly

disadvantage residents. Across the Tasman, some operators allow residents to share capital gains, showing there are other options,” Consumer states. Its review also found that several contracts made residents liable for the cost of repairs to appliances and other items in their unit, even though they didn’t own them. Consumer considers these terms hard to defend. “They also conflict with residents’ rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act to receive goods and services of a reasonable standard. If the oven in your unit fails, the village should wear the cost.” The Retirement Commissioner’s discussion paper recommends reviewing both the Retirement Villages Act and the Retirement Villages Code of Practice – something that Retirement Village Residents Association NZ president Peter Carr also believes is needed. He describes existing regulation as “heavily skewed”

To be able to have that sort of professionalism right on my door step was a real relief.

in favour of village operators. The organisation representing the industry, the Retirement Villages Association, accepts minor changes may be needed, but rejects the need for wholesale reform. “In general, we consider the Act offers residents a high degree of protection and does not need to be reviewed,” executive director John Collyns said. He says operators use different commercial terms to distinguish themselves from their competitors. “We think it’s crucial that the CFFC [formerly known as the Retirement Commission] doesn’t interfere with those commercial terms because that will reduce choice and increase costs,” Mr Collyns says. “Residents want financial certainty when they move to a village. This means getting rid of the hassles of home ownership, such as repairing the roof, dealing with storm damage, or weathertight issues. A standard licence to occupy means residents trade a share of any capital gain for that financial certainty. If a resident wants a share of the capital gain, they’re also going to share the unexpected repairs and maintenance, keeping the village’s common facilities in top condition, or dealing with expenses such as rates or insurance increases.” Submissions recently closed on the Retirement Commissioner’s paper, following which recommendations will be made to Government. The Consumer report can be found at www.consumer.org.nz

Les Marsh Matakana resident

When I discovered my injury was actually a hernia, I was sent to a specialist in Silverdale. I was absolutely stoked to find out my surgeon operated several times a month up this way, in Warkworth in fact, and could do the operation in a relatively short time frame…about 2 weeks! Rodney Surgical was great and I’m well on the way to full recovery. My advice is to ask your GP if you can have it done locally. Or ring Rodney Surgical direct. 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

RODNEY SURGICAL YOUR L OCAL HOSPITAL

MODERN

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

• PROFESSIONAL• LOCAL

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

health&family

Covid jab on way to vulnerable Last week the Government confirmed that the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine will be rolled out to the patients and staff of aged residential care facilities from the end of March. These are facilities both inside retirement villages and in the wider community that look after older people who are no longer able to live independently, providing rest home, hospital or dementia level care. Residents of these facilities will naturally get the vaccine in-house. Everyone receiving the vaccine must give consent and NZ Aged Care Association chief executive Simon Wallace says this is challenging when it comes to dementia patients – something that is also an issue for flu vaccines – and is currently being worked through. Meanwhile, local health professionals are gearing up to offer the vaccination to their patients, starting around July. Training for vaccinators begins next month. Unichem Manly owner, pharmacist Tania Adams, says Covid-19 vaccinations will be available from pharmacies as well as GPs. “All primary healthcare workers will work together to get everyone in our community vaccinated,” Tania says. “Special training for qualified vaccinators is being organised for the different Covid-19 vaccines, which includes methods of giving vaccinations, plus information so we can answer patients’ questions with the most up-to-date research.”

From left, Jurmayn Comer, Kera Peacock and Xavier Mika with lunches to distribute at the college.

Pharmacist Antony Wentworth of Life Pharmacy Ōrewa says three of his pharmacists will undertake Covid-19 vaccination training. He says the rollout will be “on a needs first basis”, similar to last year’s flu vaccination, and that his team is responsible for prioritising high needs people. For Covid-19 this group includes the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. “Most of our bookings are online, or by phone – but we have to police that,” Antony says. “Last year [for the flu vaccination] we had to turn away a small number who weren’t as honest as they could have been. Pharmacies and GP surgeries will communicate with their patients and the Ministry will have another layer of communication to inform the public.”

Do you have difficulty hearing? Focus Hearing can help. Don’t buy a hearing aid without talking to us first. We provide: • FREE 15-minute hearing checks • FULL hearing assessments with reports • FREE hearing aid consultations & trials • FREE hearing aid checks & cleaning

• Prices to suit all budgets • Payment options available

A small group of Love Soup Hibiscus Coast volunteers is providing around 180 lunches every week for students of Whangaparāoa College. Love Soup’s new youth ambassador, 15-year-old Xavier Mika, says young people were coming to the school, where he is a Year 11 student, without lunch. He says the need was across all age groups. Xavier, his mother Linda and Love Soup volunteer Lisa Irwin began making the lunches this term, using food donated to the charity. Things such as filled rolls, fruit and a snack are put together at Xavier’s home or at Love Soup’s base, Whangaparāoa

FANTAILS

Hall, and taken to the school marae where they are freely available. Demand is such that Linda expects they will soon be making around 220 lunch packs every week. Xavier has volunteered for Love Soup for around three years, including during last year’s lockdowns. His next initiative, once lockdown is over, is to collect second hand trainers for homeless people, as well as handbags that can be filled with soap and sanitary items. Love Soup director Julie King says with families losing their income because of lockdowns, the food rescue charity is seeing high demand for food parcels throughout the community.

childc a re

Early Learning Centre

Estate

Southern Cross Health Society Easy Claim available for members

Ph 09 972 5250

today to book an appointment 7 Polarity Rise,

Silverdale

Clinics also at Takapuna and Howick. Registered for ACC, War Pensions and WINZ subsidies.

Free lunches the latest outreach for Love Soup

• Located at 1669 Dairy Flat Highway, under a 1 km from the Silverdale on-off ramps. • Set in a rural lifestyle setting, nestled between farmland, it provides one of the largest landscaped outdoor spaces at a NZ Early Learning Centre. • Leading edge, modern purpose built facilities with an environment that matches the qua I ity of education and care provided. Fantails Estate

www.focushearing.co.nz

09 222 9001

estate@fantailschildcare.co.nz

www. fa nta i Isch i Idea re. co. nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Midwife’s life celebrated

Youth Voice with Caitlin Watson caitewatson@gmail.com

Rising to the challenge Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manawanui, which means ‘be strong, be brave, be steadfast’, is a whakataukī (Maori proverb) that I think is a fitting slogan for this Covid era. The times we are living in usher in a new kind of strength. For young people, particularly those at high school or university, studying at home can be challenging. Not being able to socialise in person with friends and peers can be difficult and lead to feelings of loneliness. The uncertainty and instability of how tomorrow is going to turn out can be worrying. I manage a youth mentoring programme and get the privilege and joy of hearing how young people who have faced significant challenges in their life, feel cared for, well supported and inspired from journeying alongside a mentor. One of the focus areas for our mentors in recent times has been on how can we encourage our young people to look for ‘the learning moments’. These can happen spontaneously in everyday conversation and can be extracted from the events we experience. The question I would pose to the young, and the not-so-young alike, is how can we can apply this Maori proverb in this Covid era of uncertainty and instability? Kia kaha, be strong. There are many learning moments that can actually help build strength of character and develop a foundation of resilience. This may involve being more adaptable, open minded and seeing obstacles as stepping stones. Kia maia, be brave. It is important to be intentional about facilitating a culture of courage, over a culture of complacency. I know of young people who have found the uncertainty particularly challenging in terms of finding work, however they have not remained complacent, but rather applied themselves to different creative projects, such as writing books and even bravely submitting them for publishing. As my mother would say – “feel the fear and do it anyway”! Kia manawanui, be steadfast. It is easy to be discouraged by circumstances and uncertainty. However, perseverance and positivity will help pave the path forward. Aristotle said, “Good habits at youth make all the difference.” So, for a young person, when it could be tempting to switch off and binge watch Netflix instead of attending an online class, remember that this is the time to dig a bit deeper and develop habits that will set you up well for a lifetime of diligence and perseverance. Learning moments exist around every corner, and applying this Maori proverb, with grace and care, may just provide a good framework for response.

