Hibiscus Matters_Issue 385_18 November 2024

... a totally unnecessary fire that may take our crews away from another emergency ... p17 p4

Three trucks responded to the incident on Matai Road, which was likely caused by fireworks (see story p2).

Significant cannabis bust on Coast

Milldale residents woke to a flurry of activity on November 6 when police executed a search warrant at a Kendall Road property, seizing around 100 kilograms of cannabis plants.

A Milldale resident, who wished to remain anonymous, reported seeing police with dog teams. She said they removed cannabis

plants from the property, along with a myriad of electrical equipment including lights and heaters.

Ōrewa Police Detective Sergeant Peter Law confirmed that a cannabis growing operation was found at the property. Based on estimated yield of the mix of immature and mature plants, Law said the value was

likely to be “in the six figures”. No one was present at the property when the search was done and the Ōrewa police investigation is ongoing.

“House owners and property managers who turn a blind eye [to this sort of activity] will come to our attention,” Law said.

“It is a fairly normal pattern. The houses

are rented , and these things go on without the property managers noticing.”

He warned that the damage to houses from cannabis growing operations could be extensive. This ranged from moisture damage to extreme fire risk, especially in areas with close-quartered housing.

November 18, 2024 – Issue 385

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Fireworks spark grim warning for community

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A fire that engulfed a shed on a Stanmore Bay residential property on Guy Fawkes evening, Tuesday, November 5 has prompted a warning ahead of the summer fire season.

Three trucks responded to the incident on Matai Road, which was reported at 9.25pm. Stanmore Bay residents watched on as fire crews from Silverdale and Manly stations worked for nearly two hours to control the blaze, with the last truck leaving the scene at 11.13pm.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said the fire was likely to have been caused by fireworks, with burning vegetation then spreading to a shed on the residential property. There was significant damage to the shed, but the fire was extinguished before it could spread.

“One fire caused by fireworks is too many. It is a preventable fire we have to attend. It is also a totally unnecessary fire that may take our crews away from another emergency,” Fire and Emergency community education manager Tom Ronaldson said.

Neighbour Jamie Gibson said he heard his

Cannabis bust from p1

The Milldale bust was the third search warrant executed in six weeks by Ōrewa police. Another operation was discovered in Red Beach, and plants and processed cannabis were found at a Dairy Flat property.

Last month, Counties Manukau and Auckland City district police targeted an organised crime group, executing a number of search warrants and seizing an estimated $18 million worth of cannabis. The majority of the 11 people arrested were in New Zealand illegally and Immigration New Zealand has deported 11 Vietnamese nationals.

Law confirmed the three Ōrewa police search warrants were not part of that combined operation.

Police are asking the public to call 105 if they notice anything unusual in their neighbourhood. Information can also be reported anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

wife yelling that she could see fire.

“A firework must have landed in some native toi toi that was up against a garage before the fire quickly took hold at the bottom of the shed,” Gibson said.

As they waited for firefighters, Gibson and other neighbours attempted to extinguish the rapidly spreading fire with garden hoses, fire extinguishers and buckets of water.

“The fire extinguishers worked really well, but with the amount of native bush there, we were fighting a losing battle. We were all so grateful for the firefighters’ quick response,” Gibson said.

The sale of fireworks in New Zealand is restricted to a four-day period, November 2 to 5. This year, 109 fireworks-related incidents were reported to Fire and Emergency between November 2 to 10, with 23 of these incidents being in the Waitemata district. Ronaldson said this was more than double the amount for the same period last year

And the risk doesn’t end when firework sales stop.

“We know people stockpile fireworks

for summer, then let them off over New Year when it can be drier and hotter, and there is greater risk of causing a wildfire,” Ronaldson said.

Manly firefighter Shaun Gartland warned that lighting outdoor fires under a fire restriction or ban was not just illegal, but highly dangerous.

“Dry conditions significantly increase the risk of wildfires, making even a small spark capable of setting off a large blaze,” Gartland said.

Ronaldson asks that Hibiscus Coast residents and visitors to enjoy the beaches responsibly over the next few months.

“We appreciate people being thoughtful about fire risk, and avoiding activities that can generate heat or sparks and cause fires on particularly hot, windy and dry days. This includes firing up barbecues, campfires or fireworks.”

If you’re not sure whether to light up, go to www.checkitsalright.nz first to see what the restrictions are in your area.

Additional reporting by Jayden Murdie

Police on the scene in Milldale.

Watercare slams brakes on new connections

Anyone planning to build a home on the Hibiscus Coast, who does not already have a building consent, will not be able to get a wastewater connection for seven years.

This was announced by Auckland Council’s water infrastructure arm Watercare last week, as it takes steps to slow down building on the Coast until its wastewater infrastructure can catch up.

Watercare chief strategy and planning officer Priyan Perera says the Army Bay treatment plant, which treats wastewater from Ōrewa, Silverdale, Wainui and the Whangapaāoa Peninsula, only has capacity to take around another 4000 new home connections. An upgrade is planned, but this is not expected to be finished until 2031.

“The Hibiscus Coast has been growing rapidly, and in the past few years, Watercare has connected about 800 new homes a year,” Perera says.

“We believe the number of resource consents already granted outnumbers the remaining capacity at the treatment plant.”

He says that if growth continues at current high rates, the existing treatment plant may reach capacity before the upgrade takes effect

As of last Friday (November 15), anyone who applies for a resource consent for a new home or business on the Coast will have a condition on their consent that says they won’t be able to connect to the public

wastewater network until the Army Bay plant has capacity.

Watercare plans to spend $500 million on wastewater infrastructure on the Hibiscus Coast over the next 10 years.

Perera is asking developers who already have resource consent, but who don’t yet have building consent, to contact

Watercare about their connection.

“We’ll be assessing these applications to connect on a case-by-case basis as we keep a close eye on the plant’s capacity.”

Watercare is also exploring options for delivering an alternative upgrade faster but did not elaborate.

The Army Bay plant discharges around

Cyclone and storm recovery costs balloon

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

Category three buyouts from the severe weather events last year are likely to be higher than initially estimated, according to Auckland Council’s Recovery Office.

Group recovery manager Mace Ward said there had been an upsurge in submissions as the scheme closed. “[3515] is the final number and it has signalled that we potentially have more in the category three space than we had forecast.”

Ward said the council originally estimated there would be about 900 category three properties. But with 73 percent of the submissions already assessed, there were already 890 in category three.

Council’s house removal programme costs have also been higher than the expected.

Council estimated it would cost $52,000 per site, but of the 39 category three homes removed, the average cost has been $84,000.

Natural and built environment lead Craig Hobbs said although house removals were higher than budgeted, they were expected to come down. Hobbs said the early removals were in sites that were quite precarious locations such as Muriwai or Titirangi.

“[There are] a lot of considerations around health and safety. We have found asbestos in more properties than we anticipated, which has also driven costs up, but we do anticipate those costs will drop as we get into areas where it’s easier to remove houses,” Hobbs said.

Chief executive Phil Wilson said there was some flexibility allowed from central government for the crown funding, but it

might be a topic of discussion in the next annual plan.

In an update to Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, the recovery office revealed that 153 properties in the local board’s area had opted in to the scheme – a mixture of properties affected by landslide and flooding. By the end of last month, 97 categorisations had been completed with 27 properties assessed as category three.

The office reported facing a range of challenges from health and safety such as asbestos and site access to instances of cross-lease properties with adjoining walls but different categorisations. Contractors assessing the sites are making one of three recommendations. The first and preferred option is to relocate the home. A recovery office spokesperson said it is the cheapest, easiest, and quickest solution and has been done for about 30 per cent of the category three properties.

12,000 cubic metres a day into the Tiritiri Matangi channel, off the Whangaparāoa Peninsula. It is one of four major wastewater treatment plants in Auckland, the other three are Māngere, Rosedale, and Pukekohe.  Anyone with questions about their development plans is invited to email connections@water.co.nz

Failing that, the next option was deconstruction.

The last resort was demolition, which the office said was the case for some landslideaffected properties in Birkenhead, Piha, and Karekare.

The recovery office spokesperson clarified that once land was cleared by them, it belonged to parks and facilities. The spokesperson said that vacant land was subject to the future land use policy and would be discussed with the governing body next February.

Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum said the board would be interested in opportunities for green space, first understanding whether it was overland paths. Acknowledging that some land might not be safe to become public access reserve, Poppelbaum suggested those sections could be planted and fenced.

Additional reporting by Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter.

The Army Bay treatment plant upgrade isn't expected to be completed until 2031

Councillors challenge AT survey premises

Current consultation on future bus and ferry services on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula has several shortcomings, according to Albany Ward councillors, John Watson and Wayne Walker.

Auckland Transport (AT) has commissioned an independent study to identify a public transport network for the peninsula, which factors in the opening of O Mahurangi Penlink. The public is being asked for feedback on three scenarios:

Scenario 1: Existing buses and ferry run more often than they do at present.

Scenario 2: The NX2 serves a new Whangaparāoa Station via O Mahurangi Penlink throughout the day, and a new frequent bus service runs between Gulf Harbour and the new station. The Gulf Harbour ferry does not run.

Scenario 3: The Gulf Harbour ferry service, and a new frequent bus service between Gulf harbour and Hibiscus Coast Station. NX2 does not use O maharani Penlink and serves Hibiscus Coast Station at peak times only.

Watson says AT’s assertion in the survey that there can be no Whangaparāoa bus terminal or NX2 bus service via Penlink, if the ferry service is retained, is nonsensical.

“The $835 million cost of this project is being funded entirely by NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) with preliminary works for a future bus station site provided for,” Watson says. “To suggest buses won’t be ‘allowed’ by AT to use Penlink or that some rudimentary terminal cannot be established in four years doesn’t bear scrutiny.”

Councillors John Watson (left) and Wayne Walker are encouraging feedback on the transport survey

Walker goes further, calling the survey biased and misleading, closing off realistic options.

“It does not reflect the real world situation where traffic congestion is steadily worsening on Whangaparāoa and the northern motorway, with no prospect of AT alternatives to make much difference,” Walker says.

