Hibiscus Matters_Issue 279_20 May 2020 by Localmatters

May 20, 2020

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The re of reustaurn ble cups!

Bursting the Coast’s bubble: We asked Coasties what they were hoping for once the Covid bubble bursts. The response was heart warming and we’re sorry we cannot include all of them. Here’s what you said. More photos on p40.

| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

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contact us... May 20, 2020 – Issue 279 Hibiscus Matters: 21 Florence Ave, Orewa, 0931 General enquiries ph 427 8188 Hibiscusmatters

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Look out for the Welcome Home property guide in this issue

Next issues: June 3 & 17 – Book your advertising now Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 | terry@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 24,000 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.

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Water restrictions rely on “1.7 million enforcers” Something that people with rainwater tanks have known for months – that Auckland is in a drought – is now a crisis. Mandatory restrictions on water use were introduced last weekend for those on the city water supply. Auckland Council voted to put the restrictions in place at a meeting of its Emergency Committee on May 7. While acknowledging that the fine weather made lockdown more bearable, Watercare’s head of servicing and consents Mark Bourne told the Mayor and Councillors that the drought is shaping up to be the worst in Auckland’s living memory. “It will take a significant wet winter to replenish dam storage levels to normal,” he said. At the same committee’s April 23 meeting, Watercare chief executive Raveen Jaduram said Aucklanders were making voluntary water savings even during lockdown, and the volume of water used was also less because most businesses were closed. However, he said restrictions would have been brought in during lockdown but were not, as they could not be enforced due to physical distancing requirements. When Council voted unanimously to bring in Stage 1 mandatory restrictions, starting on May 16, the issue of enforcement was raised again. Mr Bourne said the focus will be on education, but people flouting the rules who have been warned will be penalised. He said Aucklanders will help with policing, with “neighbours watching neighbours” and reporting those who flout the rules – something Mayor Phil Goff described as “1.7 million unpaid enforcers”. The restrictions cover outdoor water use because it can be observed and if necessary, enforced. They ban the use of hoses and waterblasters domestically. Restrictions for commercial and non-residential water

Dams are at a low ebb after 77 days without rain.

use include banning hoses or water blasters unless it is for a health, safety, emergency or biosecurity reason; banning commercial car washes unless they use recycled water; and restricting the watering of sports fields, plants or paddocks to those which have an irrigation system fitted with soil moisture or rain sensors. A number of councillors raised the need for Watercare to future proof the water supply – particularly as climate change could mean more future droughts and Cr Wayne Walker asked Council to encourage the use of domestic water tanks to aid water conservation. Cr John Watson was concerned about the impact of the restrictions on small businesses already struggling after lockdown and in response the Mayor said if you allow commercial water blasting, but not domestic, that would not be fair. “We want to find the savings now to prevent more draconian measures later on,” he said. Stage 2 restrictions will come in if water storage declines to a level in Watercare’s Metropolitan Drought Management Plan. They will include all Stage 1 restrictions as well as banning all watering of sports fields. There are no restrictions on water for drinking or sanitary use in the household, or operations that use water for health, safety, emergency and biosecurity measures.

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Hot pools’ future

What may happen to the abandoned and dilapidated Waiwera Thermal Resort is still up in the air. The Waiwera Group is in the hands of liquidator Tony Maginness of Baker Tilly Staples Rodway in Auckland. Mr Maginness advised the paper last week that liquidators “are still working with parties”.

Eave’s Bush access delayed

This retirement village, proposed for Silverdale, would be the biggest on the Coast.

Largest village yet planned for Silverdale Plans were revealed recently for a retirement village in Silverdale that, if built, would be the biggest on the Hibiscus Coast with more than 700 residents. The 8ha site is near the Silverdale park ‘n’ ride, on the southern side of Small Road. Currently the land is a mix of grass and native and exotic plants with several small streams. A childcare centre catering for 100 children, which was granted resource consent a year ago, is also proposed for within the village. The plans for the village, which is called The Botanic – Silverdale, were made public when its resource consent application was notified, on March 12. They show 26 mainly four-storey blocks, containing a mix of 59 villas, around 394 apartments and 48 aged care beds (501 accommodation units in total), as well as an office complex, community spaces and facilities and the childcare centre. There are four commercial tenancies on the ground floor of the main building on Small Road. The land is zoned General Business and all the proposed blocks are higher than the maximum height control of 16.5m. In addition, Council documents show that an integrated

residential development is a noncomplying activity in this zone. The developer is called The Botanic GP, incorporated on April 21 of this year. Its directors are Kevin Clark of Riverhead and Wayne Wright of Whakamarama. The Botanic executive Alan Edwards says the project is not yet a registered retirement village. “We are in the process of seeking the appointment of a Statutory Supervisor (Anchorage) and thereafter we will be free to register the village with the Registrar of Retirement Villages,” he says. Mr Edwards has more then 20

years experience in the operation of retirement villages and care homes. He says the team behind the development includes experienced property developers as well as capital investors. Auckland Council notified the resource consent application for the proposed village, as it is required to notify any ‘integrated residential development’. The notification closed for submissions on April 8. Two submissions were received. Council planners advise that the application is currently on hold, awaiting further information from the applicant, so no dates have been set for a hearing, which is the next step.

Access to the lower track up to the bridge in Eave’s Bush, Orewa, which was to be reinstated to the public last month, has been held up by the lockdown. Auckland Council’s biosecurity team manager – kauri dieback, Lisa Tolich, says work commenced on the lower track in late January, however under Level 4 all physical works were paused. Contractors were to recommence work as a priority under Level 3, subject to the supply of resources, she said. “Depending on the restart date, we hope to reopen the Alice Eaves track later this year.” All tracks in Alice Eaves Bush have been closed since last June while work such as boardwalking is undertaken to protect kauri.

Burgers back

Despite the announcement that the parent group of companies that own Burger King (Antares Restaurant Group) are in receivership, there were queues at the recently built Silverdale outlet’s drive-through as soon as the country reached Alert Level 3. A Burger King spokesperson says that the receivers and Antares have been able to reopen and focus on rebuilding the business. “We remain confident in the long-term prospects of the Burger King business in New Zealand,” the spokesperson says.

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Feedback Mind-boggling The apartments shown in your March 18 paper, which Council has allowed to be built by the water in Gulf Harbour are totally unsuited to this location, in my view. It is not only the height but the lack of a walkway along the harbourside in front of the buildings that is a concern. From an environmental point of view, we can only pray that the sediment controls are 100 percent better than

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

anything the Council has ever come up with before. It boggles the mind that developers are allowed to build an entire 7m higher than the height allowed under the Unitary Plan, and right on the water. Why have these rules, if they are only there to be broken? Shane Bygrave, Tindalls Bay

Creek causes a stink Once again residents backing onto the tidal creek that runs behind Red Beach Surf Club and the entrance to Pine Woods Motor Camp along Walton St and Maria Ave are having to put up with a putrid smell, unable to open back doors or go in the garden without being hit by the stink.

Local opinion Good to be back

Back in 2007, the then Rodney Mayor, John Law, was saying that sediment and weeds needed clearing to encourage a clear clean flow of water. The last Rodney Mayor, Penny Webster, got a retaining wall built at the bottom of residents’ sections, as erosion of these sections was constantly causing the land to drop away into the creek due to silt and weed build up. In 2010 Penny Webster said that the creek needed dredging and to have weed cleared. Rodney was then gobbled up into Auckland Council and since then not a thing has been done. This creek is tidal and should be in pristine condition – as it was with kids

swimming in it back in late 1980s early 90s. Today you wouldn’t let a dog in it for fear of what it may pick up. Now we have the rats that are in the weed on the Pinewoods side of the creek coming across to pay residents a visit. When we all finish our selfisolation, will Council be rushing to clean up this tidal creek? I doubt it. Arthur Amis, Red Beach (abridged) Auckland Council’s Safeswim programme manager Nick Vigar responds (abridged): Council is aware of the stagnant water in the creek near Red Beach Surf Club. Watercare recently finished remedial works in upstream networks and is awaiting wet weather testing to monitor the extent of water quality improvements and to determine if further sampling or intervention is continued on p5

General manager, Jannette Thompson

It is with a sense of great relief that we bring you this first post-Covid 19 lockdown issue. Relief that the PM’s high stakes gamble of throwing the country into lockdown with just 48 hours’ notice paid off and relief that we are still here to deliver the news to our communities. Not everyone will be in this happy position. This will be the end of the road for some businesses and many people are likely to find themselves redundant or working shorter hours for less pay. It’s going to be tough paying the bills for a while, but we are up to the challenge. We’ve already shown that by our united stand against the spread of Covid-19 and it has been amazing to see how local restaurants and cafes, as well as many retail outlets, have adapted quickly to offer contactless services. You all deserve a huge pat on the back. One of the big questions we face is what sort of normal do we want to return to? Admittedly, those of us who weren’t essential workers had to learn to live with smaller incomes during lockdown, but our reward has been more time to relax, and to spend with family and on occupations we enjoy. Lockdown brought with it less congestion and road noise, less crime, less carnage on our roads and a lot of environmental gains. When the Government pushed the pause button on our lives, it gave us an opportunity to think about the lives we were leading and the lives we might want to live. Let’s not be too quick to jump back on the hamster wheel. The PM’s mantra throughout lockdown was ‘be kind’ – powerful words, despite their simplicity. As we pick up the pieces of our lives, I hope we will be both kind and patient, to one another and also to ourselves.

Media role On another note, it was with some interest that we observed the criticism of reporters who attended the daily Covid updates during lockdown. It says a lot about the public’s lack of understanding of what the media’s job is. In this day and age, when governments, councils and corporations employ an army of public relations professionals to put a positive spin on everything they do and say, the media has a vital role to play in unpicking those carefully crafted messages to find the truth. It’s not a job for a lap dog. The reporters who doggedly questioned the testing regimes and supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) weren’t being annoyingly persistent because they couldn’t think of any other questions to ask. They were holding the PM, Cabinet Ministers, the Commissioner of Police and the health authorities to account. Thank goodness NZ has a free and independent media that can challenge the powers that be in this way, and long may it survive. That said, this newspaper recently joined Press Patron, which provides a means for readers like you to support Hibiscus Matters in its role as an independent and local news gathering organisation. The money raised goes directly back into funding the journalism that makes this paper tick. Thank you in advance if you wish to contribute. You can access Press Patron via our website at localmatters.co.nz (you’ll find the link at the top of the page).

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Jannette Thompson

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Feedback cont... required. Further remedial work from Healthy Waters was also planned, however it was put on hold due to the lockdown. Once we return to business as usual, those remedial works will be programmed back into the schedule. This creek, like many other waterways in Auckland, has had a pungent smell as there has not been significant rainfall in a while which means the creek has not been flushed out by rain. As a result,

organic material such as grass and leaves rot in shallow water. This process uses up the oxygen in the stream and naturally produces sulphur dioxide, which has a strong smell and turns the water a dark colour. Although it looks and smells unpleasant, it is a natural process and will be restored when there is more rain. If harmful substances are suspected to be polluting the creek, call the Pollution Hotline 09 377 3107.