A memorial service will be held at the Presbyterian Church, Centreway Road Ōrewa, this Saturday, March 20, to celebrate the life of former Rodney midwife Glenn Hoare. Mrs Hoare, who more recently was a resident on the Hibiscus Coast, died during the first Covid lockdown last year when gatherings for funerals were banned. Her daughter, April Breading, says the family decided to hold the memorial on the first anniversary of her death. After finishing her nursing training at Greenlane Hospital in 1955, Mrs Hoare worked at Helensville Hospital before completing her maternity training in Auckland in the early 1970s. She was the principal nurse at the Helensville Hospital for 13 years and was instrumental in forming the Helensville Birthing Centre when the hospital closed in 1989. Glenn and husband George, who farmed at Parakai, moved to Sandspit at the end of 1989. When the Warkworth Hospital closed in 1992, she helped local midwives transition to independent midwives. She joined Sally Wilson, Sue Wynyard and Jan Thompson as part of Rodney Coast Midwives, which formed in 1995. She also helped set up the Wellsford Birthing Unit and delivered the first baby there. Glenn was a foundation home birther and water birth advocate. She delivered her youngest grandson at Waikato

Former Rodney midwife Glenn Hoare.

Hospital, great nieces at Helensville and many of her children’s friends at Helensville. April says her mother was dedicated to the midwifery profession. “She was loved by mothers and fathers all around the Rodney district,” April says. “She couldn’t go anywhere without being recognised and hugged and thanked by appreciative mothers, grandmothers, fathers and sisters. “As well as being a devoted nurse, wife and mother, Mum adored singing, gardening, sewing and boating. She touched so many lives with her kindness and sense of fun, and definitely left the world a much better place.” Mrs Hoare and her husband George had two children, April and Christopher, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. George died in 2007. The memorial service starts at 11am. All welcome.

Caring for the community, 24/7 February marked 25 years since Shorecare Northcross opened their doors to serve the greater East Coast Bays area. Initially opening due to population growth, the clinic has experienced growth year after year. The board of directors and management team of Shorecare would like to say a huge thanks to the community for their support over the years, but in particular in 2020, which was an extremely challenging year for Shorecare, and in particular Northcross. The next big celebration for Shorecare will be in 2023, when they are celebrating 50 years since first opening as a provider of after hours care in Takapuna.

$39 after hours* medical visits for over 65's and CSC holders *5pm-8am Mon-Fri, all weekend & public holidays

2 convenient locations Smales Farm (24 hours) Northcross (8am-8pm)

Shorecare Northcross - Celebrating www.shorecare.co.nz

25 years

0800 SHORECARE Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

health&family

Zonta thanks women who help people and pets in need Two local women who have used their talents, empathy and determination to make life more bearable for those in need were honoured by Hibiscus Coast Zonta Club on Monday, March 8 – International Women’s Day and Zonta Rose Day. KidsCan and Pet Refuge NZ founder Julie Chapman and the woman who started the Yarnteeze knitting club, Trish Stewart, were both presented with yellow roses for their services to the community by recently elected Zonta president Jacqui Burnett. Julie Chapman started the KidsCan charity for children living in poverty in 2005 and the organisation now works with 822 low decile schools and 50 early childhood centres. She said although the Government’s new free school lunch initiative would help a little, Covid-19 had exacerbated the issue and KidsCan was currently helping 40,000 children a week. Her newest project, Pet Refuge, was designed to help women living with violence to leave abusive partners by providing a safe place for their pets. “We found 53 percent of women had delayed leaving because of pets. Pets are family,” she said. Julie is building the new refuge on rural land west of Silverdale and it is expected to open by July. Trish Stewart is the founder of Yarnteeze, a knitting group that makes clothing,

Gardening with Dee Pignéguy mikedee@outlook.co.nz

Potted solution for tricky site

From left, Trish Stewart, Jacqui Burnett and Julie Chapman on Zonta Rose Day.

blankets and soft toys for babies and children of women who have endured violence, homelessness or poverty. The knitted and crocheted items are distributed via I Got Your Back Pack, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, Love Soup and Woven Earth. Trish said the group’s name came from her childhood, when all the aunties would sit yarning over a cup of tea, and that everything Yarnteeze members knitted now was “made with love and to bring dignity to those in need”. The group meets every Tuesday morning at The Coffee Club in Ōrewa and members are aged from their forties to nineties. Info: @Zonta Club of Hibiscus Coast, @KidsCanNZ, @PetRefugeNZ and @ Yarnteeze pages on Facebook.

A garden in Whangaparāoa is positive proof that the most difficult site can be turned into a productive garden. Nathan Shiu’s small, steep clay-based site would be enough to put many gardeners off. But while Nathan was growing up in Fiji, his grandmother (who lived to 103 years old) taught him the value of soil structure and only ate what she grew. Now a retired teacher of chemistry, biology and mathematics, Nathan combined his grandmother’s teachings with his knowledge of those three subjects to create healthy soil for individual plants. The soil in his garden is mainly clay, so its structure is definitely not ideal for healthy plant growth. But neither was a normal potting mix – “Where do you find a natural soil structure that is like potting mix?” Nathan asks. Instead, with his understanding of the soil minerals that each plant required, he made up his own mixes and filled pots with specific ingredients for specific plants. The mix includes potting mix and Nathan’s own compost but he says clay particles are “the magic ingredient” that he added in various percentages – 30-50 percent for tomatoes and 10-15 percent for carrots. He says clay particles are negatively charged and attract and hold positively charged particles such as calcium, potassium and magnesium. Clay, importantly, also helps to retain water. Nathan’s section does not have any in-ground plantings, but instead is covered with a multitude of pots that contain Asian tropical vegetables such as eggplant, okra, bitter melons, yard long beans, Malabar spinach, roselle and amaranthus, all of which grow among tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, peppers, herbs and flowers. The various plastic pots and containers can be easily moved around as the seasons change, which is helpful because the land is shaded by nearby trees. As there is an overabundance of homegrown vegetables for Nathan and his family, he gives the surplus produce away to Love Soup and other charities, as well as his many friends.

Millwater Millwater Dental MillwaterDental Dental

Millwater Dental COA S T M E N ’S B A R B E R Millwater MillwaterDental Dental

Smiles byby Design, Care forfor the whole family Smiles Design, Care the whole family Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family

Millwater Dental Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family

Smiles by Care for whole family Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family Smiles by Design, Design, Care for the the whole family

Dr Jason Ella Wang Dr Lillian Hsu Ella Dr Jason Ng DrDr Ella Wang Dr Lillian Hsu Jason Ella Wang Lillian Hsu DrDr Jason NgNgNg Wang Lillian Hsu Dr Jason Ng Ella Wang Dr Lillian Hsu

Jason Wang Lillian Dr Dr Jason NgNg Dr Dr Wang Lillian HsuHsu EllaElla We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic WeWe offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative cosmetic We We offeroffer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative andand cosmetic dental care, we also offer free dental treatment for dental care, we also offer free dental treatment for dental care, we also offer free dental treatment for dental care, we also offer free dental treatment for dental care, we also offer free dental treatment dental care, we also offer free dental treatment dental care, we also offer free dental treatment for forfor high school students up to the age of 18 years high school students up to age of 18 high school students upthe to the age of years 18 years high students up toage the age of 18 years highschool school students up the age of 18 high school students to the age of 18 years high school students upup to to the of 18years years Come meet theteam team atwww.millwaterdental.co.nz Come meet the at Come meet team atwww.millwaterdental.co.nz www.millwaterdental.co.nz Come meet thethe team at www.millwaterdental.co.nz

Come meet the team at www.millwaterdental.co.nz Come meet the team www.millwaterdental.co.nz ome meet the team atat www.millwaterdental.co.nz

Come in and see, Sasha & Sheree

Call now to an appointment on (09) 972 1518 Call now toarrange arrange appointment on (09) 972 1518 now to arrange an appointment 1518 CallCall now to arrange anan appointment on on (09)(09) 972972 1518 or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz Call now arrange an appointment on (09) 972 1518 or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz orto email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz Call now arrange an appointment (09) 972 1518 or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz Call now to to arrange an appointment onon(09) 972 1518

No appointments necessary

Mon-Wed & Fri, 9am-5pm Thurs, 9am-6pm | Sat, 9am-2pm 19b Moenui Rd, Orewa (Behind Countdown)

or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz or or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Phone 09 947 5335

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Health with Sheryl Takayama, nutritionist sheryl@whyweightacademy.com

