Rodney Neighbourhood Support 2023

NEIGHBOURHOOD SUPPORT

RODNEY 2023

CONNECTING YOU TO A SAFER COMMUNITY

About Neighbourhood Support

History

Neighbourhood Watch was introduced to New Zealand as a crime prevention initiative in the late 1970s. The initiative evolved to become Neighbourhood Support New Zealand, a community owned and managed organisation with a wide-ranging interest in community support, safety and crime prevention.

Neighbourhood Support became an Incorporated Society in 2000. In 2001 it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the New Zealand Police. The purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding is to establish and promote a collaborative working relationship between Neighbourhood Support New Zealand Incorporated and the Police.

Objectives

Neighbourhood Support aims to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places in which to live.

This is primarily achieved through the establishment of small cells of households known as a “Neighbourhood Support Group”, comprising anywhere from four to 50 residential households in a single street or suburb. Groups throughout a single suburb or a wider town or city area are co-ordinated either via a civilian co-ordinator, or through a Community Constable based at a local Police station.

The main purpose of the groups is to encourage neighbours to know one another and share information on crime or suspicious activities in their area. Early contact with authorities such as the Police is also encouraged for reporting of unusual observations or unacceptable behaviour. Crime prevention information can also be shared with group members via Community Constables, or Neighbourhood Support Area Co-ordinators.

A secondary objective of Neighbourhood Support is to facilitate communication between Civil Defence (Emergency Management) and the community during a man-made or natural disaster affecting residents.

Message from the editorial team

Sadly, the world in which we live is not as law abiding as it was a generation or two ago, which makes the work of all sorts of government and voluntary organisations vital.

Neighbourhood Support is a lively, worthwhile and necessary organisation, which provides avenues for neighbours and communities to socialise, and look out for each other.

Our sincere thanks to the contributors of all the articles contained here. A lot of hours have gone in to making this book as relevant, useful and convenient to use as possible.

This book is a vehicle for the latest news and messages of many of the above, in an easy-to-use format.

The community-minded advertisers represented in this book have provided the finance for its manufacture and distribution, as well as critical funding for your local Neighbourhood Support groups to continue their important work. Please support

A word from your co-ordinators

- Welcome to our 2023 magazine

Rodney Neighbourhood Support Inc. would not be able to assist in keeping our communities safe, connected and resilient without the contributions from our enthusiastic committee, volunteer street contacts and our 6,000 plus members.

Our continued liaison with local NZ Police Community Constables is also greatly appreciated.

We would especially like to thank the following funding organisations:

• NZ Lotteries Commission

• Neighbourhood Support NZ

• Hibiscus Bays Local Board of Auckland City Council

• Markat

• KinFinder.

We continue to work closely with Auckland Emergency Management, local Community Resilience Groups and

continue to update our members with information on emergency situations.

Connections have been made with Te Whai Community Trust in Mangawhai and Mahurangi Caring Community.

Margaret Faed Co-ordinator

Ph 021 258 3737 rns.co-ordinator@gmail.com

Sue Robertson

Assistant Co-ordinator

Ph 027 200 3413

rns.coordinator1@gmail.com

Margaret Faed co-ordinator NS Rodney and Sue Robertson assistant co-ordinator NS Rodney.

A general report

The committee, assisted by the coordinator Margaret Faed and assistant coordinators Sue Robertson and Julie Walles, have continued to work together as a vibrant and enthusiastic team to support not only our members, but also their local communities.

I thank our team chairman Norm Greenall, treasurer Debbie Vercoe, committee members Stephanie Pickering, Christine Bolstad, Tanya Svendsen, Troje Botica and David Stranaghan.

Thanks go to Diane Taylor and her team of volunteers at the Mahurangi East Police Station Rodney Neighbourhood Support Office: Doug Stewart, Stan

Armiger, Kay Titchener, Ann Ibbs, Ian and Rosalind Miller, Alison Woodcock, Penny Webster and Liz Duhs.

We thank our members who not only volunteer in the many local community organisations you belong to, but also as street or group contacts. This helps our communities work together to make them more connected, resilient, safe and pleasant places to live.

NZ Police Sergeant Brett Hanly co-ordinates his community constables who support us in their local communities.

We thank Melissa Haven of Helensville, Wiremu Wiki of Orewa, Sam Webb of Whangaparaoa, Hamish Buick of Mahurangi East, and Alexander Schischka of Kumeu.

We also acknowledge Officer-incharge Warkworth Police Sergeant Mark Stallworthy, Charlotte Jones at Whangaparaoa Police Station and all the other Police Staff we communicate with.

The support and enthusiasm received from our Street and Rural Contacts is very much appreciated.

During the year 563 new members received information packs. Our street and rural contacts have 1,013 individual members plus 252 groups. There are 6,132 households across Hibiscus Bays, Rodney, Kaiwaka and Mangawhai Local Board areas.

Our Facebook group has now grown to over 1.2k members. This has been achieved with the help of our project flyers led by our coordinator Sue Robertson.

We continue to network and liaise with Auckland City Emergency Management and local Community Resilience Groups to assist with developing systems to

help our members be more resilient in an emergency.

We acknowledge the help of Daydreanne Anderson of Total Tax Solutions for her expertise and guidance with the operation of the Xero accounting system and with preparation of our annual accounts. We thank Clare MacGregor for reviewing our annual accounts

We thank and acknowledge the New Zealand Police, Neighbourhood Support New Zealand, Auckland City Hibiscus Bays Local Board, New Zealand Lotteries Grants Board, Kin Finder, Markat Publishing and Chappell Printing, who in various ways have helped us to accomplish our aims and objectives for the year.

