Mahurangi Matters_Issue 201_18 April 2012

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18 April 2012

Puhoi • Warkworth • Snells • Matakana • Omaha • Leigh • Pakiri • Wellsford • Port Albert • Kaiwaka • Mangawhai

Rodney rates increases less than equitable Rodney ratepayers could be hit in the hip pocket if Auckland Council is unsuccessful in persuading the government to amend the Auckland Council legislation.

Mayor Len Brown has written to the Minister for Local Government requesting an Order in Council to allow for a fairer rating transition system to manage the change to a single rating system.

Council is proposing an average rate increase of 3.6 per cent across the region.

“Our proposal means that in the old Rodney District Council area, 18,276 residential ratepayers will receive a decrease,” he says. continued page 2

The launch owner inspects the charred remains of his boat after it was hauled on board the barge Hokimai.

Swift response contains boat fire

An Auckland boat owner had a lucky escape when his 24-foot wooden launch caught fire at Kawau Island last week.

The boat had just refuelled at the released the vessel and then jumped to the centre of Bon Accord Harbour.

Kawau Yacht Club and was believed to overboard. The boat drifted to shore The smouldering tree was quickly be carrying a couple of hundred litres and nearly ignited a pohutukawa tree. extinguished, preventing a vegetation of fuel when it went up in flames.

A quick-thinking member of the fire which could have threatened It was tied to the jetty at the time and public, in a small rubber inflatable, the nearby historic squadron house a bystander said the owner quickly came to the rescue and towed the boat continued page 2

Inside this issue Best on the block

Property feature – pages 20 to 28

Rural Rodney

Pages 37 to 43

Trades & Services directory Pages 44 & 45

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Mahurangimatters is a locally owned publication, circulated Boat fire Issue 201

twice a month to more than 12,350 homes and businesses.

Next issue is May 2 Following issue is May 16 – Advertising deadline May 2

Enquiries: ph 425 9068 • fax 425 9088 • PO Box 701, Warkworth 0941

17 Neville Street (corner Neville & Alnwick Streets) Warkworth

localmatters@xtra.co.nz • www.localmatters.co.nz Editor: Jannette Thompson • ph 425 9068 • editor@localmatters.co.nz Advertising: Cathy Busbridge • ph 431 4966 • advertising@localmatters.co.nz

Renee Monds • ph 425 9068 • local@localmatters.co.nz Views expressed in Mahurangi Matters are not necessarily endorsed by the publishers.

All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the editor is prohibited.

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from page 1

and yacht club.

Among the first on the scene was Kawau Island Volunteer Rural Fire Force chief fire officer Martin Duytshoff, who responded to the mayday call in his own boat, Chris Garner on the barge Hokimai and harbourmaster Graeme Kearney, who was in the area checking moorings.

“Once we’d ascertained that no-one was injured, we set about to extinguish the fire. I was in my own boat, without the fire pump, so I backed up to the burning vessel and revved the outboard, while lifting its propeller to just below the water line, creating a rooster tail of spray. It was a bit out-ofthe-ordinary, but we didn’t have time

to wait for the pump to arrive.

“Once the fire was out, we finished it off with buckets and a dry powder extinguisher.”

The boat was in danger of sinking so was lashed to the side of one of the rescue boats and then hoisted on to the barge and taken to Sandspit.

Although the owner of the boat was the only person on board when the fire ignited, it’s believed two teenagers were also travelling on the vessel but were in a dinghy well clear of the launch at the time of the incident.

The boat owner was given a lift back to Auckland by yachtsman Chris Dickson.

Rates inequitable

from page 1

“However, if we cannot change to a capped system, 5544 ratepayers in the former Rodney district will face rates increases above 10 percent as a result of the amalgamation and that’s not fair.”

Businesses will fair little better. Under the Council proposal, 726 Rodney businesses will receive a rates decrease but an additional 221 businesses will face a 10 percent plus rates increases

next year if the legislation is not changed.

“The transition to a single Council was always going to be difficult, especially when it came to rates.

“We are committed to keeping costs down and bringing in a single rating system in as fair a way as possible where equal value properties pay equal rates.”

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A push for action on the Penlink project, directly linking Whangaparaoa Peninsula and the Northern Motorway, could boost progress with the Puhoi to Wellsford highway extension, if a Chinese company’s recent interest develops.

Hibiscus and Bays member Greg Sayers meet with Rodney MP Mark Mitchell sourced the potential construction later this month. However, it is just one partner that he describes as having of a number of expressions of interest “a lot of expertise and a proven track in taking part in a Public Private record in infrastructure development” Partnership (PPP) for the proposed but says Penlink alone may be too Penlink toll road. Companies from small to secure its commitment.

China, South East Asia and Kuwait However, the company has also have also expressed interest. expressed interest in work on the The Penlink project has all its Puhoi to Wellsford extension and a designation and resource consents second harbour crossing, and he says which have been renewed through to combining projects might make their 2016. However, Auckland Transport involvement worthwhile. states on its website that competing An Auckland representative of the priorities mean it is “highly unlikely” company has already met with a senior that it will be constructed over the advisor in the mayoral office and will next three years.

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Tensions mount over proposal to use marina Mid-year likely bore hearing dredgings to offset sea level rise at Sandspit for An Auckland Council hearing on the A suggestion that dredged material from the proposed Sandspit marina be used to reinforce the Sandspit spit looks set to put the area’s two residents’ groups on yet another collision course.

The Sandspit Residents and Ratepayers Association is in favour of investigating the idea, while Save Our Sandspit Inc (SSOSI) says it’s a waste of time.

The two groups fell out over the environmental issues surrounding the Sandspit marina project.

The latest issue to divide them involves the disposal of dredgings when the marina is built alongside the spit. The Resident and Ratepayers Sandspit Marina Society has offered Association member Grant Neill the spoil, as well as the dollar amount says upgrading the spit would it would pay to dispose of it, to raise provide an opportunity to do the height of the spit. The society’s an environmentally-friendly alternative is to barge the material to landscape design including Fergusson Wharf in Auckland or to a sea rain gardens to surface treat dump on the other side of Great Barrier. stormwater run-off.

Association committee member Grant Neill says the road and carpark form “We’re currently at the peak of a 17- Garner, who is in favour of the idea, says a vital piece of infrastructure for the year tide pattern cycle, a fact that he’s concerned divisions in the Sandspit people of north Rodney and especially Auckland Council officers have already community could hinder the plan.

Kawau Island. quite rightly acknowledged. And, “This is an opportunity to future“The spit is inundated about once a year secondly, the likelihood of climate proof the spit for possibly the next 50 and the fear is that this will increase as change affecting the spit during our years, at no cost to ratepayers,” he says. the impact of climate change becomes lifetime is very unlikely.”

“But I’m concerned that SSOSI will more evident,” he says.

Mr Taplin says speculated sea level object to this because they are in a Although the group hasn’t done rises of between a half to one-metre combative mind-set. That would be any serious calculations, they think will have implications across the a real shame. While I understand that raising the spit could require roughly whole of the Auckland region, not just they are upset at the Environment 20,000 cubic metres, which means the for Sandspit.

Court decision on the marina, at some society’s offer could be worth more “The economic reality is that Sandspit point, a more pragmatic approach than $1.3 million. is likely to be well down Council’s list would be of benefit to everyone.”

However, the offer is time-dependent. of priorities.

Mr Garner says to take advantage of “It has no impact on the marina “Besides, if you raise the spit by two the offer to use the dredged material programme, so the marina society quite metres – anything less would be a from the marina project, will need rightly says they will not delay their waste of time – then you are talking buy-in from both Auckland Council timetable to suit. We estimate we have about also raising the wharf, café, ferry and Auckland Transport. about a year to determine whether or not building and offices, not to mention “Then there is a whole swathe of the plan is feasible. We think Council about 300 metres of Brick Bay Drive processes to go through to get the should engage a specialist engineering and the yacht club.” necessary consents. I’d love to think it consultancy as soon as possible to prepare Mr Taplin says the make-up of the was possible to do it in the timeframe opinions and scenarios, including the spoil also raises issues. For instance, available, but it’s questionable whether ‘do nothing’ option, so there can be an its water content means it cannot be that will be achievable.” informed debate.” readily used as fill.

Mr Neill says the opportunity to use However, SSOSI spokesperson “The people who are promoting this the dredged material will slip through Michael Taplin says the proposal is scheme really need to go away and do ratepayers’ fingers if Auckland “ludicrous”. their homework.”

Council and Auckland Transport can’t “Firstly, it’s unnecessary,” he says. Rodney Local Board member Steven be convinced to act quickly.

Sanderson Road bore resource consent is likely to take place about mid-year.

Watercare has confirmed that independent commissioners will hear the case. A resource consent application was initially made by Rodney District Council in 2008 to take up to 1.2 million cubic metres per year of groundwater from the bore, more than 85 percent of an estimated sustainable throughflow of 1.4 million m3 annually, to secure water supply for future residential growth in Warkworth.

Watercare later proposed to stagger the water uptake from 750,000m3 annually from 2011 increasing to 915,0000 from 2025 and up to 1.2 million m3 annually, in 2036.

The application prompted concerns among existing bore users about possible impacts on their water supplies and the community.

Of the 17 submissions received, six were in support, one was neutral and 11 were opposed.

Free pass to locals From May 1 onwards, Otamatea residents will no longer have to pay to visit the The Kauri Museum at Matakohe. The museum board has decided to offer free entry in recognition of the community’s contribution to the museum over the last 50 years. It will apply to all families residing in the former Otamatea County District, which includes Matakohe, Maungaturoto, Kaiwaka and Mangawhai. Museum curator Bet Nelley says The Kauri Museum has never been funded by ratepayers or taxpayers, but has been a ‘stand alone’ museum with operational costs being paid by the admission fee. When it opened in 1962 entrance was one shilling. Seventy percent of visitors to the museum today are from overseas.

Mrs Nelley says volunteers are the life blood of the place.“It is wonderful to give back to a community that has been so supportive over 50 years.”

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OFF THE RECORD

Martin should choose I would like to see Ms Tracy Martin make up her mind as to whether she wants to represent the local area in Government with Winston Peters or as the local representative (as elected) on the greater Auckland Council. She may be a very competent person but I would like to see her do one job and do it well. If she stays in Parliament, then someone else local can take her place representing us as we fight for our share of the Auckland distribution of funds. Goodness knows we need every bit of help we can get!

Harry Sutcliffe, Snells Beach

Why our waterways matter Our waterways are a very important part of human life, and it’s important we protect them and keep them healthy. Simple ways to do this are to help with river cleanups, planting days, join a group centred on river health or just learn how to care for your river. Remember, a healthy river means a healthy ecosystem.

Marney Edwards, Mahurangi College Year 8 student Letters can be sent to PO Box 701, Warkworth or editor@localmatters.co.nz

Book competition winner

Congratulations to our book competition winner Barbara Burrows of Warkworth. Barbara won a copy of the Know Your New Zealand Fishes

by Jenny and Tony Enderby.

Bluelight appoints new chair Warkworth constable Kevin Blair says there is nothing better than being able to make a child smile.

Kevin, who is exnavy and army with a medic background, was recently appointed chair of Wellsford Bluelight, a community/police initiative providing drug and alcohol free entertainment for children and teenagers.

He has been a volunteer with the group for the past four years, taking hundreds of boys on camps throughout the region.

“We only take boys as Bluelight has only male instructors,” he says.

Kevin Blair “But in some ways it works better. We try to challenge the boys but still make it Kevin says he enjoys working with fun and this helps build confidence.” Bluelight because it gives him balance.

Activities include fishing, kayaking, “As a police officer, a lot of kids come rope climbing and rugby. to my attention, which makes it easy Kevin says the aim is to portray the to get a negative attitude towards all Police in a different light and show the kids. But when you take a group out boys that we are not the bad guys.” and do something fun with them, He says a priority this year is to get then there’s a different perspective.

Bluelight involved with Mahurangi “You can watch their attitudes change College. as they start to feel they’re achieving “They are one of the only schools in something and I get to be the good the area we don’t currently work with. guy for a while. It’s also easier to talk The programme is well established in to them out in the community if you Wellsford and I would like to see a know them.” similar set-up in Mahurangi.”

Info: www.bluelight.co.nz

On the hoof

Whether enlightened by the pet lamb called Tucker in our last Off the Record, or simply fulfilling the significance of his name, Algies Bay lamb “Pretrain” takes a pragmatic, if not pessimistic, approach to life – living it up on the barbie while he can. However, we’re reliably informed that his name is tongue-in-cheek and that, in fact, his destiny is to remain a pet.

A crummy substitute

A couple of Matakana diners literally got the pip over Easter Weekend when they couldn’t figure out why they couldn’t cut through their crumbed mushroom. After a gracious enquiry was made to the chef regarding the dish, it came to light the ‘mushroom’ in question was, in fact, a crumbed avocado stone.

Feeling scrambled

Meanwhile, a visitor to Matakana over Easter was overhead to remark: “That egg looks like how I feel.” It was obviously someone who had overdone the Easter eggs and hot cross buns. The knitted treat was, of course, the work of the notorious local Yarn Bombers. Look out for their handiwork on Anzac Day.

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Rodney infrastructure suffers from lack of investment Rodney’s wastewater systems will need significant investment to meet compliance, Watercare representatives told a meeting of the Warkworth Community Liaison Group this month.

Wastewater planning manager Phil population predictions.”

Jaggard said that Watercare would The Snells/Algies plant consent also look at both its plants and networks expired last year. Mr Evans said the in Warkworth and Wellsford over outfall, and how fast effluent can be the next year. The Wellsford plant’s disposed of, is the limiting factor on consent expired in 1999, while the plant’s capacity.

Warkworth’s ran out last year.

“The outfall pipe is in a very poor state Watercare’s principal advisor local of repair and will cost an estimated boards Brent Evans says at the time of $12 to $15 million to replace.” amalgamation, a lot of Councils had Omaha was the only compliant under-invested in infrastructure. wastewater plant in the area, and Mr “Addressing this is a big challenge at Jaggard said that plant would gradually rural plants,” he said. be expanded to meet future growth.

Audience members asked how the “Work on the installation of the Warkworth plant, which serves about Matakana pressurised wastewater 4000 people and discharges into the system was well-underway with about Mahurangi River, would cope with the 80 percent of the pipeline installation growth predicted by Auckland Council. and 40 percent of private drainage Mr Jaggard said the plant might be work finished.” expanded and an alternative discharge About 35 people attended the meeting point might be considered. and issues raised from the floor “A combined Warkworth/Snells included the Sanderson bore proposal, Beach/Algies Bay plant has not been why Watercare did not offer more ruled out, but we really can’t say incentives for people to save water, what the alternative might be until costs associated with the Point Wells Auckland Council can give us firmer scheme and discounts for pensioners.

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The celebrations were held under sunny skies, a fact that more than one person attributed to many hours of praying.

Official speakers included, from left, Ben de Thierry, Steve Levet, Lockwood Smith and Peter Marsh.

Descendants revisit Albertland story People from all walks of life, from all over NZ and overseas, gathered at the Port Albert Domain on April 6 to celebrate their common heritage as descendants of the Albertland Colonisation Movement.

Organisers of the 150th Anniversary say they about which they knew so little and were so illcouldn’t have been happier with the turnout of an prepared to cope? estimated 900 people at the official opening and the “As the book records, there was an utter absence participation in the four-day programme of events. of anything like an arrangement for transporting “Everything ran like clockwork and we’ve had the Albertlanders to the new settlement after they nothing but positive feedback,” organising committee stepped ashore in Auckland, and many actually got chair Steve Levet says. “People had a genuine interest lost trying to find the place.” to learn about their heritage and the Albertland story, Dr Smith said that on the wall of his office in and the weekend provided plenty of opportunities for Parliament hangs a photograph of his greatfriends and family to connect and share stories.” grandparents and their family, including his Everyone attending the celebration received a name grandfather. tag which included the name of the ship the person’s “Even on the most difficult days in Parliament, I do descendant had boarded for the long voyage from remember and I am inspired.”

England to NZ. There were eight ships altogether Other speakers included Roger Farr dressed in and, in total, around 3000 non-conformist settlers character as William Rawson Brame – the instigator made the journey between 1862 and 1865 in the of the settlement scheme who arrived at the ceremony hope of making a fresh start in Albertland. on horse back, Oruawharo Marae kaumatua Ben de Among the official guests at the opening ceremony Thierry, Albertland Museum chairman Peter Marsh, was Speaker of the House Lockwood Smith whose Steve Levet, Alison Enticott, songwriter/musician great-grandparents arrived on one of the first ships, Greg Ward and raconteur Geoff Pickstone.

The weekend’s highlights included a multi-media the Hanover.

Dr Smith described the Albertland settlement as show at the Te Hana Cultural Centre, boat and bus an extraordinary part of the history of European trips, and re-enactments of the arrival of the settlers settlement in NZ and a definitive chapter in the on the Oruawharo River.

Steve Levet says he can’t speak highly enough of development of the Kaipara.

“On re-reading the Sir Henry Brett/Henry Hook the job done by the members of the organising book published in 1927 – Albertlanders – Brave committee.

Pioneers of the Sixties – one is left with a feeling “We’d been planning for two years and they did an of incredulity,” he said. “What possessed ordinary awesome job – we did our ancestors proud.” folk to leave wider family and friends to head off to Copies of the multi-media DVD are available from a vague place on the other side of the world, the Albertland Museum.

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Roger Farr, dressed as William Rawson Brame, the instigator of the Albertland settlement scheme, was a hit with visitors.

Displays in the Port Albert Hall were well-received.

For the full text of Lockwood Smith’s speech and photos of the weekend, go to www.localmatters.co.nz

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 7

act local

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Increasing your business profile and cash flow can be a challenge. It’s seems as if so many other advertisers are out to take your money and you see little for the results.

