Hibiscus Matters_Issue 274_18 December 2019 by Localmatters

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December 18, 2019

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Inside this issue

Fun in the sun

pages 21 to 32

Protestors kept their heads down in the sand for approximately one minute.

Activists lose their heads at climate protest Climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion sent a very literal message to the Government on Sunday, December 8, when 18 members buried their heads in the sand on Ōrewa Beach. The group, which included both Hibiscus Coast locals and people from wider Auckland, silently walked from Western Reserve to Moana Reserve with signs and Extinction Rebellion

Flags, before digging holes and burying their heads in the sand. They kept their heads in the holes for about one minute. Extinction Rebellion’s North Shore spokesperson, Whangaparāoa resident Amber Perkins, says the government and big corporations have their heads in the sand about the urgency of climate change. “Whilst we acknowledge the effort that

went into the Zero Carbon Bill, it does not act quickly enough, and this action symbolises the reality of the situation in a creative way,” Amber says. “We chose Ōrewa because it will be one of the beaches most affected by sea level rise in Tāmaki Makaurau. Unless we act now to stop climate breakdown, many of our cherished places will be lost.” This is the first time the North Shore

branch has hosted a ‘head in the sand’ event, which is inspired by an extinction rebellion protest held in Australia. Extinction Rebellion is an international organisation that began in England just over a year ago. Dozens of countries are now involved, with more than 10 local branches set up across New Zealand. The group demands that the continued p2

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Climate change protest

continued from p1

Look out for the Welcome Home property guide in this issue

Next issues: February 5 & 19. Book your advertising for next year now! Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 | terry@localmatters.co.nz News: MacKenzie Dyer ph 028 889 0418 | coastnews@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy | hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 | sellit@localmatters.co.nz Janet Moses ph 022 096 8517 | sales@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 23,800 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. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

Government declares a climate emergency, takes the necessary steps to halt biodiversity loss and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2025, and creates a Citizens’ Assembly on climate and ecological justice to lead their decision making. Protests by the New Zealand branch have included a Halloween march through Ponsonby, where members dressed as zombies holding gravestones with a climate change-related cause of death, and pouring ‘oil’(actually molassas) on the entrance of National Party leader Simon Bridges’ Tauranga office. Extinction Rebellion say people are unprepared for the looming effects of climate change. “We face floods, wildfires, extreme weather, crop failure, mass displacement and the breakdown of society. The time for denial is over. It is time to act.” Info: extinctionrebellion.nz/

From top, Some protestors wore business attire to show their message is for Government and big corporations, not individuals. Dr Bruce Williamson of Waitoki, left, worked as a scientist at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, and Richard McLachlan is known for protesting for climate action on subway trains in New York.

Climate re-cap

Carbon dioxide emissions, which have been increasing since the industrial revolution due to human activity, are causing the planet to warm. The effects of this include melting icecaps, sea level rise, and extreme weather conditions. According to a 2018 report by the United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, carbon emissions need to be significantly reduced within the next 11 years to ensure they do not surpass 1.5°C above pre-industrial temperatures. The UN says if this rise happens, the ecosystem will be irreversibly damaged. While the NZ government signed the Paris Agreement that commits to this target, they are yet to declare a Climate Emergency – a pledge that puts global warming at the forefront of all decision making. Auckland Council declared a Climate Emergency earlier this year.

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Family turns tragedy into catalyst for helping others Since the death of Mike McClennan two months ago, his family has taken part in a walk for charity, raising almost $7000 for Dementia Auckland, and Mike’s granddaughter, Katie, has been appointed to a new role as the organisation’s first Youth Ambassador. Mike – a 75-year-old former Kiwi league player, who had severe dementia – escaped from Milton Court Resthome in Orewa and after a massive manhunt, was found deceased in dense bush, a week later (HM November 6). His son Brian (Bluey), also a former league player, and coach, says that the close-knit family wants to find ways to prevent something like this happening to other dementia patients and their families. On December 1, they began by taking part in the Omaha Half Marathon to raise money for Dementia Auckland – donations on their Everyday Hero Walk for Da page so far come to almost $7000. Bluey, his wife Julie and Mike’s three grandchildren Regan, 19 and twins Daniel and Katie, 17, all took part with Katie and Julie doing the 10km and the others the 21km. It was the first time the three teenagers had done an event like this and Katie says her Da (Mike) would have been impressed. Daniel proved to be a natural runner, outpacing his older brother and father and completing the run in 1hr50m – 16 minutes ahead of Regan and 26 minutes ahead of Bluey.

The Omaha Half Marathon was a challenge in more ways than one for Brian ‘Bluey’ McClennan, centre, with sons Daniel, left, and Regan, right.

“I struggled, to be honest,” Bluey says. “But doing it together was what was important. Although we were physically beat up, we felt good mentally that we had done something together to raise money to help other families.” Bluey also used the family’s strong connections in rugby league to bring some key pieces – including a Tongan national league team jersey – to an online auction called Still Me that Dementia Auckland is running (see below). Meanwhile, Katie has been recruited by Dementia Auckland. Dementia

is associated with older people, but Dementia Auckland’s marketing and fundraising general manager Lisa Burns says having a teenage ambassador will enable the organisation to reach people in new and innovative ways. “We are very excited about collaborating with the McClennan family, and having Katie as our first ever Youth Ambassador,” Lisa says. “Dementia doesn’t carry the same stigma for people in Katie’s age group as it does for older people. What was obvious from what happened to Mike was how forthright and honest Katie was in seeking help. She had a

loving, caring relationship with her Da and came right out and said he has dementia and he will be lost and confused.” Lisa says one area where Katie can potentially help is with people aged younger than 65 who have ‘young onset’ dementia and therefore different needs to older patients, as well as providing support for teenagers or younger children who may see changes in their relatives and wonder why they are repeating themselves, or getting confused. Katie may also advocate for Dementia Auckland’s new identity bracelet. The bracelets, launched last month, are engraved with a name and phone number as well as identifying that the person has a cognitive impairment – useful in case they are found by the public when missing. Bluey says that the way that Mike died has been hard for the family to accept but the projects they are doing to raise funds and awareness is helping as they grieve. “I am trying to teach the kids that in the end you have to come out of even the toughest things with a positive mindset,” he says. “There are so many hurdles in life and you can’t hold onto grief and anger because you have to move on. We haven’t been able to visit the site where dad died as yet, but we are planning to do so and that will be a final farewell.” Dementia Auckland’s Still Me auction is at32auctions.com/stillme and closes at 11.30pm on Friday, December 20.

Long wait for Environment Court Ōrewa seawall decision Auckland Council and the Orewa community have had a long wait for an Environment Court decision that will determine whether or not a seawall will be built at the northern end of Orewa Beach. At the time of the hearing, in May, the parties were close to an agreement on a revised design for the wall between Kohu Street and

Marine View. Controversially, the new plan is expected to cost more to build and substantially increase the volume of sand that is transferred between the southern end of the beach and the north (HM May 22). The original proposal to build the seawall was turned down by

independent commissioners who said that it would generate adverse effects on coastal processes, public access and natural character. Council appealed the decision, which led to a drawn out legal process that began in December 2017 and culminated in the Environment Court appeal hearing before Judge David Kirkpatrick.

The case pits separate divisions of Auckland Council against each other as appellant and respondent – a process that has so far cost ratepayers close to $1 million (HM September 19, 2018). Generally the court aims to release its decision within three months of closing submissions, which were in by the end of June.

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Feedback

Sculpture needs work I am pleased to see the new local board in place – for once, some of the ones I voted for actually got in! Could I ask them to re-assess the matter of the sculpture for Moana Reserve? The process was not nearly far-reaching enough, the materials are totally inappropriate, kids will climb on it – and that’s not even the main thing. For me the most important issue is placement. It is possible that, whatever you think of this design, if put in the wrong place it will obscure a lovely view of the beach that you currently get from the road opposite and from the reserve

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

itself. Already we have the electronic sign positioned there. Why not leave the reserve as it is and use the money for something else? Please please could the new members look at this again and ensure what is done suits the location and does not take away all the charm of this small reserve? I am really afraid it’s just going to appear there one day, and there’s nothing we can do about it. Lulu Green, Orewa

Poor choices by board The extension of Orewa Boulevard from Riverside to Empire Road is yet another ludicrous scheme to put more debt onto the community. AT should be concentrating on making travel to and from the city easier – not gumming up the roads with silly centre partings where the shrubs quickly become shabby and a line of angle-parked cars that will cause frustration. The local board should be ashamed to back this scheme along with the idiotic sculpture on Moana Reserve

which will spoil the best view in Orewa! Sally Corbel, Orewa (abridged)

Help appreciated On October 31 I fell outside the Unichem Chemist in Manly and hit my head twice as well as other parts of my body. I remember lying there unable to move and then was suddenly surrounded by staff from the chemist plus so many people with pillows, etc, plus a lady sheltering me from the sun with an umbrella. I was still unable to move. A doctor from Manly Medical Centre arrived, checked me over and called an ambulance which soon arrived and took me to North Shore Hospital. I am now discharged and home – still not too well, but I will get there. Thanks

the record

Last laugh

The grandma of one of Hibiscus Matters’ journalists had the ultimate last laugh when burglars broke into her shed recently. In the shed was her coffin, made to her design by The Men’s Shed. “I reckon seeing it there put the burglars off, as nothing was stolen,” the happy granny says. “The police had a laugh too.”

to all those wonderful helpers. I will never forget their kindness. Especially my favourite chemist and doctors in Manly also the two St John Ambulance members, my kind daughter Jane and all those unknown people! Thank you so very much, what would I have done without you. Dagmar London, Gulf Harbour (abridged)

Congratulations

to Ōrewa’s Katherine Urquhart who won our Facebook Brekkie Competition, taking home three gourmet breakfast packs from Whangaparāoa business, Something to Crow About. With just shy of 100 entries, we now know how much Coasties like their cereal!

Local opinion – Universal message The response to the annual Hibiscus Matters Christmas appeal for food and vouchers for Coast families, who might be doing it tough this Christmas, has again been heartwarming. Several businesses have opted to donate instead of running a Secret Santa, but otherwise, it was just kind-hearted individuals putting their hand in their own pocket to put a smile on a stranger’s face on Christmas morning. As traditions go, Christmas is about the only one that most Kiwis follow religiously, even if they aren’t religious. We put up trees, decorate houses and letterboxes, organise Secret Santas, put reindeer antlers on our cars, and angst over what to buy the favourite people in our lives. Some of us will go to church, others will visit relatives they haven’t seen since last Christmas, share wine and chocolates and homemade goodies with neighbours, and tidy up the house and garden in preparation for the big day. We say it’s all about the children, which is true in part, but the time, effort and thought invested in trying to make other people happy at this time of year strikes a universal chord of goodwill. There is something comforting to the rhythm of this familiar routine and even more so when our generosity expands to embrace the wider community. On that note, thank you to Love Soup, Hibiscus Coast Community House and Whangaparaoa Police for distributing all the donations, and we reserve a special thanks for all those souls who will be working

off

General Manager Jannette Thompson

From left, Terry, MacKenzie, Angela, Lorry and Janet. Photo, Rae Cliffe

on Christmas Day – hospital and rest home staff, police, St John and possibly our fire fighters if a BBQ gets out of control – to name just a few. You put the community first, not just at Christmas, but the whole year through, and we salute you. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the Hibiscus Matters team

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Time running out for Hub?

Members of the Trust that runs the Whangaparaoa Community Hub are “gutted” that they could have to close the doors due to lack of funding. The Hub opened in March last year as a two-year pilot, offering a space for community groups and agencies to provide services and hold events on the peninsula. Rent for its premises, at 707 Whangaparaoa Road, costs around $35,000 annually. Whangaparaoa Community Hub is The organisation approached the facing closure. Hibiscus & Bays Local Board at its Auckland are Council funded. Community Forum in Browns Bay on She says they were doing quite well December 5, with a desperate plea for until the middle of this year, but more money. money is now becoming tight and Whangaparaoa Community Hub grants harder to come by. Trust chair Belinda Greenwood told Long term she says they need to find members that the lease runs out in the other funders and work towards being middle of February and if a significant more sustainable. portion of next year’s rent – around She says the pilot has been successful $15,000 – cannot be found by then, and around 35-40 groups regularly use the Hub will be forced to close. the facility. As well as approaching Auckland “We recently raised the rentals for Council, the Trust has applied for a community groups to use the space to number of other grants. The local around $20 a day depending on the board cannot provide money for rent, group and what they want to do,” she but member Julia Parfitt suggested says. “Keeping it affordable for people they continue talking to the Council’s is key.” governing body. The hub has a Givealittle page Belinda says that all the other hubs in givealittle.co.nz/org/whangahub

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Students from Whangaparaoa School star in Surf Lifesaving NZ’s Home for Christmas campaign. Last summer 702 lives were saved by New Zealand’s lifeguards and the students formed that number on Manly Beach, where they were filmed for the campaign. Principal Kevin Cronin says some of the students are surf lifesavers, and in this community we are surrounded by water, so the school was keen to be involved. Whangaparaoa School was also picked as it has a roll of more than 700 children. Photo, courtesy Surf Lifesaving NZ.

