Hibiscus Matters_Issue 292_2 December 2020 by Localmatters

December 2, 2020

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Inside this issue Keeping it local this Christmas

Dmitry Pelevin is sailing home to be with his son Andrei in Gulf Harbour at Christmas.

pages 19-32

Solo sailor crosses oceans to be home with son this Christmas Covid-19 is preventing many families from being together this Christmas, however one father has gone to great lengths to get home from the other side of the world to be with his son in Gulf Harbour when he opens his presents on Christmas Day. Dmitry Pelevin was in Russia in February when Covid-19 escalated and his first attempts at getting home

were thwarted by closed borders and cancelled flights. Not knowing how he could make it happen, he nevertheless made a promise to his seven-year-old son, Andrei, that he would be with him, in Gulf Harbour, for Christmas. He has gone to extremes to keep that promise, including buying a 20-yearold yacht and sailing it home solo from the Caribbean. Although Dmitri

is an experienced sailor, he has never attempted a solo voyage like this before. He says this solution was also a way to make his long-held dream of sailing adventure come true. The devoted father, originally from Russia, moved to NZ when Andrei was one-year-old, and is now a permanent NZ resident. Ever since the voyage began, Andrei

has been checking the map and calling his father when he can. The Gulf Harbour School student lives with his mother, Dmitry’s ex-wife, Olga. Olga says Dmitry and Andrei are close, and her boy is missing his father very much. “They last saw each other at the continued p2

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localmatters.co.nz Next issues: December 16 & February 3 – Book your advertising now Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 | terry@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy | hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Getting home for Christmas has involved a trip half way around the world for Dmitry Pelevin.

Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 | sellit@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 24,000 homes and businesses twice a month: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Ōrewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat • Red Beach • Whangaparāoa Peninsula Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

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beginning of the year,” she says. “Andrei is addicted to fishing and he’s looking forward not only to Christmas, but to fishing with his dad on the boat this summer.” So far Dmitri’s epic journey has included travelling to France and flying to Martinique in the Caribbean in July. There he bought the 37ft Dufour Gibsea yacht, built in 2002, called Cupiditas, and prepared it for the ocean crossing. He sailed to Panama, which took nine days, with the only hiccup being a few breakages during a squall. From there he sailed to the Marquesas Islands and on to Tahiti. Last month, November 23, he arrived safely in Tahiti, where the boat is undergoing some minor repairs before the final leg to New Zealand. He hasn’t slept on shore for more than six months and as well as being with Andrei he is looking forward to “getting back to a normal life” and

seeing his friends. All going well, Dmitri hopes to leave Tahiti this week and get to Opua in the Bay of Islands around midDecember so that, after he completes a two-week Covid-19 quarantine, he can sail down to Gulf Harbour and share Christmas with his son. His aim was to live on the boat at Gulf Harbour Marina over the Christmas/ New Year period, so he could be as close to his son as possible. Initially the marina said it had no berths available, but a special plea from Hibiscus Matters brought about a Christmas miracle, and a berth was found. Gulf Harbour Marina customer services manager Javier Prado says the marina is really pleased to be able to help and get Dmitri near his son when it matters most. “We know how important it is to be around the ones you love most over the holiday season, especially after the year we have all had!” Javier says.

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Airborne sculpture costs soar A request to Auckland Council for more details of the stated $170,000 cost of the Airborne sculpture recently erected on Moana Reserve in Orewa was revealing. Not only were the costs of each part of the process detailed, but also the fact that the $170,000 had not had GST added. This brought the actual cost to ratepayers to $195,500 (see below) Most of the money was spent on creation and construction of the work itself ($83,950), $66,700 went on technical aspects such as engineering, making things safe and putting in the plumbing and wiring to create water misting and light effects. The remaining $44,850 went on Council processes including removing the old water feature and seating. Running child to be added The sculpture was unveiled before it was complete so that it would be accessible during the Asian Cultural Festival on November 21. The running child that was in the original design (front page, HM November 18) is still to be added. It is included in the cost. Currently this addition is at the fabricators and expected to go on the sculpture early this month. The mist effect will be activated when water restrictions ease in Auckland – and the water for it will recycle through the system.

A running child is still to be added to complete the sculpture.

Sculpture costs

Investigation and design, project management, consultation, refurbishment and relocation of existing seating and removal of the old sculpture..............$44,850 Airborne sculpture with built in LEDs and misting units with running child ............................................... $83,950 Transport and assembly ....................................................................... $8050 Services (plumbing, electrical) .......................................................... $13,800 Engineering ...................................................................................... $10,350 Site works and footings plus health and safety .................................. $28,750 Geo-tech, documentation plus miscellaneous expenses ...................... $5750 Total: ......................................................................................... $195,500

Axe yet to fall on firewood business Silverdale Landscape Services in Stillwater continues its fight to stay open after receiving an abatement notice from Auckland Council (HM November 4). The business includes supply of firewood and this work resulted in a large number of complaints about noise to Council. The notice, which was issued because the company is breaching the rules of the Countryside Living zone in which it operates, was to come into force on November 20, preventing the business from continuing. However, Council advises that owner Ruth Pine has requested an extension, and that is currently being considered. Since the story ran on November 4, Hibiscus Matters has been contacted by several people who are at their wits end with the noisy firewood business and want it to close, and an equal number in support of it continuing. Ruth says she hopes that the three-month extension can be granted, providing her company lets Council know how the adverse effects of the business will be mitigated during that period. She says trying to avoid closure may involve reducing operating hours and a reduction in the noise produced by chainsaws but those discussions with Council are ongoing.

Door open to non-toxic weed control methods for Coast After a five-hour debate on November 12, it is now possible to end the domination of the controversial weedkiller glyphosate for weed control along local roads. Glyphosate was named “a probable human carcinogen” by the World Health Organisation five years ago. On the Coast, a mixture of weed eating and glyphosate is currently in use on roadsides. The meeting of Auckland Council’s Environment and Climate Change Committee on November 12 included local board input, as well as presentations from the public and environmental groups.

The Committee’s final resolution confirmed the need to minimise glyphosate use to ensure public health and safety, as well as prioritising nonagrichemical methods. This meant opposing the recommendations of staff that appeared to favour general use of glyphosate (HM October 1), arguing that it was cheaper. At the meeting, Cr Wayne Walker presented figures from specialist contractors showing that the costs of thermal methods (hot water, hot foam or hot steam) can fit within budget. Both Cr Walker and Cr John Watson have been seeking this outcome since Rodney District Council days,

pushing back against what they see as an agenda to continue glyphosate use. Responsibility and funding for the work is a bit convoluted but basically Council’s Community Facilities department does the work and bills Auckland Transport (AT), which is responsible for the road corridor. Cr Watson says provided AT sticks to its current budget, thermal methods could be introduced at the request of local boards, without any need for the board to reach into its own funds. Hibiscus and Bays Local Board deputy chair Victoria Short presented as part of a northern board delegation determined to retain a pathway for

thermal technology. She is excited by the fact that the local board now has the opportunity to pursue chemical free weed control for the Coast. “From here, it might mean we take a collaborative approach north of the bridge with other local boards,” she says. “It was so much better than the suggestion of a blanket cover of glyphosate over the whole of Auckland.” However, it is no quick fix. Council will now work with local boards to agree a funding mechanism and a transition to new methods by March, 2022.

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Feedback

Seats needed

We went to the recent Asian Festival at Orewa Beach. The atmosphere was bright and cheery, so were the people. Wonderful Asian food was available. But where does one sit to spectate and eat? We now have a sculpture but the seating has gone! The remaining seating on the left is inadequate and in winter especially does not get the sun. The two missing strips of seats were wonderful for relaxing when out walking. During Covid-19 restrictions, when folks could not sit too close together, that area was packed with people vying for a seat. I am hoping this absence of seating is temporary as obviously it is important to be able to sit and rest when on a walk, or even to view the new sculpture. Cherrie England, Orewa Editor’s note: The seating you refer to was permanently removed, to make room for the sculpture.

Signs need work The piece on ‘outdated signs’ (HM November 18) touches on a concern I have about signage for beaches. The dog access sign shown in the paper is typical of all the other signs at our beach access points: they are in very small print and ill placed for the public to read. They should be in print that can be read from a distance of say 5m, and facing the roadway to the beach. The signs at Manly Beach by the sailing club are a case in point – to read most of them, one needs to clamber up to where they are sited. To expect people to read them presently, and even obey them, is highly wishful thinking. Paul Huffam, Stanmore Bay

Roundabout plants An easy immediate and cheap solution to the planting of the Silverdale roundabout (HM November 18) could be throwing in wildflower seeds. Everyone loves them! Perhaps long term covering the area with Carpet

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

Roses would be easy care and make a stunning display or a prostate form of Grevillea – a tough, attractive Australian plant with a choice of colours. Grevillea ‘Little Drummer Boy’ is a groundcover that grows well where soil is poor. It gets to 15cm high and spreads to 50cm with red and cream flowers late autumn and winter - ideal! Cheryl Dixon Orewa

Reserve’s costly history To be told this sculpture (HM November 18) will enhance the visual appeal of Moana Reserve is akin to claiming McDonald’s golden arches at Milford Sound would enhance the view of Mitre Peak! For those long enough in the tooth and foolish enough to get involved, this is just one more episode in the long running saga that is Moana Reserve. This is an area that commenced life as two lots – one the extension of Moana Road, the other a vacant section not sold off by earlier administrations along with other publicly owned beachfront land. Subsequent purchases extended the reserve, at which point the old Rodney District Council and other interested parties attempted to commandeer the whole reserve, fill it with a commercial development including a café and a car park. Objections then prompted council to promote the wild dreams of an independent Urban Designer, which led on to the public request for a simple, uncluttered open space with practical wooden steps to the beach. A preliminary suggested budget was touted at $40,000. One Councillor at the time, Barbara Griffin, pushed for a seating rotunda for which I was bold enough to provide an outline sketch. So what did we get? Perhaps the most expensive flight of concrete steps in the Auckland area that required a costly dewatering system to install, a totally disfunctional apology for a fountain, and an expensive new toilet. John Simons, Orewa (abridged)

off

the record

Cost a ‘smack in face’ Just reading Hibiscus Matters regarding the new sculpture (November 18). Can someone please break the figures down a bit? It seems $36,000 for consulting – that’s a year’s wage for many people. I see the sculptors declined to comment. That doesn’t surprise me one iota. I see it as an absolute smack in the face to normal hardworking folk. I think a total breakdown of the costs should be known by the people who voted these spendthrifts in. Martyn Winterbottom, Manly Editor’s note: Detailed costings were supplied by Council, at the paper’s request see story, p3.

The Hospice shop in Silverdale provided this inspiration for giving plant pots some Christmas bling.

