Hibiscus Matters_Issue 364_29 January 2024 by Localmatters

Rubbish bags shake up

Healthy p15-20 options

BIG result for big dig ..

January 29, 2024

localmatters.co.nz

Proudly locally owned

FREE

The Rodders Beach Festival turned Orewa into an oasis of growling hot rods, vintage style and rock ‘n’ roll over Anniversary Weekend. Pictured at the opening event by Orewa Beach are Hibiscus Coast local, and Miss Vintage Australasia winner, Hanna Smithies (aka Dariel Dearlove) in the pink Cadillac owned by event coorganiser Sharon Morris. Hibiscus Matters was at the festival – more photos on our Facebook page.

Is there hope for Okura Bush walkway?

The long-closed southern portion of the Okura Bush walkway, battered by last summer’s extreme weather, is to remain off-limits for the foreseeable future – and last month the Department of Conservation (DOC) raised the prospect that it may, in fact, never be reinstated.

The track, which runs from the end of Haigh Access Road through mixed coastal forest to Karepiro Bay, is popular with recreational walkers and trail runners. “Given the extensive damage to the walkway, finding a solution that will

HBC_WOF_250x52.indd 1

withstand future severe weather events will be challenging and likely very costly,” DOC’s Auckland mainland operations manager, Rebecca Rush, said. “This may result in a decision not to reinstate the walkway.” “If a solution is found to reinstate all or part of the walkway, it is likely to take some years to plan and undertake this work,” she added. DOC first closed the walkway in May 2018 in a bid to stop the spread of the soil-borne pathogen that causes kauri dieback disease.

Some tracks were upgraded in 2019 and 2021 to mitigate against the risk of the disease, but the walkway remained closed as more work was found to be needed. It was still closed when last summer’s severe weather caused major slip damage to four sections along the southern end of the track. One landslide spanning about 40 metres extends from the top of the cliff to the sea, making the section impassable. Three other slips have either destroyed or severely compromised the track. “Sadly, there are no easy fixes for Okura

Bush walkway,” Rush said. “We have sought a geotechnical report and are working closely with mana whenua to continue to explore options for the longterm future of the track.” Rush acknowledged the process has been a long one and that it was frustrating to have the walkway closed for recreation. “However, we’re now dealing with both significant landslides in addition to concern over the health of kauri – some of the trees are centuries old.” continued p2

14/03/22 11:05

localmatters.co.nz Next issue: February 12, 2024 Book your advertising now General manager: Jannette Thompson gm@localmatters.co.nz Editorial: Terry Moore ph 022 019 6569 terry@localmatters.co.nz Patrick Goodenough ph 022 549 8271 news@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Angela Gallagher ph 022 029 1895 sellit@localmatters.co.nz Leigh Cameron ph 022 096 8517 sales@localmatters.co.nz Graphic design: Lorry McCarthy hibiscus@localmatters.co.nz A division of Local Matters. Hibiscus Matters is a locally owned publication, circulated to more than 22,450 homes and businesses fortnightly: Pūhoi • 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.

a n a o M i a M Hatfield’s Beach Luxury Clifftop Accommodation.

Search MaiMoana on bachcare.co.nz

continued from p1 The kauri is one of the longest-living tree species in the world, and some of those in Okura Bush were growing in the 1600s when Māori settled in the area, DOC said. Hibiscus and Bays Local Board member Alexis Poppelbaum, who grew up in Okura and later returned to live there with her young family, said the community was “devastated” to learn that most of the walkway, popular with locals and visitors, will remain closed for the foreseeable future. “I am deeply concerned about the upsurge in pest animals and plants since control programmes were halted since 2018 with the [kauri dieback-related] rāhui and then later due to the pandemic,” she said. It was only late last year that DOC gave Friends of Okura Bush the go-ahead to put predator control lines back into the area. “We still don’t yet know what the impact to native species has been with pest animals

Long popular with walkers and runners, the walkway has been closed for almost six years. Photo, Sean McWilliams www.wildthings.club

being unchecked for so long,” Poppelbaum said. “We need DOC to produce a plan with stakeholders as soon as possible to reinstate the track so the community can enjoy this remarkable area again, and for groups like Friends of Okura Bush to gain

more volunteers to help with the essential ecological programmes they run.” The northern section of Okura Bush walkway, from Stillwater to Karepiro Bay, does remain open. It is managed by Auckland Council.

Okura weed ‘tsunami’ needs prompt action Warning of a looming “tsunami” of weeds that could have a devastating impact on native bush, the Friends of Okura Bush group is seeking funding for a community engagement worker to help coordinate a response.

The group plans to start advertising for the position towards the end of this month. In a presentation to the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board late last year, FOOB representatives Chris Bettany and Dale Connelly said an incursion of weeds from surrounding areas may jeopardise the ecologically significant Okura Bush and Karepiro forest. Connelly said weeds such as the moth plant, climbing asparagus, privet, Taiwanese cherry and Japanese honeysuckle “crowd out, smother, strangle or outcompete” native species, and prevent the regeneration that is required to ensure their survival. The result could be the loss not only of trees, but entire ecosystems within the Okura and Weiti catchments related to the

forests and surrounding land. “The window of opportunity to effectively and affordably control the offending species is narrowing,” FOOB said. “Once established, these pest plants will be impossible to eliminate from the area – and that's predicted to be within a few short years if action is not taken.” The group wants to hire an outreach worker to liaise with the community and work alongside FOOB’s pest plant and predator control coordinators, with the ultimate goal of eliminating the most incursive weeds on public and private land while that is still possible. FOOB said that because different weeds need different methods of elimination, and since some seedbanks take several years to control, the project would extend over a period of five to ten years. Despite the group’s hopes that the local board would support the plan and provide resources towards hiring a liaison officer, Connelly said funding was not approved.

FOOB however, managed to get some funding - $7000 from Pub Charity – but as the total cost for the project is $21,000, it continues to seek support. Explaining the significance of the area, the group said in its earlier presentation that the Okura Bush and Karepiro forest “protect the riparian margins of streams which feed into the Okura estuary, part of New Zealand’s largest estuarine marine reserve, reducing sediment and other contaminants from entering the estuary.” “Healthy forests are essential in reducing harmful impacts of climate change, absorbing carbon from the air, and sequestering in the root systems.” Classified by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as an endangered type of forest, the Okura Forest is “the last significant stand of coastal broadleaf and kauri forest between Coromandel peninsula and just south of Whangarei”.

caring is in our nature. People sometimes ask why we chose to become funeral directors. Our answer is always the same because we care about people and about the details.

for beautiful funerals DilsHM 2.11

Dil’s. Creating beautiful funerals on the coast. 48 Waiora Rd Stanmore Bay (09) 424 2675 www.dils.co.nz

ADD ROOM, SPACE, AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME

www.shadesdirect.co.nz

www.shadesdirect.co.nz www.shadesdirect.co.nz

0800 742 337

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

OUTSIDER

CLEARSPAN

OUTDOOR SCREENS

FOLDING ARM AWNINGS

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

AFTER

BEFORE

Many local residents regard the overgrown course as an eyesore. Weed-infested bush surrounds the patchy course and what used to be one of the course’s pristine greens is now a piece of cracked earth, covered in rabbit droppings.

Unmaintained golf course sparks community concerns As the community awaits word on whether the Gulf Harbour Country Club owners’ boundary change application will be publicly notified, fears have been voiced that lack of maintenance at the shut-down golf course raises environmental risks.

A key concern for lobby group Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces (KWGS) is that the owner’s failure to maintain and cut the grass could pose a fire risk. In just a few months, the once pristine course has become more wild. Once plush greens now feature waist-high grasses and rabbit droppings pepper the course. In a press release this month, KWGS spokesperson Howard Baldwin said the fact that the course is overgrown and weed infested with no mowing or even basic maintenance carried out since early December, puts at risk around 400 properties that back onto the course. “By the end of the month, if nothing is done, given these extremely dry conditions then the fire risk will be extreme,” the release said. KWGS has also pointed out that failure to maintain nearby waterways, which is the responsibility of the golf club, could pose a flood risk, in the event of another extreme weather event. The press release said the lack of maintenance could put “the whole of Gulf Harbour at risk should there be another extreme weather event

with associated extreme water flows and flooding” (see sidebar). The release also pointed to vandalism and graffiti at the clubhouse building and on signs on the course. KWGS wants Auckland Council to hold the country club’s owners to account for the lack of upkeep on the course, buildings, and waterways. Council compliance manager Adrian Wilson said staff have visited the site several times in response to complaints, but “as yet have not identified public health risks or nuisance to neighbouring properties that would constitute a breach of the Property Maintenance and Nuisance Bylaw, and therefore have been unable to take any enforcement action”. (The bylaw requires property owners to manage materials or vegetation on the property to minimise the risk of harbouring pests or significant odours, and to prevent public access to abandoned or unoccupied buildings on private property. It does not cover visual aspects of a property, such as overgrown vegetation.) Wilson said council has advised customers that concerns about potential fire risks should be reported to Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ). FENZ Waitematā community risk manager Ivan Trethowen told the paper that the fact the grass is long and unkempt LOUVRES

is not a fire risk in itself – for that you need an imminent ignition source, such as a welding shop, incinerator, power plinth or high-tension power lines arcing, in conjunction with very high winds. While FENZ “can’t make people mow their lawns,” Trethowen said, it was aware of the situation at the country club. He said the local fire brigade in Manly has made itself familiar with the site and appropriate water sources. The country club was closed last July, with its owners asserting it was no longer economically viable. A council decision is awaited on whether its subsequent boundary change application will be notified for public input. Property owner Long River Investments wants to subdivide its land in order to sell off the more than 40 per cent of the course situated north of Gulf Harbour Drive. KWGS is fighting this proposal, which is a step towards residential development on some of the 89 hectare site. Any such moves would however need to first remove or alter the encumbrance agreed between Gulf Harbour Country Club and council in 2006, under which the entire site is protected as open space for 999 years. KWGS is holding a first event to raise funds for its campaign. An auction and quiz night is planned for February 17, at Parāoa bar in Whangaparāoa (details in What’s On).

CLEAR ROOFS

BLINDS

SCREENS

Waterway worries

KWGS member Kerry Hart, who is secretary/treasurer of Bella Vista Residents Association, said that during heavy rainfalls last autumn, blockages caused by weeds and trees saw the water level in the canal along Laurie Southwick Parade rise by three metres, covering the bridge that links the 40 Bella Vista properties to the outside world. “If we lost the bridge, we’d be in deep trouble,” Hart said. “Our residents are concerned about the risk to our services in the event that the bridge supporting infrastructure gets washed away. The maintenance of the canal is of real concern so Gulf Harbour Country Club must be held to its maintenance commitments.” Council did step in last year to clear a major blockage in the waterway, although a spokesperson confirmed that it was a one-off and that canals in the area are not council-maintained but under the management of the country club. Council compliance manager Adrian Wilson said last week that council was “not aware of any issues” with the waterways in the area. “However if members of the public have specific concerns or evidence of blockages they may refer this to the council to investigate,” Wilson said.

H E AT E R S

LIGHTING

A f f o r d a b l e , c u s to m i s a b l e o u td o o r l i v i n g s y s te m s MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

www.localmatters.co.nz

021 038 3217

LO U V R E S PA N . N Z January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Focus on Penlink traffic noise After a long wait, the Waka Kotahi report on predicted traffic noise for the O Mahurangi Penlink project has finally been made public.

Hibiscus Matters has been seeking the report since the middle of last year. It details plans to mitigate the sound of vehicles along parts of the route, largely through the use of road surface material designed to reduce noise. Noise and traffic modelling have identified only two properties along the route that would be affected by noise levels that exceed acceptable limits. Waka Kotahi is consulting with those property owners on additional measures to deal with the problem. Due to open in 2026, the long-awaited corridor will link Whangaparāoa with State Highway 1 in Dairy Flat, via a bridge over the Weiti River. Houses expected to be exposed to traffic noise include some on Whangaparāoa Road near the start of Penlink, as well as some on nearby roads such as Wiriana Place, Cedar Terrace and Norfolk Road, and on Duck Creek Road west of the river. The report lays out traffic ‘noise designation limits’ at various points along the route, with the loudest allowable noise level (65 dBA Leq24hr, or existing ambient noise, whichever is greater) applicable to houses on Whangaparāoa Rd, on either side of the New World shopping centre. (The unit dBA Leq24hr means time-average sound pressure level over a period of twenty-fourhours, measured in decibels.) Dwellings along Cedar Terrace have traffic noise designation limits ranging from 55-

62 dBA, while those near Penlink on the western side of the Weiti River have a limit of 55 dBA. Noise calculations are based in part on predicted traffic volumes in 2038, 12 years after Penlink’s intended opening date. The report says that no mitigation measures will be required along the Whangaparāoa Road intersection onto Penlink, as predicted noise levels there will comply with applicable limits. Seven properties – two on Cedar Terrace, three on Duck Creek Road, and two whose identities have been redacted in the report for privacy reasons – were found to be likely to exceed the applicable noise limits once Penlink opens, should mitigation measures not be applied. Mitigation measures would include low noise road surfaces, traffic noise barriers and, if necessary, building modification, such as the upgrading or replacement of windows or wall, floor and ceiling linings. A Waka Kotahi spokesperson said with noise mitigation, all the properties, including the two most affected, should meet applicable noise limits and the organisation is “actively consulting … on these additional measures.” The report does not identify the location of the two most affected properties, but one is on the eastern side of the Weiti, near the river, and the other on the western side. Mitigation measures won’t be disclosed until agreement is reached, although for the property on the eastern side, the report says options include the building of a three metre-high timber barrier.

From top, Work on the Whangaparāoa end of Penlink, seen from homes on nearby Cedar Terrace. Construction of the road is carving its way through the countryside west of the Weiti River.

