Older and Bolder

OLDER

BOLDER 50+ Lifestyle Magazine for the July / August 2012

Who’s this?

In this issue: Health & Fitness • Entertainment • Food • News • Views... and more!

2 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

From the editor

I

t was all planned. The Conservative Party leader Colin Craig and Auckland mayor Len Brown were going to debate the issue of the Auckland Super City in this edition of Older&Bolder. Everything was set until a member of Mr Brown’s communications team pulled out at the last minute, saying a debate with Mr Craig wasn’t “the right forum for the mayor”.

I disagree. Older&Bolder is the perfect forum for a discussion about the super city.

In fact, any platform is the right place to chat about what’s working, and what’s not. It’s about being open and honest with ratepayers and clear with the rest of the country.

Quite simple, really.

Fortunately, Mr Craig has contributed his side of the debate. I welcome you to send feedback to me about this.

In other news, much like how it was for New Zealand last year during the Rugby World Cup, the world’s eyes are now on London for another international sporting competition.

As we watch our wonderful athletes in awe representing the silver fern, it’s a good time to remember our past athletes. See our feature

Older

on pages 8 and 9.

Thank you for your encouraging emails and letters. We’re delighted you’re enjoying the newlook Older&Bolder.

From our next edition, we’re going to start printing your letters. So if there’s something you’d like to share with the rest of the country, or something you’d like to get off your chest – email or write to me, and we’ll print as many as we can.

Also, we are about to launch a monthly Older&Bolder newsletter which will be sent out over email. If you’d like to receive this, let me know.

Looking forward to hearing from you, and keep looking ahead – just a few short weeks until spring! ■ Kineta kineta@mainlandpress.co.nz

Bolder

Contents 3 5 6-7 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16-23 24 26 27 28 30

Colin Craig - Auckland Super City Columnists Olympics feature Gun control in New Zealand Finance - Investing Technology - Skype Music - 50s Up Brass Film - Charlton Heston Anyone for bridge?

Puzzles and giveaways Health Chelsea Flower Show Nostalgia - Fun Ho! Toys Piece of NZ - private islands Travel - Macau OLDER BOLDER Animal Care 50+ Lifestyle Magazine for the July / August 2012

Contacts: Editor:

Kineta Knight kineta@mainlandpress.co.nz

Letters to the editor:

PO Box 39177, Christchurch, 8545

Advertising:

Kathy Ryan, Julia Kluts advertising@olderandbolder.co.nz

Publisher:

Charlotte Smulders charlotte@mainlandpress.co.nz

Who’s this?

Published by:

Mainland Press Limited, 540 Wairakei Road Harewood, Christchurch, 8053.

P. 03 384 0600

In this issue: Health & Fitness • Entertainment • Food • News • Views... and more!

Cover image: New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame

You Reg sta r inte ist ge 2 corest noeR mp w f leti or on.

Location. Lifestyle

Freedom to enjoy yourself and live life the way you choose.

Central to specialty shopping, social and leisure activities, we have coming available 2 bedroom, beautifully furnished homes, with all exterior and grounds maintenance done for you.

View our new purpose built community centre which includes an indoor heated swimming pool spa, gymnasium, library, theatre and lounge room, dining and cafe area. This provides a fantastic venue for movie nights, concerts, indoor bowls, dinner parties, exercise classes, plus so much more.

Phone Donna Monk 03 351 0974 or 021 241 9979 131 Wairakei Road, Bryndwr, Christchurch

www.elmswoodretirementvillage.co.nz

July/August 2012

Older

PROFILE

Debate – Auckland’s Super City

older & Bolder 3

Bolder

It’s halfway through Auckland’s first term as a Super City, so is everything going to plan?

Could this structure work in other big cities around New Zealand? These questions were put to Mayor Len Brown and Conservative Party Leader Colin Craig.

Mr Craig agreed to take part in the debate, as did Len Brown’s office. However, before we went to print, a senior member of Mr Brown’s communications team withdrew from this article saying, “On reflection our team feels that a debate with Colin Craig is not the right forum for the Mayor (with no disrespect to Mr Craig)”.

I

t wasn’t long ago when local government was local. You knew the councillors on your borough council and you knew the streets that they were responsible for. Services were delivered at a reasonable cost and there was little or no unnecessary administration.

Then the late 80s saw amalgamation of borough councils into city councils, and in Auckland in 2010 we saw a further amalgamation of these cities into the Super City.

As ratepayers, we did not support these amalgamations, but we were promised bigger and better things and the changes were simply pushed through. We were told the Super City would bring Auckland together with a single vision, new efficiencies and result in Auckland leading the way for New Zealand.

It has failed.

Rates have increased. Debt has increased. Service has decreased.

We have spent hundreds of millions of dollars getting it wrong. We now have multiple computer systems and the latest proposal is to relocate to a new building. This is nothing more than shuffling chairs on the deck of the Titanic, at further cost to ratepayers. We are now seeing substantial cross subsidisation where rates from one area are spent on the other side of the city - not back into our local community. There is a lack of transparency on financial matters and no-one I’ve talked to believes the city is balancing its books. We currently subsidise public transport by over $150 million a year. In fact, it would be cheaper to give everybody using public transport a free taxi ride to and from their destination than to run the current system. Now the city is proceeding with further massive spending on a rail network to make problems even worse.

I’ve been asked the question whether Auckland provides a model for the rest of New Zealand to follow. The answer is that it provides a clear model of what not to do. No local government change should ever be made without a vote of the citizens. Officials and bureaucrats happily support bigger government, but they are not the ones paying the bills. There is no question that the people know best when it comes to government, and we must do everything we can to ensure that the

will of the people is not ignored with further local government reforms.

It remains my commitment that we have the referendum that should have been held before the Super City amalgamation.

I’m convinced that the result of that poll would be the same as others in Canada, Australia and the United States where citizens are strongly objecting to forced amalgamation.

Even in Toronto, one of the cities used as a model for Auckland’s amalgamation, de-amalgamation is now being strongly argued for. The simple fact is that bigger government does not result in better outcomes.

Costs increase and service decreases.

When the people decide, they want local government to stay local.

The Conservative Party believes in the will of the people and in smaller local government that is focussed on the delivery of core services. We are promoting a rates cap to prevent future rates increases without ratepayer approval. ■ Colin Craig Conservative Party Leader

“On reflection our team feels that a debate with Colin Craig is not the right forum for the Mayor”

Have Your Say

What do you think? Do you agree with what Mr Craig says? What are your thoughts on Auckland mayor Len Brown’s office backing out of this debate? Could the Auckland Super City be a model for New Zealand’s other big cities?

Email your thoughts to: kineta@ mainlandpress.co.nz or post a letter to: Older&Bolder, PO Box 39177, Christchurch 8545.

We’ll print as many letters as we can in our next issue.

Colin Craig

4 older & Bolder

Older

C A R TOON

July/August 2012

Bolder

Volunteers Needed

“ Enjoy new friends and experience a rewarding time helping others, in your area! “

FREE NEXT TRAINING STARTS Wednesday 12 SEPTEMBER The training is given on 8 consecutive Wednesdays from 6.30-9.00pm, at our training room in Avondale.

Amitabha Hospice provides free care to the elderly & to people with life-limiting illness in every area of Auckland for a few hours a week (a car is recommended to drive short distances)

Why Volunteer?

The benefits are many: • • • • •

For information please call: 828-3321 | Email: amitabhahospice@gmail.com or Apply on-line: www.amitabhahospice.org

Your offer of time and support may be the deciding factor in enabling a family to keep their loved one at home where they can receive quality care in a familiar environment.

You will become part of a friendly supportive team.

You will increase your personal development.

You will learn practical skills, that you can use to help your family and friends.

You will meet some memorable and inspiring people.

It’s an easy way to give valuable help to your community and personally deeply rewarding.

• Gold card accepted • Finance options available

older & Bolder 5

july/august 2012

Older

Bolder

visitors with a fast-tracked route to From the Devil’s Staircase and Te Milford Sound by gouging an 11km Anau Downs to the Mirror Lakes and long tunnel through the Alps from Eglington Valley, it is a grand odyssey Glenorchy to the Hollyford Valley. to savour, not a shortcut.

The $170 million project would allow Carving an 11km long tunnel bus and coach tour operators to whisk through our last great wilderness is tourists to Milford Sound in just a very crude case of the mountain two hours, as opposed to taking the coming to Mohammed. circuitous route via Te Anau.

Glenorchy residents are also fuming A question of trust as the sleepy hollow surrounded ACC could well be a top contender by untouched wilderness would be for the wooden spoon award of “least transformed into a glorified bus and respected government body”. coach highway, with an estimated 60 In the wake of the Bronwyn Pullar buses rumbling through the village affair and the changes at the helm, the before disappearing into the tunnel. latest revelations of ACC staff being For travellers on a tight schedule, paid bonuses for removing long-term getting to Milford Sound faster holds claimants off the corporation’s books appeal. But this monster tunnel is is unsettling, if not unsavoury. pandering to impatience. It is tailored Official figures indicate there has at the international tourist who heads been a huge upsurge in refusals of to Queenstown with a view of taking surgical claims on the grounds that in as much as they can in as short a the injury was pre-existing rather than time as possible. the result of an Should Te Anau’s accident. ACC Carving an 11km long livelihood and has slashed the G l e n o r c h y ’ s tunnel through our last great number of longsolitude be wilderness is a very crude case term claimants sacrificed in the by 25 per cent. of the mountain coming to process?

Yet over the I think the Mohammed. corresponding journey to period, the Milford Sound is number of ACC as spectacular as the destination. claimants going onto a health-related

welfare benefit rose 19 per cent.

Are people being crudely kicked off ACC before they have been properly rehabilitated? Rehabilitation is supposedly one of the essential obligations ACC is expected to deliver.

The growing public perception is that ACC has become obsessed with its bottom line rather than actually trying to help the people it is meant to serve.

Yes, there will always be some who try to take ACC for a ride and pull a fast one. They should be vigorously rooted out and prosecuted for defrauding the system.

Similarly, most reasonable-minded people don’t begrudge ACC for keeping a vigilant watch on the public purse. Take the free, unlimited physiotherapy of recent years. That soon became a feel-good frippery that was out of control and had to be knocked on the head. But ACC must strike the right balance between fiscal prudence and honouring its obligations.

ACC is a public contract. Yet the corporation has appeared far more concerned about its dollars than its duty of late. That has to change if it is to earn a renewed sense of public trust. ■

CU R R E NT AFFAI RS

The tricky journey towards change

Mike Yardley, talkback host Newstalk ZB

R

apidly expanding mining operations in the South Island is eminently sensible if we are to enhance our economic wealth.

That being said, I’m delighted that the Prime Minister has ruled out mining in World Heritage-listed areas, like Te Wahipounamu. The Conservation Minister should take a leaf out of John Key’s book as she prepares to make a decision on the Milford Dart Passage.

Late last month, Te Anau hosted its biggest public meeting in decades.

Residents are understandably aghast at the proposal to provide Queenstown

Improving the plastic fantastic

Rt Hon Winston Peters, Leader of NZ First

N

ew Zealand First’s introduction in 2007 of the SuperGold Card was a landmark moment for superannuitants in this country. It provided a nationwide discount scheme envied by nations around the world.

We are committed to adding even more value to the “plastic fantastic”.

We are now pushing hard for the introduction of three free GP visits a year for SuperGold Card holders.

The naysayers will say the country can’t afford it but nothing could be further from the truth.

We have done the work and have the figures which show money would be saved if senior citizens are provided three free visits to their GPs each year.

This is how it would unfold.

All elderly would be able to afford to visit their doctor, resulting in early diagnosis of illnesses that would otherwise have seen them admitted to hospital at an average cost of about $7800 a week.

The scheme would only need to prevent one per cent of SuperGold Card holders currently being admitted to the hospitals for it to be costneutral.

More than one per cent and the

scheme would save the country There has been a lot of media money. coverage recently about whether the When the dust settles on the entitlement age for New Zealand percentages, what remains is a scheme Superannuation should increase from that will save lives and keep the 65. elderly out of hospital without costing Let’s be very clear about this the country a cent. We have drafted nonsense. legislation around the proposal. If It was proposed by a lobby group for it’s drawn the retirement from the ballot funds industry then we see so it can make We have done the work and no reason why billion dollar have the figures which show it shouldn’t profits – not be supported help the retired. money would be saved if senior by all political The basis of citizens are provided three free parties. their argument visits to their GPs each year.

New Zealand is bunkum.

First was There is no i n i t i a l l y looming NZ proposing one free doctors’ visit with Super crisis. The scheme as it exists another five visits capped at $10 each today is affordable well into the in a year. future.

We changed that in favour of three The doom merchants are committed free visits per year because both the to a stagnant economy, but we say administrative costs and the health things can get better and next time we outcomes would be more beneficial. will explain how. ■

6 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

Older

O LYMP ICS

Les Mills: Then and now

O

Bolder

By Davina Richards

lympian turned businessman turned mayor - let’s face it, not a bad turnaround for a retired four-time Olympian athlete.

Les Mills, born in Auckland in 1934, achieved his best result winning a gold medal in discus at the 1966 British Empire and Commonwealth Games, and held a New Zealand record for an impressive 44 years in shot put before his record was broken in 2011

by Jacko Gill.

Since his career ended as an athlete, Les Mills has never shown a lack of enthusiasm for sport. He continued his involvement as a sports figure, leading the New Zealand team at the 1998 Commonwealth Games, he mentored gold medal-winning discus thrower Beatrice Faumuina among others and started a fitness legacy using his own name.

Back in 1968, he opened the first Les Mills gym in Auckland with his wife Colleen. The establishment has come a long way since then; the chain of gyms is now owned by Les Mills’ son Phillip Mills and his wife. In the 1980s, Phillip developed exerciseto-music group fitness programs.

Its success saw the gym popping up

nationwide and was even launched into the New Zealand map in up to 80 international countries – now with 14,000 Les Mills International gyms and health clubs dotted around the globe.

The business has been reaping in a string of awards for its excellence within the fitness industry including a Sony Ericson Urban Lifestyle Award, and Les Mills International was named New Zealand Services Exporter of the Year by NZ Trade and Enterprise.

So after becoming a top athlete and then a successful businessman surely this meant that the natural step to take next was to become mayor, right?

Which is exactly what happened.

From 1990 until 1998, Les Mills served as the Mayor of Auckland and during this time was able to oversee some major projects in Auckland City such as the opening of the Sky Tower and Casino complex, the redevelopment of the Civic Theatre and refurbishment of the Auckland Town Hall.

Did I mention Les Mills also has his own clothing range?

Talk about taking on the world. Not bad at the age of 78. ■

Les Mills photo courtesy of New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame.

