Hibiscus Matters_Issue 232_14 February 2018

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February 14, 2018

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Inside this issue Sneak peak inside Mighty Ape page 3

Love Soup comes to Orewa Orewa Surf Club juniors and their parents will be on hand to make sure waste is placed in the right bin at the Coast’s first ‘zero waste’ event.

page 5

Orewa hosts Coast’s first ‘zero waste’ event

The Orewa Boulevard Arts Festival this weekend will be the first local event to focus on reducing the amount of waste it generates.

The process includes encouraging businesses involved to use recyclable or compostable packaging, as well as separating rubbish at source. Organiser Destination Orewa Beach has set the benchmark high, aiming to send less than one 240 litre bin to landfill from the event, which attracts thousands of people and has more than 100 stalls and 20 food trucks. By not separating rubbish at source, an event like this

would normally generate around 20 bins of landfill waste.

Orewa Surf Living Saving Club and Whangaparaoa Community Recycling Centre are working with Destination Orewa, local businesses and stallholders, to make it happen.

Auckland Council has been working with event organisers to reduce waste since it adopted its Waste Management and Minimisation Plan in 2012.

There have been hundreds of zero waste events since then throughout Auckland that have diverted between 75 percent and 95 percent of material

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However, this is the first time the waste requirements have been fully implemented at a Hibiscus Coast event – something Destination Orewa Beach operations manager Hellen Wilkins says is largely because of cost.

She says reducing landfill waste at the arts festival is costing her organisation $3600 – normal rubbish requirements for an event like this cost organisers around $500.

Hellen says that a grant from Council assisted with the extra cost and Destination Orewa is covering the rest.

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“People want to do it but the financial support and infrastructure is not yet in place,” she says. “We can only attempt it because of support from Northern Zero Waste and volunteers from Orewa Surf Club, who are working for a koha.”

She says a large part of its success will depend on the public who attend, so a lot of emphasis is on education. “We want to help raise awareness in the community and local businesses about efficient waste management so that these things could become the norm continued page 2

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| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

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February 14, 2018 Issue 232

Enquiries: ph 427 8188 fax 427 8186 Unit G, Tamariki Plaza, Cammish Lane, Orewa, 0931 hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz www.localmatters.co.nz Next issues: March 1 & 14 – Book your advertising now Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 terry@localmatters.co.nz

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A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 22,450 homes and businesses twice a month: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Orewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat Red Beach • Whangaparaoa Peninsula Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers.

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in the future,” she says.

When the wrong material is put in a bin, the entire contents are contaminated and the bin must go to landfill. To prevent this happening, Surf Club volunteers, mainly the parents of junior lifeguards, will staff the 10 bin stations to help people put their rubbish in the right place – there will be three options, recyclables, compostables and landfill.

In addition, volunteers from Northern Zero Waste will sort the contents of each bin.

Recyclables will go to the Whangaparaoa Community Recycling Centre, compostables will be transported to Tuakau by a local company, Compost Couriers, for hot composting. Paper, wood, PLA (a plastic-like material made of corn starch), bamboo, sugarcane and potato starch plates, cups, bowls and cutlery will all be composted along with food scraps.

Council says its emphasis is on education, rather than regulation as it targets zero waste. Waste planning manager, Parul Sood, says Council understands that budget is a problem for some small events. “Our approach is to introduce the concept and work with the organiser to get closer to the goal, year on year,” she says.

“There are measures that don’t need to be costly. An example may be banning polystyrene from the event or requesting participants at a sports event bring reusable drink bottles.

Where food is a major component of an event, we ask that a third bin, for compostable material, is introduced to keep food waste out of the landfill.”

However, Ms Sood says should an event organiser consistently refuse to work towards the zero waste goal, and is conducting their event in a public place or with ratepayers’ assistance, then Council may refuse to permit the event. She says to date this has happened on only one occasion and the following year that organiser met the criteria so the event could go ahead.

More than $500 of the costs carried

by Destination Orewa are to transport compostable waste to Tuakau, as Council has no composting facility. Ms Sood says as the collection of food scraps from residential properties in urban Auckland is introduced, the processing capacity for food waste will also increase locally over the next few years.

Mrs Wilkins says she received a very positive response from stallholders and local businesses to the zero waste initiative, which could lead to long term changes in local waste management.

“A very high percentage of the mobile vendors and a good number of hospitality outlets said that they already work with recyclable or compostable food packaging,” she says. “A far higher number than we thought are already very conscious of the environment and waste impacts. This is great, as waste minimisation expectations will only increase in the future.”

She says Northern Zero Waste has been advising the businesses involved of products they can use to replace current products, over time, to help the environment. “Hopefully there will be some long term changes made throughout the hospitality sector in Orewa as a result of this initiative,” Mrs Wilkins says.

The Orewa Boulevard Arts Festival is on Saturday, February 17, 1pm– 7pm. See What’s On, p31.

Have your say The draft of the updated version of the Council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan goes out for consultation from February 28 to March 28 (HM November 1, 2017). It includes increased charges for households and commercial operators who generate a lot of waste. The focus is on reducing construction and demolition waste, organic waste and plastics. Read the full report at localmatters.co.nz

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February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Orewa properties on beachfront fail to sell

New shelving being installed in the warehouse.

Mighty Ape warehouse swings open The 9000sqm Mighty Ape distribution centre in Silverdale is on a scale not seen before on the Hibiscus Coast.

The building dominates the landscape in the developing Highgate business park and can be seen clearly from the motorway and surrounds, attracting a lot of interest from local residents.

The facility opened to the public last week and the first orders shipped out the day after Waitangi Day. Mighty Ape is an online retailer founded by Simon and Vicki Barton.

The couple went to Orewa College and they now live on a lifestyle block near Waitoki.

Simon says that the company has grown rapidly from humble beginnings as a

video game store in the 1990s. Having outgrown three previous warehouses – the latest in Albany – the Bartons decided to move the base of their operation to Silverdale.

The purpose built building has a five green star rating that includes rainwater flushed toilets, rainwater garden irrigation and carpool parking.

There are provisions for solar panels to be added in future.

Inside, it can hold around 800,000 products. Around 70 truck and trailor trips were needed to bring in all the stock. A total of 60,000 stickers with unique numbers and barcodes to mark the location of the bins and products had to be removed by hand and new ones stuck on prior to the move.

In particular, there has been a lot of interest and speculation around the two metal ‘silos’ positioned next to the building. Simon says these two tanks hold 1 million litres of water each and are needed because the building’s “high end fire suppression system”, which can put out 20,000 litres per minute, requires more water than the local supply can provide.

Simon says that the organisation will create around 100 new jobs over the next four or five years, as well as seasonal work for a further 100 over the Christmas period. He says one of the benefits to local customers of having the warehouse on their doorstep is that it’s possible to order online and pick up the order in person.

Speculation has been rife regarding the content of these silos alongside the warehouse.

Mighty Ape founder, Simon Barton

Orewa Boulevard

Two adjacent residential properties on the Orewa beachfront, opposite the town centre, have been withdrawn from sale.

The properties, at 309A and B Hibiscus Coast Highway, are zoned Business Town Centre and were put on the market last December.

They were marketed as having huge development potential, given the zoning, which allows for beachfront restaurants, cafés and apartments.

Real estate agent Karen Clark of NZ Sotheby’s International Realty says that several offers came in, but the vendors chose to withdraw the property from sale. “They might investigate developing the site themselves,” she says.

At the end of 2014, the first property on the Orewa beachfront with business zoning, 305 Hibiscus Coast Highway, was put on the market. It was also withdrawn from sale.

Orewa village hearing

A revised plan for the proposed retirement complex at Annalise Place, Orewa, will go before independent commissioners next month. The new plans are expected to include reductions to the scale and bulk of the Coastal Properties development. More than 30 submissions were put forward when the plan was publicly notified, with most concerned by the bulk, height and scale of what was proposed in a residential area, and the effects on nearby Nukumea Stream and Eaves Bush Reserve. The proposal consists of three blocks of 3–5 storey apartment buildings containing 120 apartments, a bowling green and gardens. It is also proposed to relocate the existing ‘Rose Cottage’ (Heritage Building) to be used as a reading/library room. The hearing is set down for March 2 and 5 in Orewa Service Centre.

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| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Feedback

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

off

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the record

Seawall ‘misconceived’ An excellent piece about ‘Council vs Council’ regarding the proposed sea wall on Orewa beach (HM Feb 1).

As noted in the paper’s December 13 paper, this is the second time an application has been turned down.

The previous one was to the Rodney District Council in 2010.

The Commission found that ‘...the proposal was inconsistent with the relevant objectives of the statutory planning process’. Environmental lawyer Kate Storer said the project was ‘entirely misconceived’. Yet the Council may, in essence, take itself to court to appeal against the findings.

Any bets how that will pan out? This sea wall saga is but one example of how our rates are frittered away. It’s costing us millions of bucks. No wonder the Council can’t afford to cut berms!

John Clements, Orewa

Praise for ribbon As a person who loves dogs, I am so pleased to see the yellow ribbon introduced (HM February 1). The simple ideas are so often the best! I generally ask the person on the other end of the lead for permission before I pat any strange dog, but I frequently see people down at the beach who don’t. The more people that know about this, and recognise the yellow ribbon sign, the better. Thanks for putting this out there.

Kim Carter, Orewa

Embrace wharf jumping spot I would like Auckland Council to get on board and help make Orewa wharf jumping safer. Everyone knows it’s a favourite spot for jumping. Despite a warning sign, there is a slippery, nonlevel board to climb up and jump off. Instead of embracing a local spot, and cutting a hole, or even building a platform, Auckland Council is actually contributing to making it dangerous.

Wellington has built this (pictured)

on its foreshore. I live in hope that Auckland Council would do something this cool but surely they could make it safer to jump at Orewa, and, for the nitwits safety, add a sign saying ‘Don’t jump when there is no water!’

Or, perhaps we could get something like this at Gulf Harbour, since Hobbs Wharf was taken away.

Mel Buckley, Swann Beach

Whose berm?

With response to the letter in Hibiscus Matters February 1 paper called Rubbish Roundabouts, what about the entrance to Orewa from Hatfields?

The berm along there has not been touched for over six months despite several requests to be attended to. The latest I was told by a council worker is

that the matter is still being decided on as to who looks after the berm.

The dictionary definition of the word ‘berm’ or ‘berme’ is: “the grass verge of a suburban street, usually kept mown”.

A shame that is not the case around Orewa. Hail the Super City again!

Sandra Zanos, Orewa

This image from Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre has been sent in several times before, in various states of fading away. The reader who sent this suggests that after fierce summer sun, this image is now gone for good and should be replaced.

Wedding on raid day Wedding celebrant Melanie Kerr of Little Manly was chosen to officiate at the wedding of internet entrepreneur Kim Dotcom, 44, and Elizabeth Donnelly, a 22-yearold student from Auckland. The wedding day, January 20, was also the anniversary of the 2012 police raid on Dotcom’s former home in Coatesville.

On Instagram, the happy bride said that the couple chose that day “to turn the anniversary of the raid into a day of joy.” Melanie describes the wedding as “intimate, beautiful and heartfelt”. Dotcom split from his former wife, Mona, in 2012.

Farmers Silverdale set to open The new shopping mall in Silverdale is nearing completion. Recently Farmers advertised jobs within the complex, saying it expects to open in March.

The new complex, on the corner of Millwater Parkway and Silverdale Street, is owned by the James Pascoe Group and includes, a 5490sqm Farmers store over two levels and up to 30 retail stores

(including Whitcoulls, Stevens and three cafés). The possible impact on Coast Plaza could be substantial, but is yet to be determined. Farmers, Whitcoulls and Stevens all have stores in Coast Plaza but at this stage it is unknown whether any, or all, of those stores will continue trading in Whangaparaoa, as well as opening in Silverdale.

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Preparing for a healthy, free meal service are Serving Spoons committee members, from left, Catherine Birt, Theresa Fouché and Valentina Pereira, with Love Soup Hibiscus Coast’s Julie King.

Church offers free lunch service Orewa’s St John’s Catholic church will serve up a free community lunch every month, starting on February 26.

Church volunteers are working with Love Soup Hibiscus Coast to get their Serving Spoons initiative off the ground and will eventually take over the operation themselves.

Serving Spoons committee member Valentina Pereira says she approached Julie King of Love Soup because she felt a free community meal might be needed in Orewa. Like many local churches, St John’s has a foodbank and is well used to providing all sorts of support for parishioners.

“Our church is very aware of families who are struggling, and often can’t afford fresh fruit and vegetables,” Valentina says. “That is a real concern and we wanted to help as an outreach of the church.”

Valentina, together with other members of the organising team Catherine Birt, Theresa Fouché and Cath Copley, recently consulted parishioners on the idea and received a warm response. A number of people

have signed up to help, and cash donations have also begun to come in.

Flyers are being circulated to advise the community of the free meal.

Love Soup Hibiscus Coast began offering its free meal service in Whangaparaoa around 18 months ago, and this is the first offshoot to start up locally.