More and more local Rodney business owners are taking advantage of marketing their local service based businesses on the web and there has never been a better time.

Bellbird numbers in the park are now estimated to be around 800.

Let me introduce myself

By Sharon Kast

The 10th anniversary of TOSSI is an opportune time to review the progress of the bird population that has arrived at the park, either as a result of a translocation or simply self-introduction since the establishment of the Tawharanui Open Sanctuary. A number of birds not present at the time of the predator proof-fence construction have arrived without human help. These include the bellbird, kaka and grey-faced petrels. The bellbird is probably the most successful reintroduction of all the birds in the park. In 2004, bellbirds were seen in the park in numbers not present in the past 100 years. It was estimated that around 100 birds had arrived, probably from Hauturu. Subsequent studies using DNA confirmed the Hauturu origin but also suggested that some birds may have come from the Tongariro region. The estimate of the founding population using DNA was 100 breeding pairs. Subsequently, bellbird numbers have risen to around 700 to 800 birds and this number has not been affected by translocations of birds to Waiheke and Waikato. A small number of bellbirds are reported outside the park and this is likely to increase in future years. Anyone seeing bellbirds in their own properties should think of the value of local predator control.

Kaka have visited the Rodney district from Hauturu for many years. These are predominantly young male birds that tend to return to the island in summer.

Some breeding pairs had been reported in isolated areas of Rodney but there was no recent evidence of kaka breeding at Tawharanui until the last two years.

There now appears to be a resident breeding population in the park.

Grey-faced petrels have successfully bred within the open sanctuary during the past two breeding seasons. Numbers remain low but appear to be increasing and there were certainly greater numbers on the monitoring evenings carried out during winter and spring last year.

Save the date: 6 May Planting day. Meet 9.15am at Tawharanui. Plant in the morning and enjoy a BBQ provided by TOSSI in the afternoon. Bring gloves, sturdy boots and a raincoat. Special 10th year TOSSI celebrations will take place on the Queen’s Birthday planting weekend, June 2 and 3. Planting starts at 9.15am, followed by a BBQ and surprise celebration treats. Everyone welcome. www.TOSSI.org.nz

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WORKING WITH COMMUNITIES TO PLAN A

HEALTHY FUTURE FOR OUR CHILDREN IN WAITEMATA Waitemata District Health Board is providing an opportunity for you and/or your organisation to comment on a draft strategic child health plan that will set the stage for prioritising funding for child health from July 2012 to 2017.

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8 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

From left, Mahurangi College principal David Macleod with former principals Alan Shaw and Rex Grey.

Past pupils prove experience counts It was all fun and games at the Mahurangi College 50th reunion and the ‘Sesquicentennial of Education in Warkworth’ celebrations held at Mahurangi College over Easter Weekend.

Past students took on present students in hockey, service. Everyone had a great time socialising with netball and rugby, winning all the contests and former classmates and teachers.” proving the older and wiser students still had a thing Dave said it was an honour to take part in planting or two to teach their younger opponents. three kowhai trees in front of the school along Reunion committee chair Dave Parker says almost with former pupils Pam Hood and Professor Tom 700 people registered for the reunion with around Brooking, the son of Cliff Brooking who was the 400 attending the wine and cheese evening on the college’s first principal.

Friday night.

The reunion magazine is being collated and is “A number of ex-pupils, who had been to various reunions over the years, said it was the best one to available through the school. date,” he says. “Every event was worth the effort, Photos courtesy of Kodak Express Warkworth. from the official opening ceremony to the celebration Reunion photos can be viewed and ordered at dinner and dance, and the commemorative church www.kodakwarkworth.photosales.co.nz/

Cutting the cake at the Warkworth education anniversary celebrations are former Warkworth District High School students Judge Phillip Gittos and Lorraine Hatfull.

Reunion committee chair and former Mahurangi College foundation pupil Dave Parker at the official opening ceremony.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 9

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Plunket funds get a boost Mitre 10 Mega Warkworth has raised $3000 for Warkworth Plunket, through a playhouse construction promotion held last year.

Plunket officials were presented with scheme and a new ‘Mummy and Me’ the cheque from store owner Cam coffee and playgroup will be started Caithness on April 14. for second-time mums or mums who Warkworth Plunket president Angela are new to the area. Renovations at the Brangwynne says the money will go clinic are also in the pipeline. towards implementing a new Parents The Mummy and Me play and coffee Room at the Warkworth clinic in Mill group starts on April 27 at Totara Park Lane. As well, six new car-seats will be Hall, Melwood Drive, from 10.30am donated to the Plunket Carseat Rental to 12pm.

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10 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

Viewpoint with James Rolfe, Rodney Local Board, Auckland Council

Lets talk about debt Auckland Council currently owes about $1.5 billion, or approximately $1000 per Aucklander. Under the Mayor’s proposals in the draft Long Term Plan, this is going to increase over the next 10 years to $12.1 billion. This looks more staggering when you don’t truncate the zeros off the figure, $12,100,000,000. Meanwhile, the population is projected to grow a bit, to 1.75 million. This still shakes out to each Aucklander owing almost $7000. Note how I have said here, Aucklander, not ratepayer. Apparently, this debt can be serviced without large rates increases.

Clearly, the finance team is incredibly clever, or frighteningly stupid.

The reason I raise this, is that discussions around these documents seem to always hone in on “what’s happening in our area?” and these wider issues get missed. But it is worth looking at what this goes to pay for. The answer is largely in the transport field, and largely big ticket items such as rail improvements, rail to the airport, the inner city rail loop and so on. There does seem to be quite a theme developing doesn’t there? The Mayor wants to raise the limit on the municipal credit card so we can spend our way back into the 19th century. It would be cheaper to buy the man a few of Dickens’ books.

Whatever your view on whether these key ‘transformational’ projects are the correct ones for solving Auckland’s various woes, it is hard to see how they benefit anywhere but the immediate City centre and perhaps the isthmus of old Auckland. The Mayor, however, has been clear in his ambition to implement these projects since before the election. He is the only directly-elected person in the country with a constituency of 1.5 million. This is a powerful and unique mandate in New Zealand politics. It makes a tough challenge, for those councillors and others who disagree with his proposals, to overcome. The recent media attention on these issues has been more around the exact prioritisation of the projects in the plan, and to what extent the unified rating system should have the more extreme impacts relieved. This is like rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. The Long Term Plan raises two, and only two, really key questions: yy Is the proposed increase in Council expenditure sustainable and prudent? yy Is Council going to be delivering services equitably for all Aucklanders?

I would answer definitely not. The Mayor has a mandate to perform his miracles, but at what cost?

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Compiled and written by Julie Hawkes, starting point to begin developing a on behalf of the Wellsford Promotions marketing plan which can build on Group, the Wow – Wonders of Wellsford some of these stories.” brochure received funding support Julie says a lot of people helped with from last year’s Rugby World Cup. the project and she was very grateful It is a potpourri of interesting snippets for their time and support. She about the town and district, which especially thanked Auckland Council Julie hopes both locals and visitors will economic development advisers Gill Plume and Claire Siddens. find interesting.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 11

Your voice for Rodney Great turnout for the Warkworth Town Hall feedback launch The Rodney Local Board would like to thank everyone who attended the public meeting on the future of the Warkworth Town Hall.

Over 100 people came to nd out more information about several proposals for the Category One heritage building and many brought new suggestions for local board members to consider.

Local board member Brenda Steele says the turnout at the event was excellent.

Fiesta puts funding in pool There was no shortage of entertainment for the hundreds of people who attended the Warkworth Primary School Twilight Fiesta on March 30.

Children came dressed as fairies, received, everyone had an awesome princesses and pirates, adding colour evening, and enjoyed being able to come for dinner, grab a bargain and to the atmosphere.

While they participated in the numerous then be home early.” games on offer, parents and grandparents Nikki says consideration is now being took their time to rake through the given to holding the event annually, white elephant stall in the hall and take instead of biennially.

Former pupils were invited to attend tickets in the quick fire raffles.

Organiser Nikki Illingworth says an informal reunion during the fiesta and browse the old photographs of the around $18,000 was raised. school on display in the school hall.

“Our cake stall raised the most with a Four generations of the Stubbs family total of $2100,” she says. were invited to cut a cake to mark the “What a fantastic result from a cake 150th reunion of education in the stand! From the feedback we have Warkworth district.

“Quite a few people have come to us suggesting that the hall should be demolished, and even though this was not one of the original options for us to consider, it is something that some parts of the community are interested in nding out more about.

“The process to remove the hall’s heritage status or obtain resource consent for demolition would be lengthy, and we cannot guarantee that it is something that can be done,” says Mrs Steele.

The Rodney Local Board will make a decision in late April or early May about

(Left to right) Rodney Local Board members June Turner, Brenda Steele, Tracey Martin, Steven Garner and Ilona Rodgers and Graeme North from the Warkworth Town Hall Advisory Committee.

the future of the Warkworth Town Hall, taking into consideration the feedback from the public.

“We want to make the best decision for the residents of Warkworth, and having so much feedback from the community will help us to do so.”

Once a decision is made, the Rodney Local Board will meet with the Governing Body of Auckland Council to look at funding options.

Rodney parks get a makeover Sinclair Park is now ready for another winter season of games.

The hard courts have been resealed and repainted, to benet Kaukapakapa residents and the wider community in their sporting activities. This project was identied by the former Rodney District Council and completed by the Rodney Local Board.

The Rodney Local Board and Auckland Council completed the work over the summer months after a member of the public suggested the courts needed an upgrade.

Local board member Brenda Steele says the upgrade is a huge benet to the sports teams and families that play there.

“Sinclair Park is the hub of Kaukapakapa’s sporting community.

“There are a lot of teams from different sporting codes that use the entire park

and the hard courts were increasing in popularity but getting quite old.

“Having good quality courts to play on is something that our residents deserve, and we are thrilled that this project has been delivered.”

Other park upgrades are also happening around the Rodney area.

New playground equipment has been installed behind the Helensville library and the Rodney Local Board and Mayor Len Brown ofcially opened the new amenity block at Shelly Beach last month.

“As outlined in our local board plan, we want to provide for the recreational needs of our community, and it’s upgrades like these that make a difference for locals,” says Mrs Steele.

Find out more We need your support and input to help us shape a stronger future for our area and to bring these aspirations to life. To view the Rodney Local Board Plan and nd out more about how you can play your part, please contact us.

09 301 0101 www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ rodney rodneylocalboard@ aucklandcouncil. govt.nz

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The cake stand at the Twilight Fiesta was a major fundraiser.

“It’s great to see the community really getting involved and telling us their preferred options for the hall and other ideas that we will also consider,” she says.

12 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

Greenwood family reunion highlights settlers’ legacy The living legacy of two early Leigh settlers was realised recently when 235 descendants of John and Mary Hannah Greenwood descended on Leigh and the Whangateau on March 3 and 4.

The family’s first official reunion was and handiwork, says Marie, while the prompted by Leigh’s Sally Greenwood, boys, John, Willie, Irwin and Tom were who felt it was time they got together successful sheep and beef farmers. Much for a happy occasion, rather than for of the family farm has since become part of parkland, now owned by Auckland a funeral.

Organising committee member Marie Council and the house passed from Petrie says they decided it would be family ownership in 1996. more manageable to start from the Although Willie had no descendants, family of John and Mary Hannah, the seven children produced 27 rather than John’s parents, William children and 98 grandchildren of and Dorothy, who emigrated from their own, with the next generation England in 1860 and eventually snowballing from there. established a farm at Omaha.

Gathering representatives from each John was born in Devonport and went branch of the family to help organise on to marry Mary Hannah Birdsall the reunion was relatively simple, (commonly known as Hannah) from as around half of them still live in Birdsall Road, Whangateau in 1891. the district, a number of them still The couple lived at the top of the Leigh farming, says Marie.

Hill on a sheep and beef farm known as However, a couple of generations on, “Dovedale” and had seven children all of descendants represent a wide crosswhom either became or married farmers. section of skills and industries, including Covering hundreds of hectares, the a Rhodes scholar, accountants, teachers, property enjoyed panoramic views builders, pharmacists, surgeons, from Mangawhai Heads to Goat doctors and nurses.

Island and Little Barrier and included Reunion events included a welcome an airstrip that hosted some of earliest by Warwick Rhodes and cutting of a top dressing planes in the area. cake, decorated to represent Dovedale, A keen sporting family, Greenwoods presided over by the family’s oldest would sometimes ride up to representatives, 89-year-old Ina Mangawhai on their horses to play Collins and 87-year-olds Harley tennis on a Saturday and stay overnight Greenwood and George Rhodes. before making the return trip.

Dovedale’s current owners Hilary The Greenwood girls, May, Dolly and and Tony Russell opened the house Ethel, married into the Rhodes, Dunning to family members who also visited and Petrie families respectively and Leigh and Whangateau cemeteries to were renowned for baking, gardening see the final resting places of several .

Elders of the reunion of more than 200 Greenwood descendants, from left, Harley Greenwood, Ina Collins and George Rhodes preside over the official cake.

More photos at www.localmatters.co.nz

Greenwoods and Birdsalls.

Family photoboards, a slideshow and memorabilia of John and Mary Hannah and their children, including the family Bible were on display.

Dinner and memories were shared on Saturday and a Leigh Church service and luncheon were held on Sunday.

Families shared a wide range of memorabilia.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 13

Floral artists bag top awards Floral artists from Warkworth made an impact at the recent Auckland Area Designer of the Year 2012 ‘SuperCity’ competition held at the Home and Garden Show in the North Shore Events Centre.

From 13 entries in five divisions, Warkworth Floral Art Club members came home with six top prizes.

The Designer of the Year was won by Raewyn Thomas, of Hibiscus Coast Floral Art Club, with her design Ethnicity. Judges Margaret Ashley and Nancy Murphy, of Auckland, and Francine Thomas, of Tauranga, congratulated all 49 designers from the nine clubs in the Auckland Area who entered, and complimented them on their interpretations of the titles.

More than 1500 people visited the competition display over three days and the Peoples’ Choice design was won by Maria Baxter, of the Takapuna Floral Art Club.

Warkworth Floral Art Club members are now preparing for their own show, which will be held at the Old Masonic Hall, in Warkworth, in October.

Info: Marianne Gibson on 423 0277 or visit www.fasnz.org.nz.

Simplicity was the title of Peggy Competition results were: 1st Senior – Hayson’s entry, which was the winner Simplicity by Peggy Hayson; 3rd Senior in the senior division.

– Simplicity by Marianne Gibson; Causer; 2nd Junior – Diversity by Judy 2nd Intermediate – Authenticity- Marshall; 2nd Club – Electricity by Kay Beidermeier by Maggie Kensington; Jones, Betty Trewin, Jenny Burton, 1st Junior – Diversity by Lynne Lyn Membery and Anne Moir.

Institute reinforces service role Members of the Rodney Women’s Institute celebrated 91 years of fun, friendship and service recently.

The local division held a 1920s themed party to honour the year the NZ Federation was formed.

Rodney coordinator Moira Dye says a goal for the federation this year is to attract younger members.

“It’s a very entertaining and social group to be a part of,” she says.

“It’s hard to attract younger women because they think we just talk about pensioners’ issues and things like that. But the fact is, we are involved with choral and drama groups, have lively discussions about topical issues, do crafts, encourage leadership and help others.”

The Women’s Institute is well-known for helping worthy causes such as women’s refuges, local food banks, hospitals, retirement homes and the SPCA. Last year they sent several cartons of knitted goods to Christchurch earthquake victims and the institute is a major supporter of Kidney Kids.

The Rodney division has 16 members and meets on the second Tuesday of the month at the

Warkworth Anglican Church at 1.30pm. New members welcome.

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Vesey Grant’s homestead, built by W. E. Vickery in 1912, still stands in J. V. Grant Road, Wharehine. W H Marsh Collection.

Work diary of an early resident Farmer, builder and minister, W.E. Vickery moved to Wellsford to farm his father’s land-holding on what is now Wellsford Valley Rd, following some years spent at Glorit where he had a lease on a bush block. The boating disaster on the Kaipara Harbour, near Glorit, in 1896, which claimed the lives of 10 of those onboard and decimated the settlement, led to his decision to move north. The land he was to farm had been owned by the Oldfield family who had built a small four roomed dwelling. William later extended the house by adding two further rooms.

He spent his early years helping his father William Snr, an Albertlander who arrived on the Hanover. Although from a farming background in North Devon, William Snr had learned to build in London. Working in Auckland, he taught his son the skills needed to be able to turn his hand to most things. This gave W.E. and his young family a much-needed extra income as their land could not sustain them in the early years.

During his time in Wellsford, between 1897 and 1929, he built the following houses which are still in existence today – Len Bennett’s at Port Albert, W.O. Gubb’s and J.V. Grant’s. Many other houses were added to including Archie Becroft’s at Te Hana, Arthur Prictor’s and Grant’s at Wayby which has since been shifted to Prictor Rd. For work on the Port Albert Dairy Factory manager’s house, he earned the princely sum of 12s 6d per week. He built a stately home for Forrest Reid but unfortunately, this has since been demolished.

The store at Port Albert built for the Bennett family, which burnt down in 1924, was another of his landmarks, as was the Wellsford Church of Christ originally built on the site of ‘Old Wellsford’ in 1909. This building was moved in 1927 to its present site in Rodney St, opposite Batten St. The present Port Albert Temperance Hall is another of his achievements. This was built after the original, sited at the Port Albert Crossroads, burned down.

Others he worked for included W. Underwood – he had to alter the doors to allow the passage of a wheeled-bed when Mr Underwood was unable to walk.