Is it good art? The people interviewed in your story on the Orewa artwork (HM November 18) seem to be avoiding the issue, which is, ‘Did we get an enduring, memorable piece of art for our $170,000?’ Rather than have people vote on whether an artwork is worth the investment, the local board should have employed an expert in the field to advise. The criteria such a person would have applied is: how intensely does this artwork make me feel? How do I react to it? Will I go out of my way to look at it again and again? Will we argue about its merits? Is it exciting, sad, angry, a bold presence, a shout at the sky, a laugh, a protest, a celebration, lament, or what? Is it a kiss for the imagination or a punch in the face? Either could have been very worthwhile, much more so than an innocuous, limp and pretty thing none of us will notice or even see in a week or so’s time. Gilbert Peterson, Manly (abridged)

A flight of fancy? I note with no surprise the ‘outcry’ about the Moana Reserve sculpture to replace the defunct fountain (HM November 18). The fountain was out of commission for years because of poor design and lack of maintenance.

Santa Magic, the company looking after photos with the man in red at Coast Plaza and Silverdale Mall, has these Christmas masks, made of ‘ice silk’ available. At Level 1, mask wearing while visiting Santa is up to the family and Santa and his elves will not be masked. Children can sit on Santa’s knee or next to him at Level 1, at both local malls.

Many requests to fix it were fobbed off. So now we get an equally suspect replacement. Even if there had been more consultation about the new sculpture, it’s unlikely that a satisfactory, widely accepted outcome, would have been reached Art is in the eye of the beholder. Some may think ‘Airborne’ is okay; some may not like it. That’s life. What concerns me is the amount of time and money that has been put into the project. I’d much rather see our money spent on the provision of a guaranteed water supply than on irrelevant flights of fancy. John Clements, Orewa

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announced details of the service we emailed a survey to 1300 customers to gauge the level of interest and help us with our planning. The survey also helped us to understand how customers may connect the service at their end, and what concerns or questions they had. We will be directly contacting customers who are immediately eligible to connect. Details of properties that can connect are on our website: www.watercare.co.nz/ – just search ‘Town to tank’. Other properties that are not already listed as eligible can still register their interest. If several properties on the same street want to connect, we can investigate whether it’s possible.

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Orewa artist Sarah Carter, 22, pushed out of her comfort zone to create the mural on the wall near Orewa Community Centre. Up until now, A3 size was the biggest work she has made. “This was my first mural and I learned as I went along,” she says. “Usually I do digital art, so painting was also a bit of a cool challenge.” The work took Sarah around 15 days to paint. It was funded by Destination Orewa Beach and Dr Cyrus Varan who owns the building it was painted on. Sarah is an early childhood teacher, and her goal is to run art classes for kids. Hellen Wilkins of Destination Orewa says the finished work is a brilliant complement to Orewa Square. “The only down side was that a scaffold platform we hired for Sarah to use was stolen after two weeks, so we had to fund that loss,” she says.

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If this year hasn’t already felt like it was flying by, can you believe Christmas is just around the corner? It feels like summer has arrived, but it’s also been good to get some rain, as Council water restrictions are still in place. The great thing about summer on the Coast is spending quality time with friends and family, and enjoying our beautiful parks and beaches. I really enjoy helping out with Patrols at Orewa Surf Lifesaving Club. I spend a bit of time patrolling between the flags and might get a chance to chat with you on the beach. Can I remind everyone to please be vigilant around the water this summer. We’ve all made a huge effort as a community to minimise the impacts of Covid-19. Let’s continue to shop local and help support our local businesses. I’d like to thank everyone again for your support in our recent general election. It is a huge privilege to represent and serve you. Two issues that I am working on immediately are ensuring that important infrastructure projects, like Penlink – which the Government has promised to deliver – are actually being delivered for our community. The second is pulling together a coordinated approach across Police, local and central government, to tackle the increased gang presence in our community. Our local Police have been doing a good job at being proactive and policing the gangs, but I’d like to support their efforts with a coordinated approach. I’ve spoken with the Police Area Commander Mark Fergus, Councillor’s John Watson and Wayne Walker, and Local Board Chair Gary Brown, about pulling this together. My view is that we should be using all available legislation and bylaws to put pressure on gangs to move them out of our community. There have been dozens of examples around the country recently where gangs are growing in confidence and numbers, and feel empowered to show publically that they are above the law. We will work together to prevent that from happening in our own community. Please, stay safe over the holiday period, have a wonderful time with your friends and family, and I look forward to seeing you all over the summer break. For any urgent matters or emergencies that arise over the Christmas break, you can contact me on my mobile 021 075 9501.

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Whangaparāoa offered cheaper water connections The lower cost fee for connecting to the public water network was announced last month. At this stage it is for Whangaparaoa residents only and is a trial. Local councillors successfully lobbied Watercare for the lower cost option to give people on tank water another way of refilling their tanks – via a hose from a tap at the gate. The low flow ‘town to tank’ connection costs $2449.50 and is available to households connected to the wastewater network, close to the public water supply and with rain tanks that hold at least 20,000 litres. People will be billed based on meter readings. The cost of the meter, $1553.65, makes up most of the $2449.50 charge. Fixed and volumetric charges also

apply. The volumetric charge means it will cost $34.50 for 10,000 litres. On top is a fixed charge of $141.45 per annum, paid in monthly instalments, as well as the initial $2449.50 outlay. Cr Wayne Walker is questioning Watercare about the fixed and volumetric charges. “Why is there a fixed charge for a property on tank water not using the facility for most of the year, and I also question the higher volumetric charge ($3.45 per 1000 litres, as opposed to $1.59 for normal town supply) given that the pipework already passes the property, there is no additional cost for supplying the water and there is a restricted amount of draw-off; which reduces the spot demand on supply from the network.” There is also concern among water tank operators about Watercare’s

cheaper connection offer, which may affect their business. Healthy Water Tanks owner Garry Stephenson says the sector feels disregarded by Watercare when it comes to the town to tank offer. “Some water carriers will lose business more than others. It will be interesting to see what the take-up rate is for Whangaparaoa,” he says. He points out that the low flow, of 2-8 litres per minute, means that it could take three days to top up a tank with 10,000 litres of water. “At that rate, a household of four or five people will use up the water faster than the tank fills,” Garry says. Water tank operators charged more At the same time, Watercare is opening three new filling stations, including one in Orewa, and more than doubling what

Second test for Orewa’s sirens Orewa’s new tsunami sirens were tested for a second time last week. Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) general manager Kate Crawford said the sirens were activated three times on November 23 and measured for volume and clarity from eight sites around Orewa. “Staff on the ground reported the sirens were understandable and the siren tone alert was clearly audible from their positions,” she says. Most people who commented on

it charges water tank operators. The new prices come into effect on March 1. Watercare’s chief customer officer Amanda Singleton says filling station costs have been heavily subsidised, so the increase is about recovering the true cost of the service. Garry says the cost of filling his 12,500 litre tanker will go from around $20 to $56 and this increase will have to be passed onto customers. Currently his business charges Coast customers $172.50 per 12,500 load of water. “My costs, which include running and servicing the vehicles, road user charges and paying drivers, mean I’m not in a position to absorb that increase,” Garry says. “I will need to pass on 80-90 percent of it.” Info: www.watercare.co.nz and search for ‘Town to tank’.

Water restrictions ease

Auckland’s mandatory water restrictions will ease, following an Auckland Council decision at its November 26 meeting. From December 14, residents will be able to use hand-held hoses fitted with trigger nozzles, although they are still urged to use water wisely as the city’s water shortage continues. Water restrictions have been in place since May. Watercare and Council are spending $224 million to increase water supply, taking 25 million litres a day more from the Waikato River and expanding the Tūākau treatment plant. A further 5m litres a day is coming from the new Pukekohe plant and 6–12m litres extra from the Hays Creek dam starting early January. Mayor Phil Goff says more supply and water conservation should see the city through the summer, but if serious drought continues and demand increases radically, restrictions will be put back in place.

Hibiscus Matters Facebook page said they heard the siren but found it hard to hear what the voice was saying. Sound engineers will analyse the data and make any final adjustments needed to maximise the reach of the sirens. Accoustic testing had to be tried again due to bad weather during a technical test in late September. Kate says this is because the acoustic testing requires a relatively still day to work effectively, although the sirens themselves are not sensitive to wind.

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Artist’s impression

DES I GNE D IN STE P WITH N AT UR E CREATE D FOR L IVE S FU L L O F PUR PO SE At The Botanic, we believe our retirement years are our very best years. It’s a magical phase of life when we renew, connect, find purpose and live joyful lives immersed in community and surrounded by nature. We know how important it is to support people to live healthy, active lives and that’s why we’ve placed purpose, wellness, nature and joy at the heart of our vision for The Botanic – a stunning new retirement village in development in Silverdale, and the very best in class in modern aged care living. Swim laps in the 20m pool, play Pebble Beach on the golf simulator, stroll along the tree-lined boardwalk, relish delicious cuisine at our restaurant, or enjoy a glass of wine at the light-filled Club House in the heart of The Botanic village. Or perhaps you’d like to busy yourself in the Resident’s Workshop or take sanctuary in our Wellness Centre? There are vegetable gardens, orchard trees in the park-like setting, a cinema, an arts and crafts centre, croquet, pétanque, private dining rooms and a fitness centre with a spa and sauna. It’s all here and it’s your choice. You choose how to live your magical years, your way. The Botanic offers 80 villas and 383 apartments for independent living residents, and our aged care home will provide 40 care beds to meet the full range of care needs. Adjacent to the Silverdale Park and Ride, 15 minutes from Albany’s Westfield Mall and 5 minutes from the Northern motorway.

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St John thanks long serving volunteers Awards recognising long service with the St John ambulance service were presented in Silverdale on November 14. St John Silverdale hosted the North Auckland Service Awards, and representatives of the local St John as well as Warkworth and Helensville units attended. Service medals have been presented since 1898, recognising 10 years or more with the voluntary organisation. The medals, presented by Waitemata Territory manager Mike McAulay, went to a number of local recipients including Yvonne Cox (20 years’ service), Pauline Scott (15 years’ service) and Judith Marsden (10 years’ service). Catherine Smith, well known in the area for her work as chief executive of Rodney Age Concern, is

Left, Catherine Smith receives her medal from Mike McAulay. John Field’s Ultra Long Service medal recognises 50 years of continuous service.

also a stalwart of St John and received her medal for 10 years’ service. The longest-serving is William John Field of Stanmore Bay (known as John). He received his Ultra Long

Service medal recognising 50 years’ service in July (HM August 5) by mail because of lockdown, but had it officially handed over at the November 14 award ceremony.

