Mind over matter How to connect with your inner creativity
Just because your hair might be grey, doesn’t mean your life needs to be.
Today’s 70-year olds are the healthiest, strongest, and most mentally agile history has ever known. So Summerset Retirement Villages are designed for the active lifestyles of the youngest “oldies” there’s ever been.
Love the life you choose
To find out more about the range of homes available at Summerset at Pohutukawa Place, contact the Sales Manager, Leonie Davies today.
06 824 8532
summerset.co.nz/pohutukawaplace
outlook on life
Central Taranaki Automotive is a locally owned family business that has been operating for over 10 years and is a very strong supporter of the local community. They have employed 6 staff members. Kevan Old is an Auto Technician and has been in the trade for 38 years specializing in Toyota vehicles. Wendy Old does the day-to-day running of the office and taking care of the customer’s needs, Gary Old is an auto technician, Ricky Howells is an auto technician, Matthew Edser is a 2nd-year apprentice, Deanna Old helps Wendy in the office with the ordering of parts and invoicing, Lukah Phillips is in charge of preparing the site for the day to day operation.
Navigating change
There’s good reason why old sayings survive to be ‘old’ and that’s because they tend to be true. One such utterance is “The only constant in life is change”.
If Heraclitus was still with us, he’d probably be a fan of the past few years due to them moving the goalposts on the entire planet no less - to the point where we’ve had to adjust some of our most basic, ingrained behaviours.
So, in the spirit of another old saying, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” this issue of Plusliving looks at ways you can act, and things you can alter to better navigate your way through uncertainty and change.
We look at simple ways to improve your headspace, how to connect with your inner creativity, the art and craft of goal setting, breaking bad habits, the big financial mistakes older people make, easy ways to stay connected to friends and family online, and much more.
Enjoy.
JonathonTaylor
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Accounts: Jo Pritchard (03) 961 5161 | accounts@markat.co.nz
Welcome to Plusliving – the magazine dedicated to living well and ageing gracefully in modern society. Aimed at the 50+ age group, you’ll find articles covering all aspects of contemporary life, including physical health and wellbeing, mental health and acuity, home life, working life and finances, technology, travel, self-improvement and more. Our aim is to provide information anyone can use, on any given day, so you can get more out of life.
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Disclaimer
This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency Ltd is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. The Job Agency Ltd expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature
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Copyright 2020 by The Job Agency
By Timmi Aplin-Barrett
Lifestyles
Roomba j7
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Formation Wedge Speaker
From Bowers and Wilkins comes an immersive home wireless sound system with room-filling audio from one stylishly shaped and finished speaker. A graceful shape angles the array of two teeters, two midrange drivers plus a subwoofer to form a perfect stereo image. This sleek speaker is compatible with pretty much anything and comes in black and white.
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Collezióne Tibetan Lamb Throw
This luxurious lamb throw will bring the elegant beauty of the wild into your home. The carefully sourced Tibetan fur is warm, soft and durable. This natural piece will add a sumptuous feel and timeless style to your living space.
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Melt Stand Chandelier Gold
Combining art and technology, this floor lamp brings lighting to a whole new level. Designer Tom Dixon has experimented with the technologically advanced field of vacuum metallisation to create an eye-catching piece. The melt is also available as pendants, table, floor and surface lights and has seven gold shades available.
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Goccia Coffee Table
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RRP: $1,439 www.danskemobler.co.nz
Seven steps
to emotional health
A healthier diet and regular exercise are arguably the most common personal aspirations, but improving your emotional and mental health shouldn’t be ignored, because exercise, diet and other tangible goals are then easier to meet.
The reason we make resolutions in the first place is to be happier, more creative, more aware of our direction in life and improve our sense of wellbeing. Arguably the largest obstacles to these are negative emotional states.
Negative emotions are hugely toxic to our health. It’s now commonly accepted that holding onto stress, resentment, anger and fear for years at a time can lead to myriad health problems, including high blood pressure, thyroid diseases, hair loss and heart disease.
In fact, it has become accepted by health professionals that most diseases in some way have a stress-related component. It’s surprising, then, that more of us don’t focus on improving our state of mind.
Seven resolutions to improve your headspace:
1. Prioritise your happiness and health
It’s important to decide for your health and happiness as number one. As simple as it sounds, if you don’t have these, you are not in a position to contribute to others or yourself. Everything stems from here.
2. Spend more time with the right people
Rather than resolving to spend more time with everyone – which can be exhausting – spend time with people who are naturally positive and uplifting, and who are going in the direction you want to go in. You’ll find these people have an energising effect on you.
3. Deal with toxic relationships
You can identify relationships by the way they make you feel. Stand your ground, set your boundaries and make it clear to them what behaviour you won’t accept – even with family. You may need to disengage altogether from particularly toxic people. Your health will thank you for it.
4. Reassess your happiness at work
This is must for those in a negative work culture that’s leaving them feeling overworked, uncertain of their future, anxious or stressed. It’s important to know that as an employee you can address the issue with your manager. If you know you can’t, it may be time to look for a healthier work environment.
5. Review your daily routine
It takes courage to admit there are decisions we ourselves make that deflate us emotionally – from accepting a job with a long commute, to running around too much, to not giving ourselves enough ‘down’ time every day, to spending too much and putting ourselves in financial stress. By resolving to develop a strategy to solve them, you can be in an entirely different place by the end of the year.
6. Don’t let any negative emotions control you
Negative emotions – however small – can overwhelm anything positive. Resolve to develop awareness of when you’re feeling upset or frustrated before it spoils your day. Examine what you can do personally to make yourself feel better. Each time you begin to feel down, take a walk in the park or go out in the sun to help centre you. Nature and movement nurture positive emotions.
7. Strengthen your relationships
Deep and meaningful relationships, not just with your life partner, but with all those close to you, are important for a fulfilling life. Make a list of all the factors you need for a meaningful relationship, identify what you do not want, and stick to your guns.
The13traitsof persuasive people
Persuasive people have an uncanny ability to get you leaning toward their way of thinking. Their secret weapon is likeability. They get you to like more than their ideas; they get you to like them.
1 2
They’re pleasers
Persuasive people never win the battle only to lose the war. They know how and when to stand their ground, and yet they are constantly making sacrifices that help their cause.
They aren’t pushy
Persuasive people establish their ideas assertively and confidently, without being aggressive or pushy.
They aren’t mousy, either
On the other hand, presenting your ideas as questions or as though they need approval makes them seem flawed and unconvincing. If you tend to be shy, focus on presenting your ideas as statements and interesting facts for the other party to mull over.
They know their audience
Persuasive people know their audience inside and out, and they use this knowledge to speak their audience’s language.
They paint a picture
Research shows that people are far more likely to be persuaded by something that has visuals that bring it to life. Persuasive people capitalise on this by using powerful visual imagery.
They use positive body language
Being cognizant of your gestures, expressions, and tone of voice (and making certain they’re positive) will engage people and open them up to your arguments.
They smile
Persuasive people smile a lot because they have genuine enthusiasm for their ideas. This has a contagious effect on everyone they encounter.
They acknowledge your point of view
An extremely powerful tactic of persuasion is to concede the point. Admit that your argument is not perfect. This shows that you are open minded and willing to make adjustments, instead of stubbornly sticking to your cause.
They ask good questions
People like to know you’re listening, and something as simple as a clarification question shows not only that you are listening but also that you care about what they’re saying. You’ll be surprised how much respect and appreciation you gain just by asking questions.
They use your name
Persuasive people make certain they use others’ names every time they see them. You shouldn’t just use someone’s name only when you greet him or her.
They form connections
No matter how compelling your argument, if you fail to connect on a personal level, he or she will doubt everything you say.
They are genuine
No one likes a fake. People gravitate toward those who are genuine because they know they can trust them.
They know when to pull back
Urgency is a direct threat to persuasion, so tread lightly. When you try to force people to agree instantly, studies show that they are actually more likely to stand by their original opinion.