Names in his work diary include Max Becroft, W.K. Becroft, Mrs P. Becroft, P. Treadwell, Mr Lipanovic, Mr Little, F. Curel, Mr Ward, Roy Becroft and Mr Farrand. He also served on the Wellsford School board and ministered to the Churches of Christ in the district. He spent several years travelling to Auckland regularly to minister to two churches, making the journey by train. After leaving the district in 1929, William ministered in churches throughout NZ until retiring in 1940 to Wellington where he died in 1949.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 15

Matakana businesses pull together for Mothers’ Day

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Mothers’ Day is just around the corner and Matakana businesses and Mahurangi Matters have combined their resources to put together three special prizes for three special Mums. To enter, just fill out a coupon when you make a purchase at one of the participating stores and your Mum could be enjoying one of the following – A Night Out; A Look Good, Feel Good package; or Foodie Heaven.

The competition will be drawn on Friday May 11, in time for the lucky Mothers to enjoy their prizes on Mothers’ Day, May 13. Pictured looking over some of the donated gifts is Red Letter Day salesperson Sonya Eddington.

A Night Out • Looking Good • Foodie Heaven when you shop at a business displaying this poster Red Letter Day • Matakana Market Kitchen • Nosh • Blush • The Vintry • Noir Blonde • Damask Bloom Saloon • Matakana Cinema • Village Bookshop • Dual • Matakana Pharmacy • DeLovely Piece Gallery • Finishing Touches • Quintessentially Kiwi • Village Health Shop • Heavenly Soles

Gardening advice Gardeners interested in making their own liquid fertilisers and compost are invited to a free workshop at the Antara Retreat, Tomarata, this month. The weekend event, on April 21 and 22, will be led by Leigh McIntyre-Lomas who has been gardening organically, bio-dynamically and along permaculture principles for the past 20 years. The workshop will also cover identifying useful weeds and planting vegetables. Antara is a charity run by volunteers. Info: Phone 423 7070.

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The Zonta Club of Mangawhai recently presented midwives at the Warkworth Birthing Centre with several cartons of mother and baby gift packs. The packs include new articles handmade or donated by club members, friends and the community. The packs are intended for distribution to women in the club area, from Warkworth north to Waipu, and from Maungaturoto and Paparoa across to Mangawhai. President Sue Poynter says the club’s mission is to advance the status of women. “What better time to help women than when they first become mothers?” she says. “We are delighted to be able to help this transition in a positive way.” Pictured are Zonta members Fran Gouge and Jude Knights with the midwife Sally Wilson (right).

Help for seniors A resource for older people in greater Auckland and Northland is Senior Line. It provides information on how to get help at home, community health services and rest homes. Contact Senior Line at 0800 725 462 or 09 375 4395, Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm or online at www.adhb.govt.nz/seniorline.

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Helping families through tough times Living with a terminal illness can be like stepping into quicksand, according to family support volunteers at Warkworth Wellsford Hospice.

Hospice Awareness Week is on from 14 to 20 May and hospice is encouraging families to ask for help sooner rather than later.

Family support volunteers are carefully chosen and trained to help in simple ways that can stop families feeling as if they are sinking deeper into a bottomless hole. Warkworth Wellsford Hospice family support team leader Gabrielle Masters has more than 30 volunteers to call on, and can usually find the perfect ‘match’ for a patient. The volunteer will make an introductory visit to the family and then give as “Almost without exception, people who have had much or as little help as the family wants. hospice in have been surprised at the difference it’s The role is varied and highly individual. A volunteer made to their lives.” might sit with a sick husband while his wife meets friends for coffee or a walk on the beach, take a As well as providing time out for the carers, patient shopping or out for a drive, walk across the volunteers offer an impartial, non-judgmental ear to farm with them or simply sit quietly, there if needed. the patient.

“I can do the kind of straight talking that their family Family support volunteer Don McIntyre says it is doesn’t give them,” Don says. “I can ask questions totally the patient’s choice – one patient used to get such as ‘Do the family know what you want when Don to drive him to the pub and insisted he play the you die?’; ‘Are your finances in order?’; ‘How do you pokies with him. feel about dying?’ They’ve got no-one else to talk to The volunteers are more than willing, but families about that.” are often reluctant to accept their help.

Jenny Howlett, another family support volunteer, Don says it is common for one member of the says sometimes it is the carer who needs someone family to bear most of the responsibility of caring to confide in. for the patient.

“With one family, I didn’t even see the patient; I was “They feel confident they can handle it, then only there to support the wife. I was a shoulder to gradually they’re in the quicksand and they get tired, cry on and used to take her out for coffee. and reluctant to get someone else in to cloud the “If dad’s sick, the family can often forget about issue even more,” he says. “But as soon as they do, mum, but I’ve always thought we’re there primarily for the caregiver.” they get time to recover their strength.

lifematters Don McIntyre prepares to deliver a bunch of flowers picked by one hospice client for another.

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I have been a Creative Hairstylist for the past 27 years.

Within that time I have attended many courses and seminars, and observed and followed many fashion trends to further my hairdressing career. I have also owned my own business for 20 years in which I trained 15 apprentices in hairdressing. My passion, enthusiasm and dedication of hairdressing is always within me.

As I am now on an exciting new journey, I am looking forward to working at Rococo with a team of motivated and creative hairstylists, and of course I look forward to seeing all my regular and new clients.

All our Creative Stylists are continually trained to meet the changing needs of the hair fashion industry.

So if you are after that “5% magic” in an elite salon call in and see the creative team at Rococo or phone us on 09 425 8257.

Sacha Leigh

Rococo Hair Salon is proud to announce the arrival of Viennza Leigh and Sacha Leigh, on joining their team of creative and talented hairstylists.

Rococo has a strong philosophy in creating beautiful hair and to exceed the expectations of all its clients through a “Total Salon Experience”.

Jenny Howlett believes it is a privilege to be allowed into someone’s life when they are at their most vulnerable.

I have been working in the hairdressing industry for four years, in which time I have successfully completed my hairdressing training. I now work as a Creative Stylist.

I specialise in creative cutting, colouring and styling and am looking forward to being a part of the highly motivated and inspirational team at Rococo.

I look forward to seeing all my regular and new clients at Rococo.

15 Neville Street, Warkworth • phone 09 425 8257 • Email rococohairltd@vodafone.co.nz

18 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

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Rest home survey looks at current standard of care

Rest home residents, their families, carers, and rest home staff are being surveyed for their views on what, if anything, has changed in rest homes over the past two years.

Auditor-General Lyn Provost, whose shared a number of areas of concern office is undertaking the survey, says with me. many of NZ’s most vulnerable older “This time, I am asking these people people are being cared for in rest for their views. I am keen to know what homes, and a review is timely. has changed for the better since we did “My December 2009 report looked our first report in 2009, but also where at the effectiveness and efficiency of improvements are still needed.” arrangements to check the quality The survey results will be presented and safety of services provided by rest to Parliament and will be publicly although individual homes,” she says. “After the report available, responses will remain anonymous. was released, I personally received a number of phone calls from relatives The online survey is available at www. and carers of rest home residents. They oag.govt.nz/media/2012/rest-home-survey

Health briefs Senior drivers Age Concern is canvassing interest in two free senior drivers’ courses later this month to assist seniors with recent road rule changes. Morning tea will be provided and there will be no examinations. Anyone interested in attending the Warkworth course, from 9.30am to 12 noon, is asked to register their interest by phoning 09 426 0916. The dates and venues are yet to be determined and the course will only go ahead if 10 or more people register.

The “other” Olympics Anyone from the Mahurangi area interested in entering a team in this year’s Senior Olympics is asked to register their interest with Age Concern. The event will be held on August 9, at the Leisure Centre Stanmore Bay, and will coincide with the Summer Olympics in London. Info: 09 426 0916.

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FAMILY HEALTH & BEAUTY n

lifematters

Being a supportive employer

By Quentin Jukes, helpdesk worker

All of us have times in our life when things get hard. Whether it is a death in the family, illness of a child, a partner being made redundant or deciding to leave, things can happen that make life hard. When this happens to us, we really remember and appreciate the people who step up to help. People who do what they can to help support us through that tough time and show us their care and concern can make a real difference. It usually builds a closer relationship and increases our trust in them and our desire to help them if the chance ever arises.

We have been really heartened by lots of local employers making it possible for their staff to have the time out to manage things that come up, such as getting a sick child to the doctor or getting to an urgent lawyer’s appointment. It makes sense for employers to find ways to support their staff when their life takes a turn for the worse. A staff member who feels respected and cared for as a person is far more likely to be willing to go the extra mile in return. Also, in smaller communities, both the individuals and the businesses that treat people well are known, just as those who treat people harshly get a name for themselves. Playing a constructive and supportive role in our community and in the lives of the people we work with, is good business on many levels.

There is a wide range of ways to be supportive. Taking the time to listen, not making people feel judged and asking “how can I help?” are a good start, but every situation is different. A good general approach is “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. If you are ever in a situation of wanting to support someone going through a tough time and aren’t sure what to do, we welcome people calling Homebuilders Family Services to have a chat and find out what support is available in our community and how to access this.

Understandably, people don’t always know of all the supports that may be available to a family or an individual going through a hard time. So, whether you are an employer, a family member or a friend, feel free to call for a chat.

That’s why we are here, to support people going through a tough time and to walk beside them as they find a positive way forward.

HOMEBUILDERS FAMILY SERVICES 5 Hexham Street, Warkworth • Phone 425 7048

STRESS REDUCTION FOR CARERS A 3-week course based on DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) designed to help family carers reduce the stress levels in their lives held at Homebuilders Family Centre.

Facilitator: Angela Crabb Dates: 3 Thursdays from 26th April 12:30pm to 3:00pm

All courses free of charge, free childminding is available if you request it when you enrol with child’s name & age. For more information or to enrol call Homebuilders on 425 7048 or email us: homebuilders.courses@hotmail.com

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For specialist eye care see Dr Mark Donaldson, eye surgeon at the Warkworth Medical Centre.

Mark can be consulted for all eye conditions and has sub-speciality expertise in: • cataract surgery • glaucoma • diabetic eye disease • macular degeneration No referral necessary.

Phone Eye Doctors on 09 520 9689 to make an appointment.

Are you following us on facebook and twitter? www.facebook.com/mahurangimatters • twitter.com/localmattersnz

Warkworth Medical Centre 11 Alnwick Street Warkworth

HOMEBUILDERS FAMILY SERVICES 5 Hexham Street, Warkworth • Phone 425 7048

Positive Parenting Course This course looks at how we grew up as children and how this influences our ideas about parenting, the pros and cons of being too tough or too easy, ages and stages of development, temperament types, foundations and strategies for effective discipline, and effective ways to communicate to children. There are also lots of opportunities to share and learn as a parenting group and gain support from other parents sharing similar issues.

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Date: Fri 27th April 9.30am-12pm, Wellsford (6 weeks) Facilitator: Brian Shires All courses free of charge, free childminding is available if you request it when you enrol with child’s name & age. For more information or to enrol please call Homebuilders on 425 7048.

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20 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

PRO P E R T Y F E AT U R E

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Inventory at four-year low results in record asking prices The message coming from the property market is that buyers are out and about and keen to get into the market, whether they are firsttime buyers, mid-life stage buyers or even investors.

Their eagerness to buy matched to availability of attractive financial support is, however, not being met with a consistent and sufficient supply of new listings.

This scenario continues to drive this sellers’ market, where it is clear those homeowners who are putting their property on the market are expecting to see a higher sale price as flagged by this new record level of asking price in March.

Property sales are strong – 6168 properties sold in February up 37 percent on a year ago and yet listings flow is not matching with just an eight percent year-on-year growth. This is why the inventory supply of property on the market, as measured by rate of sale, has fallen 31 percent in the past year.

The next three months will be crucial as property sales traditionally remain strong through the Autumn, and without the ability of the market to be re-supplied with new listings, the outcome could be further rises in

yy The seasonally adjusted asking price rose again to a new high of $429,865 last month, up one percent for the month and up three percent as compared to a year ago. yy The stock of unsold houses on the market fell to a four-year low in March. As compared to a year ago, the inventory of houses on the market has fallen from 46.7 weeks supply to just 32.4 weeks. yy A total of 13,265 new listings came on to the market in March, a slight fall from last month but up eight percent compared to March last year. On a seasonally adjusted basis, listings are down 0.4 percent as compared to February indicating that the market is not responding to shortages of inventory in many areas of the country. asking price and sale price or more significantly a stalling of the market as buyers become wary of a market getting out of reach of the majority of buyers.

The level of new listings coming on to the market in March fell slightly with a total of 13,265. This represents a seasonally adjusted fall of just less than one percent from February and is up just eight percent as compared to March last year.

On a 12-month moving average basis, a total of 128,072 new listings have come on to the market since April 2011 as compared to 131,722 in the prior 12 month period, a fall of 2.8 percent. This compares to sales up 15 percent on the same 12-month comparable basis.

The level of unsold houses on the market at the end of March (46,411) was down compared with February (47,030) as measured on a seasonally

adjusted basis.

This total includes houses, apartments and lifestyle properties on the market.

With the rising rate of property sales the inventory on the market has seen a significant drop-off over the past six months, pushing it well below the long-term average of 41 weeks of equivalent sales.

Source, NZ Property Report published

by Realestate.co.nz

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 21 PROPERT Y FEATURE

best on the block

Built-in accountability part of sole agency relationship

PUHOI MAHURANGI WEST ROAD

The Best Kept Secret, 30 Mins To Auckland CBD

By Garry Knapp, Premium

Why is a sole agency the vendor’s best option?

It is remarkable to observe how often vendors resist the process of engaging a sole agent to handle the divestment of a property, even more so when looking from the sideline it is so obviously essential, in most cases, that they do the opposite.

Yes, there are occasions when a general agency will suffice but be aware the general agency is a sad waif in the real estate office. There has been no commitment from the vendor to the agency when entering into a general agency and the truth is very often that lack of commitment is returned in spades. The agency has to make choices about resources such as window space, signage advertising opportunity and so on, and the sole agency listing always takes priority. Even worse, the office split on commissions in most real estate agencies are very poor to the general agency. What that means is the agents face a disincentive to handle them.

Experience has shown that where a general listing culture has developed, we will find a lack of professional commitment and thereby, poor performance in standards and outcomes for client vendors from the existing

real estate professionals. In short, the vendors have had bad experiences from sole agency commitments. This sentiment can, of course, have more to do with a poor market than the local agents actual deficiencies.

Something that we find client vendors do not always realise or appreciate is that the sole agency is a powerful contract that ties the parties into the full ramifications of the Consumer Guarantees Act and other consumer protection. It places a high level of responsibility upon the real estate agency. A client vendor can have quite high expectations from a sole agency that is simply not a feature of the general agency.

The sole agency relationship provides for a significant elevation in the degree of trust and professional behaviour from an agent. The agency belongs to the company and is managed on behalf of the company by your nominated licensee (sales person). If things are not unfolding as you expected, you can call people to account exercising a high degree of authority.

Full article can be read in the real estate section at localmatters.co.nz

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22 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 23 PROPERT Y FEATURE

best on the block

Obstacles to industry may have serious repercussions Regulatory hurdles and a shortage of industrial sites could hinder Warkworth’s future, according to MS Engineering’s managing director Hugh Harvey, whose company recently snapped up one of few such locations that remain in the area.

It now has 4500sqm in the old PMP Print building, accessed from Morrison Rd, more than quadrupling the space it occupied in Glenmore Drive for the past 28 years, and the move has already improved its ability to handle major jobs simultaneously.

Hugh says the company has always done big work, including 150 tonnes of structural steel for Mitre 10 Mega, but managing such large projects in a confined space was challenging and unsustainable as it meant everyone had to work on the same thing at once. With expansion of its fabrication area, from about 180sqm to 1500sqm, that’s no longer the case.

“We’ve previously been unable to chase bigger work, but now it’s starting to chase us because we’ve got the capacity. At the moment we’ve got six to eight significant jobs on the go.”

Hugh credits the company’s broad-based business model for seeing it safely through the recession, despite the demise of some of its key clients.

As well as fabrication, the company includes a manual machine shop, computer-controlled CNC machining centres, a stand-alone aluminium and stainless steel fabrication department, supplies and services hydraulic hoses and fittings, and sells gas. It also manages whole projects encompassing elements like civil engineering and construction.

Around 25 permanent staff are supplemented by contractors employed on a project basis, which has

• • • •

seen the team increase to as many as 50 at times in the last year. However, Hugh says to achieve levels of local job growth necessary in the district, Council must act to make industrial land more accessible.

“The Council has to do things to attract industry that’s going to employ more people.

“There’s no Irwins in Wellsford, there’s no PMP Times in Warkworth - our two biggest employers are gone – that’s a big void that’s got to be filled.”

He can think of only a few industrial sites in Gumfield Drive capable of attracting the type of large-scale businesses required and says Council needs to address both zoning and the red tape required for industry to operate.

Though he found Council people helpful during his move, he says the fact that he had to involve them at all was “a bit of a shame”.

“There should be a whole lot less bureaucracy. I thought that’s what Rodney Hide’s review of the Resource Management Act was all about, but either it hasn’t filtered through yet or it must have been jolly hard work in the past.”

After a lifetime in the district, Hugh is committed to Warkworth, although he says much of the company’s work is from Auckland and further afield, which means it could easily have relocated to Silverdale or elsewhere.

While good road links mean Warkworth businesses are currently just half an hour from Auckland, he warns that could change.

“If Council doesn’t address this, the road to Auckland is not going to be satisfactory because there’s going to be so many people commuting.”

MS Engineering’s Hugh Harvey has moved to bigger premises and says more major industry is necessary to create local jobs.

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24 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 PROPERT Y FEATURE

best on the block

Technology transforms real estate market The face of real estate is changing as technology impacts on the interface that buyers, sellers and agents have with properties and each other, and the pace of that change is increasing.