TOGETHER PROJECT IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Picking food battles With children and food, pick your battles wisely. When I first became a mum, I was full of ideals about how I would feed my children. I had fruit and vegie purees ready to go in the freezer (homemade of course!). I had bought and read all the books and was ready to go with gusto. Unfortunately, my children had other ideas. The day my son learned to push the vegetables away, he did so and has been pushing them away ever since. Child number two was not much better. My children love meat, as long as there are no sauces involved. All food must be separate on the plate. Eggs are fine, but not on toast. As for vegetables – no way. As parents, we need to tread carefully when dealing with children who have different ways of eating than we would like. It can lead to drawn-out battles, tension and stress. In my practice, I talk to adults who have difficult relationships with food and they often blame their parents. They talk about being made to finish everything on the plate whether they were hungry or not, feeling ashamed because negative comments were made about their eating habits, being ‘rewarded’ with sweet food and being told that food was ‘good’ or ‘bad’. Unfortunately, negative patterns created in childhood can continue. I’m sure most parents do not want their children to have a negative relationship with food, so how do we avoid this? Every situation is unique, but this is what I’m doing with my (challenging) children: I talk about food based on facts, not emotion – for example, telling them they should eat protein because it helps muscles grow and bodies get taller. Carbohydrate-based foods are a great choice before sport because they give good energy. However, they don’t need lots of energy at 8pm, so biscuits are not a good choice at that time of day. I serve my children simple food in a way I know they can eat and encourage them to try new things regularly, without forcing the issue. I don’t make them finish all the food on their plate, but they know that they won’t get any other food until their meal is finished. Rather than labelling food as ‘good’ or ‘bad’, they know that certain foods such as ice cream and chips should be eaten occasionally rather than every day. We’ve decided that in our family it is perfectly ok to not eat dinner together every night. My teenager is starving at 4pm so he has dinner as soon as he gets home from school and another meal later in the evening after sports practice. There are enough battles when dealing with children: don’t make food another one on the list. Go with what suits your family. There’s no right or wrong. As for my children, I’m not sure if what I’m doing is right, but I am trying my best. If they end up in a counsellor’s office one day, I just hope it won’t be me getting the blame!

TOGETHER is a partnership with Harbour Hospice, where $1 will be donated with every bottle sold. The TOGETHER Pinot Gris is bright and refreshing. Produced at Matakana Estate this will retail for $14.99. We were inspired by our team of 5 million and decided to embark on a project that would empower our community and help those who need it the most. Harbour Hospice provides specialist palliative care for anyone who needs it so they can make the most of life. Its team supports the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of families in the Warkworth/Wellsford, North Shore and Hibiscus Coast communities. Money raised will go back to your local Hospice, helping to fill the funding hole left by Covid-19 through the cancellation of key community events. The wine is availabe to purchase at: Matakana Estate Cellar Door - 568 Matakana Rd or online: https://store.matakanaestate.co.nz/

Vince’s SkyJump tally climbs

Ninety-year-old Vince Harris has so far raised more than $2300 for Starship by doing the SkyJump off Auckland’s Sky Tower on his birthday last month (HM February 17). His Givealittle page remains open for donations until March 20 – www.givealittle.co.nz/cause/vertigo-vince ACCEPTANCE • ACTION • ACCOUNTABILITY

WhyWeight

NUTRITION Specialising in: • Weight loss • Emotional eating • Overcoming sugar addiction

Personalised food plans, guaranteed results. Online weight loss programs available.

Orewa based | sheryl@whyweightacademy.com | 027 459 0594 Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

$1.00

DONATION WITH EVERY BOTTLE SOLD

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz/whatson

Memories flood in as boat club reflects on 50 years Stillwater Boating Club is celebrating 50 years and although details of its early days are a little unclear, current members credit “two grumpy old dudes”, Jack French and Buster Elliot, among others, with the idea of forming a club. A total of 38 people attended the inaugural meeting at Buster Elliot’s home on January 31, 1971 but member Stu Hunton who has lived in Stillwater all his life, says things got going informally before that. Stu says the club began as a group of boaties getting together for social activities including sailing from Stillwater to Shakespear Regional Park or Kawau Island. Many have fond memories of ‘the dingy run’ that ended at the Wade Hotel – an event that is set for revival after it was last held four or five years ago. There were also tug of war competitions across the Weiti River, near the Wade Hotel. The first commodore, 1971-73, was Les Griffith, followed by Buster Elliot (1973-75). First female commodore, Margaret Faulkner, took the helm from 1975-77 and the only other woman in the role, Rachel Zeisler, was commodore from 2008-2010. Currently the club has around 370 memberships, half of them families. Current commodore Mike Dance says it’s the highest ever. The club has a loyal volunteer culture. The site, at 70 Duck Creek Road alongside the Weiti River,

Clockwise from top, The boat ramp, wharf and pontoon. The all-tide ramp is getting more use as residential areas around Stillwater grow, putting the squeeze on parking. Member Hilton Markwick sorts through the old leather suitcase of documents from the boating club’s early days. From left, long time members Stu Hunton, Hilton Markwick and Dee Barry with commodore Mike Dance.

was reclaimed by volunteer labour. Volunteers fundraised for, and built, the boat ramp (now a public ramp), as well as the wharf and clubrooms. Member Dee Barry ran the bar for 22 years, initially as a volunteer, and Mike says 40 volunteers took part in a recent working bee. The first clubroom is recalled as “a tiny building with a little Zip for cups of tea”. In the early 1990s an old Ministry of Works building was

trucked onto the site and the current clubrooms were completed in 1998. Key to the club’s popularity is its role as a community hub – it has been the venue for everything from Playcentre and coffee groups to birthdays, weddings and funerals. When the club hosts dress-up themed nights and karaoke, the place is heaving. Some of the activities shifted to Stillwater Community Hall which opened in 2015, but the club’s social

reputation remains – demonstrated by the high number of family memberships, demand for functions, and the fact that commodore Mike Dance does not even own a boat. “I paddle a SUP,” he says. “But I get invited onto other boats!” “These days it’s more of an actual boating club,” member Hilton Markwick says, “with a strong emphasis on very successful fishing competitions.” The club is also the base for Waterwise courses and the annual Stillwater Raft Race – this year, flares and tie dye will be on show as the theme for rafts is the 1970s, a nod to the club’s formation date. Recently Sunday Sounds, featuring live bands, was introduced. The all-tide boat ramp and other facilities are increasingly popular and resource consent has been granted to extend the pontoon at the end of the wharf by 12 metres to accommodate more boats. There is expected to be increasing pressure on the club’s resources, including parking, as more residents move into adjacent suburbs. Current and past members are invited to Stillwater Boating Club in Duck Creek Road, on Saturday, March 20 for an informal afternoon of sharing stories. It will include the unveiling of a plaque and flying of a Jubilee flag. If Auckland is not in Alert Level 1, it will be postponed. Info: see What’s On, p39.

What’s on at Estuary Arts in March/April 2021 Dowstairs galleries: “If you can’t get to Bali, then Bali will come to us!” Upcycled furniture, rattan lamps, home ware, painting and macramé

G4: “Expressions of Colour” by Catherine Mitchell & Diane Taylor Chestnut Farm Visit Fundraiser Wed 21 April, 10am to 12noon $30 each with morning tea 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 09 426 5570 www.estuaryarts.org Find us on Facebook Open 7 days a week, 9am to 4pm

MATAKANA ESTATE WINE TASTING & LUNCH COMBO Couple’s Combo 2 wine paddles, 4 shared plates - $35pp Family Combo 2 wine paddles, 4 sharing plates and kids meals - $80 Lunch Menu available Friday - Sunday at Matakana Estate 568 Matakana Road | 0800 568 686 info@matakanaestate.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz/whatson

Green scene

Open Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm

with Richard Chambers, Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird. hibiscuscoast.branch@forestandbird.org.nz Autumn and winter are good seasons to put out sugar water, as there are fewer flowers about for nectar feeders. Ease back in spring when the kowhai starts flowering. Photo, Richard Chambers

STILLWATER BOATING CLUB A small friendly club that welcomes visitors, families & new members