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Bird cull leaves Orewa residents stunned Over the past two months, an estimated 50 dead and dying birds have been found in gardens in the vicinity of Crampton Court and Hatton Road, Orewa. Doves, pigeons, thrushes and sparrows as well as a wax-eye have been found dead, or flopping around on the ground unable to fly. The problem began in October and since then Jayne and Bob Llovell have dealt with around 15 birds in this condition, a few of which Bob managed to revive by placing them in a dark, safe place. Neighbours and residents of nearby streets, including Jock Cameron and Roy Whittaker, found a similar number on their properties. They have also assisted elderly or disabled neighbours to bury birds. The residents suspect that the distressing problem is caused by someone feeding the birds ‘sleepy wheat’, which is wheat laced with a sedative. Forest and Bird agrees that this appears the most likely scenario. It is not illegal to use sleepy wheat – a substance that is used mainly in rural areas on ‘pest birds’. It is supposed to be used to sedate birds, so they can be collected, humanely killed and disposed of but if this is the substance responsible in Orewa, the birds are instead being left to die of starvation or because they are unable to fend off cats. “It sounds like a local person is using

Sirens signalled for New Year

Finding large numbers of dead and dying birds has angered and upset Orewa residents, from left, Jayne Llovell, Roy Whittaker, Bob Llovell and Jock Cameron.

sleepy wheat incorrectly, and in a residential area,” Forest and Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast coordinator Jenny Hanwell says, noting that it is illegal to poison native birds. Confirmation of the cause would require a necropsy by a vet but residents are worried about the cost. They say birds are plentiful in their neighbourhood, due to a nearby park and trees, and watching so many of them struggle to move has been horrible. Several have been partly eaten by cats.

“Some of the bigger birds recover and fly away – if they are not run over or attacked by other animals before they can recuperate,” Jayne says. “Smaller birds like wax-eyes and a young thrush had no chance at all. We want it stopped because it’s very distressing. We are burying a lot of dead birds and none of us should have to put up with this,” she says. Forest and Bird suggests putting affected birds somewhere warm, dark and safe, which can revive them depending on how much of the substance they have ingested.

Tsunami sirens could be installed in Orewa early next year, although no exact timeframe has yet been set. Auckland Council acting director of Emergency Management, Sarah Sinclair, says the sirens are part of a pilot. “As part of our ongoing tsunami risk workstream, we reviewed coastal communities most at risk from a tsunami and a pilot study on local tsunami warning sirens was launched in Orewa,” Sarah says. “This pilot will inform us of the needs and the most appropriate education methods for our at-risk communities, and includes evaluating current siren technology and noise modelling of who would hear the alerts, and how they will learn what to do.” She says Emergency Management envisages sirens will be installed by early 2020 in Orewa as part of the pilot, along with a public awareness campaign.

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Viewpoint with Janet Fitzgerald, Hibiscus & Bays Local Board deputy chair janet.fitzgerald@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Electoral overhaul needed

Whangaparaoa’s first Clothing Swap, held at the Community Hub on November 30 (HM November 20) was very busy, with more than 100 people arriving to swap clothing. More than $200 was raised for Whangaparaoa Community Hub, organiser Sharna Salthouse says. For more stories visit our website www.localmatters.co.nz

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Firstly let me thank all those electors who voted me back on to the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to represent the Hibiscus subdivision. To achieve the highest number of vote’s shows that people recognised that I am a community person, willing to listen and try to solve your concerns. We are so lucky to live in the environment we do, let’s all work together to keep it this way for future generations to enjoy. In my opinion the local body election process needs an overhaul. Although the Hibiscus Coast was one of the highest voting areas in Auckland still only 41 percent of eligible voters voted. Not even half! Why? People need to engage differently, with more public meetings, so candidates have to front up and be accountable. The cost of running a campaign is getting out of some people’s reach. We need people who will represent all of our community in a fair and equitable way. Should voting be compulsory? Should it be online or should we go back to polling booths like they do for Government elections? Should we have a range of ways to vote? The successful trial at this election was having election booths at universities, showing if we take voting to where people are, they are more likely to vote. Another thing that doesn’t help is the different electoral boundaries for local government versus central government – and the different types of voting: Mixed-Member Proportional for government elections; First Past the Post for Council and Local Boards; Single Transferable Vote for District Health Boards – many voters told me it was just too bewildering, and they gave up. Let’s hope these areas of confusion can be looked at urgently and a new system is in place for the next local body election. I’ve been involved with the Men’s Shed project and working with them to get the shed built. It’s a worthwhile community asset to be built on land leased to the group at Silverdale Memorial Park. They do a lot of projects that enrich our local community. While women usually find it easier to communicate with one another and share problems, it can be harder for men. The shed gives them a place to do this. Thank you to the contractors contributing their time and expertise to help the group. There is still a long way to go, so if you can help or make a donation, please contact them. Our local board presents five scholarships to students attending colleges in our local board area. The students CL need to consistently demonstrate IEN NE TS W good citizenship through community WE LC participation. It was a pleasure OM E presenting a scholarship at Wentworth DOUGLAS College prizegiving. There I heard how ACCOUNTING children are encouraged to overcome obstacles and grow in confidence. For all your accounting requirements Christmas is around the corner. I take • Monthly and end of year accounts this opportunity to wish everyone and tax returns. a happy and safe festive season. • Business planning and advice Spending time with family and friends • Personal Tax Returns around us are memories we treasure, reflect on and have for a lifetime. • ACC Coverplus Xtra Merry Christmas everyone. • Cashbooks, Xero & MYOB software

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Stuart Dwight

When Stuart Dwight says he is “ a man of many hats” it is not only because he owns more than 200 hats. He is actually referring to the wide variety of work he takes on – from organising major sporting and other events and live production at speedway and tennis champs to quizzmaster at the local pub. The 57-year-old Gulf Harbour resident has made hundreds of weddings, fashion shows, festivals and major sport and concerts happen.

started out when I was 15 doing a DJ job. I had a huge music collection and so a friend asked me to DJ for a 21st. I hired some gear and at the end of the night had three more bookings. My musical taste is really broad – from my parents’ rock ‘n’ roll records, to being a teenager in the 70s and into disco, new wave, punk, Aussie rock and Kiwi music. But then I might put on Beethoven in my office if I’m in the mood, and I love Blues.

hose DJ jobs were the start of it. I left school, and home, when I was 16 and worked for solicitors in an office, but at night and weekends I was DJing and that grew into starting my own events company. By then I’d invested in a whole lot of sound gear, and what could I do with all that equipment from Monday to Friday? I was 16 when I started my company, which I called Just for the Record. I researched ‘cause related marketing’ – like Dean Lonergan who did Yellow Ribbon and Fight for Life – it’s about using events to make money for good causes. I came up with a list of things I could do that I took to schools, charities and sports clubs, supporting charities like Women’s Refuge, Cancer charities – across the board. I have put on more than 150 fashion shows, Halloween parties, fun runs, triathlons, cycle events, school dances, themed parties, concerts, wine and food festivals, all while I was still living in Gisborne. During my OE, in England, I did just about everything apart from the traditional ‘work in a pub’. I was a chef, canteen manager, shipping and export manager for Sheaffer Pens, sold life insurance, was a bricklayer’s labourer. That’s where I met my wife, Jackie, who is English, and dragged her back to Gisborne after living in the UK for four years.

y father came out to New Zealand in the 60s as a ‘10 pound Pom’. He was 21 and mum was 19 when they came out on the ship – Mum was heavily pregnant with me. Dad was a builder, but also a thespian, always acting in the local theatre, building the sets or directing – so I guess the stage is in my blood. My brother lives in the UK and he played the lead role in Starlight Express for four years. We all grew up singing.

ack in Gisborne I worked for a concrete company but picked up where I had left off, running an entertainment company at nights and weekends, still with a charitable focus. In a small town it was a way of engaging the community and the charitable groups or school would sell the tickets, I would organise the event and we’d split the profits. Then one day the local radio station saw me promoting and doing the stage announcements at a Teddy Bear’s picnic and asked me if I was interested in radio announcing in the weekends. It appealed to me and I was a sponge; I discovered that I love radio and I learned as much as I could. I then applied to be a copywriter, which gave me a full time job in radio – I was on air from 4pm-7pm, which is drivetime, and during the day I was writing and voicing ads. For seven years in Gisborne I did the Town Clock Party for New Year’s Eve and we turned that into quite a big party. Of course 1999 was the biggest ever, but I was living in Auckland then, so I had to go back and forwards to organise it. It was one of the biggest events I’ve ever organised with an estimated 40,000 people filling the main streets and side streets. It was huge and went on from 6pm-2am, then everyone went to the beach to watch the sun rise on the new millennium.

e moved to Auckland in 1999 so I could take up a job as promotions manager at i98FM with Kerry Smith as our Breakfast host. Radio was in its heyday and it was humming. We had a very good team and a leader by the name of Grant Lee, who was outstanding. It was great fun – the survey parties were huge. Every six months there were listener surveys for the ratings and when the ratings were out, we had a party, whatever the ratings showed. After two years my role changed to special projects manager for The Radio Network. This was about finding ways to bring in non-traditional revenue, and much of this involved partnering with events, sponsors and advertisers. It meant working closely with groups like the V8 supercars in their early days. I’ve also worked on two America’s Cup promotions and a whole raft of sports and concerts. I vividly remember the Elton John/Billy Joel Piano Man tour at Mt Smart. Billy played first, then Elton

and then they played together with two grand pianos back to back. I wasn’t hanging out with the stars but I am very fortunate to have seen a lot of shows and events for free. Best of all, I got to work with a lot of very cool people, who are now lifelong friends.

love my music, but I’m also I’m a total sports junkie – I would watch snails racing. I played a lot of sports in my time – football, tennis, squash, cycling, triathlon and golf, which is the only one I still do now. I was a football referee and coach as well. We had to play rugby at our little country school, but our Scottish dad had us playing rugby on Saturday, and football on Sunday until we were old enough to make our own choice. I was into surfing too. Growing up in Gisborne you had two choices – you surfed or became a surf lifesaver, so it was board shorts or budgie smugglers. I love watching live sport and am very fortunate to work on some of the biggest sporting events, including the ASB tennis classic. I sit at the back of the grandstand and do the live production and I have also been the MC. It’s a fantastic thing to be part of, but it does mean spending two weeks squashed into a tiny hot box, with the challenge umpire, technical crew and others – about 8-10 of us. The tiny room is full of electronics to check line calls and so on and it gets extremely hot. Recently I was stadium announcer for the Chatham Cup Final, which is like the NZ version of the FA Cup, as well as for the U20 FIFA World Cup games in Whangarei and New Plymouth. It’s my job to welcome the crowd and give details of the team lineups and so on. I worked with NZ Football on the All White’s last World Cup campaign as event manager, which was pretty exciting. We had the largest football crowd ever in Wellington at the Cake Tin when the All Whites played Peru and drew.

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hen we moved to Auckland we were living in Rothesay Bay and were renting but when we wanted to buy a place we went further north. Coming from Gisborne, I need to be by the sea and we found value for money in Gulf Harbour, where we’ve lived for 18 years. Jackie and I have always loved animals and our house is always full of dogs.

ne of my jobs at the moment is playing the music between races and doing technical production for Western Springs speedway, so I get to see some fantastic racing and also play music. It’s actually a family audience, so we play a wide range of music rather than what you’d think of as stereotypical hardcore rock. You have to read the audience which I learned very young from DJ work at weddings and 21sts. I’ve done hundreds of weddings and seen more white dresses than you can imagine! At family events like those you start with stuff for the older ones, and then the music changes as the night goes on. I’m also a quizzmaster for Believe it or Not’s pub and corporate quizzes, including at The Good Home and recently The Wade in Silverdale. Believe it or Not provides the quiz content but there’s a knack to running a good quiz and I have developed a bit of a following. It can make a difference to how much fun it is. I learned about showmanship from people like Bruce Forsyth. It’s about making people remember you. So about 20 years ago I started wearing hats. I have a huge collection –193 trilbys, 12 cowboy hats and a bunch of random hats. I still keep an eye out for good hats and came home with 12 from our last trip to England. I have a big hat stand in my office at home, like the ones you see outside a pharmacy. Quite often people don’t recognise me without a hat.

| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

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Financial hurdles for Weiti Bay development The Weiti Bay development above Karepiro Bay is facing financial issues, with up to 33 residential lots and 33.5ha of yet-to-be-developed land within the subdivision put up for mortgagee sale. The sale offer ended in November and Bayleys Orewa real estate agent Michael Guy says negotiations are underway regarding the 33.5ha, which is to be developed into a residential village consented for 171 homes. He says there were a large number of offers on the sections, which are on the seaward side, but all were rejected. A list showing expected prices of $750,000-$1.5million for the sections has since been issued. Only 28 lots are now on the market, with the rest withdrawn from sale.

The annual potato growing competition held between the three local Rotary Clubs – Orewa, Whangaparaoa and the Satellite Club of Orewa-Millwater – was fiercely contested. Rotarians are given a growing bag and two seed potatoes, from which they grow a crop. At the weigh-in on December 3, 38 people competed for individual best weight and the clubs sought best aggregate of their top 10 heaviest spuds. This year the Rotary Satellite Club swept the board, taking best individual weight (1.428kg by Brian Mullan) and best club aggregate weight (7.057 kg). Rotary Whangaparaoa was second, and Rotary Orewa third. All the potatoes were gifted to Love Soup. Pictured is Brian Mullan with the trophy for the heaviest spud.

