Hibiscus Matters_Issue 338_12 December 2022 by Localmatters

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Lions clubs around NZ have been fundraising since June 2021 to fully fund a Paediatric Intensive Care room at Starship Hospital – including all the medical kit needed. The effort was spearheaded by Warkworth Lions and the total needed of $406,700 was a lion-sized challenge. The money has been raised in classic Lion community style, with sausage sizzles, firewood sales, calendars, movie and quiz nights. Covid-19 got in the way, but as at December 3, $318,513 has been raised with more donations pledged. Grants will make up any shortfall. In total, this area’s Lions raised $28,000 – $20,000 from Ōrewa and $8000 from Whangaparāoa before that club closed. Last week Ōrewa Lions presented a cheque for the final $15,000. Pictured, from left are Ōrewa Lions Daryl Crosby, Deb Lagdon, Helen Roderick and Wendy Miller handing the money to Warkworth Lion Peter Henderson, PICU Appeal Coordinator.

‘Phenomenal’ Christmas lunch response An “absolutely phenomenal” response from the public and business community has ensured food on the table at this year’s free Christmas Day lunch in Ōrewa. This year the lunch is being put on by Love Soup Hibiscus Coast and the Salt

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Community Trust – Love Soup stepped in to ensure it went ahead after it was to be cancelled because no one had been found to run it this Christmas. Love Soup director Julie King says the response to the story about this in

Hibiscus Matters’ November 14 edition was immediate and overwhelming. So far more than $8000 has been donated. In previous years the Salt Trust has had to raise around $5000 to put on the lunch, and this year that sum was given in one

lump sum by an anonymous donor who saw the story. The additional money will cover any extra catering items needed because King, continued p2

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www.localmatters.co.nz Next issue: January 23, 2023 Book your advertising now General manager: Jannette Thompson gm@localmatters.co.nz Editor: Terry Moore ph 022 019 6569, 427 8187 terry@localmatters.co.nz Graphic designer: Lorry McCarthy hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz Online: Richie Lovelock ph 022 544 0249 online@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 sellit@localmatters.co.nz Leigh Cameron ph 022 096 8517 sales@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 21,602 homes and businesses fortnightly: Puhoi • Waiwera • Hatfields • Ōrewa • Silverdale • Millwater • Dairy Flat • Red Beach • Whangaparāoa Peninsula Views expressed in Hibiscus Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduction without editor’s permission is prohibited.

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continued from p1 and the Salt Trust’s Nigel Debenham, are expecting a big turnout. Debenham says demand for food parcels has suddenly spiked in recent weeks – from 50-60 parcels per week to 80-90. The biggest ever Christmas Day lunch was attended by 180 guests, but Debenham says they feel it could top 200 this year. “We’ve had so many people and businesses offer their help and money,” King says.

“Council gave us free hireage of the Ōrewa Community Hall for the three days we need it, we have singer Avalon coming to sing carols, and Anchor has come on board. There are just too many to thank everyone – but you know who you are, and we are very, very grateful for all the support. It’s not just about feeding people – it’s about bringing people together.” At a recent meeting to discuss arrangements

for the lunch, one volunteer said why she was happy to help. “I want to put the ‘ho ho ho’ into the ‘hohum’,” she said. “Just being part of this feels so good.” King says working on the lunch has also set up a great collaborative relationship between Love Soup and Salt Trust that will enable lots of good community work in the future.

Caring community's Christmas contribution

Over the past two weeks, Coast residents have been making their way into the Hibiscus Matters office in Ōrewa, bearing gifts.

Shopping bags full of Christmas goodies and non-perishable staple foods soon piled up at the foot of the newspaper’s Christmas tree. A fat wad of vouchers, including supermarket, petrol, Paper Plus and Toy World Silverdale grew daily. They were donated for the paper’s annual Buy Local Give Local campaign, which this year supported the Hibiscus Coast Community House foodbank in Ōrewa, Love Soup Hibiscus Coast and the Salt Community Trust. It helps those charitable organisations fill their food parcels and free festive meals with cheer for local people who struggle at this time of year, and they were especially grateful that everyone who donated used their time and money to purchase the items that those organisations specifically requested. Hibiscus Matters has run this campaign every Christmas since 2013. It aims to support local businesses, while putting smiles on people’s faces and food on their Christmas table. Every year has seen it grow. This year, despite hard times for many, a record $730 worth of vouchers was donated, along with all those grocery items. Every donation counted, and helped make

Feeling the community’s love, from left, Nigel Debenham of Salt Community Trust, Hibiscus Coast Community House’s Judith Pearce and Christine Alesbury and Love Soup’s Julie King.

Christmas a little brighter for another Coastie. One woman came in several times with a bag full of goodies. Special mention to the box of treats brought in from Hibiscus Coast Village residents, and to Hibiscus & Bays Local

Board members Leanne Willis and Sam Mills for their generosity. Again, a big thank you to everyone – it is especially heartwarming to see people give when they themselves may be facing difficult times.

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Guides to keep den Ōrewa Guide unit team leader Clare Grimwood says she was emotional at hearing the news that their battle to prevent the sale of their den was over.

The organisation’s national office, GirlGuiding NZ, had planned to sell the den in Centreway Road following a decision three years ago to reduce the number of properties it owns. Guide leaders and parents were vocal in asking that the Ōrewa property be retained. The board of GirlGuiding NZ considered the issue at a meeting on November 20 and last week, informed Ōrewa Guides that the den would not be sold after all. The letter to the guides from chief executive Lauren McKinnon says that feedback on the value of the Ōrewa Guide Den to both Guiding, the girls’ experience, and the wider Ōrewa community, was the reason for the change of heart. “It was incredibly encouraging to see the support for the Ōrewa Guide den, both from those involved in Guiding and within the wider Ōrewa community,” the letter says. “We look forward to working with you all and hearing your ideas on making this hall successful for Guiding and the Ōrewa

Ōrewa Guides are once again secure in having a den to call their own.

community, including increasing external hire income and addressing any necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure that the hall remains in a reasonable condition.” Grimwood says she was ecstatic at the news.

“It had been a stressful few weeks, and getting that result was amazing,” she says. “It was all because of the parents and leaders, past and present, who contacted GirlGuiding NZ. They heard from so many people, and they listened,” she says.

Mayor proposes tough budget Press releases drip-fed from Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown show that his 2023/24 budget proposal will seek a total rates increase of 4.66 percent. The total rates a household pays are a combination of general rates and targeted rates. The Mayor’s proposed 4.66 percent rates increase is made up of a general rates rise of 7 percent, mitigated by reducing the Natural Environment and Water Quality targeted rates by two thirds in the 2023/2024 year. It also proposes that the long-term strategy to reduce the share of rates paid by businesses is paused for one year. The proposals are part of Mayor Brown’s response to Auckland Council’s $295 million budget hole and will be recommended to the Governing Body this week, on December 15. Mayor Brown has described his first six weeks in office and the push to get his budget proposal finalised, as “a battle against rate rises and service cuts”. The key financial levers include cost savings,

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efficiencies, the sale of non-strategic assets and, possibly, some borrowing. The Mayor’s 2023/24 budget proposal is seeking savings of $130 million across Council and Council Controlled Organisations, including Auckland Transport and Eke Panuku. Included in this are operational savings of $60 million that the Mayor says will focus on management and unfunded strategies, rather than service cuts.

Mayor Brown says the proposed sale of Council’s 18 percent shareholding in Auckland International Airport could raise around $2 billion, reducing the debt servicing cost to ratepayers by at least $88 million a year. “We want to make systemic changes to ensure there isn’t a rates rise shock in 2024. If tough decisions and trade-offs are not made now, households may still face a hefty rates rise next year,” he said.

Local boards asked to tighten belts

Already cash strapped local boards will be asked to find 5 percent cost savings from their annual funding of $298 million, when the 2023/24 budget proposal is put to the Governing Body next week. The Mayor suggests savings might be found through a combination of reduced spending on Locally Driven Initiatives (LDIs) and asset-based spending, postponed spending on assets, and administrative efficiencies. At the same time he says he is committed to increasing local boards’ decision making powers. Ideally, he would like local boards to be given clear budgets for their communities, have the sole power to decide how to spend it and have sole accountability over funds and decisions. “When the fiscal burden of the next financial year is behind us, I will be recommending that more funding and decisions be controlled by local boards than ever before,” Mayor Brown says.

Firefighters relieved dispute over Silverdale’s career firefighters are “reasonably pleased” with the offer put on the table by Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) and the NZ Professional Firefighters Union last week, aimed at bringing the long-running dispute between those parties to an end. It included several strikes, with Silverdale firefighters protesting in Ōrewa. On the table for union members to consider is a deal that includes cumulative wage increases of up to 24 percent, backdated to last year – this is a big increase on the previous offer, and was enabled by Government support, FENZ says. It also includes blood screening for early detection of occupational diseases such as cancer and better psychological support. The deal was to be ratified last week and Silverdale Senior station officer Shane Doughty said he was confident that it would go through. “It gives us certainty and shows that we are appreciated,” he said. “It is quite a substantial offer and it’s been a long time coming.” He says another key issue – resources and equipment – is also covered, with equal representation on relevant working parties

December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Declarations timeline moves back By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

Kāinga Ora takes wider look A group opposed to the building of 37 Kainga Ora homes in Bonair Crescent, Millwater, will have to wait until the New Year to find out whether they have been able to stop the site being used for that purpose.

Following a meeting held on November 28 with the Bonair Action Group, local board representatives and Whangaparāoa MP Mark Mitchell, Kāinga Ora has put all plans for that site aside, while it undertakes a broader review of its portfolio needs and plans for housing across the Hibiscus Coast. Kainga Ora Auckland North and West regional director, Taina Jones, says that will mean looking at how and where the organisation delivers public housing and other kinds of housing across Millwater, Silverdale, Ōrewa and the wider Hibiscus

Coast, rather than focusing on one specific site. Jones says that Kainga Ora will look to begin community discussions on this approach in the New Year. “We will include the site at Bonair Crescent in these broader discussions, and nothing will happen there until the process is wrapped up and the community informed,” Jones says. MP Mark Mitchell says the community re-engaged in good faith with Kainga Ora even after the organisation initially failed to consult or engage with local residents about plans for the Bonair site. “Unfortunately it became apparent that not only had Kainga Ora not consulted or informed the community of their plans, they had explored options to avoid that consultation,” Mitchell says. “It also

became apparent through documents obtained under the Official Information Act that they intended to amplify support for the project. That was not a good way to rebuild trust with the community.” He says after a meeting in his office with Kainga Ora chief executive Andrew McKenzie, it was clear that Kainga Ora has a lot of work to do to rebuild trust, starting with listening to the community. “The community supports affordable housing at Bonair to meet the needs of young people trying to get into their first home. Social housing projects, especially big ones, need to be signalled early which allows proper consultation, planning and collaboration with the community. This means there is a much better chance for projects to be set up to succeed rather than fail,” Mitchell says.

Public transport pitfalls on display By Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

At the first Transport and Infrastructure committee of the term on December 1, Auckland Transport (AT) presented a first quarter report about public transport. The report showed a slight recovery in public transport use but that it is still tracking at 67 percent of pre-Covid-19 levels. Bus driver shortages and rail infrastructure constraints were expected to continue causing disruptions as AT looks towards attracting patrons back to public transport. Chief executive Mark Lambert said Aucklanders were less city centre focused which reduced public transport trips.

“Travel behaviour across Auckland and across the world has changed. There is now a recognised increase in working from home and increase in localised trips,” Lambert said. “There are now three times more people working from home than before Covid, which has fundamental consequences. It means that people are travelling differently.” He said AT needed to avoid reducing services any further, in order to avoid a downward spiral of patrons. “If we reduce services, that will lower customer amenity, it will lower customer service, it will lower patronage and it will lower fare income even more which will result in a greater funding gap and we will be faced with probably even more service cuts.” Cr Julie Fairey said she was disappointed

with the high number of cancellations particularly from businesses like NZ Bus. Metro Services group manager Darek Koper said NZ Bus is in a particularly difficult position with staffing but that the company had recently employed 17 new staff from overseas. “In some cases, people are working basically the maximum allowed hours under the transport regulations, which is up to 70 hours per week, before they have to have their two days off,” Koper said. At the AT board meeting earlier in the day acting chair Wayne Donnelly said the thing that kept him awake at night was the safety of AT’s bus drivers and frontline staff. “By a country mile, the greatest safety risk is abuse and violence against the frontline staff,” Donnelly said.

Councillors are now able to report their monetary interests later and with more leeway on donation reporting. Things such as donations, gifts, investments, businesses or properties – anything where a councillor could benefit financially – can lead to conflicts of interest, when Auckland Council decisions impact upon those interests. At the Governing Body meeting on November 24, members unanimously agreed to adjust the code of conduct in line with a recent amendment to the Local Government Act. The Act now requires councils to maintain a register of interests for elected members. Previously there was no legal requirement to maintain a register, although Council still did so. Council’s policy had been for elected members to report monetary interests two months following elections and with a $100 reporting minimum. The amendment gives councillors 120 days after coming into office to report things like donations or shares and puts the minimum donation reporting at $500. Interests will now need to be declared by February next year and will be uploaded to council’s Elected Members declaration search.

