Mangawhai Focus_Issue 10_27 January 2025 by Localmatters

Mangawhaifocus

Playground’s new adventure zone coming soon

A colourful tower that beckons kids to fun and play will soon disappear from the area’s favourite playground – and potentially end up in a local’s backyard – as a brand-new model gets set to move in.

After nearly a decade of being the focal point of enjoyment for young children, Mangawhai Activity Zone’s (MAZ) plastic playground tower has done its time and will be replaced with a more contemporary version soon. People will also have a chance to take home the old equipment if ready and willing to deconstruct and remove it.

Originally purchased second-hand from McDonald’s at Sylvia Park more than 10 years ago, sections of the playground have already been removed due to parts not complying with playground safety standards. MAZ chair Kate Arbuckle says they knew the rest of the equipment was on borrowed time.

“It is unfortunate as this plastic tower has been so popular and everybody just loves it.

As you drive along and look into the park, all you see is this lovely, colourful focal point in the playground,” she says. “It’s served a fantastic purpose for the kids so the idea is to be bigger and better.”

Since last June, MAZ committee members have been working with New Zealand company Playground Centre on a design that will not only replace the current structure, but also enhance the experience for children. The new model expands the age range, with an area catering for children from six months to toddlers and a tower tailored for older adventurous kids aged up to 10 years.

Made from wood with minimal plastic, the new design includes three main components – a large tower, a mini-tower with a tunnel and driver seat, and a sand play platform – as

well as slides, climbing ropes and poles.

MAZ member Ken Rayward says there have been many new developments in playgrounds over the years.

“They focus on the constructive, educational and physical experience, which is really important. This is a chance for us to modernise the whole park and take advantage of a lot of the new technologies and designs,” he says.

With a price tag of $148,000, the new equipment was made possible by two grants from Kaipara District Council, with the bulk of the cost covered by the Reserve Contribution Fund and the balance paid by MELA (Mangawhai Endowment Lands Account).

“It’s not just a set of swings in the backyard,” Rayward says. “It’s got a lot of new things that kids are looking for now to give them

an adventurous experience, as well as an entertaining one.”

As the old model is not compliant with safety regulations it cannot be used in public spaces. However, it is still fit for personal use and MAZ is open to enquiries from the community who would be keen on becoming new owners of the old plastic tower.

“Once school goes back, we’ll focus on getting an empty space, so there will be a period when there will be no tower in the playground,” Arbuckle says. “The Playground Centre has advised the new equipment will be here on March 13 and will take a week to install. So now it’s fingers crossed for an Easter opening. Hopefully, all goes to plan.”

For enquiries regarding the removal of the old plastic tower, contact MAZ via mangawhaiactivityzone.co.nz or on social media.

MAZ chair Kate Arbuckle and committee member Ken Rayward say the new playground will offer more adventures for explorative young visitors. Inset: Playground Centre’s concept of the main section of the new equipment. A sand play platform and equipment for the youngest of visitors are also included in the design.

January 27, 2025 - Issue

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Waipu, Ruakaka, One Tree Point and Marsden Cove.

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Colourful dancers share infectious energy

With the jingle-jangle of bells and jaunty jigs, a clash of sticks and a bit of hanky-waving, more than 100 Morris dancers treated locals to a highly energetic show at Mangawhai Historic Village on January 16.

Decked out in colourful costumes in the individual styles of each club – some reminiscent of steampunk – dancers swirled,

the hanky-waving and stickclacking a sense of fun and energy prevailed, with dancers often breaking into song, joyful yelps and much laughter.

The dancers were welcomed by Mangawhai Museum manager Angela Cook and Mangawhai Historic Village Trust member John Phillis.

Mangawhai,” they said.

The show was part of an annual gathering of national Morris dancing clubs, as well as overseas groups from Australia and USA. This year’s event was hosted by the Whangarei Morris Dancers (WMD) who led the troupe on a ‘Pot Hole Tour’ of free events in Mangawhai, Waipu, One Tree Point and Whangarei.

The dancers also had a tour of the museum and Mangawhai’s old schooner, the Daring, before

heading to the Mangawhai Tavern for lunch and another performance. WMD’s Julie Scott says the Mangawhai trip was a favourite of their guests. “We were thrilled with the museum’s warm welcome and appreciated the ship volunteers giving their time. We had an excellent meal at the tavern and, of course, all our guests enjoyed the scenic drive through Langs and the Cove,” she says. “We’d like to thank Mangawhai for their warm hospitality.”

Craft

beachside lifestyle

Nearby Mangawhai Heads surf beach

Artist Impression

Harbour watchdog says sedimentation risk low, at

Residents group Mangawhai Matters is calling on Kaipara District Council to exercise better site management and measures to protect stream banks from erosion during earthworks.

As part of the Sustainable Mangawhai Project, the group commissioned a study by NIWA into the possible contamination and sedimentation of the harbour from runoff, based on the catchment’s current and potential future runoff.

Spokesperson Phil McDermott says the results show that there is limited nutrient loading during an average year under current land cover, and that gross sediment yields –the amount of sediment entering the harbour – are not high, although they are concentrated in certain areas.

“The risks of ecologically damaging sedimentation in such areas will rise with heavy and more concentrated rainfall,” he says.

“The main concern is around the impact of urbanisation and especially at the earthworks stage.

“On the basis of this study, we are keen to see council monitor performance and enforce the maintenance of standards, particularly when extensive earthworks are left open for extended periods.”

The report was prepared by NIWA’s principal scientist catchment processes scientist Sandy Elliott, who said that if treated wastewater were to be disposed of by drip irrigation to the golf course – one option suggested to cope with Mangawhai’s growth – it would add about 1200kg of nitrogen/year to the wetland and, as a result, the Tara arm of the harbour, mainly in winter.

The report said this would add less than 2.7 per cent to the current loading, although the

localised effect would depend on sustaining the flushing capacity of the Tara arm.

“The land use change most likely to increase the risk of harbour contamination was urbanisation, including large lot residential development. However, it can be expected that this would generate much the same nutrient load as the pastoral farming it displaces.”

The study identified that the key issue when considering sedimentation was the depth of deposition on the harbour floor. The threshold beyond which there was a risk of adverse ecological effects was 2mm/year.

“This means that if today’s estimated average load was spread evenly over the non-channel parts of Mangawhai Harbour, the rate would still be well under that, at around 0.59 mm/ year.”

‘Using the past to pave the future’

The NIWA study found that the greatest threat to the harbour’s health would come from urbanisation in the catchment.

However, sediment yields vary among subcatchments, and in different parts of the harbour. The southern arm accounts for about 44 per cent of the sediment delivered, and the northern (Tara) arm 49 per cent. With sediment from both deposited in Back Bay, the sedimentation rate of 1.2mm/ year there is much higher than the harbour average, although still below the ecological impact threshold.

The study also considered the impacts of a changing climate, finding that a high temperature climate scenario (a +3oC change) could lift deposition in Back Bay to around 1.97mm/year, only slightly below the ecological damage threshold.

The study examined the implications of development currently consented and proposed areas for development, at the rate

–

of 230 dwellings a year for 10 years. The earthworks associated with this level of activity could lift sedimentation rates by an average of 2.5 per cent over the non-channel area of the harbour.

“If urbanisation accelerates, it would lift average deposition further. For example, doubling the rate of development would double earthworks sedimentation, leading to around a 5.4 per cent sedimentation increase in Back Bay.”

McDermott says the study shows that the staging of development should be spread out to avoid excessive sedimentation during a major rainstorm.

