The Weekend Lifestyler, August 11th 2023

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P3 Painting the town bright P7 The search for beauty P5 Music uplifts wearable arts www.w yatts.net.nz MANGAWHAI: 107 Mangawhai Heads Rd. Ph 431 5445 WARKWORTH: 371 Woodcocks Rd. Ph 425 0417 WAIMAUKU: 948 State Highway 16. Ph 411 9604 DAIRY FLAT: 1431 Dairy Flat Highway. Ph 212 3660 OPEN 7 DAYS WYATTS.NET.NZ •Stones, Rocks, Pebbles, Scoria, Shell, Spawls, White Chip, Pavers, Rock Walls (huge variety) • Sand, Asphalt •Mulch (great selection) • Bark, Ponga Logs • Top Soil, Potting Mix, Garden Mix, Compost • Concrete, Mortar •Garden Tools, Equipment, Gloves • Weedmats & Pins •Fertilisers, Weed Killers, Supplements etc •Grass Seeds • Sleepers • Pothole Mix, Builders Mix •Clean Fill (WARKWORTH ONLY) • Drain Coils • Tree Stakes •Greenwaste Disposal • Firewood (WARKWORTH ONLY) Plus loads more... Courtesy Trailers plus we deliver Create your outdoor sanctuary! Whether it’s big or it’s small, we have it all & we just love to help... As a young girl, Rebekah Davidson loved spending time with horses and is now often found helping them and their riders through her degree in physiotherapy. Based in Wellsford, she is also well known for her hydrotherapy classes at the Swim Evolution private pools in Te Hana. Seeing her animal and human clients maintaining good health is an important aspect of Rebekah’s work and she delights in seeing positive results on a regular basis. Helping animals and humans continued on page 12 … August 11 2023

Empowering wāhine with encouragement

Stephanie Schutt, Ms Aotearoa Beauty Pageant 2023 candidate, recently held a charity dinner and raised $1,200 for Te Puna O Te Aroha Māori Women’s Refuge.

Mangawhai

“The community in Ruakākā is amazing, kind and safe, and I love the beach here. That is what has kept me in the area,” Stephanie says.

“I went to high school in Ruakākā and am a solo mum of five boys, three of which are cognitively impaired. I work in community health with a focus on spinal and brain injuries.

“Our first charity assignment for the pageant was to deliver at least 10 handbags filled with women’s essentials to Women’s Refuge. We were to support a charity of our choice throughout

“I have a heart for women and am oncall 24/7 because I adore my mahi and seeing wāhine changing from when they come into the refuge,” TPOTA community advocate Azuredee Edwards says.

“Stephanie is doing a wonderful act of kindness for us. This event is a big deal for us because we are a non-government organisation and we don’t have the opportunity to fundraise very often.

“She is not of normal pageant-body shape and is showing self-confidence. She is being vulnerable, and I hope she goes far in the pageant because we

our pageant journey, and another requirement was to do an event for a charity of our choice.

“I don’t support anything that is not heartfelt and I chose to support Te Puna O Te Aroha Māori Women’s Refuge (TPOTA). Many people have had to use them when they are in crisis.”

“Many Māori wāhine don’t speak up about domestic violence, and I did the charity dinner to empower them. I want women to know that it doesn’t matter what obstacles get in the way of achieving your goals if you have a clear mind you can achieve it.”

Representatives from the Whangārei TPOTA attended the night and are grateful to Stephanie for her assistance.

need to see strong wāhine publicly. We support her all the way.”

Nikita Joel, Mrs Aotearoa candidate, spoke on the night to support Stephanie’s event.

“Stephanie asked me to be a guest speaker. I want women to feel that they can be bold, beautiful and unique and be themselves and who they want to be. I don’t like people telling me who to be.”

Music artist Mz Diamond supports Stephanie on her beauty pageant journey performed at the event.

“Stephanie and I have been friends for ages. She asked me to sing at the event, and as soon as she told me it was for Women’s Refuge, I said, done,” singer Mz Diamond said. ¢