A family spent time on April 29 putting together this positive message for the people exercising on Orewa Beach.

When you’re out and about you may see little painted rocks like these hidden in nooks and crannies. Families paint and hide small rocks outdoors as well as hunt for rocks left by others – a craze that took off locally around three years ago. The local Facebook page, HBC Rocks, has 1265 members. During lockdown, painting rocks was a great way to keep busy and creative – as soon as the country reached Level 2, more than 10,000 painted rocks made during lockdown were put out in parks across New Zealand for others to find and enjoy.

Tindalls Bay artist Heather Matthews threw herself into her art during lockdown. Here’s the result, which she calls ‘Social Distancing 2020’

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Councillors lose battle for zero rate increase option The Auckland Ratepayers Alliance last month identified four councillors who pressed for public consultation on a zero rates increase after it received leaked details of a confidential meeting. They were Rodney councillor Greg Sayers, Albany councillor John Watson, Howick councillor Sharon Stewart and Albert-Eden-Puketapapa councillor Christine Fletcher. The opportunity for a re-think of the rates increase came about as Council put together an Emergency Budget because of big changes to its original Annual Plan (budget) caused by the Covid-19 crisis. The original budget was already consulted on earlier in the year but Council must now consult again as significant changes will be occurring. During the Council’s Emergency Committee meeting on April 16, Mayor Phil Goff moved that several issues be voted on together. These included a broadening of Council’s rates’ postponement policy, suspending the accommodation provider targeted rate and public consultation on two levels of rate increase – one at 2.5 percent and one at 3.5 percent – and the potential impact on these options on Council services, projects and finances. An option to publicly consult on a zero percent increase was excluded from the recommendation, even though the potential impact of a zero per cent increase on Council services, projects and finances will be included in the

public consultation documentation. During the meeting, questions arose as to how councillors could record that they disagreed with the decision not to consult specifically on the zero percent option. In the end, all councillors voted in favour of the full set of recommendations, but the four councillors identified by the Auckland Ratepayers Alliance had their wishes noted in the minutes that they wished to have a zero percent rate rise consulted on as well. Cr Greg Sayers confirmed to Mahurangi Matters that he was among the four identified by the Alliance. “I simply wanted the public to get a fair chance to give their feedback on all the options available to them, especially since all the information about a zero per cent rate increase will be made available,” he says. Cr Sayers says the vote on what the actual rates increase will be will likely take place in mid-July. “A rates freeze would avoid putting an even higher financial burden on to ratepayers in the coming year, many of whom are now unemployed, are facing cuts in hours, or are losing their businesses, particularly in the local retail, accommodation, hospitality and tourism sectors,” he says. But Cr Sayers acknowledges that a zero percent rates increase will result in a substantial loss in Council revenue. This could mean a 20 percent reduction

in Council staff and a reduction in Council services. Moreover, Council would need to eliminate unnecessary red tape and eliminate any activities beyond its core business. “Auckland Council needs to do the same as what every other business and household is doing right now, that is, cutting costs and getting back to basics,” he says. Cr Sayers’ sentiments were echoed by Cr John Watson. Cr Watson says he and Cr Wayne Walker both wanted the option of a zero rates increase put on the table for investigation and presentation to the public. “Covid-19 will potentially bring about the biggest economic calamity to beset New Zealand since the Great Depression in the 1930s,” Cr Watson says. “There’s likely a huge dislocation in terms of employment and income for people, so the full gamut of options needs to be spelled out and clearly explained. I want the full range of options consulted on.” Cr Watson says he and Cr Walker maintain this view even while acknowledging that Council revenues have plummeted due to the lockdown and Auckland is already carrying a debt burden of $9 billion. Public consultation on the proposed rate increases will run from May 29 to June 19. Advertisements will alert Aucklanders on how to make their views known online. Following

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the consultation, input from Local Boards and decisions by the Council’s governing body, the budget is likely to be considered for adoption at the end of July.

Back to work on Silverdale park and ride

Construction at the Silverdale Park ‘n’ Ride resumed when the country moved to Alert Level 3, but the lockdown has caused further delays to the project. Auckland Transport spokesperson Mark Hannan says work began onsite on April 29, with appropriate Ministry Of Health guidelines being followed. He says completion of the project, which was due to happen at the end of this year, may be delayed until late February next year. “Due to the Covid-19 Level 4 shutdown onsite, work was not permitted and expected material supplies have also been delayed,” Mr Hannan says. “Further on-site production delays may be experienced due to the uncertainty around Covid-19.” He says Auckland Transport is working with its contractor to take every opportunity to complete the project at an earlier date if possible. When it’s finished, there will be 90 more carparks, and a building containing ticket and AT Hop top-up machines, toilets, as well as secure cycle parking and well lit waiting areas protected from the elements. Construction of the park and ride began in late 2017.

May 20, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Viewpoint with Louise Johnston, Dairy Flat Representative, Rodney Local Board louise.johnston@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Industrial area not a done deal

Offers to purchase Auckland Council’s Orewa service centre and local board headquarters at 50 Centreway Road are currently being evaluated but an agreement has not yet been signed. The property went up for sale in February, and tenders closed on March 19. Council voted to sell it in 2018, with both Albany Ward councillors, John Watson and Wayne Walker, voting against the sale. Any sale was to include an offer to the potential purchaser that Council could lease the site back as a tenant, so that services to ratepayers could remain located there. This would be until around 2022/23 when Council services are to be amalgamated at a North/West hub that is yet to be built in Albany. However, even when this happens the community has a guarantee that services such as paying rates and dog registration fees will remain local.

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This is my second term on the Rodney Local Board. I represent the Dairy Flat subdivision, which includes Dairy Flat and Wainui – both areas that Hibiscus Matters covers. I am passionate about ensuring that our area does not lose its rural character as it moves towards urbanisation. I am determined that the planning for our future park at Green Road, Dairy Flat is completed. This 154ha of farmland has the potential to be the Cornwall Park of the Hibiscus Coast. As ratepayers we have owned this land for almost 20 years. In our area, we do not have footpaths, cycleways or bridle trails but fast cars, heavy trucks and deep culverts. As Aucklanders, we can access our regional farm parks for mountain biking, running and horse riding and Green Road should be no different. Our area is changing, and many locals are not happy about it. They feel that Council is not listening to their concerns and feedback. Last week, Council adopted the structure plan for the Silverdale West, Dairy Flat industrial area. This planned industrial estate is going to be massive, at over 600ha. The structure plan does not rezone the land, but it is the first stage to enable urban development. The industrial estate is to be released in three stages from 2022 to 2048. It is a bold call from Council to predict the needs of business for the next 30-40 years, especially given how technology is changing the way we live our lives and do business. In the draft plan, many locals were concerned about the proposed heavy industrial area, South of Wilks Road. Heavy industry is large in scale but unlike other business zones it restricts several activities – such as cafés and childcare centres. Unfortunately, this zoning allows businesses to produce objectionable odour, dust and noise emissions. Also, air quality emissions standards that are different to the rest of Auckland often apply in this zone. Not your ideal neighbour! So, it is a welcome change that the final plan now includes the need for heavy industrial land to be reassessed prior to the rezoning of the land in Stage 2 (2038-2048). Cutting through the jargon, heavy industrial zoning is not a done deal yet. The structure plan does have some positives, with proposed off-road cycling and pedestrian networks but these are not funded and are indicative only. The proposed riparian planting, landscape buffers and open spaces will help the area retain its rural character. But from previous experience, whether these are implemented successfully often depends on the developer. Likewise, there is very welcome transport infrastructure included such as the proposed new motorway interchange at Wilks Road (South facing only) and public transport provided by a rapid transport network. However, both projects are unfunded and with a cash strapped Council they may be decades away. The next step is for the council-initiated Unitary Plan change for stage one (2022 to 2038) to be lodged. Unfortunately for the stage one development, key transport infrastructure is not likely to be included. This will put extra pressure on the already congested Silverdale motorway off ramp. The Unitary Plan change is a legal process under the Resource Management Act and there will be the opportunity for public submissions, an independent hearing and ultimately the right of appeal to the Environment Court. At this stage, I am not sure when the plan change will be publicly notified but it is important to make sure that we provide feedback and help shape our area.

| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

localbusiness DE LA MER OREWA COMPLETION EXPECTED OCTOBER 2020

C11/388-392 Hibiscus Coast Highway Asking price $599,000

La Residence de la Mer is a boutique seaside apartment complex just a few minutes’ walk from Orewa Beach. Located on a stunning piece of land just north of the Town Centre and one block back from the beach, this attractive development defines modern coastal living. Through a gated thoroughfare, La Residence de la Mer could be your new home by the sea. The one bedrooms apartments start from $599,000 including one secure carpark. Being so close to town, a block from the beach, private with a north aspect and functional highquality living. These apartments are in high demand. Visit our show home: 7/445 Hibiscus Coast Highway Open 11am - 3pm daily

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DE LA MER OREWA OCEAN VIEWS, CLOSE TO TOWN! B12/388-392 Hibiscus Coast Highway Asking price $799,000

There are only a select few of two bedroom apartments available all with there own unique advantages, whether it be potential sea views, large courtyards, privacy or an excellent aspect there is plenty of variety. In high demand, with the prices starting from $799,000 which includes 1 secure car park. All apartments have timber flooring throughout the kitchen and living spaces, heat pumps in the main living space, underfloor heating to bathroom, wall heaters to bedrooms, double-glazing, and LED lights. It also features modern kitchen, stone benches, quality fittings and Fisher and Paykel appliances. Visit our show home: 7/445 Hibiscus Coast Highway Open 11am - 3pm daily

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DE LA MER OREWA BIG ON SPACE! NORTH FACING! C13/388-392 Hibiscus Coast Highway Asking price $799,000

La Residence De la Mer could be your new home by the sea. The two bedrooms, two bathroom apartments start from $799,000 including one secure car park. Close to town, a block from the beach, private with a north aspect and functional highquality living. These apartments are in high demand. It is just a gentle stroll to the golden sands of Orewa Beach and all the amenities of Orewa Town Centre. If you need to travel further afield, it’s a 15-minute drive to Albany Mega Centre and a further 10 minutes to the CBD via the new Northern Motorway. There is also a bus stop beside this gated community on Hibiscus Coast Highway. Visit our show home: 7/445 Hibiscus Coast Highway Open 11am - 3pm daily

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Business groups unite to keep Coast in business Business associations are working together in new ways to support local businesses as they get back to work. The Coast has three organisations that represent local businesses – Destination Orewa, which as a Business Improvement District (BID) represents all Orewa businesses, with compulsory membership; the Silverdale Area Business Association, which has a voluntary membership of around 120 currently; and the oneyear-old Business Whangaparaoa, also with voluntary membership, currently at 83. Destination Orewa manager Hellen Wilkins says although the three groups have worked together behind the scenes before, it is the first time they have come together so publicly to support businesses. “These are extreme circumstances, and so although the three areas are all competing for the same dollar, we also need to support the wider community,” Hellen says. “We also want to drive traffic to the Hibiscus Coast as a whole, while retaining the individual brands of the areas we represent.” Encouraging people to shop local is a main focus. The joint initiatives include showcasing an overarching Coast brand under the banner Keep it on the Coast. In addition, Orewa will run its own campaigns, including looking at ways of attracting tourists to the region. Hellen says the 15 or so Orewa businesses she asked about rent are saying that generally landlords have been compassionate during lockdown, with tenants getting rent reductions of between 20-100 percent. However, enforced closure during lockdown has already seen three Orewa businesses shut permanently – Alley Katz café, The Rock Kitchen and Coconut Gallery. Florist shop Fleurette closed last weekend, but Silverdale Area Business Association’s (SABA) new chair, Theo Simeonidis, says he doesn’t know of any other Silverdale businesses closing for good. However, he says everyone will be struggling to make up for the cashflow lost over lockdown. “Once the brakes come off we want businesses to get together, collaborating and networking to get out of the hole we are now in,” Theo says.

