Hibiscus Matters_Issue 284_5 August 2020 by Localmatters

August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Your locally-owned FREE Community Newspaper

Neighbours protest as giant trees felled

A giant puriri tree was among around 20 large trees, many of them natives, felled in Millwater last week.

Recently the felling of 30 native trees in Avondale made headlines when Green Party candidate and activist Steve Abel and others got involved. At the same time, something very similar was happening in Millwater with more than 50 residents protesting. Around 20 trees, including many mature natives – some estimated at 80100 years old – were felled last week by developer WFH Properties. They were on a 3.1ha site in Bankside Road which is being prepared for subdivision into around 30 houses – one of the last sites to be developed in Millwater. The land is the final part of the farm owned by the Bartlett family. Former owner Vera Bartlett says the sale is very recent. WFH had an interest in the property for some time but agreed Vera could remain there as long as she wanted. She moved into Hibiscus Coast Village towards the end of last year and contractors arrived on the site on July 24 to begin felling trees – a process that took several days. Vera, 85, says the trees were planted by her brother Ken, their father Frank and grandparents and some are very old. Both Frank and Ken were keen amateur botanists and “loved everything related to trees”, Vera says. She is sad that the trees – and the house built in 1890 – are gone, but says she accepted sometime ago that this would happen. “That’s the way life is,” she says.

Go Vir-Defence Supports recovery from winter ills and chills

Neighbours, on the other hand, say the felling came as a shock – they knew the site would be developed, but not when. Janina Becker lives directly behind the property and an oak tree, estimated to be 100 years old, frames the view from her backyard. “I wanted to buy the piece of land with the oak on it, but WFH weren’t interested,” Janina says. “Two pairs of kereru nest there, and feed on the nearby puriri tree.” She says the trees mean there is a lot of birdlife in this part of Millwater. When the felling began, she started a petition to try and save the trees, which in only a few days had 56 signatures. Two members of the McFarlane family were among those who signed. Lynnette McFarlane says her father was a friend of Ken Bartlett. “It would break my father’s heart to see what’s happened,” she says. Other comments in the petition say that the trees are an asset to the neighbourhood and could be incorporated into the new subdivision. “No more trees should go. Learn to work around them. Their loss makes the neighbourhood an uglier, less healthy place to live,” one person commented. WFH Properties consultant Warren Frogley says specialised consultants and arborists assessed all the trees some time ago and confirmed that the developer is within its rights to fell continued p2

only

9ps $143.9 a c 0

Always read the label. Take only as directed. Ends 31st August 2020. Check with your pharmacist if product suitable for you. 53B Rawhiti Road, Manly Village Ph (09) 424 7708, Fax (09) 424 7427 www.unichemmanly.co.nz

Your local health professional

Manly Pharmacy

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Trees felled in Millwater

from page 1

August 5, 2020 – Issue 284 Hibiscus Matters: 21 Florence Ave, Orewa, 0931 General enquiries ph 427 8188 Hibiscusmatters

localmatters.co.nz Next issues: August 19 & September 2 – 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.

Cutloose is now ...

A 40m Norfolk pine as well as kahikatea, rimu, puriri and oak were felled.

whatever it wants. “This is a permitted activity under the Unitary Plan,” he says. “While every attempt is made to keep trees of significance, not all can be kept. Some that have been kept include those

planted by the original land owners, John and Martha Blake, which are now part of the reserve on Blake Greens.” He says the resource consent for the next stage of this development is in the process of being lodged with Council.

Fastest falling trees in Auckland

*Conditions apply.

Closed Mon • Late night Tues, Wed & Thurs • Fri 9am-5pm Open Saturday morning. Parking at the rear

278 Hibiscus Coast Highway • Ph 426 1612

90% 80%

60% 50% 40% 30% 20%

59.7%

Normal at this time of year

Colour cut and blowwave from $100 • Gold card cuts from $30.

Thursday July 30, 2020

the hair studio

The felling in Millwater comes as Auckland Council discusses what it needs to do to increase the ‘tree canopy coverage’ in the region. Its Urban Ngahere (Forest) Strategy was discussed at an Environment and Climate Change Committee meeting on July 21. The report makes it clear that this area has had the biggest loss of tree canopy cover in Auckland, measured in hectares, in recent years. The Hibiscus & Bays Local Board area had a net loss of 125ha of tree canopy cover in the 2013-2018 period. This was by far the highest, with the next closest being an 82ha loss. It represents a net loss of 1.2 percent, leaving Hibiscus & Bays’ tree canopy coverage at 24 percent of the overall land area. The average for the Auckland region is 18 percent cover and the Council aims to increase this to 30 percent. Around 70 percent of local tree cover is on private land, with the remainder in parks and reserves, roads and other public sites such as Ministry of Education land.

10%

88.4%

70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20%

Drought watch Hunua Ranges • Waitakere ranges

10%

ADD ROOM, SPACE, AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME

OUTSIDER WWW.SHADESDIRECT.CO.NZ

0800 SHADES

CLEARSPAN

OUTDOOR SCREENS

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

FOLDING ARM AWNINGS

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Drilling down: local impacts of Emergency Budget Auckland Council last week adopted its Emergency Budget for 2020/21 – named ‘emergency’ in response to the estimated loss of revenue of $475 million this financial year due to the Covid-19 response. The budget also allowed for more water infrastructure to the tune of $239 million to mitigate any future severe water restrictions. Cr John Watson voted against the budget, and Cr Wayne Walker in favour. The majority of Coast residents were clearly in favour of a smaller rate increase, or even no increase at all, with hard times ahead. Consultation showed that 70 percent of local ratepayers (Albany Ward) supported a 2.5 percent rise or less. Council also paid $100,000 for a Colmar Brunton poll, in which 53 percent opted for 2.5 percent. However, Mayor Phil Goff says keeping the increase to 3.5 percent required hard decisions. “To meet the full cost of the loss of $475 million would have required a 28 percent rate increase but given the impact of Covid-19 on incomes across the community, an increase beyond 3.5 percent was never contemplated,” Mayor Goff says. “We examined whether a lower increase was viable, but it would have involved more savage cuts to services and investment in infrastructure badly needed by the city. Instead, we looked at other ways to balance our budget. Hard decisions had to be made, cutting over $200 million from expenditure. Staff losses will total over 1000, elected representatives and senior staff took pay cuts of up to 20 percent, and nearly 60 percent of other staff agreed to voluntary pay reductions. Non-essential spending has been slashed and surplus properties up to the value of $224 million will be sold. Council must become a leaner and more adaptable organisation, able to do more with less.” Suggested impacts on local services, before the budget was signed off, were a concern but many of those

improvements are with Waka Kotahi/ NZ Transport Agency (Government), so they are unaffected by Council’s budget cuts.

Things to watch

cuts never eventuated. There will be no charges at Silverdale or Albany park and rides, Silverdale dog pound remains open (for now) and the road safety programme for local roads was not cut. Funding for HBC Youth Centre is in the budget but yet to be signed off by Council and proposed cuts to library and leisure centre hours

did not eventuate. The local board’s Discretionary Funding, which could have been reduced by 10 percent, was left intact – this is used for things such as park maintenance and community grants. The biggest roading projects locally – Penlink and Northern motorway

Council now begins preparing its 10-year budget. This may be even more constrained with effects in many areas, Cr John Watson warns. • Asset sales: The asset sales target escalated from $24 million in the pre-Covid budget to $224 million for 2020/21 across Auckland. Among the first properties on the block are two small sites in Albatross Rd, Red Beach, followed by 21 properties on Whangaparaoa Rd and two on Brightside Rd, which form a critical part of the road network and have been the subject of several stories in this paper. • There is also a proposal in the budget for Council to exit ownership of gyms and holiday parks and this is expected to be considered in the future.

Local budget impacts Transport projects and services Many local transport projects are funded at the request of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, which receives an annual allocation from the transport capital fund. Auckland Transport (AT) advises that this fund has been cut to $5 million for 2020/21, which must be divided among 21 local boards. Any projects where contracts have not been signed will not go ahead this year. The big one locally to be put on hold is the extension of Orewa Boulevard from Riverside Road to Empire Road, costed at $1.4 million. Other projects that AT recently costed for the local board that are now on the back burner are changes to the McDonalds drive through and parking in Hillary Square ($60,000), footpaths on Laurie Southwick Parade in Gulf Harbour ($462,000) and the

footpath from Hatfields Beach to Orewa ($1.5 million). Big infrastructure projects Orewa Seawall: This is the local board’s single biggest project. The Environment Court released an interim decision granting resource consent for the seawall, with final conditions still being worked out. To move the project forward, Council funding is needed for the next stage – detailed design and building consent. This has been requested by the local board for 2020/21 but is not guaranteed. Local services Cutting grass, cleaning toilets and emptying bins. No change is anticipated to service levels like these, although the local board is considering reducing the number of rubbish bins and increasing the size of those that remain, where appropriate.

• Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre: Auckland Council head of active recreation Dave Stewart says  under the Emergency Budget, savings targets have been identified which may result in operational and service changes in the next 12 months. The number of group fitness classes provided at the local leisure centre are now at 75 percent of pre-Covid levels and this is likely to be ongoing, he says. Environmental projects Several environmental groups receive local board support in undertaking voluntary work such as trapping, planting and cleanups. There were fears that funding could be cut, but it remains in place. • The next stage of kauri dieback protection in Eaves’ Bush in Orewa has been delayed by a year, due to the need to defer capital expenditure.

Alarmed and monitored secure storage units available Monday-Friday: 9am-4pm Great rates for casual truck hire

FREE use of truck or trailer for your move in or out (conditions apply) 9–21 David Sidwell Pl (off Karepiro Dr) Whangaparaoa • Ph 424 6091 • www.selfstorageworld.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

Feedback

Book bias alleged

I am contacting you from [lobby group] Yes for Compassion. On 14 July, Hibiscus Matters posted an interview with Caralise Trayes about her book The Final Choice. She has written and self-published it in order, she says, to ‘hunt for the truth’ about assisted dying. At no point has Caralise disclosed that she is a member of the Ignite Faith Centre, a church in Whangaparaoa. Evangelical Christians believe life is a sacred gift that only God can give and take away. Neither has she disclosed her links to [lobby group] riskylaw.nz of which her book appears to be the centrepiece and is for sale. Seventeen of the 21 interviews are with people with connections to those who oppose assisted dying – despite claiming a neutral/journalistic stance. Further, Caralise misrepresents Shirley Seales, mother of the late Lecretia Seales. Shirley believes the book minimises the extent of her daughter’s pain and suffering by omitting parts of a speech Shirley gave to the End of Life Choice Society. In the lead up to the referendum Kiwis ought to have all the facts in order to make an informed decision. We don’t believe they have all the facts about this book, or its author. Jo de Joux, Yes for Compassion, Wellington (abridged) Caralise Trayes responds (abridged): There are a number of incorrect assumptions made by this campaign group. In my book I used journalistic principles to interview more than 20 experts and specialists about the End of Life Choice Act and assisted dying, from both sides of the argument. My method is outlined in the book and says, in part, I chose who to interview by sifting through Justice Select Committee submissions and found early on the common voice in favour of the law change was endearingly simplistic. So in many cases I presented

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

this case before those in opposition. I was not on a hunt to prove anything but rather to answer essential questions to position myself and help others to make a well-informed decision. Church is one of the many community groups I attend. However, religion does not dictate which side of the argument people are on and does not necessarily influence why they take that position. Among those interviewed were Catholics, Christians, Buddhists, atheists and more. According to MP David Seymour “the majority of people of faith are in favour of this law – we know this by polling”. I have no association with the Risky Law campaign other than they wanted to sell my book. I offer the same invitation to Yes for Compassion. In regards to Shirley Seales, I am sorry that she felt her daughter’s pain and suffering was minimised. Shirley shared a compelling speech and much of it was included in the book. I suggest Yes for Compassion focus on the real problem here: that many Kiwis need to be more informed when we come to vote.

Not fit for purpose I lived through the residential boom permitted by Rodney District Council, which made me realise it was essential to deliver Penlink. In 2016 I joined Penlink Now and stood for our local board. However, I believe the proposed two-lane Penlink should not be built and the community must fight for a four-lane road. While the current proposal might have suited 1990s Whangaparāoa, it does not suit today. It is a very poor spend of a proposed $411 million and will not deliver what I see as the most important reasons for building it. As funded, Penlink is proposed as a two-lane (one lane each way) highway with a separate shared walking/cycling lane. At least we get better active transport solutions, but for cars, trucks, buses and emergency

vehicles, two lanes achieve little. My prediction is that as people realise the inefficiencies, they’ll go back to using the free road. It is likely we will achieve very little other than for commercial users, and with fewer private commuters, public transport benefits might be delivered through a lack of other traffic. Waka Kotahi/NZTA claim the road will support urban development but it won’t even accommodate development already in place. Yet planners will say ‘you have Penlink, we’re permitting additional development’. It’s crazy! Politicians talk about this proposal being future proofed. This implies a second round of construction that could render the road essentially impassable during construction and impact neighbourhoods a second time. It can all be done in a single blow right here, right now, as a fourlane, dynamic-laned road to ensure peak performance. This proposal would be better if we added a third lane used as a dynamic bus expressway pointed south in the morning and north in the afternoons – a suggestion I gave the ACT Party candidate at the last election where she was the first to mention the idea. At least public transport would genuinely be improved. If the Government through Waka Kotahi/NZTA cannot afford four lanes then stay out of the way of private partners. There were investors who wanted to build it, with everything paid through tolls. Let’s tell local politicians and NZTA that we do not accept this compromise, that we demand a proper solution. John Davies, Orewa (abridged) Local Board member and Penlink proponent, Janet Fitzgerald replies: The Local Board’s position is for four lanes with walking and cycling. I prefer not to comment further, as a timeline has been set and the money allocated. We need to get on with

off

the record

Honourable mention

Many readers entered the competition in this paper to find a name for Whangaparaoa Police’s new cat and there were many great suggestions. Although readers will have seen that the cat’s owners were found, and its name will remain Ash (HM July 1), a reader in Orewa called Grace and her mother recently came up with one further lovely suggestion for a name – Hunter, in honour of the late Constable Matthew Hunt.