Silverdale volunteer firefighters honoured Silverdale Volunteer Fire Brigade’s honours and awards night was held last month. The brigade has an honours and awards night every two years to recognise firefighters who have shown exceptional and long service to their community. This included four firefighters who were recognised for 14 Years Service and Good Conduct, several who had been fire volunteers for more than 25 years and three who have given more than 40 years’ service – Ted Fuller (40 years), Dave Lattimore (41 years) and Nigel Capon (43).

Whangaparaoa College School student Madison Blackburn (Downs), aged 16, was awarded a top prize of ‘Overall Merit Award’ at a Blue Light Camp in Auckland, held last month. Blue Light life skills coordinator AbbeMae Henry says it was Madison’s consistent progress throughout the camp, her self-discipline and tautoko of others that won her the award. The camp courses are run by Blue Light in partnership with the NZ Defence Force and focus on adventure-based learning. Madison is pictured, right, receiving her award from NZ Defence Force officer commanding youth development north, Kevin Shanley.

Win for Harcourts, Orewa

Whangaparaoa MP Mark Mitchell, centre, with members of Silverdale volunteer Fire Brigade that were awarded their long service and good conduct medals for 14 years service. From left, Darren Hodgetts, Daniel Capon, Sarah Capon, Mike Price.

Harcourts Orewa – Tandem Property Management won the Medium Residential Property Management Office of the Year Award at the recent Real Estate Institute of NZ Awards for Excellence. Other finalists in the category were Harcourts Warkworth – Tandem Property Management and Barfoot & Thompson Glenfield. A total of 41 awards were handed out to agents from different sectors of the industry.

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Museum made by kids, for kids Netflix films Wayne Pienaar’s passion for rocks, fossils and collecting in general seems to have passed down to his sons, Silverdale School students Eli and Leo. The result is the Kids Hands on Museum, crammed with artifacts of all kinds, that occupies part of the Pienaar family’s living room in Hatfields Beach. Just a few metres of space contains an eclectic collection of thousands of items from fossils to plastic model trains and trucks, coins, stamps, cameras and gemstones. Wayne says the museum started with just a few shelves that were needed to keep items safe. It is likely to expand a lot further as new finds or donated pieces are added. In South Africa, where the family is from, Wayne took Leo and Eli gemstone and fossil hunting. Wayne, who also enjoys metal detecting, is registered as a collector by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage and after the family moved

in Waiwera

Five-year-old Eli, left and his brother Leo, 7, with favourite items from their mini museum.

to Hatfields Beach a year ago, the collecting began in earnest. A New Zealand and Maori section includes some donated bones of the extinct Polynesian dog, the kuri. Hands On means just that – part of the appeal for kids is that all the items can be touched. Wayne says it’s a resource for children’s projects. Some information is

provided via signs and a Google home smart speaker, but even better is asking the boys to show you their treasures. The collection can be viewed free of charge by appointment at kidshandsonmuseum. wixsite.com/museum. For more info, email kidshandsonmuseum@gmail.com or look for Kids Hands On Museum on Facebook.

The derelict interior of Waiwera Thermal Resort will become a set for the international cast of Netflix production Cowboy Bebop next week. Waiwera residents received a letter recently advising of the timing of the filming, by Intergalactic Productions. The production is a live-action adaptation of a cult Japanese animated series. The Science Fiction story is about bounty hunters chasing “the galaxy’s most dangerous criminals” and Hibiscus Matters understands the abandoned Waiwera site is considered an ideal “apocalyptic” backdrop. The cast includes John Cho, Mustafa Shakir and Daniella Pineda. Covid-19 put a halt to production, but eventually border exemptions were granted by the Government for the crew, who quarantined for two weeks before re-starting filming in September. The show is expected to premiere next year, at the earliest.

Top prizes go to Hibiscus Coast artists The local art community supported the recent Hibiscus & Bays Art exhibition and awards in large numbers. More than 150 people attended a celebratory award function at Estuary Arts Centre on November 21, along with local board chair Gary Brown and members Julia Parfitt and Janet

Fitzgerald. Among the winners were four local artists. Kym Burke of Arkles Bay was first equal for ‘On My Way Back’, along with Susannah Law, Red Beach, for ‘Journey to the East Coast’. The Merit for Landscape went to Orewa’s James Ballantyne. Robyn Kay Studio,

Orewa, won the Local Artist Merit Award category for ‘Rip Tide Ribbon’. The exhibition of all the works entered in the Awards is on at Estuary Arts Centre in Western Reserve, Orewa, until December 6. Landscape by James Ballantyne

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Megan Bowyer’s hair colour was the people’s choice

Top awards for local salons If you get your hair and beauty treatments locally, it seems you are in good hands. Three local salons recently won national awards: Megan Bowyer, senior stylist at B-Studio in Orewa, won the People’s Choice award in this year’s national Lust Photographic Competition for a rainbow colour effect. Then, last month, The Avenue Hair Studio owner Sarah Rasmussen won Top Performing Stylist of the Year in The Industry Awards (Hair Beauty and Barbering). In the same national awards, Samantha Maloney of Chrysalis Skin and Beauty of took home Beauty Therapist Apprentice of the Year. Chrysalis also won Best Design for its Whangaparaoa salon.

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Notice to people with rain tanks On 1 March 2021, the amount private water carriers pay to fill up their tankers with water at our filling stations will increase. Current price: $1.386+GST per 1,000 litres New price: $3.90+GST per 1,000 litres

This means the cost to fill a tanker with 10,000 litres of water will rise by around $25, from $13.86 to $39.00 (+GST). The new charge better reflects the cost of providing water at filling stations – a service which has been heavily subsidised for many years. It’s being applied after the summer peak to reduce pressure on rural and coastal communities, giving people time to learn about the change. This summer, we are opening three additional filling stations to help water carriers serve their customers in a timely manner.

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INTRODUCING n

Animal Health Centre

The Family Centre for Natural Medicine

Pet owners who are keen to adopt a more back-to-basics health care regime for their dog or cat may find what they are looking for at a new centre in Moana Court, Orewa. After working on animal health issues for more than 40 years, animal naturopath Sarndra Urwin is providing pet owners with choices that don’t include harsh drugs with side effects. “Sometimes the cure is worse than the disease,” she says. “The argument that modalities such as homeopathy and herbal medicine have not been ‘scientifically proven’ is a myth perpetuated by drug companies.” Not surprisingly, Sarndra says diet is key to keeping a pet healthy. “Nutrition is the cornerstone of health so optimum wellbeing means feeding raw food or food with as little processing as possible. The gut absorbs this food better, so less stools and more utilisation makes more healthy and economic sense.” The centre provides a source of integrative medicine and therapies that complement conventional medicine’s approach to health management. It also has rehabilitation facilities, particularly for muscular and joint repair, using Bowen therapy and the Swiss-made Bioptron light. “There is too much reliance on vaccinations, chemical parasite controls and drugs,” she says. “This has indirectly led to a rise in many of the auto-immune, skin and gastric

The founder of a new health hub in the Whangaparaoa Plaza believes the range of skills the centre is pulling together will offer clients a more holistic way to get healthy and stay healthy. Registered homeopath, Kate Fitness, is the driving force behind The Family Centre for Natural Medicine, which she describes as an integrated clinic that offers a variety of modalities. These include registered practitioners in homeopathy, naturopathy, intolerance testing, acupuncture, relationship counselling and contact care trauma release. She says that while setting up in a mall is a bit unusual, it will be convenient for people of all ages to get advice. “There’s lots of foot traffic, particularly since the opening of a nearby childcare centre,” she says. “It will make it easy for parents who might be concerned about their children’s health or behaviour to pop in for a chat.” Kate says the centre is the only homeopathic dispensary on the North Shore and Hibiscus Coast. In future, it will offer courses and seminars on acute prescribing in homeopathy or homeopathy at home, weight loss and nutritional advice, childhood illness and mental health, teen mental health and women’s health. There will also be courses in relationship counselling. “It’s been a tough year with massive changes and challenges, and we all need help with moving on to success and harmony in our lives.” Kate was a high school science teacher for 23 years. She qualified as a homeopath

Sarndra Urwin

conditions we see in pets. “The current medical model for both human and animal health is clearly not working. Ill health is now an accepted ‘norm’ at some stage of our lives and we are trading quick-fix acutes for long-term chronic illness.” Sarndra says she finds it professionally satisfying when she sees her pets achieving permanent wellness with the help of their enthusiastic owners. “You only get this when you take an integrated approach, recognising that every pet is an individual. I find it really encouraging that more and more people are thinking about how to keep their pet healthy rather than waiting until something goes wrong.” The centre stocks White Tui animal homeopathic and herbal preparations for natural parasite control, gastric ailments and skin problems. Sarndra plans to run a series of monthly mini workshops next year covering issues such as skin problems and irritable bowel syndrome.

Kate Fitness

in 2012 and, since then, has run her own clinic, worked at a clinic on the North Shore and worked from home. This experience demonstrated the need for a hub where qualified practitioners could share their knowledge in a noncompetitive way and refer, where appropriate. “We take a scientific approach, basing our recommendations on test results. This means that remedies are holistic and individualised, rather than something just off the shelf. It also means we can move forward quickly when there is some urgency.” The team includes Kate Fitness who specialises in mental health, naturopath Kerry Morris, naturopath Lynda Wharton, Ricci Dyllon, intolerance testing Carlene Arnold and homeopath (intern) Patty Wyllie. Kate says no matter what the health issue is there will be an answer and she encourages anyone with any mental or physical health concerns to visit the centre where they will find understanding and guidance.

Animal Health Centre

‘Your lifestyle choice in animal health care’

Services: Homeopathy • Naturopathy • Intolerance testing • Acupuncture • Relationship counselling • Contact Care trauma release Monday to Friday: 9am-5pm (Opening Saturdays in 2021) Homeopathy, Herbal Medicine, Bach Flowers Essential Oils, Crystals, Bioceuticals Reiki, Bowen, Bioptron Light Nutritional Guidance

Animal Naturopath Sarndra G Urwin

Dip NAH (Hons), Dip Cl.Hyp. HbT

Moana Court, 358 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa | info@natpet.co.nz | 027 448 3322

719 Whangaparaoa Road, Coast Plaza, (opp Post Office) TheFamilyCentreCoastPlaza thefamcentre@gmail.com

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INTRODUCING n

Whangaparāoa MiniMart

INTRODUCING n

Manly Vet Hospital

Looking after a family pet comes with the same care and responsibility that human members of a family would expect. That’s the philosophy behind the Orewa, Millwater and now Manly Vet Hospitals. Owner Brett Finlayson says for many clients, their pet is like their child. “We’re very respectful of this bond because we understand the important role pets play in a family unit. It’s also one of the reasons we offer a 24-hour, seven day a week service because we know illness and accidents don’t just happen Monday to Friday.” Brett bought the Orewa vet clinic from Ivan Fuyala in 2004 and set-up the Millwater clinic in 2015. He says the decision to open a third clinic in Manly was not a difficult one. “We already have a number of clients at this end of the peninsula so Manly will be a lot more convenient for them. Plus, the area is growing.” The primary vet at the new clinic is Michelle Ross, assisted by veterinary nurses Jess Ashley and Anita Durno. Brett will also be available in a support role. Michelle is a NZ-qualified vet who

From left, Jess Ashley, Anita Durno, Michelle Ross and Brett Finlayson.

worked in the United Kingdom for 15 years, including eight years running her own practice treating dogs and cats, as well as birds, hedgehogs and the odd squirrel. She says she is excited to be part of the new clinic. “There’s a great atmosphere and it is good to be working with such supportive colleagues with wide experience,” she says. Michelle is one of six vets across the three clinics. “They are a very experienced and talented team,” Brett says. With more than 40 years veterinary experience himself, there isn’t much in the animal kingdom – at least as far as pets go – that he hasn’t treated. While dogs and cats make up the bulk of any vet’s workload, rabbits and guinea pigs are also not uncommon. During many years working in the United Kingdom, Brett was also once called on to treat a tarantula with a broken leg. Asked how he did that, his reply was, “very carefully”. The Vet Hospitals also support Gutter Kitties and Saving Hope, and Brett says the clinic looks forward to serving the community.