2 August 11 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER IS PUBLISHED WITH PRIDE BY INTEGRITY COMMUNITY MEDIA, A PRIVATELY OWNED NORTHLAND COMPANY. 7,100 copies, distributed on Friday to every residential and rural home throughout the district including Whangārei, One Tree Point, Ruakākā, Waipū, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka and Wellsford. Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: 107 River Road, Dargaville Editor: Deb Wright 021 639 696 deb.wright@integrity.nz Journalists: Ann van Engelen | Liz Clark Advertising: Joanne Lowe 027 525 9172 | Olivia Green 027 525 8197 Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Anna Fredericksen | Kelsey Harrison | Liz Clark Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Printed by: NZME Opinions expressed in this publication and in advertising inserts, by contributors or advertisers, are not necessarily those of Integrity Community Media. All inserts delivered with the publication are not produced by Integrity Community Media.
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“Many Māori wāhine don’t speak up about domestic violence, and I did the charity dinner to empower them”
COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS – NEWS YOU CAN TRUST
p Stephanie Schutt (third from left), Ms Aotearoa candidate with representatives from TPOTA Women’s Refuge, sponsors and supporters at the charity dinner she organised

Painting the town bright

Shann Whitaker designed four options to go on the village water tank, and Mangawhai

“Before living in Mangawhai, I lived in Vietnam for 10 years designing artwork for five-star hotels and had a gallery there with a team of Vietnamese artists,” said artist Shann.

“I am an art consultant for hotel artwork in New Zealand and Vietnam. I have been living in Mangawhai for a couple of years and am on the committee at the Mangawhai Art Gallery.

“When we moved here, I quickly realised that there were lots of creative people living here, but it wasn’t visually artistic with murals or sculptures.

“Last year, I did a mural on the Lincoln Street toilet block in Mangawhai for the Kaipara District Council. Another recently completed mural is behind the gallery

and library on two water tanks where I had the assistance of school children between the ages of 5–16 years old.

“Since then I started to see water tanks that needed artwork. I am slowly becoming a water tank guy, but they are ugly and often sit there unpainted or in one block colour. Being a flat surface, they are great to paint murals on, and since they are round, you can create cool artwork on them.

“I pass the water tank every day and it constantly has graffiti on it, so I asked the council if they’d be interested in having a mural on the tank. They suggested that we do a community poll, so I created four separate designs for people to vote on. One was land-based with stingrays

on it, with nīkau palms and forest, and the other ones were pattern illustrative.

“The ocean-themed design won with almost 50% of the votes, and I had a feeling that would be the winning one. It received good community engagement with about 990 people offering feedback.”

Shann says the mural will be painted on the tank when there is good muralpainting weather.

“My idea is to brighten up the town one project at a time. I haven’t had any negative feedback at all, and everyone seems like they want more. One space

that everybody talks about is the new round-a-bouts in Mangawhai, which people want art on.

“Communities want creativity, colour and vibrancy when they drive around, especially if they have been part of the design process or even creating it themselves.

“There are many creative people in towns who are itching to get their artwork seen or be part of local projects. I would like to see councils and the private sector put more funding into beautifying smaller areas — artwork makes towns better and increases community wellbeing.”

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locals have voted for the ocean-themed
artistry.
¢
p Shann Whitaker has been adding vibrancy to Mangawhai one project at a time p Shann has done various public artwork projects in his contribution to beautifying the town

A special place for endangered species

“I have grown up locally and have volunteered in conservation work for a long time. I have been the conservation manager at Tara Iti for four years,” says Alex Flavell-Johnson.

“The hui is the first collaborative event of its kind, and it might grow into a larger annual event, depending on how it goes.

“Our area is special. We have more than 65 threatened or at-risk species in the Mangawhai and Te Ārai area, and there are so many amazing creatures out there. We have one of the most critically endangered birds in New Zealand, which

is the NZ fairy tern, and there are less than 40 of them remaining.

“Mangawhai and Te Ārai is also a hotspot for the Australian bittern, which is another unknown and secretive wetland bird. There are thought to be less than 700 left in NZ. The long-tailed bat is another critically endangered species that lives around the Brynderwyn Ranges. There are heaps of creatures that people may not have realised we had.

“It is an exciting time for conservation in the area. There are many groups doing conservation projects individually

and collaboratively. We are all working towards the common cause of protecting our native biodiversity and supporting and encouraging our local communities to get involved with it all too. We will share our stories about protecting species in our area like the kiwi, and the critically endangered Australasian bittern and fairy tern. The day will finish off with a trapping workshop, and they also have the opportunity to take a trap home.

“Our three groups, along with iwi like Te Uri O Hau, work together to ensure we have predator control across the rohe. We are all on the same page and making good progress out there.

“Between the Shorebirds Trust and the Piroa Conservation Trust, we are trapping

across 40,000 hectares and making a good dent in the predator numbers.

“We work hard to get the community to get involved in predator control. We have recently set up a Mangawhai Predator Control Zone so we can provide traps and training to the community. It will assist us in protecting our local species.”