Cycle of song That feeling of autumn freshness in the morning air has arrived. The cicadas have been singing loudly through February but have you wondered where the birds are? Remember that frantic bird activity and dawn chorus from August through to January? Late summer is a resting time for birds as they moult their old feathers. Even the frantically energetic tui quietens down. Gone are the days of tuis waking in song at 4.30 in the morning and still calling at night after the morepork (ruru) is up and about. Likewise the thrush stopped its dawn song around Christmas, and the blackbird followed suit in January. These birds can look a bit rough during the autumn moult as they lose feathers. Walking through Waterfall Gully at Shakespear Park you are likely to find kereru feathers on the ground as their moult takes place. Many of these feathers have that lovely hint of iridescent sheen, but there are the soft pure white breast feathers too. Late summer is also a notable time for possums, that top predator of kereru nests. Around this time young possums become independent of their mothers and move through the landscape looking for a home. The peninsula’s coastal reserves provide a great deal of connectivity to our birds but also to possums – pohutukawa leaves are a favoured food and the clifftop vegetation growing around them provides good cover. It’s no surprise that trappers at Arran Point caught 33 possums in just four traps last year. If you’re having possum troubles, Pest Free Hibiscus Coast has a possum trap “library”, so contact them and borrow, or buy, a trap so you can become involved in increasing your local birdlife. As late summer freshens into late autumn, bird activity will pick up and the dawn chorus will again be something to wake up early for. The tui will slowly wind up, the thrush will begin singing again in April, repeating everything twice, then around July the blackbird will join them, and the cycle begins again. These two healthy Nikau trees are at the Ambassador Glade gateway to West Hoe Heights. They are sheltered by a stand of native bush – giving an indication of the landscape of past times. Winston Pond Hibiscus Matters hopes to feature a special local tree every month. It doesn’t need to be very old – just attractive, or important to you in some way. Maybe it supports your child’s swing, or features in a local park or on the beach? If you know trees that deserve the spotlight, email a photo with a brief description of its appeal and location, plus your phone number to terry@localmatters.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

www.swbc.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

localsport

From left, Planes have been flying from the Dairy Flat airstrip for nearly 60 years. A blue Searey Amphibian caused a lot of interest when members of the RSA visited the aero club in 2018.

Chocks away for aero club’s open day club will be offering trial and scenic flights at the cost price of $99 to places such as Gibbs Farm, Tiritiri Matangi and the Auckland Sky Tower. There will also be food trucks, market stalls, children’s activities and the North Shore Model Aero Club will put on a flying display between 12noon and 1pm. Committee member Rodger Coleclough says this will be the first open day at the club for 10 years and is aimed at local families. “We’ve been here nearly 60 years. It was just a paddock in the middle of nowhere then,” he says. “We’re

Covid-19 restrictions permitting, North Shore Aero Club will be opening its hangar doors to the public for a community open day at its Dairy Flat airfield on Saturday, March 27. Highlights will include a number of visiting aircraft on display, including a Navy Seasprite helicopter, the Coastguard Air Patrol plane and the Westpac Rescue helicopter. There will also be all sorts of other aircraft on show, including some that were built at the airfield, and others that children will be able to climb into and have a look around. As well as all the static displays, the

stay here.” North Shore Aero Club currently has up to 600 members and runs extensive training courses for both private and commercial pilots, and hosts regular visits by students and community groups. The open day will run from 10am to 4pm and entry will be by voluntary gold coin donation, proceeds of which will go to the club’s Young Eagles youth flying programme. If the weather is bad, the event will be postponed to April 3. Info: North Shore Aero Club on Facebook.

trying to show people we’re not a big international airport, we’re a community club where everyone is welcome.” He was referring to the club’s current application for Airport Authority, which has raised hackles among some Dairy Flat residents, who fear it could lead to massive expansion at the airfield. However, Mr Coleclough says it is more about protecting the club from development pressures. “I know there’s been a lot of vocal people with the Airport Authority thing, but it is our means of trying to assure our position here,” he says. “We just need to make sure we can

Proud sponsors of

THE

Outdoor Carpet: 2m wide $39 p/m ($19.50sqm) 5 colours available

Love your boat as much as fishing? Wed

Mar 17

4:43am 11:11am Tide 5:07pm Times 11:27pm

Moon

Sat

Mar 19

Mar 20

0.8 5:21am 0.9 12:03am 3.1 12:41am 3.2 11:48am 3.1 5:59am 1.0 6:41am 0.7 5:44pm 0.8 12:26pm 3.0 1:05pm 6:22pm 0.9 7:03pm 3.1 7:22am 7:36pm

Best At

Fri

Mar 18

7:21am 7:37pm

Sun Fishing Guide

Thu

Auckland Area Watch Hibiscus Matters Seawatch – TheSea Flooring People

3:47am 4:08pm

7:23am 7:34pm

Best At

4:29am 4:50pm

5:12am 5:35pm

1:22am 7:26am 1:47pm 7:47pm

7:24am 7:33pm

Best At

3.0 1.1 2.9 0.9

Sun

5:58am 6:22pm

2.9 1.1 2.8 1.0

Mar 22

2:10am 8:18am 2:34pm 8:38pm

7:25am 7:31pm

Best At

Mon

Mar 21

6:46am 7:11pm

3:05am 9:15am 3:27pm 9:36pm

7:26am 7:30pm

Best At

2.8 1.2 2.8 1.1

Tue

Mar 23

7:37am 8:03pm

2.8 4:05am 1.2 10:14am 2.7 4:27pm 1.1 10:39pm

7:26am 7:29pm

Best At

Wed

Mar 24

8:29am 8:56pm

2.8 5:06am 1.2 11:13am 2.7 5:30pm 1.1 11:39pm

7:27am 7:27pm

Best At

Thu

Mar 25

9:23am 9:50pm

7:29am 7:24pm

Best At

Sat

Mar 27

Sun

Mar 28

2.9 6:03am 3.0 12:34am 0.8 1:26am 1.1 12:08pm 1.0 6:56am 3.1 7:47am 2.8 6:30pm 2.9 1:01pm 0.8 1:52pm 7:26pm 3.1 8:18pm 1.0

7:28am 7:26pm

Best At

Fri

Mar 26

10:17am 10:43pm

7:30am 7:23pm

Best At

11:10am 11:36pm

12:02pm

2:15am 8:36am 2:42pm 9:08pm

7:31am 7:21pm

Best At

0.7 3.3 0.7 3.3

Mon

Mar 29

12:28am 12:54pm

3:03am 9:26am 3:31pm 9:57pm

7:32am 7:20pm

Best At

0.5 3.4 0.5 3.5

Tue

1:19am 1:45pm

0.4 3:51am 3.5 10:15am 0.4 4:20pm 3.6 10:46pm

2:11am 2:37pm

0.4 4:41am 3.6 11:05am 0.3 5:09pm 3.6 11:35pm

3:04am 3:32pm

Apr 2

0.4 5:32am 0.5 3.6 11:56am 3.5 0.3 5:59pm 0.4 3.6

7:34am 7:15pm

Best At

Fri

Apr 1

7:33am 7:17pm

Best At

Thu

Mar 31

7:33am 7:18pm

Best At

Wed

Mar 30

7:35am 7:14pm

Best At

3:59am 4:28pm

Best At

4:57am 5:26pm

First Full Quarter Moon Rise 10:30am Rise 11:27am Rise 12:25pm Rise 1:23pm Rise 2:21pm Set 12:01am Set 12:50am Set 1:47am Set 2:50am Set 3:57am Set 5:07am Set 6:17am Set 7:29am Set 8:42am Set 9:55am Set 11:10am Set 12:23pm Set 9:41pm Set 10:09pm Set 10:41pm Set 11:18pm Rise 3:16pm Rise 4:08pm Rise 4:55pm Rise 5:37pm Rise 6:14pm Rise 6:48pm Rise 7:21pm Rise 7:52pm Rise 8:25pm Rise 9:00pm Rise 9:40pm Rise 10:26pm *Not for navigational purposes.

Good Fishing

Fair Fishing

Not So Good

www.tidewiz.com

www.tidespy.com

www.ofu.co.nz

Graphic supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltd.

For the latest wind and swell information for the Auckland area go to: www.tidespy.com/?place=3005

669 Whangaparaoa Road | Phone 428 3168 | team@theflooringpeople.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz/whatson

From left, students Leo, Lilly and Samuel getting ready for the new Sustainability Challenge.