Returning to the games

After a 28 year absence, respected broadcaster and sportswoman Lesley Murdoch is returning to the Olympic Games. Lesley last attended the games in 1984, as the goalkeeper for the New Zealand women’s hockey team, which placed sixth in Los Angeles. This year she is attending the 2012 London games as part of Sky television’s commentary team. She spoke to Scarlett Cvitanovich about what it’s like to represent your country at the Olympics.

“

Lesley Murdoch

For every athlete, it’s their ultimate dream to go to the Olympics,” Lesley says. “It’s always stuck in the back of your mind as you represent your province or your country, how amazing it would be to be an Olympic athlete.”

The 1984 Olympic Games was the year that women’s hockey debuted on the schedule and was the first time that many Kiwis were even aware of the national team.

“In 1984, any type of publicity was pretty cool,” Lesley says. “For many

of our friends, and even some family members, it was the first time they had really seen us play.”

While the team didn’t place for a medal, the experience of attending the Olympic Games as an athlete was one that Lesley won’t ever forget.

“Getting my New Zealand uniform was amazing, and realising that you have the opportunity to represent your country on the world stage. The step up to Olympic level was huge – the intensity of the games, the speed of how everything was played. The way the team bonded was special as well, not just with hockey players, but the entire Kiwi camp.”

This year, Lesley will be returning to the hockey pitch to commentate the men’s and women’s games, as well as taekwondo matches. “I have been taking taekwondo lessons,” she says, “just to ensure I have as much knowledge as I can!”

With the 2012 games beginning on July 27, Lesley is arriving in England

a few days in advance.

“I can’t wait to see the show that London puts on to welcome the athletes and the world to the city,” she says.

“Most years you hear concerns about whether a city will be ready in time to host the games, but this year I just keep hearing about how great everything is going and how prepared London is.”

It’s the little things that Lesley believes will be the difference in making the games memorable.

“The hockey pitch is going to be truly special,” she says. “The

artificial turf is going to be blue with pink surrounds. They are making sure everything is optimum for these games.”

Lesley’s advice for people attending the games?

“Get tickets to any event you can.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a sport you aren’t normally interested in; being a spectator in the arena at an Olympic event and seeing the pinnacle of the world’s athletes is an experience that can’t be beaten.”

Except perhaps if you are an Olympic athlete yourself, then the experience surely can’t be topped. ■

“It’s always stuck in the back of your mind as you represent your province or your country, how amazing it would be to be an Olympic athlete.”

july/august 2012

Older

OLYMP I CS

Olympic rowers

W

older & Bolder 7

Bolder

By Peter Oakes

e like good news attached to our Olympians and dislike hard luck stories.

The winning of New Zealand’s first Olympic silver medal provided a bit of both.

When the pair-oared team of Bob Stiles and Rangi Thompson rowed their way to a silver medal at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, it was a great performance and takes on greater kudos when the circumstances are realised.

The British pair - two gentlemen of England, Lewis Clive and Hugh Edwards, of independent means, not needing to work, spending their time

at rowing training – beat Stiles and Thompson by half a boat length. It was a mighty effort by the amateurs from The Shaky Isles, all the more meritorious for the way it was achieved.

Bob Stiles and Rangi Thompson – really Cyril and Frederick, but known in New Zealand rowing by their nicknames – from Christchurch’s Avon Rowing Club, fancied their chances. In a letter to his wife, Bob noted they had the best time in training on the Long Beach four-lane course.

Bob wrote a daily letter to his wife (transcribed by their son Russell, now 80), a record of the Olympic regatta. It betters newspaper coverage; the pairs’ final drew a brief three-paragraph report at the bottom of one page of the New Zealand Herald.

Of the final, Bob said: “We had a hard row against England and at halfway I thought we were going to win. We were level with them and were only rowing easily when a stay on my rigger broke and the loose end turned down into the water.”

It was a turning point in the race: “It gradually worked under the boat and caused it to drag very heavily on my side. We tried to sprint, but it caused the

Going for the win: The Avon crew (CA Stiles, stroke, and FH Thompson) were winners of the Champion Pairs at the Dominion Rowing Championships held at Wellington.

boat to swing off its course, and I had a terrible job holding the boat against Rangi over the last 200 yards.”

The Kiwis had lost to the Englishmen in the heats and again, equipment failure made the difference.

Bob wrote: “We rowed in the first heat and were beaten by England. We will be very close in the final, as Rangi broke a rigger early in the race and it dragged in the water.”

The pair got a bad start and were a length and a quarter behind after 100 yards. They were unprepared when the starter “just dropped the flag”, but let the race continue.

At the one thousand mark, Bob and

“Considering the drag of the broken stay and the rigger together with the bad start, we must have a great chance in the final.”

Rangi were up with England and stayed with them for 600 metres “but it had cost too much in energy and they beat us by a bare length”.

“Considering the drag of the broken stay and the rigger, together with the bad start, we must have a great chance in the final.”

After the final, Bob wrote of the English pair: “They were as good sports as oarsmen. There is none that I would have preferred to have beaten us. They were really sorry for us and frankly stated we were as good as them, but the luck broke against us.”

Rangi Thompson suffered a work accident in 1943, losing half an arm.

He died in 1971. Bob Stiles turned to repairing and building rowing boats after World War Two, becoming a master boat builder. He died in 1985. ■

Ted Morgan:

Punching for Olympic gold

By Davina Richards

A

dislocated knuckle in his left hand and weighing-in too heavy for his division didn’t stop Ted Morgan from winning New Zealand’s first-ever Olympic gold, writes Davina Richards.

Edward “Ted” Morgan was born in England on April 5, 1906, but his family immigrated to Wellington when he was barely one year old. He won the New Zealand Welterweight Championship at the 1928 Summer Olympics.

Morgan left school in 1922 apprenticed to be a plumber, but he continued to impress in boxing over the following years and was eventually selected to compete in the 1928 Olympics held in Amsterdam. He weighed three stone heavier for his usual lightweight division and was forced to move up a division to welterweight.

Morgan is officially credited as New Zealand’s first Olympic gold medallist, but it wasn’t without enduring severe pain emanating from his left hand, having dislocated his knuckle during training. By the time it came to the final he couldn’t even straighten his hand, but being so close to victory he continued to power through.

He managed to punch through the pain and

triumphed against Argentinean opponent Paul Landini, marking New Zealand sport history forever.

Despite offers to box professionally, Morgan chose to turn them down and entered the ring for the last time in October 1934.

When his short-lived professional boxing career ended, his retirement only meant a step out of the ring where his service continued to the Wellington Boxing Association as a referee. He also owned a successful plumbing business in Wellington’s Cuba Street.

Morgan married twice in his lifetime; once to Norma Wilson in 1933 but it led to divorce in 1938. He remarried in 1945 to Janet Elizabeth Reynolds with whom he began a family.

Morgan won the gold medal at just 21 years old but also died young at only age 46 on November 22, 1952. His time working as a plumber brought on lung cancer.

Gloves on or gloves off, Ted Morgan will always be remembered for holding the Olympic gold medal and no-one can take that away from him or the proof in the history archives. ■

Ted Morgan photo courtesy of New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame.

july/august 2012

Older

LAW & ORDER

older & Bolder 9

Bolder

Staring down the barrel Tom Doudney reports on gun crime in New Zealand.

T

wo boys without their father, a wife mourning her husband, a father and mother deprived of a son. The case of who murdered Fielding farmer Scott Guy may be unresolved but the power of a gun in the wrong hands to bring about tragedy could hardly be clearer.

New Zealand has had its share of fatal shootings in recent years. Other examples include the Napier siege of May 2009 where Jan Molenaar shot dead Senior Constable Len Snee and wounded three others, and the July 2010 incident in Christchurch’s Phillipstown suburb where two police officers were injured and the police dog Gage was killed.

Incidents such as these understandably grab the public’s attention but what about the bigger picture? Is gun crime much of a problem in our country and if so what should be done about it?

According to the most up-to-date police statistics, the proportion of violent offences involving firearms in New Zealand remained relatively stable between the 1995/96 and 2008/09 financial years – and even dropped slightly from around 1.6 per cent of all violent offences in the mid1990s down to around 1.4 per cent.

The number of firearm-related homicides peaked in the late 1980s at around 40 per year and has been trending steadily downwards since then to around 10 to 15 deaths per year.

Police national operations manager Superintendent Barry Taylor attributes the drop to a number of factors including “New Zealand having a very robust firearms licensing and vetting regime, good firearms education and enforcement and the increased availability and access to alternative, non-lethal tactical options for police – for example OC [Oleoresin Capsicum] pepper spray and Taser – which has allowed police to deescalate situations that previously may have resulted in a more serious outcome”.

However, the director of the National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies at Otago University, Professor Kevin Clements, believes a change in social attitudes may have made more difference than anything else.

“There is a rather paradoxical decline in rates of gun violence in both Australia and New Zealand in spite of our registration and firearms licensing system and I think that really has more to do with a diminishing tolerance for violence generally.”

He cautions that New Zealand’s regulations around gun ownership

“There is a rather paradoxical decline in rates of gun violence in both Australia and New Zealand in spite of our registration and firearms licensing system and I think that really has more to do with a diminishing tolerance for violence generally.”

are still far less strict than those of countries like Canada, the UK and Australia and there is no room for complacency.

“The sad thing is you can have the statistics tracking in the right direction but it only requires one person with access to a large number of weapons, who suddenly has a psychotic break or something, to then use them.”

Professor Clements would like to see gun licensing laws changed so that every gun would have to be individually registered to its owner.

This, he says, would enable police to

better monitor the accumulation of weapons.

The suggestion is not new - it was one of the recommendations in the 1997 Review of Firearms Control in New Zealand commissioned by the National government of the time after a spate of fatal shootings. However the review languished in the face of opposition from gun owners and has been largely ignored by successive Labour and National governments.

The University of Canterbury’s Professor Greg Newbold, who was a consultant on the review and wrote

two subsequent journal articles on the subject, summarises one of the key criticisms of calls for tougher gun control regulations.

Professor Newbold says research has shown that the majority of guns used to commit crime are illegally possessed and attained, while the changes in the 1992 Arms Amendment Act have already encouraged licenced gun owners to act responsibly.

“Getting a firearms licence is far more rigorous than it used to be and losing it is far easier than it used to be.” ■

10 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

Older

FI N AN CE

Investing in shares for income and income growth

P

rotection against inflation is key when developing a strategy for your long-term investments.

Inflation has averaged around 2.7 per cent per annum since 2000 and if it continues at this rate, $100,000 today will have the equivalent value of $76,055 in 10 years’ time. Another 10 years and it’s down to $57,843 (a 42 per cent decline).

As long as inflation exists there is a need to properly manage your investments and beat its eroding effects in order to maintain value.

With term deposit rates below five per cent and bond yields only marginally higher, investors are turning to high quality shares, which offer a solid income stream through dividends.

Dividends are not immune to volatility but they can offer investors a degree of stability and certainty. This is because dividends are connected to the actual company operations, which continues even when financial markets are volatile.

Furthermore, if investors look for stocks that not only pay a dividend, but can increase their dividend over

time, they could, with some patience, earn higher returns over time.

Retirement village operator Ryman Healthcare has grown its dividends by an extraordinary 19 per cent a year over the past 11 years, from one cent per share in 2000 to seven cents in 2011. An investor who purchased Ryman shares in September 2000 (at $0.36 per share) would have received a gross dividend yield of 2.8 per cent.

However, in 2011, thanks to dividend growth, that same investor would have received a gross dividend yield of 20 per cent from their investment, based on their entry price in 2000.

This demonstrates the benefit of longterm investing in companies that grow their dividend over time.

Dividend growth has been one of the foundations of our investment philosophy at Craigs Investment Partners for many years. In times like these when interest rates are low, and inflation fairly high, this investment philosophy has helped our clients sustain and grow their wealth.

Some investors might find the thought of investing in shares too risky but there are ways to

T!

GE

Sit ActiveTM allows you to improve circulation through PREGNANCY OFFICE KIDS movement T while sitting!

SI

including those who are investing for the first time.

For investment advice please contact Martin Fraser Allen (AFA), investment adviser at Craigs Investment Partners Christchurch branch, by phoning 0800 272 442 or visit www.craigsip. com for more information. ■

Do you have any financial questions for Martin?

If so, email kineta@mainlandpress.co.nz and we’ll publish the answers in the next Older&Bolder.

Celebrate the reopening of the Garden Court Brasserie

SI FIT U ... W H I L E Y O

T!

GE

T

This column is written by Mark Lister, Head of Private Wealth Research at Craigs Investment Partners.

His disclosure statement is available free of charge under his profile on www.craigsip.com.

This column is general in nature and should not be regarded as specific investment advice. A Disclosure Statement is freely available on request.

Please visit www.craigsip.com for more information.

mitigate this risk. By diversifying your investments across a number of asset classes (such as cash, property, fixed income and shares) we can help you create a balanced portfolio of investments, taking into account the returns (dividends and capital growth) you would like to achieve along with your tolerance for risk.

Craigs Investment Partners, one of New Zealand’s largest investment advisory and management firms, offers a range of services suitable for all types of investors,

ACTIVE POSTURE CUSHION

DO YOU SIT FOR ACTIVE POSTURE CUSHION LONG PERIODS OF TIME?



Bolder

$34.95 each or

2 for

EXERCISE

ELDERLY

AT HOME

FIT Turns your U chair into a gym Workout while you work, study or play . . . W H I L Targets E Y Othose ‘difficult to work’ lower abs $49.95 For exercise, rehabilitation, fun ■

■

For a www.SitActive.com limited time!

10 Maidstone St

PREGNANCY

OFFICE

KIDS

EXERCISE

ELDERLY

AT HOME

Turns your chair into a gym ■ Workout while you work, study or play Turns your chair into a gym • Workout while you work, study or play Targets those ‘difficult to work’ lower abs ■ For exercise, rehabilitation, fun Targets those ‘difficult to work’ lower abs • For exercise, rehabilitation, fun.

www.SitActive.com

10 Maidstone St BENEFITS INCLUDE: • Improved circulation, muscle tone and posture • Maintains fat burning metabolism • Allows greater range of movement while sitting • Effective with most types of chairs – office, leisure or car Sit ActiveTM is a discreet, safe and simple to use and portable

To order visit: www.sitactive.com or phone: 0800 1 73223 (PEACE)

With the launch of our new loyalty card, offering excellent value and discounts for our regular guests Cnr Deans Ave and Kilmarnock Street | Riccarton | Christchurch Telephone 0800 808 999 www.chateau-park.co.nz

july/august 2012

Older

TE CHN OLOGY

older & Bolder 11

Bolder

The Skype revolution

By Simon Towle

I

n the last issue of Older& Bolder, I made mention of the Skype communication software which is revolutionising the way we keep in touch with friends and relatives who live great distances from us and home.