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He says as well as the joint Buy Local campaign, SABA will have a business networking programme and special rates for membership to foster that collaboration. “We are determined to help our local businesses succeed and make the Silverdale area the economic powerhouse it has the potential to be, despite the recent setback from Covid-10,” he says. Mitre 10 has closed its store on Karepiro Drive. A spokesperson says this is due to the financial impact of Covid-19 and that there is a chance it could reopen in Spring depending on economic conditions. Whangaparaoa Business activator Sarah Carr has not heard of any other businesses on the peninsula closing, but is sure this will happen. She encourages businesses to get in touch with their local associations to share their stories and find out the support and activities each has available. Meanwhile, large events that bring business into the shops are all on hold until at least November. Hellen Wilkins says a lot of events are funded through corporate sponsorship and grants as well as gaming funds. “Who knows what that territory looks like right now? It’s good promotion, but can corporates afford it? There are many unknowns, she says.” She says the first event casualty is the Buskers Festival, which has been held in Orewa in February for seven years and is largely funded by Destination Orewa. “People love it, but we need to allocate that money to fill any funding gaps so we can run other events.” Hellen says the consensus among the 20 Auckland BIDs is that it will take at least three months once the country is out of any Alert Levels, to find out which businesses will be okay and which won’t. “We feel for the small businesses, especially family owned ones – when they close, the whole family loses its income. If there is a positive in this, it is that any new business that comes into town brings a new vibrancy but sadly that will be through another’s misfortune.” “Being open is one thing, but it’s about being able to sustain that – which is why buy local is so important.”

May 20, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Rodney out, Whangaparāoa in Voters in the former electorate of Rodney will vote in either Whangaparaoa or Kaipara ki Mahurangi in the next General Election. On April 17, the Representation Commission released its final report on the electorate boundary review, which started six months ago. The name Rodney disappears and voters on the Hibiscus Coast and Dairy Flat (from Hatfields Beach south to around Paremoremo) will move to the Whangaparaoa electorate. The remainder of the former Rodney electorate, and the southern part of the Northland electorate (Te Arai, Tapora, Wellsford) form part of the new electorate of Kaipara ki Mahurangi, which also takes in the former Helensville electorate. The new electorate stretches south almost to Waitakere. There are name changes for 10 existing electorates in total. Commission chair Judge Craig Thompson says the names were either proposed by the commission or suggested in public submissions to better describe the redrawn electorate areas. Judge Thompson says that where possible, the commission has maintained existing electorate boundaries and no changes have been made to 36 electorates. The

boundaries of 30 general and five Māori electorates have been adjusted to some degree. The number of electorates in the Auckland region has increased from 24 to 25. The new electorate is in South Auckland and its final name following public consultation is Takanini. In total, there are 72 electorates – 65 general electorates and seven Māori electorates. The areas where there have been the most boundary changes are the Auckland region, Waikato, Christchurch, Otago and Southland. The proposed electorates were released for public comment last November and 438 written submissions were received. Public hearings were held in February. “Now the boundaries and names have been finalised, we’d encourage people to go to www.vote.nz to check which electorate they are in.” The final electorates can be viewed through interactive mapping at www. vote.nz. Electorate maps and the Report of the Representation Commission 2020 can be downloaded from the website. The changes do not affect the local government boundary names – the Hibiscus Coast still falls under Hibiscus & Bays for its local board and Albany Ward for the Council’s governing body.

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DE LA PLAGE OREWA BRAND NEW UNBELIEVABLE VALUE 6/447 Hibiscus Coast Highway Asking price $599,000

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Here’s your opportunity to secure a brand new 2 bedroom apartment 50 meters walking distance to the beach. La Residence De La Plage is Orewa’s newest apartment complex made up of 26 homes. De La Plage is now complete book a private viewing today. All apartments have timber flooring throughout the kitchen and living spaces, heat pumps in the main living space, underfloor heating to bathroom, wall heaters to bedrooms, double-glazing, and LED lights. It also features modern kitchen, stone benches, quality fittings and Fisher and Paykel appliances. Visit our show home: 7/445 Hibiscus Coast Highway Open 11am - 3pm daily

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| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

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Award welcome news for local nut business These are challenging times for small businesses, which made the good news received by a local nut butter maker recently all the more valuable. Forty Thieves Nut Butters is a family business started by Shyr and Brent Godfrey almost four years ago. The couple began by producing everything themselves and selling at Farmers Markets. They now employ a team of 10 in their Stanmore Bay factory and sell their 12 products through over 250 stores nationwide. They export a small quantity to the US and recently sent their first shipment to China. Early this year they entered the Outstanding NZ Food Producer Awards and, while in lockdown on April 21, received the news that they had won four medals – a gold for Chai Spiced Almond with Fruit Pieces; two

silvers for Peanut Butter Crunchy and Scorched Almond with Organic Cocoa; and a bronze for Almond Butter Crunchy. Each year the judges of these awards, which this year included food writer and cookbook editor Lauraine Jacobs and NZ cook Allyson Gofton, assess around 200 products. As well as quality, judging criteria include sustainability and originality. Forty Thieves has won a number of other awards already, including a gold medal at the 2018 Outstanding Food Producer Awards, and a bronze at the 2018 NZ Chocolate Awards. However, Shyr says this year’s win was particularly good news, given the lockdown. “It shows that local businesses should not lose hope and are still seeing success despite the pandemic,” she says.

Hibiscus Matters and Forty Thieves have a pack of four pots of award-winning nut butter, valued at $42, to give away. To be in to win, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters’ Facebook page and message us with your name and contact phone number. Alternatively, write your name, address and daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Forty Thieves Nut Butter Giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Orewa. Entries close June 5. CL

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May 20, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

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Charity rises to challenge of lockdown food demand Food rescue charity Love Soup stepped into overdrive during lockdown, taking in large quantities of food – sometimes by the pallet load – and putting together food parcels for locals in need. Director Julie King says her team, based at Whangaparaoa Hall, has been so busy attending to the pressing need that they have not had time to crunch any numbers but that demand has grown to the point where the organisation is helping many hundreds of families every week, all over Auckland and from Paihia to Rotorua. Until lockdown, Love Soup was not delivering to families, only to organisations that then distributed the food. Volunteer coordinator Danny Battershill says volunteers realised soon after lockdown that the need could get out of hand really quickly. He says the majority of need was among people who had never asked for help before. “In first four days we did 220 deliveries because of those newly affected by Covid-19,” Danny says. Two shipping containers were craned on site to store stock and 20 long tables were put up in Whangaparaoa Hall, which became a centre for packing parcels. Danny said the community response was “phenomenal”. Among the examples he gives are a

From left, Volunteer Albert Seumalii brings donated food into Whangaparaoa Hall. Verna Lepou is among the Love Soup volunteers who stepped in to help during the lockdown.

lady who dropped off a trolley load of food collected from neighbours in her street in Red Beach and another who bought and donated $100 worth of produce. He says Love Soup is putting out the call to anyone at risk, whether they may be living next door, or a family member. “We need to look after each other,” Danny says. Julie says the cost of helping so many people made demands on the charity’s finances. “We spent more than $13,600 on

food over the lockdown period and Level 3, because although there were many food donations, we had to purchase certain things to fill parcels,” she says. “Our petrol and transport bill for April was more than $3000.” Cr Wayne Walker, a trustee of Whangaparaoa Community Trust, which owns the hall, says the demand could initially drop when people get back to work, but long term it may rise again. He says that under Level 2, the food distribution centre will be moved into the hall’s supper room so that groups such as dance clubs that use the hall

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can get back in. During lockdown, the Auckland Emergency Management Welfare provided a food parcel programme for Aucklanders. By April 23, 13,675 requests for this assistance had been received. Of these, 174 were from the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board area and a further 173 from wider Rodney. “What is becoming apparent therefore, is that the demand is growing all across Auckland and that there are people now affected by the Covid-19 crisis using these services who have never had to in the past, Cr Watson says. “That is only likely to increase.”

| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

localbusiness

n C H A N G I N G FAC E S

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

The new owner of Millwater Dental on Millwater Parkway, Dr Jason Ng, has many strings to his bow. As well as being a NZ registered dentist, he is an international trainer and clinical lecturer for Align Technology, an international karate judge and referee, and a classically trained pianist. Dr Ng took over the Millwater practice from Dr Sanjay Namburi at the start of the Covid-19 Level 4 lockdown last month. He says although the timing wasn’t ideal, he has spent the downtime re-doing the website, getting to know the practices’ systems and preparing for its re-opening. “You have to look for a silver lining,” he says. “We had to wait and see how and when we could open and we are excited to be able to open at level 2. I’m part of a worldwide group that has been talking about some of the issues relating to the current pandemic and every country is approaching it differently. It will take common-sense and good treatment protocols, something that dentists are used to practising, given that we already treat people with existing medical conditions. After graduating from Otago University, Dr Ng worked overseas in Asia and Europe. He returned in 1994 and became a partner at the Titirangi Dental Centre where he developed a busy family practice with an emphasis on providing quality long-term dental solutions. “We will be providing the same high

The latest Fantails Childcare Centre – Fantails Estate in Dairy Flat – is a modern, purpose-built facility with large outdoor grounds, designed to cater for children’s needs for fun, physical activity and learning. Fantails Estate is the third centre owned by the Kiers family, with the others in Wainui and Silverdale. It opened early in March, and is licensed for 150 children, aged six months to five years old. The buildings on the 3ha block have separate rooms and outdoor areas for infants, babies, toddlers, juniors and preschoolers. Each group can therefore enjoy its own age-appropriate resources along with specialised staff, and also come together for group activities. The sunny rooms have covered decks for art and craft and messy play. Beyond lies another world of fun and learning in large landscaped grounds that include sandpits, water features, vegetable gardens, bike tracks, obstacle courses, slides and whare huts. An amphitheatre provides seating around a stage where children can put on performances. There is also a fenced paddock where games and running races can be held. The flow between indoors and outdoors is something that Fantails group manager Nikki Summerville says ticks important boxes for quality childcare. “Being in a natural outside environment running around, lifting, climbing and exploring, children get to use all their muscle groups, extend their motor

Millwater Dental

Fantails Estate Childcare Centre

Dr Jason Ng, Dr Lillian Hsu

level for care at Millwater,” he says. Working alongside him will be dentist Dr Lillian Hsu and an oral health therapist and hygienist. “What attracted me to Millwater was that it’s a great community and the practice is part of a medical hub. We will not just provide the full range of dental care for the whole family but also more specialised care, from orthodontic teeth straightening to comprehensive reconstructive work. “My passion lies in the use of digital dentistry to provide aesthetic, minimally invasive, longterm restorative solutions, and orthodontics. These branches of dentistry complement and integrate together to provide healthy, functional and beautiful smiles with a holistic approach for patients.” Dr Ng is the current chair of Auckland and Northland region for Karate New Zeeland and still teaches at a dojo in New Lynn. Last year he competed in the veterans section of the national championships, finishing second.