Websites, photo slideshows and links to in-depth property and market information have replaced static photos in real estate windows. Buyers expect to link to contact details at the click of a button, communicate instantly and, increasingly, to carry all of this in the palm of their hands.

Official online media company of the NZ real estate industry, Realestate. co.nz Ltd is a dominant force in the field, providing websites targeting all the main categories of real estate.

Established in 2005, it shows listings of more than 1140 real estate offices and, according to Nielsen Online, draws a total viewing audience of more than 400,000 visitors a month from NZ and overseas.

At any one time, more than 110,000 listings are featured representing more than 93 percent of all listings currently marketed by licensed real estate professionals (operating under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008).

Despite its success online, Realestate. co.nz chief executive Alistair Helm says the extent and speed of uptake of their mobile app, launched just 15 months

Realestate.co.nz Alistair Helm.

chief

executive

ago for the iPhone and last October for Androids, has been surprising, now attracting 85,000 visits a month.

He notes online in The Unconditional Blog that a staggering one-in-five property hunters use a mobile device to find property information – 22 percent of all views of listings on realestate.co.nz were undertaken on the go, from a mobile device. That’s a massive increase from just eight percent a year ago.

Alistair says app usage is heavily skewed to the weekend, when people are out looking at open homes and want to find out more about the neighbourhood they’re in.

“There are plenty of similar apps overseas, but ours is the only one in New Zealand that captures the geolocational components of listings and puts them on maps in the palm of your hand. When you move around, the map moves and your location moves.

It’s totally intuitive. It’s like users can hover above their suburb and see what else is around them.”

Another popular advance is the availability of embedded floor plans on the website, including interactive ones which allow users to hover over a room and see different photos from different angles.

Alistair says the rapid growth of technology has challenged agents, who have had to adjust from traditional, closely cultivated relationships, to a more anonymous style of communication.

However, they’ve recently embraced the change, putting their online presence first, including more photos and much more detailed property information, rather than treating it as an afterthought, he says.

“Six years ago an average listing had maybe two to three photos, now the average is upwards of 20.”

The result is time savings for buyers, who can make more refined judgements about where they want to spend their

A geo-locational mobile app is capturing nearly a quarter of listing views.

time, and better information for sellers.

It also means greater efficiency for agents, filtering out enquiries from “tyre kickers” and enabling them to market online, handle enquiries through email and text, and have more time for “negotiating, facilitating, moving the process on and representing the client”.

While the industry still considers a high street presence as important to maintain brand awareness and local connections in a competitive market place, the shopfront’s place in advertising property has almost disappeared.

“There aren’t people standing outside real estate offices looking at property these days. They do that at home and in the office and from a café.”

While agents may get fewer calls, they’re likely to be of better quality, from people who have already done their research, he says.

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 25 PROPERT Y FEATURE

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Auctions can obtain premium price, but need commitment

By Pete Taylor, Barfoot & Thompson Warkworth

When is putting my house up for auction a better option?

There is often a perception that an auction will only devalue a property or that the auction process will cost a small fortune.

While these are very valid concerns, and many people often feel the same way, it’s probably helpful to understand that the term ‘auction’ is simply a process designed to achieve a fair market value at a level acceptable to the vendor and the purchaser.

We find most purchasers are very comfortable bidding in an open forum to a level they are comfortable with.

When there is real competitive bidding, the purchasers can choose whether or not to bid beyond their ideal purchase price and pay a premium in order to own the property.

This environment is created by an open process and is one of the few ways of obtaining a true premium price, regardless of initial expectations, whether they are high or low. However, this process also demands a higher level of expertise and energy by the salesperson.

In short, if you are considering

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going to auction, choose the right agent to represent you. No matter what company they are from, ensure everyone who is likely to come into contact with ‘your’ buyer, is trained to a level that you are happy with. This includes when buyers phone or walk into your chosen real estate office.

The other common concern that an auction will cost a small fortune is also valid but possibly fuelled by a history of other experiences and misconceptions.

As with selling anything, especially property, it is important to be exposed to as many interested parties as possible.

Although we can give you advice on what is working best in the current market at a particular time, this level of exposure is absolutely a personal choice.

Ideally, this should be the same whether you are selling at a price or any other process such as an auction and should not be confused with the process itself.

I believe all properties are worthy of the benefits of going to auction. However, not all owners are ready to seriously commit to selling at a particular time.

Full article can be read in the real estate section at localmatters.co.nz

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26 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 PROPERT Y FEATURE

best on the block

Marketing property offers choice, so get the right advice

By Mark Macky, Bayleys in the North

What’s the best thing I can do to help my house sell?

Presentation of a property is important.

If you want the best possible price you want purchasers to think that they are buying a property that has been well cared for and that won’t require a significant amount of maintenance immediately. Make sure the gutters are clean and do a good waterblast if you can. Clean windows are good too! Inside the house, de-clutter and put things into storage – it’s amazing how it can make a difference with the presentation of a property.

Probably the most important thing you can do to help get your house sold is to choose the right agent to work with. They should be your partner in the process and provide good feedback on how to best present your property, the best way to market and promote it and, very importantly, provide you detailed reports on who has inspected your property and what their feedback is.

A property is at its most saleable in the first four to six weeks that it is on the market. For this reason, make sure you present it really well from the start and have great photography. Over-pricing a property at the start can mean you miss the best buyers, and the

property can languish on the market for months. Get written appraisals from agents, compare your property with what is on the market currently and what has sold (as properties that have been on the market for two years and not sold don’t always give you the best price indication), and set a realistic price for it. It is terrible to see a property sit on the market for two years unsold, and then in desperation the vendors finally drop the price to less than what they could have sold for more than two years ago

When is putting the house up for auction a better option?

Auctions are a good method of sale for creating interest and putting a deadline on purchasers to make a decision. As long as your property doesn’t have any major fish-hooks – consent issues or no CCC – and if it is likely to attract more than one buyer then the auction method of sale can be a great way to get a result.

While not all properties sell under the hammer, auctions generate strong interest and focus the buyers on the property. The vast majority of auctions do sell either at auction or within a week or two. The great thing with an

auction is that if one or two buyers really fall in love with the property the vendors can achieve a great price.

Not all companies run auctions the same way, so make sure you ask the agent for details so that you understand the process before you commit to it.

Mark Macky says a recent example of a good auction outcome was this Christian Bay property. It had five bidders on it and two parties kept bidding and drove the price up. It finally sold for $1.065m – not bad for a very original bach one back from the water.

Living in Mahurangi East? There is a new team in town!

Ben Kloppers 021 425 599

Bayleys in the North have just opened a new office at 334 Mahurangi East Road and we are growing our business quickly.

Boyd Gunn 021 206 8337

Shailenne Parkes 021 117 9142

If you are thinking of selling, give the Bayleys team a call – they outline the Bayleys approach, and what they can do for you.

09 425 7640

Mackys Real Estate Ltd Licensed under the REA Act 2008

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 27 PROPERT Y FEATURE

best on the block

Large Snells land parcel up for sale Land sales falter on

Council uncertainty

One of the last substantial land holdings suitable for residential development on the Mahurangi East peninsula is on the market. The 6.44 hectare property runs along Mahurangi East Road, at Snells Beach, and adjoins the Cabra residential development. Barfoot & Thompson commercial broker Barry Masefield says the present owners have held the property since 1987. “We will be targeting overseas and New Zealand development companies including retirement home operators and land bankers, and are expecting strong interest,” he says. Half the property is zoned medium intensity residential, while the remainder is East Coast rural. “It’s an exciting block because of its size and proximity to the shops.”

We’re proud to represent real estate in the North - it’s a part of the world we love. With seven offices throughout the area and over 55 salespeople, our commitment to the property market and our overall focus on doing things better has helped us to secure the position of market leader in our region. We may be big but it starts with family; we’re proud New Zealander’s and our business is family owned. To find out how we can achieve big results for you, call us today or visit us at www.bayleys.co.nz

For the past two years, Mike Robb and his family have been attempting to sell two prime commercial freehold sites in Hamatana Road, Snells Beach.

The properties were inherited through a relative, the late Ashley Blunden. Mike, who lives in Arrowtown, says the sales were designed to generate some cash flow, but despite what he considered fair selling prices – $575,000 for the 5475sqm site and $210,000 for the separate 1317sqm parcel – they failed to attract a buyer.

“I think a major stumbling block was the paper road that runs along the boundary,” he says. “It creates a lot of uncertainty. “Several people were interested in the land, but without the surety of knowing whether that road would go through and what restrictions might be imposed along it, people were unwilling to commit.

“Council needs to get on to the project, because it is a major hurdle to getting businesses to commit to that area.”

The land falls within the Special 20 (Mahurangi East Seaside Village Centre) Zone, which envisages the development of new compact facilities around the existing Mahurangi East commercial area.

The special zone specifically encourages the use of adjoining land, running behind the shopping centre, rather than extending activities along the frontage of Mahurangi East Road.

Although Mike says the smaller of the two blocks is now almost “98 percent” sold, his family is re-considering what it might do with the remaining land.

“There’s very little good quality factory space around so one option might be to develop the land ourselves.”

Call one of our Directors today Mark Macky 021 772 711 Kirsty Stevenson 021 867 454 Mackys Real Estate Ltd, Licensed Under REA Act 2008

28 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 PROPERT Y FEATURE

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Colour images detect hidden building imperfections Home buyers in the Kaipara/Mahurangi area have a new service at their disposal which can identify if a house has any moisture issues and what level of insulation has been installed.

Infra-Tech NZ managing director Sven Oltersdorf, based in Mangawhai, says his pre-purchase house inspections are carried out using an infrared camera which connects to a laptop for easy reporting including images.

He says just like a vehicle warrantof-fitness or boat survey, the infrared inspection can identify existing and potential problems.

“The different colours in the images represent temperature variations,” he says. “Some may be only minor and have no bearing on the structural integrity of the house. However, others can pinpoint leaks and moisture Sven Oltersdorf build-up. The area may not necessarily Sven, a German trained engineer, says be damaged, but some timely repairs similar technology has been used in could save the homeowner thousands the motoring industry overseas for of dollars down the track. years. It has many applications and “The other benefit is knowing where can be used to identify wear and tear insulation may be missing in walls on bearings in large mechanical and and ceilings without having to make engineering plant and equipment. a physical inspection, which can be Sven also supports vets by using almost impossible in some houses. A themography when clients wish to do poorly insulated house can cost the a pre-purchase examination to identify homeowner hundreds of dollars a year any possible injuries or infections in so it makes sense to get it checked.” horse joints.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 29 PROPERT Y FEATURE

best on the block

Prestige Real Estate International Ltd Now open in Matakana/Omaha (Corner Omaha Flats Road & Takatu Road)

Warkworth ID 5620

The Ellerslie Events Centre was the venue for the first Harcourts Continuing Education Session, which is now a requirement for all licensed real estate agents.

Agents head back to school About 300 agents attended the first Harcourts Continuing Education Session held in Auckland recently.

Under the new Real Estate Agents to deliver the best level of service we Authority (REAA) practice rule, all possibly can.” agents holding real estate licenses are The verifiable continuing education required to do 20 hours of verifiable topic this year is Professional Conduct continuing education annually. and Client Care Rules, with a focus on Harcourts Group chief Hayden misconduct and misrepresentation.

Duncan says the industry is tightening Harcourts has been approved by the up on regulation and the accountability REAA as an official training provider. of those practising real estate.

“This type of regulation and its Anyone with a real estate licence now requirements will ultimately provide needs to demonstrate that they have buyers and sellers with more peace of completed the continuing education mind,” he says. “The REAA has had an requirements in order to renew their average of 60 concerns raised over the licence from 2013 onwards. last seven months and no-one in the The REAA will be auditing about five industry likes to hear of a complaint. percent of renewing licensees each “Here at Harcourts, we believe that year. Licensees will need to provide a attending training sessions, rather Certificate of Completion and a log of than doing it online, reinforces the the details of what they did to complete message that we are in this business the continuing education requirement.

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Mobile 021 344 125 A/Hours 09 425 7553 Bus 09 489 2699 john@prestigerealty.co.nz John Angus is one of the most well respected real estate professionals in the region and says “Pop in anytime for a chat, there is always a hot/cold beverage waiting for you and knowledge about the region to assist you in either buying or selling”

call me on 021 344 125.

This is what his clients say: “Thank you, your professional approach in securing us the best possible price during an emotional negotiation process leaves us no doubt that we chose the right professional in the sale and marketing of our property. We have no hesitation in recommending John!” - Kevin and Glenis

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30 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

localbusiness

Rebounding market adds confidence Protecting privacy to Bayleys move to Mahurangi East in a modern world A recovery in real estate sales volumes, coupled with a desire to better serve customers, has prompted Bayleys in the North to open an office on the Mahurangi East peninsula, at Snells Beach.

Company director Mark Macky says the market is clearly recovering and we are through the worst of the real estate cycle. This is best illustrated in the 27 unconditional sales that were achieved in the Snells/ Algies market in the Jan-Mar quarter in 2012 versus only 17 sales in the same period for last year.

Mark says Bayleys specialises in selling the best homes at all price points, which means anything from $300,000 to $3 million.

“The peninsula remains relatively under-valued,” he says. “Half a million dollars in Auckland or Orewa buys very little, but in the Snells Beach/Algies Bay area you can get a very tidy property with an enviable quality of life – it’s a pretty compelling proposition which will become increasingly attractive to families and retirees looking to sell up further south and have something left over to put in the bank.”

Pictured at Bayley’s new Mahurangi East office are Marks says while the Sandspit marina project Ben Kloppers (back, left) and Boyd Gunn. Front, is likely to boost interest in the market from Shailenne Parkes and Mark Macky. holidaymakers, the extension of the motorway from Although the office is new, the staff based there has Puhoi to Warkworth will be critical to underwriting a wealth of experience. Ben Kloppers and Shailenne a sustained real estate recovery in the north.

Parkes both live in the area and have each worked in “The peninsula has everything going for it – real estate for the past nine years. Agent Boyd Gunn sensational views, good schools, and excellent has moved from South Head specifically to join the restaurants, cafes and shops – but we need the new local office and also has nine years experience. motorway to happen sooner rather than later.”

Mark says the office will give vendors on the peninsula The Mahurangi East office is the franchise’s eighth, with a much higher standard of marketing, with professional the others located at Mangawhai, Omaha, Warkworth, photography that presents their properties in the best Orewa, Whangaparaoa and two in Whangarei. possible light.

Winter Warmer Sale

25

%

OFF

Privacy Awareness Week runs from April 29 to May 5 and is all about promoting awareness of privacy rights and responsibilities in the community. In these times when online social networking and cloud computing is part of everyday life, it’s important to protect personal information. Here’s some advice: yy Before giving out any personal information, ask what it will be used for and who will see it. yy Ask to see any personal information held about you. If it’s wrong, ask for it to be corrected. yy Keep kids safe online by encouraging them to talk about what they’re doing. yy Rip up personal letters and bills, or use a shedder before placing them in the rubbish. yy Limit the risk of buying online by using a separate, low-limit credit card. yy Use a nickname if posting personal information on the Internet. yy Check security procedures in Internet cafés and make sure to log out before leaving.

Source: privacy.org.nz

Student allowance threshold held

There will be no increase to the student allowance parental income threshold this year. Student allowance rates and student loans living costs were increased by 1.77 percent on April 1, as part of the 2012 Annual General Adjustment. Tertiary education minister Steven Joyce says freezing the threshold at current levels is the first step in curbing the major expenditure increase in student allowances over the last few years.

Living in Mahurangi East? There is a new team in town!

Bayleys in the North have just opened a new growing our business quickly.

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If you are thinking of selling, give the Bayleys team a call - they will outline the Bayleys approach, and what they can do for you.

Shailenne Parkes 021 117 9142 09 425 7640

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 31

localbusiness INTR ODUCING n

CHANGING PLACES n

The largest supplier of specialist hydraulics services and parts in Northland has set up a mobile 24/7 hose and fitting service in Warkworth.

Based in Whangarei, McRaes Hydraulics Engineering has more than 50 years experience in the trade, providing a number of services from system design, sales, service and installation, to industrial engineering and marine engineering.

The new mobile hose and fitting service will be run by Kevin Jones, who has 12 years experience in the trade and has worked for McRaes as a hose and fitting service technician for the past five years.

He moved to Matakana last year to be closer to family and found there was a need for this type of service in the area.

“There isn’t much competition for us in Rodney,” he says.

“You’d be surprised how many things depend on hydraulics these days. My truck is a fully operational workshop and can repair most hose and fittings breakdowns on the spot, anywhere from the Auckland Harbour Bridge to Wellsford.”

McRaes chief executive Dennis Maconaghie says their services are expanding to cater to a number of national and international customers.

“McRaes is a key sub-contractor providing hydraulic and mechanical

A forced move from the Town Hall has led the Celebration Centre to relocate to the Warkworth Methodist Church Hall, Hexham St, and a new Friday night ministry from April 27 at 6.30pm.

Church leaders Ben and Natalie Longwell are grateful to the Methodist minister for allowing another church group to share the space, a factor that helped to inspire their new approach.

“Obviously the church was already being used on Sundays, so we thought, why not change it completely and meet on a Friday evening? We feel like it’s a strategy from God that will bring change to our group and get attention from the community, enabling people to join in and still keep their weekend free,” says Ben. Plans include a café-style meeting on the first Friday of each month, getting people together for food and fellowship. Ben says services are generally around an hour long and involve a relaxed time of prayer and singing combined with a brief sermon featuring reference to scripture in a down-to-earth context that relates to people’s everyday lives.

Smaller groups also meet at other times in people’s homes around the district.