Currently Love Soup has an average of 50–60 people attending its weekly Sunday meals at Whangaparaoa Hall.

Julie King says that many people are afraid to ask for help, and a free meal is a way to invite everyone in and make contact with people.

Initially, Love Soup’s chef Richard Ransfield will cook the Serving Spoons lunches, with food provided

by Love Soup. The church is seeking donations of fresh fruit and vegetables from parishioners.

The free lunches will be provided in St John’s Catholic church hall, 180 Centreway Road, Orewa, on the last Monday of every month – starting on February 26. It is open to all. The hall can accommodate around 80 people for the sit down meal.

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localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Getting tough with freedom campers

Mayors get call to action

The Hibiscus & Bays Local Board has got tough with freedom campers who were taking up a large number of car parks by Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club.

Local board chair Julia Parfitt, who says her personal view is that freedom camping is inappropriate in an urban area, met with Auckland Council departments to ensure signs were put up, just prior to Christmas, and enforced.

“I was almost at my wits end, so I urgently sought more resources from Council and worked closely with the enforcement team,” she says.

The signs were put in temporarily at first, but have now been made permanent.

Mrs Parfitt says that the signs cannot be put everywhere where freedom camping is causing problems for local residents – in particular at Arundel Reserve.

“We could put up the signs in the surf club car park because it was not included in the former Rodney District Council bylaw, which permitted freedom camping in self-contained vehicles on reserve land,” she says. “It is allowed under the reserve management plan for Orewa Reserve.”

In addition, the local board has had enforcement officers patrolling car park, and other local car parks, at dawn.

At Arundel Reserve, there have been a number of incidents where people were not in self-contained vehicles, or were causing a disturbance. Two were issues with trespass notices and another had to be shifted on several times.

The large numbers of freedom campers using Gulf Harbour car park was also the subject of many complaints.

Last August, Council voted to bring in an Aucklandwide Freedom Camping bylaw that will give Council

Twenty-two mayors from around NZ will meet Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis early next month to discuss the issue of freedom camping and work towards solutions for next summer.

The move has been welcomed by Local Government NZ (LGNZ), the body that represents New Zealand’s 78 local, regional and unitary authorities.

LGNZ President Dave Cull says while many freedom campers respect the communities they visit there are a number of issues that come when there are so many of them. “Councils and communities have been reporting problems as a result of freedom camping including human waste, littering, overcrowding and access to reserves being blocked by campers,” he says.

Mr Cull says it is time to modernise the Freedom Camping Act, which gives councils the ability to issue fines to travellers who breach bylaws, to ensure it is fit-for-purpose and effective and encourages a respectful and sustainable camping culture.

Councils have already implemented a range of tools including restricting access, enforcement of bylaws and education, however these measures have been challenged by the sharp growth of freedom camping.

“One of the key issues is changing the behaviour of some campers, and this could be helped by strengthening enforcement. Councils need to be able to enforce bylaws and ensure fines are paid, because at the moment there is nothing to stop those who do receive an infringement notice from leaving the country without paying it,” Mr Cull says. “This would go some way towards sending the message that freedom camping comes with certain rules and responsibilities.”

Appropriate infrastructure to support freedom camping, for example toilets and parking, and mechanisms to fund this, is also needed.

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Freedom campers heeded this sign – once it went up, they stopped coming, almost overnight, Orewa Surf Club president John Chapman says.

staff powers to issue infringement notices. The process of enacting the bylaw is expected to take until next summer.

Mrs Parfitt says the local board will be making a submission on the bylaw.

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localmatters.co.nz

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

Viewpoint with Mark Mitchell, Rodney MP markmitchell.national.org.nz

Supporting the community I hope everyone found a way to relax and enjoy time with family and friends over the Christmas and New Year’s break. I’m sure 2018 will be a great year if we continue to be optimistic, outward looking and not afraid to ask for a bit of help if there’s the odd bump in the road.

Recently I met with our Police Area Commander Inspector Bruce O’Brien. We have regular meetings to update each other on current issues. Unfortunately our emergency services had to deal with some tragic motor vehicle accidents and suicides over the holiday period. The work that they do is very tough at times.

Although I am proud of the strength of our communities in Rodney and have a deep respect for those delivering mental health services, it is possible for people to feel as though they are isolated when struggling with depression or mental illness.

Please reach out to someone/anyone that you trust for help rather than struggle along alone. My number has always been available but here it is again for anyone who feels they don’t have anyone as that first contact: 021 075 9501.

Rodney Local Board chair Beth Houlbrooke contacted me immediately after the storm had hit us last month to say residents of Kawau Island had contacted her about damage to the Mansion Bay Wharf. She had responded by visiting the wharf to survey the damage. The damage meant the wharf could not be used and put at risk some local businesses and a major upcoming event. Through coordination with Beth, local business owners, event organisers, residents and DOC, a comprehensive plan and solution was put in place. Anyone still dealing with storm related issues that aren’t being resolved, please contact my Orewa office for assistance.

Finally I would like to acknowledge our surf lifesavers and our local clubs of Orewa and Red Beach. Between them they patrol several beaches in Rodney and also contribute to the regional life guarding services. They have a huge focus on prevention and education and save many lives each year. They also enjoy competition and testing their life saving skills against one another at surf carnivals around the country. We are always strongly represented on the national stage by our clubs.

Steps taken on step repair Steps used to access Orewa Beach from Kinloch Reserve will be repaired, following persistent enquiries from local residents. Norm and Judith Greenall live near the reserve and use the stairs regularly.

Norm says he had spotted in the past that several of the steps were rotten.

Early in January, Judith, who has a visual impairment, fell and was injured when one of the rotten steps collapsed under her feet.

The couple complained to Auckland

Council and within a few hours, contractors had put up safety netting.

However, this was removed not long afterwards by a member of the public, and people continued to use the damaged stairs.

The nearest steps to the beach are around 80m away.

Norm says nothing was done for several weeks but following enquiries by Hibiscus Matters, the work was taken in hand. The safety netting was replaced, and the stairs repaired last week.

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localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Waiwera developer jailed over native tree vandalism A Waiwera developer who damaged seven protected native trees – six pohutukawa and one totara – has been sentenced to two-and-a-half months imprisonment.

Augustine Lau, who appeared in the Auckland District Court late last month, had earlier pleaded guilty to one charge of using land in contravention of regional and district rules under the Resource Management Act. Mr Lau was involved in a 145-lot subdivision on a 6.9 hectare property at 32 Weranui Road.

Auckland Council’s manager regulatory compliance Steve Pearce says that the sentencing sends a strong message that this kind of damage to the environment is not acceptable and disregard for the rules won’t be tolerated.

A Council media statement quoted Judge Kellar, at the time of sentencing: “It is hard to imagine a more deliberate case and that Mr Lau’s purpose was financial gain because the views resulting from removal of the trees would have significantly enhanced the value of the property.

“To describe the attitude of the offender as poor would be an understatement”.

Mr Lau was said to have shown “little respect to Council officers” and “flagrant disregard” for the consenting process.

As a result of Mr Lau’s actions, four of the affected trees were seriously damaged with only the base of the trunk remaining, and it was determined that all of these trees would die as a result

of the unlawful work. The other three trees also suffered serious damage. The trees were all large, mature specimens, some of which were found to be More than 100 years old.

Mr Pearce says that anyone who is concerned about damage being done to protected tress or development works should call Council as soon as possible on 09 301 0101.

Waiwera closed and staff laid off for renovation works Confusion surrounds the precise direction and future of the Waiwera hot pools, following its closure for refurbishment last week and all staff being made redundant.

Speaking on Wednesday, February 7, former acting general manager Dennis Richards said the resort and spa were now closed for four to six months, although a staff member who answered the phone on another occasion said it could be six to eight months.

“There’s been a bit of confusion,” Mr Richards said. “We’re closed for a major refurbishment and we have a project manager attending meetings today with architects and planners and once we have done that, I’ll be in a position to say more.”

He said the redundancies were

unfortunate, but said the jobs would be open again once work had been completed.

“Of course they will,” he said. “We’ve taken a list of those people who want to reapply. It’s unfortunate, but they were made redundant because there is no work available for them to do while this goes on. We went through a consultation process properly and, apart from one little hitch, it’s all been resolved.”

There was some uncertainty around Mr Richards’ own position, he added.

“I was acting general manager until last night (Waitangi Day), I don’t know what I am today,” he said. “I’m going to step down, I’m going to clean up here, but I’m available at the moment and will be able to tell you what’s happening in the next week.

“There’s been a lot of speculation, because we’re an iconic part of the area,” he added. “I’ve worked here nearly 30 years, so it’s a pretty big thing for me to see it closed when it’s been open every day.”

The Waiwera resort was closed for the first phase of its redevelopment for two weeks in the run-up to Christmas, then reopened for the school holidays.

The resort’s website features images of how the refurbishment might look and a link to Auckland Council’s resource consent for the works.

The home page said on Wednesday that the planned refurbishment work would bring “a fresh new look and feel to the resort and café”, with the statement, “We hope you are as excited as we are!”

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Discovering God Sharing Christ’s Love Sunday Family Services 10am + Kids Journeys 18th Feb - Beatitudes The right-side-up Kingdom Speaker: Graeme Gilles

25th Feb - Missions Sunday All overnight tours include pickup and airfares Reid Tours information evening in Whangaparaoa late February. See February 14 issue for details.

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localmatters.co.nz

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

The potential development of Whangaparaoa town centre, illustrated here, includes a new community hall and terraced housing on the Ministry of Education land alongside Whangaparaoa College.

Whangaparaoa town centre plan released Guidelines for the future development of Whangaparaoa’s town centre are to be discussed with the community this month, after the release of the draft Whangaparaoa Centre Plan.

The plan covers the area along Whangaparaoa Road from New World to the commercial area east of Wade River Rd. It was commissioned by the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board from former Rodney District Council planner Jason Evans of ET Urban Design. The local board approved funding of $25,000 for the work in April, 2016.

The plan points out that much of the development in this region has been “vehicle based retail”, resulting in poor quality public spaces with minimal landscaping to make views from the main road more attractive, as well as a lack of walking and cycling infrastructure.

Community feedback during the preparation of the plan demonstrated a desire to see the town centre made more attractive. “The natural infrastructure of beaches, reserves and rolling landscape character of Whangaparaoa is contrasted by the often poor quality urban environment of strip retail development, unattractive buildings and wide, featureless roading corridors,” the

report says.

One feature identified as lacking is a “sense of arrival” to the town centre.

Suggestions to help remedy this include the redevelopment of Whangaparaoa Community Hall and encouraging and supporting the owners of Coast Plaza “to improve the relationship and attractiveness of buildings that define pedestrian spaces”.

A new public space linking the library with Coast Plaza is suggested, along with a reduction in car parking to make it more pedestrian-friendly.

Again with pedestrians in mind, a low speed zone on Whangaparaoa Road between Link Crescent and Wade River Road is also proposed.

Town centre plans for Silverdale and Orewa have been already completed.

They are non-statutory, but are used to guide Auckland Council’s decision making as the area develops.

The local board is seeking public feedback on this plan from February 19 to March 26. It includes a drop in at Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre on Saturday, March 10, 11am-2pm. A static display of the draft plan with feedback forms will be set up at Coast Plaza and Whangaparaoa Library with dates still to be confirmed as Hibiscus Matters goes to print.

To make an online submission, visit shapeauckland.co.nz

Land for sale after 100 years Land originally owned by the Scott family is up for sale for the first time in 100 years. The 2.2ha site, at 47-59 Scott Road, Whangaparaoa, is described by Bayleys Real Estate agent Jenni Finlayson as one of the last large subdivisible blocks on the peninsula. It was originally owned by the late Bruce Scott, who purchased it in 1917 and has remained in the same family. Zoned Residential Large Lot, the land has the potential to be divided into five sections of a minimum size of 4000sqm. The land is largely covered in native bush, although some parts have been cleared to create building platforms. Due to the property’s elevation there is the potential for extensive views.

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| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

localmatters.co.nz

localmatters.co.nz

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Call for cafes to switch to recyclable cups A Rodney business owner is pushing for more widespread use of environmentally-friendly disposable coffee cups after discovering that they cost the same, if not less than conventional cups that can’t be recycled or composted.

Birgit Guild of Gull Snells Beach started selling barista coffee from the service station last year and quickly became concerned at the amount of waste it was generating.

“The amount of cups that went out the door and into rubbish bins, plus plastic lids, carry trays, and so on, it was scary. I kept thinking about all the different places selling coffee and how many cups and lids that would be,” she says.

“So I thought about an environmentally-friendly cup, but assumed it would be more expensive and that’s why people wouldn’t use them.

“But these cups are the same price, if not cheaper than the ordinary ones. I was quite shocked by that discovery; so why isn’t everybody using environmentally-friendly coffee cups?”

She is now using recyclable Enviro Cups and lids, plus compostable smoothie cups and straws, from Nicholls & Maher NZ in Auckland and Insinc Products in Red Beach.

