Whangarei city 50 years dec 2014

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DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

WHANGAREI VEHICLE TESTING STATION celebrates 26 years The business that tests our vehicles to ensure their safety and road worthiness has stood its own test of time.

Whangarei Vehicle Testing Station has just celebrated its 26th anniversary.

T

he man behind the business and who also holds the reigns is a wellknown local personality, Harry Clyde.

Whangarei born, Takahiwai raised.

Harry’s early ambition was to join the Navy.

“I was into boats rather than cars at that stage and the Navy seemed the way to go, but then the whanau got together and made the call for me to try for the Maori Trade Training School in Auckland. It turned out to be a good call and in 1964 I began training as a first year apprentice mechanic. I then served the rest of my apprenticeship through to A Grade at Wright Stephensons Garage in Rathbone Street, Whangarei.”

Harry worked his way up to become service manager at Wright Stephensons and then in 1976 he joined the Ministry of Transport in

Port Road as a vehicle inspector. The work covered issuing warrants of fitness for light motor vehicles and certificates of fitness for heavy vehicles.

The year 1988 is clearly etched in Harry’s mind. It was the year a big opportunity knocked on his door. “It was at the time when several government departments were being privatised or made into State Owned Enterprises (SOEs).

I approached the Ministry of Transport to buy the light motor vehicle side of the business at Port Road. It turned out I was the first person in the country to do so, although plenty of others got into it after hearing I’d done the deal up here.

Harry employed five inspectors and carried on with his business at Port Road alongside the government’s SOE heavy vehicle certification business. Ten years later

they wanted to buy his side of the business back into the government fold, but Harry wasn’t having a bar. He decided to move out and create his own base; buying the land in Railway Road and constructed the building that houses the business today.”

Harry’s customers soon followed him into town, as the Whangarei Vehicle Testing Station’s location at 15 Railway Road was, and is a very convenient site - close to the CBD for those who want to drop the car off for a warrant and walk to work, but also handy for those coming in from the suburbs.

October 2014 marked 26 years of ownership of the business for Harry, and he’s looking forward to plenty more. “We now employ 14 permanent staff and 3 casuals. There’s been a lot of highlights over the years and a

few challenges too – opening a branch of the business in Clark Road, Kamo in 1990 was an excellent move. Maintaining a successful business against the competition from an increasing number of garages has kept us on our toes.”

Harry says his customers like the fact that they don’t have to wait long for their vehicles to be tested.

“We have two inspectors and a dedicated office staff member working on each vehicle that comes through. This speeds up the whole process. If you want to wait for your warrant, it can take as less than ten minutes, but on average, it would be twenty minutes to half an hour. No appointments are required - just roll on in. We have an indoor waiting area where you can relax while we do the check.

ARE YOU BEING SERVED?

Independently owned and locally operated testing stations Are you concerned about your car

not being checked for 12 months?

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Helping keep Northland drivers safe for fo 25 years

Whangarei Testing Station Railway Rd, Ph 438 8125

Kamo Testing Station Clark Rd, Ph 435 3682 *Safety checks are undertaken by a WOF authorized inspector but do not constitute a Warrant of Fitness.

W

hen it comes to servicing your car two of the biggest problems arememory and money. As long as the car is performing we just plain forget to get it checked and when we think we should, we justify not having it done becausemoney’s tight. It’s false economy of course and having the car clap out on a rainy winter’s night isn’t pleasant.

It’s a good policy to establish a relationship with your mechanic. Most vehicle service providers are bound by consumer protection legislation and, if they’re part of a franchise or belong to a recognized servicing organisation, are additionally contractually bound to provide a certain standard of customer care. If you think you’re not being looked after well, change your provider.

It’s a competitive world and you’re the customer.

The Warrant of Fitness check acts as a service reminder of course andWOF rules were recently changed. Since 1 January 2014 all vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2004 now only require annual inspections for the lifetime of the vehicle.

From 1 July this year other WOF changes will be introduced: • After an initial inspection new vehicles won’t require aWOF inspection until the third anniversary of first registration • Vehicles less than three years old will be issued a WOF that expires on the third anniversary of first registration or 12 months after the currentWOF expires, whichever is the longest • Vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2000 will require an annual inspection • Vehicles first registered before 1 January 2000 still require a six-monthlyWOF inspection.

For more information–www.nzta.govt.nz

DECEMBER 2014

3

WHANGAREI CITY

SHERYL MAI

CRAIG COOPER

Whangarei Mayor

Editor - Northern Advocate

I

W

hangarei City celebrated 50 years of city status this year, and we feted her in grand style.

A small ceremony was held in Council Chambers to mark our city’s actual birthday on 21 May, when we also welcomed the arrival of our Golden Anniversary twin babies, Matthew and Sharyn Mutharajah.

Then on 1 November we threw a fabulous city-wide party at the Town Basin after a large, noisy and colourful Grand Parade down Walton St. Fifty years ago, city status festivities were even more spectacular. Governor General Sir Bernard Fergusson officially declared the Borough of Whangarei to have achieved ‘city status’ in May 1964, and in early November a formal declaration took place in Laurie Hall Park and a civic dinner was held in the Town Hall.

An intense week of ‘City Celebrations’ followed including parades, shows, balls and a Miss Whangarei City competition, and then a further year of commemorative tournaments, carnivals and exhibitions.

Nearly every Whangarei resident in 1964 participated in at least one of these events.

Thankfully, some took photographs and contributed them for a 50th anniversary commemorative display.

Looking at these pictorial records we realised how much Whangarei had changed over the years. Back in 1964 there wasn’t a walkway, restaurant, museum, gallery, art work or children’s playground to be seen at the Town Basin, and it buzzed with wharf activity rather than the social, cultural, recreation and retail busyness we enjoy today.

Our swimming pool was an outdoor facility and there were no malls or one way streets in the CBD. Only one bridge graced the Town Basin area where we now have a traffic

bridge, the stunning canopy bridge, the new Kotuitui Whitinga walk/cycle bridge, and our magnificent Te Matau a Pohe second harbour crossing.

There is yet another bridge over which countless thousands of Whangarei residents have walked over 50 years, and that is the metaphorical bridge between Whangarei City as it was in 1964 and is now. Each traveller has made his or her mark and contributed in some way to shaping our district’s largest commercial, cultural, social and arts hub into the place we love and feel proud to share with our visitors today.

We acknowledge and thank the bridge travellers of the past for their time and effort in making our city what it is, and those present and future for being its potential.

To them we gift a 50-year-old city and a 25-year-old District, and ask that they look after them well for our future prosperity.

n 1964 we were growing up, so it’s an interesting exercise to consider how Whangarei has matured as a city.

As a provincial New Zealand city that has come through the global financial crisis, if I look out the window as I write this, “promise” and “potential” are two words that come to mind.

To be blunt, we are yet to fulfil this city’s full potential and break the last remaining shackles of the close minded mentality that still tags Whangarei as a “service town’’.

But never before have we shown so much promise in realising the potential Whangarei has.

In the past 50 years, we have survived the ongoing challenges of a town that relies on ebb and flow, the boom and bust of agricultural or forestry industries.

In another 50 years time, perhaps, as many have hypothesised recently, we will process raw material that used to leave Northland. Pine for example, will still leave Whangarei, but in a new form, that serves our economy better with jobs.

And on that note, in another 50 years time, let’s hope we are still not debating the merits of a rail link, or whatever mode of transport is in vogue, to whisk goods from the Southern Hemisphere’s finest deep water port to Auckland.

In 50 years time, perhaps Whangarei will host an agricultural university with strong ties to local industry.

And perhaps tourism will have been widely recognised as something to be embraced, rather than feared. Will there be a Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangarei?

Who knows but the debate that has surrounded this contentious issue has

WHANGAREI MAYORS OVER THE LAST 50 YEARS K Haslett E M Eliott Mrs G J Ryan S G A Semenoff C A E Brown Pamela Peters

1968-1977 1977-1983 1983-1989 1989-1998 1998-2004 2004-2007

S G A Semenoff C A E Brown Pamela Peters S G A Semenoff Morris Cutforth Sheryl Mai

2007-2010 1998-2001, 1998-2004 2004-2007 2007-2010 2010-2013 2013-2016

already led to a growing resolve for positive change.

The local body political scene will be very different in 50 years. There will be one “council” for the region, something that is inevitable as new generations demand change.

The shipbuilding industry will thrive.

Shipbuilders have come and gone - they will come again. How can they not, in a city that has a world class marine precinct on the coast?

The Town Basin will be the hub of the region - not just Whangarei, with people coursing through its “veins”, giving it life.

What will Whangarei be in 50 years?

A vibrant, happy place built on the groundwork of our present day business people, community leaders and visionaries.

THE NORTHERN ADVOCATE EDITORS OVER THE LAST 50 YEARS Bill Crawford snr Cliff Ashby Graeme Barrow

Tony Verdon Laura Franklin Craig Cooper

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4

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

50 YEARS A CITY Tony Collins, CEO New Zealand Chambers of Commerce Northland

T

his year we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Whangarei gaining city status. Cities have always been a gathering of people and a space for culture, society and civilization. We assign the status of city to urban centres of a certain population.

Cities are an economic entity, a means of organising populations efficiently; a place where jobs are and where there is a market for commerce. In the1900s 10% of the world’s population lived in cities, currently it’s about 55% and by 2350 it may be as high as 75%.

They provide the opportunity to consolidate resources and infrastructure in a manner the benefits the wider population. The convergence of people also offers people the opportunity to do what they want and fulfil their potential, and in doing so create an environment that is both collaborative and participative.

So getting back to Whangarei, what does it actually mean to be a city and does it matter?

Being a city adds to our sense of place, it acts as an attractant for people and economic activity, and lends to our regional identity. The attractant element should not be underestimated and is

linked closely to outsider’s perception of the place. Often when people travel they speak of their destination in terms of city rather than country. In many cases some of the great cities of the world arose from city states. These were truly self–sustaining economic centres with their own political and cultural identity, based around a shared community rather than arbitrary lines on a map.

Having recently looked back at an article reflecting on the city celebrating its 25th year and the people featured in that article, it was interesting to see how people involved in the business community that are still active in it today. It is great to see how many members of Whangarei’s various communities who have helped make this city what it is today; particularly those business people and civic leaders who have taken risks and made sacrifices to provide infrastructure, urban form and economic activity that benefit everyone.

It could be said that Whangarei can celebrate 50 years of having city status simply because we have a population of

sufficient size to justify being called one.

However it is the individuals within this collective population that have shaped the nature and identity of Whangarei, have guided it through the last 50 years and have set the aspirations for the future of the city and its communities.

Tony Collins

View of Whangarei City

Proudly ser ving our region for 139 years

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

WE’RE A CITY O

n Wednesday November 4, 1964, Whangarei was proclaimed a city.

There to officiate were the Minister of Health and member of Parliament for Marsden Mr Don Mckay, Whangarei Mayor L F Johnston and Auckland mayor Sir Dove Meyer Robinson.