The costs of international and long distances telephone calls, either on a landline, or, heaven forbid, a mobile, starts to become extremely prohibitive if we indulge in the

D r i v i ng

I G et A ro • Shopping, outings • Appointments • Pets to Vets • Rest Home Visits • Proofreading/typing • Property Checks Ask about my other services like De-cluttering or Lawns GIFT VOUCHERS Bookings should be made in advance where possible

valuable creations to come out of the they can get in touch with the outside internet revolution. So valuable that world. The downside of that particular Microsoft paid US$8.5 million last service is that the authorities in Beijing year to incorporate it into their raft of then record and monitor all calls services. It has close to 700 million made on their arm of the network, registered users and has been able to including those inbound from outside accommodate their borders. more than However, for the “For those of us who like to chat for 35 million vast majority of hours on end, or those who have to simultaneous those of us living pay for it, the concept of free calls is conversations under more using their extremely tempting. Skype has made e n l i g h t e n e d system. it a reality and the world has become regimes around Coverage is the globe, our a much smaller and cheaper place” worldwide; calls remain as although a few confidential as totalitarian nations try to prevent its any other phone system, and maybe use within their borders for fear that more so. the outside world will learn more than Registering is very simple. Once they would be comfortable with online on your computer, type “Skype’ about life under their particular into the search window and the Skype repressive regimes. homepage will appear, on which the In China’s case, anyone instructions for registering yourself in that country who for their free computer-to-computer tries to register service are prominently displayed. is diverted to If, however, you are feeling a little a locally flush, you can register for a higher controlled level of service which will incur a version modest charge, but which will give before you cheap or free calls to landlines and mobile phones worldwide, or allow you to make group calls to more than one Skype account at the same time.

You can even use your Skype account on any mobile phone that provides internet access. If you wish to see the person on the other end of the call and your computer or laptop is relatively new, it probably has a camera built in. If not, buying a separate camera is inexpensive and simple to install.

Now you are ready go, soyou arrange Wetohelp with a friend or relative a time when find what you will both have Skype switched on you need! and go for it!

Visit www.skype.com. ■

We help you find what you need!

Get the information you need We help you to make the best choice for find what your next step in life.

We help you you need!

We help We help We youhelp We youhelp We youhelp We you help We you help We youhelp We youhelp We you help We you help We youhelp We youhelp We youh

find what Getfind thefind information you need findfind what find what find what find what what what find what find what find what find what find what find what fin w We help you you to make theyou best choice for need! you you need! you need! you need! you need! you need! you need! need! you need! you need! you need! you need! you need! you ne find what Get the information you neednext to make your step in life. you need! the best choice for your next step in life

nd

E

& nds a rr

usual exchanges of news and gossip.

For those of us who like to chat for hours on end, or those who have to pay for it, the concept of free calls is extremely tempting. Skype has made it a reality and the world has become a much smaller and cheaper place as a result.

To give some sense of scale to the Skype revolution, the software only became available nine years ago in 2003. Created by a pair of very clever Scandinavians, they set up a development team in Estonia, which continues to improve what is one of the most

u

l

Visit us on

Get the information Visit us on you need www.eldernet.co.nz to make the best choice for www.eldernet.co.nz Get the information you need Get the Getinformation the Getinformation the Getinformation the Get you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you information the Get need you informat the Get need you info the Ge ny your next step in life. to make the best choice for to make to make the to make best the to make best choice the to make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best choice the tofor make best cho the tofo

l

eldernet

Or free phone 0800 162 706

your next step in your your nextyour next step next step in life. your next step in life. your next step inFREE life. your next step in life. your next step in need life. your next step inVisit life. your next step inuslife. your next step infrom life. your next step in life. your next step in life. next inlife. next step in your next step in life. yo ne st in Getyour the information you for your book ‘Where Here’ on st life. iryour flife. sstep uyour to e om c to make the best choice for www.eldernet.co.nz your next step in life.

l lllll llllllllllll

Call Jan today 332 4032 or 027 651 0077 www.igetaround.co.nz

eldernet

st fir usVisit Visit us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on Visit us Visit on us Visit onus us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on us Visit on us Vi on meonto cous

Visit us on www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.nz www.eldernet.co.n www.eldernet www.elde www. w www.eldernet.co.nz Visit us on

12 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

Older

MU S I C

The 50s Up Brass Dad’s army with a difference

W

By John Nimmo

hat has 100 legs, 2000 years of experience and produces a lot of hot air? It is the membership of the Christchurch 50s Up Brass. A cheerful crew they are as they share the fellowship of brass banding and enjoy performing their music at a variety of functions throughout the year. Over 17 years, they have entertained many thousands of Christchurch seniors and many younger folk as well.

Not many years ago the brass banding fraternity considered its members veterans at the ripe old of 50. In the enlightened world of 2012 that age has increased somewhat. However, many mature musicians chose to resign from the two practice nights a week schedule and summer Sunday mornings.

A solution was needed to keep these ladies and gentlemen involved in

active music making. The answer was the 50s Up Brass, which was founded in 1993 after a composite band had been put together for a music festival.

In no time, 50 brass band musicians joined up under the charismatic conductorship of the late Noel Taylor.

In those days the retirement age was 60 and the band flourished with most members being free of the burden of work and wanting a diversion from the world of bowls and golf.

It was a brass banding paradise. Just one practice a week on Wednesday mornings, no evening or weekend concerts and certainly no marching or display drilling. Instead, playouts at rest homes, senior groups and hall concerts around the Canterbury region became the band’s bill of fare. Soon after came concerts at larger venues such as the Lady Isaac Theatre,

Addington Raceway and in the Town Hall auditorium as part of the Montana Winter Festival week. Since then the band has also played at local and national events of importance.

Probably the most unusual and coldest event the band has performed for was the opening of the World Ploughing Championships in the foothills of the Southern Alps, west of Methven.

Since 2007, the band has adopted Arthritis New Zealand as its fund raising recipient. Proceeds donated from its annual Town Hall concerts since that time have totalled $45,000.

With the help of its 3000 strong contact list of past patrons and a multifaceted advertising campaign, the 50s Up Brass has consistently filled the 2500 seat Christchurch Town Hall. Its recent guest stars have included Susan Prentice, Dame Malvina Major, the Topp Twins and several Christchurch top shelf artists.

As in other organisations, the earthquakes have had a dislocating effect on the players and the size of the audience at the annual Seniors Concert. The CBS, where last year’s concert was held, proved to be a more challenging financial proposition than the Christchurch Town Hall Auditorium. To enable the band to continue engaging prominent guest stars, keep admission prices at affordable levels and support a national non-profit organisation, audiences in

Bolder

excess of 2000 are required to maintain financial viability.

This year the band is performing hall concerts around the Canterbury region.

This enables senior citizen groups and other locals to enjoy the music of the band on their own doorsteps. The 2012 concert venues are Akaroa, Cust, Amberley and Lincoln. As well the band will perform 15 other concerts to rest home and senior organizations audiences.

The band’s elder statesman is 94year-old Mel Smith. He has been playing his cornet actively since the 1920s. For several years he played in the world renowned Woolston Brass Band. He still plays on the solo cornet row and continues to produces a pleasing sound. Mel reads musical notation accurately without his glasses.

He drives his car daily, maintains his home he built sixty years ago and keeps its section well groomed. The 50s Up Brass provides him with an ongoing outlet to express his love of music.

The 50s Up Brass welcomes new members into its ranks. It offers the opportunity for musicians who may no longer wish to indulge in the world of brass band contesting and the obligations it entails. Anyone interested in joining the band is invited to contact the president, phone 03 385 1926 or the secretary phone 03 960 4429. ■

SUNDAY SERIES

Bach & Brahms

Kate + Miranda Harcourt’s

Flowers from my Mother's Garden

Sunday 5th auguSt, 3pm middleton grange performing artS Centre

Written by Stuart Mckenzie Directed by Tim Spite

hamish mcKeich conductor anthony ferner flute oleg Kotorovich violin Jeremy Woodside harpsichord J.S.Bach Brandenburg Concerto No 5 lardelli From Grey Brahms Serenade No 2 Book at dash tickets 0800 327 484 (mon - fri) or www.dashtickets.co.nz or in person at iSite rolleston ave Conc. available, service fees apply

www.cso.co.nz Bookings:

04 801 6946 downstage.co.nz

july/august 2012

older & Bolder 13

Older

AT T HE MOV I ES

Bolder

When Heston closed off a Wellington street for tennis

By Christopher Moor

B

efore American movie star Charlton Heston flew to New Zealand in 1966, he had parted the Red Sea as Moses in The Ten Commandments (1956) and won the chariot race in Ben Hur (1958).

The latter role had earned him a Best Actor Oscar.

During his visit to Wellington, he played in a lunch-hour tennis match that closed off an inner-city street and created a record for the most spectators watching tennis in New Zealand.

His real purpose for coming was to promote American film in a now forgotten cultural exchange programme.

Then, at the peak of his screen stardom, the affable 42-year old actor earned US$750,000 per movie as the king of the 70mm epic.

Traffic officers closed Mercer Street to vehicles before midday on June 30, 1966, ready for the charity doubles match organised by The Dominion and Sunday Times newspapers.

Heston and partner John Souter played Peter Snell, New Zealand’s gold medal Olympian runner, and Robert Clarke. Souter and Clarke were well-known tennis players of the era.

Wearing sunglasses, the trim star with thinning hair left The Dominion building at 12.10pm and mounted a ‘C’mon Wgton’ chariot, provided by the Wellington Rugby Supporters’ Club. He was joined in the chariot by Snell, Clarke and Souter for the ride to the court, where 10,000 spectators had gathered in the bright sunshine of an early winter’s afternoon.

Those who snapped Heston standing in the chariot on their Instamatic cameras then weaved through the crowd to see something of the tennis on the other side of the road.

Heston and Souter won the first game 8-6; Snell and Clarke the second 8-7.

Between sets Heston asked the crowd to throw money onto the court and got instant responses. After the match he joined the other players in collecting money with the bucket he carried, adding more than £55($110) to the total. He told spectators the weather smiled because “I’ve got friends up there”, alluding to his Moses parting the Red Sea in The Ten Commandments.

The Wellington branch of the Intellectually Handicapped Children’s Society received more than £750($1500) from the generosity of those present.

Participants and organisers rated the

tournament a huge success. Heston was thrilled by the generosity of the crowd, saying, “This is an experience I will never forget”.

But the event did not play without dissent. Wellington had two daily papers in the 1960s, The Dominion in the morning and The Evening Post in the afternoon. Before their amalgamation in 2002, a rivalry existed, and not involved with the match, The Post found some fault in contrast to The Dom’s glowing praise.

The Post reported several hundred failed to see the match, with those grouped around the library seeing very little.

Two youths were standing on the roof of the nearby public toilets when the structure collapsed under their weight.

One embarrassed young man landed on the floor in the women’s restroom while the other ended up in the men’s.

Few realised their plight, or saw the only anti-Vietnam war protestor. The young man waved a placard reading ‘Heston Go Home!’ and shouted that “Bombs and tennis don’t mix”.

Heston apparently saw him and was overheard saying to Snell: “Friend of yours, Peter?”

At Victoria University, Heston had earlier spoken on The Film as Art, where he introduced excerpts from High Noon (1952), North by Northwest (1959), On the Waterfront (1954), Shane (1953) and The Big Country (1958). One hundred American film critics had chosen the movies to show how directors relied on visual images, not the written word, to make their point.

Heston said the fight scene in The Big Country was as painful as it looked on the screen, “a miserable experience” filmed in the summer heat outside Stockton. “It was very exhausting. And I’d read the script – I knew I didn’t even win. At least after the chariot race in Ben Hur, they did give me a wreath!”

Heston took a holiday with his family on leaving New Zealand. His legacy from his 1966 visit remains tennis match history, rather than one of fostering the culture of American film.

He died on April 5, 2008, aged 83 years. ■

Charlton Heston promotes the charity tennis match on his arrival in Wellington Ref EP/1966/2697 Dominion Post Collection, Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ

▲ Playing tennis in Mercer Street, Wellington, 30 June 1966 Ref EP/1966/2714/2 Dominion Post Collection, Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ

Heston appears happy with his serve Ref EP/1966/2713/1Dominion Post Collection, Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ

Heston with the First Secretary, United States Embassy, Mr H F Newson and his wife at a cocktail reception.

Ref EP/1966/2724 Dominion Post Collection, Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, NZ

WIN! Has reading about Heston put you in a film-watching mood? Thanks to Hoyts, we have 10 double passes to a movie of your choice to giveaway.

Email giveaways@mainlandpress.co.nz with the subject O&B Hoyts, or put your name and address on the back of an envelope and send to: Older&Bolder Hoyts, PO Box 39176, Christchurch 8545. Entries close August 31, 2012.

14 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

FEAT U R E

Anyone for bridge?

Older

Bolder

Why the cleaning lady quit!

By John Nimmo

B

ridge is a card game extraordinaire. It is a unique culture, revealed only to those who indulge. It is a world of quaint terminology, etiquette and integrity, where the card table is concerned.

The cleaning lady was quite entitled to be shocked when she heard such expressions as, “Lay down and show me what you’ve got”. Another gentleman said, “I’ve got strength but not much length.” An agitated male was heard to say, “You cannot have my trick.” His female partner protested, “You forced me to! You jumped me twice when you didn’t have the strength for one good raise!”

Despite the bridge club conversations and repartee sounding risqué, they are part of the language of the king of card games, which is played by over 80 million people in many parts of the world. It is believed that the only playing card game more frequently played than bridge today is poker.

Bridge evolved from whist and became recognisable as a separate

game by the late 19th Century. It became Royal Auction Bridge, by name, in 1904. The modern game was developed by Harold Vanderbilt, a member of the wealthy family of American banking fame, in 1925.

Its popularity flourished and it was established in club form in New Zealand by the early 1930s. Today there are numerous clubs throughout the country. More than 16,000 registered players are affiliated to the national body and as many again play in non-affiliated clubs.

Playing bridge involves using all the cards in the pack except for the joker. Four people each have a dealt hand of 13 cards. Clutching 13 cards fanned out in one’s right or left hand is quite a challenge for a start. But having 13 cards to play with increases the possibilities many fold when compared with games where lesser numbers are dealt.

Another unique feature is the one faced hand on the playing table.

When the auction to ascertain which partnership will play the hand, as opposed to defending against it, the partner of the successful bidding pair places his/her cards face up on the table and becomes d u m m y .

Partner is the boss and dictates which card from the hand will be played each rotation.