To RSVP, email conservation@taraiti. co.nz. The hui is free to attend on Sunday, August 20, from 1pm–4pm at the Mangawhai Senior Citizens Hall in Fagan Place.

“I always knew that it was a special place, but I didn’t realise how incredible the diversity and number of species we have. The more you look into it, the more you discover.” ¢

4 August 11 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
The Shorebirds Trust, Piroa Conservation Trust and The New Zealand Fairy Tern Charitable Trust are celebrating Conservation Week by inviting people to community hui. p The Mangawhai and Te Ārai area is a hotspot for the elusive wetland bird Australasian bittern
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Music uplifts wearable arts

Only a few short weeks separate us from Dargaville’s 2023 Wearable Arts extravaganza, and elements of art, music, design and performance are coming together to reveal the shape of an unmissable event.

Choreographing the various strands of creativity that make up the finished show is underway, and what’s on offer promises to fill the giant marquee booked for the wearable arts to bursting point. In terms of music, composer and performer Brian Baker has been hard at work not just collating cover tracks to suit the mood but composing a score to match the themes of the competition.

“There are three major parts I have been working on, which correspond to the three themes that will be explored by the wearable arts creations on stage,” says Brian.

“The reuse and recycle category has been a fun piece to compose, using the sounds of upcycled materials as instruments to really get into the metaphorical space. For the environment and nature category, I’ve taken a real Kiwiana approach, with a pacific-reggae sound and native birdsong. Avantgarde lives up to its name and will be a surprise.”

As well as these main themes to complement and uplift the visual art of the contestants, and the additional projections and art by AwhiWorld, Brian has worked with the talented young cast of dancers who accompany the production.

“For them, I’ve composed energetic hip-hop style tracks, but then there’s the Alice in Wonderland theme, which allows us to get very psychedelic,” he says.

To add to this long list of musical compositions, Brian will also finish the evening with the performance of a new song he’s written and rehearsed just for the wearable arts.

Of course, the music is just one part of what organisers are calling a ‘feast for the senses’ at this year’s wearable arts extravaganza. Right now, staging, lighting, dance choreography and the competitor’s artworks are reaching a final pitch of perfection. All will be revealed when the curtain goes up on September 1 and 2. Those privileged enough to get a first glimpse behind the

calibre of entries

Tickets are on sale now via iticket. co.nz or by calling 050 848 4253. it’s expected that all shows, including the

Apology

Saturday matinee, will quickly fill up as September approaches. Get hold of yours soon, and prepare to experience the triumphant return of wearable arts to the northwest. ¢

In a recent issue of the Weekend Lifestyler, we ran a story that we omitted to remove information that the family had requested we redact. We sincerely apologise for this oversight. We are not naming the story to protect the family’s privacy.

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p Music, movement and dance will frame a stunning selection of artworks, when Dargaville hosts the 2023 Wearable Arts in September scenes advise that the this year is superb.

Graceful and fragrant

When we think of carnations, it’s usually the long-stemmed bouquets given on special occasions.

Those varieties are specially cultivated in glasshouses by commercial floriculturists for the cut flower industry. In the garden, while they may not be these types of cultivars, carnations add colour and fragrance to spring and summer flowers.

Carnations have been grown for more than 2,000 years and have remained a favourite worldwide. The plants grow up to 90cm in height, while other, smaller varieties reach up to 60cm. Hybridisation by growers has produced several distinct types, including border carnations, perpetual or florist carnations, spray and Malmaison carnations. Whatever your choice,

carnations require the same growing conditions, other than the commercial single-stemmed glasshouse types, which need specialised care.

A site exposed to full sunlight is best.

Carnations do best in cooler conditions, usually spring to early summer but can cope if the site has some slight shade. Well-drained, fertile soil is best for these flowering perennials. Amend the soil with additions of well-rotted manure, compost, and blood and bone before planting. The soil pH should be slightly above seven, as the plants prefer slightly alkaline growing conditions.

Add dolomite lime to ensure the plants have the requirements needed for

robust growth. If growing in pots, ensure there are plenty of drainage holes to prevent waterlogging of the roots. Carnations do not do well in soaking wet soil.

Use a good-quality potting mix for your plants and water at least twice weekly to prevent drying out. For either in the garden or pots, a slow-release fertiliser tablet will help provide extra nutrients during the growing season. Regular liquid feeding every six to eight weeks is recommended by growers to maintain vigorous blooming.

Spent blooms should be removed once faded at the base. Regular light trimming will keep the plants tidy and

healthy. Pests and diseases should be carefully watched out for. The main pests that damage carnations are aphids, thrips, slugs and snails. Use an appropriate spray or bait to keep them at bay.