“It is also important that the high-quality erosion controls assumed for the catchment study are maintained in practice, through rigorous regulation and enforcement of stormwater management and stream-bank protection during development.

“Similarly, it is important that Mangawhai’s stormwater network, including council’s infrastructure (culverts, drains, detention ponds, wetlands) is maintained and managed so that it continues to operate effectively in the face of more intensive storms.”

McDermott said that while the harbour was currently in a satisfactory condition, the NIWA study justified active management to avoid deterioration in the face of more volatile weather and ongoing urban development. He said this should include:

• Baseline measurements and subsequent monitoring of sediment in the mid-estuary, Back Bay, Tara, and southern compartments

• Monitoring and enforcement of a high site management standards during development

• Ensuring the quality of stormwater system maintenance and management under the relevant resource and subdivision consents.

Mangawhai’s first Waitangi Day line-up to be a fusion of cultures and connection

In only 10 more sleeps local events for Mangawhai’s first Waitangi Day celebrations will kick off with a line-up focused on embracing community, connection and all cultures.

From history and heritage, water sports and cultural performances to stalls, kai and music, the free family-friendly events are to be held at three locations: Mangawhai Museum, the estuary and Mangawhai Activity Zone.

Brought to the community by the Mangawhai Business Association (MBA) with assistance from a hardworking bunch of locals, the event also receives sponsorship from Mangawhai businesses Hireworks and SarahC Design as well as the Mangawhai waka ama club, and are subsidised through the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.

The celebrations begin outside Mangawhai Museum at 10am with a karakia by Kaipara kaumatua Ben Hita followed by local leaders giving informative speeches about the district’s

rich history and heritage. Visitors will then be able to enjoy a range of culturally diverse stalls, performances, interactive crafts and activities as well as facing painting till 12pm.

From 1pm to 3pm, a sailing and waka ama spectacular will be held at Lincoln Reserve which, promises to be an exciting showcase of traditional waka ama and sailing action on Mangawhai Harbour. Sailors are welcome to take part with their own small yachts although vessels will be available to borrow.

In the evening hours from 6pm to 9pm, a dinner and music concert can be enjoyed on Mangawhai Activity Zone’s lower field, starring Kiwi singing legend Boh Runga, as well as soul-rap group Mokomokomai and local covers duo Loose Covers.

To register interest in borrowing a yacht, please contact Colin 0212 257 257. Volunteers are needed, please email volunteers@mangawhai. co.nz

Mangawhai’s first Waitangi Day celebration will be held at different venues around the area including on the water.

Historic letter illustrates storm similarities

As the second anniversary of the 2023 extreme weather events nears, a letter from early last century has come to light, telling a tale of an incredible storm that hit Kaipara around the same time as the infamous Cyclone Gabrielle, albeit 104 years before.

Dated March 10, 1918, the historic letter between two young cousins highlights the similarities of storms, with locals cut off from supplies and communication, as well as transport issues after usual modes of travel were cut by flooding, landslides and treacherous coastal waters.

The letter’s author, Te Arai resident 18-yearold Thelma Cross, was writing to her cousin Zoe, and describes large trees uprooted and cow sheds, barns and haystacks blown down, “the goat’s house was upset along with Nan the goat, but she wasn’t the least bit hurt”.

“For six weeks the train hasn’t been able to run [due] to the big slips that fell … and labour is scarce … not enough men to clear

the line any sooner. The steamer Kawau was also unable to cross the bar for a week or more and people in Te Arai and Mangwhai were out of flour, bread and biscuits, three necessary things [two anyhow],” she writes.

“For three whole weeks, the Tomarata district was without mail and we had none for a week. The post people were at their wit’s end to know how to get the mail out … it was a great jumble. What are the poor Pattersons going to do about their store and things? It is very hard luck.”

Thelma also writes that the Mangawhai Bridge was “half-washed away by the heavy seas” leaving people to navigate the stormy currents of the river.

“The mailman and his cart and horse went into a hole and had great difficulty in getting out again. As it was, he nearly lost the horse which as it happened, did not belong to him.”

However, although Thelma mentions that Mangawai Bridge was damaged, which at the time was part of the Insley Street causeway

opened in 1906, according to Mangawhai Museum archives, the only bridge adversely affected around this time was a stone structure stretching across a piece of the river, between Devich Road and Bentley Point. Located off a paper road, the bridge, built before the Insley Street causeway, enabled folk to get to ‘The Beach’ aka Mangawai Village. Bentley Point has now disappeared under the mangroves and attempts to find remnants of the stone bridge have been unsuccessful.

Thelma’s daughter-in-law, Maungaturoto resident Brenda Jones, passed the letter on to Mangawhai Focus as she thought it was a good human interest story.

“We came across her letter when I was helping my husband’s cousin write a book about his family. His mother, Thelma, lived in Te Arai for a little while with her mother and stepfather on a farm, though we don’t know how long they stayed there,” she says. “I just thought if you can get anything first-hand, it’s a real treasure.”

According to NIWA’s historic weather catalogue, the storm was possibly the tailend of the tropical hurricane, Zaphon, whose ferocious centre was located 200 miles off Kaipara Heads. Travelling in a south-easterly direction over February 14 and 15, 1918, Zaphon shares nearly the same timeline as Cyclone Gabrielle.

On Northland/Auckland Anniversary Weekend, February 27, 2023, Hurricane Hale raged through the North Island followed two weeks later by his big sister Gabrielle on February 13 and 14. Ten days later, intense thunderstorms unleashed an unprecedented amount of rain directly onto Mangawhai. The storm-trio caused extensive flooding through the North Island including Ruawai and Dargaville, as well as massive landslides along SH1 across the Brynderwyn Hills.

Note: A big thank you to Mangawhai Museum’s history team members, Janis Speer and Bev Ross, for their time and assistance with this story.

Above: Hakaru Bridge underwater during the 2023 season of storms – floods, slips and broken bridges were also a local sight following hurricane Zaphon in 1918. Right: Dated some 100 years ago, the local young woman’s letter describes her experiences of a 1918 Mangawai (sic) storm.

Stone bridge near here

A map pinpointing the circa location of the washed-out Mangawai Bridge, which has been lost to time.

Upgrades for Hakaru roads

Some work has been done on a busy onelane bridge that connects Mangawhai to the settlement of Hakaru and Kaiwaka after a review was done before Christmas.

Located along Mangawhai-Kaiwaka Road by Settlement Road turnoff, Hakaru Bridge, which has been lined with orange roading sticks since 2021, was briefly closed last month to allow a Kaipara District Council (KDC) roading team to carry out structure and pavement assessments.

The investigation highlighted several sections requiring attention, a KDC spokesperson says, and confirms repairs have been completed to the deck joints, approaches and potholes. Further routine maintenance is scheduled for some time this year.

“Council is conscious that the bridge sees a high volume of traffic and making it more resilient is important. However, there is no funding allocated in the current Long-Term Plan for upgrading the bridge, but it may be considered in the next one.”

Meanwhile, around the corner on Settlement Road, the much-anticipated preliminary works to start tar-sealing have finally begun. sealing in the near future were not received by publishing time.

Hakaru Bridge underwent more repairs recently and although it carries high volumes of traffic, will likely keep being patched up until there is more cash in the council kitty.

YouSay

Stop dredging our harbour

Dredging within the Mangawhai harbour destroys shellfish beds living on the sandy floor. One only has to look at what is sucked up and dumped on the sandspit, thousands of dying pipis and cockles, and numerous scavenging gulls feed on them. These shellfish are natural food for small fish and birds that live in the estuary.