If there is one thing that has been hammered home during the Covid-19 pandemic, it is that staying local is one way to reduce the risk of being exposed to the virus. With that in mind, Ash and Yogita Patel have opened the Whangaparaoa MiniMart on Whangaparaoa Rd, opposite Whangaparaoa College. The store carries all the necessities of a well-stocked convenience store, from groceries to pet food, some hardware and stationery, and bait and fishing gear. The couple is putting a particular focus on competitively priced fresh fruit and vegetables. “We’ve got a good range of all the basics, but as trade picks up, we’ll expand the range of fruit and vegetables we stock,” Ash says. “We also plan to introduce a selection of fresh meat in future.” One section that is already proving popular is the store’s scoop ice creams with 19 flavours to choose from. Milkshakes, thickshakes and slushies are also available. Ash and Yogita are no strangers to the grocery business. Since 2001, they have operated stores and dairies in Kerikeri, Ruawai, Matakana, Patea and on the Karikari Peninsula. Originally from the small village of Gujarat, in India’s central west, the couple met just 20 days before they were married. Seventeen years

Yogita and Ash Patel

later, they have two sons, now attending Whangaparaoa College and Whangaparaoa Primary. “We love small towns but decided to move to a bigger area for the sake of the boys’ education,” Ash says. “The Coast was perfect as it is close to the city, but still has a community feel. When we saw this space was available, we could see it was perfect for a grocery store as it is surrounded by good support shops and there is plenty of parking.” Ash says that wherever they have lived, they have been keen to get involved with local schools and sports clubs, and to support the community. Cricket is also one of his passions. “Since moving to the Coast, I’ve joined a team in Auckland.”

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Our best shot

Possum catch triples Photo, Nga Manu images.

with Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club, www.hcpc.org.nz

Possum catch triples This night shot taken by Patrick Murray at Betty Bay, Lake Wakatipu, won him Honours at a recent club night. It is a series of 10 long exposure images ‘blended’ together. Patrick has a fascination for astronomical photography and has taken, and shown, many astronomical images at club nights as well as writing a “how to” for members. The judge was particularly impressed by the composition and movement and the way the viewer’s eye is drawn into the picture.

Highway crossing goes ahead

The much-needed crossing of Hibiscus Coast Highway, near Estuary Arts Centre in Orewa, has been made possible by the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board. It’s a busy place to cross the highway, from the beach to the estuary side, and large numbers attempt to do so, particularly in summer. Design and public feedback on the crossing was already complete, but it looked likely to be shelved due to Covid-19 cuts to Auckland Transport’s (AT) funding (HM November 18). At last month’s meeting, the local board decided to fully fund the project from its limited transport fund. The $246,000 project replaces the existing traffic island with a signalised pedestrian activated crossing, with lights that stop traffic on demand. An AT representative told the local board that they will “get straight onto it” and confirm a timeframe for the work to be done as soon as possible.

Forest & Bird’s Pest Free Hibiscus Coast Project reports a significant increase in the number of possums caught by volunteer trappers in the last year. Project Manager Jenny Hanwell says that the team has introduced new types of trap and is testing new lures such as orange wedges and aniseed spray. Volunteers have trapped 135 possums so far this year, three times more than the previous year. Volunteer Trevor Sanderson looks after possum traps in the Arran Point area of Millwater. His three traps have taken out 24 possums since last November. He says looking after the trap line gives him the added purpose of contributing to making NZ predator-free, whenever he goes for a walk. Brush-tailed possums are a serious threat to native forests – one possum can consume three shopping bags full of vegetation each night.

Possums target trees when they are fruiting or flowering, so Spring is an important time to control them as new growth begins on native trees, and the Hibiscus Coast’s 50 bird species are nesting. Residents may also find that possums cause damage to their citrus trees and flowering shrubs. Pest Free Hibiscus Coast has a possum trap library for residents wanting to control possums on their property. You can borrow a possum trap for six weeks free of charge. Jenny says one Red Beach resident who rented a trap caught 12 possums on his property backing into the Weiti River. Info: email j.hanwell@forestandbird. org.nz. Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird also sells the latest possum traps via their website. All PFHC traps are tree mounted and baited with fruit to ensure they do not pose a threat to domestic pets.

Shalom Korean Women’s Choir

pre Christmas concert & refreshments

Saturday December 5, 2pm

Featuring: Hannah Lee, vocalist & electric violinist on a hoverboard! Purchase tickets at door

Whangaparaoa Methodist Church 76 Red Beach Rd | ph 426 5615

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Green scene

The

with Richard Chambers, Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird. hibiscuscoast.branch@forestandbird.org.nz

Sweet tweets During the lockdown earlier this year there were a lot more birds around – or so it was said. But how can we really know how the wildlife in our suburbs is doing? And what does “more birds” actually mean? More sparrows and doves may not be a positive in the same way more tui and kereru would be. To try and answer these questions, Forest and Bird runs an Annual November 5-Minute Bird Count at sites all over the Hibiscus Coast. The count last month was the eighth year it has been run. With every year we get a better idea of what, if anything, is changing on the Hibiscus Coast due to Forest and Bird’s pest control and the bird population in Shakespear Regional Park increasing. The results of these 5-minute counts aren’t in yet, but those involved learn a lot just by taking part. It is hard work focusing intently on what is going on in the landscape around you. Not only are you looking for birds, but listening too. In the bush you can only see so far, so the majority of birds counted will be heard and not seen. This is where the Covid effect that made the news during lockdown may have come into play – firstly we were all out walking and consequently seeing more birds, but secondly, with so little traffic noise we were conscious of hearing more birds too. The Forest and Bird counts will help us see the full picture. So now, at the end of a long and, at times, stressful year, the Christmas season is upon us. We are busy finishing off work, shopping and getting ready for the holidays. But don’t be overwhelmed. Sit in your garden or lie down in the long grass somewhere, close your eyes, and for five minutes don’t think of your ‘to-do’ list. Just listen, relax, see how many different birds you can hear. Have a wonderful Christmas everyone.

Orewa School seeks name change

Orewa Primary School is known by that name locally, and the name is on its uniform and signs. However, the school is legally known, by the Ministry of Education, as Orewa School. Currently the board is seeking to have the name officially changed to Orewa Primary School and recently sought feedback from the school community before it takes the next step in the name change process.

1 2

Christmas days of

To celebrate the festive season, we are giving away a present a day for the first 12 days of December! Visit the Hibiscus Matters Facebook page at noon every day from December 1-12 to go in the draw to win something special from a local business. Give Hibiscus Matters a ‘like’ on Facebook to make sure you don’t miss a post!

Thank you to the following businesses for their support: Auckland Adventure Park • OMG Dog Groomers • Life Pharmacy Orewa • Northern Arena • Snow Planet • Ship & Anchor • Sam’s Butchery • Pack N Save • Kings Plant Barn • Mexico • GT Automotive • Millwater Dental

Retirement is having time TO ENJOY THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE

Age dA FIN dvis ALIS T Pe or 202 Bes 0 ople t La rge s Ch R o etir Life eme ice styl nt o e Vi r llag e

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

CoastChristmas Final week for Christmas



FEAT URE

cheer collection!! Hibiscus Matters’ annual Christmas collection is underway, and donations are slowly coming in. We are now in the final week – all donations must be in by Monday, December 7! This gives the charitable organisations time to make up their Christmas food parcels. We are collecting non-perishable treats – the kind of things you would like to find in your Christmas stocking. Another way to give is to purchase vouchers from local businesses such as supermarkets and petrol stations, which will also be passed onto people to help them through the season. Please note we are not able to take any wrapped, or unwrapped, gifts. Donations can be dropped off at our office at 21 Florence Avenue (corner of Alice Ave), Orewa, Monday to Friday during working hours right up until December 7.

With donated items, from left, Snr Constable John Walker, Constables Jazmin Burgess and Shane Campbell and Sgt Dean Taylor.

Police extend helping hand Everything will be given to Whangaparaoa Police for their Christmas Community collection, Hibiscus Coast Community House’s foodbank in Orewa and Love Soup Hibiscus Coast, Whangaparaoa. Together, we can help make Christmas Day something to look forward to for all Coasties. Terry Moore, Editor

Did you see us? A herd of ‘deers’ from the Hibiscus Matters team pranced down the highway as part of this year’s Orewa Santa Parade, handing out bags of candy canes. If you posed in our frame – you could be on our next front page! If you missed all the fun of the Santa Parade, there will be photos in the next edition, out December 16, as well as on our Facebook page.

For the third year running, local Police will act as Santa Claus, bringing joy to local families in need. They are collecting ‘luxury’ grocery items such as festive biscuits, sweets, chocolates, spreads, coffee, sauces, juices and puddings as well as basic staples and toys. Recipients are nominated by Police because they may be struggling to provide basic necessities, or have been impacted by personal tragedies. Last year 60 families benefited and the need is even greater this year, with many affected by the economic effects of Covid-19. Sgt Brett Hanly says the response from recipients involved countless hugs, smiles and tears on delivery day.