Moving forward we will continue to be as efficient and productive as possible in providing a quality service with positive outcomes to all existing and new members of Rodney Neighbourhood Support between Bethels to Kaiwaka and Albany to Mangawhai.

Lake Road Electrical are your trusted go-to North Shore Electricians. Locally owned and operated with over 15 years experience, we are Master Electricians and come with a workmanship guarantee.

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Annual general meeting

The meeting was held at St Chad’s Anglican Church, Orewa.

The meeting was declared open by Norm Greenall, chairperson and a warm welcome extended to all, especially our special guests: Sgt Mark Stallworthy of NZ Police Warkworth and Community Constable for Mahurangi East Hamish Buick - Louise Grevel, chairperson for NSNZ and coordinator for NS Waitakere - Mark Mitchell MP for Whangaparaoa - Greg Sayers Auckland City Councillor for Rodney - Janet Fitzgerald Hibiscus Bays Local board.Opening Karakia - Lia Shelford-Toopi was invited to lead us in our opening Karakia.

The Elected Committee for 2023-2024

Troje Botica, Stephanie Pickering, Tanya Svendsen, Norm Greenall, Debbie Vercoe and Christine Bolstad.

We welcome more volunteers for this committee. We meet bi-monthly by a combination of in person and Zoom meeting. Contact Sue for more information: Ph 027 200 3413, or email rns.coordinator1@gmail.com.

Greg Sayers asked about Civil Defence re Kumeu floods.

Julie Anne Pearce from the audience then proceeded to impart information about a recent event that happened to her neighbour. (See ‘Article from a Member’).

Sgt Mark Stallworthy and Community Constable Hamish Buick spoke in reply to these concerns.

Louise Grevel from Neighbourhood Support Waitakere and the NSNZ Chairperson said a few words acknowledging the great work that Margaret Faed and Sue Robertson do for Rodney Neighbourhood Support, and also about the innovative ways we grow our membership. She gave thanks to the committee in the work they do to support the co-ordinators.

Mark Mitchell MP for Whangaparaoa said a few words regarding their police work in Mahurangi.

He acknowledged Rodney Neighbourhood Support and all the work that you do

and encouraged people to keep reporting incidents to the NZ Police.

Strong communities sharing information are so vital.

He acknowledged Louise Grevel from NSNZ. He spoke about youth justice and summarised by saying he wants to see his electorate be the safest community in NZ.

Greg Sayers thanked and replied to Mark’s talk.

Our guest speaker Michael Upton who is the senior advisor for FENZ Community Readiness and Recovery for Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Waitemata District, gave a very informative talk and power point presentation.

It was well received by the audience. Closing – Karakia lead by Lia Shelford-Toopi.

Sue Robertson, assistant co-ordinator, then gave an overview of strengths weakness threats and opportunities for Rodney Neighbourhood Support for the next 12 months, outlining the 11,000 flyer deliveries for Whangaparaoa and the connection to CARRE for Mahurangi East Emergency Management Network.

Small gifts of appreciation were given to Sgt Mark Stallworthy, Community Constable Hamish Buick, Mark Mitchell MP, Michael Upton FENZ, Mikaela Battaerd FENZ, Leah Hide FENZ and Greg Sayers Auckland City Councillor for Rodney.

The audience was thanked for their attendance and were invited to stay for supper.

Book

In appreciation

Sarah Townsend assisted Rodney Neighbourhood Support as a volunteer to assist with the delivery of 2000 flyers around Kumeu and Huapai.

Her best buddy Jett got involved with Rodney Neighbourhood support through his Home Learning Challenge Community Awareness Program.

He then delivered 60 x Manaaki Street Books (2 x class sets) to his teacher for distribution to the junior school pupils.

Today Jett arrived at my house to show me his award medal and certificate he received at his school prizegiving today

for completing all the 12 units of his Home Learning Challenge.

Well done Jett. You rock.

An appreciation certificate presented to David Stranaghan in recognition of his service to our committee from 2019 to 2022.

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Community constable notes

Sgt Mark Stallworthy and Community Constable Hamish Buick spoke in reply to the concerns voiced by a member of the audience.

They also advised on things we can do to reduce crime in our neighbourhoods, identify valuables, lock everything away and don’t leave things out on display.

Minimise the opportunities for thieves.

Is your house visible from the street? Is it well maintained? Does it have security lighting?

They also suggested the NS signage as a deterrent, telling people CCTV cameras are in operation here.

There was a question from the floor regarding restraining somebody which was answered by Community Constable Hamish Buick.

There was a question from the floor re: trespassing issues, fence jumping.

Neighbourhood Support Waitakere

Louise Grevel from Neighbourhood Support Waitakere and the NSNZ chairperson said a few words acknowledging the great work that Margaret Faed and Sue Robertson do for Rodney Neighbourhood Support.

Louise also spoke about innovative ways we can grow our membership.

She gave thanks to the committee for the work they do to support the co-ordinators.

Mark Mitchell, MP for Whangaparaoa

Mark Mitchell, the MP for Whangaparaoa, said a few words.

He acknowledged Janet Fitzgerald for her work for the community with the Auckland Council Hibiscus Bays local board, especially with PENLINK.

He acknowledged Greg Sayers, Auckland city councillor for Rodney.

He acknowledged Sgt Mark Stallworthy and Community Constable Hamish Buick for their police work in Mahurangi.

He acknowledged Rodney Neighbourhood Support and all the work that you do and encouraged people to keep reporting incidents to the NZ Police.

Strong communities sharing information are so vital. He acknowledged Louise Grevel from the NSNZ. He spoke about youth justice and summarised by saying he wants to see his electorate the safest community in NZ.

Greg Sayers thanked and replied to Mark’s talk.

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Guest speaker – Michael Upton

Our guest speaker, Michael Upton, who is the senior advisor for Community Readiness and Recovery for Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Waitemata District, gave a very

informative talk and power point presentation.

