December 8 2023
Hospice support grows P3
Memories of Europe P5
Master of the lens When Andy Bruce moved to Mangawhai, he had no idea that photography would become his passion. As the owner of Elevated Media, he says he loves being involved in the local community, helping people with their business video concepts, and spending
Young talent shines P7
his time capturing moments in nature. Photographing local wildlife and people involved in their everyday activities, such as surfing, is where Andy can be found most days. He believes moving to Mangawhai was one of the best decisions of his life. continued on page 12 …
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2 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
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Saltwater lovers u by Ann van Engelen
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When Kat Grace returned to live in Mangawhai in March this year, she decided to swim daily to help her get through the winter months, and now, has a group of keen water lovers joining her regularly.
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“I wanted a discipline to support my re-entry back into the water and put the word out on the locals’ Facebook page to see if anyone wanted to join me,” says Kat. “I’ve been teaching yoga here for seven years and knew some people might be keen. A lot of people had moved up from the city, and I didn’t do it just for myself but for our community to come together and have a touch point in their daily lives, and it became a ritual. “Jacqui O’Connor from Heart Place Hospital and a few other women turned
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letting your body acclimatise. At first, you get the adrenaline hit and say, ‘Oh, my goodness, it’s cold’.” Kat says then you overcome the mindset and shift to being resilient. “Yes, it’s cold, that’s the point, but it won’t kill you. Once you’ve been in for a couple of minutes the chemistry shifts from fright or flight to the dopamine hit. When the dopamine hits, you feel like you can do anything and everything that comes your way through the day, and we all get addicted to the ocean. “We share what’s going on in our lives every day with each other and feel
It’s cold water therapy, and we walk into the ocean intentionally rather than jump in and plunge up, and by June, we decided to swim whenever we could, not just once a week.” As winter approached, it became important for the group to continue their ritual to support their mental health and wellbeing. “We are like mermaids and call ourselves the Salty SiSTARs. Due to everyone’s different commitments we now have a messenger group to say when we each may be going to swim. The water helped us with all the things such as the cyclone and hardships in people’s lives that have gone. “It’s cold water therapy, and we walk into the ocean intentionally rather than jump in and plunge. We did research on entering the water mindfully and
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a million times better. At times it’s fun to get in on a stormy day. “Jacqui is doing all her good work with Heart Place Hospital and we decided instead of doing dry July because we don’t drink alcohol, we’d do wet July, and committed to swimming every day in July. That turned into August, September and October, and we’re still going. “It would be nice to have more people turn up. They can check out the Salty Sis-stars Facebook page and message Kat Grace for more details. “Swimming in the ocean is hugely beneficial and it’s free. Through winter we swam with orcas and dolphins swam around us in the waves, we’ve had seals turn up too. It’s the magic of being alive.” ¢
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THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
p North Haven Hospice retail services manager Murray Annear with part of the volunteer team setting up the Mangawhai Hospice store
December 8 2023
3
p Volunteer Charlie Thompson was on hand to finalise the last chores for the store opening
Hospice support grows u by Ann van Engelen
The North Haven Hospice is pleased to announce the opening of its newest store at 41C Moir Street, Mangawhai, as a way to expand its services and create an opportunity to give unwanted quality goods a second life. “We’re delighted to have found premises for a small charity shop to operate in the Moir Street shopping area, opposite Carters,” says director of marketing and fundraising Lyn Cheyne. “The store opened this week and has been very well received. North Haven Hospice’s area of service provision extends to Waipu and Mangawhai, across to Kaiwaka and Maungatūroto, up the middle of the island to Whananaki, Oakura and Hukerenui. We hope to tell our story of who we are and what we do even more. “Our nurses are out in the community every day, supporting approximately 180 people of all ages at any one time. These are people dealing with a life-
limiting or terminal illness. We also provide support for whānau and carers through some very challenging times. The majority of what we do is in people’s homes, retirement villages or hospitals if necessary. “With the Waipu and Mangawhai shops now open, we’re excited to be more active. Our stores are quite social environments, and we often have people come to tell us how fantastic and supportive we have been in their time of need.” The Mangawhai Hospice Shop is in need of more volunteers to help with the running of the shop. “People volunteering and working alongside us are very much appreciated.