“Every coffee shop needs to start thinking about this,” Birgit says. “We can make a change so easily and it’s not going to cost any more than what you’re paying already.”

Susan Vize, who runs Chocolate Brown in Warkworth, made the switch to compostable packaging for all her cafe supplies last year and she agrees that it’s cheaper as well as good for the environment.

“We have branded our cups with Chocolate Brown and saved money going compostable,” she says.

However, Rachael Aitkens at Leigh Eats, which uses

Trish Allen beside the newly-installed drinking fountain, erected in Joe’s honour.

Memorial thirst quencher

Environmentally-friendly coffee cups needn’t cost the earth, says Birgit Guild.

all recyclable compostable packaging, has found that some items can still be more expensive than conventional, which she believes would put some business owners off.

“I think that’s why a lot of places don’t use it, with their small profit margins they just can’t afford it, plus customers complain when they have to pay more,” she says. “But it’s better for the environment, because it breaks down faster than plastic-based products.”

Memorials come in all shapes and sizes, and in the case of Matakana Village Farmers Market pioneer, Joe Polaischer, it will be in the form of a drinking fountain. Joe and wife Trish Allen were the owners of the former permaculture demonstration hub, Rainbow Valley Farm, on Matakana Valley Road.

He was a former Hibiscus Matters columnist Joe died, aged 61, on January 14, 2008, after surgery to remove a brain tumour. To mark a decade since his passing, village developers Christine and Richard Didsbury have installed a drinking fountain, under the trees outside the shops, in Joe’s honour.

A plaque on the fountain recognises Joe as a passionate environmentalist and the inspiration behind the Farmers Market. Trish says it is a touching gesture, which she appreciates.

“The drinking fountain will allow people to refill their bottles, which is in keeping with the zero waste philosophy, so it is also a very fitting tribute to Joe,” she says.

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localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

CHOOSE THE RIGHT AGENT FIRST TIME! Janne Adams Rocks! She is personable, “professional and articulate, we couldn’t have asked for a smoother sale.”

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Finance with Mat Sturge mat001@kiwiassist.co.nz

Hope for first time buyers

If you’ve been saving for a first home over these last few years then you could be forgiven for thinking your efforts were futile, as the property increases seemed to constantly outrun your saving progress. With the average Auckland home sitting currently at over $1 million, a modest first home might set you back around $700,000 and putting down a 20 percent deposit would require saving $140,000. Wow! I know my wife and I didn’t need that much when we bought, but our children are faced with a very different picture in front of them. If you could save $500 per week, it would take you about five years to save that amount and let’s be honest, most people are not saving this amount.

Cut this requirement in half though, throw in some KiwiSaver for good measure, and suddenly home ownership looks possible again. If you’ve been in KiwiSaver for six years or more and earn about $50,000 per annum, then your balance should already be around the $40,000 mark if you’ve done it right. Combine this with your partners’ savings and you could be good to go out and find a home right now.

Although property prices are still increasing, there was some welcome news for first home buyers at the start of this year. Although current LVR restrictions are still in place for residential property, meaning a 20 percent deposit is still the norm, the Reserve Bank has eased up slightly, allowing lenders to extend the percentage of loans over this amount. Where they could previously lend up to 10 percent of their total book value at less than a 20 percent deposit, this has been increased to 15 percent of their book value as of January 3.

Leading the field, ANZ has come out with the first offer we know about and is offering up to 90 percent LVR loans to home buyers who are existing customers and have strong servicing. With other lenders perhaps following shortly, this comes as very welcome news to many.

Now people are asking how long this will last and to be quite honest, I can’t tell you. An extra five percent to the books of these major lenders means a considerable amount of money has become available so I don’t think this will be a one-week promotion. However, when our office opened on January 8 we had applications already lined up and waiting so people are jumping at this new offer, even though most people don’t even know about it yet! If you think you’ve got a 10 percent deposit available, then 2018 might be off to a better start than you ever imagined – but don’t wait too long.

Mathew Sturge is the chief executive of Kiwi Assist Financial Services, based on the Hibiscus Coast. His interest in finance stems from his own experiences coupled with a love of numbers and he has been in the business since 2010.

Mat lives in Tindalls Bay with his family. His Finance column will be monthly.

Disclaimer: The opinions and information expressed above are not a financial recommendation. Contact a financial adviser for written recommendations that are suited to your personal situation.

Now showing in the galleries • Paper, Ink, Metal, Thread • Brenda Bardsley & Katie Hagen • Paul Willmott “Art Saved Me” 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 09 426 5570, email: manager@estuaryarts.org www.estuaryarts.org Find us on Facebook Open 7 days a week, 9am to 4pm

AT budget back to drawing board Auckland Transport’s draft budget, released last month, set off alarm bells, proposing deep cuts to the funding for walking and cycling infrastructure.

The proposal was to slash this part of the budget by 90 percent. Concerns were immediately expressed by the cycling lobby group Bike Auckland.

On February 4, at its first board meeting of the year, Auckland Transport (AT) rejected the draft, sending it back to staff to be rewritten to take into account the expressed priorities of the board, as well as Auckland Council and central Government. Bike Auckland chair Barb Cuthbert, says the organisation is relieved. “We’re now confident that when the plan comes up for public consultation, it will front-foot a smart, solutions-based strategy to address our city’s future transport needs,” she says. “In particular, this gives the public much more confidence that AT understands it has a mandate to provide for all kinds of travel for all kinds of Aucklanders.”

localmatters.co.nz

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Stage Challenge hopes rekindled

Twelve-year-old Bianca Lungu of Arkles Bay will play a lead role in the Royal NZ Ballet’s production of The Piano. Photo, Stephen A’Court.

Royal NZ ballet debut for talented 12-year-old Whangaparaoa dancer Bianca Lungu has been selected from more than 100 applicants for the key role of Flora McGrath in the Royal NZ Ballet company’s production of The Piano.

The talented 12-year-old is a student of Whangaparaoa College and has been pursuing her love of dancing since she was just three years old.

She currently attends Fusion Dance Studio in Orewa where her instructor is Rosanne Watkinson.

Bianca’s mother, Cristina, says the CL

role is a dream come true for Bianca.

It means taking the whole of term one off school, and the family has temporarily relocated to Wellington where rehearsals are underway.

She says Bianca is excited and bubbly about the whole experience, which includes dancing with some wonderful ballerinas, who are her role models.

Bianca shares the role of Flora, on the company’s extensive tour schedule, with Hazel Couper.

Jane Campion’s 1993 movie The

Piano has been reinterpreted as a ballet by Czech choreographer Jiri Bubenicek. The show has its premiere in Wellington on February 23 and tours to Napier, Auckland, Dunedin, Christchurch and Palmerston North.

It opens in Auckland in the second week of March and is presented as part of the NZ Festival and Auckland Arts Festival.

Filmmaker Rebecca Tansley is directing a documentary that follows the creation and staging of the ballet.

The Government has promised to step in so that the popular J Rock and Stage Challenge competitions, which thousands of school children take part in annually, can continue.

Last month organisers announced that the events had been axed because they were not economically viable. J Rock and Stage Challenge events were held at more than 10 venues nationwide, with local primary schools and colleges taking part in Auckland. The Stage Challenge Foundation has run the professionally staged events annually since 1992, with support from the Ministry of Education.

On February 5, Education Minister Chris Hipkins pledged to provide new opportunities for children and young people to engage in events that promote music, drama and dance.

“Regional and national activities of this sort are too important to lose,” Mr Hipkins said.

He says while the Stage Challenge brand itself is licenced and cannot be replicated, he is inviting potential providers to put forward expressions of interest to run national and regional opportunities for students to showcase their skills. He says that the Ministry has already allocated $267,000 for this purpose for each of the next two years.

“I have asked officials to free up more funding for the activity this year to increase the chance of it continuing,”

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| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Entertainment

Rodders Festival busting fundraising records The Rodders Festival in Orewa, organised by Hibiscus Rodders, gets bigger every year – and that includes the sum raised for the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.

The event, on Auckland Anniversary Weekend, raised a record $45,000 – last year’s total of $37,000 was the previous record sum.

The auction alone raised more than $13,000 thanks to the hard work of Hibiscus Rodders committee member Tony and Yvonne Morman.

A total of 420 beautifully restored hot rods took part, creating a huge impact when they parked up along Hibiscus Coast Highway. Festival coordinator Sharon Morris says the team behind the event is delighted with the outcome. A highlight for her was the fact that the new VIP passes sold out to a capacity of 100 cars, and the VIP option will now be a regular feature of the event.

Temperatures in the high 20°Cs saw makeup melting as entrants in the Miss Hibiscus Vintage turned out, dressed in 1950s style, on stage.

The winner was Hollie Henders (Miss Polly Rose), with Shayla Green (Miss Lily Grace) second and Carrie Lagerstedt (Miss Ginger Elle) third.

Sharon says that planning has already begun for the 10th anniversary of the festival, next year. She says its ongoing success is due to the fact that is has been fully embraced by the community, including local businesses. “We had fantastic community spirit with friends, family members and the Lions helping on the day as the event is now too big for just our club,” Sharon says. “I have an amazing dedicated committee and without them we wouldn’t have an event.”

Hibiscus Matters was a proud sponsor of this year’s Rodders Festival.

A total of 420 hot rods, shined to perfection, were viewed at close quarters as they lined up on Orewa Beach Reserve and Hibiscus Coast Highway.

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Entertainment

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

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WITH ANY MACCA’S® SHAREBOX® Hollie Henders (Miss Polly Rose) was crowned Miss Hibiscus Vintage 2018. Entrants braved makeup-melting temperatures to look their glamorous best in full 1950s garb.

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localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Please join us for an informative evening on

Small Ship Cruising!

TUESDAY 20 FEBRUARY AT 6PM

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With a degree in zoology, a passion for photography and a desire to showcase the world’s premier destinations, he is the perfect person to lead the Wild Earth Travel team.

Antarctica still remains one of his favourite destinations, however he recently lead a number of cruises around the Scottish Isles which he really enjoyed. Spending time recently with the great pacific navigator Mau Piailug in Micronesia is one of Aaron’s most recent highlights.

Wild Earth Travel was founded as a result of Aaron’s knowledge and experience of small ship and expedition travel and a desire to share these unique opportunities with more New Zealanders.

For venue details and to RSVP - contact 09 426 5743 or email Katie@youtravel.co.nz

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Wainui Golf Course is the venue for a fundraiser that will make a real difference for people with Parkinson’s disease and their families.

Golfers swinging in behind Parkinson’s support services Golfers will tee off at Wainui Golf Course next month, aiming to not only have a great day of golf, but also to raise money for the Community Educator Programme run by Parkinson’s NZ. Community educators work in the community and the home to provide education and support for people with Parkinson’s and their carers. Organiser of the charity golf tournament, Ann Cambie, has first hand experience of the educator programme.

Her husband Michael was diagnosed with Parkinson’s seven years ago and has so far refused to attend the support meetings that are held every month.

Ann has attended the meetings on her own, and found them invaluable.

“Everything I know about Parkinson’s I have learnt from those meetings and the sharing of information from one family to another has been so good as, even though every case is unique and different, someone has been through a similar issue and can share their experience,” she says.

She has also found the carer support network, facilitated by community educator Paddy Sullivan, a great outlet. “Paddy ran a carer seminar over two weeks which was so full of information on what help is available and where to go to get it. We meet once a month for coffee and have a chat and can vent our frustrations without upsetting anyone,” Ann says.

Paddy is one of six Auckland educators and covers the Hibiscus Coast and wider Rodney area. She has been a community educator with Parkinson’s NZ since 2012 and has around 100 clients. She recommends seeking support as early as possible after a diagnosis. “Meeting other people in the same situation, and finding out what services are available really helps when things get tough,” she says.

She says all the support on offer for patients and their carers is tailored to individual needs.

Paddy Sullivan is a linchpin of the local Parkinson’s carer support network.

The services are free and not government funded. Ann, who is a life member of Wainui Golf Club, says she decided “in a senior moment” to put up her hand to raise some funds by running a golf tournament – something she is well qualified to do, having worked in administration at North Harbour Golf for many years.

All money raised goes to support the Parkinson’s community educator service in Auckland.

Wainui Golf Club donated the use of its course and Summerset Retirement Villages came on board as main sponsor.

The event will be held on Monday, March 19 and feature a shotgun start at 1pm. A snack lunch will be provided as well as a dinner and prizegiving. An auction will include items such as a shirt and glove signed by Lydia Ko and a portable generator.

Entries for the tournament (teams of four) close on March 12 and cost $500 per team. There are still spaces for sponsors and donations of prizes and auction items.

Info: email anniez5@xtra.co.nz or phone Ann Cambie, 09 426 6483 or 021 1256 099.

localmatters.co.nz

healthystart

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

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17

FE AT U R E

Something new in mobile hearing service

Less may be more

A mobile hearing clinic that is pure vintage on the outside, but state of the art inside made its debut in Orewa last month.