It was well received by the audience. (See further articles throughout the magazine).

Feijoa walnut cake recipe

• 2 cups of feijoas, peeled and roughly chopped

• 1 cup of walnut pieces

• 1 cup of sultanas

• 1 cup of sugar

• 100 grams of melted butter

• 1 egg

• 1 cup of flour

• 2 tsp of mixed spice

• 2 tsp of baking soda.

Cook’s note: You will need approximately 5 large feijoas to yield 2 cups of peeled and chopped feijoa. It’s important to measure them correctly.

Directions

1. Mix the feijoas, walnuts, sultanas, and sugar together in a large bowl.

2. Beat the egg and butter together. Mix into the feijoa mixture.

3. Sift the flour, mixed spice, baking soda and add to the feijoa mixture. Stir lightly. Turn into a well-greased 25cm cake tin or deep ring tin.

Bake at 1800 Celsius for 45 to 50 minutes or until an inserted skewer comes out clean.

4. Cool in the tin before turning out. Serve warm as a dessert or cooled as a cake. This cake may be baked in muffin tins and freezes well.

Kai Connections – seconds

Ray Jensen, who has lived in Warkworth for the last 48 years, has been making a batch of fresh scones and sharing them with his friends “The Algies” for at least the last five years.

He makes a batch every Friday morning and at 10am his good friends come for a cup of tea/coffee and a chat for an hour.

I was lucky enough to be invited the other day and thought it was such a special thing, I asked if I could take some photos.

So, the following Friday I was treated to Ray’s Scones and I can thoroughly recommend them - they are delicious!

Raewyn supplies the bottle of cream each Friday for the next Friday’s batch.

Ray’s scone recipe

• 4 ½ cups self raising flour.

• 1 x can lemonade.

• 300ml bottle fresh cream.

• 1 cup of sultanas /or/ diced dates that have been soaked for 10 mins to soften. You may need to add a bit more flour.

Directions

Mix together.

Flatten by hand to 10mm thick into a rectangular shape, similar to the size of a placemat.

Do not use a rolling pin and the less handling the better.

Glaze with remnants of cream bottle and a little milk (this makes them go nice and brown on top).

Cut up to make 20 scones and place on baking tray and bake on 200deg Celcius for 17mins.

Ray has them with butter and jam. Enjoy.

What is Harbour Sport Green Prescription?

The Green Prescription programme is a free, 3-month health support service.

The programme is designed to aid in increasing physical activity and improve the nutrition of adults aged 18 years and over. We predominantly do this through means of exercise, nutrition and education.

Along with our primary Green Prescription programme, we support those under 18 years, through the Active Families programme. Our elderly enjoy our Retirement Village exercise classes. Active Families is similar in design, but focuses on giving the younger generation the tools to live healthier lives, before the negative health impacts.

What is contained within the Green Prescription Programme?

When you refer to Green Prescription, you will be assigned a Healthy Lifestyle Advisor (HLA). Our HLAs are there to support you along your healthy lifestyle journey and encourage you to become more physically active and eat healthier as part of a comprehensive health plan.

An HLA can help you set goals and support you throughout your healthy lifestyle journey. Throughout the programme, your HLA will check in with you to see if you’re progressing toward your goals and if there’s any way they can further help or support you.

How Can The Green Prescription Programme Help Me?

Green Prescription is a stepping stone to a healthier lifestyle. It gives you access to face-to-face consultations, a range of gym discounts, free exercise classes, free nutritional support from our Registered Associate Nutritionist and free workshops.

Our programme is tailored to suit you, regardless of age or ability. Our goal is to give you the tools to make healthy lifestyle changes. At the end of our programme we hope you continue to build on the foundations we’ve helped encourage you to become independently active.

How do I get started, and is there a criteria?

There are different ways to join Green Prescription. You can go to our website and click “refer yourself” or, go to a GP or health professional and ask to be referred.

The eligibility criteria for the programme is

straightforward:

• Aged 18+ (not applicable for Active Families)

• Currently inactive

• Cleared by a GP or health professional

• Ready to make a lifestyle change!

For more information, you can email grx@harboursport.co.nz or call us on 09 415 4657

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Age Concern Rodney

Services we provide to people 65

years and over:

Elder Abuse & Neglect Services: Age concern Rodney strives to reduce the harm and distress that Elder Abuse causes to older people. We advocate, support and offer advice. We explain, work and advise in many practical ways towards changes needed to stop harm being caused to kaumatua. We also advocate in the public and the policy arena to encourage Rodney Residents to step up to recognise Elder Abuse in our communities. We encourage anyone to contact us as soon as they have an inkling that something may be going wrong for an older person. Age Concern Rodney offers free, confidential, specialist Elder Abuse services.

For

• Conveyancing / Refinancing

• Relationship Property

• Company / Commercial

• Subdivisions

• Elder Law & Estates

Ph: 427 0550

E: nhl@nhlaw.co.nz

Level 1, North Harbour Law Building, 3 Alice Ave, Orewa

Advocacy: For older people who require support, helping them express their views and wishes and help them stand up for their rights. The Advocacy service is also used in Elder Abuse cases for domestic and financial abuse. These older people feel afraid to speak out for themselves.

Visiting Service: This service is designed to provide companionship for lonely older adults. Research shows that loneliness is as bad for health as smoking, and that social isolation almost doubles an older persons risk of going into residential care. Our volunteer visitors help to enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of an older person by establishing and maintaining a friendly, companionable relationship that is mutually beneficial to both parties.

We cover Te Hana to Silverdale including the Hibiscus Coast. Our volunteer visitors are matched with clients who have similar interests and one visited weekly. This service is greatly valued by both the clients and the volunteers.