The Celebration Centre congregation currently includes about 40 people of all ages from babies to grandparents

McRaes Hydraulics Engineering

12

Kevin Jones

management in the reconstruction of a former Royal Dutch Navy Frigate, originally built in 1978, into one of the world’s largest mega-yachts, the Swift 141,” he says.

“This mega-yacht is the size of oneand-a-half football fields and is heavily reliant on hydraulics. Up to 20 of our staff have lived in Abu Dhabi for the last two years and will be there for another six months.”

Dennis says there are a number of reasons why hydraulics are used instead of electricity or mechanical power including safety issues and the ease of getting lots of power directly to where it is needed.

“Hydraulics can move mountains.”

The Celebration Centre

Ben and Natalie Longwell and their son Colt.

and has recently attracted a number of newcomers including young people looking for a new style of worship.

Since leaving the town hall at the end of last year the group has been meeting at the neighbouring Bridge Clubrooms and enjoying an informal structure, combining its ministry with field trips, like a visit to Ben’s horse training facility for a lesson on the spiritual parallels in horse training; and practical projects, from food parcels to house repairs, to help people in need.

Ben says they hope to continue to offer help to others with no other agenda than providing a practical demonstration of what they preach.

32 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

localentertainment

Work of inspiration underscores concert Olivier Messiaen’s Quartet for the End of Time, a work first heard in the German prisoner of war camp Stalag 8A in the winter of 1941, forms the basis of a concert programme in Warkworth on April 28.

The work will be performed by the Akoka Quartet, an ensemble comprising four young New Zealanders who have been studying and performing in the UK and Europe. Warkworth is one of five venues on their northern tour.

Quartet for the End of Time was written for instruments and players Messiaen found among his fellow camp inmates. Henri Akoka, from whom this ensemble takes its name, was the Algerian Jewish clarinettist who played with Messiaen on the night of the work’s premiere.

When a music-loving German guard released Messiaen and two other French musicians, Akoka was left behind. However, he later escaped and went on to a career as a character actor.

Clarinettist Sarah Masters, who has performed in the UK’s top The Akako Quartet – violinist Simeon Broom, pianist Rachel Church, cellist professional orchestras including Victoria Simonsen and clarinettist, Sarah Masters. the Hallé Orchestra and the BBC “We have had wonderful responses The concert, in the Mahurangi Philharmonic, says Messiaen’s Quartet from audiences in the UK in our recent College Auditorium, is presented for the End of Time is an astounding concerts and we can’t wait to perform by the Warkworth Music Society in association with Chamber Music NZ. this work again in New Zealand.” work with a remarkable history.

“Every time we perform it, I am The programme will also include Tickets, available at the door, are $25 reminded of how music has an incredible Milhaud’s Suite for Violin, Clarinet for adults and free for students. The ability to inspire, excite, mesmerise and and Piano Opus 157b and Faure’s concert starts at 7.30pm.

Info: Phone 425 7313. take you to another place,” she says. Piano trio in D Minor Opus 120.

Briefs Show seeks stall holders After a successful event last year the Wellsford Country Show will be back in November. Held at Centennial Park Showgrounds, organisers are looking for people interested in holding trade stands, craft and market stalls, food outlets, entertainment, displays, vintage and classic cars, and animal displays. Sponsorship options are available for businesses wanting to support the show, which is run by volunteers. Info: Lynette Gubb 021 116 8437 (entertainment), Jo Wood 021 377 300 (stallholders).

Maungaturoto fundraiser A Quiz Night will be held at the Maungaturoto Community Centennial Hall on Saturday April 28, starting at 7pm. The cost is $10 per person and there’s a maximum of six people per team. The event is a fundraiser to help save the hall. There will be a cash bar, raffles and prizes.

Info: Nyree on 09 431 8462.

Comedy showcase Top international comedians Jason John Whitehead and Urzila Carlson will perform at the Leigh Sawmill Café on April 26, on stage from 9pm. Tickets are $25. Info: sawmillcafe.co.nz

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 33

localentertainment

Bach meets Cammell in the Warkworth Go for Baroque concert.

Singers capture baroque tradition Around 300 people attended last year’s Children’s Day event in Wellsford.

Action packed day for kids There will be inflatable activities galore at this year’s Children’s Day event at Wellsford Centennial Park, on April 29.

From bouncy castles to water walkers Last year they raised around $1700. and an inflatable football pitch, Coordinator Julie Hawkes says she is children of all ages are being invited to hoping to raise double that amount this year. get in on the action.

Starting at 1pm, other activities include “All funds will go towards the pony rides, face painting, obstacle courses Centennial Park Sport Complex,” she and a kickboxing demonstration. One says. “As well as being a fundraiser, ticket allows the holder to participate the aim is to offer a local, inexpensive in 10 games/activities and the ticket can event for families to attend. We had also be put in the draw for a range of some great feedback last year from family orientated prizes such as horse people who said that it helped raise community morale.” treks and a weekend away.

Organised by the Wellsford District Julie says it is not too late if any local Sport and Recreation Collective, this businesses would like to sponsor a family is the second Children’s Day event. orientated prize for the ticket draw.

Music lovers, who are unfamiliar with baroque, have a treat in store for them next month.

Kowhai Singers will present the concert Go for Baroque at Mahurangi College Auditorium on Saturday May 5.

Both the full choir of about 40 members and the chamber choir of 12 voices will be directed by Peter Cammell.

The programme will include Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring, Sheep May Safely Graze, Almighty and Everlasting God and many more.

Committee member Jocelyn Brough says a quirky version of excerpts from Handel’s Messiah, composed by Carl Strommen, a leading American composer of instrumental and vocal music, is guaranteed to bring a smile.

Some of the better known composers of Baroque are Vivaldi, Bach, Handel,

Scarlatti, Byrd and Victoria.

Baroque music is a style of Western music extending from about 1600 to 1750, bridging the Renaissance and Classical eras. It expresses order – the fundamental order of the universe – yet is always lively and tuneful. Many musical terms and concepts from the Baroque era are still in use today.

Maggie says increasingly, people are seeking to return to music for the mind; music combining beauty with the order of an underlying architecture and structure. As a result, there has been a resurgence of interest in the baroque.

Tickets are available from Warkworth i-Site or at the door. The concert starts at 7.30pm.

Info: Phone Maggie on 425 6365 or Jocelyn on 425 5495.

The

PA S S E N G E R S E RV I C E

Your last chance to book your

Northland Holidays For detailed itinerary phone 09 423 7416 leabourns@xtra.co.nz • www.leabourn.co.nz

Warkworth Music Society presents

Akoka Quartet

Kowhai Singers present

Go For Baroque at Mahurangi College Auditorium

Sarah Masters - Clarinet • Simeon Broom - Violin Victoria Simonsen - Cello • Rachel Church - Piano

Saturday 5 May 2012, 7.30pm

These prize winning young New Zealanders return home to perfom Messiaen’s astounding ‘Quartet for the End of Time’ and works by Milhaud & Fauré Saturday 28 April at 7.30pm, Mahurangi College Hall, Warkworth

Tickets $20 – available from choir members, Warkworth i-SITE or at the door – Complimentary wine and cheese included –

Tickets at door Adults $25 STUDENTS FREE • Info: Ph 425-7313

34 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

localentertainment

Kiwi hit makers revisit classics

Artists, from left, Cassie Cross, Ursula Cranmer and Graham Braddock with work featured in an Easter-themed exhibition.

Estuary exhibition explores quiet art of contemplation

An exhibition that offers a chance for quiet contemplation, put together by a group of local Christian artists, is currently on show at Estuary Arts in Orewa.

Organiser and principal artist, Graham, who has been a professional Graham Braddock, who has around artist for 35 years, says the show is not 40 pieces in the exhibition, says the “heavily religious”, but one that any idea is to inspire, with work that member of the public can relate to and enjoy. reflects a positive world view.

A total of 11 other artists have “We wanted to have an exhibition that contributed to the O4eyes2C show. would connect people with our roots They are Ian Anderson, Natalie and as a society and reflect the importance Neil Fuge, Bob Mitchener, Joan of Easter as the highlight of the Braddock, Russell and Jeanette Kells, Christian calendar,” Graham says.

Trevor Dowman, Ursula Cranmer, The O4eyes2C exhibition runs until April 29.

Cassie Cross and Linda Stevenson.

Two iconic Kiwi musical acts will appear for a one-off afternoon of Kiwi classics indoors at Ascension Wine Estate on Sunday afternoon April 29.

Mark Williams was one of the biggest recording sensations of the 70s with hits like Yesterday Was Just the Beginning of My Life and Show No Mercy. For the last seven years he has fronted Dragon, rocking out the bands classics which will also be performed at Ascension.

Reggae vocal group Herbs will deliver an energetic acoustic set of their hits as Herbs Unplugged. With a catalogue including Sensitive to a Smile, Listen and French Letter, plus their work with Dave Dobbyn (Slice of Heaven), Tim Finn (Parihaka) and Annie Crummer (See What Love Can Do), there will be no shortage of classy ammunition for the band.

The Herbs Unplugged line-up includes Dilworth Karaka and Tama Lundon, joined on stage by brothers Ben and

The True Legends of NZ country music and television show’s original stars – Gray Bartlett, Eddie Low, Brendan Dugan, and Jodi Vaughan and their All Star Band – return to Ascension Wine Estate Matakana on Saturday June 18. While Bartlett, Low, Dugan and Vaughan perform their own music, the show is centred around the songs of four of the world’s country music legends – Eddie Low sings Roy Orbison, Brendan Dugan performs the music of Johnny Cash, Jodi Vaughan sings Dolly Parton’s hits and Gray Bartlett plays Chet Atkins. Last year, the event sold out.

TV ’s Original Country Music Stars

Plays Chet Atkins

EDDIE LOW

JODI VAUGHAN

Sings Roy Orbison

Tau Ratima from their band Localized.

Karaka was a foundation member of Herbs back in 1980 and Lundon has been a permanent fixture since 1984.

Legends do it again

TRUE LEGENDS GRAY BARTLETT

Herbs Unplugged and Mark Williams will play in Matakana on April 29.

Sings Dolly Parton

BRENDAN DUGAN

Sings Johnny Cash

For tickets and special package

phone (09) 422-9601 ext 2 or email cellardoor@AscensionWine.co.nz Full details at www.AscensionWine.co.nz

Saturday May 5th

Doors open 7pm Show starts 8pm and concludes around 10.30pm Hear Eddie Low sing Roy Orbison, Brendan Dugan sing Johnny Cash, Jodi Vaughan sing Dolly Parton, and Gray Bartlett play Chet Atkins... plus they will all sing and play their own hits!

Tickets $60

Seated general admission

Special Package $99

(Show + 2 course pre-show dinner from 6pm) includes FREE upgrade to reserved seating area for show – limited availability –

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 35

localentertainment

Anzac Day Wednesday 25 April Warkworth

6am dawn parade, starts at the band rotunda, Church Hill Road, followed by tea and biscuits at the RSA. Civic Parade starts at 10.30am at the band rotunda, finishing at the RSA for lunch, with entertainment from the Mahurangi College Kapa Haka group from 1pm. The Warkworth RSA is holding a number of ANZAC events from April 20 to 29. Events include screening of World War II documentaries and war-themed comedies, friendly darts and pool tournaments, bowls and live music.

Matakohe There will be a combined service of Paparoa Returned Servicemen’s Association and The Kauri Museum.

Starting at 10.30am with fall in at the Matakohe War Memorial Hall. The march will halt at the Cemetery Flag where poppy detail will take place on Gordon Coates’ grave, the flag will be lowered and the Last Post sounded.

The march will continue to the Gun Memorial for wreath-laying by schools, then to the War Memorial Hall for further wreath-laying following which it will continue into the Volunteers Hall of the Museum. A service will then be held during which family or friends will have the opportunity to lay flowers or poppies in the display near photographs of their loved ones. After the service a cup of tea will be served in the Matakohe War Memorial Hall provided by the Committee of the Friends of the Museum and the Paparoa Returned Servicemen’s Association.

Wellsford

Leigh

Assemble outside 22 Harbour View Road, Leigh at 10.50am, march to Leigh Cemetery at 11am for service and laying of wreaths. Weather option is the Leigh Hall. Bring a plate for refreshments following the service.

Info: Sheryl Corbett 422 6001 or Marion Ross 422 6996.

Kawau Island

Full Anzac Day ceremony held at Kawau Island Yacht Club at 12 noon (or later if ferry arrives late).

All welcome. Refreshments will be available at the club afterwards. Info: 422 8845.

Hakaru

Assemble at 10am, march to flag at 10.30am, followed by service at 11am including guest speakers. Light refreshments follow service. Visitors advised to arrive early as large crowds are expected.

Maungaturoto A Dawn Service will be held at the Lawn Cemetery, View Street, Maungaturoto.

Assemble at 5.45am parade at 6am. The ceremony will be followed by a light breakfast at the RSA. An Anzac brunch will be held from 11am, with an ode reading at 12pm.

Info: Noel Smith 0294 752 601.

6am dawn service at Memorial Park, Port Albert Road, followed by refreshments and a champagne breakfast at the Wellsford RSA. Bookings required.

Phone 423 8870 or 423 8619.

Talent takes Warkworth stage Warkworth’s young Idols turned out in droves for the annual Warkworth Primary School competition. More than 100 children entered the three sections – instrumental, dance and singing. Major prize winners received certificate vouchers from sponsor United Video in Warkworth. The overall Warkworth Idol winner was Emily Martin who sang Count on Me by Bruno Mars. Main prize-winners were: Instrumental – Claire Mattner 1, Kate Niccolls 2 and Halle Gravatt 3. Dance – Kristel Davies and Brandon Lewis 1; Anna Pallister, Hannah Rodger, Caitlin Rouse, Samara Shore and Molly Illingworth 2 equal; Juliette Twhigg, Esther Aruch, Carissa Smith 3. Singing – Emily Martin 1, Lineni Vaotangi 2, Elena Cooper 3.

For upcoming events and entertainment visit our What’s On section at www.localmatters.co.nz

ANZAC Week

We will remember them!

All welcome...all week!

Friday 20th April The 90th Poppy Day Volunteer stations outside Warkworth New World, Harcourts, The Warehouse Snells Beach and The General Store Leigh, from 9am to 4pm. All proceeds stay in the community for the welfare of our Returned Servicemen and their families. Raffles at 5pm followed by the great Country Rock Band “Urban Country”.

WARKWORTH

Monday 23rd to Friday 27th April Movies Three great WW2 DVD Documentaries and War themes comedies. “Spirit of the Railway” and “The Quiet Lions” retells the true story of the Thai/Burma Railway & “The Lost Airmen of Buchenwald” (as recently shown on Prime TV). Plus the war comedies “It ain’t half hot Mum”, “Dad’s Army”, “Allo Allo” showing continuously both days from 11am, upstairs in the library.

Wednesday 25th April ANZAC DAY Dawn Service 6am, followed by 10.30am Commemorative Civic Service. Meet back at the RSA for THE GREAT ANZAC DAY BRUNCH - no charge, with donations welcome to the Christchurch RSA rebuild. Enjoy the Mahurangi College Kapa Haka group entertaining with war favourites and sing-a-long from 1pm.

Thursday 26th April Darts & Pool Introduction to darts and pool. Lessons and a fun tournament from 6pm. Happy hour drinks from 5.30pm.

Friday 27th April Live Band Friday raffles and live band “Tall Order” from 7pm.

No cover charge.

Saturday 28th April Let’s Play Bowls 1pm to 3pm, All welcome to our fun indoor bowls roll up.

Saturday 28th April Showtime - Decades of Comedy Afternoon show and dinner included, Colin Parris and Guy Cater with an amazing show filled with memories, music and mirth.

Three hour show from 3pm and dinner at 6pm, only $30 all inclusive Returned Servicemen complimentary.

Sunday 29th April Warkworth Brass Band Playing “ANZAC” themed tunes from 4pm to 5pm.

Happy hour drinks from 4pm to 5pm.

WARKWORTH RSA 28 Neville Street Phone 09 425 8568

36 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

Pathways

Roof Restoration Specialist

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Waterblasting & Roof Painting Moss Treatments Gutter Cleaning Leak Repairs Concrete & Clay Tiles All Types of Roofing

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Matt Burke 021 422 953

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School auction evening

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Buy them - Redeem them

Do it at Cameron’s

The annual Matakana School Auction evening will be held on July 20 featuring a range of donated items in live and silent auctions. Funds raised from the event will benefit the children of Matakana School and will go towards updating the school’s Information Centre/Library. Doors open at 7pm at the school hall. A ticket includes a complimentary drink on arrival. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the School Office or on the evening.

Solution page 42

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

MTA Gift Cards

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2

As soon as the Matakana Fruitloop fundraiser was cleared up last month, Scott McCallum turned his energies back to the construction of Stage 2 of the Matakana Community Group’s project. The focus now is on providing a walkway/cycleway linking Matakana with the existing pathway between Point Wells and Omaha.

This important new stage is on an easement over private land and, with the enthusiastic support and tolerance of landowners Skip and Jill Whitmore, the earthworks including a stylish switchback have been completed. The basecourse has been laid on the lower-lying parts and this will have an added benefit of providing access for materials for the construction of the boardwalk sections bridging the wetlands. While the rain through the latter part of summer has not helped the development, the fencing is also underway and the wetlands can then be rehabilitated with additional plantings. The top section of this stage can be viewed near the corner of Takatu and Whitmore Roads, and the sheer scale of the pathway leading into the distance gives a sense of solid achievement after what can seem like the months of planning and meetings. It is well worth a look to witness a community project of this nature steadily coming to fruition and delivering on what may have seemed a rather fanciful vision. It also lends credence to the PACER vision of a pathway accessing the communities of East Rodney.