The spokesperson said Waka Kotahi consulted proactively with all landowners whose properties did not meet the designation conditions for operational noise limits. Now that the report has been made public,

“no further steps are required, apart from ongoing active consultation with affected landowners”, she said. The full report is linked to this story at www.localmatters.co.nz

Illegal driveway takes out carparks A new driveway out of the home at 114 Ladies Mile, Manly, has raised hackles among residents who previously parked there. The O’Rourke family constructed the double-width driveway outside their gate towards the end of last year – it was previously a grass berm. The property is right on Manly Beach, in a cul-de-sac that is a popular parking spot for beach-goers in summer. Residents who contacted Hibiscus Matters were angry at the size of the vehicle crossing, which took out several potential carparks plus the grass berm that people park tractors on. One likened it to the illegal garden planted on Big Manly Beach, saying they want Auckland Transport (AT) “to put a stop to

people stealing public assets”. Vehicle crossings outside the required standards need resource consent from AT – which homeowner Kerry O’Rourke did not obtain. The home already has separate vehicle access and the new driveway is solely to bring a boat in and out. He says the boatshed has been on the property for 30 years and at times it has been impossible to get the boat out because of vehicles parked on the road. On hearing of the complaints, O’Rourke said he would be in touch with AT. He said that he has had many compliments from passers-by, because it has tidied up the previously lumpy, bumpy grass area, which he said will make parking easier for the public.

This vehicle crossing from a home alongside Manly Beach has been deemed illegal by AT

“It’s public land and we don’t mind people parking on [the berm],” he said. “But we need access to our boatshed.” AT’s area compliance auditor classified it as ‘an illegal vehicle crossing’, because no consent was applied for.

AT is notifying the owner of this, asking them to either remove the crossing, or submit a retrospective application. As well as the width, AT is concerned about the quality of the materials used and whether the work complies with its technical standards.

BUY DIRECT FROM THE SAWMILL

Ask about our kitset raised garden beds, patio planters & compost bins

700 Kahikatea Flat Road, Waitoki • Phone 09 420 5485

sales@cypress-sawmill.co.nz • www.cypress-sawmill.co.nz • 4

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

Cypress.Sawmill

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

BOOK HEAVEN

Viewpoint

Whangaparāoa Methodist Parish

John Watson, Hibiscus & Bays Councillor

Pre-Loved Books and puzzles

john.watson@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Donations of books welcomed

Stand and deliver I hope people had the chance for a good break over the holidays. Certainly many needed it as the last 12 months had more than its fair share of challenges – the devastation of the January floods, the move by Auckland Transport to discontinue the local ferry service, the closure of Gulf Harbour golf course and a proposal to demolish North Harbour Stadium. Throw in the sharply rising cost of living and the careless sale of what little remains of the council’s family silver and you could be forgiven for wondering what on earth was happening in 2023. Sometimes such unpalatable decisions are unavoidable. In these circumstances you just have to grin and bear it if it’s for the greater good. It’s quite a different story, however, when these decisions are avoidable or when the actions of others are anything but fair or reasonable. In such cases people quite rightly question why the whims or self-interest of those others should be allowed to adversely impact the lives of entire communities. The answer to that, of course, is that they shouldn’t. In this respect Hibiscus Coast residents have always had a proud tradition of standing up for what they believe in. This goes back to earlier decades when ratepayer and community groups virtually ran the

place – the Waitematā County Council (as it was then) a distant and infrequent presence in an area referred to vaguely as the ‘Northern Beaches’. Community groups by contrast acquired land, built halls and sports facilities and did their own maintenance. They planned, financed and delivered these projects and services, often debt free, with the overriding goal of providing better for residents present and into the future. Today we are the beneficiaries of their efforts. Those days might be gone but that spirit remains with people still willing to stand up for what they know is fair and reasonable, and for what they believe is best for the long term future of the area they live in. As the saying goes, “There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” People on the Coast have always known what this is, even if others haven’t. In 2024 then, it’s game on to ensure the public good prevails for these issues of importance to our communities. Finally it’s great to actually see physically what is now the largest roading project north of the bridge, Penlink, steaming ahead at real pace. Also to know that council has fixed most slips, roads and repairs to coastal assets and parks from the floods. It’s taken a while but this has been a massive job. All the very best for the New Year everyone.

Swimmer dies and another missing off Gulf Harbour

More information has been revealed about the tragic death of a man on New Year’s Day following an incident at Matakatia. A police spokesperson told the paper last week that the man was free diving for kina near Kotanui island (Frenchmans Cap) in Matakatia Bay. He had filled a bucket and was returning to shore when he got into difficulty and disappeared. He was located by the Police Eagle helicopter about 30 metres out from Gulf Harbour Marina. Coastguard crew quickly retrieved the man, who was unresponsive, from the water and provided medical assistance, before transporting him to shore and handing over to St John. CPR was unfortunately unable to revive him and the matter has been referred to the Coroner. Coastguard commended the quick actions of its volunteers onboard Hibiscus Rescue 1 and Hukatai Rescue, Operations Centre staff, and Police. In addition, last week Police suspended their search for a missing male swimmer who was seen in difficulty in the water near Gulf Harbour Marina on the evening of Sunday, January 14. Police and Coastguard coordinated a significant search but, on January 24, they suspended it, pending more information. Police ask anyone who may have seen a person entering the water from the rock breakwater, near the entrance to the Gulf Harbour Marina on January 14 between 4pm and 8pm to get in touch via the 105 phone service or at www.police.govt. nz/use-105, using Update My Report. Reference file number 240115/5399.

“We can’t speak highly enough of Ben. He was always positive and respectful and negotiated a good prompt sale for us. Thank you Ben!” Vendor – 16 Chalmers Close

5 HRS

FREE LABOUR

“Look no further - Ben is your guy! From day 1 to closing, Ben provided a top client experience. He went out of his way multiple times to ensure our property would be as marketable as possible – even mowing the lawns when they needed it! Of all the agents we’ve worked with, Ben was by far the best. We particularly appreciated his honest appraisal and achieving the absolute best result.” Vendor - 2/32 Doment Crescent

120 HRS GIVEN BACK WITH FREE LABOUR AND STILL TICKING...

www.localmatters.co.nz

Mon-Fri: 10am-4pm | Saturday: 10am-2pm 76 Red Beach Rd, Red Beach | phone 426 5615

ERIC ODDI FOR BLINDS Offering a large range of styles and colours. Cleaning and repairs available.

CALL FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Phone 0800 218 555 or 021 372 620 Email: ericoddiforblinds@gmail.com Serving you Rodney wide since 1995.

MARK MITCHELL MP for Whangaparāoa For assistance please email or call our office 7 Tamariki Avenue, Orewa 09 426 6215 mark.mitchellmp@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Mark Mitchell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

SOL

DEC

EMB

SOL

DEC

EMB

11 Ngaru Way, Orewa Taken from competing agency, sold in 4 wks

SOL

DEC

EMB

2/32 Doment Crescent, Orewa Sold in 3 weeks

16 Chalmers Close Sold in 3 days

BEN GIBSON

027 836 4430 • ben.gibson@harcourts.co.nz www.orewabeachrealestate.co.nz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

LocalOpinion Contributions to this page are welcome but letters under 250 words are preferred. We reserve the right to abridge as necessary. Unabridged versions can be read at www.localmatters.co.nz/opinion Letters should be sent to terry@localmatters.co.nz or 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa 0931. Note: We do not publish abusive or unsigned letters.

Libraries essential

I read with interest the latest view on local libraries by our Mayor (HM January 15). They certainly cannot be compared to telephone boxes. Libraries are essential services to communities and reflect the local engagement and the value that people of all ages place on these essential services. Visit a library any day of the week and you will see people of all ages taking advantage of the many services they offer for free. I was a member of the Birkenhead City Council in 1988 when we introduced Sunday opening hours –the first in Auckland. I agree that there have been changes in society behaviours over this time, but the way libraries have adapted is commendable. This not the time to belittle their endeavours but a time to strengthen their relevance for the future. Peter Burn, Gulf Harbour (abridged)

Ethan Dyson Hibiscus Matters’ readers answered the call that went out in our November 13 issue for donations of food needed at local foodbanks. At the time the story went out, the Hibiscus Coast Community House was facing bare shelves at its busiest time of year. Community House manager Christine Alesbury and office co-ordinator Judith Pearce say that the response made a massive difference, sending in these photos of its replenished stocks. The photos were even more impressive as they were taken after more than 60 Christmas parcels had been packed. “Thanks everyone, and happy 2024,” the Community House’s message read.

Centreway repair

The battered, patched and pot-holed surface of Centreway Road in Ōrewa is to be improved by Auckland Transport (AT), with work due to start next month. AT says a “full rehabilitation” of the road is needed, as the base layer failed because of water damage. The top 300mm of material will be removed and replaced with concrete and asphalt. Footpath and kerb damage will also be repaired. The road surface deteriorated noticeably in the vicinity of The Grove last year, when trucks and heavy machinery used it daily during building work. The Grove denied responsibility for the road damage and an AT spokesperson says while traffic such as trucks and buses contributed to more deterioration, and sped up that process, the road failed because of underlying water damage. Ratepayers will pay for the repairs, AT confirmed. The road repairs had been set to take place earlier, but were held back because of construction work at various sites along Centreway Road.

Clean start to Year

Top, from left, William Osborne, Cesar Salvador, Ian Oracion and Christina Galvin. Above, Andy Leahy.

A New Year’s clean up by a Silverdale company saw around 10 large bags of rubbish removed from Ōrewa Beach and Estuary on Friday, January 12 (pictured left). As part of a team building exercise, 28 staff from CDS NZ took part in an ‘after the holidays’ clean up to start the New Year by giving back to the community. CDS NZ director, Anthony Clough, said the three-and-a-half-hour effort was “about being aware and more thoughtful about our surroundings and where litter ends up”.

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

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

“If everyone picked up something each day as they walked, imagine how something as easy as that could change our environment,” he said. A lot of cigarette butts, bottle tops, lolly and other food wrappers and cans were found. Among the more unusual items were old tyres, mouthguards, confetti and “other things that can’t be mentioned”. Team member Christina Galvin said even though they picked up a lot of rubbish, they were all surprised at how clean each area was. The company is looking at doing the clean up annually.

Last month, Whangaparāoa Scouts, pictured, returned from the NZ Scout Jamboree at Mystery Creek, Hamilton. Ten Scouts from our community joined with others from the North Shore and Rodney to form a Jamboree troop which they named 3L3M3NTS (pronounced ‘elements’), representing the air, land and sea scouts in their contingent. Over 3000 Scouts attended Jamboree from all around NZ and overseas. The Scouts took on muddy obstacle courses, climbed rock faces, rode quad bikes, kayaked, sailed, tramped, played human-sized foosball, and learned how to drive diggers. They also learned about recycling and waste, and how to deal with emergency situations. The 3L3M3NTS troop graduated from bronze to pounamu (the highest award) by the end of the week. The troop thanks everyone who supported them and made attendance at Jamboree possible. They want to hear from anyone who may have skills or knowledge they would be keen to share with our Cubs, Scouts and Venturers this year – at whangaparaoa@ group.scouts.nz

Our gorgeous gift shop is located in a tiny Victorian summer house in the grounds of Orewa House. Call in for a delightfully unique shopping experience. All natural skincare, candles, crystals, jewellery and other lovely treasures. Open Friday to Sunday 11am to 3pm

498 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa | 027 618 1996 Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Plans for rates-funded kerbside rubbish collection on track Auckland Council plans to move to a rates-funded kerbside rubbish collection across the city remain on track, with September 2025 the target date for its introduction in the Hibiscus Coast and other parts of the legacy Rodney region.

Confirmation of the plans coincided with rubbish collection options for Hibiscus Coast households shrinking, with one of the independent companies that provide a bagged rubbish collection service on the Coast ending it within weeks (see below). At present, council offers only recycling and food scraps collection services in the area, and households rely on private operators for regular rubbish collection, purchasing bins or their choice of bags at

the supermarket.

But all of Auckland is moving to a regionwide, rates-funded rubbish collection service, and that service will be extended here from September next year. Under the new system, rates accounts will include an annual targeted rate for waste collections. A council spokesperson said that the amount charged will depend on the size of bin requested by each household – 80-litre, 120-litre or 240-litre. This means households producing less landfill-bound rubbish will pay less than those churning out more. The bins themselves, ordered via the website aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/binrequests, will be provided at no charge. Currently, on the North Shore and other

parts of the city where council already operates kerbside rubbish pickup, bin-tags bought at supermarkets or dairies must be attached to council-provided bins for each collection ($3.50 for an 80 litre bin, $5.20 for a 120 litre bin and $7.70 for a 240 litre bin). When Auckland moves to ratesfunded rubbish collection service, bin-tags will no longer be required. Rural Rodney residents will have the option of the bin service or a council provided rates-funded rubbish bags service (with equivalent capacity to the bin sizes). An Auckland Council spokesperson says that the exact logistics of how this option will be rolled out are yet to be determined. “Rest assured that closer to the time, there will be extensive communications to advise

residents of the changes and what they mean for different properties,” they said. Meanwhile a nationwide rubbish standardisation process aims to ensure that at least 50 percent of all household waste goes into recycling and food scrap bins rather than ending up in landfills, by 2030. Changes to recyclables are also taking place. From February 1, allowable materials for household recycling bins will be the same across the country, limited to: glass bottles and jars, paper and cardboard, plastic bottles, trays and containers marked 1, 2 and 5 and aluminium and steel tins and cans. Many other materials, including Tetra Paks, can be taken to the Whangaparāoa Recycling Centre, 637 Whangaparāoa Road, for recycling, hibiscuscoastzerowaste.co.nz

Coast rubbish disposal options reduced Enviro NZ (formerly EnviroWaste) is to end its yellow bag rubbish collection service on the Hibiscus Coast and North Shore. A spokesperson said the company has stopped restocking shelves as shops began running out of its bags and they are fast disappearing from supermarket shelves. It encouraged customers to use up any bags, or to get in touch if they have any remaining bags after March 1. Explaining the decision, Enviro NZ said it supports New Zealand’s shift to rubbish standardisation, and Auckland’s move to a consistent rates-funded rubbish service (see story above). It advised customers to contact other companies providing rubbish collection services in the area. On the Coast another company, Econowaste, offers weekly collections of 80, 120 and 240 litre bins. Costs range from $199 a year (weekly equivalent $3.83)

up to

Enviro NZ’s yellow bags will soon disappear. Econowaste has given an assurance that its blue bag kerbside service will continue.

for 80 litre bins to $467 a year (weekly equivalent $8.98) for 240 litre bins. Econowaste/Northland Waste also offers a kerbside collection for its blue and green

bags. Some readers have expressed concern that it may phase out its blue bags. However Econowaste’s marketing, advocacy and strategy general manager, April Peter,

55 %

Rock Bottom Price

assures customers that it is “100 percent committed to continuing to service the Hibiscus Coast area for domestic rubbish bags until the council changes commence”.