Education/Health Promotion: Speakers are available to speak to groups. Health Promotion workshops and/or resources on a variety of subjects are developed in partnership with older people and other community groups.

Staying Safe Refresher Courses for Older People: Age Concern Rodney Staying Safe Refresher Course for the older drivers together with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

The staying safe course is a theory-based refresher course for seniors. During the course participants will re-familiarise themselves with traffic rules and safe driving practices. As well as increase their knowledge about other transport options available to keep them mobile as long as possible, whether behind the wheel or when they stop driving.

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Rodney and

West Auckland Health

NZ Hospital Shuttle Service: Age Concern Rodney have four shuttle vans that service Outpatient Clinics at North Shore, Auckland, Watiakere Hospitals, and Greenlane Clinical Centre. This is a

contract held by Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand. The Rodney shuttle has been operating for 15 years. Age Concern has been operating the West Auckland Shuttle for now three years.

This is a home to hospital on demand, pre-booking service. Pick up points are also located for those who live outside the contracted area. Having the shuttle available to the community gives great relief for many that otherwise would not have any way of getting to their appointment. This allows them to keep their independence, not worrying or bothering family or friends to take them. This is a very successful service; many clients are so grateful to have the service in their area.

Age Concern Rodney Inc.

Unit JA2 Westpac Plaza, Tamariki Avenue, Orewa, Auckland

P.O. Box 12, Red Beach, Auckland, 0945 09-426 0916

info@ageconcernrodney.org.nz

www.ageconcern.org.nz

Meeting up with Mel

Meeting up with Mel - a new member, while collecting pears for pig food for Sheepworld Warkworth.

Rock hunt day – Whangaparaoa and

Helensville

On Monday and Wednesday, kids (and adults) were treated to a rock hunt like no other, as Rodney Police held two rock days at Whangaparaoa and Helensville police stations.

Over 500 kids and parents attended the two events and the feedback was amazing from the two communities.

“There are dozens of people walking down the street looking for rocks.”

“We came from Glendowie for this… you guys are way cooler than our police,” were just a few of the comments the Rodney Police received as kids located rocks at their local parks and returned them to the station in return for a prize pack at the two stations.

Kids (and parents) get to then see the inside of the mobile policing unit and an operational police car and ask YCS

officers plenty of questions about being a police officer.

Sgt Brett Hanly, the officer in charge of Youth and Community Rodney said, “The day is a great day for us to connect with local kids in the community and given the last two years of uncertainty, it’s great to see the kids and their parents back at the station taking part in the rock hunt.”

The events are a regular event during the school holidays and is the brainchild of Whangaparaoa Frontline Station Support Officer, Charlotte Jones, who not only hand paints all the rocks with a police/safety theme, but also organises the days.

This organising includes everything from bagging the prize packs to hiding the rocks just a few hours before the ‘reveal’ is done on Police social media.

“Without Charlotte the rock days certainly wouldn’t happen and we are all grateful for the massive effort she makes to make the day such a huge success - not only for the Police, but also the local community.

“Rock Hunt days have become a highlight for a lot of families during the school holidays,” Brett says.

This time around the Helensville station had its first rock hunt day, which had Senior Constable Mel Haven and Lou Unkovich hiding the rocks in the local community and then witnessing the kids coming in to Helensville station, as they exchanged the rocks for prize packs.

And to quote one of the local Helensville residents, all in all a stellar day for us all,” and from another happy parent, “Thank you Melissa, we’re home now and the tamariki are still buzzing from the day”.

“Finding the last rock in the library was amazing.

“The photo is a major topic of conversation at the moment; they all want to be in the Police force. Nga mihi Glendith Samson.”

Sergeant Brett Hanly O/C WhangaparaoaYouth & Community - Waitemata North

Operation kindness

To Rodney Neighbourhood Support members…

Whangaparaoa Police would like to thank you for supporting our Operation Kindness initiative.

Over the two days we made 70 deliveries. Parents were reduced to tears of gratitude and the kids were super excited to see all the goodies in the hampers.

It’s difficult to show the donors the full impact that their kindness makes to the recipients.

They have often had some tragic circumstance and a small gesture like this can show them someone cares and leaves a real imprint on their hearts.

We really appreciate the support you have given both the Police and the community.

From all the team at Whangaparaoa.

August 2022, NSNZ National Campaign for the month of August.

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

Spreading joy at home, work, and in our communities one random act of kindness at a time.

All it takes is a kind gesture to change someone’s day. From giving flowers to a neighbour ‘just because’, to paying it forward in line at a café during this month we were encouraging our members and supporters to make New Zealand a better place, one random act of kindness at a time.

The options for doing so are endless!

Being kind doesn’t have to cost a thing, after all, a smile is free.

For those who want to go the extra mile, here are some other ideas: take a gift over to a new neighbour and introduce yourself, build a free community library for your street, buy extra kai at the grocery store to donate to a food bank, bring healthy treats into work for colleagues, send an encouraging text to someone who needs it, let a car into the traffic ahead of you, or surprise loved ones with a visit.

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Crime prevention week

The display at Bunnings Silverdale advocation crime prevention.

The Loan Market Hibiscus Coast team have successfully written over $1,000,000,000 in home loans. Stuart Matheson and Alex Matheson your home finance needs.

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Manaaki Street — NSNZ book launch

Neighbourhood Support New Zealand have today released their new children’s book, Manaaki Street.

Manaaki Street, which has been in production for over a year, is written by Neighbourhood Support New Zealand’s Chair and Neighbourhood Support Waitakere Coordinator, Louise Grevel, and illustrated by Kerin Casey.

The book tells the story of what Neighbourhood Support is all about, by following a child and their mother on a simple walk through their neighbourhood. It offers an easily accessible way for our young tamariki to understand the benefit of caring communities.