Why is the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society (MHRS) so keen to keep the current northern entrance open? Because it is protected by Heads Rock and boats can pass through safely.

If harbour silting were to continue and the channel became too shallow for boats, it is possible that a new channel would eventually open up further south near Tern Point, close to where the original southern channel appeared in 1988 after Cyclone Bola. For three years after this cyclone, Mangawhai had two exit channels. It ended with the ‘Big Dig’ in February 1991.

I remember fishing in this southern channel, and it was good fishing, too. If this did happen, this would be the only change, a channel in a different place!

If anything, flow out of the harbour would increase because the two rivers that empty onto the harbour would be closer to, and directly opposite, the ‘new’ southern entrance and this would mean a cleaner harbour.

Research done by MHRS in 2023 shows that 33 per cent of visitor respondents said they like to swim in the harbour, five per cent participate in paddling sports, five per cent fish in the harbour and only eight per cent go ocean fishing.

If 92 per cent of visitors do not need boating access into and out of the harbour, why are all us ratepayers paying the annual levy for the harbour to be dredged?

In Mangawhai, dredging does not provide public benefit as 92 per cent of people do not need ocean access and it is wrong to say “maintaining navigability is a role that MHRS undertakes on behalf of the community”. They do this for their own reasons, probably for the benefit of their own members.

And what about the remaining 49 per cent of visitors who responded to the survey?

I assume they come to Mangawhai for reasons that have nothing to do with the harbour, e.g. location, family and so on.

So stop dredging, interfering with and damaging the seafloor. Let nature take its course.

Christine Silvester, a ratepayer since 1985

We welcome your feedback but letters under 250 words are preferred. We reserve the right to abridge them as necessary. Unabridged versions can be read at www. localmatters.co.nz/opinion. Letters can be sent to news@localmatters.co.nz or 17 Neville Street, Warkworth 0910

Trump of the North

“Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.” An over-used quote, but it came straight to mind when I saw our mayor boasting he was the ‘Trump of the North’ in a Radio NZ news story of December 30

To model himself on someone so dishonest, bullying, lacking in empathy and narcissistic is an astounding insight into the mayor’s mind. As the Trump of the North, is he telling us he strongly identifies with a man who has convictions for sexual assault and massive business fraud? Perhaps he is trying to forewarn us that he will not tolerate losing the 2025 election for mayor, and will contest the results by means fair and foul. And, on failing to overturn a ‘rigged election’, he’ll rally his friends and supporters at The Club in Mangawhai, and ransack the Council building with swinging golf clubs.

Is that really who we want leading our community? Are these the values we want to parade to the youth of Kaipara? Do we really need another three years of such aberrant logic and character? What exactly is it about Mr Trump that the mayor admires?

Like President Trump, Mr Jepson sees himself as an anti-woke (whatever that means), nononsense, get-things-done type of guy. Being anti-woke appears to have been the motivation behind the mayor’s frenzied rush to get rid of the Māori ward, a decision that has cost Council around $200,000 in legal fees and revisions to policy, versus $5000 for the alternative of a referendum at the 2025 election – quite some achievement.

The mayor prefers to be thought of as antiwoke, rather than just anti-Māori, but is it too much to hope for a mayor who is inclusive rather than exclusive, empathetic and willing to compromise rather than bullying and narrow-minded? For the time being, it appears so.

‘There’s too much still to do,’ the mayor says in his early bid for a second term. And get it done, he will, with an ovine majority in council who appear happy to rubber-stamp Mr Jepson’s every wish.

I appreciate that the mayor works hard for the district, but he appears to not understand the boundaries between personal motivations and biases, and doing what’s best for Kaipara. More and more, the mayor treats Kaipara District as his personal fiefdom and inflicts personal dogma upon an unwilling populace.

Let’s marinate on that over summer and bear in mind that, while Mr Trump has enjoyed a Lazarus-like return to the US Presidency, he was voted out after his first term when it became apparent how truly dreadful he was at his job.

Luke Williamson, Kaiwaka

Mayor’s Memo

Craig Jepson, Mayor Kaipara Council

Greetings,

On New Year’s Day I woke to the terrific news that Mangawhai local Richard Marshall Lovelace Bull was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to conservation and the community. I know that all of Kaipara will be tremendously proud that Richard has been acknowledged on such a prestigious national platform. This seems an opportune moment to encourage people to nominate their local community champ for our Kaipara District Council Citizens or Environmental Awards. Nominations for the awards are open now and close at the end of April – find the nomination forms and other info on our website.

At the beginning of January I joined family and friends camping at the Pouto Marine Hall Campground. A great facility made special by the managing host. A memorable holiday which included a few beers with locals, a wonderful few days of fishing from the fantastic new wharf and at the famous entry to the Kaipara aptly dubbed the Graveyard due to the historic number of ship sinkings. We enjoyed the thrills of a 4x4 sand, bush and beach tour to the iconic Pouto Lighthouse with Kahuparere Adventures.

Dargaville and Baylys Beach have been on water restrictions since before Christmas. Water security is top of mind for elected members and there will be some hard decisions made this year on the way forward. In the meantime, we must all do everything we can to conserve water.

It is with some relief we have received some rain over the last few days. However as I write this, it is somewhat less than further north so cross our fingers for some more regular rain and less drying wind. Looking ahead, the events schedule is filling up quickly. We’ll be at the Paparoa A&P show on Saturday, February 1, and then again at the end of the month the big-ticket item on the Kaipara calendar – the event that draws people from near and far – Dargaville Field Days. If you have questions about council services, or you want to speak to an elected member, this is a great opportunity to come and chat to us.

We have a busy year ahead and a lot to cover. Stay up to date with our council news. We’ll soon be asking for your feedback on a number of topics.

Mayor Craig Jepson Kaipara District

Book explores Kiwi identity

Mahurangi author John Bluck has a new book out next month.

Living on the fault line – Aotearoa New Zealand’s bicultural future follows the success of ‘Becoming Pākehā – a journey between two cultures’, which was published in 2022.

Bluck says that as he travelled around the country talking about his last book, he met many people uncomfortable with the name Pākehā and anxious about the future of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

“That anxiety has translated into turmoil with our new coalition government’s policies on things Māori and a wider than ever ethnic divide,” he says.

“Living on the fault line tries to address this crisis time, which is triggering Māori anger and Pakeha silence. It explores what a Kiwi identity might look like that keeps faith with Te Tiriti and why there is such a division between those who dream of a tiriti-based future, with shared language and entangled cultures and those who fear that future, branding it as unfair, unequal, imposed.”

Bluck, speaking for and to Pākehā, makes what one early reviewer calls “an eloquent and impassioned plea for a Pākehā voice that is confident enough to join the debate about

NZ’s future without being defensive about or disconnected from the history we have to own.”

Living on the fault line – Aotearoa New Zealand’s is published by Quentin

Viewpoint

Year of realisation

The 47th President of the United States has been sworn in and the Trump effect is being felt. Trump’s re-election is a remarkable thing. Remarkable because he did so in the face of huge opposition from the political and media establishment, and despite vitriolic condemnation from celebrity Hollywood. In the end, none of that mattered because in a democracy what matters is what people think, not what the establishment think or what the Oprah Winfrey’s of the world say. In a democracy, the vote of the person on the minimum wage flipping burgers at McDonald’s is worth exactly the same as the celebrity who gets paid a million dollars to say Kamala Harris is the best thing since sliced bread. In Trump speak, “Democracy: It’s a beautiful thing”.