Little changes with big consequences
Four simple ways to improve your health
By simply examining a few health facts and implementing some simple lifestyle changes each day can make a difference to your overall health.
Meditation minimises disease
Meditation is a phenomenal way to instantly take control of your health. Studies indicate that a mere 20 minutes of quiet time a day can halve the risk of heart attack or stroke by reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol.
1 2 3
In countries such as India and China, meditation has been used for centuries as a way to lower stress levels and improve concentration.
Scientists have found that transcendental meditation, which promotes deeper relaxation through mantras, is even more beneficial for the mind and body.
Tests show that sufferers of atherosclerosis were able to reduce their risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke by 47 percent, compared to those who simply followed a healthy diet and exercise programme.
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Replace hazardous laundry detergents
Certain liquid laundry detergents contain cancer-causing chemicals. Research shows that these harmful cleaning aids contain around 25 volatile compounds, which may make people sick.
Fumes from washing machines and dryers release harmful chemicals, such as acetaldehyde, into the atmosphere, which may also find their way into the water supply. Shop for safer, less dangerous detergents, which will help your health and the environment too.
Juice your own fruits and vegetables for better health
Buying a carton of juice from the store can be hazardous to your health. Just because the label says “100% pure” or “freshly squeezed” does not mean it is true.
In processing orange juice, for example, most manufactures remove all the oxygen molecules from the liquid, which allows the juice to be stored for up to a year.
As this process strips the juices of their flavors, juice companies then add fragrance and flavor additives to the product.
Avoid processed, stored products and take the time to juice your own fruits and vegetables as a great kick-start to better health.
Reduce beer consumption and drink alcohol in moderation
Heavy beer drinkers risk liver damage and a bigger beer belly.
According to experts who studied the health of more than 500,000 people between the ages of 35 to 70, it was found that those who drank 30g of pure alcohol a day from beer had a massive 75 percent increased risk of developing stomach cancer.
Worse still, heavy beer drinkers with a particular gene variant in the cluster of three genes that metabolize alcohol have an even greater chance of getting stomach cancer, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.
Ideally, all alcohol should be taken with food, such as a glass of wine with a meal, and spirits should be enjoyed in moderation.
Classic CarpetsFlooring Xtra
Classic Carpets Flooring Xtra is New Plymouth’s home of flooring solutions.
From carpet and wood to laminate and LVT, to rugs and more, the team can supply and install it all. Classic Carpets Flooring Xtra offers a free measure and quote service so you can have a professional consult and get expert advice for each room in your home. Once you’ve decided on what you want and have a plan to fit your budget, the team offers a full installation service.
Classic Carpets has been trading for over 40 years and joined the Floor Xtra Group in 2009. Locally owned and operated, Taranaki residents can be rest assured the team at Classic Carpets will look after them. Classic Carpets is owned by born and bred local Joe Harvey and his brother-in-law, Gareth. Joe has 23 years’ experience in the industry - so it’s in his blood!
Flooring Xtra is New Zealand’s largest flooring company. Within three years of launch and after wild success, Flooring Xtra had become the country’s largest flooring company. Stores have the
advantage of stronger buying power, access to marketing resource and a pool of knowledge to tap into from their peers.
The New Plymouth store is no exception to this success and ensures locals have everything they need within the flooring industry. They have a massive range of products. Within carpets, they offer cut pile, loop pile, textured, plush and garage carpets. They can provide light, medium and dark wood laminate and timber. The team are also able to offer wood, stone and tile looks for LVT and hybrid flooring. Within their sheet vinyl range, Flooring Xtra offers tile, wood, stone, concrete, cork and more.
For more information, visit www.flooringxtra.co.nz or call the team on 06 753 3933. You can also email newplymouth@flooringxtra.co.nz.
CLASSIC CARPETS FLOORING XTRA
NEW PLYMOUTH
OPENING HOURS
MON 8:30am - 5:00pm
TUE 8:30am - 5:00pm
WED 8:30am - 5:00pm
THU 8:30am - 5:00pm
FRI 8:30am - 5:00pm
SAT 9:00am - 12:00pm
SUN Closed
Staying connected
Keeping in touch with your loved ones, even when they’re far away, has never been easier. While nothing can quite beat face to face communication, technology has made it so you can connect with who you want in real time.
So here are different options for online communication that you can use with your computer or on your smart phone, from video chatting to messaging.
FaceTime - From the ever-popular iPhone to devices such as the iPad and MacBook, chances are someone you know and care about uses an Apple device.
That’s the beauty of FaceTime, Apple’s video chat software that comes preinstalled on all their devices (at least from 2010 onwards); you can easily video chat with anyone that has an Apple device, no matter where they are in the world.
If you have one, open up your iPhone, iPad or Macbook and log into your Apple ID account. If you’ve already set up your device before this, use FaceID or TouchID to log into FaceTime.
To make a FaceTime call, either search the name if they’re already in your contacts, or type in their number or email.
Facebook Messenger - With over 2.4 billion monthly active users, Facebook is the most popular social network site worldwide. Beyond the website, did you know that the Facebook Messenger app makes it easy to message, video chat and call your friends?
One great thing about Facebook Messenger is it’s not limited to just iPhones – anyone with a smartphone and a Facebook account can download it. Once you have an account, sign in and set up your contact list, also known as your Facebook friends.
If you don’t have a smartphone or don’t want to download the app, you can also video chat through the website.
Skype - Skype was one of the first video chat websites and apps popularised worldwide. Owned by Microsoft, it comes preinstalled to your computer if you have a PC. If you have a Mac, it’s easily available for download. You can also download it on your Apple or Android device.
Another feature that makes Skype unique is you can affordably and easily make international calls to people who don’t have Skype. For example, 0800 numbers are free to call.
If you don’t have an account already, you can create one for free. Alternatively, you can use your Microsoft/Hotmail/Outlook account to sign in. Once you’re all set up, search for friends and family who already use Skype.
WhatsApp - The Facebook-owned app recently hit two billion users worldwide. What makes it so popular was that it was the first to offer messaging, voice calls and more exclusively for smartphones when it arrived in 2009.
Mainly people use WhatsApp for texting, especially while abroad. The best thing about WhatsApp is its ease of use. All you need for your account is to enter your Apple or Android devices telephone number, and it verifies who you are through that. If you change your mobile number, you can change that as well to keep your account up to date.
From there, WhatsApp accesses your contacts for you and connects you to people who already use the app, making it a streamlined process.
Something for every home
Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries, to commercial fit outs and everything else in between!
No job is too big or too small for the team at Newton Gordge Joinery. The team take extreme pride in delivering expert craftsmanship and have a passion for creative ideas.
Kitchens are a big part of what they do. It’s the heart of the home which is why the team will work with you to create a kitchen that is exactly what you want and need. With so many different material products, there is something for every home.
Domestic Joinery is also in high demand. From bathroom vanities, laundries, wardrobes and so much more. The team are sure to be able to help with that full house renovation or new build. If it’s some storage alterations or tweaks around the house that you’re after, then give this capable team a call, no job is too small.
Commercial Joinery is an area of work that Newton Gordge Joinery are extremely proud of. From School fit outs, business offices and restaurants, all of their work is crafted to a high standard. Newton Gordge joinery incorporate cutting edge skills and design into their work to create unique and innovative joinery solutions.
Included in their services to you is an in-house site measure, design, delivery and installation. Whatever you are after, they are sure to bring your dreams to reality.
Newton Gordge Joinery 06 751 5065 67b Breakwater Rd, New Plymouth.
Mind over matter - how to connect with your inner creativity
Hmmm… thinking. Too much of it can create problems which weren’t there in the first place and too little may mean missing out on a good opportunity. But what happened to a little downtime and those “eureka!” moments?
Instead of forcing your brain to conjure up creative genius “on demand” you need to create thinking space where your mind can rest and let the magic flow.