There’s a variety of ways to help, including relieving carers in homes so they can run their errands. “For the shop, we need at least 15 people to help. Any donations that we receive and time spent in our store or elsewhere absolutely stay in the community.” All hospices are independent charities, not a head office-run organisation. “Hospice New Zealand is a membership organisation we belong to for advocacy and sharing of benefits. Like other charities, we ask that all goods donated are clean and usable. If you wouldn’t give it to a friend, please don’t give it to us, as it costs to take it to the rubbish tip. There is a list of items
on our website that we are unable to sell, such as electric blankets, as there are legal restrictions. “The shop is a great place to find things you need or items for gifts. We hope the donations from the Mangawhai area will be enough to keep products turning over, including clothing and household goods. “We’ve been in the area for a long time but haven’t had a significant presence here. We’re delighted to see the interest and support we’ve received from people in the surrounding community that we’ve connected with so far.” For more details, go to the North Haven Hospice Facebook page. ¢
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4 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
The sushi master u by Ann van Engelen
BK and Minjoo Kim and their team at BK’s Sushi Mangawhai are celebrating the opening of their second local shop at Mangawhai Central. “We are very excited for our new store, which is on Main Street, just along from New World,” says BK. “Minjoo and I moved to New Zealand from Korea in 1998 with our two sons when they were five and three years old because New Zealand offers a better lifestyle to raise the boys. “In Korea, I was a teacher and worked for a musical company importing instruments for Korean professionals. My older sister moved to Whangārei in
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mother always made sushi but we call it Kimbab.” BK says Minjoo was born to cook. “She wasn’t taught, but when we married she practised and became very good. She’s a natural, and isn’t afraid of failure and will try new things. “I didn’t enjoy sushi when I was younger, but I like ours — it’s exceptionally good. The secret is keeping the quality of ingredients high. To look after sushi, if you can’t eat it immediately,
The secret is keeping the quality of ingredients high 1995 and suggested we come to this area, knowing I wanted to move.” When BK and Minjoo first arrived they started a sushi shop in Warkworth. “For five years, a lady who commuted from Mangawhai asked us to open here, and we finally did in 2014, closing the Warkworth store. Before that, I played golf here, and we loved it, but couldn’t find a house. We built the first shop next door to the golf course, which was a bonus for me. “In Asia, there are only two countries that make sushi, Japan and Korea. Traditionally, whenever we went on a picnic or to a party, my
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keep it covered in your fridge, but it’s best not to keep it overnight as it gets slightly dry. “Our new shop is going very well. The customer feedback has been amazing, and people appreciate having healthy food choices in the area. “On our first day here, one of our golf club members came at 9am to congratulate us. It’s beautiful to have the community support. We’re looking forward to serving our existing customers and meeting new ones. “BK’s Sushi at Mangawhai Heads will continue to operate. Both establishments will support each other,
p BK and his team at the second BK’s Sushi store opening
striving to ensure customer satisfaction and delight in every possible way. “Our business hours will be from 9am to 5pm, seven days a week. We
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THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
p Roland Seibertz at his current exhibition opening at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery
December 8 2023
5
p Field of Lavender, which was also produced by Roland this year
Memories of Europe u by Ann van Engelen
A trip to Europe has inspired Roland Seibertz’s exhibition of new works called Revisiting the South, now on show at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery. “This is the fourth exhibition of largescale works with this show drawing on the colours and landscapes of Europe,” says chair Belinda Vernon. “The influences and sights of southern European landscapes are evident in the large abstract paintings, layered works with an old-fashioned tempera paint on canvas over timber frames.” The works are described as evocative, peaceful and often humorous. “I moved permanently to New Zealand from Germany in 1981,” says Roland. “Initially, I worked with watercolours and very soon progressed to larger scale acrylic on canvas or egg tempera paintings on canvas, many of which were sold through the Elva Bett Gallery
in Wellington. Over the last eight years, I have been painting large-scale works again. I first exhibited at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery in October 2020, returning with new work each year. “I travelled to Europe earlier this year. One day, out of the blue, into another blue, we travelled through flowering lavender fields. It was totally unplanned, but it turned out to be astonishing. Rolling hills around us in lavender blue. “It wasn’t just the colour and the plants, it was the atmosphere. The
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scenes, the layers of colours on the ground and in the air, and the rediscovery of ‘looking’, grabbed my attention again. “I didn’t paint while I was in Europe as it was family time, but on my return to New Zealand, I began painting immediately in my studio, revisiting what I had seen and translating my memories into abstract landscapes.