Penlink, people are sick of waiting for it to be built. That doesn’t mean to say meaningful conversations are still not happening to achieve what most believe will be a better outcome.

Intersection woes I refer to the letter from Chris Casey (HM July 15). There are 36 dwellings in Tower Hill and with most dwellings these days having 2/3 vehicles that can mean up to 75 vehicles trying to access Whangaparaoa Road. I would suggest that the letter writer tries a little patience, which we all have to do while waiting for the lights. Carolyn Anderson, Manly (abridged)

Staff cuts wrong Auckland Council has reduced its staff numbers by a reported 600. This is both wrong-headed and comes with major personal suffering to those affected. Two recent independent surveys have shown that the excessive Council payroll costs of the Council are due to excessive salary levels and wage rates. On average these exceed comparable private sector norms by over 30 percent. Reduction of pay scales would have the same financial effects as staff number cuts without the huge personal costs associated from redundancies and would avoid merely shifting the costs of the jobless numbers to taxpayer funded support programmes. Larry Mitchell, Rothesay Bay

S Y AR IT YE UN M M CO

2H0 E T

663 WHANGAPARAOA RD

See Cecily & her friendly team for expert advice on 1000’s of tiles & tile supplies. Showroom located beside Wendy's. www.tilespace.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Feedback cont... Rubbish at Council

Heartfelt thanks

In the area by Titan Place and up to bus stop 4789, opposite Northern Arena, there is no attention to keeping the area clean. Last week I collected 71 beer cans, nine beer bottles and two water bottles from amongst the agapanthus and under the trees. I put all this in a large clear plastic bag and placed it by the pole for the bus stop. I then called the Council Service Centre and told them what I had done. The lady thanked me but within five minutes called back and told me that they couldn’t come and collect this rubbish. It was suggested that I put it in my recycling bin but it was already full with my own rubbish. I told her that I was not going to use my prepaid bags. My solution was to take the bag down to the Orewa Service Centre and place it at the front door. Of course it was collected promptly. Surely it is not the job of the ratepayers to be doing the cleaning? I keep the kerb at the entry to Titan Place clean, as this is never done. It would seem that we are a forgotten area. There are 24 houses here and no footpath. I did ask a contractor why my street was not kept in the same condition as Totara Views, and the response was laughter. Lorraine Sampson, Silverdale

Ellie and I would like to publicly thank all the people that have helped us in so many ways since we received the devastating news that Matthew lost his life on June 19, whilst working as a Police Officer, a career he loved and thrived in (HM July 1). We have been surrounded by kindness in the form of flowers, condolence cards, food, plus so many people making contact either in person or via social media telling us their stories of Matthew. We also extend our deepest gratitude to people who may not have known Matthew personally but have sent messages and created tributes to Matt through poetry and artwork. These gestures give us an overwhelming sense of compassion shown towards Matthew, our family and Matt’s friends, as well Matthew’s police family. We, as his family, have always believed Matthew was a special human being with enviable qualities, but now realise that so many other people hold the same thoughts too. No words can truly convey how grateful we are to you all. Life without Matthew will never be the same. We will never forget Matthew and will always hold him close in our hearts. Diane Hunt, Warkworth

Lost cat “SUNDANCE”

Dearly missed since June 18, from Kensington Park. He is a very shy 12-year-old indoor cat. He is microchipped and on a renal diet in care of Orewa Beach Vet Clinic. If spotted please phone

Mobile 021 921 265

Your grief is like your fingerprint – unique to you alone After a loss, grief is the way your mind and body gradually adjust to the reality of what has happened. It is a process. You’re not able to do it all at once and as you grieve you’re likely to experience a wide range of emotions, thoughts and reactions.

Everyone grieves differently. Find ways to grieve that suits you – there is no “right” way to experience grief. There is no set timetable, no rules, no secret method that will take your grief away, it is a process. Take all the time and space you need and for as long as it takes. Grief can affect every part of your life, your mind and thoughts, your emotions and feelings, your body and physical reactions, your spirit and what you believe about life and death, your social world and relationships with others. Sometimes it is necessary or easier to seek help from others outside of your closer friends and family. Sometimes you don’t want to ‘burden’ those close to you, or perhaps friends are there to help you enjoy the good times rather than remind you of the sad times. Don’t be surprised or embarrassed if you need help at this particular point.

A Long Pink Ribbon Breakfast held at cafés and restaurants in Orewa on July 30 has raised around $7000 for the Breast Cancer Foundation. It was organised by breast cancer survivor Michelle McAteer-Ross of Barfoot & Thompson Orewa. The money was raised through contributions from participating cafés, an auction and bucket collection. Muralist Erika Pearce also painted a skateboard that she will auction on Trade Me, and donate the proceeds. Michelle says it was great to see everyone turn out in pink, and donate generously. It will now become an annual event. Hibiscus Matters staff were at Olivers for the breakfast, pictured. Participating businesses went in a draw for an advertising package with the paper, which Underground Skate won.

Because we realise grief is different for everyone, and as part of our commitment to the families we look after, Forrest Funeral Services offer a bereavement support service to assist you through this time.

39 Riverside Rd, Orewa 09 426 7950 www.forrests.co.nz

BUY DIRECT FROM THE SAWMILL

700 Kahikatea Flat Road, Waitoki • Phone 09 420 5485

sales@cypress-sawmill.co.nz • www.cypress-sawmill.co.nz • Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Cypress.Sawmill

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

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

CALL NOW FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

Mobile service – Phone 027 69 89 925 pauline@coastalcurtains.co.nz www.coastalcurtains.co.nz

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

Mark

Mitchell Whangaparāoa

Auckland’s fuel tax – should it stay or should it go? Local election candidates are strongly divided on whether Auckland’s Regional Fuel Tax (RFT) should remain. Recently National Party leader Judith Collins promised it would be scrapped if National leads the next Government. The fuel tax began on July 1, 2018, adding 11.5 cents per litre (including GST) to petrol and diesel and their bio-variants. It supports transport projects that would otherwise be delayed or not funded and was put in place until June 31, 2028. Among the projects it is funding is work on the Silverdale park and ride, bus network improvements and $66m towards building Penlink. National MP for Rodney, Mark Mitchell says the country is in the early stages of an economic crisis. “I have spoken to many small business owners and employees and it’s clear that the impact Covid has had on our community is significant,” he says. “The last thing that hard working Kiwis should be worried about is paying more at the pump.” ACT candidate for Whangaparaoa, Paul Grace, says ACT would use congestion charging to price roads. “This would do away with the need for the Regional Fuel Tax. Congestion charging incentivises more efficient use of the road network and, at peak times, the use of public transport alternatives,” he says. Lorayne Ferguson, Labour’s candidate for Whangaparaoa, says the tax should be retained. “The money funds transport

projects that Auckland needs and the $1.5 million a year that it contributes would be missed,” she says. “It could be replaced by a congestion charge but that would fall heavily on those who have no choice but to drive during rush hour. We all pay the RFT and that is only fair, as we all benefit from the improvements it helps to fund.” Whangaparaoa’s New Conservative candidate, Fiona Mackenzie, says Aucklanders are paying GST on all government-imposed fuel taxes, including this regional one, so the resulting, exorbitant cost of fuel combined with heavy congestion, compliance costs and processes makes living and doing business in Auckland very expensive. “Many residents and businesses on the Hibiscus Coast are heavily impacted by this. New Conservative wants to remove tax-ontax and supports the further reduction of total tax-takes,” she says. “Auckland’s congestion-busting transport projects have been held up by inefficient and expensive interpretations of the Resource Management Act (RMA) as well as anti-private transport ideology resulting in public spending on less advantageous projects. Consequently, New Conservative’s focus will be on streamlining existing regulations and ensuring they make sense. To that end, we totally support a clean up of the RMA which will stimulate economic growth and the building of new infrastructure.” Local election candidates will be fully quizzed in Hibiscus Matters’ Election Feature, in September 2 issue.

Historic house on market

Historic Ōrewa House, which dates from early colonial days, is on the market for the first time in a generation. It is a well-known local landmark, situated in North Orewa on a 4251sqm site alongside Nukumea Stream. Walnut Cottage Cafe is located on the site. The property is the oldest site of colonial settlement in Ōrewa, having been part of a landholding purchased by Governor William Hobson in 1841. It has changed hands rarely since. It comprises a two-level villa, a small cottage and an apartment. The buildings have Category B heritage listings, while the underlying land is zoned Mixed Housing Urban. The property is being marketed by Colliers International.

Garage Door Repair Man LTD Servicing Hibiscus Coast & Rodney Garage Doors for 25 years Fast professional Garage Door & Garage Door Opener Repair/Replacement

Authorised by Mark Mitchell, Tamariki House, 7 Tamariki Ave, Orewa.

0800 63 63 48 10/22 Highgate Parkway, Silverdale

M: 021 535 367 E: info@garagedoorrepairman.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Viewpoint with Gary Brown, Hibiscus & Bays Local Board chair gary.brown@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

– Clothing for men –

Workshops a sensitive issue

Eaves Scenic Reserve through to private land to the west of the reserve has been closed to prevent mountain bike access. “Alice Eaves is an extraordinary quality kauri forest and is currently free of dieback. It is extremely difficult to protect the spread of dieback from bikes,” Grant says. “Although bike hygiene stations can be provided they are large and expensive units, costly to maintain, and we would be reliant on cyclists to use the stations and use them correctly. Also the trails in Alice Eaves are not suitable to be used jointly by mountain bikes and walkers.” He says the start of Stage 2, which includes the upgrading of the northern loop tracks, has been delayed by a year, until late next year. “It is proposed to investigate temporary track surface mitigation before summer to open up one of the link tracks up to Hillcrest Road. This will provide extra tracks and access through the reserve for the community to use over the summer period and the track would then be closed when the wet season returns.”

100% MERINO NOW 40% OFF Come & see us first for menswear to suit you Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm | Sat: 9am-4pm | Sun: 10am-3pm

8 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa | Ph 426 5438 Open 7 days | berlinclothing.co.nz

Sudoku 2

1 8

6 7

1 5

4 3

T H E N U M B E R S G A M E

7 6

3 8

7 3

5 2 9 4

1 5

6 9

Open 7 days | berlinclothing.co.nz |

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

8 9

Medium – www.sudokupuzz.com

A partial opening of Eaves’ Bush in Orewa is expected in the coming weeks, as the first stage of work is completed, but a full reopening of the reserve is a long way off. The bush was closed in mid-June last year for the Auckland Council funded work, which involves track upgrades and aims to protect kauri from kauri dieback disease. The first stage is the upgrade of the track along the northern side of Nukumea Stream from Old North Road, west to the (currently closed) bridge that provides access to Kensington Park. This work is almost complete and when finished will see the reopening of the track alongside the stream. The bridge was closed last November and is considered unsafe. While the bridge remains closed, the track will be re-opened as a one-way track only. The bridge replacement is on hold and a decision on funding will be made soon by the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board. Manager Kauri Dieback and Tracks Specialist Grant Jennings says in addition, the access track from Alice

ON SALE

4 Solution page 31

Eaves’ Bush track to reopen

ALL KNITWEAR

Fill in this grid so that every column, row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.

This year my family and I are celebrating 50 years on the Hibiscus Coast. We certainly have seen and experienced a great deal of changes over the years but one thing certainly stays the same, and that is, that the community feeling and spirit is truly alive and well in our area. With being a new member of the Hibiscus & Bays Local board and taking on the role of Chair, it certainly has been an interesting journey so far. The events over the past few months have been unpredictable and challenging to say the least and I must commend how our communities have come together to support each other. It’s times like these that the true colours of people show and become beneficial not only to individuals but also to the community – long may it last. It is my philosophy that people need to feel comfortable about approaching myself and other local board members and the importance of being heard. Transparency is also a necessity, especially when I comes to matters concerning finances and the social wellbeing of our communities. We now have established more public events including Public Forums, library sessions with discussions on issues that you bring to the table, and as previously, deputations at monthly Business meetings. In recent times with the Covid-19 affecting the day-to-day running of Council, there have been many topics discussed by the Auckland Council which have been either financially sensitive or can affect the employment of staff. This is the reason why we haven’t been able to open every workshop in recent times. However, I’m sure once the Covid-19 Emergency Budget has been settled then there will be a lot more information for the public to observe at the open workshops.