Triton Hearing was searching for a vehicle it could use to introduce a mobile hearing service and found the 1949 Bedford bus languishing in a garden in Whangarei, where it was up on blocks and being used as a bach.

Triton’s managing director James Whittaker says it was a little rough and not able to be driven, yet it was exactly what he’d been looking for.

“The average age of our clients is 72, so a vintage vehicle like this really resonates with them,” he says. “Also, we work in a stigma industry – no-one wants to talk about their hearing difficulties – and we wanted a bus with character so it would be a real ice-breaker.”

The company repaired and boosted the engine of the bus, which was named Penelope. The interior was converted into a modern hearing clinic that provides a full diagnostic service, including issuing hearing aids, via a live electronic video link with an audiologist.

A trained hearing nurse provides the hands for the audiologist, operating

The Council of Medical Colleges (CMC) is encouraging older people to talk to their doctor about whether they could take fewer medicines.

The CMC leads the Choosing Wisely campaign, which encourages patients to ask their health professional: do I really need this test or procedure, what are the risks, are there simpler, safer options, and what happens if I don’t do anything? In the Waitemata DHB region, 30 percent of people aged over 65 are taking five or more long-term medications. The rate is 35 percent for the whole of NZ. CMC chair Dr Derek Sherwood says it is important older people get their medicines reviewed regularly.

“This helps make sure you are receiving the best treatment. When a doctor or pharmacist reviews your medicines they will check things like what medicines you are taking and why, how many different medicines you are taking and any side effects you may be experiencing.”

He says some medicines are more likely to cause side effects in older people.

“Benzodiazepines like diazepam, and antipsychotic medicines like clozapine or risperidone are two examples of this,” he says.

Triton Hearing managing director James Whittaker, left, with former bus driver Peter Luey.

equipment such as the otoscope, which looks down the patient’s ear canal.

The test results are read directly by the audiologist as they come through.

The bus was launched last November and driven to Orewa for its debut as part of Triton Orewa’s Innovation Open Day last month.

While there, it attracted a lot of attention – particularly from Peter

Luey who just happened to be passing by. Peter drove Penelope back in the day when she was Birkenhead Library’s mobile bus, so it was a happy reunion.

The hearing service is now on the road, and Penelope is available to visit local retirement villages, sports clubs or community organisations.

Info, or to arrange a visit, phone Lucy Rei 0800 454 542.

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Healthystart

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

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Summer storage secrets

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Summer is in full swing, which means your kitchen should be full of sweetcorn, salad and stone fruit. Unfortunately, the Coast’s humid climate means that produce deteriorates far quicker at this time of year, making it more important than ever to store your food correctly.

Here are some storage secrets to keep food fresh in the summer heat – Aubergines (eggplants): Store aubergines somewhere cool, but not in the fridge. Refrigerating them can affect the flavour and lead to browning.

Avocado: Ripen at room temperature, then refrigerate once ripe. Once you have opened an avocado, wrap the leftover half (with the stone in) tightly in cling wrap or store in an airtight container.

Bread: During summer, keep bread in the fridge or freezer so that it doesn’t grow mould.

Cherries: Should be ripe when you buy them, so pop them into the fridge to extend their life – that’s if you don’t eat them all on the day you buy them!

Cucumbers: Store in the fridge or at room temperature.

Iceberg lettuce: Store in a lettuce crisper, otherwise wrap in paper towels and place in a resealable plastic bag.

Salad greens: Make slimy salad a thing of the past by keeping your salad greens in an airtight container in the fridge.

Stone fruit: Store ripe stone fruit in the fridge. If it needs to ripen, keep at room temperature – storing in a paper bag with a banana speeds up ripening.

Sweetcorn: Refrigerate sweetcorn in its husk to keep it fresher for longer. To save on dishes, cook corn in the microwave. Put the sweetcorn (in its husk) in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes per cob. Cooking times may vary, depending on your microwave. Allow to cool slightly before peeling.

Tomatoes: Store tomatoes at room temperature – refrigerating them affects texture and flavour. If they have gone soft, use them for cooking.

Hibiscus Coast Village in Red Beach enjoyed two days of celebration last month to mark their 30th anniversary.

The celebrations included a ‘bubbles and cake celebration’ accompanied by Dixie band music from a group run by resident Jack McCulloch. American comedian Phyllis Diller opened the village with David Hartnell 30 years ago and there was a tribute to the pair at the anniversary. There were speeches by some of the village’s most long standing residents, the village’s founder John Bethell, past chief executive Alan Edwards as well as Glen Sowry, chief executive of the village’s current owner, Metlifecare. A bowls match between staff and residents stirred up a competitive atmosphere. The second day saw a complimentary dinner and dance for more than 220 residents that continued far into the night.

The village, and the Peninsula Club in Whangaparaoa, both built around the same time and were among the first retirement villages to open in NZ.

B WEN 4U

*Dr Kathleen is not a registered GP / Medical Practitioner, and as such does not prescribe pharmaceutical medication.

Healthystart

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

19

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Emma Howe, pictured with daughter Jessica, says it can sometimes be difficult to find a café or restaurant that truly understands the needs of people who have a food allergy.

Food allergies a test for eateries For anyone with a food allergy, dining out used to be a challenge, which many felt was not worth the effort.

It is estimated that between six and eight per cent of children have a food allergy, and between two and four per cent of adults. In children, the most common allergies are to cow’s milk and egg, followed by soy, peanuts, tree nuts and wheat. The majority of children will lose their allergies by age three to five years although allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish are generally prolonged. This is why these four allergies are the most common amongst adolescents and adults.

Fortunately, restaurants are becoming more aware of the prevalence of food allergies and are more prepared to accommodate special requests.

Gluten-free options, for instance, are now commonplace on local menus.

Emma Howe, of Stanmore Bay, was diagnosed with coeliac disease around nine years ago.

She says that finding safe gluten free (GF) food is still a challenge.

“Often cafes will use the same tongs to serve, or GF food is touching non-

gluten food in the cabinet,” Emma says. “Sometimes food is listed as GF when it actually isn’t. For example, if fries are cooked in the same oil as crumbed or battered items that contain gluten then they aren’t safe for me to eat.”

Despite the challenges, Emma eats out regularly.

She says it would be helpful if restaurant staff were educated to keep GF products separate and to use GFonly tongs.

“I think more cafes and restaurants are trying, but they often get it wrong.

One crumb of gluten can have lasting and nasty repercussions for someone with coeliac disease.”

Emma says she’d also like to see local eateries offering more savoury items.

“We don’t always just want cake.

“I recently spent a week on a cruise where all food was made for me and I didn’t get sick once. They even supplied a slice of layer gluten free chocolate cake decorated with Happy Birthday Emma.

“It can be done, but education is the key. Gluten free is not just a fad diet for a growing number of us.”

Shed volunteers wanted Hibiscus Men’s Shed chair, Stuart Johnston, addressed more than 30 paidup members at the first open day of their temporary premises at 1 Brightside Road, Stanmore Bay on January 30. Stuart says the organisation is grateful to the various donors of equipment, and especially for a grant that has allowed the purchase of additional, modern woodworking machinery. He said with more than 230 names now on the mailing list, membership is expected to grow quite fast. He also issued a call for more volunteers – supervisors are needed so that the Men’s Shed can open more days; and Trustees, so that the administrative load is more evenly shared. “Without volunteers, there can be no Shed.” Info: hibiscusmensshed.co.nz

• Prices to suit all budgets • Payment options available Southern Cross Health Society Easy Claim available for members

Ph 09 972 5250

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

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20

Healthystart

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Helping hand from fitness coach Where’s the wheelchair at holiday time?

A local health and fitness professional, Richard Bruce, is providing free assistance to the Special Olympics Hibiscus Coast team and others in physical need, who could not normally afford the service.

Richard recently met with the Special Olympics Hibiscus Coast and plans to work with their teams, free of charge, for one hour a week. He will also offer some free services at The Connection in Silverdale and hopes to also assist people in need in the wider community and at local schools.

Richard left his job in window blind sales and fitting to train as a fitness coach in 2007. His approach is holistic and he works with people of all ages and physical abilities, including helping with nutrition. He describes his work as “functional movement and health coach”.

He coaches in the outdoors as much as possible, as well as in his home gym in Army Bay, and does lots of floor work.

“I have had clients who can barely walk and can’t get down to the floor and back up,” he says. “I ask them – ‘what happens if you trip over?’ You have to work progressively towards these goals and perhaps use aids, such as a chair, to start with.”

Richard was hit by a car when he was 14 and says he is extremely lucky not to have lost a leg. The experience gave him an understanding of what it is to live with a disability, as well

by Simonne Dyer of Greypower

Richard Bruce is extending a helping hand, free of charge.

as a lifelong interest in health and movement – a word he prefers to ‘exercise’. “It’s not about ticking a box called ‘exercise’,” he says. “All movement is important – whether it’s housework, gardening, or playing with the kids.” Adding as much of possible of this type of exercise to your day – stretching, walking while speaking on your mobile phone, taking the stairs, not the lift – is key.”

The body is designed to move, so if your day is largely sedentary it has an effect “like letting water stagnate”.

“Spending hours sitting affects muscles and posture as well as the lymphatic system, which works on muscle use.”

Richard is looking forward to helping the Special Olympics team. “It’s important that my service reaches the people who need it most and offering a few hours free of charge is a way to give back to the community.”

In an article I wrote last year in the Grey Matters column, I noted that it was time we had 24-hour urgent care facilities on the Hibiscus Coast.

The hours were restricted to between 8am and 8pm and outside of those hours urgent care was only available at North Shore and Waitakere Hospitals.

I had contacted Waitemata District Health Board and was assured that 24 hour urgent care would be provided by the end of the year. It is now 2018 and there is still no word about when this extended facility will be in place.

But now I have found another deficit in our health system. On Christmas Eve I was shopping at Fruit World in Silverdale and as I stepped down to the car park my ankle gave way and I sprawled out on the pavement.

On Boxing Day morning I found I had broken a bone in my foot in three places, badly sprained my ankle and cracked a few ribs. I was treated at Red Beach Coastcare and sent home with my foot in a moon boot and a pair of crutches with instructions not to put any weight on my foot. I was also given an appointment in a couple of weeks time for the fracture clinic.

I quickly found I could not use the crutches both because of the pain it caused in my ribs and also at 80 years of age I do not have the upper body strength and promptly fell down on a visit to the bathroom.

Fortunately I only badly bruised. I realised I needed a wheelchair to get around and contacted ACC, who said they couldn’t provide anything until the first week of January as their equipment suppliers were closed for the holidays. Not even a skeleton staff was available. I phoned every pharmacy in the area to see if I could rent a wheelchair and found the only one available had a faulty front wheel and was unusable. I phoned both North Shore and Waitakere hospitals and explained my predicament but their short answer was they don’t lend wheelchairs and I would have to wait until after the holidays. Finally in desperation, as I was tired of crawling to the bathroom, I phoned the Maygrove Retirement Village Hospital and explained my predicament.

Without hesitation I was told to send someone and they would lend me a wheelchair immediately – and at no cost whatsoever.

I kept on at ACC and finally, on January 3, a fantastic knee scooter was delivered to me However this complete holiday closure of a very much needed facility, particularly for the elderly and frail, is ridiculous. Surely a skeleton staff could be rostered over the holiday period to help people who become incapacitated to be able to stay and function in their homes? This situation is not good enough.

Fiona Stark Dip.Pod.,S.R.Pod

New Premises inside the Stanmore Bay Medical Centre Online booking available: www.completefeetpodiatry.nz New World Complex 570 Whangaparaoa Road Phone 428 3888 • 021 0550 464

Healthystart

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

Is the pain of Arthritis cramping your style?

Health with Tania Adams, pharmacist tania.adams@unichemmanly.co.nz

Getting to the heart of it On Valentine’s Day, February 14, and in the lead up to it, there are images of hearts everywhere you look. This is because in ancient times, people believed that the heart was the centre of all emotions, leading to expressions such as ‘he has a strong heart’ or ‘she has a good heart’.

So, medically speaking, how can you tell if you have good, strong heart? There are a number of things you can do to make sure your heart is operating at its best.

Blood pressure High blood pressure can quietly damage your body over a number of years, including damaging your heart. Check what your blood pressure is to start with –120/80 is considered ideal. Should your blood pressure be considered too high, a doctor can prescribe medication to help lower it.

Healthy weight Are you too short for your weight?! Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to work out whether you are a healthy weight for your height. Carrying excessive weight can put you at higher risk of heart disease. Losing just five to 10 percent of your weight can greatly decrease your risk.

Cholesterol High cholesterol can cause plaques to form in your arteries, leading to a higher risk of a heart attack. Cholesterol can be kept lower by making changes to our diet and increasing exercise. However, some people need medication prescribed by their doctor to lower it. A cholesterol ratio of less than 4.0 is ideal. However this can differ depending on your health and family history.

Smoking Amongst the many health risks increased by smoking, your risk of heart disease is increased. Smoking cessation products are available through Quitline and may now also be prescribed by a qualified pharmacist.