“The survey says the ferry trip times projected for 2028 are based on current ferry technology when we know faster, foiling electric ferries could be built today – and they’re improving fast – with the prospect of a Gulf Harbour ferry running closer to 35 to 40 minutes. This will be a game changer.

“We know that the preparation work for a bus station or kiss-and-ride at the Whangaparāoa end of Penlink is already being done by NZTA as part of its Penlink work. The last thing we want is to rely on AT, who have still not delivered on the promised bus station at Rosedale, even

though NZTA offered to build it.”

Walker says the approach should be demand-driven rather than their current cost-and-budget based approach, which discounts future options not included in an already outdated long term plan (budget) that gets revisited each three years anyway. It also doesn’t include a toll for Penlink when that is the current position.

Watson adds that the timing of the consultation is poor, with one part of AT trying to restore confidence in the ferry service, while another part casts doubt over its continued existence via the survey.

“People have been pouring back to the ferry since its full timetable was restored in September with patronage jumping impressively, even before the start of summer,” he says.

“Additionally, some of the travel times advanced as a guide bear little relation to the reality on the ground. That’s because

Ōrewa Reserve consultation slated

The public will be invited to give their views on the future use of Ōrewa Reserve next March.

Auckland Council’s parks and places specialist Matt Woodside updated the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board on the engagement approach earlier this month. He said the aim of the public consultation would be to narrow down four council concepts to one preferred proposal for managing future impacts of coastal hazards. All four concepts employ the ‘naturalisation’ approach that was unanimously approved by the local board in March this year.

Board members highlighted the importance of clear communication to the public around the concepts for consultation and the overall

process, given the high level of interest in the Ōrewa shoreline preservation efforts.

Woodside said he was aligning with the northern seawall and shoreline adaptation project teams on key messages and stakeholder consultation as part of his engagement approach.

The naturalisation approach includes dune restoration, as well as the gradual relocation of council assets such as playgrounds and toilet blocks. For efficiency, the plan is to relocate assets over time, as they come up for renewal. Woodside also clarified that dunes accrete and erode over time, and the expectation is that they will eventually have a natural resilience, eliminating the need for sand to be brought in to top them up.

Woodside said that this approach meant the reserve would look different over time as the coastal edge changed, but maintaining a dry sand beach for recreation would be a priority. He said, the plan recognised that the beach was the primary recreation area, even exceeding the grassed reserve.

Member Gary Brown raised concerns about the potential loss of the grassed area with the naturalisation approach.

“Our greatest asset is the grass,” he said. Brown echoed communication concerns by other members. He said it needed to be made clear to the public as to what they have a say on, within the proposed concepts.

Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum stressed the need to be mindful with public consultation

AT insists on calculating these times solely by bus travel. At Gulf Harbour, for instance, 99 per cent of ferry commuters simply drive their car to the park and ride – they don’t catch a bus because it takes much longer.

“Despite the attempt to suggest otherwise, the ferry will always be the fastest and most comfortable commute for residents east of Manly Shops to the city, and that will only become more so with the passage of time.”

Watson says the limitations imposed by AT on what can or cannot happen need to be challenged through the survey process.

“I encourage people to look at what is best for the Coast as a whole.

“For most people that will be self-evident – it’s a combination of bus and ferry, and the sensible utilisation of the Penlink connection, with all modes working together as part of an integrated network.

“People using the ferry from the eastern half of Whangaparāoa reduce pressure on both the internal roading system and the northern motorway where Penlink will merge in 2028. People taken off the road in one part inevitably aids the overall network.”

“In this respect Scenario 3 looks like the option that would benefit most parts of the Coast – the ferry service is retained, a new frequent bus service (99) runs along the peninsula while the NX1 and NX2 remain at the Hibiscus Coast Station, ensuring other Coast commuters don’t have to transfer further down the busway just to catch it.”

Public feedback is open until Sunday December 1. Further information: haveyoursay.at.govt.nz/wpstudy

and asked Woodside and his team to ensure the approach was carefully designed. Woodside is forming an official working group and will hold a public meeting before Christmas. Feedback from that group will then lead into the public consultation next March.

The Ōrewa Reserve project is one of three council initiatives focussed on coastal management in the area. The second is the northern seawall project that is underway (Hibiscus Matters, November 7). The third is the shoreline adaptation programme, under the regional coastal management framework. Public consultation on the Snells Beach to Ōrewa plan closed earlier this month.

Viewpoint

Alexis Poppelbaum, Hibiscus & Bays Local Board chair alexis.poppelbaum@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Peninsula’s public transport future

There’s nothing that fills my cup more than a good battle to protect the interests of our community and, better still, a successful outcome. Many of the battles, won or ongoing, can be long and relentless, and rely on strategy, timing and relationships.

Our local board, and the Penlink Now team, worked tirelessly to get O Mahurangi Penlink funded and started via the government’s NZ Upgrade Programme. The next big push for our board was to ensure it would open with public transport capability. We got in early with our advocacy for a bus station at the Stanmore Bay end to provide another reliable transport option on the peninsula, which is one of the five most vulnerable roading corridors in Auckland. We were ecstatic with an early indication of priority to fund and start the bus station project next financial year. At the very last moment though, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi provided significantly less transport funding to Auckland than expected, which has now bumped our station down in priority. It’s devastating, but this is familiar territory. Large projects take years of relentless advocacy – we recently got the funding for an important roading project in East Coast Bays, which was the result of years of hard work along with the local MP, my sister Hon Erica Stanford.

AT are reviewing bus and ferry services on the peninsula to determine what changes are needed when O Mahurangi Penlink opens. They’re proposing three possible scenarios: One is essentially status quo (existing bus network and ferry); Two is a ‘bus-only’ scenario with no ferry (a new NX2 service, the new bus station with a new bus service between Gulf Harbour and the station); Scenario Three includes the ferry and a new frequent bus service running between Gulf Harbour and Hibiscus Coast Station.

Given AT ranked the bus station project so highly just mere months ago, it astounds me that our community is now presented with only one future scenario for this and at the cost of no ferry service. There is no scenario presented that retains the ferry with a new bus station and NX2 service. This could have given people more scope to choose future-proofing transport on the peninsula and providing transport choice, while reducing emissions and creating a more resilient transport network. It always comes down to funding of course, but the conversation should primarily be focused on the range of needs, factors and future usage predictions to obtain the end outcome scenarios- even if it entails an unaffordable option now, but one that could at least be staged over time.

Please have your say before December 1 at www.haveyoursay.at.govt.nz/wpstudy

LocalOpinion

Sad state of major rainwater drain

While the D’oyly Reserve park is quite well cared for by Auckland Council, the stream itself is an overgrown tragedy! In 2021, your request for council action in the park reserve elicited the response of a very concerned council parks engineer. Some manual clearance work was carried out in the stream above the Knott Road weir, several hundred metres below the overgrown stream bed referred to above. Incidentally, in the last few weeks, council staff using mechanical diggers have done some work on the same area. The two diggers operated for about three days in late October. They dug up the stream bed only within the fenced crossing, which is about 200 metres above the large weir facility. Large river stones have been placed at the side of the stream. Not evident to a layman what is actually being done, but all activity is well below (easterly) the devastatingly and totally overgrown length of stream.

A woman from a Donald Street home told me that the base of her home has been subject to water ingress, although it is quite well raised above stream. She and her neighbours have made a number of complaints to the council over an extended period of time.

I sent a photo of the overgrown stream to council via its website report form last week. No response as yet.

attention.

Peter Christian, Stanmore Bay

Local youths killing community eels

This past Labour Day, there was a bit of a commotion at the stream behind Vipond Road. There is a small bridge known to the locals as a crossing point to get to the park. Upon investigating, one large youth took off quickly, leaving two others behind who were laughing at him as he took off. Striking up a conversation with the two left behind, they admitted the larger youth had managed to snare one of our local eels and proceeded to chop its head off. The body was thrown back into the creek and its head was used on a fishing hook to try and catch more eels. It was sad to see as many families enjoy watching and feeding the eels.

Name withheld, Stanmore Bay

Beach runway proves popular

The threat of grey skies didn’t dampen spirits at this year’s Ōrewa fashion show by the beach. With all 160 tickets sold out, the event attracted almost as many people watching from Moana Reserve or the neighbouring cafes and restaurants. Destination Ōrewa Beach manager Hellen Wilkins says the event will be a permanent fixture on the association’s calendar, taking place every two years. “In 2026 a few changes will be made around the mix of store types and will include more models in the younger adult category to showcase that anyone, of any age, can be clothed from Ōrewa retailers.”

Contactless payments but no concessions

Aucklanders can pay for public transport with contactless credit and debit cards, smartphones, or wearable devices, but won’t get concessions or the $50 seven-day fare cap. Auckland Transport (AT) launched the initiative yesterday (November 17), confirming the new payment option will be available on AT’s buses, trains and ferries, with the exception of Fullers’ Waiheke commercial ferries. “This meets modern expectations and takes away all the hassles that may otherwise have prevented people from using public transport,” Mayor Wayne Brown said. While the new payment option makes public transport more accessible for visitors and casual users, passengers will be charged the standard adult fare. An AT spokesperson says people will still need an AT Hop card to access concessions. Transport Minister Simeon Brown said that it’s time New Zealanders had access to the same standard of service as the rest of the world, where these payment methods were common on public transport services.

Taken from the second walk bridge, looking east from Doyly Drive

The stream is much worse than ever before and needs immediate remedial

The body was thrown back into the creek and its head was used on a fishing hook

Gardening

Dee Pignéguy gardenerdee@gmail.com

Getting dressed

Can we grow our own clothes? People have been growing plants to make clothes forever, making sturdy fabrics that provide protection from weather and insects. Plants don’t grow fabric, but the fibres produced can be made into fabrics once we do the weaving.

Plant fibres used for making a variety of products include stem fibre, leaf fibres, seed hair fibres, jute, hemp and bamboo. Textiles made from leaves, fruits and nuts may sound strange now, but as researchers and entrepreneurs experiment with a wide range of plant fibres, alternative materials will become increasingly available.

