Hibiscus Matters_Issue 372_20 May 2024

Earthworks on the Hobbs Bay Estate site have been underway since early this year.

The coastal area east of the seawall is where Hoppers proposes to develop a marina.

Hobbs marina takes fast-track channel

Hopper Developments has lodged an application for fast-track government approval for a 300-berth marina and public boat ramp in Gulf Harbour, adjacent to the residential subdivision that it is currently developing at Hobbs Bay.

The proposal envisages 300 14 to 25 metre berths and 10 superyacht berths, immediately to the east of the entrance to Gulf Harbour

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Marina, and opposite the ferry terminal. A proposed layout, overlaid over an aerial map, also shows a public boat ramp, trailer park, public walkway, beach and carpark.

The future marina would be tucked below the site where Hopper Developments is transforming Hobbs Bay farm into an 88lot residential subdivision, reserves and a café in the historic Hobbs homestead.

Following resource consent last November, earthworks at the site, which is accessed off Daisy Burrell Drive, began early this year, and civil works for stage one are expected to commence from the middle of next month.

Hoppers sales and marketing manager Shana Hopper-McCully says that the company sees great potential in the area as “a premium coastal community”.

She says the company’s research indicates a significant shortfall in boating facilities in the area, with delays in trailer boat access for launching and retrieval causing frustration among local boaties.

“Our proposal is designed to alleviate some of this frustration and help address the existing undersupply,” she says.

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Hoppers lodged a resource consent application early this month with the Ministry for the Environment, under the pending Fast Track Approvals Bill (see below).

Hoppers earlier informed Gulf Harbour Marina of its plans for a potential marine development at Hobbs Bay, and sought its support.

Explaining the decision to make the application for a future marina now,

Hopper-McCully says that once the Hobbs Bay state subdivision is completed, “the opportunity to expand with a marina development would be considerably more challenging”.

“Such opportunities are rare and there are few other suitable locations for a marina in

the Auckland region,” she says. “We believe there is a responsibility on developers like us to fulfil the needs of our community to recreate on the water.”

Other projects by the family owned and operated company include Pauanui Waterways and Whitianga Waterways in Coromandel, and Marsden Cove in Northland, all of which have marinas.

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Gulf Harbour Marina manager Murray Dixon told Hibiscus Matters the proposal came out of the blue.

He says while Hoppers asked Gulf Harbour Marina to support its proposal, it could not do so, as it has not been given sufficient information by the developer.

“We don’t know what the concept is so it’s hard to comment on it at this point in time, to be fair,” Dixon says.

By contrast to the 300 berths and 10 superyacht berths in the proposed Hobbs Bay project, Gulf Harbour Marina has more than 1000 berths, for vessels ranging from 10.5m to 55m.

Legislation inches ahead

The Fast Track Approvals Bill would introduce an expedited decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects that are considered to have significant regional or national benefits. The bill is at the select committee stage, but during a month-long period that ended on May 3, a range of private and public sector applicants, including Hoppers, submitted projects to the Ministry for the Environment. A six-person advisory group is reviewing applications before making recommendations to Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Simeon Brown, who will decide which projects to include in the bill. The government aims to insert those projects into one of two schedules once the bill returns to the House. Should the bill become law, an expert panel will consider applications and report back to the three ministers with a recommendation to grant or decline them. The final decisions are in the hands of the ministers. A list of the projects submitted before the May 3 deadline has not been made public. A ministry spokesperson said last week it cannot say when, or if, it will be released.

Country Club owner dodges liquidation bullet

The company that owns the shut-down Gulf Harbour Country Club narrowly avoided being placed into liquidation by the Auckland High Court on May 17, after an eleventh-hour payment of a relatively small debt owed to one of its many creditors.

The application to have Long River Investments Limited (LRI) liquidated was brought by Inovagen, which operated the Ferntinental Café at the club, and was claiming between $20,000 and $25,000.

Associate Judge Gardiner said she had received a memo from Inovagen’s legal team informing the court that LRI had paid the debt and the plaintiff’s costs. On that basis, she discontinued the proceeding.

The day before, the court had agreed to give LRI a last 24-hour window to pay the money after LRI’s lawyer, Patrick Mulligan, told the court that since an

earlier adjournment, on April 24, the shareholders had been negotiating with funders.

He said money to cover the debt, secured from a funder in Connecticut in the US, had arrived in the country, according to emails received that morning and he was

awaiting confirmation of that. Mulligan said that the debt was “relatively small” when viewed against the fact that LRI’s “prime asset is a property in Gulf Harbour with lending in relation to that of many millions of dollars”.

Associate Judge Gardiner said LRI did not seem to be taking the matter seriously, noting that it had had time since the April 24 adjournment to arrange for the relatively minor sum to be paid. She said if the debt was not paid by the May 17 hearing, LRI should expect to be liquidated.

Inovagen’s lawyer, Thomas Ashley, said the solvency of LRI “would seem to be in doubt if it’s that difficult to find $20,000 against a $50 million property”.

The abrupt shutdown of the golf course in July 2023 affected club members, staff, suppliers and other creditors. Although Inovagen’s debt has now been settled, numerous other claimants and potential claimants are waiting in the wings.

Hibiscus Matters invited comment after the court order from LRI director Wayne Bailey, but no response was received by press time.

Penlink four-laning parked by government

Hopes that the two-lane O Mahurangi Penlink highway, currently under construction, could be four-laned from the start have been dashed by the news that the National-led government does not have the money for the upgrade.

The previous government, which got the project underway, elected for two lanes, future-proofed along the route (and Weiti River bridge) for four lanes. The extra lane in each direction would enable dedicated bus lanes.

Hopes were raised with the change in government that the extra lanes could be brought in early, as one of Whangaparāoa MP Mark Mitchell’s campaign promises was to four-lane the road and also to revisit the decision to toll it, made by former Transport Minister Michael Wood.

Physical work on the road began in January last year, and speaking the morning after the election, Mitchell said with O Mahurangi Penlink already under construction, those changes were top of his priority list.

The decision has sat with Transport Minister Simeon Brown for four months.

Last week, Mitchell said that because of the dire fiscal situation, Penlink upgrades had been put on hold.

In a press release, Brown said when he became Minister of Transport, he was advised of a funding gap of up to $1.5 billion in the previous government’s NZ Upgrade Programme, which included O Mahurangi Penlink.

However, Mitchell said the government remained committed to four-laning, “when the country can afford it”.

He said the Minister had sought more advice and options around how the upgrade could be delivered but can give no further details at present.

No decision has been made on the tolling.

Completion of O Mahurangi Penlink is estimated to be in December, 2026.

How to widen Weiti Bridge

Last month, concrete was poured for the first of four very large pylon piles. The piles are for the first support column of the O Mahurangi Penlink bridge across the Weiti River. The bridge will be constructed as two lanes, with one shared (cycling, walking) path and space on both sides of the road to allow for breakdowns. Widening the bridge to four lanes would involve moving the shared user path to a clip on, which Waka Kotahi NZTA says would provide enough space for two lanes of general traffic and two bus shoulders.

Flood response money flows downstream

A total of $100,000 allocated by the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to improve homeowners’ flood resilience will mostly be spent in the North Shore (Bays) subdivision, to the consternation of some members.

The money went to Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters (stormwater) division, which delegated the work to Restore Hibiscus and Bays, an environmental group that operates in both subdivisions of the local board.

It resulted in a pilot project called Green Your Stream, designed to support owners of private properties with streams on them to clear the streams and replant the banks to stabilise them; as well as collaboration and weed clearing at Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa marae, alongside the Weiti River.

The project focused on private properties that council believed were most impacted by the flooding. These were all on the North Shore. The stated aim was “to bring those most impacted by extreme weather events together to undertake work that will benefit themselves and those downstream; decrease

sedimentation; create a natural buffer to the sides of the stream; slow the water’s passage through the catchment, decreasing pressure on stormwater bottlenecks such as piped stream sections and culverts; and increase water absorption by improving soil”.

It also involved explaining to landowners that council sees managing streams on private property as the homeowner’s responsibility. Door knocking and letter drops promoted the project, which led to 63 homeowners in Long Bay, Browns Bay and Murray Bay signing up to take part.

Senior Healthy Waters specialist Rita Kpodonu says so far $25,000 has been spent on staff time, including door knocking, project management, stream restoration advisors and marketing. There are also costs associated with herbicides, green waste removal, tools, resources and plants.