Here are a few ideas to get your magic happening:
Write – although you shouldn’t expect answers to show their pretty little face immediately after you have asked a question, jotting down your thoughts allows you to de-stress, clarify your thoughts and solve problems (fingers crossed). Writing a pros and cons list can also help to evaluate and make better decisions.
Choose a location – it’s been said that some of the greatest ideas are thought of while walking. A simple change in scenery, whether it be a brisk walk around the block, working out at the gym, relaxing in the botanical garden or quiet place, can give you a mental boost and change your mood.
Have you secured your family’s future?
Avoid “eating al desko” – and don’t pretend you don’t do it. You’re probably reading this at your desk right now, aren’t you? It may be easy to drop your elbows onto your desk and munch away while scouring the Internet for interesting reads, but you’ve just been staring at the computer since 7.30am.
Take longer showers – think of a shower as an incubator. It makes you feel all fuzzy with warmth and essentially creates the right conditions to let our minds trigger creative wanderings. It’s an unwritten rule; give it a go and you might be surprised.
Stare into space – we’re not talking about people-watching out of your office window, although this may amuse and stimulate you for a couple of minutes. Concentrating takes a lot of our energy, so we need to focus more energy on doing, actually, nothing at all and generally just let your mind wander for a while.
Take your mind away from automatic tasks – our inner ninja is ready to pounce on emails, voicemails, messages and paperwork that come our way, and we keep pushing back relentlessly until it’s a full-on workout before you know it.
Stimulate your mind and take yourself away for a while: play a game of cards, listen to music, and chat with friends or colleagues, anything that isn’t already in your routine.
Make sure you have a Will and Enduring Power of Attorney in place to ensure wishes are followed and family are taken care of when you are unable to take care of them yourself.
Let us work with you to achieve this peace of mind.
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Speak to our friendly team today by calling (06) 768 3700, or message email@gqlaw.nz
Where law meets life
Setting yourself up forsuccess
Many of us have good intentions or some idea of where we would like to be in 10 years, but only three to five percent of people have clearly defined, established goals set in place. It is crucial to set definitive long-term goals for ourselves to ensure we have the appropriate sailing attire ready for when that sunset finally arrives.
If you haven’t yet written your goals down (and it’s the writing down that’s the critical bit) use these steps and get started – it’s easier than you think:
1. Find a quiet spot. Whether it is your office or bedroom or favourite park, you need to be somewhere you feel comfortable and where the ideas will flow. Limit interruptions; don’t attempt it while other people are trying to engage with you, and remember to turn off your phone.
2. Think as far into your future as you can. At least a year out and ideally much further ahead. What do you want your life or business to look like in five or 10 years?
3. Write your goals down. Many people question the significance of this, but the reason for it is that putting your thoughts down on paper forces clarity. Similarly, there is nothing more rewarding or motivating than physically ticking off your goals one by one.
When writing goals many people tend to focus on only the professional aspects of their lives. It pays to look at the bigger picture, as for many of us, our work and home lives are intertwined, especially if running a business from home. Structure helps us think.
4. Don’t limit yourself. Forget ‘realistic’ for now. Nothing is too small or too large. Dream big. It isn’t your imminent tasks or relatively easy projects we’re interested in at this stage.
5. Be very specific. Goals need to be specific and larger goals should be broken down in to small, achievable blocks that you can work towards on a weekly or monthly basis.
Breaking bad habits
We all have our own little habits – the good and the bad - and it’s these habits that make us who we are. But whether we are willing to acknowledge it or not, many of us have one (or maybe a few), bad habits that would do us good to break.
We might perceive our habits to be small, insignificant compulsions, but when repeated continuously our actions do have a significant impact on who we are as people. And whether we like to admit it or not, our habits mould us into the people we are.
From drinking excessively or routinely staying up all night, resulting in poor performance at work the following day, to procrastination, overspending, swearing, or binge eating - whatever the vice - if it is having a harmful effect on your work and personal life, it is time to break free of the negative behaviour pattern.
Here are five tips to help break free.
Create a plan - Once you’ve acknowledged the problem and got yourself into the right state of mind to tackle the habit, a plan can be useful to disrupt the automatic response to it.
Five steps to break free
my actions? Who else will be involved in the process? What rewards for success will I give myself? A clear plan will create the discipline needed to succeed.
Plan your approach by answering the following questions: What day do I start? Will I go cold turkey? How will I hold myself accountable for 1 2 3 4 5
Identify your trigger - Understanding what fuels your bad habit is the key to overcoming it. Identify the trigger, whether it is people or a place, which enables the habit and avoid it.
Change your environment - If you repeat the same behaviour in the same place every time, then the environment can prompt the undesirable behaviour. Avoiding the environment that triggers your habit can help towards kicking the cycle.
Retrain your thoughts - Even if we know a habit is damaging us physically or emotionally, we continue to do it. Why? Because despite the obvious drawbacks, it still provides us with some sort of satisfaction or psychological reward that entices us to repeat the behaviour again and again. Reframing your mind to put emphasis on the negative aspects should, over time, diminish the psychological reward received from acting out the habit.
Be patient - Be patient with yourself and don’t beat yourself up too much if you slip up and fall back into the habit – it’s called a habit for a reason. Established habits can be hard to break as they are ingrained into your life. It may take several attempts to make a change so be patient and persist.
Staying safe around the home
The old expression ‘home is where the heart is’ is well and good, just so long as you watch your step!
Injuries in and around the home are the biggest cause of ACC claims –accounting for over 40 percent of all new claims received in 2011.
What may surprise many is the risk associated with seemingly benign objects, such as rugs and power cords, which can cause a fall-related injury at any time of the year.
It’s not just older and younger people who fall at home – over 40 percent of all home falls happened to people aged 25-64 years.
An injury can completely change your life for a while. It can stop you from doing the things you enjoy, like catching up with friends or playing with your children.
People often need to take time off work too, affecting their income. ACC figures show 10,000 people are off work for a week or more because of a fall at home.
The good news is there are some simple things you can do around the home to greatly reduce the risk of you or someone in your family having a fall.
Remove moss
• Waterblast, scrub or spray mossy areas with moss removal products
• Cut trees and shrubs back to prevent shade – conditions which moss thrives in
• Build new decks with grooved timber.
Secure power cords
• Get cords out of harm’s way, with cord clips, quick-release power cords or multi-boxes
• Secure loose cords or wires to the wall.
Fasten rugs and mats
• Secure them with anti-slip tape, or spray on a non-slip coating
• Use carpet grips for mats
• Repair damaged carpet on stairs
• If you’re buying a new rug, look for one with a non-slip backing.
Avoid using chairs as ladders
• Use a ladder or step ladder to reach high objects
• Store heavy, regularly used objects down lower
• Use long-life smoke alarms and light bulbs so you don’t have to change them often.
Wipe up spills
• Wipe up spills as soon as they happen, with mops, sponges or cloths
• Use floor mats to absorb excess water
• If renovating, install non-slip flooring in wet rooms (bathroom, kitchen and laundry).
Dollars and sense
Spending too much - Pretty obvious, do your homework and budgeting. Be smart and find independent advice to help you monitor how fast you are spending your money. Then if you “live too long” hopefully you won’t have to live out your golden years in poverty.
Spending too much on housing - Not much good owning a $500,000 house and having only $50,000 in the bank to supplement your (rather lean) government super. Don’t get to retirement living in a castle with too little cash to supplement your super.
Worrying too much - The news media will drag you into the mire. Turn the news off and get out and about.
Not learning enough about investment before retirement - Knowledge is power. Learn about investments as you save for retirement, and probably avoid the disaster some people incurred when they put all their money into one or to finance companies.
Helping children too much and leaving yourself short - Love them or not, they may have 25 to 40 years of working life in front of them, you don’t. Be careful; keep enough money back for yourself.
Not getting on-going financial and planning advice leading up to retirement - If you fail to plan, then plan to fail. Get advice – if it costs say $150 to $200 pa that is peanuts compared to what it might do for you. It might get you organised and might even save you tens of thousands.