For instance, pineapple fibre, also known as pina cloth, is a natural textile extracted from pineapple leaves that are discarded at harvest time. It is lightweight, breathable and has a luxurious appearance. Orange peel becomes a natural fibre once the cellulose is removed, providing a yarn similar to silk. Bananatex, made from banana fibre, is claimed to be nearly carbon neutral and its soft texture is likened to hemp and bamboo.

Hemp needs little water and has no need for pesticides. The fibre is antibacterial, breathable and protects against ultraviolet rays. Soy fabrics are derived from the hulls of soybeans – a manufacturing by-product and is known as the vegetable cashmere for its light and silky sensation.

Tencel is made from the pulp of eucalyptus

wood, requiring little water for extraction and it is biodegradable. While tapa cloth, not a woven material, is made from the bark from several types of trees, often fig and mulberry, and is softened through a process of soaking and beating. Lotus flower fibre, from the root of the lotus plant, has been used for centuries to produce rare fabrics use in hand-spun scarves. The process produces a luxurious fabric that feels like a combination of silk and raw linen.

Plants don’t grow fabric, but the fibres produced can be made into fabrics once we do the weaving.

Linen fabric, a natural textile, is made from the cellulose fibres from inside the stalks of the flax plant. It is one of the oldest human cultivated plants, is biodegradable and doesn’t require irrigation or pesticides for cultivation. Forget the coffee grounds for deterring snails, fabric made using discarded coffee grounds is an interesting and new textile innovation.

Our fashion addiction supporting the mass production of clothing is the second biggest industrial pollution on the planet. So, this Christmas, embrace being out of fashion, help make the fashion industry green and shop at your local op shop.

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Man with mowing mission in mind

Mounting concern over the state of the Gulf Harbour’s golf course propelled a neighbour to jump on his mower, starting a community movement to clean up the course.

Last month, Jason Knapp bought a mower to tame the overgrown fairway grass outside his house. Once he started mowing, Knapp decided to keep going. Before long, he had put in 180 hours of work mowing the golf course.

“I had run into Duncan Millar when mowing the 14th hole, and he put a drone up to shoot footage. From there, he got in contact with Ash from Gatmans, and things took off,” Knapp said.

Millar’s drone video of Knapp prompted a chain reaction of support from the community, turning one man’s mission

into a collective project. Volunteers across the Hibiscus Coast came together with local businesses to work on everything from landscaping to invasive plant eradication.

The group formed Gulf Harbour Community Charity Trust to organise their efforts. The trust created a programme of work to maintain the land until the legal situation is resolved. The team from Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces supported the trust with communications and a donation program.

“We’ve supplied a couple of mowers, including a robotic mower. People are dedicated to getting it done,” Gatman Mowers and More chief executive Ash Stilwell said. He also donated his time along with that of his staff.

Restore Hibiscus & Bays advisor Deborah

Colson and a team of volunteers eradicated pest weeds from native bush surrounding the course. “We’re slowly working through the course, doing grid searches in dense pockets of weeds. It’s a long road ahead, especially as these plants have been seeding.

“I’m blown away by the effort these volunteers are putting in – most of them just won’t stop,” We Do Landscaping operations manager Jayden Haley said. He has also sponsored the group with tools and a tip truck.

Since the Gulf Harbour Country Club closed in July last year, the property has become derelict and abandoned. Keep Whangaparāoa’s Green Spaces is campaigning to retain the land as green space for the community.

Additional reporting by Jayden Murdie

Red Beach pop up pump track

A temporary pop-up pump track at Red Beach park was installed ahead of Auckland Council’s public consultation on bike riding facilities for the Hibiscus Coast.

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum encourages the public to visit the track which will remain in Red Beach until April 25 next year. It is designed for people to ride around on bikes, scooters and skateboards.

“We have funding in our work programme to deliver a permanent track in the Hibiscus Coast and in the East Coast Bays soon,” Poppelbaum said.

The track was proposed to the local board earlier this year, by two Red Beach dads, Nick Humphreys and Niel Smit. Their idea was to provide more options for riders on the coast and alleviate the pressure on Ōrewa skate park (Hibiscus Matters, March 11). At the time, the board confirmed that funding had already been earmarked to build a local pump track.

The modular pump track at Red Beach is 65 lineal metres and can be configured in three different ways. Being made up of different pieces means the council can move it between neighbourhoods for Aucklanders to experience bike riding and ‘wheeled play’ options. Until March this year, it was at Metro Park East in Millwater.

The council consultation seeks input on options including bike pump tracks, jump parks, mountain bike trails, learn-to-ride paths, scooter riding, skateboarding, surfskating, roller skating, and other wheeled activities. Though it states that additional skate parks are not being considered.

Hibiscus Coast residents can share feedback until February 28 next year: https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt. nz/riding-hibiscus-and-bays

Ash Stilwell and contractors with equipment donated by We do Landscaping.

EACH number in our CodeCracker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. For example, today 20 represents B, so fill in B every time the figure 20 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

Green scene

Stef Muller Pallarès estefania.mullerpallares@gmail.com

Sustainable spring cleans

As warmer weather settles in, people are ditching their jumpers and fluffy socks for a spring clean, but with that comes an annual influx of textile waste to secondhand shops. While cleaning out your wardrobe or donating to secondhand shops isn’t inherently bad, our habits formed by the broader culture of how we care for our clothes can be extremely wasteful and harmful to the environment. So, before you pile last season’s things into a box and drive down to the nearest secondhand shop, here are a few things to consider. As a country, we throw away 180,000 tonnes of clothing and textile waste. Recent studies find that many people will dispose of clothes within a year, usually after no more than 10 wears. With cheap, seasonal trends being advertised at every corner and online video, we are enticed to constantly look for new options even if we don’t need them. This is where the problem arises, over-consumption and waste. On average, we buy 53 new items of clothing a year, four times as much as in the year 2000. With all the new coming in, the old has to go and usually, it goes to secondhand shops. Just because clothes arrive at secondhand shops, they don’t necessarily go to new homes. In 2018, Red Cross reported spending $50,000 on disposal costs, Auckland City Mission spends about $20,000 annually and Hospice spends almost $100,000 annually with five tonnes being dumped a day minimum, with illegal dumping and

unsellable items as the bulk of the problem. So, what can we do differently?

Can you mend, repair or upcycle it?

Sometimes minor issues like a rip, stain or hem coming apart can tempt us to put things in the ‘too hard’ basket. Finding a local mender (or bribing a friend with sewing skills) or attending a local repair cafe is a great place to start. Hibiscus Coast Zero Waste hosts repair cafes in Ōrewa each month – you can find out more on their website or social media. There is a movement for visible mending where people stitch designs around repairs, not to hide that they have been mended but to give that mending its own beauty.

Treat secondhand shops like your best friend. Make sure items are washed, mended and in good condition before donating them. It is also important to ask what the store is taking, most have signs out to let us know. Otherwise, donated items that they don’t have room for might as well all go straight into the bin. A great idea is to get all your good friends together first and letting them go through any donation boxes or organise a clothes swap.

Borrowing and renting. Another growing option is renting clothing for those ‘oneoff’ moments. Ball gowns and wedding dresses are a great example of this. Renting is cheaper than buying and the garments get many wears instead of sitting in the back of a wardrobe.

So I invite you to fall in love with what you have again or give it a new life this spring.

Tragic end for dotterel egg

The sole dotterel (tūturiwhatu) egg remaining at Tindalls Bay disappeared overnight on Friday, November 8.

Forest and Bird volunteer Derek Kelsey discovered the empty nest and found the parent birds missing as well. He said that closer inspection revealed no sign of egg shells, which could have indicated the nest was predated by a black-backed gull, cat or hedgehog. The parent birds were later found by volunteers, alive and well, though concern remains over the dog paw prints that Kelsey spotted within the fenced off area.

“We know that these are popular beaches, and not the best place for dotterels to have nested, but they have few places to nest since the peninsula has become so busy and this is where they have chosen,” Forest and Bird spokesperson Jenny Hanwell said. Every year, residents across the Hibiscus Coast closely follow the plight of these plucky birds on Facebook.

Manly resident Di Waring, who posts the social media updates, said that support from the community has been overwhelming.

”They have really taken these little birds into their hearts and recognise how lucky we are to have them here,” she says.

Forest and Bird dotterel minders reported a difficult start to the breeding season, with the first nest being flooded at high tide, although this one egg had survived. Kelsey and the group of minders trained through Auckland Council’s dotterel programme, had installed fencing, signs supplied by Council, and built a sandbag wall around the nest to protect the last egg.

“Dotterels are protected under the Wildlife Act 1953, making it an offence to disturb them, but neither the Department of Conservation or Council have the capacity to enforce this on a daily basis, so it takes

the whole community to come together to give these birds a chance.

“When people and dogs get too close to nests the birds will leave the eggs (or chicks) to distract the threat, leaving the nest vulnerable to predators and overheating in some cases,” Hanwell said.

Three pairs of Northern New Zealand dotterels (tūturiwhatu) reside in the Big Manly/Tindalls Beach area, and the group said they expect there to be more nests, including from this resilient pair who have raised chicks before. Hanwell said the birds would try to nest one or two more times if the first nest failed. Last year, all attempts failed but the year before, four chicks hatched from two nests, and two survived. Other dotterel nesting sites in the region include Waiwera and Shakespear Regional Park.

“Nest sites will be well marked and we are simply asking people to keep their distance, as the birds are so easily disturbed, and ensure dogs don’t go anywhere near the birds. In particular, we all need to remember to keep our pets off the beaches during the day and under control when the bylaw comes in on December 1,” Hanwell said.

The Department of Conservation site says the dotterel population is recovering, though it is an endangered species with only around 2500 birds in the country. “Dotterels are rarer than some species of kiwi, but sadly there is a dangerous minority that just don’t care. I wonder if their attitude would be as thoughtless if there were kiwi on the beaches?” Waring said.

Hanwell and the group of dotterel minders invite readers who notice a nest, or who would like to get involved in protecting the dotterels, to email j.hanwell@forestandbird. org.nz

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Nearby Mangawhai Heads surf beach

Nearby Mangawhai Heads surf beach

Nearby Mangawhai Heads surf beach

For the first time in seven years, Ōrewa Surf Life Saving Club has a dedicated club vehicle back on the road.