Just last week Facebook made a startling announcement that they were abandoning the use of ‘fact checkers’ because they were politically biased. They are now going to allow the community to self-regulate content. These are the fact checkers that the mainstream media embraced to control “misinformation”. It seems it was they who are spreading the misinformation. This should be a wake-up call for our mainstream media, but history would suggest otherwise. 2025 is likely to see a further decline in the relevance and influence of the traditional mainstream media as a source of information. They are now primarily a source of derision as they continue to push their increasingly less credible agendas. People are now realising we have been gaslighted on many issues.

Whether you are building a new

The dawn of 2025 has a refreshing sense of opportunism about it. At last, New Zealand is emerging from the dark days of the Ardern administration and people are now finding their voice to speak out against the nonsense that others are seeking to impose on us.

How often have we heard from doomsday politicians and alarmist media that the planet has 10 years to live, that we are at a tipping point … that the polar bears are stranded on ever-diminishing icebergs, where every bush fire or weather event is an “I told you so moment” for climate alarmists.

This year more people are likely to realise the empirical evidence is showing us nothing is happening outside normal climate variability.

One prime example is ice. The US National Snow and Ice Data Centre (NSIDC) said, in a statement on January 7, that by the end of 2024, Antarctic sea ice extent had recovered to 7.3 million square kilometres – very close to the 1981 to 2010 average.

Regime change all around the world is showing us that ordinary folk are more concerned about the necessities of life than they are about sacrificing themselves at the altar of the global warming cult. People want roads, not cycleways.

This is the year we will come to the realisation we need to get back to basics and focus on the realities that matter to ordinary folk, not the privileged few who think they know what’s best for others. Let’s make democracy a beautiful thing.

The views expressed in this article are the writer’s personal opinions and not council policy.

Call for Citizen Award nominations

Kaipara District Council is calling for nominations for the 2025 Citizens Awards and Environmental Awards.

Awards and Grants Committee chair Eryn Wilson-Collins says the awards are a way to shine a light on the extraordinary people and groups who make Kaipara better every day.

Citizens Awards and Environmental Awards.”

Dig, Grade, Roll

Whether

“We encourage everyone to take this opportunity to recognise those who inspire us through their passion, dedication, and care for others and our environment,” she says. “Whether it’s a neighbour who’s always helping out, a young leader making waves, or a group protecting our own backyard, we want to hear about them for the 2025

The Citizens Awards are all about recognising those who have given substantial service, usually of a voluntary nature, or beyond normal employment, benefiting Kaipara and its people.

upgrade your farms access to make it more efficient, PARKER EARTH WORKS will help you get things right. We prepare, level and grade sites ready for the next stage of any project. From house sites and driveways, drainage,dams and farm races, feedpads or horse arenas we have the local knowledge to get the job done

Dig, Grade, Roll and Deliver

The Environmental Awards are for the work of individuals and organisations who protect and enhance Kaipara’s unique environment.

We can also deliver various grades of LimeRoc, and Landscape products from our Kaiwaka based Quarry and Landscape yard

Whether you are building a new house or looking to upgrade your farms access to make it more efficient, PARKER EARTH WORKS will help you get things right. We prepare, level and grade sites ready for the next stage of any project. From house sites and driveways, drainage,dams and farm races, feedpads or horse arenas we have the local knowledge to get the job done.

Wilson-Collins says the five award categories provide opportunity to celebrate everyone from inspiring young leaders to businesses and schools making a difference.

We can also deliver various grades of LimeRoc, and Landscape products from our Kaiwaka based Quarry and Landscape yard

Nominations close on April 30. Info: www.kaipara.govt.nz/funding

Servicing the Kaiwaka, Mangawhai, Maungaturoto, Waipu and Wellsford

Craig Jepson, Mayor Kaipara Council

Kaipara Kōrero

News from Kaipara District Council

See you at the Paparoa A&P Show!

Council kaimahi (staff) and elected members will be at Paparoa A&P Show on Saturday 1 February, 9am to 2pm.

Learn more about our council services and some key projects that are happening in your community. You can also chat to your elected members about what’s important to you. Keep yourself up-to-date with what’s happening – talk to us and find out how to stay in touch, learn about our Antenno app, and go in the draw for a $50 prezzy card when you sign up to receive our Kaipara Kōrero e-newsletter and People’s Panel. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!

Restricted fire season

Te Tai Tokerau is in a restricted fire season, which means outdoor fires can only be lit with fire permits authorised by Fire and Emergency.

If you aren’t sure what the restrictions are for your location, go to checkitsalright.nz for guidance and to apply for a fire permit if you need one.

Rates due 20 February

A friendly reminder, instalment one of rates for 2024/2025 is due on 20 February.

If you’re having difficulty meeting the cost of your rates, talk to our friendly revenue team about developing a payment plan. You can contact the team by phone 0800 727 059 or email revenue@kaipara.govt.nz

Find out more at kaipara.govt.nz/rates Moir St – road works

Road rehabilitation and drainage works are set to start on Moir Street in February. The works will require single lane closures with stop/go traffic management and there is one full road closure overnight on the section outside Bennetts. Drop by the library hall to find out more and talk to staff, 4-6pm on Thursday 30 January.

Ngā whare pukapuka o Kaipara Library update

Noticed activity outside the Dargaville library lately? Thanks to external funding the mural by Miceala Van De Berg is to be extended. Keep an eye out over the coming weeks.

Kohitātea January

Mangawhai Heads Concept Plan and Surf Club lease

We want to know what you think of our Draft Reserve Concept Plan for Mangawhai Heads Reserve, and our proposal to grant a new lease to the Mangawhai Heads Volunteer Lifeguard Service Incorporated kaipara.govt.nz/have-your-say

Summer bus

The Mangawhai Summer Bus is back in action and busier than ever. To keep everyone safe, please respect the drivers and do not distract them while driving. So there is room for all those who need it, only use the bus when necessary and please give up your seats for the elderly so they can travel safely. You can find the bus timetable and give us your feedback on the service at kaipara.govt.nz/summerbus

Upcoming council meetings

Council Workshop (public excluded), 9.30am Wed 29 Jan

Extraordinary Council Meeting (public excluded), 10.30am Wed 29 Jan Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

Council Briefing, 9.30am Mon 3 Feb, Sportsville DargavilleMemorial Park, Dargaville and on YouTube

Remuneration and Development Committee (public excluded), 1pm Mon 10 Feb Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

District Plan Review Workshop (public excluded), 9.30am Wed 12 Feb

Rates Review Hearings, 1pm Wed 12 Feb, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville and on YouTube

Mangawhai Community Park Governance Committee, 9.30am Tues 18 Feb, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

Council Meeting, 10am Wed 26 Feb, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville and on YouTube

Rates Review – Deliberations, 3.30pm Wed 26 Feb, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville and on YouTube

Art and Soul

Belinda Vernon media@mangawhaiartists.co.nz

A melding of styles

The new exhibition at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, Duet by Tina Frantzen and Femke Koome, is a sympathetic melding of two artists’ styles and media. While both artists have their own established and recognisable forms there is a shared homogeneity in size and intention that produces a vibrant and thoughtful exhibition.

Tina Frantzen revisits, through paintings and drawings, a life changing journey to the other side of the world. Over 30 years ago she travelled to Greece and Turkey on a personal odyssey.

