Hibiscus Matters_Issue 277_4 March 2020 by Localmatters

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March 4, 2020

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Inside this issue Travel with the WOW factor

From left, Margaret Mitchell, Pat Daw, Helen Stancliffe and Hazel Impey of Coast Pet Care Community Vet Clinic. Vets have divided opinions on the new clinic’s low cost desexing service.

pages 17 to 21

New operation offers budget pet desexing A Silverdale animal charity has taken its service to the next level, opening a community vet clinic that offers low cost pet desexing and microchipping. The service, which caters for all companion animals, is primarily offered to rescue charities but also to people who struggle to access desexing due to cost. The organisation behind the service is Coast Pet Care Charitable Trust, which combines two other Trusts – CatsnCare and North Auckland Animal Rescue. Trustee Helen Stancliffe has been rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming

cats and kittens for more than 14 years. “Before this, we were keenly aware that we were only dealing with the fallout of mismanagement of companion animals and doing little to prevent the problem,” Helen says. She says offering low cost desexing and microchipping is a proactive approach that can reap huge benefits for the animals, the community and the environment. “We will be able to target problem areas where strays are endemic,” she says. The clinic has been set up at the

Coast Pet Care centre in East Coast Road thanks to donated money and equipment. It is staffed by local volunteers – two vets and six vet nurses. A $10,000 bequest and a grant of the same amount from the Lush Cosmetics charity pot fund were invaluable in setting up the clinic. Sourcing the equipment and materials meant Helen had to cast her net wide. Trays of surgical instruments were donated by Starship and Whangarei Hospitals. A vet supply company, Kahuvet, provided discounted products including a state of the art operating

Clearance

table, anesthetic and blood machines and a $3000 autoclave, for sterilising instruments. Shelving came from the Papakura Police Station and garage trolleys purchased from a hardware store proved to be cheap and effective workbenches. An anonymous donor provided an ultrasound machine, valued at around $2000. “A lot of people really believe in what we are doing and helped in so many ways,” Helen says. The normal cost of desexing, at around $100 for a cat neuter, $160 continued p2

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De-sexing clinic

March 4, 2020 – Issue 277 Hibiscus Matters: 21 Florence Ave, Orewa, 0931 General enquiries ph 427 8188 Hibiscusmatters

www.localmatters.co.nz Next issues: March 18 & April 1 – Book your advertising now Editor: Terry Moore ph 427 8187 | terry@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy | hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 | sellit@localmatters.co.nz Janet Moses ph 022 096 8517 | sales@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 24,000 homes and businesses twice a month: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Orewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat • Red Beach • Whangaparaoa Peninsula Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

Mark Mitchell

MP FOR RODNEY For appointments and assistance please get in touch:

Orewa 09 426 6215 Warkworth 09 425 8603 mp.rodney@parliament.govt.nz

Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Mark Mitchell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

to spay a female cat, and considerably more for dogs, is one reason that owners defer the operation, or decide not to desex their pets. The community vet clinic asks for a minimum donation of $45 for desexing and microchipping. “For some owners, it is an attitude shift that is needed – for others, cost is a genuine barrier,” Helen says. “We are taking one of those barriers away.” She says while they are happy to assist holders of Community Services Cards, the people she especially wants to target are “the working poor”. “There will not be a means test,” Helen says. “We are taking it on trust because, at the end of the day it’s reducing the numbers of unwanted pets that’s important.” Local vets have had a mixed reaction to the introduction of the clinic. Whangaparaoa Vet Centre practice manager, Dr Monique Veen, says a vet clinic should be there for the whole of a pet’s life including prevention of illness, help with behaviour, nutrition and advice. “It is not a right, but a privilege to have a pet and this comes at a cost,” she says. “Besides all the fun, loyalty and companionship, owners have to put in the hard yards and those who rely on cheap desexing get a false impression of what is involved in having a pet.” She also says desexing by charities at an unrealistic price is “an insult to the veterinary profession”, affecting the start of a bond between vet, animal and owner. Community clinic vet Dr Roz Holland disagrees, saying that providing an affordable service demonstrates that vets care about the animals enough to volunteer their services to help people who struggle with the costs of vet care. She says that the community clinic is not targeting clients of regular vet practices. “My experience is that many animals are acquired through random circumstances when an animal needs a home, and not by design,” Roz says. “Additionally, many people are struggling with providing the basics

continued from p1

Clockwise from back left, volunteer vet nurses Lianne Bunn and Sharron McColl and vet Dr Dani Harris begin one of the clinic’s first de-sexing operations.

for their families. I am happy to give up some of my time and expertise to make the early costs of caring for an animal easier for people who are struggling, and for rescue services who constantly lack funds.” A number of vets also questioned whether the clinic had the required qualified staff, sterile theatre, equipment and drugs for the task – something that Roz says is all in place. Follow up care was also raised as a concern. Roz says complications from desexing are low. “Animals would not be returned to their carers if there are any concerns, and we can address any post operative issues ourselves, generally at minimal cost,” she says. “There are emergency clinics available after hours.” Hibiscus Coast Veterinary Hospital senior vet Dr Nicholas Munnings has been working with Coast Pet Care for five years, assisting with subsidised desexing and treatments for cats. His Orewa clinic sees a lot of issues with colony cats and considers anything that reduces the numbers of strays is important, not only for the cats but for the wildlife they predate upon. Coast Pet Care Community Vet Clinic began performing operations on February 21. Ten spays, 13 neuters and two cryptorchid neuters were performed in the first two days and all the animals were microchipped. The service is dependent on the availability of the volunteer vets, so booking is essential. Info: coastpetcare on Facebook, email info@coastpetcare. co.nz or phone 09 424 1666.

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National party flexes political guns at meeting

Members of the National Party were met with rounds of applause at a meeting at the Warkworth RSA last month after promising to scrap the firearms registry to be put in place by the current government. MP Mark Mitchell made an unscheduled commitment that the National Party would repeal elements of the Arms Act within its first 100 days, if elected with a majority at the general election in September. He said they would look to scrap plans that would require gun owners to register their weapon with Police, as well as reinstate P endorsement licenses that provide exemptions for using semi-automatic weapons for sport shooting and pest control. National’s shadow police minister Brett Hudson said the party had initially supported the Labourled government’s legislation to ban military style automatic weapons, but now the government had gone too far. “In Australia, where there is a register, 90 per cent of crimes committed with a firearm were by those without a licence,” Mr Hudson said. “A register doesn’t keep guns out of criminal hands, it just burdens law

abiding firearm owners. We need to deal with the genuine problem of gang activity and illegal firearms.” Mr Hudson said if National is elected with a majority it would form a ‘strike force raptor’ tactical unit to eliminate gangs. “We are going to make life hell for patched gang members. In my view, the government thinks the rights of gang members are more important than public safety,” he says. Last year, police minister Stuart Nash proposed legislation that would allow police to issue firearm prohibition orders (FPO) to individuals such as gang members deemed as high-risk. “An FPO would prohibit someone from being around others who have firearms, using them under supervision, or being at a location that enables access to guns,” Mr Nash said. The penalty for being in a household or in a vehicle with firearm while under an FPO would be up to five years’ imprisonment. Proposed amendments to the Arms Act would also require a doctor to report licence holding patients, if they believed them unsuitable to own a firearm.

MPs Mark Mitchell and Brett Hudson visited Warkworth for a public meeting on proposed firearm legislation.

Mr Hudson said that being assessed by doctors on suitability to own a firearm would be a privacy intrusion for the 250,000 licence holders in New Zealand. For many in the crowd, Mr Hudson and Mr Mitchell’s commitments to scrap restrictions were not enough. “You young chaps need to open your history books in your dusty enclave in Wellington. I once had a lifetime licence and they reduced it to 10

years, and then even less. Meanwhile the violence has continued,” one man said. “I had a permit for a shotgun at age 13 and I still shoot on the same properties as when I was a teenager. Rural firearm owners are becoming outnumbered as cities grow and it’s up to MPs to stand up for the rural sector,” another said. “A gun registration would be like car registration – it won’t stop the killing.”

Whangaparāoa Road snarl-ups need sorting soon Whangaparāoa resident Claire Tierney wants to see changes to traffic controls on Whangaparaoa Road to reduce congestion and queues at lights during rush hour. She presented her concerns to the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board at its meeting last month, saying that the situation needs to be fixed before Penlink is built. The section of road in question is the 400m between Link Crescent and Wade River Road, which has five intersections – three light controlled and two give-ways. Claire told the board members that to avoid this section of road, large

numbers of commuters are “ratrunning”, diverting off the main road through residential streets and joining it again at Vipond Road lights. She says this is already causing stress on roads that were not designed for this volume of traffic, and that commuters often speed. “Residents on the ‘rat running’ route are fed up,” she said. Her suggested solutions included Auckland Council purchasing the Ministry of Education land on the corner of Stanmore Bay Road and Whangaparāoa Road to improve that intersection and Coast Plaza access. The local board asked Auckland

AT is investigating traffic congestion on Whangaparāoa Road.

Transport to investigate the problem – something its representative at the

meeting, Ellen Barrett, said would take time, as it is a complex issue.

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Feedback

Watercare concerns

We read in Hibiscus Matters February 19 the title ‘Watercare says What Water Shortage?’. First thought that came to mind was Marie Antoinette and “let them eat cake” – Watercare seems to have the same lack of understanding. If they are at 71 percent capacity, why have tank people been restricted on the amount of water they can access? Filling stations shut or restricted water flow is making life for people downright hard. While people have to endure water hardships worthy of a third world country, people on mains water can water gardens, grass and, until recently, enjoy limitless guilt free showers. Why is that? Most other places have been told to be careful with summer water due to the long dry. Here on the Coast, and beyond, people are pitching in to help their neighbours doing it tough with the water shortage and I am sure that if Aucklanders had been informed to reduce their water usage they would do so, and yet they were not. Why the restrictions for tank users? We are fully conversant with keeping water usage to a minimum. We are assets for Auckland in that we harvest rainwater, causing less of a drain

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

on the water supply, so when we need to buy water you know we really need it. When someone has to leave their home due to lack of water we really need to know what is going on. Is Watercare not a public servant organisation? Jasper and Catarina Militia, Gulf Harbour (abridged) A Watercare spokesperson responds: Our region is experiencing an exceptionally dry start to the year. Since January 1, we have given significant support to people with rain tanks by providing 200 million litres of water through our water tanker filling stations – which have largely been available 24/7. Our company has also worked very closely with council to both encourage and support their contingency water initiatives. The need to reduce the flow rate or operating hours at filling stations from time-to-time is to ensure our connected customers and the fire service, who our business is legally required to serve, receive a reliable service. It is not as simple as having enough water stored in our dams: we have to treat the water, distribute it through the network, and store it locally. This requires a careful balancing act. Just as we plan for the

The introduction of a ‘buddy bench’ at Silverdale School has proved a great success. A buddy bench is a place where students can go to indicate they do not have a friend to play with. This will allow other students to ask them to play. Principal Cameron Lockie says the idea began last year when the students of Room 18 decided to invest in a project to create a Silverdale School Buddy Bench. They sought feedback from Year 2s and came up with multiple designs, which they voted on. The result is the rainbow coloured buddy bench pictured, available for all to use. The bench is being well used, most play and lunchtimes, Cameron says.

future, people with rain tanks need to plan ahead by considering the capacity of their tanks relative to their household size and habits – given the frequency of droughts is increasing. Many households could also consider connecting to our water network, where it is available.