Scott and his chief cohort, Matakana Community Group chairman Neville Johnson, are hoping that this stage will open to the public in June. It will have a major beneficial impact for walkers/cyclists wishing to go between Matakana and Point Wells/Omaha, as there will be just two short, albeit real, danger zones – firstly, from Matakana to Tongue Farm Road and secondly, the 400 metres along Takatu Road. So while care will still be needed even on the other roads, it is most encouraging that seven of the eight or so kilometres of the route will be safely off-road or beside-road or along lower traffic volume Tongue Farm Road and Jones Road. Looking a little further ahead, the projects to take these three sections of Tongue Farm, Jones and Takatu Roads off-road are relatively low cost and straightforward, and may be able to be funded from the existing sources such as Fruitloop 2013 and 2014, along with current levels of contributions from Council.

However, preliminary estimates indicate that to sort out the major danger zone from Matakana to Tongue Farm Road will involve a significant bridge and require a new level of funding. To this end, I have a meeting scheduled with the Rodney Local Board chairman to discuss the formalisation of a councilcommunity partnership to progress the PACER vision.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 37

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Online mapping system gives walkers heads Aquatic nasty up on nation’s back country pathways reappears Around 200 people a day are using the online Walking Access Mapping System (WAMS) launched in July last year and more are being encouraged to try the online service, which identifies thousands of kilometres of unformed accessways.

The system uses geographic signposted, so if it is not clear, information system (GIS) technology walkers should enquire with farmers to provide a view of the legal or surrounding land-owners, who boundaries of public land, which can can also use the system to check if be viewed against topographical maps accessways pass through or alongside their land. or aerial photographs.

It is run by Wellington-based Crown John says, if necessary, signage can be entity the New Zealand Walking Access provided, however, action depends Commission with the help of a network on the support of local councils that of regional field advisors, including ultimately administer the unformed “paper roads”.

Whangarei-based John Gardiner.

Brought up on a farm, John has The commission provides a website, worked in both the Department of brochures and booklets detailing the Lands and Survey and the Department rights both of landowners and of of Conservation and is involved in walkers. keeping people informed about the “If it’s handled responsibly and John Gardiner service and helping to resolve any cooperatively, everybody wins,” John Enhancements, including mobile access issues. He says people interested says. and smartphone functionality, and in walking will find the tool invaluable. Commission corporate services an upgraded user interface, are due “There are 56,000km of unformed manager Helen Barker says land later this year, along with the ability legal roads in NZ and most people are ownership information provided by to download walking tracks and other unaware that the land is theirs to walk the system isn’t readily available to information for use on dedicated on. Some lead to good destinations New Zealanders in any other way. outdoor GPS devices. like patches of bush, coasts, rivers and Despite some initial landowner For more information, or to contact beaches. It’s open to anybody and concerns, the introduction of WAMS John Gardiner for presentations about everybody, the message is just to leap has gone smoothly, and work is WAMS, go to www.walkingaccess. into it and find out where you can walk.” continuing to keep it relevant and govt.nz or see the maps themselves at www.wams.org.nz However, few of the routes are user-friendly, she says.

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A banned aquatic weed that forms dense mats that can double in size in days and pose a drowning risk has been discovered in two home garden ponds in Northland, prompting a warning from biosecurity experts.

Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) was thought to have been officially eradicated from the region. However, Northland Regional Council biosecurity staff have in recent weeks stumbled across the plant in both the Hikurangi area, near Whangarei, and near Okaihau in the Far North District.

In both cases the rapidly-growing pest plant – also known as kariba weed – was found in home garden ponds.

Northland biosecurity officer Sara Brill says salvinia is typically spread by pond or aquarium owners, and is a real threat to lakes and large ponds.

She says it is illegal to sell, propagate or distribute it.

Info: www.nrc.govt.nz/nasties or www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/pests/ salvinia/salvinia-fact-sheet

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38 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

Sudoku the solution 2

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ALPACA FARM OPEN DAY Silverhill Alpacas & Mangawhai Pet Services

are holding a joint open day at 739 Silver Hill Rd, RD4 Wellsford on Sun 6th May 10am- 4pm A huge range of alpacas and alpaca fibre, yarn & knitwear for sale.

09 423 9668 or 09 431 4373 valerie@silverhill.co.nz or dana-k@ubernet.co.nz website: www.silverhill.co.nz phone: email:

ruralrodney

Alpaca encounters encouraged on open day Alpaca farmers nationwide will open their doors to the public on National Alpaca Day on Sunday May 6.

Warkworth’s Kathy Roscoe of Gumtree Gully Alpacas was inspired to try alpacas on her lifestyle block seven years ago, after seeing them on a television show. She was soon hooked and began breeding her own. She now sells offspring, carded fleece and yarn directly from her farm.

Kathy says she chose alpacas because they don’t need dagging or get footrot or flystrike like sheep, and are attractive, intelligent and easy to handle. They are also easy on paddocks, with soft-padded feet that don’t pug the ground like cows and, having only bottom teeth, they nip the grass off just above ground level, letting it come back quickly.

However, they do need to be shorn annually and should be watched for facial eczema if spore counts are high, Kathy Roscoe and her four-year-old son Haydn with one of their much-loved she says. original alpacas, Jim. Easily contained with sheep fencing, they can be stocked at around four where they have proved hardy in a availability in the past saw people paying exorbitant prices for them, but to six an acre depending on pasture wide range of conditions. quality.

Suitable as pets or investments, they sell the market is now much more realistic.

Part of the camelid family, they for anywhere between $500 for a wether “You can still pay a lot for a top class are related to but generally smaller to $200,000 for a top stud male, and alpaca, but an average female is now than llama and come in two breeds, have an average lifespan of 20 years. reasonably priced.” huacaya (wa ky uh) and suri (soo ree), Females can produce a baby, or cria As they are herd animals, most breeders won’t sell a single alpaca to someone both producing a fine luxury fibre. (cree-ah), a year for much of their life.

Native to South America, they were Valerie Bushell, of Silverhill Alpacas unless they already have others. continued next page introduced to New Zealand in 1987 in Wellsford, says limited alpaca

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ruralrodney Alpaca open day Valerie has focused on breeding to produce animals with the best possible fleece, which she sells carded, as yarn and as knitted items through her farm shop.

Softer than merino, with excellent thermal qualities and without the lanolin or potentially irritating barbs of sheep wool, alpaca comes in 22 natural colours, including many nuances of whites, fawns,

from page 38

browns, blacks and greys. This means no dyes are necessary, making it environmentally-friendly and easy to wear, she says.

“Alpacas have ‘personality plus’ and are easily trained, gentle animals.

“People are often concerned that they spit, and they do, but not normally at human beings, unless you really tick them off or happen to get in the line of fire.”

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Allan Harkin launched his boat the Matakana Belle in the Matakana River earlier this month. An afternoon regatta for model boat enthusiasts could become an annual event.

Matakana model launched A handcrafted two-metre motorised model of a Pacific trader boat was launched at the Matakana Wharf on April 1.

Around 80 people, along with half a combination of macrocarpa and cedar dozen dogs and some inquisitive ducks, wood, and is radio controlled. Each turned out to watch the Matakana plank and all the details and fittings are handmade, except for the motor.

Belle make her maiden voyage.

Crafted by local bus driver Allan “The Belle is a motorised version of Harkin, also known as the Mayor of another large model sailing ship I made, Matakana, the vessel was made with the Matakana Lady, which is kept as a no plans or instructions. It is the display piece. It is a hobby I have had for around three years now and I am second boat Allan has designed “off currently working on a sailing scow.” the top of his head”.

The boat was launched without It took 17 months and around 800 incident and Allan says the only hours to build. bubbles to be seen were from the Allan says the model is made from a champagne used to christen the ship.

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Joel Dickson and son Russell put out decoys in preparation for this year’s duck shooting season.

Fish and Game shortens duck hunting season in Auckland A wet summer for most could turn into a silver lining for hunters as they gear up for duck shooting season, which starts on May 5 at 6.30am.

Game Gear’s Joel Dickson says he’s bothered plucking their ducks take looking forward to a great season them to a local homekill-licensed after what’s been “a good summer butcher who can process breasts into for ducks” and expects hunters will gourmet sausages and salamis. be able to redress disappointing duck Sam Ryburn of Warkworth Hunting numbers encountered in some popular and Fishing says there was some areas last year. growth in the numbers of upland However, Auckland/Waikato region game birds shot locally last year and hunters will face a reduced season of the season is looking comparative this six weeks, ending on Sunday June year, while duck numbers appear to be 17 as Fish and Game seeks to boost up slightly. populations by allowing longer While one licence entitles hunters nesting periods, following the reduced to shoot throughout the country, he numbers indicated by 2011 surveys says they should check the supplied and feedback. The Northland region, guidebook for region-specific rules which starts above Wellsford, will have and regulations, including varying the usual eight-week season ending on daily bag limits.

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“Shoot safely, always ask for Joel says hunters should always landowners’ permission, follow the make the most of their catch and rules and everyone will have a good recommends those that can’t be continued next page

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 41

ruralrodney Duck hunting season season,” he says.

The outgoing president of the Wellsford Game Shooters Club, Sam recommends the $20 membership, which he says provides access to more places to shoot and the chance to talk to like-minded hunters. The club currently includes hunters from well beyond Wellsford, from Dargaville to Auckland.

Meanwhile, Canada geese are no longer a licensed game bird, making them open to hunting year round.

Although they aren’t as prevalent

from page 40

as they are further south, Sam says pockets of the geese have popped up in Matakana and quite a few have been found around the mid to lower regions of the Kaipara.

However, Fish and Game deters hunting of the geese during April, which can affect the upcoming game bird season, and during the waterfowl breeding season (normally August– November) which may disturb nesting birds.

Info: Contact Joel or Sam or visit www.fishandgame.org.nz

Get the best from your game The quality of game is directly linked to the way it’s handled and following some simple rules can help get the best gastronomic enjoyment out of the catch.

It’s important to keep game meat cool, wrapping the with so don’t pile birds up, which traps in meat heat. Hang by the head, not the feet, bacon strips, an to keep gut seepage away from the using oven roasting breast meat. bag to keep Process as soon as possible – in our the juices temperate climate a few days is the in.

Cover maximum delay. It always pays to roasting dish with tinfoil is another gut birds promptly, even if they’re option, just remove near the end of plucked later. cooking so the skin gets brown.

When it comes time for cooking, Game is cooked when the juices remember, game meat is lean so can run clear. dry out easily.

Find out more about processing at You can prevent the problem by hunting.fishandgame.org.nz

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42 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

ruralrodney

Gardening with Wendy Schick

www.tumbleweed.net.nz

A quiet achiever Certain fruits evoke childhood memories and among these is the feijoa. The aroma and flavour of fresh feijoas is unbeatable, biting them in half and squeezing out the pulp straight into your mouth, yum! These fruit trees are so easy to grow and will provide you with oodles of fruit late autumn.

Feijoas will grow in most soils, providing good drainage is present. They do have drought tolerant characteristics but require moisture during fruiting season. Feijoas make a fantastic hedge, which will tolerate wind and even coastal conditions. They will also tolerate frost and cold temperatures. Trees will mature to 2m to 3m in height and approximately 1.5-2m wide. Pruning is not essential but a light prune will encourage new growth and as fruit forms on the current season’s growth, it will keep the tree productive. Heavy pruning will reduce flowering and fruiting.

However, when grown as a hedge, feijoa trees respond to trimming.

The trees have a shallow root system, so avoid cultivating around the roots. They are gross-feeders, but relatively slow growing so only require a light application of general garden fertiliser or citrus fertiliser in early spring and again in late summer. It is essential to mulch around trees with compost or any well-rotted organic material in autumn to help retain soil moisture.

Most feijoas available today are grown from cuttings.

Feijoa sellowiana is a seedling form and can take years to produce fruit and is generally inferior in quality. Most feijoa varieties grow best if they can cross-pollinate so it is a good idea to plant at least a couple of different varieties. Feijoas are pollinated by birds – the blackbird and the myna are the major pollinators in New Zealand.

Fruit ripens in late summer through the autumn. If a range of varieties is planted, this will extend the harvest season. Harvest when wind-fallen fruit starts to appear on the ground. When picking, select fruit that is slightly soft to the touch. I find giving the tree a gentle shake will dislodge the ripe ones. Feijoas will ripen a little once picked but are best left on the tree to ripen naturally. Eat straight from the tree by halving the fruit and scooping the flesh out with a teaspoon. Feijoas can be used in juices, muffins and cakes, and can be bottled or preserved, or used for our all-time New Zealand favourite, feijoa and apple crumble.

Autumn Planting

Nature’s best time to plant is now!

Third-placed AgriKidsNZ Tomarata primary’s Tomarata Chicks with Waioneke Primary’s Kiwi Farmers (left) and Kamo Intermediate’s Kamo Alpacas.

Tapora challenger clinches regional Young Farmer title Tapora 26-year-old Katherine Tucker fulfilled her aim of taking the northern region winner’s title in National Bank Young Farmer Contest at Waipu on March 31, beating her nearest rival by just a few points.

The only woman in the 2012 northern dairy farmer who was competing for region event, she now aims to get a the fourth time, although it will be her top placing in the national final in first experience of the nationals.

Dunedin on May 25.

In the AgriKidsNZ competition held Katherine says the competition on the same day, Tomarata Primary’s allwas close throughout and she was girl Tomarata Chicks came third behind uncertain of the outcome until Kamo Intermediate’s Kamo Alpacas and the end. She credits her consistent Waioneke Primary’s Kiwi Farmers, while results and a top mark in the evening teams from Springbank School took questions with giving her the edge first and second in the TeenAg event. All over the other competitors. of the teams are also entitled to attend Experience also played a part for the the May Young Farmers grand final.

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Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 43

Warkworth Vets

Animals with Jon Makin (BVSc)

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Not a 9 to 5 job

Ask any vet what the worst part of the job is and you would probably expect them to say “putting animals to sleep”. Although this is unpleasant, it is a popular misconception.

The worst part of the job, and the main reason vets drop out of the profession, is the after-hours work. It is hard to explain to nine-to-fivers quite what it is like. You have probably encountered a crisis, which gets you out of bed at 3am on an occasion or two, but vets are generally exposed to that crisis (in our practice anyway) once a week and every fourth weekend. And the day after that crisis, we are at work at 8am to face another full day of work. The nearest experience I can relate it to is having a new baby in the house. Only this baby never grows up and is always a poor sleeper.

At 3am, bedside manner does not exist. Bedside manner takes a lot of energy and at 3am all your energy is reserved for the case you have just been called out for.

This can certainly be misconstrued as shortness or even rudeness. I was recently called out to a foaling for one of my favourite clients at 3am. About 15 minutes into my frantic drive to the property – foals don’t last long if problems occur – I was phoned again to say that the foal had been successfully delivered, but could I just wait 10 minutes just in case the foal needs my attention. Had it been 11.30am my reply would have been a peppy little “certainly, madam, and congratulations on the new arrival!” At 3am, a “don’t bother calling unless you need me” certainly lacks bedside manner, but any curtness is unintended. I haven’t been invited back and I can only conclude that my response was misinterpreted.

At 3am, you may discover you horse has broken its leg. I don’t know why you would be checking your horse at 3am, but some people do. It is not your equine physio, massage therapist or remote healing therapist (who doesn’t even have to leave home) who hauls their body out of a warm bed from a deep and muchdeserved slumber, but your local vet. And again, home by 4.30am they are out of bed the next morning to face a whole new day.

In spite of the downsides, after-hours callouts are a necessary part of the job and some of the most rewarding moments of the job occur at 3am. Caesareans, foalings and pig farrowings are middle of the night classics. When you have been doing the job for long enough you learn not to fight the after-hours work, but to accept it as part of the deal and eventually, in a strange sort of way, to even enjoy it.

I must make a small mention of the small degree of suffering endured by the husbands and wives of ‘on call’ vets. An old boss of mine was enjoying a sleep-in one Sunday morning and his wife reached over him to answer the ringing phone. “Hello, vet clinic. What? You say your pig’s itchy? Well, bloody well scratch it then!”

MACKA Y D N CONTRACTING Y

Post Ramming  Slashing  Spraying Haymaking  Topping All types of fencing

Ph/Fax: 423 7339 or 027 495 6674

112N

A AGRICULTURAL & FENCING

Coast to Coast Vets Wellsford Quality vet care for your pets, horses and livestock Our experienced, capable and compassionate team of kiwi vets • Roger Dunn BVSc • Jon Makin BVSc • Campbell Woollams BVSc

18 Neville Street, Warkworth Phone 09 425 8244 4 School Road, Wellsford Phone 09 423 7048 www.warkworthvets.co.nz

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Wellsford

We provide: • Care for all your veterinary needs.

VET CLINIC

• Five dedicated Vets and friendly office staff, who deliver a comprehensive service.

• A Saturday morning clinic.

• An after hours emergency service in Wellsford.

116 Rodney Street, Wellsford (next to the library, opposite McDonalds)

Phone 423 8008

www.vetsonline.co.nz/wellsfordvet

We Can Mow Anything SERVICES:

▪ All residential lawnmowing & lifestyle blocks ▪ Gardening and ground maintenance ▪ Housewashing and water blasting ▪ Section clearing ▪ Landscaping and makeovers ▪ Fencing, retaining walls and decks

Phone for a free quote 0800 276 7726 or email crossco@rocketmail.com

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

44 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE ONLY $48+GST* PER INSERTION

Phone 425 9068 for more information or email your advertisement to localmatters@xtra.co.nz *for a three insertion contract.