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

localfolk

Janet Hope, QSM

Empowering women and girls is an issue close to the heart of former Rodney police officer Janet Hope. As a long-time member of Zonta, she has attended international conventions, fundraised for projects around the world and was the District 16 Governor (NZ) from 2016 to 2018. She says she was fortunate to have a mother who didn’t see gender as an obstacle the day she decided to join what was then a very male dominated NZ police …

’d met a couple of police officers while working in Hamilton and it seemed like a job with variety and challenges. I liked the idea that you could go to work in the morning and not know what you would be dealing with. It also offered equal pay for equal work so I applied after three years travelling around Australia. Basic training was at the old Trentham military base and, of the 108 recruits in my wing, 15 were women. We started in August, and I remember it being cold and miserable.

y first posting was to the busy Newmarket station where we covered a variety of communities, from Remuera to Onehunga and Glen Innes. I was fortunate to have a sergeant who was fair and gave me the same opportunities as my male colleagues, but that wasn’t necessarily the experience of other women officers. In those days, our uniforms weren’t very practical. We were issued with skirts and handbags, with no belts for equipment or anything like that. I can remember my handcuffs falling out of my pocket on more than one occasion. If we were chasing a suspect and came to a fence, it was just a matter of hoiking up the skirt and carrying on and ignoring the looks from your male colleagues. We have the 1981 Springbok tour to thank for finally getting boots, trousers and utility belts.

uring the tour, police were deployed to centres around New Zealand. We could find ourselves being bussed to Whenuapai air base at 3am and not returning until 2am the next day. It built a real sense of camaraderie in the police teams involved. There was a lot of hostility and it was often directed at us. Among the protesters there were those who genuinely held anti-apartheid beliefs and then there were others who were just looking for a scrap. At one rally, I came face-to-face with one of my cousins.

s a sergeant based at Auckland Central, I worked with the first line response team. Although we were often in volatile situations, I don’t remember ever really feeling scared or threatened. Again, I was lucky to be part of a good team with a great supervisor, who became a mentor and a friend. It was 1987, and I was one of only nine

sergeants nationally. I was promoted to the rank of senior sergeant in 1992, based at the watch-house in Auckland Central. This involved auditing everyone who was coming in and going out, overseeing the arrests and checking that the right charges were laid against the right people. There was a real over-crowding problem at the prisons, and we ended up with a big remand prisoner population. They were looked after by jailers, but it meant we didn’t have many empty cells. I also worked in the prosecution’s office for a while. I’m not a natural public speaker, so it was an interesting experience when, on the odd occasion, I had to present a case in court. From there I went to the Control Room, overseeing all the radio channels making sure the right resources were sent to the right places. It’s a place where you feel very connected with what’s happening on the street.

y the time the Martin Review into police administration and management structures was released in 1998 I was an inspector in the communications centre. We were required to reapply for our jobs and I just decided not to. Instead, I became the operations manager for the Bay of Plenty, based in Rotorua. I spent three years in the role and was involved in planning for Y2K or the Millennium Bug. When the new century arrived, I was sitting in the operations centre waiting for the world to end and, of course, nothing happened. By 2am we started standing staff down, confident that the havoc that had been predicted was not going to happen. I was also involved in the annual Cannabis Recovery Operation, which involved identifying plantations by air, then sending in teams to destroy the crops. You could smell the marijuana before you saw it and a lot of care was taken to avoid nasty spring-loaded booby traps. If the male officers on my team had a problem with a woman being in charge, they never made it obvious. But I do remember once attending a meeting in Hamilton to talk about the operation where the old stereotypes were still evident. I was not in uniform and was waiting in line to get a cup of tea. The officer behind me asked if I was there to take the Minutes. I have to say, there was a certain satisfaction in being able to

reply, “No, I’m running the operation.”

y last police role was as the Rodney Area Commander, based in Orewa. It was an enjoyable nine years, which involved working a lot in the community. There were opportunities to meet with individuals or groups who were feeling disgruntled, let them voice their grievances and then work together. Just the fact that they felt listened to made a difference. I brought on more women staff, which gave the teams more balance and, as a result, they were able to respond with more empathy. During 11 months as the acting Waitemata District Commander, I was involved in a pilot programme for women in leadership. There was some resistance among women officers to the idea of a programme for women only, but eventually the participants could see the benefits of having peer group support.

hen I retired, I finally finished a Bachelor of Business Studies that I’d been doing part-time on and off for about 20 years. Retirement has given me the freedom to travel to Zonta conventions in Italy, Melbourne, the US, Nice and Yokohama, and I’ve made several trips to South America. Five years ago, I spent 11 days in Antarctica which was a truly amazing experience.

onta is an international service organisation that advocates for equality, education and an end to child marriage and gender-based violence. We believe in empowering women through service and advocacy, and I joined the Hibiscus Coast club because I wanted to give back to the community. On international projects, we often partner with the United Nations. We’ve helped fund

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

health and education opportunities for girls in Peru, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste, and in Madagascar we’ve upskilled teachers, built latrines and given grants to mothers based on the attendance of their children at school.

n a local level, on White Ribbon day, and as part of the Zonta Says NO to Violence campaign, the Coast club has teamed up with White Ribbon Ambassadors to provide women in violent relationships with information about the services they can access. We also provide scholarships to help young women pursue careers in fields that are still male dominated. Although the grants that come with these awards are obviously appreciated, sometimes the recognition is even more important to the girls as it boosts their confidence. I’ve recently been appointed chair of the international Young Women in Public Affairs Committee, which will involve assessing candidates from around the world and making scholarship recommendations to the International Board. I am very impressed by the young women we see applying. It’s as if they don’t have ‘no’ in their vocabulary – they are so poised and confident. As someone who likes to plan and travel, I’ve found these Covid-19 times fairly unsettling. But one thing I am very optimistic about is the future of young Kiwi women. When I meet them at school award ceremonies, listen to them speak and hear their goals, then it gives me real confidence that we are in good hands. They will be the changemakers of tomorrow. For information about Zonta or to contact your local club, visit zonta. org.nz There are special discounts for young professional women aged under 30 years.

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

ALL THE UPSIDES. Independent and secure, the living is easy in a Ryman village. You have all the upsides of being in your own home, and a huge bonus - the support of a vibrant and caring community. Join in when you feel like it, relax when you don’t. Easy living, it’s another way we’re pioneering a new way of living for a new retirement generation. Superbly located in Orewa, Evelyn Page Village is named in honour of a pioneering New Zealander who set the standard for others to follow. Two-bedroom apartments available now Newly refurbished with spacious open plan layouts Priced from $780,000 Full range of care options available Fixed base weekly fee* and our deferred management fee is capped at 20% - one of the lowest in the retirement sector *Some conditions apply

Call Steph or Jo for more details.

EVELYN PAGE VILLAGE

30 Ambassador Glade, Orewa, 421 1815 rymanhealthcare.co.nz 1393

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Auckland Transport washes hands of landslips

Neighbours say Auckland Transport’s stormwater control measures are not fit for purpose. Dairy Flat residents Jun Oh, left, and Peter Brydon say runoff has increased substantially through their properties since work on the roundabout began.

Peter says. “Because it is bush, ‘out of sight out of mind’ seems to be AT’s policy.” The valley affected by this runoff is identified as a Significant Natural Area in Auckland Council’s Unitary Plan. Jun Oh loves the bush on the 4ha block where he has lived since 2002. Recent runoff has caused subsidence and deepened gouges in the soil – some go more than 1m deep. In heavy rain, Jun says water overflows even these very deep ruts. After he spoke with AT’s contractors on the site, Dempsey Wood, Jun says a bund was put in place above his land to catch runoff, which he hopes will make a difference. Jun says he clears the stormwater drains on the road himself as they often choke up with rubbish. “No one maintains them but me,” he says.

Peter says AT engineers and geologists need to come up with a proper plan. “Their geologist told me it’s not their problem once it’s left their site, and the Council inspectors don’t look beyond the actual site either. But the runoff is not being contained – it’s being allowed to become our problem.” He says the construction has altered the balance between the western and eastern side of the ridge, so now most of the run off comes east but says his complaints to AT and contractors, which included a meeting on site, have fallen on deaf ears. AT spokesperson Mark Hannan says all of the required measures for stormwater control during construction have been implemented. “Auckland Council monitors the site

fortnightly with no cause for concern. There has been a high level of compliance with respect to environmental controls. The erosion is 250-300m away from where the work is being done and we do not believe the erosion is caused by the runoff from the site.” He says AT has determined that the slump is a natural occurrence resulting from erosion over time due to the large stormwater catchment area that discharges through the location, undermining the area. “It is possible this may have occurred very recently, perhaps as a result of the prolonged dry season then the recent heavy rains.” The roundabout project was due to be completed around now but due to the lockdown, this has been revised to December at the earliest.

Have your say on the future of Hibiscus and Bays Our local board has come up with a three-year plan outlining the key initiatives we want to focus on to help our communities thrive and support the recovery from the impacts of Covid-19. Now we need your help to check if we’ve got it right. So love local and get vocal about your local community, and don’t forget to provide your feedback before 4pm, Thursday 13 August. For more information, a copy of the draft Hibiscus and Bays Local Board Plan 2020 and to provide your feedback go to akhaveyoursay.co.nz/lovelocal

. Toget her we can love local

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

20-PRO-2052_HM_2

Residents say that construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of Dairy Flat and Coatesville Riverhead Highways is having negative downstream effects on their neighbouring properties. Auckland Transport (AT) began work on the roundabout a year ago. Two residents, Peter Brydon and Jun Oh, have noticed a big increase in the amount of runoff into their bush-clad properties in the last six months. Both are conservationists, clearing invasive weeds, trapping pests and planting their sites. Peter has lived on his 1.8ha block for more than 20 years and although runoff down the steep sides of Dairy Flat Highway onto his land is nothing new, he says what is happening this winter is way worse. “Over the years we have had dry spells and wet ones, but this issue did not start until that project was underway,” Peter says. He says the widening of the road and removal of bush on a steep bank on the opposite side has affected the water catchment, bringing torrents onto his land in heavy rain. This has led to slips that have brought down trees and gouged deep into the clay soil. Two new stormwater drains on the road spill their contents directly down into the privately owned bush. “If this was open pasture and you could see those scars on the land, I feel it would not be allowed to happen,”

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localbusiness

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

HIBISCUS

GARAGE DOORS + openers Repairs & service to all door makes and models. Automatic openers repairs and replacements. New doors and openers, all at local prices. Advert_108x164mm.pdf 7/05/20 5:09 PM 027KGA-Print 476 2741 or (09) 426 0851 1HibiscusGarageDoors. co.nz

Business with Samuel Mills samuel.mills@nzic.co.nz

Team comes first When I started out in business it was just me and my business partner in a windowless office at the very top of Queen Street in Auckland. The only thing we had to focus on was keeping our customers happy – simpler times. Although I very much enjoyed those days the business soon outgrew us and we began hiring with little to no experience in motivating or incentivising the outcomes that we desired from our team. Our focus remained our customers, with our staff coming in a (still important) second place – we soon recognised that we had it very much backwards. In the wise words of Richard Branson, founder of The Virgin Group, “Clients do not come first. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients”. This may seem counterintuitive at first but bear with me. For our particular business, this started with leadership reorganising financial incentives for employees to match with customer satisfaction and deliverable. Monetary compensation, however, is only one half of the equation. The second half began with the morning meeting before we kicked off the business day, a meeting which is usually not particularly looked forward to by staff or management. Rather than management controlling the meeting however, we delegated responsibility to a different staff member each day which generally followed the same agenda with a touch of personality from each team member including dedicated time for praise and recognition for team members followed by project updates and action items. What we found from implementing this was team ownership over the goals of the company, which inevitably furthered the goals of our clients resulting in greater demands for our services and fatter profit margins. After months of these meetings we started to notice that our presence as the owners of the business at the morning meetings almost became superfluous as the team was now taking firm ownership over the demands of our clients. “At last!” we thought to ourselves as we took a step back from the business operationally and could focus on processes and procedures as opposed to delivering the service. Although these financial incentives and meeting times might seem to have been cutting into our profits, as noted above it was actually increasing them. As Harold Schultz, the founder of Starbucks, says, “Treating employees benevolently shouldn’t be viewed as an added cost that cuts into profits, but as a powerful energiser that can grow the enterprise into something far greater than one leader could envision”. So I ask you small to medium business owners to reflect upon your own team as they are going to be the foundation that sustains your ability to compete at a high level amongst your peers in the market. CL

IEN

DOUGLAS ACCOUNTING

CMY

N TS EW WE LC OM

Join us for services throughout the month: St Chad’s Orewa Sunday 8am & 10am Wednesday 9.30am Christ Church Waiwera 1st Sunday 11.15am Holy Trinity, Silverdale 2nd & 4th Sunday 9am For further information

ph 426 4952

chadorewa@gmail.com www.hbcanglicanparish.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

For all your accounting requirements

• Monthly and end of year accounts and tax returns. • Business planning and advice • Personal Tax Returns • ACC Coverplus Xtra • Cashbooks, Xero & MYOB software • GST, PAYE, FBT • Agent with Inland Revenue Department PO Box 308 001, Manly Whangaparaoa 0952 Phone: 09 424 4684 Mobile: 021 912 184 Fax: 09 424 4688 greg@douglasconsulting.co.nz www.douglasconsulting.co.nz

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localbusiness

Neighbours lawyer up over covenant David Dinneen and his wife downsized to a property in Orewa last year and were very happy in their new home in The Grange subdivision – until a dispute with neighbours over trees began. The couple spent around $150,000 on landscaping their ‘forever home’ – including buying 24 mature dragon trees at $5000-$7000 each. The slow growing trees are 65-95 years old. David says poor legal advice meant they were unaware when they planted the garden of the covenant that applies to their property. This places two “view protection corridors” on the Dinneen’s land, with plants in that area to be no more than 2.5m higher than the original ground level. Developers Cabra put the covenants in place when the subdivision was completed in 2006. Director Lloyd Barker says this was to provide certainty to property owners regarding their views on the seaward side. That protection runs forever and, he says, is not negotiable. Around five of the Dinneen’s trees have been identified as breaching the allowable height, one of which (an aloe) David says he will remove. He is prepared to fight through the courts to keep four dragon trees, which a plant expert advises are likely to die if topped because of their age. Initially Cabra pointed out the breach, which carries a potential $5000 fine plus costs. Then the Dinneens’

Dave Dinneen is taking his objection to the covenant to court.

neighbours, Ian and Raewyn Smeaton, advised they are taking legal action to enforce the covenants if the Dinneens do not voluntarily remove or top their trees to the required level. “The trees are only 15cm-25cm taller than required and grow sideways from this point, so will get no higher,” David says. “They do not obstruct the neighbours’ view. If they did, I would remove them straight away. It is about common sense and balance. What

they are asking for is unreasonable.” Ian Smeaton says all they want is to ensure that the covenants be kept to protect the views from their property, now and into the future. The Dinneens have also consulted lawyers, and David says the stressful process even had them considering moving out. “We are definitely open to mediation, and just want to move on with our lives,” he says.