A proclamation was carried by a team of Hatea Harriers runners from the Whangarei

Airport to Laurie Hall Carpark where a large gathering of citizens watched the official proceedings.

As the official party approached the dais it was given a rousing Maori challenge.

The city proclamation is carried from the Whangarei Airport in Onerahi to the Laurie Hall Carpark by Hatea Harriers runners from left Rex Bowyer, Alan Collinson, Peter Lewis, Eric Johnston, Colin Dyer.

Marilyn Demster

Allan Collinson, president of the Hatea Harrier club, hands the city proclamation to MP Don McKay. On the right is Whangarei Mayor L. F Johnston. At left is Auckland Mayor Sir Dove Meyer Robinson with his wife and daughter.

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Fifty years is a milestone for our city, and our refinery. Right now we’re investing $365m in our refinery so that we can keep New Zealand in fuel products for the next 50 years and beyond.

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6

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

Northland’s biggest day, Okara Park, Whangarei. A crowd of over 40,000 watched as Auckland lifted the Ranfurly Shield from Northland 16-15 in this epic rugby match, August 26, 1972.

Far from the sleek-lined version of the Taniwha these days, this one, circa 1972, used to be towed by an HQ Holden down the streets of Whangarei before crowds of thousands in pre- match Ranfurly Shield parades.

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A facelift for the stadium and field at Toll Stadium, formerly Okara Park, has seen Whangarei host large events, including matches in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

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DECEMBER 2014

7

WHANGAREI CITY

DAVID WILSON CEO, Northland Inc

A

s a recent arrival I have had the benefit of first impressions living and working in Whangarei mid-week instead of my usual interaction stopping off for a meal on my way to the far north. It is a different place during the week. Those first impressions are of a provincial town that has developed as a service centre, trading hub and retail centre for the district and wider region - like many provincial towns and cities in New Zealand. As a result urban design is ad hoc and pride in the city could be better.

If you look at some of the visions of Whangarei from yesteryear there has been no lack of aspiration for the city. It is time to realise some of those aspirations and look seriously at the urban design, amenity and the attractiveness of the city. The CBD needs some love; the CBD connection to the town basin also needs attention so that the town basin is not an island; walkability and people friendliness need to be ahead of car friendliness; and incorporating more local culture, art and design into the city to engender pride and ownership are essential.

Further inclusion of local artists in urban design and public amenity could be one way of achieving these things.

Prime Minister John Key gets to see how Manaia View School’s music programme works at the launch of Northpower’s UFB network

Whangarei’s role in the Northland economy also needs to mature. It has a strong manufacturing base and other secondary

industry that support Northland’s primary sectors, being home to some of Northland’s largest businesses. It also provides essential education, logistics and port functions, and is within striking distance of New Zealand’s largest domestic market.

Urbanisation is not just about the large cities, in fact second tier cities often grow faster than bigger ones if they are well connected and provide economic benefits.

Whangarei offers lower costs of doing business, great infrastructure and better

lifestyle options. The UFB roll out is great, but in order for Whangarei to continue to play a key role in Northlands economy it must provide better connectivity to Auckland and international markets for Northland.

Congratulations Whangarei on 50 years as a city. The job ahead lies in making it an even better place to live and do business, in providing the services that underpin growth in traditional sectors and in continuing to diversify the Northland economy.

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DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

STAN SEMENOFF

CRAIG BROWN

Whangarei Mayor 1989-1992, 1992-1995, 1995-1998, 2007-2010

Whangarei Mayor 1998-2001, 2001-2004

I

n four mayoral terms there were many achievements I regard with pride. The Town Basin, the Toll, cricket and hockey stadiums, our vastly improved roading and other infrastructure were all established.

It has been heartening to see other mayors complete projects begun during my terms. The new Te Matua a Pohe bridge, Town Basin canopy bridge and walkway, the CBD revamp, the harbour clean up, the Porowini Ave and Spedding Rd extensions and the Puwera landfill were all well under way in my mayoralties. The completion of all these projects has been tremendously satisfying.

The establishment of the Porowini Ave commercial district and the earlier creation of the Okara Shopping Centre is a source of pride. The glassworks closed and jobs were lost, but more were created. Job creation has always been my focus.

Sports facilities grew as I pursued my belief that a kid in sport is one less in court.

Perhaps my most significant achievement was implementing reform after the 1989 amalgamation. There was resistance to it, particularly from the unions, but we fronted the real issues to establish cost-effective governance for the district and hold rates.

The next 50 years must begin with the Hundertwasser and Wairau Maori Art Centre.

Whangarei District will realise its enormous economic and lifestyle potential only if we create jobs and are a vibrant centre attracting investment. The tourism industry will be the springboard to an affordable, sustainable and healthy Whangarei, a source of pride to all far into the future.

Okara Shopping centre

Congratulations Whangarei City.

We’ve been with you from the start, and you don’t look a day over 25.

M

y six years as mayor was a time of change, excitement and optimism.

It was exciting for me and an absolute privilege to come from a small rural area and take on the role traditionally very much a city-based position.

There were many achievements during the six years, but at the forefront of these was the bringing together of a disparate group of councils under the regional bodies such as the Mayoral Forum, the Intersectoral Leaders Forum with a view to removing proachialism and competition.

Out of this came Mayors task force for Jobs, Cadetships within Councils, Safer Community Councils, The Pulse to address Youth Social Issues and many more. We also were able to set up economic initiatives such as Enterprise Northland and a successful tourism agency for Northland.

On the home front there were exciting infrastructural developments which all progressed our city… a second frigate and patrol vessel contract, developments in the marine industry all contributing to record drop in unemployment levels. We constructed Wilson Dam, and the largest council roading project, the Port Marsden Highway to the port. The first stages of the roading at the Town Basin, a complete revamp of the Basin precinct, revamp of the Mall, and the letting of the contract and construction start to the new library. The five-finger roundabout completion plans all gave a sense of growth and optimism. Long overlooked sewer and storm water upgrades amounting to millions of dollars were finally programmed for attention and budgets set.

Where to for the future? We will always have the natural attributes that attracts visitors and which are the very reasons we choose to live here.

For city developments maybe a gondola to the top of Parihaka, a restaurant at the top, and a luge back down? Sheet piling of the Hatea for more jetties for day cruises, hire boats and kids fishing. Maybe a carless central city triangle (inside Walton, Dent and Bank Streets).

The possibilities are endless, and does it really matter who owns a good idea? I am proud to have been a small part of our city’s past!

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DECEMBER 2014

9

WHANGAREI CITY

PAMELA PETERS

MORRIS CUTFORTH

Whangarei Mayor 2004-2007

Whangarei Mayor 2010-2013

S

Where the strength of local Maori culture is respected as being special to the character of Whangarei - and the culture is celebrated with pride.

The community compares well in employment, education, income and health.

I hope Whangarei will have clean harbours, safe roads and a city waterfront that includes the Hundertwasser Art centre, quality accommodation and an environment that attracts many visitors, talented artists, innovative thinkers and people of all ages.

ome of the achievements I am proud of were within my three years as mayor; many follow on from Mayor Craig Brown in my role as Deputy Mayor 1998-2004.

Provision of family-based facilities for active lifestyles- the library, partnerships with Sport Northland to create the Aquatic Centre, Kensington Park developments and visioning of coastal and urban walkways.

Continued commitment to essential infrastructure- water, stormwater, recycling and roading with the application of user pays and developer’s contributions. Acquisition and freeing of town basin land for long term civic development.

Celebration of artistic talent and culture in Whangarei - with events, venues and supportive governance structures.

Strong positive relationships across the region and with central government.

I would like to see Whangarei city in the next 50 years ‌ To be a fabulous lifestyle city, recognised by the nation as the gateway city to 100 beaches and where art, creativity and active lives are celebrated.

Where farming and horticulture still form the economic backbone - and the port, businesses and harbour co-exist under sustainable environmental standards.

I

am immensely proud of all the achievements we made for the district when I was mayor. With the assistance of a supportive Council the list is impressive. • The opening of Te Manawa. • The forming of the Art Trail at the Town Basin. • The completion of the Canopy Bridge. • The instigation of the Youth Advisory Board. • The formation of Te Karearea (the Maori partnership with Council). • The continuation of support for the sporting folk of Whangarei. The development of sports fields and the building of the Athletic/ Gymnasium Centre at Kensington Park. • The opening of our fantastic, world-winning award bridge Te Matua a Pohe. This is a day I will never forget because thousands of folk celebrated this occasion.

I can honestly say we have the “best little city in the world� and we are very privileged to live here. I believe the present Council has really missed a golden opportunity to make Whangarei a city worth visiting by refusing to build the Hundertwasser Art Centre. It will bring colour, interest, employment and world wide attention in a way no other development can.

In every other respect our district can boast of great facilities such as water, sewerage, and roading. Town planners have allowed well for the needs of the city for the next 50 years.

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50

Years as City

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DECEMBER 2014

11

WHANGAREI CITY

ARNOLD FRANKS Local like you!

E

stablished in 1963 by local businessman Arnold Franks, this eponymous store was kept in the family and run by son Ian right up until 2006 – when Steve Nightingale took

over. For Steve, Arnold Franks isn’t just a business; it’s a legacy of hard work, honest advice and hands-on service. For over 50 years, Arnold Franks has been the go-to store for everything from water tanks to

This is the original Arnold Franks headquarters in Walton Street, Whangarei during the 1950s.

boat batteries; keeping farmers and townies alike well-supplied and running smoothly.

When Steve and Rhondda took over Arnold Franks, they had a healthy respect for the good name they’d bought into, and decided to keep the business branding as it had always been.

It’s clear from the moment you step in the door at Arnold Franks that you are surrounded by people who, quite simply, know their stuff. Many of their regular customers stop by for the advice as much as the products; and this is something Steve and Rhondda are proud to promote. While Steve has taken pains to move Arnold Franks firmly into the 21st century – with a website featuring online shopping, a vast range of leading edge farming and home equipment, and a team of experts in their field ready and waiting to assist – he is very firm on one point: Arnold Franks will never compromise on quality.

‘It’s quite simple,’ explains Steve. ‘We want to be here for another 50 years. To us that means we need to stand by the products we sell, we need to offer expert advice on the equipment we stock, and

we need to provide outstanding service across the board. We have extremely strong relationships with both our suppliers and our customers – and that is something that will never change.’

It is this strong relationship with their suppliers that has seen Arnold Franks become one of the country’s top independent retailers of trusted brands including Exide, Hansen and RX Plastics, to name a few. The products they choose to stock are tried and true, and come with the Arnold Franks seal of approval. The services provided by the team at Arnold Franks are also of exceptionally high quality – from effluent disposal, drainage, irrigation, and paddock subdivision through to consultancy, design and supervision services, the breadth and depth of knowledge on tap at Arnold Franks is truly outstanding.

Emblazoned across the team’s shirts are the words ‘Local like you!’, and nothing could be more important to the Arnold Franks crew than the success of local agricultural enterprise. With the support of the experienced team, Arnold Franks is ready to help!