65 %

OFF

OFF POSTURE ELITE MEDIUM

WAS $3398

On purchases of $999 and above within 10km radius*

All sizes available

FREE

NOW $2157

Old Bed Removal On purchases of $1999 and above*

All sizes available

FREE

Mattress Protector On purchases of $2499 and above*

COUPON

Delivery

WAS $6163

COUPON

FREE

Queen mattress + Base

Valid till: 6th Feb

NOW $1529

COUPON

With every sleepset

COUPON

FREE

Valid till: 6th Feb

All sizes available

Valid till: 6th Feb

NOW $1299

2X Microfibre Pillows

POSTURE REST PLUSH

Queen mattress + Base

Valid till: 6th Feb

PUREFLEX

Queen mattress + Base

Earn Flybuys with us!

2181 East Coast Rd, Silverdale Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm / Sat-Sun 9am - 4pm Ph:09 281 4989 Beds4U reserve the right to amend any misprints or error within this advertisement. Price subject to mattress and base only.

www.localmatters.co.nz

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

50 Waiwai Drive, Milldale 09 304 1632 | milldale.sales@summerset.co.nz

Think award Think award winning lifestyle winning lifestyle

Love the life you choose

SUM5631_FP2

At Summerset, we’re proud of what we offer, with our outstanding facilities, welcoming communities, and excellent staff. At Summerset, we’re proud of what we offer, with our outstanding facilities, Now there are even more great reasons to choose Summerset. We’ve been voted welcoming communities, and excellent staff. winner of the Reader’s Digest Quality Service Award, and Aged Advisor People’s Now there even more greatawards. reasons to choose Summerset. We’ve been voted Choice andare Nationwide Group winner of the Reader’s Digest Quality Service Award, and Aged Advisor People’s So, if you are contemplating village life, pop along to one of our Open Weekends Choice and Nationwide Group awards. at Summerset Milldale and take a look for yourself. We’ll have our stunning show So, if you arefor contemplating popsite along to one of our and Open Weekends home open viewing, a 3Dvillage modellife, of the on display, plans pricing for at Summerset Milldale take atreats look for We’ll have our stunning show available homes, as well and as sweet andyourself. refreshments provided on the day. home open for viewing, a 3D model of the site on display, plans and pricing for Love the life you choose available homes, as well as sweet treats and refreshments provided on the day.

Open Weekends, 10am - 2pm Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 February

Open Weekends, 10am - 2pm Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 February

Saturday Saturday 10 24 & & Sunday Sunday 11 25February February Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 February Summerset Milldale Saturday 24 &Milldale Sunday 25 February 50 Waiwai Drive,

09 304 1632Milldale | milldale.sales@summerset.co.nz Summerset 50 Waiwai Drive, Milldale 09 304 1632 | milldale.sales@summerset.co.nz | Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

SUM5631_FP2

localbusiness SUM5631_FP2

Heritage status for Pūhoi Pūhoi township has been officially recognised as a “historic heritage area”, one of three new such areas to be added to the Auckland Unitary Plan’s historic heritage schedule.

Their addition to the schedule, together with seven “historic heritage places”, means they will be protected and managed under the provisions of the AUP’s historic heritage overlay. Pūhoi already has six historic heritage places listed in the schedule: Pūhoi Hotel and stables, the St Peter and St Paul church, convent and presbytery, Pūhoi Library, Pūhoi Hall, the Old Schoolhouse and the Wayside Shrine on Pūhoi Road, erected in 1953 and reflecting the Catholic faith of the founding settlers. The area now designated incorporates parts of Ahuroa, Pūhoi, Saleyards, Krippner and Domain roads. Pūhoi – the Māori word means “slow water” – was established in 1863 by Germanspeaking immigrants from Bohemia in the present-day Czech Republic. It was a “special settlement” under the terms of 1858 legislation that offered European immigrants free 40-acre blocks, disposing of unsold land acquired from Māori through Crown “pre-emption”. It was both the first Bohemian settlement in the country and one of just a handful of settlements established by non-Englishspeaking settlers from Europe under the legislation. Buildings of significance that still exist today include the church, built in 1881 (along with a 1906 presbytery, a 1922 convent school, and a 1923 convent), stables built in 1883, workers’ residences built in 1886 and 1901, a community hall (1900), hotel (1901), library (1913), wharf shed (1924), and general store (1939).

Judith Rosamund of Kaipatiki Project, centre, runs a workshop at the Ōrewa Community Garden, funded through a Love Food Hate Waste grant.

Waste grant applications invited St Peter and St Paul church

According to a “statement of significance”, the township is “a well-preserved example of a colonial New Zealand town dating from the second half of the 19th century, and indeed one of the most distinct and discernible ‘special settlements’ established in the 1860s.” “As a whole, the Pūhoi township has considerable aesthetic value as a picturesque rural settlement, of 19th century origin. Its collection of late-19th to early-20th century buildings and structures, together with trees and the rural and river backdrop, provides strong visual appeal.” The other two Auckland areas added to the heritage schedule were Parkfield Terrace in Grafton and Jervois Road in Herne Bay. The seven heritage places listed include the Wilsons Portland Cement Company Dam in Warkworth. The AUP plan change was publicly notified in August 2022, a submission period followed, and hearings began last May. The decisions were made on behalf of council by independent commissioners, and announced late last year.

With the average New Zealand household throwing away three shopping trolleys’ worth of food a year, Auckland Council is again funding grants to individuals and organisations running food rescue schemes and other initiatives designed to prevent food waste. The application period for the “Love Food Hate Waste” grants opens on February 1 and closes on March 5. Successful applicants will be notified in April. The fund has a total of $60,000 to award, with grants ranging from $500 to $5000 available for educational projects and activities that support people to make the most of their food. Previous recipients of the grants include Sustainable Ōrewa, which used funding received last year to hold a series of workshops at the Ōrewa Community Garden, where Judith Rosamund from Kaipatiki Project taught participants how to grow their own food in their backyard gardens. “The aim was to rely less on supermarket prices and become more empowered and self-sufficient,” said Sustainable Ōrewa coordinator Lena Kovac. “Keen gardeners from all walks of life and gardening experience learnt how to start their own vegie garden, how to build and maintain healthy soil, how to troubleshoot and what

to grow in which season.” Sustainable Ōrewa also received Love Food Hate Waste funding in 2022, and used it to run a project at Ōrewa College to raise awareness of food waste in students’ lunch boxes. Hibiscus Coast Zero Waste also successfully applied for a grant last year. Trustee Betsy Kettle said the money was used to hold a workshop at Northcross Intermediate for food tech teachers from six intermediate schools, “a full day of sharing ideas and creating new menus using upcycled and rescued food”. Auckland Council is one of 52 councils and community groups that support Love Food Hate Waste NZ, a campaign highlighting the issue of preventable food waste. Prior to council’s food scraps bin service, food waste made up 45 percent of the weight of an average household’s rubbish bag or bin. Love Food Hate Waste NZ says households nationwide throw away around 157,398 tonnes of food per year. It says food waste in landfills is a major contributor to climate change and preventing it is one of the simplest ways to make an impact at home. More info: Visit the Auckland Council website and search ‘LFHW’.

0800 420 470 info@hibiscusfunerals.co.nz w w w. h i b i s c u s f u n e r a l s . c o . n z 7 Greenview Lane, Red Beach

You can't predict the future, but you can plan for it. Call Tracey to chat about your family's needs. With services starting from $2595 plus GST, there are options to suit any budget. Whether you want a party, quiet farewell, a burial or cremation, Tracey's got you covered.

Our family. Caring for your family.

www.localmatters.co.nz

Tracey Brown, the friendliest funeral director in town. January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Rainwater collection made easy Inventor Laurie Dee will bring many years of experience in household rainwater collection to a workshop in Ōrewa next month.

The workshop, on February 10, is hosted by Ōrewa Community Garden and will focus on collecting and storing rainwater in a barrel to use on home gardens. Laurie says he will demonstrate how to set up a simple system, doing it yourself with no plumbers required! Although he spent a number of years as an entertainer, Laurie originally trained as an engineer and has used those skills for inventions that include The Hedgehog filter for roof gutters, which is sold internationally, and a rainwater diverter. The diverter goes into the downpipe and funnels water into your tank or barrel, then when that is full, diverts the overflow back into the downpipe. He came up with that invention almost 30 years ago, during a severe water shortage in Auckland. That process inspired further inventions, and his focus on rainwater diversion has continued. “The average Auckland household puts the 180,000 litres of water that falls on the roof down the drain every year,” Laurie says. “Realising what a waste that is has changed Auckland Council’s minds about home rainwater tanks.

They are a huge asset in taking pressure off the public system.” Laurie says he has become something of a crusader for the benefits of small rainwater systems for the urban environment, where there is not much room for a large tank, but water can be stored in a barrel and connected for garden use. As well as running workshops in Auckland and Hamilton, in recent years, the Birkenhead resident has been involved in a Council initiative driven by the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to get rain barrels installed in local schools. He says schools and Early Childhood Centres are offered a modest rainwater harvesting system, with the tab picked up by Council. Laurie talks with the children about the process, and installs it. “I thought it might go with all the cuts, but Council is talking about it, so I think I might be doing it again this year,” he says. He says with the cost of water going up at least 10 percent a year, more homeowners are looking into installing tanks, or small systems. For details of the workshop, see What’s On.

Every drop is precious: Laurie Dee is on a mission to help people harvest rainwater for their gardens.

Auckland public transport fares on the rise Public transport fares in Auckland will rise from February 4. Auckland Transport (AT) says the increase is necessary to help meet the rising cost of running and maintaining Auckland’s public transport network. In a press release, AT Public Transport & Active Modes director, Stacey van der Putten, said with the impacts of Covid-19 and extreme weather in mind, AT deferred last year’s fare increase until April and in 2022 there was no increase at all. “But operating costs have spiked dramatically over this period, driven by

high inflation and staff shortages. Adjusting fares to raise revenue is unfortunately one of the steps AT needs to take to cover these higher costs,” van der Putten said. A weighted average increase of 6.2 percent will be implemented across AT’s fare structure. For standard adult fares, this works out to be an increase of between 6-40 cents per journey on buses, trains and ferries. The increase for longer journeys is between 1 percent and 4 percent. Having an additional impact is the fact that in July 1 last year, half-price public transport fares stopped for most, with only children under 13 riding for free.

Half-price fares for community services card holders and people under 25 remain, although National wants to scrap them. AT says patronage growth is forecast to continue and will generate more revenue to help meet operating costs. It is expected that growth will be accelerated by the introduction of contactless payments for fares via debit/credit card, Apple Pay and Google Pay later this year, which will make public transport more accessible for those without a HOP card. An independent review of AT’s fare structure is underway, which could result in simpler fares and more affordable public

transport for frequent users. The review will explore initiatives such as a weekly fare cap, and its findings are expected in the coming months.

Coastal Curtains and Blinds Call Andy to supply, install, service and repair all major Heat Pump brands and for all your Electrical needs

phone 021 819 733

or email andy@airpower.net.nz

Need extra space? Studio •OOce •Villa From $90 per week

Contact: Rod 0800 466 763

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

CALL NOW FOR A FREE MEASURE & QUOTE

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

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

0800 63 63 48 10/22 Highgate Parkway, Silverdale

M: 021 535 367 E: info@garagedoorrepairman.co.nz 10

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

localbusiness

Tiritiri Matangi John Stewart,

secretary@tiritirimatangi.org.nz

Tiri a treasure still in the making number of tīeke/saddleback as Tiritiri does. The planting programme on the island has greatly accelerated the change from farmland to bush but there is still a long way to go. This is most obvious underfoot, where the leaf litter which decomposes and forms new topsoil has so far only replaced a fraction of the soil lost during the farming period. Other aspects of bush development are well underway as short-lived trees like cabbage tree and coprosmas have died and fallen, eventually being broken down by fungi and invertebrates. Last year’s Cyclone Gabrielle also brought down trees, broke large branches and ripped the canopy clear of leaves. It was sad to see so much damage, but the outcome is more rotting timber, more leaf litter and more light reaching the forest floor where tree seedlings, previously starved of light, are growing rapidly and will help to increase the complexity and quality of the bush. The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi and the Department of Conservation have worked hard for what is already an amazing outcome. There is more that they can and will do in the coming years but for some things – like a deep friable topsoil where hundreds of thousands of burrow-nesting seabirds can excavate their nests – we will just have to be patient.