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The structure of the development’s finances is complex, with the landowner and development company separate entities. Green & MacCahill Holdings owns all the land, apart from the 117 lots at Weiti Bay that have already sold. The development company is Weiti Development LP. Its director, Evan Williams, says the mortgagee sales originated from issues within the development and landholding structures, which he hopes can be resolved soon. He says confidentiality obligations means he cannot say more. The 860ha development has been the subject of a number of protests related to sediment damage in the Long Bay Okura Marine Reserve.

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December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Even more time needed for Nautilus repairs Repairs to the structure of Orewa’s Nautilus apartments, due to finish at the end of this month, could take until the end of May. The project has already taken a year longer than originally predicted when work began on repairing the leaky building at the end of 2016. Recladding and waterproofing work should be complete in March with delays due, in part, to noise restrictions. Full replacement of the roof is a separate contract that was due to be completed in February, but is now expected to take until May. The big plastic canopy, required for re-roofing, will be shifted towards the rear of the building in late February. This in turn allows internal works on the Level 12 apartments and corridor to be progressively completed. Auckland Council paid $25 million of the cost by order of the High Court, but the final bill will be far higher for apartment owners. Scaffolding was removed last week. Prendos NZ is project managing the work on the 12-storey structure. It’s director Philip O’Sullivan says, with the removal of the scaffolding to the tower, the remaining demolition of the Level 4 apartment patios can recommence. He says progress is slow due to agreed noise restrictions. Once the waterproofing and reconstruction is complete in March, the site crew from Legacy Construction will vacate the Orewa Library carpark. The roofing contractors do not need

Inside and out, the Nautilus roof tent.

use of the carpark as they have separate access. Mr O’Sullivan says Prendos thanks the Council, library staff and the community for their patience and cooperation. “I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of Sean Cavan, who is currently battling cancer. Sean was involved with this project from the beginning and led the remediation team for Prendos up until March this year,” he says.

Nature is slowly reclaiming the land at 85-89 Brightside Road, where Ozone Limited has resource consent to build 61 apartments. Director Colin Craig had hoped that work would begin on building the three, six-storey blocks this year, but says other projects, on the North Shore, made that impossible. He says the company is still working on concept and contract details and is in no rush to start, with no current timeframe for work to begin. “We have access to a lot of good contractors when we are ready to start, so I don’t expect that to be an issue,” he says.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

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n I N T R O D U C I N G

Bombay to Goa Gulf Harbour has a new Indian restaurant to enjoy, overlooking the Marine Village canal. Bombay to Goa opened about four months ago courtesy of Lucky Singh, who has been a chef for 27 years in both New Zealand and India. He moved to New Zealand 17 years ago and came to the Coast in 2013. “People in Gulf Harbour, and all along the peninsula are very friendly, so I am very pleased to be doing business here,” Lucky says. True to the name, the restaurant’s food celebrates the flavours from India’s West Coast between Bombay (now Mumbai) and Goa. “Because Bombay and Goa are along the Coast many coconuts grow there, so our curries use many creamy, coconut flavours,” Lucky says. Fish Goan curry, which comes from Goa and uses coconut milk, is the restaurant’s signature dish. Lucky says the flavour of the food he cooks in New Zealand is very different to the dishes he would make in India. “In India the food is very hot, not from the heat of chilli, but the large amount of spices used such as cardamom, cinnamon and curry leaves. Customers here don’t like the heat as much, so the Kiwi version of our food tends to be sweeter.” Even though most of his family live in New Zealand now, Lucky says he still

n I N T R O D U C I N G

From left, Svetlana Markoski, Nikola Markoski and Chen Yi.

Chefs Nikola Markoski and Chen Yi have combined their considerable experience to open Due Amici in Manly Village. The two friends have been cooking Italian cuisine together for five years. “We both love Italian food, so teaming up made sense,” Chen says. Nikola’s wife Svetlana Markoski is also a co-owner, bringing 10 years of customer service expertise to the venture. The trio have given the building a rustic re-vamp to create the feeling of a traditional Italian eatery, using brick wallpaper and classical interior paintings to decorate the space. While setting up, Svetlana says the public’s interest in their restaurant was very welcoming. “So many locals would ask what we were doing and would offer their help. It’s such a lovely, tight-knit community up here – it reminds Nikola and I of home.”

Nikola and Svetlana are from Macedonia, a small country on the Balkan Peninsula in south-east Europe. The couple grew up together, attending the same kindergarten. They reconnected years after leaving school and have been married for five years. They have two children. Chen moved to New Zealand from China in 2008 and has specialised in Italian cuisine since. “I prefer cooking Italian because, from pizza to veal, I love all Italian food,” Chen says. Chef Nikola’s 20 years’ experience in Italian cuisine has led to an extensive menu. “We have had a lot of great feedback about the menu, as people appreciate having a choice,” Nikola says. “We have pages of different pizzas, pastas and meats for people to try, so we have seen plenty of customers return to try more of our dishes.”

Due Amici

Lucky Singh

tries to visit India every few years. “Going back to India reminds me that I’ve gotten used to Kiwi food, because I struggle with the heat sometimes!” While Lucky is a business owner, he says cooking food and socialising is what he enjoys the most – so customers can expect to see him front of house. “Food is my hobby because I like to see people’s reactions when they try my dishes. That’s the part I enjoy – making people happy.” “I want our customers to know that we will look out for them here, and that they will be greeted as a friend.”

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

Indian Restaurant

Inspired by the charm of a classic Italian restaurant, Due Amici brings the authentic feeling of Italy to Little Manly in the heart of Whangaparaoa. Serving tasty, home-style Italian food, Chef Niko has created a mouth-watering menu

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Order online: www.bombaytogoa.co.nz 3/162 Harbour Village Drive, Gulf Harbour Phone: 428 2186 | Open: 11am-8.45pm

48 Rawhiti Rd, Manly Whangaparaoa | Phone 424 7201

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December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

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It has taken almost four years to get these bike racks installed at Gulf Harbour ferry terminal.

Ferry finally gets bike racks After almost four years of trying to get bike racks installed on Gulf Harbour reserve for ferry users, local board members were pleased to see them finally installed on November 30. The process has been frustrating for the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, and included a dispute with Auckland Transport (AT) about where the money might come from – eventually AT agreed to fund the racks. A year ago, AT advised former local board member Caitlin Watson that it would install 4-5 Sheffield bike stands, under a shelter, once Council gave approval, with the cost to be around $30,000-$40,000. Nothing further was heard, until the racks appeared recently. An AT spokesperson says AT Metro

Services commissioned this work “as Gulf Harbour was identified as a site that lacked sufficient cycle parking for commuters”. The seven racks can hold up to 14 bikes. The total cost is $18,000. Local board member Janet Fitzgerald says she is pleased to see the bike racks in place – something that was advocated for in the term before last, then former local board member Caitlin Watson advocated vigorously last term.” A shelter over the stands was asked for and she says she hopes it will be provided in time for winter. The AT spokesperson says at the moment there are no plans for a shelter, however the concrete pad is future-proofed for size should a shelter be added in future.

Cycle recycled

A bike that had seen better days and was destined for the local tip has been brought back to life by Hibiscus Men’s Shed members. The bike was stripped down, the parts cleaned, repaired and painted and then reassembled. It was given to Whangaparaoa Police, who said they are ready, willing and able to find it a new owner.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

health&family

Pay rise agreed for ‘undervalued’ school support staff Teacher aides and other school support staff could be in for a significant pay rise and better job security, as negotiations between the Ministry of Education and the NZEI Te Riu Roa union continue (HM November 20). Support staff includes teacher aides, administration staff, librarians, kaiārahi i te reo, therapists and technicians in primary, intermediate and secondary schools. Teacher aides care for some of the most

vulnerable children in schools, and can deal with challenging behaviour every day, yet 90 percent of them are paid less than the Living Wage ($21.15 per hour). The Ministry’s offer of a $21.15 per hour minimum was accepted by members last week. All support staff currently earning at or above $21.15 per hour will receive an increase of 3 percent on printed rates and all members will receive a further 3 percent increase on printed rates in 12 months’ time.

An NZEI spokesperson says the pay rise for all those currently paid less than the Living Wage – which will mean an increase of as much as 19.5 percent for staff on the minimum wage – will be funded by an increase in schools’ operations grants. Meanwhile, the union enters talks with the Ministry over pay equity this week. Issues to be hammered out here include improving job security for teacher aides – more than 60 percent are on fixed term contracts, with no

certainty of employment and no pay over the holidays. NZEI says that the discussions aim to address the historical undervaluation of the role. The union wants the pay scale to take into consideration a person’s qualifications, experience, responsibility and skill. “We are arguing these roles are crucial to children’s education and the school’s functioning. So they need to be properly remunerated and secure jobs,” the spokesperson says.

Students onboard for rat trapping Gulf Harbour School’s Year 5 students have joined the fight for Hibiscus Coast birdlife by having rat traps in their home gardens – catching 12 rats in two weeks. The students built their own traps at the school during two workshops last month, run by Forest and Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast coordinator Jenny Hanwell and Forest and Bird volunteers. Small groups nailed together wooden boxes with a metal gate on either end – one with an opening for a rat to climb inside to a baited snap-trap. The kits were donated by Auckland Council. After two weeks, students were given the option to return their traps so they could be redistributed to other families. Only 12 traps out of 70 were returned. Jenny says the reasons for returning traps included moving out of the country imminently, living in an

apartment with no garden, and being squeamish about dead rats. While Forest and Bird have built traps with local schools before, this is the first time families have been invited to record their findings on data website. trap.nz. Forest and Bird’s eventual goal is to create community hubs where one in four houses will have an at-home trap, starting with areas closest to Shakespear’s pest-proof fence. “Schools are a great way to create a network within the community, and a project like this needs communitywide backing,” Jenny says. The traps are child and pet safe and certified humane by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee. Jenny says she makes a point of focusing on conservation and what is being protected, rather than the facts of killing

Forest and Bird volunteers with Gulf Harbour School students, their rat traps and soft-toy versions of the birds they are trapping to protect.

animals, when teaching the students. “We make sure the children know that some animals that are pests in New Zealand aren’t a problem in their countries of origin – but we have to control them here because our unique native species can’t survive otherwise,” she says. From what the students say, the

message has sunk in. “It’s important that we keep checking and re-baiting our traps, because rats breed really fast and then they will hurt more birds,” student Isla Goode says. “I’ll be the one clearing out the rats in my house – my mum is too scared!” Info: forestandbird.org.nz/projects/pestfree-peninsula-hibiscus-coast Sharleen Voss Waipu Cove resident

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December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Safety of 5G questioned An opponent of the transition to fifth-generation cellphone networks, known as 5G, has called on the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board to recommend that Auckland Council put pressure on Government to place a moratorium on the roll out, until research into its health effects is carried out. In his presentation to the local board on November 21, North Shore psychologist Michael Vaughan said that the Ministry of Health and telecommunications companies are not funding new research, but relying on studies into 3G and 4G. “5G is very different – higher energy and higher frequency,” Mr Vaughan says. “I am not against technology and enjoy using it, but it absolutely must be safe.” He says overseas studies are inconclusive with some showing potential health effects for people and some not. “Rolling it out on the basis that we think it will be all right, even though we haven’t studied those frequencies and their effect on the body is irresponsible,” he says. A chief concern raised by Mr Vaughan was the likelihood of 5G requiring more transmitters to be placed near homes and businesses. However, Vodafone, which switched on its commercial 5G network last week in parts of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, says in New Zealand that is not the case – to begin with, at least. Its spokesperson says Vodafone is using

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A Christmas ‘to do’ list Local 5G protestors express their views in Whangaparaoa.

the existing 3.5MHz radio spectrum and installing new equipment onto existing cell sites to enable 5G. “We will be upgrading around 1500 cell sites over the next few years,” the spokesperson says. “In future – at least a few years away – there will be a new element which uses millimetre wave spectrum. We expect this will be for specific cases such as offices, hospitals and factories where you need super fast data transmission. Installing new cell sites is a costly, time consuming process, so we will plan future deployments very carefully.” Mr Vaughan says it is still very concerning that telcos plan to use those higher frequencies, given the scarcity of research. “People in those offices, factories and hospitals will become the subjects of an experiment with potentially serious consequences for their health,” he says. “I’m sure Vodafone and the other telcos will continue to proclaim that there is no evidence of harm from 5G, omitting to mention that there is also no evidence that it is safe.” An online petition can be found on Greenpeace’s www.toko.org.nz website (search for Halt 5G).