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“The joy and sparkle in the kids’ faces reminds us all of the magic of Christmas,” he says. “It is embedded in our culture as a time where we give to those less fortunate than ourselves and in addition to this, there is the opportunity to nurture our community at large. “ Sgt Hanly says it’s important to remember that Christmas can be a very stressful time – and one to show respect and kindness. “Think about your neighbours, especially those who are socially isolated, say hello, be courteous and treat others how you would like to be treated,” he says. Items can be donated at Whangaparaoa and Orewa Police stations up to and including 21st December.

| Hibiscusmatters | December 2, 2020

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Sweet inspiration in second Magnolia book Baker and business owner Bernadette Gee (Bets) of Red Beach recently produced her second book, after the first one, Magnolia Kitchen, was a runaway international success. She says lockdown saw sales of the recipe book go through the roof locally as so many people took up baking. Magnolia Kitchen has been in Silverdale Village since 2016. Six weeks before lockdown, Bets moved her business to a larger site, where she now has a café, retail and florist section and large kitchen, run with the assistance of 11 staff. With the business set up in Silverdale, the family soon moved to the Hibiscus Coast too. “It has been amazing being part of the community and getting our regulars,” she says. The self-taught baker grew up in a family of cooks and gardeners. The art on Magnolia Kitchen’s cakes is often inspired by nature and plants – “being a florist is my dream job,” Bets says. Creating birthday cakes for her daughter Charlotte was the start of Bet’s passion for artful baking. Charlotte, now 18, works in the business but not baking – she is about to begin study at Elam School of Fine Arts. Bets says her second book, Magnolia Kitchen Design focuses on the art and decorative design elements, inspiring people to create their own edible

Bernadette Gee says she loves the vibe of Silverdale Village and can’t imagine basing her business anywhere else. Replica cakes are a feature of Magnolia Kitchen’s new store. This cake (right) is on the cover of the new book and features a magnolia bloom.

art and showing them how to do it, including how to paint on cakes and use fresh plant material. It also includes recipes. “The book is about creating something for a special occasion, and anyone can learn how to do it,” Bets says. “I’m revealing plenty of my tricks of the trade.”

WIN this book

Hibiscus Matters and Bernadette Gee have one copy of Magnolia Kitchen Design to give away – but you will have to be fast! To get this done by Christmas, entries must be in by Wednesday, December 9. To enter the draw, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters on Facebook and message us your name and daytime phone number, mentioning Magnolia Kitchen Design; or drop an entry that includes your name and phone number into our office at 21 Florence Ave Orewa. The book is published by Allen & Unwin, RRP $49.99.

Open 7 Days

8 Tamariki Avenue, Orewa. (09) 426 4087. Open 7 Days. Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Fun in the sun as Santa arrives in Whangaparāoa

Xtina Manuela helped look after a shady kids’ play area.

Above, Wentworth College’s choir busted a few dance moves while carol singing. Right, The Taylor family of Matakatia made these pieces from locally sourced seaglass, rocks and driftwood

Outdoor games on the grass included giant Connect 4 and swing ball and was a popular place to picnic.

er Gift Vouch

A sunny afternoon of games, food, live entertainment and craft stalls proved a winning recipe for A Very Coastie Christmas, held at Whangaparoa College on November 22. Local families found plenty to keep the children happy, with a range of free games and activities. Many local community groups were represented, as well as Hibiscus Coastguard, Manly Volunteer Fire Brigade, Civil Defence and Emergency Management and Whangaparaoa Police. Santa’s arrival on a fire truck was the highlight for all the children, who wanted a cuddle and a chat. The event was organised by Future Whangaparaoa Trust and funded by the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board and sponsors Telos Group Real Estate.

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December 2, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 2, 2020

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Stocking fillers – shop local

THE FRENCH CUPBOARD

Shopping local has never been more important – it keeps Coasties in work, and helps a variety of stores flourish. Hibiscus Matters took a quick look around and came up with creative pieces ideal for this year’s gift giving.

Boutique

There is no shortage of cute Christmas characters around. These Reindeer, $59.90, and Silver Santas $24.90-$79.90 are from Bed Bath & Beyond and there are also plenty of options at local $2 shops and The Warehouse.

French antique and vintage, giftware, homewares, linens, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint 2b Riverside Arcade, 62 Queen Street, Warkworth 09 425 7207 | www.thefrenchcupboard.co.nz

the hair studio

Whangaparaoa baker and photographer Try Kong (HM August 19) has put his images of the Hibiscus Coast together in a calendar. $25 each with 10 percent going to Hibiscus Hospice. Look for Try on Facebook and message him to order or call into Bakers Oven.

December Special: Keratin Smoothing Treatment + FREE travel size shampoo & conditioner. (Conditions apply)

Bags of style Hospice shop volunteer Jan Hill has broken a few sewing machine needles since she started making these cushions. She makes them from the bags that people bring in, full of donated items. Great recycling effort and can be used inside or out. For sale at the Hospice’s Whangaparaoa shop in Karepiro Drive, $6-$25 each.

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“Ensemble, at the heart of our community” High quality, preloved clothing, homewares, books and toys. Locally made arts, crafts and gifts. Great company & coffee while you shop. Pay us a visit soon and see for yourself.

Ensemble | 5 Palm Court, Silverdale | 09 777 6056

Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm, Sat: 9am-3pm, Sun: Closed 639 Whangaparaoa Rd, (next to Subway) • 09 947 5487

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

In stitches

Soulful socks

Ensemble owner Sara Clarke makes these crocheted sloth plant holders, $20 including plant.

Dark Soles makes socks from bamboo fabric with designs by the company’s founder Natalie Langhorn of Red Beach inspired by the ocean and Kiwi lifestyle. Available online, darksoles.co.nz or from Estuary Arts Centre, Orewa. RRP $16. Bev Smith makes deluxe deck chairs, stools and side tables in her Whangaparaoa garage. Made of high quality, long lasting and fade resistent canvas and eucalyptus wood grown in New Zealand. Prices for the chairs start from $269. Info: www.bevschairs.co.nz

Crafty works Estuary Arts in Orewa has unique crafty items such as heirloom button tree decorations by Sonya Young ($25-$45) and blankets made into character cushions by Lisa Clark, $19. Also look out for the art centre’s annual Cash and Carry art sale, which features original works for under $500. It runs from December 14-January 24.

Garden in a glass You can give a plant – or even a whole garden this Christmas! Urban Botanics Terrariums come in a range of sizes, with gardens already installed. This one is $69.99 from Kings Plant Barn, Silverdale.

Santa’s bulldog These teatowels, $15, are a big seller this Christmas at Floosie in Silverdale Village.

Wed-Fri 11.30am-late Sat 9.30am-late Sun 9.30am-5pm

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Come and see our new ar Nightwe nightwear store, right here in Orewa. Also Italian and French shoes, boots and clothing. Homeware, jewellery and Turkish clothing

352 Hibiscus Coast Highway Orewa • Ph 09 558 8614

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For Brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails and coffees. Gift vouchers available

| Hibiscusmatters | December 2, 2020

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Ocean orbs If your budget won’t stretch to a Dick Frizzell print, there are still options at upmarket art store Marshall Gallery in Orewa. These Wanaka Orbs by Graham Ambrose cost $130-$180 each.

Shell out There will be plenty of people wanting to shell out for the decorative shells at Unichem Manly Village this Christmas. Made by Le Forge, they include wreaths, hangings, candle holders and balls. Prices from $24$36. Ceramic heart hangers, also with a coastal theme, are $14.99. These tissue box holders are among the decorative items with a vintage feel made by Krissy McLintock in Whangaparoa. This is Krissy’s hobby and she has recently begun to sell at markets. Costs for tissue boxes start at $35. Info: Look for Vintage It NZ on Facebook.

One for Coasties It doesn’t get much more local than these coasters, designed by Silverdale’s NZ At Home owner Jonathan Ogden. They are $5 each from NZ At Home.

One for your pet Soft Swanndri fabric has been used to make this Snuffle Mat – ideal for dogs, cats and even guinea pigs! Hide treats in the little folds and crevices and your pet will love to snuffle. Made by Tuft NZ. From Pet Naturals, Orewa, $40 small and $65 large.

Sweet ideas Majestic Café in Coast Plaza has brought artisan chocolates by Devonport Chocolates and Chocolate Brown in Warkworth to the Coast. Priced from $2.80 each.

-Studio

BAL ANCED ACUPUNCT URE WITH HENRI-NOEL VENTURINI

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December 2, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature Laetitia Tan with her first book.

diamond design goldsmith ltd. Christmas is here. Come and check out our bright new showroom in the heart of Silverdale.

Book writing a superpower Writing could be Laetitia Tan’s superpower – words have been tumbling out of the 18-year-old Millwater resident since she was a child. “She was constantly writing,” her mother Valentina says. Initially it was a stream of stories, with little punctuation or spelling, but it was clear that Laetitia, who has Down Syndrome, has a great imagination and loves to write. She worked on her grammar and punctuation with her speech and language therapist, and says getting that right was the hardest part of writing her first book – a story for Primaryaged children called The Awesome Superheroes – The Bank Robbery. Writing the book was a challenge that Laetitia set herself, and the characters came from her love of superheroes. It tells the story of three superheroes, including German Shepherd dog Max

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(who can fly), who track down some outlaws who rob a bank and also steal milkshakes. It is illustrated by family friend Jacob Copper. Laetitia gifted copies to local Primary schools and has recently given talks about her book. She says one of the best things is seeing people’s reaction to the story. “They love the way I describe what my characters are doing, and my sense of humour,” Laetitia says. She is already thinking about her next book. The book is dedicated to Laetitia’s family, friends, therapists and educators “who have given her the priceless gift of believing in herself ” and also to other families who have a loved one with Down Syndrome. The Awesome Superheroes – The Bank Robbery is available from Never Ending Books in Orewa, or look for The Awesome Superheroes Facebook page.

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DELIVERERS WANTED 11 YEARS+ TO DELIVER HIBISCUS MATTERS Hibiscus Matters is a fortnightly paper, pays 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 em: hmdelivery@localmatters.co.nz

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Services Custom designs Remakes Remodeling Restoration Insurance work Repairs Polishing service Free Checks ____________________________

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Christmas appeal focuses on keeping pets safe Victims of family harm are bracing for a spike in violence over the Christmas period and with it, a rise in animal abuse. Police say they are attending significantly more incidents of family violence already this year due to the impact of Covid-19, and they are worried about what the holiday season will bring. Auckland Police say family harm is up 18 percent in the last 12 months, with officers attending 47,604 episodes, up from 40,244. They often see a spike from Boxing Day, with victims waiting until Christmas is over to call for help. “For many families, Christmas is not a happy or festive time of year,” Detective Inspector Kelly Farrant, from Waitematā’s Whāngaia Nga Pa Harakeke, says. “The financial stress of Christmas can have a major impact on people’s wellbeing. “Additional family visiting, children and others home from school or work, increased alcohol consumption and spending, potentially overlaid by any impacts or concerns around Covid, and it’s possible we will see an even greater increase as we look towards 2021. And it’s not just people affected – pets can bear the brunt of violence, too.” To help victims escape, New Zealand’s first shelter caring for pets affected by family violence is being built locally. “Pet Refuge will be a temporary safe haven for pets while their owners find a violence-free home,” founder Julie

Left, Pet Refuge founder Julie Chapman is building NZ’s first safe home for animals. Pets are often another casualty of domestic violence.