The one remaining NZ dotterel egg, laid at the western end of Tindalls Bay, above the high tide mark, has proved unviable. The birds recently abandoned the nest, and the egg was subsequently removed by the Dotterel Minders, on the advice of DOC. It was a sad end to the nesting season for these rare birds, with not a single chick. However, a pair of Oystercatchers have nested nearby and have two eggs. They can be very aggressive if you approach too close, so beach-goers are advised to keep their distance. The Dotterel Minder volunteers will continue to monitor Tindalls and Manly beach for the rest of the summer and thank everyone for their support as they watch over the rare birds that have made our beaches their home.

Cat traps set to protect birds Cat owners are being warned (via a widely disseminated flyer) about a six-month programme of cat control at Dacre Historic and Esplanade Reserve. The first round began last week. Live capture traps were set from January 22-26. They will be set again, for five-day periods, monthly until June. The traps are designed to protect bar-tailed godwits and other birds on the Stillwater chenier (beach ridge) from predation by unowned cats. Traps have been placed away from residential areas and will be checked daily. Any microchipped cats caught, where possible, will be returned directly to their owners. If the cats are not microchipped, but show signs of socialisation, they will be released at the edge of the park with a paper collar. Any others may be euthanised. Info: email WildlifeProtectionDacre@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz www.localmatters.co.nz

VISIQUE HAWKINS OPTOMETRISTS Shop 20, 175 Millwater Millwater Parkway, Parkway,Silverdale Silverdale P: 09 426 5308 5308 E: E: millwater@seriouseyes.co.nz millwater@visique.co.nz www.seriouseyes.co.nz www.seriouseyes.co.nz

Dennis Oliver • David Joe • Aimee Parangi

VISIQUE HAWKINS OPTOMETRISTS

Sudoku 2 5 6

1 3 7 6

9 1

2 7

7 1

2 9

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

4 9 8 5

5 9

Hard – rd.com

No chicks for Coast dotterels

PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES BRANDS SUNGLASS PACKAGES INCLUDE: Ray-Bans, Inface, Bill Bass FROM $199.

1 Solution page 26

John Stewart, previously our SOSSI columnist, has been volunteering on Tiritiri Matangi for around 14 years and has switched to writing this new column. Initially he joined a small team on the island monitoring nesting kōkako, which he is still doing although the team is larger now. He works on projects related to Tiritiri’s land and seabirds and recently started citizen science projects with volunteers on plant phenology and bird diets. John was chair of the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi for three years and is now a member of the biodiversity sub-committee.

PROTECT YOUR YOUR PROTECT EYES THIS THIS SUMMER SPRING. EYES

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

Visitors’ first impressions after landing on Tiritiri Matangi Island are likely to be of lush bush of mainly native trees forming a closed canopy over the terrain, with access via well-formed tracks and boardwalks. They will also notice that there is lots of birdsong that sounds quite different from the mainland. Those who take a guided walk will hear about the history of the island, how the once farmed land was replanted with trees grown from locally collected seed, how the kiore were killedoff by a poison drop and how a wide range of threatened native birds, reptiles and invertebrates were introduced and have thrived in their new home. They may also hear about our efforts to keep out invasive mammalian predators and the constant war on weeds. And while the island is surely impressive, and a testament to inspired leadership and the hard work of thousands of willing volunteers, they may not realise that the bush at about 30 to 40 years old is still far from mature. To compare it with mature bush, take a stroll through Waterfall Gully in Shakespear Regional Park or, even better, visit Bushy Park/Tarapuruhi where you will see massive trees festooned with epiphytes and surrounded by luxuriant vegetation all the way to ground level. At around one third of the area of Tiritiri, Bushy Park supports around the same

www.seriouseyes.co.nz January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Extra 705 EACH number in our CodeCracker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. For example, today 22 represents P, so ﬁll in P every time the ﬁgure 22 appears. You have one letter in the control grid to start you off. Enter it in the appropriate squares in the main grid, and solve the starter word. Fill in other squares in the main and control grids with the found letters and look for the next word. Follow the word trail through the puzzle to its completion. www.codecracker.co.nz

Solution Page 26

WE SHARE CAPITAL GAINS We’re bringing a smarter approach to 70+ coastal retirement living. 14 Tiromoana Drive - Red Beach 0800 173 323 vividliving.co.nz 12

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Mondays productive for photography group

Photo, Martin Sanders

A photography group called The Monday Afternoon Photographers, will be displaying images at Estuary Arts Centre, starting this week.

The group was started by a professional photographer and tutor, who gathered his students every Monday afternoon in different locations to take photos. It is currently run by keen photographer Anne Thornton, and has around 13 members from Rodney, the Hibiscus Coast and North Shore – some, including Anne, also belong to the Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club. All members are retired, so Anne has stuck with the original format – the group meet on Monday afternoons at a location she selects, which could be anything from Wenderholm Regional Park to Auckland zoo or a private garden. A diverse range of images always eventuates, as members work in many different genres. The photos are loaded onto a website, so that members can enjoy, and critique, each other’s work. The exhibition is on from January 31-February 25. Info: visit Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa, or see What’s On.

Floral perfection

Martin’s image (top), dolphins off Tiritiri Island, is in the exhibition. Martin has broadened his focus from birds to other NZ flora and fauna – spiders, insects, rare orchids, butterflies and dragonflies.

Inspired by nature

Stillwater resident Martin Sanders always loved photographing nature, starting with images of snakes and toads in the UK where he grew up. He worked as a newspaper photographer in London in the 1950s, but when two national newspapers closed, he became a merchant seaman, eventually landing in NZ. His interest in photography has been a constant – he was a founding member of the Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club and guiding on Tiritiri Matangi resulted in his book A Visitor’s illustrated guide to Tiritiri Matangi with photos from his collection.

Janet Munnings says she enjoys the social aspect of the Monday Afternoon group and finds good material at the various locations they visit for her work. The Wainui resident is a gardener and currently she is creating photographs of flowers which are put together with great care and take around eight hours each to complete. The flora she collects are assembled, floated in a tray of water, with swirls of paint added for background texture, then photographed in natural light. She has been taking photos for around 17 years, is a photography judge, and also a member of the Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club.

SCRAP METAL & DEMOLITION

Scrap Metal and Commercial Clearances

Tin Men specialise in the purchasing of scrap metals, industrial and farmyard clearances as well as demolition work. • Demolition - Residential and Commercial • Asbestos Removal and Control • Scrap Metal Removal • Transportation of Scrap Metal • Cars any condition • Scrap Metal Bins • Digger Hire and Driver • Labour Hire

Mon-Fri 7am-5pm | Sat 7am-1pm | Sun Closed 63 Foundry Road, Silverdale | office@tinmen.co.nz Enquiries phone 0800 846 636 or visit

www.tinmen.co.nz

www.localmatters.co.nz

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

HYDRAFACIAL HYDRAFACIAL One of of our most theHydraFacial. HydraFacial. One our mostpopular popular treatments treatments isisthe This patenteddevice, device,cleanses, cleanses, exfoliates, infuses and This patented exfoliates, infuses and hydrates the skin.Hydrafacial Hydrafacial tips technology hydrates the skin. tipsand andvortex vortex technology deliver patentedsolutions solutions resulting resulting ininthe famous deliver patented theworld world famous “Hydrafacial Glow”

“Hydrafacial Glow” Suitable for almost any skin type

Suitable for almost any skin type Non-invasive Non-invasive No downtime

No downtime Immediate results

Immediate Customised results to your skin needs Complimentary consultation Customised to your skin needs

Complimentary consultation

For a limited time Pre-pay 2 Hydrafacials and get 1 free*

ForKate a limited Pre-pay 2 Hydrafacials and get 1 free* Allen time Aesthetics, 2 Central Boulevard, Silverdale

Kate Allen Aesthetics, 2 Central Boulevard, Silverdale 09-4210910 - reception@kateallen.co.nz - kateallen.co.nz 09 421 0910 - reception@kateallen.co.nz - kateallen.co.nz

Kate Allen Aesthetics, 2 Central Boulevard, Silverdale 09-4210910 - reception@kateallen.co.nz - advertisers kateallen.co.nz 14 | Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024 Support the who support Hibiscus Matters

Is wearable tech good for you?

feature.health

– by David Cooper, Principal Physiotherapist, Kinetics –

Over the past few decades, technology has expanded and evolved at an unprecedented rate and is now interwoven within almost all areas of life.

The health sector is no different, and now many devices are available directly to the consumer for use in daily life. There are pros and cons to these devices, and they are a common discussion point in our clinics. With such a wide range of wearable health devices available, there are certainly some benefits. They can help you work towards a goal through simple visual data, for example tracking the numbers for you if your aim is to increase your step count or distance walked. With increased physical activity, these wearables can be used to monitor training volumes to help reduce your risk of injury. There are safety features when hiking, tramping, or hunting in the great outdoors if you happen to use a wearable with GPS maps and satellite connectivity to

At times I advocate removing the Smartwatch or Fitbit and getting back to walking or running ‘by feel’.

emergency services. There may be advantages to understanding your sleep patterns to help you deal with the stresses of daily life. From a medical perspective, blood pressure, cardiac, and glucose monitoring wearables are great at reducing the burden of health conditions. The data they provide can also help your doctor make more informed decisions about your condition. Of course there are downsides too. In clinical practice, we frequently meet people for whom those step-count targets, distance ran, or effort exerted has become something of an obsession. In fact, at times I will advocate removing the Smartwatch or Fitbit and getting back to walking or running ‘by feel’. Although the motivation or sense of competition that all of the data creates can be positive; it can become overbearing. Regular readings of poor sleep hygiene, high levels of stress, elevated blood pressure, or a constantly high heart

rate can become a negative cycle that feels impossible to get out of. Instead of being able to turn this into a reason for selfimprovement; it can have the opposite effect where people just give up. Wearable tech for health is an exciting and ever-expanding industry and there are

certainly many devices worth looking into. The best advice is to figure out what specific questions you hope to answer by purchasing or using one. If you figure that out, and there is a device available to help you, then go for it. Just try to keep that information in perspective.

oxygen saturation meters, accelerometers, and more. Some models are designed specifically for runners, while others have features more useful for tramping, hiking, and mountaineering. Many of the higherend models can even be used as diving watches. • Oura or Motiv ring: This form of health monitoring has grown in the last 5-8 years and is the most subtle way to monitor activity levels, heart rate, stress, and sleep. Like Fitbits and Smart watches, they use infrared sensors to measure heart rate. They connect to a smartphone app where you can track the quality of your sleep and other health metrics including stress levels

or recovery after exercise. Stress scores are typically calculated using algorithms based on medical studies investigating heart rate variability with exercise and recovery. Elevated heart rate can also be a sign of an overloaded immune system; typically, during illness or following injury. • ECG or blood pressure monitors: Though these devices stem from the medical world, there are now wearable chest straps that can detect cardiac function from home. With smartphone connectivity, this allows the user to understand if their cardiac function is being affected by stress, exercise, or other factors. More advanced smartwatches now have integrated blood

pressure monitors that have an inflatable cuff within the watch strap. Other watches will use similar infra-red sensors of pulse waves that, through algorithms, can accurately calculate blood pressure. • Glucose monitors: Though not for the average consumer, diabetics have had a new lease of life with the invention of wearable glucose monitors. Once again, smartphone connectivity has meant that they do not have to prick their finger for frequent blood-sugar testing. For many, this has meant their blood sugar levels are more stable because alerts can be set up on the phone that allows the individual to respond in real-time to any changes.

What’s out there • Fitness trackers: Fitbit is the first brand that jumps to mind, a long-term player in the fitness wearable market. These are usually wrist-based devices that can measure step count, heart rate, and distance travelled (via GPS) and their more advanced models have started to operate more like a full Smartwatch. • Smartwatches. Think Garmin, Suunto, or Apple Watch. These devices have steadily increased in processing power and are now able to measure much more than just step count. They have GPS connectivity, full maps including off-grid, phone connectivity, integrated wristbased heart rate monitors, sleep detectors,

www.localmatters.co.nz

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Join the 4-week Foundations of Fat Loss Programme • Structured food plan • Mixture of delicious recipes and simple meals • Weekly coaching for individual guidance and support Programme designed specifically for the fat burning needs of over 35’s by Sheryl Takayama, qualified nutritionist based in Orewa with 12 years experience.

Get your foundation food plan for life!

Supreme

e Award

Driving Miss Daisy Hibiscus Coast

nchi s

2023

sheryl@whyweightacademy.com

Healthy start: dream big, plan small

Everywhere I look I see people sharing their resolutions – what they want to achieve, what they are going to give up, all declared with the energy and enthusiasm that a new year brings. Once we get back to work and regular routines, it becomes a bit overwhelming and the great intentions can get pushed onto the back burner.

Keep your independence and freedom with our safe, reliable companion driving service

If this sounds familiar, I suggest instead: dream big, but plan small.

We can drive and accompany you to: • • • • •

Sheryl Takayama, Nutritionist

As a coach who spends a fair chunk of my day talking to people about their goals, I admit that I’m not a fan of New Year’s resolutions, especially when it comes to health.

Visit www.whyweightacademy.com or email: sheryl@whyweightacademy.com F ra

Health

Medical and other appointments Family/social occasions Shopping trips Scenic drives Take your pets to the vets

If, for example, you want to lose 20kg, have this as your overall target, but plan small and focus on the actions required to lose the first kilo. Once you’ve lost that kilo, focus on what you need to do to lose the next one. Losing 20kg feels like a huge undertaking – one kilo is far more manageable.

Total Mobility Scheme cards accepted. ACC contracted supplier. (Vendor Number: VBD580)

Do you have difficulty hearing?

If your goal is to run a marathon, focus on the first 5km and work your way up from there.