Exercise Studies show significant decreases in the incidence of heart attacks in active people. Doing just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day can help. Start small and speak to your health professional first.

Healthy Eating It doesn’t have to taste like cardboard to be good for you!

Healthy eating is a lifestyle, not a fad diet and there is a lot of information to help you on your way. Try www.heartfoundation.org.nz for some recipes.

The Big Kiwi Health Check is being promoted by all local Unichem and Life Pharmacies in February and is a chance to have your blood pressure and BMI measured, free of charge, to help you understand your heart risk. This service is available year round, but for a charge. Alternatively have a chat to your doctor about any concerns you might have.

Electric moves Auckland Transport (AT) has purchased 20 electric vehicles and plans to have an emission-free fleet by 2025. Auckland Council and Watercare are also moving to replace diesel and petrol vehicles with electric cars. Next month AT will trial battery powered buses with the goal of not purchasing any more diesel buses after 2025. Mayor Phil Goff has also asked Council and its CCOs to find economies through more efficient use of their fleets.

Then sign up today for our new

Arthritis Smart Course

Learn how to reduce the pain, manage your symptoms and start exercising in a good way • Held at the Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre, Whangaparaoa

Call Aviv to find out more and secure your place today!

Phone 027 556 6804

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Lumino Orewa

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22

Healthystart

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Parkinson’s: A natural treatment alternative

By Coll Bell, of Matakana At the ripe old age of 55, I had just returned from UK where I’d been building boats. I was in the process of building our new house, but things weren’t going to plan. It had reached a stage where using a hammer to nail the beams together had become so frustrating that on some days it became impossible.

There were other problems too, like fitting into tight spaces, not being able to get back up when in the prone position, staying upright and an annoying tremor in my right hand. I finally relented and made an appointment with my GP who referred me to a neurologist at North Shore Hospital. The verdict was delivered: “I am sorry to say, Mr Bell, that you show all the signs of having Parkinson’s Disease.”

A prescription was issued, and I was sent on my way to come to terms with the news. It was certainly a bit of a shock, but one positive thing was I now knew why life was awkward and this helped to ease my frustration when it came to manual tasks. Being new to medical matters, I followed the advice of the professionals and started on a course of medication with the drug Sinemet.

It wasn’t long before I started to notice subtle changes. Yes, my dexterity improved but I seemed to have lost the desire to do anything, eat anything or enjoy some of my passions. So began

Coll Bell believes that being “on the bean” has given him a better chance of living a normal life with Parkinson’s including his one hour a day “digger therapy”.

the slippery slide into side-effect hell.

Depression and nausea were two of the worst.

The actual symptoms of Parkinson’s became secondary to the side effects, so after a year of suffering, I made a decision. I threw out all the medication and let my body establish normality. I tried various alternatives such as CoEnzyme Q10, acupuncture and even just trying to adjust to carrying on with normal tasks and accept that it would take three times as long as it used to take. None of these worked for me.

But then I discovered the magical properties of the mucuna bean. After some research and the sourcing of a New Zealand supplier, I embarked

Our experienced midwives will care for you from conception to 6 weeks after the birth of your baby. We work from Whangaparaoa to Maungaturoto Coast to Coast.

S

EE CE FR VI R

SE

ARE YOU PREGNANT?

From left to right: Creaghan Mitchell, Melanie Brownlee, Alisha Preest, Terri Jury, Donna Hamilton, Nicole Upton, Nicky Snedden and Kathy CarterLee

on my ‘alternative’ journey. Mucuna pruriens (Mp), sometimes known as velvet bean, is a leguminous plant, which grows literally like a weed in many tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world. In India, it’s been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It contains L-Dopamine, the main ingredient in conventional Parkinson’s medication.

Recent international studies have looked at it as a good alternative to conventional medications in third world regions, where it’s freely available.

The results of several high-level, randomised, double-blind crossover trials done last year alone are freely available online – all conclude that Mp works. However, this research hasn’t filtered down to this part of the world and last year, Med Safe banned the sale of Mucuna L-Dopa in New Zealand and no-one seems to want to talk about it. It’s a shame, when the use of this natural treatment has saved me from all the awful side effects of the commonly used pharmaceutical treatment. I still go ‘cold-turkey’ every six months to check if I’m cured, but after 10 years my symptoms are still there. But what I find most upsetting is the total lack of information available on the subject.

I’m happy to talk to anyone about my experience of using Mucuna bean for Parkinson’s. My email is: collcaroline@ farmside.co.nz

Unplanned outcomes The mucuna pruriens plant, also commonly known as velvet bean or cowage, contains a natural form of levodopa – the same drug found in Sinemet used to control motor symptoms of Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s NZ chief executive Deirdre O’Sullivan says many people find levodopa treatment very effective, but doctors carefully manage treatment with levodopa because of its side effects, particularly the development of involuntary movements (dyskinesias).

Ms O’Sullivan says that while natural treatment options may hold a certain appeal, they can bring unwanted risks of their own.

“Supplements are not regulated to the same standard as the drugs approved by MedSafe in New Zealand,” she says. “People may not know how much levodopa is in each dose or how often they should take the plant extract. Relying on a natural supplement with levodopa could lead to unexpected or undesired outcomes.”

Anyone with Parkinson’s considering alternative medicine or natural treatment options should consult their doctor or specialist.

Parkinson’s NZ strongly recommends against replacing medication with an alternative treatment. Info: 0800 473 4636 or parkinsons.org.nz

Milford Eye Clinic

Orewa Branch

Affiliated Southern Cross Healthcare provider

• Dr Michael Fisk • Dr Brian Sloan • Dr Jo Koppens • Dr David Squirrell • Dr Rasha Altaie • Dr Nadeem Ahmad

Providing comprehensive eye care to the people of Rodney and North Shore since 1978 Cataract, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Retina, Cornea, Laser, Oculoplastics, Paediatrics.

Melanie Brownlee 021 263 3133 Kathy Carter-Lee 09 425 6749 021 425 115 Donna Hamilton 021 140 9866

Terri Jury 09 423 7350 021 23 71856

Nicky Snedden 09 425 8249 021 662 393

Creaghan Mitchell 021 901 550

Nicole Upton 027 972 4442

Alisha Preest 021 0240 0218

Contact one of the midwives or the Warkworth Birthing Centre

09 425 8201 • www.warkworthbirthcentre.co.nz

Consultations available at our Orewa, Warkworth and Milford branches.

• Milford Eye Clinic, 181 Shakespeare Road, Milford • Warkworth, Unit 3, Warkworth Health Centre, Cnr Alnwick & Percy Streets, Warkworth • Orewa, Unit 5, The Nautilus 9 - 13 Tamariki Ave, Orewa

For all appointments phone 09 426 6875

environment

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

23

Green scene with Peter Jackson, SOSSI chair info@sossi.org.nz

Challenges for hatchlings

Driveways – Patios – Alfrescos – Pathways

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021 0843 3965

Visit our display floor to view at “Design Concepts” 18 Barrys Point Rd, Takapuna.

Self-introduced kakiriki are beginning to settle at Shakespear Open Sanctuary.

Photo, Anna Arrol

Volunteering at Shakespear Open Sanctuary always goes quiet over the summer break, but the throng of visitors escaping the heat more than made up for it.

Some days, Te Haruhi bay looked as busy as a beach in the South of France.

The birdlife has been busy too. It was initially expected that some bird species would simply fly across from Tiritiri Matangi and establish a new population.

However, although the distance is only 3km, it seems that forest birds are not keen on leaving the forest and visitors have been fewer than expected. But now a pair of kakariki (our native green parrot) has finally had chicks at Shakespear – not the first, but the first for quite a while. It is also probable that we have a Little Spotted kiwi chick or two (HM February 1), although we won’t know for sure until someone spots a kiwi without leg-bands, as all the introduced kiwi wear these. All we know for certain is that a few pairs showed egg-sitting behaviour for the required time. If you’d like to hear a kiwi, their calls have been lately been reported around dusk along the Waterfall Gully track.

Anyone boating or living near the sea will have noticed large rafts of seabirds on the water lately. These are petrels and shearwaters, which breed almost exclusively on islands. Land-based sanctuaries have been trying to re-establish them on the mainland and Shakespear has had artificial burrows and sound systems in place for a couple of years. This season brought the first grey-faced petrel chick to hatch successfully from our artificial burrows (HM August 16, 2017) and it lately it has been getting ready to leave by emerging to stretch its wings. These birds bond strongly to their birthplace so it will be back.

The news on dotterels is also good but not nearly as good as it might have been. Any observant visitor to Te Haruhi beach will have seen these endangered beauties hurrying about on the sand. This year they managed to lay 25 eggs on the beach or in the sand-dunes but of these only half hatched out, the others falling prey to high tides or predators (sadly, including humans). Of the 12 chicks, only six made it to fledgling stage (ready to fly), so what started out as a bumper year steadily became disappointing instead.

It is always going to be a challenge for tiny birds to raise chicks on a popular beach, but you can help them. We know that some nests were destroyed through carelessness and some deliberately by little boys with sticks. Some kids just like chasing them around on the beach. Beaches are for sharing, so if you see bad or thoughtless behaviour, please speak up or report the miscreants to a ranger.

Visitors to the Open Sanctuary will have noticed that contractors across the road from Army Bay have been busy too. They are preparing to drill a new outfall to take Hibiscus Coast wastewater out to sea and have set up a temporary site on Regional Park land. They have worked closely with Sanctuary managers to protect any wildlife potentially affected, including penguins, reptiles and kiwi.

Work will finish mid-2019, after which this worksite will either be restored or used to upgrade the parking for Army Bay visitors.

Silverdale Village Market Silverdale Street, every Saturday 8am~1pm

Organic fruit/veges • Free range eggs Bacon • Honey • Books • Cut flowers Plants/shrubs • Antiques • Crafts Jewellery • Olive oil • Knitted baby wear Continental breads • Pet blankets

Stalls phone Jill 426 4479

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We offer 20 hours subsidy ENROL NOW 3 months to 5+ years Monday – Friday 7am to 6pm

Igniting the passion that lets your child shine

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Phone 09 320 0502 www.bscc.co.nz | e: north@bscc.co.nz

24

localsport

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

B erli N CLOTHING FOR MEN

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8 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa | Ph 426 5438 berlinclothing.co.nz

Fitness Fun and Friendship!

Scottish

country dancing • Get Fitter • Inexpensive • Boost your social life • No partner necessary

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• Reduce your stress levels Where: Silverdale Village Hall from 7.30pm – Open Nights 21 & 28th February (no charge) Contact: Gail Schofield 09 4285655

More than 1000 young surf lifesavers will be in Orewa next month for their national champs. Photo, from last year’s event at Mt Maunganui, Ross Malyon

Orewa surf club hosts major event A junior surf lifesaving event that attracts more than 1000 entries will be held at Orewa Beach this summer.

The U14 NZ Surf Life Saving Championships (also known as Oceans 18) is an annual event for lifesavers in the 10-13-year age bracket, which attracts clubs from all over the country.

It will be hosted by Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club on March 1–4 – the first time it’s been held outside Mt Maunganui. When Oceans 18 was opened up to other clubs for the first time, Orewa was keen to bring it to Auckland and obviously put forward a strong proposal.

Club president John Chapman says hosting the event, which is run by Surf Lifesaving NZ, is great for the profile of the club, especially as it works on its rebuild. “We’re confident we can put on a great event and we know what we’re in for, as regular hosts of the Northern Regional junior championships,” he says.

John says that the hometown advantage has seen teams from the Mount and Papamoa dominate the

event in the past. He says Orewa will be fielding a team of around 60 young lifesavers, and Red Beach Surf Lifesaving Club around the same. “I’m hoping that the hometown advantage will see Orewa and Red Beach do better than ever,” he says.

It is the biggest surf lifesaving event that has been hosted in lifesaving’s Northern Region since 1988, but John says that the club is well prepared.

Because the event is for young lifesavers, it has a carnival atmosphere with entertainment provided for competitors’ younger brothers and sisters.

The club is working closely with business association Destination Orewa Beach, as there are big potential spinoffs for local businesses.

Visitors and locals alike are invited to come down and take in the atmosphere and watch the competition as our local lifeguards compete for national titles in a range of disciplines. Events take place from 10am on March 1 until 2pm on March 4.

Weather could be the only hiccup.

John says that Plan B is to relocate to Stanmore Bay, if needed.