Failing to understand what diversification really means - You can’t pick the hot investments; no one can. Rather diversify properly, and you will make good money in good times, and survive the bad times pretty well too.
Not living and spending too little - You can’t take it with you. Get advice and find out how much you can safely spend if you are worried.
Believing that you can (or the “experts” can) pick the hot investments - No one can – buy quality and diversify widely. Beware of some apparently wonderful companies as the costs can be too high. After all someone has to pay for their big buildings and glossy brochures – and it will be you.
Saving made simple
Whether you’re trying to pay off a debt or build your savings, sometimes saving money is simply about changing your mindset and bad habits to achieve financial freedom in the long term.
Here are a few money traps to avoid:
Coffee/lunch - $4.50 for a latte or $8.50 for a panini may not sound like much, but if you’re buying them everyday the total weekly cost is fairly significant. Times this by four and then by 12 and the yearly expenditure comes to around $3,000! Treat yourself every now and again, but think about where you’re better off spending your money.
Dining out - Sometimes we tell ourselves that we deserve a treat and say this at the end of every week just because it’s Friday. Eating out
can be a fine thing, and eating at home takes effort and planning, but at least you know exactly what’s going into your food. And your bank balance will thank you for it.
Not checking what you spend - Many of us probably don’t bother to check receipts and often leave them to decay at the bottom of our bags until we find them a month later and discard them accordingly. If you can’t be fussed handling a draw full of receipts, at least check your bank account online to keep an eye on exactly what you’re spending. If money is leaving your account and you don’t even recognise where it’s gone, be mindful when you spend from now on.
Don’t be influenced - Will Smith said, “We spend money that we do not have, on things we do not need, to impress people who do not care.” Just because your friend bought the latest flat screen TV doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. Don’t be a sheep and follow your own path.
Find the words in the grid and cross out from the list below.
Words go horizontally and vertically (not diagonally) they may intersect .
Dont ‘s : no bending, overlapping or going backwards
Note: Ignore spaces, dashes and diacritics, if any. There will be no unused letters left on the grid at upon completion
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Sittingitis - the new taboo
Despite numerous health warnings on the negative effects of prolonged sitting, people continue to sit too much.
It is known that sitting too much increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart diseases, poor mental health and even certain cancers.
Some 78 percent of office workers feel they sit too much, but only 41 percent of office workers actually stand for more than 30 minutes per day at work.
The term sittingitis is the new taboo; most people know they sit too much, but the majority do nothing about it.
This may be down to work-placed habits and routine leading to sedentary repetition, or the lack of understanding on solutions to break the taboo.
There are three steps that will help turn inactive days into active days. These include:
1. Taking phone calls and meetings standing up
It not only gets your blood flowing faster, it increases your confidence and you’ll actually get through the call quicker than taking it sat down.
2. Have a walk and eat lunch in the open air
Fresh air really picks you up, your step count will increase and that little walk back to the office will help your blood sugar decrease, reducing afternoon dips in energy.
3. Adopt a standing desk
Using a standing desk has been proven to help reduce blood sugar, improve mental wellbeing and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and using a standing desk for just 30 minutes per day can reduce your body weight by a staggering 5.2lb per year.
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Versatile is a New Zealand owned and operated company who understand what it takes to create buildings which stand the test of time.
From garages to farm buildings and everything in between, Versatile can create the perfect building to meet your needs.
Versatile are comfortable delivering robust and highly functional farm buildings, garages and sheds to meet your needs. They also produce stylish and convenient sleepouts which will elevate your property as a great addition.
“We understand the demands of our unique rural environment as well as understanding the ever-changing dynamic of life in the metropolitan areas,” they say.
The company has over 30 outlets across the length of New Zealand and employs highly skilled practitioners around the country to create state of the art buildings. They manufacture and distribute thousands of buildings each year.
Versatile understand there has been many changes to the way people build since the 1970’s when the business was first established. “We’re still a company underpinned by family values of honesty, integrity and a good old-fashioned Kiwi way of doing business!”
While every building the business has created during the last 40 years has been unique to the individual owners, they say every project is designed with one core goal in mind. “Our goal is to ensure every occupant lives the very best life possible inside their buildings.”
Versatile can help you with your next building project and ensure it’s built to the highest quality standard for your family. They have many options available to help you navigate the project without a hassle or a fuss.
To find out more about Versatile buildings make sure to visit their website versatile.co.nz. Or call the friendly team on 0800 Versatile where they will be available to give you the best advice on how to get started.
tage.
Home hacks
A life hack is a clever technique adopted in order to manage life’s tasks in a more efficient way. Below are some life hacks for your home to give you some much-needed shortcuts to free up your time.
Remove small furniture scratches with toothpaste
Instead of getting your couch refinished, try using toothpaste to get the marks out. Use a pea-sized amount of non-gel toothpaste and rub the scratch in a circular motion until buffed out. Clean the remainder up with a damp towel.
Polish copper with tomato sauce
When your copper is looking tarnished, put some tomato sauce on a
rag with some salt on top. Rub it on your copper item and repeat until you’ve covered the whole surface. Rinse it off and it’ll look brand new!
Flip your wine glasses for more space
Some people like their wine glasses face up, while others like theirs facedown. Why not both? By alternating your glasses by top and bottom, you can nestle a lot more wine glasses closer together.
Clean HVAC vent registers in dishwasher
To keep your ventilation and air conditioning fresh and clean, put your HVAC vent registers in the dishwasher. Put them through a quick rinse cycle and then dry them thoroughly before reinstalling.
Suspenders to keep a fitted sheet in place
Your fitted sheet slipping off the corners of your bed is an annoyance that can be perplexing to fix. An easy way to solve the problem is to take a pair of braces for your trousers and clip each end to each corner under the mattress. That way, you sheet will definitely stay put.
Hawera Glass & Panel
Matt and Sharon Meads purchased a long well-established business in 2017 and are strongly supported by their Panel Beater Jared and Windscreen Technicians Troy, Layne and Riley.
Hawera Glass and Panel Ltd are a Smith and Smith Authorised Dealer with a mobile unit that covers the South Taranaki suburbs from Waverley through to Ōpunake. They are also a proud Motor Trade Association member and work with various major insurance companies.
Check out the website for more information: haweraglasspanel.co.nz
Get in touch with the friendly and experienced team. They are happy to help with any enquiry!
Call the team on 06 278 5628, after hours on 06 278 5628. Alternatively, you can email info@haweraglasspanel.co.nz, or head to the business at 23 Princes Street, Hāwera.
The team offers the following services in South Taranaki:
• Windscreen replacement for cars, trucks, buses, tractors, and earthmoving equipment
• Panel beating
• Chip repair
• Plastic welding and bumper repairs
• Rust repairs
• Radiator replacement and repairs
• Tinting vehicles
Wasteless ways
Did you know that every Kiwi produces 3,200kg of waste per year? In total, that’s 12.5 million tonnes of waste each year, according to Recycle NZ. As a nation, we only recycle 28 percent of this waste.
One of the biggest ways you can lessen your impact on the planet is reducing your waste and reusing – or upcycling – the things in your home. With that, we can minimise our impact on the planet and keep New Zealand beautiful, especially as China stopped accepting our recycling in 2018 due to China’s National Sword policy banning the import of most plastics and materials heading for recycling processors.
Bring your own containers
All the supermarkets in New Zealand have moved to a zero plastic bag policy, reminding shoppers to bring their own reusable bags to take their groceries home.
However, there is still a lot of plastic waste from the way meat is packaged to the way we bring home vegetables in little plastic bags. Did you know you can also bring your own containers?
When you visit the deli or butcher’s, bring your own containers to take your meat home in. That way, you can drastically reduce the amount of plastic you’re collecting from the supermarket alone.
Repair your things
Back in the good ol’ days, our parents would make sure they got the most use out of something before throwing it away.
In the era of the disposable, we’ve lost this way of thinking and instead have been throwing out things that could be easily fixed instead of repairing them.