Gala set to go ahead, Level 1 permitting

Organisers of Whangaparāoa School’s annual gala were keeping their fingers firmly crossed last week that Covid-19 restrictions would not see their major fundraiser cancelled for the second time in two years. Last year, the country went into full level 4 lockdown just three days before the gala was due to take place, denying the school tens of thousands of dollars in funds – the last gala in 2019 raised $33,000. This year’s event is scheduled for this Saturday, March 20 from 10.45am to 2pm in the school grounds at 39 Ladies Mile and a full gamut of attractions has been planned, from stalls, games and sideshows to non-stop live music, dance and entertainment. New this year is the Sustainability Challenge, a scavenger hunt-style competition designed by Year 5 and 6 students for teams of children and adults to find clues and complete environmental and recycling-themed tasks. Elsewhere, kids can vent any frustrations on the Dunk a Teacher stall, or test their chocolate detection skills with a 30-second stint in the Easter Egg Hunt tent. The ever-popular cake stall will be back, selling competition-winning bakes, whole cakes, cupcakes, slices and more, or there’s Café & Pie for those

needing a sit-down. Other food options include mussel fritters, bacon and egg baps, a sausage sizzle, nachos, sushi, kai pasifika, candyfloss, cold drinks, hot chips and a coffee cart. There is a wide range of kids’ games and activities, from soccer shots and Nerf to bean bag and teddy tosses, plus a special under fives’ area with a mini bouncy castle and water play. Bargain hunters can check out stalls selling secondhand toys, uniform and toy cars, as well as local honey, roses, beeswax wraps and slime. Providing on-stage entertainment will be Whangaparāoa Primary and Kindy kapa haka groups, the Hibiscus Coast Concert Band, Infinity Cheerleading, the school choir, Northern School of Performing Arts musical troupe, DaeHan TaeKwonDo, Whangaparāoa College Jazz Band and Choir, and Hibiscus Tuakana. There will also be visits from the Saving Hope animal rescue, Coastguard Hibiscus, Manly Volunteer Fire Brigade and SOSSI. Most of the proceeds will go towards the school hall refurbishment, which still needs another $80,000 before it can re-open. Info: Whangaparāoa School Gala on Facebook.

SATURDAY 20th MARCH

11am-2pm 39 Ladies Mile - Big Manly DUNK THE TEACHER • FOOD • GAMES EASTER EGG HUNT • STALLS & MORE

Swim teams sought

Get in the swim for some fun, or compete for a trophy, and help support local charities – many of which are struggling due to Covid-19 reducing fundraising opportunities. The Generation Homes Rotary Swimarathon is planned for Sunday, June 27. Spaces are limited, so book early. All the money raised is donated to local charities. Every swimmer gets a medal, certificate and team photo. Entry is free and registration is open now, at www.rotaryswimarathon. org.nz/enter-now.html Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Proudly supported by

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz/whatson

Trustees cut the cake. The new club had its first official outing at the annual Kumeu Classic Car & Hot Rod Festival in January. Photo, Roger Reid

Old Boys swap boots for tyres with new Raiders car club The Hibiscus Coast Raiders rugby league club is spreading its social wings with the formation of a new car group for members and friends. Club chair Carl Clayton says the idea came when a group of Old Boys realised that many of them owned classic cars, but no one belonged to a club. “Car clubs either have to be a certain type of car, or hot rods or something, whereas we’re just into cars,” he says. Fifteen members signed up to establish the Raiders Rumblers Classics & Customs Club and their first outing took place in January, when they staged a successful display at the annual classic car show in Kumeu. Apart from the love of all things petrol, Carl says the club was also formed for social reasons.

“There are a lot of us guys doing a lot of winter rugby league, and sometimes partners get a little left out – that’s rugby,” he says. “But this is a good way to still do things together over the summer and include our partners and families. “If we do a car rally there are always spare seats, so even if they don’t have a car, people can come along for the ride. And it will help to promote the club, as well.” He says membership is open to anyone and any vehicle, but they do need to be nominated or verified by a Raiders club member. There is a members’ message board already up and running and the club is set to formally launch on April 1. Info: Call Raiders Rumblers president Brendan Clayton on 021 277 1702.

Voices raised in support of trust A Trust that was set up in 2018 has waited a long time for its official launch, which was held last month, on February 26. The Kahikatea Music Therapy and Community Arts Trust’s main project is Sing Up Rodney therapeutic singing groups, held in Ōrewa and Warkworth. The singing sessions assist people with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s or stroke by improving breathing and vocal strength and, for people with dementia, connecting favourite tunes with memories. The sessions are also a social outlet. Founding trustee and music specialist Alison Talmage says the launch of the Kahikatea Music Therapy and Community Trust has been planned and postponed three times for various reasons, including last year’s lockdowns. She says it was important to eventually hold a function to bring together and thank supporters, including Whangaparāoa MP Mark Mitchell, Gary Silipa of Arts Access Aotearoa

and Music Therapy NZ president Linda Webb. Around 50 people attended the launch, held at St Chad’s church hall. It included speeches from founding chair Lady Rhyl Jansen, chair David Talmage and MP Mark Mitchell, as well as displays about the trust and afternoon tea. Everyone joined in the singing of two waiata. Alison says the trust hopes to link up with other local community groups and schools. She says lockdowns have had an impact on the numbers attending the singing sessions. Currently the Ōrewa Sing Up Rodney group has around a dozen members, although there were up to 30 regularly attending last year. She says anyone who would like to join a supportive daytime singing group is welcome to come along. Info: www.kahikateamusictherapyand communityartstrust.wordpress.com or look for Sing Up RodneyNZ on Facebook.

*With recommended Battery. Offers on selected products and valid from 01 March 2021 - 31 May 2021 or while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. See in-store or online for details.

STIHL SHOP SILVERDALE 6 Flexman Place, Silverdale Phone 426 5414 | www.stihlshop.co.nz Mon–Fri: 8am–5pm; Sat: 9am–3pm

LOVE YOUR LAND Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $66+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz

Know

your local trades

Over 30 years experience Quotes given

Bolger Digger Services, Wayne Bolger What does your company specialise in? All aspects of earthworks. House sites, driveways, farm drainage, mulching, gorse clearing, landscape contouring and pole drilling.

D I G G E R

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

How do you ensure your company stands out from the crowd? By offering my 30 years’ plus experience in the local area and ensuring that we listen to the needs of our clients. We work with the client to deliver their vision, as much as possible. What skill sets do you and your staff bring to the industry which makes your company a good choice? The ability to visualise the final outcome and then using 30 years’ experience to offer advice and guidance about how this may be achieved. What is it about this job that you find inspirational and/or motivating, and what is your favourite tool or service and why? I am inspired and motivated by the love of creating something from a blank canvas. To see the ‘before and after’ gives me great satisfaction. We have a wide range of equipment to sculpt the land and create earthworks that enhance our clients’ properties, which aims to give them the same satisfaction.

A Pump Doctor Repairs • Sales • Service on all water pumps ...

Ph Cedric 027 443 0654

Buyers of: Copper • Brass • Aluminium • Lead • Steel Stainless Steel • Batteries • Cable • Machinery • Electric Motors • Cars • Car Removal. Pick up or drop off bins available

Phone 0800 14 15 30 • 426 9150 35 Forge Road, Silverdale

New Blinds made here in Auckland + Cleaning and Repair services Call now on 0800 999 229 or visit www.blindworks.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

ERIC ODDI FOR BLINDS Offering a large range of styles and colours. Cleaning and repairs available.

Call Andy to supply, install, service and repair all major Heat Pump brands & for all your Electrical and Refrigeration needs

For expert advice on Heat Pumps and Air Conditioning systems for your needs.

or email andy@airpower.net.nz

Ph 021 629 300 • alltemp.co.nz

ph 021 819 733

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

Phone 0800 218 555 or 021 372 620 Email: ericoddiforblinds@gmail.com Serving you Rodney wide since 1995.

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

localmatters.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $66+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or Angela on 022 029 1895, or email sellit@localmatters.co.nz

Coastal Curtains and Blinds – Mobile Service

Drapes • Roman Blinds • Nets/voiles • Rods & Tracks • Blinds Verticals, Venetians, Wooden • Roller Sunscreen & Blockout Blinds CALL NOW FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE – Phone 027 69 89 925 pauline@coastalcurtains.co.nz | www.coastalcurtains.co.nz

SERVICES INCLUDE: Fencing & Decks • Bathrooms & Kitchens • Home & Office Maintenance • Renovations • Kitset Assembly • Painting • Landscaping

Call now 0800 248 229 • www.hireahubby.co.nz

HOUGHTON UPHOLSTERY Commercial, Domestic | Design & Recovery | Cut foam to measure

P. 09 427 5748 M. 021 689 700 E. office@firstauto.co.nz

Unit 3, 8 Curley Ave Silverdale 0944 www.firstauto.co.nz

For all Mechanical Repairs, WOFs, Servicing

15 Arklow Lane, Whangaparaoa Ph: 424 8705 • hbcwof@yahoo.co.nz

HIBISCU HIBISCUSS

GARAGE DOORS GARAGE DOORS

Free café coffee with WOF or service while you wait Gustos

ws Croest N

Phone 428 7969

We service and repair all makes and models WOF • Tyres • Batteries • Mechanical repairs Cambelts • CV Boots • Air-conditioning

8/667 Whangaparaoa Road, Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm, Sat 8am-12pm

www.nocowboys.co.nz & type in GT Automotive

++ openers openers

Repairs all door doormakes makesand and models. Repairs&&service service to to all models. Automatic repairsand andreplacements. replacements. Automaticopeners openers repairs New allatatlocal local prices. Newdoors doorsand and openers, openers, all prices.