Bookings essential, call Dave & Kathryn today: Ph: 09 428 4490 / 021 035 0431 hibiscus@drivingmissdaisy.co.nz www.drivingmissdaisy.co.nz

To make consistent progress, focus on a 10 percent improvement in the important lifestyle areas, to get to the next level in your health journey.

Focus Hearing can help. Don’t buy a hearing To get you without started: aid talking to us first. We provide:

Driving Miss Daisy Hibiscus Coast

• Food: Being organised and having a meal • FREE 15-minute hearing checks plan is a huge step in taking control of your

• FULL hearing assessments with reports • FREE hearing aid consultations & trials • FREE hearing aid checks & cleaning

FANTAILS

7 Polarity Rise,

Focus Hearing can help. Don’t buy a hearing

Silverdale Focus Hearing can aahearing Focus Hearing can help. help. Don’t buyprovide: hearing aid without talking to usDon’t first. buy We Clinics also at Takapuna aid without talking to us first. We provide: Howick. Registeredto us first. We provide: talking • Prices to suit all budgets • aid FREE without 15-minuteand checks forhearing ACC, War Pensions

Estate

• Located at 1669 Dairy Flat Highway, under 1 km from the Silverdale on-off ramps. • Set in a rural lifestyle setting, nestled between farmland, it provides one of the largest landscaped outdoor spaces at a NZ Early Learning Centre. • Leading edge, modern purpose built facilities with an environment that matches the quality of education and care provided. 09 222 9001

estate@fantailschildcare.co.nz

www. fa nta i Isch i Idea re. co. nz 16

Southern Cross Health Society Easy Claim available for members

today to book an appointment

Early Learning Centre

• Payment options available

Do you have Do you have Do you have Ph 09 972 5250 difficulty difficulty hearing? difficulty hearing? hearing?

childc a re

Fantails Estate

eating, but you don’t have to plan all your meals. Start with dinner as it’s the meal that can go awry when we are busy and tired. If we don’t have a satisfying meal, the after-dinner snacking becomes a lot more tempting! Create a dinner plan for the week and once you’ve got this established, the next step is to include lunch and breakfast. • Sleep: Poor sleep can impact energy levels and appetite the next day. Start by going to bed 15 minutes earlier each week and notice the difference in your energy levels and mood the next day. • Water: An optimal level of water for most people is 6-8 glasses of water per day, especially in warmer weather. If you’re only having three glasses, increase it to four and then add in an extra glass each week. • Exercise: If you have been sedentary, start with 10 minutes of light exercise per day and increase this in 5-minute increments, working towards 30 minutes per day. • Alcohol: drinking every night? Cut it back to every second night. Then just in the weekends. This will make a big difference to your liver, metabolism, hormone balancing and sleep. It’s wonderful to have fresh energy as you head into the New Year, but to achieve your goals, you need the momentum to last. Plan small, make it achievable and the wins will provide the confidence to take the next step. All those steps can add up to • Prices to suit all budgets impressive results.

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

•• Prices to all •• FREE 15-minute hearing checks and WINZ subsidies. to suit suit all budgets budgets FREE 15-minute hearing checks FULL 15-minute hearing assessments with reportswww.focushearing.co.nz •• Prices Payment options available Prices to suit all budgets ••• FREE hearing checks FULL hearing assessments with reports • Payment available options •• FULL hearing assessments with reports • Payment options available Southern Cross Health FREE hearing aid consultations & trials ••• FULL hearing assessments with reports • Payment options Southern Cross Health Society Easy Claim FREE hearing aid consultations & trials Southern Cross Healthavailable & trials • FREE FREE hearing hearing aid aid consultations checks & cleaning Society Easy Claim for members Society Easy Claim Southern Cross Health FREE & •• FREE consultations & trials available FREE hearing hearing aid aid checks checks & cleaning cleaning available for members available for Society Easymembers Claim • FREE hearing aid checks & cleaning available for members

Ph 09 972 5250 Ph 09 972 5250 today to book an appointment

Ph 09 972 5250 7 Polarity Rise, 7 Polarity Rise, 7 Polarity Rise,

today to book an appointment

today to book an appointment Silverdale Silverdale Clinics also at Takapuna 7 Polarity Rise,

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

Silverdale www.focushearing.co.nz www.focushearing.co.nz www.focushearing.co.nz Clinics also at Takapuna and Howick. Registered for ACC, War Pensions and WINZ subsidies.

feature.health www.focushearing.co.nz

Travels bring healthy food home

Raspberry lemonade

A non-alcoholic cold drink for a hot day Kelsi Boocock has a busy year ahead but will largely be based on the Coast. Her new book takes your tastebuds travelling.

Three years of travel with a focus on food has resulted in the second recipe book from Kelsi Boocock of Red Beach, which was published this month.

Her first, Healthy Kelsi, was a project that began in lockdown (HM October 11, 2021). As soon as borders opened, Kelsi and her fiancé had their bags packed and travelled extensively. Her time overseas included gaining a diploma in plant-based cuisine at Le Cordon Bleu in London and tasting, and learning about, local food everywhere she went – taking cooking classes and talking with chefs and street food vendors in places such as Morocco, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Egypt, Bali, Thailand and Japan. The recipes in the new book, Healthy Kelsi Travel Kitchen draws on all those experiences. They also reflect Kelsi’s philosophy that eating fresh, seasonal, plant-based wholefoods is important for

feature.health

good health. Now back on the Coast, 26-year-old Kelsi is as busy as ever. She says 2024 includes plans for more travel, including hiking Mt Kilimanjaro and a health retreat in Bali. She is also starting a protein powder business and will be getting married next summer.

Serves 4: 8 lemons, juiced 1 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen ⅓ cup maple syrup 1 litre sparkling water Handful of ice cubes Fresh mint Add the lemon juice and raspberries to a bowl. Using a fork, mash the raspberries then transfer them to a jug. Add the maple syrup and sparkling water and mix well. Stir through the ice cubes and garnish with mint. Serve immediately.

WIN this book

Hibiscus Matters has four copies of Healthy Kelsi Travel Kitchen (Bateman Books) by Kelsi Boocock, to give away. To go in the draw, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters on Facebook and message us your name and phone number with Healthy Kelsi Travel Kitchen in the message. Alternatively, write your name, address and phone number on the back of an envelope and post or drop into Healthy Kelsi Travel Kitchen giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa. Entries close on Friday, February 16. The book retails for $49.99 and is available from book stores.

Pink Pasta

In Venice we had this great beetroot pasta dish which I thought was such a fun idea. Turns out it only takes about 15 minutes to whip together. I love to top it with feta and pistachios for even more colour! Serves 2: 180 g pasta of choice, gluten-free optional 1 large beetroot, quartered ¾ cup cashews, or sunflower seeds for nut-free, soaked overnight or for 10 minutes in boiling water ¼ cup plant milk ½ cup vegetable stock 2 cloves garlic ½ tsp salt 1 Tbsp lemon juice Handful of torn basil To serve: Plant-based feta, Pistachios, leave out if nut-free, Sprig of basil. Precook your pasta according to packet instructions. Steam the beetroot until tender. Add to a blender along with the cashews, milk, vegetable stock, garlic, salt and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Pour the beetroot sauce over the pasta, add the torn basil and toss to combine. Top with feta and pistachios. Garnish with a whole sprig of basil. Recipes from Healthy Kelsi Travel Kitchen. Photos, Natasha Meys, Tastefully Tash

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Heat treatment in HOT demand Ōrewa resident Gabriel (Gab) Morales has been practicing and teaching Thai Yoga Massage for almost 20 years and recently he added a new element – fire.

As part of his studies last year in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, Gab learned the ancient fire therapy used by the Lanna people called Yam Khang. He says because of the skills it requires, Yam Khang therapists are rare. Those skills include being able to balance on one leg while you slide the other foot over a flame and heated metal plate. That foot is then used to apply pressure to the client’s body, transferring heat. “It is common for trainees to burn their feet, and I did that myself a few times,” Gab says. “I applied ice to my foot between clients, and put a smile on my face while dealing with the pain.” Being in a meditative state, and reciting mantra is also part of the practice. Plai (ginger) water and sesame oil are also applied via the practitioner’s foot. Gab says the unique practice brings warmth to the client’s body, changing and balancing the energy within. Earlier this month, he conducted live demonstrations at a local private festival but the nature of this therapy means it will be difficult to find somewhere to offer it on

Kinetics physiotherapists have been using VALD Forceplates for nearly 2 years, a digital platform that you stand, jump, squat or hop on. This allows us to evaluate many important measures such as strength, power, speed and balance. Think of it as a way to ‘see the unseeable’, picking up on subtle weakness or deficits crucial to your recovery. This technology is prominent in elite sport and is also used to determine readiness for a return to sport after injury or surgery. At Kinetics we are continually challenging ourselves and pushing the boundaries of our profession. If you are wanting to find out more about a current or previous injury that hasn’t quite resolved, then get in touch with our friendly admin team to book an appointment!

Gabriel Morales of Ōrewa recently added Yam Khang (Thai fire therapy) to his practice. He says therapists in this ancient skill are rare, even in Thailand – for good reason.

a regular basis. A search for such a venue is underway, Gab says. Info: www.gabmassage.com

No wetsuit necessary

With or without a wetsuit, 14-year-old Enoch Wu continues to demonstrate his speed and endurance in the water. Earlier this month, he won a Silver in the 13-14 year age group at the NZ Open water swimming champs at Taupo, racing the 7.5km without a wetsuit. It was the first time he had swum that distance without a wetsuit, but last year he won the same race in a wetsuit – in fact he was the only one in his age group to finish the distance. His time this year, of 2:16:53, was around seven minutes faster than last year. His father Leo says Enoch likes to challenge himself and keeps pushing his personal best. He is the youngest member of the Hibiscus Coast Harriers and Triathlon Club and swims almost every weekend at Stanmore Bay, even on the coldest winter days.

2/719 Whangaparāoa Road, Stanmore Bay | 09 424 5632 reception@kineticsrehab.co.nz For further information visit:

Millwater Denta

MillwaterDenta Dent Millwater

www.kineticsrehab.co.nz

Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family

Smiles by Design, forwhole the whole family Smiles by Design, CareCare for the family

Skills for personal and professional use Work flexible hours Be your own boss Work in person or online with your clients

Millwater Dental Smiles by Design, Care for the whole family

COAC H I N G

help people, at money? to t n a w u o y Do d make gre h n a , rk o w r u o oac Love y anagement C

Jason Dr Dr Lillian Hsu Wang DrDrDr Jason Ella Wang Lillian Dr Jason NgNgNg Ella Wang HsuHsuEllaElla Jason Ng DrDrLillian Wang Lillian Hsu

Dr Jason Ng We offerDr Ella Wang Lillian Hsu Invisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative

ight M exhausted when they feel e Become a We nc de nfi co ck of overwhelmed ffer limiting la and becoming g in et di o People often su -y ; yo of their bodies and ashamed orks for them. ation out there. rm fo in g tin es and what w ic di nfl bo co r e ei th th l to al from eir mental nts: Listen l and resolve th help your clie ea H to . w in e ga ho t n gh ar ei Le of w anently. Creat physical causes alth goals perm he l als. ea go id e r lif ei Manage their r th ei ain go for th l causes. Maint e confidence to th n ai and emotiona G . es ur ort and struct on-going supp

We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic H and cosmetic We offer lnvisalign Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic anddental cosmetic dental care. We also offer routine TR care, we AC free also offer free dental treatment for O A R dental care, we offer alsofor offer free treatment ININ P dental care, we also free dental treatment for for We offer lnvisaligndental Orthodontic treatment, restorative and cosmetic AP dental treatment school Gstudents H high school upAto the age of 18students years Chigh THE CO high school students up to the age of 18 years students to the 18 years (years 9-13)free up up todental the ageage of 18ofyears old. dental care,high we school also offer treatment for Come meet the team at www.millwaterdental.co.nz

highCome school students up at to www.millwaterdental.co.nz the age of 18 years meet the at www.millwaterdental.co.nz Come meet the Come meet theteam team www.millwaterdental.co.nz Call now toteam arrange anat: appointment on (09) 972 1518

or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz Call now totoat arrange anappointment appointment on 15 Call arrange on 972(09) 1518972 Come meet team www.millwaterdental.co.nz Callthe now tonow arrange an an appointment on09(09) 972 1518 www.coachmomentum.co.nz Momentum Certified Managament Coach

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

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

Call now to arrange an appointment on (09) 972 1518 feature.health or email reception@millwaterdental.co.nz

Which yoga for you? If you want to start a yoga class, the range on offer can be bewildering: Yin, Yin Yang, Iyengar, Vinyasa Flow, Bikram/Hot Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga and the list goes on.

Yoga instructor Mignon Opmeer has tried a few of them. She trained in many styles, including Asthanga, and teaches the related Vinyasa Flow at Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre and Ōrewa’s Yummy Yoga. She has also taught restorative and chair yoga – the latter consists of seated poses, modified for people with less mobility. Traditionally, Hatha is an umbrella term for several styles, like Vinyasa, Ashtanga and Iyengar, from which other forms were adapted. Power Yoga, designed for Western participants, focuses on strength and stamina and has been popular in gyms internationally – it has an Ashtanga base.

Give yoga a go, bro

Yoga instructor Mignon Opmeer

Mignon says depending on your health and fitness, Yin, Yin Yang, or Hatha are good places to start because you hold the poses for longer and focus on your body and breathing. She says every instructor, whatever their preferred style, adapts the class if needed – Ashtanga, for example does not traditionally involve props (like bolsters, straps or blocks), but many teachers offer them to make poses achievable for everyone. The length of classes also varies but is usually an hour or longer. Mignon says what yoga styles have in common is the importance of breath and mindfulness combined with movement. It improves flexibility and strength and calms the mind. “There is something for everyone, and it is beneficial for everyone,” she says.