Viruses can be an issue with carnations. Always ensure that virusfree plants are purchased from your local nursery. Alternatively, they can also be grown from seed following the seed merchant’s instructions on the packet. With so many hybrids available, the choice is limitless in type and form. Talk to your local garden centre professional or search online for availability.

¢

The search for beauty

Barbara Jacomb, Val Green and Wendy Robinson have been scouting the area in search of gorgeous natural spaces to display in the 21st Mangawhai Garden Ramble.

“Gardeners generously open their homes to support the kindergarten and give ramblers access to special spaces they have diligently created,” Barbara says.

“The Garden Ramble is the only fundraising event that the Mangawhai Kindergarten does each year. Its first year was 2003, and organised by a dedicated group of whānau, kindergarten staff and volunteers.

“We approach gardeners if we see nice-looking gardens. Sometimes they need encouragement, but most of them are happy to be included because people are proud of their gardens and what they have created.

“Val, Wendy and I put in a lot of groundwork driving around and looking at gardens or by word of mouth. Some people approach the kindergarten to offer their space to the ramble. We look for a big variety — small urban gardens or big rambly gardens further out of town and big open spaces.

“Wendy and I have organised gardens for the last two years. My garden was in

the ramble in 2021, Val’s has been in it a few times before and Wendy’s olive grove has been in twice.”

This year, the ramble is on November 11 and 12. It costs $25, and includes a map of the gardens.

“It is a full-on day because people come through your property all day, and you welcome them. Some people want to just wander around and enjoy the garden, and others have questions.

“The gardeners are normally there to talk to. Sometimes there are parts of the garden that aren’t open to the public, and we ask that they respect that, especially in some of the bigger gardens where you can’t watch what people are doing.

“People put a lot of work into their gardens and are proud of what they have achieved. They may say that it is just a garden, but it is special, and they are all different, and all feature various things.

“We currently have about 20 entries that include the kindergarten, the domain, Hakaru Bonsai and the Kaiwaka

Food Forest. There are tropical gardens, and this year, we have a garden that has bushwalks with artworks scattered throughout it.

“Garden 229 is a cool garden with ponds, streams, eels and lots of walking tracks. I enjoy the bushwalks and he planted natives so it can remain

covered. Some of them are formal. One lady has colour blocks surrounding her open spaces.

“If people want to put their names forward to display their garden, we are happy to come out, and if we don’t put it in for 2023, we can add them to next year’s waitlist.” ¢

one container, endless possiblities.

THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER August 11 2023 7
p Visitors in the past have come from as far as Picton to attend the Mangawhai Garden Ramble
“It is a full-on day because people come through your property all day”
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Planting for a bounteous spring

August is drawing to a close, which means it’s curtains for winter of 2023, with the thoughts of gardeners turning to the new season.

Nature uses this time to replenish and restore, ready for the riot of growth ahead, so it’s a good time to feed your gardens with the rich, dark compost percolating all winter, gently steaming on those cold mornings. That is especially true of those who wish to raise a crop of fresh veggies in their backyard; now is the time to lay the literal groundwork for a hearty harvest.

In the kitchen garden, it’s time to get growing with all kinds of healthy varieties. Potatoes, beetroot, onions, parsnips, carrots and other under-soil species can go in soon, with a nice blanket of compost and aerated soil to bust any late frosts. It’s also time to plant spring crops of brassicas like cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower, and leafy greens such as lettuce, kale and even coriander. With a wet winter behind us, there’s plenty of moisture in the soil for vine-growing crops like pumpkins, squash and watermelons, which will also begin showing through in the next few weeks.

Tomatoes will soon be available as seedlings too, but these, and some other spring veggies, may benefit from a little caution. If you prepare the ground for such crops now, remember

that weeds will enjoy the forthcoming spring sunshine just as much as garden favourites. Covering the ground will stop them from becoming dominant where they’re not wanted.

August is also the last chance month to bed in fruit tree seedlings before spring has sprung. The traditional wisdom here is that winter is the time to put these deciduous trees into the soil, letting their roots grow under the ground in the cold months, with a nice blanket of mulch to keep them warm. By the time spring is in full swing, those roots have established

themselves and will be able to deliver the shot of goodness young trees need to experience a massive growth spurt. Even better, a strong root base means there will be less danger of fruit trees drying out in a long hot summer.