MARK MITCHELL

MP for Whangaparāoa

Shop 7, 4 Keith Morris Lane, Ōrewa 09 426 6215

mark.mitchellmp@parliament.govt.nz For assistance please email or call our office

giving up their time and using their own vehicles.

It’s a 2018 Nissan Navara, purchased with the generous support of loyal sponsors Mitre10 Silverdale, Barfoot & Thompson Ōrewa, McColl Building Services and B3 Buildings.

The primary driver will be head coach James Scott, but the ute will also be used for a range of activities including search and rescue callouts, transporting teams for lifeguard and rookies training, towing trailers of boards, skis, surf boats and IRB’s for all senior competitive lifesaving events, and junior carnivals.

Club president Faron Turner said having a club vehicle was a valuable asset and eased the pressure on volunteers, who have been

Membership at the club continues to grow, with Ōrewa being one of four northern regional clubs to have growth in juniors over the past two seasons, while also retaining lifeguard numbers and senior competitors.

“We have a busy summer ahead, with the first senior All In Carnival taking place last weekend at Ōrewa Beach.

“Our volunteer lifeguards are on the beach every weekend and our junior surf Sunday sessions are also underway and will be run throughout the summer. Both our junior and senior members will be at competitions throughout summer and will finish the season with Surf Sounds.”

Authorised by Mark Mitchell MP, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

James Scott (far left) along with some of the club’s volunteer lifeguards.

Surfing a wave of generosity

The generosity of more than a 100 mostly local businesses, tradesmen and their suppliers will deliver much more than a new home when 55 Spars Road Milldale goes under the hammer on Saturday November 30.

Coordinated by G.J.Gardner Homes

Rodney East, the proceeds from the charity auction will be donated to the Ōrewa Surf Life Saving Community Hub project.

Company principals Elaine and Ross Morley say their vision to build a beautiful home in Milldale and support the surf club quickly rallied a dedicated team, who generously contributed their time and resources freeof-charge to make the vision a reality.

“We’re so grateful to all of them for making this house and sale possible,” Ross says. “It’s thanks to them that the build has cost next to nothing so every dollar for the house will go to the surf club.”

Morley says the cooperation, even among competing businesses, reflected longstanding relationships.

“GJ Gardner has been in Ōrewa for 27 years and has built strong relationships with tradesmen over that time, so when we asked for support, no-one hesitated.”

Morley says the surf club’s vision of a community hub similar to surf clubs in Australia, which serve both the club’s needs and provide recreational and meeting facilities for the wider community, made it the obvious choice for support.

“So many people in the community, including our daughter Jaimee and some of our staff, have had an association with the club, and we have sponsored surf boats

The proposed surf club hub will house lifesaving operations, youth programmes, and community recreation spaces.

“By bidding on this property, people will not only own a beautifully crafted home, but they will also play a pivotal role in supporting a legacy of community, safety and service for generations to come.”

Ōrewa Surf Life Saving Club president Faron Turner says that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a lasting impact on a significant community project by purchasing this stunning home.

“I am immensely proud to see our community rally behind us in such a powerful way,” Turner says. “This project reflects the heart of Ōrewa – where local businesses, families, and volunteers join forces to build something that benefits us all. I extend my deepest thanks to everyone who has been involved, from GJ Gardner to the builders and sponsors, for their unwavering support.

“Fundraising is still ongoing for the project, but together with confirmed cornerstone funding from Auckland Council and Surf Life Saving New Zealand, this mammoth charity auction fundraiser will go a long way to ensuring the successful delivery of the project and ensuring the club continues to serve and protect the community for years to come.”

The club encourages the public to participate in this exciting auction and help make the new Community Hub a reality ensuring that Ōrewa SLSC continues to be able to provide a safe beach environment for future generations.

From top, An acknowledgement plaque with the names of the first owners of the house will be placed in the new surf club hub. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom

Tracey Brown

Whangaparāoa golfers celebrate milestone

The humble beginnings of the Whangaparāoa Golf Club as a modest nine-hole course, on borrowed land, will be celebrated at the end of this month.

The 70th anniversary celebrations, from Friday November 29 to Sunday December 1, will feature a variety of events, starting with a special Ambrose tournament for past and present sponsors on Friday. A spokesperson says this will be an opportunity for the club to thank the many businesses who have continued to support and partner with the club.

A members’ competition, featuring both 9 hole and 18 hole competitions, will be held on Saturday followed by a social mix and mingle, entertainment and the cutting of the 70th Anniversary cake. There will also be a club photo taken on the Saturday and golfers are being encouraged to dress in traditional golf attire.

The club opened in 1954, purchasing land for its current 18-hole course four years later in 1958.

The Hobbs family played a big part in the early days, loaning the club land for the nine-hole course and then selling land for the 18-hole course for £70 an acre.

The original clubhouse, built from trees supplied by Hobbs and sawn by members, opened in 1959. There was no electricity, and a copper was used to heat water. Two long drop toilets – one for the men and the other for the ladies – completed the picture.

The honour of playing on the opening day cost four shillings (about 40 cents), which included afternoon tea.

By 1956, the club had joined the Auckland District Golf Association. The rudimentary clubhouse was replaced in 1995 and the new building was officially opened by NZ

The course in the late 1980's

The new and the old clubhouse buildings. The new clubhouse was officially opened by Frank Nobillo, December 16, 1995.

professional golfer Frank Nobilo, whose parents Joan and Frank Snr played at Whangaparāoa.

The first manager, Kevin Millar, was appointed in 1994 and the Pro Shop opened in 2000.

The course was designed by Alex Murray, and the greens have been replaced and remodelled over the years. Today the club has a thriving membership of around 600, boosted more recently by the closure of the Gulf Harbour club.

An open day will be held on Sunday for members’ guests with a special $20 green fee. Tee times will also be set aside for visiting past members to play.

A new club logo will be launched to mark the 70 Anniversary. It was designed by Insiders Agency and will be featured on shirts, hats and poker chip ball markers, all available from the Pro Shop.

House of Travel Orewa have been supporting Whangaparaoa Golf Club (in one way or other) for over 20 years.

Our passion for the Hibiscus Coast community - and of course, a great golf round - is unwavering, which shows through in what we love to do (creating special travel experiences) for you!

We’ve learned a few things, along the way. We know the best way to do this well, is to get close-up and personal about what you want most out of your journey. Your ideas + our knowledge = better holidays. We’re better together...

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area (6) 69 Willing to obey (9)

72 Tufted cord end (6)

73 Many-legged creature (9)

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81 Surrender (4,3,5,4)

Crossword conundrum #46

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2 Colour-changing lizard (9)

3 Loses colour (5)

5 Small whirlpool (4)

6 Filled pasta envelopes (7)

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8 Rope loop (5)

9 Refuse to do business with (7)

10 Skating area (4)

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27 African language (7)

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46 Easily startled (5)

48 Plight (11)

49 Short-handled axe (7)

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Sharing kindness this festive season

As the summer holidays approach, we’re reminded of the joy that comes from giving.

While Christmas is a time of warmth, love and connection for many, it can also be a season of hardship and loneliness for others. Once again, Hibiscus Matters is inviting readers to spread hope and make a difference through our Christmas appeal. By donating gifts or food, you will be doing more than just giving items – you will be giving relief to the families and individuals in our community who need it most. These small acts of generosity remind people in our community that they are not alone and that they are cared for. It is not just about sharing material things – it’s also about sharing kindness.

Together, we can make this season one of joy for everyone, building a community where no one feels forgotten. Let’s come together to spread the spirit of Christmas by supporting those who need a little extra cheer this season.

Hibiscus Matters has partnered with three local charities to collect donations on their behalf. Here are some ideas of what they need this season:

Hibiscus Coast Grandparents Parenting Grandchildren Inc

towels, beach bags, beauty packs, etc. Woven Earth

• Personal products such as handbags with makeup, face masks, bath bombs, candles, soaps, perfume etc. (new or sealed) • Bathroom and laundry supplies e.g. dishwashing liquid, shampoo/conditioner, toilet paper • Toys and gifts for children (preferably not battery-operated)

Saving Hope Foundation

Christmas tree awaits your kind donations

• Non-perishable food items including treat foods • Vouchers from Hibiscus Coast businesses • New, unwrapped games and toys (preferably not battery-operated) • Arts and crafts supplies e.g. books, puzzles, instruments etc.

• Dog de-wormers, particularly Vitapet (supermarket-branded) ones • Dog flea treatments • Clean blankets /towels / dog accessories

• Household items, linen,

All gifts can be left under the Hibiscus Matters Christmas tree at 21 Florence Avenue, Ōrewa. Weekdays 9am-4pm, from November 18 to December 12.

Coasties encouraged to shop consciously this Christmas

As the festive season approaches, the call to ‘shop local’ grows louder. Though the rising cost of living has added pressure to many Hibiscus Coast families’ Christmas shopping.

Business Whangaparāoa chair Chris Norris acknowledges that online stores and big box stores are often cheaper.

“They will likely have bulk buying power and have the ability to offer the products at prices lower than a small store could,” he says. “And many online stores offer free delivery for a greater purchase value, thus increasing the spend and removing some of the barriers to sale, and increasing the convenience factors. All adding pressure to local businesses.”

When encouraging people to shop local, Norris said it’s also important for the businesses to communicate their point

of difference. His message to Coast retailers is simple – in the absence of clear differentiation, let price be the determinant. This is particularly important for Hibiscus Coast businesses who rely on income from the summer season to offset quiet winters.

Destination Ōrewa manager Hellen Wilkins said the data on retail income in Ōrewa showed a clear difference, with December spend peaking every year. She said people should shop local as much as they can yearround, but Christmas was just that bit of an extra special reason to do this.

“With only a couple of big box name brand stores in Ōrewa, businesses are mostly family operated and very community focussed, products are of a higher quality and often locally made and sourced,” Wilkins said.

Both business associations highlighted the

need for Coast residents to consider the benefits of shopping local. Not only does it keep money in the community, but it strengthens community bonds. With a number of markets coming up over summer, there will be opportunities

to purchase artisan products designed or created by neighbours and friends. The advantage of being able to physically choose a product at a market or in-store can also feel more fulfilling when it’s a Christmas gift for a loved one.