She says that insufficient knowledge and the cost of resources may be part of the reason that private streams have not been maintained, and Green Your Stream helps fill that gap.

Kpodonu says the intention was to work through all the other areas hit by flooding, including Red Beach and Stanmore Bay catchments. However the project was more successful than expected, and the priority for the remaining money is to continue supporting those who signed up for the programme.

She says Restore Hibiscus and Bays is keen to offer this project to the Hibiscus Coast, should funding or resources become available.

“Our goal is to ensure that, once we begin, we can provide all the resources needed for the restoration work,” Kpodonu says.

When board members were updated on the pilot at a workshop on April 9, Gary Brown and Sam Mills said they were surprised and disappointed that the work had not included removing silt, particularly in flood affected areas on the Coast.

In response, Theresa Pearce of Healthy Waters’ Wai Care team said dredging was not useful for stopping flooding and that increased maintenance was in council’s Making Way for Water plan.

“Riparian planting stabilises banks,” Pearce said. “Once banks collapse, flooding increases, so [what we’ve done] is the best use of that local board money. To get machines in and clear drainage systems is very expensive, so you could only do a small amount for that money.”

Deputy chair Julia Parfitt noted that such work might also require resource consent. Brown later reiterated that the intention was that the money be used to clear drains – the type of stormwater maintenance that the former Rodney District Council did on a regular basis.

“If you clear even one drain, such as near Stanmore Bay Boat Club, it improves the whole network,” he said. “I understand the importance of planting banks, but we had contractors prepared to dredge drains at minimal cost in our area.

“I’m a bit miffed that hasn’t happened. We’ve allocated a further $100,000 next year, as flood resilience is a top priority for the local board. I am looking forward to the accountability of the money spent so far to guide us in future.”

Ice cream van fights beachside meltdown

A mobile ice cream and coffee vendor is fighting to keep trading at Manly Beach after complaints by residents led to a licence review and possible closure.

Owners Joe Emms and Beth Leyland said they believed they complied with all of Auckland Council’s requirements, and beachgoers form big queues for their ice creams and coffee, providing lots of positive feedback, so they were surprised and concerned to hear that complaints had been made.

Council granted Big Manly Ice Cream a mobile trading licence in 2022 and renewed it at the end of last year. The van is located in front of Manly Sailing Club, on a paper road. The licence, which allows trading seven days a week, 7am-7.30pm, expires at the end of next month.

The sailing club supports the pair to continue trading on that site and supplies power in return for a donation.

However, residents complained about the impact of the business on the public using the reserve, including the location, and the safety of cables that run from the trailer to its power supply in the sailing club.

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board deputy chair Gary Brown says he forwarded residents’ complaints to the licensing team and is asking for the ice cream van to be moved away from the beachfront, and onto the reserve, where the local board has authority.

“You have to be fair to other local businesses which don’t have a beachfront location,” he

says. “The van gets a prime spot, for the cost of a licence. Other businesses, such as the local dairy, pay rates. I can see both sides and we are looking for a compromise, so they can still trade, but off the beachfront.”

Brown says there is also good foot traffic behind the sailing club or on the reserve opposite the current location.

and Leyland say they have built up a good business, with strong demand for their product. They say moving further from the sailing club would require using a generator, increasing their costs and the impact on the environment and local residents.

They started a petition to gauge public opinion, and support their fight to stay on

the beachfront, receiving more than 2100 responses, with only four opposed.

“We have become part of the fabric of the local community,” Leyland says.

Last week, the couple sent their response to the licence review.

A decision is expected this week.

Local board gets first look at emergency response plan

Auckland Council’s Emergency Management department (AEM) is trying to ensure Auckland’s communities are better supported and not left stranded when bad weather events and other hazards strike in future.

Following reviews into its response to last year’s floods and cyclone, Glenn Browne has been appointed the senior community advisor for Hibiscus and Bays, Rodney and Upper Harbour local boards and an Emergency Readiness and Response Plan is being drawn up for each local board.

The draft Emergency Readiness and Response Plan for the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board area was presented to members at a workshop on May 14.

The aim is to identify local risks and provide comprehensive information for the public on how to prepare for emergencies as well as what to do, and where to go, should disaster strike. It will include the location of potential civil defence centres and shelters.

The draft suggests local civil defence centres, which are shelters and information hubs run by AEM, could be located at Ōrewa Community Centre and Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre.

Browne acknowledged that there were constraints, including potential flooding in Stanmore Bay, with those centres and said the team wanted to hear about alternatives from the local board.

Potential shelters (community-led centres) suggested locally in the draft are at St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Manly Methodist Church, YMCA Shakespear Lodge, Whangaparāoa College and Hibiscus Coast Community RSA.

The Salvation Army Centre in Red Beach, and Ōrewa Library (once rebuilt) were put forward to potentially add to that list, by members Gary Brown and Leanne Willis.

Community-led centres would be supported by the Whangaparāoa Community

Resilience Group. An Ōrewa resilience group is in development, Browne said.

He said it was essential that the community resilience groups were sustainable and had sufficient capability and support.

The draft Emergency Readiness and Response Plan will be put to the resilience groups for feedback, and a further draft is expected to come to a local board workshop in August.

In a workshop last month, local board members raised concerns about resourcing, the lack of preparation, and the time the process was taking. The final plan is not expected to be before the local board for adoption until October.

“It is just not moving quickly enough,” member Leanne Willis said. “It’s more than a year since the first big event, and still there is no plan in place.”

“We feel your frustration and are moving as fast as we can,” Browne said. “Eighty

percent [of the work] is taking place in the background.”

The draft plan is linked to this story at www.localmatters.co.nz

Joe Emms of Big Manly Ice Cream wants to continue serving customers on the Manly beachfront.

New AEM lynchpin Glenn Browne

Emms

Bin removal remains a contentious issue

The removal of 166 rubbish bins from the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board area by Auckland Council continues to cause complaints from ratepayers to Councillors and local board members.

The plan to remove bins which were in close proximity to each other, underutilised or in poor repair, in order to save an estimated $1.36m annually, was first raised with local boards by council staff last year (HM June 26, 2023).

Four boards, including Rodney, decided to fund retaining the 30 percent of bins that would otherwise be removed. They paid between $58,000 and $71,000 to retain the bins until next month, when each local board will have to decide whether to continue the funding for the next financial year.

However, Hibiscus and Bays Local Board deputy chair Gary Brown says the board

does not have the money to keep the bins in this area.

“Some of those bins were not needed, but there are others that we’d like to bring back,” he says. “However, because we fund contestable grants, which some other local boards don’t have, we can’t afford it.”

Council’s head of operations parks and community facilities, Julie Pickering, says the savings gained by council and ratepayers from removing rubbish bins represent the cost of employing contractors to empty the bins and dispose of the rubbish.

Pickering says the bins that were removed won’t be going to landfill.

“They’ll be recycled as scrap metal if they’re damaged or, if they’re in good condition, they’ll be kept for use as replacements for bins which may sustain damage in the future.”

Council land considered for sale

Eke Panuku has place two properties in Whangaparāoa on its list for potential sale. The Hibiscus and Bays Local Board was presented with the proposal at its May 14 workshop. The first property is a bush covered piece of land at 1 Greenway Rise, Hobbs Bay and the other is an accessway between 791 and 793 Whangaparāoa Road. The Greenway Rise property is a section in a subdivision that was acquired by the former Rodney District Council because Alec Craig Walkway extends into part of the site. The Whangaparāoa Road strip of land provides access to the clifftop. Local board members are seeking more information, which will come to a business meeting.

Have your say on transport

Auckland Transport’s draft Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) is open for public feedback, May 17 to June 17. The RLTP sets out which projects and programmes AT, along with Waka Kotahi NZTA and KiwiRail proposes to fund or partly fund, from the National Land Transport Fund. The draft RLTP proposes $63 billion of investment over the next 10 years and AT wants Aucklanders to let it know what the priorities for that spending should be. Have your say https://haveyoursay.at.govt.nz/hub-page/rltp

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The parking problem

My dad was pedantic about parking. If he couldn’t park right outside a business that he wished to visit, he would drive around, sometimes for what felt like hours, until a space directly outside freed up. I need to point out this was in Palmerston North, back when it was a very small town and not finding free parking exactly when and where you needed it was almost unthinkable. Public transport was something students used and easy parking was seen as the right of any driver. Times change and, here on the Coast, competition for parks is fierce – we’re fighting for them like a flock of seagulls over the last chip. It’s become an issue whether you live in an apartment with one space per unit, or work where there is not enough parking to go around.