It’s National Gardening Week next week, so use the occasion as an excuse to get some dirt under your fingernails; with the rising cost of fresh food causing some political parties to suggest wiping

GST off produce grown and sold in New Zealand. You can beat the supermarket squeeze by letting nature provide you with a big harvest this year. All it takes is a little effort this August. ¢

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Spring is coming
p For an explosion of flavour and colour to feed the family, planting and preparation in the garden are on the August agenda
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Spring is coming Pre-season project preparations

As spring approaches, there are tasks to do for your upcoming plans, building a shed, new garden beds or constructing a whole new house.

Last year’s weather was unforgiving on the land. Now is the time to jump out of the dreary season and prepare, hoping spring will provide good building weather. Your tasks depend on whether you are doing the work yourself or require labourers to come in.

If you are planning on assembling kitset sheds, cease the moment to ponder on what materials are required. The same goes for creating your own garden beds and areas. If engaging in DIY projects, clean and test the machinery and tools that will be used in spring.

For pre-built assemblies, think about who will transport the structures and when you want them to be placed. Spring or summer are ideal seasons for eager entertainers for the grounds and when flowers bloom. Plan your excavation work. Next season is great for groundwork as it shouldn’t be waterlogged or too dry.

Shop around for affordable items when you can, and when September arrives, you will be set. For more technical

jobs like new home builds, you have time spare to make your requests and decide on aesthetics and features. It is also an opportunity to clear your outdoor and indoor spaces so your projects can forge ahead. Perhaps, it is good to begin thinking about renovations. You will need

to peruse new trends and determine colours and styles. You can also take the opportunity to plan your spring garden. Whatever your project is, create a good team to create your dream. Take an inventory of what you currently have and check if certain items are still

in working order. Once you have all those details done, you can continue to schedule builders, contractors, suppliers and so on. ¢

THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER August 11 2023 11 TM homes |A1homes.co.nz A1homes NEW SHOW HOME NOW OPEN Show home: 7 Sandford Road, Ruakaka Open: Mon to Fri 8.30am - 4pm, Saturday 10am - 2pm Contact: Steve Hart 09 433 0200 | a1northland@A1homes.co.nz Building Kiwi homes for the Kiwis round here Your Local Landscape Yard & Gift Shop • Gravel • River Rocks • Garden Mix • Compost • Builders Mix • Black Mulch • Lime Chip • Gift Shop • House Plants • Garden Art • Sleepers • Large Basalt • Free Library • Post Peelings • Awesome Service Open Mon-Fri 8am-4.30pm Open Saturday Mornings from the 2nd September Closed Public Holidays & Long Weekends 290 Mountfield Road Waipu mountfieldlandscape@gmail.com | 09 432 0606
p Spring is a good time for groundwork because the soil is still soft from the winter wetness while not too dry

Helping animals and humans

Rebekah Davidson grew up in Takanini, attending Papakura Normal Primary School before attending St Kentigern College through a scholarship, and now attends to human and animal health needs from her base at Epic Physio NZ in Wellsford.

“I had an academic scholarship at Corran girls’ school, but it closed, and St Kentigern acquired it and honoured my scholarship,” says Rebekah.

“Growing up, I played water polo and was very interested in horses but could never afford my own, so I rode other people’s. I spent a lot of time on a farm in Clevedon, South Auckland and got my hand in as much as possible. That was good, as now I’m used to a variety of riding styles and horse personalities.

159 of 1,000 applicants, I thought, ‘oh dear what have I got myself into?’.”

Rebekah says physiotherapy is amazing as it crosses many topics including musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and neurology.

“After school, I got into physiotherapy because I wanted to do something outside and with animals but didn’t consider myself academic. I knew a bit about medical study and thought that was way too hard, so I looked into Bowen Therapy.

“My instructor suggested physiotherapy, and I thought they meant for working with the All Blacks. It was a lot harder than I realised, and being number

“After your undergrad, you can branch into different areas of interest such as hand therapy, pelvic health, paediatrics, veterinary and sports — there are so many options. I studied for four years at the Auckland University of Technology — AUT on the North Shore and did my post-grad in veterinary physiotherapy through the University of Liverpool by correspondence.

“I later completed my master’s in veterinary physiotherapy and also studied pelvic health training through courses in Australia encompassing male and female health.

“Physiotherapy really helps horse riders as well, and when I treat horses,

I treat the riders. I also moved into hydrotherapy, which I do in the Swim Evolution private pools at 557 State Highway 1 in Te Hana to help people. Hydrotherapy is basically exercise in the water and was part of my undergraduate degree and was part of becoming a physiotherapist.