Penlink sod turned

The much anticipated “official start” of the construction of O Mahurangi (Penlink) took place on Saturday, December 10. It was a symbolic sod turning – in fact, ‘enabling works’ don’t begin until January. These are things such as establishing a construction site before heavy machinery moves in, early earthworks, office set up and starting construction of a temporary access platform within the Weiti River to enable the bridge construction. The sod was turned by Transport Minister Michael Wood at the O Mahurangi site compound, 1697 Ara Weiti Road, Stillwater. One of the road’s most staunch advocates, former local board member Janet Fitzgerald, was there to see it.

New principal for Ōrewa

Ōrewa Primary School has appointed a new principal, Claire Janes. She will take up the position in April, at the start of Term 2. Meanwhile the school will celebrate the contribution of outgoing principal Diane Lambert, who is retiring. Janes was formerly at Belmont Intermediate.

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Viewpoint Mark Mitchell, Whangaparāoa MP mark.mitchellmp@parliament.govt.nz

Fingers crossed for stress free Christmas I think we are all crossing our fingers and toes hoping summer is around the corner. I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas break with friends and family. It’s been great to see the summer season kick off with some special local events, like the inaugural Ōrewa Beach Brands fashion parade and more recently our Ōrewa Surf Sounds concert at the Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving Club. Our surf lifesavers will be working hard at keeping us safe in the water over what will no doubt be a very busy summer. They are currently getting requalified and training for the season ahead and I want to thank and acknowledge them for the incredibly important public service they provide, most of them being volunteers in our community. As proud Patron of the Ōrewa Surf Lifesaving club we are currently running a fundraising campaign to replace the existing club. It has been a solid, reliable clubhouse that has supported many rescues, but it is not fit for purpose anymore and being a coastal community, our surf clubs are a hub. We need to build a surf club that can meet the growing needs of the community.

This year I have had to deal with residents being negatively impacted by an increased gang presence. The most recent being intimidation and anti-social behaviour in a residential street in Ōrewa. I work closely with our local Police and want to acknowledge the recent Police operations to clamp down on and disrupt gang activity. I hold a regular meeting in my office with our councillors, local board members and local Police leadership. We make it clear that we are 100 percent behind and in support of our Police in taking a zero tolerance approach to gangs and the intimidation, violence, and misery that they peddle. We are focused and motivated on working together to make our communities safer.

Wishing you a happy & safe Christmas and great 2023. Best wishes, Mark Mitchell MP for Whangaparāoa 7 Tamariki Drive, Orewa 09 426 6215 mark.mitchellmp@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Mark Mitchell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

Once again, have a safe, happy, and relaxing summer break and use it as a chance to unwind after a busy and stressful year for many.

M Chr Meerrry Christmry ist a

My Ōrewa office is open until late in December, so please if you have any concerns that you would like to raise, I am always available. You can contact my office by phone, 09 426 6215, or the email address at the top of this column.

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When will Puhoi cheese shop reopen?

Uncertainty surrounds when – and if – the café and shop at Puhoi Valley Cheese will reopen. It closed in June with parent company Goodman Fielder citing Covid-19 related issues. The closure was described as temporary, but it will be at least until the end of this year. Goodman Fielder did not respond to questions over when a decision about reopening will be made. Communications and PR manager Ra Fletcher said only that people should check social media for updates. The company is still making cheese at the factory – it is only the café and store that are closed.

Summer insurance pays off

New data by AMI shows that insurance contents claims increase two to six times above the yearly average, between Boxing Day and late January. The data also reveals the top culprits for insurance mishaps in the run-up to Christmas, with hams, turkeys and trees analysed, as well as phones. AMI typically receives around 36 claims relating to Christmas trees Thank to all clients wehave havehad hadthe the each year, including damage caused while the tree is in transit, either on the road or being Thank youyou to all ourour clients we passed down from the attic, damage caused by pets, or stained carpets from liquid glitter. If privilege of working with this year. We look forward you’re heading to the beach, hold on to your phones, glasses and jewellery, as those are theprivilege of working with this year. We look forward to working with many youagain againinin2023! 2023! top items claimed for. Two percent of claims are for dentures lost at the beach. There are to working with many ofof you few claims relating to Christmas cooking, with just one claim for a Christmas ham, related to flooding while pre-soaking the ham. However, turkeys do feature, with four claims last Christmas, with half of those relating to ‘helpful children’. From New Year’s Eve and for Y U G O VIC H M a c k y s R e a l E s t a t e L t d . L i c e n s e d the week following, mobile phone claims soar, with average daily claim rates up 47 percent 021-067-1792 021-50-80-98 under the REA Act 2008 more than the week prior. 0 2 1 - 0 6 7 - 1 7 9 2 Mackys Real Estate Ltd. Licensed 021-50-80-98

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OurOpinion

Blair Cranston celebrates the end of the long row.

Laetitia Tan with the two books in her Awesome Superheroes series. The latest one has a Christmas theme.

The Hibiscus Matters team, from Leigh Cameron, Lorry McCarthy, Terry Moore and Angela Gallagher.

Merry Christmas to all

Epic row over

Christmas is saved in latest Superhero book A love of Christmas, dragons, and superheroes combine in the new book by Millwater’s Laetitia Tan. The book, for Primary School aged children, came out last month, just in time for Christmas, and is called The Awesome Superheroes Save Christmas. It’s the second book Laetitia has written. The 20-year-old, who has Down Syndrome, wrote it after receiving a positive response for The Awesome Superheroes – The Bank Robbery, which came out two years ago. This time, Laetitia’s brother Nathanael did the illustrations. It tells the tale of how some dragons that are stealing Christmas presents, are vanquished by the superheroes. The back page of the book describes Laetitia as a young lady who challenges perceptions, “creating gentle ripples to remind us that diversity is to be celebrated and it takes the talent and individuality of the many to create the whole, and enrich each other’s lives”. Laetitia already has a storyline in mind for her next book and says she loved writing this one. “Dragons are my favourite creatures and I love superheroes,” she says. “I also love Christmas, because I love having my family gather around.” The book is available from Never Ending Books in Ōrewa, at The Awesome Superheroes – The Bank Robbery facebook page, or by texting Laetitia’s mother, Valentina, on 021 627 802.

After 63 days straight, Real Estate agent Blair Cranston finally got off the rowing machine last month, having completed his epic 1892km row. His final effort was a 2km “celebratory” row at Coast Plaza on the morning of November 29. Blair completed the row to raise funds for Big Buddy – a charity that matches 7-14-year-old boys who don’t have a father in their lives, with men who can be a reliable mentor and friend.. Blair’s ‘Little Buddy’, Linus was there to see the finish. In total, $5000 was raised, including $701 contributed by Bayleys. “It was really good exposure for Big Buddy with increased interest from men considering becoming a big buddy,” Blair says, thanking everyone for their support.

the record

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It always amazes me how many uplifting stories come through at this time of year. We have Josh Chase, who found out last week that the life changing drug Trifekta is now to be fully funded by Government agency Pharmac. At the same time, the Ōrewa Guides were told that their den would not be sold, and, as we go to print, it looks as though the nation’s career firefighters, including those at Silverdale station, have a satisfactory resolution to a very long running fight for better resources, wages and health support. A year-long Lions fundraising campaign to provide a fully kitted out Paediatric Intensive Care room is almost at its goal too (see front page photo). And, in a smaller way, this newspaper has played its part. A story in our November 14 paper has made things a lot easier for the organisers of the free Christmas Day lunch in Ōrewa, bringing in generous donations of both time and money. And, as you will see on page 2, the community once again rose to the occasion and donated Christmas treats, staple foods and vouchers to our annual Buy Local Give Local appeal. It’s been a challenging year, and many people are learning to deal with a whole new level of stress. It is clear those stresses are still being felt by businesses with many still overworked and understaffed and costs rising. It’s so important to support local businesses. And that includes Hibiscus Matters! This newspaper relies on advertisers, and on support for our online content, for its existence. A sincere thank you therefore to all our supporters – advertisers, readers (on and offline!), columnists – everyone who helps our small team make this paper happen every fortnight. May you all have a fabulous Christmas and New Year. See you in 2023. Terry Moore

Bob Bicker of Gulf Harbour, a volunteer guide at Tiritiri Matangi, sent in this photo which was taken thanks to a little bit of magic. A volunteer was holding up a coaster with a picture of a fantail (piwakawaka) on it, in Tiri’s gift shop. “Just then a real one flew in and landed on it, and the photo was taken,” Bob says. “The magic of Tiritiri Matangi never ceases”

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Olivia Thomas at the winning desk. Below, Competition was fierce

‘Pimp my desk’ for Christmas Many of us like to make our workplaces a bit festive at this time of year – but Wallace & Stratton Real Estate in Ōrewa went the extra mile with their first ‘dress your desk’ competition. It’s fair to say, as you’d expect in an office of salespeople, that things got quite competitive. “It got a bit out of control, office manager Kim Liles admits.

A full-sized gingerbread house was built around two of the desks, another had a working train set and in the “snowy area” there was a giant inflatable snowman and a festive fish tank.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of our clients, thank you for your continued support this year, and we look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.

More FM and Destination Ōrewa Beach were called in to judge, and the bottle of bubbly went to Olivia Thomas and Tony Richen’s ‘Santa’s workshop’, complete with letters to Santa and a model train.

We will be closing December 23 and re-opening January 9, 2023.

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Work has ceased on construction of a 21unit development on Red Beach Road.

East Coast Heights Residential Development

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Boundary lines are indicative only

A new commercial building is going up on East Coast Road, Silverdale.

New workplaces in Silverdale Significant headwinds in the residential market caused the company to cease work and put the site up for sale recently.

Headwinds halt Red Beach development The developer of townhouses on the corner of Red Beach and Albatross Roads says “significant headwinds in the residential market” caused the company to cease work and put the site up for sale recently.

The site was the former location of Faithfull Funeral Services. New development company, Red Beach 1, got resource consent nine months ago to build 21 two-storey homes at 33 Red Beach Road. They also purchased 4 Albatross

Road, and obtained consent in September to build a further eight dwellings on that site. Earthworks got underway soon after the first consent was granted, but recently stopped and the For Sale sign went up on the site. Red Beach 1 co-director, Tom Anderson, says the well-publicised challenges in the marketplace resulted in “a commercial decision about the site”. “We need to balance our commercial

position with our original intentions for developing this site, in the context of the current market,” Anderson says. Those who pre-purchased units off the plans have been notified and their deposits returned, he says. Currently the site is being marketed by Bayleys, with options to buy it as is, or to purchase the completed, titled development upon completion of full subdivision works by the vendor.

A total of 21 new commercial units are planned for the site at the corner of East Coast Road and Forge Road in Silverdale. The complex, named ShedQuarters, went on the market last month. It is being marketed by Bayleys and described as warehouse/office workspaces in a prime location. Bayleys salesperson Christopher Moore says permissive light industrial zoning allows for a broad range of business activities in the spaces, including light manufacturing and production, storage, distribution, transport and logistics. He says the Silverdale industrial area is one of the fastest growing in NZ, with low vacancy rates and strong demand for commercial and industrial properties. The complex is being developed by Urban Village. Matvin Group will project manage and construct ShedQuarters. The development is expected to be completed by the second quarter of next year.

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Residents take action to prevent parking After getting no satisfaction from Auckland Transport, a group of residents took matters into their own hands to prevent cars parking on a piece of public land by the river on Wade River Road, near Weiti Boating Club.

They have placed barriers at the edge of the grass, saying parking there in winter was making a serious subsidence problem on the road, where it runs alongside the river, worse. At present it is unclear whether the land in question is a reserve or berm, and whether responsibility for it lies with Auckland Transport (AT) or Auckland Council. Fairhaven Walk resident Riccie de Brouwer says the problem of subsidence at the water’s edge has been raised with AT many times over a period of many years. She says parking on the grass adds to the problem – when people park there with trailers to launch boats, the grass ends up a “muddy mess”, contributing to erosion. “We fear the road could collapse, and AT agree it needs work, but nothing has

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been done,” she says. “This winter AT said they would probably put bollards there to prevent parking, but couldn’t say when. I told an AT representative that the community would put up a barrier in the meantime, and was told ‘that’s fine’. So we went ahead and laid some mooring poles, provided by Weiti Boating Club, there.” The poles have prevented parking on the grassed area, but not all residents are happy about it.

Ken Jerard says he is concerned that the poles are a danger where they have been placed, as well as preventing anyone from launching kayaks or paddleboards and parking there. “Some residents say people park up there and are disruptive, but that is a police matter,” Jerard says. “They are punishing a few good people because of some that do the wrong thing.” He says it can be difficult to find parking by the boat club, due to a sign which says ‘Park at your Own Risk’, so the grassed area was often used as an alternative to the

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public carpark. AT passed Jerard’s complaint on to Auckland Council, telling him that the property is Council owned, and Council area operations manager, Kris Bird, confirms it is now investigating the matter. Bird says Council received numerous requests from the community about preventing car parking on the berms and reserves on Wade River Road near Weiti Boating Club. “During the winter, these areas become very wet and vehicles were getting stuck, causing significant damage,” he says. “Local residents concerned about launching their boats can still access the river along Wade River Road and via the boat ramps on Wade River Road and the Weiti Boating Club.” The Fairhaven Walk residents plan to approach the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, hoping members can assist with the subsidence issue. Weiti Boating Club did not wish to comment.