As long as they are parking legally, anyone can park in public spaces but restrictions, increasingly common, are designed to make spaces available for business customers. At the same time, businesses need staff, and

many of them need parking.

If your employer can give you a park, you count yourself lucky. If not, there are options: public transport; using an alternative method such as walking or cycling; car-pooling; driving part of the way and looking for parking in a nonrestricted area; or risked a fine by parking where there are time restrictions. However, some have no option but to drive to and from work while others need a car to do their job. If their employer can’t give them a dedicated space, what can they do?

The answer, for some, has been to park illegally – examples are in Coast Plaza carpark or restricted parks in Ōrewa town centre. The introduction of time restrictions at Coast Plaza and a current review of Ōrewa parking by Auckland Transport (AT), which may result in tighter restrictions, may put this option off the table, as it is designed to do. One thing to come out of AT’s survey

was that the majority of commuters are in single occupancy vehicles. Less than half have workplace carparks, which is why around 200 staff cars park in Ōrewa town centre every day. On average, 180 parking tickets are issued in Ōrewa weekly. Not enough of those that can, are using alternatives to driving, and there is also not enough parking. The latter was the major issue mentioned in survey feedback.

It is not unreasonable to expect people to park a short distance away from work, where parking is unrestricted, but spaces in residential streets can’t be guaranteed and spaces fill up fast. Parks in Alice Ave near the Hibiscus Matters office, for example, are full from early in the morning.

In Ōrewa, the two-hour parking restriction implemented 11 years ago to prevent staff parking in town all day has not worked. Other town centres offer only one hour, or less. That is likely to be an option for Ōrewa that AT will look closely at.

Terry Moore, Editor

The night sky of the Hibiscus Coast, along with many other parts of the country, was lit up by an extraordinary Aurora Australis (southern lights) on Saturday, May 11. Photos flooded social media – here’s a top shot, taken from Okoromai Bay in Shakespear Regional Park around 9.45pm by Lawrence Yang. To make things even more colourful, we need the Aurora to coincide with the bioluminescence at local beaches!

Barbs traded

At a recent Auckland Council meeting, which Cr John Watson was attending online, an Ōrakei local board member used Cr Watson’s seat. This prompted Mayor Wayne Brown to suggest the board member take up the seat permanently. Cr John Watson chuckled and returned the jab. “He could do one better and go right up the front [to Brown’s seat]. That would be the best solution. First class,” Cr Watson said.

Congratulations

Rebecca Martin of Gulf Harbour, who won a copy of The Jibe by Robyn Cotton. Thanks to all who entered.

Correction

Cr John Watson’s Viewpoint column in HM May 6 issue incorrectly attributed World War II figures to Hamas. We apologise for the error, which was the newspaper’s mistake, not Cr Watson’s.

Hibiscus Matters staff blushed up for the Paint Ōrewa Pink breakfast in Ōrewa on May 9. The event contributes to the Breast Cancer Foundation’s Pink Ribbon fundraising campaign and is organised by Michelle McAteer-Ross. With figures still coming in as the paper went to print, this year more than $10,000 was raised.

Wearing the costume of wise old Yoda is none other than Whangaparāoa MP and Minister Mark Mitchell. The occasion was a Star Wars themed quiz held (naturally) on May the Fourth to raise funds for Pet Refuge. Pictured with ‘Yoda’, from left, are Rebecca Marshall (CP3O), The Legal Team’s Christine Granger (Queen Amidala) and Pet Refuge chief executive Julie Chapman (Princess Leah).

Mother’s Day Magic

Thanks to some wonderful local businesses, Hibiscus Matters was able to make Mother’s Day even better for two local mums. Entrants were asked to supply their favourite photo of their mum. The winner of our first prize basket of goodies was Katie Lutshesko of Red Beach. Second prize went to Clinton Rusden of Ōrewa. Sponsors included Snowplanet, Longevity Wellness Centre, Matakana Palms Coast Clinic, Café Manly, Foundry Chocolate, Unichem Manly, Unichem Weiti, Paraoa Brewing, The Archer, Pandora’s Closet, Better Tea Company, Due Amichi and Hoyts. Thanks to all who entered. It was super hard to judge! Some of our other favourites can be seen with this story at www.localmatters.co.nz

Top, Katie Lutshesko with sons Ollie and Hugo. Above, Clinton Rusden and his mother.

Staff of Pinehaven Cottage rest-home in Hatfields Beach turned out in hot pink on Pink Shirt day, Friday, May 17 – a Mental Health Foundation initiative that asks people to take a stand against bullying and discrimination. The Foundation has run the campaign since 2012. Pinehaven’s diversional therapist, Jayne Minifie, says staff “stood together to raise awareness that bullying should never be accepted”. Pictured, back row from left, Leentjie Bland, Christine Tate, Gillian Falwasser, Jay Banks, Rodger Copley, Greeshma Johny, Vanina Maroni and Sondeep Kaur. Front row, from left, Jayne Minifie, Eli Natividad, Rose Hala, Kanjarat Jinda and Jenny Clayton.

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Roger Shearer’s love of the natural world shone through in his photographs.

Fond farewell for fine photographer

The Hibiscus Matters team was saddened to hear of the death of Roger Shearer, who passed away peacefully at Harbour Hospice, Red Beach, on April 17. Roger had close ties with many local community organisations, having lived here since 1969. These including being deputy principal of Stanmore Bay School from 1987-1991, and many volunteer roles, including being a committee member and past president of the Hibiscus Coast Association Football Club and member of

Weiti Boating Club.

However, the paper knows him primarily through his enthusiasm for photography – he was a Life Member of the Hibiscus Photographic Club and until recently, was the man supplying us with the Our Best Shot column, featuring work by club members, each month.

The club marked his passing with a special mention in its recent newsletter, noting that Roger was an accomplished photographer who had several stints as club president.

“When covid came along with all its restrictions, he guided the club through it, introducing us to Zoom meetings; allowing the club to continue functioning,” club president Paul Donegan writes in the newsletter. “He even organised a special covid photographic competition.

“The club was always improving under his careful guidance and he will be sorely missed by all of our members.”

Along with the club, Hibiscus Matters extends heartfelt condolences to Roger’s family.

Live painting a first for hospice art show

This year’s Harbour Hospice Art Exhibition and Sale will feature live painting for the first time.

This involves an artist completing their work in front of an audience and Manly artist Amanda Moore has accepted the challenge.

Amanda is an award-winning artist who has featured a number of times in Hibiscus Matters. She specialises in portrait, figurative and landscape painting, using oil on canvas. She says this will be the second time she has live painted, and the first time was “very nerve-wracking”.

“It does feel a bit like you’re back in the classroom and you can’t concentrate on what you’re doing because you know your teacher is standing behind you watching you work,” she says.

She’ll be eliminating the possibility of “freezing” in front of exhibition-goers, though, by working on a piece she has already started.

“This way there will be less ‘working out’ to do and I’ll be able to talk with people in between bursts of painting.”

The subject of the work is a woman she befriended on a singing course.

“She gave me so many great singing tips I wanted to reciprocate by painting her.”

This will be the 18th year the exhibition has run and, to date, it has raised $214,000 to fund hospice patient care on the Hibiscus Coast.

Organisers expect at least 75 artists to participate and a wide range of art will be up for sale, including paintings, lino prints, sculpture (indoor and outdoor), felt, ceramics, pencil drawings, acrylics, and even decorated wooden oars.

Two new artists will be involved – time lapse photographer Paul Belli, and Red

Beach artist Nicola Warner who recently won the Unison Cup, the supreme award at the NZ National Purely Pastel Exhibition (HM April 22)

The Art Exhibition and Sale is on at Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa over King’s Birthday Weekend, May 31 to June 3. It opens with a ticketed preview night on Thursday, May 30 where attendees will get the first pick of the premium art on sale. See What’s On for details.

Info: harbourhospice.org.nz/event/hibiscuscoast-art-exhibition/

At Dils, flowers are more than just decoration. They can be favourite colours, evoke favourite scents or make a connection to a special place.

At Dils we put more care into every part of a funeral. Because it’s the details that make it perfect.