As we enter the festive season we’re typically bombarded with the usual health messages such as – keep to healthy foods, don’t overeat, don’t stray from your usual healthy eating, keep to your sleep times, don’t eat junk foods or drink alcohol regularly, don’t stop your exercises. These are all great points in principle, but during holiday time I like to think more about the ‘dos’ than the ‘don’ts’. Yes, it’s good to avoid going off the rails, which is easily done – but it shouldn’t be all about restrictions. It’s not known as ‘the silly season’ for nothing! If you can think differently about what you do in the sense that it will make you feel good – then the whole season’s festivities can be perceived in a much more positive way. Here are some things that might be helpful to keep in mind: Do try to remember it is a holiday time – allow yourself the time and space to actually kick back and relax. We can be prone to over committing to seeing friends and family, doing chores, cooking, hosting, travelling and so on. Unless those are the things you love and enjoy, for some it becomes exhausting. And you can end up feeling worse after the holidays than before it started • Do carve out some time to actually do a bit more of the things you truly enjoy. Whether that’s just passing time, mastering a new hobby or picking up an old one – do something that puts a smile on your face and makes you feel elated. It’s good for the soul • Do try to call in to neighbours to connect and say hi. You never know who might be alone or need help. Life is so busy these days and we can sometimes forget about those in our community, in particular those who might be less fortunate or less able • Do find some time alone for an hour somewhere in each day. When around family for the holidays, all the chaos can be stressful. Something as simple as a nice walk to give yourself some space helps. Ideally schedule a mini-break away for the day or overnight that is about you and not anyone else • Finally, and most importantly, do enjoy yourself without feeling guilty about it. The occasional indulgence is what the holidays are about. Enjoy the nice food, sleep in if you can, forget the chores, pamper yourself, go out and socialise. These things are not only great but absolutely necessary. Life is for living. So unwind and recharge ready for the New Year to come. The coast is such a great place to live with amazing nature and great people. Go discover and make the most of it. Here comes a new decade! I hope it brings you adventures, happiness and joy.

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health&family

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In St Matthew’s gospel, we are told about the bright Star of Bethlehem which led the wise men to the birthplace of Jesus where they left three gifts. This imagery has become one of the most recognisable features of Christmas around the world. The Greek word, generally translated as ‘star’ (αστερα - astera/astra from which we get ‘astronomy’) has other meanings too. It can also mean planet, or could refer to other objects such as comets or meteorites. One thing is certain, St Matthew did not mention anything about the brightness of the star, or that it held any significance to anyone but the Magi. So what possible explanations are there for this significant image of Christmas time? Could the Magi have seen a supernova? A supernova is when a star explodes and often we can see the star dramatically increasing in brightness. Some of these supernovae are so bright that they can even be seen during the day. Around the time of these events, the only people recording these celestial events in detail were the Chinese and Koreans. One such star was recorded by the Chinese in the spring of 5 BC, and was seen for more than two months. However, its position in the constellation Capricorn means that it is unlikely that it would have seemed to “lead” the wise men. It simply was in the wrong direction. How about a comet? Again, we look to the records of the Chinese and two possible comets are listed. One in 5 BC and the other in 4 BC. One advantage of the comet theory is that comets move across the sky. This could fit the interpretation of the gospel that the star ‘moved’ as it directed the Magi. In most cultures, a comet was seen as an omen of death and destruction, so it is more likely that the Magi would have run from, rather than go towards such an omen. Was it a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn? Kepler put forward the idea that the star could be a close conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn. In rare circumstances the two would appear to form a single, bright star. Unfortunately there was no such conjunction in the relevant period in history. Interestingly there was a conjunction of Jupiter with two other planets: Saturn and Mars in 5 BC, in the constellation of Pisces. However they would not have joined together as one big star. Rather they would have looked like the recent conjunction of Venus, Jupiter and Saturn we saw just a few weeks ago. Falling stars look like they are moving. Could it have been one of them? Many artistic impressions of the Christmas story show the star looking like a meteor, or falling star. The problem is that meteors are very short lived, lasting just seconds. There is no way that the wise men could have followed one. Also, early astronomers or astrologers would have been very aware of things in the night sky and would certainly have recognised a meteor as nothing particularly out of the ordinary. There are a number of candidates that could scientifically explain the Christmas star, however none of them are particularly strong. Barring some archaeological discovery to settle the question, the mystery of the Star of Bethlehem will remain in the realm of faith. One thing we can all agree on is the message which is attached to this imagery of the Christmas star: “… on Earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14).

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December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Art keeps lids from landfill A collection of 2607 bottle caps has been turned into a mural by Ōrewa College’s Learning Support Centre. The mural, which has a permanent place in a courtyard at the college, was revealed at a presentation ceremony on December 4. Ten students from the centre, which supports students with special needs, created the piece with help from Learning Support Centre teaching assistant Nonavee Dale. The background was painted by Nonavee based on students’ designs, then the caps were individually attached, using a drill, by the students. Lucy Krinkel, who created the river on the piece, says putting the caps onto the mural was the most fun part. At the presentation, credit was given

to student Tom Joe for drilling in the most caps – several hundred. While the school spent two terms collecting bottle tops for the project, most of the caps were provided by Nonavee, who has been collecting them for seven years. “This project finally gave me some use for them,” Nonavee says. “I haven’t been throwing them out because while bottles can be recycled, the caps cannot.” Nonavee says the extra abilities of the Learning Centre students makes them great artists. “As an example, some of our autistic students are fantastic with colour and can easily pick out the different tones, which has created a lovely gradient of colour on the finished artwork.” The piece is called Papatūānuku,

The mural was inspired by student designs, and the work of artist Michelle Stitzlein.

meaning Mother Nature and the land. It shows that everything in nature is

recycled, by showing the earth, sea, and sky.

Coast schools welcome cash injection for infrastructure

Coast schools will get a windfall from Government next year, targeted towards urgent school property improvements. The amount of the one-off cash injection is worked out at $693 per student. Local schools will therefore get from $250,000 to $400,000, depending on the size of their roll. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Education Minister Chris Hipkins announced the funding at the Labour conference early this month. Labour list MP based in Rodney, Marja Lubeck says the money is the

biggest capital injection for school maintenance in at least 25 years. “I have visited many of our Rodney schools over the last couple of years and it is clear that plenty of them could do with this money to help with classroom upgrades and work on the school grounds,” she says. “The funding in this package will help with issues such as fixing roofs, windows and walls to provide modern, comfortable classrooms for kids to learn in.” Local colleges and primary schools have responded positively to the news,

although they all want to see more detail about how the money can be spent. Orewa College principal Kate Shevland says the school is currently waiting for a master plan from the Ministry of Education to help it manage growth. “This will influence where we put the resources for upgrades and modernisation,” Ms Shevland says. Stanmore Bay School principal Matt Sides says this will be a great injection of money, although it will not provide the school with a much-needed rebuild and removal of aged relocatable classrooms. “We are waiting with

interest for the details as to what we can and cannot spend it on. There are planned building maintenance projects we would love to kick off as soon as feasible,” he says. How much do they get? Gulf Harbour School, $334,719; Orewa College, $400,000; Orewa North School, $253,638; Orewa Primary, $314,622; Red Beach School, $396,396; Silverdale School, $400,000; Stanmore Bay School, $$400,000; Whangaparaoa College, $400,000; Whangaparaoa School, $400,000.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

health&family

Year 8 artists Kaede Prescott, centre left, and Grace Wallace, sit beneath their paintings with Inspector Mark Fergus, left, and Snr Constable Bernie Watt. Right, Red Beach School’s art piece.

Team Pluto with the latest FlipRobot model.

Arresting art brightens station Top tech team heads to Sydney Three new art pieces, created by Ōrewa College and Red Beach School students, are on display at Ōrewa Police Station. Students from both schools presented their work to the station on November 28. Rodney area commander, Inspector Mark Fergus says police staff were “blown away” with the artwork. “Having the art displayed in our foyer is a great way to humanise our space,” he says. “People usually come here for reasons that aren’t very nice, so we hope the art brightens up their experience here.” Two paintings were created by Year 8 Ōrewa College students, Kaede Prescott and Grace Wallace, both inspired by life on the Coast. “We enjoy volunteering time to make art,” Kaede says. “We also created a group mural for Ōrewa Beach Kindergarten earlier this year.” Kaede and Grace’s class visited new entrants at Red Beach School to help

them create a piece of artwork for the station. The end result featured 32 paper people representing the community – with Senior Constable and school community officer, Bernie Watt, at the centre. “The moustache isn’t grey on the art piece, so they kindly made a version of me from a few years ago,” Snr Constable Watt says. He presented a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design course to Year 8 students at Ōrewa College, which encourages students to take ownership of their personal spaces, and respect public ones, to reduce crime. From this, Year 8 teacher Fleur Knight suggested students help decorate the police station, because it was a central part of the community. Inspector Fergus says police will feature new student art at the station every year. “We think it’s a great idea – it has genuinely put a smile on our faces.”

A robotics team from Whangaparāoa College will compete in the inaugural OneWorld Global Robotics competition in Sydney next year. The global championship will see Year 8 to 11 students from three other New Zealand schools, as well as Australia, Singapore, China and Taiwan, take part. Team Pluto, with members Lenny Maguire, Shiven Pillay, Angus MacLeod, Angus Cameron and Terry Whittingham, qualified for the global championship after placing second overall at the Auckland area competition, held on November 16 and 17. The competition’s theme was ‘Smart Cities’, and participants were marked on their ability to solve problems, including over-crowding and pollution, and communicate their ideas in three different sections – technical, postermaking and presentation awards. The group won both the poster making and presentation. In the technical section, Whangaparaoa

had to control five of the event’s robots by using code to make them perform certain tasks. While all five group members have been learning to code since Year 6, they say teaching a robot Artificial Intelligence was a new skill they had to learn. Pluto member Lenny Maguire says the biggest challenge was the competition’s time constraints. “It was really stressful, but it taught us how to work quickly within a limited timeframe,” Lenny says. “Apparently we will have more time in Sydney, so we are looking forward to that.” The competition is run by Actura, an Australian organisation that encourages engagement in STEAM subjects – science, technology, engineering, art and maths. Actura say the OneWorld Robotics Competition is the first to offer AIoT – the combination of artificial intelligence technology with the Internet of Things infrastructure.

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environment

Native birds backing local musician A Silverdale musician has incorporated the songs of native birds into her music, including the distinctive notes of the tui and the sounds of two kiwi fighting. Henrieta Tornyai, who uses the stage name Henika, says the idea of sampling birdsong had been at the back of her mind for a long time. “I clearly remember the first time I heard a tui sing when my family and I arrived in New Zealand from Slovakia when I was eight,” Henika says. “There is no sound like it in Europe. I always thought it would make a great sample for a song and now I’m finally doing it.” Henika sourced the birdsong by walking around Tiritiri Matangi Island, recording the sounds she heard with a boom mic and headphones. The bulk of her material comes from the island’s dawn. “I had to wake up at 4.30am to catch it, but it was so worth it – the island just comes alive with birdsong.” Many birds from the dawn chorus feature on her upcoming album, Strange Creatures. The live recordings accompany Henika’s voice, and instruments that are all played by her. “I’ve tried to write the lyrics from the birds’ point of view, which has turned out to be quite relatable to us as humans,” she says. Henika studied a graduate diploma in music production at the Music and Audio Institute of NZ (MAINZ), where the album doubled as her main

Lhedz Caingod collects a fresh egg.

Chickens enrolled at Silverdale School Henika performs with several other bands, including jazz group Boom Boom Delux, as a double bass player and vocalist.

assignment. “I am a serial procrastinator, so MAINZ was great at putting me under pressure to work on the album, as well as giving me the skills, equipment and support I needed.” While she completed her course last month, Henika says the album’s release won’t be until next year. For updates and to hear Henika’s music, visit henika.co

Ratepayers support pest free project

Forest & Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast project has received a substantial funding boost from Auckland Council’s Waste Minimisation Innovation Fund. The organisation was granted $45,000, to be paid out in portions from now until 2022. Council has also agreed to fund 1200 traps and tunnels for pest eradication work in Gulf Harbour and Army Bay next year. Another local funding recipient is Wainui School, which received $3243 towards its Garden to Table project. The money was allocated at a recent meeting of the Environment and Climate Change Committee.

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Silverdale School’s roll has increased by six brown shaver chickens, who moved from a free-range farm in Whangarei to the school at the end of October. The 18-month-old old hens are already laying eggs, which will be used for the school’s Garden to Table kitchen sessions attended by nine Year 3 and Year 4 classes. Teacher and Garden to Table coordinator Carolyn Holmes says the students have learnt a lot about how to look after chickens since their arrival. “The kids are very involved with the chooks. We have people checking for eggs every day, as well as cleaning out the coop,” she says. Food scraps from the kitchen sessions are fed to the chickens, as well as chicken feed. The chickens live in a fenced enclosure, shaded by plants such as berry bushes. The students are holding a competition to name the birds. The coop was built by parent “legend” Leigh Gordon. In the holidays, the chickens will live with Mrs Holmes on her farm. The school thanks Bunnings for the donation of supplies for both the coop and the school’s garden.

| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Orewa College’s Enviro group with Richard Leckinger of Be a Tidy Kiwi, standing, teacher Sarah O’Donnell, far left, and Lyn Mayes of The Packaging Forum, far right.

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A set of rubbish and recycling bins at Orewa College, valued at around $1600, was won for the school through the creative efforts of its Enviro Group. The mainly Year 7 students in the Enviro Group entered a national competition to make a video pledging to “put litter in its place”. Along with eight other schools, they won a set of bins that are colour coded to help with correct separation of rubbish – red for landfill, green for compostable materials and yellow for recycling. Year 7 teacher Sarah O’Donnell, who formed the Enviro Group, says the clearly marked bins are making a difference, with more of the right things being put in the right bins by students and staff. Compostibles end up in the school’s worm farm or compost bin. The competition was a partnership between the charitable organisation Be a Tidy Kiwi and The Packaging Forum, which is responsible among

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other things, for the soft plastic recycling scheme. The Packaging Forum’s litter project manager, Lyn Mayes, says 18 councils have adopted the new bins in the past three years, although there has been some resistance due to a desire for colours that blend in, rather than stand out. However, Lyn says that eye-catching bins that use nationally agreed recycling and waste colours work by helping the public identify which bin to use. Be A Tidy Kiwi programme manager Richard Leckinger says “binfrastructure” trials in towns around the country have reduced contamination of recycling, which happens when non-recyclable materials are added. “We are delighted to get these bins into schools that otherwise couldn’t afford them,” Richard says. The scheme received $1.72 million from Government’s Waste Minimisation Fund.