Poor performing path When is a path not a path? When it doesn’t meet the design criteria accepted as standard in New Zealand. One thing that comes with retirement is the time to cogitate, to consider, to counsel, which brings me to the matter originally raised with Auckland Council last May regarding what I call ‘The Serpentine Path’ at Orewa Beach. The path from Orewa Surf Club car park to the children’s play area is not only not fit for purpose, in that it is too narrow and mostly below adjacent ground level – but with displaced and overgrown pavers, it is a health and safety issue. I regularly walk this path, which produces challenges when meeting slower walkers or those travelling toward you. Given that this is a heavily populated recreation area it is surprising that nothing has happened since the development of the Millennial Path alongside Orewa Holiday Park, which has proven the value of investment in sound design and good construction. I include recent photos showing areas of the path now obstructed with sand drifts. Colin Selfe, Red Beach (abridged) Editor’s note: Hibiscus Matters offered Council the opportunity to respond to this letter, but they were unable to do so by the paper’s deadline.

Uninspiring courtyard Some years ago now – it could have been 2016 or 17 – I went to a meeting at the Whangaparaoa Library with an overseas expert called Milenko Matanovic. At the time, it seemed an exciting prospect to have a communityled process in which the library’s bland exterior could be transformed into a lively community hub. Among the things people wanted were more trees for shade and fruit, play areas and seating. It also seemed a good idea to have somewhere for youth to hang out – God knows, seeing them even near a library would surely be a good thing? Disappointed doesn’t even begin to express the feeling I get when I see how this project ended up. While it’s obviously clean and tidy, there is no attempt to bring in shade trees and no play area. Instead we get a shade sail and a new set of bleachers. It was never truly community led and the result is more hard surfaces, and little else. Marianne Sinclair, Arkles Bay

In golfers’ hands I got an awful feeling of déja vu when I read about how close Whangaparaoa Golf Club came to selling its land to a developer. I live in Red Beach near the former Peninsula Golf Club – a location we chose because we feel strongly about green spaces and trees. It was heartbreaking to see all that go. I wonder how long our community can sustain the two golf clubs that are left. Obviously that’s up to the golfers and I’m afraid, given the Peninsula situation, that doesn’t fill me with confidence. Cheryl Anderson, Red Beach

The community has pulled together in many ways to help those on tank water get through until they can get a refill. We particularly liked this kind soul’s contribution, which was made via a local community pantry.

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Steve Caines hopes the outcome of his court case could see him out of his mobility scooter and wheelchair and back into a ReWalk.

Steps forward in ReWalk case Orewa’s Steve Caines, who is paralysed from the chest down, had the first hearing in his case against ACC last week. Steve is seeking access to the batterypowered exoskeleton, known as a ReWalk, which was denied him by ACC after the organisation funded him on a three year trial of the equipment (HM December 1, 2018). Steve found the ReWalk to be life changing, as it enables him to walk upright, but after successful completion of the trial, he had the

opportunity to use one on a permanent basis taken away by ACC. Back in a wheelchair, he has waited more than a year already for his day in court. The hearing, in the Disputes Tribunal in Wellington on February 24 was the initial opportunity for lawyers on both sides to present their arguments. Steve says that more written legal submissions need to be made, after which a further court date will be set, this time in Auckland.

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Burst of rain closes Red Beach

Surf lifesavers patrolling Red Beach on Saturday, February 22 had to bring in their flags after Safeswim Auckland reported hazardous water quality at 1pm. This led to lifeguards completing 30 “preventative actions” warning public of the hazard. Auckland Council’s Safeswim programme manager, Nick Vigar, says the problem arose after rainfall of around 7mm. Last year 15 issues were identified in the public wastewater and stormwater networks at Red Beach, most of which Mr Vigar says have now been resolved. Council’s compliance team is currently working with around 18 property owners, where private drainage issues were found. “A programme of resampling the stormwater outlets and Red Beach water quality will take place over the next three to six months,” Mr Vigar says. “If these show that water quality has improved this will allow a new Safeswim model to be built, based on the new data, which should be in place by next summer.” Volunteer lifeguards will continue patrols at Red Beach every weekend until Easter.

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Council wants input on budget proposals Boulevard consultation deferred again Auckland Council is inviting ratepayers to have their say on its proposed 2020/2021 annual budget. The four-week budget consultation focuses on issues around rates, growth and local priorities. Suggested topics include: an increase to the base service waste management charge, changes to some targeted rates, improving fee transparency for building and resource consents and fee increases to maintain cost recovery. The annual budget proposal includes a $2.7 billion investment in capital assets and “laying the foundations for an increased focus on managing our environment and responding to the challenges posed by climate change”. Mayor Phil Goff says that climate change-focused initiatives in the budget include an investment of more than $700 million in water and environmental projects, decarbonising the council’s vehicle fleet and cutting carbon emissions by almost 20 percent over the next five years. “This will prepare us for more substantive changes in the next 10year Budget once we agree on the Climate Action Framework,” Mr Goff says. Auckland Council’s Finance and Performance Committee chair, Cr Desley Simpson, says the cumulative annual savings of $63 million by 2020/2021 outlined in this budget

demonstrate a focus on “saving money while providing effective, efficient services”. Alongside the annual budget consultation, Aucklanders are being invited to have their say on the independent review into councilcontrolled organisations. Auckland Council has appointed an independent panel to review how well its council-controlled organisations are working. The review covers Auckland Transport, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Panuku Development Auckland, Regional Facilities Auckland, and Watercare.

The consultation period began on February 21 and continues until March 22. Feedback can be given online at akhaveyoursay.nz or by emailing akhaveyoursay@aucklandcouncil.govt. nz. Feedback forms and supporting information are in libraries, and the Orewa Service Centre in Centreway Road. Following consultation, all feedback will be considered and the 2020/2021 Annual Budget will be adopted in June.

Local board seeks ‘early engagement’ Although formal feedback on local boards’ plans will not be called for until June, there is a chance to submit ideas between now and the end of March. Local board plans are strategic, three-year plans. The early consultation will enable local boards to identify and prioritise the key outcomes, initiatives and projects that are of most value to their communities. This information will be considered as each of the 21 local boards draft their plans for the 2020-2023 period, for publication at the end of this year. They will include focus areas or outcomes for the local boards to concentrate on such as transport, the environment, diversity, working with mana whenua, local economic development, climate issues and ensuring local community facilities and parks meet the needs of their communities. Info: go to akhaveyoursay.co.nz/lovelocal to post an idea or find out more. Hibiscus & Bays Local Board members will also have a stand at the Orewa Sandcastle Competition, Sunday March 22 on Moana Resreve, Orewa, 12noon to 3pm.

Public consultation on the $1.3 million plan for the next stretch of Orewa Boulevard, originally to take place last May, and then in December or February, has been deferred again. The extension of Orewa Boulevard, from Riverside Road to Empire Road is being paid for out of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board’s Transport Capital Fund and will be managed by Auckland Transport (AT). By the middle of last month, AT had set up a ‘community liaison group’, which includes residents, business groups and the local board. The group has had its first meeting and another one is due this month. AT spokesperson Mark Hannan says after that, there will be more of an idea of a timeline for taking the plan out to the public for feedback. The plan is expected to include a pedestrian crossing, paved footpath, angle parking on the beach side, street lighting and traffic islands with planting. The estimated cost of $1.3 million went up by $100,000 when the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board agreed to add a 3.5m wide shared pedestrian/ cycleway on the seaward side (HM September 4).

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As most of you are aware, the 2020 General Election will take place on September 19 alongside the cannabis and end of life choice referendums. Until then, I will be busy holding the Government to account and advancing the issues important to my electorate. At the time of writing, I have just finished the first sitting block back at Parliament for the year and will spend the next week in my electorate running clinics with constituents. This edition of Hibiscus Matters signals my last Viewpoint column before the election. In light of this, I want to take the opportunity to highlight some of the changes that will be occurring in our electorate and clarify my position on Penlink. Towards the end of last year, the Representation Commission released its proposed electorate boundaries for the 2020 and 2023 General Elections (HM December 4, 2019). Rodney is one of 35 electorates affected. Under the proposed changes, we will lose the northern part of our electorate, effectively Warkworth and the Kowhai Coast, to the current seat of Helensville. The southern part of our electorate will be comprised of the Hibiscus Coast and Coatesville. Although it is a bitter blow for me to lose the northern part of the electorate, I remain committed to advancing the projects I am involved in alongside the new MP Chris Penk who took over from John Key in 2017. I am happy to welcome Coatesville to our electorate as my Grandfather owned a farm on Glenmore Road where I spent many hours clearing manuka and grubbing thistles. I still have family living on the original farm, even though it has long been developed, and enjoy strong links to the Coatesville community. In our area, there have been three major infrastructure projects that I have dedicated myself to: The Puhoi to Warkworth Road of National Significance, the Hill Street roundabout and Penlink. I was able to deliver the Puhoi to Warkworth in my first term and you can see the results with construction well underway. I was able to solve the Hill Street roundabout by forming my Transport Forum, which brought the community together, alongside Auckland Transport and NZTA. We were able to secure the initial design funding which was then carried on through the Community Action Group. I am pleased to report that a final plan for the construction of the Hill Street roundabout has been delivered and the consenting and property acquisition process is underway. Regarding Penlink, at the last general election I announced at a local candidates’ meeting that we would start Penlink in 2018 but that it would be two lanes. The Labour, NZ First and Greens candidates at the same meeting would not commit to building Penlink. Unfortunately with the change of Government, important infrastructure projects, like Penlink, took a back seat. The Government stopped or stalled virtually all of the former Government’s plans to keep NZ moving and growing. After two years of relentless pressure from the opposition, the Government announced an infrastructure package just a day after setting the election date. The good news is this package includes a two lane Penlink. The bad news is the start date isn’t until the end of 2021. Penlink is one of the few projects in Auckland ready to go now. We have already lost the last two years and an end of 2021 start date means we are five years behind where we should have been. I am aware that people in our community are tired of the endless cycle of promises on Penlink. That is why I have always been careful not to set false hope or expectations until I was sure that I could deliver. This year I will be reaffirming that if we return to government, we will start work on a four lane Penlink immediately.

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The latest artist’s impression of the Briscoes and Rebel Sports stores to be built in Silverdale.

The original scheme for the retirement village, pictured, is little altered, although five more units have gone in.