Be it your clothes – a hole in your pants, a button pops off – or your clock stops working, spend a few minutes checking to see if you can fix it rather than throwing it straight in the bin.
Remaining conscientious and aware of the waste you create every day is the best way to reduce your waste and impact on this place we call home.
This paradigm shift can take a bit to get used to, but being mindful of how we interact with objects and waste is the best way to keep New Zealand green.
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Wall to wall choices
For many homeowners, the different walls that make up their homes are blank canvases used to create a sense of familiarity.
There are many ways to fill these vertical spaces, but before you pick out your photos and wall décor, how are you going to surface the walls?
The first instinct for many of us in New Zealand is to reach for the white paint. Using the same white paint throughout a rental property is expected, but it’s a bit drab when a house is absentmindedly doused in it.
It says: ‘yeah, this place is just one rung on my way up the property ladder’. Even if it’s true, that doesn’t really translate to ‘home sweet home’ does it?
Plus, it’s a shame to leave so much potential untapped. Sometimes we go for the safe choice because we don’t want to have to think about all of the possibilities.
Brainstorming, however, is half the fun. With new technologies available to us the options are practically endless. Of course, it doesn't stop with paint, there’s wallpaper too.
Playing with paint
A bucket of paint is a portal to colours galore. Paint can be altered to match or complement the statement piece in your room, whether it’s a bold, hot pink couch or the intricate pattern of a family heirloom, faded with time.
Paint doesn’t have to be applied in any one way either. Different techniques, patterns and finishes can add visual interest as well.
On the flip side, it’s important to remember that painting is a process. There’s the prep work, primer and dry times to consider before applying your new paint colour.
Overenthusiastic and eager to get their colour choices on the wall, DIYers often have their bubbles burst when their paint job doesn’t turn out the way they’d hoped after skipping necessary preparations.
Wondering about wallpaper
Gone are the days of pasting wallpaper onto the wall. Nowadays DIYers have the choice between pasting wallpaper or adhesive wallpapers. Also, homeowners can further personalise their wallpaper choice with high resolution photos which can be blown up to fit the wall space. Patterns and textures are easily integrated into a space with wallpaper available in a variety of colours and materials like paper, vinyl, fabric and more.
Nevertheless, whether pasting or adhering wallpaper, wrinkles and misalignment show up easily. Also, hanging photos and wall décor is a bigger decision since holes aren’t patched in the same way as paint. Also, wallpaper, like paint, requires proper preparation before application.
Decisions, decisions
It’s not so much about which one is superior, but which is right for the space you’re creating. Both have their pros and cons, but who said you had to choose one or the other?
With the use of paint and wallpaper samples, you can really make a statement by using a bold wallpaper for a feature wall and then paint the other walls with a colour found in the wallpaper to create a cohesive look.
Linen Wildflower wallpaper by Carol Robinson at Wallsauce. Photo by Wallsauce.com.
Kitchen kit Tools to suit any chef
By Natasha Parrant
Here are tools for the modern kitchen that will elevate people’s chef skills, simply, yet efficiently.
The top New Zealand culinary masters have revealed their kitchen tools and which tools are the best to use when cooking at home in a new cookbook - Lodge Cast Iron New Zealand’s favourite recipes book. Tools include a Lodge cast iron.
According to Lodge Cast Iron New Zealand, Lodge Cast Iron has been making prime cookware and accessories since it was established in Tennessee, the US, in 1896, which has also been very popular in New Zealand.
The cookbook was written by Kiwis for Kiwis. It features the country’s most notable chefs and home cooks to show all the awesome recipes people can cook easily in their homes using the product.
A featured New Zealand chef, Sam Mannering, thinks people need only a few tools and the more adaptable it is, the better, so people can get a lot of use out of the product when they’re cooking.
Another featured New Zealand chef and Cazador delicatessen co-restaurateur, Dariush Lolaiy, also believes people only need a few kitchen tools to master their chef skills and create a wonderful dish.
“I don’t think a whole lot of cooking tools are necessary. If you’ve got good quality basics - a cast iron pan, a quality chef’s knife, and the digital probe thermometer, that’s pretty much all you need to master a good meal. Sometimes less is more if you’re using things properly.”
A modern kitchen tool Dariush recommends people use at home is a digital probe thermometer because it helps people cook meat to their liking, so they can “nail it every time”.
He says, “While actually a classic kitchen tool, a cast iron 30cm skillet is a must for any modern kitchen. It’s versatile for every heat source and can be used for intense cooking at high temperatures, or for low gentle cookery - in either context, the heat is always even.
“I use my grandmother’s cast iron that was passed down to my mother who then passed it on to me and it’s still good as new, so that’s a sign of durability and reliability.”
Digital probe thermometers can be bought at most decent homeware stores, he says. “Look for an instant-read variety with a fine tip.”
He also believes these kitchen tools help people feel more confident in the kitchen because it’s simple to use and makes cooking feel like it can’t go wrong.
A cast iron works for hot and fast cooking and can work well with cooking slow dishes that people can leave in the oven for a while, “so it’s hard to really stuff it up!”
A tip Dariush recommends people do to make a great dish simple yet efficient is to cook a slow-cooked dish.
“Something that you can prep in the morning like a braised lamb shank dish. Brown everything off and put all your ingredients in the cast iron and leave it in a low oven while you concentrate on other things. It’s a fail-proof and delicious dish.”
The Lodge Favourite Recipes cookbook is available for free with Lodge Cast Iron that can be bought pre-seasoned at www. lodgecastiron.co.nz, and at participating stores during September and October this year.
Why not give these tools in the kitchen a go? And remember, less is better if it’s done right.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet 30cm, RRP$129.99.
Photo supplied by Lodge Cast Iron.
HOKITIKA AIRPORT
Your gateway to the West Coast
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LET ’ S FIND YOUR
Looking to list your property? Here’s how to get started
By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).
It’s been a market of supply outweighing demand for several months, but activity is expected to pick up.
Here’s what to think about as you look to list your property.
It is important to find a real estate professional who can deliver a standout marketing campaign, advise you on key steps for getting your property ready to list, and who will tell you what you need to know throughout the selling process.
Research is key
Using a real estate salesperson can result in a more effective sale than selling privately. They will handle the details of the marketing and sales process, the cut and thrust of the negotiation or auction, and you can rest assured that you’re protected throughout the process by their expertise and requirements under the Real Estate Agents Act.
To find the right person for you, ask around; talk to family, friends and neighbours and see if they have any recommendations on real estate salespeople they have previously used and whom they had a good experience with.
It’s also fundamental to understand where the market is today before you head into the selling process. Doing some of your own research is vital, however, you can rely on your salesperson to bring expertise.
Salespeople have the time, access to the latest data and market information, and advise on exactly what is happening in your market for your type of property. Having honest conversations with your real estate salesperson will enable you to understand the current market and the best approach for selling your home.
Honesty is the best policy
A real estate professional will help to manage your price expectations with the latest statistics, their knowledge of the current market, the local area, what properties are attracting the most attention and why, the current levels of attendance at open homes, and more.
your home so there are no surprises, and so you can factor this into your budget.
Look for a salesperson who can demonstrate knowledge of your local area and community, ideally with a network of potential buyers, as this can help ensure your property is best positioned and marketed to the right people.
Make sure you understand what a salesperson’s commission fee is. While fees do vary by agency, our advice is that choosing a salesperson on commission alone could lead to losing a significant amount of money by achieving a lower price for the property.
The Real Estate of Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) is a champion for a world-class real estate profession delivering the best possible real estate services to New Zealanders.
They should also explain what they will do behind the scenes to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
They can advise you on the best way to present your property for sale including aspects such as required maintenance, tidying up of gardens, decluttering, or home-staging.
With these factors come costs, and your real estate professional should ensure you are aware of the aspects you may need to invest in when selling
Choosing a REINZ real estate professional member means you are choosing someone who is supported to excel in the profession, and are trusted, skilled professionals, supported by high-quality education, advice, and uphold the best standards of practice.