COMPOSITE JOINERY Ltd Composite Joinery Ltd 7 Glenmore Drive Warkworth 0941

Phone: 09 425 7510 Fax: 09 422 2011

64 Hamatana Road, Snells Beach

We specialise in: • Vantage Aluminium Joinery • APL | Architectural Series • Metro Series • Internal and External Timber Joinery

sales@compositejoinery.co.nz www.compositejoinery.co.nz

Ph 09 425 5025 • www.autohaus.co.nz

YOUR LOCAL AUTOMOTIVE CENTRE

TV AERIAL & SATELLITE SERVICES

Digital Freeview Satellite

Freeview Sales & Installation TV & FM Aerials

Installation & Repairs

TV • Video • DVD Tuning Additional TV Outlets Phone David Redding 09 422 7227 or 0274 585 457

GAVIN BROUGH Ph 09 425 5495 Mob 0274 766 115

Auto GlAss • Mirrors DesiGner GlAss • GlAzinG

09 431 4999

2/194 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai Heads info@northglass.co.nz • www.northglass.co.nz

Denis 021 945 498 Joel 021 422 592

Foundations • Floors • Drives • Paths • Digger & Truck Hire Concrete Specialists backed by over 30 years experience Established since 1984

RODNEY ALUMINIUM WA O

SS OC I

IO AT

OF

ND

N

WIN D

Producers of top quality aluminium joinery

• New Residential & Architectural Joinery • Replacement Windows • Conservatories • Specialty Units

NE A W Z E AL

MEMBER

p. 425 7367 f. 425 7368 e. rodal@ihug.co.nz www.rodneywindows.weebly.com 74 Hudson Road, PO Box 259, Warkworth

HIAB TRUCK AND PORTABLE SAWMILLING

Local roots mean more

Carpet, Vinyl, Cork, Ceramic Tiles, Wood & Laminate

09 422 2275 21 Glenmore Drive www.flooringxtra.co.nz 146M

David Just Developments Ltd Bathroom and Kitchen renovations Over 25 years experience References available from past clients

David Just • Ph: 0274 753 574 justdevo@farmside.co.nz

• Pressure Wash Down • Water Tank Cleaning

Ben Gardner

• Vacuum Truck Available

Mobile 021 431 493 or 021 778 177

water

& ESIAN SOLWA T Y AR fILTEREd

and Vacuum

WATER

• All Water Needs

0800 638 254 OR 09 422 3700

Phone 09 431 4939 • Swimming Pool Fills

0800 METAL 4 U

• Metal supplies • Landscape supplies • Topsoil • Bark & mulch • Truck hire • Bulk haulage

183 Sandspit Road, Warkworth Phone 0800 638 254 (0800 Metal 4 U)

Household Water Deliveries 0800 747 928 mobile: 027 556 6111

GRANT TORKINGTON 021 138 7206 • Household Water

dens@xtra.co.nz PO Box 193, Warkworth

TANK WATER TESTING We collect samples of your tank or bore water, have them analysed for microbes at an IANZ reg. laboratory.

Our written report explains the results and makes recommendations.

Phone Simon Breeze (09) 422 9345

tankwater@xtra.co.nz | www.tankwatertesting.info

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 45

TRADES TRADES & & SERVICES SERVICES continued continued ... ...

Warkworth Rentals & Property Management Warkworth Rentals & Property Management “Your Investment is Our Investment”

AUTHORISED AGENT AUTHORISED AGENT

Pumps / Water Tanks / Filtration / Treatment Pumps Tanks/ /Pool Filtration Treatment Spa /&Water Pool Shop Valet /Service Spa &Water Pool Shop / Pool Valet Service Blasters / Sprayers Water /Blasters / Sprayers Hose & Fittings Mobile & Workshop Service Hose & Fittings / Mobile & Workshop Service

Good food that’s Gluten Free Good food that’s Gluten Free

18b Glenmore Drive, Warkworth 18b9593 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth 425 • elocinfoods@xtra.co.nz 425 9593 • elocinfoods@xtra.co.nz www.elocinfoods.co.nz www.elocinfoods.co.nz

31 WOODCOCKS RD - WARKWORTH - PH 425 9100 31 WOODCOCKS RD - WARKWORTH - PH 425 9100

Rural Fencing Rural Fencing & Developments &

“Your Investment is Our Investment”

Developments

Mark Sim 021 102 4561 Mark Sim 021 102 4561 tplumber@xtra.co.nz tplumber@xtra.co.nz

TTT Plumbing Limited TTT Plumbing Limited TRIED – TESTED – TRUSTED TRIED – TESTED – TRUSTED

Phone: Ralph Rogers Phone: Ralph Rogers Mobile: 0274 722 744 A/hrs: (09) 431 2938 Mobile: 0274 722 744 A/hrs: (09) 431 2938 Email: ralph.rogers@vodafone.net.nz Email: ralph.rogers@vodafone.net.nz

FROG FROG POOL POOL FARM FARM

There’s a little touch of magic There’s a little touch of magic Pool Farm at Frog

at Frog Pool Farm

Custom Built Kitchens Custom Built Kitchens Matai Furniture Matai Furniture Homeware & Kitchenware Homeware & Kitchenware Leadlight Lamps & Gifts Leadlight Lamps & Gifts Gardenware Gardenware Crystals, Gems & Candles Crystals, Gems & Candles

   

Casual Letting Casual Letting Quarterly Inspections QuarterlyReporting Inspections Prompt Prompt Reporting

Covering Puhoi to Mangawhai Covering Puhoi to Mangawhai Cnr Mill Lane & Elizabeth St, PO Box 332, Warkworth 0941 Cnr Mill Lane Elizabeth St, PO Warkworth P: 09 425&8008 M: 021 497Box 547 332, F: 09 425 88660941 P: 09email: 425 8008 M: 021 497 547 F: 09 425 8866 enquiries@warkworthrentals.co.nz email: enquiries@warkworthrentals.co.nz www.warkworthrentals.co.nz www.warkworthrentals.co.nz

153M

Phone 425 9030 • Dome Valley 5 minutes past Warkworth Phone 425 9030 • Dome Valley 5 minutes past Warkworth

Phone 021 263 8981 twincoastconstruction@gmail.com

twincoastconstruction@gmail.com C O N S T R U C T I O N LTD C O N S T R U C T I O N LTD

THE MAINTENANCE MAN THE MAINTENANCE MAN FREEVIEW & TV INSTALLER FREEVIEW & TV INSTALLER JIM VENTRESS JIM VENTRESS MANAGING DIRECTOR MANAGING DIRECTOR

31 ALBERT ROAD ALBERT ROAD WARKWORTH 31 0910, AUCKLAND WARKWORTH 0910, + 64AUCKLAND 9 422 3725

Citizens Advice Wellsford needsBureau you!!!

Wellsford needs you!!!

We need men and women as volunteers to assist

Wethe need men in and women as volunteers assist people your community and helptofind the people in yourtocommunity and help find solutions their problems. solutions to their problems.

Come and talk to us TODAY! Come and7333 talk • toMon-Fri us TODAY! to 3pm Phone CAB 09 423 10am Phone CAB 09 423 7333 • Mon-Fri 10am to 3pm

www.warkworthmotorcycles.co.nz www.warkworthmotorcycles.co.nz Computer Repairs / Upgrades Computer Repairs / Upgrades  Onsite or takeaway         

Onsite or takeaway Software & hardware Software & hardware Parts & accessories Parts & accessories Virus removal Virus removal Network & printer setup Network & printer setup

 Organic Lamb & Beef Organic Lamb & Beef  FreeRange Pork, Chicken & Eggs  Free Range Pork, Chicken & Eggs

“the difference is in the taste” “the difference in the taste” Weisbuy ... Local ...do you?

We buy ... Local ...do you?

SNELLS BEACH SNELLS BEACH

PHONE PHONE 09 09 425 425 5597 5597

146M

146M

10 Queen Street 10 Queen Street Warkworth Warkworth 09 425 8949 09 425 8949 “Where the grass is “Where grass is alwaysthe greener” always greener”

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Advertise your classifieds and church notices here for only

Advertise yourforclassifi edsorand church notices here for only 30c+GST per word run-ons $6.70 per/cm+GST for boxed adverts.

30c+GST per word for run-ons or $6.70 per/cm+GST for boxed adverts.

ANIMALS ANIMALS

021 25423725 048 + 64 9 422 ventress4js@clear.net.nz 021 2542 048 ventress4js@clear.net.nz

VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERS WANTED WANTED Citizens Advice Bureau

22 Whitaker Road, Warkworth 22 Whitaker Warkworth PhoneRoad, 425 8535 Phone 425 8535 1916 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka 1916 State Highway 1, Kaiwaka Phone 431 2123 Phone 431 2123

No Solution Ph Hayden 0276969230 No Ph Hayden 0276969230 NoSolution Charge haydenbrandon88@gmail.com No Charge haydenbrandon88@gmail.com

153M

 New Homes  New Homes Alterations  Alterations Decks  Decks All Aspects of Building  All Aspects of Building Eric John Qualified Carpenter Eric John Qualified Phone 021 263 8981Carpenter

Wellsford Wellsford

Property Management Property Management Comprehensive Tenant Screening Comprehensive Tenant Screening Commitment to both Landlord & Tenant Commitment to both Landlord & Tenant Competitive Management Rates Competitive Management Rates

& DRAINLAYING & DRAINLAYING

4WD TRACTOR • LOADER 4WDRAMMER TRACTOR••MULCHER LOADER POST POST RAMMER • MULCHER 10T DIGGER • BULLDOZER 10TCONSTRUCTION DIGGER • BULLDOZER ALL & ADVICE ALL CONSTRUCTION & ADVICE 25 YRS EXPERIENCE 25 YRS EXPERIENCE

NZ Made NZ Made Solid Wood Solid Wood

    

For Sale – 14.3hh Mare

7 year chestnut with flaxen mane Forold, Sale – 14.3hh Mare Great all-rounder, nice paces, snaffle mouth, 7 year old, chestnut with flaxen mane 035 1799 confident, bold jump.

Great all-rounder, nicePhone paces,021 snaffle mouth, confident, bold jump. Phone 021 035 1799

FOR LEASE FOR LEASE

WELLSFORD

WELLSFORD PRIME RETAIL SITE MAINSTREET PRIME+RETAIL SITEcommercial MAINSTREET 180sqm basement, lease 09 423 9129 180sqm +Phone basement, commercial lease Phone 09 423 9129

FLIgHTS FLIgHTS

SCENIC FLIgHTS $39, 20 mins; $49, 30 mins. Min. 3 SCENIC FLIgHTS $39, 20 mins; 30 mins.

Min. 3 passengers.

Trial flights $79.

Gift $49, vouchers available. passengers. Trial flights $79. Gift vouchers available. gREAT BARRIER FLIgHTS. Special stopover up gREAT BARRIER FLIgHTS . Special stopover up to 4 hours.

Return $99.

Min. 3 passengers. to 4 hours. Return $99. Min. 3 passengers.

NORTH CAPE FLIgHTS $375 ea. Min 3 passengers.

NORTH CAPE FLIgHTS $375 ea. Min 3 passengers.

Rodney Aero Club Ph 425 8735 Rodney Aero Club Ph425 4255612 8735 or Rod Miller Phone or Rod Miller Phone 425 5612 FOR SALE FOR SALE

RAWLEIgH PRODUCTS available. Phone Patrick RAWLEIgH 425 8851. PRODUCTS available. Phone Patrick 425 8851.

46 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

CLASSIFIED CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING ADVERTISING

Advertise Advertise your your classifieds classifieds and and church church notices notices here here for for only only 30c+GST 30c+GST per per word word for for run-ons run-ons or or $6.70 $6.70 per/cm+GST per/cm+GST for for boxed boxed adverts. adverts.

FOR SALE FREEVIEW AERIAL OR SATELLITE DISH INSTALLATION INSTALLATION Call Call Jim Jim for for DISH an on-site on-site survey survey and and quote. quote. THE THE an MAINTENANCE MAN MAN 422 422 3725 3725 or or 021 021 MAINTENANCE 254 2048.

2048.

254

PUBLIC NOTICES

TRAVEL

AgM MEETINg FOR WARKWORTH DISTRICT PONY PONY CLUB CLUB DISTRICT

WOW 2012 World Of Wearable Arts in Wellington 27 September to 7 October. Call Call us us for for your your flight flight and and October. accommodation packages. packages. Contact Contact accommodation Kelly at at World World Travellers Travellers Warkworth Warkworth Kelly Ph: (09) (09) 425 425 8009 8009 or or email email kelly@ kelly@ Ph: warkworthtravel.co.nz

The Jane Gifford

Warkworth Branch, Branch, 07.05.12, 07.05.12, 7.30pm, 7.30pm, Warkworth Barncompany, Woodcocks Woodcocks Road, Road, Barncompany, Warkworth Warkworth Matakana Branch, 09.05.12, 7.30pm, Matakana Branch, 09.05.12,Room, 7.30pm, Matakana Hall Meeting Matakana Matakana Hall Meeting Room, Matakana Warkworth District, 14.05.12, 7.30pm, Warkworth District, 14.05.12, 7.30pm, Kowhai Craft Rooms, Warkworth Kowhai Craft Rooms, For info contact Birgit Warkworth 021 910 145

$ only 12.50 each available from the Mahurangi Matters Office, available from the 17 Neville Street, Warkworth Mahurangi Matters Office,

BINgO, BINgO, BINgO! Come and join the BINgO, fun, 1st BINgO! Monday Come of month, BINgO, and Upstairs Masonic Lodge, Baxter join the New fun, 1st Monday of month, Street, Warkworth.

7pm.Lodge, Proceeds to Upstairs New Masonic Baxter Warkworth Museum.7pm. Proceeds to Street, Warkworth.

WATER TANK 2000 litre, as new, $450.

WATER TANK 2000 litre, as new, $450.

Phone 09 423 9307.

Phone 09 423 9307.

The Janeon Gifford STory dVd STory on each dVd only $12.50

($1 from every saleWarkworth is donated 17 Neville Street,

the Jane Gifford Trust) ($1tofrom every sale is donated to the Jane Gifford Trust)

FITNESS SHOTOKAN KARATE FITNESSJapan affiliated club, 3rd Dan instructor, supervised by SHOTOKAN JapanSuits affiliated 7th Dan. See KARATE www.skif.co.nz. ages 12 to3rd 60+.

Phone Bob 4225229 forbya club, Dan instructor, supervised free Dan. trial (2 lessons).

An interesting way 7th See www.skif.co.nz.

Suits ages to keep fit.Phone Wednesday 6pm-7.30pm, 12 to 60+.

Bob 4225229 for a Masonic Friday 6pm-7.30pm, free trial (2Hall, lessons).

An interesting way Shoesmith Hall. 6pm-7.30pm, to keep fit.Domain Wednesday

Masonic HALLS Hall, Friday 6pm-7.30pm, FOR HIRE Shoesmith Domain Hall.

PUHOI CENTENNIAL HALL Capacity

200, very reasonable HALLS FOR HIRErates. For further information phone Kathy on PUHOI HALL Capacity 422 0891CENTENNIAL or email puhoi.hall@hiko.co.nz

200, very reasonable rates. For further information phone Kathy on HEALTH SERVICES 422 0891 or email puhoi.hall@hiko.co.nz BOWTECH / BOWEN THERAPY Contact HEALTH Adele 0800 BOWEN 4 U SERVICES (0800 269 364)

BOWTECH BOWEN THERAPY HOME /MAINTENANCE Contact Adele 0800 BOWEN 4 U (0800 269 364)– THE MAINTENANCE HANDYMAN

MAN Your one stop fix-it-man. Phone Jim 422HOME 3725 orMAINTENANCE 021 254 2048.

WATER FILTERS Underbench filters HANDYMAN – THE MAINTENANCE & whole house filtersPhone – Kill MAN Your one Ultra stop violet fix-it-man. and422 remove ecoli/bacteria.

Jim 3725 or 021 254 2048. FREE site visits. Phone Steve 09 945 2282 or visit

www.purewaterservices.co.nz WATER FILTERS Underbench filters & whole house Ultra violet filters – Kill WATER PUMPS Low water FREE pressure? and remove ecoli/bacteria. site Get it sorted. Sales, service and visits.

Phone Steve 09 945 2282 or visit installation. Work guaranteed. Phone www.purewaterservices.co.nz Steve 09 945 2282 or visit www. purewaterservices.co.nz

WATER PUMPS Low water pressure?

Get sorted.

Sales, service and KARLit HALL PLASTERINg 25 years installation. guaranteed.

Phone experience. Work All aspects of stopping.

Steve 09specialist.

945 2282 or visit www.

Covering Ph 0210 424 296. purewaterservices.co.nz MARKETS MUSEUM MARKET 1st KARL HALLSUMMER PLASTERINg 25 years Saturday of Alltheaspects month,of 8am, Old experience. stopping.

Masonic specialist.

Hall, Baxter St, Warkworth.

Covering Ph 0210 424 296.

Enquiries Warkworth 425 8482.

MARKETS

PHOTOgRAPHIC DIgITAL 1st MUSEUM SUMMER &MARKET Saturday of the month, 8am, Old PRESERVE Masonic Hall, YOUR Baxter MEMORIES St, Warkworth.

Videos, slides & old 8mm films Enquiries Warkworth 8482. all on to425 DVD. Ph TeTotara Video (09) 422 5710.

PHOTOgRAPHIC & DIgITAL

PRESERVE YOUR MEMORIES Videos, slides & old 8mm films all on to DVD. Ph TeTotara Video (09) 422 5710.

For info contact Birgit 021 910 145

Warkworth Museum.

KOWHAI ART & CRAFTS OPEN DAY, Warkworth Showgrounds, Friday May 4, KOWHAI ART & CRAFTS OPEN DAY, 10am-1pm. All Welcome.

Warkworth Showgrounds, Friday May 4, 10am-1pm. WARKWORTH All Welcome.