Retirement village gains more units

RESOURCE CONSENT ISSUE

Do Not Scale off the Drawings. Verify All Dimensions and Levels on Site prior to Commencing Work. Copyright Ashton Mitchell Residential Ltd ©

The number of units that can be built in a retirement village proposed for northern Orewa have increased from 109 to 114, following approval from Auckland Council for the change. Developer Coastal Properties applied to amend its resource consent to increase the number of units last year (HM November 6, 2019). The new units are just six shy of the 120 that the developer originally wanted to include in the village proposed for the 1.19ha site at 2535 Annalise Place and 488 and 496C Hibiscus Coast Highway. Last May, independent commissioners reduced that number by granting

Rev. Description A Resource Consent Issue C Resource Consent Issue Revision C D RC RFI revisions

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consent for just 109 units. Logo Here Once consent was granted, Coastal Properties director Brendan Coughlan put the site on the market but it failed to find a buyer. The latest application states that the changes are proposed as architectural plans have been refined, and because the building and operation of the retirement resort “is to be a shared arrangement between the applicant and Senior Trust Ltd”. The land borders Nukumea Stream and Eaves Bush. The original consent allowed for five buildings, to a maximum of fourstoreys high and 105 car parking spaces OREWA COASTAL RETIREMENT RESORT 25-35 ANNALISE PLACE COASTAL RETIREMENT OREWA LTD

3D VIEWS

scale

A3 = scale x 2

(94 of which would be in a basement). 1411 Generally, the bulk of the proposed RC326 D building blocks remain unchanged, although the design layout is slightly smaller than the original. An additional four carparks are proposed. To accommodate the extra five units, a green roof is to be removed so that more units can go in one of the threestorey blocks. Four more trees, including a 7m tall pohutukawa and mature cabbage tree, are to be removed to accommodate parking. The original consent was publicly notified, but the changes have been approved without public notification.

We want to hear from you! Tell us what we should focus on over the next three years to make your community better through our 2020 Local Board Plans. Have your say now at akhaveyoursay.co.nz/lovelocal

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C:\Users\Kayley\Documents\Revit Local User Files\1411 Orewa_2016_Central_kayleyf.rvt 18/08/2017 10:28:08 AM

05. Looking southeast from entry

Briscoes build underway Five years after Briscoe Group purchased the site in Millwater Parkway next to Farmers, bulldozers are finally beginning earthworks there. Auckland Council granted resource consent for the project in November 2017. The consented plan includes a Briscoes, Rebel Sport and two retail tenancies. Briscoe Group head of property Kelly Galbraith says that the Briscoes and Rebel stores should create between 30–40 new jobs combined. The estimated completion of the project will be around Easter next year. Briscoe Group is the parent company of Briscoes Homeware, Rebel Sport and Living and Giving.

| Hibiscusmatters | March 4, 2020

localbusiness

Proposed path through Kensington Park not favoured A proposed public walk and cycleway path from Eave’s Bush to West Hoe Heights, which is on the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board’s Greenways Plan, has not found favour with some of the residents of Kensington Park. Building the entire length of the pathway is estimated to cost $2.2million (HM November 1, 2018), so the local board divided it into sections so that the money can be found over a period of years. Currently the section of the path from Pacific Heights to Hibiscus Coast Highway, which includes the southern edge of Nukumea Stream, is being investigated. The proposed route would pass alongside The Ferns (one of the blocks in Kensington Park), which has upset residents. At the local board’s February 20 meeting, The Ferns body corporate

chair Paul Roberts suggested an alternative route, on the opposite side of Nukumea Stream, to members, pointing out that this would utilise new boardwalks currently being built in Eave’s Bush as a kauri dieback preventative, saving money and duplicated effort. He asked the local board to investigate this alternative, saying that many Kensington Park residents are not in favour of the other route. “There would be a significant loss of amenity for those Kensington Park residents who live near the route because it runs so close to homes,” he said. Investigations into the proposed route, which include discussions with Kensington Park representatives, specialised geotechnical, arboricultural, ecological and surveying advice and formation of a concept design, are budgeted to cost $275,000.

A proposed public walk and cycleway could pass close to homes in Kensington Park. The image is taken from The Ferns block, and the path would cut through that view.

A report is due to come to the local board this month, with the proposed

Perfect pizzas on peninsula earn promotion A Whangaparāoa College student has been named Hell Pizza New Zealand’s youngest Pizza Chef. Eden Peri, who turned 16 last month, started at the Whangaparāoa outlet cutting pizzas and assembling orders, but her knack for customer service saw her quickly promoted to team leader, quality assurance. Store owner Joshna D’Souza says she was brilliant on the outlet’s busiest day, Friday the 13th, when the team

processed 470 pizza orders in three hours. “Not a single complaint,” he says. But it was when Eden began making pizzas that she impressed even more. “She made some of the best looking pizzas we had ever seen,” Joshna says. “We promoted her to the ‘make’ position, which made her Hell’s youngest Pizza chef – at the time she was just 15,” Joshna says.

Eden says the position can be stressful, but she enjoys the variety of responsibilities. “Apart from cooking with mum at home, I wouldn’t say I was much of a cook before – but the new role has been really fun,” she says. The company instigated a talent scouting and training programme last November. Eden with one of her “picture perfect” pizzas.

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route to go out for public feedback in April/May.

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Let there be water – from left, Zoom Plumbing’s Jeremy Holmes, Garry Stephenson of Healthy Water Tanks and Stanmore Bay School principal Matt Sides in the school’s orchard.

Rainwater put to good use at Stanmore Bay School

A community effort has seen large unused rainwater tanks at Stanmore Bay School utilised for watering the school’s numerous garden areas. The school has four large concrete tanks, capable of holding 90,000 litres of water in total, housed under a block of classrooms. “We are an Enviroschool, so when we discovered this water wasn’t being used, we looked at how it could best be used so it isn’t wasted,” principal Matt Sides says. Zoom Plumbing’s Jeremy Holmes has a child at the school and he was happy to help. Garry Stephenson of Healthy Water Tanks also stepped in, spending a weekend cleaning out the tanks and also supplying a new pump free of charge.

Garry says cleaning the tanks was a challenge, as they had long been unused. “I found all sorts of things in there,” he says, “including plenty of toys which had gone up on the roof and then into the tanks.” Jeremy put in five outlets so that the water can be used in the orchard as well as to water native plantings and the general school gardens. “We are trying to teach our kids the importance of water as a resource, not to be wasted,” Matt says. “It’s a responsibility we all have as a community – and one we have recently become even more aware of in the drought.” The grass, including on the field, is being left to dry out, knowing it will green up again in Spring.

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Finance

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March is here already and it is time for us to start looking ahead to what needs to be done to fulfill the 2020 tax requirements. For business owners, contractors and self-employed people, this is the time to start looking at tidying up your finances, where possible, and thinking about getting the information together for your accountant. This includes looking at your debtors, following up on monies owing and deciding if there are any bad debts that will need to be written off. Stocktaking is an important exercise that needs to be done at the end of March and the results given to your accountant. Make sure you note any assets purchased during the year and any assets disposed of or old during the year, along with any finance on new assets. If you own rental properties, now is a good time to start getting together those expenses incurred over the past year. These can include but are not restricted to, rates, repairs and maintenance and travel expenses for property visits. If you have a property manager looking after your rental, you should expect to receive an end of year summary after March 31. If you have purchased or sold a rental property during the year it is important to make sure your accountant gets a copy of the sale and purchase agreement. The 2020 financial year is when the new ring-fencing rules take effect. This means that excess deductions will no longer be allowed to be used against other income, but can be used against income from other rental properties if you have more than one. For those using accounting software, it is important to ensure that this is up to date so that once April 1 comes around, the information is ready for your accountant. If you are receiving interest and dividends, you need to ensure that your IRD number is updated with the details of any financial institutions that you have investments with so that the correct information is passed on to the Inland Revenue Department. If you are new to business or have new Trusts or rental properties and have not yet found an accountant, now is a good time to find someone to assist you in meeting your financial obligations so that you can stay on track with your filing requirements.

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The Auckland Council owned property at 8 Hiwi Crescent, on the corner of Hiwi Crescent and Whangaparaoa Road (opposite Scott Road, which will provide access to Penlink) is likely to be sold, subject to final settlement, expected to be in mid-April. The site went on the market in mid-2018. It is the final piece of land that was acquired by the former Rodney District Council in 1998 to widen Whangaparaoa Road. Ownership was transferred to Auckland Transport (AT) when the councils amalgamated and the AT board resolved in November 2015 that the land was surplus to requirements. The land is zoned Residential - Single House and has a capital value of $530,000. As the property was acquired for road widening in conjunction with Penlink, the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board requested that, that the sale proceeds be transferred to the Penlink project budget. However, the money will instead be used to repay council debt or fund investment in another priority strategic asset.

Slow speed change

The introduction of 30kph speed limits, which will affect many roads in Orewa Town Centre, will not come into force until the end of November. Last October the Auckland Transport board endorsed a staggered approach to implementing the speed limit changes and Orewa is in the group that will have lower speeds introduced on November 30.

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Cheese ‘whey of life’ for former horticultalist It was around 14 years ago that Stanmore Bay’s Calum Hodgson, 43, gave up horticulture after falling in love with cheese on his OE. “I trained as a horticulturalist, but cheese captured my imagination – it’s a simple, ageless and aged process, which tends to attract quirky people and I wanted to get closer to it,” he says. Not afraid of a cheesy pun, Calum says cheese quickly became “more than just protein – it’s my whey of life!” While he was in the UK, Calum became a self-styled “curd nerd”, employed by passionate foodie Lady Bamford, who has a farm and creamery in Gloucestershire. The role included joining Lady Bamford on her private jet, flying in to buy cheese at a Slow Food show in Italy. Calum jumped at any chance to learn more about cheese – he also worked at outlets in London, including Neal’s Yard Dairy, where he looked after the cheese, graded it and sent it to market. Farmhouse cheese made by small producers is something he grew more and more passionate about, however he says he is no food snob, and does not look down his nose at a good old block of cheddar. “Everyone has had the mass produced block of cheddar – it’s part of the Kiwi food culture and I still purchase it myself,” Calum says. “But I love

Calum Hodgson

to work with small cheese makers. I focus on the sales and marketing and leave the milking and making to them. There’s nothing like something that has been made from your own herd and matured on site. Because the

milk volumes are small, the cheese is complex and characterful and every batch is different and distinctive.” Since returning to NZ in 2012, Calum has worked for large and small dairy-focused organisations, from

Fonterra to The Dairy gourmet deli in Ponsonby. More recently he has been working with the Italian food store Sabato. This includes introducing exclusive cheese, such as the Cheese of No Name, which was matured to the sounds of heavy metal music. Calum also organises the annual cheese festival in Eketahuna, which is focused on small cheese makers. “Small cheese making is part of provincial New Zealand, so I want people to come to the provinces and celebrate it there. I hope other provinces follow suit, including this region,” he says. Along with his wife Bec and two children, Calum lives what he calls “a food adventure”. Bec brews beer and Calum enjoys pickling, fermenting and experimenting, often with food that he has foraged for – things like nasturtium seed pods, onion weed bulbs or wild fennel pollen, which he dries and rubs on pork. “Foraging is something I did as a child and started again about a year ago as an act of mindfulness. My kids help me and it’s a chance to be outside and have a bit of quiet time.” This month, Calum starts a new job at Massimo Italian Cheeses in Dairy Flat. Calum has joined Hibiscus Matters as our new Food columnist. Read his first Food Adventures in this issue. The column will appear monthly.