Rotary takes the plunge with Swimarathon The inaugural Hibiscus Rotary Swimarathon, organised by the combined Rotary Clubs of Orewa, Orewa-Millwater Satellite and Whangaparaoa, will take place at the Stanmore Pool & Leisure Centre on March 18, despite having an application for $10,000 of funding declined by the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board. The funding that Rotary applied for was for established events, whereas the Swimarathon is new to the Coast. In declining the application, the local board noted that it does support the event and is providing the venue free of charge. The Swimarathon involves teams of six swimmers who find sponsors and race to swim as many laps as they can in 55 minutes. There is room for 49 teams to take part. Nineteen teams are currently signed up. The Swimarathon replaces the Trolley Derby as the principal Rotary fundraiser on the Hibiscus Coast, benefiting Youth in Transition and the Hibiscus Coast Youth Centre, as well as supporting other local charities who may still apply for a share of the proceeds. Info: rotaryswimarathon.org.nz

localsport

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coastguard with Dale Hodson, Hibiscus Coast Coastguard, www.coastguardhibiscus.org.nz

Silverdale

25

Electrical

“Totally Dependable Electrical Professionals”

SCOREBOARD A roundup of sports activities and events in the district

Gymnastics North Harbour Gymnastics, Hibiscus Coast Gym Centre, Stanmore Bay and Orewa, 2018 classes are NOW open check out what we can offer you visit www.nhgym.co.nz Bootcamp Free beach bootcamp, Stanmore Bay beachfront reserve, 8am every Saturday until March 31 – 45 minutes. All welcome Coastguard Hibiscus volunteers load a ‘patient’ onto Hibiscus Rescue 2 during a training exercise. Photo, Matt Van Der Linden

Training aids real life rescue

It’s been a busy summer for Coastguard Hibiscus, many sunny and eventful days on the water. Silverdale fire brigade conducted a training exercise that some of our team were involved with, back in December. This involved rappelling an injured person down a cliff and onto a boat. Hibiscus Rescue 2, which is a Sealegs, was the perfect vessel for a scenario like this and it was a great opportunity for us to join in. The team drove Hibiscus Rescue 2 onto the beach and once the ‘patient’ was down they strapped the stretcher to the front of the console across the pontoons and launched. This was extremely valuable training, as barely three weeks later the same crew had to put the stretcher setup into real life use when a passenger on a boat had a suspected medical event.

Our team was called to take a paramedic out to assess the situation and transport the passenger to a waiting ambulance, so the crew used the setup they had practiced and it all went perfectly. Luckily this is not a common occurrence but great to have training pay off and help someone in need.

On Friday, January 12, the team were paged early to attend two vessels which had broken down out by Tiritiri Matangi Island. The first was a small runabout with two people on board, and the second an 8m boat. In an unusual event, both boats were put in a barge, one on either side of Hibiscus Rescue 1, and transported safely to Gulf Harbour. Two days later, the crew attended a boat by Boulder Bay on Rangitoto for a tow back to Okahu Bay. The vessel was close to rocks as the occupants had been diving for kina. Our team attempted to drag them out by their anchor line but the anchor was stuck. This meant a bit of maneuvering back and forth to try to pull it up, which luckily worked, and then a nice standard tow back to Okahu Bay. At the end of January we were setting up the boat for launching when a mayday came through for a 4m boat with mechanical problems that was drifting between Shag Rock and Tiritiri Matangi towards the rocky shore. As we made our way there, we heard one of our neighbouring units, Northshore Rescue, was ahead of us and the Navy vessel Te Puna was also making way as the target boat continued to drift towards rocks. Northshore Rescue was on the scene first and got a line to the target when it was only five metres from the rocks, before pulling it to safety and getting the engine going. As Northshore had another task to attend to, we volunteered to follow the target vessel back to Waiake Bay in case they needed further help. That was just a taste of the busy summer season we have had so far – let’s hope the great weather continues. Be safe everybody.

Ocean champion sought

Voting is open to find the Seaweek Ocean Champion for 2018. The nominees are individuals and organisations who look after our seas and marine life.

Eight nominations were received. The winner will receive a prize equivalent to $500 towards their work donated by the NZ Coastal Society. Voting closes on February 28. Vote at seaweek.org.nz

Kids’ TRYathlon The Weetbix Tryathlon takes place at Manly Beach on Sunday, March 25. The popular event offers swim, bike and run courses for 7–15-year-olds. Registrations are open. Info and registrations, visit https://tryathlon.co.nz Yoga Free beach yoga, Stanmore Bay beachfront reserve, 9am, every Saturday until March 31 (1 hour). All welcome.

To list sports news for FREE email: terry@localmatters.co.nz List sports news FREE by emailing terry@localmatters.co.nz

With over 30 years experience, run by locals for locals!

Contact Bryan Fairgray Give our friendly team a call today, we’re here to help.

Phone 09 426 3852 | Mobile 027 493 3665 silverdale@laserelectrical.co.nz

Join us for services throughout the month: St Chad’s Orewa Sunday 8am & 9.30am Wednesday 9.30am

Christ Church Waiwera 1st Sunday 11.15am

Holy Trinity, Silverdale 2nd & 4th Sunday 9am

For further information

ph 426 4952

chadorewa@vodafone.co.nz www.hbcanglicanparish.co.nz

Connections Church Hibiscus Coast Church Services 5 Link Cres (opposite Hoyts) Friday night’s 6.30pm 2nd and 4th Sundays 9.30am First Sunday service February 11th All welcome Toy Library open Tues evenings 7-­‐8.30 Sat mornings 9-­‐10.30

09 4241771

26

localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Blast from the Past with Susanne Wilson, Hibiscus Coast History on Facebook

D’Oyly Reserve is being returned to wetland.

Wetland restoration work underway plants will be planted.

The idea of being able to pluck fruit from trees in the reserve was popular and as a result there will be plum and mandarin trees planted.

A range of informal seating options was also asked for, so the plan is for suitably placed rocks and logs to form the backbone of this aspect. Also of interest in the feedback was the provision of opportunities for interacting with the stream, so this has been incorporated into the final design.

The community was concerned that the playground, rubbish bins, or open spaces would be removed but the playground will remain untouched, any rubbish bins removed during construction will be replaced and there will be open space for everyone (even the family dog) to enjoy.

Local contractors, CW Glasgow will be working on the site until September and they will ensure pedestrian access through the reserve remains available.

The public is asked to follow the signs.

Site preparation work has begun on returning the piped stream through D’Oyly Reserve in Stanmore Bay back into wetland.

At present, D’Oyly Reserve consists of mown grass on top of what was historically a stream. Recreational activities in the reserve are affected by the fact that it’s boggy in winter, as the stormwater pipe beneath has insufficient capacity, resulting in overflows.

The scheme will restore the wetland in mitigation for the loss of the “streams and wetland area” in Link Crescent, which were piped underground to enable residential development there.

Auckland Council’s Health Waters stormwater specialists worked with CCO Panuku Development Auckland on the plan, which has a budget of $1.5 million. Most of this ($1.1 million) came from the developers of 20 Link Crescent, McConnell Property.

Public feedback on the proposal showed a desire for native plants and fruit trees and over 20,000 native

The old Army base, as we know it, has had several uses over the years. Initially it was created at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula as an alternative defence site to Rangitoto Island – 60 pounder guns were earmarked for the site early in World War II. However, what were installed instead were the two 6-inch Mk VII guns from North Head. The Public Works Department set them up on the defence reserve and also constructed a series of tunnels there. Ironically, the Americans could see access issues and offered to build a bridge from Stillwater to Whangaparaoa in the early 1940s, but the regional council at the time declined the offer! After the war, the guns were returned to North Head. Since the creation of the camp in WWII, the site has been used as a training ground by other defence personal as well as the Army – such as the Navy and the Police.

Photo of the World War II battery at Whangaparaoa in the 1940s, NZ Herald from Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries.

Shakespeare at Wenderholm

This year Orewa College is proud to introduce Shakespeare in the Park at Couldrey House in Wenderholm Regional Park. The students will perform A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the show runs from February 20-24. The performance starts at 7.30 but the area is open from 5pm to allow audience to visit Couldrey House and have a picnic. Tickets and info from Orewa College, phone Kim, 427 3833 ext 220.

Do it once, do it well… watch it sell!

DoCall it once, do it well… watch it sell! now for a no obligation property Call now for a and no obligation property appraisal selling advice. appraisal and selling advice.

O R E W A O R E W A

09 426 6216 09 426 6216 Area Sea by Watch HibiscusAuckland Matters Seawatch – Sponsored Mike Pero, Orewa

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Licensed REAA (2008)

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd Licensed REAA (2008)

Tide Times

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Feb 14

Feb 15

Feb 16

Feb 17

Feb 18

Feb 19

Feb 20

Feb 21

Feb 22

Feb 23

Feb 24

Feb 25

Feb 26

Feb 27

Feb 28

Mar 1

Mar 2

1:07am 7:34am 1:28pm 7:47pm

Moon

1:50am 8:17am 2:11pm 8:31pm

6:51am 8:19pm

Sun Fishing Guide

0.9 3.0 1.0 2.9

12:09pm

2:30am 8:57am 2:52pm 9:13pm

6:52am 8:18pm

Best At

F

0.9 3.0 0.9 2.9

12:33am 12:56pm

3:09am 9:36am 3:32pm 9:52pm

6:53am 8:17pm

Best At

G

0.8 3.1 0.8 3.0

6:54am 8:16pm

Best At

G

1:20am 1:43pm

0.7 3:47am 3.2 10:15am 0.8 4:12pm 3.1 10:31pm

6:55am 8:14pm

Best At

G

2:06am 2:29pm

0.7 4:25am 3.2 10:54am 0.7 4:53pm 3.1 11:10pm

6:56am 8:13pm

Best At

G

2:52am 3:15pm

0.6 5:05am 3.2 11:34am 0.6 5:34pm 3.2 11:51pm

6:57am 8:12pm

Best At

G

3:38am 4:01pm

0.6 5:47am 0.7 12:35am 3.1 1:23am 3.2 12:17pm 3.2 6:33am 0.7 7:24am 0.6 6:17pm 0.6 1:02pm 3.2 1:51pm 7:03pm 0.6 7:54pm 3.2 6:58am 8:11pm

Best At

G

4:24am 4:47pm

6:59am 8:09pm

Best At

G

5:11am 5:35pm

6:00am 6:25pm

2:17am 8:21am 2:45pm 8:51pm

7:00am 8:08pm

Best At

G

3.1 0.8 3.1 0.7

6:52am 7:18pm

3:18am 9:24am 3:45pm 9:54pm

7:01am 8:07pm

Best At

G

3.1 0.9 3.1 0.7

7:02am 8:06pm

Best At

G

7:46am 8:14pm

3.0 4:24am 0.9 10:30am 3.1 4:51pm 0.7 10:59pm

7:03am 8:04pm

Best At

G

8:44am 9:13pm

3.1 5:30am 3.1 12:03am 0.6 1:03am 0.9 11:35am 0.8 6:33am 3.3 7:31am 3.1 5:57pm 3.1 12:36pm 0.7 1:34pm 7:00pm 3.2 8:00pm 0.7 7:04am 8:03pm

Best At

G

9:43am 10:13pm

7:05am 8:02pm

Best At

G

10:44am 11:14pm

11:43am

1:58am 8:25am 2:29pm 8:54pm

7:06am 8:00pm

Best At

B

0.5 3.4 0.6 3.3

7:07am 7:59pm

Best At

B

12:12am 12:41pm

0.4 3.5 0.5 3.4

Best At

B

1:09am 1:36pm

New First Full Moon Quarter Moon Rise 4:58am Rise 5:52am Rise 6:49am Rise 7:46am Rise 8:45am Rise 9:45am Rise 10:45am Rise 11:47am Rise 12:50pm Rise 1:55pm Set 12:38am Set 1:26am Set 2:22am Set 3:24am Set 4:30am Set 5:39am Set 6:49am Set 7:18pm Set 7:56pm Set 8:33pm Set 9:07pm Set 9:39pm Set 10:11pm Set 10:44pm Set 11:18pm Set 11:56pm Rise 3:00pm Rise 4:04pm Rise 5:05pm Rise 6:01pm Rise 6:51pm Rise 7:36pm Rise 8:16pm *Not for navigational purposes.

G

Good Fishing

F

Fair Fishing

B

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

Come and see Lane Sanger and the Mike Pero Orewa team at 8b Moana Ave, Orewa | www.mikepero.com/office/orewa/ Come and see Lane Sanger and the Mike Pero Orewa team at 8b Moana Ave, Orewa | www.mikepero.com/office/orewa/

localmatters.co.nz

Know

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

your local trades

Advertisement

Sally Barrett, Bowen Therapy

A Pump Doctor Repairs • Sales • Service We’ll keep you pumping ...

Ph Cedric 027 443 0654

COAST

ENGINEERING

COAST ENGINEERING NZ LTD SILVERDALE

We believe in quality work that meets the customer’s needs. Precision Machining, Structural, Fabrication, Maintenance or Welding.

Ph Blair 021 427 590 or visit our workshop: 14D Flexman Place, Silverdale. www.coast-engineering.co.nz

B WEN THERAPY

Book online www.bowtech.co.nz Full time clinic – 2 late nights Ph 027 292 3604 or 424 8519 46 Brightside Road, Stanmore Bay

For all Mechanical Repairs, WOFs, Servicing

Free café coffee with WOF or service while you wait

Phone 428 7969

Gustos

ws Croest N

What your company specialises in: Botech BowenTherapy. BowenTherapy consists of small moves done carefully over muscle and connective tissue, aiding the body to heal and repair itself. Suitable for many illnesses and injuries. Specific areas can be targeted or a general body balance.