Bridge is played and teenagers at with partners. However, many partnerships high school.

Each partnership Beware, bridge consists of two are social relationships and is a disease, players who love of the game, and convivial usually of the compete against companionship far outweighs non-fatal kind other partnerships. (one exasperated Usually there are the vicissitude of their combined American lady between 24 and efforts as a playing partnership. bridge player did 28 dealt hands of shoot her husband cards played in a at the bridge table session of bridge. Players stay seated many years ago). in the north/south facing positions Husband and wife bridge remain stationary throughout the partnerships can be tenuous affairs bridge session while the pairs sitting but for other married couples their east/west move around the section in bridge playing lives are relative bliss. a clockwise direction.

Once the disease is caught there is Unlike most card games, once each no turning back and one becomes an hand is dealt at the start of play it is addict for life. Still, at $5 or $6 for placed in a board with four slots to a three-hour session at most clubs, hold each player’s hand. Each board it is a cheap pastime. There are no sequentially progresses around each uniforms or equipment needed. New of the bridge tables in a section in an Zealand bridge clubs range in size anticlockwise direction so that each from just a handful of players up to partnership has played it. The aim of 1000 members. In the Canterbury the game is to score the best result region alone, there are at least 30 possible N/S or E/W. Each game clubs, large and small, playing bridge result is recorded on an attached score every week. Virtually any town of any sheet and added to the others played to size has one. gain an overall result for each bridge A prerequisite for playing bridge session. is attending learner classes for a At the end of the session play, when few weeks to acquire a working the results are computed, there in understanding of the game. In bigger black and white are their comparative bridge clubs, players progress through results for all to view. However, many two or three grades on the journey to partnerships are social relationships acquiring senior status. and love of the game, and convivial If you want an activity that stimulates companionship far outweighs the your brain and keeps Alzheimer’s at vicissitude of their combined efforts bay, bridge is the game for you. It as a playing partnership. also offers stimulating friendships, a Bridge is played by kings, cardinals, card game that is second to none and high flying politicians, movie stars provides an ongoing learning curve (of the intelligent kind) and university for many years to come. Once hooked, professors. It is also played by your bridge addicts happily embrace next door neighbours, the folk down bridge, the king of card games, for the the street, retirees by the bucket load rest of their lives. ■

older & Bolder 15

july/august 2012

Older

GI V E AWAYS & PUZZLES

Anthology of Valour

T

By Alan Paisey

his publication features 70 New Zealand Airmen’s exploits and experiences during WWII, with a forward by Air Vice Marshall Peter Marshall CB.OBE. The book is illustrated with over 200 rare photographs in 240 pages.

Anthology of Valour is an important addition to the range of New Zealand Aviation Books. ■

Toltech Publishing, RRP $49.95

[

Replay

In Love and War

I

By Susan Jacobs

n Love and War tells of the liaisons and love affairs of New Zealand soldiers and their Italian sweethearts during World War Two. For some the result was marriage, leading to a new and often strained life for the Italian war brides on the other side of the world. For others, their wartime romance ended in heartbreaking separation when the Kiwi soldiers were posted elsewhere or returned home. Unknowingly, some left behind children who would grow up without ever meeting their natural fathers. ■

Penguin, RRP $39.99

]

We have copies of these books to giveaway. To enter the draw, write the title of the book you’d most like to win on an envelope to: Older&Bolder PO Box 39176 Or email giveaways@mainlandpress.co.nz – putting in Christchurch, 8545 the subject line O&B (and the book you’d like to win).

Entries close August 31, 2012.

Easy

Cryptic

Crosswords

Bolder P

roduced in partnership with award-winning photographic agency Photosport on its 20th anniversary, this unique book revisits the highs and lows, the agony and ecstasy and the magic and the melodrama of the past 20 years in New Zealand sport.

Push REPLAY on the best and worst of the past 20 years in New Zealand sport. ■

Penguin, RRP $39.99

The Truth

F

By Michael Palin

rom the inimitable Michael Palin comes a novel about the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth . . .

Michael Palin established his reputation with Monty Python’s Flying Circus and Ripping Yarns.

His work also includes several films with Monty Python, as well as The Missionary, A Private Function, an award-winning performance as the hapless Ken in A Fish Called Wanda and, more recently, American Friends Hachette NZ, and Fierce Creatures. ■ RRP $36.99

Sudoku

No.5102

No. 5002

ACROSS

DOWN

6. Fly (10) 8. Nail (4) 9. Resolute (4) 10. Commerce (5) 11. Actual (4) 12. Will (9) 16. Wine (9) 20. Wound (4) 22. Fruit (5) 23. Location (4) 24. Appeal (4) 25. Deign (10)

1. Fish (6) 2. Licences (7) 3. Base (6) 4. Melody (6) 5. Hinder (5) 7. Fragment (5) 13. Epoch (3) 14. Rifle (7) 15. Stem (5) 17. Compassionate (6) 18.Way (6) 19. Recording (6) 21. Ebon (5)

MEDIUM

Fill the grid so that every row and every 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9

The solutions for this puzzle will appear in our next issue

ACROSS

DOWN

6. Fight for which everybody has a pass? (4-3-3). 8. That’san embankment, man! (4). 9. The chieftain’s return is afrost (4).

10. Acts that give one nasty shocks? (5). 11. Theentire thing, by the sound of it, needs darning (4). 12.Constant and successful, too? (9). 16. The girl that Irenetangled with (9). 20. Put out when you hurt your toe (4).22. Fear the man has a weapon (5). 23. The tax comes tofifty dollars (4).

24.Keep quiet about this (4).

25. Watchparts - or one part of a gymnastic act (10).

1. Get me in a gun from Germany (6). 2.Be told to stateit’s merely a rumour (7). 3. The entrance is left at a pound(6). 4. A customer for the two men (6). 5. News that makesthings look temporarily brighter? (5). 7. Detectives inevening dress? (5). 13. Where you’ll get drinks and somedinner (3). 14. Put back the others by the round-about (7).15. Mark is an unusual saint (5). 17. Alias Aileen? (6). 18.Slack and fail to reach your target again (6). 19.

Return-ing at some time before Easter with a gift (6). 21. The firstbachelor to use the pool (5).

The solutions for this crossword will appear in our next issue

Sudoku Solution No. 5101

Crossword Solutions No. 5001 EASY Across 1, Cocker spaniel.

8, Swamp. 9, Cashier. 10,Letter.

11, Sedate. 12, Cross. 14, Tried.

18, Ruffle.

20,Apache. 23, Chianti. 24, Inter.

25, School-teacher.

Down 1, Castle. 2, Chart.

3, Express. 4, Sack. 5, Aisle.6, Imitate. 7, Larger.

13, Raffish. 15, Replica. 16, Crocus.17, Terror.

19, Lingo. 21, Catch. 22, Diet.

CRYPTIC Across 1, Doctor of music. 8, Miles. 9, Counter. 10,Statue.

11, S-tr-ewn. 12, Green. 14, Am-ass.

18, Halter.20, Snatch (anag.).

23, Pr-iv-ate. 24, Rouse (rows).

25,No great shakes.

Down 1, Dam-ask. 2, Celia (anag.). 3, Obscure. 4,(c) Once(rt). 5, Mount. 6, Set-tees.

7, Curing. 13, Rolling.15, M-onarch. 16, Ch-op-in.

17, Sheets. 19, Erase. 21,Trunk (-call). 22, Left.

Vitamin D

O

– a proven D-fence against falls

lder New Zealander’s may remember receiving a daily dose of cod liver oil as children. But can you remember why? Cod liver oil is a rich source of Vitamin D and was considered an easy way of preventing bone softening conditions such as rickets.

Now that you’re older, it’s just as important to maintain a healthy level of Vitamin D – and it’s easier and safer than swallowing a spoonful of fish oil every day.

Vitamin D supplements are available from your GP, and you only need to take one small tablet every month.

Keeping your muscles and bones in good condition is a big part of staying active and

independent as you get older.

The stronger your muscles and bones are the less likely you are to experience falls that can affect people particularly from the age of 65 onwards. Taking regular Vitamin D supplements can enhance your muscle strength and bone density, and reduce your risk of falling. You are less likely to fall and injure yourself when you’re older if you keep your muscles and bones in good condition.

Vitamin D supplements should be considered by anyone who is over the age of 65, especially if you fit into one or more of these categories – have dark skin, are housebound or rarely go outdoors with your skin uncovered, live in the South Island during the

Brought to you by ACC For more information about how Vitamin D supplements can help prevent falls, visit www.acc.co.nz/vitamin-d.

ACC6502 July 2012

winter, have a history of fracture or osteoporosis, or are obese.

Vitamin D supplements are available on prescription from your GP. The normal consultation and prescription costs will still apply so it’s best if you ask for Vitamin D supplements the next time you visit your GP. If you’re living in a residential care facility, Vitamin D supplements are prescribed free of charge. And remember, you only need to take one small tablet every month.

So if you fancy tip-toeing through the tulips, getting all shook up, or dancing in the street, Vitamin D supplements can help you stay on your feet and stay active.

JULY/AUGUST 2012

How big a problem is Osteoprosis?

Osteoporosis is a major and increasing health issue in New Zealand. Half of all women and a third of men over 60 will be affected by it. The internal structure of the bone breaks down and the bone is less dense (not enough bone in the bone). It becomes weaker and fractures more easily, often as a result of a minor bump or fall – so called ‘fragility fractures’.

One fragility fracture occurs every 6 minutes here in New Zealand. The immediate cost of treatment is over $300 million each year, with a vastly higher cost in on-going health care and disability support. One study estimated this to be over a billion dollars a year.

The most common bones to fracture are the vertebrae (spine), wrist and the hip. Three-thousand New Zealanders break a hip each year. This figure is expected to rise to 4,800 in ten years’ time as our population ages.

Some of the risk factors we can’t change such as: advanced old age in both men and women, the menopause especially if early, being female, our genetics, a family history of osteoporosis and fracture.

However there are risk factors we can change; such as cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol use, being under weight, not enough Vitamin D, low physical activity and low calcium in our diet.

Osteoporosis is also associated with other common disorders such

as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease. In younger people it can be associated with hormone abnormalities, anorexia nervosa or over-exercising. The risk is increased in people on long term steroids and anti-epilepsy medicines.

One of the biggest risk factors for fractures is history of a broken bone.

For example, some people in their 60s experience a low-trauma break in their wrist. They go off to hospital, have it fixed and get physiotherapy; but unfortunately aren’t tested for osteoporosis. And this is despite the fact that we know half of the people who break a hip will have had a previous broken bone. If someone has a history of a broken bone from a lowtrauma accident they should discuss their risk of osteoporosis with their GP, even if they are only in their 50s or 60s.

Osteoporosis is a silent and chronic disease, until the compromised bone strength reveals itself in a fragility (low trauma) fracture. This important warning shouldn’t be missed especially if the fracture is recent and you are a woman after the menopause.

Osteoporosis is a silent disease that creeps up on you and you may not know you’ve got it until a bone breaks.

Look for it before that happens!

For more information lf you would like to find out more about osteoporosis you can call 0800 111 028 for an information

older & Bolder 17

pack. You may also like to visit the Osteoporosis New Zealand’s website at www.bones.org.nz

Half of women over 60 years will suffer a broken bone due to osteoporosis.

1

Have you been one of them?

Osteoporosis is a progressive condition that makes bones brittle and more likely to break; causing pain, suffering, and a loss of independence. Talk to your doctor about the ongoing risk and treatments, or call 0800 111 028 for your free information pack.

References: 1. Brown P et al. Burden of Osteoporosis in New Zealand 2007–2010: Pg 13. Centre for Health Services Research and Policy.

OSTEOPOROSIS SOCIETY

Canterbury

Join the Canterbury Osteoporosis Society For • Support & understanding • Information • Regular Newsletters • Exercise & Dietary Information • Public Meetings

Contact Trish (03) 960-5143

To assess your risk factors for osteoporosis, answer the following questions: Are you male or female?

F/M

1.

Have you broken a bone after a slip, trip or fall?

Y/N

2.

Have you had a previous fracture?

Y/N

3.

Has a parent fractured their hip?

Y/N

4.

Do you smoke cigarettes?

Y/N

5.

Do you consume 3 or more units of alcohol per day?

Y/N

6.

Are your movements restricted due to a disability, and/or do you do little or no exercise?

Y/N

7.

Are you taking prednisone?

Y/N

8.

Do you have Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Y/N

9.

Did you go through menopause before the age of 45?

Y/N

10. Have your periods stopped for 12 months or more (other than because of pregnancy or menopause)?

Total “Y”

Y/N

(out of 10)

The more times you circled “Y” the more risk factors you have for osteoporosis.

Complete and take form this to your Doctor or Nurse to discuss how you can reduce your risk. This questionnaire has been provided as a resource to help raise awareness of osteoporosis risk.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE USING FOSAMAX Plus (alendronate /colecalciferol) 70mg/140mcg (5600 IU vitamin D3) tablets: FOSAMAX Plus is indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in select patients where Vitamin D supplementation is recommended. FOSAMAX Plus should not be taken by patients who have a hypersensitivity reaction, food pipe (oesophageal) abnormalities, low calcium (hypocalcaemia) and have an inability to stand/sit upright for 30mins. Precaution should be taken when administering FOSAMAX Plus to patients with active upper gastrointestinal problems or impaired renal function. Common side effects are: abdominal pain, dyspepsia, food pipe (oesophageal) ulcer, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), abdominal distension, musculoskeletal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence and headache. FOSAMAX Plus is a Prescription Medicine fully subsidised under special authority for those who meet specified criteria. Consult your doctor to see if FOSAMAX Plus is right for you, a normal doctors visit fee will usually apply. Use only as directed and if symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. Marketed by: Merck Sharp & Dohme (NZ) Limited, Newmarket, Auckland. For detailed prescribing information, consult the data sheet or consumer medicine information phone 0800 500 673, or refer to the Medsafe website www.medsafe.govt.nz . [MPI-FSP-8] Registered Trademark Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA MUSC-1020687-0010 First issued 12 May 2012 TAPS NA5154 BGA120502-OB

18 older & Bolder

Older

HEA LTH H E ALT

MenzSheds

By John Shrapnell

O

ne of the most insidious trends in our society is the way in which older people, especially older men, become non-people. It happens when the person retires. Almost overnight, their lifetime of skills and achievements become valueless. Talk to those young people remaining in the company and they’ll tell you, “Oh, Fred? Nice guy, but past it. The world has moved on”.

That attitude is very destructive to a person’s sense of self-worth and they tend to become introspective. Add to that friends and colleagues moving away or dying off and you have a lonely and isolated man.