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Beach walks continuously end in confrontation Richard Field and his hearing assistance dog Jett have been shouted at, threatened and filmed as they walk on Stanmore Bay Beach. Under the Dog Control Act, registered assistance dogs like Jett can walk on any beach or public place, at any time (regardless of Auckland Council’s summertime dog-on-beach bylaws), on or off-leash. While doing so, Jett has recently been attacked and chased by dogs that were not supposed to be on the beach at that time and a lot of anger has been directed towards Richard. “I am finding lots of other dogs on the beach at times when they are not supposed to be there,” Richard says. “When I ask owners to get their dog off the beach, it has often ended in a shouting match.” Richard says the abuse has also come from members of the public who think Jett should not be on the beach outside the permitted times. As an assistance dog, Jett is almost always on duty. Walks are therefore a chance for her to run about off leash, without the jacket that identifies her as an assistance dog, and have fun. Assistance dogs are trained not to go to the toilet while they have their jackets on, so Richard removes the jacket to give Jett some freedom. “I understand that locals get upset when they think we’re ignoring the rules because Jett is not wearing her jacket that identifies her as an assistance dog,” Richard says. “If they approach me politely and ask if I’m aware of the regulations, I can show them my ID card that proves we are allowed to be there,” Richard says. “But mostly they yell in an aggressive way and don’t want to listen when I try to explain.” At times, Animal Control officers have stepped

in to assist and Richard says they, and the Police, have been very helpful when there have been problems. However, he says Council’s enforcement officers are not on the beach often enough to make a difference to the number of dog owners ignoring the rules. “At 2.30pm yesterday there were five dogs on the beach, and that’s fairly common,” he says. “Why does Council have the dog on beaches law if it’s not prepared to enforce it?” Richard has had Jett for five years, but says this summer on the beach has been particularly bad. “It’s got to the point where every time we go for a walk I anticipate someone is going to come up and have a go at me.” He says on the other hand, he received a lot of support and kindness when Jett was attacked, including an anonymous donation towards her vet care. Auckland Council’s animal management manager, Kerri Fergusson, says animal management officers proactively patrol beaches. “Visits and beaches patrolled are chosen based on various factors such as areas that are known to have high dog numbers, previous high number of complaints of dog owners non-compliant with the rules, but also on a random basis where the dog access rules apply for officers to ensure compliance is region wide,” Kerri says. “The focus of our patrols is not only to identify and educate those breaking the rules, but also to speak with people in the area to provide advice and learn of any potential issues. We had two Auckland Council interns who undertook this role on Hibiscus Coast beaches over the busy summer period, from the end of November until

Richard Field and Jett

February 18. No fines were issued during this period.” The summer dog on beaches rules are effective December 1 to March 1 – outside that period, all dogs are allowed on Hibiscus Coast beaches without restrictions.

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localmatters.co.nz

Waste alternatives petition Environmental campaigners are petitioning the Government to take a more active stance in tackling the country’s waste crisis, with a comprehensive ban on single-use disposable plastic food and drink items, and phasing in of reusable alternatives. The petition, launched on February 17, already has more than 1000 signatures. Local re-use advocate Kate Gumbrell says the Hibiscus Coast is increasingly saying “no” to things like disposable coffee cups, sushi trays and single use takeaway containers. “Local cafes like Magnolia Kitchen, Two Spoons, and Ground Control accept reusable containers as locals order their coffees, salads, and slice – Ground Control even has a ‘mug library’,” Kate says. She says the campaign will not only encourage less rubbish washed up on our beautiful coastlines, but also push more local cafes to jump on the ‘reuse bandwagon’. Laura Cope, founder of the café guide, Use Your Own, has joined forces with Hannah Blumhardt and Liam Prince, co-founders of The Rubbish Trip, to launch the campaign, called Takeaway Throwaways. The petition calls on the Government to introduce a mandatory phase-out of disposable food and drink items containing plastic, including degradable, biodegradable and compostable plastic, such as cups and lids, food containers, cutlery, and single-serve condiment sachets and pottles. The petition excludes plastic straws

from the proposed list of banned items because some disabled people require plastic straws to drink. The petition also calls for the Government to mandate reusable alternatives. Hannah says there has been some headway in this area with proposals to phase out takeaway cups and containers made of PVC and polystyrene. “However, the scale of our waste problem demands more urgent, strategic solutions that target a wider range of products and encourage and support a reuse culture,” she says. Laura says the changes called for in the petition would help boost and normalise the growing culture of reuse. “We are seeing more and more cafes voluntarily jump on board with reuse systems and reusable alternatives, and customers embracing BYO cups and containers,” she says. “However, people are often confused about what to do with single-use items once they’re finished with them, which can lead to waste stream contamination. The emergence of various ‘compostables’ has increased confusion and further enabled a throwaway culture. Replacing all these products with reusables seems simply logical.” The Takeaway Throwaways campaign encourages those who support the cause to sign the petition, but also to consider how they can influence a shift towards reusables in their own lives, workplaces, businesses and communities. The petition is at www. takeawaythrowaways.nz

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School halls in the spotlight Whangaparaoa Primary School’s leaky and rundown hall is to be transformed by a $750,000 repair and refurbishment project, which is only one-third funded by the Ministry of Education. Currently, the hall requires a lot of maintenance, the cladding is failing and the roof leaks. Although the building’s footprint will not change, cladding and roofing will be replaced and inside it will be updated with flexible and functional spaces so that more than one type of activity can take place at the same time. “A lot of the spaces are storage and we want them for music, arts, fitness as well as meeting rooms,” principal Kevin Cronin says. “A number of community groups already use the facility, but this will open it up to others.” Community feedback supports the desire for a multi-use hall, with good toilets and air conditioning at the top of the list. Helen Brown, who is on the committee in charge of the project, says the building is one-third owned by the Ministry of Education and the rest by the community. “At the end of last year the Ministry agreed to put in one-third of what we raise, and also approved the project,” she says. The project was first mooted in 2017. With resource consent and Ministry

approval in place, it is now at the pointy end of making applications to funders such as Lotteries. Kevin says it is not possible to put the $400,000 cash injection handed out by the Government last year, which he calls “Jacinda’s gift”, towards the work on the hall. “The planning started three years ago, so the arrangements around how we would try and secure funds, as well as Ministry support, is already in place,” he says. “The injection of money from Jacinda at the end of last year was a welcome surprise and means we can target other property projects that are needed to progress our environment for students and teachers.” He says although the school’s PFA will make a contribution, it is expected that most of the money will come from grants. Gulf Harbour gives up on hall Meanwhile, Gulf Harbour School has given up on its dream of building a school hall. The school was built without a hall, and currently wholeschool assemblies take place on the netball courts. Fundraising and plans for a hall began around three years ago. Principal Mel Crosbie says they eventually came to realise that a price tag of $3.8 million was beyond reach. She says the money raised so far will instead be put towards converting and extending an existing space into a large, multi-purpose area for the

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An artist’s impression of a renewed Whangaparaoa School hall.

students and community to use. It is hoped that work will begin this year. Dairy Flat hall work Dairy Flat School is funding an upgrade of its hall toilets, with the money coming from the PTA and

Board of Trustees as well as the Dairy Flat Community Trust. The work is expected to cost $68,000. Principal Debbie Marshall says the school is in the process of planning how to spend last year’s ‘windfall’ funding from the Government.

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Travel feature

Travel



F E AT U R E

Destinations with the wow factor Hibiscus Matters asked local travel agents what in the world ‘wows’ them.

A Sealion and pelican wait for food at a market.

The Galapagos Islands Carol Kirkup, You Travel Manly

The Amber Fort elephant ride.

The Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur Patty Brown, The Travel Brokers

The combination of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – three enchanting destinations – is a way to discover the richness of India’s history, heritage and culture very beautifully in the shortest time possible. I can recommend the six-day organised trip of the Golden Triangle that I did recently. It was my first trip to India and I reckon this is the way to see it – with a tour guide explaining the history and taking you to all the main sights. We had all meals included

within the hotels so there was no ‘Delhi belly’ for us! Highlights that wowed us included a rickshaw ride through old Delhi and the Red Fort, and the amazing, mind-blowing Taj Mahal – one of the wonders of the world. Jaipur was one of my favourites, with the elephant rides, the snake charmers and the beautiful night markets. Also known as ‘the pink city’, it is truly spectacular. In 1876, the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria visited India. Since pink is the colour of hospitality, Maharaja Ram Singh of Jaipur painted the whole city pink to welcome them. India is not for everyone, but I loved it.

Off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are one of the world’s best wildlife-viewing destinations. A lack of predators means visitors can enjoy close encounters with wildlife without disturbing them. The blue-footed booby, flightless cormorant, Galapagos flamingo, and a range of reptiles and marine life make the islands a true wildlife mecca. These islands have the wow factor – while snorkelling, you just about have to push the turtles away and among the many other species you see are large Marine Iguanas feeding on the special sea grass that makes up their diet. On shore, the iguanas are lined up warming their bodies in the sun. Their heads are white, covered in the salt that they keep sneezing out. We stepped around Blue Footed Boobies nesting on the tracks with their fluffy white chicks. Red Breasted male Frigate birds flew over us with their huge inflated throat looking like a giant red balloon – this is their mating drawcard. At the fish market we saw sea lions, pelicans and iguanas politely waiting their turn for the scraps. Every day on land or sea was different. continued p18

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Travel feature

continued from p17

Blue Lagoon Resort in the Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Playing it cool in Cuba

Cuba Wayne and Alexa Bester on safari.

Africa and more Helloworld Travel

Africa is close to the hearts of two staff at Helloworld Travel in Stanmore Bay, Mandy Bester and Sandy Theron – both come from Africa and have also worked in South Africa. Mandy has travelled extensively in South Africa, and has also explored Tanzania, Namibia, Zanzibar, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. “In Zimbabwe and Zambia there is so much on offer, with adrenalin-pumping activities such as bungy jumping, river rafting and helicopter flights over the Victoria Falls as well as the wildlife.” Mandy also recommends the idyllic island of Zanzibar for a beach holiday. For a safari she recommends Botswana as there is a mix of water game viewing and land drives. For the wow factor, Sandy recommends Africa, the Maldives, Seychelles, Madagascar, Reunion Islands, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Mozambique, Namibia and Kenya. Her pick for the best place to holiday is Tanzania –especially the Serengeti and Ngorogoro crater for a safari.

This island or that?

Michelle Downey, Bucket List Travel

Cuba hasn’t been on my Bucket List but it was on my husband’s, so we went with a group of friends for his 50th birthday and I now rank it as one of my top countries to visit. Of course you go there expecting to see the 1950s cars, smoke a cigar and drink Cuban Rum (which we did), however these things are just a small part of what this country has to offer. We saw colourful buildings everywhere from Havana to Santa Clara, Trinidad, Cienfuegos and Vinales. You can expect to see salsa dancing, tobacco plantations, dirt roads with potholes, roaming animals, cobblestone streets with horse and carts and cowboys. You can also find six-lane highways built by the Americans along with the basic living conditions and food ration stores. You will find the loveliest people as you stay in the Casa Particulars (home stays). The Bay of the Pigs has crystal clear water, there are walks though caves and orchid gardens, not to mention the famous Malecon and Earnest Hemmingway’s farm. Cuba is not for everyone, but if you want an adventure and to feel like you have gone back in time, love history, culture and the number eight wire attitude and want to enjoy the beauty and simplicity of a growing country then don’t hesitate – Cuba is for you.