Manaaki Street will be shared as a resource for local schools and early childhood centres, School Community Constables and local libraries. Regional Neighbourhood Support groups will also be distributing copies in Children’s Day packs, at Neighbours Day Aotearoa events and to specific families in need of educational resources for their children.

Neighbourhood Support New Zealand’s Chair and Neighbourhood Support Waitakere Coordinator, Louise Grevel, stated that she was very excited that the books would soon be in the hands of children across New Zealand. “It’s been a long time in the making, so I am very ready to see the younger members of our

communities hearing and sharing the story.”

The book launch coincides with Neighbourhood Support’s March campaign, Celebrate Community, a campaign that asks people to find fun and unique ways to strengthen the bonds in their communities.

If you know of a primary school or pre-school who may be interested in having this fabulous resource to utilise, please email Louise directly on nswaitakerecoordinator@gmail.com

Chair &

Waitakere Coordinator

Louise Grevel Writer of “Manaaki Street” NSNZ

NS

FENZ - Smoke alarms

Which type of smoke alarm should you buy?

Photoelectric smoke alarms: Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommend long-life photoelectric smoke alarms. They are more effective than ionisation alarms at detecting slow smouldering fires, which burn for hours before bursting into flames.

Make sure you have long-life batteriesThe great thing is, most smoke alarms now come with a built-in, sealed, long-life battery, which will last as long as the smoke alarm – about ten years.

That’s a big improvement on the old 9-volt batteries, which are cheaper but will

start ‘chirping’ to be replaced after about one year.

Where should I put smoke alarms?

Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommend installing a smoke alarm in every bedroom, hallway and living area. You may also choose to install a heat alarm in the kitchen, laundry, bathroom or garage.

Where can I buy smoke alarms?

You can buy smoke alarms from your local hardware store.

How do I look after my smoke alarms?

• Once a month press the test button to sound the alarm. (Use a broom handle if you can’t reach the button).

• Every six months vacuum or dust your smoke alarms to help avoid false alarms.

FENZ - Hearing assistive technology (HAT)

We all know working smoke alarms save lives, however conventional smoke alarms may not work for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Fire and Emergency Risk Reduction Advisor Nick Linton, says there are specialised smoke alarm systems available for these people.

“These alarms have extra features such as extra loud and/or lower pitch alarm sounds, flashing strobe lights, or vibrating mechanisms.

“Ideally, someone who is deaf or hard of hearing will have interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms fitted with bed-shakers, strobe lights and pagers, or a combination of these,” Nick says.

“Everything is designed to make responding to a smoke alarm as fast and safe as possible.”

If you, or someone you know, have had hearing loss it is worthwhile checking if you can hear your conventional smoke alarm, especially during the night.

Nick says deaf or hard of hearing people should contact their audiologist, hearing therapist or support organisation, such as Life Unlimited or Deaf Aotearoa, to have their needs assessed and the appropriate equipment assigned to them.

He says there is also a nationwide service available where deaf or hard of hearing people who have difficulty using a phone can contact the emergency services (Police, Fire and Ambulance) in an emergency via text messaging on their cell phones. People register with Police to use this service.

The Hearing Assistive Technology process has supported hundreds of Deaf and hard of hearing people so far and is keen to support more.

Please head to our website for further information: www.fireandemergency.nz/home-and-

FENZ - Wildfires

Check it’s alright before you light

Almost all wildfires are preventable, but every year out-of-control vegetation fires cause widespread damage. Climate change is likely to increase the likelihood of wildfires unless people take greater care.

Some 99 percent of wildfires are started by people, whether its burn offs, rubbish fires getting out of control, or people using machinery causing sparks in paddocks. You should always check whether you are allowed to light an outdoor fire first. If you are, then you should also check the weather. If it’s windy don’t light your fire.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand have developed a simple online tool that tells you whether you can light your fire, or do your outdoor work safely. The three-step tool lets you know what the fire risk is and what you should do to stay safe.

Simply select your activity, type in your address and specify when you will be doing it. You will then receive your personalised results including; forecasted weather, fire dangers index, fire season status and advice on how to reduce your risk. To use the tool, go to: www.checkitsalright.nz/can-i-light-a-fire.

People can have BBQs and hangi at any time, but you should still be careful. Leave plenty of space around the BBQ and don’t drink and fry. Avoid leaving cooking unattended and check your gas cylinder regularly.

Fire seasons

Fire seasons let people know about any requirements or restrictions on lighting open air fires. This is to protect communities from the consequences of unwanted fire. We have an open season, a restricted season when you need a permit to light an open-air fire and a prohibited season when no fires except barbeques and hangi are allowed. During Summer, when hot and dry conditions make lighting fires riskier, the season is usually restricted or prohibited, but caution is also needed during winter. On a windy day, it is far easier for a fire to get out of control, so even if it is colder weather you should check the wind forecast before lighting a fire. If it is going to be windy, don’t light your fire.

For more information on how to be safe with fire this winter and to protect your community from unwanted fire, go to: www.checkitsalright.nz/reduce-your-risk.

FENZ - 3 Step Escape Plan

It is a common misconception that in the event of a fire you will be able to escape easily, just by walking out the front door. However, this is not the case. When we are confronted with an emergency situation such as a house fire, our instincts can betray us.

Waitemata Community Risk Reduction Advisor, Michael Hoyne says having a 3-Step-Escape-Plan could save your life.

“It’s easy to get out of your house when there is no smoke and you can see the route, but when you take away that visibility and your stress levels are heightened, a practiced plan is invaluable for getting out quickly,” says Michael.