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Consultants and Service Providers for: • Effluent Disposal • Drainage • Irrigation • Paddock Subdivision

Leading Edge Farming & Home Equipment BEST ADVICE BEST SERVICE

BEST PRICE

ARNOLD FRANKS LTD

112-114 Cameron Street, Whangarei, Northland, New Zealand +64 (09) 438 1359 www.arnoldfranks.co.nz

DECEMBER 2014

13

WHANGAREI CITY

NORMANS BUS AND COACH Let Normans Take the Wheel!

The time of corporate functions, festive celebrations and end-of-year revelry is nigh – organising committees are busy deciding on the finer points of their festivities, and managers are frantically trying to tie requests into one ‘keep-everyone-happy’ parcel. For Normans Bus and Coach, this is their time to shine: from vineyard tours to private catered functions, the team at Normans are experts when it comes to group functions and staff celebrations.

This iconic family-owned Northland business has spanned four generations, originating in Hikurangi in 1927. The embodiment of Kiwi ingenuity, Joe Norman Senior opened a bus service in partnership with his friend Bob Brown, after a mining accident left him jobless.

Bob had previously been working with The Rio Grande Bus Company – it was

upon the closure of this company that Joe and Bob saw an opportunity, and so began their joint venture. With 2 seven-seater cars, their company provided essential transport for miners and members of the public to the mines and Whangarei city. A mere 18 months after starting the business however, Bob Brown died and Joe’s eldest son Hodgeson joined the company. This was followed a year later by the younger son Joe Junior – and so the company became known as ‘J Norman and Sons’. It was also at this time that they purchased their first bus, a 12-seater Graham.

Over the years the business (and the size of the buses) grew, and on November 4th 1936, became an official limited liability company with another name change – this time to Normans Motors Limited. During the war the business flourished as the entrepreneurial family moved into doing work and school runs, increasing the size of

their buses to 25- and 33-seaters. Through the generations, Norman’s changed hands from father to son, from brother to brother, and as demand grew so did the premises and the fleet.

From this illustrious background springs the business we know as Normans Bus and Coach; currently boasting a fleet of 24 buses, ranging in seating sizes from 12 to 53, and now located in purpose-built premises at 18 Springs Flat Road, Kamo.

The current Normans holding the reins are Pete and his lovely wife Nikki, and they brought more than just enthusiasm and sparkling wit to the table when they took over the family business.

With an emphasis on customer care and an expansion into corporate functions and events, this generation looks set to outstrip any other.

For 2014, Normans Bus and Coach is excited to offer a range of tailor-made

options designed with the corporate team building, event and festival market in mind – with their large fleet and their extensive knowledge of spectacular locations and events, planning your endof-year celebrations or your corporate festivities has never been easier. Ask Pete and Nikki about their themed coaches, or indulge in a luxury 53-seater for your staff. Whisk your star clients away on an exclusive mystery tour, featuring some of Northlands most dramatic scenery and most celebrated eateries.

Multiple stops, unlimited options, expert customer service and insider knowledge: this friendly family business has everything you need for an unforgettable experience – so sit back, relax, and let Normans take the wheel!

Contact Pete, Nikki and the team today to discuss your needs; or visit their website at www.normansbuses.co.nz for inspiration.

Corporate functions, Festive celebrations Vineyard tours to private catered functions Contact Pete, Nikki and the team today to discuss your needs; or visit their website at www.normansbuses.co.nz for inspiration

CONTACT US: 18 Springs Flat Road Kamo, Whangarei, NZ

Call us now (09) 435 4532 Email:info@normansbuses.co.nz

14

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

50 YEARS FROM Johnny Wilkinson, CEO, Tiaho Trust

A

s readers will see from these two photos, a lot of water, not to mention time, has gone under the bridge.

Asked by the Northern Advocate to write a piece on how things were for disabled people “back then” and “ how they are now” is a broad, and may I offer, slightly bland brief… so (ever the egotist) I return to what I know to be true - my personal story. And I think this part of my story is summed up rather neatly in the two snapshots you see.

When I think back on my youth, I feel as though things have gone the full circle. Let me explain.

For the last few years in the disability sector people have preached evangelically about the importance of ‘inclusion’ and ‘participation’ and ‘valuing’ people with disabilities. Fittingly if we juggle these terms around we can come up with the cheesy acronym VIP. Warning, warning, it’s not aliens approaching but the acronym laden wave of disability talk amongst local disability providers within which the disabled consumer is liable to drown.

In my youth such talk didn’t really exist.

We just did it and didn’t know we were VIP. Thinking back to my intermediate school days in Whangarei I marvel at just how

he Old Stone Butter Factory, something dynamically different from any other licensed premise in Northland. The building itself is pretty special as it is over 120 yrs old, originally serving Whangarei as today's name sake - a butter factory. Since then it has undergone a few different transformations, most would remember it being a carpet factory. Now the old stone beauty is currently owned by Peter Williams and has 7 different lease spaces, the top floor hosting Northland Youth Theatre, and the Ground floor taken over in mid 2013 by local women Jessica White to set her vision into motion of creating a destination for tourists and a home away from home for locals with a

T

naturally inclusive my friends were. They could have taught providers in the disability sector a thing or two in this present day.

They were awesome at ‘adaptive sports’ for instance, although they didn’t know it at the time. They devised a way me to play ‘Four Square’, not the now iconic small town supermarket, but a ball game hugely popular in the 70s Whangarei playground. We worked out a system in which I would kneel down and if the others were bouncing the ball to me, they could bounce it twice and give me a “fair and reasonable” shot. No doubt now it could end up in Court and the lawyers would have a field day with our schoolyard interpretation of the phrase). Padder Tennis had similar adaptations. However, the piece d’ resistance was an adapted skateboard that my friends made for me in their woodwork class. With a small seat and a cross bar for my legs, I too could enjoy (or ‘participate in’) the frenzied skateboard craze that was around in the late 70s. I still have the scars to prove it!

My later teenage years were similarly inclusive with a group of friends with whom I am still very close. The first photo shows Patrick Shepheard (aka Eggy) sharing inclusive morning ablutions while listening to the Buzcocks. We attended punk rock bands

at classic Whangarei country halls, such as Kauirihohore, Glenbervie, Whareora. At these actually iconic places the punk rockers used to have stoushes with the various high school First XV rugby boys! I usually managed to avoid the painful stuff but a VIP I was - my mates made sure I was a part of it. Such fun!

I left Whangarei for many years to experience the variance of attitudes towards disability and me in particular - through my Big O.E through Indonesia and the U.K, and settling in Auckland to go to Uni, have a family and enter the workforce. Back to settle in Whangarei I re-started my career pathway navigating the tangled web of disability that had settled as part of the landscape of my old stamping ground.

Natural inclusion still exists as part of the way of life for many Whangareians, however I see this is more compromised now by the somewhat less laid back, more competitive attitude of the bigger better Whangarei.

Things are tough, life is busier and more complex - even gorgeous Whangarei is not immune to these forces. There is a need for disability providers in this bigger badder and better context to work and ensure that people with disabilities are treated fairly, the playing field is levelled and we remain a caring and equitable society. The good news is there are

people with a passion working for this. My second, slightly older photo was taken after I was successfully nominated to be Chair of the inaugural AGM of the Achieve2B Trust set up by an enterprising, passionate Whangarei woman Julia Hartstone, who happens to have, like myself, Cerebral Palsy. She is setting up this Not-For-Profit nationwide initiative to provide youth with disabilities with the same opportunities as other youth - to do an overseas youth exchange.

The difference now – if I take a personal as political approach is that we (disabled-not the sisters) are increasingly doing it for ourselves!

I acknowledge and thank my mates who did it naturally (although was a fair bit of hedonistic frivolity around … another story). Luckily you don’t have to scratch the surface of Whangarei very far to find the old school VIP values still exist. Happy 50th Birthday Whangas!

thriving hospitality business that is lifting the bar for food, service and entertainment in our community and a newly opened mini golf course.

Why mini golf??

BECAUSE ITS FUN! There are child sized putters, some left handed ones and it is indoors so there are no excuses not to come in and give it a go! So far families, teens, romantic couples, work groups, birthday parties, even a stag party have come through and enjoyed the fun game that provides entertainment and group comaradiry in the spirit of friendly competition amidst a lot of laughter. Although there is only 9 holes presently, the plan is for a full 18 holes including a "glow in the dark" and "Northland theme'.

Contact The Butter Factory 8 Butter Factory Lane, Whangarei, New Zealand | Phone: 09 430 0044 Email: info@thebutterfactory.co.nz | Visit our website www.thebutterfactory.co.nz

L i fe s t y l e Vi l l ag e

“The Lifestyle that’s Perfect” See what The Palms can offer you ■ We pride ourselves on creating an inviting environment with warm, spacious homes within a gated community ■ Gated entrance with security cameras. Patrols 7 days a week, 3 times a night ■ We have a variety of villa plans available to build, these can be customised to your requirements. You may choose all interior colours, fixtures and flooring for your new home ■ Become a part of our retirement community and enjoy your senior years at their best Call us today on 0800 868 548 (press 2) We are open Monday – Friday from 9am till 4pm.

Closed public holidays

45 Reed Street, Tikipunga, Whangarei www.thepalmslifestyle.co.nz

DECEMBER 2014

15

WHANGAREI CITY

PENGUIN W

Why has Penguin continued to survive and grow?

• We know Northland and our customers • We know food • We try to respond to what our customers need • We are 100% locally owned and operated and proud of it!

• We employ 35 staff locally and support local businesses Like all organisations we do make mistakes but when and if we do we fix them.

Our membership of foodfirst gives us the purchasing power to buy at the best rates which we then pass on to our customers.

If you need food delivered to you in Northland and it is important to you that it arrives how and when you ordered it, then deal with local company that cares - call us.

More recently we have established Penguin Direct, a cash and carry operation located on the corner of Porowini Avenue and Kaka Street, where there is ample off street parking.Come and see us.You will be pleasantly surprised.

Remember, QUALITY DOESN’T COST,IT PAYS!!

as established in 1975 as Penguin Ice Co by Dave and Patsy Walters having recently sold Sherwood Fisheries which included a Fish and Chip operation.

In 1980 Penguin Wholesalers (Whangarei) Limited was incorporated.

In the early years Penguin serviced both the Supermarket trade as well as the Food Service Market (comercial operaters) such as fish and chip shops, restaurants, rest homes and anybody who needed to be able to buy in bulk quantities.

Over a period of time Penguin expanded into importing and having products such as crumbed scallops and kumara processed and packed into their own brand - Penguin, with the by line of QUALITY DOESN’T COST, IT PAYS! Penguin was the founding member of NZARFD (New Zealand Associated Refrigerated Food Distributors Limited) in 1987, a company consisting of distributors across New Zealand who were able to offer an alternative to General Foods, which had a monoply in the distribution market at that time.