Dennis Payne, House of Travel, Orewa

We have some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands right on our doorstep, just a quick flight away and at their very best, weather wise, when we want to escape the NZ winter. Although we may think of the Pacific Islands as one entity, with a vision of white sandy beaches and coconut palms, they are all different. I’m one of the lucky ones who has had a good look around the Pacific, experienced the Polynesian and Melanesian cultures, the warmth of the locals, their histories, landscapes and their varying ‘hellos’ – Bula, Kia Orana, Talofa, Bonjour. Picking the right island for you and the best time to go is key to a successful tropical escape. Most of the Pacific Islands have a minimum temperature of 20°C throughout the year. Summer is the hottest and wettest time, so the NZ winter months are perfection in the more northern islands of Tahiti, Samoa and Fiji. Personally I feel the best time to be in any of the Pacific Islands is our autumn and spring. Budget options like fales in Samoa or camping/ continued p19

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Travel feature

continued from p18

PRINCESS CRUISES EVENING

Introducing “A World of Princess Cruises” Bora Bora, Tahiti

dormitories in the Yasawas in Fiji, can include a location on the beach, rather than staying in a two-star hotel in the middle of town. There are options to book a house, apartment or motel unit, throughout all the islands – especially popular in Rarotonga. Beautiful resorts are everywhere in the islands, and ultra-exclusive options include over-water bungalows in Tahiti, Fiji and Aitutaki. Fiji and Tahiti These island groups have been the Pacific jewel tourism spots for many years, with their resort infrastructure well entrenched. Fiji is great for families – famous for Kids’ Clubs – and has something for everyone, whether it’s snorkelling, diving, surfing or lazing around. It is known for large five star resorts but my favourite thing is to get off the beaten track, to the laid back Yasawas. Tahiti has spectacular mountains framing the Moorea and Bora Bora lagoons. We recently took a fantastic Windstar cruise – a great value

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proposition - around the Tahitian Islands and I can only say “wow”! Cook Islands The Cook Islands is a Kiwi favourite – we make up the vast majority of tourists up there. It fills up really fast, as Kiwis love the idea of getting round the island to the various cafes and accessible beaches by bus or hired motorscooters. Great for families. Samoa and Vanuatu Samoa and Vanuatu offer resort style accommodation, are great for families and provide the chance to get out to explore how the locals really live. It’s easy to get a local driver or pick up a rental car – and the islands are big enough to spend a day, or more, out and about. New Caledonia New Caledonia is provincial France, right on our doorstep, so an opportunity to practice your French language skills or enjoy the cuisine in Noumea. For history buffs, there is WW2 history to be seen here, as well as in the Solomon Islands, or at Espiritu Santo.

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Travel feature

Becoming a travel agent

Imagining free trips around the world is common when thinking of a travel agent – but it takes a bit more than booking holidays and a passion for beaches and adventure. So what is required to get into this business? While no specific secondary education is required for this job, a tertiary qualification is commonly required. Study options vary from a year-long National Certificate in Travel, to a threeyear Bachelor in Travel Management. During their studies, undergraduates may complete internships at travel agencies – Helloworld Stanmore Bay owner Carolyn Hedley is among those considering taking on an intern. “The Stanmore Bay branch has the pace that would be suited to an intern, as well as a small, tight knit team ideal for mentoring someone,” Carolyn says. Once you have that job, You Travel Ōrewa co-director Mandy Herd says the most time-consuming part is research. “Things are always changing – so we have to keep up with the pace and are always learning,” she says. “For example, with the corona virus outbreak we have had to find out all potential travel limitations, so our customers have all of the information on how it may affect them.” Having someone available 24/7 to help is one of the bonuses of booking with a travel agent – which has the potential to create long hours for staff. While this may put people off the job, Mandy says frantic late-night calls from

clients in distress are not common. “It’s just a part of what we do – you definitely don’t want to leave someone in the lurch.” Being a travel agent may appear to be a very one-on-one job, but Mandy says there is plenty of teamwork involved. “We all have different expertise, so it makes sense to bounce off each other’s knowledge. That’s also how we decide who goes on what trip – if someone wants to learn more about a particular cruise, for example, we try and make that happen.” The amount of work trips agents go on varies depending on the business. Mandy says the feeling of a place is something that can’t be googled, so going overseas is essential to provide a good service. “My co-directors and I send staff on as many trips as we possibly can, so we can accurately match our client’s personalities to the trip – a vital part of what we do.” The biggest downside of the job? Not enough time to do more travel. “That’s why we are in this job – we can’t get enough!”

Travel agent stats

According to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, over 4500 people work as travel agents in New Zealand. Despite the boom of booking online, Careers NZ also reports than 70 percent of travellers worldwide still book through a travel agency.

Sophie Ogden hopes the competition will help her decide what she wants to do when she leaves school.

Geo takes student to Turkey Wentworth College student Sophie Ogden will represent New Zealand in an international geography competition in Istanbul, Turkey, in August. The week long International Geography Olympiad (iGeo) will see students aged 16 to 19, from 40 countries, go headto-head in geography related tasks. “I haven’t travelled much before, so I am really excited to go to Istanbul,” Sophie, who is in Year 13, says. “I almost didn’t submit the application essay because I didn’t think it was good enough – I am so glad now that I did.” Sophie’s initial application was recognised as one of the top eight in New Zealand, which granted her a spot at a Wellington competition last October. From there, four geographers,

including Sophie, were selected for the iGeo New Zealand team. The team will have to complete tasks including a written exam and a multichoice multi-media quiz. There is also a field work component, where participants are sent to an area and asked to assess what services and facilities should be put there, based on a number of factors. The competition’s broad content makes it difficult to prepare for, but Wentworth’s geography teacher Michael LaPierre is confident in Sophie’s abilities. “Sophie’s intuitive feel for geography is evident, and her knowledge and maturity will be of use to the New Zealand team,” he says.

FREE INFORMATION EVENING TUESDAY 17TH MARCH 6.00PM ANTARCTIC, ARCTIC AND GALAPAGOS WITH WILD EARTH TRAVEL RED BEACH SURF CLUB Come and listen to our guest presenter talk about these unique and amazing destinations!

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$10 Discount with Driving Miss Daisy Total Mobility Cards Accepted. Wheelchair accessible vehicle available 7 days. $10 off your first wheelchair ride with us before 30 June 2020. Hibiscus Coast area only. To make a booking, contact Driving Miss Daisy Hibiscus Coast today: Ph: 09 428 4490 Mob: 021 035 0431 Email: hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

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Travel feature

Health with Richard Bruce, functional fitness coach rich@richardbrucefitness

Travel insurance of a different kind Have you heard of desynchronosis? It’s another word for jetlag and comes from a Latin word meaning ‘unsynchronized’. When we travel on a plane, we find ourselves in a less than optimal state when we arrive at our destination. We can feel ‘hung over’ after a flight and here’s why: your circadian rhythm, which is your body’s internal clock, gets thrown off due to the plane travelling through time zones. The greater the country’s time differences from home, the greater the jetlag. Your sleep is usually compromised due to these changes, plus it’s hard to get any kind of restorative sleep on a plane. If on the other hand you wouldn’t be sleeping anyway, due to being on a short or morning flight, the hung over feeling can be attributed to the air pressure, air quality and lack of humidity making you dehydrated. Your lack of movement during a flight is another key factor which can cause aches, cramping or even deep vein thrombosis. Most of us just accept that this is part of air travel. But here are some handy tips and nutrition hacks to help you beat jetlag for good: Get lots of movement in before, during and after the flight. Walk around in the lounge area, do some basic stretches, just get some variety of movement in, other than sitting. Allow the kids to fidget and run around before boarding. • Hydrate before, during, and after the flight with plenty of water. The air on the plane will dehydrate you and a body water loss of just one to two percent can lead to a decline in physical and cognitive performance. Fruit and veggies can be helpful and avoid coffee and alcohol as these will dehydrate you more. • Reduce cramping with magnesium, with the bonus that it can also aid sleep and help calm those nerves. • Avoid cold and flu like symptoms with a Black Seed Oil supplement as it contains thymoninone, which will protect against the oxidative stress of flying and also packs a punch with high levels of B vitamins to help with energy. • As soon as you can, get exposure to the morning sun at your destination to help get your circadian rhythm back on track. If you can, adjust your bedtimes a day or so before you fly out, to align closer with the new time zones. • Watch out for when, how much and what you eat. It’s easy to overeat when travelling because you are tired and the body craves processed carbs and sugar for energy. Elevated blood sugars from highly processed foods and alcohol will also affect your sleep and recovery, so try to eat light, and look for the most nutritious foods you can find. Aim to align the eating pattern to your destination’s time zone during the journey if you can – plane food schedules will usually try to mimic the destination time zone, so start there. Safe travels and have fun! Disclaimer: Always consult your health advisor regarding any dietary changes, including the use of supplements.

YOU ARE INVITED Bucket List Travel invites solo travellers to join the Bucket List Travel Club for an inspiring morning function on South America in partnership with Viva Expeditions. Hear about fully escorted small group tours that will give you the opportunity to discover the stunning continents of South America and Antarctica in a fun and exciting environment surrounded by like-minded travellers!

10AM - Friday 20th March Red Beach Surf Lifesaving Club (Heron Room) Ngapara Street, Red Beach

Hibiscus Coast Community Shop Quality donations are always welcome HELP US HELP THE COMMUNITY Mon–Fri: 9.30am–3.30pm Sat: 9am–12pm

Western Reserve, Orewa • Phone 426 3596

RSVP: Michelle Ph: 021 959 414 info@bucketlisttravel.co.nz

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health&family

Orewa tsunami sirens a permanent addition Although touted as a ‘pilot’ and ‘trial’, it turns out that the installation of two tsunami alert sirens in Orewa will be permanent, according to Auckland Emergency Management. The entire process involved in importing, testing and installing two sirens, one in Centreway Road and another in West Hoe Road, will cost ratepayers around $250,000. The cost includes upgrading Auckland Council’s systems to work with the new technology as well as testing the sirens before they are installed and Emergency Management’s principal science adviser, Angela Doherty says that is where the trial lies. “The trial is about testing Council’s systems and the final success will be judged on whether the new sirens can be integrated into those systems and operate with the rest of the regional tsunami siren network,” Ms Doherty says. “The sirens will be thoroughly tested to ensure they are fit for purpose, and if not they won’t go in. But once they are installed, they become a permanent addition to the network.” The sirens, which include a loud alert and voice messaging, are currently on their way to New Zealand and Angela says it is hoped they can be tested and installed in time for the April changeover in daylight saving. This is the time when tsunami sirens are traditionally tested throughout the

This graphic shows how the siren, on a 14m pole, will look in Centreway Rd, Orewa.

region, and if they are in place, the Orewa sirens will be sounded for the first time then. However, Ms Doherty says Emergency Management has a number of tests to put the sirens through before installation, to ensure they are fit for purpose, and this cannot be rushed. If they are not ready for April, they will be sounded another time. A small group of residents, keen to find out more about the tsunami sirens, attended a meeting held by Auckland Emergency Management on February 18. Around 35 people gathered for the meeting in Orewa Community Hall,

including Hibiscus & Bays Local Board member Andy Dunn. At the meeting, Ms Doherty told the group that one reason the sirens are being trialled in Orewa is that it has the largest population density in living in an area with significant risk of tsunami. There is also potentially a large distance to travel from the beach to the safe zones in the hills. She said the trial also needs to take place on Council owned land and to meet health and safety requirements so that the sirens are loud enough to reach 90 percent of the buildings in the evacuation zone, without damaging people’s eardrums.