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FE AT U R E

From left, clockwise from back left, Pippa Cannell, Hannah Whitfield, Rhonda Kendall, Michelle Managh and Julie Lane at the inaugural Santa Session. Orewa Lions get into the spirit of fundraising. Jane and Mat Bogust at the first Santa Session. Mitch Boocock from I Am Hope, right, accepts the Santa Session proceeds from Lions’ Clive Hebben.

First Santa session ‘a learning curve’ for Lions Orewa Lions’ first Santa Session saw people dressed in Christmas outfits enjoy the hospitality of eight bars and restaurants in Orewa town centre. The event, on Sunday, December 1 is modelled on a fundraiser that has been held in Sydney for more than 15 years and now attracts around 1000 revellers. The idea is that people, dressed in festive style, pay for a wristband that gives them access to special food and drink offers at participating bars. Orewa Lions sold 100 tickets and a total of $4255 was raised for mental health charity I Am Hope. Organiser Clive Hebben of Orewa Lions says de-briefing is ongoing.

“The first event is a learning curve, but we are very happy with how it went and it will definitely become a regular on the pre-Christmas calendar,” Clive says. He said Lions particularly want to thank the venues, which all put on special deals and live music to create a festive atmosphere. “One thing that stood out for me was the number of people who visited venues they hadn’t been to previously – so that was a positive thing for the businesses involved.” He says the Santas and elves out and about in Orewa attracted attention and made people keen to get involved next year. Clive says the event is not designed to be for the same charity every time, and

he hopes that a range will benefit. Lion Mandy Hebben says when Lions were choosing the charity for the inaugural Santa Session, a number of people questioned whether a mental health charity was a good fit with an event that takes place in licensed premises (in Sydney it was originally called ‘the Santa Pub Crawl’). She says this was carefully considered by Lions and discussed with the charity in question, I Am Hope, right at the start. “I Am Hope was happy as it’s not their event, it is a Lions event,” Mandy says. “They are just the recipients of the funding.” She says whichever charity was chosen,

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there was potential conflict with an event that includes alcohol. “However, I Am Hope representatives also talked about the positives for mental health that come from getting people out and socialising, and for men in particular opening up over a beer,” Mandy says. “Creating a social, fun atmosphere with responsible drinking was definitely the focus of our first Santa Session, which is why there was a set time (2pm-7pm) and it was held on a Sunday afternoon.” The event was the swansong for longterm Orewa Lions couple Mandy and Clive, who are moving out of the area. “You could say it’s our parting gift,” Clive says.

| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2018

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Safeswim’s water quality data shows that Little Manly Beach continues to have the poorest water quality on the Hibiscus Coast, and investigations are continuing into the cause. Swimsafe is a joint initiative between Auckland Council, Watercare, Surf Lifesaving Northern Region and Auckland Regional Public Health Service. As well as gathering data to advise the public on water quality, it works to locate and fix any issues. Problems generally only occur after rainfall – rainfall data is used to predict water quality with around 8090 percent accuracy. Last summer (November 2018-April 30, 2019), Little Manly had the poorest water quality in the area, being swimmable just 78 percent of that time. By comparison, Hatfields Beach was the best – swimmable 97 percent of the time. Although Red Beach was swimmable 91.2 percent of the time, water quality issues were investigated there last summer and Swimsafe programme manager Nick Vigar says “a number of issues were fixed”, with follow up sampling still taking place. Mr Vigar says a combination of water quality results and swimmer numbers help Swimsafe prioritise beaches for further investigations. These start with outlet screening – testing water quality in wet and dry weather from

all stormwater outlets along the beach. “Where these show there may be issues, we progress into testing further up in the network, looking at public assets, as well as private property investigations, if required,” Mr Vigar says. “This summer we have an active investigation at Little Manly. The stormwater outlet screening has indicated that there appear to be issues back up in the stormwater and wastewater networks – the exercise now is to find those issues and fix them.” Auckland Council’s water quality targeted rate has enabled $452 million to be invested in cleaning up beaches, harbours and streams. This summer more beaches than ever will be able to be checked on the Safeswim website – something the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board requested last term. New beaches included are Arkles Bay, Orewa River, Red Beach (North and South), Okoromai, Te Haruhi Bay and Tindalls Bay. Council recommends you take a look at the site before heading to a particular beach. Info: safeswim.org.nz

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Coast Summer feature

Summer of sails

Local sailors are looking forward to the Boxing Day Pole Race at the Manly Sailing Club, which began as a contest between sailors with holiday homes on the Coast, and resident locals. The event has always been open to any type of boat to enter and over the years various types of handicap systems have been used but in recent years it has been a straight out line honours drag race to the Pole (off Orewa Beach) and back that has won the trophy. The club will also host a one-day regatta on Auckland Anniversary Day for O’pen Skiff and RS Feva boats, which is a first for the sailing club. Clockwise from top left, Georgie Shivnan, left, and Lauren Morley made Christmas trees out of old book pages. Santa’s arrival on a fire truck caused a Pied Piper-like stream of children who followed the truck around the field, then surrounded him hoping for lollies. Molly Smith, left and Emily Rackham. The Stella Maris choir entertained an audience who enjoyed picnics in the late afternoon sun.

Stellar turnout for Stella Maris Santa Carols on the Coast, held at Stella Maris school for the first time on November 30, was a hit with local families. Organiser Tasha Maloney says around 3000 people attended, many picnicking on the field while listening to live entertainment, including carols sung by the school choir. MC for the event, Rodney MP Mark

Mitchell, asked some of the children in the choir what they like best about Christmas. Only one was brave enough to say ‘presents’, while most opted for “time with your family,” or “celebrating Jesus’ birth”. “Good surf” and “going to the beach” were also mentioned. Tasha says the tradition of Christmas was really felt and another highlight was the arrival of the fire truck with Santa on

board. Children raced after the truck as it drove around the field and Santa was soon swamped with youngsters once he stepped down from the vehicle The amount of money raised has not been calculated as yet, but Tasha says they are pleased with the result and the school, and Silverdale Business Association, want to make it an annual event.

The recent snorkel day run by Experiencing Marine Reserves from Shakespear Regional Park on November 30 saw a record 173 participants. Snorkellers saw schools of yellow eyed mullet, as well as tube worms and triple fins. Just under half the participants had never snorkelled before with almost all wanting to do it again. Organisers thank the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board and The Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation for their support. Pictured is snorkel guide Derek Brenchley teaching Farheen Siddiouf and Malaha Siddiouf. Photo, Lorna Doogan – EMR.

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Kayaker causes major callout In the column last month, I noted that the number of callouts for the unit had been increasing and over the past few weeks that has not let up – this will only increase as the Christmas and New Year holiday approaches. One callout in particular is worth noting, with some lessons to be learned for anyone who enjoys getting out on the water, in any type of watercraft. On a recent Monday morning when the weather was not at its best, with wind blowing up to 25 knots and raining, the pagers went off with an urgent callout to Hibiscus Rescue 2. This is our Sealegs rescue Vessel, located at Stanmore Bay. The call out was in response to a member of the public reporting sighting a kayak on rocks around Waiau Bay on the northern side of the peninsula with no sign of the occupant. Within 10 minutes of launching the crew had located the kayak and identified that it was kitted out for fishing but with no other clear identifying marks on board and no occupant in sight. A basic description and photos of the kayak and equipment on board were passed on to the police and Coastguard Operations to work on trying to identify the owner. Further resources had been tasked to aid in the search for the missing owner with Kawau Rescue, the Police vessel Deodar III, a further Police RIB and Coastguard Air Patrol all joining the search, which went on for several hours in testing conditions for the crews. While the search was conducted, both Police and Coastguard Operations worked on trying to locate an owner for the kayak. By contacting a local kayak fishing club and posting details of the kayak online they identified someone who had sold a similar model to someone in Waiwera and were then able to make contact with the owner, who was safely at home. The kayak had been lost the previous day in the Waiwera area and, crucially, had not been reported as lost. Reporting the kayak as lost to Coastguard or Police, or having a clear identifying mark – mobile phone number or a VHF call sign – on the kayak could have prevented all of those resources being tasked to the search. Finally, when out on the water this summer please remember these key safety tips: Wearing a life jacket increases your survival time in the water; the skipper is responsible for the safety of everyone on board; carry two forms of waterproof communications so you can call for assistance; check the local marine weather before you go out and be prepared for any changes; safe boating and alcohol do not mix, things can change quickly on the water and you need to stay alert and aware. The Coastguard Operations Centre can be contacted by phone by calling *500.

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Festivities flair at Carols on the Canal The Gulf Harbour Marine Village was abuzz with festivities on December 7, as the crowd of hundreds danced, sang and sported plenty of Christmas attire at Carols on the Canal. A line-up of performances, from both individual singers and choirs, built up the atmosphere for the main event: Santa arriving on the Coastguard boat, Hibiscus Rescue One. Father Christmas stayed dry on board but was certainly swamped upon reaching land, as eager families waited for the lolly scramble and photos with the man in red. Meanwhile, some children opted to check out Santa’s ride instead, and were shown around the vessel by Coastguard volunteers. As if on cue, the rain set in just after Santa’s departure. Carols on the Canal is an annual fundraiser for Coastguard Hibiscus, who provide a sausage sizzle, and Santa’s transport, every year. This year’s event was organised by the Gulf Harbour Marine Village Residents’ Association. Carols on the Canal made its debut in 1995.

It was only December 3, but Santa put his other priorities to one side and made a very welcome appearance for all the children at the North Shore Riding for the Disabled Rider Christmas Party in Silverdale. The event, which rounds-off the riding sessions for the year, is always well attended. North Shore RDA holds therapeutic riding sessions for a wide range of people with disability, involving more than 80 riders, most of whom were at the party. It included a singalong with Geena Hutton and her players – a group that is part of Centrestage Theatre and a visit from Santa who handed out gifts. Pictured above, are RDA helpers, Santa and Lenny the pony.

From top, Santa arrives on Coastguard’s boat, Hibiscus Rescue One. Searching for Santa became like a game of ‘Where’s Wally?’ as he walked through a packed crowd of people awaiting the lolly scramble. Left, Many spectators, like this family, got into the festive spirit by dressing up.

Hon Mark Mitchell MP for Rodney P 09 426 6215 E mp.rodney@parliament.govt.nz

‘Geena’s Troupe’, from left, Caleb Jamieson, Maxwell Hutton, Matt Bruce and Geena Hutton, with a rider from Red Beach School, Owen.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2018

Cheetah spotted on Coast

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Sculptor Jill Guillemin raised a few eyebrows when she placed a life-like, full-size cheetah among the rockery in her garden in Snells Beach. “All the neighbours were going, ‘whoa’,” she says. The cheetah, made from fabric surrounding a wire frame, is currently being exhibited at the Emma Jean Gallery in Silverdale Village as part of an exhibition titled Creatures. Jill says she was inspired to create the animal following a visit to an African game park. There she spotted a cheetah lying in the shade of a solitary tree in a vast savannah. “As we inched forward in the big truck to get a better view of this magnificent animal, the cheetah sprang to its feet, looked back for a moment and walked away – capturing my heart,” Jill says. Later, Jill learned the animals were threatened with extinction in the wild. Although illegal, it’s estimated about three quarter of cheetah cubs are being smuggled out of Africa to the United Arab Emirates. There they are considered status symbols for wealthy owners who drive around with them in flashy cars. Jill has named her cheetah Msaada, which means ‘help’ in Swahili, and she hopes exhibiting her sculpture will draw attention to the plight of the animals.

It took Jill nine weeks to create Msaada, which required extensive online research into the animals’ physical dimensions and a visit to Wellington Zoo to get a good view of the animals close up. Jill has been sculpting for 25 years mostly using ceramics. She switched to working with wire and fabric when she found she could not accommodate a kiln at her new home in Snells Beach. Other artists featured in the Creatures exhibition are Sam RB, Kristin Ivill, Susannah Law and Marilyn Wheeler. The exhibition runs until Jan 25.