“We are really lucky to have the pool here in our area as it is very accessible, and we have people join us from Kaiwaka, Wellsford, Maungatūroto and Mangawhai. It is the only warm pool around, and the temperature is a comfortable 33 degrees, and I adapt my classes based on each person’s goals.

“Water therapy is great for people who have had things like hip or knee replacements because the water allows you to move more than you can on land. We change the exercises each week so you get a different load

12 August 11 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
“My work is a hobby, it’s the best job, and I am so privileged to be able to do it”
p Rebekah Davidson enjoying time with her husband Charles and their son Troy

for the various body parts. There is quite a lot to it as we deal with drag and buoyancy.

“One week, I may do lower legs and then arms, and then we might do core or cardio focus and endurance depending on what people’s goals are and their medical history. Classes are Mondays and Wednesdays at 9am and 10am, Fridays at 10am, and Sundays at 4.30pm and 5.30pm.

“One amazing thing recently was a person who has scoliosis back pain. After one class, she hasn’t been as sore. She had muscle ache but never had the back pain until we had a two-week holiday, and now she keeps coming. Her relief was wonderful to see. It was amazing the difference she had after one class.

“I do everything I do on humans, for animals as well, including needle acupuncture and exercise prescription. My degree allows me to do veterinary physiotherapy, and recently, I treated the neck of a calf that had a tough birth and helped release the muscles around his neck.

“My work colleagues have treated a lizard and a chicken that had a wing injury, which I think is very interesting. I have also worked on goats that have been attacked by dogs, and I treat dogs too at their home, but my main focus is horses and riders, including performance enhancement and help with injuries and saddle fit.

“Commonly, a horse has poor performance with ailments often caused by back pain. The rider will notice that the horse isn’t responding correctly to interaction, and I often find a poorly fitting saddle is the problem.

“I can advise and check the basic saddle fit but I am not a saddle fitter. I also deal with many paddock accidents where the animal may have slipped. One horse, I sent to a vet for a second opinion, and it was what I thought, so we put the horse on a rehabilitation programme with lots of exercise.

“The owner was amazing and did everything I suggested. The horse slipped again, and we panicked, thinking we were back to square one, but it was really good. The strengthening and

building up exercises put it in good stead. The most exciting part was all the exercises I gave her were part of my master’s thesis at the time, and it was great to see they worked.

“Because the owner did what I asked, the horse didn’t get as injured as it probably would have if it had not gone through that process.

“My accountant wanted me to simplify my business and suggested I drop something, but I can’t because I like doing what I do. It is just like any other physio but on different bodies and using similar skill sets as they are all the same muscles, only they work slightly differently.

“Once you understand that, you adapt your style for the different bodies. I love my job and never get bored — at school, physics was my jam. I love the forces and mechanics, and that works well when I do biomechanical assessments.

“It works well with my brain as I apply the principles to how the muscles work and what pulls what. I see a lot of service dogs as they have jobs to do and need to feel well. As soon as a dog is unwell

with things like arthritis, after surgeries or lumbosacral disease, vets often refer them for vet physio which is quite a new profession.

“Some people don’t understand what we do but it’s getting more known. We don’t deal with joint manipulation like chiropractors — we do joint tension, strengthen weaknesses, release tightness and rebalance the system.

“With humans, we can do ACC referrals and ultrasound and X-ray referrals. You don’t have to see a doctor first as we are qualified to make a diagnosis. I am based in Wellsford but I travel from Whangārei to the North Shore, and I love it. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“My work is a hobby, it’s the best job, and I am so privileged to be able to do it. It has been a tough journey, and I have had a lot of people help and support me along the way, including my husband, Charles.

“I love helping humans and animals — that’s the best part. The impact you can have on someon’’s life in one session is amazing.” ¢

THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER August 11 2023 13
“Water therapy is great for people who have had things like hip or knee replacements because the water allows you to move more than you can on land”
p Offering hydrotherapy classes is a way Rebekah helps people exercise and recover from various ailments, including hip replacements p Horses are the animals that Rebekah does physiotherapy work on the most p When a dog needs therapy, Rebekah visits it at its home

For the love of family and fitness

Tekii Korewha has recently volunteered his time as a health advocate to assist Shirley Thomas at the Wellsford Community Gym.

“The Korewha family has been in Wellsford since the 1950s and I am a proud local,” Tekii says.

“My grandfather settled here with his sister and cousins. I went to the local kindergarten and did all my schooling here. The Korewha family was renowned in this town for their musical talents. My sisters were amazing singers, and my parents were in the band scene, so we had plenty of instruments at my house.