TED loves TED loves his job his job

Find out why Find out why Find out Find out why why

Broga – designed for men who are new to yoga – began on the Hibiscus Coast in 2022, with instructor Julian Fordyce (HM Feb 22, 2022). It provides a warm-up, an energetic phase, cool down and short meditation and Julian says it is great for guys. “It’s perfect for men who have been told yoga would help their back but are a bit self-conscious about donning lycra and getting an Instagram account!” he says. Replacing the fancy gear with shorts and a t-shirt is one of the attractions, as well as the company of other men. Julian says the programme works its magic and guys of all ages report multiple benefits. It helps to unlock the pelvis, release the lower back and shoulders, deepen the breath and improve blood flow, improving posture and mental energy. There is also a social aspect – some of the men go to The Archer after class “to chew the fat”, including those who don’t drink. In fact, Julian says several ‘Brogees’ have cut down on alcohol. “Quite a few have given up, or are drinking less, as a result of getting more health focused,” he says. “Pretty much everyone feels and sleeps a lot better after Broga and continues coming back for more.” Last year, Broga was included in ACC’s Live Stronger for Longer initiative and is now included as an approved strength and balance programme. The classes are held at the Supper Room in Whangaparāoa Community Hall on Wednesdays, 5.45pm-7pm. To join in, just turn up, or message Facebook.com/BrogaMovement

Come work at Come work Come work at at Ember, jobs Ember, Ember, jobs jobs now available available now available now Mental Health and Addictions Support Mental Health and Addictions Support Mental Health and Addictions Support 198-200, Centreway Road Orewa Mental Health and Addictions Support 198-200, Centreway Road Orewa 198-200, Centreway Road Orewa www.loveember.org.nz 198-200, Centreway Road Orewa www.loveember.org.nz www.loveember.org.nz www.loveember.org.nz

feature.health

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Hibiscus Coast Community Shop ~ HELP US HELP THE COMMUNITY ~

Green Thumbs Dr Lynsey Ellis, Ōrewa Community Garden lynseymellis@gmail.com

Quality donations are always welcome ... Monday-Friday: 9am-3pm • Saturday: 9am-12pm

Western Reserve, Orewa • Phone 426 3596

Growing health and wellbeing January is a time when wellness and health goals are at the top of the list for many of us. The garden is the perfect place to start. There are many ways to improve your health, fitness, and overall wellbeing in your garden, and you don’t have to have a green thumb to reap the benefits. My New Year intentions are to have a better work life balance, eat more vegetables (preferably grown by me) and spend more time in nature. So, grab your gardening tools, embrace the sunshine, and let the garden become your sanctuary for a healthier, happier year. • Get physical: Tending a garden can be a full-body workout disguised as leisure. Bending and stretching, carrying soil and pots, digging, planting, weeding, pruning, and watering, all engage muscle groups promoting flexibility and strength, helping maintain a healthy weight, and improving cardiovascular fitness. Gardening in summer also allows the synthesis of vitamin D. This crucial nutrient is known for its role in bone health, immune system function, and is a great mood regulator. Always balance sun exposure with good protection, such as sunscreen and appropriate clothing, to prevent skin damage. • Mindful gardening: Gardening has been linked to reduced stress levels and improved mental health. The calming effects of nature, coupled with the rhythmic tasks of gardening, can create a mindful escape from the pressures of everyday life, allowing you to focus on the present moment, quiet the mind, and cultivate a sense of inner peace. For those grappling with anxiety or depression, the garden can serve as a therapeutic retreat. Studies have shown that exposure to green spaces and

natural environments can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. These benefits are now well understood, and healthcare providers are increasingly incorporating gardening into rehabilitation programmes, mental health support initiatives, and community outreach projects. Whether it’s a balcony garden or a sprawling backyard oasis, working among plants provides a therapeutic outlet. • Keep it fresh: Our climate is ideal for growing a variety of fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Home-grown produce is not only richer in essential nutrients but also free from pesticides and preservatives. • Planet first: Sustainable practices in gardening are becoming increasingly important. An eco-friendly approach, including rainwater harvesting, composting, worm farming, eating the food you grow and limiting food waste makes a contribution to a better environment. By choosing native plants, you can support conservation efforts, promote biodiversity, and provide corridors for wildlife. This is especially important with all the construction going on around the Coast, at the moment, which is taking out the trees and green spaces that wildlife inhabit. Check out Sustainable Ōrewa www.facebook. com/SustainableŌrewa for local sustainable projects. • Social connections: Beyond the boundaries of our own gardens, we can share and connect with others in a community garden. Community gardens also promote sustainability and environmental awareness. To connect to the broader ecosystem you may want to take part in local restoration projects or join a local group such as Hibiscus Coast Forest and Bird (www.forestandbird. org.nz/branches/hibiscus-coast).

Your Friendly Family Practice Dr Cecil Antony Dr Iti Prabha Dr Jenny Cartwright Enrolling new patients Skin, mole checks, vaccines and all your family needs available here Phone: 09 424 8618 16 Wade River Road Whangaparaoa 0932 www.whangaparaoamedicalcentre.com

BOOK ONLINE TODAY

In-grown toenail surgery

info@myfootdoctor.co.nz ph 09 421 1226

www.myfootdoctor.co.nz 20

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

feature.health

Pharmacies could offer childhood vaccines Vaccines for children, such as the polio, tetanus and chickenpox vaccines, could be given in community pharmacies if a proposal from Pharmac is implemented.

Currently, funded childhood vaccines are only available from general practices, because of a barrier called ‘Xpharm’. Pharmac is seeking feedback on a joint proposal with Te Whatu Ora Health NZ to remove ‘Xpharm’ from certain funded childhood vaccines from March 1. The aim is to increase vaccination rates, which have fallen in recent years, by providing another accessible option. Consultation with pharmacies and general practices about the proposal, and how it could be implemented, opened on January 15 and closed two weeks later (January 29). In a press release, Te Whatu Ora director of prevention, Alana Ewe-Snow, said one of the biggest barriers to childhood immunisation is access to vaccinators. “General practices will continue to play a critical role in the delivery of childhood immunisations; however, we need to draw on the capability and capacity across the wider health sector to help increase options for whānau to access childhood immunisations in their communities,” Ewe-Snow said. “Because of the importance of the continuity of care provided by GPs, we will be working closely with PHOs and pharmacies to try and ensure that people accessing pharmacies for childhood immunisations are those who are unable to get to their GP or do not have a GP.” Local GP Dr Peter Hall says the significant inequalities that exist between ethnic groups, socioeconomic strata and rural vs urban communities are a concern to health providers.

The vaccines that Pharmac proposes to open up to pharmacies are: Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, hepatitis B and haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine, Pneumococcal (PCV13) conjugate vaccine, Rotavirus oral vaccine and Varicella vaccine (Chickenpox vaccine)

“General practices and community health organisations have put a huge effort into enabling and encouraging families to access this service. However, we have not achieved the Government’s target of 95 percent of two-year-olds,” he says. He says from his personal perspective, the proposal for pharmacies to offer some childhood immunisations, as they do for flu and Covid-19 vaccinations, may address accessibility for some patients. However, he says general practitioners would want to know that their concerns about issues such as continuity of care, recall, follow-up and communication, will be addressed. “Immunisation is not just a flying visit to deliver an injection. It offers an opportunity to assess child development and maternal well-being and builds relationship with the general practice team,” Dr Hall says.

He wonders how many pharmacies will want to take it on, considering the complexity of the programme and the consent and after-care requirements. “I also question how effective will it be, given that the biggest barriers to vaccination are social deprivation, inadequate knowledge about vaccine and misinformation,” he says. “In my view, the most effective way to deal with accessibility problems is to take the vaccines out into the community, offering the service in natural meeting places for high-risk groups.” Pharmacist Tania Adams of Manly Unichem says, it is really important that the primary health care team work together to ensure the best possible delivery of services to their communities. “If helping with services like vaccinations can assist the GPs, with their very large

workloads, then this is a good idea,” she says. “Pharmacists are seen by patients more frequently than any other health care professional, as we see families for not only prescriptions but also minor ailments such as coughs, colds and first aid. This proposal would provide an additional opportunity for a primary health care professional to speak with families about vaccinations, which should help increase vaccination rates.” She says pharmacies are open longer hours, which would also increase access. “Having said this, pharmacies would have to be set up to cater better for children – things such as bigger vaccination rooms and child friendly waiting areas – so some work would need to be done.” Adams suggests that where GPs in the area have capacity, perhaps a better referral system could be appropriate.

Our family caring for y o u r f a m i l y.

w w w. h i b i s c u s f u n e r a l s . c o . n z 7 G re e n v i e w L a n e , R e d B e a c h

0800 420 470 www.localmatters.co.nz

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

waitematabackcarebeds.co.nz

ACROSS 1. Accomplish (7) 4. Position with no prospects of promotion (4-3,3) 9. Annual calendarhandbook (7) 13. Cereal heads (4) 14. Gets going (6) 15. Tower on castle wall (6) 16. Nightclub floor show (7) 18. Be incorrect (3) 20. Person or thing almost identical (4,6) 21. Forbear (8) 22. Adipose (5) 25. Momentary pain (6) 26. Produce shoots (6) 28. Stubborn (9) 33. Verdict (8) 34. Grain crop (6) 35. Give up all hope (7) 39. Broadcast (8) 40. Ravine (6) 41. Potter’s oven (4) 42. Drinking tube (5) 43. Stiff (5) 46. Wait a minute! (4,4,6) 53. Storage trunk (5) 56. Convulsion (5) 57. Supplication (4) 58. Printed, glazed cotton fabric (6) 59. Frightening (8) 62. Spreading plant (7) 63. Winner’s prize (6) 64. Stringed instrument (8) 67. Scientific star study (9) 69. Breed of hound (6) 70. Insult (6) 74. Small bird (5) 75. Blood-sucking insect (8) 77. Domestic appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines (5,5)

Crossword conundrum #24

81. Harden (3) 83. Scorn (7) 84. Wealth (6) 85. Associated (6) 86. Astound (4) 87. Predict (7) 88. Fellow pupils (10) 89. Subtracts from (7)

DOWN 1. In the lead (5) 2. Working busily (4,2,2) 3. Lengthen (6) 4. Mournful song (5) 5. Church recess (4) 6. Draw or pull out (7) 7. Steer the course of (6) 8. Unlocks (5) 10. Tilt (4) 11. Resolute, unyielding (7) 12. Warns (6) 17. Made headway (10) 19. Footwear (5) 23. Outer limit (8) 24. Beginning (5) 25. Farm vehicle (7) 27. Duo (4) 29. Wave (7) 30. Complete (6) 31. Saturate (6) 32. Competitors (6) 34. Marshy river offshoot in southern US (5) 36. Temporary repair (5) 37. Suspend (4) 38. Adhesive (4) 44. Tainted (6) 45. Offspring (5) 47. Lubricates (4) 48. Sketch (7) 49. Dwell in (6) 50. Pluvial (5) 51. One disposed to take a favourable view (8) 52. Migratory fish (6) 53. Study of heart diseases (10) 54. Depart (4)

55. Harbour vessel (7) 60. Towelling fabric (5) 61. Long ago (4) 65. Pry (5) 66. Coasting (anag)(8)

68. Cheat (7) 69. Fruit tree flower (7) 71. Spotted tile (6) 72. Legal entitlements (6) 73. Be present (6)

76. Feather pen (5) 78. Perforations (5) 79. Subsides (5) 80. Workbench clamp (4) 82. Sour-tasting (4)

Solution p26

KING SINGLE ADJUSTABLE

BED PACKAGE! NOW ONLY

3250

TOTAL VALUE

$4693

FEATURES KING SINGLE ‘AH BEARD INTEGRA HYBRID THERMOLASTIC POCKET SPRING MATTRESS’ WITH KING SINGLE REFRESH ADJUSTABLE BASE! SILVERDALE STORE

NORTH SHORE STORE

SHOP 3, 61 SILVERDALE ST.

16F LINK DRIVE, WAIRAU PARK

09 421 1307

09 444 0244

(NEXT TO THE CHEMIST WAREHOUSE)

SAME BASE WITH KING KOIL HAWEA MATTRESS ONLY $2750! SAME BASE WITH KING KOIL TEKAPO MATTRESS ONLY $2950! SAME BASE WITH ‘INTEGRA PLUS’ MATTRESS ONLY $3450!

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

HOT PACKAGE PRICES

(DOWN THE DRIVE FROM FOUR SEASONS)

waitematabackcarebeds.co.nz Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

Youth Voice Caitlin Watson,

caitewatson@gmail.com

Cherishing your roots As summer holidays roll on, road trips and the joy of cruising with music filling the air become a memorable part of the summer journey. During a recent trip up north, the captivating tunes of Six60’s Don’t Forget Your Roots Kia Mau Ki To Ukaipo added a special touch to the adventure, resonating a bit of appreciation for the roots of my family tree. The impact of this Kiwi hit song lingered, showing itself unexpectedly during a family dinner at a quaint Italian restaurant up north. The seemingly overpriced menu prompted a choice that spoke volumes about roots and values. A relative, hailing from Scottish lineage, opted for just a humble $6 focaccia bread, explaining that he couldn’t bring himself to pay for anything he deemed overpriced – a sentiment deeply rooted in the stories of close relatives who migrated from Scotland to NZ in pursuit of a better life. A family so poor that at Christmas time they used peas as a substitute for sweets! In Māori culture, the concept of Whakapapa plays a significant role, allowing individuals to establish their place in the world by understanding their genealogies and ancestral stories. It is “a deep connection to land and the roots of one’s ancestry”, forming the foundation of meaning for people. Ultimately, we all have stories to tell. Stories that shape us and inspire us. The modest focaccia bread not only sparked a conversation about frugality but also

invoked a profound appreciation for the struggles and sacrifices of my Scottish/Irish family in the 1950s. Their journey from relative poverty to a new life in NZ reflects the resilience and bravery required to seek out new opportunities.