It wasn’t just the colour and the plants, it was the atmosphere
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“Other images also came through, such as those of travelling in the Netherlands. The city of Hoorn became a gathering of impressions sunk deep into my colour palette. “I knew this would happen, but not to the extent that it did. I am excited by these new works and look forward to sharing them through this exhibition.” Revisiting the South is open from 10am to 3pm until midday, Wednesday, December 13, at the Mangawhai Artists Gallery, 45 Moir Street. ¢
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6 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
Bring out the bells u by Liz Clark
Not only do they put out delicate flowers, but heucheras or coral bells have spectacular foliage bringing colour to the garden, especially in winter. Add in the fact they are low maintenance, and there’s a top pick right there. Native to North America, heucheras are easy to grow and suitable for rock gardens, borders, edging plants, woodlands, containers and ground cover. They make a showy display when planted en masse with the same colour tones throughout. Coral bells need four to six hours of sunlight during the day. Cultivars of this species vary and have different light requirements. The
paler the foliage colour, the less light requirements. The darker the foliage, the greater the light requirements. As a rule of thumb, plant heuchera with paler in partial shade, in hotter, more northern climates; otherwise, they can tolerate more sunlight. Afternoon shade will benefit the plants in all regions. For a smaller urban setting where space is at a premium, decorative planters can be utilised to create a bright cheerful setting. Plant with other favourites or use it as a standout at
the entranceway or back patio. Use a good quality container mix from any local garden centre or landscape supply retailer, and keep it well watered. Ensure the container used has plenty of drainage holes. A layer of gravel in the bottom will help by allowing any excess water to drain out freely. When planting in the garden, ensure the soil has plenty of compost and organic matter — it should also be freedraining. Heuchera does poorly in any ground with little or no drainage and will die as a result of root rot. They
like a moist but not soggy growing medium and will benefit from a twice-yearly addition of compost in spring and autumn. Plants should be spaced out based on the type of cultivar being used. Check the label for details. Cultivars are many where heucheras are concerned. Some standouts to watch are Black Taffeta, Berry Smoothie, Chocolate Ruffles, Fire Alarm, Grande Black, Lime Marmalade, Midnight Rose, Peppermint Splice and Sugar Plum. ¢
THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
p MacKenzie appreciates having the music club band members back her when she performs
Young talent shines
December 8 2023
7
p Ten-year-old MacKenzie Cattermole is excited to be performing at the Wellsford Variety Music Club Christmas show this Saturday night
u by Ann van Engelen
Ten-year-old MacKenzie Cattermole is focussed on a singing career and says being a part of the Wellsford Variety Music Club is a major encouraging factor in her life. “My mum used to sing to me when I was a baby and said she always felt I would be a singer,” says MacKenzie. “When I began to talk, I would sing a lot. I think it’s a gift from God. I started singing lessons when I was around six years old, and I am open to all kinds of music, but really enjoy the blues, country and jazz. I love Amy Winehouse’s music — it inspires me. “I sing with the music club band backing me every second Sunday. When I am on stage I have fun, go into my own little world, and enjoy myself. Sometimes it’s hard when I don’t remember the words, but then I come right.
“It’s not very hard for me to learn a new song — it takes me a couple of days. My favourite song is You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift. At the Christmas event this Saturday, I am singing You Belong With Me, Back to Black by Amy Winehouse, Maybe Tomorrow by the Stereophonics, Dolly Parton’s Jolene, Just Breathe by Willy Nelson and Flowers by Mylie Cyrus.” MacKenzie says she has a lot of songs that she loves and is constantly practising under the guidance of her singing teacher, Martin Worthington, who is also a Wellsford Variety Club band member.