EMBROIDERERS gUILD AgM

WARKWORTH To be held at Shoesmith Hall, EMBROIDERERS gUILD AgM Shoesmith Street, Warkworth at

7.30pm onat26th April 2012.

To be held Shoesmith Hall, Guest speaker: Smith. at Shoesmith Street, Sally Warkworth 7.30pmAll onwelcome.

26th April 2012.

Guest speaker: Sally Smith.

JUMBLE SALE & SAUSAgE SIzzLE All welcome.

TUITION

warkworthtravel.co.nz

INDIA – TAJ AND THE HIMALAYAS

INDIA – TAJ AND THEincluding HIMALAYAS Fully escorted holiday the Fully escorted holiday including the Golden Triangle, Spiritual Rishikesh Golden Triangle, Rishikesh and a Jeep Safari inSpiritual the Himalayas, 15 and a Jeep to Safari in the 15 September 1 Oct 2012Himalayas, from $7,444 pp share twin.

World September to 1 Contact Oct 2012Debbie from $7,444 Travellers Ph: Debbie (09) 425World 8009 pp share Warkworth twin. Contact or email debbie@warkworthtravel.co.nz Travellers Warkworth Ph: (09) 425 8009 or email debbie@warkworthtravel.co.nz VIETNAM Fully escorted holiday

MATHS & PHYSICS TUITION Year 11 to to Year Year 13, 13, NCEA, NCEA, Cambridge, Cambridge, I.B., I.B., 11 Phone Marty Marty 021 021 170 170 9059, 9059, msmi042@ msmi042@ Phone aucklanduni.ac.nz aucklanduni.ac.nz

TV SERVICES & SALES TV SERVICES & SALES

TV SERVICES Freeview, dishes, aerials, TV SERVICES Freeview, dishes, aerials, boxes.

Sales, installation and repairs. boxes.

Sales, 027 installation Phone Gavin 4766115.and repairs.

Phone Gavin 027 4766115.

TV TUNINg. DVD’s / Sky / Video /

TV TUNINg. DVD’s425 / Sky / Video / Freeview etc. Phone 5431.

Freeview etc. Phone 425 5431.

VEHICLES

PARK & SELL VEHICLES Gull Snells Beach. Weekly

rates. & Great 425Weekly 4092.

PARK SELL exposure.

Gull Snells Ph Beach. rates. Great exposure.

Ph 425 4092.

WORK WANTED

from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, 2 - 13 VIETNAM Fully escorted holiday August 2012to from pp twin from Hanoi Ho $5549 Chi Minh City, share.

2 - 13 Contact Lynette at World Travellers SEMI-RETIRED All types of WORKBUILDER WANTED August 2012 from $5549 pp twin share.

Warkworth Ph: (09) 425 8009 or email building work. Free quotes and advice.

Contact Lynette at World Travellers SEMI-RETIRED BUILDER All types of lynette@warkworthtravel.co.nz Ph Wayne 09 425 5757 or 021 112 0696.

Warkworth Ph: (09) 425 8009 or email building work. Free quotes and advice. lynette@warkworthtravel.co.nz PhMay Wayne209 425 5757 or 021 112 issue is April 24 0696.

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE for

Phone 425 9068 to book your classified advertising for May 2 issue is April 24 CLASSIFIED DEADLINE

Phone 425 9068 to book your classified advertising

Sat 28 April 8am Mahurangi West Hall,

401 Mahurangi West Rd. All proceeds JUMBLE & SAUSAgE to go toSALE the Hall RestorationSIzzLE Fund

Sat 28 April 8am021 Mahurangi West Hall, contact 178 4060.

401 Mahurangi West Rd. All proceeds to goRODNEY to the HallSTOPPINg Restoration Fund contact 021SERVICES 178 4060.

VIOLENCE Providing programmes for men STOPPINg who RODNEY need assistance to change VIOLENCE SERVICES abusive behaviours and attitudes Providing programmes men and work on equality andfor respect. who assistance to change Heldneed in Orewa and Warkworth.

For enquiries phoneand 09 425 8130. abusive behaviours attitudes We work also provide programmes for and on equality and respect. women areand or have been in Held in that Orewa Warkworth. abusivephone relationships.

For enquiries 09 425 8130.

Held in Orewa & Warkworth.for We also provide programmes Phone 422 2102 023 20297 women that areor or021 have been in Sponsored by Mahurangi Matters

abusive relationships.

Held in Orewa & Warkworth.

READINgS Phone 422 2102 or 021 023 20297 MENTOR HYPNOTHERAPIST Sponsored• by Mahurangi Matters CLAIRVOYANT Brigid is available to assist you to READINgS

move forward and make changes.

Orewa and Warkworth clinic.

MENTOR • HYPNOTHERAPIST Phone 09 426 8361 or CLAIRVOYANT www.makingachange.co.nz

Brigid is available to assist you to move forward and make changes.

PICTURE FRAMINg Orewa and Warkworth clinic.

Phone 09 426AND 8361 or PICTURE FRAMINg SUPPLIES www.makingachange.co.nz We are your One Stop Shop for all

professional Custom Framing, Reframing, Mat Cutting, Tapestries, Sport Shirts, FRAMINg Medals, PICTURE Ready-made frames, Glazing, Repairs, Hardware, plus heapsSUPPLIES more and PICTURE FRAMINg AND all those bits and pieces, so visit Orewa We are your One Stop Shop all Picture Framing, Shop ‘E’, Cammishfor Lane, professional Custom Framing, Reframing, Orewa. Phone 424 8124.

Mat Cutting, Tapestries, Sport Shirts, Medals, frames, Glazing, PROTECTReady-made YOUR PHOTOS, PICTURES, Repairs, Hardware, plusallheaps and HANDCRAFTS plus Art more by using all those bitsthe and pieces,inso Orewa “Plexiglaze”, Ultimate UVvisit Protective Picture Shop for ‘E’, Cammish Lane, GlazingFraming, & Reglazing Clarity, Safety, Lightweight cut to any size or Orewa.

Phoneand 424 8124.

Sponsored by

TOTALSPAN Rodney

scoreboard

A roundup of sports activities and events in the district Table tennis

yy Social table tennis and junior table tennis is held at the Matakana Village Hall every Tuesday from 7.30pm. All welcome. Adults $2 and students $1. Info: Mary Perkins 425 8146 or George Anderson 423 0424.

Squash

yy Junior Squash is held at the Wellsford Squash Club on Monday afternoons from 3.30pm Info: Christine Crow 423 7149 yy The Warkworth Squash Club is holding its annual B Grade Squash Tournament from May 2 to 5. All graded squash players welcome.

Info: Kaye Jackson 425 6965.

Junior soccer

yy Warkworth Soccer Club midgets and mini-midgets for children aged four to eight years starts at the beginning of term two. Register online at warkworthfootball.co.nz. Info: Paula or Andy Tomkins on 422 3644.

Croquet

yy Warkworth and Districts Croquet Club plays Association Croquet at Point Wells on Saturday 9.30am; Monday 4pm; Wednesday 9.30am and 1pm.

Golf croquet is played on Saturday at 1pm; Monday 9.30am; Thursday 4pm. Info: Anne Murphy 425 5211 or Marion Taylor 425 6164.

Badminton

yy The Mahurangi Badminton club plays at the Snells Beach Community Centre on Monday nights from 7.30pm. New members welcome, both competitive and social badminton is played. Info: 425 6340.

List sports news by phoning Nichole on 425 9068 or email news@localmatters.co.nz

229 State Highway 1, Warkworth Phone 09 422 3149

shape. Orewa Picture Framing, Shop ‘E’,

PROTECT YOUR PHOTOS, PICTURES, Cammish Lane, Orewa.

Ph 424 8124.

HANDCRAFTS plus all Art by using “Plexiglaze”, the Ultimate in UV Protective Glazing & Reglazing for Clarity, Safety, Lightweight and cut to any size or shape. Orewa Picture Framing, Shop ‘E’, Cammish Lane, Orewa. Ph 424 8124.

0800 TOTALSPAN (0800 868 257)

TOTALSPAN.CO.NZ

Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012 | 47

what’s on

Wine with Robin Ransom www.matakanawine.com President, Matakana Winegrowers Inc

April 2012 18

Handcrafted wines

The description handcrafted wines is commonly used by winemakers and is especially apt when used by small winegrowers to describe their process and wines.

Perhaps handcrafted wines are best understood in terms of their opposite, factoryproduced wines. Many of the best-known NZ and Australian wine brands sold here are in this category. They are well-known because they are made in huge quantities and show up everywhere. Also in this category are the $7.99 wines you have never heard of before, which grace aisle ends in supermarkets. These carry brand names created by the factory producers and sometimes by the supermarkets themselves to peddle surplus, mass-produced wine which the makers do not necessarily want to associate with their name and/or for which there is no other market.

Factory-produced wines are made from grapes grown in huge vineyards, where much of the work is done mechanically. These grapes are harvested by machines which agitate the vines so vigorously that individual berries are shaken on to a conveyor and deposited in a large bin. All grapes, ripe and rotten, and all manner of other rubbish are shaken into the bin – dead leaves and other plant material, bird nests, insects, spiders and caterpillars. The process is so thoroughly mechanised that it is impossible to remove this stuff. After fermentation and a time of aging, these wines are likely to require a good deal of treatment to remove off-odours and off-flavours.

Handcrafted wines, on the other hand, are just that: Much of the vineyard work, including harvesting, is done by hand. It cannot be stressed too strongly how important hand-picking is to wine quality – individual pickers making decisions based on what their eyes tell them, about what to include and what to discard.

Vineyard work is just the beginning of the handcrafting process. At every step in winemaking, small wineries are able to pay close attention to every ferment, and the care and aging of every wine after fermentation has finished. Partly this is because the proprietor is often closely involved, but also it is fair to say that in a small operation with a closely-knit team there is likely to be a greater sense of pride and ownership among the workers.

Small scale and all it entails is why this sort of winemaking is less cost-effective, and the wines may be more expensive. But the upside is that the final product has benefited from the individual care and attention it has received throughout.

The wines from small operations producing all their own fruit express the individuality of the vineyard, the variation of the season and weather, and the passion of the individuals who produced them.

While “handcrafted” may sound like a cliché, if used appropriately in the context of winegrowing, it is an apt description of the process and the outcome. And it accurately describes the processes and products of all of the wines grown and produced by Matakana winegrowers.

Decision on Warkworth Town Hall due next month

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Auckland Council received more than 300 submissions during the feedback period for the future of the Warkworth Town Hall. Submissions closed on March 30. A Council spokesperson says the information is currently being collated and will be used by the Rodney Local Board to make an informed decision. The Board will deliberate on the future of the hall at its meeting on May 7.

HAVE YOU HEARD?

See also Scoreboard (page 46) for sporting events

Turps • Kerosene White spirits Meths • M.E.K REFILL YOUR CONTAINER AND SAVE!!!

3 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth (Opposite Warkworth Wreckers)

Phone 0800 425 800

Mitre 10 Mega monthly garden club, Mitre 10 Mega Warkworth, from 10am to 2pm, featuring guest speakers and demonstrations. Info: Sonia 425 8119. til 29 O4eyes2C exhibition, Estuary Arts Orewa (see story p34) 20 Wellsford Sports and Leisure information day, with visiting fishing and sports experts in store. There will be spot prizes and giveaways; and a Netball Rodney sausage sizzle.

20 Learning difficulties workshop, Warkworth Primary School, from 9am to 3pm. Info: S.Tornquist@kaiwaka.school.nz 21&22 Free garden workshop, Antara Retreat, Tomarata. Numbers limited so book early. Info: 423 7070 22 Wellsford Community Garden open day, School Road, celebrating Earth Day. Activities from 3pm to 6pm. All welcome.

Info: 423 6006 24 Quiz night for the Puhoi Centennial Hall, with Anzac theme, at 7.30pm. $10 per head with teams of up to six people. To reserve a table phone 422 0478 or email jenny@hiko.co.nz Some tickets should be available at the door. Bring own food and drink, and gold coins for the quick raffles.

25 ANZAC Day (see service times p35) 25 Historic Puhoi Town Library is hosting an ANZAC Day presentation. View a special display commemorating those who served at Gallipoli and subsequent wars. Enjoy free tea, coffee and Anzac biscuits. All welcome, noon to 3pm.

26 Warkworth Embroiderers Guild annual meeting, Shoesmith Hall, Shoesmith Street, Warkworth at 7.30pm. Guest speaker, Sally Smith. All welcome.

27 Dinner and auction fundraiser for Mahurangi Presbyterian youth project in Fiji, Puhoi Hall, starts 6.30pm. Tickets $25 single,$40 couple, $50 family. Info: 425 8861 or rabi@mahu.org.nz 28 Jumble Sale & Sausage Sizzle, 8am Mahurangi West Hall, 401 Mahurangi West Rd. All proceeds to the Hall Restoration Fund.

Info: contact 021 178 4060.

28 Warkworth Music Society presents the Akoka Quartet, Mahurangi College Auditorium, starting at 7.30pm (see story p32) 28 Quiz Night, Maungaturoto Community Centennial Hall, starting at 7pm. $10 per person. Info: Nyree on 09 431 8462.

29 Children’s Fun Day, Centennial Park, Wellsford, from 1pm to 5pm. Info: Wendy Crow-Jones on 423 8194 or 021 144 6613 (see story p33)

May 4 5 5 5 6 7 12 13

Kowhai Art & Crafts Open Day, Warkworth Showgrounds, from 10am to 1pm. All welcome.

Garage sale, Wellsford Co-operating Church, 253 Rodney Street, from 8am to 10.30am.

Kowhai Singers concert Go For Baroque, Mahurangi College auditorium, from 7.30pm (see story p33) Museum Summer Market, Old Masonic Hall, Baxter St, Warkworth; 8am start. Info: Warkworth 425 8482.

Planting day at Tawharanui Regional Park, meet at the Woolshed, BBQ provided, 9.15am start.

Bingo, New Masonic Lodge upstairs, Baxter Street, Warkworth; 7pm start. Proceeds to Warkworth Museum.

Sands coffee morning, supporting parents and families after the loss of a baby, Hibiscus Coast Community House, 11am.

Info: Marie Leith 09 947 0569 or steff.maree@yahoo.com Kaipara Flats High Tea Party, Ranfurly Hall, Kaipara Flats, 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Fundraiser for maintenance work on the historic McKinney Hall. Tickets available from April 30 onwards, limited numbers. Info: Sommai 422 5826 or sommai.hudson@yahoo.co.nz

Email your events to editor@localmatters.co.nz

48 | Mahurangimatters 18 April 2012

Runners beat a fast track to Omaha Students plunge in

for free swim lessons

Rex Faithful was the fastest runner over the line in the third annual Omaha Classic Run/Walk held on April 1.

The event attracted a record 450 entrants from all over the northern North Island. Rex completed the 10km run in 39 minutes 50 seconds. The first woman home was Karen Donaldson Barren, who finished in 42 minutes and 20 seconds.

In the 5km races, Guy Kilmister won the men’s in 18 min 45 sec, while Georgia Riley took out the women’s in 22 minutes. The 2km kids’ dash in the boys division was won by Jackson who ran the course in nine minutes, and Lucy Rowe in the girls division 8.53.

Event manager Katrine Cramer says the 10km run drew a wide age range.

“We had iron men competing, who set a fantastic pace,” she says.

“Although the weather was fine, an easterly was blowing along the beach which made the course a great challenge.”

The run/walk is a fundraiser for Matakana School.

Past Matakana School Board of Trustees member and current Omaha Beach Surf Life Saving member Clinton Toi leads the way on the beach section of the run.

Children at some schools in Rodney will reap the benefits of a $1.6 million scheme for free swimming lessons, taught by qualified instructors, in a bid to stop the high number of drownings in NZ. In conjunction with Sport Auckland and Water Safety NZ, Harbour Sport is helping to coordinate the lessons as part of the Greater Auckland Aquatic Action Plan (GAAAP).

Present funding only allows the scheme to be offered to children in Years 3 to 6 in decile 1 to 6 schools, who are given eight to 10 lessons. Eligible local schools include Wellsford, Tapora, Leigh and Pariki.

Sport Auckland chief executive Daniel Gerrard says the next step is to provide lessons to all schools and children in the Auckland region, which requires a further investment of around $12 million.

“We are currently talking to community trusts, Council and other organisations,” he says.

Where possible, GAAAP seeks to pair schools with local swim and survive providers.

Te Hana Pools professional learn-to-swim instructor Ingrid Carter is working with Wellsford School, and is likely to provide lessons at both Leigh and Pakiri schools. Ingrid says in the three lessons she held at Wellsford School, she has seen huge improvement.

“Students who wouldn’t put their head under in their first lesson, can now swim between five to 20 metres,” she says.

“It’s my job to teach kids survival skills in the water which is very different to a school teacher just taking the kids to the pool as part of their PE lesson. Children need one-on-one time to build their confidence. One thing that does make teaching kids to swim at school hard is the fact they do not have heated pools.”

To provide high quality primary care to the persons of our region addressing the issues of access and equity with innovation.

Please note our service continues to remain accessible 24 hours per day over the holiday period CLINICS: We are a network of clinics providing comprehensive primary care including Snells Beach 145 Mahurangi East Road 09 425 6666 24 HOUR SERVICES Matakana 74 Matakana Valley Road 09 422 7737 available at our A & M Centre in Mangawhai Fagan Place 09 431 4128 Wellsford at an affordable price Maungaturoto 138 Hurndall St 09 431 8576 Paparoa 1877 Paparoa Valley Rd 09 431 7222 For further information and new Wellsford 220 Rodney Street 09 423 8086 enrolments, please contact any of (Cnr. Highway 1 & Matheson Rd)

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