Chapman says. “We know that victims are staying in dangerous relationships because they can’t take their pets with them to a safe house, and they fear they will be harmed if they leave them behind. Our shelter will care for their pets until they can be reunited, and pets will be transported from around the country to the shelter.” The charity has launched a Christmas appeal to fund running costs, so that when the shelter build is finished it can open its doors immediately. It needs to raise $200,000 for food, bedding and blankets, toys and exercise equipment, medication, transport, and paying vets, expert animal carers, case workers and support staff. “More than 100 victims have already reached out to us so we can’t open our doors soon enough – but we need the

ppor t Thank you for your su e wish throughout 2020 – w stmas. you a very Merry Chri ‘His Place’ the vintage American Barbershop in Orewa, with it’s great Coastie vibe and the sweet sound of Elvis in the background has had a new fit out. Owner Lee has over 30 years experience and is well known on the Coast. He can advise on the latest fashion styles, shaves and cutting techniques. ‘His Place’ is Rugby League star Shaun Johnson’s choice of barber and has a Playstation to keep the children occupied. No need to make an appointment, open 7 days, step inside and meet Lee, Kim & Duncan.

Monday–Friday: 9am–6pm Sat: 9am–3pm, Sun: 10am–2pm

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public to help us do that,” Julie says. Animals are often the forgotten victims in a family violence situation but are also some of the most helpless. To donate visit petrefuge.org.nz or call 09 975 0850. Victims needing

help should call Women’s Refuge: 0800 Refuge or 0800 733 843. For men who feel they are going to harm a loved one call 0800 HEY BRO or 0800 439 276. Police are urging the public to contact them if they think someone is at risk.

Library Christmas closures give staff a break

Local libraries will close for an extra four days over the Christmas/New Year period. They will be shut December 25-28 and January 1-4. Auckland Council’s head of Community Libraries central, north and west, Darryl Soljan, says data shows that libraries are significantly less visited during this period and the closures are also because this year’s statutory holidays provide four consecutive days off at Christmas and New Year. “This reduced usage combined with the unique way that the statutory holidays fall this year, provides a rare opportunity to support our hardworking librarians’ health and wellbeing,” he says. “Our valued library staff will be able to enjoy a well-deserved break with their families after a very challenging year.” Aucklanders will still be able to borrow items right up until closing time on Christmas Eve, return books at any time and access the digital library.

New and Recycled Fashion Shop local – Come in and have a look at our amazing range of recycled fashion. Swimwear | Sarongs | Sunhats | Shorts Skirts | Sandals | Summer casuals Good selection for Special occasions Weddings • Xmas Partys Open: Mon–Fri: 10am–5pm • Sat: 10am–4pm Unit C / 1 – 19 Cammish Lane, Tamariki Plaza, Orewa (behind Countdown) RestyleBoutiqueNZ

Phone 027 251 1780

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

The Shalom Korean Women’s Choir will celebrate 25 years next year.

Moving music from violinist The Red Beach Methodist Church will host a Christmas event with a difference on Saturday December 5. The programme will include a performance by the Shalom Korean Women’s Choir, as well as Hannah Lee, a singer and electric violinist who performs while balancing on a hoverboard. After graduating from Auckland University in 2004, Hannah returned to South Korea to study under electric violinist Eugene Park. Since then, she has toured the US, Japan, Taiwan, Australia and New Zealand, playing at a variety of venues including universities, schools and army bases. She has also been a goodwill ambassador for World Vision and the South/North Peace Foundation (Bucheon City). The Shalom Korean Women’s Choir is also no stranger to international audiences having performed at Carnegie Hall in New York in 2003 and toured Australia in 2009 and 2011. But the choir’s major work involves

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

Hannah Lee and her electric violin have toured the world.

visiting churches, rest homes, prisons and facilities for disabled people in New Zealand. A choir spokesperson says the name ‘Shalom’ means peace in Hebrew, which speaks of the love and peace they hope to bring to the world around them through their music. Tickets for the concert, which starts at 2pm, will be available at the door. Adults $20; a family $35. Children free.

info@monsterwash.co.nz

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Join us for services throughout the month: St Chad’s Orewa Sunday, 8am & 10am Wednesday, 9.30am Christ Church Waiwera 1st Sunday, 10am Holy Trinity, Silverdale 2nd & 4th Sunday, 9am For further information

ph 426 4952

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Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Health with Richard Bruce, functional fitness coach rich@richardbrucefitness

Don’t let Christmas be a turkey

WAINUI BURGER NIGHT Friday, 4th December 5:00 p.m. - Close Public Welcome Reservations Essential

Wainui Burger * Jalapeno Cheese Burger * Hawaiian Birdie Burger Lamb Burger * Vegetarian Burger Incl Fries & Slaw $22.5

WAINUI STEAK NIGHT

WAINUI RIBS NIGHT Friday, 11th December 5:00 p.m. - Close Public Welcome Reservations Essential

Baby Back Ribs with Bavarian Potato Salad and Cabbage Slaw 1/2 Rack $29.5 Full Rack $39.5

CHRISTMAS BUFFET BRUNCH

Friday, 18th December 5:00 p.m. - Close Public Welcome Reservations Essential

Join us Sunday, 20th December at Wainui Golf & Function Centre for our annual Christmas Buffet Brunch. First sitting 11:00 last sitting 2:00 p.m.

Chef’s Best Steak & Chips with your favourite Pint of Beer or a Glass of house Red of White Wine $35

THE VIEW EATERY SUMMER HOURS Thursday - Saturday 10:30 - 7:00 p.m. Sunday 10:30 - 5:00 p.m. Monday to Wednesday Closed

With 2020 crashing on us like a wrecking ball, it’s no surprise that for some ‘being jolly’ these holidays might feel a bit of a stretch. But with health being on a lot of people’s minds, the added thought of Christmas just around the corner is motivating some to make it a good, and healthy, one. It’s usually a busy time of year catching up with friends and family, so here are some holiday tips to make this seasonal celebrations more relaxed, less stressful and feel like an actually holiday and not a chore. • Avoid over committing – it’s fantastic catching up with friends and family, especially as there have been times we’ve been unable to, but if you have a long list of people to visit, or staying with you; try to book out some ‘alone time’. Smaller doses make the times more special and will help keep you recharged and maintain lower stress levels. • Catching up with friends or family doesn’t have to cost the earth. Agree to spend time, not money. Plan outings on the beach or park with a few nibbles and some games. It’s really a time for making memories and sometimes the simplest experiences are the most memorable. Connecting with people in a positive setting has never been so important for us all. We live in a beautiful part of the country, so make the most of your backyard. Getting out and about with friends and family is also a great way to get some more movement into your everyday. • Ditch the screens for a day –or three. Have a social media break. It’s rarely uplifting, and those who want to truly connect can call or message you. Not only will you have more real time in your day, you’ll also be more present, have better energy and be happier with those who are around you. • Finally, try to find things to be thankful for. Yes you’ve heard this before, but it’s true that where focus goes, energy flows! This can be hard when times have been tough but if you can try to avoid focusing on the negatives or things going wrong in life, and shift your mind towards the things that are good in your life, it’ll make a huge difference in your mental health, how you feel and even change the direction life goes for the better. Positive thinking and positive self-talk goes a long way. The holiday season is a time to celebrate. Having time for your self-care and your health should be part of that time too. Looking after yourself is not selfish – it’s essential. Taking time to focus on your needs will help those around you too. It can energise people and make them happier when you can bring optimism and positivity to the party – now go enjoy those celebrations!

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December 2, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Santa’s town centre schedule revealed! Coast, Whangaparaoa (formerly Coast Plaza), Santa takes up residence at the centre (by Countdown) from December 3–24, 10am-4pm daily. No bookings needed for Santa photos - just turn up. Photos of pets with Santa, December 6, 13 and 20,l 8am-10am. Booking for pet photos is essential, email admin@ coastplaza.co.nz Orewa town centre

Santa will be in and around Orewa town centre for several days up till Christmas, however if you are wanting set times look out for Santa around the new sculpture on Moana Reserve on December 21, 22 and 23 at 11.45am12.45pm and 4.30pm-5.30pm. Snowplanet Santa arrived at Snowplanet in Silverdale on November 28 and is there until Christmas Eve. There are a wide variety

of options for visiting him in his cabin in Winter Wonderland for photos. Info: snowplanet.co.nz/visit-santa/ Silverdale Mall Santa photography begins (outside Farmers) on December 5 and continues to December 24, 10am4pm each day. There will be free facepainting and balloon artistry on Saturday, December 5, 10am-2pm to celebrate his arrival.

Range of prices for Santa photos

Before you queue up with the kids to see Santa, here is some idea of the pricing options for photos. • Both Coast (formerly Coast Plaza) and Silverdale Mall contract their Santa experience photography to a company called Santa Magic, which also operates at all the Westfield malls. Silverdale Mall has used this company since it opened in 2018 and Coast for the last two years. Prices start at $17 for a small photo, $29 for two and $36 for 3 (fourth one free). There are a myriad of other options and packages that include frames, digital files, snow bubbles and fridge magnets. • At Snowplanet, prices start at $15 for a photo of one person/child with Santa in his snowy cabin – two people cost $28, three $39. There are also other packages and activities such as tubing that can be added. • Photos can be taken yourself with Orewa’s ‘free range’ Santa, free of charge.

Pining for pine? For some, Christmas isn’t right without the scent of pine needles from a real tree. Locally, Christmas pines are on sale at: • Silverdale St John ambulance car park, Silverdale Street, from December 4-21. Standard trees cost $45 and are availalbe weekdays, 10am-6pm and weekends 9am-5pm. Cash and eftpos available. • Coast Youth Community Trust (CYC) sells trees at Whangaparaoa Baptist Church’s lower carpark, cnr Wade River and Whangaparaoa Roads, December 4-21. A standard tree is $45. Available Monday to Sunday, 9am-6pm.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 2, 2020

Coast Christmas – Shop local feature

Business

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Christmas is upon us and it is important that we step back as owners of Small to Medium businesses (SMEs) and thank those who are instrumental to our success. But, before I give thanks to our valued friends in business, let me first thank you, the SME operator who has continued to provide employment and goods and services to our community within this challenging environment – here is to a successful 2021 and a roaring Christmas trade! To customers, thank you for your continued support. It has been heartening despite the effect Covid-19 has also had. To employees, thank you for your hard work and dedication. You are the integral piece of our businesses that keep us moving forward. To suppliers, who no doubt will be receiving smaller Christmas hampers this year, apologies in advance – as fellow business owners we are sure that you understand. To the accountants who complete the financial wizardry behind the scenes we thank you for your support. In some cases you are also the ones who can see beyond the emotional factors of running a business that we subjectively hold as SME operators and give us an inspiring forecast for the coming years that keeps us getting up at 4am to chase our dreams. Thanks also to the lawyers. It may seem that we are grumpy and penny pinching at times, failing to pay our invoices for legal services until the last minute. But after the sting of the invoice has fallen away, we are grateful to you for keeping us in compliance with relevant regulations. Merry Christmas to your teams and here is to another year of keeping us out of the legal quagmire. Last, and most definitely not least, to the New Zealand taxpayers who have provided significant support to SMEs through the provision of the Covid-19 wage subsidy and Small Business Cashflow Scheme loans. Without that support it is likely that a large proportion of us would have fallen over amd we will be thinking of you as we celebrate Christmas with our families and look forward to repaying your kindness into 2021 and beyond. Meri Kirihimete and Feliz Navidad to you and yours. Enjoy the holidays and we look forward to working with you together in 2021 for a strong New Zealand economy. Note: This is Sam’s final column for Hibiscus Matters, as he focuses on a new role. Thanks Sam!