“This was a journey about reconnection, self-discovery, and honoured promises,” says Tina. “Both Santorini and Istanbul are still so profoundly engraved in my mind, the experience remains a strong reference point in my life. From memories only, I created working drawings to represent my feelings of the places visited, subsequently using these as a stimulus for ink and charcoal paintings. I have also written a book, incorporating the paintings.”

Tina’s other paintings are of enigmatic and elusive figures who occupy those small, ephemeral moments between larger happenings. She paints intuitively by a process of revealing so the images and details of each figure are unknown to her before painting commences. With each work there is a process of discovery as painting proceeds. By not titling the pieces, Tina shares this sense of discovery with her audience who are free to interpret each painting as they wish. Tina studied at Artstation under Matthew Browne in 2005 and has been exhibiting

since, including in Paris. Her works are held in private and public collections locally and internationally, including The Arts House

Trust. She exhibited in the Wallace Awards 2015 Travelling Finalists Exhibition. She is also a photographic artist, writes short stories and poetry and has published several children’s picture books.

Watercolours are Femke Koome’s happy medium. Femke’s watercolours have a loose, semi-abstract style and are inspired by New Zealand’s land and seascapes, colourful vibrant florals and any subject that her keen eye for the beautiful and unusual captures.

“I use pure watercolours as well as combining watercolour with ink or charcoal,” says Femke. Bold and striking brush strokes give her paintings her signature exuberant style.

Femke offers a watercolour course for beginners and an advanced level floral watercolour course at the Mangawhai Artists Workspace each year, and from 2025 will be teaching watercolour classes during the art season at Chateau de Saint Germain des Pres in the Dodorgne, France.

Femke has been a part-time resident of Mangawhai since 1993. After an initial career as a professional cellist, she retrained as an occupational therapist and had a successful career in child mental health. Since retirement as a health professional, Femke is focussing on her rediscovered creativity. She has taken her watercolour talents further and launched a new career as a watercolourist on art websites, as well as exhibiting in local galleries.

Duet is exhibiting at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir Street, Mangawhai daily from 10.30am to 3.30pm (and from 9am on Saturdays) until Thursday February 6.

Tina Frantzen

Femke Koome

Farmer advocates for heirloom cucumber revival

The humble Port Albert cucumber has a new champion.

After a lifetime farming on a property, west of Wellsford that has been in his family for 150 years, Gordon Levet has turned his attention to two heirloom vegetables – the Dalmatian climbing bean and the Port Albert cucumber. For the uninitiated, the tasty Port Albert cucumber is about three times the size of an apple cucumber, has a long shelf life, is a prolific bearer and is never bitter. It came to New Zealand with the Albertland settlers and is famous around the Kaipara Harbour.

“I’ve wondered for a long time why this superior cucumber was not commercially available, so decided to do something about it,” Gordon said.

Last year, he produced about 60 cucumbers a week, which were sold at the Peach Patch

on the Mangawhai Road, and at markets in Matakana and Whangarei. He says plants will soon be available from Hammer Hardware in Wellsford, but his goal is to have them available in nursery and seed outlets throughout Auckland.

In his farming career, Gordon, now in his nineties, was involved mainly in breeding stud Romney sheep and farm forestry. He did a lot of experimental work in breeding sheep to be worm resistant and in 2020, his 400 ram lambs overcame a worm challenge, without ever having been drenched.

Explaining why, at his age, he has decided to launch into cucumber production, Gordon says that it helps to keep the mind and body active.

“No matter how old you are, you need to have a mission to aim for and achieving success is always gratifying.”

FUNDING APPLICATIONS OPEN

Mangawhai Opportunity Shop Trust invites funding applications for projects that will enhance Mangawhai by providing a sustainable social benefit for our treasured community.

Grant options:

- Mangawhai for Mangawhai - Youth Achievement

Keen to know more?

Visit mangawhaicommunityopshop.com for grant criteria and to download application forms.

History

Angela Cook, Mangawhai Museum Manager info@mangawhai-museum.org.nz

Symbols of friendship

When you enter Mangawhai Museum, you first see birds, pohutukawa and dacite columns, while you hear a karanga (welcome call). Turn right, and you enter our mana whenua exhibit. Here you’ll find stories of people, battles, marae and more. Prized among these are symbols of friendship between early Māori who lived in this area and those who came later.

One of these treasured tokens is a letter, another is a talking stick.

The letter was published in the Albertland Gazette in October 1863 under the heading, Letter from the Maoris to the Pakehas (sic), and includes the following:

“This is a word to our beloved friends, the Pakehas of Mangawai, Oruawharo, Paparoa, Matakohe, and all in Kaipara. Some of you may have heard false reports concerning the Maoris and their plans for the future. Do not think we have forgotten our promises made to you in the beginning at the feast of Otamatea. We have united ourselves to you with feelings of love and good faith desiring that justice and truth should overrule all our transactions, and discouraging anything like oppression either on the part of the Maori or the white man. We wish to live at peace with all men.”

Also in this exhibit on display is a tokotoko (talking stick, pictured). In this iconic image, currently on display in our Special Exhibition, He Apiha Takawaenga Māori (Māori liaison) Herby Skipper and history team lead Bev Ross look on this taonga (treasure), returned home to Mangawhai in 2023. This was a gift of friendship from Skipper’s ancestor, Chief Paikea, to Bev’s ancestor, Bob Ross, in the late 1800s. The museum is working to learn more about this precious item’s story and build relationships with hapu to ensure education and access to these artefacts and stories. Come read the rest of the letter and see the tokotoko in person – our museum is open 7 days, 10am-4pm.

Coming Up at Mangawhai Museum

Thu 6 Feb | Free Admission all day for Waitangi Day – free face-painting, performances and talks Mar - May | Special Exhibition: The Tuia Mātauranga Roadshow Fri 18 Apr - Mon 21 Apr | The Easter Book Fair – quality bargain books to raise funds for our museum

The tokotoko has special significance for Herby Skipper and Bev Ross.

Gordon Levet believes the Port Albert cucumber will sell itself once people realise its many qualities.

Introducing Mangawhai Preschool

Parents looking for a fun place for their little ones’ creativity, curiosity and confidence to flourish will find a warm welcome at Mangawhai Village Preschool.

Owned by early childcare educator Keerthana Elango and her husband Bashu, the centre is adhering to core philosophies of nurturing children’s self-confidence and creativity, creating strong family communications, and community and sustainability.

With a client base of 85 families, the experienced team of 14 educators engage with around 49 children daily. Elango says a key factor in their curriculum is the creative arts programme.

“We recognise the need for children to learn first from their own points of interest to help them become passionate lifelong learners, while also encouraging children to actively involve themselves in some structured work as they prepare for school,” she says.

“We also believe in fostering open and positive communication with families to build lasting partnerships for the benefit of the children.”

Sustainability practices are also part of the curriculum with activities such as gardening and donating food waste to a nearby chicken farm.

“Children often participate in nature walks and visits to the local library. They grow vegetables and leafy greens, which are then shared with the community stand. The children also spread joy during the holiday season by creating Christmas gifts for local businesses,” Elango says.

Located at 1D Molesworth Drive, the school was designed for a childcare centre by former owners of Fame Arts Preschool and the centre has retained the spacious, colourful and lively environment for their adventurous clientele, aged from six months to six years.

The team also works closely with Gavin Hazelden, owner of specialist education consultant firm, Astute Education.

Born in India, Elango has been an early education teacher for nine years and owned several preschool education centres in her home country before emigrating to New Zealand in 2023. She commutes daily to the centre from Auckland, but the couple has plans to move to Mangawhai soon.