About 20 per cent of our elderly men live alone. We had graphic illustrations of that in Wellington in this past year with two elderly men being found dead in their small flats. One had lain there dead for 18 months before he was found!

This is where the MenzShed movement is beginning to help. Here in Wellington we have the City MenzShed. It’s a charitable trust and its aim, to quote the trust document, is “to provide an environment for the older and isolated men of Wellington where they can find companionship, develop new skills, and

Bolder

There is value in being part of the “Grumpy Old Men” group when we just sit around, drink coffee, eat stale biscuits and talk about the world.

The companionship of sharing thoughts and experiences often brings up health issues.

Sometimes just hearing how someone coped with a knee replacement or heart operation can ease fears. At other times we may call in an expert to talk about a Painting time: From left to right: Jim Yates (bending), Stuart Hudson and Henry Hodge painting chairs for kindergarten. specific health issue.

The MenzShed is use their talents to benefit society are about and helping and supporting each large”.

In practical terms this means showing other regardless of our level of skills, our our members that they have skills that can origins, or even our occasional crankiness. be used and that they can still contribute It’s about respect for each other. to our society.

We will see someone join the group, We have a well-equipped workshop quiet and often slightly bowed, as though where we repair or refurbish things for other community groups. This might be the troubles of the world were on his fixing and repainting broken chairs for a shoulders. Then we see that same person childcare centre, putting up shelves and a week or so later, shoulders back, a smile installing a security box for a medical on their face, looking forward to life. We centre, or building a picnic table for know we have skills we can use. We know a kindergarten. Most of our members we have value and we can still contribute can help in these tasks but it’s not a to society. We are no longer non-people. ■ requirement.

Coffee Time: From left to right: Ken Rolfe (visitor from Wanaka MenzShed), Robin Bodley, Don Matheson (chair), Gary Procter (Back to cam), Jim Baltaxe, Stuart Hudson, Henry Hodge (back to cam).

GreyPower Superannuitants Association Inc

Direct from

Includes free discount book Join or renew today!

Write to: PO Box 31-010, Ilam, Ph: 03 942-6905

MENZSHED FACTS The Men’s Shed movement appears to have originated in Australia where it is now well-established with over 700 sheds.

Men’s Sheds can now be found as far afield as Ireland.

Currently, there are about 40 MenzShed in New Zealand – some with sheds, others still seeking a home.

In Australia, the Men’s Shed movement is funded by the Federal Government, which provides both initial and on-going support.

The New South Wales government provides a process for governmentowned assets like land or buildings to be utilised by the Men’s Shed movement in NSW. No, that’s not a typo; we call ourselves MeNZshed to distinguish ourselves from our Aussie colleagues.

Turning: From left to right: Jim Yates drills, Stuart Hudson, Gary Procter, Don Matheson (Chair), John Shrapnell turns.

Christchurch

Subsci ptions $20.00 Single $25.00 Couples

july/august 2012

Why leave the home you love?

Sit, Relax and Ride with the Acorn Stairlift.

• • • •

Outdoor and indoor models For straight or curved staircases Best prices guaranteed Local surveyors and installers

older & Bolder 19

JULY/AUGUST 2012

Supporting Canterbury people to stay well at home this winter Dr Nigel Millar Now that winter has begun, supporting people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to stay well at home is an important part of the Canterbury Health System strategy to provide the right care in the right place and at the right time. For many people with COPD, the right care is assistance from community-based health professionals, the right place is in their own home and community, and the right time is long before their condition deteriorates to the point they need hospital care.

COPD is a respiratory condition that can affect people who have smoked, as they get older. The main symptoms are coughing and difficulty breathing, both of which get worse when a person with COPD has a chest infection. People with COPD are more prone to infections, especially in winter and the risk increases where homes are cold and damp because of poor heating and ventilation.

Many people are affected by COPD in Canterbury, especially in winter. Christchurch as the main population centre bears the brunt of this surge in demand, but the number of people who have COPD and the severity of their symptoms is nothing out of the ordinary for a city its size.

However, more people with COPD come to hospital in Christchurch than in comparable cities in the developed world - COPD accounted for 1250 hospital admissions last year. The most reasonable explanation for this is that too little support has been available before now to enable people with COPD to stay well and safely supported at home. With forward planning, early treatment of infections and community-based support, we can markedly reduce the need for hospital-level care, leaving acute beds available for those who have no alternative.

As an example of how new ways of working will help, St John ambulance officers are being provided with an assessment tool and the medical back-up to help them decide on the best treatment option for each patient instead of automatically taking them to hospital. Making the right decision will begin, as always, with talking to the patient, but an ambulance officer may now talk to the patient’s GP or an on-call health professional for advice.

In emergencies, and where it is the best thing for them, people will always be taken to hospital.

“COPD is a respiratory condition that can affect people who have smoked, as they get older.”

General practices are the ideal focal point for each person’s COPD care plan and GP teams can do a number of things to help. They can; • help you complete a Blue Card. This double-sided card has advice for the ‘cardholder’ on one side and on the other, important information for health professionals about what is normal for you when you are well.

• provide a free flu vaccination.

• ensure you have sufficient quantities of the right medications and together with your pharmacist, can advise how and when to use them most effectively.

• advise on what support services are available. For example, it may be appropriate to arrange for a visit from a community nurse if you are unwell with COPD. • provide information on stopping smoking, or • connect you with the Warm Homes Programme if you have health problems made worse by a cold or damp home.

To learn more about COPD and care initiatives and resources visit www.healthinfo.org.nz Dr Nigel Millar is Chief Medical Officer at Canterbury District Health Board

20 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

Find out how you can support people living with dementia Alzheimers Canterbury 314 Worcester Street | Linwood, Christchurch | P 03 379 2590 | E admin@alzcanty.co.nz www.alzheimers.org.nz/canterbury

Alzheimers Auckland 877 Manukau Road | Royal Oak, Auckland | P (09) 622 4230 | E Info@alzheimers.co.nz www.alzheimers.co.nz

How you use your burner does make a difference Many people don’t realise that their burner is adding to our air pollution problem – even newer burners. To help clean up our air, it’s essential that you operate your burner properly and use the right fuel. It takes a bit of effort to burn properly, but with better warmth and cleaner air, it’s worth it.

1

2

3

Buy seasoned firewood early and store in a rain sheltered area with good air circulation.

Use only dry and seasoned firewood, not treated or painted.

Start your fire in the front of your fire box and use plenty of newspaper or fire lighters, not glossy magazines.

4

5

6

1

Find out more about burning better at letscleartheair.co.nz

OPEN

Use plenty of dry, finely split kindling to get your fire going quickly.

2

3

4 CLOSED

Reduce your air setting in several stages, not all at once.

Maintain a good base to your fire throughout its use.

Techniques courtesy of New Zealand Home Heating Association

older & Bolder 21

july/august 2012

HEA LT H

H

Older

Bolder

in Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington, Hawkes Bay, Hastings, Hamilton and Auckland. Dedicated clinical teams at these regional centres provide our new volunteer trainees comprehensive inhouse training programmes.

LifeLine training spans over 50 hours over a period of up to 3 months, offering our trainees essential practical counselling skills and most importantly LifeLine’s Vision and Values.

An ongoing professional development plan is provided over the following two year’s commitment, on task, as a telephone counsellor (you can choose to do more and many do).

LifeLine’s personal development experience is very special indeed.

People who train as LifeLiners often say their lives take on great new meaning that they would have never otherwise imagined until they had done the training.

They are nurtured and cherished to do their very best for the community.

A LifeLiner is not just someone who wants to give and dedicate time for the public good. We have further significant qualities that make us special. LifeLiners have

deeper senses of self-awareness; we are open-minded and share a willingness to seek personal growth and development. This is the essence of a great LifeLiner; we pursue clarity and insights into our own lives and the challenges beset us as people. LifeLine is a very “human” organisation.

To speak to a counsellor at LifeLine call 0800 543 354.

Interested in becoming a LifeLine Counsellor? Call your local centre and/or check us out on LifeLine web pages www.lifeline.co.nz.

Either way you will be in very good hands with like-minded people. ■

A Special Kind of Calling

ow long has it been since you assessed and made plans for the next stage in your life?

This is an invitation for you to do so.

Whether you are planning to retire or have already done so, you may want to make some creative changes in your life. How would you like to be filling in your time? What options might excite you in your work (paid/ unpaid), within your networks or your relationships? What could help you to achieve healthy lifestyle balances for flourishing well-being?

LifeLine is a great way to help you answer some of these questions for yourself.

LifeLine provides anonymous, confidential, 24/7 skilled counselling by telephone. It’s a free counselling service for us all – the whole Aotearoa community. Everybody and anyone can ring LifeLine to work out positive options and solutions for themselves.

LifeLine’s service is run by trained volunteers. We are a diverse group from all walks of life. LifeLine’s strength is our eclectic range of wonderful people of all ages, 18 to 88.

Some very different (and common)

By Frances Young

life experiences, philanthropic desires to work as a team provide LifeLine’s unique telephone and email counselling services. That’s what makes a LifeLiner, in-part. So how does this happen? In a nutshell - Provide Practical Training - based

Frances Young is a trainer and clinical team member of LifeLine Christchurch.

HEAT I N G

Keeping warm to stay healthy

D

onning an extra jersey and wrapping up inside the house are a disappearing part of Kiwi culture. Instead, keeping warm to stay healthy in winter is more and more become the norm especially for older people.

A warm home prevents many older people from ending up in hospital over winter, so hospital beds are available for when we need them.

The World Health Organisation advises living rooms to be heated to 21 degrees for older people and those with medical

conditions. Bedrooms are advised to be heated to 16 degrees.

Community Energy Action, a Canterbury charitable trust which aims for warm homes for all regardless of income, has seen much change since its establishment in 1994.

“In the past the Kiwi attitude was just to put up with cold, draughty homes,” says Sheila Hailstone, Chief Executive of Community Energy Action.

“We are pleased to see attitudes are changing and people realising cold homes can make you sick.

“Government subsidies go a long way to making insulation and heating affordable but not all are able to pay the homeowner contribution,” says Ms Hailstone.

“Especially older people on a fixed income may struggle to pay the investment.”

Community Energy Action has government subsidies for all incomes with extra funding for older people and for those with a medical condition such as a heart condition, arthritis, etc.

“If you feel cold at home, don’t put up with it but call us, talk to your GP or an Age Concern nurse. Also if you have friends or neighbours who have a cold house encourage them to get the help that is available for them.

“There are many ways in which Community Energy Action can help.”

For more info call 0800 438 9276 (0800 GET WARM) or visit www.cea.co.nz. ■

“Government subsidies go a long way to making insulation and heating affordable but not all are able to pay the homeowner contribution” Heat for your health

WIN!

Goldair provides an affordable way to help warm cold homes this winter.

An ecosave panel heater by Goldair can remove the dangers of a cold home without the cost that’s commonly associated with running home heating.

At an average running cost of only 10c an hour, an ecosave panel heater is an investment that’s well worth the happiness and health of your family.

Thanks to Goldair, we have one of these ecosave panel heaters to giveaway! To enter the draw, put your name, address and telephone number on the back of an envelope: Older&Bolder - Goldair PO Box 39176 Christchurch, 8545 Or email giveaways@mainlandpress.co.nz – putting ‘O&B Goldair’ in the subject line.

Entries close August 31, 2012.

22 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

Tips to help you manage your COPD:

How healthy are your lungs?

A

re you a smoker or ex-smoker?

Do you have a persistent cough, cough up phlegm, or get short of breath when you exert yourself? You may have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The Asthma Foundation urges people to discuss these symptoms with their doctor.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD for short) includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In New Zealand, about 15% - or over 200,000 people - over 45 have COPD. It is one of the leading causes of death in New Zealand and has a major impact on many people’s quality of life.

Over 85 percent of people with COPD are smokers or ex-smokers and smoking is by far the most important cause.

Second-hand smoke can also lead to COPD: a recent study from Britain found that people exposed to more than 20 hours of passive smoking a week had double the risk of symptomatic COPD – even if they had never smoked personally.

• Become Smokefree – Call Quitline for help - 0800 778 778 • Keep as physically active as possible smoke.

You can get the most out of life with COPD.

Nita Rouse, Supreme Achiever at the recent Asthma Achievers Awards, quit The damage to the lungs of COPD patients smoking and with the support of her affects the air passages (or bronchi) causing doctors “took charge” of the management chronic bronchitis and the lung tissue itself of her COPD in order to live life to the causing emphysema. The damage full. Smokefree for over 10 years, is usually done by smoking – Nita took steps to understand mostly from tobacco - but the management her disease Chronic exposure to air pollution, – how to prevent it and Obstructive dust or chemicals can also how to treat it with the Pulmonary Disease contribute to COPD. The right medication.

(COPD for short) most important thing to includes conditions do is to avoid smoking The Asthma Foundation altogether. Being smokesuch as emphysema has 17 affiliated Asthma free would prevent most and chronic Societies and Trusts cases of COPD. bronchitis. throughout New Zealand who can help support you and Once the airway and lung provide you with information damage has been done, COPD cannot be cured. However the course to help make your life easier. More of the disease’s progression will be information can also be found on our www.asthmafoundation.org. slowed by stopping smoking. The website nz under ‘Your health’, or fill out the most important thing that people with COPD can do is to quit smoking and coupon attached and we will send you avoid breathing other people’s tobacco information in the post.

• Learn about your condition and how to manage it • Take your medication as prescribed • Visit your health team regularly

SPIRIVA ®

(tiotropium 18 mcg)

july/august 2012

HEALT HY EATI N G Nutritional

Value Per serve Per 100 grams 340kJ (81cal) Total Energy 1478kJ (352cal) Total Fat 9.3g 2.1g Sat Fat 4.0g 0.9g Carbohydrate 39g 9g Fibre 2.5g 0.6g Sodium 600mg 142mg

older & Bolder 23

Older

Bolder

Rebecca’s

vegetarian lasagna

Cossetrpvee:r $ 4.42

Recipe thanks to Rebecca McLean Tick Programme Dietitian.

Serves 6 | Preparation time: 15 mins | Cooking time: 40 mins

What you will need

• ½ buttercup squash, boiled, drained and mashed • 1 clove of garlic, crushed • 1 tsp dried nutmeg • 1 egg • 400g frozen spinach • 30g pinenuts, chopped and roasted • 6 fresh lasagne sheets • 1 ½ cups Tick approved lite cottage cheese • 700ml Tick approved tomato pasta sauce • ¾ cup light tasty cheddar, grated • Light sprinkling of parmesan cheese, grated pepper for seasoning

Method

pes visit t tasting reci ea gr d an y alth For more he .org.nz/tick foundation s’ to get your rt a e .h w w w ce ‘Tick resour day. and click on e Tick Recipe Guide to th of py co free

• Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

• Line a large lasagna dish with baking pepper.