Traffic management in an emergency was one question raised. In response, Ms Doherty said that the message Emergency Management will promote is for residents to stay out of their cars as they head to the safe zone, unless they have no other choice. The sirens are in addition to the system of alerts sent to mobile phones in a civil defence emergency. They can only be activated by the Auckland Emergency Management duty team. More info, including a Hazard viewer that shows the evacuation zones for various types of emergency, can be found at www. aucklandemergencymanagement.org.nz

Whangaparaoa Veterinary Centre is a privately owned clinic with experienced Veterinarians and Nurses. The Veterinarians Dr Shanti Scott BVSc, Dr Emma Gerber BVSc, Dr Claire Bennett BVSc and Dr Monique Veen DVM bring a world of knowledge with their combined 80 years of experience in the veterinary field. Complementing the great team are 6 qualified, experienced Veterinary Nurses, Bethany, Vanessa, Jo, Tracey, Sharron and Candice, and one Veterinary Technologist Jas and one junior nurse, Kendall, who’s dedication, professionalism, knowledge and care are outstanding. The New Zealand Veterinary Association’s BESTPRACTICE accreditation is testament to an ongoing commitment in providing the highest level of service and care to clients and patients. Whangaparaoa Veterinary Centre is now also offering a mobile service. Veterinarians and Nurses can now do consultations at your home, staff can transport pets to and from the Veterinary Clinic and medication and food can be delivered to your house. The wonderful staff can now not only care for your pets in the Clinic, but also care for your pets in your own home.

To book a house visit, transport to and from the Clinic or a delivery of food or medication, please ring us on 09 4247752 or email info@wvet.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

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Whangaparāoa peninsula on road to resilience The key to surviving any civil defence emergency, if you live on Whangaparaoa Peninsula, will be getting together as a community and being prepared, according to Janice Haferkamp of the Whangaparaoa Community Response Group. Whangaparaoa Community Response Group is a small group of volunteers, which was set up in 2012 by Auckland Council with the goal of building resilience in communities. The group is now independent but works closely with Council’s Auckland Emergency Management arm. Janice says a key role is to support the Whangaparaoa community in an emergency by providing a number of community evacuation centres. Eight strategically placed facilities have been identified on the peninsula which can be used as safe places where people can gather to support each other and share resources and information during an emergency. These centres are at the Hibiscus Coast Community RSA in Vipond Road, Whangaparaoa College, St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Manly Methodist Church, Peter Snell Youth Village, Whangaparaoa Golf Club, Gulf Harbour Country Club and the YMCA Shakespear Lodge. A map is still being finalised that

includes advice on emergency preparedness and the location of your nearest community evacuation centre. Details will be published in this paper in due course. Janice says the big issue on the peninsula, at least until Penlink is built, is access with one road in and out, making it conceivable that the area could be isolated in an emergency. Flooding can also occur and availability of household water, should rainwater tanks be damaged, may also be a concern. Disasters do not have to be the result of weather events – an outbreak of a virus such as Covid-19 could also isolate the community. Currently the response group is looking at what it will take to make the various evacuation centres well prepared. They are also working with the Hibiscus Coast Radio Club on how communications can be maintained in an emergency, including between the evacuation centres. “We are one spoke in the wheel – there are a lot of groups on the peninsula such as Lions, Rotary, the Defence Force, Fire and Emergency, Police and Neighbourhood Support and local pharmacies like Unichem Manly. All of us working together is what will create resilience,” Janice says.

Warkworth Birth Centre ALL SERVICES ARE FREE

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Prenatal classes are a great way to meet other expectant parents, learn about birthing choices, and gain confidence. Held at the Warkworth Birthing Centre, with a tour of the birthing rooms included. Courses are FREE. Participants receive extensive handouts and a personalised facebook group.

For booking classes please phone the Centre 9am - 4pm, Monday to Friday.

For further information talk to your LMC/Midwife or Warkworth Birth Centre

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56 View Road, Warkworth

warkworthbirthcentre.co.nz

Available to all women and their caregivers

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Our best shot with Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club, www.hcpc.org.nz

OP SHOPS - INCLUDING FURNITURE

Volunteers wanted – Ph Cindy 021 0850 9942 This month St Stephen’s Op Shop proudly supports: WanderSearch – Bringing Wanderers Safely Home Shop hours: Mon–Fri: 9.30am–4pm • Sat: 9.30am-3pm

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

Milford Eye Clinic

Orewa Branch

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

Serving the eye needs of North Shore and Rodney for over 35 years Cataract, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Retina, Cornea, Laser, Oculoplastics, Paediatrics. Consultations available at our Warkworth, Orewa and Milford branches.

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

For all appointments phone 09 426 6875

Look forward to moments that make you smile & confidence with your dentures DentureTech Millwater has been helping hundreds of denture wearers solve their denture problems and start enjoying life again. Call now for your free consultation (09) 426 6889 to learn how we can help you. Situated 2 minute drive from Silverdale Mall. Shop 9 / 177 Millwater Parkway, Silverdale

www.denturetech.co.nz

This image, which photographer Annemarie Panzic calls ‘The farmer’s fearless helper’, won Annemarie top digital image of the night for the set subject New Zealand Rural Life. The images had to be taken in New Zealand and convey some aspect of rural life or activity. The photo was taken at Sheep World north of Warkworth as Annemarie’s grandson bravely fed the goats. Annemarie used a Canon 80D and a stock 17- 55mm lens.

Kiwi surviving drought

Although there have been reports of dehydrated kiwi struggling to find water in the current drought, Auckland Council’s Open Sanctuary senior ranger Matt Maitland says so far there has been no significant impact on the little spotted kiwi at Shakespear Open Sanctuary, with regard to the current dry habitat. “Recent health checks have indicated that the birds are faring alright, albeit struggling more than this time last year,” Matt says. “We will be monitoring them to the best of our ability and aiding them where possible.”

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Young Shakespeareans head for London Two young Hibiscus Coast actors will head to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London as part of the NZ Young Shakespeare Company – an opportunity they are grabbing with both hands. Thomas Smith of Silverdale, 18 and Duncan Macintyre of Manly, 17, both aspiring actors, became friends after meeting when they were performing in musicals at Centrestage Theatre. Both are passionate about Shakespeare and say for their generation, the plays remain relevant thanks to the Pop up Globe theatre, and a modern edge or quirkiness in the productions that can come from things such as the introduction of Te Reo. While Thomas loves the beauty of the language, Duncan says getting the story across through his performance, “even though 99 percent of the time the audience doesn’t know what you’re saying” is the best part of being in a Shakespeare production. Connecting with the audience, they agree, is the reason they both hope to further their acting careers – Thomas in theatre and Duncan in film. Thomas’ Shakespeare portfolio to date includes some gender swapping roles – Thisby in Midsummer Night’s Dream and Rosaline in As You Like It at Orewa College – but it was playing the lead in Richard III in a National Schools Shakespeare Production last year that was a standout for him. The show won Best Historical Performance in

Thomas Smith, left, as Macbeth and Duncan Macintyre as Macduff – a love of Shakespeare has led both young men towards acting careers.

the University of Otago Sheilah Winn competition. Seventeen-year-old Duncan, who was introduced to Merchant of Venice by a teacher at Intermediate school, went on to act in and direct a number of Shakespeare plays at school, winning Best Actor in the regionals of the Sheilah Winn competition for his part in a piece from Coriolanus when he was in Year 13. The pair met up

again when both were chosen for the NZ Young Shakespeare Company, which travels to London in July for workshops, culminating in a free public performance at The Globe theatre. It is an expensive exercise, especially for two students. To raise funds for the trip, Duncan and Tom are looking for sponsorship. If you can assist, email duncan.macintyre2002@gmail.com

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Stanmore School’s pool investigated The source of the leaks in Stanmore Bay School’s pool, which have kept the pool closed for this summer – as well as most of last summer – have yet to be determined. Both the school and the Ministry of Education are investigating – the school has commissioned reports from civil, geotechnical and structural engineers. The geotechnical report is not in yet, but principal Matt Sides suspects its findings will be key. He suspects that movement in the clay soil, which has affected other parts of the school, could be the underlying cause. He says initial inspections indicate there is plenty of movement. Once all the information is available, the school’s board will assess it. “It’s been very disappointing to have the pool closed,” Matt says. “While swimming is not part of the NZ curriculum, we want our kids to have water skills. It’s also of course a place to cool off.” Currently students are using the Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre pool, and also have water instruction at local beaches. Matt says the cost of any repairs will be critical. “Once we have all the information, the board will have to decide whether fixing it is achievable or affordable – bearing in mind it sits unused for twoand-a-half terms each year,” he says.

| Hibiscusmatters | March 4, 2020

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International offers for ballerina Centrestage theatre Fourteen-year-old Bianca Lungu spent her summer holidays dancing at several weeklong seminars, where talent scouts assessed her abilities. It is clear that they liked what they saw, as the offers came flooding in. She was awarded a two-week scholarship at the National Theatre Ballet School in Melbourne, as well as a scholarship to a summer course in London and offer to join the Intensive Training Programme at Dance Master International. She was also reaccepted into the NZ School of Dance as a classical associate and selected by the Royal NZ Ballet for their 2020 Mentor Programme. Bianca has already notched up 11 years of ballet, beginning lessons at the age of three. She says she loved it from the start but her success – which includes performing with the Royal NZ Ballet as Flora in The Piano two years ago – has required a lot of hard work. She spends around 25 hours a week dancing with Fusion dance studio and a school called Papilio. The quietly spoken Whangaparaoa College student, who not surprisingly plans to pursue a career in ballet, says one of the things she loves most about dance is that “it lets you express yourself without speaking”. Recently Bianca also found out that she is in the finals of the World Ballet Competition in Florida later this year.

premieres Strictly

Bianca Lungu dances like everyone is watching. Photo, Beth Maskey

Eye on the Arkles sky

The presence of people parachuting from two Hercules aircraft in Arkles Bay drew a crowd. The activity, on the evening of February 25, was the Royal New Zealand Air Force No. 40 Squadron and the Parachute Training and Support Unit conducting a parachuting exercise from two C-130H(NZ) Hercules transport aircraft. A Defence Force spokesperson says the week-long training exercise included personnel parachute drops, low-level tactical operations and aerial delivery of life-rafts and supplies. “These training exercises ensure the C130 flight crews are fully prepared for callouts on search and rescue and humanitarian and disaster relief operations,” the spokesperson says.