Roger Shearer

Make a

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Find a village that feels like home

Contact your local village or visit metlifecare.co.nz

Retirement 101 with Paula Bishop

Thursday 23 May, 11am–1pm 89 Symes Drive, Red Beach

Start your day at Gulf Rise with an info session with Village Guide’s Managing Director and retirement living expert, Paula Bishop. From understanding fees and ORA’s, to busting common myths and deciphering the continuum of care; you’ll leave feeling confident about whether life in a village is for you.

Info session from 11:30am.

Village tours available until 1pm. Complimentary light lunch provided.

Apartments from $735,000^

RSVP required, limited seats available. Call Adelina on 021 835 131 or email gulfrisesales@metlifecare.co.nz

Society Jazzmen Concert

Thursday 23 May, 1:30pm–2:30pm 101 Red Beach Road, Red Beach

Prepare to be swept away by the irresistible charm of the Society Jazzmen, a beloved ensemble renowned for their captivating renditions of timeless jazz and popular standards.

Step into the world of jazz and swing and spend your afternoon at Hibiscus Coast Village enjoying the rhythms and glamour of the golden era, followed by complimentary afternoon tea and a village tour.

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RSVP required, limited seats available. Call Kerensa on 09 421 9723 or email kerensag@metlifecare.co.nz

Photo

New principal with big goals

Just one week into the job of Ōrewa College principal, Wiri Warriner is radiating positivity and energy.

While acknowledging he is in “the honeymoon phase”, he knows there is work ahead to achieve his goal of the school being recognised as one of the country’s best.

“There should be no reason for local families to send their children off the Coast to college,” he says.

Wiri attended Ōrewa College when Kate Shevland was principal. His memories of that time are of leadership roles as a prefect and in rugby and kapa haka.

He learned Te Reo Māori from Whaia Tucker Herbert, a process that involved cassette tapes. He stopped taking those classes in Year 10 and there was a big gap before he reconnected with te ao Māori as part of the senior learning team at Massey High School.

“I was learning and teaching it at the same time,” he says.

Wiri’s mother is of Ngāti Whātua and Ngāti Porou descent, but didn’t grow up speaking the language, as Wiri’s nan prioritised the importance of fitting into a pākehā world.

His reconnection with te ao Māori has, therefore, had an impact, not only for Wiri but his whole whānau.

Most recently, Wiri was a deputy principal at Whangaparāoa College, where he also taught in the bilingual unit.

He has a health and PE teaching background and sport is his passion. Wiri says not only does he want to see high participation rates among students in sport, but he will be on the sidelines, cheering them on at game time.

As well as sport, he plans to grow opportunities and pathways for students, including vocational academies similar to the ones at Massey High School that can streamline students into work; improving academic achievement and strengthening things like performing arts and leadership opportunities.

Introducing “elective options” that allow students to follow their interests to a high standard is also on his to-do list.

He says his belief in the power of a good education is a result of seeing his parents leave their dairy farm and take up completely new employment and learning opportunities.

“Seeing them study as mature students

showed me the value of education and the importance of hard work,” he says. “Dad became the CEO of a large mental health organisation and mum is a university professor.”

Brought up on Centreway Road in Ōrewa, Wiri still lives locally and says he is most excited to be involved not only in the school, but in the community, too.

“The community has put a lot into me

Pool time funded for more Stanmore students

All Year 3 to 6 students at Stanmore Bay School have been offered a term’s swimming lessons, free of charge.

Water Skills for Life lessons (a Water Safety NZ designed programme) are taking place weekly at the Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre.

Last October the school applied to Aktive for funding for the lessons – it is currently the only school on the Coast that has obtained this.

Principal Matt Sides says since the closure of the school pool and post-covid, the school has worked to find sustainable ways of getting students back in the pool to learn water skills at no cost to parents.

He says the current programme is more specialised and intensive than previous offerings when it comes to learning water skills, and open to more students.

“In previous years, Harbour Sport and/

or the school board funded swimming lessons, not parents, but it was only open for Year 5 and 6,” he says.

Aktive works with partners, including Auckland Council, Sport NZ, Foundation North, and The Lion Foundation, to fund and deliver community sport in Auckland. It prioritises five to 18 year olds.

Info: https://aktive.org.nz/what-we-do/waterskills-for-life/

– including groups like the HBC Youth Centre, Silverdale Rugby Club and Hibiscus Coast Raiders – and it is my duty of care to have a reciprocal impact,” he says.

College proud of results

Whangaparāoa College’s NCEA results last year were its best-ever, exceeding national averages. The school puts the improvement, which in Level 2 was an 84 percent pass rate (five percent higher than 2022) and 81 percent (one percent higher than 2022) for Level 3, down to initiatives such as targeted academic tracking, strengthening home/school relationships, enhanced teaching practice and a microscopic focus on every learner. The Level 2 results were 11 percent higher than the national average and Level 3, 14 percent higher. Principal Steve McCracken says the college is committed to ongoing improvements and providing the highest quality education.

Authorised by Mark Mitchell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

Ōrewa College principal, Wiri Warriner.

EACH number in our CodeCracker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. For example, today 21 represents V, so fill in V every time the figure 21 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

Hibiscus Coast-based kitchen architect

Toni Roberts has walked away with the NZ Designer Kitchen of the Year award, the largest category in the annual Trends International Design Awards (TIDA).

The award honours professionals who specialise in kitchen design, or interior designers who design kitchens within a wider interior design of a home. This year, the 10th anniversary of the TIDA awards, attracted a record number of entries.

Toni has lived on the Coast for 20 years. For the past nine years her company, Kitchen Architecture, has worked out of her purpose-built home office in Millwater, where together with design manager Julie McCall Jenkins they have transformed kitchens nationwide.

The winning kitchen now goes forward to the International TIDA Awards.

The centrepiece of the kitchen, in a renovated 1950s St Heliers home, is an island sculpted from jade green Viridian quartzite, which the judges described as “a striking statement and art piece in its own right”. The Viridian is encased in a dark stone frame, forming a breakfast bar.

The same stone surrounds the windows and features in the sink bench, while tall cabinetry conceals a cocktail bar in an unexpected splash of nail-polish red.

“This client was confident with bold colour and wanted to create artistic luxury,” Toni says.

While the TIDA judges were impressed with how the designer produced “a cohesive and opulent design that’s perfectly in tune with the owners’ tastes”, Toni said her greatest satisfaction was knowing that it will also perform well as part of a wellorganised kitchen.

Doors open at Parāoa

A band called The Doors Live will recreate the legendary band of vocalist Jim Morrison at Parāoa Brewing Co in Whangaparāoa on June 1, as part of its Backdoor NZ tour.

The setlist for the 2.5 hour gig includes Light my Fire, Break on Through, Riders on the Storm, People are Strange, LA Woman and more.

The band is made up of professional session musicians from the UK and Europe, who decided to form the group after continually bumping into each other at recording studios and becoming friends.

Win VIP tickets

On vocals is ‘Jim M’, who is also a composer. Born in Florida, he spent many years living in the UK. The mysterious ‘H’ is on guitar, Ben Hagar of Sweden is the bass player and Aaron Gott, who has home bases in the UK and NZ, is on keys. Frankie Mac, who is also the group’s promoter, is the drummer. Born in Scotland, he has lived in NZ since 2011. Frankie says the band is treating the tour as “a working holiday” and that more NZ gigs are planned later in the year.

The Doors Live gig is at Parāoa Brewing Co, Whangaparāoa on Saturday, June 1. Tickets from Eventfinda.

Hibiscus Matters and Frankie Mac Productions have three double VIP passes to The Doors Live at Parāoa. These are prime, front of house seats. To enter the draw, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters on Facebook and message us your name and phone number with The Doors Live in the message. Alternatively, write your name, address and phone number on the back of an envelope and post or drop into The Doors Live giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Ōrewa. Entries close on Monday, May 27. Note: Winners will be notified by phone, so a daytime number, and email address, must be included with entries.

The Doors Live on stage.

Toni and the award-winning kitchen.

Summerset Milldale Open Days in May

Summerset Milldale is located close to Silverdale and the Whangaparaoa Peninsula in one of Auckland’s newest and most affordable suburbs, just 25 mins from the city. Once complete, residents will be able to enjoy a range of resort style facilities, offering the perfect retirement lifestyle, close to beaches, cafes and shopping – everything the Hibiscus Coast has to offer.