A house fire can kill in less than three minutes, so it is vital that you can get out as quickly as possible. Having smoke alarms installed in every bedroom, living room and hallway will give you an early warning but with only one or two minutes to get out after the alarm sounds, you need to move quickly.

“When you are woken from a deep sleep by a smoke alarm, it is obviously going to be shocking, you will be confused and disorientated and struggle to find your way out,” says Michael.

The only way to be truly sure that we will do the right thing in the event of a fire is to plan for and practice it before it happens.

Creating your 3-Step-Escape-Plan is easy, all you need to do isdecide on your:

1. First escape route.

2. Second escape route.

3. Meeting place.

Make sure everyone in your household knows these three important steps and ensure they practice it regularly.

When deciding on your meeting place, Michael recommends making it obvious for Fire and Emergency.

“The most obvious places, such as the mailbox or a tree at the front of the house, are the best places for firefighters to safely account for all people,” Michael says.

“Once you are out, stay out – when you get to your meeting place don’t go back inside for any reason.”

Head to www.escapemyhouse.co.nz to make your household’s 3-StepEscape-Plan, it could save your life.

FENZ - Volunteer with Fire and Emergency

Volunteers are an integral and much- valued part of Fire and Emergency NZ.

There are nearly 12,000 of these special, community-minded people across New Zealand, based at around 600 stations nationwide. That represents around 85 percent of all our firefighters, serving most of the country except metropolitan areas.

Volunteer Fire Chief and Community Risk and Reduction Advisor, Leah Hide, says joining her local volunteer brigade was lifechanging and one of the best things she’s ever done.

“I have experienced once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and gained life-long friendships,” says Leah. “Joining a volunteer fire brigade gives you a great sense of pride in helping people and supporting the community.”

Nearly 4,500 businesses across New Zealand are registered as an employer of Fire and Emergency volunteers.

Being a firefighter isn’t the only way to volunteer with Fire and Emergency. There are also volunteers who assist with community fire safety education or who work in other brigade support roles.

There’s a job for everyone – so if you’d like to volunteer, please get in touch through our website: www.fireandemergency.nz/volunteering.

Become a career firefighter

Fire and Emergency career firefighters serve and protect communities in metropolitan areas. There are around 1800 career firefighters at 42 of our 637 fire stations.

Fire and Emergency is made up of people from many different backgrounds, experiences and interests. However, Recruitment manager James Hall says there are certain qualities you need to be a career firefighter.

“You need to be driven, determined, and resilient. We look for good communication and leadership skills – people who function well in teams and individually when required,” James says.

To become a Career Firefighter, you’ll need to complete Fire and Emergency’s recruitment process, which runs at a national level twice a year.

“We’re always looking for people interested in becoming a firefighter and being a firefighter is one of the many career paths within Fire and Emergency. Later in your career you can move into training recruitment, fire engineering, fire investigations and risk reduction work,” says James.

Become a career firefighter and help to build safer and more resilient communities. To find out more, head to our website: www.fireandemergency.nz/work-for-us.

Project Flyers

Rodney Neighbourhood Support

Initiative organized and led by Coordinator Sue Robertson. Funded by a Grant from Neighbourhood Support New Zealand.

A project to deliver flyers to invite households to join Rodney Neighbourhood Support as well as the promotion of local Community Resilience Groups and local Social Services organisations was led by our Coordinator Sue Robertson.

With the help of volunteers, Max Walsh, Sarah Townsend and Gary Robertson, and a grant from NSNZ, 8,300 flyers were delivered to every letterbox in Kumeu/Huapai, Warkworth, Mahurangi West, Wellsford, Te Hana, Kaiwaka and Mangawhai.

We would like to thank our four volunteers and NSNZ who helped in achieving the completion of the project. This project grew our membership by approximately 150 members.

The project as we go to print is in the process of delivering 11,000 flyers to the Whangaparaoa Peninsula.

We thank the members of the Community Resilience Group for assisting with this project. Our volunteers assisting with the delivery of the project are Janice Haferkamp, Irene and Bill Williamson, Karen Hadler, Samuel Mills and his mother and other volunteers.

This helps our communities work together in making them more connected, resilient, safe and pleasant places to live.

This is the front of all the flyers delivered in our Project across the Rodney Neighbourhood Support area.

Connected Communities are Safe and Resilient.

Flyer project Mangawhai

Sue Robertson, Co-ordinator for Rodney Neighbourhood Support, has managed the Flyer Project to deliver in every household in Mangawhai with assistance.

JOIN NEIGHBOURHOOD SUPPORT - ITS FREE

Our members receive regular updates and reports of Property Crime happening in your area.

Why not offer to help set up a Neighbourhood Support Street group.

It’s easy and takes very little of your time. We provide street signs, and letterbox stickers to our members to highlight that your street has an active NS Street Group.

These items are a proven deterrent to Property Crime.

For further information see: www.nsrodney.org.nz. rns.coordinator@gmail.com

021 258 3737

Our facebook page: Neighbourhood Support Rodney.

Citizens Advice Bureau

We’re here for you, with free, confidential, non-judgemental advice

We can help you with any issue, including:

• Consumer rights

• Employment and business tenancy and housing

• Family and personal Government and public services.

You can also ask us about:

• Food parcels

• Justice of the Peace services Free legal clinics.

To find out more, visit: www.cab.org.nz, or get in touch with one of your local CABs.

Wellsford: 1 Matheson Road, Wellsford; 09 423 7333; wellsford@cab.org.nz.

Hibiscus Coast: 40 – 46 Orewa Square, Orewa; 09 426 5338; hibiscuscoast@cab.org.nz.

Helensville: 23 Commercial Road, Helensville; 09 420 7162; helensville@cab.org.nz.