“We bought the centre as we like the idea of being close to the beach and being part of this community. We are dedicated to supporting our local community and believe our centre brings value to the community.”

At Mangawhai Village Preschool, formerly known as FAME, we are proud to stand out for what truly makes us unique. Our commitment to sustainability, community engagement, creative arts, open communication with families, and a child-led learning approach are at the heart of everything we do.

Here’s a glimpse into how we bring these values to life:

Community Connection: Fresh produce from the garden being donated to the Te whai community trust, fostering a strong bond with the local community.

Learning Beyond the Classroom: Through regular library visits, we show how learning extends beyond our preschool and into the wider community.

Sustainability in Action: In our veggie garden, children garden and produce fresh produce.

Celebrating Creativity: Our school’s display board is adorned with the children’s arts and crafts, showcasing their creativity and hard work.

These activities are just a few of the many ways we embody our values.

Come and visit Mangawhai Village Preschool today to see how we’re making a difference, one child at a time. Enrol now for a bright future!

Keerthana Elango.

Laureen

Mangawhai

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Adele Mangnall Piroa Brynderwyn Trust

The power of community

During the first week of January, I had the pleasure of walking the incredible Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park, using Mangawhai Trackies legend Gordon Hoskings’ Kepler Track tramping guidebook. Thanks, Gordon!

What stunning landscapes, with majestic peaks, serene lakes and lush forests never ceasing to amaze me. Yet, as I hiked along the track, I felt a sense of sadness as the oncefamiliar chorus (I was born in Te Anau) of native birds was now conspicuously absent. The forest, which was once alive with native birds, is now eerily quiet. It was a stark reminder of the relentless threat posed by predators.

It reiterated to me the remarkable achievements made in the Brynderwyns. Dedicated locals have made significant strides in dramatically reducing the number of rats, mustelids, feral cats and possums in our area. The concerted efforts have delivered tremendous results, as many native bird populations are flourishing once more. The regular sound of bellbirds, bittern sightings and the night calls of kiwi serve as a testament to the power of community-led conservation.

A massive thanks to all involved.

One of our ambitious projects, in partnership with the Shorebirds Trust, is to accelerate our Predator Free Urban Mangawhai initiative. We (Piroa Conservation Trust/ Shorebirds Trust) know there is still much work to be done, but the region has immense potential with the active involvement of the community.

Much motivation comes from the Wellington/ Miramar initiatives that are yielding incredible

results for urban areas which once would not have imagined it possible. What if every backyard in Mangawhai had a rat trap? Our volunteers have untiring determination, so we are now reaching out to more fellow nature enthusiasts, local community members, students, and landowners to get involved. Together, we can enhance our environment where our gardens and forests once again echo with abundant native birdsong.

Once we progress Mangawhai in the coming months, we will add Waipu to our focus and launch our Predator Free Waipu project to support the great work many rural parts of Waipu are already undertaking.

With strong community buy-in, trapping grows community cohesion and enables individuals to connect beyond differing views and backgrounds; everyone is in it together. Like the Wellington projects, we believe that conservation efforts serve as a medium to build both community and environmental health.

Help at hand

Predator Free Urban Mangawhai is a volunteer, not-for-profit, community effort to rid urban Mangawhai of predators. We’ll help you get started trapping in your backyard for free. We can help with an array of traps and advice, or you can volunteer with one of our community groups. Drop us an email at predatorfree@piroaconservation.org.nz.

Find out more about one of our other big goals for 2025 – we are embarking on a journey to reintroduce native species that have long been absent from the Brynderwyn ranges. Find out more here https://www.pbl.org.nz/page46.html

Taxidermied birds stolen from Tawharanui Regional Park

An irreplaceable collection of taxidermied birds was stolen from the display cabinet inside Sanctuary Hut at Tawharanui Regional Park in the early hours of January 3.

The theft was discovered by a park ranger and has confounded people working at the park, many of whom can’t understand why the birds would be targeted, given they are such bespoke items that wouldn’t be easy to sell.

Tawharanui Open Sanctuary Society (TOSSI) committee member Lyn HamiltonHunter said it felt very strange.

“It’s a random thing to want to steal but there must have been reason for it. Someone has seen some value in it because there’s no way you would jemmy open the cabinet, which was locked, and take them otherwise.

“If you were being mean you’d just vandalise the display or throw the birds on the ground or in the bush. But they’ve actually been stolen – it feels planned to me, though whether or not there’s a black market for them I don’t know.”

The taxidermied birds that were taken include: a kaka, kakariki, kotare (kingfisher), ruru (morepork), tui, banded rail, and long tail cuckoo – the kereru was the only bird left behind.

Hamilton-Hunter said there was a massive volunteer element at Tawharanui, in particular from TOSSI, who were all feeling the loss.

“The volunteers are the ones who created the display back in 2012. They’re the ones who

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look after the cabinet, and it’s very special to them, so it affects all these people who put in all that time and effort into the park.”

She says it would basically be impossible to replace the collection of birds.

“Because where are you going to find a kaka, or banded rail that’s died of natural causes? Those things took years for people to accumulate.”

Warkworth Police confirmed that seven native birds were removed from the locked display inside the hut (which is open to the public 24/7) and that a Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) attended the scene.

Hamilton-Hunter would like to make a plea to the public for any information that could lead to their recovery.

“If anybody knows or suspects somebody might have these birds, or if they’ve been offered a bird to purchase or seen them for sale somewhere please contact the police as we’d like to track them down,” she says.

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“We’ve had some information from the public but it hasn’t borne any fruit yet. It’s mainly been people who have their suspicions or are voicing an opinion, but there’s been no evidence to follow up on yet,” Warkworth Police Sergeant Mark Stallworthy said.

The investigation was ongoing and would continue until the birds were recovered.

Anyone with any information about the stolen birds should contact Warkworth Police on 09 425 8109.

Photo of the display taken the day before the theft, (top to bottom) kaka, kingfisher and banded rail.

The stuffed birds were taken from a locked display inside Sanctuary Hut, which is open 24/7.

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Tuned to Wonder will feature the work of three abstract artists who are generously donating a share of sales to support the exhibition venue,

Pop-up art supports historic Hakaru hall

A creative trio are generously donating a portion of sales from their upcoming art exhibition to help preserve a grand old building, which is just one year shy of turning a century.

Hakaru painter Phillipa Reeve and Auckland artists Aviva Clark and Clare Woods will showcase Tuned to Wonder, a pop-up exhibit, at Hakaru Hall on February 8.

All three artists have work on walls around New Zealand, as well as overseas and in art collections.

However, while their individual styles may differ, Reeve says their creative process is similar.

“We are all responding to something deeper, more and moving, using colour,” she says.

Reeve’s work titled From Soft Grounded

Passion, was sparked by her experiences of the last 12 months, “a time crawling with the crazy, wild and unbelievable”.

“I was reminded once again of the need to respond rather than react to life – to envision and activate a future I value, ideally coming from a space of soft, grounded passion,” she says. “The mixed media paintings are my response to the feelings, thoughts, sensations and longings that arose with the visioning.”

A love of paper, layering and experimental paint application led Woods to create collage pieces with hundreds of handcrafted swatches for her ‘Sensibility’ series.

“Papers connect, overlap, overlay and blend, each telling their own story and delivering an intense colour experience of joy,” she says. “Each artwork starts with a feeling

and morphs into a visual expression of that feeling.”

From her home along the Waitemata Harbour, Clark says she brought inspiration home from walks along the sea and next to the mangroves to create her display, ‘There Are Trees in My House’.