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Nikki Summerville

skills, and build up their upper body strength which supports their learning and development,” she says. Nikki is a qualified Early Childhood teacher who has worked for Fantails for more than five years. Her husband Daniel also works at Fantails as a preschool teacher and maintenance man. Nikki has been managing Early Childhood Centres for more than 20 years and says the emphasis at Fantails is on inspiring a lifelong love of learning and creating relationships between groups that move through the centre together as they grow older. Dairy Flat is zoned for residential development in the coming decades and Nikki says big green spaces and gardens are going to become less common as that growth takes place. Fantails Estate was designed with this in mind, and Nikki says its team of qualified registered childcare teachers are looking forward to things like growing edible plants from seed and then cooking and eating the produce – teaching children where food comes from.

May 20, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localbusiness

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This photo was taken in 1892 of Orewa, looking south from Hatfields Beach. The road north had not long been created, as previously the official ‘road’ was Orewa Beach itself. However, once the road was put over the hill to Waiwera – a very popular destination at the time – bridges were built linking Orewa and Waiwera, enabling vehicle access.

Netball makes hard call

Last week, Netball NZ announced the cancellation of all this year’s secondary school regional and national tournaments such as AIMS and UNISS. The organisation says the decision was made in conjunction with organisers of those events, due to the ongoing impacts of Covid-19, the lead-in time required for such events and the financial pressures created by lockdown. All events will be rescheduled next year. The cancellation is disappointing for students – in particular those who are in their last year of secondary school as the events are important opportunities for identifying players with future potential. Netball NZ says it will work to ensure strong links to player identification systems within zones and opportunities continue to exist for aspiring players in the second half of 2020 and into early 2021.

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| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

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Thanks Essential Workers. Hibiscus Matters wants to thank some of the workers who kept essential services operating during lockdown. There were many more types of workers than we could include here, but here is a shout out to a few of the locals:

Recycling truck driver/ owner Vijay Samy “I worked the whole lockdown. People were very friendly – clapping and smiling. The children were watching the process, waving, and I am going to miss making them happy. For me it was very different from normal and very enjoyable. There was a lot more recycling – it was like Christmas in terms of volume because everyone was home. The company looked after us and I felt safe.”

Love Soup volunteer Xavier Mika Local dairies Thanks also goes to the local dairy owners, staff and suppliers who provided the community with a small business alternative source of essential items – including flour!

Fifteen-year-old Whangaparaoa College student Xavier Mika was one of many new volunteers who helped out at the food rescue charity Love Soup during their busy lockdown period. Doing this was part of his Duke of Edinburgh award service.

Unichem Manly owner, pharmacist Tania Adams “Lockdown was like nothing I have ever seen before. To protect our patients from us, us from our patients and our patients from each other we came up with a ‘contactless pharmacy’ involving perspex and paywave. It might have been annoying to stand in our queue, two metres apart and wait, however people who visit our pharmacy are often frail and/or sick and we were seriously worried. Before we did this, despite our best attempts at questioning people at the door, we had people who were at high risk of carrying the virus still coming in. Another big reason for a contactless pharmacy was so that we could stay open. If any of the team got infected, we would have had to close, so we started running two shifts with no contact between. This meant that if one of us became sick, the other team could still be operational. The teams worked

really hard and long hours. With initial threefold volumes of prescriptions arriving we were seriously overloaded at the start but put in systems to make things easier. I remember standing in the dispensary at 1am, devastated because I still had 300 prescriptions that I hadn’t done and I just had to go home and sleep, but we came out the other end with new ways of working, communicating and interacting with our community. We have very much appreciated our patients’ patience and understanding.”

Cerise Jordan, Manly Fire Brigade Volunteer Support “During Alert Levels 4 and 3, volunteers from the Manly Fire Brigade continued to provide a 24 hour emergency response. Manly enacted a full pandemic plan prior to entering continued on p15

My office has reopened and we’re ready to assist Marja Lubeck

Labour List MP based in Rodney 0800 LUBECK or 0800 582 325 marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

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May 20, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz continued from p14

Level 4. This included creating crew based ‘bubbles’ and arranging online training or catch up sessions. The Brigade welfare team found contactless solutions for ensuring our members felt engaged and supported during this period. Certainly we have come up with novel ways to ensure morale is lifted! We are looking forward to when opportunities for physical training and comradeship increase. We would like to thank our wider community for their commitment to keeping the Coast safe by following government’s advice and guidelines.”

up on Zoom. Along with other football club members we have been planning for a return to training and eventually playing when restrictions make that possible. While I have stayed fit running and cycling, I’m really looking forward to getting back out on the football pitch: coaching and playing.”

Denise Davies Whangaparaoa College teacher/head of technology

Detective Inspector Scott Beard, Hibiscus Coast AFC president “I have been working though out the lockdown, including the odd day working from home. It has been busy, and I’ve run a fatal police shooting critical incident investigation in Counties and a couple of weeks later was involved with the Mt Roskill homicide. There were also a few family birthdays during the lockdown, where we caught

“I was one of many teachers who, before lockdown, had never heard of Zoom. Now I zoom in and out of my students’ lives all day. I started day one with my Kaiarahe (Academic Counselling Class) setting the Covid-19 push up challenge, and uploaded a video of myself doing 19 very poor push ups – over half my class uploaded theirs. We have had ‘staycation’ photos, crazy hat day and shared Anzac Day morning tea via Zoom. My senior classes moved very quickly to working online, with 80 percent tuning into lessons. The biggest change was sitting many hours in front of a computer. I learnt that it’s not only the learners who are adaptable, but so are we teachers.”

“

I feel very fortunate to be a resident at The Oaks during the COVID-19 lockdown. I’ve appreciated the camaraderie of the village as contact with my family has altered tremendously during this time. Village staff have provided us with a positive and happy atmosphere.

”

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| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

localmatters.co.nz These three brothers fundraised for hospice in memory of their mum. From left, Jack, Max and Sam.

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

Winter revelations

Mother’s legacy leads to head shaving Three young boys had their heads shaved during lockdown in order to raise funds for the local hospice. The efforts of Max, 13, Sam, 8 and Jack, 6, raised more than $1300. Four years ago their mother, Debbie Greenwood, shaved her head on stage at the Boulevard Arts Fiesta in Orewa for the same good cause. At the time, her father was in the care of hospice and he died not long after. Debbie raised $4000. Tragically, later that same year the 43-year-old herself died from metastatic melanoma. Her partner Simon Godfrey says

Debbie was a very loving soul, well respected in the community for her generous spirit, and her passing has left a void. During lockdown, over an online chat, the three boys agreed to follow their mother’s example and shave their heads to raise funds. “Doing stuff like this helps to give the boys some positive things to look back on, not just loss,” Simon says. “It’s a connection with Debbie that celebrates life.” The boys will present their cheque to hospice once they can safely do so under the Covid-19 restrictions.

As we move from autumn towards winter, the skies above us change. Orion, who dominates the summer skies is moving off and is now setting in the early evening. Following Orion, the “Dog Star”, Sirius, is also moving out of our night skies. It appears midway down the western skies in the early evening, before setting around midnight. You will also notice that the ‘pot’ is turned on its side, as it bids us goodbye. From Northwest to Northeast, we start to see Gemini low in the sky, easily spotted by looking for its two bright stars, Pollux and Castor. Cancer is also rising, but is much harder to spot, as it is still pretty low down on the horizon. To the east of Cancer, you will see a bright, orange star. This is Regulus, the heart of Leo. Moving further east, you find another bright star. This is Spica, which lies in the Virgo constellation. As the night goes on, these constellations move from east to west. Later on in the evening, they will be followed by Scorpio, who dominates our winter skies, and Sagittarius. Sagittarius will be easy to spot as both Jupiter and Saturn rise with it, just a little after midnight. As we look towards the south, quite high in the sky you will find the Southern Cross. Something worth seeing near this vicinity is the globular cluster, Omega Centauri. As mentioned in previous articles, this cluster can be seen with the naked eye if you are in a dark area. Otherwise track it down with a pair of good binoculars. Well worth seeing! Located between Canopus and the Southern Cross, Eta Carinae is easily seen as the brightest star – and it falls within the large naked eye Carina Nebula. The Carina Nebula is four times as large as, and even brighter than, the famous Orion Nebula. Another one well worth seeing through binoculars. The best planets to see are Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. These are almost directly overhead just before dawn. Mercury starts becoming visible by mid-month, and by May 22 will be setting 80 minutes after the sun. Please be careful when trying to observe Mercury, as it is close to the sun and this may damage your eyes. Wait until the sun has properly set before observing. To make your star spotting easier, don’t forget to download one of the astronomy apps on your phone. Google Skymap is fantastic for Android devices and Starwalk2 is great on your iPhone. For those on a laptop, by far the best app is Stellarium. Autumn is a great time of year to see the Milky Way. If you are in a dark area, it will be easy to see. If not, take a trip out to Shakespear Regional Park, which is pretty dark, and take a look up into the sky. The more adventurous can venture out to Kaukapakapa, or up to the Warkworth area.