With a choice of two and three-bedroom villas available now,* our architecturally designed homes offer everything you need for relaxing or entertaining friends and family.

So Pop along to one of our upcoming Open Days to see our stunning range of available homes which are ready to move into now, and view our 3D model of the site, along with plans and pricing. We’ll also have sweet treats and refreshments for you to enjoy. Love the life you choose.

Open Days

Every Thursday in May, 10am - 2pm

Summerset Milldale

50 Waiwai Drive, Milldale

Sales suite entrance on Te Taruna Drive 09 304 1632 | milldale.sales@summerset.co.nz

Family hopes to thank caring tradie for cat’s return

If 13-year-old Blue Burmese cat DJ could talk, he would have an interesting tale to tell after an adventure of several months away from his Arkles Bay home. When DJ went missing on November 4, his owners, the Clynes family, thought he may have been frightened away by Guy Fawkes fireworks in the neighbourhood. They searched for him, including delivering flyers and looking online. As well as the family, his feline sister Coco was also missing him. Two months later, with no sign of DJ, the family held a memorial to provide closure.

The family would love the tradie who cared for DJ to get in touch.

“The last thing we expected was to get him back after that long,” Sarah Clynes says. However, miracles do happen, and on April 26 Sarah got a call from Silverdale Veterinary Hospital to say DJ had been brought in and identified by his microchip. DJ had been hanging around a construction site in Dairy Flat, where a tradie had taken a shine to him, fed and cared for him, and took him to the vet.

The lucky cat was in good health, and clearly happy to be home.

Creative fundraising

Sarah Clynes and twins Jack and Ben, aged nine, are overjoyed to have their cat DJ home safe, almost six months after he went missing.

Sarah says the family now suspect that DJ may have been sleeping in their boat when they took it for a service at Mikes Marine in Dairy Flat, around the time he went missing.

“DJ sometimes sleeps in the boat, so that is a strong possibility,” she says.

All Sarah knows is that the tradie lives in Arkles Bay, but the family would love him to get in touch so they can “buy him a box of beers” and say thanks in person.

That tradie is welcome to contact Hibiscus Matters’ editor, Terry, to be put in touch with the family.

Create for Dementia is a fundraising campaign by Alzheimers NZ that aims to harness the power of creativity. Next month, creative Kiwis will embark upon artistic challenges to raise money and awareness of this good cause. Those endeavours could include photography, woodworking, pottery, graphic design, painting, knitting, baking and more. Last year’s inaugural Create for Dementia campaign saw almost 150 creators and teams rise to the challenge with more than $35,000 raised. Fundraising runs from June 1 to 30. Info and registrations: www.createfordementia.org.nz/

Sheryl Takayama, Nutritionist sheryl@whyweightacademy.com

Budget boosting health tips

Are you using the excuse “it’s too expensive” as a barrier to prioritising your health?

In a time when the cost of nearly everything is going up, I want to let you know that to optimise your health, you don’t need to spend a cent.

In fact, some things that you can do for better wellbeing will actually save you money.

Here are five actions that will be positive for your health, but not impact your wallet:

• Go to bed before 10pm: This is so simple and yet very powerful. The hours of sleep before midnight are deep and restorative, so the earlier you get to bed, the earlier your body can get to work doing all the important jobs: tissue repair work, detoxification, hormone regulation, brain regulation and immune system strengthening to name a few. Great sleep helps your body regulate the hormones that control appetite, which will help reduce those afternoon sugar cravings.

• Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water per day: This is something many people struggle with, but increasing water intake can make such a difference to wellbeing. Water helps transport nutrients and oxygen to cells in the body and is important in maintaining optimal digestion and energy levels. Increase your water intake, and every joint and organ in your body will thank you –especially your kidneys.

• Stop snacking: Snacks are adding to your

grocery bill and potentially your waistline too. If you eat proper meals with an optimal balance of protein, carbohydrate and healthy fats, you should be able to last 4-5 hours between meals, without needing to snack. If you are getting hungry between meals, increase the level of protein or healthy fats with your meal and see if that makes a difference.

• Meal planning: Creating a meal plan for the week will ensure you go to the supermarket organised and are less likely to spend extra money on emergency shopping trips or takeaways. Home cooked food is always the best option when it comes to sticking to a healthy nutrition plan or budget.

• Daily movement: It is essential that we get fresh air and challenge our muscles every day. You don’t have to do a mammoth workout at the gym either. Just get in the habit of going for a 20-30 minute walk each day and you will feel better. Small changes can add up to big results and investing in your health has never been as important as it is now. Don’t let the fear of extra costs stop you from taking action and making health and wellbeing your priority.

Crossword conundrum

© The Puzzle Company

73 Artist’s workroom (6)

Two-piece beach outfit (6)

Seasoned dried sausage (6)

Private teacher (5)

Floodplain consents to toughen up

After a process that included a hearing before an independent commissioner, resource consent has been granted to construct seven townhouses on a residential site at 8 Moenui Avenue, Ōrewa.

The 1156sqm site currently has a single house on it and is on a floodplain in the Residential – Terraced Housing and Apartment Building zone.

The development proposed by property owner Eight Moenui Ltd (sole director William Hewitt of Ōrewa) aligns with the increased intensity of development anticipated by the Residential – Terrace Housing and Apartment Buildings zone, and in that sense should have been fairly straightforward. It was not publicly notified.

However, it went to a hearing because Auckland Council staff recommended it be declined, raising concerns about the potential impact of flooding on the property and surrounding area.

As well as being affected by an overland flow path and potential coastal inundation, a small strip of the eastern boundary was of particular concern to planners in relation to coastal inundation and the effects of sea level rise.

The decision by duty commissioner Dr Lee Beattie, released on April 30, says he granted the application, subject to a number of conditions, as engineers representing the applicant, council and Auckland Transport were able to reach “general agreement over the flooding assessment information”.

As a result, the decision states that “the development of the site will minimise or

avoid risks from flood hazards to some of the surrounding properties, including part of Moenui Avenue, to a level which is considered acceptable”.

Of course 8 Moenui Avenue is far from being alone in that Ōrewa floodplain and while it is not in Council’s power to deny consent simply because a proposed development is in a floodplain, resource consent requirements related to flood risk are being strengthened

In the 8 Moenui Avenue Hearing Report, under the heading ‘Environmental Risk’, it is noted that: “Auckland’s growth will increase pressure to develop areas more susceptible to natural hazards. There may be conflict between where people want to live and where they can live safely, particularly in some coastal areas… How the region manages land use in response to climate change will determine the resilience of Auckland’s economy, environment, and communities in the future.” (Auckland

Unitary Plan, Natural Hazards and Climate Change).

Auckland-wide planning manager, Phill Reid, says work is currently underway on a change to the Auckland Unitary Plan.

“We’re looking at the controls that can be strengthened so council is in a better position when assessing the flood risk of applications for new developments,” Reid says. He says the goal is that new builds become more resilient, and that Aucklanders better understand risks associated with development or property purchases.

There will be public input to those proposed Unitary Plan changes.

The 8 Moenui Avenue decision can be found at www.aucklandcouncil.govt. nz/have-your-say/hearings/find-hearing/ Pages/resource-consent-hearing-documents. aspx?HearingId=454 w Back stories, www.localmatters.co.nz January 15, 2024

Hopper Development, which plans to develop its 20 sites along Whangaparāoa Road – 472-502 Whangaparāoa Road and 4 Brightside Road – has guaranteed the safety of this protected pohutukawa tree on the nearby roadside. The tree is on Auckland Council’s road reserve adjacent to Hoppers sites, but there remained fears for its future as access to the development sites was sorted out, despite Hoppers’ stated aim of protecting the tree. Recently Hoppers chief executive Andy Grey confirmed the company has resource consent to access the western most lot on its land from the main existing slip lane entry to the east, further down Whangaparāoa Road. “This will ensure that the large feature pohutukawa on the bend is protected for perpetuity,” he said. “We are in the process of assembling a consultant team to design an overall concept [for the development] and assess the effects of such proposal before a submission to Auckland Council,” Grey said.

Ōrewa floodplain, 8 Moenui Ave outlined. Source: Auckland Council GIS.

Study could reveal what’s in your water

A study is underway to help determine the quality of roof-collected rainwater from the North Island in comparison to the NZ Drinking Water standards, and it is hoped that householders on the Hibiscus Coast with rainwater tanks may be interested in taking part.