Hibiscus Matters

Making Christmas magic

Rudolph has been spotted in Silverdale with Santa’s sleigh, ahead of their debut at the Ōrewa Santa Parade this weekend.

Silverdale resident Christine Granger has built Santa a brand new sleigh this year, but isn't giving away any clues about the location of Santa’s workshop. A talented designer, Christine also created a life-size reindeer, and six-foot snowman, all in the space of a few months.

It all started when Northern School of Performing Arts (NSPA) director Sophia Pedersen approached Christine in August to decorate Centrestage theatre’s foyer for Elf the Musical. Going above and beyond, she designed an immersive winter wonderland experience for the children’s performance. Christine said the reactions of the five to 16 year old performers when they saw her creations made all the long hours worthwhile. Keen for the Christmas magic to live on after the musical, Christine reached out to the Ōrewa Santa Parade organisers. In previous years, Santa’s sleigh travelled from Warkworth in a gesture of community spirit between the two towns. Destination Ōrewa’s Hellen Wilkins said that Christine and Richard’s offer to loan the parade their sleigh and reindeer this year, was too good to pass up.

“We are very excited to see the children’s faces when they see not only Santa, but Rudolph as well. And of course Santa is also very pleased to be bringing his sleigh with his trusty steed in the lead this year,” Wilkins said.

Christine and her partner Richard Worker have lived on the Hibiscus Coast for 27 years and attended the Santa Parade every year since it started.

“Our youngest son, Joel, loved the grand finale, when Santa himself finally appeared. Joel is 30 years old now so it will be fun to watch his reaction to what we have created

for this year’s parade,” Christine said. Their creation involved a mammoth effort, taking more than 100 hours of work. Christine admits she poured literal blood, sweat and tears into the endeavour, but said she did it all for the love of Christmas and community.

“We will enjoy seeing the reactions of the children – after all, that is what Christmas is about and why we created Santa’s Christmas float,” Christine said.

Christine and Richard self-funded the project to give back to the community.

They will remain the caretakers of Santa’s sleigh, Rudolph, and the snowman, but will continue to loan them out. Their next appearance will be at the Age Concern Christmas concert at the end of this month.

After that, Christine plans to invite Rudolph into her living room on Christmas eve, hoping for a visit from Santa.

How the magic happened

After drawing the sleigh, Christine worked with Coastbuild New Zealand’s Tim Smith who projected her design on to large sheets of wood to build the structure. Christine then spray painted the sleigh red and added a trim using pool noodles, spray painting it gold along with the runners.

“In the beginning I was going to paint ‘SNŌrewa Sleigh’ on the side but it wasn’t quite right for our Kiwi Christmas,” Christine said. Though her final touch was a spray of faux snow because Santa will be travelling from the North Pole even if he does arrive here in summer.

Richard also lent a hand in the workshop, making Christmas bells that were added to the sleigh from the reindeer’s harness.

To bring Rudolph to life, Christine collaborated with Dean Morris, from Fabrication Specialists, in Silverdale. Dean built the steel frame so Christine could

shape the reindeer body with chicken wire. She then padded it with cushion filling and covered it with a faux deer rug.

“I studied images of real reindeer and also photos of existing reindeer made for other Santa sleigh parades,” Christine said, committed to transforming the frame into a realistic reindeer. She said pool noodles

were the key to Rudolph’s legs. She secured them to the frame with cable ties and shaped hooves from yet more noodles. For Rudolph’s face, she sewed on a latex deer mask.

Christine’s final touch involved more faux fur before airbrushing the reindeer to tie the whole look together.

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Santa is coming to the coast

It’s not long until children across the Hibiscus Coast start counting down the sleeps until Christmas.

While the elves are working hard to get presents ready in time, Santa is stopping in on the Coast for a visit. Here’s where he’ll be over the next month:

Ōrewa town centre, November 23, 4.30pm. Rudolph will pull Santa in his sleigh at the Ōrewa Santa Parade.

Moana Reserve, November 23, 2pm6.30pm. Mrs Claus will be at the Eats & Beats cultural festival.

Ōrewa Square, December 6, 5pm-9pm. Santa will be at the Christmas twilight market. Silverdale Centre, December 6-22, midday4pm, weekdays, 10am-4pm, weekends. December 23 & 24, 10am-4pm. Santa will

Those who aren’t ready to meet Santa in person, can write him a letter.

Submit it online at https:// writetosanta.nzpost.co.nz/ by November 26 to receive a postcard from Santa, or by December 23 to receive an email from Santa. Or drop it into Santa’s Mailbox at Coast Plaza before December 15. Each week Santa is picking five writers to receive a festive gift.

be wandering around the centre.

Coast Plaza, December 8, 11am-3pm. Santa will be in his grotto at the free event, a Very Coastie Christmas.

Hibiscus Coast RSA, December 14, 2.30pm5.30pm. Santa will make an appearance at the free children’s Christmas party.

Coast Plaza, December 14-24, 11am2pm. $10 photos with Santa, Mrs Claus, and the elves

Moana Reserve, December 15, morning. ‘Silent’ special needs Santa photo session. Bookings required. Afternoon, free Santa photos. Carol singing and stilt walkers will be in the area.

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

Get ready for sunny days and festive nights! Cool women’s fashion, stylish jewelry, hats, and bags. Main Street has everything to dazzle up your summer wardrobe. Swing by, browse, and make this Christmas unforgettable!

BOOK HEAVEN

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

Silverdale Village Market

A gift of understanding

Tindalls Bay author Nicky Gumbrell has released a book about her dogs which she hopes will encourage families to discuss neurodiversity, isolation, and social acceptance with children.

With illustrations by Whangaparāoa’s Elise Potter, ‘Mr Bingley Is Different’ depicts the lives of two labradoodles (Mr Bingley and Manny) with very different personalities.

According to the teaser on the back cover, “Mr Bingley doesn’t like to do things his brother Manny likes. He often feels left out. But ... he can do something that Manny and his friends can’t do. And it’s really impressive!”

Designed for ages two to eight, Nicky says her story aims to help children see that what makes them different also makes them special.

“I wrote it with neurodiversity in mind, but children can feel isolated or different for many other reasons,” Nicky said, giving the example of a child relocating from another country.

Building on her background as a speech and language therapist, Nicky is now an alternative education tutor supporting children and youth who have different learning needs. Mr Bingley and Manny are a key part of her approach to helping young people gain confidence academically and socially.

for the children to know what’s coming next, and she chose a font that would be easy for dyslexic readers to follow.

“Children will read books where they can relate to the story,” Nicky said. “But they will only read at the level they can speak. When I ran out of resources, I just started creating my own.”

Nicky would turn photos of a student interacting with Mr Bingley into a story with input from the student themselves. She knew the student would be able to read the book because, in helping her to create the story, the student had to have spoken the words first. Spurred on by the success of her one-off, homemade photobooks, Nicky approached Elise Potter in 2022 after seeing her illustrations in Anna Sanford’s ‘One Day, Some Day, Today!’. With both Nicky and Elise working on the book alongside their day jobs and other commitments, it wasn’t ready until Mr Bingley’s 14th birthday in July.

“There aren’t many dogs who can say they’ve celebrated their birthday with a book launch.”

The private launch in Tindalls Bay involved friends, family and their young children. “It was absolutely delightful watching their faces as they realised it was about dogs they knew and who were in front of them,” Nicky said.

“It’s been an honour to bring this story to life,” Elise said.

Nicky and Mr Bingley made regular visits to Gulf Harbour school as part of Hato Hone St John’s therapy dog programme. After noticing that Mr Bingley behaved quite differently to ‘regular’ dogs, Nicky had the idea to write a book for children who might identify with him. A calm and gentle soul, Nicky said Mr Bingley was much better with people than at interacting with other dogs, making him a great therapy dog.

When Mr Bingley retired in 2020, he was succeeded by three-year-old Manny who is playful and always ready to socialise. Mr Bingley, on the other hand, is more comfortable standing back and observing from a distance. Nicky explained that many children will have experienced standing on the outside like Bingley.

A first-time published author, Nicky said that years of reading alongside children helped her learn what interests them. She mentioned the importance of repetitive sentence structure

Growing up on the peninsula, her illustrations are familiar with Hibiscus Coast beach and park scenes. This is Elise’s second published work, following Sanford’s book about a family preparing to welcome a foster child/sibling.

Nicky also turned to Sanford for guidance on publishing because she wanted to have the book printed locally.

“I won’t make any money on this book as I have self-published it as a personal project. I want to get the book into the hands of the children who will benefit from it the most,” Nicky said.

‘Mr Bingley is different’ can be purchased for $20 from Ōrewa Beach Vet Clinic, Manly Pharmacy, Silverdale Post Office, Hello Darling in Millwater, or Bath Boutique in Browns Bay.

Hibiscus Matters has four copies of ‘Mr Bingley is different’ to give away to two lucky readers. To go in the draw, tell us who you will gift the second copy to this Christmas. Email your answer with your name and phone number to hibiscusnews@localmatters.co.nz with ‘Mr Bingley’ in the subject line. Or post/drop-off your entry to us at 21 Florence Avenue, Ōrewa. Entries close on Friday, November 29.

Nurturing young Coast artists

Hatfields Beach artist Nicoletta Benella follow’s a neuroscientific approach to her work with young artists.

“Collaborating with other fields gives you new perspectives, new value, new ways of doing things,” Benella said. The freelance illustrator and creative designer said she is inspired by neuroscientist Vittorio Girotto’s theory on children’s capacity to learn.

Benella said Girotto believed children were more capable than adults assume.

“Children need adults to be clear rather than to simplify things for them. They love to, and need to, be challenged. If we take them through something clearly, it helps them gain self-confidence,” Benella said.

Growing up in Citadella, a medieval town in north-east Italy, Benella was raised by a family of teachers and artists, so it’s no surprise that as a youth education leader at the Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa, she is both.

Benella credits her grandmother for nurturing an early interest in drawing. She said she was allowed to draw as much as she wanted at her grandmother’s house. “She would give me a book to draw from and then talk to me about it while doing the ironing.”