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December 2, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Principals fume as vaping on the rise The days of smoking ‘behind the bike sheds’ at school has been replaced by vaping according to local college principals. New Zealand’s Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Act was amended to include vaping, and the changes came into force on November 11. Among the changes is the restriction of sale or supply of vaping products to those aged over 18. However, according to Whangaparaoa College principal James Thomas, young people are having no problems getting hold of vaping devices and products. “Some parents say that they let their kids vape at home, and sometimes our learners access vaping equipment through older family members,” Mr Thomas says. “Obviously the school reflects what’s going on in the community but we have drawn a line and it’s banned at school, even if it’s ok at home.” Recently in a notice to parents, Mr Thomas said that there has been an increase in the numbers vaping on site. He is concerned about the addictive effects. “There are many misconceptions about vaping and its effects – which include nicotine addiction,” Mr Thomas says. “Vape juice flavours such as cotton candy and blue raspberry target young people and the availability of 60mg/mL nicotine juice means that young people are becoming nicotine addicted,” he says. “Just like smoking – at school it’s not acceptable.” Kingsway College principal Graeme Budler agrees that vaping is on the rise at school. “It is starting to raise its head as an issue at the school, probably because students do not see the health dangers in the same way they see cigarettes,” he says. “It also does not help that the flavours target younger audiences.” He says Kingsway has classified and treated vaping, similar to smoking. “At this stage, we are putting up signage to signal to visitors, and adding the topic to our health programme,” he says.

Orewa College principal Kate Shevland says smoking has more or less disappeared from the scene with vaping taking its place. “We see occasional use among students, but it’s not an increasing trend,” she says. “When it happens, we do a standdown or detention usually and then meet with parents.” She says the change in legislation to include vaping in the definition of smoke free is a good step. The new legislation also makes the buildings and grounds of all schools and early childhood centres smoke and vape free. A Wentworth College spokesperson says the school had already banned it, adding the word ‘vaping’ to its smoking, drugs and alcohol policy a year ago. “We have strong compliance from our students, as a student risks suspension or possible exclusion for breaching our rules,” the spokesperson says. “Vaping has never been an issue at Wentworth.” The college is putting up new signs to inform members of the public who may use the playgrounds in weekends about the vaping ban.

Orewa Lions Club have donated a defibrillator to the Hibiscus Coast Community Patrol. The defibrillator was officially handed over recently. Pictured are two volunteer patrollers (left and in vehicle) with Community Patrol chair Sandra Sweetman, centre, and Orewa Lions president Wendy Miller.

Tis the season to be dumping

The holiday season is the time of year when the number of people illegally dumping their rubbish rises and Auckland Council is asking for community assistance in preventing this practice. Responsible waste solutions include hiring a skip, holding a garage sale, or donating reusable items to charity. People caught leaving items anywhere outside their property face an instant fine of $400 and may be prosecuted up to $30,000. Council also warns residents to be alert if a contractor is offering to get rid of items for rock bottom prices and ask them about their disposal methods. Council has prosecuted several people for being paid by residents to remove items, only to dump them. This also happens with garden waste services. Anyone can discretely take a photo of vehicles and people if they see dumping occurring and report it using Council’s 0800 NO DUMP line. Info, including options for managing your waste, ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/

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health&family

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From left, Bishop Ross Bay, Graham Lamont, and St Stephens Vicar Ian Hardcastle.

Wall keeps parishioners close A dedicated fundraising effort and around five years of hard work is behind the recent building of a memorial wall at St Stephens Anglican church in Whangaparaoa. The 7m-long wall, constructed of fibreglass reinforced concrete, is like a honeycomb inside, containing 176 spaces where ashes can be interred and sealed. Graham Lamont, nearly 90 years old, has been at the heart of the project, which was strongly supported by parishioners – around $50,000 was donated to make it happen. The Whangaparaoa resident and retired Reverend, has been involved with St Stephens since the mid-1990s. He says the wall is primarily for the ashes of people who have worshipped

at St Stephens and been part of the church family, but spaces can also be purchased for the interment of servicemen and women. He says this is because of a connection with St Stephens’ wooden chapel that was built in 1917 as a memorial to those who served in World War I. Three of Graham’s great uncles served in World War I and two were killed as young men, so it is fitting that the first two plaques on the wall commemorate them. Graham has also reserved a place for himself and his wife, Helen, whose ashes will be interred there soon. “Around 20 members of the congregation have purchased niches so far,” he says.

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December 2, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

Cambridge scholarship for promising neuroscientist Searching for new treatments for conditions like Alzheimers and Huntington’s Disease will be the focus for Jennifer Palmer of Stanmore Bay when she heads to Cambridge University next year. Recently, she was awarded a threeyear Cambridge Rutherford Memorial PhD scholarship – one of only two awarded this year. It will enable her to complete her PhD at Cambridge University, where she will investigate treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Her study may help move things forward from the current therapies available, which only treat symptoms and are unable to prevent underlying disease progression. Jennifer has been interested in this field of work for many years. “Scientifically, they present a tremendous challenge, especially to an ageing society,” Jennifer says. “Personally, I was exposed to neurodegenerative disease research rather young when my Grandma was diagnosed with vascular dementia – she passed away earlier this year. I also saw the stigma around neurodegenerative diseases and how people assume dementia symptoms are part of normal ageing. In fact dementia is quite different to normal ageing and those facing these conditions deserve to keep their independence

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY 24/7

Open Christmas Jennifer Palmer in her happy place.

and be able to spend time with their grandchildren. So I’ve been motivated for many years to try and understand more about these diseases so that we can improve the quality of life for people living with these conditions.” The former Orewa College dux last featured in Hibiscus Matters in 2015 when, as a student, she won the premier award of the Eureka competition – the first college student, and female, to do so. Since 2016, Jennifer has been studying neuroscience at Otago University. She hopes, “Covid-willing” to move to the UK to begin study at Cambridge next September. Meanwhile she will continue working in one of the Otago University labs.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 2, 2020

localsport

Memories flow at Red Beach rowers’ reunion With the theme of ‘Red Beach Surfboats Through the Decades’, Red Beach Surf Club’s recent boaties’ reunion saw a gathering of surfboat rowing legends from the past 50-plus years. The event, held at the clubrooms on November 22, attracted around 150 people, with no less than eight exrowers flying in to attend, all anxious to renew friendships established during six decades of surfboat racing. Rowers and sweeps from the late-1960s and 70s mixed and mingled with the club’s latest crop of rowers, the youngest being the U19 women’s Valkyries crew who are currently in training. The club’s first surfboat to enter competition was a second-hand one purchased from the Karekare Surf Club for $300 in late-1967. The Red Beach club gained sponsorship money for it and named the craft Miss Findlay to acknowledge the sponsor, Findlays Gold Krust Bakeries. The six club members who made up that original crew – Terry Marsh, Paul Ranby, Jack Young, Ollie Hobson, Wayne Pritchard and Ian MacKay – were all at the reunion. Also present was Leaon Prouse, who purchased the boat for Red Beach. He delayed a trip back to the USA so he could attend the reunion. Also at the event were crews who have represented NZ in surfboat rowing – the Sirens women’s crew and the Boomers men’s crew. Both raced against top Australian surfboat teams in the TransTasman Surf Boat Challenge in Australia.

Clockwise from top, Chris Gurr, left, aka Mr Candy Stripes, with Red Beach club patron Bryan Heron and Pat Heron. Crew members of Red Beach’s very first surf boat Miss Findlay which made an appearance in late-1967. Exrowers Steve Westlake, left, and Scott Hurdley. Red Beach surf boat rowers from the 1980s. Photos, Ross Malyon

Some of the rowers of the Flying Herons crew which took out the open men’s surf boat ‘double’ at the 2006 NZ Championships were also there. They secured Red Beach’s first-ever gold medals for national success. One of the crew, Steve Westlake, later gained fame after winning the Trans-Atlantic Rowing Challenge with Matt Goodman in 2001. Also among the guests were Red Beach club patron Bryan Heron and wife Pat, aka The Flying Herons, who have been sponsors of the club for more than 40 years. They have been ardent supporters of surfboat crews, having gifted no less than five boats to the club since the 1980s.

Basketball battle at Leisure Centre

Basketball – currently the fastest growing sport in NZ – will be showcased in a new event to be held on Saturday, December 12 at the Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre. Incoming chair of the Hibiscus Coast Basketball Association, Brett Forsyth, says anyone interested in junior basketball is encouraged to come along. “It’s a chance for locals to see the best junior players on the Coast in action,” Brett says. The event, called the Battle of the North Showdown, features top junior and senior College basketball players from 14 different North Island schools. It includes two head to head games between Te Tai Tokerau Select and Hibiscus Coast Select. Juniors (Years 9-10) tip off at 2pm and seniors (Years 11-13) tip off at 4pm. Entry costs a gold coin donation, which goes towards enabling local teams to attend tournaments next Easter. The event will also be live streamed on Facebook via Go Live Media.

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December 2, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localsport

Wrestler primed for Olympics Dairy Flat wrestler Brahm Richards is making sure he is fully prepared for next year’s Olympic Games, after he was selected by the NZ Wrestling Federation last month. The 23-year-old has been NZ Wrestling champ seven times and NZ Judo champ six times. He has a brown belt in Judo and a black belt in Shotokan Karate. He represented NZ at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where he had a tough draw and lost both matches. This year Brahm has won all his NZ fights, competing in the U74kg category. He says selection for the Olympics is one hurdle out of the way, but he must still win in the Oceania Championship in American Samoa in January, and make the top six fighters at the Commonwealth Champs in Morocco before his entry is confirmed. Like other athletes, Covid-19 travel restrictions have hit hard and both those events are currently up in the air. “I’m training like I’m going, but it’s 50/50 at the moment,” he says. When Brahm was four years old he was given special dispensation to take Karate classes, normally restricted to children over the age of five. He was introduced to martial arts by his father, who has black belts in Karate and Taekwondo. Brahm says he always thought the ‘grappling’ sports looked more fun.