The study is funded by the University of Auckland and one of the scientists working on it is environmental engineer Dr Cody Mankelow.

Dr Mankelow says he grew up drinking untreated water from a rooftop rainwater tank.

“My folks still drink this water, and so do an estimated 10 percent of NZ households – for many, this is their sole water source,” he says. “While roof-collected rainwater is perceived to be a safe and abundant source of potable water, it may not be. The NZ Ministry of Health warns that it may not be fit for human consumption, and international studies have shown rooftop rainwater to contain Escherichia coli (E.coli), indicating it is microbially contaminated.” He says a study of Auckland’s roof-collected rainwater, made 20 years ago, also identified microbial, chemical, and lead contaminants in private drinking water supplies.

Rooftop-collected rainwater that supplies a private home is described as a domestic self-supply under the Water Services Legislation Bill 2022. “Domestic self-suppliers are unprotected and unmonitored under the bill. This means that while an estimated 10 percent of NZ households rely on self-supplied drinking water, we do not have a clear idea of the total population, the abundance of their water, or its quality”.

The current study is the first in a series and scientists hope to sample around 300

households, community halls or marae. Samples from water tanks will be taken from now until August.

Study details

Info: Dr Cody Mankelow, email c.mankelow@auckland.ac.nz To sign up to take part: https://bit.ly/4dFNa40

Water tank sampling is free of charge and measures: • Conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, turbidity • Microbial total coliform and Escherichia coli counts • Dissolved nutrients, including nitrate and nitrite • Metals including zinc, lead and arsenic • Randomly selected households will be tested for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances. The team will need to access participants’ rainwater tanks on up to two separate occasions. They will be on-site for 20-30 minutes, taking readings and collecting water samples of up to one litre. Personal details will remain confidential. The findings will be published in an academic journal. You will be provided with a copy of your results compared to the average values for your region, the study and the NZ Drinking Water Quality Standards. If your water exceeds the recommended maximum for any contaminant, you will be directed to the relevant council and government documentation and advice for the management and treatment of your water.

Housing market “moves forward”

Last month, the Auckland housing market gave back half the gains it made in March but overall sales continued the forward momentum being made since the low point in July last year, according to figures provided by real estate company Barfoot & Thompson. In a press release, the company’s managing director, Peter Thompson, said while April’s trading did not match March’s breakout result, it was still a solid performance.

“It has ensured the market is still moving forward from its low point in July last year,” he said. “Since the start of the year, the median price has increased by 4.2 percent and the average price by 11.9 percent while, compared to the low point of the price cycle, the median price is now up by 6.1 percent and the average price by 13.7 percent.

“The median price still remains above the $1 million mark, which has become something of a benchmark for the median price in Auckland,” he said.

Thompson noted that April’s sales numbers, at 704, were down a third on March’s figures, but the highest for the month of April for three years.

“Housing remains a buyers’ market with the number of properties listed at month end at 5770, the third month in a row that total listings have remained above 5000.”

Office inspiration for agents

While it might be thought that real estate agents could work from anywhere – home, their car or a café – it turns out that having an office base not only provides a shopfront for glossy images of properties for sale, it is also essential for staff, according to Barfoot and Thompson Whangaparāoa manager Ben Teagle.

He says while a lot of the team work from home or while out and about, face to face meetings with other staff, and even casual ‘water cooler’ chats in the office are valuable. The team recently moved back into its completely renovated office – the first makeover that the space has undergone since it opened in the 1980 – and staff are fizzing at the fresh new look. A hot desking area and boardroom have also been created. It’s open plan, light, modern and bright. However, it’s not just the aesthetics that

draw agents back to the office. Generally, real estate agents are contractors to the company they work for.

“You need to be a self-starter, but however motivated you are, you also need encouragement, support and good energy from others,” Teagle says. “That, as well as resources and a chance to collaborate face to face, is what having a base provides.”

He says post-covid restrictions, people wanted to return to the office, even if only once or twice a week.

When it comes to work/recreation balance, life as an agent can be tricky, Teagle says.

“Essentially you are your own boss, so that provides flexibility. But, of course, the most successful agents are also busy and there is often work to do at nights and weekends.

On the plus side, you can then take a long weekend if you choose.”

ERIC ODDI FOR BLINDS

Garden trail fertile ground

More than 200 people visited the seven local gardens that were included in the inaugural Hibiscus Coast Edible Garden Trail held on May 4 and 5.

Trial organiser, Sustainable Ōrewa, was excited by the turnout which reflects strong interest in growing your own food at home.

Sustainable Ōrewa’s Lynsey Ellis and Lena Kovac have worked on the project since 2022 when Lynsey saw a similar event in Taranaki. They wanted to bring it to the Coast to provide inspiration and ideas to home gardeners.

The trail offered a range of edible gardening

approaches from the Ōrewa Community Garden, a gardening collective on private land, hydroponic gardening, survival gardening and gardening on a hill, a small section and a lush new-build garden. Animals such as quails, rabbits, chickens and the odd dog were all part of the experience, and a hit with the kids and families on the trail, Lynsey says. Lynsey and Lena say they were thrilled to receive lots of positive feedback and want to thank the gardeners who opened up their properties to be viewed.

Sustainable Ōrewa’s contact details and latest projects are on its Facebook page.

Clockwise from top left, Dee Pignéguy shares her gardening know-how with a visitor. Lynsey Ellis in her backyard, called Harvest Homestead. The gardens provided ideas and inspiration.

Gardening

Dee Pignéguy gardenerdee@gmail.com

Seeds a life source

Seeds are packages of genetic information with instructions for building the next generation. They are the foundation of human life, from the food that we eat to the fibres in our clothing, as well as most of the products that we use in our daily lives.

Seeds contain a plant embryo – a small immature plant with a stem, a root structure and at least one leaf. Most seeds have their own food supply contained in the endosperm, which acts as a source of carbohydrates, vitamins, fats, antioxidants, and proteins. The endosperm supports the growth of the plant embryo until photosynthesis kicks in, while the seed coat provides protection.

Germination usually begins with a drink, and once water seeps into the seed a whole raft of metabolic processes begin – the tiny plant embryo starts to grow and the embryonic root breaks through the seed coat.

Timing is everything. Germination is influenced by environmental conditions; affected by temperature, frost, fire and daylight length. The plant will die if it germinates in the wrong season.

Seeds cannot germinate until dormancy is broken, which requires optimal environmental cues such as the right temperature, humidity, soil pH, or a combination of cues.

Some seeds are so specific that they require travelling through a bird’s digestive tract or

must experience fire.

The health of the parent plant and environmental and soil conditions, as well as the use of herbicides during seed development, has a big impact on the longevity of the seed. Seeds are rich in antioxidants, which they make to repair damage caused by free radicals. The antioxidants also protect against deterioration and can break dormancy or trigger germination.

Climate change will also alter seed longevity. Drought and elevated temperatures can result in seed abortion as well as altering the quality of those seeds that do stay on the parent plant. Many countries working on seed gene banks are selecting for survival under hazardous weather conditions, as well as the ravages of war.

The chemicals we use on our gardens can also have an impact on germination. For example, glyphosate wasn’t originally intended to be used as a herbicide. It was patented as a metal chelator, something that reacts with, and binds up, mineral elements. The idea was to use it for cleaning out metallic build up inside corroding pipes. Used as a herbicide, it binds up mineral elements such as copper, iron, magnesium and zinc, which of course then makes theose elements unavailable to plants and soil microbiota. Depriving plants of mineral elements central to their health has a huge impact, not only on the plant’s nutrition, but the viability of the seeds as well.

New Ōrewa resident, Abraham Dixit, will approach the local board hoping for approval to develop a community garden on this part of Hatfields Beach Reserve.

Community garden proposed for Hatfields Beach

Gardening, and sharing homegrown produce, comes naturally to Abraham Dixit, who recently moved to Ōrewa.

He arrived in the country as an asylum seeker, and gained permanent NZ residency in March. For five years he has been working as a handyman, as well as volunteering.

Abraham says at his former rental property in Ranui, he started an edible garden on his berm, sharing the produce with the community.

He is in the process of bringing those raised beds, as well as building materials and tools, with him to Ōrewa to use to get his vision of a community herb garden underway.

He says there is a real need for community gardens, especially among renters.