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May/June 2020 Your essential property guide from Dairy Flat to Waipu

WelcomeHome Welcome Home Barfoot & Thompson | Mike Pero Real Estate | Ray White | RE/MAX Realty Group

RAEWYN & KARLENE RAEWYN & KARLENE JONKERS

507 WAITOKI ROAD, WAINUI – AUCTION MAY 21 This distinctive freehold, four hectare country estate presents an astute opportunity for you to own a dress circle property featuring a lodge style home designed by Orange Architects; a residence set in private grounds with covenanted native bush backdrop. As you enter the home from the covered foyer, striking back the double doors into a spacious entryway with rustic American Oak flooring flowing through to the formal lounge, boosting 5.75m raking ceilings, you can’t help but be

MILLWATER

impressed by the magnificent gas burning schist stone fireplace with an ironbark timber mantle, perfect for cosy evenings. This home is ideal for extended family it is spacious and oozes quality,big timber beams -an entertainers dream. Outdoors, you are set for summer with easy care gardens, flat lawn and stunning views overlooking the natives that attract an abundance of wildlife. The internal garaging gives ample parking along with space for plenty more. This executive home is superbly positioned.

RAEWYN & KARLENE JONKERS Phone 0800 73 55 44 r.jonkers@barfoot.co.nz • k.jonkers@barfoot.co.nz

A Local Matters publication. Distribution - 38,500 copies. Advertising enquiries: Mahurangi 09 425 9068 or Hibiscus 09 427 8188

WelcomeHome

May/June 2020

WelcomeHome

The best journey takes you home. Let us help you get there!

Wellsford - 137 Worthington Road

Wellsford - 27 Worker Road

Space, Views and Location

You will love this three bedroom plus study home on a lovely north facing lifestyle

Sitting Pretty!

Centrally located, with an attractive street presence, this recently modernised

block on the outskirts of town. The substantial open plan lounge and dining area

home is currently configured with 3 double and 1 single bedrooms. The open

has great flow to the outdoors and has lovely polished floors, while the adjacent

plan kitchen and dining room together with the substantial separate lounge, enjoy

terracotta tiled kitchen features quality appliances and fittings. This attention to

easy access to the large wrap round decking area, delivering ample space for all

detail flows into the main bathroom. Substantial wrap-around decks overlook huge

your entertaining needs or just to sit back and enjoy after a hard day’s work, while

sweeping country views out to the distant horizon, accessed from both the lounge

contemplating any changes to the garden. The basement area has internal access

and master bedroom (which also enjoys an ensuite).

and is split into a single garage, an extra room and heaps of storage.

For Sale $795,000 Denise Pearson 027 303 6001 | denise.pearson@mikepero.com Web - www.mikepero.com/RX2332945

For Sale $598,000 Denise Pearson 027 303 6001 | denise.pearson@mikepero.com Web - www.mikepero.com/RX2332947

Kaipara - Lot 5 Bikerstaffe Road

Wellsford - 3/34 Totara View

Searching for a bush block? This 10.4ha block could be just what you’re looking

Packed with potential, this cutie would suit downsizers or a solo person. This

Nurtured By Nature

Potential Plus!

for, with its abundance of native fauna. There is nothing better than sitting outdoors

1980’s one bedroom home is proportioned well. The original kitchen adjoins the

watching and listening to the bountiful birdlife. Approx. 7ha of lovely native bush,

open plan lounge/dining area which enjoys sliding doors to the covered deck. The

approx. 1.5ha of radiata pines and the balance in pasture. The property is in one

attached carport leads to a substantial laundry and storage space. Situated in a

title with a lapsed two lot subdivision consent, surveyors and Geotech reports.

small block of three units and within close proximity to the township.

These will all have to be resubmitted. If you are a person who likes to start everyday looking out at nature, you need to view this block.

For Sale $345,000 Denise Pearson 027 303 6001 | denise.pearson@mikepero.com Web - www.mikepero.com/RX2335686

For Sale $399,000 Denise Pearson 027 303 6001 | denise.pearson@mikepero.com Web - www.mikepero.com/RX2336577

Mike Pero Real EstateWellsford | 0800 500 123 WelcomeHome

May/June 2020

Mike Pero Real Estate Mike Ltd.Pero Licensed Real REAA Estate(2008) Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

Kaipara - 5Kaipara Spinifex -Road 5 Spinifex Road 3

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For Sale $735,000 For Sale $735,000 Alan Corkin 021Alan 906 Corkin 901 | alan.corkin@mikepero.com 021 906 901 | alan.corkin@mikepero.com Web - www.mikepero.com/RX2243019 Web - www.mikepero.com/RX2243019

A LIFESTYLE A LIFESTYLE CHANGE CHANGE BEGINS BEGINS WITH A WITH VISION A VISION AND AAND SINGLE A SINGLE STEP STEP Alan CorkinAlan Corkin m.021 906 901 m.021 w. 906 www.mikepero.com 901 w. www.mikepero.com

Mike Pero Real Estate Mike LtdPero REAA Real (2008) Estate Ltd REAA (2008)

Mike Pero Mike Real Pero Estate Real Mangawhai Estate Mangawhai | 0800 500 | 0800 123 500 123 May/June 2020

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F E AT URE

Lockdown accelerates online healthcare Health services came up with new ways of working with patients during the Covid-19 lockdown, and there were several local innovations, many of which will continue to be used. A pilot programme that enables electronic prescriptions, which Unichem Manly owner Tania Adams had been working on with Manly Medical Centre, launched on the day the country went into lockdown. “We had been working on it for several weeks, and launched it out of necessity,” Tania says. “Thank goodness for that. It enabled us to get contactless prescriptions, which was essential under lockdown.” She says the system is a first for NZ, and has been made available to more than 800 pharmacies nationwide. Her pharmacy also came up with drive through flu vaccinations, which Tania says worked really well. “Entire families came in to get vaccinated in the car,” she says. Meanwhile, remote consultations became the norm for GPs. Dr Peter Hall of Family Doctors says his clinic accelerated tech changes which they were moving towards anyway, specifically video consults and paperless prescriptions. As a result, 90 percent of patient contact was via video, phone or email,

From left, David Purchas talks patient Valerie Dove through acupressure at home. An online physiotherapy consultation with Kinetics’ David Cooper.

Pharmacist vaccinator Laura Redfern gives a flu injection at the drive through.

which he says works well where a detailed physical examination is not required. “Generally it’s more stressful than face to face consults, because of technical issues, but it’s workable and probably the way of the future for some routine consults,” he says. “Patients seem pretty happy about it.” Even medical services thought of as essentially ‘hands-on’, such as acupressure and physiotherapy, also went online. Orewa acupuncturist David Purchas developed an online treatment system called Acupressure Live. Via video call, David gives a consultation and diagnosis and shows clients how to activate points

themselves using acupressure. Acupressure involves stimulating points without breaking the skin – either pressing with the fingers, or using an object such as a toothpick. He says the response was so positive that he is now treating clients around the country and even in the UK and he will definitely continue to develop his online practice. While the country was in Alert Level 3 and 4, Kinetics principal physiotherapist David Cooper was able to consult with clients, using the Telehealth video based system. David describes Telehealth as “a more secure version of Zoom”, specifically designed for healthcare. “Although physiotherapy seemingly revolves around a hands-on approach, forming a diagnosis is largely based on what the client tells us, which is of course still possible via remote

consultation,” he says. “Although we can’t deliver manual therapy, we can provide education about the injury and advice on self-care. This is something we do within our normal clinic environment too.” Exercise prescriptions were delivered via software that allowed the physiotherapist to stream video of exercises, share their screens for personalised guidance and write exercise programmes with video content that clients accessed through an app. “Clients had great outcomes from Telehealth and we have had good feedback so we will continue this consulting option after we re-open. I have even seen patients in other parts of the country which is a huge plus that came out of lockdown. Not only have we been able to help clients through these challenging times but it has also helped to ensure the long term viability of our business.”

Locally owned and operated, Kinetics is a physiotherapy & physical rehabilitation clinic with a friendly approach and a passion for acheiving results. y how n amazed b we have bee s k ee w 6 st nd running! Over the la t walking a ou n ee b e le hav ries is the many peop wer leg inju lo of s se u s mmon ca illes problem One of the co activity. Ach ew n a in se ea ting sudden incr the frustra are some of es su is obby. The d or IT Ban ew-found h n r ou y ’ rb ned at can ‘cu 50yrs combi problems th ics has over et in K at r s u sio’ s. O team of phy qualification t-graduate os p d d an N ce letics Z an experien ally with Ath n io at rn te or in Z and m e. staff travel n, Hockey N io n U y gb u ZR over the consult to N ith a niggle w g n li gg ru r team been st ith one of ou If you have t in touch w ge en th s e! lov last 2 month g what you t there doin ou ck ba t ge to help

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Tame pukekos take off Stanmore Bay couple Danni Yu and David Dennis are hopeful that the two pukekos they raised from chicks have started a new life in the wild. The birds disappeared from their property early in April. They had lived there since January – Danni and David rescued them when they fell from their nest near a pond in their garden. Danni and David are committed bird lovers, who have chickens and ducks as well as a walk-in aviary filled with budgies, cockatiels and quails. They took the responsibility of raising the chicks seriously. “When they were young, we put them in a cage with heat lamps because they didn’t have many feathers,” Danni says. “We fed the babies on an hourly basis for the first week using mashed peas and

corn mixed with chick starter crumbles. We also made them some fabric toys to keep them entertained and taught them how to eat by themselves.” Danni says the two birds grew up healthy, smart and curious. “They formed a trusting bond with us. They would come when we called, bow when they saw us and follow us around. They are quite remarkable birds.” The couple would like to know their birds are safe and are concerned that because they are so tame, they could get in trouble. “Many people don’t actually like pukekos, and this could put our humanfriendly birds in danger,” Danni says. If anyone has seen friendly pukekos in the area, contact Danni 021 179 1568.

Danni Yu and her husband David had a backyard picnic with their hand-raised pukekos during lockdown. It was the last time they saw them. Below, The baby pukekos grew up fast, and loved interaction with people.

No more birds seen in lockdown according to survey

Reports abounded of increased numbers of birds in towns and cities in New Zealand during the Covid-19 lockdown. Against this background, Forest & Bird Hibiscus Coast took the opportunity to run a local bird count survey during the last two weeks of lockdown. This is in addition to the nationwide Landcare Research survey that is held every year in winter. Fifty-four people responded to the lockdown survey, recording a total of 39 bird species. The most numerous species was house sparrow, followed by tui, myna,

silvereye and blackbird. Among the most exciting finds were a kaka in Army Bay and two bellbirds, one near Shakespear Regional Park and one in Orewa near Eaves Bush. One Army Bay resident had 45 tuis at one time in bottlebrushes and other trees around the garden, and said this was “not unusual”. Although house sparrow was clearly the most numerous species per garden, tui actually occurred in more gardens – 96 percent compared with 94 percent for sparrows. Fantails were recorded in 59 percent of the gardens, and silvereye 54 percent. Kereru were

recorded in 39 percent of gardens. These figures for tui, fantail, and kereru are higher than in most other areas of New Zealand. Retired Landcare Research scientist Eric Spurr crunched the numbers. He says the numbers of most species were similar to those recorded last winter in the nationwide NZ Garden Bird Survey. “There is no evidence from the present survey to suggest that more birds were recorded because of the lockdown,” he says. “Anecdotal reports of such increases may have been a result of people having more free time, birds moving conspicuously into spaces

vacated by humans such as empty streets, beaches and construction sites, and a lack of background noise in the environment from fewer cars and things like construction.” He says autumn is also a time of year when birds naturally form flocks and start moving into town in search of food. This autumn has been particularly dry, so birds may also have been searching for water. The next NZ Garden Bird Survey takes place in late June/early July. Details will be posted on gardenbirdsurvey. landcareresearch.co.nz

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James Ballantyne makes the most of the six-hour painting window he has each weekday. This subject is a beach at Shakespear Regional Park.