“I picked these songs because they’re some of my favourites, and Just Breathe is one of the songs my grandmother loved. She passed away not long ago, so I am singing it in honour of her. I think she would be very proud to hear me perform it again. “When you sing and like so many types of music, you don’t really have an absolute favourite genre — you love all types. I enjoy being involved with the Wellsford Variety Music Club, and would love to see other people who like singing or musical instruments come along, too. “It doesn’t matter what age you are. I think everyone should experience
what we do because they may find it is their passion, and then they may like to pursue music when they are older like I want to. “I want to study the art of music and drama when I leave school. My singing teacher, Martin, is my inspiration. Having him in at the club as well is encouraging. “I hope lots of people can come to our Christmas show this Saturday, December 9, at the Wellsford District Community Centre, 1 Matheson Road. They can check out the Wellsford Variety Club Facebook page for more details.” ¢
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8 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
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CHRISTMAS SHOPPING TIME To connect back with nature connect with us We would like to thank everyone in this beautiful community for your ongoing support this year! Mother and daughter team Laura & Ellie Larkin are the new owners of Bream Bay GREENWORLD plant nursery. We have plenty of plants that would make great gifts for this holiday season as well as vouchers. We are open our usual hours until our last day on Saturday the 23rd of December. Then in the following 2 weeks we will be open from Thursday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm with limited staff, until back to normal on Tuesday 9th of January. We sell: ground covers, climbers, palms, succulents, edibles, shrubs & specimen trees. We also sell landscaping supplies (by the bag or cubic metre, depending on what the product is) black bark, brown mulch, topsoil, compost, garden mix, potting mix, and lime chip. So come and visit us in our little slice of paradise. Email: breambaygreenworld@gmail.com or phone 0274 952 441. 656 One Tree Point Road We are open from Tuesday - Saturday 8:30am - 4.30pm
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THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
Christmas Messages A festive display
December 8 2023
9
u by Ann van Engelen
Ruakākā residents are once again being treated to a variety of Christmas light displays at homes in the area celebrating the festive season. Jeff and Carmen Barnes have once again set to work to ensure the One Tree Point community and visitors can enjoy their annual light display as they see Christmas arrive. “We have lived here for 29 years now and this is our 16th year doing the light display, and we absolutely love it,” says Carmen. “We are just up from the boat ramp — you can’t miss us. It all started because we kept buying lights, decided to enter the Whangārei competitions, and had to have the house ready by December 1. “They stopped the competition the one year we got our lights up in time, but I continued doing them for our community. It’s quite an addiction creating the lights, and every year, you purchase more to add to your display.” Carmen holds the ladder for Jeff to ensure he is safe while putting the lights up. “We added more power points to the house a few years ago just to be able to do our Christmas display. We used solar at one stage, but they weren’t very
bright and didn’t show up in photos, so we changed to LED now. “We recycle what we can and use the LEDs as fillers in the trees and other spaces when they go dim. We love the reaction we see on people’s faces when they come along, especially the children. They are always happy and delighted when they come to look.” Jeff and Carmen have a flying aeroplane and a herd of reindeer for people to see, along with several other models that bring their guests delight. “At times, people have given us money toward the power, but we don’t like taking it because it’s not about that. We love the squeals of delight when people stop to see our display. “The children love counting the reindeer. It’s like how they used to look for teddy bears in windows during the lockdowns. We have a sleigh out the front where people take photos, and Santa comes on Christmas Eve and gives out lollipops. “Our favourite display is the big tall tree in the centre — it looks like a Maypole,
p Jeff and Carmen Barnes delight in seeing families enjoy the light show they put on each Christmas
and each strand has around 2,000 lights. To us, providing the community the opportunity to be delighted is what it’s all about. “We are at 318 One Tree Point Road, and turn our lights on every night at 8.30pm every night until January 2. There are other houses in the area with lights up as well — it is a beautiful
thing that we all do to put smiles on people’s faces. “It’s wonderful to see more people putting lights up no matter how little the displays are, as it brightens everyone’s mood. Our small but meaningful nativity display gets lots of comments as it is the true meaning of the Christmas celebration.” ¢