Service location still sought Auckland Council services, and local board meetings, are currently all based at the Ōrewa Service Centre in Centreway Road. The building at 50 Centreway Road was sold by Council in 2020 and Council has since been leasing meeting and counter space in there from owner, Sustainable Property Investments. Where the meetings and services will move to is yet to be ascertained, although the current least expires in six months’ time. Earlier this year, Council staff told local board members that negotiations were underway to use an alternative building on the same site, known as the Tasman Building; saying that another alternative would be to find something else within the local board area. Last month Council’s head of corporate property, Rod Aitken, told the paper that Council is still reviewing requirements and options for a facility to replace the Ōrewa Service Centre. “We are scheduled to conclude a full options analysis by the end of March and will then engage with the local board before planning and delivering a new facility,” Aitken said.

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Fairway changes underway A year after the owner of Gulf Harbour Marina, Covington Group Holdings, purchased Fairway Bay Marina (HM December 6, 2021), it has added 32 berths, bringing the total number of berths at Fairway Bay to 85. The new berths were officially opened on December 9. Fairway Bay Marina manager, Mark Seabrook, says the extension is part of plans “to transform the marina into a world class facility that will bring vibrancy and life into the local area”. The expansion includes muti-hull berths up to 20m long. Seabrook says these vessels are gaining popularity worldwide, yet berths designed for them are rare in NZ.

Local restaurant Yogis has closed and work has begun to refurbish the building it was in and the surrounding area. Another business that was based at Fairway Bay, The Kitchen Door, has relocated to Gulf Harbour Marina. Seabrook says the company is looking for a suitable operator to establish a food and beverage operation in the marina building once work is complete. “We are in the process of creating future plans for the land surrounding Fairway Bay Marina, which includes other amenities for locals to enjoy,” Seabrook says. He declined to disclose how much money is being invested in the work at Fairway Bay.

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Glen Leslie

Longevity Wellness Centre

unctional medicine coach Glen Leslie and his wife Kristin, a chronic diseasehealth coach and smoking cessation practitioner, recently opened Longevity Wellness Centre in Whangaparāoa Road to provide services that they feel have been lacking on the Coast. Glen found his way into the area of wellness around 15 years ago, after his own health was improved by Bowen Therapy. Glen went on to study Bowen Therapy and he also holds diplomas in herbalism and nutrition. Longevity Wellness Centre is packed with therapeutic options including FarInfrared saunas, floatation therapy tanks, a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, exercisewith-oxygen-therapy (EWOT) stations, an ozone steam sauna and negative ion

machine and cold water therapy tubs. Even the shower heads have special qualities to help people relax and rejuvenate. Despite all of this equipment, the first thing you notice on entering the centre is walls covered in artworks. Glen developed a love of art back in the days when he had a sideline as a picture framer. He says looking at art is also therapeutic, and he couldn’t resist adding the small gallery and exhibition space to his business. The business has only been open a short time, but Glen says he and his wife Kristin, who is a nurse, are looking forward to helping people with therapies that Glen says can benefit anyone from serious athletes to the elderly. “My job is to help people help themselves by treating the person, not the disease,” he says.

Mainsail Bar & Bistro

estaurant owner and chef Lucky Singh has set his sights on creating a hub to draw people into Gulf Harbour, by the canal, for delicious food and live music. His new bar and bistro, Mainsail, is located by the water and has a big outdoor area as well as a fully refurbished interior and large bar. Lucky has been running his Indian restaurant, Bombay to Goa, in Gulf Harbour since 2019, establishing a strong following there. The same Indian menu will be on offer at Mainsail, alongside Kiwi favourites such as pizza, steak, fish and chips, roasts and lamb shanks. Originally from the north of India, Lucky has lived in NZ, and been a chef, for 22 years. He

Lucky Singh

says the rich, complex flavours of northern Indian cuisine are created with careful use of spices, not necessarily hot chilli. Initially Lucky will do the cooking at Mainsail, until he can find a chef with the right skills and experience to take over. Two of his four children are also helping in the restaurant. He says even after all his years in hospitality, it still makes him happy when customers enjoy their food and have a good night at his restaurant. Adding live music to the mix on weekends will create an atmosphere right in the centre of Gulf Harbour, he says. “I want to thank the community which has supported me at Bombay to Goa, and welcome them to my new place,” Lucky

says.

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Inspirational teacher farewelled Rachel Cheal’s love of exercise and empathy for older people came together when the former flight attendant began teaching an exercise class for seniors in Ōrewa 15 years ago.

The classes in Ōrewa Community Hall proved very popular – several of the group have been coming regularly since day one. Participants are mostly women and range from 60-80 years old.

“Totally Dependable”

“For some, it’s the highlight of their week,” Betsy says. “There’s a lot of fun, Rachel’s bubbly enthusiasm and jokes.” The social aspect is also key with many sharing coffees and time together outside the class. “It’s the best group of ladies, and men, they are all so adorable,” Rachel says. “We all look after each other.” Rachel was diagnosed with Alzheimers 18 months ago, at the age of 50, and was recently forced to give up taking the class.

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Betsy Lander, who has been attending the class for eight years and also does the admin for the group, says Rachel makes it fun.

The service was so quick and easy and the guys were really friendly. It was fantastic! Thanks. - Alex Procuta Rachel Cheal takes her final class.

Her final class, on December 8, was a celebration and thank you from everyone she has taught over the years. A friend of Rachel’s, Julie Teixeira, is taking over the class and Rachel herself hopes to come along when she can and continue giving them all encouragement while taking part herself.

Stanmore Bay’s Josh Chase says he is “absolutely over the moon” at the recent announcement that Pharmac will fund the drug Trikafta. Josh was born with cystic fibrosis (CF) and Trikafta has been shown to dramatically improve the lives of CF sufferers by clearing much of the mucus that clogs their lungs and digestive system. Josh says the announcement that the drug will be funded means a two year fight, and a lot of fundraising effort are finally over. He recently started on a two-year long trial of the drug, which he says has been life changing (HM November 28). “Now I have peace of mind that when the trial ends, I can get Trikafta prescribed,” he says. He says the change in his health has been dramatic in a short time. “I am over the moon for others being able to experience how freeing it is, especially children aged six and over – they may experience a life without struggle – I can’t even put into words how I feel about that. It’s life changing.”

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Teacher leaves “2nd home” When he began work at Ōrewa College as a new teacher in 1978, Rex Trebilco had no idea that he would still be there more than 40 years later.

The roll at the time was around 400-500, and he joined a small, tightly knit group of teachers who needed to be multi-taskers – as well as teaching biology and science, Rex coached rugby and was in charge of athletics and boys’ cricket.

Rex Trebilco

In 1982 the school began offering horticulture and Rex and the woodwork teacher built greenhouses and raised beds. Rex was happy to add horticulture to the mix and taught it alongside his other subjects for 30 years, until lack of student interest saw the end of the course – something he describes as “very disappointing”.

“The bottom line is that we are there to help students take whatever their next step may be. It was always important to me that students do well in exams.” Deciding to retire was not easy, having spent two-thirds of his life at the school. “I never intended to stay that long, but I’m glad I did. I’ve worked with some amazingly talented and dedicated people and the stability of it has really helped over the years. Rex has lived on the Coast since 1980, built a home in Red Beach and raised his children here. He loves the area and will remain here in retirement. “I’m not sure what the next few years hold – the process of leaving is hard, but you don’t want to go on too long.”

Rex will retire at the end of this term, breaking a connection with the college that spans 45 years. In that time, he has seen a lot of change, from an increasing reliance on the internet rather than text books, to enormous growth – the current roll is 1990. He found the transition to digital learning a massive challenge, but says he adapted to it. Students have also changed, he says. “There is a lack of personal discipline and respect for others, which the school is continually working hard to address,” Rex says.

Many farewells

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Having said that, he says he has had few disciplinary issues in his classes – “I use a bit of ‘old school’ firmness, and I care about the way the kids feel,” he says. “I still have a rapport with students, even though I’m an old fella, and a lot of ex-pupils have stayed in touch over the years.”

In total, 7 teachers are retiring from Ōrewa College this term, with over 200 years’ of service to the school in total. The others leaving are: Sorrel O’Leary, Teacher in Charge of Spanish, 21 years. Sue McCarthny, Deputy Principal, 23 years. Meryl Howell, Head of English Department, 22 years. Bruce Hume, Head of Science Department, 37 years. Gavin Fitzhenry, Second in charge of English Department, 22 years. Dianne Sinclair, • Prices to suitTeacher, all budgets Dean and Textiles 37 years

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Red Beach teachers (and friends) retiring this term, from left, Denise O’Reilly, Camille Cornelius and Helen Williams.

Fond farewells at Red Beach Three of Red Beach School’s most longserving teachers are retiring this term – collectively they devoted almost 80 years of effort to the school. What all of them will remember most fondly is the many children they have taught. Camille has kept class photos from all her 27 years at the school, along with notes from the children and cards from parents. Some ex-pupils stop them while out shopping in places like the supermarket or Bunnings to say ‘hi’. “It’s lovely that they remember you – just as we remember them,” Denise says. “It’s good to see how they are doing now.” They agree that the highlights of a long teaching career are seeing students make progress with learning. Denise calls it ‘the aha moment’ – “when a light goes on and the penny drops”. There are many fond memories, but they also have some advice for today’s beginning teachers – “they need to know that you do it

for the love, not the money,” Camille says. Helen says the key is to be flexible – it’s not a 9am-3pm job, and not 40 weeks a year. “There’s a lot of extra time involved,” she says. “A teacher’s job is to put the joy into learning,” Denise says. “My passion is for learning, not teaching. The difference is that you are there to help kids learn, not to teach them something. They don’t remember the maths equation – it’s the fun stuff that stays with them.” The three teachers agree that kids are kids, but the issues they face are changing. Lockdown was particularly hard, trying to stay one step ahead while teaching online. “There was a lot of ‘just in time’ learning,” Camille says. While they are all looking forward to retirement, it will be a wrench to leave the school community behind. “I will miss all the people involved in a school – teaching and admin staff, outside agencies, kids and parents,” Helen says.

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What kind of headache is it? I quite like headaches. Not personally, of course, nor for the unfortunate patients who suffer from them – but diagnostically. Troublesome and painful as they are, they generally fall into four categories and have clear treatment options. (For this article I won’t comment on acute headaches due to “flu” and medical emergencies such as meningitis and cerebral haemorrhage, except to say that if a headache is sudden onset and unusual for you, medical advice should be sought without delay). • Tension headache: Common parlance refers to some person or situation as a “real headache”. Tension headache typically is band-like around the head, gets worse as the day goes on and is clearly related to stressful circumstances. It tends to be dull and persistent and tiring. • Migraine: Classical migraines start with an “aura”, usually a patch of shimmery vision affecting both eyes but sometimes a sensory disturbance like pins and needles or occasionally speech disturbance. Auras last 20 minutes or so, and then the headache comes, usually one-sided, throbbing and frequently associated with nausea/vomiting and light sensitivity. The affected person often has to lie down in a darkened room until the migraine passes, usually within 24 hours. Less severe manifestations may just have the visual disturbance and a dull headache afterwards. There is an interesting condition called “footballer’s migraine”, with typical symptoms but occurring after a head knock and often mistaken for concussion. Severe and persistent migraine can be a very debilitating condition, but fortunately we

have made great strides in treatment and prevention. When I started in general practice one was often called after hours to severe migraine sufferers for whom the only relief was pethidine injections, with their attendant risks of dependence. These days this is hardly ever required. There are also migraines that don’t play by the rules, sometimes having odd neurological symptoms or missing out the aura altogether. It pays to keep an open mind and consider all options. • Neckrelated headaches: Neck dysfunction is a potent cause of headaches in all ages, but often underdiagnosed because patients don’t realise that their neck has become tight and tender because of postural strains. I see this all the time now with device and computer use, in young people in particular. And in older people the neck can become arthritic, with progressive stiffness, nerve irritation and muscle tension. • Finally, there is a miscellaneous group with interesting names like cluster, icepick and thunderclap headache. I even heard of a new one the other day – “hypnic” headache which wakes the sufferer from sleep. Sometimes these types of headaches can get mixed up with each other and it is worth a session with your GP to clarify what is going on. Misdiagnosis or overtreatment can lead to a difficult complication called “chronic daily headache” where medication becomes less effective and the headaches more debilitating over time. So it pays to share your headache with your doctor! Have a headache free Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Hockey awards dedicated volunteers Extra help for employees at CAB Hibiscus Hockey Trust (HHT) Trustees recently awarded its first Community Award.