Covenants – what you need to know

by legal executive Danielle Warbrick, Simpson Western • Land covenants are becoming more popular and people must be wary when looking at any property. They can be put in place by a developer during subdivision, through legislation such as the Resource Management Act, or by agreement between two parties. • Common covenants may cover prohibition of certain pets, an obligation to build a house within a certain size or to a certain standard, and restrictions on the type of building material or paint colours that can be used. • They are recorded on the title, so it is essential to obtain a copy of the title and any relevant covenants as you are likely to be bound by them and they may affect the value of the property and how you can use it. • You should consider whether you will be happy and able to comply with any covenants and should also check that existing structures on the property comply. • It is possible to amend or vary a covenant once in force by agreement between all relevant parties. This is the easiest, cheapest option but not always possible. Applying through the court can be costly and the power will only be exercised in limited circumstances, such as if there has been a change in the character of the neighbourhood or the covenant impedes the reasonable use of the land is a way which was not reasonably foreseen by the parties when the covenant was created.

NEW CONSERVATIVE VOTE FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE, NOT WHAT YOU WILL TOLERATE

Whangaparaoa

Authorised by F.Mackenzie, 322 Rosedale Rd, Auckland

FIONA MACKENZIE Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localbusiness

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

Intrigue

As the name suggests, the new boutique in Orewa called Intrigue is a place to discover an eclectic mix of fashion sleepwear, shoes, jewellery and other nice-to-have accessories. For the owner, Carol Sommerville, opening a second shop was an opportunity too good to pass over. “When we moved to Millwater threeand-a-half years ago, we’d just closed our clothing store in Albany,” Carol says. “I thought I’d take a few months to have a break and then look for a job. “But then, Cobblestones became available and it just seemed like the right fit.” The name was changed to Main Street and Carol hasn’t looked back. “Orewa is a growing area with a great future for retailers and even postlockdown, the support from locals has been fantastic. People don’t want to lose their local shops.” When a store a couple of doors down from Main Street closed, Carol once again saw an opportunity. “Listening to Main Street customers, we’ve learned that there is demand for good quality sleepwear so that’s where we have started. There is a wide demographic on the Coast and our brands will definitely accommodate that, particularly the cotton and bamboo range from Givoni, which is designed in Australia.” The store also has Spanish and Italian shoes and boots, knitwear and

Carol Sommerville

clothing, and local products such as plants and pots by Black House Creative, and paintings by Coast artist Jill Bryce. Carol says the name Intrigue was a deliberate choice. “It doesn’t lock us in to one thing in particular. I believe that to be successful in business, you have to read the market and be open to what people want. It’s then a case of taking the bull by the horns and giving it your best shot.” Far from being threatened by online shopping, Carol believes clothing stores will always have their place. “When customers come in to Intrigue or Main Street, we encourage them to have a play, and try on a range of styles and colours. Shopping should be an enjoyable experience, where you can see how a garment looks and fits before you buy it. You can’t get that online.”

Closure not a done deal The possible closure of The Warehouse Whangaparaoa (HM June 17) has led to a petition opposed to the move, with more than 1700 signatures. Meanwhile, The Warehouse operations executive general manager, Ian Carter, says the current proposal is to close the store early next year, at the end of January. He says feedback will be sought from the team before any final decisions are made.

There are currently 14 full time, 28 part time and eight casual team members employed at the store. “If the proposal goes ahead, we would look at redeployment options for our team wherever possible,” Ian says. The closure is being considered in light of an anticipated reduction in customer spend due to the effects of Covid-19, and a decline in shopper numbers at the Whangaparaoa store. The store is one of the biggest anchor tenants of land owned by Coast Plaza.

Have your say

The first opportunity to have your say about the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board’s three-year plan – a drop in at Whangaparaoa Library on July 24 – was well attended. Transport was a key issue with a big focus on Penlink, and also mention of the need for an express bus from Gulf Harbour to the Silverdale park and ride. Environmental outcomes were the other big point of interest, with many showing support for enhancing and protecting the natural environment. Consultation on the local board plan is open until August 13. Info and feedback: akhaveyoursay.co.nz/lovelocal

Intrigue

u Givoni Nightwear

Modal and Natural Cotton PJs and nighties • Dressing Gowns - zip, button or tie. Come and see our new nightwear store, right here in Orewa. And, Italian and Spanish shoes, boots and clothing.

352 Hibiscus Coast Highway Orewa • Ph 09 558 8614

Thermally Efficient uPVC Joinery ecoauckland.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localbusiness

Plastic wrap trial halted In February, Countdown Orewa began a trial aimed at reducing unnecessary plastic wrap in its fruit and vegetable section. The Unwrapped trial was to run for 10 weeks but was halted by lockdown six weeks later. Countdown’s corporate affairs, safety and sustainability general manager, Kiri Hannifin, says Covid-19 put pressure on Countdown’s supply chain which meant the trial had to be paused. “Once things settle down, we’ll be looking at what we learnt in the time it was running and what we might be able to roll out further to reduce the need for plastic in our produce section,” she says. A total of 65 items without plastic were involved, removing more than a tonne of plastic from the three

stores that took part in the trial and introducing paper and cardboard packaging. Customers were asked to put fruit and vegetables in their own reusable bags. Countdown invested more than $500,000 in shelving, packaging and production changes for the test. “This is investment that has to be made if the company is serious about reducing the use of plastic,” Ms Hannifin said at the time. Shoppers and staff had the chance to give feedback and Ms Hannifin told the paper recently that initial indications were that Orewa shoppers prefer the plastic, but all feedback has not been analysed as yet. “Our commitment to reducing plastic and packaging is unchanged. We’re still focused on meeting the goal of our packaging being reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025.

Covid causes further Nautilus delays

The completion date for repairs to Orewa’s Nautilus apartments has been pushed out again due to the Covid-19 shutdown. Work began on repairing the leaky building at the end of 2016 and was expected to take two years. Currently work on the level four podium is nearly complete and replacement of the roof is the focus. This was initially due to be completed in February, then pushed out until May. Prendos NZ is project managing the work. Its director Philip O’Sullivan, says the lockdown delayed completion of the roof replacement by four months, until September. The roof is the last of the external works – there is some internal refurbishment on the top floor that cannot be finished until the roof is fully weathertight. Auckland Council ratepayers paid $25 million of the costs by order of the High Court. Are you following us on Instagram? @localmattersnz

DE LA MER OREWA COMPLETION EXPECTED OCTOBER 2020

C11/388-392 Hibiscus Coast Highway Asking price $569,000

La Residence de la Mer is a boutique seaside apartment complex just a few minutes’ walk from Orewa Beach. Located on a stunning piece of land just north of the Town Centre and one block back from the beach, this attractive development defines modern coastal living. Through a gated thoroughfare, La Residence de la Mer could be your new home by the sea. The one bedrooms apartments start from $569,000 including one secure carpark. Being so close to town, a block from the beach, private with a north aspect and functional highquality living. These apartments are in high demand. Visit our show home: 7/445 Hibiscus Coast Highway Open 11am - 3pm daily

NORMA HALPIN 021 710 298 norma.halpin@wallacestratton.co.nz

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

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

MELANIE HARU 021 647 117 melanie.haru@wallacestratton.co.nz

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

ph 021 819 733

or email andy@airpower.net.nz

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

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

YONA SMITH 027 951 0595 yona.smith@wallacestratton.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localbusiness

From left, Children outside the new Dairy Flat School, circa late 1930s. Photo, courtesy Earwaker family. Gumdiggers at Poyntons Farm. Photo, courtesy Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries. Lynnette Third’s hard graft has resulted in an exhaustive history of Dairy Flat.

Dairy Flat community history faithfully recorded There is no doubt that compiling a 448-page history of Dairy Flat, which took author Lynnette Third the best part of eight years, was hard work – but she says it was also a joy and a privilege. As well as fossicking through records at various libraries, including the Alexander Turnbull, and seeking out previous research, such as a booklet written by Cath Fotheringhame for the centenary of Dairy Flat School, Lynnette also interviewed around 20 “old identities” from the area. Some of those people have since died – their words were recorded and are now stored in public libraries. “Everybody was lovely – I had a lot of morning and afternoon teas put on for me,” Lynnette says. “ People didn’t think they had a story, but of course once we got chatting, they did. It was a privilege to be welcomed into their homes.” The book is richly illustrated with historic photographs and Lynnette says sourcing and obtaining permission for the images was also very time consuming. She particularly enjoys the social aspect of history

and says including those details makes the book more interesting, especially for younger readers. “The younger generation can see that outside toilets were the go in the 1950s, what medicine was, and wasn’t, available, and other details of how people lived in the past.” Lynnette has lived in nearby Waitoki for around 20 years and says she found out a lot that she didn’t already know – including that there was a pub in Dairy Flat in the 19th Century, and a cemetery, which is now farmland. Tales of gum diggers, loggers and early settler farmers feature, as well as possible origins of the name ‘Dairy Flat’. Lynnette says the recent industrial and residential zoning of Dairy Flat will bring enormous change, and makes it timely to take a look back. “From the 1860s until now, the area has gone from native bush and scrub to being zoned industrial,” she says. “It’s not very long in the scheme of things.” The book will be launched this week. It was funded and published by the Dairy Flat Community Trust

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

and is available to purchase from the Trust, email hardgraft2020@gmail.com or phone Barbara Stubbs, 09 420 4094.

WIN this book

Hibiscus Matters has one copy of Hard Graft, The Story of the Dairy Flat Community, to give away. To be in to win, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters on Facebook and message us your name and contact details, (mentioning Hard Graft giveaway), OR write your name, address and daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Hard Graft, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Orewa 0931. Entries close Friday, August 28.

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localbusiness

COME JOIN SILVERDALE'S NEWEST COMMERCIAL PRECINCT Alice Hayward

Animal rescue service takes big step forward Caring for animals is Alice Hayward’s mission in life – as well as working long hours as a vet nurse, she also rescues a wide range of neglected or abused farm animals. Recently the Dairy Flat-based rescue service, which she has been funding from her own pocket for around three years, became a registered charity, Rodney Animal Rescue. Alice says as well as making it possible to apply for grants, the change provides her with a support team. “Our ultimate goal is to be able to help more animals and their owners on a bigger and better level,” she says. The focus for Rodney Animal Rescue is rehabilitating large animals such as horses, pigs, sheep and alpacas, so they can be rehomed. They generally come to her by word

of mouth, because she is well known in the local community as well as veterinary circles. She also has a good working relationship with the SPCA. Although she has seen many cases of emaciated and abandoned animals, Alice says often this is because of ignorance, or people struggling. “Education and support for owners is hugely important and we’re here to help with that too,” she says. “Prevention is always better and we hope to be able to do a lot more of that now.” She says at the moment she is seeing a lot of people who have lost jobs and are having to rehome their animals. The recent draught also made food for farm animals more difficult and expensive to obtain. Info: Rodney Animal Rescue on Facebook.

Fixed fee for smaller building projects

Residents may find it easier to budget for project costs when they apply for consents and licences through Auckland Council’s Regulatory Service. Changes were introduced on July 1 that see a fixed fee category being introduced for work under $5000 and a revised deposit amount for the new upper level categories. Council says that deposit levels will also be closer to the final cost to ensure customers are better informed about the likely cost.

OP SHOPS

INCLUDING FURNITURE Mon-Fri: 10am-4pm • Sat: 10am-3pm

1-2/55 Karepiro Dr Whangaparaoa • 424 3717

Options from 50m2 For more information please contact ph: 021 0755 656 e: william@matvin.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Watercare Army Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant Community Liaison Group (CLG): invitation Location:

Stanmore Bay Community Hall

Date:

Tuesday 18 August 2020

Time:

5:30pm to 7:00pm

Tēnā koutou, Watercare would like to invite any interested members of the community to attend the inaugural community liaison group meeting for the Army Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant. This meeting is a requirement of Resource Consents DIS60331146 and DIS60331113, which came into effect in January 2020. During the meeting, you will have the opportunity to learn about the current operation and performance of the treatment plant, Watercare’s plans for future upgrades, and to raise and discuss any associated effects on the local community. As per the consent, Watercare must hold these meetings once a year. During the first meeting, you will also have an opportunity to provide feedback on the most appropriate dates, times and venues for future meetings. If you have any questions, please contact Nathaniel Wilson, Environmental Care Manager by email clg@water.co.nz

www.watercare.co.nz

Desperate to save their organisation are, from left, coordinator Shelley Good with members Sally Gibson and Patty Tracey.

Bowling group may be folding after 30 years Members of an indoor bowls group set up almost 30 years ago for partially sighted people are desperate to keep it going. The group plays weekly at St Andrews Presbyterian Church hall in Orewa. Volunteer drivers collect the bowlers and take them to the hall for morning tea and games that, members say, can get quite competitive but are mainly about fun and companionship. One of the group’s coordinators, Shelley Good, says with just eight members (aged 70-101) remaining, the group will not be viable until they get at least four more members. Games are played in two teams of four, so if even one person is unable to attend, the bowls can’t go ahead. Sally agrees that it is very niche, focused on bowls, while other local groups for vision impaired people, such as the 20-strong Hibiscus Coast Visually Impaired People’s Group (VIP), do a range of activities. She says some people are members of both groups, but the reason the indoor bowls group has lasted as long as it has, is about providing a weekly activity – the VIP group meets once a month. Sally Gibson and Patty Tracey have both been members for around four years. Sally says the important thing is that everyone in the group has the same problem and they all understand

each other. While a couple of members are former lawn bowlers, neither Sally nor Patty had bowled before joining. “I enjoy the bowls,” Sally says. “But it’s more about the company.” Patty agrees, saying she was reluctant to join at first. “My husband saw it in the paper and took me along,” she says. “I’ve been a regular ever since.” She says it was a big day for the group when they beat sighted indoor bowlers from Hibiscus Coast Retirement Village last year, in a social match. Shelley says since numbers got so low, every week the remaining members ask whether it can continue. “They all love it and are desperate to keep it going,” she says. “These people don’t get out a lot due to their sight issues so events like this play a big part in their lives. It’s also great for concentration and coordination,” she says. She says members pay $5 a week, but with so few this does not cover the hall rental and morning tea costs. She says a good source of members in the past has been referrals from the Blind Low Vision NZ Foundation. Volunteers can collect members from their homes anywhere on the Hibiscus Coast. To find out more, contact Shelley, 424 0599 or email shelleygood@xtra.co.nz.