• In a small bowl, mash together buttercup, garlic, nutmeg, egg and season with pepper.

• Put spinach in a pot of boiling water for 30 seconds. Drain well.

• Add pinenuts.

• Line bottom of lasagne dish with two pasta sheets.

• Pour over ½ pasta sauce, followed by buttercup mash and then cottage cheese.

• Layer over two more pasta sheets followed by spinach mixture.

• Add final layer of pasta sheets, followed by remaining pasta sauce.

• Sprinkle over cheddar followed by a sprinkling of parmesan cheese.

• Bake for 40 minutes or until golden.

Nutrition for your eyes

O

ne of the most common questions is “What can I do with nutrition to improve my vision or prevent loss of eyesight?”

Indeed, loss of vision is the most feared disability, particularly when someone in the family has an eye

problem or a ‘high number’.

Many of the problems that lead to visual loss are related to lifestyle choices. Whether your concern is a high degree of nearsightedness, cataract, macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, changing your

Preserving eyesight - start with diet

First, eat a healthy diet with an emphasis on fresh veges and fruits, plus whole grains, beans, seeds and nuts. The vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and phytochemicals that they provide are important for overall health as well as the eyes. If you wish, add a small amount of organic, low fat yogurt and for non-vegetarians, organic eggs and a small amount of fish. Dairy

products contain the milk sugar-lactose, a combination of two simpler sugars, glucose and galactose. Both glucose and galactose are converted to “sugaralcohols”, which can cause swelling of the human lens. They also attach to proteins that then deposit in the lens.

Both the lens swelling and the sugarprotein deposits lead to cataracts.

Add exercise for circulation

Exercise regularly. It helps to maintain a low blood pressure and preserves the blood vessels (the retina is rich in small blood vessels).

Exercising for 45 minutes lowers blood pressure for an additional 16 hours after finishing.

Exercise also helps to support the

health of the cells that line the arteries, called endothelium. These cells help relax the blood vessel muscle and maintain blood flow.

Another benefit is improved circulation to the heart through the coronary arteries.

A supplement program for eyesight

For a complete supplement program for the eyes, especially as you get older, we recommend starting with

a comprehensive multivitamin and mineral diet. To that, add daily doses of vitamins C and lutein. It may be a good

lifestyle will make a difference.

Vision depends on a clear lens, the rich microcirculation to the retina and the visual nerve cells of the retina called rods and cones. All of these can deteriorate with age, depending on exposure to toxins and oxygen free

Ultraviolet protection

The eyes are subject to a lot of oxidative damage to both the lens and the retina because they are exposed to ultraviolet light and a rich circulation of oxygen from the dense retinal capillaries. Protecting the eyes from too much sun exposure may help delay any degeneration of the lens and the retina. This does not mean avoiding all sunlight. Some sun exposure is

radicals, poor dietary habits, hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure.

Diabetes leads to retinal disease because of damage to the retinal arteries and to cataracts because of high blood sugar levels.

healthy as long as it is in moderation.

The action of sunlight on the skin is important for the production of vitamin D. UV-filtering lenses may provide some protection for the eyes if they actually do what they claim.

Our team can verify whether the UVfiltering lenses you wear are filtering UV light sufficiently.

Supplements that help the eyes

Many dietary supplements support eye health. They improve vision and help protect the macula (the area of the retina with the sharpest vision) and the lens. The usual antioxidants such as vitamins E and C and the trace minerals selenium and zinc help the retina and the lens. Other helpful nutrients are the

amino acid taurine, carotenoids such as beta-carotene, lycopene (found in tomatoes), lutein (from spinach) and the anthocyanosides (related to bioflavonoids) found in grapes. Lutein is present in the lens, suggesting an antioxidant role in prevention of cataract and macular degeneration.

idea to take ginkgo biloba which helps the circulation in small blood vessels and has been shown to protect the retina.

Visit our website www.abeeco.co.nz for more information or FREE phone 0800-370-999. ■

24 older & Bolder

July/August 2012

GA RD E NI NG GA R D E NI NG

T

he show gardens sparkled in the sunshine and the summer dresses were almost as bright as the flowers in the Great Pavilion. My visit to RHS Chelsea 2012 promised all I’d hoped for.

Nine hours later, as I left the show grounds aware of complaining tootsies and a slightly sunburned nose, I decided almost everything had lived up to the hype around what is billed as the world’s greatest garden show.

The 16 show gardens offered plenty of variety, from the towering fantasy of seven terraces in Diarmuid Gavin’s Westland Magical Garden, through a reminder of the Korean War in Quiet Time: DMZ Forbidden Garden to the classical elegance of the Brewin Dolphin garden, this year’s Best in Show winner. My favourite – and that of the tens of thousands who voted for theirs – was Arthritis Research UK’s garden. Winning the People’s Choice award for show gardens must have helped make up the disappointment designer Thomas Hoblyn felt when the judges decided his elegant creation merited only a silver gilt medal. I couldn’t get excited about The Daily Telegraph newspaper’s wildflower meadow despite its gold award, preferring the Caravan Club’s whimsical silver-gilt effort.

The show gardens capture most attention but the artisan gardens probably require the most imaginative approaches by designers because their space is constrained. This year’s lineup included a Charlotte Brontë creation,

Chelsea choices

Gillian Vine visits the world’s most famous flower show.

ork oak (Quercus suber) and olive (Olea europea) trees and a collection of Mediterranean C plants brought France to Chelsea in the L’Occitane Immortelle garden.

Tall, narrow Italian cypress and soft flower colours were the hallmark of the Arthritis Research UK’s garden, which won the People’s Choice award for show gardens although, surprisingly, it scored only a silver gilt medal.

Chelsea trends  Cleaner and greener was a dominant theme at Chelsea, as was water conservation by using plants that manage without needing watering, the “harvesting” of rainwater into water butts and the use of sedum and grass roofs and walls to help keep buildings naturally warm in winter and cool in summer.  Chelsea is an important trend-setter, with new varieties launched and older ones getting a boost.

A fine lineup of Primula auricula, for example, was displayed in the Great Pavilion in a 19th-century style auricula theatre with shelves backed by black cloth to show off the flowers, a mix of old and new varieties. A new sweet pea is pastel pink ‘Diamond Jubilee’, while ‘Royal Jubilee’ and ‘Queen’s Jubilee’ are two roses released to mark the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s accession.  For city dwellers, growing one’s own food in limited

space is a concept gathering momentum. Sparsholt College’s presentation on “square foot gardening” showed how much food could be grown in an area just over 1m by 1m. Elsewhere at Chelsea, the idea of going up instead of out suggested vertical gardens could be the vege plots of the future.  Dwarf cultivars of apple trees are not new but the “Stepover”, where low hedges of fruit trees are used to define boundaries, was promoted at Chelsea.

An exciting development is extreme dwarf pears, including ‘Concorde’, that can be used in these borders.  Pastels have never gone away in England and there were plenty of pinks and mauves but designer Joe Swift went with bronze and brown tones – and won gold – while hot orange was the dominant colour in the Thai orchid exhibit and an almost-red lupin dominated a nursery display in the Great Pavilion.

which took out the People’s Choice for small gardens; a shepherd’s garden where crooks held up runner bean plants; and the Scottish Agricultural College’s fascinating Plant Explorer’s Garden. However, the winner in this section was Kazuyuki Ishihara’s Satoyama Life, which demonstrated how, in days gone by, Japanese daily life and nature were closely linked for the people living in the Satoyama, the space between the lowlands and the mountains.

In the Great Pavilion, nurseries, special interest groups, international and national bodies mounted displays that can be as inspiring as the gardens outside. This year’s eye-catchers included three exhibits featuring orchids, one from Thailand, a Taiwanese dragon surrounded by 20,000 orchids air-freighted to London by the Taiwan Orchid Growers Association and an educational presentation by the Orchid Society of Great Britain. Then there were stunning clematis displays, dianthus, Dutch bulbs and even the flora of South America.

Roses were not forgotten, with three major companies (Harkness, David Austin and Peter Beales) giving a preview of their new releases.

Although ‘Boscobel’, the new Austin, was an attractive peach rose of good form, it had little scent. Given that most of David Austin’s roses (such as ‘Munstead Wood’, much admired at Ellerslie earlier this year) have been noted for perfume, it was a real letdown.

Before I left home, two people had told me horror stories about the crowds: one said she was pushed into a show garden by the press of people, falling at the feet of the affronted garden designer; the other showed me a photo of the crowd, four-deep, in front of a show garden. I feared the worst.

True, Chelsea is crowded – the fiveday show annually attracts about 160,000 people to the 5ha grounds of the Royal Hospital, where Chelsea pensioners in their distinctive red coats mingle with visitors. It was packed the day I visited the show but fine weather prevented “clumping” in the Great Pavilion by people sheltering from the elements. Queuing for food and the loo is inevitable, though, and trying on a country-style jacket or boots often means a long wait.

But these are peripheral: everyone is here to see the gardens, large and small, admire the displays by nurseries – and of course buy a souvenir of their visit to the Chelsea Flower Show. ■

his clematis display was a favourite with show T visitors and the judges: it won gold.

july/august 2012

Older ueen Elizabeth II on Q the opening day of the Chelsea Flower Show.

Silver plants won silver for Rooftop of Tomorrow.

Taiwan’s gold dragon, with 20,000 orchids, reflected the island’s culture.

his garden – sponsored by British investment management T and banking firm Brewin Dolphin – won Chelsea’s top honour, Best Show Garden, and a gold medal for designer Cleve West.

Photos: Gillian Vine and Andy Paradise.

Buying up large It would be easy to spend all day (and a lot of money) at Chelsea’s retail outlets. Everything is garden themed, whether it be hand cream, leather gardening gloves, snazzy tweed jackets, boots too fancy to garden in, tools, artwork, sculpture or seeds.

I had to admire the woman struggling to carry half a dozen stainless steel plant supports, each more than 2m tall. At least her friend wouldn’t lose her in the crowd.

Although most nurseries Among the goodies on sale at Chelsea was this life-sized preferred offering a mail-order horse sculpture, priced at service, some plants were being £8995 ($NZ18,000).

sold. But do be aware that New Zealand has strict border controls covering horticultural products – my prized packet of samphire seeds was confiscated at Christchurch Airport. Prices at Chelsea seemed high but didn’t deter buyers. For instance, six named lupins cost about $NZ100, a “Chelsea special”; and a 4m, multi-stemmed Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) was on sale for £1950 ($NZ4000).

By the end of the day, the tree sported a “sold” label but I didn’t discover whether the fabulous Da Vinci Horse sculpture, a snip at £8995 ($NZ18,000) found a buyer.

Conscious of airline weight restrictions, I was very restrained, limiting myself to a pair of ratchet secateurs, a practical souvenir and a Chelsea t-shirt.

subscribe or renew & receive a

go gardening gift card worth $20.00

Weekend

start subscribing from only

$39.00 Gardener 12 issues

NZ’s do-it-yourself gardening magazine

or $8 9 for 26 issues $159 for 52 i ssu es

Issue 343 August 2 - 15

2012

www.weekendgardener.c o.nz

Hellebores

b e n efits

winter magic

receive a discount of over 40% never miss an issue delivery to your door receive before on sale

Porcelain scented decorations

Getting there

► F rom New Zealand, you can buy a Chelsea group tour that includes flights and hotels. If, like me, you prefer to make your own flight arrangements, Emirates airline flies daily to London from both Auckland and Christchurch, via Australia and Dubai. Economy is good, their business class is better than good and ensures you arrive at Chelsea well-rested. The airline offers deals where you can fly the long legs in business class and the shorter ones in economy, a big saving on a full business class fare.

Getting in

► C HELSEA tickets, which cost about $100 each and go on sale in November, are sold out long before the show opens, so buying early is essential. Most travel agents can arrange tickets, or you can buy them online from the RHS’s official ticketing partner The Ticket Factory at www.theticketfactory.com/rhs/online.

s u bs c ri be and s ave My detailS: Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr _____________________________________________________ address ___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________ postcode_________________ daytime telephone __________________________________________________ email ______________________________________________________________

Gift SubScription: (Recipients details) Mrs/Ms/Miss/Mr _____________________________________________________ address ___________________________________________________________ daytime telephone ________________________ postcode_________________ email ______________________________________________________________

new zealand: q 12 issues (6 months) subscription $39 Save $25 q 26 issues (1 year) subscription $89 Save $51 q 52 issues (2 years) subscription $159 Save $121

auStralia: q 26 issues (1 year) subscription $239

reSt of the world: *Rates include GST and delivery. Please allow 4 weeks for delivery of your first issue.

Method of payMent:

Order online at www.weekendgardener.co.nz Call FREE 0800 999 886 open business hours Please charge my credit card: q Visa q Mastercard q American Express q Diners Club card number

worth

$60.00

Elegantly formed. Threaded with natural cord, our pure porcelain bisque has been infused with a signature Linden Leaves favourite to elevate the senses and impart a calming and soothing ambiance within any environment. Inspired by days at the seaside, these porcelain scented decorations can be hung anywhere in small spaces such as your wardrobe, utility room, bathroom, car or even used as simple hanging decorations

subscriPtions freePhone

0800 999 886

Bolder

q 26 issues (1 year) subscription $319

Revitalising hand cream

Experience revitalised hands and improved skin condition with this restorative, vitamin packed hand cream blended with refreshing mandarin, petitgrain, rosemary and lavender. With vitamin rich sweet almond oil to moisturise, sage extract to stimulate circulation and the re-oxygenation of the skin and naturally anti-bacterial rosemary extract to protect your hands and nails. 0% parabens, SLS, colour.

older & Bolder 25

$5.40 incl. GST

ISSN 1171-8315

• Ancient asparagus • Back to basics - soil • Cloches and cold fram es • Vibrant, vivacious viol as • DIY – tree treat for birds

www.weekendgardener.co.nz

cardholder’s Signature ___________________________ expiry date____/_____ cardholders name (Please Print) ___________________ My cheque is enclosed ( ) payable to Weekend Gardener Subscriptions Please bill me ( ) Weekend Gardener will send you a subscription request by mail.

coMplete the coupon and Send freepoSt to: Weekend Gardener Subscriptions Freepost 174602 PO Box 91549 Victoria Street West, Auckland, 1142 Weekend Gardener Customer Services subs@weekendgardener.co.nz

26 older & Bolder

Older

NOS TA LG I A

Remembering the Fun Ho! Midgets

By Christopher Moor

T

he 1960s were not such a swinging time for children’s toys in New Zealand. Memories linger, more than 45 years later, of queues waiting for the shops to open when a new shipment of Matchbox 1-75 Toys had arrived from Britain.