A star-studded line-up will tango into Ōrewa in March, when Centrestage presents the New Zealand premiere of Strictly Ballroom, The Musical. The show is choreographed by Brad Coleman, who featured twice on Dancing with the Stars New Zealand. The ex-Whangaparāoa College student is also acting in the show, playing the character of Nathan. Another Dancing with the Stars regular, Scott Cole, will play the role of Rico. The musical is based on the 1992 Australian romantic comedy of the same name and has been performed internationally since 2014. The story follows a dance champion, Scott Hastings, as he struggles to find his own dance style in lead-up to the show’s pinnacle dance championship. Production manager Debbie Hogan says attendees can expect high quality choreography and plenty of glitz. “It is the glamour of ballroom paired with the elation of a stage show,” she says. There will be 13 performances, running from March 7 to 21. Tickets: nz.patronbase.com/_CentreStage/Productions/ SB20/Performances Brad Coleman (pictured) of Dancing with the Stars NZ features in Centrestage’s latest production.

‘His Place’ is a vintage American Barbershop in Orewa, with it’s great Coastie vibe and the sweet sound of Elvis in the background. 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 & John.

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Food Adventures

Estuary Arts Exhibitions 25 Feb to 22 March 2020

with Calum Hodgson cheesy_curd_nerd@hotmail.com

Opening event Sat 29 Feb 3-5pm

Cheesy choices Once upon a time, across little young New Zealand, a proud regional cheese-making tradition thrived. These days, New Zealand is world famous overseas for its milk powders, infant formulas, block cheddars and assorted commodity industrial dairy products. The good farm cheese – the one with a long characterful flavour and complexity, continues to be off the radar to many. This country has a modest history of new world farm cheese production relative to the old world cheese-making traditions overseas. Take Saxelby Stilton for example – a cheese produced in Woodlands Invercargill from 1890–1935. Saxelby Stilton was exported all around the world and praised for its superior flavour. It is both New Zealand’s most famous, and most unknown, cheese (in its native land), an important footnote in our culinary history. Right now, good cheese is one of the few locally produced foodstuffs where the best quality is only available here, not exported like so many other foods are. The regulatory requirements to export unfairly work against small cheesemakers, particularly so for those producing raw milk cheese. No one stumbles into cheese making in New Zealand, you have to go out of your ‘whey’ to do it. The food police – the Ministry of Primary Industries – make it so much harder. If left unchallenged, they will further regulate local cheese into a hermetically sealed and tasteless existence. The irony is, New Zealand is in this deliciously good cheese bubble and many folks don’t know it. I am currently on the lookout for a cave to create further food adventures. I am looking for a dark place. Objectionable microorganisms and associated disagreeable tastes develop in the light, solar light, and ultra violet light rays, so I need somewhere with thick walls without windows, any thermal changes from the outside are reduced by insulation. Ideally, the temperature needs to be 10°C to 12°C, comfy for bacterial activity and ripening. No ripening will take place if it is cold. Also important is the ability to release heat, and provide clean air with a gentle airflow to release this. Lots of water on the floor is cool too, to get a good mixture of air and water vapour. I love the cheese cave at Fort St Antoine of Marcel Petite in France. It is an old ammunitions bunker converted in the early 1960s as a place to age cheese. A while back I emailed the Defence Forces about the huge World War II tunnel complex at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The ‘unclassified’ reply advised me that “all the tunnels are currently in use for training and other purposes”. I’m hoping to reignite this conversation. I’ll bring the cheese. Calum, who lives in Stanmore Bay, has a passion for cheese and fermented or pickled foods. He is also a keen forager, who supplements his family’s pantry and meals with clever use of wild found foods. His column will be monthly.

Silverdale Market

G1,2,3: “Passion in Creation II” dot painting by Freeman Hau G4: “The Pouring Gallery” Fluid acrylics by Paula Wheeler G5: EAC tutors and Staff Showcase Cafe: Carolyn Annand - paintings and Mixed Media works Gift Shop: Handmade small gifts, jewellery, ceramics and more... 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 09 426 5570 www.estuaryarts.org Open 7 days a week, 9am to 4pm

Centrestage Theatre proudly presents Centrestage Theatre proudly presents the New Zealand Amateur Premier of the New Zealand Amateur Premier of

7th - 21st March March

For Fortickets ticketscall call09 09426 4267282 7282 or or go goto towww.centrestage www.centrestagetheatre.co.nz theatre.co.nz

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

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localsport

Coast crews tackle Round North Island Race

Three hardy crews from Weiti Boating Club and Gulf Harbour Yacht Club are tackling one of New Zealand’s most iconic yachting challenges, the Round North Island 2-Handed Yacht race which started on February 22. This year, a total of 38 boats are racing – one of the biggest fleets ever for the race. Weiti Boating Club manager Katie Clark says the quality and calibre of the skippers this year is outstanding and there is bound to be a very good tussle between two of the local boats, Sniper and Kick, who are long-time rivals. The three local boats are Kick (an Elliot 1050), skippered by father and son Richard and Brendan Sands, Sniper (also an Elliot 1050), skippered by Phil Clark and Max Hawkes and Odyssey V (a Young 12) skippered by Garry Coleman and Nigel Sibun. All three boats are racing in the same division and expected to be very

competitive. The race was the vision of Sir Peter Blake and Martin Foster based on Sir Peter’s experience in the Round Britain Race and Foster’s experience of sailing around New Zealand in his yacht Truant. It was first held 43 years ago but this is only the 13th time it’s been held as the event is not held annually. Leg 1 of the course goes from Auckland to Mangonui in the far north. Leg 2 is from Mangonui to Wellington, Leg 3 from Wellington to Napier and the final leg from Napier back to Auckland. The race is expected to take approximately two weeks to complete. Supporters can follow the yachts’ progress through the YB Trackers on each boat and via the Short Handed Sailing Association (SSANZ) Facebook page and Instagram account. Info: ssanz.co.nz/round-north-island-2020/

Old rivals Kick and Sniper are taking part in the Round North Island 2-Handed Yacht Race. They are pictured racing off Arkles Bay in the Weiti Boating Club’s winter series.

Cricket youth makes Auckland team Hibiscus Coast Cricket’s Ollie Barton has been selected for the Auckland U17 Men’s Cricket Team for the current season. Ollie has already played for the Coast’s premier men’s team this season where his quality as a right-handed, top order batsman and wicket keeper has been valuable. While a hip injury left him unfit to play his initial games with the Auckland squad, he will have the opportunity to

play for the team later in the year. He is the club’s second senior player to make an Auckland regional team, following 28-year-old Ramesh Lakmal making the Auckland Men’s A-side last season (HM, March 2019). Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club’s manager, Gair McSkimming, says the club is making good progress across all levels of the game. “As well as Ollie and Ramesh’s success, 18 of our junior players have been 35 Windmill Dr Wainui, Auckland 0992 Tel (09) 444 3437

Easter Brunch Menu Selection of seasonal salads/Home Cured Salmon & Dill/Bacon & Egg Potato Salad/Cured Meats & Cheese Mini Danish & Croissants/Truffled Scrambled Eggs/Bacon & Sausage Roast Vine Tomatoes/Eggs Benedict Brioche French Toast Maple Brown Butter/Honey Roast Ham Carvery Omelletes Made to Order/Seasonal Fresh Fruit/Vanilla Yogurt with Wainui Honey/Homemade Hazelnut Granola/Chocolate Mud Cake/Mini Fruit Tarts/Percolator Coffee & Tea Reservations Essential

selected for district rep teams over the formats of 20-20 and 40-Over cricket,” he says. “Junior and senior numbers are still growing, and our top men’s team will be promoted to a premiere team next year – meaning the pathway from playing for the Hibiscus Coast, to Auckland, and then potentially the Black Caps is truly opening up.” Auckland U17 cricketer Ollie Barton

COA S T M E N ’S B A R B E R

ENJOY EASTER SUNDAY WITH A BRUNCH BUFFET AT THE WAINUI GOLF & FUNCTION CENTRE TIME: 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. LAST SITTING: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, 21st April

$45 per Person Children 7 & under Free 8-11 $12.50 / 12-14 $22.00 when accompanied by adult Take the #396 Millwater exit on Wainui Road for 5 minutes to Windmill Drive turn left to arrive PUBLIC WELCOME!

Come in and see, Sasha & Sheree No appointments necessary

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

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Phone 09 947 5335

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ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

THE scorEBoArD

a Roundup of spoRTs acTiviTies in THe disTRicT MTF Silverdale - Get Moving Festival 2020 Event 4: Sunday March 22, Orewa, 1km kids dash, 2.5km, 5km & 10km & half marathon. Info: getmovingfestival.co.nz The Rotary Satellite Club of Orewa-Millwater hosted and challenged a busload of Rotarians from the Maungaturoto Rotary Club to a charity game of Killer Pool, held on February 26 at The Wade Tavern in Silverdale. Despite gallant and skillful playing by the visitors, their efforts were eclipsed by joint-host and overall winner Rotarian Mick Shaw of Millwater, pictured left, with runner-up and former Rotarian Graham Browne, also of Millwater, right, coming a close second. It was Mick, together with Paul Conroy who came up with the idea of a pool game and they are already planning for a return match.

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

Petanque Hibiscus Petanque is an established & growing club, now located behind Bowls Orewa Clubrooms. Club Days every Tuesday & Wednesday 9am to 12pm and Sundays 1pm to 4pm. Info: Ph Jill 021 108 3165 Social Petanque group, known as “SPROGS” (Stanmore Petanque Recreational Oldies Group Sessions). Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre Thursday mornings, from 9am to approx 12pm. For all skill levels including beginners, Free. Info: Ph Graeme 428 4339 or 027 490 2903.

Walking Free Orewa beach community walks. A relaxed and friendly walking group. Every Wednesday 9am. Meet opposite Cheek and Chong Hibiscus Coast Highway. Info: Ph Margaret 027 601 9732 or em tania.collins@bayleys.co.nz

List for FREE email: coastnews@localmatters.co.nz

Right, It was a family affair when Andrew Stuckey, right, won the Croquet Auckland Association Croquet handicap singles at a recent tournament in Orewa. Andrew’s father, Mike, left, was runner up. The tournament was played at Orewa Croquet Club on February 15 and 16.

ToTalspan Rodney 229 sTaTe HigHway 1 waRkwoRTH pHone 09 422 3149

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STIHL SHOP SILVERDALE 6 Flexman Place, Silverdale Phone 426 5414 | www.stihlshop.co.nz Mon–Fri: 8am–5pm; Sat: 9am–3pm; Sun 10am–3pm Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

LOVE YOUR LOVE YOURLAND LAND

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

HEALTH & BEAUTY

SERVICES

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

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

HAIRDRESSING

COMMUNITY NOTICES A TALK ON THE AURA & CHAKRAS at the Theosophica Society March 8. All welcome Suggested donation $5 including tea and cake. 9E Forest Glen Orewa. ph 09 427 0149. HIBISCUS COAST HIGHLAND PIPES & DRUMS Join our band, and learn piping and drumming. Retired pipers, drummers and supporters welcome. Wednesday 7.30pm practices, St Johns Ambulance Hall, 36 Silverdale Rd, Silverdale. Ph Leslee 0274 426 7170 or Bob 09 424 1838. LEARN TE REO WITH NGAHUIA, Every Sun- April 5, 10.30am-12pm or 12.30pm2pm. This free eight-week course in Te Reo Māori develops speaking, listening, reading and writing skills at beginner’s level. Bookings essential, register Whangaparaoa Library, ph 09 377 0209 REBUS CLUB OF GULF HARBOUR Next meeting Wed March 11, 9.30am, Gulf Harbour Yacht Club. Great venue & opportunity to meet other seniors. Info: rebus.nz or ph 424 7115 or 0274 739 787

HOME & MAINTENANCE

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

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

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

TRANSPORT DRIVING MISS DAISY

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

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

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

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

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

ROY’S MOWING LAWNS – Free quotes & pension discounts. Ph 021 506 908, email royslawnmowing@gmail.com

DINING OUT

A PUMP DOCTOR will keep you pumping. Ph 0274 430 654. PAUL THE PAINTER 027 550 3635 interior & exterior.