One suitable site that has come to his attention is in Hatfields Beach Reserve on Hibiscus Coast Highway. The area is partly

in long grass, and has access to water and car parks.

Because it’s a public reserve, his first task is to contact the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to seek the necessary approval. He is also hoping to hear from anyone in the community who would be interested in supporting the garden.

Abraham says the garden would serve as a space where the community can come together to volunteer, share knowledge, and cultivate herbs.

“It would also provide an opportunity for residents to exchange seeds and establish long-term garden beds that can be enjoyed by future generations. With a water supply and car access available at the reserve, I believe this project is both feasible and sustainable,” he says.

Anyone interested in supporting the initiative can contact Abraham, ph 022 883 0328 or email Ardalstangen@gmail.com

1:05am3.2 7:11am0.8 1:26pm3.0 7:29pm0.9 2:02am3.2 8:09am0.8 2:25pm3.0 8:32pm0.9 2:59am3.2 9:07am0.7 3:28pm3.1 9:35pm0.9 3:57am3.2 10:05am0.7 4:31pm3.1 10:35pm0.8 4:53am3.2 11:01am0.6 5:31pm3.2 11:32pm0.8 5:49am3.3 11:56am0.6 6:26pm3.3 12:25am0.7 6:44am3.3 12:49pm0.5 7:19pm3.4 1:17am0.7 7:38am3.3 1:40pm0.5 8:09pm3.4 2:08am0.7 8:30am3.2 2:28pm0.5 8:57pm3.4 2:58am0.8 9:20am3.2 3:15pm0.6 9:44pm3.3 7:19am 5:17pm 7:19am 5:17pm 7:20am 5:16pm 7:21am 5:16pm 7:21am 5:15pm

Green scene

Jenny Hanwell, Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird j.hanwell@forestandbird.org.nz

Don’t leave it to someone else

When it comes to helping people in our community, Coasties are some of the best. However, when it comes to helping the natural world, far too many of us leave it to someone else. Seen a rat? “It’s council’s problem.” Injured bird? “DOC can come and get it”. You pay your rates so it’s not your problem, right?

Unfortunately, conservation budgets for government agencies have never been enough to cover everything that needs to be done for a healthy natural environment. No matter who the leader is, or the how the budget is spent, looking after nature requires everyone to do their part.

It’s important if you want to see better support for conservation, that you have your say whenever you can. If thousands of people leave it to someone else, change will never happen, and our environment will suffer – affecting us all. Recently nearly 14,000 people submitted against the proposed Fast Track legislation via Forest & Bird, which believes this is an undemocratic, dangerous proposal putting the fate of special natural places into the hands of just three ministers. It took five minutes to create a submission –I wonder how many thousands more people oppose this but didn’t do anything, because they thought someone else would? Is it too late this time?

At a local level, there are concerns about the future of the abandoned Gulf Harbour Country Club and soon the public will be able to post submissions about the proposed subdivision and development that could affect the whole peninsula.

Right now the weeds are going crazy, and the landowner is doing nothing. So what to do? Complain to Auckland Council? They can’t do any more there than they can at your place, as it’s private land. The Natural Environment Targeted Rate does not cover pest plant control on public land, let alone private property. Suggestions of a community weeding bee fell on deaf ears, as they do at our parks, where just a keen few turn up. Someone else’s problem?

Maybe it’s because we feel we can’t do anything, we’re too busy, or we don’t have the skills, but the key to taking care of our world is, if everyone does just a little bit, it can make a huge difference.

When it comes to New Zealand working towards becoming Predator Free by 2050, it really will take all of us because the problem belongs to our community. Locally, that includes our Pest Free Hibiscus Coast Project. Can you service a trap line, set a rat trap in your backyard or deliver one nearby, help enter data, plant a native tree, take a poster to the supermarket or deliver fliers, sign a petition or write to local politicians? There are so many things you can do to help and every action makes a big difference. Raise your hand and give us a call.

Our last call for volunteers resulted in some incredible individuals joining our team. A big thank you to all those who are doing something to help nature, big or small, it really helps.

Info: www.forestandbird.org.nz/how-canyou-help-pfhc

DOUGLAS ACCOUNTING

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At Cato Bolam, our expert team specialises in assisting clients in unlocking their land’s full potential and transforming their vision into a reality.

Development Feasibility

From your property’s zoning regulations to the availability of utility services, there are a lot of factors to consider.

Our Development Feasibility Report includes concept sketches and feasibility assessments, ensuring a smooth journey from initial consultation to the completion of your development project.

Confidence at Every Step

From urban and rural subdivisions to housing and commercial developments,

our integrated team of professionals, which includes Planners, Architects, Engineers, Ecologists, and Surveyors, provide accurate guidance on feasibility.

Our team collaborate closely with you to deliver your vision for your project at every step.

Unlock Your Property’s Potential Today

When you choose Cato Bolam, you’re choosing over 50 years of expertise in land development.

Whether you’re building your dream house, expanding your investment portfolio, or undertaking a large-scale development project, we’re here to help you unlock the value of your land and maximise your profits.

Contact our team today. Free call 0800 2 CATOBOLAM.

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Phone Marsh 0276 636 291

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

LAWNMOWING & GARDENING Small local business: lawns, weed-eating, hedges, chainsawing, weed-spraying, green-waste/ rubbish removal. Anything considered, no job too big or too small. Ph Jay 021 0887 8995 email asap.lawnsandoutdoor. maintenance@gmail.com

PEST CONTROL Eradication of rats & mice. Competitive Rates. Ph 426 2253 Ph 027 286 7321, www.noratsandmice.co.nz

DVDS & VIDEOS

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

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

SITUATIONS VACANT

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

FURNITURE REMOVALS

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

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

HIBISCUS COAST FRIENDSHIP CLUB, Meet at Bridge Club, Edith Hopper Park, Manly, 4th Wednesday of the month, 10am for talks and coffee. Enjoy meetings, movies, outings and luncheons. Phone Peter or Jeanne 426 8675.

HOUSIE AT BOWLS ŌREWA every Friday, 1pm-4pm. Lots of fun and great prizes. Ph 09 426 5937. All welcome.

THE REBUS CLUB OF GULF HARBOUR meets on the second Wednesday of every month at the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, Laurie Southwick Drive, Gulf Harbour. Tickets are $5 per person and include morning tea and 2 tickets in our monthly door prize. Membership is open to men and women, both couples and singles who have or are about to retire. More info: www.rebus-gulfharbour.nz

Also Window Cleaning / Gutter Clearing Careful service, reasonable rates. Phone 021 057 9743

WATER PUMP & FILTER SERVICES.

New installs for all your water pump requirements. Ph 0274 430 654.

ARKLES BAY PAINTERS/DECORATORS In the area for the area. Shane 021 0813 8481. CARPET ADVICE, FREE QUOTE FOR STEAM CLEANS, Carpet Repairs, 35 years experience Dwayne 027 499 7929. A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/Simpson dryers. Prompt service ph 021 168 7349.

PUBLIC NOTICES

HIBISCUS COAST GREY POWER ASSOCIATION AGM and meeting, featuring a Harbour Hospice presentation of the great work they do for people with a life limiting condition. 1.30pm, Friday May 31, St John's Catholic Church hall, 180 Centreway Rd, Ōrewa. Afternoon tea to follow. For further details, Simonne 027 212 8322, b.sdyer@xtra.co.nz MANLY BOWLING CLUB INC AGM will be held in the clubrooms on Friday 24 May 2024, at 5pm. All welcome

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

TAROT & ASTROLOGY CONSULTATIONS Available in Dairy Flat. Contact Ruby 020 410 70203.

Fantastic opportunity available for an experienced Personal Assistant. Are you organised, detail-oriented, and thrive in a fast-paced environment? We are seeking a dedicated Personal Assistant to provide part-time administrative support and to help streamline operations. You will need a strong administration background (previous real estate experience is required), to work alongside a highachieving, results-driven residential sales consultant who specialises in marketing residential properties in and around the Hibiscus Coast. Interested? Then please forward your CV to mleaver@barfoot.co.nz LIFE COACH UNLOCK WELLBEING! ACHIEVE YR GOALS: Free session Contact Steve 021 264 2506 www.hibiscuslifecoach.com HOUSE WASHING - SOFT WASH / LOW PRESSURE / CHEMICAL WASH

SECOND-HAND BASIC OVERLOCKER. 3 threads preferred. Phone 09 426 9737.