There’s a valuable lesson in taking a step back to draw wisdom from the past. Such reflections lead to gratitude for life on the Coast – memories of summer on the beaches and doing life together in this community play a role in the stories that we are blessed to collectively share. For young people, in a society often fixated on the present and the future, there’s a valuable lesson in taking a step back to draw wisdom from the past. The recent loss of my dear grandfather highlighted the importance of asking questions and embracing the stories of those who paved the way before us. As we navigate a world focused on immediate gratification, let’s not forget the strength and wisdom embedded in the stories of our forebears. By embracing our roots, we can find a deeper sense of belonging, appreciation for the journey that has shaped us and guidance for how we live our lives today.

What’s on at Estuary Arts Centre in February

Launching at Ahutoetoe School (Milldale)

February 4

Family fun morning from 10.30am in the school grounds – Free BBQ, bouncy castle, and games.

February 11 & 18

Church services in the auditorium @ 10am.

February 25

Meet in various homes across the Coast.

All welcome. See you there!

www.silverdalechurch.org.nz www.localmatters.co.nz

The annual Tutors, Staff and Student Showcase Landscape painting by David Stone The Monday Photography Group The Member’s Gallery Term One Art Classes for adults & children start Feb To book go to our website

214B Hibiscus Coast H/Way E: admin@estuaryarts.org Mon - Fri 9am to 4pm

PH: 09 4265570 www.estuaryarts.org W/ends 10am to 3pm

January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Hard work for little ha

nds.

The big hunt is on

Sofia, 7, enjoys one of

the rides available at

the Lions event.

Tyler, 3, with his

lucky find.

Ryker, 4, w

ith little sister

Asher, 8, with one of the hidden gnomes It was all systems go on January 20 as more than 500 young children dug furiously on Ōrewa beach in search of hidden ice block sticks in Ōrewa Lions’ annual Big Dig.

For the organisers, the best news of the fun day out was that it raked in more than $8000 – among the best ever, and significantly more than the takings last year, which came after the 2022 event was

The beneficiary of this year’s event is the Ōrewa Surf Life Saving Club’s new community hub.

cancelled due to Covid restrictions. First off were the under-fives, some assisted by parents, before those aged six and over had their turn. Those skilled or lucky enough to find a stick within the cordoned-off area of sand exchanged it later for a prize. Alongside the digging contest, a range of food trucks and amusement rides kept kids entertained and fed and parents busy.

Ōrewa Lions president Wendy Miller said the sum raised in the Big Dig would be added to proceeds from the sale of the Lions’ 2024 calendar and several sausage sizzles held at Bunnings Silverdale, before the final donation is handed to the surf club, in February or March.

Esme,

“The members and I were very happy with this year’s event and it was wonderful to see so many families from the local community enjoying themselves,” Wendy said. “We had demonstrations from the surf club, a variety of games plus of course the Dig itself with prizes for the children who participated. The day wouldn’t have been possible without our generous sponsors and we really appreciate their ongoing support.”

We live, live, work workand andsell selllocal local We Let our real estate experience improve yours! Chris Bone 021 481 660

c.bone©barfoot.co.nz

Fri

Sat

Feb 2

Sun

Feb 3

Mon

Feb 4

Nadia Bone 021 247 4214

Barfoot & Thompson Sea Watch Auckland Area Sea Watch Tue

Feb 5

Wed

Feb 6

Thu

Feb 7

Fri

Feb 8

Feb 9

Sat

Feb 10

Sun

Feb 11

Mon

Feb 12

Tue

Feb 13

Wed

Feb 14

Thu

Feb 15

Fri

Feb 16

Sat

Feb 17

Sun

Feb 18

1:05am 2.9 1:48am 2.8 2:37am 2.8 3:34am 2.7 4:38am 2.8 5:42am 2.9 12:08am 0.9 1:06am 0.7 2:00am 0.6 2:52am 0.4 3:42am 0.3 4:31am 0.3 5:21am 0.4 12:13am 3.4 1:04am 3.3 1:57am 3.2 2:55am 3.1 7:00am 1.0 7:47am 1.1 8:39am 1.1 9:38am 1.2 10:39am 1.1 11:40am 1.1 6:42am 3.0 7:37am 3.2 8:29am 3.4 9:20am 3.5 10:10am 3.6 11:00am 3.6 11:50am 3.6 6:12am 0.5 7:05am 0.7 8:02am 0.8 9:03am 1.0

Tide 1:22pm 3.0 2:05pm 2.9 2:52pm 2.8 3:45pm 2.8 4:45pm 2.8 5:50pm 2.9 12:39pm 0.9 1:35pm 0.8 2:29pm 0.6 3:21pm 0.5 4:13pm 0.4 5:03pm 0.3 5:53pm 0.4 12:40pm 3.5 1:32pm 3.3 2:25pm 3.2 3:21pm 3.0 6:43pm 0.5 7:34pm 0.6 8:28pm 0.7 9:26pm 0.9 6:54pm 3.0 7:55pm 3.1 8:50pm 3.3 9:43pm 3.4 10:34pm 3.5 11:23pm 3.5 Times 7:29pm 1.0 8:13pm 1.0 9:04pm 1.0 10:02pm 1.0 11:06pm 1.0 6:38am 8:31pm

Sun Fishing Guide Moon

6:39am 8:30pm

Best At

6:19am 6:40pm

6:40am 8:30pm

Best At

7:02am 7:25pm

Last Quarter

6:41am 8:29pm

Best At

7:49am 8:15pm

6:42am 8:28pm

Best At

8:41am 9:09pm

6:43am 8:27pm

Best At

9:38am 10:09pm

6:44am 8:26pm

Best At

10:40am 11:11pm

6:45am 8:25pm

Best At

11:43am

6:46am 8:24pm

Best At

12:14am 12:45pm

6:47am 8:23pm

Best At

1:15am 1:45pm New Moon

6:48am 8:22pm

Best At

2:13am 2:40pm

6:49am 8:21pm

Best At

3:07am 3:32pm

6:51am 8:20pm

Best At

3:58am 4:23pm

6:52am 8:18pm

Best At

4:48am 5:12pm

6:53am 8:17pm

Best At

5:37am 6:03pm

6:54am 8:16pm

Best At

6:28am 6:54pm

6:55am 8:15pm

Best At

7:21am 7:48pm

First Quarter

Best At

8:15am 8:43pm

1:11pm Rise 12:03am Rise 12:32am Rise 1:08am Rise 1:52am Rise 2:47am Rise 3:54am Rise 5:08am Rise 6:27am Rise 7:45am Rise 9:01am Rise 10:15am Rise 11:26am Rise 12:38pm Rise 1:48pm Rise 2:57pm Set 12:33am Set 2:12pm Set 3:17pm Set 4:24pm Set 5:30pm Set 6:32pm Set 7:27pm Set 8:13pm Set 8:50pm Set 9:23pm Set 9:53pm Set 10:21pm Set 10:49pm Set 11:20pm Set 11:54pm Rise 4:03pm G B F *Not for navigational purposes. Good Fishing Fair Fishing Not So Good www.tidewiz.com www.tidespy.com www.ofu.co.nz Graphic supplied by OceanFun Publishing Ltd. Set

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

www.barfoot.co.nz barfoot.co.nz 24

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

BARFOOT&THOMPSON Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

A hydrangea boat in the lake in the hosts’ garden.

‘Miracle’ Garden Club fundraiser Blessed with good weather, the Ōrewa Garden Club held its 11th garden party fundraiser on January 18 in the country property of Dee and Lloyd Farrand near Pūhoi, raising $1555 for the Youth in Transition charitable trust.

Club president Linda Mellor said holding the event in the Farrands’ garden was “a miracle in itself ”, as it had sustained severe damage in the Auckland anniversary weekend and Cyclone Gabrielle flooding. “Credit must go to this fantastic couple for all their hard work bringing the garden back to once again looking amazing.” “The club received incredible support from many Ōrewa and Silverdale businesses, which wholeheartedly supported this year’s recipient.” Youth in Transition chief executive, Andrew Hoggard, gave attendees a brief history of the trust and its work, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the event. Chris Bone of Barfoot & Thompson served as judge of the best garden party hat, a choice which he said was far harder to make than it was to sell a house: Third place went to Dianne Moffat, second to Sophie Tuenter – and first place to Sophie’s Dad, Derek, who holds the honour of being the garden club’s first-ever male member. Linda thanked club members for donating goods for raffles, and local businesses for contributing to the event. For more information on Ōrewa Garden Club, Youth in Transition or the supporting businesses, contact Linda Mellor 027 614 0363.

Bay of Islanddsay

us, 2-6 Come sail with en sail learn-to-sail th tures. yourself adven

ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of

THE scorEBoArD ToTalspan Rodney pRoud sponsoRs of THE scorEBoArD scorEBoArD aATHE Roundup spoRTs acTiviTies IN in THE THe DISTRICT disTRicT ROUNDUP of OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES SUPPORTING LOCAL SPORT FOR FIVE YEARS AND RUNNING

Run Millwater Free, fun, friendly 5km community activity. What a way to start your weekend! Every Saturday, 8am-9am, meeting at Metro Park sportsfields, Millwater. Walk, run, jog, volunteer or spectate! All welcome. Info: www.parkrun.co.nz/millwater/ Cargo Plus Coastal Challenge Online entries are open for this annual multisport event, which takes place on February 24. The course runs from Arkles Bay down the coast to Devonport. Run, walk, wade, and rock hop. Multiple distances – something for all ages and abilities. Fun and festivities at the finish line. Online registration closes Thursday, February 22. Entries available on the day, but late fees will apply. Info: www. coastalchallenge.co.nz/ Twilight Bowls Thursday Twilight Social Bowls is on at Manly Bowling Club, 56 Laurence Street, Manly. Open to the public, $5. Beginners welcome. Ōrewa Croquet Club Come and see if croquet is for you. Golf croquet is played Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings and Association on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Coaching programme and mallets available. If interested phone the club on 09 426 3506 or Pixie 021 0249 5910 or visit 43 Hatton Road, Ōrewa ToTalspan Rodney

Top, Chris Bone of Barfoot & Thompson with the garden party hat winners, from left Sophie Tuenter, Derek Tuenter (head turned) and Dianne Moffat. Above, From left, party host Dee Farrand, Youth in Transition CEO Andrew Hoggard, OGC president Linda Mellor and Chris Bone of Barfoot & Thompson.

These are not group courses, learn with your partner, family, or friends. You have the boat and an instructor to yourselves.

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

We Service & Sell All Makes & Models of Cars, Diesels & 4WDs WOFs while you wait • Cambelts • CV Joints All Servicing & Repairs • On-board Computer Scanning Air Conditioning, Clutches, Brakes & Suspension • Tune-ups Wheel Alignments, Tyres & Puncture Repairs • Loan Cars Locally owned & operated for over 30 years

Open Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

Phone 424 7748

679 Whangaparaoa Rd

Info: sail@greatescape.co.nz | www.greatescape.co.nz www.localmatters.co.nz

www.car-zone.co.nz January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

Classifieds HAIRDRESSING

DVDS & VIDEOS

WANTED

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

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

HOME & MAINTENANCE

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

SERVICES

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

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

DRAINLAYERS

For your drainage requirements. Certified drain layers. All Round Drainage Ltd: Ph/txt 0274 890 851 email jeff@ardnz.com

HYPNOTHERAPY

Lose weight. stop smoking. anxiety and depression, confidence, self esteem. Ph 021 635 966 www.hypnotherapy2succeed.co.nz

HANDYMAN

Odd jobs, gardening, painting & water blasting. Phone Nev 021 399 226. CARPET LAYING, CARPET RE-STRETCH, VINYL LAYING, CARPET REPAIRS Over 30 years’ experience. Contact Dexter 027 4956 436 HOUSE WASHING - SOFT WASH / LOW PRESSURE / CHEMICAL WASH Also Window Cleaning / Gutter Clearing Careful service, reasonable rates.

LIFE COACH – FEEL STUCK? I CAN HELP Phone Steve 021 264 2506 www.hibiscuslifecoach.com NEED A VISA OR IMMIGRATION ADVICE? Competitive rates. Ph/txt 022 308 1756. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER, New Builds, Additions & Renovations. Concept Design & Building Consents. Clinton 0800 642 425.

Phone 021 057 9743

MATURE WOMAN SEEKS COUNTRY DWELLING Orewa/Wainui,/Waitoki/ Dairy Flat/Puhoi. In exchange for housework/gardening/outings/ appointments/general assistance etc. Quiet, gardener, nature and bird lover, previous home owner, excellent refs, working part-time. Please email Zuella: Zuella100@gmail.com

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

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

TUITION LEARN TO DANCE FRENCH JIVE – Sundays 4.30pm, Hibiscus Coast RSA, No partners required $50 for 5 classes, Ph or Text Han 021 576 210.