“Particularly from the settling mud in the waterways, the movement and reflection of water, the patterns found in nature and the sound of birds in flight. I bring back shapes, smells and colour to have conversations mixed with feeling and paint,” she says. “Mine is a process of shifting, sorting and settling to make sense and create meaning.”

The artists will donate 10 per cent from their sales to the hall’s kitty for maintenance of the community facility, which was built in 1926.

Local musicians will also bring a touch of jazz and blues ambience to the exhibition, including Reeve’s musician husband and hall committee secretary Dennis Reeve. He says although the hall earns a small living through hosting private events and community gigs and activities, more funds are always needed to help conserve the building. “We really appreciate this generous offer from these artists as costs are continuing upward,” he says. “We’ll also be having an ongoing fundraising effort in advance of next year’s Hakaru Hall Centenary. We want our lovely old hall to remain relevant and useful to our growing local community.”

Pop-up art exhibit Tuned to Wonder, Hakaru Hall, Settlement Road, February 8, 10am3pm.

–

the Hakaru Hall. Pictured from left: Phillipa Reeve, Clare Woods and Aviva Clark.

•

Play plan for Te Hana approved

Climbing towers, balance trails and a waka seesaw are just a few of the play amenities included in a new $1.8 million playground planned for Te Hana next year. The design, which was approved by Rodney Local Board last month, will be sited near the carpark and toilets on the northern side of Te Hana Reserve, across Whakapirau Road from the existing play area. The new playground will cater for toddlers to tweens, with swings, a wheelchair carousel, seating, shade sails, a picnic table and grass mounds. There will be new pathways connecting the play area to Te Ao Marama Cultural Centre to the north via the community garden

There will also be a loop path through the playground that can be used by young children learning to ride scooters and bikes.

The concept design also incorporates a second stage, which would add a skate ramp and 3-on-3 basketball court that could also be located on the northern side of the reserve, if and when extra funding became available. The next step will be detailed design, followed by consents and tender processes, with construction planned to follow next year.

The new playground will be between Te Hana Hall carpark and the community gardens.

Paparoa A&P Show back again

Organisers of the historic Paparoa A&P Show are hoping they get some sunshine for their 148th annual event, which will be held at the Paparoa Showgrounds on State Highway 12 on Saturday, February 1, from 9am.

In 2023 it was an overcast outing with intermittent rain, while last year there were some seriously heavy downpours, which saw some of the stallholders pack up and go home.

Show secretary and indoor organiser Melinda Birt says the weather didn’t come to the party last year and is hoping for better conditions this year.

“It’s going to be third time lucky. It makes a difference that we’ve had a nice start to the summer,” she says.

One of the longest-running agricultural and pastoral shows in the country, there’s going to be everything you’d expect, from equestrian and Western riding with team roping to sheep shearing, wood chopping and livestock competitions.

The fire service will hold demonstrations and there will be more trade stalls than you can shake a stick or throw a gumboot at. Judges will have their work cut out for them at the indoor exhibition with seemingly endless tables and displays.

“Where do we start?” Melinda asks. “We’ve got fruit and veg, jams and preserves, baking, croquet, arts and crafts, dahlias, photography, and a children’s section. It’s the more the merrier when it comes to entries.”

Melinda says vintage and classic car enthusiasts are in for a treat with a huge heritage vehicle display, which is something different and new at the show this year.

Over 50 vehicles are expected to roll up from car clubs and collectors from around the area – anything pre-1980 is invited.

There will be food trucks at Paparoa, plus free kids’ rides with a bouncy castle, a merry-goround and teacups.

“We’ll have the gumboot throw, and the Kumara 500 wheelbarrow race, which has become quite popular the last couple of years,” she says. It involves pushing a wheelbarrow full of kumara around the whole show site, with $500 in prizes.

All the schedule needs now is a bit of sunshine.

Gate opens 9am.

Entry fees – Family $25, adults $10, children $5 per child for the first two children, all others are free; under 5s free. North Kaipara Agricultural Association (NKAA) members free. Info: https://paparoashow.org.nz/

The Western riders are always a crowd favourite.

A large heritage vehicle display will be new to the show this year.

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Scottish dancers open to a fling with newcomers

For those who have sworn a New Year’s resolution to get more active in 2025, and if dancing to a sprightly jig sounds appealing, a community dance group is welcoming more members.

Running for six years, the Kaiwaka Scottish Country Dancers, who draw members from Mangawhai, Waipu and Warkworth, meet at the Kaiwaka Memorial Hall every Wednesday from 9.45am to noon.

dances designed for beginners will be held.

Contact Sharalon Sutherland: Call 021 717 457 or email for more information

For more information call 021 717 457 or email Sharalon.Sutherland@ultimatecare.co.nz

457 or email for more information

Call 021 717 457 or email for more information

Not to be confused with the traditional Highland fling, with its toe kicks and quick leaps over swords, Scottish Country Dancing involves groups of people dancing together in lively formation. It’s a style of dance that dates back to the 18th century.

No special equipment or a partner is required, just soft, comfortable shoes. The first visit is free and on February 12 and 19, more simple

Spokesperson Daniel Twinn says the group has kept meeting over the summer holidays, sometimes dancing in members’ gardens, as they wanted to keep seeing their friends. “We know it’s good for brains and bodies, but that falls into insignificance with the bonds of friendship formed through this form of social dancing,” he says. “If you have recently moved to the area or found yourself with more time on your hands, we look forward to welcoming you into our friendly supportive group. Think about it, exercising without realising it while having fun with lifelong friends. Come along and see if Scottish Country Dancing is for you.”

If transport is an issue, text or phone Elaine at 027 432 0032 or email kaiwaka@ dancescottish.org.nz

Don’t leave animals in cars

The SPCA is reminding dog owners that it takes only minutes for an animal left in a vehicle on a warm day to succumb to heatstroke and suffocation. A spokesperson says the temperature inside a closed vehicle in the sun can reach 50 degrees Celsius in less than 15 minutes. “Temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, even when parked in the shade with the windows open,” they say. “If you must take your dog with you in the car, bring fresh water and a non-spill water dish for them, and take them with you when you leave the car. If you love your dog, don’t leave them in a car.” Dog owners can be fined $300 for leaving a dog in the car, and if the welfare impact on the animal is significant, owners can face prosecution. SPCA officers have the right to hand out infringement notices and fines to people who do this. Bystanders worried about dogs trapped in hot cars should call the police or SPCA on 0800 SPCA NZ immediately.

On stage, in halls and in the garden, Scottish dancing has many benefits, including exercise and friendship, and the local troupe is welcoming new members.

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TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1965, the Kaipara District Council hereby gives notice that the following roads will be temporarily closed on the days and at the times below for the purpose of holding the Northern Bass 2023/24

Thursday 28 December 2023 at 00:01 until Monday

Settlement Road, Kaiwaka – Restricted access. Access for resident and local traffic only.

Valley Road, Kaiwaka – from Settlement Road to Pritchard Road, Kaiwaka – Restricted access. Access for resident and local traffic only.

Lawrence Road to Cames Road, Kaiwaka –restricted access. Access for resident and local

Further information, if required, relating to this temporary road closure can be obtained from the Customers Services Team, Kaipara District Council.

NOTICE OF INTENTION FOR TARGETED SPRAYING

Kaipara District Council advises all property owners and residents of the district that weed spraying for vegetation control on edges in parks and reserves, weed control in gardens, poles/trees, urban and rural roadsides will be carried out between December 2023 and March 2024, weather permitting.