Men’s Shed starts waiting list

Hibiscus Men’s Shed has reached capacity in its current premises in Stanmore Bay and has had to temporarily put a hold on accepting new members. Chair Maurice Browning says that in the meantime, membership has been capped at 65. The Men’s Shed has begun work on a new building in Silverdale. The new shed will have full woodworking, engineering and IT/modelling facilities, plus a community centre with kitchen facilities that will be able to be booked. “Once we move into the much larger premises, and if we open longer hours, we may be able to open our membership again and, importantly, be able to deliver exciting programmes to the community,” Maurice says. The group hopes to complete the new 450sqm building by the end of this year. “We have had some very generous offers of pro bono work to help with the fit-out covering electrical work and painting. But we are still looking for assistance, either financially or with product or further pro bono work,” Maurice says. “Areas such as plumbing, plumbing supplies, semi commercial kitchen supplies, plasterboard and insulation are of particular interest.” To assist, or add your name to the waiting list: email maurita@xtra.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

On the road feature

Ontheroad



FE ATU R E

Driving safely a key concern People hold onto a driving licence as long as possible, seeing it as an important part of independence and mobility. However, making sure you remain a safe driver is critical and that is where a medical driving assessment comes in. Occupational Therapist Monica Grimshaw has been a registered medical driving assessor for nine years and also runs Rodney Age Concern’s driver refresher course. She assesses people of all ages who have been referred by their doctor or family, or choose to take the assessment because they are concerned about their ability to drive safely. Although she sees a lot of older people, Monica says the assessment is for anyone who may be impaired, including those who have a cognitive issue, or have had an accident or stroke and need their driving skills checked before they go back behind a wheel. The assessment costs $490 and involves an off road component, in a person’s home, followed by a 45 minute on-road assessment. “I’m not a driving examiner, and it’s not a pass or fail,” Monica says. “My job is to look at whether someone can drive safely.” Her report goes to the NZ Transport

Agency, which makes the decision regarding the licence. “There is equipment that can help people to stay driving, and also limitations can be placed on the licence such as daytime driving only or within a certain distance from home,” she says. “Sometimes I recommend they take a couple of top up lessons and then have another go at the assessment.” Monica recommends that older drivers who are having a medical driving assessment first read a free booklet available from the Automobile Association called The Road Ahead. Course for older drivers Aside from medical issues, Monica says key concerns with older drivers are a decline in observation skills and reaction times. This can lead to serious issues such as not stopping at compulsory stops, pulling out without checking blind spots, failing to give way at intersections and driving too fast, or too slowly. She recommends older people consider taking a free Staying Safe Driver Refresher course, which is offered by Rodney Age Concern several times each year. “It’s three hours long and designed to bring drivers to a safer road standard,” Monica says.

Monica Grimshaw says she has seen it all when it comes to unsafe driving.

Key things she tells people are the importance of checking their blind spots – she recommends everyone gets a pair of “cheap as chips” blind spot mirrors which attach to the wing mirrors. She says she has had to tell many people they are not safe to drive any more, and it is never easy. “However, it’s about their safety and that of all other road users. Everyone

thinks they are a good driver and sometimes we’re the last to know that we could be endangering ourselves and others on the road.” However, Monica says many people continue to drive safely, well into old age. “I assessed a man last week who will turn 90 soon and he has really good skills,” she says.

What’s in your air con?

Mould, fungi and dusty sludge can build up in a car’s air conditioning systems, which can create unpleasant smells and potentially make people ill. Orewa Car Services owner Jason Mills says opening up the air con can reveal a lot of muck. “One lady complained she was always getting sick,” Jason says. “After we removed the evaporator which had foul smelling muck at the bottom she said her health was much better.” He says in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, more customers are choosing to get an anti-bacterial spray treatment for the air con. The spray is designed to remove microbes, bacteria and fungi and kill germs. Another way to ensure healthy air in the car is to have the pollen filter checked and changed if necessary – something often done by mechanics as part of the car’s regular service.

Bayes Coachlines –

Luxury NZ Coach Operators

Let us help you enjoy our very own ‘back yard’! We have a selection of ‘all inclusive’ tours that we are running over the next few months … WAIKATO GARDEN TOUR 14-18 September 2020 5 days-2 nights in Hamilton, 2 nights in Tauranga. Twin Share $990 pp Single $1250

HOKIANGA & FAR NORTH TOUR 20-26 September 2020 7 days – 3 nights in Hokianga, 3 nights in Paihia Twin Share $1850 pp Single $2500

TARANAKI GARDEN SPECTACULAR 29 Oct-3 Nov 2020 6 days – 1 night in Hamilton, 3 nights in New Plymouth, 1 night in Taupo Twin Share $1295 pp Single $1700

CHRISTMAS TOUR TO NAPIER 23-28 December 2020 6 days – 4 nights in Napier, 1 night in Gisborne Twin Share $1790 pp Single $2460

Receiving bookings for these tours NOW! Itineraries and bookings: www.bayes.co.nz/bayes_tours or ph 09 426 5504/09 377 5576 Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

On the road feature

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

Scott McMahon

Pit Stop Silverdale

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

McMahon Contracting Mobile Mechanic More than 20 years’ experience under the bonnet of all makes and models of vehicle means that there is very little that mobile mechanic Scott McMahon can’t handle. “Being on the road has its advantages, especially for the elderly and stay-athome parents,” he says. “They have the convenience of having their car serviced in their own driveway or garage, without the need to use courtesy cars or make special arrangements.” The fact that Scott and his family – wife Fiona and one-year-old daughter Éabha – live in Manly also means he can respond to calls anywhere on the Coast. As well as regular car servicing, he does WOF repairs, jump starts, cam belt and cam chain replacements, clutch and brake overhauls, and boat tractor/ trailer servicing and repairs, and works on both petrol and diesel cars, vans,

4WDs and light trucks. Scott did his apprenticeship at Leigh Motors, then worked for Snells Beach Motors for 10 years. While living in the north, he was a volunteer firefighter in Warkworth for 10 years. More recently, he was the foreman at Diesel Services Albany, working on heavy transport. “When a car comes out of the showroom, it is in perfect working order and that’s how you want to maintain your car. There’s a lot of satisfaction in helping people to have a car they can totally rely on. “All my work is guaranteed, and I am happy to give a no obligation quote.” While Scott says 90 percent of his work can be done on site, he does have access to a workshop if required. He is also available to fill in at Coast garages if they have a mechanic on leave or away sick.

Regular customers at Pit Stop Silverdale will have noticed some new faces in the workshop, but the new owners, Micelle Olivier and Gary Cox, say the service hasn’t changed. “When it comes to getting your vehicle serviced or repaired, there’s pretty much nothing we can’t do,” Gary says. “I’ve had 26 years working on all makes and models of cars, from Japanese to European. Plus, we’ve taken on another mechanic and we’ve installed and upgraded the workshop equipment to provide a high-quality service.” Michelle and Gary are backed by a strong New Zealand owned automotive store franchise, which has been in the market for more than 35 years. “Our rates are competitive, and our work is fully guaranteed,” Michelle says. “Gary is my husband’s cousin, so we are also a family-run business. We work hard, we’re honest and we’ve got the experience to cover all car servicing needs, from repairs, warrant of fitness, brakes, exhausts and mufflers to shock absorbers and tyres.” Both Michelle and Gary are originally from Durban, in South Africa. Michelle is running the administrative side of the business, having setup and run a few businesses before immigrating eight years ago. Gary comes with all the mechanical knowledge. His father was a mechanic

DOES YOUR CAR NEED ATTENTION?

Mobile Mechanic Manly, Whangaparaoa

Servicing of all makes, petrol & diesel: Cars, vans, 4WD’s, light trucks • WOF repairs • Jump starts • Cam belt & cam chain replacements • Clutch & brake overhauls • Boat tractor/trailer servicing & repairs • All work guaranteed

Scott McMahon – Qualified mechanic with over 20 years experience. Competitive rates. Keeping it local

PH 021 613 165

and he grew up watching his father work on cars and helping when he was allowed. In his spare SILVERDALE time, he competed in the 426 7389 Enduro race09series on a KTM 300 and 0800 748 786 hopes, whensilverdale@pitstop.co.nz time allows, to race his www.pitstop.co.nz BMW 3 series in Taupo and Hampton Downs. “Gary has a passion for fixing engines and all things involving motor vehicles,” Michelle says. “He has both electrical and welding experience as he owned an auto electrical company for many years.”SILVERDALE Both Michelle and 09 426 7389 Gary have young 0800 748 786 families and are involved in the silverdale@pitstop.co.nz www.pitstop.co.nz community.SILVERDALE 09 426 7389 “From a simple 0800 748oil 786 change through silverdale@pitstop.co.nz SILVERDALE to a brake service, a new set of shock www.pitstop.co.nz 7389 car or diagnosing absorbers for09 426 your 0800 748 786 why those dashboard warning lights silverdale@pitstop.co.nz are on, you www.pitstop.co.nz can trust us at Pit Stop to provide the best in automotive quality and care.”

•

Vehicle Repairs

•

Brake Services

•

WOF

•

Tyres

•

Servicing

•

Batteries

•

Diagnostics

•

Safety checks

•

EV Hybrid Vehicle Services

•

Shock Absorbers & Suspension

•

Exhausts

•

Vehicle Repairs

•

Brake Services

•

WOF

•

Tyres

PREPARE NOW FOR THAT END OF YEAR HOLIDAY.

•

Servicing

•

Batteries

•• ••

PREPARE NOW FOR THAT END OF YEAR HOLIDAY.

• • •• ••

Safety checks Brake Services Shock Tyres Absorbers & Suspension Batteries

PREPARE NOW FOR THAT END OF YEAR HOLIDAY.

• • •

Diagnostics Vehicle Repairs EV Hybrid Vehicle WOF Services Servicing Exhausts Diagnostics Vehicle Repairs EV Hybrid Vehicle WOF Services Servicing Exhausts Diagnostics EV Hybrid Vehicle Services

PREPARE NOW FOR THAT END OF YEAR HOLIDAY.

McMahon Contracting

Gary Cox and Michelle Olivier.

DOES YOUR CAR NEED DOES YOUR ATTENTION? CAR NEED DOES YOUR ATTENTION? YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE” CAR NEED ATTENTION?

•

• •• •• •

Safety checks Brake Services Shock Tyres Absorbers & Suspension Batteries

•

Safety checks

•

Shock Absorbers

& Suspension YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE” • Exhausts

SILVERDALE SILVERDALE SILVERDALE

09 426 7389 09 7389 YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE” 09426 426 7389 0800 748 786 0800 748 786 0800 748 786

silverdale@pitstop.co.nz silverdale@pitstop.co.nz silverdale@pitstop.co.nz www.pitstop.co.nz www.pitstop.co.nz

Mon-Fri:PLACE” 8am-5pm • Sat: 8am-12pm YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

www.pitstop.co.nz

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

On the road feature

The motoring industry revolution by Emeritus Professor Ralph Cooney We are at the start of an extraordinary evolution in automotive technology – progressing from internal combustion vehicles, to hybrid electric vehicles, to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, to plug-in electric vehicles, to hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles. Electric autonomous (driverless) electric vehicles will appear soon. Over the coming two decades we will see the emergence of electric airliners. In the short term, new forms of local transport will appear, including driverless taxis and driverless flying-drone taxis. Electric buses and long-haul trucks have already appeared in some countries. The advantages of electric vehicles are persuasive. In a recent US study, the cost of “fuel” for an electric vehicle was estimated to be one-third of that required for an internal combustion vehicle. A full electric vehicle has 20 moving parts, while a conventional internal combustion vehicle has about 2000. This means electric vehicle maintenance costs are much lower. Many major car manufacturer is planning to exit internal combustion technologies over the next few years. Governments – 10 at last count – are declaring deadlines for discontinuing internal combustion vehicles within the next decade or so, given serious environmental health concerns. The UK Government has indicated that internal combustion vehicles will be discontinued within 15 years. Short-term limitations on the deployment of electric vehicles include the limited number of charging stations. However, California has installed 50,000 charging stations and McDonalds plans to have charging stations at their food outlets. Lithium-ion is the main battery for electric vehicles at present but the limited availability of lithium is a challenge. Recycling technology for lithium-ion batteries will help, but not solve, this problem.

The limited supply of lithium has driven the pursuit of alternative battery sources, and we are now seeing the advent of hydrogen fuel-cell cars from manufacturers such as Toyota, Mazda and Hyundai. These boast water-only emissions. However, the industrial production of hydrogen by a process known as steam reforming also produces the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide. A recent development from Australia involves the direct production of hydrogen using efficient solar panels. This may prove to be the best low-cost ultra-green source of hydrogen. Another promising source of power is the ammonia fuel cell. This provides more power than hydrogen and is easier to transport. Ammonia fuel cells may be useful in applications where increased power is important, such as for long-haul trucks and ships. Ammonia is not considered a greenhouse gas, though unfortunately it is regarded as a soil pollutant. A difference has emerged between Tesla and Toyota. The latter intends to produce both electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, while Tesla considers that hydrogen fuel cells are unnecessary. Finally and importantly, the global shift from internal combustion vehicles to electric vehicles will significantly help remediate climate change by reducing greenhouse gases in the years ahead.

The Hibiscus Coast Community Patrol took delivery of its brand new SUV last month, with the official handover ceremony at Tristram MG on July 9. The group’s 40 volunteer patrollers, based at the Orewa Police station, act as the ‘eyes and ears’ of Police, regularly driving around the Hibiscus Coast, Puhoi, Waitoki and Coatesville, day and night, to report anything that may be of interest to Police. Their 16-year-old old vehicle needed maintenance that the group could not afford and a replacement car was funded thanks to sponsors including Tristram MG and the Rotary Satellite club in Millwater (HM June 17). Representatives of Community Patrols NZ, the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, Rotarians and a large number of patrollers attended the function.