HIBISCUS COAST COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB, Sunday, 2nd June, 1pm, at the Ōrewa Community Centre, $5 entry, all welcome.

ACROSS: 1 In the lap of the gods, 10 Foxglove, 15 Harmed, 16 Perceptive, 17 Prisoner, 19 Headway, 21 Cider, 22 Adversary, 25 Accessory, 27 Sponsor, 29 Infect, 33 Green, 34 Santiago, 36 Diplomatic, 39 Pal, 41 Hoodlum, 42 Angina, 43 Active, 44 Lair, 45 Retreat, 48 Beforehand, 53 Romance, 57 Brag, 58 Grille, 59 Shanty, 60 Braking, 62 Sup, 64 Interviews, 65 Overhead, 66 Layer, 69 Warm-up, 70 Demands, 71 Foolhardy, 76 Cartridge, 77 Girth, 78 Neutral, 83 Diamonds, 84 Artificial, 85 Ritual, 86 Exterior, 87 Go against the grain. DOWN: 2 Neared, 3 Humid, 4 Lad, 5 Pips, 6 Farrier, 7 Heeded, 8 Gate, 9 Dividend, 11 Onrush, 12 Gastronomy, 13 Owns, 14 Earnest, 18 Negotiated, 20 Apex, 23 Assay, 24 Restrain, 26 Cheddar, 28 Propane, 30 Groove, 31 Calico, 32 Clever, 35 Tense, 37 Carve, 38 Tuba, 40 Lava, 45 Rabbi, 46 Traitors, 47 Turnip, 48 Boll-weevil, 49 Fees, 50 Respond, 51 Healed, 52 Notch, 54 Ours, 55 Awkward, 56 Canter, 61 Troubadour, 63 Rally, 67 Kangaroo, 68 Tale, 69 Wheedle, 72 Obtains, 73 Studio, 74 Bikini, 75 Salami, 79 Tutor, 80 Raft, 81 Wing, 82 Flat, 85 Roe.

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

20-29 Get started on your Family Tree, family history introduction course at Whangaparāoa Library. Course runs on May 20, 22, 27 and 29 from 10am12.30pm. Info: phone Garry Phillips 021 902 715 or email genealogy.training. nz@gmail.com

22 Joy Bells, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry.

24 Stetson Club with Midnite Special, Dairy Flat Community Hall, 4 Postman Rd, Dairy Flat, 7.30pm-11pm. Members $10 Non Members $12.50 Licensed cash bar. Bring your own nibbles. All welcome

25 Toucan, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7:00pm-10:30pm. Entry $8 members, $10 non-members, door sales only.

25 Tag Wars Pro Wrestling tournament, Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre, 6.30pm-9pm. Tickets from Eventfinda.

26 Hungry for Something Better (plant-based cooking) presentation with demonstrations and tasting, Ōrewa Convention Centre (Seventh Day Adventist Church), 123 Centreway Road, Ōrewa, 4pm. Cost $15 per person.

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

30 Drag Bingo with Anita Wigl’it, three rounds of Bingo, drag show, lots of laughs, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 7pm-9pm. Tickets from Eventfinda.

31- June 3, Harbour Hospice annual fundraising Art Exhibition and Sale, Estuary Art Centre, 214B Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa, open Friday, May 31 to Sunday, June 2, 9am-4pm and Monday June 3, 9am-2pm. Art for all budgets and tastes. Ticketed preview night on Thursday, May 30 and then open to the public. Entry by donation, with Eftpos available. (see story p9)

1 The Doors Live, Europe’s best Doors tribute band performs an epic Doors setlist, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 8.30pm-11.30pm. Tickets from Eventfinda. (see story p13)

1-14 Hibiscus Coast Photography Exhibition, Whangaparāoa Library. Free

4 Naturopath Rachelle Turrell’s Improve & Reset Gut Health, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am. How to produce and maintain a healthy gut microbiome Free. All welcome. RSVP WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

6 America’s Cup champion to Paralympian, a talk by former America’s Cup crew Rick Dodson, with Matt Mason and Joey Allan, Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, near the ferry, 7pm-8.30pm. An insight into Rick’s unusual career, from being a double America’s Cup winner, diagnosed with MS, to his battle to become a Paralympian sailor. All welcome, $5 entry for non-Yacht Club members.

8 Jordan Luck Band Winter Tour, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 8.30pm-11.30pm. All the well-loved hits. Tickets from Eventfinda

9 Community planting day, Shakespear Regional Park, starting 10am. All welcome. The other community planting dates are June 22 and July 14 and 27. Bring clean, sturdy covered footwear, gardening gloves, a rain jacket, sunhat and sunscreen, water bottle and snacks. You can bring your own clean spade, but they are also supplied. Info: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil. govt.nz/tags/planting/

10 Home Gardening Guide in Mandarin, Whangaparāoa Library, 10.30am. Gardening talk for Mandarin-speakers. Free.

14 Hell Freezes Over/Kiwi Eagles Experience, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 8.30pm-11.30pm. NZ’s premier international touring Eagles tribute band. Tickets from Eventfinda.

15 Winter Fabfest, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 2pm-12am. Ten fine NZ bands. Put on your dancing shoes! Tickets from Eventfinda

16 Death Café, Whangaparāoa Library, 10.30am. Coffee, cake and open conversations about grief, death and dying. Free. All welcome

16 Gutter Kitties fundraising Believe it or Not quiz, Paraoa Brewing Co, Whangaparāoa, 2pm. Maximum of six per table. Tickets $20pp (includes raffle ticket). Prizes for top three tables. Tickets from Eventfinda.

17 Age Concern’s Support for Seniors, Whangaparāoa Library, 10.30am. Detailing support services for older people. Free. RSVP WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

20 Campaigning to race Round the North Island, winners of the first mixed team award, Anna Merchant and Aaron Hume-Merry, talk about all things sailing, Gulf Harbour Yacht Club, near the ferry, 7pm-8.30pm. All welcome, $5 entry for non-Yacht Club members.

28 Stetson Club with Chet O’Connell band, Dairy Flat Community Hall, 4 Postman Rd, Dairy Flat. 7.30pm-11pm. Members $10, non-members $12.50. Licensed cash bar. Bring your own nibbles. All welcome.

30 Naturopath Rachelle Turrell’s Improve & Reset Gut Health, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am. How to produce and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Free event. RSVP WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

RESCHEDULED from June 4.

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

Take a simple test to find out.

The Asthma Control Test (ACT) is available at Unichem Manly Pharmacy. It’s a simple 5 minute test to find out how well your asthma is controlled. The ACT is used by healthcare providers globally, and has been scientifically tested.

Here’s an example:

Question 4:

3 or more times per day (or is your asthma controlling you?!)

During the past 4 weeks, how often have you used your reliever inhaler (eg. Ventolin)?

1 or 2 times per day 2 or 3 times per week once a week or less Not at all

If the answer to question 4 of the test is more than 2 times per week, then it’s time to come and see us to take the full test and let us help you to get control of your asthma. Asthma Clinic (also emphysema/COPD)

Asthma Nuse Educator, Sonia, is visiting Manly on

Wednesday, 29th May

To book your FREE 30 minute appointment, call us on

Raiders fans rewarded with strong performance

The Hibiscus Coast Raiders premier men’s team produced their best for the home crowd at Stanmore Bay with a 6810 victory over Glenfield Greyhounds on Saturday, May 11.

Club president Roger Reid says Raiders were dominant from kickoff and opened the scoring within minutes.

The gusty and erratic wind made things difficult for the kickers, so the score

progressed in fours and by half time it was 38-0.

Glenfield put up more resistance after the restart and was rewarded with two tries but it was Raiders’ day and the team added a

further 30 points before the final whistle blew, mercifully for the visitors.

Earlier that day, Raiders’ Reserves ground out their second tight victory in a row, 2218 over Mangere East.

The sidelines were colourful for Hibiscus Coast Raiders’ home games on May 11. Young Raiders fans had been invited to show their support by creating signs in the team’s colours of maroon and gold. From left, with signs, are Ella Flannery, Lellah Pai, Ranger Ratima Turton, Cooper Sharples, Owyn Popata, Braxton Grieve and Max Zahorodny.

From left, Max Fuller on his way to the try line. Immanuel Kalekale fends off the defenders. Caleb Nui puts the ball down. Photos, Roger Reid