Penguin offers distribution from Warkworth to Mangonui, as well as East and West coast areas.

From humble beginnings

DECEMBER SPECIALS Florentines Peach/Passion Cheesecake SLAB 40x30cm

Lincoln Bakery Brandy Snaps (Bulk Tray) 24s

Original Foods Chocolate Goofy Slab Cake 3.2kg

Lamb Shoulder Boned And Rolled (Random Weight Approx 1.2Kg)

Raw Prawn Skewers 12 Pack

Plain Chicken Nibbles 5Kg

APPROX 40 SLICES

APPROX 40 SLICES

$

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34.44

Black Tiger Whole Green Prawns 800Gm (Approx 40)

$

.53 15pkt

Catering Foil Dispenser 440mm x 90m

Prawn Cutlets Large 1Kg (Approx 40/50)

$

$ Scallops Large (Fzn) 1Kg

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14.89 kg

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22.41 kg

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Cling Wrap Dispenser 330mm x 600m

25.50 .75 28bag

Golden Circle Cans 375Ml X 24 Tropical Punch, Creaming Soda, Golden Pash

$

8.80 pkt

Dishwash Liquid 5L refill container

$

Spray & Wipe 5L refill container

$

18.38 ctn

Sandwich Ziploc Bags 200x255.

50 per packet.

$

17.83

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21.27

All available while stock lasts

PENGUIN Proudly 100% Locally Owned & Operated

HOURS: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm : Sat 8.30am-12noon

$

16

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17

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Porowini Ave, Whangarei Ph 438 0230

FRESH • FROZEN • MEAT • SEAFOOD • DESSERTS • BULK • GROCERY • CONFECTIONERY • CLEANING • PACKAGING

16

DECEMBER 2014

Dickson’s operate alongside specialised equipment such as the sophisticated load scan tally clerk which precisely calculates volumetric loads in truck and trailers. For Bindons, there’s been a big investment in their new e-commerce website, a full 40,000 line items of which are now on line.

Allan Bindon says ‘We’re very mindful that we need to meet new challenges head on, maybe that and the fact we believe in supporting local has something to do with the

BINDONS & DICKSONS Transport & Quarries From L-R

Allan Bindon John Dickson Johnny Dickson Bryce Bindon Joanne Dickson Mark Costello

D

ickson’s Transport & Quarries Ltd and Bindons Ltd have quite a lot in common not the least of which is a relationship stretching back 50 odd years. The businesses were started by John Dickson Senior and O.E (Joe) Bindon respectively and second and third generations continue in both businesses today, a rare feat of local longevity. Both Johnny Dickson and Allan Bindon

and top technical support enables them to provide a top notch service.

But there’s more to it than that.

Step into Bindon’s showroom on the corner of Water and Walton streets and you’ll be surprised by the sheer volume of products on display and the pristine look of the place. Polished floors glow, the staff knows their stuff and the phone never stops ringing.

Visit Dickson’s Quarry at

THE DICKSON FAMILY ‘No Job too Big or too Small’

ALLAN BINDON & GARY PYLE, ENGINEERING & SALES MANAGER.

speak of their father’s roles in establishing each company, and in fact John Dickson Senior is still active in Dickson’s Quarry operations. Bryce Bindon, Allan’s son, is the third generation on site at Bindons. Bryce has taken over the ownership and running of the separate workshop next door to the parts warehouse.

Second generationers, Johnny, John Dickson senior’s son, and Allan, Joe Bindon’s son, agree there’s no great secret to their success. Getting the basics right, treating your customers right and keeping on top of new technology is a good start. Getting the right manufacturers on board

Glenbervie and you’ll see something similar – an immaculate quarry site with a modern equipment fleet.

Onsite health and safety is very important to Dickson’s and in fact their awards cabinet is currently full.

At the 2014 Quarry NZ conference Dickson’s picked up the prestigious Safety Award, top of the six nationwide nominees. The family says, ‘picking up the Winstone Aggregates Safety Award at the Quarry NZ Annual conference this year made us proud – as we know we are up there with the big players’.

Both companies agree there’s now a gentler side to these formerly male

dominated industries. Nowadays you’ll find women right amongst it and at Bindons Nevonne Barrowman is in her element on the Engineering counter or out on the road providing support and engineering products to Bindon’s customers.

Likewise at Dickson’s Quarry Joanne Dickson, is right at home on the quarry’s crusher, happy amongst the heavy duty bearings, belts and rollers. Joanne also picked up her own award at the Quarry NZ conference, the Niemac Trophy, in recognition of her ‘outstanding achievements in operating, maintaining and administering quarry operations’. The awards cabinet may be full but the Dicksons aren’t complacent. ‘We are very passionate about our operation and these awards inspire us to keep doing things well today and into the future’.

Allan and Johnny point out that being competitive has also meant a big investment in new technology.

Improved efficiencies are evident with the modern trucking fleet

fact we’re still here after 80 odd years’.

Similarly John, Johnny and Joanne Dickson also mention supporting local – they say the success of their business is due to the great service they provide for their local customers and their contractors they supply for – where no job is too big or too small.

With the recent updating of the crushing plant they have kept up with demand for roading projects for Council and forestry as well as Virgin’s concrete plant. A late model ZW310 Hitachi loader has recently been added to the fleet to feed the crusher and help out with loading trucks - and to keep up the great service, a late model fleet of Hino Trucks are meeting the service demand – you’ve probably seen them on the road all around the North. The Dickson family also mentions their great, loyal staff, young and old, keeping the business motivated.

Both families agree they’re looking forward to the next fifty years.

DECEMBER 2014

17

WHANGAREI CITY

WHANGAREI TREATMENT PROVIDERS LIMITED 11 years of Integrated Healthcare to Northland

W

hangarei’s leading clinic for integrated health care, has grown from a small band of practitioners to the present 17 dedicated practitioners who work together to focus on the best way to manage health issues.

This is the essence of an integrated health approach across a range of modalities, and is increasingly in demand year by year.

As the practice continues to grow, we have seen new practitioners joining our team from overseas. These new practitioners bring different and new approaches to their fields of practice and look forward to being of service to the people of the North.

Any injuries or accident conditions can be treated under ACC and the practitioners will be able to assist you in making a claim. No need for referral. You can also get professional advice on supplements,

vitamins, and minerals by WTP’s in-house naturopaths.

Now with satellite clinics in Dargaville, Waipu and most recently, Western Hills Drive, we are able to provide our services to the wider community.

Our friendly and helpful team on the front desk are always there to help with any enquiries you may have.

Whangarei Treatment Providers have been dedicated to serving the community’s health needs for the past 10 years and continue to grow and expand giving an excellent range of services and variety of practitioners to suit most people’s needs.

“Leaders of Integrated Healthcare”

Whangarei Treatment Providers Offers a comprehensive range of Healthcare Treatments • acupunture • osteopathy • therapeutic massage • herbal medicine • homeopathy • cranial osteopathy • naturopathy • cosmetic acupuncture • structural integration • Unit 2,11 Norfolk Street, Whangarei Monday to Friday, late night Thursday & Saturday morning • 321 Western Hills Drive, Whangarei Monday to Friday • 5 The Centre, Waipu • Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday • 42 Normanby St, Dargaville • Monday & Thursday

For appointments phone: 09 438 3144 Leaders of Integrated Healthcare www.wtp.co.nz

1986

L.J. Hooker Whangarei Proud to have been part of Whangarei’s Heritage for over 25 years. Helping people with all their property needs regarding Residential, Commercial, Rural, Land, Property Management, Sales or Leasing – since the 1980s.

11 James Street, Whangarei. Phone 09 438 1332

2014

OVER 25 YEARS LATER... still locally owned and proud to be serving our community.

ight Awards NA L

Whangarei

CARNIV

WINNERS

Marketing your property with LJ Hooker Whangarei

2012

2011

er Office NZ No. 1 LJ HookManagement Top Property Relationship ity Best Commun rketing Best Ma

er Office NZ No. 1 LJ Hook on Marketing Top Aucti ity Best Commun Relationship

featuring

Far North listings

2013

PAGES 56-63

oker Office NZ rketing No. 1 LJ HoCo mmunity Ma

Northland’s biggest real estate guide

PropertyGuide

er: g National Winner: Excellence in Marketin -2013 National WinnFranchisee of the Year 2012 les rd Sa gfo of .

Michael Sprin al 2nd Place Winner No worldwide) Internation

Current to 26 November, 2014

er offices (750+ LJ Hook







in in 201Z4! and agaoo ker Office N

No. 1 LJ H erties Sold Number Prop Award t es h ig H er ship Winn nity Relation No. of Sales Best Commu d Place Winner l 2n worldwide) Internationa (750+ LJ Hooker offices



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 Keen owners on the move – they want this SOLD! See Page 2

• Immaculate brick and tile home • North facing and elevated rural views • 3.78ha (9,340 acres) beautifully landscaped and grazing land • 5 bay Versatile farmshed/2 bay woodshed + 4 bay implement shed/chook house • Rustic cottage on property

Contact Melissa Codlin 021 287 1000 a/h 09 435 0673 Licensed Real Estate Salesperson REAA 2008 Asset Realty Ltd Licemsed Real Estate Agent

(REAA 2008)

www.whangarei.ljhooker.co.nz

Congratulates

Heather Thorb urn “Qui etly getting on with

the job” At the recent 20 dinner, Heather 14 LJ Hooker/Harveys NZ Gro up wa Annual Awards s ran ke d 9th out of ove one of only fiv r 60 e high level of sal to be awarded a bronze meda 0 salespeople and was es excellence. l for achieving this Heather is only this award, the the second recipient in our offi first being the late Michael Sp ce to have received ringford.

• Heather starte d in rea

Asset Realty Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

l estate in 2000 event managem after a successfu ent l career in bankin g and • Named “Rooki e of the Year” for No rth lan d in 2000 • Achieved LJ Hoo ker “Captains Clu b” (To p 7%) 2002 • Qualified for LJ Hooker Multi-mil lion Dollar Cha property sales pter (Top 3%) 200 total 12 month periodvalue exceeding ten million dol3. (Achieved ) lars in a • After 6 consec uti the top 3% level ve years (in 2008) Heather con Membership Mu culminating in achieving LJ tinued at Hooker Life lti-million dollar chapter • In 2012 after 11 con sales level, Hea secutive years at Captains Clu ther b Membership (on was awarded Platinum Life ly 7 current me mbers in NZ) • 2013 finished 12th place out of salespeople in LJ Hooker/Harve 600+ ys group NZ • 2014 awarded bro achievement, pla nze medal for high sales ced 9th out of 600+ salespeople in LJ Hooker NZ If you’re lookin g for a high ach iever who puts integrity, above all else – honesty and hard work choose Heathe r Thorburn “Quietly gettin g on with the job ”

Well done Heat he management r on behalf of the and team here at LJ Hooker Wh angarei!

20

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

OUR PROGRESS OVER THE LAST 50 YEARS ...