Studying at a specialist art college in her hometown, Benella met fellow artist Marco Baldisser who she would later marry. But before that, she was determined to gain a degree, choosing to study visual arts in Venice. Working at the Venice Biennale as a student, is one of Benella’s highlights. Though she chose the Venetian university primarily for its focus on professional and contemporary art and the opportunity to explore different media.

In 2015, Benella, Baldisser and their two toddlers, moved to New Zealand settling on the Hibiscus Coast. For the first five years, Benella said she focussed on the family before returning to her art in 2020 with an opportunity to study remotely at an Italian academy.

Nicoletta Benella

“The course was online and at night but I had the chance to learn from some of Italy’s most talented picture book illustrators,” Benella said. The hard work bore fruit as she was named a finalist in this year’s NZ Book Awards for her illustration on Tim Tipene’s picture book, ‘Te Pukapuka ka kore e Pānuihia’.

With two artistic parents, it’s no surprise that thirteen-year-old Virginia, and younger brother Vinicio (Vini) have both been encouraged to express their creativity. Eleven-year-old Vini is experimenting with comic book illustrations and has already won a Members Merit award at the Estuary Arts Centre. Virginia is working with ceramics and linocut prints.

Husband Marco Baldisser is a master artisan, carrying on his family’s tradition of working with Venetian plaster. Under the ‘Studio Artemani’ moniker, he brings Nicoletta’s designs to life, some of which will be for sale at the Cash and Carry Under $500 Art Sale from November 27 to February 2.

The sale at Estuary Arts Centre, brings together works from around 150 artists. Virginia, the youngest artist to feature, will have linocut prints for sale.

Both mother and daughter will also have a stall at the centre’s Makers Market on November 10. The stall will feature picture books, ceramic jewellery and more from ‘Studio Nico’, while Virginia has created ceramic tic-tac-toe gift sets for children.

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Christmas

Our best shot

Photo by Peter Boot. This shot was taken as a part of a series of photos during a wild and windy day at Ōrewa Beach with many people taking advantage of the sea conditions.

Hibiscus Coast Photographic Club www.hcpc.org.nz

Lauraine Jacobs www.laurainejacobs.co.nz/blog/

Portuguese inspiration

On my recent travel adventures, I was lucky enough to spend a week in Porto on the Portuguese Atlantic coast. Over the past 15 years, the central city has slowly been renovated and restored, but annoyingly, right now, there is a lot of disruption with the installation and extension of the underground public transport system. However, this didn’t inhibit our exploration of the historic centre, as everything worth seeing is close by. The two day trips we took out to the Douro River Valley (wine and olive oil tasting, a boat trip and spectacular scenery) and a culinary tour (Sardine City, with a visit to the port and fishing village of Matosinhos, which included a factory viewing of sardines being packed by hand into little cans) gave us some reprieve from the endless steep hills we had to negotiate to get anywhere.

To get to the heart of any European city a first stop should always be the market. Mercado do Bolhão is the perfect example. The ancient building was completely renovated recently and even though we didn’t see many locals shopping there, the neatly laid out sections provided a stunning showcase of Portuguese food. Cheeses, meats, oils, wine, bread and baked items, vegetables and fruits, and artisan foods are sold with visitors in mind. The fish stalls were spectacular and almost everything was available to buy and taste on small trays for a tasting portion. Everywhere we looked, people were buying and scoffing. The city’s restaurant and café scene was vibrant, too. I have no idea how many times I have repeated my mantra of “always book good restaurants before you leave home” but somehow that wasn’t quite so important in Porto. We managed to sort a few dinners by keeping our eyes open while exploring and booking just one day ahead at the places that were crowded with diners, rather than sparsely filled. The meals that remain firmly in my mind involved rice. The Portuguese do wonders with baked and simmered rice dishes, and the recommended Octopus Rice we settled on one night was outstanding. Also brilliant was this tomato rice recipe. On our first night we went to a fish restaurant near the port and, after a succession of shellfish plates, including the famed perçebes, which looked like dinosaur toes, we were served a large turbot cooked over coals, accompanied by the traditional delicious tomato rice. It was the first thing I cooked on my return home, and although I used prawns, you could leave them out or even substitute cockles or mussels. This is a dish that will become part of my summer repertoire as it is so good and can be served as a main course, or as a side dish.

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

1 generous cup risotto rice

400mls tomato passata or 1 can tomato pulp

2 cups stock (chicken or vegetable)

Salt and freshly ground pepper

12 large prawns (mussels or fish if you prefer)

3 stalks flat leafed parsley, stalks removed and leaves picked over

12 small cherry tomatoes, cut into halves

In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter in the oil and when it starts to sizzle, add the chopped onion.

Let the onion cook gently without browning for about 3-5 minutes until it is soft.

Stir in the rice and toss well to combine with the onion and allow to cook gently for about 2 minutes to ‘toast’ it.

Add the tomato passata or pulp with the stock and stir everything together well.

Bring to a very gentle simmer and allow to cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that it does not catch on the bottom.

If the liquid is fully absorbed into the rice, just stir in a little extra boiling water as you want to rice to be quite fluid rather than sticky. Taste test the rice to be sure it is not chalky, and yet retains a lot of texture.

Stir in the tomato halves and simmer a further 2 minutes. Finally add the prawns just before you’re ready to serve and allow them to simmer very gently in the rice until they just lose their transparent look.

Adjust the seasoning to taste (in Portugal the rice was always quite salty) and serve in shallow bowls with the parsley leaves as a garnish. Serves 4

Remembrance Service

It’s at times such as Christmas that we truly miss those that we love, who are no longer with us

Forrests would like to invite you to their Christmas Remembrance Service to celebrate and honour them

Thursday 5th of December 2024 at 6 00pm, 39 Riverside Road, Orewa

RSVP (09) 426 7950 by Tuesday 3rd of December tering purpose

Portuguese tomato rice with prawns

Health

Tania Adams, Pharmacist tania.adams@unichemmanly.co.nz

Preventing Skin Cancer

It’s always a hard thing to fathom, that something you do today could affect you so terribly in 30 years. But that’s what most skin cancers are like, with many being the result of chronic sun exposure, and taking 15 to 30 years to develop.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer affecting kiwis, with over 80,000 skin cancers being treated each year including over 3000 cases of melanoma - the most dangerous of the skin cancers. So what can you do to prevent skin cancer?

Sun Protection is key! Whether you are seven or 70, today is the day to start using good sun protection. First and foremost, consistency is key. Do not wait for a sunny day to start wearing sunscreen. Every day is the day to wear sunscreen. Remember to apply it 15 minutes before leaving your home and re-apply every two hours when you are outdoors. Be sure to use a broad spectrum, SPF 50+ sunscreen and use the ‘rule of seven’ for how much to apply. i.e. seven teaspoonfuls in total. Use one teaspoonful for each arm, one for each leg, one for your front and one for your back torso, plus one for your face, including your neck and ears. It’s a known fact that people in America have more cancers on the left side of their face and people in New Zealand have more on the right

side. Why? Because it is also important to wear sunscreen while you are in the car (Americans drive on a different side to us!)

Plus don’t forget your lips, eyes and scalp by using a lip balm and having a pair of sunglasses and a hat to cover up. Be observant. If you notice any unusual or changing moles or sunspots, get them checked by your GP as soon as possible. There are also specialist skin cancer detection services you can use for an annual check-up.

Don’t wait for a sunny day to start wearing sunscreen. Every day is the day to wear sunscreen.

Take a ‘wonder vitamin’. Recent studies show that nicotinamide, a type of vitamin B3, can reduce your risk of non-melanoma skin cancers by 23 per cent! The research also showed that treatment worked best in people with the highest levels of risk. Check with your pharmacist to find out the right type of vitamin B3 and the correct dose for this treatment.

By all means enjoy summer Coasties, but stay sun smart!

Hibiscus Coast Community RSA commemorated Armistice Day with a service on Sunday, November 10. “Both Armistice Day and Anzac Day hold deep significance for New Zealand. It is important that each is equally recognised and observed as we remember those who gave their lives for their country and the freedoms we enjoy today,” Hibiscus Coast RSA president Bevan Edwards said. He said there had historically been a nominal turnout for Armistice Day, especially compared to Anzac Day. “It is our responsibility, as a member of the Returned and Services’ Association, to ensure that everyone in the community is given the opportunity to participate in these commemorations. We are grateful to all those who contribute their time and resources to ensure these commemorations take place, helping us honour the sacrifices of those who came before us,” Bevan said. Armistice Day on November 11, also known as Remembrance Day, marks a pivotal moment in world history. The signing of an armistice between Germany and the Allies at 11am on November 11, 1918 brought the end of the Great War (World War I). Anzac Day, on April 25, has been observed in New Zealand since 1921, marking the anniversary of the landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915. Pictured, Frank Townley, Ian Mclean (Wheelchair) Shaun Rangihaeata-Stockman pushing him, Kerry Hamilton, Cook Galvin, Terry Creagh, Robin Thompson and Bart Couprie (in white uniform). MC was Frank Rands.

Time to scan your skin

As summer approaches and the weather warms up, we start shedding layers of clothing, exposing our skin to more sunlight. This is a perfect opportunity to check your skin for any concerning spots using the SCAN method. Regular skin checks are crucial for early detection of skin cancer, which is highly treatable when caught early.

Sore: Look for any spot that is sore, scaly, itchy, bleeding, or tender and doesn’t heal within two weeks. These changes could indicate something more serious and warrant a visit to our Skin Cancer doctors.

Changing: Pay attention to spots that change in size, shape, or colour. Melanomas can evolve rapidly, so any noticeable changes should not be ignored.

Abnormal: A spot that looks or feels different from the rest or stands out compared to other moles can be a warning sign. Trust your instincts and come see our Skin Cancer doctors if something feels off. New: Many melanomas, and all other skin cancers, start as new spots on the skin. If you notice a new growth, especially one that changes over time, it is important to seek professional advice.

As we enjoy the sun this summer, prevention is key. Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapply every two hours, and wear protective clothing when possible. Seeking shade during peak sun hours and avoiding tanning beds are also essential steps in protecting your skin.