We

Mahurangi West Community Resilience Group (MW CRG)

Building a strong, emergency resilient community

The MW CRG has a local emergency and community resilience plan which we review and update regularly. The plan helps us prepare to help each other in times of need. Our work compliments front line emergency services following an emergency event.

We work closely with Rodney Neighbourhood Support Inc, other community groups and Auckland Emergency Management to help our community learn about local hazards, how to reduce their impact and be better prepared and connected so we can support each other during an emergency.

This assists recovery of the community after an event.

Would you like to become part of a team which is proactive in an emergency?

If you are interested in joining the MW CRG details are provided below.

Mahurangi West Community Resilience Group

Contact: Fran Ashton 021 260 2793 or visit Mahurangi West CRG on Facebook.

Warkworth Community Resilience Group (WCRG)

Building a strong emergency resilient Warkworth Community

Our WCRG meets regularly and has a local emergency plan which we review and update regularly. The plan helps us prepare and help each other in times of need. Our work compliments front line emergency services following an emergency event.

We work closely with Rodney Neighbourhood Support Inc, other community groups and Auckland Emergency Management to help our community know about local hazards, how to reduce their impact and get better prepared and connected so we can effectively help each other during an

emergency. This assists recovery of the community after an event.

Would you like to become part of team which can be proactive to an emergency?

If you are interested in joining the WCRG details are provided below.

Warkworth Community Resilience Group

Meets: Approx. bi-monthly at the Warkworth RSA downstairs community meeting rooms, usually at 7pm.

Contact: Jim Flewitt 027 293 9414

Community Resilience Group

Whangaparaoa (CRGWGP)

Building a strong, emergency resilient community

Our Group works closely with Rodney Neighbourhood Support, other local community groups and Auckland Emergency Management to help our community

• Learn about local hazards

• How to reduce their impact

• Improve our preparedness and

• Know each other better so we can support each other during an emergency.

Our group has a network of local facilities called Community Emergency Hubs for use when emergencies arise.

Currently these are:

• Hibiscus Coast Community RSA

• Whangaparaoa College

• St Stephens Anglican Church

• Manly Methodist Church

• Whangaparaoa Golf Club

• Gulf Harbour Country Club

• YMCA Shakespeare Lodge Camp

We are flexible and adaptable with opening them as not all hubs suit all emergencies.

The CRGWGP has a local Emergency and Community Resilience Plan which we review and update regularly.

The plan helps us prepare to help each other in times of need. Our work compliments front line emergency response services following an emergency event.

Interested in helping build the disaster resilience of our Whangaparaoa community:

Please get in touch: crgwgp@gmail.com

Farmstrong

Farmstrong is a nationwide, rural wellbeing programme that helps farmers and growers to cope with the ups and downs of farming with a mix of farmer-to-farmer resources, workshops, online tools and events.

Last year, more than 15,000 farmers directly attributed an improvement in their wellbeing to Farmstrong.

To find out what could help you ‘live well to farm well’, visit: farmstrong.co.nz

Kids Safety Message for Parents and Caregivers

From Bryan and Bobby

Many parents worry about the safety of their children, whether on the way to or from school, in the park, or anywhere else where constant adult supervision is lacking.

One of the biggest concerns for parents is teaching their children how to be properly wary of strangers when out in public places. Yet, the possibility of harm to children from unknown people, usually called “stranger danger,” can sometimes be overstated.

Much of the fear surrounding “stranger danger” comes from second- or third-hand stories, media reports, and educational films. Understandably, this information causes us to worry about our children. Yet, despite all of the attention focused on

“stranger danger,” a closer look at child abductions doesn’t necessarily justify our conclusions on the severity of the problem. In the majority of cases, the danger comes not from a stranger, but rather a perpetrator known to the parent or child.

Please note STRANGER DANGER IS NO LONGER taught in New Zealand by the police or schools....for these reasons.

Teach children to trust their feelings if they feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused. Children need to know to get away from that person and tell a trusted adult. Teach your children that it is more important to get out of a threatening or uncomfortable situation than it is to be polite. Children also need to know that they should never go anywhere with someone they don’t know and should never get into cars or go into houses

of neighbours they don’t know very well unless you say it is okay.

Parents need to be sure of their family’s rules and procedures and set a good example when out with their children. Greeting the local police officer, road patrol monitors, or postie when walking with your child makes it clear that casual interaction with people they do not know well isn’t always harmful.

The most important thing for parents to remember when talking about personal safety and “stranger danger” is that it is both a very real problem and that it should be approached carefully so as to educate children rather than scare them.

Community, emergency, readiness, response, recovery and adaption

In August 2021, Kumeū Huapai was impacted by an unprecedented weather event.

Flooding displaced families and raised community awareness and desire to grow and develop local disaster resilience.

The Rodney Local Board provided support and funding to bring in an independent facilitator to support community discussion and planning.

An initial meeting of representatives from first responder organisations and community groups reflected on challenges in co-ordinating community response in extreme weather events.

The group discussed opportunities in developing greater hazard awareness and community preparedness to support resilience. Other opportunities discussed included seeking a better understanding of first responder roles and responsibilities, developing a single source of good reliable information and enhancing communication and coordination in the recovery phase.

A small convening group was established to guide the process of developing a Kumeū Huapai Emergency Action Plan and convene input from the wider network.

The network, which is currently meeting around every four weeks, has representation from first responder

agencies such as Fire Brigade and Police, as well as community groups including the Small Landowners Association, Kumeū Community Action, Northwest Foodbank and Rodney Neighbourhood Support.

The convening group is looking to develop the key components of a draft plan by the end of 2022. A part of this process has been to develop a ‘Community Memory Board’, capturing people’s memory of past events and the impacts these have had locally.

The draft plan will incorporate initial frameworks for how community groups and organisation’s plan to work together. It will also present actions identified by the network which will be required to further enhance community emergency readiness, response, recovery and adaptation.