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

Sudoku 9 6 3 4 5 2 1 7 8

5 8 1 6 7 9 2 3 4

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DELIVERERS WANTED 11 YEARS+ TO DELIVER THE HIBISCUS MATTERS NEWSPAPERS

Hibiscus Matters is a fortnightly paper, pay good rates and you have 4 days to deliver. If you are fit, like walking and wanting to get AN TED .. . paid for it, contact Rosemary PAID 021 030 0263 or email Deliveries available hmdelivery@localmatters.co.nz EMAIL HMDELIVERY@LOCALMATTERS.CO.NZ $

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

JOB W

DELIVER $

WATER PUMPS - no water? old cast iron pump? Sales Service & Installation. Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 027 478 7427 steve@aquafilter.co.nz.

STANMORE BAY 5: Vipond Rd, Ellenbury Pl, Mably Cr, Andre Rise, Cooper St, Northview Rd, Donald St, Brookvale Park, D’Oyly Dr, Lea Pl. RED BEACH 8: Marellen Dr, Chelverton Tce, Whangaparaoa Rd, Vista Motu, Matheson Rd, Durness Place. STANMORE BAY 1: Whangaparaoa Rd, Glenelg Rd, Elgin Pl, Whale Cv, Vipond Rd, Springtime Crest, Duncansby Rd. STANMORE BAY 5: Vipond Rd, Elllenbury Pl, Marbly Cr, Andre Rise, Cooper St, Northview Rd, Donalds St, Brookvale Pk, D’Oyly Dr, Lea Pl.

ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Friday 3.30pm at Art Lab. Ph Jo Bain 424 3677 or email bainwhanga@gmail.com

SILVERDALE SQUASH CLUB AGM, March 5, 6pm, Silverdale Rugby Club, 6 Hibiscus Highway, Silverdale. Ph 021 130 7788. All welcome. HIBISCUS COAST COMMUNITY ARTS COUNCIL INC AGM, March 17, 5.30pm in Destination Orewa Beach offices, upstairs 350 HBC Highway, Orewa. All welcome.

TUITION

PUBLIC NOTICES

S ER

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

LK WA

DVDS & VIDEOS

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

SPIRITUAL CENTRE meets every second Wednesday, 7.30pm. ‘Medium’ on platform for spirit communication. Wonderful group of people, all ages. $5 donation. 9e Annalise Place, Orewa. Ph Lynda 424 1998 or 021 115 2720. VOLUNTEER NOW! Our Hospice Shops need you. Make new friends, flexible hours. Ph Karen 09 421 9180.

WINDOW CLEANING 30 years exp, local owner operator, reasonable rates. Ph David 426 2253.

Summer Hours:

Monday ~ Friday: 6am-6pm Sat: 6am-5pm, Sun: 6am-4pm

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Auckland Area Sea Watch Hibiscus Matters Seawatch – Top Catch, Whangaparaoa

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2:47am 2.8 3:47am 2.8 4:51am 2.9 5:54am 3.0 12:26am 0.7 1:22am 0.6 2:15am 0.4 3:05am 0.3 3:56am 0.3 4:46am 0.3 5:37am 0.4 12:32am 3.5 1:25am 3.3 2:21am 3.2 3:21am 3.1 4:23am 3.0 5:23am 3.0 8:54am 1.2 9:55am 1.1 10:57am 1.1 11:58am 0.9 6:52am 3.2 7:46am 3.4 8:39am 3.5 9:30am 3.6 10:21am 3.7 11:12am 3.6 12:03pm 3.5 6:29am 0.5 7:25am 0.7 8:24am 0.9 9:25am 1.0 10:27am 1.0 11:26am 1.0

Tide 3:11pm 2.8 4:10pm 2.8 5:14pm 2.9 6:19pm 3.0 12:55pm 0.8 1:51pm 0.6 2:44pm 0.4 3:36pm 0.3 4:26pm 0.3 5:16pm 0.3 6:06pm 0.4 12:54pm 3.4 1:47pm 3.2 2:42pm 3.1 3:40pm 2.9 4:41pm 2.9 5:42pm 2.8 6:57pm 0.5 7:51pm 0.7 8:48pm 0.8 9:50pm 0.9 10:54pm 1.0 11:55pm 1.0 7:19pm 3.2 8:16pm 3.3 9:09pm 3.5 10:01pm 3.6 10:51pm 3.6 11:41pm 3.6 Times 9:20pm 1.0 10:22pm 1.0 11:26pm 0.9 7:10am 7:56pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

7:11am 7:54pm

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Full Moon Set 12:46am Set 1:34am Set 2:31am Set 3:36am Set 4:46am Set 6:00am Set 7:14am Set 8:28am Set 9:41am Set 10:53am Set 12:04pm Set 1:13pm Set Rise 3:41pm Rise 4:40pm Rise 5:35pm Rise 6:24pm Rise 7:09pm Rise 7:49pm Rise 8:26pm Rise 9:01pm Rise 9:35pm Rise 10:11pm Rise 10:50pm Rise 11:32pm *Not for navigational purposes.

Good Fishing

Fair Fishing

Not So Good

www.tidewiz.com

www.tidespy.com

7:21am 7:37pm

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2:18pm Rise 12:19am Rise 1:11am Rise 2:06am Rise 3:03am Set 3:18pm Set 4:12pm Set 4:59pm Set 5:39pm

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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7:23am 7:34pm

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March 2020 7 Groove at the Beach, part of Auckland Council’s Music

in Parks summer series, Manly Park, Manly Park Ave, Whangaparaoa, 1pm-4pm. Live music from Alae, Kong Fooey and local duo Brody and Ben. Info: musicinparks.co.nz

7-21

Strictly Ballroom, The Musical, Centrestage Theatre, Centreway Road, Orewa, Tickets: nz.patronbase.com/_CentreStage/ Productions/SB20/Performances (See story p26 & ad p27)

Living More Sustainably, For the Love of the Ocean, Whangaparaoa Library, 9 Main St, Whangaparaoa, 6.30pm. Talk by Sara Kulins about changes in her life that contributed to less waste, less plastic and a new outlook on life.

Good as New Pre-Loved Kids’ Market, Orewa Community Centre, 9am–12noon. More than 45 stalls selling quality second hand children’s items.

14-17 St Patrick’s Day Scavenger hunt for children, Whangaparaoa Library, 9 Main St, Turn up anytime during the library’s opening hours, grab a Scavenger Hunt activity sheet and look for clues.

Reducing our Household Rubbish, the Zero Waste approach, hosted by The Rubbish Trip, Estuary Arts Centre, Western Reserve, Orewa, 7pm-9pm.

Unichem Manly Pharmacy is expanding Be part of the excitement while we create a whole new look just for you • New Consultation Rooms • New Prescription Advice Pods • New Services And best of all we’re keeping our good old fashioned service with a smile!

Pop & Rock Vinyl Record Sale, Northgate Baptist Church, 6 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale, 9am-2pm.

Gentle, Mindful Yoga for Greater Health and Wellbeing – a talk by Caroline Weetink, Waiwera Ashram, 9 Waiwera Place, 1.30pm. All welcome. Gold coin donation. Info: ph 426 5265.

So come and check our progress. We’re open while we transform.

Orewa Beach Sandcastle building competition and artisan market, 11am-3pm.

See you in store,

Hibiscus Coast Weetbix Kids TRYathlon, Manly Beach, park and surrounding streets, 7am-1.30pm. Info: tryathlon.co.nz

Tania and the Unichem Manly Pharmacy Team

Are there bats on the Hibiscus Coast? Forest & Bird hosts a talk by scientist Ben Paris (aka NZ Batman), Estuary Arts Centre, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa, 7.30pm. The AGM of Forest & Bird Hibiscus Coast precedes the talk. It is an open meeting and all are welcome. Free, koha appreciated. To register email hibiscuscoast.branch@forestandbird.org.nz

P.S. Check out our Facebook page for updates. #ChangeIsComing

Whangaparaoa School Gala, 39 Ladies Mile, Manly, 10.45am-2pm. Stalls, entertainment and games galore. Fun for the whole family.

Ducky Derby, fundraiser for Orewa Beach Kindergarten, Western Reserve Orewa, 11am-2pm. Info: contact the kindergarten.

We are opening a bigger store here

April 2020 4 Fashion in the Field – A High Tea Affair, Dairy Flat School hall,

1220 Dairy Flat Highway, 2pm-5pm. Fashion show by Siren Boutique. Treats by Chef Kevin Blakeman. Tickets $40 at school office. All profits to PTA fundraising for school hall upgrades.

Property Management Call your local property manager for a FREE rental appraisal today!

p: 09 424 3518 • m: 027 485 8085 e: whangaparaoarentals@ljh.co.nz www.whangaparaoarentals.ljhooker.co.nz LJHooker Whangaparaoarentals

Marina Freeman Property Manager

New entrance coming 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

32 | Hibiscusmatters | March 4, 2020

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From left, The Red Beach duo of Hannah Turner (left) and Kate Rogers won the women’s Board Rescue in both the U16 & Open women’s divisions. Red Beach athletes in the U19 Tube Rescue event. Photos, Ross Malyon

Surf athletes gear up for National Championships The recent Northern Region Surf Lifesaving Championships at Omaha Beach witnessed many top performances by local surf lifesavers, who will have come away from the two-day event brimming with confidence as they focus on the upcoming New Zealand Championships. Around 430 athletes from 18 clubs competed on the sand and in the surf at Omaha on February 22 and 23, all keen to be reaching their peak for the nationals at Gisborne’s Midway Beach from March 12-15. Red Beach took out the points trophy for the third consecutive year. The club ran up 369 points to head off Mairangi Bay (217), Orewa (151) and Piha (92). The win follows another by Red Beach Club’s junior lifesavers, who took out the Northern Region Championships Junior Points Trophy, also at Omaha, in early February.

Left, Red Beach swimmers Dylan French, left, and Patrick Makgill in the Lifesaver Relay. Above, Orewa’s James Scott won the Open Men’s Board Rescue event as well as the 2km Beach Run.

Saturday’s events were enhanced by a one metre surf, however, it dropped away for Sunday’s programme which saw temperatures in the mid-20s.

Masters competitors, all aged 30-plus, also participated at Omaha with many of them now heading to Gisborne for the summer’s premier event.

2020 SUMMER SERVICE SPECIALS