HHT chair Merv Huxford says the Trust decided to present an award, whenever it is warranted, to someone who makes a valuable voluntary contribution to the Millwater hockey facilities purpose – youth sport in general and hockey in particular. The inaugural plaque was presented to Ian and Michelle Greenwood of Ōrewa recently. An engineer by profession, Ian has been instrumental in overseeing the installation of some of the final stages of the hockey’s Millwater facility development, such as the electronic security cameras and swipe cards – he’s also been doing irrigation ‘troubleshooting’. Meanwhile, Michelle been voluntarily administering the booking and use of HHT facilities since 2018, and the family, including son Ethan, have also been involved in the voluntary construction of dugouts and sheds at the site, as well as irrigation and lighting maintenance. Ethan is at Ōrewa College and, for the past five years, Ian and Michelle have been managers for the college’s First XI boys hockey team. This season when one of the North Harbour Representative U18 sides was suddenly without a manager at a tournament due to Covid-19, Ian and Michelle promptly answered the call. Earlier in the year, Ian was appointed a Trustee of Harbour

Ian and Michelle Greenwood’s hard work for Hibiscus Hockey has earned them an award.

Some of the more complex workplace issues such as discrimination, harassment, pay problems or unjustified dismissal are the focus for a new Employment Clinic at the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) in Ōrewa. Branch manager Tanya Gouws says an increasing number of problems like this have been raised with CAB volunteer interviewers in recent times. Initially, these matters should be discussed with a CAB volunteer interviewer, who may then refer the person onto the Employment Clinic. The free clinic (by appointment only) is held on Thursday mornings. It is run by a person trained in employment dispute resolution. Appointments can be in person, by phone or Zoom. Gouws says the kind of assistance that can be provided are things like preparing to take a personal grievance claim, preparing for a disciplinary meeting or mediation. Hibiscus Coast CAB can be contacted by phoning 09 426 5338 or call into 40 Ōrewa Square, Ōrewa.

Hockey Trust by the North Harbour Hockey Association (NHHA) and Michelle was a finalist in this year’s NHHA Administrator of the Year Award.

The two NZ Dotterel chicks hatched recently on Manly Beach are being watched over by a team of dedicated bird enthusiasts. The team were excited to see the first chick hatched on November 25, and its sibling two days later. Dotterel minder Derek Kelsey says they quickly grew more confident and look for food quite far from the nest. A second area of the beach, where the chicks spend time, has been roped off and signs erected to make the public aware, especially those walking dogs. At four weeks old, dotterel experts will very gently catch the chicks and put a band on their legs to identify them. It will be 2-3 weeks after that before they are big enough to fly. As Hibiscus Matters goes to print, there is no sign of a chick hatching at the other end of the beach, where they nested on the front lawns of local homes (HM November 28). Anyone who has an hour to spare can sign on to do a shift keeping an eye on the chicks, via the Big Manly Dotterels Facebook page.

Photo, Di Waring

On Saturday 12 November the Hibiscus Coast Boating Club held their second Queen of the Coast Ladies Fishing Competition. More than 100 women competed, and there was plenty of fun, banter and rivalry as well as some impressive fish weighed in. Jo Ollard, pictured, was crowned Queen of the Coast with her 8.115kg snapper, Donnelle Schimanski was second with a 7.135kg snapper and Margo Teuruaa with a 7.100kg snapper.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

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December 2022 – Your essential property guide from Dairy Flat to Waipu

Welcome home Properties from: Bayleys | Donna Wyllie Real Estate | Fletcher Living | Ray White | RE/MAX Realty

this is living

Red Beach

Find your new home at Red Beach today Modern new homes, ready now

Visit our website or scan QR code to view homes fletcherliving.co.nz

A Local Matters publication. Distribution - 40,000 copies. Advertising enquiries: Mahurangi 09 425 9068 or Hibiscus 09 427 8188

WelcomeHome

December 2022

WelcomeHome

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED

Warkworth 19 Westpark Glen

Warkworth 70 Blue Gum Drive

Westpark Glen Winner

An easy-care brick and cedar family home on approximately 691sqm featuring spacious living areas with both the dining and master bedroom opening out to a large deck with views over landscaped gardens. Very large double garage, workshop, and laundry area downstairs, with internal access. DVS and a heat pump. Located for easy access to the safe and growing Warkworth Township, schools, and the new Matakana Link Road.

Price by Negotiation View by appointment Fin Higgins 021 660 558 fin.higgins@bayleys.co.nz Anthony Shaw 021 234 9797 anthony.shaw@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

Two homes, one roof

2,617sqm

Are you looking to house yourselves, and also parents, extended family or dependants? Left wingtwo bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen/dining/lounge opening to deck, parking and smart laundry nook. Right wingtwo bedrooms, open plan kitchen (permitted as breakfast bar) /dining/living opening outdoors, bathroom, guest toilet, office nook, double garage, media room/rumpus.

Asking Price $1,495,000 View by appointment Avalon Sanders 021 230 9515 avalon.sanders@bayleys.co.nz James Sanders 021 135 0740 james.sanders@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

Owners now invite all offers to be presented.

bayleys.co.nz/1203250

bayleys.co.nz/1203306

NEW LISTING

Snells Beach 237 Mahurangi East Road

Sandspit/Brick Bay 8 Kotare Place

Sunny Starter in Snells Beach

822sqm

Located back from the road with sea views, this tidy three bed home is a perfect first home or investment property. Features include updated carpet, fresh paint, well kept gardens and plenty of off-street parking as well as a single internal garage. The large open plan living is cosy in the winter with the wood burner and two ceiling fans keep things cool in the summer. The layout works as a three bed home or there is the option of the third room as a second lounge if preferred. It backs onto one of the tracks to the beach and is across the road from the village.

Asking Price $875,000 View by appointment Dahnie Burton 021 628 327 dahnie.burton@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/1203303

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

Position and prestige

Positioned on 7,551sqm along the elevated ridge line with wide sweeping views. Watch the coming and going of the boats from Sandspit Marina as they head out for a day on the pristine waters while you relax on one of the generous tiled outdoor areas.

Asking Price $3,995,000 View by appointment Dahnie Burton 021 628 327 dahnie.burton@bayleys.co.nz Victoria Turner 021 795 099 v.turner@bayleys.co.nz

This is a grand and elegant updated home offering unsurpassed views from both levels and generous living spaces that will call out to those who love to entertain. With four double bedrooms all enjoying the luxury of a high end ensuite, your guests may well prove difficult to move on!

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1223037

bayleys.co.nz

WelcomeHome

December 2022

WelcomeHome

December 2022

Altogether, Real Dreams, Real Homes, Real People

Arkles Bay 40 Ferry Road

David Robins 021 751 762 david.robins@bayleys.co.nz

Leigh Robins 0274 399 206 leigh.robins@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

Artist’s impression

Resource consent approved - 62% now sold! 64 Matakana Valley Road, Matakana Don’t miss your final opportunity to secure your investment in The Workshops, Matakana. With resource consent now approved, drawings and building consents are being finalised on a timeline to commence construction from Q2 (April to June) 2023. Matakana continues to boom with numerous housing developments, a growing population, rapidly increasing visitor numbers post-covid, and the pending completion of the northern motorway extension and Matakana Link Road. The Workshops development is perfectly positioned to take advantage of this growth, whether for your own business operations or as a tenanted commercial investment. Only 38% of the sites remain on the market, so don’t delay. This is the last remaining parcel of undeveloped light industrial land in Matakana’s growing environment - truly a one-off opportunity not to be missed.

Priced from $750,000 + GST Chris Blair 021 314 412 chris.blair@bayleys.co.nz Henry Napier 021 024 64785 henry.napier@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Please contact Chris Blair or Henry Napier for more information.

bayleys.co.nz/1270310

December 2022

WelcomeHome

Spectacular sections. Selling now! An enviable location to live, perched elegantly above the northern edge of Warkworth and just 45 minutes from the Auckland CBD, you’ll find Warkworth Ridge. These 53 hectares of rolling hills and stunning views will be home to a collection of carefully considered sections that combine the things that matter most — connection, nature, and wellbeing. Warkworth Ridge is created with harmony in mind, expect greenery and open spaces, attractive street appeal and house sites positioned for sunshine and rural views. Leading edge urban design will complete the picture of a neighbourhood with its own parks, cycleways, footpaths, community centre, café, and playground.

Living a life of plenty, surrounded by nature.

Artistic Impression

Anthony Shaw 021 234 9797 anthony.shaw@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

WelcomeHome

Joneen Smith 021 464 557 joneen.smith@bayleys.co.nz

Sales Suite Open 11am-2pm Wed-Sun 2 Clayden Rd, Warkworth

www.warkworthridge.co.nz December 2022

feature.shop local Xmas

Bright lights of Christmas Debbie and Craig Hogan of Millwater have been decorating their home each Christmas, ever since their children (now adults) were young. That includes the outside of the house, and each year the display gets bigger and better. “It’s such a great time of year – it’s family time,” Debbie says. Last year in lockdown Debbie and the family all got busy and created a model 3D Christmas village, carving pieces out of polystyrene, painting them and adding little buildings and figurines that Debbie had collected over the years. It helped to have a couple of architects in the family. There is plenty of action – including a model train that chuffs its way across the front of the display – and there are several Santa figures and a Grinch to find. It attracted a lot of attention when it went up last Christmas and this year it has been extended with a carnival scene. The village takes up the front of the Hogan’s garage and this Christmas, every evening from December 1, it is opened up so that the community can enjoy it. There is also a life sized sleigh out the front of the house, made by Craig last Christmas so that people could sit in it and take a festive photo – this was because sitting on Santa’s knee was not possible because of Covid-19 restrictions. This year, people admiring the display can leave a donation for the SPCA. The display is at 6 Arbors Track, Millwater.

Above, Minnie Hogan in the sleigh made by Craig. Right, The Hogan family – Debbie, pictured, husband Craig and their children – created a 3D Christmas village for the community to enjoy.

Lighting up the Coast

There are more Coasties lighting up their homes at Christmas every year. Here are some to look out for: • Christmas lights and snow machine at Thirty Nine Lights in Clea View, Gulf Harbour, pictured above (lights on 7pm-11pm every night until Christmas) • Waterside Crescent, Gulf Harbour – a row of five townhouses beautifully lit. • Vista Motu in Red Beach. A street full of lights. • Bridal Place, Millwater’s street of lights. • 6 Arbors Track, Millwater (see story this page)

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

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New Coastie Ed Amon

edamonnz@gmail.com

It’s a wonderful time of the year It is Christmas time. It is the best time of year. I am not Christian, but one does not have to believe in the Trinity to celebrate. For me this time of year is about family and food. My whole family is in Pakistan, so Christmas is about my New Zealand family, the relationships I have developed since I moved to Aotearoa in 2010. Through time I have turned into a typical New Zealander. I habitually voice my disdain when the commercial aspects of Christmas start off in October, but I secretly love it. I overtly display my dislike of songs by Wham and Mariah Carey, but I always find myself humming “all I want for Christmas is you” while doing the chores. I resent the fact that John has never worn the cheery pair of socks that I got him for Secret Santa last year. I am furious that nobody followed the $20 limit for buying Secret Santa presents. Everyone was a hero, and I was the schmuck who stuck to the rules and bought socks. I got the best socks. Twenty dollars is a lot of money for socks, I wanted the best for John while sticking to the rules. Still, I am looking forward to this year’s Secret Santa. My days are spent thinking about how to stick to the Secret Santa rules and be the hero to Jules. “Oh my god, oh my god, this is the best gift I have ever received. You are my hero, Ed” is the scene I daydream about. This is the year I will be the hero of the Christmas party. Like everyone, I am looking forward to the Christmas lunch. It is not a usual Kiwi Christmas lunch with roast meats, vegetables,

trifles, drunk uncles, backyard cricket and afternoon naps. Every year, my wife and I go to an Indian friend of ours and have lunch with her family. She puts on a feast that is a mixture of typical north Indian and Bengali dishes. In characteristic South Asian fashion, I get love-bullied to eat twice the amount of my body weight and I am not a light fella. My friend’s dad (everybody calls him Uncle) acts like he is in charge of the proceedings, but of course, the real conductor of this chaotic orchestra is my friend. There are shouting matches, spilled food, tears, and laughter. Most of my time is spent trying to hide from Uncle who is constantly trying to get me to drink like it is the last Christmas on earth. The feast goes till the late hours of the night culminating in some very bad home karaoke with Bollywood songs.

I am furious that nobody followed the $20 limit ... and I was the schmuck who stuck to the rules and bought socks. My second home in Aotearoa has become as important to me as my first home in Pakistan. I have grown new roots here and this is my home now. Hence, the answer to the question, where are you from, can be Pakistan and New Zealand. Christmas is one of many building blocks of these new roots. It is the best time of year.

BOOK HEAVEN Whangaparāoa Methodist Church

Pre-Loved Books and puzzles

Donations of books welcomed Monday-Saturday: 10am-4pm 76 Red Beach Rd, Red Beach | phone 426 5615

Postcards to Santa

Kids, post your wish list to Santa and be in to WIN* a $500 gift card! Pick up your postcard in store.

a very

coastie Christmas

Extended Hours Our Centre will be open longer during December. See our website for extended shopping hours.