Number plates get personal

Personalised plates draw attention when you are driving behind them as you have a chuckle at their message or try to work out what it is saying. You can only buy them from the NZ Transport Agency approved Kiwiplates, which will set you back anything from $599-$2500, depending on the style you are after. The NZ Transport Agency’s Community Road Safety Fund is solely funded by the sale of personalised plates. It supports road safety initiatives, including several school based ones such as Students Against Dangerous Driving. There are rules about what you can and can’t put on the plates, chiefly to ensure nothing offensive or obscene goes on them. Info: kiwiplates.nz

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

Locally owned & operated for over 20 years

Open Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm • Sat 8am-12pm

Phone 424 7748

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

MK Motorsport 0800 EURODR Service & repair all makes and models Audi & VW trained since 1975. Familiar with all European cars. Repair all Japanese cars.

2a Agency Lane, Silverdale 09 426 0530 027 442 0591 eurodr1996@gmail.com MECHANICAL | RUST | REPAIRS LUBES | SERVICE | WOF

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

On the road feature

Cycling advocates form Whangaparāoa group A new bike group started on Whangaparāoa Peninsula during lockdown already has 20 members and hopes to influence how cyclistfriendly the area becomes as it develops. Paula Luijken, 37, started the Whangaparāoa Bike Burb after she recently moved to Red Beach from Onehunga. She belonged to Onehunga’s Bike Burb and used her bike to commute to work in the city. “I like cycling for transport, rather than for recreation,” she says. While admitting this is difficult now she is on the Hibiscus Coast, where her commute is now by bus, she says she likes biking to the shops. “I may consider getting an e-bike as it’s very hilly around here,” she says. Her cycle commuting was inspired

by time living in London and parts of Europe where there are bike super highways, separate from motorways. “It was such a great way to get around and connects with fresh air and the seasons. It means you can commute without being in traffic.” She says this was what people experienced when cycling during lockdown. “People had time to cycle, but also felt safe with no cars around,” she says. “It became relaxing and fun to ride as you weren’t worried about being hit by a car.” That appetite for riding has continued, and Paula is encouraging those people to join the bike burb. “Its very low key. It’s more about getting together and having fun, more than riding far and fast, or for fitness,” Paula says. It’s a way to join people for rides, and also to advocate for better infrastructure.

Paula Luijken

“When local projects are proposed, groups like Council, the local board and Auckland Transport can tap into people who ride bikes through the burbs.” Info: Look for Bike Whangaparaoa on Facebook.

Applications open for community bike funding If you have an idea that could encourage more people to get out riding bikes, as they were during lockdown, Auckland Transport (AT) has a fund that could help kick-start new cycling initiatives. Community groups around Auckland can now apply for AT’s Community Bike Fund, which is in its third year. Grants of between $300 and $5000 are available. Sustainable mobility manager, Cliff

Wilton, says the fund is part of AT’s ongoing commitment to support cycling. “Lockdown saw many Aucklanders dusting the cobwebs off their bikes to reacquaint themselves with their neighbourhood and we want to see that continue,” Cliff says. “There are lots of groups within our communities with fantastic ideas to help encourage this.” He says money from the fund can

be used to help start up bike-related events or initiatives, especially if they are focused on encouraging people who are new to cycling, or haven’t done it for a while, to take part. Past recipients range from learn to ride sessions for women from refugee or migrant backgrounds, to family fun days. Cycling advocacy group Bike Auckland’s community activation manager, Anja Vroegop, says the Community Bike

Want to start a Bike Burb?

Bike Burbs are local groups who come together around a vision of their neighbourhood as a bike-friendly place. They foster activities and local action that make it easier for people of all ages to jump on a bike for local trips. The kind of activities each Bike Burb gets involved in is up to its members, whether that be holding family-friendly rides, bike swaps and fix-its, handson advocacy, sharing information and working with the local board and/or business associations. Bike Burbs are considered important stakeholders by Auckland Transport, Auckland Council and Bike Auckland, especially when engaging with the community about new cycle infrastructure. There are currently 25 Bike Burbs, including one in Orewa and the new one in Whangaparaoa (see above). They are independent, but affiliated with Bike Auckland through an agreement which ensures that Bike Auckland can provide support including online resources and connections with other groups and communities. Info: bikeauckland.org. nz/bikeburbs/ Fund has empowered 26 bike groups across the city (known as Bike Burbs) to run their own events and campaigns. “Our Bike Burbs have run hundreds of events in neighbourhoods across Auckland in the last year, from group rides to fix-it days and more,” Anja says. Applications are open now, until August 23. Info: at.govt.nz/about-us/news-events/ community-bike-fund-open-forapplications/

$15 Discount with Driving Miss Daisy Total Mobility Cards Accepted. Wheelchair accessible vehicle available 7 days. $15 off your first wheelchair ride with us. 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

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

health&family

New medal for long service

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

This image, called ‘Approaching Storm at Tawharanui’ won Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club member Debbie Martin the Gold medal at the Laurie Thomas Landscape Salon. This is a national salon (competition) open to all NZ photographers. Debbie has won numerous national awards and medals for nature and landscape photography, and Tawharanui is her favourite location. Two of her images are on display at Estuary Arts Centre (until August 9) and more can be seen at deborahmartin-photography.com

Few words wins the prize

How much can be said in a single sentence? That is the challenge that was taken up by Whangaparāoa College Year 12 student Stella Beattie. Her sentence, entered in the One Sentence Story Writing Competition won the Senior Secondary category for the whole of NZ. Having only a few words to play with was a challenge. “In a longer piece you can make a point and back it up and explain, but in a sentence you have to get to the essence as fast as possible,” Stella says. “I knew what I wanted to say, but I still wrote a couple of different drafts.” The competition was organised by the NZ Association for Gifted Children. Stella is interested in creative writing and is thinking of becoming a human rights lawyer working with charities such as Amnesty International. Her winning sentence is: ‘We must believe in tomorrow in order to believe at all.’

Stanmore Bay resident William John Field (known as John) was recently honoured with St John’s Ultra Long Service (ULS) Medal for 50 years’ continuous service. He received the medal early last month. This is a brand new medal, which was introduced on January 1. As Sovereign Head of the Order of St John, Her Majesty the Queen received the first ULS medal (No.1). John’s is number 82 and is a gilt version of the silver Service Medal that he already has. John grew up in Kaikohe. To get his Queen’s Scout Badge, he had to do 12 month’s voluntary service, including first aid. “I went to St John and enjoyed it so much that I stayed,” John says. “I was the first in NZ to get my Lone Queen’s Scout Badge as I had to do part by correspondence.” John’s voluntary St John service saw him work across both men’s and women’s sections. He became a proficient driver of the old V8 ambulances with their ‘crash’ gearboxes that required mastering the double de-clutch technique. John loved driving, and being behind the wheel of an ambulance was his happy place.

Pop up raises thousands

Focus Hearing can help. Don’t buy a hearing aid without talking to us first. We provide: • Prices to suit all budgets • Payment options available Southern Cross Health Society Easy Claim available for members

Ph 09 972 5250

today to book an appointment 7 Polarity Rise,

Silverdale

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

John Field with the St John medal for Ultra Long Service.

He retired last year, and moved with his wife Dot to Stanmore Bay, to be nearer their family. He is an active member of the local Area Committee of St John in Silverdale.

The annual art exhibition and sale, held as a pop up this year, which is a fundraiser for Hibiscus Hospice in Red Beach raised more then $12,500. Fundraising committee member Vicki Lambert says special thanks go to all the artists who contributed works, as well as to all the people who purchased or bid for artworks.

Do you have difficulty hearing? • FREE 15-minute hearing checks • FULL hearing assessments with reports • FREE hearing aid consultations & trials • FREE hearing aid checks & cleaning

www.focushearing.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

health&family

BROKEN a BONE?

Get the RIGHT ADVICE & CARE k

Call 027 444 1434

www.enhancedrecovery.co.nz

Teapot for you ... Hospice care at home for a loved one Every dollar you spend makes life better for a Hospice patient.

Award promotes performance Performances at local retirement villages last month by Hibiscus Coast 18-year-old Sam WilcoxBrown followed his win of a scholarship designed to promote music in the community. The Daphne Stevens Community Music Scholarship provides $3000 to support and encourage local musicians. Before moving into the Maygrove Village hospital, Daphne lived in Waitoki where she was well known for teaching piano in local schools and later in a studio in Orewa. She also performed on the piano for more than 70 years. Previous recipients of her scholarship include alternative folk trio Tweed and Orewa College student Billie Hart. Winners of Daphne’s scholarship are required to share their music, via performances or workshops for example, in the community. Since the end of last year, Sam has been fulfilling his obligations as a recipient, playing at the Age Concern Christmas concert, as well as more recently at two local retirement villages. He also performed for a Waitoki coffee group at Waitoki Memorial Church. Sam, who is currently studying music at university, says playing for the older folk was a really good experience, and he enjoyed pushing forward the

Local recipient of the Daphne Stevens Community Music Scholarship, Sam Wilcox-Brown, with Daphne Stevens.

concept of the scholarship. “I also promoted it to my younger musician friends,” he says. He spent the money on a new keyboard. While playing at Maygrove Village hospital, he spent time with Daphne. He says although she has lost a lot of her ability to communicate through illness, she can still hear and appeared to be listening to the music he played. Both the retirement villages booked Sam for Christmas concerts. This year’s round of the annual Daphne Stevens Community Music Scholarship opened for applications on August 3. Info and applications: visit aucklandfoundation.org.nz and search under Apply for Grants.

Workshop inspires floral artists One of the country’s leading floral art exponents, Francine Thomas, shared her knowledge and enthusiasm for floral art at an all day event in Orewa on July 13. Around 100 floral art enthusiasts from the Hibiscus Coast, North Shore and other parts of Auckland attended the event held in the Baptist Church hall. During the morning, Francine demonstrated different floral art techniques, using a variety of materials. She assembled 10 designs, giving tips and alternative options of flowers and foliage that would create a similar effect. The afternoon was devoted to a handson workshop where participants made a structure with dowel set in a block of wood to support five test tubes. Francine, who has qualifications in horticulture and floral art, has won many competitions including Florist of the Year, and demonstrated her work nationally and internationally. During the Covid-19 lockdown, she constructed and videoed one new design each day, posting it on her website afloralaffair.co.nz Thousands Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Floral artist Francine Thomas spent a day in Orewa as a guest of the Hibiscus Coast Floral Art Group.

of followers tuned in from countries around the world. Participants at the Orewa event described the morning session as inspiring. “She’s very entertaining and her ideas are ‘out of the box’,” one participant said. The Hibiscus Coast Floral Art Group meets at Estuary Arts Centre on the second Monday of the month, starting at 10am. New members welcome. For more information about the club, phone Jan Colhoun, 021 060 8931.

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz/whatson

Food Adventures with Calum Hodgson cheesy_curd_nerd@hotmail.com

Spring in a syrup Plants that wake when others sleep, hills soon splashed with wild flowers, grass a new and richer shade of green and the air scented with fresh and familiar smells. Papatūānuku is breathing and she makes me swoon. So much food adventure to reconnect with, that the mind boggles as to what to pursue first. Talk about food envy! This time of year, I’m a sucker for the perfume of jasmine, its heavy fragrance so, so intoxicating that it’s no surprise that, according to American author Jandy Nelson, the smell of jasmine makes people tell their secrets. Both an emblem of delicacy and elegance, it’s a little ironic it’s such a seductive and invasive weed. Jasmine easily outcompetes and smothers competitor plants to deliver its delicious scent to every breeze that roams about. It’s a prolific plant in the wrong place that yearns to be picked and plucked at. And why wouldn’t you? Some readers may have seen myself, my son Cooper and daughter Cleo picking jasmine blossom around Whangaparāoa – a seasonal family tradition we all look forward to. We pick threads of jasmine with blossom and unopened buds. Once cut, the buds will open over the following days. I like to hang the jasmine in the house from my kids art clothesline, holding the blossoms up to my nose and inhaling deeply. However, the real prize is capturing that heavenly smell and taste in a syrup, to be savoured once the flowering ceases. We use this in bubbles and booze mostly. It’s so easy!

Jasmine syrup

Big handful jasmine flowers 1litre boiled water, 100gm white sugar Method: Mix water and sugar until dissolved, pour over jasmine flowers and let steep until cool. I usually do this in the evening, so it can steep overnight. Strain off liquid through a sieve and store in a clean container in the fridge. Try not to drink it all at once! Note: My son adores jasmine sorbet, which I have had made with the help of chef friends and their expertise and expensive gadgetry. Would be cool to see more seasonal and local botanical flavours on offer at local ice-cream joints.

Annual Members’ Merit Awards Exhibition 12 August to 6 Sept Award Evening Fri 14 Aug 6pm to 7.30pm

SHORECARE URGENT CARE

NORTHCROSS IS REOPENING 3RD AUGUST We are beyond thrilled that we are back in action for all urgent care matters, along with our friends at TRG Imaging and Foot Mechanics, from the 3rd of August. When we had word that we had been chosen to transform into a community based assessment centre (CBAC) it was all go to get Northcross ready within 48 hours to start the testing process. After a few teething problems and being over run with calls at times, our appointment based system really proved to be a winner allowing us to test over 16,000 North Shore and Rodney locals. A big thank you to our community for your continued support throughout our time as a CBAC. Our extremely hard working team have appreciated every kind word over the last four months and are looking forward to getting back to our normal. Need a reminder of what we're all about? We are urgent care specialists providing excellent care for acute illness, minor injuries and fracture management. No appointment needed, just walk in. Open daily 8am-8pm. We offer FREE ACC and after hours visits for children under 14, plus subsidised consults for community services card holders. As an extra thank you, present this advert at your next visit to Shorecare Urgent Care Northcross in the month of August 2020 for $10 off your consultation.