Roading

• •

• •

•

•

Sewerage

Western Hills Drive (Western Bypass) Kamo Bypass Stage 1 The Five Finger Roundabout replaced the complicated intersection of Lower Bank Street, Walton Street, Railway Ave and Tarewa Road The Dent and Quay Street realignment in 2005, Porowini Avenue extension and roundabout were opened in August 2011 Four-laning of /western Hills Drive 2011, Central Ave SH1 upgrade Spedding Road and the Kamo Bypass Stage 2 were opened in September 2011, $4million (NZTA contribution 62%), combined with the fully NZTA funded, $25 million Kamo Bypass Stage 2. The project gives drivers to and from Tikipunga, Glenbervie and the Tutukaka Coast area direct access to State Highway One via Spedding Road.

The Lower Hatea River Crossing

Other achievements in the past 15 years.

• •

•

Whangarei Heads Sewerage scheme Adoption of a two-stage strategic plan for improving waste water management in the city Ngunguru Wastewater Treatment Plant

• • •

Hatea Storage Tank and Wastewater Treatment Plant Okara rising main and pump station Oakura network and wastewater treatment plant Ruakaka South Sewer Scheme extension

The State Highway 14/SH1 (Maunu Rd and Western Hills Drive) intersection is fully open for traffic.

• •

Ruakaka consents allowing for upgrades in the long-term New public toilets

Whangarei’s Pohe Island BMX track is world - class

We are Northlands Favourite Paint Shop & Northland Owned & Operated since 1948 Business of the Year ’01 - ‘06 - ’11 NORTHLAND SUPREME WINNER

2 0 1 1

W E S T P A C

Business Excellence Awards

Antifoul Sea Barrier AF3000 4L $160.00 AYB No.5 4L $185.00

Wattyl Forestwood 5L $79.00 Dulux X10 8L for price of 4L

Roof Paints Huge R Range 10L H L from $115.00

(All gloss levels)

$109.00

*Tint charges may apply

“Our aim is to help make our customers be more successful”

Fence Paint 10L from $39.95

REPCO

• • •

COWLE

Y’S

8 Okara Drive - info@wynnfraser.co.nz Op Sat Morns 8.30-12.30 www.wynnfraser.co.nz Open

PH: 09 438 1624

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY Rubbish • • •

Development of a network of rural transfer stations Joint venture for the development of the Puwera Landfill Closing the Pohe Island Landfill and development of the Re:Sort transfer station

Water • • • • •

Adoption of a 50-year strategic plan for fresh water supply Rationalisation of the District’s water supplies and treatment plants Upgrading treatment plants to the highest standard New Hatea pipeline Wilson’s Dam

Amenities • • • • • •

Whangarei Aquatic Centre Whangarei Central Library Relocation of Whangarei Art Museum Northland Events Centre / Toll Stadium Airport expansion 2009 Cameron Street Mall 1998

• • •

Political structure •

Parks • • • • • • • • • •

Wave and Waka Millennium Sculpture Walkways Cycleways Sea walls Seven new sports fields Heritage Trail Art park Canopy Bridge Sense of place plantings and banners Re-development of Mander Park

World-class BMX track Development at the Quarry Gardens Green flag status for Mair Park etc

• • •

The 1989 amalgamation saw the City, County and Hikurangi Town Councils merge into the District Council.

Harbour Board into NRC City Council formed County Council formed Whangarei District Council formed 1989

Forum North • • • •

Engineers block built in 1968 Civic Centre Stage 1 – 1978 and Stage 2 1979 Refinery build 1960’s, expansion 1970’s Money factory opened 1980, closed 1990

Wave and Waka sculpture on Hihiaua Reserve

W

hen Whangarei was announced as a city, Newberrys Funeral Home was already 100 years old and proud to be a locally owned and operated service, dedicated to helping the people of the district in times of need. With Newberrys being the oldest Funeral Home in Northland, we have been there to help families through tough times, through the great flu epidemic, to the disaster of the Brynderwyn bus crash, Newberrys have been at the forefront, helping families deal with the tragedy and loss that can occur at any time, and still to this day, 148 years on, the faces may have changed, but the team at Newberrys Funeral Home are still dedicated to helping the families of the district in their times of need, and will continue to be there when Whangarei reaches 100 years.

Newberrys, Caring not Corporate, and still proudly 100% locally owned and operated.

PH: 09 438 2644 (24 HRS) Cnr Kamo Road & Moody Ave

newberrys@xtra.co.nz www.newberrys.co.nz

21

22

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

WHANGAREI CITY 50 YEARS P

laceMakers have much to celebrate – a brand new, purpose built PlaceMakers Whangarei branch at 8 Kioreroa Road, a staff member who celebrates 35 years with the company in early 2015, and the relocation of PlaceMakers Northland Manufacturing Division that makes frames and trusses to a second purpose built facility with over twice the production capacity on Log Yard Road (off Port Road) – all sure signs that they’re committed to investing in their customers, staff and the development of Northland.

PlaceMakers is New Zealand’s leading and largest supplier of building materials and hardware. The roots of the company are connected to Fletchers and Winstone Trading - established names in the building industry that date back to 1864. Fletcher Building Limited – a joinery company formed

by James Fletcher in 1910 and Winstone Trading Limited formed in 1984 after a 120 year reputation of supplying an extensive range of materials to the building and construction markets.

The origins of PlaceMakers began in August 1981 as part of Fletcher Timber Limited’s retailing operations and developed into the largest and only nationwide building material chain in New Zealand in 1988 when Fletcher Merchants Limited and Winstone Trading Limited merged.

PlaceMakers Whangarei was the third Northland branch to open in October 2001. Thirteen years on, Branch Operator Casey Stuart is proud to be associated

with such a reputable company who live up to their promise of providing a distinct level of service that allows the building industry to spend their valuable time on the job while the supplier looks after their every need.

Casey leads a dedicated team of 24 full and part time employees at the Kioreroa Road branch who’re committed to providing a fast efficient service to expedite orders that can be collected at the new drive through or delivered to a site of your choice. Technology now enables builders to log in to PriceIT, an online portal for trade prices with the ability to build an entire quote with their own branding on that can be emailed to their clients. When the client accepts, all items in the quote can be converted into an order at the touch of a button.

“One of our greatest assets is Whitu Williams,” says Casey. “He personifies the ethics of the company. Loyal, trustworthy and always going the extra mile to help people.

Whitu is the ‘go to’ man with the ‘know how’ for both customers and staff. He genuinely cares about people. Our young male staff members look up to him as a father figure who’ll support them with the learning curve at work and in life.” Whitu says the yard is like an extended family to his 3 sons and 7 grandchildren.

Placemakers Whangarei are here to help so next time you need a hand make sure you stop by and have a chat with the team and tap into over 150 years of collective experience.

D A RO

@ N IO

W E N

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T A C LO

R O KI

A O ER

PLACEMAKERS WHANGAREI 8 KIOREROA RD (09) 470 3970

Congratulations Whangarei on Celebrating 50 Years!!!!

Harcourts NZ Ltd 126 Years And Still Going Strong

Our Commitment To Our Clients Here at Harcourts Optimize Group we know our clients demand and deserve the best possible service. Our goals are to add value to each of our clients through their acquisitions, management, optimization and sale of their property assets. We strive to further strengthen by offering our clients positive advice and achieving the right result for them where possible.

Delivering Our Promise We seek to deliver our promise of quality by employing high-calibre, like minded people with a strong desire to excel above the ordinary and develop their professional expertise through training and experience. We are absolutely committed to providing exceptional service!

Harcourts is a highly focused team of property professionals.

Our office is independently owned and operated which means there is a commitment and accountability not always found in a managed office.

Great marketing campaigns which are carefully structured and targeted to create the greatest buyer response.

Careful analysis of market statistics and buyer response so you are fully informed of the likely target zone for your sale.

We are focused on the best result for you - we are vendor’s agents. The best buyer, not the first buyer, is our focus.

We specialize in the targeted marketing of a select portfolio of properties. That makes us specialists. Our time is spent managing the sale of these properties, not using the buyer response to your marketing to sell other property.

We set out to prepare a campaign for each property we are appointed to sell. This allows us to focus on creating a truly professional solution.

Property Management- Industry leading systems and procedures and our philosophy of continuing innovation ensures you and your property are in the best hands.

Our Property Managers are supported by a National Property Management Operations Manager whose sole role is to support, train, problem solve and keep Harcourts up to date with the latest innovations in the world of Property Management.

Harcourts Whangarei 141 Bank Street, PO Box 5030, Whangarei B 09 430 1000 E whangarei@harcourts.co.nz Harcourts Bream Bay Unit 8, 30 Rauiri Drive, Marsden Cove, One Tree Point B 09 430 1000 E breambay@harcourts.co.nz

Residential and Rural Sales Property Management Commercial/Business Sales and Leasing

Proudly Supporting Harcourts Foundation North Haven Hospice Surf Lifesaving Northern Region

24

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

A SHORT HISTORY OF REYBURN HOUSE + THE SETTLER FAMILY R

eyburn House Art Gallery is Whangarei’s oldest Heritage homestead and Northland Society of Arts Inc. art gallery. A gracious colonial Kauri villa, with a category 2 NZ Historical Places Trust listing.

Reyburn House has had a varied past, and at one time came close to being demolished before NSA bought it, and restored it to its present visual feast. The gallery has an active programme changing regularly and this includes work from the NSA extensive permanent collection of art. Also a gallery shop for a fine collection of Northland artists paintings, jewellery, pottery, artists cards, glass, sculpture, lithographs and much more.

Robert Reyburn Senior came to New Zealand from Kilmarnock in Scotland in May 1859. He came with his wife Hannah and their two younger sons Robert Junior and John. In Scotland the Reyburn family was involved in the shipping trade and the wool industry. They were well known for the Glengarry bonnets they made.

On his arrival in Whangarei in 1859, Robert Reyburn Senior bought 42 acres and 36 perches of land which stretched from the Hatea River bank as far back as Cameron Street,

across to Rathbone Streeet on one side, and Walton Street on the other.

The house the family lived in when they first arrived was a little one-gabled cottage right on the riverbank. Over the next 30 or so years Robert Senior added extensions to the cottage till it became a large three-gabled house – one of the biggest houses in the pioneer town.

The family had a big orchard and ran dairy cows. They were also involved in shipping in the new Whangarei settlement. Robert Reyburn Senior and his two sons Robert Junior and James (who came to Whangarei in 1867) all became very involved in community affairs, and quite important people in the growing town.

The Beginning of Reyburn House In about 1870, just before Robert Reyburn Junior married, he built the first part of his house on the riverbank, next door to his father’s house. It was a little single-gabled cottage with an attic. That little cottage forms the middle part of the Reyburn House we know today.

Attached to the original cottage was a lean-to and out-house which may have been used as a wash house and toilet.

1880 Whangarei Town Wharf and Township buildings from left Whangarei Hotel, Sans Souci; GPO and Caflers Store on the corner and the homes of JT Reyburn, Robert Reyburn Snr and Robert Reyburn Jnr.(current Reyburn House) SS Argyle t the wharf. Native School and School house in the distance on Look Out Hill.