With a demand for Matchbox-type toys on the local market, Fun Ho! entered the small-scale die-cast market with the Midgets from circa 1964.

Despite few Midgets having moving parts and the models lacking the Perspex windows and detailed plastic interiors of Matchbox Toys, sales really took off. Today, they are among the best remembered Fun Ho! toys.

All the Midgets were made at Inglewood, on the Underwood Engineering site at Mamaku Street, which in 1990 became the first home of the Fun Ho! National Toy Museum.

The Midgets originally had chrome or copper-plated finish bodies.

From early 1966, those painted in the same bright colours as Fun Ho! cast aluminium toys began to appear. Chrome and copper versions are considered rarities by some collectors.

Allan Marshall has collected them for over 30 years. “The chromies are probably my favourites,” he says.

“Although they had a uniquely New Zealand feel to them, Fun Ho! Midgets reminded me of the English Matchbox Toys that I grew up with.

This fact, combined with their limited production span, made them the perfect collectable for me.”

Midget models were sold in Mobil packaging circa 1964 to 1967. They appeared next in red and yellow boxes, and later visi-packs of various sizes.

The original Midgets had an Australian connection. Streamlux had discontinued production of its miniature vehicles in Australia by 1962, selling the dies to Underwood Engineering. Underwood made the early Midgets from those moulds.

One of these models, the Volkswagen Combi, sometimes called the “Kombi”, remained in production until the factory closure in 1982.

Fun Ho! introduced its own Midget castings in 1965. They were models of the Ford Falcon, Morris Mini Minor, Vauxhall Velox and Morris 1100 saloons that rolled off the country’s motor assembly lines during the era.

The Fun Ho! Falcon was probably the first model produced of this Australian classic.

An opening rear tailgate was fitted to the Ford Cortina Estate Car, which

after much play could become free of its hinges and possibly got lost. The model was introduced in 1966.

Bedford truck cabs were used on three models introduced during the same year. First in the shops was the articulated lorry version, followed by an articulated petrol tanker in Mobil livery and a truck with a rigid tray.

The articulated tanker also turned up in Milk Tanker and Army Tanker versions.

Prices rose after the introduction of decimal currency in 1967. The Volkswagen saloon cost two shillings (20c) in 1966 and 30c in 1968. Thirty-five cents bought a Bedford petrol tanker.

Models in Army finish debuted in 1977. The series began with the Armoured Jeep, a model with a gun that rotated in a complete circle.

Although manufactured as a righthand-drive vehicle, the decals were the US military star and bars.

A small range of King Size models, a series introduced in 1973, was still being made when the factory closed in 1982. Fun Ho! Midgets were no longer able to compete with the flood of cheaper imported plastic toys now available on an increasingly deregulated market.

Repro versions of some Midgets began to appear from 1990,

manufactured by the original Fun Ho! toy museum from castings stored at the time of the factory closure.

More stored castings were used for the museum’s 1996 Repro range.

They differ from the original Midgets because of the tinted blue plastic windows fitted.

The Inglewood Development Trust purchased the Fun Ho! National Toy Museum in 1999 and relocated the collection to 25 Rata Street, where Richard Jordan runs the onsite toymaking operation, Fun Ho! toys.

In 2012, he continues to assemble selected Midget models in small quantities from the existing supply of castings. His repros no longer include the tinted windows, which gives them a more original look. When the supply of castings ends, he says there will be no more Midgets produced.

For further information about Fun Ho! toys, visit www.funho.com or send an email to funhotoys@funho.com. ■

Photos: Kristy Strachan Photography

July/August 2012

Bolder

july/august 2012

Older

PIE C E OF NZ

Islands ahoy Time travel isn’t only possible in novels and science fiction. The short ferry trip to Quail Island in Lyttelton Harbour is much like being transported into another world – one infused with peace and tranquillity and steeped in history, writes Sharon Davis.

Q

uail Island, also known as Otamahua (the place where children gather eggs), is an 81-hectare inner-harbour island and recreational reserve – and the perfect day trip destination for nature lovers, history buffs, or those simply wanting to escape the city stress.

Disembarking mid-morning on the jetty, after a 10-minute ride on the Black Cat ferry, island exploration or decadent relaxation is your next port of call until the ferry returns at 3.30pm to ship you back to reality on the mainland.

Visitors can head up the path and keep left for a 10-minute stroll to picnic on the white sands of secluded beaches and paddle in the shallow and protected waters of Whakamura or Swimmers Beach.

Alternatively, you can keep to the right and amble through pines, past the pillar-red old stables and relocated lighthouse keeper’s hut and up to an old farmhouse, now converted into visitors’ centre with information about the island and its intriguing history.

You can relax in the gardens at the centre and listen to the birdsong or set off on a leisurely stroll on the 4.5km track around the perimeter of the island. It’s a relatively easy twohour round trip past volcanic cliffs and the site of the Ward’s homestead, brothers who farmed the island for a brief period in 1851. You then meander through grasslands with 360degree views of the volcanic crater rim that forms Lyttelton Harbour before passing above the ships’ graveyard where eight old vessels were scuppered and left out of sight to slowly disintegrate.

Turning another corner you’ll find yourself above Walker’s beach, where the shell beds were once mined for poultry grit, with views of tiny King Billy Island and Moepuku Peninsula, before reaching an old quarry site

older & Bolder 27

Bolder

Other islands to visit

There are more than 220 small islands, larger than five hectares, off New Zealand’s coast, and a number have equally tranquil and secluded settings and a similarly rich history.

If you’re not close enough to Christchurch to visit Quail Island here are a few other options to can consider for a similar day trip experience: Somes/Matui Island has 360 views of Wellington Harbour and is accessible by daily ferry. The island has a lighthouse and has been used as a human and animal quarantine camp as well as military defence position and a war interment camp.

Rangitoto is a volcanic island in the Hauraki Gulf, close to Auckland.

At 2311 hectares there are a number of short and longer walks around the island with magnificent views of the gulf and Auckland city. Sites include three historic bach settlements and a ship graveyard.

Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands off Northland is accessible by water taxi or with tour groups. It has a five-hour 7.3km archaeological walk, rich in Maori history and natural attractions, which can be broken down into two shorter 2.5hour walks.

Quail Island – getting there Scenic: Looking towards Diamond Harbour from Swimmer's Beach with the historic stock jetty (left).

(used for ballast) and walking past the white picket-fenced grave of Ivon Skelton, the only leper to die on the island.

A short descent takes you to the terraced site of the former leper colony above Skier’s Beach. From there you can walk to the replica dog kennels – the island was also a former animal quarantine station used for Antarctic expeditions – or enjoy the beaches and visit the old human quarantine barracks or historic stock jetty.

A shorter one-hour walk from the visitor’s centre cuts across the centre of the island to the highest point at 86m before joining the perimeter track above Walker’s Beach. Sections on this route have been extensively replanted with indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses as part of the restoration of the island undertaken by the Quail Island Ecological Restoration Trust in conjunction with the Department of Conservation (DOC).

The indigenous quail, after which the island is named, are extinct but you might spot introduced Californian quail. With DOC and Trust volunteers having eliminated a number of introduced pests, Quail Island is now a safe haven for several birds and insects, including tree weta, the little blue penguin, bellbird, several variety of shag, silver eye, fantail, kingfisher and numerous other species. ■

Quail Island is accessible by boat, canoe or ferry. Black Cat has daily trips departing Lyttelton at 10.20am and the island at 3.30pm from October to April, with an additional trip in December and January. Group trips from May to September can be arranged with Black Cat. A return ticket costs $25 for adults and $10 for children.

Wrecks in the ship graveyard.

The perimeter track through grasslands with 360-degree views of the crater rim.

The role of islands in conservation In remembrance: Ivon Skleton's grave.

A touch of yore: Old farm house now converted into a visitor's centre.

Islands make ideal pest-free reserves to care for threatened animal and plant species that struggle to survive under predation or browsing from introduced species on the mainland. To preserve their valuable ecological role about 42 per cent of the islands have been declared nature reserves and visitors need a permit from DOC to visit these islands.

28 older & Bolder

july/august 2012

Older

t r av e l

Macau I f you’re heading to Hong Kong, make a date with the neighbouring cultural melting pot of Macau – one of the world’s great side trips. Handily located less than an hour away by fast ferry, marvellous Macau provides a staggering contrast in scenery and sightseeing to the throb of Hong Kong. The port city of Macau’s rich heritage as a trading post is arguably more romantic and engaging than its bigger brother’s.

Macau, situated on the mouth of the Pearl River, was initially part of the Ancient Silk Road with ships loading

Bolder

By Mike Yardley

here with silk bound for Rome. In 1513, Portuguese merchant-explorers set in motion an indelible legacy, settling on Macau as their great trading nexus.

Nowadays, multicultural Macau which, like Hong Kong, is one of China’s Special Administrative Regions, enthral visitors with a unique East meets West mix of influences chiefly melded by its distinctive Portuguese stripes.

The local cuisine is particularly striking. When the Portugese first arrived in Asia, they brought

foodstuffs and cooking ideas that they had garnered from all around the world. Over the centuries, they have been combined and adapted by the local Chinese to create a truly international cuisine which is called Macanese.

What I particularly love about Macau is its preservation and celebration of diverse architecture. The “Historic Centre of Macau” has been recognised as a World Heritage site and lustily showcases the wealth of architectural styles that have been threaded into Macau’s urban fabric, its streetscape and piazzas over the past 500 years.

Over 20 significant monuments and buildings are highly recommended sightseeing stops. A must-see is the A-Ma Temple, which pre-dates the arrival of the Portuguese and is a fascinating insight into Buddhist and Confucian belief, culture and architecture.

Senado Square is the heart of Macau and home to major public events, celebrations and gatherings. This

gorgeous public space is bordered by a throng of pastel-coloured neoclassical buildings, imbuing the square with a very elegant Mediterranean atmosphere.

The enduring letterhead of Macau is the Ruins of St. Paul’s. Now regarded as the altar to the city, the church facade is all that remains from the original Catholic church built in 1602, and later destroyed by fire. Also razed was the neighbouring St. Paul’s College, which was the first westernstyle university in the Far East.

There are dozens of quaint alleys, lanes, piazzas and neighbourhoods to explore on foot. For a taste of new Macau, you can’t go past the Macau Tower, which is the 10th highest observation tower in the world, and delivers mouth-watering views. The tower, designed by the same team behind Auckland’s Sky Tower, is incorporated in the city’s swanky entertainment centre which hosts a roll-call of top-line shows and concerts. ■

The Vegas of Asia

M Top Tips

Fly in style to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific and experience their award-winning in-flight service, entertainment and comfort. Cathay flies daily from Auckland to Hong Kong and beyond. Check out their current specials at www.cathaypacific.co.nz.

Turbo Jet operates an unrivalled fast ferry service to and from Hong Kong and Macau. In fact, you can check in your baggage with Turbo Jet to interconnect with arriving or departing flights at Hong Kong Airport, dissolving the hassle of baggage handling. Ingenious! To book on-line with this superb operator, go to www.turbojetbooking.com.

acau has accentuated its positioning as the Asian nerve centre for glamour gambling, with a slew of mega-resort hotel developments, mimicking their flagship temples in Las Vegas. All of the big brands have rolled into town with their bright lights and brash attractions. Think the Venetian, MGM Grand, Sands and Wynns. In fact, Wynns has replicated the worldfamous Bellagio dancing fountain, synchronised to soundtracks and sparkling lights. It’s a must-see.

Another glitzy, de rigueur photo stop is the homegrown Grand Lisboa Hotel and Casino. The original establishment dates back decades and has been complimented with its cutting-edge skyscraper extension, which is an engineering masterpiece.

The building design has been stylised as a glittering lotus reaching for the heavens and it sets the spangled skyline on fire at night.

As an antidote to Macau’s multisensory headrush, there’s a lot to

be said for staying at a hotel that doesn’t house a casino. The recently opened Mandarin Oriental is an oasis of understated splendour, crowning the waterfront with unblemished panoramic views across the city and the Pearl River. The exceptionally gracious staff go out of their way to accentuate your Macau experience.

The hotel’s brand new rooms and suites are generously sized cocoons of comfort, featuring ceiling-to-floor windows and cutting-edge amenities.

Be sure to stop by the Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop for some tasty morsels and the hotel’s strikingly designed Vida Rica Restaurant and Bar takes in-house cuisine and glamorous surrounds to a new level. Visit www. mandarinoriental.com/macau. ■

older & Bolder 29

july/august 2012

Adventure Travel, the specialists in tailor-made itineraries and small group journeys

WINTER WALKS IN THE SWISS ALPS

Swahili Safari Adventure Tour Highlights include: Tarangire National Park Ngorongoro Crater � Olduvai Gorge � Great Rift Valley escarpment � World Vegetable Centre � Meserani Maasai cattle market � Views of Mt. Kilimanjaro � Coastal Swahili culture � Zanzibar – Stone Town � Lake Manyara � Coffee Estate � Luxury Beach break � �

Escorted by the hugely popular Sue Verrall, 31 May-23 June 2013

Tour includes: Economy class airfares from CHCH Transport and meals per itinerary � All National Park fees and guides � Accommodation and activities �

Experience Africa at its best.

From your luxury safari camp in the Serengeti watch the sun go down over the African plains as the wildebeest gather for their annual migration. You will have seven days to view game and experience their environments in the National Parks of Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and Jozoni Forest.

22 Jan – 5 Feb 2013

But this trip is not just about wildlife. Meet the Masai in their traditional homes and join them at the cattle market. Meet local farmers in the vast dry savannahs, fertile highlands and tropical coastal areas. Visits to tropical spice farms, coffee plantations and dairy properties make this a unique travel experience.

Prime Adventures Ltd Small group holidays for active over 50’s

Europe, Africa & South America 0800 044 997

info@primeadventures.co.nz | www.primeadventures.co.nz

CONDITIONS: All prices quoted are per person based on twin share for cash, cheque or direct payment. A convenience fee of 2% applies for Visa or Mastercard payments and 3% for American Express. Swahili Safari Adventure is a fully escorted tour ex CHCH flying Emirates Airlines. Most meals included.

�

$15,995 per person twin share Our sellout 2011 and 2012 Swahili Safari Adventure trips have been hugely successful with our clients full of praise for the unique itinerary and Sue’s tourleading expertise.

Life. Time. Experience.

Cnr Oxford Terrace and Montreal St, Ph 03 364 3400, Email advchc@hot.co.nz www.adventuretravel.co.nz

Independent Living

In the shadows of the former Millard Stand of Wellington Rugby’s Athletic Park.

ph05101122ph

to Full Nursing Care. Your family members deserve the best.