If you would prefer not to have your frontage sprayed, Council operates a “No Spray Register” which outlines agreed areas where no spraying will be undertaken during this period. You must apply to Council to be included on this register. No Spray Zone Application forms can be found on our website at kaipara.govt. nz/a-z-forms

Spraying will be undertaken by Downer NZ on behalf of Council. To find out more details about this particular spray programme, call Bernie on 021802095 between 8am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

For more information about Kaipara District Council’s spraying and vegetation control, head to nz/residents/trees-and-vegetation-2/no-spray-zone Kaipara District Council

Braigh, Waipu (Old Fire Station opposite FEOH)

Netball Rodney Centre 2024 Annual General Meeting will be held Thursday 15th February 2024, 7pm at the Netball Rodney Centre office in Centennial Park, Wellsford.

For more information please email netballrodneycenter @xtra.co.nz.

First Aid Courses

Need a refresher?

Has it

The event caters for a range of ages and abilities.

Rock racers, take your mark

The Kaiwaka Sports Association’s annual Top of the Rock event will be held on Sunday, March 9.

There will be two running/walking routes – one of 5km and the other of 10km. The 5km route will go around the two lakes near Baldrock Road, while the longer route will go around the two lakes then traverse private land not normally open to the public, reaching a lofty spot on the hills at the base of the Brynderwyns with views to the ocean to the east and to the Kaipara Harbour to the west.

REST ASSURED

There will also be a kids fun bike ride for children under 11 years, which is free to enter. It’s a short, flat course (going around the sports complex grounds, school grounds and a neighbour’s farm), and takes around 10 minutes, so perfect for young riders. Children will need a bike, helmet and shoes. They will be entertainment, food, drinks at the Kaiwaka Sports Complex during the event. Prizegiving will be held at the conclusion of the two runs with prizes for placegetters and lots of spot prizes. To register, email: ksa.totrentry@gmail.com

What’s on ...

Just Sold

1 Summer Sounds, Tahamoana Angora Goat Farm, 566 Cove Road, 12.30-7pm. Fundraiser for North Haven Hospice. Tickets: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz

1 Paparoa 14th A&P Show. Gates open 9am. A great day out for everyone Paparoa Valley Road (see story pg 21).

1&2 The Extravaganza Fair, Mangawhai Domain, 9am-5pm. Market stalls, arts and crafts, food, music, Ashton Family Circus, and more. Free entry for kids, gold coin for adults.

2 Jazz Picnic, Tahamoana Angora Goat Farm, 566 Cove Road, 2-4pm. Tickets: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz

6 Waitangi Celebrations in Mangawhai, dawn service at Museum, activities and stalls and music concert on MAZ green (see story pg3).

8 Pop Up Art at Hakaru Hall. Three women artists exhibit, Tuned To Wonder, 10am-3pm (see story pg19).

9 Clan Matheson event to welcome visiting Scottish chief. Hosted by Waipu Scottish Migration Museum, in the Heritage School behind the Waipu Scottish Migration Museum, 4pm.

9 Waipu Car & Bike Show, Caledonian Park, 10am-2pm. Vehicle display, stalls, food, live entertainment, prizes. Entry $10, family pass $30. Info: Ron 021 992445 or waipucarandbikeshow@gmail.com

15 Matakana Opera Picnic, Ward Road, off Matakana Valley Road, 6pm. Info and tickets: www.aucklandoperastudio.co.nz

22 Youth Festival, Wellsford Community Centre. Music, food, expo, markets. 12-4pm.

March February

9 Top of the Rock 5km and 10km walk/run, Kaiwaka Sports Association (see story p26).

To list a What’s On event, email juliawade@xtra.co.nz. Listings are free.

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

5 Gazelle Way, Lang Cove

Multiple offers above asking price - what a start to 2025!

Waterfront Properties coming to market soon! Mangawhai Heads and Langs Beach. From family homes to developments to suit many. Call your Coastal Specialists to be the first to know!

Sandy McKenzie M +64 21 431 541 | sandy.mckenzie@nzsir.com

Yana Bell M +64 21 0807 9342 | yana.bell@nzsir.com

Exhibition solves bare wall dilemma

The walls in Kaipara District Council’s (KDC) Mangawhai office are showcasing vibrant new art from multi-talented members of the Mangawhai Art Gallery, the 14th show since the mini-exhibitions started in 2020.

Open to the public until April 16, the three-month displays offer visitors a chance to engage with the creative expressions of four artists each term. The idea of showcasing art in KDC’s office began when local artist Rosina Kamphuis, creator and coordinator for community art projects Project Stingray and One Moonlit Night, wandered into the-then new council premises and saw freshly painted bare walls.

Instantly inspired, she initiated Art at Kaipara District Council, Mangawhai and the office has been adorned with local paintings, sculptures and photography ever since.

Current coordinator Janel Colle invites the public to visit the KDC office at The Hub in Mangawhai Village and immerse themselves in the compelling stories and beautiful artworks of the talented artists.

“This exhibition is a testament to the lifelong dedication each artist has to their craft, offering a serene and inspiring experience to all who visit,” Colle says.

Enticement

A destination like no other, hosting a diverse range of nature-based activities and environments including the Milky Way Glow Worm Cave and the Jurassic Walks. See NZ’s world-famous glow worms, pristine cave formations, stalactites, stalagmites and flow stones. Learn about the glow worms and geology of the recently opened Milky Way Glow Worm Cave. This is one of only a few caves in NZ where you can take photographs.

The Jurassic Walks, spread over 320 acres, has multiple tracks through the karst limestone and biodiverse native bush. Rock climbers can climb one of 3 climbing crags with many routes. Bike on the farm roads and meet the friendly farm animals.

Visit for the day or stay for several at one of our three tent or motorhome camping areas with cooking, toilet and shower facilities.

Taranga in the Mesozoic by Denis Bourke. Inspired and influenced by geomorphological and topographical elements, Denis’s artistic journey first began in Taranaki, where the monumental presence of the mountain profoundly influenced his perspective on space, distance and landscape formations. He was further inspired by Wellington’s hills and his current works continue to explore the transformation of landscapes and the visual systems that document these changes. Over the years, Denis has tutored painting workshops, taught in secondary schools, and exhibited extensively, earning recognition in numerous prestigious art awards.

Jocelyn Friis and Resilience. Through her Steiner education, Jocelyn’s love for creativity was nurtured and her artistic path has been one of exploration and self-discovery, working predominantly in acrylics and encaustic mediums. Jocelyn’s work often embodies abstract expressionism, influenced by her reflections on life’s uncertainties and the natural world. As a facilitator for Art for Creativity and Healing, she extends her passion for art through workshops that promote personal growth and emotional expression, and her Mangawhai studio serves as both her creative haven and a space for others to experience her unique artistic vision.

Jan Grover’s Day is Done By. An art journey of persistence and passion, Jan’s IT career in the 60s and 70s gave her limited time to pursue her creative interests. Immersing herself in pottery and painting while raising her family, it was another 10 years before she could fully commit to her art and, after moving to Mangawhai in 2006, Jan has been influencing and supporting the Mangawhai Arts movement. Her recent works focus on capturing tranquillity and atmospheric effects in acrylics and oils.

by Vivienne Blackshaw. Vivienne was a student at Auckland’s Elam School of Fine Arts, and also studied landscape horticulture. Inspired by the local seascapes and rural settings of her hometown of Waipu, her work transitions from semi-impressionistic to more abstract forms. Vivienne’s ongoing evolution as an artist is driven by her love for nature and the freedom that abstract art provides.