Gift Wrapping The Salvation Army will be at the Centre wrapping your gifts from Thursday 15 December.

Be in to Win!* 3 x $150 gift cards to be WON!* See in store for details.

61 Silverdale Street, Silverdale | silverdalecentre.co.nz * Terms and conditions apply. See our website for more detail.

| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

feature.shop local

Stocking fillers – SHOP LOCAL

Last minute Christmas gifts to find? Save time and petrol and support local businesses. Superb sushi Looks pretty and tastes great – festive sushi platters from Booboo Sushi in Ōrewa start from $55.

Beautiful recycling

Borneo bags, $59 from Coconut Gallery, Ōrewa are handwoven of pallet strapping in Borneo. A fair trade product.

Good planning

A planner with a practical purpose, but also a sense of humour. Designed to hold all that important info that your nearest and dearest need after your death, it’s a unique gift. Priced at $39.99 from Manly Unichem.

Christmas c

andles Wax candle s without th e melting! B operated LE att D $26 each fr lights inside. Priced a ery om Island, t $22Ōrewa. There are many bargain stocking fillers to be found at local charity shops – including the newly relocated Hospice shop in Ōrewa. Also check out local markets, like the one in Silverdale Village, for unique and affordable gift ideas.

Brighten Christmas and the coming year – plants of all sizes, colours and shapes plus pots and accessories at Kings Plant Barn in Silverdale

Fish for a compliment

For the fisher in your life – this coir Snapper doormat from Manly Unichem, $28.99

Estuary Arts Centre’s annual Cash and Carry Art Sale is open now. Hundreds of artworks to suit all tastes at the centre in Ōrewa.

Cellar Door Holiday Hours Mon 19th - Sat 24th Dec Sun 25th Dec Mon 26th Dec Tues 27th - Sat 31st Dec Sun 1st Jan Mon 2nd Jan Tues 3rd Jan Wed 4th Jan

OPEN CLOSED CLOSED OPEN CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED OPEN

From 4th of Jan, we’re back to our normal opening hours. Wednesday - Monday 11am - 4pm

feature.shop local

SUMMER IS CALLING Take a trip to the local vineyard. Catch up with friends and family at our cellar door. Wine tasting and gourmet platters available. CELLAR DOOR OPEN 11am - 4pm 568 Matakana Rd, Matakana Book online: www.matakanaestate.co.nz or Phone: 0800 568 686

December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

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

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MillwaterDental Dental Millwater

Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family

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Santa gets his Zumba on at Millwater Dental Very Coastie Christmas Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family

Santa doing Zumba was just one of the unexpected attractions at the Very Coastie Christmas, held on the grounds of Whangaparāoa College on Sunday, December 4.

The event was organised by the Future Whangaparāoa and Whangaparāoa Hub Community Trusts to celebrate Christmas. It included fun activities, entertainment and a chance to shop across 40 plus market stalls.

Jason Dr Dr Lillian Hsu Wang DrDrDr Jason Ella Wang Several hundred people attended. Lillian Dr Jason NgNgNg Ella Wang HsuHsuEllaElla Jason Ng DrDrLillian Wang Lillian Hsu

son Ng

Dr Lillian Hsu

Ella Wang

We offer Invisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative Coordinator and trustee, John Davies says We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmeticCovid-19 meant they had not been able We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic anddental cosmetic dental care. We also offer free routine care, we offeroffer free dental treatmenttreatment for dental care, wealso also free dental care, we also offer free dental treatment for for to hold the event last year, and its long visaligndental Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic dental treatment for school high school students up tohigh the age of 18students years high school students up to the age of 18 years shadow impacted performers and stall high school students up to the age of 18 years (years 9-13) up to the age of 18 years old. ntal care, we also offer free dental treatment for

Come meet the team at www.millwaterdental.co.nz Come meet the team www.millwaterdental.co.nz Call now to arrange anat: appointment on (09) 972 1518

holders at this event with last minute drop outs needed for isolation reasons, but those on site had a great time with each other. Community groups such as Coastguard, Forest & Bird and Neighbourhood Support were on hand to offer visitors insights into how they help, Coast Youth Community Trust held a sausage sizzle and Fire & Emergency provided Santa with a motorised sleigh from where he had parked the sleigh at Coast Plaza. Santa was on fine form, joining a Zumba class on stage and delivering gifts to tamariki and rangatahi across the event. “It was a great way to welcome Christmas and summer on a beautifully fine day,” John says.

ighCome school students up to www.millwaterdental.co.nz the of 18 years meet team at age www.millwaterdental.co.nz Come meet the the team at

or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz Call now totoat arrange anappointment appointment on 1518 Call arrange on 972(09) 1518972 eet team www.millwaterdental.co.nz Callthe now tonow arrange an an appointment on09(09) 972 1518

email: reception@millwaterdental.co.nz reception@millwaterdental.co.nz ororemail or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz

to arrange an appointment on (09) 972 1518 email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz the Merry Christmas from nchor. team at the Ship & A olidays h y p p a h u o y h is w e W ing & look forward to serv you in the New Year! Ōrewa and Whangaparāoa College Hibiscus Tuakana students at the Coastie event.

Silverdale Village Market 2 Bakehouse Lane, Orewa | 11am till late TheShipAnchorRestaurantAndBar Ph 09 426 1539 | shipanchororewa.com www.shipanchororewa.com 28

| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

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

feature.shop local

Digging deep – Big Dig turns 40 Ōrewa Lions are thinking back to the 1980s for inspiration as they put together their 40th Big Dig fundraiser. The event is a beach treasure hunt, which sees hundreds of children dig in the sand on Ōrewa Beach for ice-block sticks which they then swap for prizes such as toys, puzzles and games. Ōrewa Lions volunteers put a lot of work into running The Big Dig and all funds raised go back into the community. This year the HBC Youth Centre is the beneficiary. The 2022 event was cancelled because of Covid-19 restrictions, making January 14, 2023 the 40th time the Big Dig has been held. Ōrewa

The last Big Dig was in 2021 and Ōrewa Lions hope it will be bigger and better than ever for its 40th anniversary.

Lions project director Helen Roderick says with times tough out there, they have reduced the entry price to $5 for both Under and Over 5-years-of-age categories so that as many children as possible can join the fun. As well as the digging itself, there will be a range of family entertainment on offer including rides, lucky dips, raffles, sack races and more. Ice cream and other food trucks will be on site, and Lions will run a sausage sizzle. The Big Dig is on Saturday, January 14 (wet day, 15th) on Ōrewa Beach by the surf club. Ticket sales start 8.30am and Under 5-year-olds dig at 9.30am and Over 5s at 10am.

Rodders rev it up again on Coast After a more low-key event last summer, the Hibiscus Rodders are looking forward to being back at full strength with the Hibiscus Rodders Beach Festival, which is on Auckland Anniversary weekend, January 27-29, in Ōrewa.

cruise. Starting at 8pm, the cars will cruise the length of Ōrewa Boulevard. Sit at your favourite restaurant and watch them pass.

Once again, it is raising funds to support the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.

On Saturday there will be entertainment on Ōrewa Reserve, including the Miss Hibiscus Vintage competition, live performances and an auction with proceeds to the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.

Show coordinator Sharon Morris says they are keeping it simple this year. And there are plenty of opportunities for the public to admire the cars and get involved.

At 3.30pm the cars will leave Ōrewa in convoy, led by a cavalcade of motorbikes. They are heading to Puhoi pub for competitions such as What’s under your Hood.

The first chance to check out all those polished to perfection hot rods is at Friday Food Truck night on Ōrewa Reserve, by the surf club.

On Sunday all the hot rods will line Ōrewa Boulevard for the show and shine. The grand prize giving will also be held for the major prize of a Gold Coast Getaway.

That same night sees the first Shot in the Dark

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BOXING DAY BED SALE

This year Food Truck Friday on Anniversary Weekend will mean you can grab dinner and check out hot rods like this, parked up by Ōrewa Surf Club.

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Parade turning heads in Ōrewa

One of the biggest Ōrewa Santa Parades in the event’s history saw an estimated crowd of 6000-7000 line Ōrewa Boulevard to enjoy the spectacle.

Floats created by local community groups and businesses, accompanied by bands, hot rods, fire engines and motorbikes travelled down the 1.3km highway from Alice Ave to Ōrewa Reserve. The event is organised by business

association Destination Ōrewa Beach and its operations manager, Hellen Wilkins, says the good weather, the atmosphere and smiles on people’s faces were testament to the joy it brings.

Although there were around 12 less floats than in past years, the parade was as colourful and interactive as ever, with martial arts teams, cheerleaders, the Grinch, stilt walkers, fire fighters, a

wish n e D s n The Lyo erry Christmas you a M py New Year p & a Ha you for your & thank support. d continue s Day) Christma e deals in (Closed r packag rbershop u o t u o ba Check lyonsden store or

Chinese dragon and others entertaining the crowd as they passed. Santa’s arrival was, as always, a highlight for the children. Float winners were: All Star Cheerleaders (Best Team Float), Hibiscus Coast Girl Guides (Best School/Child Focused Float), North Harbour Law (Best Commercial Float), Silverdale Fire Brigade (Best NonCommercial Float), Saving Hope (Most

Creative Float). Hellen says a crowd of around 12,000 attended the Surf Sounds Concert & Fireworks event that followed the parade, with bands receiving a great reception. The team at Destination Ōrewa Beach thank the hundreds of people involved in both events from the float teams, all suppliers, the marshals, volunteers and sponsors.

What’s showing in the Galleries at Estuary Arts Centre this December • •

The Cash and Carry Under $500 Art Sale The Auckland Watercolour Society Members Merit Award Exhibition School Holiday Art Classes Adult Summer Art Boot camp 16 Feb to 27 Feb 2023

4 Hillary Square, Ōrewa | 027 572 2779 30

| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa www.estuaryarts.org 09 426 5570 Open daily, Mon to Fri 9am to 4pm, weekends 10am to 3pm

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continued from p30

, n o i t a n i t s e ad e c n e i r e p x e n a

Biltong • Droewors Chilli sticks and much more ... Huge range of meats and sausages for the perfect BBQ ...

8D Moana Ave, Orewa • 09 218 6853 Mon-Fri: 9.30am-6pm • Sat: 9am-3pm • Sun: 10am-3pm

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Visit the park, see the Kauri trees, then come into the museum and learn about the history of the area. It can be a family trip out if you bring a picnic, or buy an ice cream! Adult $7 • Child $3 (6-16 years) • Child under 6 FREE Family $15 (2 adults + all Children)

Open Daily 10am – 3pm Eftpos & Credit Cards accepted.

Warkworth Museum. Parry Kauri Park, Tudor Collins Drive (Off Wilson Road, Warkworth) | 09 425 7093 warkworthmuseum@xtra.co.nz | www.warkworthmuseum.co.nz

December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

feature.summer outdoors

Riding the wave of popularity

The fact that Kiwis love the water is borne out by latest Maritime NZ/Ipsos research that shows more than 2.1 million Kiwis undertook some form of recreational boating in the three months to June 2022.

recommendations, including: • The need for appropriate equipment for the conditions, such as quick-release waist leashes in moving water.

Don’t assume that because you’re experienced in other water activities, you’ll automatically know what’s best for SUP

Kayaks and powerboats are the most popular way people engage with the water, followed by the increasing popularity of paddleboarding. Stand Up Paddling (SUP) safety officer Bill Dawes says the market has changed dramatically over the last five or six years, due to an influx of cheap boards available from high street stores and online. “In the northern hemisphere, participation numbers have gone through the roof over the last few summers, and it is entirely probable we’re going to see the same here this summer,” he says. “That has also led to an increase in incidents and rescues.” At Wenderholm in 2019, a novice paddleboarder, who was also a fulltime swimming teacher and lifesaver, died after her leg rope became entangled around a buoy when she fell from her board. In 2015, a teenager died in Whangamata Harbour when she was dragged under a boat by the current and her leg rope became entangled in the boat’s keel. The Coroner who delivered their findings on the Wenderholm drowning incident earlier this year made a number of

Women who already enjoy sailing or would like to try it, are invited to join the Women on Water regatta to be hosted by Gulf Harbour Yacht Club in March. Pictured is a crew from a recent Gulf Harbour ladies series.

Wow factor promised at Women on Water weekend

• Novice paddleboarders should start in sheltered waters and familiarise themselves with hazards before setting out • Personal flotation devices should be worn, where appropriate. However, Dawes says education is the key. “Don’t assume that because you’re experienced in other water activities, you’ll automatically know what’s best for SUP. “If you are starting out as a newcomer to the sport, we recommend getting a lesson if at all possible. Planning is also essential. “It’s only when you understand what the risks are and what they look like, that you can counter them. The first part of SUP safety is gaining this knowledge.” Both the Safer Boating NZ and NZSUP websites have safety information, helpful guides and free courses.