COMMUNITY NOTICES 60’s UP MOVEMENT, HIBISCUS COAST Meetings are held 3rd Wednesday of every month, 10am at the RSA in Viponds Road,

Whangaparaoa. Outings 1st Wednesday of month. Please note: First Meeting for 2024 will be 21st February. Ph Gloria 027 386 2339 BRIDGE LESSONS Hibiscus Coast Bridge Club, Edith Hopper Park (off Ladies Mile) Manly. Starts Thurs February 29, 7pm-9pm, runs for 10 weeks. Suitable for Beginners or as a Refresher. All welcome. First lesson free. Please register with email address and Phone number at hbcbridge@xtra. co.nz or phone 424 1252 (leave a message) or Txt Helen 027 444 1066. BRIDGE LESSONS Ōrewa Bridge Club, Ōrewa Bridge Club, 121 West Hoe Rd. Tuesday February 27, 7pm-9pm, Thursday February 29, 9am-11am, Lessons run for 11 weeks. No experience needed, just a love for a game of cards. Contact Jenny 027 21 21 222, jengarry10350@gmail.com orewabc@xtra.co.nz HIBISCUS COAST HIGHLAND PIPES AND DRUMS – DRUM TUTOR Wanted We are wanting a snare/side drum tutor to join our band and tutor others. Tuition on bag pipes offered also. Free tuition – conditions apply. No previous experience needed to learn. All levels of playing and supporters welcome. Wednesday 7:00pm practices at St Johns Ambulance Hall 36 Silverdale Road Silverdale. Drop in to check us out Contact Leslee O’Connell 027 426 7170 or Bob Logan 09 424 1838. HOUSIE AT BOWLS OREWA every Friday, 1pm-4pm. Lots of fun and great prizes. Ph 09 426 5937. All welcome. SINGERS WANTED TO JOIN HIBISCUS COAST SINGERS for our mid-year concert! Sing with us at a rehearsal and have a chat with our Music Director, Robyn, about becoming a member. No audition required—just bring your love for singing diverse music. Contact Robyn at 021 563 304 or coastsingers@gmail.com.

PUMP DOCTOR

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

www.localmatters.co.nz/jobs localmatters.co.nz/jobs

CARPET ADVICE, FREE QUOTE FOR STEAM CLEANS, Carpet Repairs-35 yrs Experience Dwyane 027 499 7929. HOME REPAIR SERVICES Maintain, repair, renovate. Ph Jeremy 027 237 9455.

Looking for a job?

More vacancies online

www.localmatters.co.nz/jobs localmatters.co.nz/jobs

T H E S O L U T

4 9 8 1 2 7 5 6 3

5 2 6 3 4 9 8 1 7

1 3 7 6 5 8 2 9 4

3 8 1 5 7 6 4 2 9

9 6 5 4 8 2 3 7 1

2 7 4 9 3 1 6 5 8

7 1 3 2 6 4 9 8 5

8 4 2 7 9 5 1 3 6

O N

6 5 9 8 1 3 7 4 2

FRIDAY: Silverdale Rugby Club, every fourth Friday of the month, 4pm-8pm • SATURDAY: Silverdale Market, every Saturday from 8am-1pm, 7 Silverdale Street • SUNDAY: Ōrewa Artisan Market, Estuary Arts Centre, 9am-1pm • Ōrewa Beach Farmers Market, every Sunday from 8am-12.30pm, Ōrewa Square • Silverdale Night Market, 5pm until late, in the carpark underneath The Warehouse in Silverdale • Hibiscus Coast Grandparents Parenting Grandchildren Car Boot & Craft Market fundraiser, every second Sunday of the month from 10am-2pm, Lower Coast Plaza Carpark, Whangaparāoa.

Extra 705

We’re bringing a smarter approach to 70+ retirement living.

HOT model is designed KING KOIL HAWEA MATTRESS ONLY $2750! Our unique operating PACKAGE KING KOIL TEKAPO MATTRESS ONLY $2950! to protect egg you’ve worked INTEGRA PLUS’ MATTRESS ONLY $3450!the nest PRICES

hard for. A lower deferred management fee, share of capital gains and guaranteed buy back are just some of the features packed into our offer.

Treat yourself this Christmas!

Choose from 3 exciting package deals when you sign an ORA for an eligible villa by 22nd December 2023*

SOLUTION

ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Shane 021 0813 8481.

Crossword conundrum solved #

waitematabackcarebeds.co.nz ACROSS: 1 Achieve, 4 Dead-end job, 9 Almanac, 13 Ears, 14 Starts, 15 Turret, 16 Cabaret, 18 Err, 20 Dead ringer, 21 Ancestor, 22 Fatty, 25 Twinge, 26 Sprout, 28 Obstinate, Decision, Barley, 35 Despair, 39 Transmit, 40 Canyon, 41 Kiln, We think 33 we have34something special here 42 Straw, 43 Rigid, 46 Hold your horses, 53 Chest, 56 Spasm, 57 Plea, 58 Chintz, at so63come along and see for69 Basset, 70 Slight, 59 Vivid Alarming,Living, 62 Creeper, Trophy, 64 Mandolin, 67 Astronomy, 74 Robin, 75 Mosquito, 77 White goods, 81 Set, 83 Disdain, 84 Riches, 85 Allied, yourself. 86 Stun, 87 Foresee, 88 Classmates, 89 Deducts.

DOWN: 1 Ahead, 2 Hard at it, 3 Extend, 4 Dirge, 5 Apse, 6 Extract, 7 Direct, 8 Opens, 10 Lean, 11 Adamant, 12 Alerts, 17 Progressed, 19 Boots, 23 Boundary, 24 Onset, 25 Tractor, 27 Pair, 29 Breaker, 30 Finish, 31 Drench, 32 Rivals, 34 Bayou, 36 Patch, 37 Hang, 38 Glue, 44 Impure, 45 Issue, 47 Oils, 48 Diagram, 49 Occupy, 50 Rainy, 51 Optimist, 52 Salmon, 53 Cardiology, 54 Exit, 55 Tugboat, 60 Terry, 61 Once, 65 Snoop, 66 Agnostic, 68 Swindle, 69 Blossom, 71 Domino, 72 Rights, 73 Attend, 76 Quill, 78 Holes, 79 Sinks, 80 Vice, 82 Tart.

Shop 3, Silverdale Centre 09 421 1307 | 16F Link Drive Wairau Park 09 444 0244 | www.waitematabackcarebeds.co.nz

vividliving.co.nz 0800 173 323 26

14 Tiromoana Drive Red Beach *T&C’s apply

| Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

Support the advertisers who support Hibiscus Matters

What’s on ... January 2024

Christina Cusiel, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.

31-Feb 25 The Monday Afternoon Photographers exhibition, Estuary Arts Centre, Western Reserve, Ōrewa. (see story p13)

February

Always Elvis by Mike Cole, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm. Tickets $15 per person – available at RSA and on Eventfinda.

Waitangi Day celebrations at Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa marae, 2A Blue Gum Ave, Silverdale, 10am-3pm. Live music, kai, bouncy castle, crafts, petting zoo, treaty workshop. Pre-order hangi at www. teherengawakaoorewa.co.nz/events

Mark Taipari, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.

Rainwater Harvesting workshop, Ōrewa Community Garden, Old Hibiscus Coast Community House, 216 Hibiscus Coast Highway Ōrewa, 10.30am-12pm. With Laurie Dee. Learn how to build a system so you can collect rainwater at home. $5 charge. Book at https://events.humanitix. com/diy-rainwater-harvesting-with-laurie-dee-vft85wqu (see story p10)

North Shore Airport Open Day, 300 Postman Road, Dairy Flat, 9am-4pm. Aircraft display, trial and scenic flights, food stalls, kids’ activities and more. Entry free. Parking on site, $10 per car. Info: North Shore Aero Club on Facebook.

Mark Benjamin, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.

Wacky Wheels free event, Stanmore Bay Skatepark, 3.30pm5.30pm. A range of 1, 2, 3 or 4-wheeled wacky wheels provided, or bring your own. Fun for the whole family. Hosted by CLM community events, funded by the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board.

Hoedown with DJ Going Bananas, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-9.30pm. Free entry.

Boulevard Arts Fiesta, Moana Reserve, Ōrewa, 11am-5pm. Market stalls and entertainment. Info: www.orewabeach.co.nz/whatson

Forest and Bird’s Big Birthday Bash – Celebrating 100 years, Te Haruhi Bay, Shakespear Open Sanctuary, 11am-2pm. Nature-themed activities and cake. BYO picnic.

Believe it or Not Quiz. Fundraiser for Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 6pm start. Shared tables of 10. Prizes to be won. Live auction. Entertainment from the Salty Dogs. Tickets from Eventfinda.

Pro Wrestling fight, Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre, 6.30pm. Part of a series to crown the inaugural Legacy pro wrestling champion. Tickets at Eventfinda: www.eventfinda.co.nz/.../whangaparaoa-peninsula

Craig Hallen, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.

Golf Fore Life Charity Tournament, Wainui Golf Club, Wainui. Fundraiser for Youth in Transition Charitable Trust. To take part, offer sponsorship or an auction item, phone Nick Schanschieff, 022 029 5671, or email nick@youthintransition.org.nz

Ducky Derby, Western Reserve, Ōrewa, 9am-12pm. Free family event with games and entertainment where 100s of yellow ducks race down Ōrewa Estuary. You can purchase a duck ticket for $10 at Ōrewa Beach Kindergarten, or visit www.facebook.com/OrewaDuckyDerby/

Dave Ewart, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm. Entry, $8 members, $10 non-members.

Chet O’Connell, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.

Drag Queen Bingo with Anita Wigl’it, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, doors open 6pm, show starts 7pm. Three rounds of Bingo, drag show, lots of laughs. Tickets from Eventfinda.

March 2

Summer Magic - Music in the Garden, Couldrey House, Wenderholm Regional Park, 6pm-8.30pm. Performance by Opera Factory. Rain day March 10. Tickets $45pp plus booking fees. Under 16s free. Tickets: Eventfinda.

Mockers and Greg Johnson, Summer Sunset Shows, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 7.30pm. Tickets at www. plus1.co.nz/mockersgreg and Eventfinda. (see ad p23) See www.localmatters.co.nz/whats-on/ for a full list of upcoming events

www.localmatters.co.nz

Advertisment

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

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

Pharmacist at Unichem Manly

Cholesterol - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly Valentine’s Day is coming - a good time to focus on having a healthy heart! So what does cholesterol have to do with it? And which is good cholesterol? Which is bad cholesterol? And what is downright ugly?! Everybody has cholesterol and for the most part does a lot of good things in our bodies. But sometimes it does the wrong thing in the wrong places and that is when plaques can form inside your arteries which lead to a higher risk of you having a heart attack or stroke. Despite all the acronyms there is actually only one type of cholesterol, but it is carried around your body by different carriers which are deemed “good” or “bad”. LDL-Cholesterol (cholesterol carried by low density lipoproteins) is known as the “bad” cholesterol because it dumps all the cholesterol in your artery walls forming those plaques. HDL-cholesterol (cholesterol carried by high density lipoproteins) is known as the good cholesterol as it transports cholesterol away from your arteries to your liver. There are also triglycerides which store and transport fat in your blood.

“Dr Ross Walker (Australian Cardiologist) considers Bergamet Advanced to be an alternative to statin therapy to maintain healthy LDL and HDL cholesterol” A telling risk of heart attack or stroke is your total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio. (Total cholesterol = LDL + HDL + triglycerides). As a rule of thumb, a lower risk is a ratio of less than 4.0. But what you need might be different depending on your health and family history. Whilst we can change our diet somewhat to help with our cholesterol levels, it is worth noting that only 25% of cholesterol in our bodies come from our diet. The other 75% is produced by your liver. So what can you do? 1. Move more –frequent exercise can increase HDL(good) cholesterol by 5 percent. 2. Lose Weight –losing just five to ten percent of your weight can help improve your cholesterol levels. 3. Eat porridge – research indicates that the fibre in oats helps decrease LDL (bad) -cholesterol levels. 4. Medication, prescribed by a doctor, is an effective way to lower cholesterol. However, some of these medicines (statins) may lower Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) levels which can leave you feeling tired or your muscles sore. Studies indicate that CoQ10 can significantly reduce mild to moderate muscle pain caused by statin medication. CoQ10 is available in a capsule. 5. Some people have continued issues taking statin medication so is there a natural alternative? Bergamet Advanced is a practitioner only product available at Unichem Manly Pharmacy, researched by Australian Cardiologist Dr Ross Walker. He believes Bergamet should be used with statin therapy so that the lowest possible dose of statin can be used, or as an alternative to statins to maintain healthy LDL and HDL cholesterol. 53B Rawhiti Road, Manly Village Whangaparaoa Ph (09) 424 7708 Fax (09) 424 7427 www.unichemmanly.co.nz

Manly Pharmacy

Your local health professional January 29, 2024 | Hibiscusmatters |

The fleet hikes hard upwind as the breeze gets stronger on the last day of the Nationals. Photos, Sam Thom

Moths take flight in important Manly sailing races Skill, local knowledge, grit and determination, saw two teenage sailors from Manly Sailing Club, Jacob Pye and Mattias Coutts, scoop first and second place in the Moth Nationals hosted by the club.

The four-day event, held at Manly January 11-14, saw 11 sailors compete for top honours in the high performance single handed, foiling boats. They faced some challenging conditions, club vice commodore and principal race officer for the event, Harold Bennett, says. A couple of days featured nice breezes in the 10-12knot range, one was a wipe out with no wind, and the final day of racing was in very choppy seas with winds of up to 20 knots. “That is the top end of wind strength and sea conditions for those boats,” Bennett says. “Everyone had difficulty at times getting around the course.”

Could they handle it? Sure they could. On the final day, top contenders Coutts and Pye raced hard, with the lead alternating a number of times. Although Pye won six of the event’s 14 races, he ended up winning the championship by a single point. “Mattias pushed him pretty hard,” Bennett says. “It was very competitive racing.” Along the way, there was some broken gear and one sore head from connecting with the boom – but Bennett says there was nothing major. He says the event was a valuable practice run – the club will host the World Moth Championships at the end of the year. “It was a very important regatta for race management, the club and the sailors,” he says. “Their eyes are wide open now – it can be pretty interesting out there and the international sailors used to quite flat waters could find that challenging.”

28 | Hibiscusmatters | January 29, 2024

Mattias Coutts in full control. Right, Championship winner Jacob Pye.