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THE scorEBoArD THE scorEBoArD A ROUNDUP OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN THE DISTRICT

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Softball a Roundup of spoRTs acTiviTies in THe disTRicT Brahm Richards, in white, dominated Suraj Singh last month to win Olympic selection.

He began wrestling when he was 10 years old and loved it from the start. “It’s one of the hardest sports from a physical and mental point of view. Technical skill, fitness, strength and the mental aspect all matter. It’s like a chess match and always challenging.” One of the challenges that Brahm set himself this year was to lose weight so he can compete in the U65kg category. He also trains twice daily, starting with an early morning high intensity cardio and weights workout and ending the day with wrestling training. In between, he manages Club Physical in Te Atatu – his “second home”. He is also studying towards a business degree and eventually hopes to open his own gym. “There is no money in wrestling, so the Olympics is the peak,” he says. “I’ve started doing Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) because you can be a professional MMA fighter in NZ.

Hibiscus Coast Softball is looking for new players of all ages, from under 5’s to senior grades. Registrations open now for 2020/2021 Season runs through to March. To register visit hbcsoftball.org.nz hbcsoftballclub

Tennis Silverdale Tennis Club is looking for new members. All ages and abilities welcome. Wednesday 9.30am social doubles and morning tea, twilight session on Wednesday evenings 6.30pm, and Sunday Senior tennis at 10.30am. Info: phone Linda 09 427 8209.

Yoga Free Summer Beach Yoga starts December 5, 9am-10am at Stanmore Park/ Beach. Suitable for all levels and newcomers welcome. Bring a yoga mat or beach towel and water bottle. Meet on the grass to the right of the playground - look for the flags. Every Saturday until March 27. Provided by Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre with the support of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board.

Bowling 20/21 Summer Lawn Bowling Season is now underway at the Manly Lawn Bowling Club, 54 Laurence St, Manly. New members welcome, join this enterprising and friendly club. Offering a Top Grade Grass Green and two Carpet Greens, all ages welcome. Info: www.manlybowlingclub.co.nz List your sports here for FREE email: terry@localmatters.co.nz

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localmatters.co.nz

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3:15am 0.6 3:53am 0.6 4:32am 0.6 5:13am 0.6 12:03am 2.9 12:49am 2.9 1:39am 2.9 2:34am 2.9 3:35am 2.9 4:39am 3.0 5:43am 3.1 12:12am 0.5 1:09am 0.4 2:03am 0.3 2:55am 0.3 3:45am 0.3 4:33am 0.4 9:39am 3.1 10:18am 3.1 10:57am 3.1 11:39am 3.1 5:56am 0.7 6:43am 0.7 7:35am 0.8 8:34am 0.8 9:38am 0.8 10:42am 0.8 11:43am 0.7 6:43am 3.2 7:40am 3.4 8:33am 3.5 9:24am 3.5 10:14am 3.5 11:04am 3.4

Tide 3:35pm 0.8 4:15pm 0.8 4:57pm 0.8 5:42pm 0.8 12:24pm 3.1 1:13pm 3.1 2:06pm 3.1 3:02pm 3.1 4:01pm 3.1 5:00pm 3.1 5:59pm 3.2 12:40pm 0.6 1:35pm 0.5 2:29pm 0.5 3:21pm 0.4 4:13pm 0.5 5:04pm 0.5 6:58pm 3.3 7:55pm 3.3 8:50pm 3.3 9:43pm 3.3 10:35pm 3.3 11:25pm 3.2 6:30pm 0.8 7:21pm 0.8 8:15pm 0.8 9:13pm 0.8 10:13pm 0.7 11:13pm 0.6 Times 9:57pm 3.0 10:37pm 3.0 11:19pm 3.0 5:56am 8:25pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

5:56am 8:26pm

Best At

2:05am 2:31pm

5:56am 8:27pm

Best At

2:57am 3:23pm

5:56am 8:28pm

Best At

3:50am 4:17pm

Best At

Set 6:58am Set 7:47am Set 8:41am Set Rise 10:07pm Rise 11:01pm Rise 11:50pm *Not for navigational purposes.

5:56am 8:29pm

4:43am 5:10pm

5:56am 8:29pm

Best At

5:36am 6:02pm

5:56am 8:30pm

Best At

6:27am 6:53pm

5:56am 8:31pm

Best At

7:17am 7:42pm

Last Quarter

5:56am 8:32pm

Best At

8:06am 8:31pm

5:56am 8:33pm

Best At

8:56am 9:21pm

5:56am 8:33pm

Best At

9:46am 10:12pm

5:57am 8:34pm

Best At

10:39am 11:07pm

5:57am 8:35pm

Best At

11:35am

5:57am 8:36pm

Best At

12:04am 12:34pm

5:57am 8:36pm

Best At

1:05am 1:36pm

5:58am 8:37pm

Best At

New Moon

2:07am 2:38pm

5:58am 8:37pm

Best At

3:09am 3:38pm

Best At

4:07am 4:34pm

9:41am Rise 12:33am Rise 1:12am Rise 1:46am Rise 2:18am Rise 2:49am Rise 3:20am Rise 3:53am Rise 4:30am Rise 5:13am Rise 6:03am Rise 7:00am Rise 8:04am Rise 9:09am Set 10:45am Set 11:50am Set 12:57pm Set 2:05pm Set 3:13pm Set 4:24pm Set 5:36pm Set 6:51pm Set 8:04pm Set 9:12pm Set 10:15pm Set 11:08pm Set 11:53pm B F 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

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December 2020 5 Santa arrives at Silverdale Mall, free face painting and balloon artistry, 10am-2pm.

Shalom Korean Women’s Choir pre-Christmas concert, Red Beach Methodist Church, 76 Red Beach Road, 2pm. Tickets at door, $20, $35 family. Vocalist and electric violinist on hoverboard (see story p29)

Christmas market, St Chad’s church, corner Centreway Rd and Florence Ave, Orewa, 8am-12noon. Wide range of stalls. Fundraiser for church hall. All welcome.

Traditional Carol Service, Silverdale Pioneer Village Chapel, 15 Wainui Rd, Silverdale, 7pm. Tea and coffee in the Parsonage from 6.30pm.

Basketball showcase Battle of the North Showdown, Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre, Stanmore Bay, starts 2pm. See top local players in action. Spectators welcome. (see story p36)

Silverdale Ballroom Dancing’s Gala Christmas Party, Silverdale Hall, Silverdale Street, 5pm-8pm. Floor shows, spot prizes. All welcome.

Serving Spoons Free Christmas Lunch, St John’s Church Hall, 180 Centreway Rd, Orewa, 12.30pm. All welcome.

Coast’s Cultural Christmas, 13 Agency Lane, Silverdale, 6.30pm-9pm. A celebration of all the cultures that make up the Coast. BYO traditional cultural dish for a pot luck dinner. Drinks and dessert provided. Info: ph 021 236 0936. To register interest: caitlin@coast.org by December 13

January 2021 23 The Big Dig, Orewa Beach and reserve adjacent to Orewa

Surf Club. Registration starts 9.30am. Digging commences: 5 years and under 11am, Over 5 years,11.15am. Beach games, quick fire raffles and displays until 1pm.

29 & 30 Rodders Beach Festival, Orewa. The famous Rodders

weekend hot rod showcase which raises funds for Westpac Helicopter Trust.

We Service & Sell All Makes & Models of Cars, Diesels & 4WDs WOFs while you wait • Cambelts • CV Joints All Servicing & Repairs • On-board Computer Scanning Air Conditioning, Clutches, Brakes & Suspension • Tune-ups Wheel Alignments, Tyres & Puncture Repairs • Loan Cars

Locally owned & operated for over 20 years

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Athletes Foot Ahhh summer... the smell of strawberries, seabreezes and stinky feet. Yes, it is official sweaty feet season. Unfortunately it’s not only athlete’s that get to suffer from athlete’s foot. Do you feel itching, stinging or burning between your toes or on the soles of your feet? Or do you have have cracking and peeling skin or blisters between your toes or soles of your feet? Then you may be suffering from a fungal infection otherwise known as athlete’s foot. Fungal infections are very common and easily spread from one person to another by touch or if you come into contact with things infected by the fungus such as the floor of a shower. Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist areas (kind of like their distant relative, the mushroom!) and are more likely if your feet are wet, such as from sweating in between your toes. Treatment generally involves applying an antifungal product. Whether you use a powder, lotion, cream or gel will depend on exactly where the infection is. It is best to speak to your pharmacist about the best solution for you. Most preparations available must be used twice a day for a couple of weeks including after the infection has disappeared. Stopping the medication too early may allow the fungus to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection. There are now also newer fungal medications available that work faster and more efficiently. To prevent an infection, ensure that your feet are kept clean and dry. Do not recycle sweaty socks! Keep your feet cool by wearing well ventilated footwear or wear socks to absorb sweat. And avoid infected areas by wearing jandals at public showers and pools. Fungal infections in your nail or nails are another story all together. These infections may start as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or more commonly toenails. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause your nail to discolour, thicken and develop crumbling edges. If you have a mild to moderate infection in your nail, you may be able to treat it with a nail lacquer available through your pharmacist. Otherwise they will refer you to your doctor for treatment. Make sure you enjoy the summer - the sun, the sand and the sea and steer clear of smelly feet!

Open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

Phone 424 7748

679 Whangaparaoa Road www.car-zone.co.nz

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

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Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional

40 | Hibiscusmatters | December 2, 2020

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From left, The opening dragon dance colour coordinated with the new sculpture. Angie Ng sold flowers from her Orewa garden, with all proceeds to Hospice. Performers came from all over Auckland for the event.

Colourful cultures attract crowd to Orewa Beach The Asian Food & Cultural Festival, held on Saturday, November 21, is establishing itself as a crowd favourite in Orewa. It is the second time that the event has been held on Moana Reserve, providing entertainment, food and activities from cultures all over Asia. One of the organisers, Sue Chau, says there were less food stalls than last year, due to a clash with another Asian Festival in Auckland city the same day. However, dragon and lion dancers and a wide range of other entertainers kept the crowd happy. The event is a fundraiser for Hibiscus House hospice in Red Beach, and they will also be happy, as around $6000 was raised – $2000 more than last year.

Left, The Lion Dance was a crowd-pleaser, with the lions getting in amongst the crowd. Tibetan ‘Blue Sky’ dance

SERVICE CENTRE OREWA Genuine Kia vehicle specialists

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OREWA CAR SERVICES 192 Centreway Road, Orewa | 09-426 5351 Excludes service contracts, terms and conditions apply.

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