For Further information on this Article or for help for your local community contact:

Margaret Faed, Rodne Neighbourhood Support on 021 258 3737 or rns.coordinator@gmail.com.

Community message from the Waitemata Police

Waitematā Police are aware of a number of reports in relation to residential burglaries and theft from vehicles.

We understand property crime can have a devastating impact.

A key focus for Police is preventing crime from happening in the first place as a significant number of reported burglaries are committed by opportunistic criminals.

There are a range of measures you can take to ensure your property is safe and less appealing:

• Always lock your car, motorbike, bicycle or other vehicles - including trailers and jet skis

• A car alarm, steering lock, or good quality chains are extra deterrents

• Don’t leave any valuables in your car - including loose change in your centre console

• Ideally keep all vehicles in a garage or out of sight

• If you can’t park in a garage, endeavour to park in a well-lit area

• Record the serial numbers or engrave tools, electronic and valuable items with your licence number

• Install an alarm system and get sensor lights fitted as a deterrent

• Install security stays on windows, especially those on ground level

• Always lock your property and auxiliary buildings when you leave, even if it’s only for a short time.

The other important thing people can do is look out for their neighbours and call Police if something doesn’t seem right.

We take burglary and theft incidents seriously, if you are in a situation where you feel unsafe, or you see something suspicious, call 111 immediately.

To report a crime after it has happened, contact:

Police on 105, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Sergeant Brett Hanly

O/C Whangaparaoa - Youth & Community - Waitemata North

Understanding risk and planning for disaster resilience

Auckland’s geographical location, diverse coastline and mild climate make it a great place to live. It can also make the region prone to many natural hazards.A hazard is something that is a danger or risk. We think of these as events that can negatively affect what we value - our communities, economy, and environment. Flooding, severe weather and coastal inundation are common events in Auckland; less so are volcanic activity, tsunami, or earthquakes.

These natural hazard events can happen anywhere, any time and without warning. Being prepared for emergencies is the best way to stay safe.

Auckland Hazard Viewer

Use Auckland Hazard Viewer map to see if the natural hazards could affect where you live, work or play and to start conversations with your family and friends about what you would do in an emergency.

Make a household emergency plan

Whether you live with your family, friends or flatmates, it is important to all be on the same page when it comes to what to do in an emergency. A household emergency plan lets everyone in your household know what to do in an emergency and how to get ready. Having a plan helps make actual emergency situations less stressful. If you have pets, you are responsible for their safety as well.

Get to know your neighbours

In an emergency you are not on your own, you’re with your community. Now is a good time to connect with your neighbours and

exchange contact details so you’ll be ready if an emergency situation occurs. Plus, it can make everyday life much more enjoyable!

Building Community resilience

No one knows your community better than you and the people in it. We encourage all communities to come together and talk about how to get ready and plan what you will do during an emergency. There are a number of resources available to assist your community to build disaster resilience, such as the Community Resilience Plans. These plans can help your community identify how they can support one another before, during and after an emergency.

To check the resources and learn more about how you can help keep your community safe visit: aucklandemergencymanagement.org. nz/community-ready

Scan QR code to access the Auckland Hazard Viewer

How safe is your home?

Complete this survey — reduce your risk of being burgled.

Doors and Windows

1. Are all locks to outside doors either dead locks or strong bolt locks?

2. Can door locks be opened by breaking a window and reaching through?

3. Can internal doors be locked?

4. Are all locks in good working order?

5. Do you lock the internal door from your garage?

6. Can you account for all copies of keys to your home?

7. Are window locks properly and securely mounted?

8. Do you keep windows locked when they are shut?

9. Do you use locks that allow windows to be secured partly open? Garage

10. Do you lock your garage door at night?

11. Do you lock your garage door when away from home?

12. Do you have good secure locks on garage windows and doors?

13. Do you lock your car when its parked in your garage?

Holiday

14. Do you notify neighbours when away on holiday?

15. Do you have mail and circulars collected for you when you are away?

16. Do you stop deliveries and newspapers when on holiday?

17. Do you have shades up and lights on when on holiday?

18. Do you use timers on lights & radios to make it look like you are home?

19. Do you arrange to keep lawns and gardens maintained?

20. Are you a member of a neighbourhood support group? Environment

21. Do you have sensor lights around your house?

22. Are shrubs and bushes well trimmed near your house and boarders?

Safe Practices

23. Have you recorded all serial numbers and stored them away from home?

24. Have you uniquely marked valuable items (etch or invisible)?

25. Do you have a description of valuable property?

26. Have you displayed a sign that items are marked for identification?

27. Do you have an alarm?

28. Have you displayed a sign stating that your house is alarmed?

29. Do you report suspicious activity or people to Police immediately?

30. Do you know not to disturb anything if you are burgled? just to call Police?

Yes No

Every “NO” shows a weak point and may help a burglar. Every “YES”improves your protection.

How to join Neighbourhood Support

PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING:

Name:

Address:

No. and Street:

Suburb:

Email:

Phone: Cell:

Mailing address: (if different than above)

Sign:

Terms and Conditions: The collection of this information is for the express purpose of forming a community based data register to enable RNSI to deliver crime prevention and crime reduction indicatives and to facilitate the core role of RNSI in building safer communities. This information shall not be disclosed to any other parties except to the nominated strategic partners of RNSI and shall only be made available in the event of a community emergency situation being declared.

Find out more information by:

Emailing: rns.coordinator@gmail.com

Phone: 0508 763 639

Call/Text: 021 2583 737

Writing to: Rodney Neighbourhood Support Incorporated

C/-Mahurangi Policing Centre

1 Hamatana Road

Snells Beach 0920

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