1900 - with the three -gabled mansion of Robert Reyburn Snr demolished, Reyburn House stands alone with James Reyburn’s home on the Walton Street side.

As Robert Junior’s family grew, so did his house. In 1884 the lean-to disappeared and a large extension was added onto the end nearest to the western hills. About 1895 a verandah was added across the side of the house facing the river. French doors were made to open onto the verandah. The final addition to the house was built about 1900. In 1892 Robert Reyburn Senior had died and in 1898 his house was pulled down. This meant that Robert Junior had extra space to add on two more rooms and a verandah to the side of his house which faces Walton Street.

Robert Junior and his wife Jessie had five children: James, Stanley, Eliza, William and Lottie. Eliza’s wedding reception was held in the house in 1904. Lottie died as a teenager and is remembered today by Kap Pothan’s sculpture of “Lottie” which stands on the lawn outside the bay window of Reyburn House – where Lottie would have spent many hours looking out over the busy river.

In 1910 when all the family had grown up, Robert and Jessie moved to Auckland. In 1919 Reyburn House was sold to Dr Ventry

Alexander John Smith, a Whangarei doctor.

He owned the property for the next 20 years, when it was sold again in 1939.

On the 17 December 1965, the Northland Harbour Board became the new owners of the property. It was not so much interested in the house, as the land on which it stood.

The Board needed the land for future wharf improvements.

In 1966 the Harbour Board allowed the Northland Society of Arts to rent the old house as its gallery and studio workshops.

The house had been very neglected, but the Northland Society of Arts had lots of working bees and fixed it up.

Then in 1984 the Harbour Board wanted to get going with wharf building and waterfront roading improvements. They sold Reyburn House to the Society of Arts who moved it to where it stands today. Once on its new site the Society began the long job of restoring the house to what it looked like in its pioneer days. Reyburn House now has Historic Places Trust Classification 2 and has become an important historic landmark in Whangarei.

NORTHLAND REYBURN SOCIETY HOUSE ART OF ARTS GALLERY Whangarei’s oldest pioneer house exhibiting New Zealand artists TOWN BASIN, WHANGAREI Open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday 1pm to 4pm Closed Mondays

Phone:

09 438 3074 Web: www.reyburnhouse.co.nz

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PH 435 0079 Offering private sellers and buyers the opportunity to buy and sell without the hidden costs of commissions, buyer’s premiums or success fees THE ORIGINAL IS BACK; Shane Meyer, the guy who first created the concept for private sellers, has stepped back into the market, putting the concept back in line to its true form. The concept of renting space was always about providing a venue for sellers to display their vehicles, boats, caravans etc, on a yard that could offer buyers the freedom to view privately

displayed vehicles under one location, with all the ingredients that a traditional car dealer has to offer. Showing off the vehicle, organising test drives, finance to help assist a buyer, mechanical breakdown insurance, vehicle information reports and change of ownerships, giving peace of mind to the purchaser and being hassle free for the seller.

nticeship d his appreown Auto te le p m o c is rs, and ran h are ast 38 yea e for the p -eighties. He set up ever since. Cars rth. d a tr r to o o id m rs w a e m c e th re g a th in in sell ck in been t they Shane has motive engineer baeties and has beengo in them and wha ane would never h to s in S u n rt A a d y p n n rl u a t a a e ro as g. x them, wh p till the this backg parts sho e, knowing how to fi ’s career, without about, motor racin e lif te n a a n h io S et is its s s to a Shane’s most p n vital the intern having e is e n b o e h s g a n t h a lli e h w This ith s ft with able to do problem w . Sellers are still le me wasters, have been at 479

s located s and ti st a photo & SELL is Liquorland and ju deal with enquirie ewing and test drive ll Y A L P IS D a vi to to r , O it fo M xt is e e A rd n K n can’t affo d, Kamo nising a tim n. Locatio Kamo Roa e Z Service Statio always been orga then be told they pit falls of selling e th s d a th n e h a it concept of yard oppos re the to be full where the pace to ant. This gs that a s so import lling site, it used e owned by thin r vehicles. This is c e ll) renting . It is so a great s ack in the day, on vans). Kamo moto amo Display & Se to its own e seller b (K in ra s a f n s o C carava us , urrays rs come d lle (M in e h s y e a b te ssful for th rr t e u h va o’s, pri Peter M ting station is rig d less str nd show off your g n e a R t n F, ie O n a W s vehicle te so convenient for d also great conve able to present ves and finance to g n ri making it ownerships etc. A king out the bein le, organise test d c Change of tential buyers che t. I get a lot vehic assist a buyer. o n p a rr a ve a w h a ve help r to waiting fo les that ha yard while ringing in their vehic et. The only b the intern of sellers to sell on g n yi tr n e be Australia ten years ago, a speedway class was born (Wingless Sprint cars). Now in NZ in its fourth season the class is growing rapidly. I was visiting Central Otago in the South Island, and went to Cromwell speedway to watch a sprint car championships.

• Bnt – Brake & Transmission To my amazement another sprint car division rolled out onto the track known as a wingless sprint car, or six shooter, as they are called here in NZ. Basically you get • Hot Prinz Screen Printing (Wgr) a sprint car, remove the 900 horsepower engine, remove the top and front aerofoil • Kelly’s Automotive wings and fit a Holden commodore 3.8 litre V6 engine into the chassis. As the cars • Auto Tech Northland Ltd weigh in at less than 600 kgs with the driver, the power to weight ratio makes them • Mike’s Engine Reconditioning just as quick as a speedway super saloon, and very exciting to drive, remembering • EZY Cars that a Holden Commodore weighs in at approximately 2000 Kgs so anyone that • Jaczo Powder Coating owns a commodore will know that the power plant in a car that is one third of the • Smith Racing vehicle weight is definitely no slug. I have always been passionate about speedway • Jack Mortimore Radiators and sprint cars all my life but never been able to afford a full blown sprint car as they • Kamo Display & Sell can be as much $100,000 dollars. Here was a class that offered a taste, but at a • Joker Race Products SPONSORS • Lucas Oil Anderson Automotive much lower price tag, $15,000 – $20,000 dollars getting you a competitive car.

These cars run on methanol fuel and are fuel injected. With restrictions to engine modifications bringing the class into a format of driver and car set-up, rather than who has the biggest cheque book which personally to me is what true racing is all about. Driver and Setup. We are all contracted to various race tracks around the country under speedway NZ Rules. Waikaraka Park, Auckland will have to be our home track as there are no speedway NZ registered tracks north of Auckland, but rest assured we will be flying the Northland flag as we compete against other drivers from around the country, and being the only wingless sprint car north of Wellsford.

It’s up to us to represent Northland as best as we possibly can. We hope to do some rounds at Whangarei speedway. The hard part is getting other competitors in this grade up as commitments can see them running at other venues.

REPRESENTING WHANGAREI IN NEW SPEEDWAY CLASS

BIG

THANK YOU TO MY

KAMO DISPLAY & SELL also runs a car fair on a Saturday morning between 9 am and 12 noon. This is designed for those who need their vehicles through the week. They can try their luck over a three hour time slot. You don’t have to stay with your vehicle, just bring it in and we will put the appropriate documentation on the vehicle and do the job for you, offering finance on Car Fair vehicles as well as monthly vehicle stock. SO if you’re having problems selling your vehicle or just can’t be bothered with the dramas, then give us a go. We’re new, we’re straight up and we are here to help.

Phone: 09 435 0079 Email: shanewmeyer@hotmail.co.nz 479 Kamo Road (next to Liquorland)

26

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

Honoured by Northland, international jewellery entrepreneur Michael Hill, who was inducted into the Northern Advocate Business Hall of Fame at the 2009 Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards.

A second replica of Bounty, named HMAV Bounty, was built by the old Whangarei Engineering Company (WECO) in 1978 and used in the film The Bounty starring Mel Gibson and Anthony Hopkins. The hull is constructed of welded steel oversheathed with timber. For many years it served the tourist excursion market from Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia, before being sold to HKR International Limited in October 2007. It is now a tourist attraction (also used for charter, excursions and sail training) based in Discovery Bay, on Lantau Island in Hong Kong.

The arms of Te Matau a Pohe stretch towards the sky as a vessel makes its way under the Whangarei bridge.

PAINTING JENNY BENNETT

Blyth Tait and Ready Teddy won gold at the 1996 Olympics at Atlanta. He was part of the New Zealand team to also win bronze.

Lloyd Budd sets off in a backstroke race in the 50 metre outdoor pool which was for many years the focal point for Northland swimmers. The photo is dated 12 December 1993

CLAY OBJECT & EMBELLISHMENT RICHARD STRATTON

EARTH: PIZZA OVEN GRANT STEVENS

GLASS: FUSING & WOOD: FORM & FINISH SOLAR ETCHING SLUMPING GRAEME PRIDDLE & PRINTMAKING SHANE GREGORY MELISSA ENGLER JACQUELINE AUST

INSTALLATION SCULPTURE SALLY LUSH

DARJIT SCULPTURE KOBI BECK

WEAVING MANDY SUNLIGHT

Moving with the times Finding this 1989 photograph of Professionals Chris White Real Estate Ltd made for some interesting memories. Some of their team are still in Whangarei (and some no longer with us) and some are still in the great occupation of selling real estate. Fast forward twenty-five years to Professionals today, same brand, different team, and a new set of faces.

From the larger style of offices of yesteryear Professionals Whangarei has refined its operations to a more boutique and service oriented office today. The Professionals brand continues to be the one that sticks with its community and with sales people that, to coin the phrase, “Love it Here”.

This underlying theme continues within the Professionals philosophy much as it always has done. The office might change location and there are bigger and brighter colours that surround that iconic Professionals star, property management has been added to our array of Real Estate services, but it’s Whangarei that we love, and making sure that we help those who want to live here, are able to do so.

The old Professionals

If you haven’t met us yet, maybe it’s time you did.

You’ll find us at 35 Robert street right in the town centre We’re more than just another brand; we’re part of your community Professionals NZ Own Home Licensed Agent REAA 2008

35 Robert st Whangarei Central E: admin@professionalsnorth.co.nz

The new Professionals

Phone 09 283 9674

Where Your Home is Your Castle www.professionalsnorth.co.nz

28

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

THE CELEBRATION BEGINS AT FABERS! 73

years, 3 generations and countless loyal customers have led to Fabers Furnishings reaching near iconic status in Whangarei city. For Alan and Sharon Faber, current owners and managers of the well-known Walton Street furnishing retail store, the city’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations are a reflection of the longevity of their own family business: and this is indeed something to celebrate.

Fabers Furnishings first opened their doors to the public in 1941; in a prime location on the still-growing Bank Street.