What are the essential skills and experience that you bring to this trade/service? My experience in Bowen Therapy started when my own spectacular recovery occurred after two failed back operations and sciatic pain for many years. I achieved my Professional Certificate and went on to receive the Masters Certificates 1 and 2 (the highest practitioner certificates).

What is it about this job that gets you out of bed in the morning and keeps you motivated? I enjoy helping people and meet lots of lovely people doing Bowen Therapy. Some people have many problems and everyone is different.

Tell us about your favourite aspect of the job, and/or the key piece of equipment in your toolbox and why you would not be without it. The variety of problems that this therapy can address means I apply different treatment patterns often and that keeps me focused and keenly interested. My internet booking system assists client to book appointments 24/7.

Customers can count on you because? I am enthusiastic about helping the body to recover and enjoy a challenge.

27

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

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

HEAT PUMP CLEANING

SPECIALISTS

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

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

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

Hibiscus Garage Doors Ltd Your local supplier & installer of all types of garage doors

Local & Reliable All sizes available Ph 0800 300 666 discountbins.co.nz

ERIC ODDI FOR BLINDS RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL

DESIGN DESIGN

NEW RESIDENTIAL DESIGN - DRAWING NEW RESIDENTIAL - DRAWING ADDITIONS - DESIGN ALTERATIONS ADDITIONS - ALTERATIONS 09 426 3170 09 426 3170

bruce@bcdesign.co.nz bruce@bcdesign.co.nz

Unit F, 16 Cammish Lane, Orewa, Auckland Unit F, 16 Cammish Lane, Orewa, Auckland

Offering a large range of styles and colours.

Cleaning and repairs available.

Sectional, Tilt & Roller doors | Repairs & Maintenance to all models | Automatic Openers & Accessories | Merlin professional

Freephone 0800DOORS4U | Ph 09 426 0851 M 027 476 2741 Em hibiscusgaragedoors@xtra.co.nz www.hibiscusgaragedoors.co.nz

Hibiscus Tiling

Phone 0800 218 555 or 021 372 620

Wall & floor tiling • Accredited Waterproofer Underfloorheating • Free consultations and quotations • 23 years experience

Serving you Rodney wide since 1995.

Phone Darcy 021 482 308

CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Email: eoddi@clear.net.nz

28

localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Advertise your business here for only $64+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz

DESIGN

Wardrobe & Interior Doors Melteca • Mirror • Glass

Get the door you really want, in the colour and finish of your choice. 10 year guarantee.

Free measure and quote.

Chris Ridley 021 488 274 or chris@streamlineelectrical.nz

Visit our showroom 85 Ellice Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland, 8am- 4pm weekdays Ph 09 444 8696 • www.homeplusdesign.co.nz

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

Have a look on our website to see the huge range of items we can custom brand to suit your needs.

www.positiveimage.co.nz

09 424 1262

Come and see Cecily and her team for friendly advice on 1000’s of tiles.

18A Silverdale Street, Silverdale

09 424 1214 ▪ 663 Whangaparaoa Rd

For any queries, please contact us on:

10 Puriri Ave, Orewa | Ph 426 6176

sales@positiveimage.co.nz

0274 436 222 | pat_and_houghty@hotmail.com

LBP QUALIFIED

BUILDER FENCES, DECKS SMALL JOBS ETC

Free quote: measureup123@gmail.com or

ph Jon 021 514 622

For all your building and carpentry needs

The re-tube specialists New boats from 2.1 to 5.5m Full repair service on any inflatable brand. 100% NZ Made

Decks • Roofs • Pergolas • Doors • Gates Renovations • Maintenance • Fencing Kitchens • Gib fitter • Plastering • Painting

1487A State Highway 17, Dairy Flat Ph: 021 570 505 • em: info@seafarerinflatables.co.nz

Phone 09 428 4770 | 027 428 4770 Email: graham@top2bottom.co.nz | www.top2bottom.co.nz

www.seafarerinflatables.co.nz

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.

CARS • VANS • TRUCKS • MINI-BUS

APPLE MAC & WINDOWS SUPPORT AT YOUR PREMISES

One-on-one tutoring – 40% discount

192 Centreway Rd, Orewa | Ph 09 426 5351

32 Seamount Dr, Red Beach | Ph 09 427 8980 M: 022 543 2154 | E: daniel@silvercomp.co.nz

2008

timber Furniture specialists with quality workmanship guaranteed specialising in antique, new furniture & all other timber surfaces.

Clinton & Jayne Cowley Phone 428 0010 info@margay.co.nz | www.margay.co.nz

Furniture Restoration • Re-spraying • Special Finishing • Colour Matching Insurance quotes • Furniture repairs • Custom made – Recycled or new timber • Modifications • Upholstery

Phone Grant or Lesley 23b Foundry Rd, Silverdale | 09 426 2979 www.silverdalefurniturerestorations.co.nz 09 426 8412 | www.countrycharm.co.nz

Kerry Bos BBS VPM, Builder

Silverdale Commercial & Residential - Interior & Exterior New, Renovation & Restoration - Colour Consulting 15 Years experience – Qualified and experienced painter that guarantees quality and expertise.

Phone Sam 021 0881 0780

info@perfectionispossiblepainting.com

HANDYM and Maintenance Services

N

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • LIFESTYLE 021 909 301 kerry@silverdalehandyman.nz 25 years experience • No job too small

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

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Family owned and operated since 1999 Residential and holiday home property management North Shore – Hibiscus Coast

Specialists in: • Electrical work • Commercial & residential • Gate automation & repairs • Electrical fencing • Garage door automation & repairs

Terms & Conditions apply

COUNTRY CHARM

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www.orewacar.co.nz

10% ! oFF

No job too Small 24 hr operation

Electrical practicing licence for NZ

Ph 022 352 7405 • dudleysimeon@gmail.com dudleyselectrical • www.dudleys.co.nz

A CAR JUST 4 U

U SELECT > I IMPORT > U SAVE Import your own personally selected car from Japan

W P Cars Ltd (RMVT)

Ph 021 466 369 warrenpayne@outlook.com

localmatters.co.nz

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

29

Red Beach rides wave to top spot at champs Red Beach Surf Life Saving Club for me it’s more important that we came out on top at the Surf Life develop leaders here and have an Saving Northern Region (SLSNR) inclusive culture where everyone gets Junior Championships at Omaha on opportunities to compete.

February 3 and 4.

“We have 1200 juniors currently and The event saw over 330 juniors hit the that number is on the rise due to the water coming from as far as Ruakaka population increase so we need to continue to provide opportunities for and Whakatane.

Red Beach finished the weekend with all of our members.”

119 points, followed by Mairangi The new SLSNR sport manager Lewis Bay on 100 points and Orewa on 93 McClintock was pleased with his first event. points.

Red Beach chair Dylan Turner says it “Omaha was a great venue to host was pleasing to get a result with some the champs despite a real mixed bag of weather across the weekend,” Lewis close competition.

“In the past Red Beach has dominated says. a number of these events, but this year Lewis had a role previously as Rough conditions made for a challenging junior surf champs and caused it was extremely tight and there wasn’t Auckland Rugby community rugby events to be cut short on Sunday. much between the top teams,” Dylan manager and worked for the body for need a lot of people on the ground to progress with surf life saving as says. “You have to give credit to all of seven years. to keep juniors safe in the water so they become adults, because a lot of the teams competing who have really “Much like the rugby I’ve already we need to retain that buy in from organisations lose numbers through seen how important volunteers are in helpers.” set the standard at a very high level.” that transition period.

Although he is stoked with the result, organising events like this one and In the role Dylan has aspirations to “We also have a requirement to grow Dylan says a positive club culture is it’s important to provide them with improve pathways for juniors and the number of lifeguards we produce the resources they need to have a to increase the number of February more important. lifeguards14,to2018 match the increasing number | 29of | Hibiscusmatters localmatters.co.nz “When I came into my role the club successful event. coming through. beachgoers in the Northern region,” “One big difference is that surf events427“It’s was very winning orientated, but only important that juniors know how he says.

Advertise your business here for $64+gst per insertion.

Phone 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz

Coastal Curtains and Blinds Country Retreat Learn to play the Ukulele Kathy Manson phone 021 902 736 51 The Esplanade, Manly, Whangaparaoa www.absolute-beginners-ukulele.com

New luxurious facilities • Tranquil Country Setting • Spacious Indoor/Outdoor areas Talk to us about your cats specific needs

PH: 09 427 4464

MOB: 021 0444 993

Exclusive airport shuttle for 4 people Travel in style door-to-door • Day trips for coffee & lunches around Rodney • Value for money

Ph Adele Carryer 0800 BOWEN4U

comfortairportshuttlenz

www.comfortairportshuttle.co.nz

Drapes • Roman Blinds • Nets/voiles • Rods & Tracks • Blinds Verticals, Venetians, Wooden • Roller Sunscreen & Blockout Blinds

CALL NOW FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

Mobile service – Phone 027 69 89 925 pauline@coastalcurtains.co.nz www.coastalcurtains.co.nz Free confidential advice & information on: Consumer rights, careers, budgeting, housing & tenancy, JPs, legal issues, sports, clubs & more Open Mon- Fri 9am-3.30pm, Sat 10am-1pm Orewa Community Centre, Orewa Square Ph: 426 5338 or em: hibiscuscoast@cab.org.nz

HBC Community House

CAR SEAT RENTAL

Long or short term hire

The Company you know & trust for all your blind needs!

*free bolt install (*conditions apply)

We can check if your car seat is installed correctly

Trained technician Phone 426 3598

Phone 09 428 4418

20/A Hobbs Road, Tindalls Bay

If it doesn’t say service, its not! We MAKE Blinds We REPAIR Blinds • We CLEAN Blinds

Phone 0800 999 229 • www.vlr.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $64+gst per insertion.

30

localmatters.co.nz

| Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Classifiedadvertising COMMUNITY NOTICES 60S UP MOVEMENT OF NZ INC meet 3rd Wed of month, Hibiscus Coast RSA, 43a Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay, 10am.

Guest speakers, door prizes, outings and shows. Ph Dorothy 428 2075.

A CLUB FOR SEMI RETIRED AND RETIRED PEOPLE. Monthly meetings with guest speakers, bus trips, luncheons, movie group, plus other social get to gethers, a great way to meet other locals. Now open for new members. Whangaparaoa Combined Club. Ph Peter or Raewyn 424 8227 BADMINTON PLAYERS wanted at the Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre, Wednesdays, 9am till 11am. Beginners most welcome. Friendly atmosphere.

BOWLING CLUB FOR PARTIALLY SIGHTED. Every Wednesday 9.30am– 11.30am, St. Andrews Church Hall, Centreway Rd, Orewa. New Members very welcome. Ph. Virginia 09 426 8454 BRIDGE LESSONS – FREE Hibiscus Coast Bridge Club Manly, 10 easy relaxed lessons. Starts Monday 26 February 7pm. Contact Helen Ph 424 2740 or 027 444 1066 to register BRIDGE LESSONS at Orewa Bridge Club. 10 Tuesday evening lessons begin February 27 (7pm-9pm) $50 (incl course material and membership subscription) Ph Eileen Sanger 426 1106 or Club 426 7677.

CAFE CONNECT, 10am, 2nd Monday of each month @ Orewa Community Church For the retired age group to meet in a cafe style atmosphere, while enjoying a variety of music, entertainment & guest speakers. Gold coin donation. Contact Terry & Noelene Bradley 424 3159 CONNECTIONS CHURCH HIBISCUS COAST CHURCH SERVICES 5 Link Cres (opposite Hoyts) Friday night’s 6.30pm 2nd and 4th Sundays 9.30am First Sunday service February 11. All welcome. Toy Library open Tues 7pm8.30pm Sat 9am-10.30am.

DO YOU HAVE ANY OLD CAR OR BOAT BATTERIES sitting in your garage, that you no longer want? – Any batteries (although not the small AAA batteries) The Orewa Lions collect all old batteries and ALL the money received for them goes into the Child Mobility Foundation fund, give us a call and we can pick up. Ph Laurie 426 3122 or Mandy 426 0586. Info: www. lionsclubs.org.nz/Clubs/Activities/ChildMobility EMPATHY SUPPORT GROUP for those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

Meeting last Monday every month, Hibiscus Coast Community House, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa, 7pm.

All welcome. Next meeting February 26. Enquiries ph Susan 021 884 162.

ENJOY AND AFTERNOON OF BINGO (Housie) at Bowls Orewa every Friday at 1 pm. Play $20 Houses for only $2. 50 prizes available from $20 to $1000. All for Welcome. Info: 426 2138 orRodney 426 1424 ESCAPE MONDAY MORNING BLUES Join us for coffee and company or Manly Methodist Church, 9.30am. Ph Jackie 427 0428.