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December 18, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coast Summer feature

Harleys join Hot Rodders in Beach Festival For the 11th year, the Rodders Beach Festival is expected to have Orewa buzzing on Auckland Anniversary weekend, January 24-26. Last year’s event raised a record $60,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and drew an estimated crowd of 50,000 to Orewa over three days. Volunteer members of the Hibiscus Rodders Club organise the event. Coorganiser Sharon Morris says it is the three-pronged approach that has been the key to its success. “We have stuck to the core reasons we started the event – to promote hot rodding and the Hibiscus Coast, and raise as much as possible for a great cause,” Sharon says. Crowd favourites, including the Miss Vintage and Retro Tiny Tots competitions, the chance to bid at auction for a car, or win a trip to the United States – as well as several opportunities to take a close-up look at an impressive display of hot rods – all remain. A new Vintage Bake Off competition has been introduced, along with The Bike Show sponsored by Harley Davidson, which will be at Puhoi Pub on Saturday 25, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Sharon says there will definitely be more motorbikes to see along with the hot rods this year – one of the parades of vehicles, on Saturday night, will be led by bikes. This year’s drive-in movie will be held

The Rodders Beach Festival is the biggest event on the local calendar and still growing. This year a Vintage Bake Off has been introduced.

at North Harbour Country Club in Dairy Flat rather than Orewa Reserve. Sharon says the task of organising what has grown to be the biggest event on the Hibiscus Coast takes a full year and brings massive challenges. “A small handful of people work very hard, because it’s our major event but it is becoming a mammoth task – we are not professional event organisers, we are all volunteers who do this

because we love hot rods and support the rescue helicopter charitable trust,” Sharon says. This time around there have been a number of hurdles to overcome including funding and how rubbish is handled as Auckland Council aims for zero waste. However, Sharon says the number of car owners pre-registering to take part is up already and everyone is gearing

up for a fantastic event. “Last year we raised enough to pay for all the rescues that take place in a year in Rodney,” Sharon says. “Isn’t that amazing? That’s what makes all the hard work worthwhile as well as seeing the community turn out in force to have fun and support us.” Info: www.roddersbeachfestival.co.nz Hibiscus Matters is a proud sponsor of the Rodders Beach Festival.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! Marja Lubeck

Labour list MP based in Rodney For enquiries please contact my office: 0800 LUBECK or 0800 582 325 Marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2018

Coast Summer feature

Jazz tribute concert raising money for historic home

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Renowned New Zealand jazz artist Allana Goldsmith will perform a tribute concert to Ella Fitzgerald and Sara Vaughn at the historic Couldrey House in Wenderholm in March. The event is being billed as Summer Serenade: Jazz in the Garden at Couldrey House. Allana has featured at most of the major jazz festivals around New Zealand and released a clutch of original singles through digital music stores. Her latest release is a collection of songs titled The Waka Kura Sessions. Organiser Michelle Gimblett says those attending Summer Serenade are encouraged to bring a picnic, torches, rugs or fold-up outdoor chairs. Attendees are also welcome to bring their own wine. There will be a coffee caravan on site providing hot drinks and sweet treats. Summer Serenade takes place on Sunday, March 8 and will be deferred to March 15 in case of rainy weather. Gates open at 5pm and the concert commences at 6.30pm. Tickets are $35 for adults and includes free entry to Couldrey House prior to the concert. Tickets are available from eventfinda.co.nz. Funds raised by the concert will contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of the house. Couldrey house was built in 1857 by

From top, Allana Goldsmith. Couldrey House was built by Waiwera pools founder Robert Graham

Robert Graham, who also established the hot pools at Waiwera. The house passed through several hands before becoming a museum, following the establishment of Wenderholm Regional Park. House furnishings are mainly from the Victorian and Edwardian era and reflect the tastes of the house’s different owners. Couldrey House is located at 37 Schischka Road. It is open seven days a week from Boxing Day until Easter Monday from 1-4pm.

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December 18, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coast Summer feature

World-class woodchoppers heading to Puhoi The hills around Puhoi will be alive with the sound of metal on wood again in January, when one of New Zealand’s biggest and most popular woodchopping events takes place in the grounds of the historic Puhoi Pub. The 2020 Puhoi Axemen’s Woodchopping Carnival takes place on Saturday, January 11, with the all-day action starting at 9am, as 45 competitors from Australia and New Zealand battle it out to be the best with an axe or a saw. This year’s line-up includes several current and former national and world champions, with eight axemen from Australia, six from Stratford in Taranaki, eight locals from the Puhoi club and the rest from throughout the North Island. Puhoi club secretary and event organiser John Sanderson says the carnival always fills up quickly with competitors keen to take part. “We never have to ask the Australians over, they just ring up and come over with a few family and friends,” he says. “It’s good to see so many of the best axemen want to come to little old Puhoi.” Also in the line-up this year are two families entering three generations of woodchoppers – a grandfather, father and son – with the Semenoff family from Whangarei, plus another coming over from Australia. “We’ve got a few current world title holders and past world title holders

The 2019 event was blessed with good weather.

in the Standing and Underhand classes, plus the world Jigger Board cutter coming from Australia and Jesse Whitehead, who is New Zealand’s best Jigger Board cutter,” John says. There will be 14 different classes throughout the day, with something to keep everyone amused and impressed, from the classic speed events of Standing and Underhand through to the pairs’ Jack and Jill sawing class and the ever-popular axe throwing. John says the sheer speed of the axemen chopping through their wood blocks can make it hard to judge at times, with time differences between

competitors often coming down to hundredths of a second. However, as in many other sports, technology is being employed and any controversial results are now decided by a “third umpire” – an iPad used to record every chop with an app that can freeze the action down to single frames and prove decisively who was fastest. “The competition is so tight we need video evidence that we can review it to just the right spot,” John says. “We’ve got to do things professionally these days, it’s so close.” There’s a prize pool of several thousand dollars to be fought over, with first

prizes in most classes of $100 or $200, and cash prizes, too, for those coming second, third, fourth and fifth. John says all the prize money is raised by local businesses, suppliers and families from the Puhoi district who unfailingly support the woodchopping carnival, not least the Puhoi Hotel, which stages the event and forms the perfect backdrop and surrounds for the hundreds of visitors who come to watch. “It’s such a great day out, we get so many people supporting us,” John says. “It takes months to prepare, but we’ll be ready by Christmas and then we just need good weather on the day.”

Merry Christmas from McDonald’s Whangaparaoa. Come join us this festive Season to celebrate.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2018

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Plumbing Maintenance Hot water cylinder replacements, whole house filtration systems, Dux Qest pipe replacement

No Manly Art Show for Coast this summer The popular Great Manly Art Show will not be held this summer, but could take place next April instead. Organiser Lesley Gager has held the show on December 28 at her family’s property on The Esplanade in Manly for more than 30 years. Artists display their works in the garden opposite the beach, tea is served and a pipe band heralds the opening of the event. This year the Gagers opted to shift the show to an April timeslot – which Lesley says worked well for them – and last month, the couple sold their Esplanade property and relocated to The Crescent in Tindalls Bay. “We are considering having an art show at Easter next year,” Lesley says.

Weather predictions

Summer could be hot and dry. NIWA’s seasonal climate outlook for the northern North Island predicts that temperatures are likely to be above average, while soil moisture levels and river flows are likely to be below normal. Rainfall is expected to be “near normal” over summer, however a potential change from westerly winds this month to northeasterly winds later in the summer could have an impact on seasonal rainfall – areas that are wetter (or drier) in early summer may be drier (or wetter) for the second half of the season.

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“There is room at our new property and we would consider holding it here in future.” She says she lost some of the contributing artists’ details in the move, and asks anyone interested in being part of the April 2020 event to email lesleyandgus@gmail.com.

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December 18, 2018 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coast Summer feature

The tug of war is back at this year’s Big Dig in Orewa

Coasties dig The Big Dig Around 1000 wooden ice block sticks will be buried on Orewa Beach to be found by participants in the annual Orewa Lions Big Dig. A highlight of summer for more than 30 years, the Big Dig will be held on Sunday, February 2. Different charities benefit every year, with next year’s proceeds going to Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club. The Platinum sponsor is Matt Gilmore of Harcourts Orewa. Lorna Maddock, project director at Orewa Lions and Big Dig organiser, says the sponsorship of local businesses is key to ensuring there are enough prizes to keep all the diggers, aged five years and over, happy. A team of around 50 volunteers from Lions Orewa Sea Scouts and Westpac Bank in Silverdale are charged with keeping the event running smoothly. Funco is bringing an inflatable obstacle course and bug ride and there will also be a range of games, including the tug

of war. There will be a barbecue and other food options. Long time volunteer Mark Rolland will rotary hoe the sand in areas that are cordoned off – a task Mark has undertaken for Lions at every Big Dig. The prize sticks are then buried by Orewa Sea Scouts. Every child gets a small prize and each stick found equals one ticket for the prize raffle. Quickfire raffles are run throughout the event, with support from local businesses. Last year around $8000 was raised, which went to local schools to assist with diabetes prevention and treatment. Ticket sales open at 10am and cost $5 for the under-fives and $10 for overfive-year-olds. Under fives (with a paid adult if needed) start digging at 11am and the over-fives start digging at 11.15am.

and happy new year I would like to thank everyone for their continued business and support throughout the year. If you are thinking of selling, I would love to hear from you. I can offer you a free appraisal or a friendly chat and update of the market. List and sell with me and I will personally contribute towards the marketing of your property.

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The family restaurant in the heart of Orewa Beach, serving a great variety of fresh seafood, steak, chicken, vegetarian and kids meals

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. you for your support Thank he family restaurant in the heart of Orewa Beach throughout 2019 and serving great variety of fresh seafood, steak, we look forward chicken, vegetarian and kids meal to serve you in 2020.

Closed December 25 & January 1, 2020

2 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa | 11am till late TheShipAnchorRestaurantAndBar Ph 09 426 1539 | shipanchororewa.com

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Award winning salesperson

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2018

Coast Summer feature

Gardening indian restaurant Avi & the team wish you a very Merry Christmas. Thank you for your continued support.

7/49 Rawhiti Road, Manly, Whangaparaoa

Ph 428 2499 | www.indiavillage.co.nz WAINUI CHRISTMAS BUFFET BRUNCH Join us Sunday, 22nd December at Wainui Golf & Function Centre for our annual Christmas Buffet Brunch. First sitting 10:00 last sitting 2:00 p.m. Selection of Seasonal Salads * Home Cured Salmon & Dill * Smoked Kahawai & Potato Salad * Cured Meats & Cheese Truffled Scrambled Eggs Roast Vine Tomatoes Grilled Asparagus * Eggs Benedict * Brioche French Toast & Maple Brown Butter * Honey Roast Ham Carvery * Seasonal Fresh Fruit Vanilla Yogurt Chocolate Mud Cake Passionfruit * Pavlova * Mince Pies

THE VIEW EATERY PUBLIC WELCOME

Kids 5 & Under Free Kids 6 - 12 $25 Adults $39 w/glass of bubbles on arrival Take the northbound #396 Millwater exit from the motorway stay on Wainui Road for 5 minutes turn left to 35 Windmill Drive Reservations Essential Tel (09) 444 3437 PUBLIC WELCOME

wainui.online

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EAT. PLAY. MEET

Whangaparaoa Medical Centre

with Dee Pignéguy mikedee@outlook.co.nz

Working with nature How you care for your soil, and grow the plants in your garden, has a flow on effect that is becoming recognised more and more as having a wider impact. It is vital that you treat your garden, or farm, as an ecosystem if you don’t want to damage water, air, plants, and ultimately ourselves. Regenerative agriculture recognises that nature and millions of life forms work in symbiosis. It creates sustainable systems by restoring, renewing, revitalising and regenerating nature’s resources. Everything comes back to soil health – climate change mitigation, water quality, food quality and human health. And soil health means measuring what is underground, as well as soil structure, function and qualities. Benefits include sequestering carbon, improving water availability and creating soil that allows plants to fully utilise all soil depths. This increases plant diversity which has a flow on effect for insects, birds, worms and the soil food web. Modern agriculture uses some destructive methods that are chemically supported using pesticides and herbicides and are dependent on fossil fuels. Glyphosate, the ‘chemical of choice’ for killing unwanted plants, also kills the microbiology in the soil as well as the soil algae which is equivalent to killing plankton in the sea. Pasture species diversity also attracts beneficial insects, allowing growers to rely on natural integrated pest management systems which increase food safety by delivering food without pesticide and herbicide residues. Studies have shown regenerative agriculture produces nutrient dense food. Key education messages about this have been delivered by New Zealanders Phyllis Tichin and agri-ecologist, Nicole Masters. Nicole spends most of her time back in the USA running workshops for farmers. Workshops in New Zealand have put some sheep and beef farmers on the road to improving and healing their pastures and sorting out past mistakes. Mixed pastures of herbs, grasses and “weeds” are essential for their nutritional value, which makes all the difference to producing meat high in Omega 3. Friends of mine in Kawhia practise biodynamic farming, which is restoring the balance and regenerating the land as well as producing healthy animals. Their mixed pastures allow them to have plenty of grazing, even in drought conditions. One way to tell the health of the animals is to look at their poo. There are no “cow splats”on that biodynamic farm – the ‘pumpkin pie’ consistency of the spiral shaped mounds tells of animals that are in good condition, providing a manure that will also regenerate their land without polluting waterways.

Come and meet our friendly team, we are enrolling new patients. Check our website for the fees. Our holiday times are: Closed 25th, 26th 27th December, 1st, 2nd and 3rd of January. Back to normal hours 6th January.