OPEN DAILY 8AM-8PM No appointment needed www.shorecare.co.nz

Image: Fiona Ehn: 2019 winner

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

footmechanicspodiatry.co.nz

trgimaging.co.nz

09 478 5029

09 487 2555

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz/whatson

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

Bellbird sightings welcome

Kleur Gallery is a boutique retail gallery in the heart of the quaint town of Warkworth, on the Matakana Coast. We specialise in local art and handmade gifts, all with an eclectic twist. Try one of our workshops (held at Warkworth & Hibiscus Coast) in art glass, jewellery making and more. Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am-2pm

2A Kapanui St, Warkworth • Ph 029 562 2511 or 09 422 3610 inge@kleurgallery.com • www.kleurgallery.com

The arrival of hihi (stitchbirds) at Shakespear Open Sanctuary last month (HM July 1) means that all three of New Zealand’s honeyeaters are now in residence, the other two being tuis and the korimako (bellbird). Tuis are a regular feature on the peninsula but bellbirds less so, despite the fact they’ve been coming and going regularly since becoming a common bird on Tiritiri Matangi Island. In the mid 1990s I counted 12 bellbirds on a walk Korimako (bellbird). Photo, from Okoromai Bay to the top end of Waterfall Linden Images Gully, a number I haven’t seen since. When we found them breeding in the park TVNZ and TV3 news crews turned up and bellbirds featured on the news. When Tawharanui Regional Park became a sanctuary it almost immediately filled up with bellbirds thought to have come from Little Barrier Island. When Shakespear Park became a sanctuary in 2010 we all expected a similar thing to happen, but it failed to eventuate. In the last two years, however, bellbird numbers at Shakespear Open Sanctuary have been building up. In spring I saw a pair feeding two newly fledged young just above the waterfall in Waterfall Gully, and they won’t have been the only pair breeding in the park. A pair was even thought to be nesting on the peninsula at Coalmine Bay. It may be a while before we know if this is a turning of the tide but at least it’s a step in the right direction. And if bellbirds are doing well in the open sanctuary it won’t be long before we see them on the coast on a more regular basis. I was thrilled in late summer to hear a bellbird singing just behind the Weiti Yacht Club where Forest and Bird will soon be setting up a new community trapping line. This will control the rats and possums that prey on bird’s nests and give pioneering bellbirds such as this a better chance of success. It would be great to get a better idea of how many and how far bellbirds are moving down the peninsula. If you have bellbirds coming to a feeder or see them anywhere on the Coast please email Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird’s Jenny Hanwell, j.hanwell@forestandbird.org.nz to add your sighting to the big picture.

Taste of Brick Bay WINTER WEEKDAYS* $39 PER PERSON 2 COURSES + WINE PADDLE BOOKINGS RECOMMENDED *Monday to Friday, 11am - 2.30pm Open daily Mon to Fri 10am-4pm | Sat & Sun 10am-5pm www.brickbay.co.nz | 17 Arabella Lane, Snells Beach

Kathryn Wilson Dept of Finery Solsana Beaucoops Birkenstock Briarwood Elk Zoe Kratzmann Jac + Mooki Father Rabbit Ashley and Co The Skin Kitchen Sophie Store Lindi King

Boutique Fashion, Footwear and Lifestyle

Mid Winter Sale Now On! www.islandorewa.co.nz

18 Bakehouse Lane | Orewa | 09 421 0084

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localsport

Park plan made public

A document that runs to almost 400 pages and lists every local park, however small, in the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board area has gone before the public for consultation. The first thing to note is that the Coast has a lot of reserves – more than 200 compared with less than half that in the Bays. Some historic buildings, including Silverdale Hall and Stoney Homestead are included, as well as Whangaparaoa Library (but not Orewa, as it does not sit on reserve land). The plan does not include regional parks or those that belong to Auckland Transport or are used for stormwater. The draft Local Parks Management Plan lists reserves alphabetically, making it easy to look up your favourite. Issues and potential changes are noted, for example a lifeguard tower is suggested as a possiblity for both Moana and Arundel Reserves in Orewa. Big issues for local parks include freedom camping and climate change. However, although you can use the feedback opportunity to have your say

about those issues, this plan is, first and foremost, limited to a description of each park and a note of what can and can’t happen there. Hibiscus & Bays Local board member Julia Parfitt says it’s important that people look up their local park and see if they agree with the type of activities allowed there. “You might want to talk about the need for a playground, or about use by a dominant club. That’s not to say that you can’t comment about freedom camping or bigger issues, but this plan is not about those regulations, which are being dealt with elsewhere. This is a high-level policy document rather than a detailed operational plan. It primarily focuses on providing a framework for determining what needs to be considered when managing, developing and enhancing our parks.” Consultation opened on July 3 and is open until September 4. Look for the plan in local libraries and service centres and at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ have-your-say The plan should be adopted by the end of this year.

COA S T M E N ’S B A R B E R

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)

Phone 09 947 5335

Daffodil Day street collectors needed

Daffodil Day, the Cancer Society’s largest national fundraiser, is on Friday, August 28, and volunteer street collectors are needed. It will take 2-3 hours and you can choose a time and place that suits you. Info: phone 09 930 7172 or email eventvolunteering@akcansoc.org.nz. Are you following us on facebook? www.facebook.com/hibiscusmatters

E R A E W ! YES

N I T G A R E P O L L S TIder the water restrictions un

WE STILL CAN:  Do any and all work on properties that run on Tank Supply (they are not impacted by the Water Restrictions)

CHARCOAL O V E N

 Clean blocked gutters and downpipes on all houses and buildings

 Wash any moldy houses  Do any and all work on properties North (as mold is a health risk) of Waiwera as they rely on different  Clean/disinfect buildings to make water supplies sure they are free from Covid-19  Wash decks/driveways/paths/concrete  Roof Treatments on any on houses connected to Town Supply house/building in order toprevent slips  Bring Non-Potable water with us to do any work on a property with access only to Town Supply  Continue to quote all jobs as normal

570 Whangaparaoa Rd, Stanmore Bay

09)200 8777 www.picador.co.nz

For a free on-site quote call 0800 2 MONSTER Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localsport

Whangaparāoa hosting New Zealand title fight

Kingsway Primary’s first game of the season was against Red Beach.

Netball off to enthusiastic start It was a cold, windy and rainy start to the netball season at Hibiscus Coast Netball Centre in Manly, but the enthusiasm of the primary school aged players shone through. Players in Year 3-6 played their first games of the season on July 22 and 23, with Years 0-2 and the senior/social grade starting on the 25th. For many of the young players, it was their first ever netball game and they were excited to give it a go. Netball is one of the last winter codes to get underway after the lockdown, being restricted to a 10-week season in Term 3 only. However, Hibiscus Coast Netball

Centre president Debbie Langwell says the club is making the best it can of the situation. She says player numbers are not too bad, with two junior teams less than last year. There is big growth in the number of Year 5 teams and a decline in Year 6. Debbie says a shortage of parent volunteers to manage and coach teams has been an issue at some schools. “We may have also lost some players to other codes that were able to start earlier,” she says. There was also a Year 7 & 8 netball zone day held on July 29, held at North Harbour.

WAINUI BURGER NIGHT

WAINUI RIBS NIGHT

Squash club looks for new members

The Red Beach Squash Club recently had two working bees to clean and repair its courts as the club looks to boost membership numbers under a new committee. It is also keen to add to its two interclub teams and hopes to have a women’s team entered in the summer competition. Club captain Jim Kayes says the club is in good health but shifting members from being casual players to competing in interclub is always a challenge. “What’s helped is a change by Auckland Squash that means interclub draws are more regional, so long trips up and down the motorway at peak hour are largely a thing of the past,” he says. Red Beach has a men’s open team and a mixed masters team. Under the leadership of new president Gary Caitlin, the club is also looking for new sponsors. The courts are also available for schools to book during the day.

NZ’S LARGEST RANGE OF SPAS – OVER 120 ON DISPLAY

Baby Back Ribs with Bavarian Potato Salad and Cabbage Slaw 1/2 Rack $29.5 Full Rack $39.5 35 Windmill Dr Wainui, Auckland 0992 Tel (09) 444 3437

item

ot e

xac

tly

Orewa’s Nik Charalampous is fighting for a NZ title in Whangaparāoa.

SPA POOL

Burgers Friday, 7th Aug Ribs 28th Aug. 5:00 pm-Cls Reservations Essential Wainui Burger * Jalapeno Cheese Burger Hawaiian Birdie Burger * Lamb Burger Veg Burger w/Curly Fries & Slaw $22.50

Boxing fans won’t have far to go to see a professional fight, as local boxer Nik Charalampous fights for the cruiserweight NZ title in Whangaparāoa this month. Nik, 27, who has been boxing since the age of 12 and turned professional around seven years ago, will fight the more experienced former NZ cruiserweight champion Lance Bryant, 38. Promoter Craig Thomson says it’s a case of “the old bull versus the young lion”, giving the local fighter a good shot at the title. Also on the bill is another cruiserweight fight, between John Parker (heavyweight boxer Joseph’s younger brother) and the North Shore’s Ben Williams, along with some fights between newcomers who train at local gyms. The No Way Out event is on August 22 at Sportscave in Stanmore Bay, 5pm. Tickets ticketbooth.co.nz

SAVE UP TO $6,000

sho

ON NEW EUROPEAN STYLE MODELS

WEEKEND BRUNCH @ WAINUI (Sat & Sun) a la carte menu 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

6/26 Karepiro Dr, Whangaparaoa PH 09 947 0013 MOB 0220 733 713 www.prestigepools.co.nz

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

COME VIEW OUR SHOWROOM

OPEN 7 DAYS

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localsport

Crews celebrate yachting wins Although Covid 19 caused the cancellation of a few races, it did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of club members, friends and sponsors who gathered at the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club on July 18 for prizegiving. The event, normally held in May, was delayed by the lockdown. Team Memphis made several trips to the podium after a brilliant season last summer. Father and son Warren and Sam Henderson have raced in the Two Handed series over the past three years gaining third place, then second. They went all out this year for the top prize, which they won. Warren and his crew also walked away with most of the other major prizes, including the Fairway Bay Gulf Series. Other winners included Ladies Twilight Series – Jocelyn Allemann on Glory Days; Gulf Harbour Marina Twilight Series – Keith Browne on Whirinaki IV; and Cruising Series – Richard Endean on Southern Comfort. Many races are held in conjunction

ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

THE scorEBoArD

a Roundup of spoRTs acTiviTies in THe disTRicT Petanque Father and son Warren and Sam Henderson with some of their large prize haul.

with Weiti Boating Club and a friendly rivalry exists between the two clubs for the Waka Trophy, which this year was won by Gulf Harbour. Committee member Mike Pignéguy says there has been no shortage of yachts competing for the 55 races that were run over the past year. A full racing programme is in place for summer.

Hibiscus Hospice in Red Beach is now growing its own food, thanks to support from Bunnings Silverdale who supplied materials for raised beds at the hospice last month. Bunnings also donated edible plants and sent a team to build and fill the beds. The vegetables and herbs will be used in meals for patients in the Inpatient Unit and day programmes. Rainbow nurseries in Tauranga also donated 50 hibiscus plants, which will be planted around the grounds to beautify things for hospice patients and staff.

Hibiscus petanque, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa. Club days Tuesday & Wednesday 9am-12pm, Sunday 1pm-4pm. All welcome, just turn up

Darts Darts Club, 7pm every Tuesday at the Hibiscus Coast RSA, Vipond Road. FREE for new players, $2 for members. 4 x Boards, all levels of player welcome, friendly games, no pressure! Saturday tournament games available for those who are serious. All players welcome

Squash Silverdale Squash Club is offering junior squash coaching with former NZ rep Lara Heta. 6 week programme starting Tuesday 18th August 4pm-5pm – $40 members, $60 non members. Ph: Lara 0210 290 6345.

List for FREE email: terry@localmatters.co.nz ToTalspan Rodney 229 sTaTe HigHway 1 waRkwoRTH pHone 09 422 3149

Offers apply to selected products and valid from 15 June - 31 August 2020 or while stocks last. Prices shown are recommended retail prices only. See in-store and online at participating retailers for details.

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 LAND

| Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Classifiedadvertising

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

HOME & MAINTENANCE

HAIRDRESSING

PAUL THE PAINTER 027 550 3635 interior & exterior. TRADESMAN PAINTER (20yrs) serving the Hibiscus Coast. New or Repaint, interior & exterior no job too small. Free competitive quotes Wayne 0274 329 397 WATER PUMPS - no water? old cast iron pump? Sales Service & Installation. Work Guaranteed. Ph Steve 027 478 7427 steve@aquafilter.co.nz. WATER FILTERS, PUMPS & RAIN TANKS Water filters providing clean drinking water. Pumps & water tanks repair & installation. Ph John 027 441 9603. WINDOW CLEANING 30 years exp, local owner operator, reasonable rates. Ph David 426 2253.

ALARMS SECURITY AND FIRE, MONITORING, CCTV, servicing & installation, all brands 027 553 3032 www.tdssecurity.co.nz ALL CARPET LAYING, OR REPAIRS & PATCHES Carpet layer with over 30 years exp. Ph Dexter 0274 956 436. BUILDER SEMI RETIRED – for all those small building jobs. Good rates. Ph/txt Rob 021 167 2155 or 09 426 2960.

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

New gardens, clean ups. Specialising in maintenance & improvement. Phone Dave 021 950 154 HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for all those odd jobs. Ph Nev 021 399 226 @ Nev’s Odd Jobs. Great rates. Local & reliable.