Artist finds garage inspiring Having moved to Orewa from the North Shore recently, artist James Ballantyne says he has found new inspiration. A fourth form teacher “who could actually paint” encouraged young James, who moved from pencil sketching into painting in oils. He has barely put down his brush since. “It’s addictive,” he says. Although he trained and worked as an animator, painting was never far from his mind and eventually it took hold. Having converted half of the garage in his new Orewa home into an art studio, the stay-at-home dad is able to paint uninterrupted for around six hours every weekday while his preschooler Jack is at kindergarten. He says during lockdown, this time reduced significantly and he completed just two paintings although he was glad to be there for his children. Landscapes and portraits are his specialty and he often works on commission – even painting animals on request. He works from photos. “I like to paint what I see, but I am leaning towards

Family members make great subjects for James’ paintings. This is his daughter Chloe.

the more impressionistic – I can do hyperrealism but I like something with more layers.” “As I’ve progressed, my skill has increased and so has the speed I can work at,” James says. “I’ve also learned to know when a work is finished.” When it comes to sales of his work, he says every year gets better and better – mainly thanks to posting his work on social media. There will be an exhibition of James’ work at Estuary Arts Centre later this year, with the timing still to be confirmed.

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Health with Dr Isabelle Duck isabelle.duck@silverdalemedical.co.nz

New normal for doctor’s visits We live in extraordinary times. As a nation we have given up so much to protect our people. The lockdown has had a huge impact on us all for a number of reasons, including the fear of falling ill, the economic uncertainty and the inability to see loved ones. Humans are social creatures and this feels unnatural for us. Things we have taken for granted in life – such as grabbing a coffee with friends, going to the gym or going out for a meal, were put on hold. This being said, our sacrifices have helped, and will continue to help to reduce the spread of Covid-19. What we need to remember, however, is that making a doctor’s appointment should not be a luxury. Maintaining good health is imperative to wellbeing, whether that be mental or physical. The term ‘be kind’ has been used a lot during this pandemic. We must not forget to be kind to ourselves. Amongst other things, this includes seeking medical advice when needed. Yes, things will have changed when you book an appointment with your doctor. You may be able to speak to your doctor remotely on the phone or via video link. If you need to come to the clinic, you will be assessed at the door by a nurse. You will be required to use hand sanitiser. Social distancing practices will be in place within the clinic setting. These are all measures to keep you safe. One other thing you most likely will see is staff in full PPE (personal protective equipment) outside the clinic. This may seem scary to some. It is quite daunting being approached by someone wearing a mask covering their face, a full gown and a visor. Please be reassured that this is for your protection. At Silverdale Medical, for example, all patients who have any of the Covid-19 symptoms are seen in a specified area. They are assessed in their cars, and kept completely separate from the rest of the patients. Yes, our Covid-19 numbers are low in this country, but we want to keep them that way, and this is the reason for staff wearing PPE during the pandemic. Many health professionals worry that people are not seeking medical advice who should, due to fears around coming to clinics and hospitals. If your diabetes readings are high, if you have an unusual mole on your arm or if you feel anxious and low, please ring to make an appointment with your doctor. Here at Silverdale we are also still managing patients who have had accidents. If you are uncertain as to whether or not you need to be seen, please ring ahead and there will be a nurse available who will be able to give you some guidance. During these challenging times, many aspects of our lives are on hold. As health professionals, we encourage you to try not to forget your physical and mental health. The last thing we want to see is a large peak in 6 months’ time of preventable illnesses, such as heart attacks, or late presenting cancers. Please do not ignore your symptoms. We are here to help, as we always have been. Hibiscus Matters welcomes Dr Isabelle Duck to our Health columns. She is a General Practitioner and Urgent Care doctor. Originally from the UK, Dr Duck has lived in Auckland for 10 years. She has experience in many aspects of community medicine including the management of acute accident and medical presentations and chronic medical conditions. She loves the educational role her work can offer, and enjoys getting to know her patients and their families. Outside of work, she enjoys running. She lives with her husband, young daughter and their rescue dog.

PROVIDING THE HIBISCUS COAST WITH QUALITY MEDICAL CARE

DR.THERESA MITTERMEIER

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Silverdale Medical has recruited qualified New Zealand trained General Practice doctors to the Hibiscus Coast. We recruit those who share our values to embrace evidence-based practice with an abiding commitment to compassionate care. Physicians offer services in English, Korean, Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese, Haka & Hokkien) and Bahsa.

Retail volunteers needed

Harbour Hospice Shops on the Hibiscus Coast, as well as in Warkworth and Wellsford, are looking for volunteers to help them re-open. The shops are supported by professional managers working alongside the volunteers to create a fun and relaxed work environment and shopping experience for customers. Volunteers can work their own hours – weekly, fortnightly or once a month on a Saturday. “Giving as little as three-and-a-half hours at a time will ensure we can keep delivering high quality care to patients and families in your community,” a spokesperson says. “If you are thinking of volunteering, pop into your local shop and talk with the manager or call volunteer coordinator Karen Little on 421 9180. Further information about volunteering for hospice can be found at: harbourhospice.org.nz

Now booking phone and video consults Phone 09 427 9997 7 Polarity Rise, Silverdale

www.silverdalemedical.co.nz

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| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

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Youth blog

Click to drop off Remain in car Text name, rego, time to: 0210 850 9942

with Caitlin Watson caitewatson@gmail.com

OP SHOPS - INCLUDING FURNITURE

Open during Level 2 - But unable to collect/deliver or accept large furniture at this time. No ‘unwanted’ drop offs please.

Volunteers wanted – Ph Cindy 021 0850 9942 Level 2 Shop hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 10am–2pm

Unit 1 & 2, 55 Karepiro Dr, Whangaparaoa | Ph 424 3717

Exhibitions now showing at Estuary Arts Centre G1,2,3: “Hibiscus Arts Trail showcase” featuring a diverse range of local artists and styles G4: “Auckland Watercolour Society” Annual Cash and Carry sale **NEWSLASH** Adult and children’s art Classes will resume in Level Two from Monday 25 May.

Bookings essential

214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 09 426 5570 www.estuaryarts.org Find us on Facebook Open 7 days a week, 9am to 4pm

Lockdown lessons I thought I would take the opportunity to reflect on what has been the younger generation’s closest thing to a ‘wartime moment.’ One of the biggest lessons that struck me during isolation was that we are made for community. Personally, I missed playing basketball at the Orewa court, interacting with friendly locals at The Hope Shop charity shop, meeting with my church community, and the friendly banter while popping to my local café. I hope to not take these simple exchanges for granted again. However, what I witnessed in lockdown was something quite unique and special in itself; a changing culture of community. Never had I seen so many people strolling around my neighbourhood. Smiles and warm greetings were constant from passers-by. Teddy bears peeked out windows. Poppies plastered the streets in creative ways to commemorate Anzac Day. In a socially distanced fashion, community spirit was alive and well. My question is – once we get back to commuting to work and grinding at the office, will this special spirit vanish? Or will we take the opportunity to hit the reset button and not retreat to our individualistic, busy lifestyles that somewhat characterised our pre-lockdown existence? In fact, what can we do to ensure this community spirit continues to thrive? This idea of community spirit is something that young people in particular are yearning for. A survey of local youth, run by the Coast Youth Community Trust in 2018, demonstrated that one of the priorities for young people was a stronger sense of community spirit! This is the opportunity – this century’s catalyst for change – for looking at building our sense of community. And for young people in particular, one of the most significant issues we face today is poor mental health. If we want to boost mental health outcomes, we need to work together to build our sense of community. As a government study shows, social connectedness is a key driver of wellbeing and resilience. In order to mitigate feelings of loneliness, we need a sense of belonging, which comes from family, friends, clubs, schools, work, and wider community involvement. We need to ensure that an isolated lifestyle does not rollover into our post-Covid-19 world as the new normal. When it is absolutely safe to do so, I encourage, in particular young people who may have established a new norm over isolation of sitting behind a screen, to instead tap into those ever-important community connections. Not just for the sake of our greater community wellbeing, but also for our own mental health.

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Work by the arts trail artists.

Art back on Estuary’s walls

Estuary Arts Centre in Orewa will be back up and holding exhibitions under Level 2. Manager Kim Boyd says it is kicking off with two exhibitions – a Cash and Carry by the Auckland Watercolour Society, and the Hibiscus Coast Arts Trail Showcase. The arts trail showcase is a way of thanking local artists who opened their studios for the Hibiscus Coast arts trails in 2014, 2016 and 2017. The trail provided an opportunity to visit a number of local artists in their Coast studios, by following a map. The trail was designed to be a permanent addition to the local event calendar but fell apart after bad weather hampered attendence at the 2017 event. “It was just starting to grow, so that

was very disappointing,” Kim says. A small amount of money was left over from the trail proceeds, so Estuary Arts has used that to create an exhibition for around 45 artists. “They are an amazing group of creators and this is a great way to thank them and showcase their work.” The Watercolour Society’s show is held annually and features framed and unframed watercolours that can be bought, paid for and taken away on the spot. Kim says that the arts centre’s gift shop also has a whole new look. The centre will be minimising the number of people in the galleries at any given time and running track and trace. Dates will be confirmed when available at www.estuaryarts.org/ current-exhibitions.html

Live music enthusiasts are eager to jump back into gigs at Dairy Flat Hall.

Live music back in Dairy Flat Dancing, as Dairy Flat Community Hall chair Henk Landweer points out, is very much a contact sport and like every other social activity, it has been shut down. However, under Alert Level 2, the first people were back, seated in front of the stage at Dairy Flat Hall this week, on May 21, enjoying live music but staying at a distance. The bar was open but no dancing could take place at that First Jam Night, but Henk says it was definitely better than nothing. “We have all missed live music more than some people have missed takeaways,” he says. “Now we have to

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work hard to get everything back to normal.” He says the club will offer Jam nights, under safe conditions, every Thursday night now, from 8pm-11pm. “We will check people’s temperature and keep records of everyone attending during May and June, and we will space out musicians and music lovers to create a responsible environment.” Entry will be by contactless payment of a gold coin donation. “Most musicians when I asked what they thought about this idea are in and bands are lining up for it,” Henk says. Info: DFlat.info

| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

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From left, Family bubble games included, from left, Tia Baker and Nicholas Otway with their mother Marni Otway and Caroline Leakey and her son Rea. Brothers Hamish, left, and Ethan Greenwood were among the first to get back on turf.