An event in the Marlborough Sounds that recently attracted more than 200 participants is the inspiration for the Evolution Sails Women on Water Weekend – described by hosts Gulf Harbour Yacht Club as ‘a fun weekend, on and off the water’.

in a friendly and supportive environment, networking with their peers, all based around three days of sailing and social activities,” she says. The event will be a first Clean Regatta for the club, following environmentally sustainable practices. On the first day, visiting sailors will meet their skippers and crew, go for a familiarisation sail, a walk to Tiritiri lighthouse, then cruise back to the clubhouse for sundowners and a buffet. Saturday and Sunday will be a two-day regatta, with trophies and prizes up for grabs, and on Saturday night everyone can enjoy a buffet dinner and dance the night away. To find out more, or enter visit: www.ghyc. co.nz/page/woww-2023

Entries are now open for the regatta, which takes place March 10-12 and is focused on getting more women out on the water. Boats are being provided by local sailors and experienced women sailors can also enter the boat they usually sail on and bring that to Gulf Harbour. Gulf Harbour Yacht Club rear commodore, Diane Lindsay, says it is open to all women, from throughout NZ, from world-class sailors to those with little or no experience. “The idea is that they can mix and mingle

kland Area Sea Watch Auckland Area Sea Watch Auckland Area Sea Wa Barfoot & Thompson Sea Watch

Wed

ec 14

07am 56am 25pm 32pm

Thu

Dec 15

Fri Fri

Apr Dec Apr15 16 1

1:30am 2.8 12:47am 2.8 6:02am 2:01am 7:24am 0.8 6:38am 0.9 12:09pm 8:23am 1:52pm 2.9 6:35pm 2.9 1:07pm 2:25pm Tide 8:02pm 1.0 8:50pm 1.0 7:16pm Times

5:57am 8:34pm Best At

5:36am 5:58pm

5:57am 8:35pm Sun

10:59am 12:57am 7:01am 11:23pm 1:19pm 7:22pm New Last Quarter Moon

2.7 0.8 0.6 1.0 3.2 3.4 2.8 0.7 0.6 1.0 3.2 3.3

Apr Dec Apr17 18 3

3:09am 1:16am 2:30am 9:12am 7:35am 8:54am 3:31pm 1:41pm 2:54pm 9:44pm 8:08pm 9:17pm

6:47am 7:35am 5:58am 7:14pm 5:55pm 8:36pm

Best Best At At

BGF

Sun Sun

Apr Dec Apr16 17 2

2:17am 2.7 12:31am 2:47am 3.1 0.7 8:15am 1.0 6:48am 9:10am 3.3 0.9 2:40pm 2.9 12:55pm 3:11pm 0.6 3.1 8:51pm 1.0 7:22pm 9:35pm 3.3

6:46am 7:34am 5:57am 7:16pm 5:56pm 8:36pm

Best At

6:19am Fishing Guide 6:40pm

Sat Sat

11:46am 1:41am 7:43am 2:03pm 8:04pm

Apr Dec Apr18 19 4

4:07am 2.7 2:01am 3:12am 0.7 1.1 10:10am 8:22am 9:37am 3.3 4:24pm 2.8 2:28pm 3:34pm 0.6 1.0 10:39pm 8:54pm 9:57pm 3.4 3.3

6:48am 6:36am 5:58am 6:13pm 5:54pm 8:37pm

Best Best At At

GBB

Mon Mon

12:10am 2:25am 8:25am 12:35pm 1:47pm 8:47pm Full Moon

Apr Dec Apr19 20 5

5:07am 2.7 2:48am 3:52am 0.6 0.7 11:08am 1.0 10:18am 9:10am 3.4 3.3 5:19pm 2.9 3:14pm 4:14pm 0.5 0.6 11:35pm 0.9 10:36pm 9:41pm 3.5 3.3

6:48am 6:37am 5:58am 6:11pm 5:52pm 8:38pm

Best Best At At

Tue Tue

1:01am 2:09am 9:09am 2:32pm 1:27pm 9:33pm

Apr Dec Apr20 21 6

6:06am 2.8 3:36am 4:33am 0.5 0.8 12:04pm 1.0 10:58am 9:59am 3.4 3.2 6:15pm 2.9 4:02pm 4:53pm 0.4 0.7 0.8 10:30pm 11:15pm 3.5 3.2

6:49am 6:37am 5:59am 6:10pm 5:51pm 8:38pm

Best Best At At

Wed Wed

1:54am 2:55am 9:57am 10:23pm 3:18pm 2:23pm

Apr Dec Apr21 22 7

Apr Dec Apr22 23 8

6:51am 6:39am 6:00am 6:07pm 5:48pm 8:39pm Sun

Best Best At At

GBF

Fri Fri

0.7 5:22am 2.9 12:30am 6:00am 4:27am 5:15am 0.6 1.0 0.6 0.9 1:25am 7:03am 3.3 3.1 11:43am 0.9 10:50am 12:21pm 11:39am 3.0 3.4 3.1 7:56am 0.7 5:43pm 3.0 12:58pm 6:16pm 4:51pm 5:33pm 0.5 0.9 0.4 0.8 1:51pm Tide 7:12pm 3.1 8:09pm 11:56pm 3.4 3.0 3.5 3.1 11:21pm Times

6:50am 6:38am 5:59am 6:09pm 5:50pm 8:39pm

Best Best At At

BGB

Thu Thu

10:50am 3:42am 2:52am 11:18pm 4:06pm 3:23pm

11:48am 4:31am 3:54am Fishing Guide 4:56pm 4:25pm

Apr Dec Apr23 24 9

12:42am 0.7 1.1 2:18am 0.5 12:17am 6:50am 3.2 2.9 8:48am 3.3 6:20am 1:06pm 0.6 1.0 2:45pm 0.6 12:39pm 7:04pm 9:05pm 3.2 6:40pm

6:52am 6:40am 6:00am 6:06pm 5:47pm 8:40pm

Best Best At At

GBG

Sat Sat

12:20am 5:21am 4:57am 12:52pm 5:46pm 5:28pm New Moon

Apr Dec 24 10 25

1:34am 3.3 2.9 3:09am 0.4 1:17am 7:45am 0.8 1.2 9:40am 3.4 7:23am 1:57pm 3.1 2.8 3:38pm 0.5 1:38pm 7:43pm 8:00pm 0.8 1.1 3.3 10:00pm

6:53am 6:41am 6:01am 6:04pm 5:46pm 8:40pm

Best Best At At

FGB

Sun Sun

5:59am 6:12am 1:26am 6:37pm 6:29pm 1:59pm

First Last Quarter

Apr Dec 25 11 26

2:31am 3.2 2.8 4:01am 0.3 2:20am 8:27am 8:42am 0.9 1.3 3.5 10:31am 2:53pm 3.0 2.7 4:32pm 0.5 2:42pm 8:51pm 9:01pm 0.9 1.2 3.3 10:53pm

6:54am 6:42am 6:01am 6:03pm 5:45pm 8:41pm

Best Best At At

GBB

Mon Mon

6:58am 7:02am 2:33am 7:27pm 7:26pm 3:06pm

Apr Dec 26 12 27

3:29am 3.1 2.8 4:52am 0.3 3:23am 9:29am 9:38am 0.9 1.3 3.5 11:24am 3:53pm 3.0 2.7 5:27pm 0.4 3:47pm 9:57pm 0.9 1.2 11:46pm 3.3 10:01pm

6:54am 6:43am 6:02am 6:02pm 5:43pm 8:41pm

Best Best At At

GBB

Tue Tue

7:53am 7:52am 3:38am 8:16pm 8:19pm 4:08pm

Apr Dec 27 13 28

4:24am 3.1 2.8 5:43am 0.3 4:22am 10:31am 0.9 1.2 12:16pm 3.5 10:28am 4:51pm 3.0 2.7 6:21pm 0.4 4:50pm 10:55pm 0.9 1.1 3.3 10:57pm

6:55am 6:43am 6:03am 6:00pm 5:42pm 8:41pm

Best Best At At

GBB

Wed Wed

8:44am 8:40am 4:38am 9:04pm 9:08pm 5:05pm

Apr Dec 28 14 29

5:17am 5:14am 3.1 2.9 0.4 12:39am 11:21am 0.9 1.1 6:37am 3.5 11:22am 5:45pm 3.0 2.8 1:10pm 0.5 5:47pm 11:44pm 0.9 1.0 11:50pm 7:16pm

6:56am 6:44am 6:03am 5:59pm 5:41pm 8:42pm

Best Best At At

GBB

Thu Thu

9:31am 9:27am 5:32am 9:50pm 9:54pm 5:58pm

Apr Dec 29 15 30

6:02am 3.2 3.0 1:33am 3.2 6:09am 12:09pm 0.8 1.0 7:33am 0.5 12:13pm 6:35pm 3.1 2.9 2:05pm 3.4 6:39pm 0.8 0.9 0.5 8:11pm

6:57am 6:45am 6:04am 5:58pm 5:40pm 8:42pm

Best Best At At

GBB

Fri Fri

10:16am 10:13am 6:22am 10:36pm 10:37pm 6:46pm

Apr Dec 16 30 31

12:31am 3.2 3.1 2:29am 3.1 12:38am 6:48am 0.7 0.9 8:33am 0.7 6:57am 1:00pm 3.2 3.1 3:00pm 3.3 12:55pm 7:22pm 9:07pm 0.6 7:26pm

6:58am 6:46am 6:05am 5:56pm 5:39pm 8:42pm

Best Best At At

FGB

Sat Sat

10:59am 7:09am 11:23pm 11:21pm 7:31pm First Quarter

11:42am 11:46am 7:53am 8:16pm

Jan 2

0.8 0.7 3.0 4:28am 3.2 3.3 0.9 10:36am 0.7 0.6 3.1 4:51pm 3.2 3.4 0.8 11:00pm

7:00am 6:48am 6:06am 5:54pm 5:37pm 8:43pm

Best Best At At

Mon

Apr May Jan17 1

1:16am 0.8 3:28am 3.0 1:22am 7:35am 3.2 9:35am 0.8 7:42am 1:41pm 0.7 3:55pm 3.2 1:43pm 8:09pm 8:08pm 3.2 0.7 10:03pm

6:59am 6:47am 6:05am 5:55pm 5:38pm 8:42pm

Best Best At At

Sun Sun

6:07a 8:43p

Best Best At At

GBG

12:04am 12:10am 8:38am 12:35pm 12:26pm 9:00pm New Full Moon

2 1 3 0

Best

9:23a 9:46p

12:29am Rise 12:58am Set Rise Rise 4:33am 7:04am 1:24am Set Rise Rise 5:39am 8:07am 1:48am Set Rise Rise 6:48am 8:09am 2:12am Set Rise Rise 7:59am 9:11am 2:37am Set Rise Rise10:12am 9:13am 3:05am Set Rise Rise10:27am 11:13am 3:38am Rise Set Rise11:39am 12:11pm 4:18am Set Rise Rise12:44pm 1:06pm 5:08am Set Rise Rise 1:40pm 1:56pm 6:09am Set Rise Rise 2:26pm 2:40pm 7:21am Rise Set Rise12:34am 12:20am 8:37am Rise Set Rise 1:43am 1:21am 9:54am Rise Set Set 12:07am 2:24am Set 2:50am Rise Set 12:38am 3:28am Rise 3:54am Set Set 4:56am 4:33am 1:05am Rise Set Set 5:58am 5:39am 1:31am Rise Set Set 6:59am 6:48am 1:57am Set 2:24a 1:47pm Rise 2:48pm Rise 3:52pm Rise 5:01pm Rise 6:13pm Rise 7:29pm Rise 1:22pm Set 2:26pm Set 3:30pm Rise 4:32p 10:49am Set 11:48am 7:26pm Rise 5:17pm 7:52pm 7:19pm 7:48pm 7:27pm 8:57pm 9:11pm 10:27pm 8:42pm Rise 11:21pm 9:46pm Set 10:42pm Set 3:18pm Set 3:03pm 3:52pm Set 4:22pm Set 4:03pm 4:50pm Set 4:29pm 5:17pm 5:45pm 6:14pm Moon Rise Moon Set 12:47pm Set 5:45pm Set 6:14pm Set 6:48pm Set 8:20pm Set 8:14pm Set 9:39pm Set 11:28pm Rise 11:07am Rise 12:16pm Rise 4:54pm Rise 5:20pm Rise 5:48pm Set Set Set Set Set Set Set Set Set 10:15pm Set Set 11:24pm Rise Rise 3:35pm Rise Rise Rise Rise Rise G B B B F F Fishing Not*Not So for Good navigational purposes. www.tidewiz.com Goodwww.tidespy.com Fishing Fair www.ofu.co.nz Fishing Not Graphic *Not So Good forsupplied navigational by OceanFun purposes.Publishing www.tidewiz.com Ltd.G Goodwww.tidespy.com Fishing www.ofu.co.nz Fair Fishing Not Graphic So Good supplied by OceanFun Publishing www.tidewiz.com Ltd. www

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| Orewa 09 427 9940 | 294 Hibiscus Coast Highway

| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

BARFOOT&THOMPSON

feature.summer outdoors

Coastguard

W A R K W O R T H

Zane Bryhn, Coastguard Hibiscus crew chief www.coastguardhibiscus.org.nz

Merry Christmas from the crew November’s weather was extremely volatile and the amount of rain and wind we had meant that activity on the Hauraki Gulf was pretty quiet. This has given us more time to train in this sort of weather, using both of our vessels. Recently, both Hibiscus Rescue 1 and Hibiscus Rescue 2 were training on the north side of the peninsula when they came across a kayaker who had fallen from his kayak and was unable to get back in. This person was extremely lucky that we were on the water at that time as he had no communications so would have been in serious trouble. Apart from a life jacket, communications are one of the most important things to have an any watercraft or vessel. It is always recommended to have a minimum of two forms of communications whether it be a fixed VHF Radio or a waterproof handheld VHF Radio and cellphone. The cellphone should be in a waterproof container and there are many available in the market. The cellphone is a great idea because Coastguard can ping the phone to get a location which helps us find you quicker and more efficiently. It is also the busy time of the season for Coastguard Hibiscus with off water activities supporting our local community. On Saturday, December 3, Hibiscus Rescue 1 delivered Santa to hundreds of exited kids at the Gulf Harbour Christmas on the Canal event. This is an awesome event organised by locals and supported by many local businesses and

MINI GOLF

other organisations. It also gives everyone a chance to get on the rescue vessels and see what it’s like. Coastguard NZ’s Summer Lottery has launched. Again, the prize pool is worth over $350,000 and is one of the biggest fundraising events of the year. Each ticket sold delivers $7 back to the unit, which we use for training, equipment upgrades and fuel. The training we do is invaluable to ensure that we get you all home safe and keep our crew safe. Support your local unit and purchase some tickets from us – send an email to fundraising@coastguardhibiscus.org. nz or watch out in your local area for our crew. We will have the Prize Boat again this year so you can see what you can win at various places around the coast. Please follow our Facebook page for details of locations. We are looking forward to getting out on the water over the holiday season and being there for you should you need our assistance. Safe boating and a Merry Christmas from the team at Coastguard Hibiscus.