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

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

COMMUNITY NOTICES A TALK AT THE THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY “Right Understanding” - a right view on life is critical to one’s approach to the Spiritual Path. Sunday Aug 9, 2pm, 9E Forest Glen Orewa. Donation $5 including tea and cake. All welcome 427 0149. CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU HIBISCUS COAST AGM, Friday 21 August, 1pm, Catholic Church Hall, 180 Centreway Rd, Orewa. All Welcome. FOREST & BIRD HIBISCUS COAST is looking for a secretary to join our committee, a small friendly volunteer team dedicated to the protection of the natural habitat of the Hibiscus Coast. Email hibiscuscoast.branch@forestandbird.org.nz HEARTBEATS, PEER-PEER HEART education and support group, meets first Tuesday of each month, 10am, Hibiscus Coast Community House. Guest speakers include: doctors, cardiologists and other heart health professionals. Family and whanau welcome. Ph Trent 0220 606 199. HIBISCUS COAST GREY POWER election candidates’ meeting to be held on Friday, August 28 in the St John’s Catholic Church hall, 180 Centreway Rd Orewa. We are combining it with our Grey Power AGM at 1.30pm followed at 2pm by the candidates’ meeting. We will invite all Whangaparaoa

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

KIWI ROOTS PALM & TREE MAINTENANCE, REMOVAL and hedge work. Free quotes. Phone 020 4027 6200. www.kiwiroots.co.nz

SERVICES

MINT HOME CLEANING

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

your local cleaning team is ready to deliver our 5 star shine in your home for weekly cleaning, spring or moving cleans. For a FREE quote ph 09 415 0028 or 0800 297 253 www.minthomecleaning.co.nz

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

HANDYMAN Carpentry, small jobs, rubbish removal etc. Phone/Text Dave 027 420 5155. A PUMP DOCTOR will keep you pumping. Ph 0274 430 654. ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/ DECORATORS In the area for the area. Kevin 022 0291 056

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

electorate residents. HIBISCUS COAST WRITERS is a dedicated, friendly club for established and aspiring writers. Regular workshops led by successful writers with competitions attached. Stimulating and challenging activities. Writing critiques/mentors. August workshop: Performance Poetry - Daniel Goodwin. Second Saturday of month, Pohutakawa Room, Whangaparaoa Library 1pm-3pm. Ph Dorothy 029 777 1036 or Marilyn 021 936 860. MEN’S REBUS CLUB OF HIBISCUS COAST. Just retired? This might be for you. Low cost bus trips for you and spouse. First Tuesday of month, 9.30am, Manly Bridge Club, Edith Hopper Park, convivial company make new friends. www.rebushibiscus.nz ph Steve 09 558 8454. NEW ENGLISH SECOND LANGUAGE BIBLE STUDY AND MORNING TEA Practice English at bible study. If you are struggling with English as a second language, we would love to help you practice. All are welcome. Hibiscus Coast Presbyterian Church, 107 Centreway Rd, Orewa. Wednesday 5 & 19 Aug, 2 & 16 Sept, 10am. Free - Koha welcomed. REBUS CLUB OF GULF HARBOUR. Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month, Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, Laurie Southwick Parade, 9.30am-12pm. August 12 speaker, Penny Ashton, owner of New World, Stanmore Bay. Both couples and individuals welcome. Ph 0274 739 787 or www.rebus-gulfharbour.nz THE HBC BRANCH OF THE NZ SOCIETY OF GENEALOGISTS is running an introductory course. Free 4 week course commences Saturday 15 August, Whangaparaoa Library 10am-12pm. Includes – using PCs for online researching, recording historical details, creating and publishing Family Trees, using free and subscription-based sites. WHANGAPARAOA LADIES FRIENDSHIP CLUB meets 2nd Tuesday of every month, Manly Bridge Club, Ladies Mile 10am-12pm. Speaker: Artist Robyn Tubb. Morning tea provided. Raewyn 424 1414.

Winter Hours:

Monday ~ Friday: 7am-5pm Sat: 6am-4pm, Sun: 6am-3pm

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

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Aug 5

Aug 6

Aug 7

Aug 8

Aug 9

Aug 10

Aug 11

Aug 12

Aug 13

Aug 14

Aug 15

Aug 16

Aug 17

Aug 18

Aug 19

Aug 20

Aug 21

2:06am 0.7 2:51am 0.7 3:34am 0.7 4:15am 0.7 4:55am 0.8 5:36am 0.8 12:18am 2.9 1:00am 2.9 1:46am 2.8 2:36am 2.7 3:30am 2.7 4:27am 2.8 5:25am 2.9 12:00am 0.9 12:50am 0.7 1:40am 0.6 2:30am 0.4 8:28am 3.1 9:12am 3.1 9:53am 3.1 10:33am 3.0 11:12am 3.0 11:51am 2.9 6:18am 0.9 7:02am 0.9 7:51am 1.0 8:45am 1.0 9:42am 1.0 10:39am 0.9 11:33am 0.8 6:20am 3.0 7:13am 3.1 8:04am 3.3 8:54am 3.4

Tide 2:25pm 0.6 3:06pm 0.6 3:46pm 0.7 4:25pm 0.8 5:05pm 0.8 5:47pm 0.9 12:33pm 2.8 1:19pm 2.7 2:12pm 2.7 3:11pm 2.7 4:10pm 2.8 5:07pm 2.9 5:59pm 3.0 12:24pm 0.6 1:13pm 0.5 2:01pm 0.3 2:49pm 0.3 6:49pm 3.2 7:38pm 3.3 8:26pm 3.5 9:15pm 3.5 6:33pm 1.0 7:24pm 1.1 8:20pm 1.2 9:18pm 1.2 10:14pm 1.1 11:08pm 1.0 Times 8:53pm 3.3 9:35pm 3.2 10:16pm 3.2 10:57pm 3.1 11:37pm 3.0 7:15am 5:40pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

7:14am 5:41pm

Best At

1:14am 1:38pm

7:13am 5:41pm

Best At

2:01am 2:23pm

7:12am 5:42pm

Best At

2:45am 3:06pm

7:11am 5:43pm

Best At

3:27am 3:47pm

7:10am 5:44pm

Best At

4:08am 4:28pm

7:09am 5:45pm

Best At

4:48am 5:09pm

7:08am 5:45pm

Best At

5:29am 5:51pm

7:06am 5:46pm

Best At

6:12am 6:35pm

7:05am 5:47pm

Best At

6:58am 7:22pm

7:04am 5:48pm

Best At

7:47am 8:12pm

7:03am 5:49pm

Best At

8:39am 9:06pm

7:02am 5:49pm

Best At

9:34am 10:03pm

7:00am 5:50pm

Best At

10:31am 11:00pm

6:59am 5:51pm

Best At

11:29am 11:57pm

6:58am 5:52pm

Best At

12:25pm

6:57am 5:52pm

Best At

12:53am 1:20pm

Best At

1:47am 2:13pm

Last New Quarter Moon Set 8:19am Set 8:51am Set 9:20am Set 9:46am Set 10:12am Set 10:37am Set 11:04am Rise 12:46am Rise 1:44am Rise 2:44am Rise 3:44am Rise 4:42am Rise 5:37am Rise 6:27am Rise 7:11am Rise 7:50am Rise 8:26am Rise 7:03pm Rise 8:03pm Rise 9:00pm Rise 9:57pm Rise 10:53pm Rise 11:49pm Set 11:34am Set 12:08pm Set 12:47pm Set 1:33pm Set 2:27pm Set 3:29pm Set 4:36pm Set 5:47pm Set 6:59pm Set 8:11pm *Not for navigational purposes.

Good Fishing

Fair Fishing

Not So Good

www.tidewiz.com

www.tidespy.com

www.ofu.co.nz

Graphic supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltd.

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

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

August 5, 2020 | Hibiscusmatters |

localmatters.co.nz

Advertisment

July 2020 13-Aug 9 A Moment in Time photo exhibition, Estuary Arts Centre,

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Western Reserve, Orewa.

August 2020 12-Sept 6 Estuary Arts Centre Annual Members’ Award exhibition. 16 Ride for Pride fundraiser for Aotearoa’s Rainbow communities. Riding for 24 hours, outside Countdown Orewa.

Meet New Conservative leader Leighton Baker and local candidate Fiona Mackenzie, Orewa Community Centre, Orewa Square, 3pm. All welcome. Info: newconservative.org.nz/

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Cold or Allergy?

No Way Out Pro Box NZ Cruiserweight title event, Sportscave, Stanmore Bay, 5pm. Tickets: ticketbooth.co.nz (see story p28)

The weather is really mild this year, but you would be surprised at the amount of drippy noses still coming into store. Often times it is actually not a cold, but rather a reoccurring allergy.

Midge Marsden & Band, Dairy Flat Hall, Postman Rd, Dairy Flat, 8pm-11.30pm.

Allergic rhinitis affects one in every 5 of us causing a recurrent runny, stuffy, itchy nose, frequent sneezing and sometimes itchy, red eyes.

Meet the local election candidates, St John’s Catholic Church hall, 180 Centreway Rd Orewa, 2pm. Hosted by Grey Power and preceded by AGM, 1.30pm. All welcome.

Puhoi Sports Club Post Covid-19 night out. Featuring live music by the Recliner Rockers, Puhoi Sports Club. Doors open 7.30pm. Tickets $25 (or $30 door sales if available). Tickets selling fast. Info: ph Jess, 021 617 747 or Troy, 021 221 7886.

It is our mild weather in the “tropical north” that lends us to allergic rhinitis (hayfever) symptoms all year round. In the past, hayfever was always connected to spring time, and quite literally hay! But our climate ensures year round pollens which activate the allergy along with dust mites and animal dander that are also responsible for setting of some sneezing.

September 2020 5

Country on the Coast, featuring the NZ Dolly Parton Experience and Hoedown, Orewa Arts & Events Centre, Orewa College, Riverside Rd, doors open 6pm. Fundraiser for hospice. Tickets from hospice shops in Silverdale, Orewa and Whangaparaoa or at harbourhospice.org.nz, ph 09 421 9180.

11 & 12 Hibiscus Coast Orchid Society’s Spring Show, Orewa

Community Hall, 9am-3pm. Free entry. Plants, raffles and trading table.

Talk by NZ ‘Batman’, Ben Paris – ‘Are there bats living on the Hibiscus Coast?’ Estuary Arts Centre, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa, 2.20pm. Preceded by Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird’s AGM at 2pm. All welcome. Free entry, koha appreciated.

Sudoku 2 5 4 7 6 9 3 1 8

3 6 7 8 4 1 5 2 9

1 8 9 2 3 5 4 7 6

9 4 3 1 8 6 2 5 7

7 1 5 4 9 2 8 6 3

6 2 8 3 5 7 9 4 1

T H E S O L U T

5 7 6 9 2 3 1 8 4

4 3 1 5 7 8 6 9 2

I O N

8 8 2 6 1 4 7 3 5

Hard Graft

By Lynnette Third

+$10p&p

The story of t he Dairy F lat Commun ity

ORDER YOUR COPY

Ph: Barbara 09 420 4094 or em: hardgraft2020@gmail.com

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

It’s easy to get confused between a cold and allergy as the symptoms are very similar. The main difference is that with allergic rhinitis is that the mucus from your nose is more watery, and you will sneeze more. Did you know that asthma and allergic rhinitis are very tightly related. Infact 80% of asthmatics will suffer from allergic rhinitis. There are two main ways to treat allergic rhinitis: • •

Reducing contact with the allergen (if possible!) Medicines such as antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays, decongestants and eye drops.

For a blocked nose, a corticosteriod nasal spray is the primary treatment. They take a few days to work and actually a couple of weeks to get the full effect. They need to be used regularly (every day) throughout your allergy season to be most effective. Come and speak to us at the pharmacy about how to properly use these sprays to get the best result. Non-sedating antihistamines are very effective at stopping the sneezing and also help with itching and watery eyes. Decongestant nasal sprays can be used as a “rescue therapy” for a very blocked nose, but they should not be used for more than a few days at a time. Using them for longer can make your blocked nose even worse (rebound congestion) Avoiding pollen is difficult but you might be able to avoid going outside when pollen counts are high; for instance, in the morning or on windy days. If you are allergic to pollens, definately do not put your washing out to dry during your pollen season. For you, drier is best! Avoiding dust mites is even harder, but come and see us for some handy hints. Remember just because there is no hay, doesn’t mean it’s not hay fever!

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

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional

32 | Hibiscusmatters | August 5, 2020

localmatters.co.nz

Big day for Silverdale rugby on home ground

With five senior teams playing at home, it was a big day at Silverdale Rugby Club on Saturday, July 25. There was a mixed result – two losses, two wins and a draw – with the home advantage coming through for all but two of the teams. One of the most keenly anticipated matches was the Premier 1 team versus North Shore. Silverdale was fifth in the standings and keen to capitalise on a winning streak that had seen them triumph in their last two games. However, it was not to be, as they received a 22-3 thrashing. The Dale’s Premier 2 team also lost to North Shore, 27-17. However, when the U21s played

North Shore, they came away with a strong 29-8 win. This helped the team, which had been lying fourth in the standings, consolidate its position for the end of season play offs. On their home field, the picturesque Field 3, the 85s (under 85kg weight restricted) produced a dominant performance against Takapuna, winning 45-14. Meanwhile, the Presidents (over age 35) social grade drew a supportive crowd for its game against the Moisty Maulers of Kumeu. The game was a draw. Off the field, the day was also notable for one of the Prem 1 players, Ali Cargo, being presented with a blazer for playing 40 games for the club.

It was a full house at Silverdale Rugby Club to see five of its teams play at home.

The 85s were no lightweights, beating Takapuna 45-14.

Coast cricket promoted to Premier status

The Premier 1 team faced North Shore but was soundly beaten.

*Must mention this ad to receive discount

The recent announcement that Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club has been promoted to premier cricket status has got members very excited. The Auckland Cricket Association confirmed the club’s promotion at a recent meeting. Club manager, Gair McSkimming, says it puts local players closer to Auckland selection and could also bring Auckland Aces and current Blackcap players to the Coast for games. He says reaching this position is massive for the Coast. It was the fruition of a two-year plan that included the premier men holding their place in the Premier Reserves division, and growing the club. “Auckland Cricket was the driving force, and Junior growth was the biggest single factor,” Gair says. “It offers our youth a pathway to the top without leaving this club, and that’s what we have been striving for.” The start of this year’s cricket season has been delayed two weeks until the end of October to make room on the fields for winter sports.

*Must mention this ad to receive discount