At SkinSafe Skin Cancer Clinic Orewa, we encourage everyone to make skin checks a regular part of their summer routine. We offer free spot checks for 1-2 spots that you are concerned about, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Your skin deserves the best care, and early detection can save lives. Enjoy the summer safely!

Dr. Rianda De Roe BSLP MBChB FRNZCGP ACCSCMS DipCM

Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm | 18 Florence Ave, Ōrewa Clinic: 09 242 7546 | support@skinsafe.co.nz skinsafe.co.nz

Youth Voice

Caitlin Watson caitewatson@gmail.com

Road to personal development

Travel is one of the greatest adventures to embark on in life. Travelling as a young person helps with broadening cultural understanding, making special friendships and enjoying new formational experiences. It is a deep form of education to embrace, and something well worth investing time and resources.

From writing this in the vibrant city of London, to having studied in Colombia, volunteered in Uganda, visited churches in Nepal and explored my family’s ancestral lands of Ireland, I can undoubtedly say all of these experiences have enriched my life for the better.

For one, developing better cultural understanding and learning languages is very important in our globalised society and diverse city. There is only so much you can learn from a textbook and a classroom. I remember staying as a homestay with a lovely family in Chile, and being forced to communicate through very limited Spanish. While deeply humbling, it truly was the best way to learn.

Travel also helps broaden perspectives on global issues, encourages empathy and a sense of responsibility towards helping address the challenges of our international community. The opportunity to meet and make international friends is a unique part of the journey.

Marvelling at wondrous, unique landmarks and outlooks with sightseeing is undoubtedly a special experience and makes for a captivating Instagram

feed. However, it is the friendships and community connections formed that make for wonderful memories and, ultimately, grow a stronger bond to places. It doesn’t just help with future accommodation plans, but brings about lifelong connections that grow our hearts and minds!

Finally, as a young person, travel is a great opportunity for PD (personal and arguably professional development). Travel can set you up for being more adaptable, independent and resilient. While travel shouldn’t be viewed merely as a ‘find myself’ expedition, it can help aid reflection on identity, values and life’s next steps.

It also grows appreciation for how good we have it in our little corner of the world, in Aotearoa New Zealand, and life on the Hibiscus Coast. At the end of the day, our spot of paradise, with its plethora of beaches and precious community is the place I am so grateful to call ‘home sweet home’.

Travelling is undoubtedly a privilege. An opportunity and journey that many around the world are not afforded. However, if we are blessed to have the opportunity then we can use it for our own personal development and allow it to positively influence our engagement with the world.

Philosopher Augustine of Hippo says, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” So, if you are a school leaver or university student with itchy feet, then why not seize the day to embark on your next travel adventure and get reading.

Junior girls football flooded with enthusiasm

An inaugural girls-only, junior summer football league kicked off in Stanmore Bay earlier this month, with more than 300 girls from years zero to 13 participating.

In response to growing demand from the community, a newly formed female committee at the Hibiscus Coast AFC pulled together plans for the league, attracting a staggering 42 teams.

Organisers Lisa Smith and Jenni Schanschieff didn’t realise just how popular the concept would be, with girls travelling from as far as Warkworth to play in an allgirls league.

“I am of the generation that wasn’t allowed to play football when I was a kid. I never wanted that to happen to my two girls so when my oldest started in a mixed football league I joined the club as a volunteer,” Smith said.

“We have a thriving girls section in the winter, but normally these girls have to play in a mixed league over summer.”

The female committee of volunteers, wanted to create a space where girls could try new things and have fun with friends in a supportive positive environment without the pressure of competing.

“We know that sport has a massive power to foster confidence and resilience in girls, and our mission is to prioritise a positive

growth mindset over winning.

“Playing in an all-girls environment often helps players feel more comfortable expressing themselves, trying new skills.

“Girls are encouraged to challenge themselves athletically and personally without societal pressures, fostering a more empowering experience,” Smith said.

Northern Region Football (NRF) chief executive Laura Menzies says the federation wants to grow female participation at the grassroots level, making space so they can play, participate and lead in clubs.

“Many clubs are offering a fantastic experience and meaningful opportunities for girls and women, using the World Cup’s momentum and growth to change the game for generations to come,” Menzies said.

The NRF has released a gender equity action plan, issuing a call to action for girls and women in football.

“We want more girls playing football, more women in leadership roles, we want to make sure those in the game feel valued and visible, and we also want to make changes to the facilities and environments where girls and women play,” Menzies said.

Smith said they had exciting plans to grow female football on the Hibiscus Coast, promoting equal opportunities for all genders. Hibiscus Coast AFC invites any girls interested in football to visit https://hbcafc.org. nz or email female@hbcafc.org.nz

BADMINTON

Social badminton is held at The Stanmore Bay Pool & Leisure Centre, on Mondays 11.30am-1pm. Cost is $5 per session. Bring your own racquet.

RUNNING

Park 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/

CROQUET

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. Phone 426 3506, Pixie 021 0249 5910 or visit 43 Hatton Rd, Ōrewa.

FISHING

Golden Years Fishing Club. Do you love fishing. Are you 50+. Don’t have a boat or want some company. Maybe a little mobility issue. We can help. Our club does weekly charters on Hauraki of Kaipara Harbours. Even shore based torpedo expeditions. Phone Derek 021 032 6878.

PETANQUE

Hibiscus Petanque Club, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am-12pm, Sunday 1pm-4pm. Adjacent to Ōrewa Bowling Club, 214 Hibiscus Coast Highway. All welcome. Ph John 027 489 4955 www.sporty. co.nz/hibiscuspetanque

INDOOR BOWLING

Whangaparāoa Indoor Bowling Club. New members welcome. Come and learn this easy to play game. Club nights Monday 7pm Whangaparāoa Primary School hall, Thursday afternoon Whangaparāoa Hall. Contact Maurice 027 392 0541 or Owen 021 264 9192 for more information.

DVDS & VIDEOS

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

HOME & MAINTENANCE

CARPET LAYING, CARPET RE-STRETCH, VINYL LAYING, CARPET REPAIRS

Classifieds

SELLING YOUR PINES? Logging firm wishes to purchase your trees. Call Bob@Austin Logging on 0210 299 1618.

ALARMS SECURITY AND FIRE, MONITORING, CCTV, servicing & installation, all brands 027 553 3032 www.tdssecurity.co.nz A SMART REPAIR Service for F&P smartdrive washers, F&P/Simpson dryers. Prompt service ph 021 168 7349.

Over 30 years’ experience. Contact Dexter 027 4956 436

DRAINLAYERS

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

HOUSE WASHING - SOFT WASH / LOW PRESSURE / CHEMICAL WASH

Also Window Cleaning / Gutter Clearing / Decks / Concrete. Careful service, reasonable rates. qualitywash.co.nz / 021 0579743

LANDSCAPING/GARDENING

Small local landscaping business specialist in push mulch mowing/ ride on mower with weed eat edges, Garden revamps weeding/ weed spray, tree/palm trimming, full/ overgrown section tidy, hedges, green waste /rubbish removal, mostly everything including deck’s, fences, retaining, Digger/Wtr work free easy no obligation quote no job too big or too small. Please call, text also WhatsApp 0210 887 8995 or email asap.lawnsandoutdoor. maintenance@gmail.com

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

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

REMOVALS

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

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

IN MEMORIAM

WOOD, ALAN

Born December 19, 1927. Dad passed away peacefully on the 9th October, 2024, aged 96 years. Loved and devoted husband of April (deceased). Cherished father of Wendy, father-in-law of Phil, grandfather of Haley, Cory, Joshua and Amber, loved greatgrandfather of Ruby, Ryan & Jack. Hope you are enjoying those cups of tea with Mum. Cheerio

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

COMMUNITY NOTICES

COLLECTING NEWSPAPERS Rather than placing your newspapers into the recycle bin, keep them for Ōrewa Lions Club. They are used in various ways, and we want as many as we can get. All funds raised from this venture go into the local community. Please call Harry on 426 6629 and he can arrange a pick up of the papers on a weekly or a monthly basis.

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

LEARN TO CROCHET, Whangaparāoa Library, 22 & 29 November, 10.30am. RSVP essential WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN –Hibiscus Coast, $2,000 Tertiary Student Award – 2025. Applications are now open to a past or present female Hibiscus Coast resident. Application Forms & Criteria available by email to: davenjen@xtra.co.nz Applications close December 31, 2024.

ACROSS: 1 Scoff, 4 Terrapin, 9 Barber, 14 Sabre, 15 Landslide victory, 17 Nerve, 18 Dye, 19 Message, 20 Police dog, 21 Deluge, 24 Surviving, 25 Author, 26 Vessel, 29 Unforeseen, 31 Row, 32 Shadow, 33 Tart, 35 Act, 37 Warp, 39 Artillery, 40 Impulsive, 41 Split, 42 Tendency, 47 Sapphire, 51 Sauna, 55 Autograph, 56 Playhouse, 58 Tome, 59 Pal, 60 Hops, 61 Costly, 62 Out, 63 Clavichord, 66 Tedium, 67 Suburb, 69 Compliant, 72 Tassel, 73 Centipede, 75 Demoted, 80 Tokyo, 81 Show the white flag, 82 Elite, 83 Unreal, 84 Sideshow, 85 Creel. DOWN: 2 Chameleon, 3 Fades, 5 Eddy, 6 Ravioli, 7 Pecking order, 8 Noose, 9 Boycott, 10 Rink, 11 Earned, 12 Abode, 13 General, 14 Secured, 16 Legerdemain, 22 Bisect, 23 Cohabit, 24 Stooped, 25 Always, 27 Swahili, 28 Hoopla, 30 Nile, 32 Stale, 34 Theme, 36 Flip, 38 Ape, 42 Teach, 43 Notepad, 44 Edge, 45 Crayon, 46 Jumpy, 48 Predicament, 49 Hatchet, 50 Rum, 51 Shotgun, 52 Aplomb, 53 Participated, 54 Chic, 57 Unable, 64 Reiterate, 66 Trawler, 68 Utensil, 70 Maddens, 71 Jerkin, 72 Trait, 74 Toots, 76 Offer, 78 Core, 79 Ohio.