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Freedom camping: new bylaw tested this summer

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As summer holidays approach, Auckland Council is reminding wouldbe campers of the freedom camping rules, since it adopted its Freedom Camping in Vehicles Bylaw in June.

Key for the Coast is that the bylaw excludes freedom camping from all public reserves, relying on the fact that it is already prohibited there under the Reserves Act. In the past, this rule was often flouted locally. However, council now has more enforcement power, including the ability to issue fines – changes made to the Reserves Act in 2019 brought in $800 fines for breaches. Council’s Compliance Response and Investigations acting manager, Paul Cowling, says while tents and other forms of shelter are permitted at Auckland beaches and reserves during the day, freedom camping, or staying overnight in a tent, is not. “Over the summer, the council’s Compliance and Parks and Community Facilities teams, supported by security officers, will be visiting some of the region’s hotspots to educate visitors on the rules around freedom camping and camping,” he says. “Anyone intending to stay overnight, will be reminded that camping is only permitted in areas specifically set aside for that purpose, and they will be asked to move on.” Cowling says anyone who is not sure about

the rules should look for signs. He says vehicles parking on green spaces in parks and reserves could be towed. “While our preferred approach when it comes to enforcement is education, we do have the option to issue trespass notices and infringement fines if required.” Freedom camping is banned in 45 areas of Auckland (as well as reserves) – locally it is only prohibited in Metro Park East in Millwater (which is not classified as a reserve). Twenty two areas of Auckland have restrictions on freedom camping – this applies locally on The Hammerhead in Gulf Harbour, where the maximum number of campervans is 10 at any one time within a restricted area. If you suspect someone is camping illegally, you can report it to Council on 09 301 0101, and include as much detail as possible, such as vehicle registrations and descriptions of those camping to aid further investigation and enforcement action, if required. “Ahead of the upcoming holiday season, we’re encouraging those who would like to freedom camp to explore alternative options, including booking into a campground or a holiday park.”

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

To freedom camp in Auckland, you must: • use a certified self-contained vehicle • stay a maximum of two nights in the same road or off-road parking area • vacate your parking space by 9am on the day you leave • not return to stay in the same road or off-road parking area within a two-week period, which starts from 9am on the day of departure • not stay in any area where freedom camping is prohibited • comply with any special rules for freedom camping in restricted areas • comply with other rules about disposal of waste and responsible freedom camping.

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

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feature.summer outdoors

Specialists in all things Kayaking

Christmas kayak safety By James Fitness, Canoe & Kayak

Kayaks are a popular Christmas gift, especially on the Hibiscus Coast where the sea is around every corner.

There is a perception that paddling is easy – surely anyone can do it? Yet, how often have you heard news reports about missing kayakers, or kayaks found with no trace of the paddler? There is a misconception that kayaking needs no instruction because if you fall off, you just jump back on, but have you tried this? It’s harder than you think. If you are young and nimble, you may be okay, but for anyone else it takes a bit more effort. It is said that getting back on a kayak is equivalent to doing a pull up. If you don’t get back on the first try, how many more attempts are you capable of? Also, when paddling, if you have a good technique, you’ll get to where you are going quicker and with less effort.

That is why every gift of a kayak should come with a course of instruction. You can look on YouTube of course, but it is not the same as actually getting out on the water. By doing a beginners’ course, you will learn to get back on your kayak, assist others back on to their kayak, loads of different paddle techniques, beach launching and landing, steering with your paddle and rudder, risk management, the right clothing and equipment, transporting kayaks and simple tow systems. Instead of the kayak ending up in the shed unused because you are not confident using it, having done a course, you may find you enjoy it so much you’ll take it up as a pastime and join a club like the Yakity Yak Kayak Club (yakityyak.co.nz). Let’s take the pressure off the rescue services, learn to kayak, be aware of the risks and how to manage them, and in doing so have a lot of fun – setting yourself up for a new sporting interest. Info: www.canoeandkayak.co.nz/courses/

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SUPPORTING LOCAL SPORT FOR FIVE YEARS AND RUNNING

WALKING NETBALL Fun, relaxed and low impact (but still competitive) netball, Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre, Thursday mornings, 10am-11am. Just turn up and you will be put in a team. Costs $5 per game. 10 PIN BOWLING Friendly group, ‘Recycled Teenagers’, play at Whangaparāoa Ten Pin Ten on Tuesdays at 10am. All welcome to join in for fun and a little exercise. Phone Bob, 021 735 023 or just turn up on the day. TABLE TENNIS Table tennis at Whangaparāoa Community Hall. Games on Mondays, 9am-12noon. Emphasis on fun and social play with tea and coffee included in the entrance charge of $2. All welcome. Info: phone Steve Chong, 027 442 1653. FLINGGOLF Want to try FlingGolf? This new sport is available at Northridge Country Lodge golf course in Wainui. Accessible and fun. Info: contact Northridge, or visit www.northridgelodge.com/ WOODCHOPPING Puhoi’s annual Woodchopping Carnival, Puhoi Pub, Puhoi. Starts 9am. See top axemen in action ToTalspan Rodney

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Roger Shearer took this photo, ‘Sunset over Oaia Island’, which was very highly commended in the Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club’s NZ landscape competition. It was commended for the composition and colour, and sense of movement in clouds and water. Each year the club runs special NZ Landscape and Nature competitions that have four rounds throughout the year. The club year has ended now and will resume with a workshop on the first Thursday of February 2023. People interested in photography are welcome to attend.

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A new online game aims to help New Zealanders think about how they might adapt to rising sea levels. My Coastal Futures takes players on a journey where they make decisions about a coastal property as sea levels rise over 100 years. By applying their understanding of climate change, identifying what is important to them, and assessing their community’s risk and resilience, players are given choices about what actions to take. They can explore adaptation options while considering cost, ease, timeliness, and limitations. The game has been released free by NIWA. It can be played at https:// mycoastalfutures.niwa.co.nz/

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Coast Critters James Dale, Zoology professor, Massey University j.dale@massey.ac.nz

Deadbeat parents Raising babies is hard work. The challenges associated with parenting require investments of time, energy and resources. Among bird species, there is an astonishing diversity in how parents solve these challenges. In most species, like the toroa (royal albatross), both Mum and Dad contribute equally to incubating the eggs and raising the chicks. In some species, like the tūī, the female does most of the parenting. In others, like the kākāpō, Dad has absolutely nothing to do with the youngsters and Mum does all the work. And there are some species that even recruit parent helpers, typically grown offspring from previous broods, that chip in with chick feeding. This happens in pōpokotea (whitehead) for instance. Remarkably, there are a few species where neither parent contributes anything to raising young. Their youngsters still need lots of care, but the parents have pawned off all that hard work onto others. There are two species that do this in New Zealand: the pīpīwharauroa (shining cuckoo) and the much rarer koekoeā (long-tailed cuckoo). Shining cuckoos are relatively abundant on the Hibiscus Coast, and they are gorgeous birds if you are lucky enough to see one. Cuckoos are far more often heard than seen however, and the loud plaintive songs of this migratory species are a welcome sign of spring. So how did shining cuckoos manage to evolve out of their parenting responsibilities? They are brood parasites that trick our endemic riroriro (grey warblers)

Photo, Phil Battley into raising cuckoo young as their own. An amazing series of adaptations allow shining cuckoo to get away with this ruse. First the female spies out potential grey warbler nests during patrols of suitable forest habitat. When a promising nest is found, the cuckoo will simply swoop into it, quickly lay an egg and depart with one of the host’s eggs in its bill. All of this takes less than 20 seconds! Then, after the cuckoo egg hatches and the nestling is just a few days old, the baby cuckoo will toss out all the grey warbler eggs and chicks. Finally, when the chick gets a bit older, the youngster mimics the sounds of baby grey warblers, ensuring the host parents are fooled into feeding it. When the cuckoo chick leaves the nest, it is a remarkable sight to see a pair of devoted grey warbler parents furiously collecting food for the considerably larger and ravenous young cuckoo. Such trickery is very costly to the grey warblers. Indeed, in many other species of cuckoos, their hosts have evolved counteradaptations to defend against parasitism, such as being able to recognize cuckoo eggs and ejecting them. However, grey warblers have not evolved any of these adaptations (yet), and so in this evolutionary arms race, pīpīwharauroa has the current advantage.

Hibiscus Coast Catholic Parish Christmas Mass times Christmas Eve, December 24, 2022: 5.30pm, Family Vigil Mass – St John’s, Ōrewa • 11.15pm, Carol Singing – St John’s, Ōrewa • Midnight, Christmas Mass – St John’s, Ōrewa Christmas Day, December 25, 2022: 8.30am, Family Mass – St Francis, Manly | 10.30am, Mass – St John’s St John’s, 180 Centreway Rd, Orewa | St Francis, 8 Motutapu Ave, Manly

Whangaparaoa Methodist Parish Christmas Services 2022 Christmas Eve Service, Saturday 24 December, 7.30pm, Red Beach Church. Followed by light refreshments – Rev Hui Young Han Christmas Day Service & Adult pageant, Sunday 25 December, 9.30am, Manly Church – Rev Hui Young Han For more information phone 426 5615 Manly Church – 945 Whangaparaoa Rd | Red Beach Church – 76 Red Beach Rd

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December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Classifieds

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DOUGLAS

ACCOUNTING 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 • GST, PAYE, FBT • Agent with IRD 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

HOME & MAINTENANCE ALARMS SECURITY AND FIRE, MONITORING, CCTV, servicing & installation, all brands 027 553 3032 www.tdssecurity.co.nz CARPET LAYING, CARPET RE-STRETCH, VINYL LAYING, CARPET REPAIRS Over 30 years’ experience. Contact Dexter 027 4956 436 CLEANING End of tenancy / exit cleaning. Full references available. Phone 021 257 5808. HANDYMAN AVAILABLE for all those odd jobs. Ph Nev 021 399 226 @ Nev’s Odd Jobs. Great rates. Local & reliable.

ALL YEAR LAWNCARE. Servicing the Coast and surrounding areas. Please call for a free quote on your lawn requirements. Quality ride-on and push mow cuts. Ph Jeff 0274 218 672. ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Shane 021 0813 8481. CARPET CLEANING, repairs installation. Dwayne 0274 997 929.

and

HANDYMAN, RENOVATION SERVICES. Call John 027 441 9603. PAUL THE PAINTER 027 550 3635 interior & exterior.

SERVICES FURNITURE REMOVALS exp Owner Operator 30 years. Single Items to Flat/House lots. Silverdale Based. Ph Gavin 0274 973 867

HOUSE WASHING - SOFT WASH / LOW PRESSURE / CHEMICAL WASH Also Window Cleaning / Gutter Clearing Careful service, reasonable rates.

MASSAGE FOR RELAXATION & WELLBEING Ph Murray 020 4116 7992

PUMP DOCTOR

RECORDING STUDIO Vocals to backing tracks, original projects, vocal training & vocal PA hire. Ph Skimp 021 115 5233.

Phone 021 0579743

WATER PUMP & FILTER SERVICES. New installs for all your water pump requirements. Ph 0274 430 654.