The prestigious store sprawled across four floors, and caused quite a stir in our (as yet unofficial) city. The well-respected Faber

Sharon and Alan Faber

family soon became known as authorities on home furnishing throughout Northland, and little has changed; with their wellstocked showroom featuring many wellknown NZ and international furnishing brands. Stockists of such quality names as Danske MØbler, La-Z-Boy and Domani, Fabers Furnishings have had over 70 years to perfect not only their customer service (which is fantastic) but also their product lines.

Alan and Sharon are hands-on owners, with an eye for quality and a focus on exceptional value. Every piece they choose to stock is selected with care, and every customer who takes home an item from Fabers also takes home their iron-clad guarantee of quality. This is no fly-by-night store – this is 73 years of responsible, high-end retailing. You won’t be finding run-of-the-mill, mass-produced furniture in this local retail showroom either. In a time where bulk importing is bringing prices (and quality) crashing down, Fabers have retained their commitment to integrity and their pursuit of quality. A purchase from Fabers Furnishings is an investment in style, a piece to love; designed to last a lifetime.

With a refined selection of unique furniture and designer fabrics, Fabers Furnishings places an emphasis on providing a selection that will last the distance. Too many products these days are returned as faulty, or simply don’t meet the needs of those who purchase them. At Fabers, with such an established reputation, customers can rest assured that the products sold have already met the most rigorous of standards, and the after-sales care is second to none.

With the celebration of 50 years of cityhood, Whangarei is looking to it’s most established businesses as symbols of success and growth. Fabers Furnishings is proud to be one of these pioneering retail establishments – and is looking forward to a future of increased economic growth and development in Northland.

Our historical ad dating back to 1974

Seaford 4-pce Occasional Suite Charcoal wash.

Sold complete.

SALE $2299

SAVE $600

Minx Twin Sunloungers

ON NOW

Huge Savings!

See the latest designs and styles now in-store. Outdoor living has never looked so good!

Twin lounge set in woven mixed taupe with beige cushions.

Includes 2.5m tilt Olefin aqua umbrella (UV90+) and base.

SALE $1199

SAVE $300

WHANGAREI Cnr Walton and Hannah Sts

09 438 3679 • 0800 FABERS | www.fabers.co.nz

Alsten 4-pc Occasional Suite Mixed chocolate.

Sold complete.

SALE $1599

SAVE $400

DECEMBER 2014

29

WHANGAREI CITY

WHANGAREI: HARD WORK BUILDS A GREAT CITY I

n 1970 Stan Semenoff arrived in Whangarei with nothing but the clothes on his back and a pair of rugby boots.

Now, after 35 years in local politics building Whangarei and Northland, with four terms as Whangarei’s Mayor, and terms as Deputy Chair of the Regional Council, the Harbour Board and the District Health Board under his belt, there aren’t many people in Northland who don’t know the name Stan Semenoff.

Stan looks with pride on the part he has played in the creation of Whangarei city as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Some of the city’s most notable features were established or planned during Stan’s mayoralties. Of particular satisfaction was the construction of the Town Basin area, with its beautiful public spaces and attractive shopping and eating areas. The new walkway, its pedestrian bridge and Te Matau a¯ Pohe bridge were all conceived under Stan.

Toll Stadium, attracting international sporting and concert events, and the adjacent Cobham Oval were developed, along with the Okara Shopping Centre and nearby Porowini Avenue, which is becoming a bustling

commercial and retail district. Significant gains were made in Whangarei’s roading network to enhance the city for its residents and for its businesses.

Stan says his focus has always been job creation. He firmly believes kids have to be taken off the streets and that the solution to many of Northland’s social problems is employment. He wants to see growth in tourism for the jobs it promises - with the Hundertwasser initiative part of this - and wants to see the region driven forward by a united Northland.

Now out of the public spotlight, Stan has returned to doing what he loves most: growing his business and providing employment for a large number of Northlanders. As well as expanding his hallmark transport and sand interests, Stan has purchased a number of well-established Northland businesses to not only keep them going, but also keep them local.

In recent years he has acquired Hilders Northland, United Livestock and United Bulk, Kaitaia Transport, Graham Parkes, Tomarata Sand Plant and Kamo Scoria, and

brought their workforces under his wing.

It is through all these enterprises that Stan has stayed grounded: his investment in Whangarei’s people is what occupies his days.

From providing a large, well-provisioned gym for his employees, their families and the children of nearby Raumanga, to his support and encouragement of sport in Northland, Stan now has the time and energy to enjoy the things that mean the most to him; this means more time for family and a growing connection with his home town, Kaitaia.

With the recent purchase of logging company Kaitaia Transport, Hokiangaborn Stan is sowing the seeds for more of a presence in his ‘home country’, and this is something he is quietly excited about.

Although Stan’s time in Whangarei is far from over, this connection with his heritage is of the utmost importance to him.

As he considers his future, and that of Whangarei, he has one important message to convey: “Nothing is gained without hard work – no pain, no gain. Our government needs to stop giving handouts and start offering a hand up so that our kids will

learn the value of hard work. Northland has everything to offer; we just need to start putting in the hard yards to make it work.”

Stan is very grateful to have been given the chance to grow with Whangarei city and the region of Northland; he thanks those who have supported him on his journey of growth.

Stan himself shows no sign of slackening.

He says he is currently eyeing further business acquisitions to retain more jobs in the North and grow the Northland economy.

Yes, Stan’s term as mayor has come to an end, but it is clear his dedication to Whangarei – and Northland – is far from over.

SERVICING WHANGAREI & NORTHLAND REGION GION Semenoff Sand Supplies Ltd Tomarata Sand Ltd Envirosands Northland Ltd Marsden Weigh Bridge Ltd Northland Bulk Logistics Ltd Semenoff Storage Ltd

Stan Semenoff Transport Ltd Stan Semenoff Livestock Ltd • Hilders Northland • United Livestock Stan Semenoff Logging Ltd Stan Semenoff Scoria Ltd S G A Semenoff Agricultural Contractors Ltd

NO 1 IN PALM KERNEL SERVICING BULK HAULAGE, LOG HAULAGE, LIVESTOCK CARTAGE FERTILISER, LIME, ALL GRADES METAL, SAND & SCORIA

Our historical advert dating bac k to 1989

South End Avenue, Raumanga, Whangarei, 0110 Po Box ox 6058 6058, Rauma Raumanga, anga Wh Whangarei hangarei 0147 Phone: 09 438 1020 Or 0800 438 698 Email: info@semenoffgroup.co.nz

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DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

LOOKING BACK ON 70 YEARS WITH MORRIS & MORRIS FUNERALS I

n 1944, Bernal Morris - founder of Morris & Morris Funerals - had just started out in business, in the relative quiet of Warkworth. Bernal had a talented wife in Mabel; who ran her own accountancy firm; and it wasn’t long before the ambitious family made their move to Whangarei. In 1953, Bernal and Mabel Morris brought their joint accountancy and funeral home to our fair city – and this is where their businesses really began to grow.

A decline in Bernal’s health forced Mabel’s hand in 1956, and she closed her accountancy practice to care for her husband – and to manage the steadily growing funeral business.

Bernal and Mabel’s sons were all involved in the day-to-day operation of the funeral home, and at the passing of Bernal in 1958, Mabel continued on, with considerable assistance from her sons and former part-time employee and soon-to-be shareholder Jim Montgomery.

Both sons also became shareholders, and the business never faltered. In fact, Mabel was later to describe the 60s as the prime time of her life; and as the business blossomed, so did Mabel – becoming an astute and highly respected Whangarei businesswoman.

Bernal and Mabel’s eldest son Lloyd was appointed manager in 1976, with Mabel retaining the title of Governing Director until her eventual retirement in 1992.

Today, the legacy created by Bernal and Mabel’s hard work and strong vision is continued on through a committed and caring professional team. The essence of Morris & Morris Funerals is a belief in complete care for family members and relatives of the deceased, with an emphasis

on creating lasting relationships with those they assist. The caring team at Morris & Morris Funerals look back with pride on their heritage, and continue to build their support services in a way they feel would make both Bernal and Mabel proud.

With six qualified Funeral Directors and four qualified embalmers, families can take comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones are being cared for by people who are not only highly qualified, but also deeply respectful of the funeral journey. We are constantly seeking opportunities for ongoing professional development, ensuring we maintain our high standards and offer world-class pre- and post-funeral care. Our priority is to offer a warm and comforting atmosphere, with an experienced team who will manage the entire funeral process; providing a calm environment in what can be a tumultuous time.

We give our customers the opportunity to pre-plan their funerals; taking the stress off family members during their time of grief.

Morris & Morris also offer funerals to suit all budgets: we are completely respectful of every family’s choice, believing the cost of a funeral is the family’s decision, not ours. Our goal is to assist in every way with any difficulties faced by our families - and with grief management and care offered for as long as needed after the funeral, the Morris & Morris team is committed to providing the warmest care and most personal service. We welcome your enquiries, and will always have time to discuss your unique needs and wishes.

Morris & Morris: ordinary people doing an extraordinary job.

Happy Birthday, Whangarei!

From the whole team at Morris & Morris Funerals

Call us today for a friendly consultation, Whangarei 09 437 5799 or 0800 66 77 47. www.morrisandmorris.co.nz

WE’VE COME OF AGE! Our 20th year serving Northland We have served over 1 Million Meals 150,000 Glasses of Wine, 675,000 Handles of Beer, 144,000 Cups of Coffee, 23 tonnes of Beef (82,000 steaks), 21 tonnes of Chicken, 17 tonnes of Bacon, 15 tonnes of Pork Ribs, 5.5 tonnes of Prawns, 10 tonnes of Fresh Fish, 330,000 Eggs, 55 tonnes of Chips

CONGRATULATIONS WHANGAREI CITY – Thank you for your support.

Dickens Inn is proud to be in our 20th year serving Whangarei & Northland Over the last 19 years we have served more than 1 million meals, 150,000 Glasses of Wine, 675,000 Handles of Beer and 144,000 Cups of Coffee.

Our offering has remained relevant by adding new dishes and a wide range of craft beers and wines from selected boutique New Zealand wineries. Our food offering is unpretentious, casual, well presented restaurant quality food served in a fun low-key atmosphere by friendly staff.

We pride ourselves on serving the freshest local produce.

Our fresh fish is line caught locally and delivered from the boat direct to us. Fresh fish is one of our most popular meals and we have cooked more than 10 tonnes. Our steaks are prime steer from Silver Fern Farms, naturally grazed on selected Northland farms and tender aged for a minimum of three weeks. We have cooked over 82,000 steaks from 23 tonnes of the best Northland beef.

When we opened over 19 years ago our kitchen was one of the first in New Zealand to be an open show kitchen where the customer gets to see their food being cooked. It is only now that this has become the trend in New Zealand. We are committed to supplying our customers with safe food.

We follow an in house food control plan and are graded A + Merit by the Whangarei District Council.