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Unit 11, 49 Rawhiti Road, Manly Phone Melanie 021 101 7345

Beautiful lawns & gardens “Fantastic job – the lawns are looking great” “I got home from work on Tuesday and my lawns were immaculate – Thank you so much” “It was just perfect”

Hockey first team sport back Under Alert Level 2, team sports are back. However, the hockey turfs in Millwater were in a unique position to enable groups of people, within a bubble, to play games at the start of Level 3. The brand new turfs have a gated security system in place that allowed them to meet those tough restrictions – something that Hibiscus Hockey chair Merv Huxford believes could be a first for hockey in New Zealand. There was a big waiting list of members keen to get back in action, and the first to have a hit-out were teenage brothers Hamish and Ethan Greenwood. The Orewa College students are keen players, both in the college’s First XI as well as playing in age group rep teams for North Harbour. During the lockdown, they used two hockey turf offcuts at home for skills practice and fun – including games of ‘hockey tennis’ in the garage. Their father, Hibiscus Hockey trustee, Ian Greenwood, says the Trust was lucky that the final part of its swipe card security system arrived two days before lockdown. He says once permission to start up

under Level 3 was obtained from the Ministry of Health, Harbour Hockey and the Waitemata District Health Board, the trustees had a meeting. “Just because we could operate, didn’t mean we should,” Ian says. “But we agreed it was in the interests of our members and was safe to proceed.” The turfs were separated into zones where bubble groups could play, separated by 20m ‘no-go’ areas. Players booked 50 minute time slots with 10 minute gaps in between, to keep the non-contact rule. Security cameras and the electronic security system ensure traceability. “The measures go way beyond what was required of us under Level 3,” Ian says. “Unfortunately, most facilities around the country have to be either fully open, or fully closed, as they have no real means of controlling individual users.” He says while the preparations that had to be made may seem like a lot of effort for only two weeks at Level 3, the Trust is now prepared in case the country ends up going back to that level at some stage.

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From left, Injured and exhausted but elated – Maree completes 100km after 17 hours. Family – daughters Cheyenne, 15, and Amelia, 9 – provide a much-needed massage. 1 A trophy made by daughter Cheyenne was presented to Maree on completion of her lockdown ultra-marathon.

Runner completes Hibiscus ‘Hundy’ at home An ultra marathon is an enormous test of physical and mental endurance for any runner – but Maree Leith went one step further, completing a 100km run during lockdown. “A lot of runners felt quite down about all the events being cancelled, so I wanted to do it for myself and my mental health – to prove that I’m a strong runner,” she says. Supported by her family ‘bubble’, she ran her “Hibiscus Coast Hundy” by going 100 times around a 1km loop through streets adjacent to her Stanmore Bay home. Starting at 4.45am on April 23, she ran for 17 hours, coming in well after dark. “During the day, my parents sat by the gate and watched me go around and

my kids Amelia and Cheyenne and husband Steffan (also a keen runner) did some laps with me,” Maree says. “I got funny looks from the neighbours and by 50km, they were starting to call out questions, so I met some neighbours for the first time in the 15 years I’ve lived there.” Maree’s children set up an ‘aid station’, with food and drink, just outside her house. There was no question that her fitness was up to the task – she had been training for the 100km South Island Ultra, which was originally scheduled for May. She has completed 75km before, coaches runners and runs local events such as the Get Moving series. However, 100km on pavements around

a loop course was a whole new challenge. “Running on concrete for 17 hours was a killer. Generally ultra-runs are on trails, much easier on the knees and hips,” she says. The lack of variation in the course was a big mental challenge and so was having home so close at hand. “There were times when went inside for the toilet and I could have easily fallen on the couch and called it quits, but I had to go back out there.” Everything started to hurt around 70k and after that, as well as having sore legs, Maree pulled a tendon in her foot. “I was too close to the finish line by then. I knew the pain would go if I stopped, but I was ticking off the laps and focused on getting to the end.”

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By then it had started to get dark and there were no supporters left outside. “I had amazing support from my family, but at night it was lonely and of course there was no big fanfare at the end. The kids did a toilet paper finish line across our driveway and we gave a couple of cheers and that was it.” Maree says it will take her a month to recover mentally and physically and not until the pain has gone will the scale of her achievement sink in. “Nine years ago I couldn’t even run to the letterbox. I was overweight and unfit. I started with lampost running, then did my first 6km and went from there. My next goal is to conquer 100 miles (160km) but I definitely won’t do that around home!”

Kerry Charlesworth Kaukapakapa resident

I had a colonoscopy screening procedure, which is really important if you are at risk of bowel cancer. I was very well taken care of during my visit. It’s also a bonus that there is no traffic and the facilities are nice.

My advice is to ask your GP if you can have it done locally or ring RSC direct.

The best surgeons offering you day care surgeries right here in Warkworth. Ask your GP if your day care surgery can be done at Rodney Surgical.

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localsport

Changes for sports clubs

HIBISCUS

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Individual sports, including tennis and golf, were first out of the blocks and back playing under Alert Level 3 restrictions. Whangaparaoa Tennis Club president Alf Sayer says the closure of the club in Manly for 33 days of lockdown had a number of impacts, including the premature end of senior interclub matches. Coaching sessions also had to cease, which affected coaches’ income. Alf says that members could get back on court under Level 3, in ‘bubble’ groups, because a robust electronic contact tracing system was in place along with a safety plan. Although competitive tennis is normally over by May, members play social tennis throughout the year and the club will keep abreast of how changes in Alert Level may affect how it operates. As with many sports clubs, a lack of income is being felt. “With the clubhouse remaining closed, we lost the socialising element of belonging to a sports club,” Alf says. “We had to defer or cancel a number of events that help bring club members

together. This in turn means a drop in income through bar takings and casual play fees from the public.” He says it remains to be seen how Covid-19 affects the tennis club going forward. “Livelihoods and employment levels may be adversely impacted, and that could affect membership levels in all types of sports clubs. Fortunately, our loyal band of club members gives us confidence we can retain our membership level. The national tennis recruitment weekend of ‘Love Tennis’ currently scheduled for early September, becomes a very important event.” Bowls cautious about return to play While in theory bowlers could return to the greens under Level 3 restrictions, it was up to individual clubs to make that call. Bowls Orewa was one of the ones that decided to remain closed. President Tony Rickerby says this was Bowls NZ’s advice, and is because a large number of the club’s members are in the over 70s age bracket. He says he hopes the club can reopen for singles and pairs only under Level 2 but that all sports with older age demographics will be very cautious about this.

Coastguard funding issue sorted

Thermally Efficient uPVC Joinery ecoauckland.nz

Auckland Council’s Emergency Committee found a way to ensure that the service continues to receive funding, to get around a legal issue caused by Coastguard Northern Region’s (CNR) decision to merge into Coastguard NZ. The merger means CNR is no longer a legal entity – it was formerly the entity that received funding. At its meeting on April 23, the committee voted to provide Coastguard NZ with the same amount that CNR would have been allocated by the Auckland Regional Amenities Board. The agreement will see Council provide Coastguard NZ with $824,000 per annum for two years, starting on July 1, while it looks at more long-term arrangements.

ENJOY YOUR GARDEN MAKEOVER We Do Landscaping provides complete property improvement services, from small tidy ups to total remodel of the outdoor spaces. We love doing fences, patios, decks, pergolas, retaining, courtyards, pathways, garden beds, new lawns, lawn repairs, total garden makeovers. Tell us what you need, we make it happen in an easy cost effective fashion. A local company on the Hibiscus Coast, north Auckland.

Phone Simon 021 895 613 simon@wedolandscaping.co.nz wedolandscaping.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

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Know

your local trades

Peninsula

Peninsula Rust & Panel Repairs, Troy Andreassen What your company specialises in: Rust and panel repairs, restorations, rust treatments, welding, repairs for W.O.F and C.O.F and more. What are the essential skills and experience that you bring to this trade/service? I purchased the business in November 2018 and have worked on every type of vehicle, including cars, trucks, buses, campers and trailers. With more than 20 years in the trade locally, I pride myself on quality repairs at an affordable price. What is it about this job that gets you out of bed in the morning and keeps you motivated? I love my work, and every day is different. I am very fortunate to work on a wide variety of vehicles and equipment. I find it very rewarding to see the end result and when we give life back to something.

RUST & PANEL

Repairs

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

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

Ph 021 629 300 • alltemp.co.nz

Tell us about your favourite aspect of the job, and/or key piece of equipment in your toolbox and why you would not be without it. It’s hard to narrow down my key equipment as I use so many different types, but my Mig Welder is top of the list alongside my dent puller. They play such an important part in what I do and the Mig, especially, is used on most jobs. Customers can count on you because? I take great pride in my work and like to do things to a high standard, while trying to stay affordable for my customers.

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

Ph Cedric 027 443 0654

BUILDERS LTD

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

ph 021 819 733

or email andy@airpower.net.nz HBC Community House

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Additions • Alterations Renovations • Decks Bathrooms • Fences Retaining • Pergolas Licensed Certified Builder

Andrew Graham 021 629 046 andrew@adgbuilders.co.nz www.adgbuilders.co.nz

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

Long or short term hire

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

Phone 0800 14 15 30 • 426 9150 35 Forge Road, Silverdale Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

We can check if your car seat is installed correctly.

Trained technician Phone 426 3598

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Coastal Curtains and Blinds – Mobile Service

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

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

ERIC ODDI FOR BLINDS

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

CALL US NOW 0800 297 253 We service and repair all makes and models

Phone 0800 218 555 or 021 372 620

WOF • Tyres • Batteries • Mechanical repairs Cambelts • CV Boots • Air-conditioning

Serving you Rodney wide since 1995.

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

Email: eoddi1955@gmail.com

Franchise enquiries welcome

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Offering a large range of styles and colours. Cleaning and repairs available.

CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

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mint. Commercial Cleaning for your office, factory, pre-school, school, medical rooms, restaurant, shop or church. mint. safe and sanitary cleaning is delivered with no interruption to your normal business routines. mint. for regular cleaning daily, weekly, day or night, weekdays and/or weekends or one-off cleans anytime.

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

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For all Mechanical Repairs, WOFs, Servicing

Free café coffee with WOF or service while you wait Gustos

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

Phone Darcy 021 482 308

HEAT PUMP CLEANING

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

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

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

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

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

HOUGHTON UPHOLSTERY 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 |

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

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For any queries, please contact us on:

09 424 1262

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

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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 Relax, your precious possessions are safe with us.