“It is in the same line as my job, and get to mix some music for shows. I work at TVNZ and travel to Auckland every day and have been there since we moved

back to Wellsford. I love my job and encourage people to do something that they love.

“I played rugby at the local club, where the community gym is now, and although I no longer play, go there to stay healthy. If you are a young male growing up here, rugby is a big sport here and keeps your energy in check, which deters you from getting into mischief.

“Shirley looks after the gym. She used to be my neighbour when I was growing up, so I have known her for a while and am wrapped to be able to help her with the gym. It is community-orientated and

is the type of gym that you could leave your phone there, and it would still be there if you go back for it.”

Tekii says that the gym was initiated by Andrew Hemara and other local townspeople in the backrooms of the old Farmers where McDonald’s is now.

“I was in Auckland for 10 years with my wife and four children. I struggled to go to the gym before and had put on a lot of weight. I was in a bad place mentally and physically and restarted my fitness journey with Buck Stowers, who runs programmes in South Auckland. I have carried it on and have had a passion

for exercising ever since. The gym has been amazing for me, so if I can help other people as well, then I will. I love helping others, especially because it not only provides benefits physically but improves people mentally too.

“My wife and children are going to the gym now too, which is great because I have always tried to encourage them to come. I enjoy using exercise as a way to get out there. It is early days at the moment, and I am happy to be volunteering with the gym. I moved back to the area so my children could go to the local college and love it here.” ¢

14 August 11 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER NEW VENUE AND DATE Book at www.iticket.co.nz or phone 0508 484 253 SEPTEMBER 1st & 2nd 2023 FRIDAY 8pm SATURDAY 2pm & 8pm PIONEER RUGBY PARK MURDOCH STREET, DARGAVILLE PRESENTED BY DARGAVILLE WEARABLE ARTS
p Tekii and Deejay Korewha, his wife, who also enjoys going to the gym p Mathis Leon Pagels (right) is a German Rotary Exchange student who has been staying with Tekii Korewha and his family for four months p Tekii and Staria Korewha, his daughter, who he encouraged to engage in physical activity

PUZZLE TIME

Jumbo crossword

Sudoku

Previous crossword solution

ACROSS: 1 Fraud, 4 Marching orders, 11 Least, 14 Stick, 15 Archipelago, 16 Occasion, 19 Freeway, 20 Abyss, 21 Elongated, 24 Pirouette, 26 Betray, 27 Ascend, 31 Guess, 32 Coleslaw, 34 Futuristic, 38 Essence, 39 Sprint, 40 Untidy, 41 Tsar, 42 Distant, 45 Bloodhound, 50 Ammonia, 54 Aria, 55 Intone, 56 Unlock, 57 Recycle, 60 Earthquake, 61 Long shot, 62 Split, 65 Copper, 66 Decoys, 67 Acoustics, 72 Saltpetre, 73 Drawn, 74 Marbles, 79 Close-ups, 80 Incredulous, 81 Maybe, 82 Lifts, 83 Plumb the depths, 84 Short.

DOWN: 2 Retire, 3 Uncle, 5 Airs, 6 Cohabit, 7 Impose, 8 Gull, 9 Regulate, 10 Social, 11 Leadership, 12 Acid, 13 Tangled, 17 Rayon, 18 Infatuated, 22 Venom, 23 Jettison, 25 Inspect, 26 Bewitch, 28 Muesli, 29 Albino, 30 Tundra, 33 Expel, 35 Circa, 36 Icon, 37 Guru, 42 Drake, 43 Stirrups, 44 Tongue, 45 Bookkeeper, 46 Owed, 47 Doubles, 48 Oblong, 49 Nicks, 51 Meek, 52 Olympic, 53 Inlaid, 58 Shoemakers, 59 Focus, 63 Doorknob, 64 Strap, 65 Comical, 68 Cowslip, 69 Step up, 70 Traded, 71 Member, 75 Beach, 76 Golf, 77 Arch, 78 Ouch.

Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down.

solution may

possible.

THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER August 11 2023 15
the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
solution All puzzles © The Puzzle Company www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz 111 ACROSS 1 Form (5) 4 Just beaten (6,2,3,4) 14 Twelve dozen (5) 15 Wee (5) 16 Secret plot (10) 17 Dutch cheese (5) 19 Hair cream (3) 20 Title (7) 21 Mice in cat (anag)(9) 22 Gives up (6) 25 Accumulated learning (9) 27 Zoo employee (6) 28 Bee bunches (6) 33 Television, radio advertisement (10) 35 Luminous electrical discharge (3) 36 Drew forth (6) 37 Footfall (4) 39 Young goat (3) 41 Undress (7) 42 Plaster wall coating (6) 43 Animal snare (9) 44 Nourishes (5) 45 Of minimum size (8) 50 Representing (2) 51 Criminal (8) 55 Wanderer (5) 58 Put into a new order (9) 59 Not clear (6) 60 Childbirth assistant (7) 61 Black sealant (3) 63 Court order (4) 64 Steady in position or balance (6) 65 Paddle (3) 66 Scared (10) 68 Slum (6) 69 Shipping boxes (6) 71 Secretly sheltered (9) 76 Spider’s trap (6) 77 Asylum (9) 79 Untighten (7) 81 Cereal crop (3) 84 Mistake (5) 85 Devised, thought up (10) 86 Cat type (5) 87 Relieves (5) 88 Remote inaccessible place (3,4,2,6) 89 Soft hat (5) DOWN 2 Play by Shakespeare (6) 3 Went ashen (5) 5 Household appliance (4) 6 Forcing (7) 7 Nonsense (6) 8 Jewelled headdress (5) 9 Erratic, out of control (7) 10 Porcine creatures (4) 11 Artist’s workshop (6) 12 Forceps (5) 13 Futile (7) 14 Scaffold (7) 18 Responsible to or for (10) 23 Ledger entry (5) 24 Turns over a new leaf (7) 26 Run lame (anag)(7) 27 Match start (4-3) 29 Ended working days (7) 30 Platform (6) 31 Spear (5) 32 Brush-off (6) 34 Auction items (4) 36 Borders (5) 38 Scholarly article (5) 40 Wine and dine (4) 45 Scatter (5) 46 Greed (7) 47 Attract (4) 48 Musical composition (6) 49 Hit (5) 50 Having a characteristic smell (7) 52 Yours ____ (10) 53 Not in any place (7) 54 French tower builder (6) 55 Very young baby (7) 56 Sword (5) 57 Chasm (4) 62 Arms, legs (5) 67 Bat less (anag)(7) 68 Reticent (7) 70 Street movement (7) 72 A dry ale (anag)(7) 73 Quest (6) 74 Residential district (6) 75 Small stone (6) 76 Discontinue (5) 78 Collector’s item (5) 80 Mania (5) 82 Sea creature (4) 83 Eager (4)
Fill
Previous
Previous solution
5x5
SOT IL AHR IN LRE STOAT TITLE ABHOR LIENS Previous solution MEDIUM 84 65 74 8 2 1 8 9 75 1 4 9 31 8 1 2 5 6 39 2 384265719 752419638 619387254 431826597 276591843 895743162 928154376 163972485 547638921 TRT LV RVS HR HLS TAROT OLIVE ROVES CHART HALTS 371 9 9548 2 469 58 14952 29 72 84 1 41679 74 192 583 7 8256 371 94 1395 487 26 4679 215 83 3 1 4 7 9 5 8 6 2 5821 649 37 7962 834 15 2 4 1 8 5 6 3 7 9 6734 192 58 9583 726 41
More than one
be

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THE GALLERY

The Gallery has a wide-ranging collection of art by established and emerging New Zealand artists, many of which are Northland based – this includes contemporary Maori and Pacific artists. There is an outstanding selection of paintings, wood art, handmade furniture, sculpture, jewellery, glass and ceramics. Our catalogue changes frequently, so please make an enquiry and we’ll confirm with you.

GALLERY HOURS: OPEN SEVEN DAYS, 10AM TO 5PM

CONTACT PETER 09 433 9616 | PETE@GALLERYHELENABAY.CO.NZ

THE CAFE

Discover the Cafe on Helena Bay Hill, along the Secret Coast Route. We’re ready to serve fair-trade coffee and delicious snacks from our cabinet. Relax in the ambiance of spectacular ocean and bush views and a warm atmosphere with the camaraderie of attentive and personable staff. It’s not just another cafe, it’s an experience!

OPENING HOURS:

THURSDAY - MONDAY FROM 10AM TO LATE AFTERNOON.

CONTACT CAFE 09 433 9934

THE GARDENS

16 August 11 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
• DELICIOUS
One of the highlights of a visit to the Gallery and Cafe Helena Bay Hill is the beautiful garden setting. You are welcome to wander and relax in the garden during your visit. You’ll find many sculptures placed among the subtropical plantings, giving inspiration for your own landscaping ideas. • CARVINGS • JEWELLERY • SCULPTURES • CERAMICS • GIFT
LUNCH
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PAINTINGS • GLASS WORKS
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