027 476 2741 HibiscusGarageDoors. co.nz 027 476 2741oror(09) (09)426 426 0851 0851 HibiscusGarageDoors. co.nz

HBC Community House

CAR SEAT RENTAL

Long or short term hire We can check if your car seat is installed correctly.

Trained technician Phone 426 3598

Kevin Simmonds Kevin Simmonds M 022 588 8647

M 022 098 588 2731 8647 M 022 E kevin.simmonds@xtra.co.nz E kevin.simmonds@xtra.co.nz

HIBISCUS HIBISCUS COAST COAST HOME HOME SERVICES SERVICES

• • • •

Hibiscus SPECIALISTS Tiling

10% discount (heat pump cleaning only) for Gold Card holders

Ph Neil 0800 225 327 www.heatpumpclean.co.nz

Wall & floor tiling • Accredited Waterproofer Underfloorheating • Free consultations and quotations • 26 years experience

Phone Darcy 021 482 308

Trellis made to order Residential, commercial and industrial. No job too big, small or difficult!

1 Poplar Lane, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparaoa | Ph Mark 021 960 793 Email: craigmathers58@gmail.com www.hibiscuscoastscaffolding.co.nz |

Beautiful lawns & gardens by your local Jim FULLY INSURED AND SECURITY CHECKED ALL WORK GUARANTEED

FREE QUOTES Franchise enquiries welcome

CALL FREE 0800 454 654 or book online at: www.jimsmowing.co.nz

SELF-STORAGE WARKWORTH 0800 833 323

•

• Carpenter 20 years20+ + experience Carpenter ••Carpenter 20 years + experience Renovations years experience ••Renovations Decks/fences Renovations ••Decks/fences Painting/plastering Decks/fences ••Painting/plastering Water blasting Landscaping ••Water blasting Free quotes/all work guaranteed Free quotes • Free quotes/all work guaranteed

HEAT PUMP CLEANING

Heat pump cleaning & servicing HRV, DVS, Smartvent & Moisture Master filter replacements.

10 Puriri Avenue, Orewa | Phone Terry 0274 436 222 | pat_and_houghty@hotmail.com

We specialise in custom made trellis Painting – Staining – Installation of Trellis

Ph 021 296 3353 info@hibiscustrellis.nz

www.hibiscustrellis.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Safe Storage - 24/7 CCTV - Drive Up Unit Access Handy Location - Automated Secure Entry Visit to View at 11 Sanderson Road, Warkworth www.masoncontainers.co.nz + Container Sales + On Site Hire + Hiab

OMG! Orewa Mutt Groomers

Fiona 021 557 728 10 Settlers Grove, Orewa info@omggroomers.co.nz omggroomers.co.nz

www.facebook.com/orewamuttgroomers www.instagram.com/omg_orewamuttgroomers

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $66+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or Angela on 022 029 1895, or email sellit@localmatters.co.nz

SLIDING DOOR WON’T SLIDE? we fix windows and doors

Peninsula

RUST & PANEL

Repairs

Welding / Repairs for W.O.F & C.O.F, Rust Repairs, Accident Repairs, Insurance Repairs, Cars, Vans, Buses, Campers, Trucks, Trailers, Old / New - All Welcome. Affordable Quality Repairs with over 20+ years experience locally. Come see us! 6-8 Arklow Lane, Stanmore Bay Tel: (09) 428 3802 | Mob: 027 506 0400 Email: rustrepairsnz@gmail.com | Website: www.rustrepairs.co.nz

Call free anytime 0800 37 37 10 www.exceed.co.nz

SCAFFOLDING

Residential Specialists Friendly professional & dependable service Free quotes available

John Drakeley p: 021 150 6994 e: teamworkscaffolding@gmail.com

Relax, your precious possessions are safe with us.

• Window handles, seals, hinges & stays • Security locks for windows & doors • Sliding and bi-fold door rollers, locks & handles • Retractable insect screens

Local family business servicing Rodney & Hibiscus Coast

TEAMWORK

• Secure & monitored premises • Large ground floor drive-up units 9–21 David Sidwell Pl, Whangaparaoa

Ph 09 424 6091 www.selfstorageworld.co.nz

Come and see Cecily and her team for friendly advice on 1000’s of tiles. 09 424 1214 ▪ 663 Whangaparaoa Rd

Silverdale Computer Support Services At a fair price, with a personal touch Servicing the Hibiscus Coast. We cater primarily for the 55+ age group and assist small business owners. APPLE MAC & WINDOWS SUPPORT AT YOUR PREMISES

One-on-one tutoring – discounts available 32 Seamount Dr, Red Beach | Ph 09 427 8980 M: 022 543 2154 | E: daniel@silvercomp.co.nz

Embroidery

Corporate Apparel

Screen Printing

�

Promotional Products

SCR

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING AND CARPENTRY NEEDS Decks • Bathrooms • Pergolas • Doors • Renovations • Fencing Gates • Maintenance • Gib fitter • Plastering • Painting • Kitchens CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Graham Harfield | Phone 09 428 4770 | 027 428 4770 Email: graham@top2bottom.co.nz | www.top2bottom.co.nz

Roof Maintenance

Understanding roofs since 1976

SERVICES: Moss, Algae, Chemical Cleaning • Waterblasting • Repairs • Coatings – 10 year Guarantee • Housewashing • Spouting/Gutter Cleaning ROOF TYPES: Concrete Tiles • Stone Chip Tiles • Clay Tiles • Iron Roofing

PHONE 0800 12 11 11

027 428 4770

windowdoorrepairs.co.nz

repairs@windowdoorrepairs.co.nz

• Window handles • Window stay/hinges • Window restrictors • Window rubber seals • Door handles • Door hinges • Door rubber seals • Bi-fold door wheels • Ranch slider door wheels • Ranch slider lockable handle • Bi-fold door security handle • Security window stays • Window security locks • Rotten frame repairs

College cricket poised for promotion

Ōrewa College’s 1st XI cricket team is on the cusp of moving up from 1B to 1A division with final playoffs coming up. The team won against top of the table Glendowie College on February 27 at home, knocking them off the top spot. If successful in the playoffs, Ōrewa will move up to 1A, a competition which will be a first for the college’s 1st XI. The college’s director of cricket, Brad Norris, says the team is determined not to let the opportunity pass. He says 1A is a tough competition, including the 1st XI teams of schools such as Takapuna Grammar, Mt Roskill and Sacred Heart. He credits the hard work and dedication of coach Daffyd Evans with the team’s success to date.

Steps fundraiser goes online The Hibiscus Men’s Shed reached a significant milestone on Saturday, March 6, when the 450sqm concrete slab was laid on its site in Silverdale (near the rugby club). The slab required 20 truckloads of concrete – the first arrived at 6.30am and the slab was completed at 11am. The Hibiscus Men’s Shed Trust has been working towards establishing a purpose-built facility on the Hibiscus Coast since 2015. Men’s Sheds operate around the country. They consist of not-for-profit community workshops where, for a small fee, members can drop in for a chat and to work on practical tasks. As well as the satisfaction of the work itself, a large part of the Men’s Shed’s popularity and success comes from the opportunity to talk with others, bringing recognised mental health benefits. While work continues on the Shed, the organisation is working out of a leased building at 1 Brightside Road.

The most recent Covid-19 lockdown meant that Dementia Auckland had to cancel its Steps for Dementia 5km walking event that was to be held on March 14. The event was also cancelled last year due to Covid-19, along with all of the organisation’s other fundraisers. Dementia Auckland will still go ahead with the online components of the Steps for Dementia campaign, which was launched as part of Brain Awareness Month this month. The campaign encourages people to take steps towards their own brain health during March, in the form of physical steps, by going for a daily walk, quitting alcohol, ditching sugar or committing to sleeping at least seven hours per night. Participants can promote their activity online to raise funds towards a goal of $144,000, which Dementia Auckland has committed to continue providing the Living Well Groups for people with dementia across Auckland. Info and registration: www.stepsfordementia.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz

Classifiedadvertising HOME & MAINTENANCE

SERVICES

ALARMS SECURITY AND FIRE, MONITORING, CCTV, servicing & installation, all brands 027 553 3032 www.tdssecurity.co.nz

RECORDING STUDIO Vocals to backing tracks, original projects, vocal training & vocal PA hire. Ph Dennis 021 115 5233.