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

Ph 09 424 6091 www.selfstorageworld.co.nz

Silverdale Computer Support Services At a fair price, with a personal touch Servicing the Hibiscus Coast. We cater primarily for the 55+ age group and assist small business owners. 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

Certified plumber & gasfitter

Ph Shaun 021 460 487

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

TEAMWORK

SCAFFOLDING

Residential Specialists Friendly professional & dependable service Free quotes available

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

Lockdown in pictures During lockdown, the Local Matters team were not sitting on their hands and posted stories and photos every day on our website and Facebook page. Here are some of the lockdown images that went with those stories, recording an extraordinary time for the community.

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

| Hibiscusmatters | May 20, 2020

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Classifiedadvertising

BUSINESS SERVICES

HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOME & MAINTENANCE

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

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

HAIRDRESSING

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

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

DINING OUT

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

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

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

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

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

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ROTARY SATELLITE CLUB Orewa/ Millwater meet 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, 7pm, The Wade Tavern, Silverdale. WE’RE STARTING AFRESH! Because we are unclear on what community groups are now still active, or any changes made – If you are petanque players or pipeband players, crocheters or croqueters, genealogists or gardners, bowlers or botanists, if you wish to appear in the FREE community notices for non-profit groups, email hibiscus@ localmatters.co.nz Community Notices are subject to space and availability and published on a first-in-first-served basis for non-profit organisations (35 word limit). So that your notice appears on a semi-regular basis please email it in each time. All other classifieds are chargeable. A standard run-on classified is $6.20, boxed classifieds are $16 p/cm deep, colour +20%, GST incl.

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

DVDS & VIDEOS

E L

4 2 7 3 1 9 8 6 5

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Some families have had to bear more than their share during the lockdown. If you live in the local area and lost someone dear to you during the Covid-19 pandemic, and could not hold a proper funeral, then we invite you to send us a photo of your loved one and a few words to tell us what was special about them. We will print them over coming issues and there will be no charge. May it help to know that others care.

COMMUNITY NOTICES

ALL CARPET LAYING, OR REPAIRS & PATCHES – Carpet layer with over 30 years exp. Dexter 0274 956 436.

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

Free published tributes for those lost during Covid 19

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

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 CLEVER BUGGERS FLASHINGS Custom-made flashings and sheet metal work. Ph 0274 795 061 or 0275 410 477 PEST CONTROL, Flies, spiders, cockroaches, ants, rodents, wasps. Competitive prices. Ph 426 2253. TRADESMAN PAINTER (20yrs) serving the Hibiscus Coast. New or Repaint, interior & exterior no job too small. Free competitive quotes Wayne 0274 329 397 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

DELIVERERS WANTED 11 YEARS+ TO DELIVER THE HIBISCUS MATTERS NEWSPAPERS

Hibiscus Matters is a fortnightly paper, pay good rates and you have 4 days to deliver. If you are fit, like walking and wanting to get paid for it, contact Rosemary on 021 030 0263 or Deliveries available em: hmdelivery@localmatters.co.nz

RED BEACH (Approx 300) Bay St, Walton St, Laurie St, Marie St, Nagapara St. MATAKATIA (Approx 260) Whangaparaoa Rd, Zita Ave, Capitol Rd, Matakatia Pde, Roberts Rd, Beauvoir Rd, Balboa Dr. GULF HARBOUR (Approx 230) Keepers Dr, The Rise, Lagoon View, Alec Craig Way, Tiller Ct, Tates Ct, Dacre Gr, D’Urville Pl, Gulf Harbour Dr, Clansman Tce, Okoromai Views, Farnell Pl. GULF HARBOUR (Approx 200) Whangaparaoa Rd, Gulf Harbour Dr, Careen Gr, Javelin Cl, Binnacle Rise, Regency Park Dr, Roseville Rd, Pegasus Tce, Astrolabe Pl, Kensington Tce, Coral Ct

~ Formally Carpetlink Whangaparaoa ~

Does your b oat need som e

love?

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

Wed

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Auckland Area Watch Hibiscus Matters Seawatch – TheSea Flooring People

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5:42am 3.0 12:10am 1.0 12:49am 1.0 1:28am 0.9 2:07am 0.9 2:48am 0.9 3:30am 0.9 4:15am 0.9 5:04am 0.9 5:55am 0.9 12:42am 3.2 1:38am 3.2 2:37am 3.2 3:36am 3.2 4:34am 3.3 5:31am 3.3 12:08am 0.6 11:46am 0.9 6:26am 3.0 7:07am 3.0 7:48am 3.0 8:29am 3.1 9:11am 3.1 9:54am 3.1 10:38am 3.1 11:25am 3.0 12:15pm 3.0 6:50am 0.9 7:48am 0.8 8:47am 0.8 9:47am 0.7 10:45am 0.6 11:42am 0.5 6:27am 3.4

Tide 6:12pm 2.9 12:28pm 0.9 1:09pm 0.8 1:48pm 0.8 2:28pm 0.7 3:08pm 0.7 3:49pm 0.7 4:33pm 0.7 5:19pm 0.7 6:11pm 0.8 1:09pm 3.0 2:08pm 3.0 3:11pm 3.1 4:14pm 3.1 5:15pm 3.2 6:12pm 3.4 12:36pm 0.4 7:07pm 3.5 7:08pm 0.8 8:10pm 0.8 9:14pm 0.8 10:15pm 0.7 11:13pm 0.7 6:54pm 3.0 7:34pm 3.1 8:13pm 3.1 8:52pm 3.2 9:32pm 3.2 10:15pm 3.2 11:00pm 3.2 11:49pm 3.2 Times 7:16am 5:19pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

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New First Moon Quarter Rise 4:27am Rise 5:23am Rise 6:22am Rise 7:21am Rise 8:21am Rise 9:21am Rise 10:18am Rise 11:10am Rise 11:57am Rise 12:38pm Rise 1:15pm Set 12:24am Set 1:33am Set 2:43am Set 3:53am Set 5:05am Set 6:17am Set 4:06pm Set 4:34pm Set 5:05pm Set 5:41pm Set 6:21pm Set 7:09pm Set 8:03pm Set 9:03pm Set 10:08pm Set 11:16pm Rise 1:49pm Rise 2:22pm Rise 2:54pm Rise 3:28pm Rise 4:05pm Rise 4:47pm *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

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Gardening

Advertisment

with Dee Pignéguy mikedee@outlook.co.nz

Pharmacy Talk

Time to garden

with Tania Adams

The drought showed many that gardening in the future will be dramatically different. Every biological reaction in the garden depends on water, and five months without rain focused the mind on the interaction of climate and vegetation. Extreme wilting showed how the moisture loss in the leaves reduces photosynthesis – a sure sign of the degree to which climate change, and changing rainfall patterns, will disrupt gardening. With the unrelenting sun, extreme heat and dry air, many crops in my garden failed to thrive even with heavy mulching, a diverse planting of warm season crops and the use of shade cloth. Then along came Covid 19, followed quickly by a Lockdown, which showed us that the most pressing need of people is to have healthy nutritious food grown locally. Home gardening was back on the agenda, but many who rushed out to buy every seedling in sight or grab handfuls of seed packets, soon found out that in gardening, like life, success requires preparation. Many seedlings no doubt perished in their punnets and seeds failed to germinate. After months of drought the soil was dried out and cracked. Had people been developing compost heaps and worm farms, these would have provided muchneeded material to improve the soil. But in many homes, all that household waste material that could have saved the day had gone to the tip. Recent rain brought some relief, and now that your water tanks are full you can think about getting that suburban backyard into production. When gardening, treat everything as an experiment, and begin with soil experiments because the quality of the food is dependent on soil quality. Just adding fertilisers does not guarantee they will make it into the plant. You need microbes (living organisms) in the soil to transform nutrients into forms the plants can use. Your waste strategy is directly related to the health of your soil. Compost bins and worm farms not only reduce your waste stream to landfill but they also supply much of the organic material your soil needs. At this time of year there is also plenty of seaweed, autumn leaves and grass clippings, as well as weeds, fish scraps, comfrey and nettles to make liquid manures. A lack of space should not stop you from composting, as you can use plastic storage bins, spare rubbish bins and even buckets. Or simply trench your food scraps directly into the garden and use the seaweed, leaves and grass clippings as mulch. If you are eating healthily, most of your waste will be food scraps, so combine them with your paper waste and you will be well on the way to producing plant food of your own. Seed sowing is not difficult. I use Green Smart self-watering containers with a seed-sowing mix. Asian vegetables, beetroot, broccoli, lettuce, peas, kale can all be transplanted out into the soil. Potatoes are also easy to grow and can go into buckets, tubs and containers if you don’t have garden space. Cut the eyes out of your favourite store-bought variety and experiment. After the rain there will be a proliferation of snails and slugs, so while your seedlings are growing in the safety and shelter of a covered area, start your night patrols and handpick any slugs and snails that venture forth. Put out the black plastic containers that plants are sold in for the snails to hide in during the day and you will have no trouble collecting them. The cold weather will knock out the white butterfly and the whitefly. Lockdown for some provided that rare situation of extra time. Time to practice growing food, time to talk about food and time to improve cooking skills. And perhaps best of all, it provided time for people to explore the unique ecosystems in which they live—the place they call home.

Rotary answers cry

Many charities are struggling to raise funds and some are facing significant difficulties in operating due to the shortfall in income caused by the lockdown. An urgent call for help received from the Hibiscus Coast Community Patrol was answered within 24 hours by the Rotary Satellite Club of Orewa-Millwater, who donated $250 from their club funds; despite the fact that these are also running low because of the difficulty in running any fundraising activities. The Community Patrol’s treasurer, Raewyn Thomas, says the organisation is very grateful for the help at such short notice. “Among other immediate needs, our vehicle needs to get through its WoF – and we have other pressing expenses to meet, too,” Raewyn says.

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Level 2 opening Dear Customers, Thank you so very much for your patience while we tried to keep our community safe during lockdown. We have appreciated all your words of encouragement and support. Our store is now open with social distancing rules in place. You will even get a sample of our residual (up to 9 hour effect) hand sanitiser as you come in store ;-) Deliveries are available to your car parked outside or to your home. You can arrange a delivery by: • • •

calling us on (09) 424-7708 texting us us on 022-531-7870 emailing us through our website on www.unichemmanly.co.nz

See you soon, Tania and the Unichem Manly Pharmacy team

31st May

Happy Coastie Mother’s Day! Here on the Coast we’re not going to let a little Lockdown stand in the way of celebrating our mums! We’re simply postponing. Come get a special gift at the pharmacy, book a lunch at the cafe or get something yummy from Manly for lunch and get together for our second chance to show we love our Mums. 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 | May 20, 2020

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