Why the Dickens Inn? A family legacy of over two centuries! When Graeme and Vicki Cundy, the owners of the Dickens Inn, decided in 1995 to establish an English Tavern on the corner of Cameron Street and the Old English styled precinct of Quality Street in the centre of Whangarei they decided to use the family name of Dickens. Graeme’s Great Grandfather was John Dickens, having the same name as the writer Charles Dickens father. It was decided to call the new establishment the Dickens Inn and to build a theme around the great writer, as drinking and eating houses were close to his heart. Reproductions of the original drawings used to illustrate Charles Dickens books were provided by the Dickens House Museum in London

and adorn the walls around the Dickens Inn. Over 130 years brewing great beer.

John Dickens was a brewer born in 1840 in Leicestershire, England who emigrated to Holland.

This was during the period that the then fledgling Heineken Brewery was being established in Amsterdam by Gerard Adriaan Heineken and the brewing of Heineken, the world’s leading lager, began in 1873.

The Dickens Inn is a “Heineken Star Serve Venue” and we are proud to serve Heineken on tap.

A Historic Site There has been a hotel on this site, in various guises since 1891. In 1994 the old Whangarei was completely demolished to make way for the Quality Street development and the Dickens Inn. Features such as the brick wall in the restaurant and the old polished Kauri panel doors were recycled from the old pub. The lead lights at the top of the stairs and over the restaurant were salvaged from Drummonds Ironmongers building which was demolished in the early 1980’s to make way for The Strand at the top of Cameron Street. These date from the mid 1800’s. Many of the features in the Dickens Inn date back to the era of Charles Dickens including the colour scheme such as the English library reading room red feature walls.

BEER OF THE MONTH

The Dickens Inn opened on the 1st December 1995 and has been open every day since with only one or two exceptions.

Enjoy a cold Radler bier on tap at Dickens Inn. You deserve it.

Our first beer delivery – Opening day 1st December 1995

$ 50

6

ASK ABOUT OUR PRIVATE FUNCTION ROOMS Business, meetings, Seminars, Product Presentations, Workshops- With our facilities, in house catering, equipment & dedicated staff we will make your event a success

Having a Celebration or Work Function?

Our private air conditioned rooms, bar & lounge can cater for your every need.

We offer range of menus- Finger Food, Set Menus, Buffets - breakfast, lunch, dinner & in between. n.

Engagements, Wedding receptions, Birthdays, Anniversaries, work parties

Dickens Inn Larder & Cellar Co. Cafe – Bars – Restaurant – Functions Rooms On Cameron at Quality Street Mall, Whangarei City Centre. www.dickensinn.co.nz

Phone 09 430 0405 info@dickensinn.co.nz

DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

PARADE Whangarei celebrated 50 years a city with a parade along Walton Street and partying at theTown Basin recently. Advocate photographer John Stone was there to capture the moment.

McQuinn Pumps Serving Northland Since 1979

McQUINN

First shop in John Street, and then Dent Street NOW in Kioreroa Road, next to Goughs

McQUINN

PUMPS

www.mcquinnpumps.co.nz 72 Kioreroa Road | 0800 MCQUINN

Congratulations Whangarei City.

We’ve been with you from the start, and you don’t look a day over 25. asb.co.nz

ASB Bank Limited 3099 14141 1114

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DECEMBER 2014

WHANGAREI CITY

ROBINSON ASPHALTS

R

obinson Asphalts are extremely proud to have been a part of Whangarei’s history as a city for 42 of the past 50 years.

This leading contracting business was originally started by Peter and Joan Robinson in 1972. Prior to that Peter and Joan were sharemilking until Peter bought a bulldozer and among other contracts was loading fertiliser inside bulk ships. He then became involved in the establishment of a new company in Whangarei “United Earthworks” along with six other shareholders and was the inaugural Chairman of Directors of that firm. In 1972 he decided to venture out on his own, buying out the small operation of Tom Hollows which provided the foundation for the growth and transformation that was to take place in the years that followed.

The business was sold to current owners Alan and Annie Johnston (Peter & Joan’s daighter and son-in-law) 20 years later in 1992. Another 22 years have flown by under that ownership. The business has thrived and continued to grow from strength to strength through two generations of family.

Both Alan and Annie are sixth generation Northlanders – their ancestors having been early settlers in the Whangarei district.

Initially the business was located in Ewing Road, then Port Road, shifted to Hewlett Street, later to the Kamo Brickworks and finally, in 1998, Alan and Annie relocated the business to new, purpose built premises in Winger Crescent, Springs Flat, Kamo where they are still located today.

Robinson Asphalts have been involved in many exciting projects around the district over the years. One of the highlights for Alan and Annie was winning contracts for the major redevelopment of the Town Basin. The 1994 project included the demolition of the old Marine North building and old wharf sheds, realignment of the road, construction of timber wharves and boardwalks, stone walls including the iconic “hole in the wall”, Hotmix and paving, landscaping and planting, the placement of the large rock out in front of Mondos (now known as Riverside Café) and also the large steps and walls which they constructed from tiles and bricks from the old Whangarei Glassworks.

The original development was visionary and exciting at the time and Robinsons were thrilled to be part of something special and

positive for Whangarei, which was driven by a forward thinking District Council.

They are hopeful that a new phase of tourism development will soon take place to enhance the work that has already been done in this special part of our city.

Robinson Asphalts won a Merit Award for the 1994 Town Basin Project in the prestigious NZ Caltex Construction Awards.

They have also entered and won awards at the Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards in 1999 and again in 2009.

The Robinson name is well known with an excellent track record, but the company has grown and diversified over the years to offer a great deal more than just asphalt, to the point that the company is often referred to simply as “Robinsons”.

Professionals in all aspects of civil works, Robinsons are able to offer total project delivery from start to finish – a one-stop-shop. Asphalt laying is obviously a strength, particularly hand-laying of Asphalt – a bit of an art-form after so many years, and delivering a superb, joint-free finish, however Robinson Asphalts are also specialists in concrete, kerbing, paving, timber and fencing work, retaining walls, tennis courts and other sport surfaces, masonry, landscaping, civil works including drainage, earthworks, sub-floor preparation and hardfill, demolition and many other aspects of civil works. It may come as a surprise that Robinsons do as much or more concrete than they do tarseal.

Within the current staff of approx 40, in addition to Alan and Annie, there are three of the original staff who were already with Robinson Asphalts at the time of the changeover in 1992. Russell Wootten – Operations Manager, Perrie Nelson – Workshop Manager, and Ross Keogh (Smiley) – builder.

There are also many other employees who have been with the firm for a long time.

These people and the rest of the team are what make Robinson Asphalts so successful.

There is a massive amount of experience and expertise within the team and they all take great pride in their work.

In this year’s NZCF Northland Construction Awards, the company scooped 3 awards and both Alan and Annie were made life members of NZCF Northland – this is the first time there has been a fatherdaughter combination as Life members (Peter & Annie). The Husband /Wife

Construction of the town basin in 1994

combination is almost as rare given that Annie was only the 3rd woman nationally to be recognised this way in the history of NZCF (now known as Civil Contractors New Zealand) spanning 70 years.

The team at Robinson Asphalts are grateful that they have had the opportunity to be a part of many exciting and transformational projects around the District and look forward to many more.

Northland’s First Class Civil Contractors Since 1972 Shaping our city for 42 years and still going strong...

Thank you Whangarei, for having us help build the future of our city.

Toll Stadium Town Basin Whangarei Hospital Northtec Northland Hockey Turf Schools (Northland Wide) Thomas Neale Tennis IC Motors Pak n Save Placemakers Mark Cromie Holden Bunnings Warehouse Northland Toyota R.D 1 AND SO MANY MORE SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS!

Contact us now to discuss your 2015 project! www.robinsonasphalts.co.nz

DECEMBER 2014

35

WHANGAREI CITY

KERR CONSTRUCTION

O

n looking at the newspaper advertising, and our advertisement in particular, in the Northern Advocate back in 1974 it is hard not to wonder where all those years have gone. The feature back then was celebrating Whangarei’s tenth anniversary as a city and positively proclaimed words like growth, ambitious, unique and pointer of things to come. There was definitely an air of enthusiasm and a gungho feel about the advertising.

Kerr Construction had been building bridges, commercial buildings, the Hellabys beef processing plant and Maunu Reservoir for 14 years then. I am sure that the proud owners, John and Alan Kerr, were feeling pretty pleased with their company, staff and achievements.

Much has changed since then, both for the Whangarei City and New Zealand as a country. The older citizens like me can probably remember car-less days and the cost of stereos and other technical equipment.

Times have changed in the building industry too. Back then we knew our competitors intimately and ran our businesses like extensions of a family. Promotion came by being the most experienced man on the job, the apprentice was teased and made to make the tea (until a new apprentice started) and not to many jobs ever went to out-of-towners.

Not all of the trends and practices have made me happy. The decimation of the

apprenticeship scheme in the 1990s and the arbitrary way people now decide to train or not to train young people makes our communities all the poorer. My stepsons are both tradies working and living overseas.

Both have reaped the cash and prestige reward for being NZ trained and qualified.

Our apprentices go on to be highly regarded and sought after all around the world because of their extensive knowledge and experience and can do attitude. We need to keep training more and plug our own skill gap rather than import skilled workers. I don’t much like the change of many building companies to contract labour. It was always important in the past to find something for staff to do in the down or hard times and ride out the wait for better days. I worry about young men with families and mortgages going from job to job and how that affects their children.

The uncertainty of work has been moved downwards to people who can least afford the time not working.

There is always a cost to taking the cheaper job from a company based wherever.

We spend a bit of time repairing leaks and doing maintenance on large buildings built by out-of-towners who have gone broke. Local businesses spread their money, sponsorship and time around local causes.

Whangarei is a great little city (maybe without the great bluff and bluster from 40 years ago) and without doubt with our share

of troubles, but there is great community spirit and nowhere looks so good from afar.

Here at Kerr Construction we train local young people and I buy local whenever I can.

Locally owned and employing local people since 1960

T. (09) 438 2884 | F. (09) 438 8723 E. admin@kerrcon.co.nz

5 Bougainville Street P O BOX 765 Whangarei W. www.kerrcon.co.nz

We have been getting on with the building business for over 54 years now and we look forward to placing an advertisement in the next Whangrei City celebration feature.

Founded in 1962 by the late Bob Tait Why choose Team Tait?

It’s simple: We have been successfully selling Northland Real Estate for 50 years. We offer you a truly local service, with unsurpassed knowledge of the Whangarei and Northland real estate market. Being locally owned and operated means we can offer you an expert aspect - we aren’t a national company, we are local Northlanders - and proud of it!

We believe that the best way to sell a house in a local community is to be part of that community. Over the past 50 years we have built strong local networks, meaning the chance of us finding a buyer for your house or a property that suits your needs is considerably increased.

Call our friendly team and find out for yourself how Team Tait can help you get results!

John Fairley

Jenny Fairley

Gary Boucher

Isabel Corbett

Pam Johnson

Maria Satterfield

Tracey Templeton

Deborah Blair

Kamo Chuck

61 Walton St, Whangarei PH 09-438 3519

www.teamtait.co.nz