CLEVER BUGGERS FLASHINGS Custom made flashings and all sheet metal work. Ph Tony 0274 795 061.

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

New gardens, clean ups. Specialising in maintenance & improvement. Phone Dave 021 950 154

HEALTH & BEAUTY FINGERNAILS & TOENAILS CUT & FILED – $35pp or $50 for 2pp. I come to you. Ph (leave a message) 424 0676.

HAIRDRESSING

HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for all those odd jobs. Ph Nev 021 399 226 @ Nev’s Odd Jobs. Great rates. Local & reliable.

CAN’T MAKE IT TO A HAIR SALON? no problem I can come to you. Qualified Hairstylist providing cutting blow wave & setting services. Please phone Julie 021 112 8015

KIWI ROOTS PALM & TREE MAINTENANCE, REMOVAL and hedge work. Free quotes. Phone 020 4027 6200. www.kiwiroots.co.nz

MOBILE HAIRCUTS European trained hairstylist to visit you at your time, your place. Sabine Ph 426 9652 021 149 8598

A PUMP DOCTOR will keep you pumping. Ph 0274 430 654. ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Shane 021 0813 8481. CARPENTER AVAIL all types of work. Ph Thomas 027 479 5506. PEST CONTROL, Flies, spiders, cockroaches, ants, rodents, wasps. Competitive prices. Ph 426 2253. WATERBLASTING & CHEMICAL HOUSE WASHING. Careful service, reasonable rates. Ph 426 2253. WATER FILTERS - Underbench, Whole house, UV & water spotting, Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 027 478 7427 steve@aquafilter.co.nz

WANTED TO BUY

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

TO BUY, RECORDS/LP’S Ph 428 1587.

SITUATIONS VACANT THE WASHING WELL LAUNDRY & DRY CLEANER

Looking for a part-time staff for Mon, Wed & Thurs: 8am-3pm. Main role is pressing & ironing; managing laundry process & serving counter. Experience is preferable but not essential. Willingness to learn & help & a soft personality to fit the team is a must. Hours can be negotiated to suit. Please contact Ryan 021 037 8123 or 09 428 2444 for more details.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

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

DVDS & VIDEOS VIDEOS TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Phone or text Te Totara Video 021 777 385.

DINING OUT FRESH SNAPPER CHIPS N SALAD, lambs fry n bacon, scallop salad, portabello mushrooms n toast. WedSun, Walnut Cafe ph 427 5570.

Sudoku 8 9 5 6 3 2 7 4 1

3 6 7 1 8 4 9 5 2

1 2 4 7 5 9 6 8 3

7 3 8 5 2 1 4 6 9

2 5 9 8 4 6 1 3 7

6 4 1 3 9 7 5 2 8

T H E S O L U T

5 7 6 2 1 3 8 9 4

9 1 2 4 6 8 3 7 5

I O N

4 8 3 9 7 5 2 1 6

COMMUNITY NOTICES A CLUB FOR SEMI RETIRED AND RETIRED PEOPLE. Monthly meetings with guest speakers, bus trips, luncheons, movie group, plus other social get togethers. Whangaparāoa Combined Friendship Club. 10am, Bridge Club, Edith Hopper Park, Whangaparāoa. Ph Pat 428 5285 or 027 242 8749. BRIDGE LESSONS – FREE – Hibiscus Coast Bridge Club, Edith Hopper Park (off Ladies Mile) Manly. 10 weeks, 7pm-9pm, Suitable for beginners. All welcome. Register email and phone number to hbcbridge@xtra.co.nz or leave message ph 424 1252.

BRIDGE LESSONS Ōrewa Bridge Club, Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. $50 incl 10 lessons, course material and 2021 annual subscription. No exp necessary, just a love of the game. 121 West Hoe Road. Ph Jenny 09 947 5634 or 027 212 1222 or orewabc@xtra.co.nz CAFÉ CONNECT 10am-11.30am, 2nd Monday of the month. Over 60s group with a relaxed atmosphere. Morning tea, nostalgic singalongs. Gold coin donation. Terry & Noelene Bradley 027 477 5014 FLYING SOLO COASTIES A new group for solo parents on the Coast. Meet new people, build friendships, laugh, vent and support each other. This is a safe haven to communicate with others about experiences, sharing advice, parenting tips and so on. Anything that happens within the group will remain confidential. There will also be meet ups/ events etc. FB: Flying Solo Coasties FREE SUNDAY CONCERTS – Stillwater Boating Club at 70 Duck Creek Rd, Stillwater, 3.30pm-6.30pm, free and open to the public. (on the grass picnic area in front of the club) swbc.co.nz/page/ what-s-happening/ Sunday April 11, 2s A Crowd; Sunday May 9, Happy Fish GARAGE SALE Sat 20 March, 8.30am12pm. St Chad’s. Cnr Florence Ave & Centreway Rd Ōrewa. GOOD AS NEW AUTUMN PRE LOVED KIDS MARKET Sat March 20, Ōrewa Community Centre, 9am-12pm. 45 Stalls selling pre-loved kids: clothes, toys, books, buggies, nursery furniture and baby accessories. HEARTBEATS, HEART EVENT SURVIVORS community-based, peerpeer support group meets the first Tuesday of each month at the Hibiscus Coast Community House (behind Estuary Arts), 10am-11.30am. Monthly meetings include regular professional healthcare guest speakers. Everyone welcome. Info Trent 0220 606 199. HIBISCUS COAST SINGERS invite new singers to join us at a rehearsal to see how the choir works. Afterwards discuss with our director about joining the choir. For more information contact Robyn: ph 426 6043 or email: coastsingers@gmail.com. HIBISCUS COAST WRITERS is a supportive and friendly club for those that love writing, from hobby writers to those published. Regular workshops led by successful writers, followed by optional interclub competitions to access valuable feedback. Meet second Saturday of month, Pohutukawa Room, Whangaparāoa Library, 1pm-3pm. Ph Marilyn 021 936 860.

HIBISCUS SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB meets each Wednesday 7pm Silverdale Village Hall. Social dancing, great music, friendly group. Contact Gail 0274 242 792 ŌREWA COMMUNITY CHURCH ART CLASS 9am-12pm, during school terms. Informal amateur artists who support and inspire each other in a relaxed and friendly environment. Gold coin donation. Contact Alan 021 039 7155. REBUS CLUB OF GULF HARBOUR meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, 9.30am12pm. Rebus is a club for seniors, both men and women. Door prizes and morning tea. Great speakers and conviviality. Info www.rebusgulfharbour.nz or Graeme 0274 739 787. SING UP RODNEY - community music therapy for older people and those with a neurological condition. Term-time Thursdays (not first week of the month), 10.30am, Ōrewa Scout Hall. Ph: 027 464 2465. SingUpRodney@gmail.com SPIRITUAL CENTRE IN ŌREWA Meet fortnightly, Wednesday 7.30pm. Come along to hear from our ‘medium’ on platform, give messages from spirit. All welcome. 9e Annalise Place (off Forest Glen Rd) Ōrewa. $5 donation for running costs. Ph Lynda 424 1998. SUICIDE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT – EMPATHY GROUP meets monthly at Ōrewa, Last Monday of each month. Hibiscus Community House, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa, Western Reserve, 7pm-9pm. All welcome. Info contact Susan 021 884 162 or PM FB: Empathy support group. SUNDAY SOCIAL DANCE Silverdale, ballroom, Latin American etc. all welcome. Every 4th Sunday, 5-8pm. Silverdale Hall, ph 427 5542. Next event March 28. WHANGAPARĀOA LADIES FRIENDSHIP GROUP meets 2nd Tuesday of month, Manly Bridge Club, 10am-12pm. All welcome for morning tea & friendship. Raewyn 09 424 1414. If you wish to appear in the FREE community notices email hibiscus@ localmatters.co.nz Community Notices are subject to space and availability for non-profit organisations. If you wish your notice to appear on a semiregular basis please email it in each time. All other classifieds are chargeable. A standard run-on classified is $6.20, boxed classifieds are $16 p/cm deep, colour +20%, GST incl.