16 Wade River Rd | Ph 424 8618 | whangaparaoamedicalcentre.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localsport

Get Moving catching on A local walk/running event that is in its fourth year has been steadily growing, with organisers saying it is the focus on participation, rather than winning, which has attracted participants. The MTF Silverdale Get Moving Festival targets beginner level walkers and runners with the goal of getting people moving and improving their health. Organisers David Kayes and Maree Leith have a passion for running – both are ultra marathoners – and their focus is encouraging others to get active. One of the keys is offering small, achievable distances. “You can start by doing 2.5km and finish the series being able to complete 5km,” Maree says. “Last year participants ranged from three years old to 80, so anyone can do it.” At each event you will be cheered for at the finish line, especially if you are the last in, as Maree and David love to support the back of the pack. “It is important that everyone is acknowledged in some way and especially the first timers or slower participants because they are why we

have this event,” Maree says. For the second year running, the event is also a fundraiser for Youth In Transition – a local charity that helps support young people who are going through a tough time. “Giving back to our community is key and we need to keep being good role models to our youth and supporting what they need,” Maree says. David and Maree are excited about the addition of a Half Marathon for the series finale on March 22, on Orewa Beach (HM October 23). “Having this option means that the more experienced walkers or runners can challenge themselves with a 21km event to train towards. And we really want to encourage participants who haven’t yet done a 21km to consider making that a goal.” The four run/walk events start on January 19 in Warkworth and include events in Stanmore Bay, Gulf Harbour and Orewa. Participants can go into just one event or sign up for the series. Info: www.getmovingfestival.co.nz Hibiscus Matters is a proud sponsor of the MTF Get Moving Festival.

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SCOREBOARD A roundup of sports activities and events in the district

MTF Silverdale Get Moving Festival 2020

Event 1: Sunday January 19, Warkworth, 1km kids dash, 2.5km, 5km & 10km • Event 2: Sunday February 9, Stanmore Bay, 1km kids dash, 2.5km, 6km & 12km • Event 3: Sunday March 1, Gulf Harbour, 1km kids dash, 2.5km, 7.5km & 15km • Event 4: Sunday March 22, Orewa, 1km kids dash, 2.5km, 5km & 10km & half marathon. Info: getmovingfestival.co.nz

Harriers and Triathlon

Hibiscus Coast Harriers and Triathlon Club running group, Red Beach Surf Club, Wednesdays 6pm. Ocean Swimming: 8am Saturdays, Manly Sailing Club, 6pm Tuesdays, Stanmore Bay Boat Club. Info: hibiscuscoasthtc.co.nz

Tennis

Manly Park Seniors Tennis Club, located on 56 Laurence St, Manly. If you are 40 years or over and have played tennis in your past, you are welcome. Info: Ph 424 4144 orsporty.co.nz/manlyseniors

Lawn Bowls

Summer Season has commenced at the Manly Bowling Club, 56 Laurence St, Manly, now is the opportunity to join a friendly community bowling club. We welcome all ages with coaching provided for all first time bowlers. Info: manlybowlingclub.co.nz or manlybowlingclub@xtra.co.nz

Yoga

Yoga, Pranayam (Yogic Breathing Techniques), Meditation, and cleansing your energy field/Aura. Pay what you can. Indian teacher. Every Sunday, 4.30pm-5.30pm, Orewa Community Hall. Info: Ph 021 143 9679. List sports news FREE by emailing coastnews@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

A team of senior Wainui School Year 7 and 8 cyclists biked more kilometres than any other school at the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge on November 30, taking home the Schools Challenge Trophy for the second year in a row. The team was also awarded Best Dressed Team due to their riding kit, which was sponsored by Axiom Projects. Year 8 student, Cian O’Brien, rode 60km in under six hours. The total distance the team covered is yet to be confirmed by event organisers. Principal Jason Irvine says the school has participated in the Taupō Cycle Challenge since 2013, and that the sport is continuing to gain popularity with students. “This is the first time we have involved all the children in mountain biking,” he says. Pictured is the cycling team with their trophy.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

localsport

Around 250 competitors are expected to take part in January’s Owen Chapman Cup surf carnival. Photos, Ross Malyon

Red Beach defends Owen Chapman Cup

Red Beach Surf Lifesaving Club will play host to the region’s top surf athletes when it stages the Owen Chapman Cup surf carnival on Saturday, January 4. The event has always been contested at Red Beach; it was first held in 1957 as a picnic carnival for Auckland’s East Coast surf clubs. Now in its 64th year,

it’s the longest running club day in Australasia for surf lifesavers.

Over the years the carnival has become a mecca for the region’s lifeguards and around 250 competitors are expected to take part in this summer’s event. The age groups for both male and female competitors are U16, U19

and Open. At this year’s event, racing for U19 and Open competitors will be combined and this is expected to produce some very keen competition. In the surf boat arena, the age divisions are U19, U23 and Open.

The Owen Chapman carnival ushers in the business end of the surf competition

season as athletes begin the countdown to the Eastern Region, Northern Region and NZ Championships. The Owen Chapman outing will provide them with opportunities to assess their chances of success at those major events. Red Beach is the defending champion, having won the trophy at last summer’s event.

Sports pavilion design revealed A concept design for the Metro Park sportsfields pavilion was revealed to the local board earlier this month. The facility will provide a base for the local athletics, football, rugby and cricket clubs who use the grounds in Millwater. It will include changing rooms, toilet and storage facilities as well as a social hub. At the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board Community Forum held in Brown Bay on December 5, Metro Park Community Sports Charitable Trust

chair, Jeff Olufson, said that all going well, the pavilion could be operational in the first half of 2021. The local board allocated $108,322 to the Trust towards the design-build plans in 2018 as well as a further $10,000 towards engineering design. Each club on the Trust has made an initial contribution of $10,000 – “it’s important we have some skin in the game,” Jeff told local board members. However, a lot more will be needed – the cost of the build is currently

The Metro Park sports pavilion could be up in Millwater by the first half of 2021.

estimated “conservatively” at $2 million – a noticeable increase on the April estimate the local board was given of $1.4-$1.6 million (HM May 8).

The Trust has had initial geotechnical work carried out and has applied to the Auckland Council Sport and Recreation Facility Fund.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

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

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

HBC Community House

CAR SEAT RENTAL

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

Trained technician Phone 426 3598

BUILDCHECK Building Reports

Hamish McKenzie – Director

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

10 Puriri Ave, Orewa | Ph 426 6176

0274 436 222 | pat_and_houghty@hotmail.com

HEAT PUMP CLEANING

SPECIALISTS

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

Ph 021 083 82104

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

hamish@buildcheckbuildingreports.co.nz

www.heatpumpclean.co.nz

buildcheckbuildingreports.co.nz

HOUGHTON UPHOLSTERY

Ph Neil 0800 225 327

McConchie Construction Ltd

New Builds, Renovations, Extensions, Decks and Landscaping

Andy McConchie Licensed & Qualified Builder

021 474 730

mcconchieconstruction@gmail.com | P O Box 404-183, Puhoi

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

CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

Phone 0800 218 555 or 021 372 620 Email: eoddi1955@gmail.com Serving you Rodney wide since 1995.

Residential, commercial and industrial. No job too big, small or difficult!

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

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

FREE espresso coffee while you wait • Ph: 424 8705 15 Arklow Ln, Whangaparaoa • hbcwof@yahoo.co.nz

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

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

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

Phone Darcy 021 482 308

For all Mechanical Repairs, WOFs, Servicing

Free café coffee with WOF or service while you wait Gustos

ws Croest N

Phone 428 7969

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

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

HANDYMAN – Gardens & Landscaping • Painting & Decorating • Fencing & Decks • Paths & Paving • Bathroom & Kitchen • Renovations • FREE QUOTES

Call now 0800 248 229 • www.hireahubby.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

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 For any queries, please contact us on:

09 424 1262

sales@positiveimage.co.nz 18A Silverdale Street, Silverdale

December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Advertise your business here for only $66+gst per insertion. Phone 427 8188 or email sales@localmatters.co.nz or sellit@localmatters.co.nz Relax, your precious possessions are safe with us.

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

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

Certified plumber & gasfitter

Ph 09 424 6091 www.selfstorageworld.co.nz

Ph Shaun 021 460 487

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

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

09 424 1214 ▪ 663 Whangaparaoa Rd

TEAMWORK

SCAFFOLDING

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING AND CARPENTRY NEEDS

Residential Specialists Friendly professional & dependable service Free quotes available

Decks • Bathrooms • Pergolas • Doors • Renovations • Fencing Gates • Maintenance • Gib fitter • Plastering • Painting • Kitchens CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

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

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

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE COMMUNITY NOTICES COMMUNITY NOTICES

having a lot of fun together as a group as well. For further information Lisa Fowlie 0210 527 258 or email rodneyaphasiagroup@gmail.com. SING UP RODNEY - community music therapy for older people and those with a neurological condition. 10.30am, term-time Thursdays (not first week of the month). Ōrewa Scout Hall. Ph: 027 464 2465 or SingUpRodney@gmail.com ST CHADS MARKET. Corner of Centerway and Florence Avenue. 10am-

2pm. Stalls $15, Table Hire $5 per table. Call Grant to book a space on 0210 830 7743. THE PIONEER DANCE CLUB. Every Thursday 1.30pm-3.30pm. Silverdale Hall. Ballroom, Latin American, Modern sequence, social dance. Friendly social dance, all welcome. Comp tea & Coffee. WELLSFORD COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB 2nd sunday of the month Wellsford Community Centre 1pm start.

WALKERS WANTED

LK WA $

JOB W

DELIVER $

TED .. . PAID

A CLUB FOR SEMI RETIRED AND RETIRED PEOPLE. Monthly meetings with guest speakers, bus trips, luncheons, movie group, plus other social get togethers. Whangaparaoa Combined Friendship Club. Ph Pat Hoyle 428 5285 EMPATHY SUICIDE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT group. Last Monday of month except December and January. 7pm, Orewa: Hibiscus Coast Community House, Western Reserve, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway. Contact Susan 021 884 162, or message on Facebook (Empathy support group), for more info or to meet with one of us. ‘HEARTBEATS’ CARDIAC SUPPORT GROUP Meets on first Tuesday of each month, with a speaker, at Hibiscus Coast Community House, Orewa, 10am. Families welcome. Ph Trent 0220 606 199. HIBISCUS COAST COMMUNITY PATROL: We act as the eyes and ears of our local police, as our region’s population expands rapidly. We have a great team ranging from those in full-time work to those who are devoting some of their post-work time to contributing to the Hibiscus Coast community. There’s room for more to join us and experience great camaraderie as well as the satisfaction of making a worthwhile contribution. Info: ph 021 0274 6229 or email hbcchairman@ gmail.com HIBISCUS COAST ORCHID SOCIETY meets every month on the 2nd Sunday. Meeting starts at 1.30pm at the Orewa Community Hall. Come along and meet some orchid lovers and see some lovely plants. Ph Judy 424 1968. HIBISCUS STITCHERS Meet a woolly crew at Whangaparaoa Library fortnightly. Embroidery, crochet, knitting etc. Thursdays 1pm–3pm. Ph Jean 428 5207 or Jan 424 2492. LIVE MUSIC/ R&R DANCING in Hibiscus Coast DFlat Live promotes Live music,

instruments you hear, you will see on stage. 3-5-piece Bands performing every Friday in The Dairy Flat Community Hall, supper provided. Our big dance floor attracts dancers from all over Auckland. All our events have a cover charge, for more info go to: dflat.info LOOKING FOR COX FAMILY My name is Jane Cousins and I’m trying to find my aunt and cousin who I believe live in the Orewa area. My mother lost contact with her sister, Verna Cox, a couple of years ago when I think she went to live in a care home but is now desperate to find her again. Verna’s husband, who died several years ago was Peter. They were farmers before they retired and had a son Michael, who would be about 50 years old. If you can help, please email me janecousins@icloud.com PAPAROA PRIMARY SCHOOL 150TH ANNIVERSARY: Paparoa Primary School invites current or past students, parents, family or staff to help us celebrate our 150th Anniversary. This event will be held in Paparoa on 8th, 9th and 10th May 2020. This is your chance to catch up with old friends and see how the school is getting on. Please see our School Facebook page for details and registration information. PERFORMERS WANTED FOR THE BOULEVARD ARTS FIESTA in Orewa 15 & 16 February 2020, performers of all types and ages including performers of music and/or dance from a particular culture. If interested, contact Pat Shanks at rpshanks@xtra.co.nz REBUS CLUB OF GULF HARBOUR. This newly formed Club for Active Retirees, both men and women, couples or singles, meets at the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 9.30am.Ph 424 7115 or visit www.rebus-gulfharbour.nz Head Teacher from Head Held High. Erica will be delivering a one hour session that is very interactive, with activities to promote confidence in communicating and speaking, while

EMAIL HMDELIVERY@LOCALMATTERS.CO.NZ

DELIVERERS WANTED – 11 YEARS & OLDER TO DELIVER THE HIBISCUS MATTERS NEWSPAPERS IN THE HIBISCUS COAST AREA:

Delivery occurs twice monthly. Good rates and 4 days to deliver! Start 2020 off on the right foot, (February start) For more information phone Rosemary 021 0300 263 or email name, contact details & age to: hmdelivery@localmatters.co.nz

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Classifiedadvertising

FOR SALE

ART EXHIBITION & SALE

HEALTH & BEAUTY

WANTED TO BUY

FINGERNAILS & TOENAILS CUT & FILED – $30pp/$50 for 2pp. I come to you. Ph 424 0676/027 271 6676.

TO BUY, RECORDS/LP’S Ph 428 1587.

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

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

TRANSPORT

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

DRIVING MISS DAISY

Total Mobility cards accepted Ph 09 428 4490; 021 035 0432 hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

SECURITY ALARM SERVICING Local technician, 20 years experience. Ph 027 553 3032 or 09 428 5887

CAR RENTAL – Gulf Harbour & Coast Car Rentals Ltd. Reasonable rates. Short/long term. Ph 027 477 7413 or 021 378 905.