Apartments available. Exceptional facilities.

Enquire now: Ph 380 1361

Email: vmp@villageatthepark.co.nz

www.villageatthepark.co.nz

30 older & Bolder

Older

AN I MAL C ARE

The importance of regular internal parasite dogs control in cats

July/August 2012

Bolder

&

I

nternal parasites in cats and dogs generally relate to “worms” and include both roundworms and tapeworms. In dogs there are some specific, special cases of roundworm, which do give trouble from time to time. These include the blood-sucking hookworms and the large intestinal whipworms. In cats there is also an occasional issue with a special type of roundworm known as lungworm.

Fortunately, most regular worming drugs easily deal with most types of roundworm. Regular treatment should be performed on a three to four monthly basis in adult dogs and cats.

Puppies and kittens should be wormed much more frequently due to the potential for very heavy infestations they may suffer as a consequence of their poorly developed immune systems. These heavy infestations can result in diarrhoea, vomiting and more severe gastro-intestinal problems or even complete intestinal

obstruction. Due to this fact, worming should occur from at least weaning every two weeks, until they reach an age of around 14 to 16 weeks. At this age, an adequate immune response against the worms can more readily be assumed to be able to occur. Virtually 100 per cent of puppies in New Zealand are born already infected with roundworm due to worm larvae crossing the placenta and gaining access to the unborn puppy foetus.

These worms sequentially emerge into the small intestine throughout the first weeks of life and hence the requirements of such regular worming required to kill the worms once they are in the intestinal lumen.

Roundworms are so called because they are round, tubular worms of varying sizes. Whipworms can, on occasion, cause problems with blood or mucus in stool, and these will require special worming treatments to control them, as many standard treatments are not effective. Laboratory tests on stools are required to diagnose this worm infestation.

PetPetfriendly accommodation friendly accommodation around around New New Zealand Zealand

If your family includes a If your family includes a dog, cat, or other other furry If your family includes a dog,furry cat, bird dog, cat, bird bird or creature we havesome some or otherthen furrywe creature then creature then have we have some good news good news for youfor you good news for you Pets Can Come Too has a long list of holiday PetsCan Can Come Come Too Pets Toohas hasa a homes throughout New Zealand that will give longlist list of of holiday holiday homes long homes your whole family a warm welcome throughout New throughout NewZealand Zealand that will give that will give your yourwhole whole family a warm welcome

family a warm welcome

Ph 04 293 2705 Ph 04 293 2705 www.petscancometoo.co.nz Ph 04 293 2705 www.petscancometoo.co.nz

www.petscancometoo.co.nz

Victoria uniVerSity Study tourS UK Genealogy Study Tour 2013 Thursday 21 February To Thursday 7 March 2013

Victoria comm

unit y cont inuin

g educ ation

uK genealogy tou r 2013

Take your English and/or Scottish family tree research to the next level with this 14-day guided tour of repositories in London and Edinburgh. Our tour begins with the three-day Who Do You Think You Are? event at the Olympia in London.

Get a taster of the tour or build your research skills by attending one of the Climb Your Family Tree: First Steps in Research courses led by tour leader Rachel Brown. → saturdays 28 July & 4 august or 6 & 13 october, 9am-4pm, Fee: $160 ($144)

Visit our website for more information or to enrol www.victoria.ac.nz/studytours or phone 04-463 6556.

Climb Your Family Tree

VMK406/CFLL

Pre-tour Study

Hookworms, another type of roundworm, are bloodsuckers and can result in a lot of blood loss if left unattended. Fortunately this problem is relatively rare as it is associated with poor hygiene and foot contact with faeces. It is also usually controlled with standard wormers.

The other class of worms that can cause problems are known as tapeworms. They appear in segments looking like little mobile grains of rice. They can be transferred to cats and dogs via ingesting infected fleas, hunting and eating infected birds and mice and eating poorly cooked or prepared meat or offal.

Some of these worms can be a significant problem to the farming sector and the economy (e.g. sheep measles) and some can be a significant health hazard (e.g. hydatids).

Obviously, good control of fleas helps in tapeworm control also. These worms may be becoming an emerging problem with the more widespread use of spot-on combination worm/ flea products. This is an issue as the

Dr. Nick Page BVSc Rolleston Veterinary Services Ltd. 5 Brookside Road, Rolleston (03) 347 9682

drugs in the products may kill some roundworms but not tapeworms.

Thus there is potential for tapeworm populations to gain a hold unchecked due to low frequency of treatment.

Regular worming of pets with a broad spectrum wormer every three to four months and good adherence to flea control, good feeding practices, regular veterinary advice and good hygiene practices should ensure that the worm situation remains well controlled. ■

Heritage antiques & ColleCtables • Coins: sixpences, pennies, etc • Watches: wrist and pocket style going or not • Banknotes: NZ, USA & World • Gold Jewellery, Nuggets and Scrap Gold • Military Medals, Badges and Buttons • Artifacts, Maori and Ethnic Tribal items • Rugby Programmes, Almanacs & Badges • Cameras: Film type, any considered • Military Memorabilia • Medallions, Medals and Awards

buying now All mAnner of rAre And collectAble items considered

A closer look at eye care Premium Eye at Care A closer look eye care

with

Beta + Lutein capsules withCarotene Premium Eye Care have been formulated to help Beta Carotene + Lutein capsules support vision and eye have beenoptimal formulated to help with Premium Eye Care with Premium Eye Care health and help protect the eyes support optimal vision and eye Beta Carotene ++ Lutein capsules 60 CAPS health and help protect the eyes Beta Carotene Lutein capsules from free radical damage.

(1 MONTH) 60 CAPS have been formulated to help from free radical damage. have been formulated to help Beta Carotene isand a natural source(1 MONTH) ONLY $34.95 support optimal vision eye Beta Carotene is a natural source support optimal vision and eye $34 of Vitamin A being a health and help protect the eyes health and help protect of Vitamin A being a the eyes 60 CAPS from free damage.

60 60 CAPS CAPS powerful antioxidant from free radical radical damage. powerful antioxidant that that (1 MONTH) (1 (1 MONTH) MONTH) Beta Carotene isis skin aa natural source $34 Beta Carotene natural source for tissue is essential essential for skin tissue $34 of Vitamin A being a ofand Vitamin A being a Lutein maintenance. and maintenance.

Lutein powerful antioxidant that powerful antioxidant that has been proven to be isishas essential for skin been to be essential forproven skin tissue tissue a very important nutrient and maintenance.

Lutein and maintenance.

Lutein aforvery important nutrient the health of the eyes, has been proven to be has been proven toofbethe eyes, for the health especially in the elderly. aa very very important important nutrient nutrient especially in theeyes, elderly. for the health of the for the health of the eyes,

A A closer closer look look at at eye eye care care ONLY

ONLY ONLY ONLY

B Blueberr E

Blueberries are Extract

of antioxidants.

Blueberry Blueberry Extract Extract

Blueberries are one of the best source protect the bod of antioxidants. They are thought to h effects free ra protect the body against theof damagin effects of free radicals, and support healthy aging.

Blueberries are one of the best source Blueberries are one of the best source healthy aging. of to Blueberries ofantioxidants. antioxidants.They Theyare arethought thought tohelp help are als Blueberries are also well known for support fo protect healthy eyesight, a protectthe thebody bodyagainst againstthe thedamaging damaging healthy eyesight,and and support eye comfort, providing effects of free radicals, effects of free radicals, and support nutrients nutrients for optimum eye health for optim

.95

healthy healthyaging. aging.

• Supports • Supports eye health

.95 .95 .95

eye

Blueberries are also well known for support for Blueberries are support Blueberries are also also well well known known for support for for • Antioxidant eye for protection • Antioxidant ey healthy eyesight, and eye comfort, providing the healthy healthy eyesight, eyesight, and and eye eye comfort, comfort, providing providing the the • optimum Supports nutrients for eyehealthy health day and night visio nutrients nutrients for for optimum optimum eye eye health health • Supports hea

••Supports Supportseye eyehealth health ••Antioxidant eye Antioxidant eyeprotection protection ••Supports healthy Supports healthyday dayand andnight nightvision vision

FREE

especially especially in in the the elderly. elderly.

DELIVERY if you mention this ad

closer look Special Offer at eye care

Buy 1 x Blueberry Premium Eye Care Special ExtractOffer and Special Offer Special Offer Offer 11 xx Blueberry 1+Buy xLutein Premium Eye Care roteneSpecial capsules Buy Blueberry

60 CAPS (1 MONTH)

$34.95

Blueberry $34 $34 Extract $34 ONLY

60 CAPS 60 60 CAPS CAPS (1 MONTH) (1 (1 MONTH) MONTH) ONLY ONLY ONLY

60 CAPS (1 MONTH)

.95 .95 .95

.95

ONLY

xand Blueberry Extract and BuyBuy 1x Blueberry Extract en formulated to1help .00 Blueberries are one of the best source 11 xxextract Premium Care (60 caps)Eye and Extract and Premium Eye Care optimal vision and eye .90 of antioxidants. They are thought to help was $69 1x Premium Eye Care (60 caps) .00 1protect x Premium Eye Care nd helpONLY the eyes.00 protect the body against the damaging $65 ONLY $65 $ .90.90 .00 60 CAPS effects of free radicals, and support was e radical damage. .90 TAP was$69 $69 ONLY 65 (1 MONTH) .00 healthy aging. $ .00 .95 rotene is a was natural 69 source ONLY $34 TAP PP2269 Blueberries are also well known for support for TAP TAP PP2269 PP2269 read and use as .90 directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. in AAlways being athe label was $69 healthy eyesight, and eye comfort, providing the ORDER NOW Freephone 0800 370 999 ornutrients www.abeeco.co.nz Suppliers of Natural Health P l antioxidant that for optimum eye health Always read the label and use as- directed.

If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Always Always read read the the label label and and use use as as directed. directed. IfIf symptoms symptoms persist persist see see your your healthcare healthcare professional. professional.

• Supports eye health tialORDER for skin NOW tissue Suppliers of Natural Health Products ORDER NOW -- Freephone Freephone 0800 0800 370 370 999 999or orwww.abeeco.co.nz www.abeeco.co.nz Suppliers of of Natural Natural Health Health Products Products • Antioxidant eye protection Suppliers ntenance. Lutein • Supports healthy day and night vision Performance abeeco products is a well established company, specialising in Natural Health products for nearly 20 y n proven to betheHealth, Always read label and use as directed.

If symptoms persistNZsee your healthcare professional.

If you are not completely happy, return the products to us within 30 days for a full refund.

Performance Health, abeeco specialising mportant nutrient Performance Health, abeecoproducts productsisisaawell wellestablished establishedNZ NZcompany, company, specialisingin inNatural NaturalHealth Healthproducts productsfor fornearly nearly20 20years. years.

Name: .............................................................................................................................................

Quality NZ Products you can TRUST ORDER NOW 0800 370 999 or S If-youFreephone are not completely happy, return the products to us within 30 days for awww.abeeco.co.nz full refund.

If you are not completely happy, return the products to us within 30 days for a full refund.

If you are not completely happy, return the products to us within 30 days for a full refund.

Cheques payable to Abeeco healthQuality of NZ the eyes, Address/Suburb: .............................................................................................................................

Name: ...............................................................................................................................................

Products you can TRUST Name: Quality NZ you can Name: ............................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................

Quality NZ Products Products you 31-225, can TRUST TRUST Post chqs to: PO Box Milford, Auckland 0741 Fax to: 09 486 7122 Cheques payable to Abeeco Phone: .............................................................................................................................................

Address/Suburb: ............................................................................................................................... ly inPost the elderly.

Cheques payable Cheques payable to to Abeeco Abeeco Address/Suburb: Address/Suburb: ............................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................

Please send me31-225, Milford, Auckland 0741 Fax to: 09 486 7122 chqs to: PO Box

ONLY $65

ONLY $65

abeec

abeeco abeeco

OUR GUARANTEE TO YOU!

OUR OUR GUARANTEE GUARANTEE TO TO YOU! YOU!

a

OUR GUARANTEE TO YOU!

care

ELEMENT ELEMENT Older & Bolder ELEMENT

Offer must end 30 June Post 0741 to: 7122 Post chqs chqs to: to: PO PO Box Box 31-225, 31-225, Milford, Milford, Auckland Auckland 0741 Fax Fax to: 09 09 486 486 71222012 Phone: ...............................................................................................................................................

I enclose chq/money order for: .......................................................................................................

Phone: Phone: ............................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................

Offer must end 30 June 2012 I enclose chq/money order .........................................................................................................

Offer Offer must must end end 30 30 June June 2012 2012 Please charge myfor: Visa/Mastercard: ................................................................................................

II enclose enclose chq/money chq/money order order for: for: ......................................................................................................... .........................................................................................................

- $34.95 Q 60 capsEye Premium care Special Offer: Please charge my Visa/Mastercard: ..................................................................................................

Premium Eye care Special Offer: Visa/Mastercard expiry date: ..........................................................................................................

Please my ..................................................................................................

Please charge charge my Visa/Mastercard: Visa/Mastercard: .................................................................................................. caps - $34.95 Q 60 Premium Care If you are not completely happy, return the products to us within 30 days for a full refund.

Q 60 caps caps -- $34.95 $34.95 Q 60 Visa/Mastercard expiry date: ............................................................................................................

PremiumEye Eye Care Total $: ..................................................................................................................... plus $5.90 P& Visa/Mastercard expiry date: ............................................................................................................

Visa/Mastercard expiry date: ............................................................................................................ $65.00 and Blueberry Extract -Products $34.95 you can Blueberry Q 60 caps Name: .............................................................................................

Quality NZExtract TRUST andQ Blueberry Extract Blueberry Extract Total $: ..................................................................................................................... plus $5.90 P&P Total ..................................................................................................................... plus our office 3d Milford Road, Milford, Auckland Q $65.00 Total $: $:Visit ..................................................................................................................... plus $5.90 $5.90 P&P P&P Q 60 caps - $34.95 $65.00

Please send me Please send Premium Please send me meEye

Special Offer: Performance Health, abeeco products Premium Eye Careis a well established NZ company, specialising in Natural Health p and Blueberry Extract Blueberry Extract Q 60 Q $65.00 Q 60 caps caps -- $34.95 $34.95 QCheques payable to Abeeco

Visit our office 3d Milford Road, Milford, Auckland Address/Suburb: .............................................................................

60 CAPS Visit 3d Road, Auckland Visit our our office office 3d Milford Milford Road, Milford, Milford, Auckland Post chqs to: PO Box 31-225, Milford, Auckland 0741 Fax to: 09 486(17122 MONTH) .95Phone: .............................................................................................

ecial Offer