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

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ŌREWA: McDonalds • Orewa Convenience Store (Dairy by Red Cross) • The Real Food Kitchen • The Ship Cafe • Paper Plus • New World Ōrewa • Ōrewa Library • Countdown Ōrewa • RED BEACH: Red Beach Four Square • SILVERDALE: Moerish Cafe (Silverdale Mall) • Countdown Silverdale (Silverdale Centre) • Dad’s Pies • WHANGAPARĀOA: Coast Plaza (by travelators) • New World Whangaparāoa (by the Lotto counter) • Whangaparāoa Library • Unichem Manly Pharmacy • Manly Pricecutter • Manly Fruit & Veg market • GULF HARBOUR: Gulf Harbour Food Market • Gulf Harbour Four Square • Peninsula Dairy & Takeaways • Ripples Cafe on the Marina • DAIRY FLAT: Dairy Flat Foodmart/Lotto • 1441 Dairy Flat Highway • WAIWERA Dairy • PUHOI General Store

Basic Checkup & IT Advise $49 • New cell phone setup $49 • New cell phone setup (+ old phone data transfer) $99 • Smart Tablet (iPad or android) $49 • Modem Router Install $99 • Initial laptop/PC setup $99 • Laptop/PC setup with Internet Security $119 • Secure Data/Files Relocation $189 • Smart TV cabinet install (incl Wifi and other smart TV coaching) $99 • Sound bar setup with TV $29 • Smart Audio Setup (Wifi or Bluetooth devices) $99

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| Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

VIDEOS TRANSFERRED to DVD/hard drive. Ph/txt Te Totara Video 021 777 385.

HAIRDRESSING CAN’T MAKE IT TO A HAIR SALON? No problem I can come to you. Qualified Hairstylist providing cutting and blow wave services. Please phone Julie 021 112 8015

WANTED TO BUY TO BUY, RECORDS/LP’S 09 428 1587 txt 0210 258 3437

HOUSIE

$1000

JACKPOT

Played 1pm Every Friday, Clubrooms Bowls Ōrewa, Ph 09 426 5937

FOR RENT 2 BED FLAT. Separate laundry. Freshly painted. New carpets, water incl. near bus stop & off-street parking. Red Beach - $400 per wk. Ph 0274 264 631.

COMMUNITY NOTICES 60’s UP MOVEMENT, HIBISCUS COAST. Meeting 3rd Wednesday of every month, 10am at the RSA in Viponds Road, Whangaparāoa. Outings 1st Wednesday of month. Ph Gloria 027 386 2339. BIBLE STUDY GROUP every Saturday morning, Ōrewa SDA Church at 123 -125 Centreway Rd, 10am. Topics: Christ's Sacrifice for us, Christ's Victory Over Death, The New Testament Hope, Difficult Passages in the NT, The Fires of Hell, End-Time Deceptions, The Biblical Worldview,The Judging Process. BRIDGE LESSONS – FREE – at Hibiscus Coast Bridge Club in Edith Hopper Park (off Ladies Mile) Manly. Starting Thursday February 16, 2023 from 7pm-9pm for 10 weeks. Suitable for beginners or a refresher. All welcome. Please register to helen@gobake.co.nz or txt 027 444 1066. CAR BOOT SALE Centrestage Theatre carpark (behind Council building) Third Sunday of month, 8am-12pm, $10 per site. No need to book. Enquiries 0274 198 135. COME HAVE FUN with Ruby, tune up mind and body and line dance to traditional and modern music, Silverdale Hall Fridays 2pm-3.30pm. No partners needed. Ph Ruby 027 499 9209. COMMUNITY MARKET AT ST CHAD’S (cnr Florence Ave & Centreway Rd, Ōrewa) 1st Saturday of each month 8am to 12 noon. $15 per site. To book phone 027 244 2832. Artisans & crafters welcome. DEMENTIA CARERS SUPPORT GROUP Michele 027 411 4146 or Caryn 021 210 3388. GOLDEN YEARS FISHING CLUB. Do you love fishing. Are you 50+. Don’t have a boat or want some company. Maybe a little mobility issue. We can help. Our club does weekly charters on Hauraki of Kaipara Harbours. Step on stop off. Even shore based torpedo expeditions. Come & join us for a great fishing experience. Ph. Derek 021 032 6878. HIBISCUS COAST WRITERS for those that love writing, from hobby writers to published. Regular workshops led by successful writers, followed by optional interclub competitions. Second Saturday of month, Pohutukawa Room, Whangaparaoa Library. 1pm-3pm, Ph Marilyn 021 936 860 or Chris 021 231 8318. SCRABBLE CLUB OREWA New members welcome. Mondays 12.30pm-3.30pm Hibiscus Community House (next to Estuary Arts). Info ph Helen 09 427 5384. SUNDAY SOCIAL DANCE Silverdale, ballroom, Latin American etc. all welcome. Every 4th Sunday, 5-8pm. Silverdale Hall, ph 427 5542.

Marja Lubeck Labour List MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi For appointments and assistance please phone:

0800 582 325 (0800 LUBECK) marja.lubeck@parliament.govt.nz 5/62-64 Queen Street, Warkworth

Authorised by Marja Lubeck, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

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To list events, email: online@localmatters.co.nz

December

3-24

Pharmacy Talk

Christmas decoration display, Silverdale Pioneer Village, 15 Wainui Road, Silverdale, every Saturday and Sunday, 10am-3pm.

with Tania Adams

15 & 16 Free photos with Santa, Moana Reserve, Ōrewa, 3.30pm-5pm No bookings needed, listen to carols and watch entertainers while you wait. Free photos can be downloaded from Photo Carnival website. Provided by Destination Ōrewa Beach, supported by Wallace & Stratton Real Estate. 15

Jarred Fell's XX-MAS comedy show, The Beer Spot, outside Coast Plaza, Whangaparaoa, 7.30pm. Tickets from Eventfinda.

Always Elvis (Mike Cole), Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay, 7.30pm-10.30pm. Non-members $5 entry fee.

The British Invasion Show, Parāoa Brewing Company, 719A Whangaparāoa Rd, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa.

Coast Youth Community Trust Christmas Market, Whangaparāoa Baptist Church carpark, 733 Whangaparāoa Rd, 10am-2pm. Market stalls, food trucks, face painting, Santa photos and more. Info email hannah@cyctrust.org.nz

D’Starlights, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm. Free entry.

Doc Sanchez, Parāoa Brewing Company, 719A Whangaparāoa Rd, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa.

Free Christmas dinner, hosted by Love Soup Hibiscus Coast, Whangaparāoa Hall, 5pm. All the trimmings and festive cheer. All welcome.

Ruff Copy, Parāoa Brewing Company, 719A Whangaparāoa Rd, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa.

DJ Poppa Jax & DJ Truce Lee, Parāoa Brewing Company, 719A Whangaparāoa Rd, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa.

Free Ōrewa Community Christmas lunch, Ōrewa Community Centre, 368 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa, 12pm-2pm. Doors open 11.30am. All welcome

Christmas BBQ by the beach, Dacre Cottage, Free of charge just show up, enjoy the food, games, gifts for the wee ones, handed out by santa. All ages are welcome, (if bringing children let us know the ages so a small gift can be arranged). www.facebook.com/ events/1126505314737097/?ref=newsfeed

New Year’s Eve with Steve Tulloch Band, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-midnight. Free entry.

Stetson New Year’s Eve party, Brendan Ham Band with Marion Burns, Dairy Flat Hall, Postman Road, Dairy Flat, 8pm-12.45am. $20 entry fee. Licenced bar (club prices), BYO snacks. Info: www.dairyflatlive.com or www.facebook.com/DFlatBluesAndJazzClub

Catch Hello Sailor live NYE 2022, Parāoa Brewing Company, 719A Whangaparāoa Rd, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa. Tickets and details on Eventfinda

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Sea Lice Report The sea is warming up faster than ever and whilst it is unusually early, sea lice bites have already been reported to us. Sea lice season has started on the Coast already! Sea lice bites tend to make the news every summer, but they aren’t even actual bites, rather the sting of larvae of the thimble jellyfish. These tiny creatures become trapped in your togs or crevices of your body like your armpits. So the sting or “bite” of the “sea lice” is actually caused by a poisonous toxin released by the larvae when they get squashed. While you are in the water you might experience a tingling sensation on areas of your body covered by swimwear. Over the next few hours an intensely itchy, burning rash with small blisters develops. This can appear anywhere on your skin but a tell tale sign is that the rash is usually confined to areas that have been covered by your swimsuit where the larvae have been trapped. Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea (these symptoms are more common in children). Symptoms normally do not start until around 6 hours after exposure and can last anywhere from 2 days to weeks. If you are unfortunate enough to have gotten stung, come and see us at the pharmacy to get something to help with the itch and rash. Remedies might include a combination of a oral antihistamine and a lotion to put directly on the rash. Some oral antihistamines are better at treating skin conditions than others, so have a chat with our pharmacists about which one would be best to use. They are available in tablet and syrup forms. Also ask us about our very own Sea Lice lotion, we have developed at Unichem Manly Pharmacy especially for this rash. If your child has symptoms other than just the rash, please get medical advice to check that it is not a more serious condition. Be sure to machine wash your togs in hot soapy water and thoroughly dry (preferably in a hot air drier) as hand washed and air dried swimsuits can still contain larvae that can sting again the next time you put them on. Aargh!

January 2023

Hibiscus Coast Country Music Club, at the Orewa Community Centre, $5 entry, all welcome.

Whilst the only real prevention is to not swim with the jellyfish... it is going to be a hot summer and that water looks ever so refreshing. Besides, swimming at the beaches during our sea lice season doesn’t mean you will definitely get stung. Outbreaks come and go and some people seem to be more susceptible than others. However here are some helpful tips to help you avoid that rash:

Ōrewa Lions The Big Dig (wet day, January 15). Dig in the sand for tickets to win prizes. Community fundraiser. Put the date aside! Details and times yet to be confirmed. (see story p29)

1. 2.

Puhoi Pub woodchopping carnival, Puhoi Pub, 9am start.

27-29 Hibiscus Rodders Beach Festival, Ōrewa. Hot rods, competitions, entertainment, raffles and more. (see story p29)

February

The Food Truck Collective, Metro Park, 228 Millwater Parkway, Millwater, 5pm-9pm.

See www.localmatters.co.nz/whats-on/ for a full list of upcoming events

Christmas hours

Hibiscus Matters’ Ōrewa office closes for the year on Friday, December 16. It reopens on Monday, January 9. Our next paper will be out on January 23. May you all have a festive Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. www.localmatters.co.nz

Remove your swimsuit as soon as possible. Do not rinse with fresh water while still wearing the swimsuit as the fresh water will cause the stinging cells to fire. Shower in high pressure water (after removing swimsuit) as this will help to remove any larvae still on the skin.

Also remember to slip, slop, slap and wrap Coasties and enjoy our amazing beaches. Some little extra notes: COVID is rampant on the Coast at the moment. Please reach out to us at Unichem Manly Pharmacy for help. If you or a family member has tested positive, we are able to deliver to Coastie homes free of charge. We can also provide free of charge certain medications to help with COVID symptoms such as paracetamol, ibuprofen and electrolytes. Just call us on 09 424-7708. Also, just wanted to say a big thank you to all of you who read “Pharmacy Talk” and especially those of you who have reached out and let me know that you enjoy it. Merry Christmas Coasties!

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

Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional December 12, 2022 | Hibiscusmatters |

Loukas Banks, front row right, with supporters at the Ōrewa Ultimate Athlete. Supporters are key to keeping athletes going on any tough obstacle course race.

The warped wall is one of the most challenging obstacles – teams could help each other scale the wall. Pulling yourself up and over obstacles requires strength, fitness and flexibility. Photos, Max Bell

Ōrewa ideal for obstacle course race

Organisers of the Ultimate Athlete in Ōrewa say competitors loved the course on the reserve and beach.

The event involves racing through a series of obstacles, including under cargo nets, up the Warped Wall, across monkey bars, flipping tyres and running along the sand. The event held on Saturday, December 3 was the first time it has been held locally and co-organiser, Gavin Foster, says the Ōrewa course was very different from the other

location where it is held, Mt Maunganui.

“The athletes loved running on the much firmer Ōrewa sand, there was a great atmosphere and a lot of support and sportsmanship,” he says. Around 1000 competitors, both adults and children, took part, which Gavin says is similar to the numbers they get at The Mount. Among them was Loukas Banks, aged 24, who grew up in Ōrewa. He says it was great

to compete in his old stomping ground, after two years of racing at The Mount.

He says obstacle course racing (similar to Ninja Warrior) is very new to NZ and the sport is growing. Loukas, an emergency nurse who recently moved to Hamilton, trains almost every day at places such as playgrounds, where he can do chin ups, monkey bars and variations of body weight exercises.

We don’t do teeth,

just ears 40 | Hibiscusmatters | December 12, 2022

He says the functional fitness that the sport requires is good for everyone, requiring strength, flexibility and a lot of running and moving. Competing in the Men’s Elite category, Loukas placed 6th, which was a big improvement on his last year 17th placing.

Gavin says the aim is to make the Ōrewa course an annual event, as well as expanding to the South Island.

For all the expert care your ears could need

09 424 6035 www.hearagain.co.nz