HANDYMAN Carpentry, small jobs, rubbish removal etc Phone/Txt Dave 027 420 5155

SERVICES WHANGAPARAOA RECORDING STUDIO: Vocals to backing tracks, original projects, vocal training and vocal PA hire. Ph Dennis 021 115 5233

PERSONAL

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

12:35am 6:29am Tide 1:00pm Times 7:07pm

Moon

Sudoku 6 4 5 8 9 7 3 1 2

3 8 7 6 2 1 4 9 5

2 9 1 5 4 3 8 7 6

5 6 9 4 1 2 7 3 8

1 3 2 7 6 8 9 5 4

T S

4 7 8 3 5 9 6 2 1

7 1 6 2 3 4 5 8 9

H O

E L

8 2 4 9 7 5 1 6 3

O N

9 5 3 1 8 6 2 4 7

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

Does your b oat need som e

love?

Outdoor Carpet – 2m wide $39 p/m ($19.50sqm) 5 colours avail able

Wed

3.1 0.5 3.3 0.6

Thu

1:28am 7:24am 1:55pm 8:03pm

3.1 0.6 3.2 0.6

2:24am 8:23am 2:52pm 9:02pm

7:06am 7:31pm

Dec 21

3.0 3:25am 0.7 9:26am 3.2 3:50pm 0.7 10:02pm

5:59am 8:38pm

Best At

Sat

Dec 20

5:58am 8:37pm

Best At

6:14am 6:40pm

Auckland Area Watch Hibiscus Matters Seawatch – TheSea Flooring People

Fri

Dec 19

5:58am 8:37pm B

LANDSCAPERS, TRADES PEOPLE AND LABOURERS Our professional AND fun team are looking for landscape tradespeople & labourers to join our pride focused team. Long term opportunities to qualifying applicants. Send your application form request to Zane info@landscapecreations.net

~ Formally Carpetlink Whangaparaoa ~

Dec 18

Fishing Guide

SITUATIONS VACANT

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

DINING OUT

Sun

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

TRADESMAN PAINTER (20yrs) serving the Hibiscus Coast. New or Repaint, interior & exterior no job too small. Free competitive quotes Wayne 0274 329 397.

ACTIVE, OUTGOING, fit 68-year-old retired professional seeking a male companion to share outings, travel etc. Ph 021 292 6680

Orewa Car Services has a vacancy for an experienced automotive technician to be part of our service team. We are a top end service, diagnostic and repair business in Orewa. We also have a service contract with Hyundai NZ to service and repair new Hyundai vehicles. As a Senior Automotive technician, you will be responsible for diagnosing, servicing, general repairs and advising junior staff. You will also be required to deal with customers from time to time. You must be highly motivated and have at least a minimum of 6 years’ experience repairing a wide range of vehicles. WOF certification required. Preferred applicants will also hold an industry recognised qualification. Air conditioning skills would be an advantage. Ability to use computers and modern diagnostic equipment. The applicant must be fluent with both written and oral English and hold a valid NZ driving licence. Hours of work Monday to Friday 8.30am-5pm. Every 3rd Saturday 8am12pm. Remuneration for this position is negotiable based on experience. Please email your CV to wayne@orewacarservices.co.nz

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

ROY’S MOWING LAWNS – Free quotes & pension discounts. Ph 021 506 908, email royslawnmowing@gmail.com A PUMP DOCTOR will keep you pumping. Ph 0274 430 654. ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Kevin 022 0291 056 PAUL THE PAINTER 027 550 3635 interior & exterior.

orewa2airport.nz

SENIOR AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN

MY WOODEN TOYS FOR CHRISTMAS PHONE JOHN 09 426 9624

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

THE

Enjoy Neville Bradley’s Gallery 69 The Esplanade or 41 Laurence St Manly, Whangaparaoa Fri December 27 – Sun January 5

HOME & MAINTENANCE

HAIRDRESSING

SITUATIONS VACANT

7:56am 8:21pm

3.0 4:29am 0.7 10:30am 3.2 4:50pm 0.6 11:02pm

5:59am 8:39pm

Best At

Sun

8:46am 9:10pm

Dec 23

6:00am 8:40pm

Best At

Tue

Dec 24

Wed

Dec 25

3.0 5:31am 3.1 12:00am 0.6 12:56am 0.8 11:31am 0.7 6:31am 3.2 7:26am 3.1 5:48pm 3.1 12:28pm 0.7 1:21pm 6:45pm 3.1 7:40pm 0.6

6:00am 8:39pm

Best At

Mon

Dec 22

9:35am 10:01pm

6:01am 8:40pm

Best At

10:27am 10:53pm

11:20am 11:47pm

1:48am 8:17am 2:12pm 8:33pm

6:01am 8:40pm

Best At

0.5 3.2 0.7 3.1

Thu

Dec 26

12:14pm

2:37am 9:06am 3:01pm 9:23pm

6:02am 8:41pm

Best At

0.5 3.3 0.6 3.2

Fri

Dec 27

12:42am 1:10pm

0.5 3:23am 3.3 9:52am 0.6 3:48pm 3.1 10:10pm

6:02am 8:41pm

Best At

Sat

Dec 28

1:37am 2:05pm

0.5 4:06am 3.3 10:36am 0.6 4:33pm 3.1 10:54pm

6:03am 8:42pm

Best At

Sun

Dec 29

2:32am 2:59pm

0.5 4:48am 3.3 11:19am 0.7 5:18pm 3.1 11:36pm

6:04am 8:42pm

Best At

Mon

Dec 30

3:24am 3:50pm

6:05am 8:42pm

Best At

Wed

Thu

Jan 1

Jan 2

0.6 5:29am 0.7 12:18am 2.9 12:59am 3.2 12:02pm 3.1 6:10am 0.8 6:54am 0.7 6:02pm 0.8 12:44pm 3.1 1:28pm 6:45pm 0.8 7:30pm 3.0

6:04am 8:42pm

Best At

Tue

Dec 31

4:14am 4:38pm

6:06am 8:43pm

Best At

5:00am 5:23pm

5:44am 6:06pm

1:42am 7:40am 2:13pm 8:16pm

6:07am 8:43pm

Best At

2.9 0.9 3.0 0.9

Fri

Jan 3

6:07am 8:43pm

Best At

6:26am 6:47pm

2.8 1.0 2.9 0.9

Best At

7:07am 7:28pm

Last New First Quarter Moon Quarter Rise 12:48am Rise 1:24am Rise 1:57am Rise 2:30am Rise 3:02am Rise 3:36am Rise 4:14am Rise 4:56am Rise 5:43am Rise 6:35am Rise 7:32am Rise 8:30am Rise 9:29am Rise 10:27am Set 12:13am Set 12:42am Set 1:09am Set 11:48am Set 12:56pm Set 2:04pm Set 3:11pm Set 4:19pm Set 5:27pm Set 6:34pm Set 7:39pm Set 8:40pm Set 9:34pm Set 10:23pm Set 11:05pm Set 11:41pm Rise 11:24am Rise 12:20pm Rise 1:16pm *Not for navigational purposes.

Good Fishing

Fair Fishing

Not So Good

www.tidewiz.com

www.tidespy.com

www.ofu.co.nz

Graphic supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltd.

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

669 Whangaparaoa Road | Phone 428 3168 | team@theflooringpeople.co.nz Proud Sponsors of: Hibiscus Coast Boating Club

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

December 18, 2019 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Advertisment

December 2019 21

Pop and Rock Vinyl Record sale, Hibiscus Coast Community House, 214-216 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa (behind Estuary Arts Centre), 9am-1.30pm.

Christmas Carol Service in the chapel, Silverdale Pioneer Village, 15 Wainui Road, Silverdale, 7pm. Info: www. silverdalemuseum.org.nz

Free Christmas dinner, Love Soup Hibiscus Coast, Whangaparaoa Community Hall, from 5pm. Includes visit by Santa. Registration essential, on Love Soup Hibiscus Coast’s Facebook page.

Orewa Free Community Christmas lunch, Orewa Community Centre, 11.30am-2pm. Hosted by Salt Trust. All welcome.

New Year’s Eve Party with the Brendon Ham Country Rock Band, Dairy Flat Hall, Postman Road, Dairy Flat, 8.30pm12.30am. Licensed bar and supper. Entry $20. Please bring a plate.

January 2020 4 Owen Chapman Surf Carnival, Red Beach. Top surf lifesavers in action. (see story p34)

Puhoi Axemen’s Woodchopping Carnival, Puhoi Village, from 9am. All day woodchopping action. (see story p29)

24-26 Rodders Beach Festival, Orewa and Dairy Flat, hot

rods on display, entertainment and events. Info: www. roddersbeachfestival.co.nz (see story p27 and ad p22)

LOCAL MARKETS: Silverdale Markets, every Saturday 8am–1pm • 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 10am-3pm • St Chads Market, 117 Centreway Rd, Orewa, first Saturday of the month • 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.

our ishes all w s r e t t & Ma ertisers v d Hibiscus a , s t s i able column e & enjoy readers, f a s a e l peop sue of delivery his is the final is t firs s. T Christma for the year. Our y 5. r uar the pape l be Febr on l i w r a e tY pm issue nex close at 5 en on l l i w e c i e-op Our off er 20 & r b m . e c e D , t 8.30am a 3 Friday 1 y r a Janu Monday,

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Are Our Sunscreens Failing Us? There is nothing more I dislike than sensationalism of so-called “scientific” claims that undermine genuinely helpful products. Consumer NZ recently released “studies” on several NZ sunscreens claiming that the protection (SPF) was less than what was claimed on the label. However I know (and have it in writing) that the sunscreens I sell at the pharmacy have been tested by independent laboratories which confirm that these sunscreens meet their protection claims. This is an excerpt from a media release by Inova Pharmaceuticals who produce Invisible Zinc: “We test all of our Invisible Zinc products for SPF (and other label claims) in an accredited testing laboratory in Australia. Tests are performed according to the current sunscreen standard AS/NZS 2604:2012. It is a TGA requirement that sunscreens sold in Australia meet this standard. Invisible Zinc was not tested at AMA Laboratories referred to in the Consumer NZ article, which facility has been linked with false SPF test results. Invisible Zinc Face + Body Mineral Sunscreen SPF50 was tested against its SPF and water resistance claims in 2014 and again in 2017. The 2014 testing confirmed the product had an SPF of 57. The 2017 testing confirmed the product had an SPF of 63. Every batch goes through stringent quality control testing before it is released for sale to confirm that it has been manufactured to the same formulation that has gone through SPF testing.” So why are we still getting burnt? Here’s how to use sunscreen correctly: 1. Sunscreen needs to be applied 20 minutes before going out into the sun. The sunscreen needs time to bind with your skin so it can be effective. If you go out before this has taken place, you will get burnt before the sunscreen has even started working! Ten minutes after you are outside, reapply as this helps with the bits you may have missed at first or covered too thinly. 2. Regular reapplication of sunscreen is a must. You will need to reapply sunscreen every two hours while you are outside. And whilst there might be a “4 hour” water resistance on your sunscreen, every time you drag your towel over your face or body you are effectively wiping all the sunscreen off again. Reapply again! 3. Make sure you use enough! You need about 7 teaspoons of sunscreen per application for an average size adult ie. a teaspoonful on your face, ears and neck plus a teaspoonful on each arm, leg, front and back of your body. Stay safe everyone and Merry Christmas!

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

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Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional

40 | Hibiscusmatters | December 18, 2019

localmatters.co.nz

Asian cultures celebrated in Orewa festival Moana Reserve in Orewa became a little piece of Asia for the inaugural Beachfront Asian Food Festival on December 7. Food stalls led the transformation, producing many distinctly Asian aromas that drew a crowd onto the reserve. Many tasty offerings sizzling on hot plates reflected the culture of countries such as Manila, India, China and Thailand. On one menu was something mysteriously called “shaking chips” which turned out to be hot chips with a variety of flavours shaken on top. There was always something to see on the large stage set up on the reserve, from the moment the event started, at 3pm, until it ended six hours later. Several Chinese dance groups came from other parts of Auckland to perform and there were also solo singers

Clockwise from top, Performers included the Colourful Group traditional Chinese dancers from New Lynn. Eight-yearold Maddison Chen, from Millwater, plays a Chinese Zheng (or zither). Hospice sold little Pandas to raise funds at its stall. Manea Loane, aged eight, got a henna tattoo from Usha Raman.

and musicians such as eight-year-old Maddison Chen who charmed the audience with her skill on the Chinese stringed instrument called a Zheng.

Do whispered sweet nothings need to be quite a lot louder these days?

The event was organised by two members of Harbour Hospice’s advisory board, Des Adams and Sue Chau. Sue says feedback was very positive,

particularly in relation to the variety and quality of food and the high standards of entertainment. It raised $4000 for Hibiscus House hospice in Red Beach.

With FREE initial hearing checks and high quality European Hearing Devices starting from only $495* there is no need to miss out on all the little secrets and compliments

Don’t suffer in silence * Assumes eligibility for $511.11 per ear Government Subsidy for hearing aids

Coast Plaza, Whangaparaoa

www.hearagain.co.nz

09 4246035