Passionate about property
Kathy Roach is a Taranaki-based licensed sales consultant from Aotearoa’s well-known real estate agency Collective First National.
Collective First National has the most satisfied clients within the real estate industry in the county, according to independent examinations. They can help people who want to invest, buy a home for the first time, downsize, rent, young couples, and overcome challenges in life.
Kathy is reliable, communicates well, listens carefully, and ensures her clients know what is happening throughout the whole process, so clients can feel stress-free. Communication is key as buying, selling or renting a home can be a very stressful process, so clients are in good hands with Kathy.
She is known for going out of her way to help her clients with anything they need - ensuring their needs are being well taken care of.
Kathy is friendly, experienced and knowledgeable about real estate. She is known for going out of her way to help her clients with anything they need - ensuring their needs are being well taken care of.
She continues to work hard and has great relationships with her clients, which has led to her receiving many awards and testimonials from previous clients who have only had good things to say about her.
Kathy is very passionate about property and has over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry and over 30 years in the sales arena.
She has lots of experience as a buyer’s expert, which has given her the skills and knowledge to read people, ask the right questions and arrange the best cost.
Kathy Roach
All agents are not equal! It’s a fact that the price you achieve is in large part due to the agent you choose, the agent you can trust. Kathy has a reputation for going the extra mile to deliver exceptional results! Call me for your free appraisal.
LICENSED SALES CONSULTANT
Social stigma impacts investors
Prominent New Zealand property coach Steve Goodey says the social shaming of property investors by politicians is one reason ordinary Kiwis are nervous about investing.
Steve says two critical pillars of the New Zealand economy are farming and property investment—food and housing—and both have fallen under attack by politicians.
"Politicians and activists are using the power of envy to shape public opinion and to leverage votes, without thinking through the long-term consequences for middle-income Kiwis who are too cowed by the current environment to invest to secure their future."
He says that what amounts to public shaming of property investors—most of them single investment owning, hard-working Kiwis—and the almost punitive-like legislation they have to bear creates a social environment that makes people nervous about how they may be perceived.
"The current conditions, with pressure on property prices, is the ideal time to enter the investment market. However, social pressures (in addition to factors like interest rates) are costing people opportunities.
A Combined App = BETTER RESULTS
"Proposing a rent cap, for example, is like telling plumbers that they can only add a three per cent margin on their work. Government intervention, non-deductibility, re-writing tax rules and ring fencing may win votes, but they can only cause further housing shortages and suffering. Developers are building less because the current government makes it hard for them."
Steve says there has been a 200 percent explosion in people trying to get into emergency housing, and 4,000 of those are children.
"The problem isn’t only rents; it's supply. More housing makes renting and buying more affordable for most New Zealanders, but at the moment, there are some parts of the country where it is almost impossible to rent a property."
He says that property is a user-pays system. What is more expensive for landlords is more expensive for tenants.
local knowledge
With over 25 years industry experience
Viv has a wealth of knowledge, Tara has expertise in marketing and a passion for technology and McDonald Real Estate is a trusted brand in Taranaki - key attributes when choosing an agent to market your property.
Tara and Viv are active in the community and well aware of what Opunake has to offer.
make a great team, and their recent success proves it. When marketing a property it’s not just about reaching different demographics successfully – it’s about having the experience and local knowledge to get it over the line.
Tara and Viv are active in the community and well aware of what Opunake has to offer. Rumoured to be the ‘new Raglan’ Opunake is a small coastal town well known for excellent surf with a population of approx. 1500 people. Increasingly seeing families, retirees and lifestylers moving into the area from other regions; the slower pace here is appealing without having to sacrifice convenience.
Viv and Tara teamed up in 2020 covering the Opunake/Coastal area, combining their skills they
So what’s your next move? Talk to us today.
A positive approach
Natalie Semmens First National Collective Stratford Real Estate is a licensed practitioner under the REAA 2008.
Based in the Taranaki region, Natalie is experienced in selling and buying homes which are a perfect fit for you and your family.
Whether you are selling or buying your first home or a family home, Natalie can assist you with the process to ensure you get the best deal possible.
Natalie is an animal lover who supports the Taranaki Animal Protection Trust, as well as sharing photos of her personal pets on her Facebook page.
Natalie is sure to make a personal connection with you while you are purchasing your new home. She often shares new listings on her Facebook page including office listings - meaning you will be amongst the first to see new homes become available.
Natalie is a young professional with a great positive approach to real estate. Being a young professional, she understands the challenges people may face during the home buying process. She wishes to make this as smooth and easy for you as possible.
No matter what your property goals are for the future, present or whether you want to have a simple conversation with Natalie about the current housing market, she is keen to support you.
If you are looking to find your perfect home make sure to get in contact with Natalie Semmens today. Start the new season in a fresh new home ready for the coming months fast approaching.
Natalie can be contacted via phone on 027 591 1285 or email at natalie@fntaranaki.co.nz. Make sure to visit her Facebook page and take a look at all she has accomplished for the community of Stratford.
Facebook: Natalie Semmens First National Collective - Stratford Real Estate.
Born and raised here, I am excited to start my new journey with First National Collective along with their talented salespeople, while being based in the Stratford Office.
My working background has been retail for the past 8 years, while serving our lovely community I have had the honour to work alongside and help a diverse range of cultures.
With a passion to help people, I will work alongside you to achieve your property goals, whether it is buying or selling.
I am enthusiastic to help people meet their property needs. Call Natalie today!
@Natalie Semmens First National Collective- Stratford Real Estate
Buying or Selling in South Taranaki? Let’s Chat!
With experience in both sales and property management, First National Real Estate licensed salesperson consultant James Gibbon has developed a reputation for his friendly and approachable nature.
He believes that the key to success in real estate is building trust and developing strong relationships with his clients.
He is experienced, knowledgeable, supportive, and communicates well with his clients to ensure they’re feeling at ease and know what’s going on throughout the whole process. Buying and selling houses can be stressful, so James is there to lend a helping a hand and do his best to take that stress away by helping his clients with these tasks. He is efficient and passionate about helping others, which is why real estate is the right career pathway for him. Many clients have great things to say about him as he always puts his clients first to ensure they get what they desire.
Whether buying or selling, James understands that every client is unique and takes the time to listen to their needs, wants and concerns. He is patient and never pushy, always happy to answer
any questions and provides guidance to help his clients make informed decisions.
With James’ approach to sales, his clients appreciate his down-to-earth manner and commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
When it comes to real estate, James is an expert and confident, he believes that honesty is the best policy, and always provides his clients with reliable, accurate and truthful information. With James’ approach to sales, his clients appreciate his down-to-earth manner and commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
If you’re looking for a salesperson who will listen to your needs, offer trust-worthy advice, help you find the right property, or get the sold sign on your existing property, James is your guy!
Call James Gibbon today on (027) 821 0036, (06) 278 0360 or email him on james@fntaranaki.co.nz
Use the most cost effective and easiest job site in New Zealand. Now with a new and improved website making things even easier, ensuring you get quality applicants, everytime!
Unlocking build-to-rent housing
The Property Council, whose members are some of New Zealand’s largest property developers, owners and investors, has come out in support of the government’s Build to Rent tax exemption boost.
Property Council New Zealand chief executive, Leonie Freeman, says the initiative could mark a key turning point towards unlocking the potential of Build to Rent.
“Our members share the government’s view that enabling Build to Rent will provide warm, dry rental homes that offer Kiwis long-term security of tenure.
“It is encouraging to see that the government has listened to our sector and acknowledged Build to Rent as a unique property asset class.
“The government’s announcement is a major step towards boosting New Zealand’s emerging Build to Rent sector.
“Build to Rent will transform the experience of renting in New Zealand.
“Property Council research shows that our members stand poised to deliver over 25,000 Build to Rent homes in the next decade, with the right policy settings.
“Build to Rent refers to multi-unit residential developments, typically located in city centres within walking distance of key transport links.