12:33am0.9 7:02am2.8 12:55pm1.0 7:06pm2.8 1:17am0.8 7:46am2.9 1:36pm0.9 7:49pm2.9 1:58am0.8 8:27am3.0 2:17pm0.9 8:32pm2.9 2:38am0.7 9:06am3.1 2:57pm0.9 9:14pm2.9 3:17am0.7 9:46am3.1 3:39pm0.8 9:57pm3.0 3:57am0.6 10:26am3.1 4:22pm0.8 10:40pm3.0 4:38am0.6 11:09am3.2 5:08pm0.8 11:25pm3.0 5:20am0.6 11:53am3.1 5:55pm0.8 12:11am3.0 6:06am0.7 12:41pm3.1 6:45pm0.8 12:59am3.0 6:56am0.7 1:32pm3.1 7:38pm0.8 6:00am 8:15pm 5:59am 8:16pm 5:59am 8:17pm 5:58am 8:18pm 5:58am 8:19pm 5:58am

10:59pm1.0

What’s on ...

November

1-30

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

Manly Volunteer Fire Brigade Diamond Jubilee Photographic Display, Whangaparāoa Library, 9am-5pm. Celebrating 60 years of service and dedication. A tribute to the Manly Volunteer Fire Brigade and their unwavering commitment to our community.

20 Request Night with DJ Going Bananas, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Free

22 Stetson Club with Midnight Special, Dairy Flat Community Hall, 7.30pm-11pm

22 Bellama'e Brown Album "whispers" Release, Parāoa Brewing Co., 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 7pm-11pm.

23 Decades of Rock Tribute Festival, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 6pm-12am. Tickets: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/decades-of-rocktribute-festival/auckland/whangaparaoa-peninsula

23 Eats & Beats Cultural Festival, Moana Reserve 313-317 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa, 2pm-6.30pm. An afternoon by the beach, celebrating African culture with food, crafts and music. Plus watch the Ōrewa New World Santa Parade from 4.30pm

23 Ōrewa New World Santa Parade, Ōrewa – Hibiscus Coast Highway, 4.30pm6pm. Rain date Sunday November 24.

24 Hoedown, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 4pm-7pm. Free

24 The Truth About Sugar, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am. Naturopath Rachelle Turrell talks about understanding sugar’s effects and strategies for change. RSVP to WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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

29 Christmas party with a presentation from 'Gotta Sing', St John's Catholic Church hall, 180 Centreway Rd, Ōrewa beginning at 1.30pm. All seniors are warmly welcomed to our final meeting for the year. Come and enjoy a great, a popular local choir, a surprise speaker and fabulous afternoon tea. Simonne Dyer 027 212 8322, 09 424 1315, b.sdyer@xtra.co.nz

30 Blame the Cats, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm; $5 members, $10 non-members.

30 Estuary Arts Makers Market including the Cash & Carry Exhibition, 11am-4pm. Food, entertainment and art activites for the whole family. Info: estuaryarts.org

30 Maygrove Lake Working Bee, 9.30-11.30am. Help keep the lake looking its best. All welcome. Refreshments provided afterwards.

DECEMBER

Pharmacy Talk with Tania Adams

at Unichem Manly

Calling Coastie Men!

High blood pressure is a well known (and preventable) risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. It is known as the silent killer because most of the time, people don’t have any symptoms to indicate that they have high blood pressure. This means that you should have a regular blood pressure check by your doctor or pharmacist. But surveys show that of the 34% of New Zealand men that know that they have high blood pressure, only 14% are taking medication to treat this!

So guys, it’s time for a conversation....

There are many different medications used to treat high blood pressure and working with your GP and pharmacist, you can find one or a combination of medications that will help you manage this.

What is nitric oxide?

Nitric oxide is a substance produced naturally by your body that increases blood flow and reduces your blood pressure. It is your body’s organic vasodilator, which means it relaxes muscles in your blood vessels and widens them thereby enabling better blood flow and lowering blood pressure*. People with high blood pressure are thought to have an impaired ability to use nitric oxide in their bodies.

What else can nitric oxide help with?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is caused by many different factors including low nitric oxide. Some studies have shown that increasing nitric oxide may reduce mild to moderate ED. There are also case reports of patients increasing their nitric oxide levels to help with circulation issues, such as cold hands and feet.

1 Gotta Sing’s Christmas Carols, Whangaparāoa Library, 1pm. Coast Plaza, 1.35pm. A joyful live performance with choral group Gotta Sing. All welcome.

3 Stay Safe This Summer: Essential water safety tips, Whangaparāoa Library, 10.30am. Drowning Prevention Auckland’s critical water safety talk with 60-second cold water hand immersion challenge. RSVP WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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

4 Mike Pignéguy’s Superyacht Cruise through the Seychelles, Whangaparāoa Library, 10.30am. Come and enjoy a virtual cruise of the stunning Seychelles aboard the 50m superyacht, Shandor. RSVP WhangaparaoaLibraryEvents@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

6 Motel California Eagles Experience, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, 8pm-11pm. Tickets:www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/motelcalifornia-eagles-experience/auckland/whangaparaoa-peninsula

7 Gerry Lee, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 7pm-10.30pm. $5 members, $10 non-members.

7 Salsa Dance Party with Acústica Latina, Parāoa Brewing Co, 719A Whangaparāoa Road, From 7.30pm. Tickets: www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/ salsa-dance-party-with-acustica-latina/auckland/whangaparaoa-peninsula

8 Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa’s Christmas Kapa Waiata, Whangaparāoa Library, midday. A cultural and festive live Christmas choir performance of traditional carols in te reo Māori by Te Herenga Waka o Ōrewa. All welcome.

8 Hawaiian Night with DJ Going Bananas, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay, 4pm-7pm. Free

10 Northhaven Care Home’s Verses of Life Poetry Reading, Whangaparāoa Library, 11am. A heartfelt poetry reading performance by the residents of Northhaven Care Home. Tea and coffee provided. Everyone is welcome.

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

13 Hibiscus Coast Comedy Night – Paul Ego and Friends, Hibiscus Coast Community RSA, 43A Vipond Rd, Stanmore Bay, 7.30pm-9.30pm. $39 pp. December

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

How do I know if I have low nitric oxide in my body?

There are easy saliva based tests that you can use to indicate the level of nitric oxide in your body and also whether your body is utilising this properly. We can administer these at Unichem Manly Pharmacy.

Can I take nitric oxide?

There are supplements available that help increase nitric oxide in the blood. Most last for only a few hours and are therefore not beneficial. However there are some recent formulations that last for 24 hours and therefore may provide some help. Any supplements may interact with medications so please seek the advice of a health care professional before taking them.

If you are interested in more information about nitric oxide, please come and see one of our natural health experienced pharmacists Danni, Thilina or Tania.

*Adjunct only. Not considered a replacement for antihypertensive medications

Get your blood pressure, BMI and nitric oxide levels tested for FREE during our Men’s Health month this November

53B Rawhiti

Manly Village

Talent infusion for Silverdale Rugby Club

Centurion Rob Colhoun has taken the reins, supported by assistant coaches Matt Cardey, Daniel (Doc) O’Connor, and Sam Ward.

Club manager Graeme Wallace said although it was a new coaching team, it included some of Silverdale’s favourite sons who had played a major role in the growth of the club. Colhoun, Cardey and O’Connor have all had lengthy club careers at Silverdale as players.

Colhoun spent his formative rugby years at the Silverdale club, starting junior rugby as a five-year-old. His talent and training took him to college rugby first XV before he rejoined the club in the under-21s and progressed to premier rugby, notching up an impressive 100 games.

“I’m pleased to be able to give back to the club that has given me so much. Many wonderful people helped me through my time playing here.

“I’m equally excited about the coaching group that I’ve got around me, the talent they bring, and where we can take the team with it,” Colhoun said.

Colhoun and Cardey have played for North Harbour’s national provincial championship (NPC) team, before embarking on professional rugby careers in the United Kingdom. Cardey went one step further, playing international test rugby at fullback for Wales in the Sir Graham Henry era. Since retiring, both players have honed their coaching skills at school, club and representative level, while O’Connor has built up expertise at premier level.

Wallace himself is the newly-appointed club manager, joining in August this year. He said the surprise was Colhoun’s pick for forwards coach, Sam Ward. Former set-piece coach for Tonga Rugby Union, Ward has also coached Brave Lupus in the top Japanese league, and North Harbour in the NPC.

“Sam brings extensive acumen and knowledge. He’s an advocate of scrum dominance so our forward pack can look forward to a decent education in

scrummaging,” Wallace said.

The coaching team has already started preparing for next season. A programme of conditioning games and skills started earlier this month and will continue until December 10. Wallace said the club welcomes players from all senior grades to participate in their Tuesday evening sessions with the new coaches.

Pre-season matches kick off in March which Colhoun said will allow the new group of coaches to watch the players’ performance, ahead of team selection. With the season traditionally starting on the first weekend

in April, the coaches have a team retreat planned for the last weekend in March.

“It will be a combination of refining our game plan, team bonding and a little bit of fun,” Colhoun said.

The infusion of coaching talent has also brought new initiatives to the club. Colhoun and Ward launched a development programme for juniors aged 17+, the Aspiring Seahawks Programme. They designed the initiative to include strength work, conditioning, mindset, and nutrition, to equip performance on and off the field.

“Hibiscus Coast and Silverdale junior rugby

produces a lot of incredibly talented players and, because of that talent, they spread across the north harbour union for college rugby. So part of our aim with this programme is to reconnect with these players and support their reintegration into the club.

“We’re really lucky to have Sam running the programme. It’s on this side of Christmas to start with but our goal is to have something more long-term with the club, year-on-year,” Colhoun said.

The six-week programme also started earlier this month, and welcomes rugby players looking to transition through the grades.

Free Summer Safety Check

• Fluid Level Checks

• Brake Efficiency Test

• Wheel Alignment Check

• Visual Inspections

• Check Exterior Lights

• Check Aircon Operation

• Check Wiper Performance

Silverdale Rugby Club’s premier men’s team has a new head coach.