Silverdale Market

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

7 Silverdale Street Saturday 8am~1pm Ph 021 030 3273

March 17, 2021 | Hibiscusmatters |

www.localmatters.co.nz

Advertisment

March 19 & 20 A celebration of the America’s Cup, Moana Reserve,

Ōrewa. Friday 6pm-8.30pm and Saturday, 1p-m-9pm. Entertainment, including family movies, and food trucks. Info: www.Ōrewabeach.co.nz (see story p40)

Stillwater Boating Club 50th Jubilee, 70 Duck Creek Road, Stillwater, 2pm. Free public event, past members, friends and local residents welcome. Unveiling of commemorative plaque, nostalgia, food, live music and more. Info: www.swbc. co.nz/page/what-s-happening/ (see story p30)

Whangaparāoa School Gala, in school grounds, 39 Ladies Mile, Manly, 10.45am to 2pm. Entertainment, food and fun for the whole family. (see story and ad p33)

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Mask-eye-tis “Maskitis” is not a real disease. Just something I’ve made up to decribe a funny phenomenon I’ve noticed. If you wear glasses, you will even see it happening. It’s sore, gritty and/or watery eyes that can be caused by the hotter air from your breath escaping the top of your mask.

Stillwater Raft Race, Stillwater Boating Club, 70 Duck Creek Road, 10am-4pm. Theme 1970s, all welcome, entry free. Raft Race entry $30 per craft. A great day out, bar opens 11am. Rain day, Easter Monday April 5.

Picnic beside Maygrove Lake, Lakeside Drive, Ōrewa, 12.30pm. Bring a plate for shared lunch, a picnic chair or mat. Gumboot-throwing contest! Hot drinks and some chairs provided. All welcome. Info: Marie Walding, ph 09 426 3742.

Although irritated eyes can be a symptom of many different eye conditions, you may be suffering from dry eyes. Healthy eyes are continuously covered by a tear film. The tear film protects your eyes and lubricates them. Dry eyes do not have this lubrication.

Ducky Derby plastic duck race down Ōrewa Estuary, Western Reserve (by Ōrewa Skatepark), 12.30pm-3.30pm. Duck race starts around 2.45pm. Great prizes. Entertainment, food stalls, raffles and games. Fundraiser for Ōrewa Beach Kindergarten. Duck tickets available on the day (limited) or contact Ōrewa Beach Kindergarten, ph 09 426 4543.

Poetry Day celebration, Sugar Loaf Bar and Grill, 3844 Waiwera Rd, Waiwera, 7pm-9.30pm. Open to all who are interested in poetry and poetry fun! Email dianenewcombe@hotmail.com if you would like to present a poem – your own, or any other poet’s.

Symptoms of dry eyes may include one or all of the following: • A stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes • A sense of a foreign substance in your eyes • Eye redness • Watery eyes • Eye fatigue after short periods of reading • Difficulty wearing contact lenses

North Shore Aero Club Community Open Day, 300 Postman Road Dairy Flat, 10am-4pm. Alternate bad weather date, April 3. Displays of aircraft, market and more. Scenic flights. All welcome. (see story p32 and ad p31) Silverdale Kindergarten Bikeathon and Gala, 2 Longmore Lane, Silverdale, 10am-2pm. Community event with food, raffles, auctions, a chance to win $500, bouncy castle, games, stalls, helicopter simulator and bikeathon. Fundraiser for outdoor upgrade.

April 10 Concert by Josh Jones and his band Secret Chords, raising

funds for St Chad’s Church Hall, St Chad’s Church, cnr Centreway Road and Florence Ave, Ōrewa, 7.30pm. (Note: this was originally on March 6, but postponed by lockdown. If anyone is unable to attend on the new date, email chadŌrewa@gmail.com for a refund.) Limited number of tickets, $20, available from St Chad’s Op Shop, Ōrewa.

Hot Diggety Dog Show, Western Reserve, Ōrewa. Fun dog competitions for the family pooch. 10am-2pm. All welcome. Hosted by Ōrewa Lions Club.

Life Education Trust Rodney presents Harold Does Resilience, Ōrewa Community Hall, 7pm. Two-hour fundraising event with speakers to help families face these times. Entry $20 (maximum $40 per family). Tickets from Eventfinda.

Peninsula Club Retirement Village market day, 441 Whangaparāoa Rd, Stanmore Bay, 10am-1pm. Stalls, cream tea, bargains galore and raffles. All welcome. To list your event email details to: online@localmatters.co.nz

Events listed are supplied to the paper as correct at time of going to print, but all are subject to change. Many require Auckland to be at Alert Level 1. Keep an eye on Hibiscus Matters’ Facebook, or contact the organiser, for any postponements or cancellations.

It seems counter intuitive to think that watery eyes could be a symptom of a dry eye... but it is. Medications, aging and other causes, such as environmental factors (eg. masks) can lead to dry eyes. Another cause is insufficient blinking, such as when you’re staring at that screen all day. Treatment for dry eyes first involves getting the diagnosis right. There are many other conditions that exhibit the same symptoms as dry eyes. Myself or my pharmacist colleagues can run through a set of questions to help you exclude other causes, some of which can be quite serious. Make sure you take this important step. You’ve only got two eyes, so best look after them! There are two main ways to restore your eyes’ moisture • Minimize drying – eg. wear wraparound sunglasses outside to reduce the drying effects of wind, remembering to blink. • Add lubrication – ie. Using eye drops to add moisture directly to your eyes. Be sure to check with us before buying an over-the-counter eye drop as to which one will best suit you. We can advise you on which formula will suit you, whether it be frequent use or a longer lasting formulation, to be used with contacts, etc. Selecting an incorrect eye drop can lead to problems. Fitting your mask well can also help as can placing a rolled up tissue underneath at the top of your mask to collect the hot air before it escapes. If sore eyes or watery eyes or any other health issues are bothering you, come and see us at the pharmacy, we can help. 53B Rawhiti Road, Manly Village Whangaparaoa Ph (09) 424 7708 Fax (09) 424 7427 www.unichemmanly.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional

40 | Hibiscusmatters | March 17, 2021

www.localmatters.co.nz

Millwater runner wins Full Monty More than 900 runners took part in this year’s Cargo Plus Coastal Challenge – a chance to run, walk, wade, swim and rock hop along the coastline. The event was held on Saturday, February 27, just squeaking in ahead of lockdown the next day. There were a number of courses of different lengths to suit all abilities, the longest being the Full Monty, which covered 33km from Arkles Bay to Devonport. This year, 90 runners were entered in the individual Full Monty race, which was won by Millwater’s Jared Pouwhare, in a time of 3hrs 36mins. The 29-year-old only recently began doing multisport events and says the idea of 33km of rock running was “quite intimidating”. “I’ve been training for a half ironman, but not on this kind of terrain,” he says. He entered at the last minute and says it was an awesome day and more technical than he had expected. “I’ll be back next year for sure,” Jared says. First female Full Monty runner home was Mari Manger in 4hrs 30mins. Race director Mark Fordham of Total Sport says 940 participants is the highest number for many years. He says although the event always starts at high tide, this year the tide was slightly higher than usual which added to the fun – and the challenge.

A highlight for him was that more than $30,000 was raised for Harbour Hospice through teams obtaining sponsorship, online donations, a sausage sizzle and marshalling. Next year will be the 20th running of the Coastal Challenge and Mark says there will be a number of ‘extras’ to mark the occasion. He says they are working on a 50km ultra marathon option for next February, which is likely to take in both north and south coastlines of Whangaparāoa Peninsula and will also be a fundraiser for hospice.

Millwater runner Jared Pouwhare won the longest event, the Full Monty. Photo, photos4sale.co.nz

New dates for Ōrewa’s Cup celebrations

A community event in Ōrewa focused on the America’s Cup, postponed by the Covid-19 lockdown, has been rescheduled. The event is now to take place on Moana Reserve on Friday, March 19, 6pm to 8.30pm and Saturday, March 20, 1pm-9pm. Originally it was to include a giant screen showing the racing, but as it is unlikely there will be any racing on March 19 and 20, it will instead focus on food trucks, movies and entertainment for children. Organiser Destination Ōrewa Beach says it remains “a celebration of the America’s Cup”. The annual Sandcastle Competition takes place on Saturday. Details and times: www. Ōrewabeach.co.nz