“These developments are professionally managed, with brilliant amenities available onsite, offering residents bespoke lifestyle options for as long as they want to stay.
“By enabling Build to Rent, the property sector will be able to deliver thousands of new high-quality, high-density rental houses, supporting New Zealand’s urban intensification and climate ambitions.
“Kiwis will hopefully soon have many choices to access to a warm, dry and climate friendly Build to Rent home.
“Over the past 18 months, the Property Council has been working closely with the government to highlight the untapped potential of Build to Rent and explain the legislative actions required to enable it.
“As part of this, we have collaboratively resolved the unintended consequences of last year’s interest deductibility changes.
“While the announcement has been a fantastic step in the right direction, there are a few remaining speedbumps to truly unlock the concept.
“For Build to Rent to flourish, access to large institutional investment via the overseas investment act and commercial depreciation is also required.
“The Property Council looks forward to continuing our engagement with the government to support the roll out of the world’s fastest growing residential sector in Aotearoa.”
helping investors their returns
maximize
Property investment can be an excellent way to build wealth and secure financial stability for the future.
However, managing a property investment can be a time-consuming and complex task. This is where the expertise of McDonald Real Estate comes in.
As Taranaki’s largest property management company, we offer a wide range of services that can help investors maximize their returns. This includes tenant screening, lease management, rent collection, compliance with legislation, maintenance, and more. You can trust McDonald Real Estate to take care of every aspect of managing your residential or commercial property, leaving you free to focus on other aspects of your life.
You can trust McDonald Real Estate to take care of every aspect of managing your residential or commercial property.
One of the key benefits of using McDonald Real Estate is that we are based in Taranaki and have a dedicated experienced property manager in each of our eight offices around the mountain. They
understand their local property market, and this means we can provide investors with expert advice, including how to set the right rental price, how to market the property effectively, and how to handle any issues that may arise with tenants.
McDonald Real Estate uses the latest technology to streamline the property management process. This includes using the most up to date software to help us ensure we have an excellent application process to select the best tenants for our portfolio. As an investor you will have peace of mind that your property is being managed efficiently.
Working closely with our landlords and tenants is key to our partnerships. We do the heavy lifting for the landlords and act as advocates for our tenant’s wellbeing. We focus on what’s fair and remove the stress for all parties involved.
Learn more about property management by visiting our website for free access to all of our articles and guides or to contact one of our team.
Making a final farewell affordable
By Gillian Boyes, Funeral Directors Association CEO.
Funerals provide the opportunity to gather, remember and celebrate the life we've lost. But how we do that and how much it might cost are almost limitless.
If your budget is tight, remember even a modest farewell can still convey your love and respect and provide you with the grief support you need. Here are some ways to reduce costs:
Cremation vs burial
Burials are typically more expensive unless you have access to an urupa or other private burial ground. Costs vary depending on what your local council charges – a burial plot may be as little as just over $1,100 in Taupo to more than $6,000 - $8,000 in places like New Plymouth and Auckland.
Cremation costs including ash interment plots on the other hand will range from $600 - $1,000. In addition, cremations require a cremation certificate that may cost another $120 - $200.
Casket choice
Some kind of casket or a shroud and board is required even for cremation so the person can be placed respectfully into the cremator.
The most elaborate caskets may cost $10,000 or more, but there are a range of options, including sustainable wood options in the $1,000 - $2,500 range. Some cities also offer coffin clubs where you can make your own casket.
Professional services fee
Some 99 percent of New Zealanders use a funeral director for at least the death registration process.
In addition, a funeral director will attend to other paperwork, manage booking all the suppliers and venue for the funeral, arrange service sheets and photo slide shows, will transport your loved one from their place of death (a 24/7 service), will arrange viewings and much more.
The cost associated with this work will be captured in a ‘professional services fee’ which will vary significantly depending on the type of funeral you are having, and, to an extent, the part of the country you are in (funeral homes in expensive cities may cost more to run and part of the fee covers the cost of running the funeral home).
Typically, you might expect something in the region of $4,500 to $6,500. Some funeral directors offer funeral packages for very simple services that might have a reduced professional services component.
Other places to reduce costs
There are many other ways you can reduce costs to make a funeral more affordable. Consider these:
• Providing your own venue for the funeral or reception
• Choosing not to have a photo slide show or choosing not to live stream the service
• Limiting numbers at the reception to reduce catering costs. Or don’t have a reception at all. Instead meet at a local café where those attending pay their own way
• A single rose or a spray from your garden on the casket rather than a florist’s cost
• A confident (and organised) family member or friend in place of a paid celebrant
• Placing funeral notices online rather than large newspaper notices.
Ask for an estimate up front
Funeral Directors Association members commit to always offering an estimate before a funeral. This enables you to make choices that are right for you and your family – and your budget.
To find out more about the assurance of a meaningful farewell that working with a Funeral Directors Association firm offers visit: www.funeraldirectors.co.nz.
Nothing is too much trouble
Locally owned and operated for over 100 years, Kelly, Shaun and the team at Hardings Funerals have always known how difficult it can be to lose a loved one and at a time of loss.
They will guide your family through every aspect of the funeral ensuring you get to celebrate their life in whatever special way you wish. If you wish for a service that is caring, professional, approachable and knowledgeable, Hardings Funerals are only a phone call away.
When there is a death in the family it is an incredibly stressful time. Not only are you coping with your own grief but there are also many things that must be done before a funeral can take place. At Harding’s they will look after the details. The team can organize the celebrant, flowers, newspaper notices, catering, service sheets, audio-visual presentation, webcasting and more.
Hardings makes the process simple. They will take you through the funeral process one step at a time. They explain things as they go and answer each one of your questions. Their philosophy is “nothing is too much trouble”, so tell the team what you want, and they will do everything to make it happen.
The Harding family established and ran the funeral business for three generations spanning a long standing 107 years. Selling to Kelly and Shaun Judkins has meant that Hardings Funerals continues to be family owned and locally operated by people who do things the Hardings way. This means putting you and your family first. You simply tell them the type of funeral you want, and they will do everything in their power to deliver it.
Hardings are always available to support and guide you in times of need. Their normal office hours are between 8.30am and 4.30pm.
A Simple Cremation & Burials is proudly locally owned and operated by Scott & Kirsty Mehrtens.
A Simple Cremation was set up to offer a range of simple funeral options to families that wanted choices, and are about to celebrate ten years in business serving Taranaki families.
From having a small intimate family gathering, to a large public celebration, they are able to make a funeral something special.
Living on site, families find comfort knowing that their loved one is cared for, and can remain with Scott and Kirsty, in their home, and not left in a commercial building overnight. We are also now only one of two funeral homes in the area that haven’t sold to multinational companies.
A Simple Cremation & Burials is a member of Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand. There to promote meaningful farewells through leadership, education and public awareness.
A very proud member of Funeral Link which are a group of locally owned Funeral Homes in New Zealand. Kirsty is currently Secretary of the New Zealand Embalmers Association. She also holds diplomas in both funeral directing and embalming as well as being a Marriage
Over recent times A Simple Cremations & Burial have had the pleasure of working with and knowing Janine Austin, who has been in the funeral profession for more than 14 years and also holds national qualifications. We are now collaborating with Janine as she brings her knowledge, and experience in dealing with families to be part of our team as we move forward into the future.
Scott, Kirsty, and Janine are here to assist families with professional, personal yet affordable farewells for their loved ones.
Celebrant. Scott is currently studying to earn his National Diploma in Funeral Directing.
Going the extra mile
You may have wondered what Driving Miss Daisy does – well it is an amazing Companion Driving Service.
At Driving Miss Daisy, they are always mindful of their clients’ wellbeing ensuring that they are comfortable and safe. This reliable service is for everybody; whether you cannot drive, choose not to drive or no longer drive. It’s about helping people maintain, or regain, their independence with a professional and flexible service, catering to specific needs and requirements.