FELLOWSHIP FUN Join us Monday

Marja Lubeck

Sudoku

Solution

HOME & MAINTENANCE GARDEN MAINTENANCE

mornings at 9.30am Methodist Church at Manly. Call Jackie on 09 4270478 FREE OREWA BEACH COMMUNITY WALKS A relaxed and friendly walking group. Every Wednesday 9am. Meet opposite Barfoot & Thompson Orewa 294 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa.

Register today t.collins3@barfoot.co.nz or call 027 539 4674 FREE AFTER-SCHOOL PHONICS CLASSES. Mondays, Whangaparaoa library. Designed for 6-8 year old pupils experiencing difficulty with reading, writing and spelling. Assessments being conducted now – limited spaces for Term 1 Enquiries ph Lorna 029 773 0011 or at Library reception.

FREE YOGA ON THE BEACH with Shelley Charlton. Mon, Wed, Fri 7:30am at Big Manly Beach (from 4th December). Only 20 minutes and suitable for everyone. Further details at www.freeyogaonthebeach.com HIBISCUS COAST BASED SOCIAL GROUP for over 50’s meeting for Coffee, Outings, Lunches, Walks etc. All welcome Ph Caz 426 3958.

THE WEITI BOATING CLUB situated on the shores of the Weiti (Wade) River, Whangaparaoa, will be celebrating its 50th Jubilee, March 23-25. Contact Club Manager Katie Clark 424 5905 or register online www.weiti.co.nz/50thjubilee.

The Club will provide billeted accommodation for those attending from overseas or out of Auckland.

LADIES CRAFT CLUB, Tuesday 10am @ Orewa Community Church. Various Crafts and morning tea. Come along make new friends and get crafty. Creché Provided. Contact OCC Office 426 7023 HIBISCUS COAST ELDERLY PEOPLES LUNCHEON CLUB, Door charge $5, includes cup of tea, great entertainment, followed by a hot, two course lunch. Meet every 2nd Monday of the month, The Masonic Lodge Centreway Rd, Orewa. Ph Joan 427 6263 HIBISCUS COAST TOASTMASTERS. A fun environment to learn speaking and leadership skills. Visitors welcome!

Hibiscus Coast Bridge Club, Edith Hopper Park, Ladies Mile, Manly, Tuesday October 17, 7.15pm. Ph Simon Franks 027 431 2020 or Google Hibiscus Coast Toastmasters for info.

HIBISCUS COAST SCRABBLE CLUB. Beginners to clever wordsmiths. Meet at the Community House by Western Reserve. Mondays at 12.30pm. info call Helen 09 427 5384.

SINGERS WANTED Hibiscus Coast Singers start again Mon. March 19 at Presbyterian Church, Waiora Rd. Newcomers welcome. For details ph 4245711

POSITION COOKING VEGETARIAN lunch at Retreat Silverdale 9.30 – 1.30 p.m. $18/hr Email:- retreatsilverdale2@ gmail.com

Reliable, safe, TMS Registered Ph 428 4490 or 0800 948 432. hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

YOUNG ENERGETIC WORKER WANTED 19yrs – 25yrs. Prepared to work, positive attitude. Solid build, doesn’t mind getting dirty. Training will be given. For more info ph. 027 522 7703 Email CV to jasonsandblasting@ gmail.com

DVDS & VIDEOS

PUBLIC NOTICES

DINING OUT

NZ Labour Party 021 364 250 labour.org.nz/marjalubeck

marja.lubeck@labour.org.nz Rodney Electorate facebook.com/MarjaLubeck twitter.com/MarjaLubeck Notice of 2018 AGM Meeting Monday 5 March 2018 7.30pm Stoney Homestead Community Hub 12 Galbraith Greens, Millwater, Silverdale.

Contact: Lane Kennedy (sec) 027 473 0009 Authorised by Andrew Kirton, 160 Willis St, Wellington

New gardens, clean ups. Specialising in maintenance & improvement.

Phone Dave 021 950 154 HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for all those odd jobs. Ph Nev 021 399 226 @ Nev’s Odd Jobs. Great rates. Local & reliable.

SECURITY ALARM SERVICING Local technician, 20 years experience.

Ph 027 553 3032 or 09 428 5887

TUITION ADULT DANCE CLASSES Beginners & improvers Thursday Night, in ballroom, latin & new vogue, 7pm, complimentary tea & coffee Silverdale hall, ph 427-5542

SITUATIONS VACANT

A PUMP DOCTOR will keep you pumping. Ph 0274 430 654.

ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Ph 022 0291 056 BUILDER SEMI RETIRED – General property maintenance & small jobs.

Good rates. Phone/txt Rob 021 167 2155 or 09 426 2960.

HANDYMAN Carpentry, rubbish removal etc Ph/Txt 027 420 5155 PAINTING – INTERIOR / EXTERIOR, Free quotes. Phone Jef 021 164 9709.

PLASTERING, GIB STOPPING, Repairs/ small jobs. Keith 424 8841/022 682 4760.

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

APPLIANCE REPAIRS We need walkers, for various locations on the Hibiscus Coast to deliver the Hibiscus Matters.

Good rates! Delivery occurs twice monthly.

Phone Rosemary 021 0300 263

hmdelivery@localmatters.co.nz

A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/Simpson dryers. Prompt service 09 423 9660 or 021 168 7349.

BAY APPLIANCE REPAIRS – All major laundry/kitchen brands, small appliances, & power tools. Work guaranteed EWRB reg. Ph 09 947 0333 or 022 600 9919.

TRANSPORT DRIVING MISS DAISY

VIDEOS TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Phone Te Totara Video 09 422 5710 or 021 777 385.

HEALTH & BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL HYPNOTHERAPY

CELEBRATE AT WALNUT COTTAGE – The licensed Café in the Trees. Wed-Sun 8am-3.30pm Ph 09 427 5570.

Painless Quit Smoking.

Now is always the best time to quit Phone Bill Parker NZAPH 424 7610

HAIRDRESSING

SUMMER SPECIAL! HANDS & FEET Nails cut & filed, includes hand & foot massage. $30 each – $50 for two. I will come to you. Phone 424 0676.

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

Support the businesses that support Hibiscus Matters

WANTED TO BUY TO BUY, RECORDS/LP’S Ph 428 1587.

localmatters.co.nz

February 14, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

February 2018

17 17 18

Blast from the Past play at the Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43a Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay from 7.30pm. $5 door charge. Info: phone 424 9026.

Boulevard Arts Festival, Hibiscus Coast Highway, 1pm-7pm.

Street fiesta, including 100 plus market stalls, food trucks, live entertainment and rides. (see story p1)

Ask us about

.........................................................

Sunday at Shakespear Regional Park, 10am-midday, open as always to the public. Follow the signs to the park volunteer assembly point. Wear sturdy footwear and dress for the weather.

Free barbeque lunch.

19

Hibiscus Coast Garden Club’s Flower & Vegie show, Whangaparaoa Hall, 719 Whangaparaoa Rd. Come for lunch, $6. Trading table, raffle, tea, coffee available Viewing from 1pm.

Entry $3. Info: phone Annabelle, 424 8873.

20

Stress Less NZ, Orewa Library, Moana Ave, Orewa, 10am.

Dr Gian Mansell shares insight into sources of stress and techniques to reduce its impact on your health. Free to all. Preregistration is necessary, email orewalib@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or phone 427 3912.

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Celebrate the Year of the Dog Luna New Year, Orewa Library, Moana Ave, Orewa, at 11am. With the Browns Bay Chinese Association performing musical items to welcome in the Chinese New Year.

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Hibiscus Grey Power invites all over 50s to its public meeting, St John’s Catholic Church Hall, 180 Centreway Rd, Orewa, 1.30pm. Lynn Aubrey will speak on physical fitness for seniors and demonstrate exercises to help maintain good health followed by a delicious afternoon tea and good fellowship.

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Car Boot Sale, Silverdale Pioneer Village, 15 Wainui Road Silverdale, 8am–11.30 am. Sites $20. Bookings elainedickinson@hotmail.co.nz or phone 09 479 9315.

The Tai Chi and Wushu Academy Trust demonstrate Tai Chi. Orewa Library, Moana Ave, Orewa, 11am. All welcome.

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Oceans 18, Orewa Beach, NZ U14 National Surf Life Saving Championships (Oceans 18), Orewa Surf Club.

Chop Chop Hiyaa, with Anika Moa, Orewa Community Centre, 368 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa, 4pm. Part of Auckland Arts Festival. Cheeky, naughty, magical live show for children. Tickets $10. Bookings, phone 09 951 2501.

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Orewa Lions Hot Diggity Dog Show, Western Reserve, Orewa, 10am–2pm. A dog show for the family pooch. Categories include Best Senior Dog, Best Dressed and Cutest Puppy. Fun and entertainment for the whole family. Organised by Orewa Lions as a fundraiser for the SPCA.

Supporting cardiovascular health, normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

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Orewa Beach Sandcastle competition, Moana Reserve, Orewa. Registration from 11am. Building commences at noon. Judging 2.30pm. Bring buckets and spades and whatever you can find in nature to decorate your creation. $500 for the best sand creation. All welcome, from first timers to experienced sand sculpters. Free entertainment and spot prizes

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Whangaparaoa School Gala, 39 Ladies Mile, Manly, Whangaparaoa, 10am-2pm. Stalls, rides, food, fun for the whole family. All welcome.

LOCAL MARKETS: Silverdale Markets, every Saturday 8am–1pm • Hibiscus Coast Markets, Whangaparaoa Community Hall, last Saturday of each month 10am-2pm • Hobbs Wharf Market, 132 Pinecrest Drive, Gulf Harbour, 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month from 10am–2pm • Waitoki Village Market day, Waitoki Hall, Kahikatea Flat Rd, first Saturday of month 8.30am–12pm • Crystal Visions Holistic Market, St Johns Ambulance Hall, 36 Silverdale Rd, Silverdale, second Saturday of the month 10am3pm • Orewa Farmers’ market, Orewa Square carpark, every Sunday 8am–12.30pm • Puhoi Farmers’ market, Puhoi Sports Club, last Sunday of the month 8.30am -12.30pm.

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53B Rawhiti Road, Manly Village Whangaparaoa Ph (09) 424 7708 Fax (09) 424 7427 www.unichemmanly.co.nz

Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional

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localmatters.co.nz

32 | Hibiscusmatters | February 14, 2018

Underwater invite

Standup paddleboarders head down the Weiti River on Waitangi Day.

Cruising down the river on Waitangi afternoon Paddling down the Weiti River proved a great way to spend Waitangi Day for more than 30 local paddleboarders.

The Orewa Paddleboard Club hosted the event as a scenic, long but easy paddle for all levels. The youngest to take part was Kyron Sams, five years old, who rode on organiser Nik Sams’ raceboard, while the oldest was in her late 60s.

The group put in at Weiti Boating Club and paddled upriver with the incoming tide for around an hour, before turning round for the return journey.

Some stopped along the way to have a floating picnic and a quick swim.

The day ended back at Orewa Surf Club for drinks and nibbles.

There’s an opportunity to take a look underwater at Shakespear Regional Park with an experienced snorkel guide this weekend. It’s the first time that a free guided snorkel has been held at Shakespear is part of an initiative called Experiencing Marine Reserves – a national programme to teach people about marine conservation. Snorkelling will be from the shore and participants may see pipefish, triplefins or nudibranchs among other marine life.

Barbecue also provided. The event is on Saturday, February 17, 10am–3pm and starts at Te Haruhi Bay or Army Bay, weather and sea conditions permitting – signs will be in the park up showing the way. Register at the event, on the day.

Free gear hire available, or bring your own snorkel, mask, fins and wetsuit.

Recommended for everyone aged five years and over. All children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult to supervise. Info and postponements at www.emr.org.nz/ or look for Shakespear Snorkel Day on Facebook.

Silver Ferns cap for netballer

The club offers free weekly paddles and a monthly ‘feature paddle’ such as the Weiti trip.

Info: Orewa Paddleboard Club on Facebook or orewapaddleboardclub. co.nz

Whangaparaoa netballer Michaela Sokolich-Beatson has been named in the Silver Ferns for the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in April.

Michaela is the only new cap and joins the team after successful seasons in defence with the Mystics and as captain of the NZ U21 team. An earlier callup to the national side was thwarted by a back injury, which she has since recovered from.

WHO CAN YOU TRUST WITH YOUR HEARING? Having a hearing loss is bad enough, trying to decide who you can trust to help you overcome this can be a real headache!

Southern Cross Health Society Easy-claim available for members

Over 4000 Hibiscus Coast residents have trusted us and we thank you wholeheartedly for that!

We believe in making the process of addressing your hearing challenges as easy as possible with good, old fashioned friendly care.

From a simple removal of ear-wax or changing a hearing aid battery to provision of the latest Hearing Aid technology, we are happy to help.

Find out just how much better your current hearing aids could work for you, or experience a taste of the future with a free demonstration of something new. You can trust us!

COAST PLAZA, WHANGAPARAOA (Opposite the Post Shop)

Open Monday to Saturday - Home Visits Available

info@hearagain.co.nz - www.hearagain.co.nz

09 4246035