Driving Miss Daisy can accompany clients to appointments, to the hairdresser, medical appointments, help with shopping, on a scenic drive or even an outing to the beach for a breath of fresh air, a coffee date with friends, anywhere the heart desires – clients design the journey! Their drivers will always go the extra mile by opening the car door, carrying the shopping and assisting clients to and from their front door as required.
You really don’t need a reason to call on Driving Miss Daisy, as just getting out and about and enjoying the company of your Daisy driver is good for the soul by simply having a good time, creating positive memories. So, don’t sit inside lonely while the world buzzes along, there are very few reasons not to have a little fun.
Driving Miss Daisy clients can feel confident there is every protocol in place to keep their trip safe, so they can live life to the full and make the most of every moment. All drivers are Police Vetted and well qualified with a P-endorsement driver’s licence, First Aid Certificate, and are Dementia Friends qualified. Their cars are maintained to high standards, are always clean and hygienic.
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are available upon request to assist with walkers or wheelchairs. Total Mobility Scheme cards accepted, and they are an ACC contracted supplier.
To make a booking or discuss your requirements, call today. Phone: 06 751 0209 / 027 773 3268
Driving Miss Daisy is NZ’s number 1 friendly and reliable companion driving service.
We can drive and accompany you to:
Medical and other appointments
Grocery or other shopping trips
Family/social occasions
Companionship outings/ scenic drives
Airport departures + pick ups
Total Mobility Scheme cards accepted. ACC contracted supplier. Bookings are essential.
PF Plumbing Ltd take pride in providing Taranaki with premiere plumbing services.
A family owned and operated business, they prioritise effective communication to ensure their customers are happy and that all of their jobs run smoothly.
The folks at PF Plumbing like to keep a tidy workplace, making sure their work is neat and tidy to deliver a high-quality finish every time. Big or small, PF Plumbing will solve your plumbing problems in a clean and straight manner.
Based in New Plymouth but offering services to all of
Taranaki, they specialise in new builds, renovation projects, and maintenance plumbing work, but are available for a wide range of plumbing needs.
Peter of PF Plumbing has been plumbing and drain laying for 14 years. He operates a professional plumbing service that values clients and their time. Peter is good for his word and has a network of trusted industry connections to tap into that prove his solidified position as a top plumbing and drain laying service provider.
PF Plumbing are keen to talk about your current plumbing needs at any time. Give Peter a call at 027 301 6431 or visit their Instagram or Facebook for more information.
Servicing Taranaki for over 40 years
Superior Walls and Ceilings have been servicing Taranaki’s gib fixing and stopping needs since 1983.
Located in New Plymouth the team at Superior Walls and Ceilings have over 200 years of combined experience.
Superior Walls and Ceilings offer a variety of services for your next wall and ceiling project, from interior plastering, ornamental plaster features to impact feature walls, the team have got you covered.
The team has professional plasters, the number one go to plastering company for all your plastering solutions in New Plymouth and Taranaki.
They only use top quality GIB products and are all applied to GIB and AWCI standards so you can be assured all product warranties apply.
If you are looking for an ornamental plaster feature, superior walls and ceilings have got you covered!
They have many designs and sizes that you can choose from including:
• Ceiling Centrepieces
• Art Deco
• Domes
• Cornices
• Niches.
The team can also do decorative batttens, corbels, archways, rings and have many variations of stepped cornices available.
As well as plastering and ornamental deco, Superior Walls and Ceilings own and operate Impact Feature Walls.
Impact Feature Walls is your dedicated feature wall specialist, using Novacolor plasters to bring your walls to life and making that plain wall a feature art piece everyone talks about.
Superior Walls and Ceilings can help you with your next project, from plastering to colouring the team are happy to help!
Contact the team at Superior Walls and Ceilings for more information on 021 857 673 or visit their website at www.superiorwallsandceilings.co.nz.
We’re professional plasters, the number 1 go to plastering company for all your plastering solutions in New Plymouth and Taranaki wide. Whether your home or business, new or old, our dedicated team of experienced plasterers have been providing quality workmanship and customer satisfaction for decades.
GIB STOPPING
GIB FIXING
021 857 673
477 Devon St East, Strandon, New Plymouth
Experience, knowledge and a quality job!
Allan McCullough Painters & Decorators is a Taranaki wide painting and decorating service.
Allan and his team have 30 years of experience in the industry and are known for their friendliness and approachability.
As well as exceptional customer service, Allan and the team have a huge amount of experience in painting and decorating, with their wealth of knowledge you will be 100 percent confident in choosing Allan McCollough Painters & Decorators.
They can provide painting and decorating services for any build, whether that is residential, commercial or industrial, from interior
to exterior, spraying to blasting, they have got you covered! From houses to large buildings, Allan and the crew can do any job as they have experience with decorating and painting all kinds of buildings.
Customer service is their top priority and if you have any new ideas or projects you want to pitch, the team would love to hear them! They want to make sure you get the best out of their service and that you are happy with the result of their work. Every job is important and they will focus on every detail needed, making sure every stroke of paint is the same.
If you’re after a splash of new colour or a strip of new wallpaper at home or in the office, Allan McCullough and his team are happy to help! For more information contact Allan and his team today on 06 765 8085 or 027 2412 881.
New Plymouth’s integrated knowledge hub
Puke Ariki Library is a place where people come together and where there is a place for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting us at Puke Ariki, our Community Libraries or enjoying our Mobile Library –knowledge, learning, relaxation and entertainment are right at your fingertips.
Our libraries offer an integrated knowledge hub, that provides an experience like no other.
You can explore a wide selection of books, DVDs, newspapers and magazines. Plus, we have a range of literature that suits everyone’s needs, from large font books to audio and e-books. Our staff are always on hand to help you discover more.
From our intimate book groups to housebound reader service, Puke Ariki and the Community Libraries across Bell Block, Inglewood,
Ōākura, Ūrenui and Waitara have exceptional programming and facilities, including accessible spaces and mobility parking to make visiting us as easy as possible.
Whether you want to stop in for a quick cuppa at the onsite Daily News Café, or stay a little longer, we’re here to make every visit a good one.
To learn more about our facilities visit our website, or if you’d prefer to chat, call us on 759 6060. Feel free to stop in a talk to one of our friendly team members at any one of our libraries, be sure to check our opening hours before you plan your trip.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Restoringorder to the law
New Zealand used to be a country where people couldn’t find the house keys when they went on holiday. It’s a far cry from the world we live in today.
Instead we are experiencing record levels of violent crime up to 33% in five years, with little to no consequences it seems, for the culprits.
The Government’s announcement on June 1 that it had delivered its promised 1800 ‘frontline’ police after six years in power, has done nothing to alleviate the real fears many of us are experiencing in our communities.
In that same six-year period, gang numbers have increased by 66%, we are living in unprecedented wave of youth offending and ram raids are up 500% since 2018.
People are living in fear while business owners are paying the cost by either cleaning up the damages done or closing them down after repeated attacks.
This is not the New Zealand I want to be living in.
National has made law and order one of four key areas of focus of our next term in government, along with the economy, health and education.
We plan to restore real consequences for those committing criminal activities.
Our policy for tackling youth offending has been out for some time now, but to recap, includes greater powers for police, a new young serious offender category for 10-17 year olds; military academies where they can be sent for up to a year and investing in community organisations working with young offenders and their families.
More recently we’ve put gangs on notice with a simple message — if you chose to align yourself with one and engage in criminal activities, you will face severe consequences.
They include stronger sentences for convicted criminals, limiting the ability of judges to reduce sentences, making gang membership an aggravating factor, restoring the Three Strikes law and ending taxpayer funding for cultural reports.
Funding which will go to support victims instead to give them access to services, counselling and meet costs like transport to attend court hearings.
Eligibility for offence-based rehabilitation programmes to remand prisoners currently unable to access them will also be extended.
We are making National’s position on crime clear — that it is unacceptable that whole communities must bow to whims of criminals.
Enacting it is one of our first priorities should we be successful post-October 14.