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10 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
Christmas Messages Uniting for Christmas cheer u by Amy Fifita
Lifepoint Church is inviting everyone to the annual free community event Carols @ Lifepoint to celebrate the holiday season together on Sunday, December 17, from 5pm to 8pm. “The church has been putting on a carol event for a long time. My husband Simon and I have been here for the past two decades. Originally, the church used to hold a carol service in Ruakākā in conjunction with St John. Eventually, we moved it back to the church,” said organiser Sandra Currie. “One of the big themes this year, especially with the cost of living crisis, is creating a space to focus on the festivity’s real meaning — it is not about
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sing Christmas tunes on the back of a truck for people, so for me, it is very nostalgic. I also love music and providing a space for people to celebrate the festivities together. “When I was growing up, I could barely recall the presents I received, but I do remember what we did as a family or congregation.” The free event is at Lifepoint Church, 300 One Tree Point Road. It includes a free meal that begins at
We encourage families to sit on the floor and dance with each other how much we buy or spend. From my point of view as a Christian, bringing people back to the story of Christmas is important.” Sandra said carolling has always been part of her Christmas activities and something she remembers well. The event enables her to share her love for the season and passion for music with others. “Growing up, we always had a Christmas Eve carol night. We would
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5pm, served outside for everyone to enjoy together. Previous events had 300 visitors. The music programme starts at 6pm. There will be a p Sandra says the event is an opportunity for the community to come together to relax and enjoy the Christmas season space for families to sit and dance on the ground, chairs surrounding the It is nice for them to have a break from sure that this event happens. We are auditorium and outdoor seating. the busyness of the season, have fun blessed to live in this beautiful place. “I love seeing our neighbourhood and be a community. I love how I can walk two minutes come together and enjoy connecting with “We encourage families to sit on the down the road to have a cup of tea people we don’t often see. It is great to floor and dance with each other. There with people because their door is see everyone sitting and eating together. are so many people involved that make always open.” ¢
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Gifts Art Supplies Brewing & Distilling Homeware, Kitchen & Hardware Pet Care Thank you to all our customers for your support in 2023, have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See you again 2024!
Shop 6, 41 Moir Street, Mangawhai Village
and so much more to discover!
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MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO OUR LOVELY CUSTOMERS, THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT THROUGHOUT 2023
HUSQVARNA VIKING SEWING MACHINES Baby Lock Overlockers and Cover Stitcher Brother Machines Justice of the Peace Services TRICIA & PETER COX | P: 09 423 8219 E: cleverend111@gmail.com 1 Worker Road, Wellsford
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THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
Christmas Messages Christmas joy immortalised
December 8 2023
11
u by Amy Fifita
Photographer Sarah Warrington is taking free photos with Santa at the OTP Artisan Market at One Tree Point School on Sunday, December 17 from 9am to 1pm. “It has always been a passion for me. My grandmother used to work in a photography shop in England. She told me stories about her time in the shop, and they always fascinated me. One day, I bought a camera, and I started my journey,” says Sarah. “I entered into it as a hobby about 20 years ago. At first, I mostly took photos for friends. They adored my work and asked me to take shots of specific locations. I then decided to move to Waipu from Auckland in 2006 to be closer to family and in my happy place. That is when I blossomed out.” Sarah pursued landscape photography early on in her career. She has recently completed a Whale Bay photo on a triptych canvas for The Palms Lifestyle Village in Tikipunga. “They loved it and thought it was stunning. I started doing portrait photography in the last couple of years and love doing candid, natural shoots. Many people want a photo of themselves and their family at their favourite spot. It is wonderful to be able to do two sides of photography — portrait and landscape.” This year is Sarah’s second time doing a free photoshoot with the festive
guest Father Christmas at the markets. Many families dressed for the seasonal sensation in 2022, and Sarah thoroughly enjoyed capturing the moments. “The OTP Artisan Market organisers approached me last year at the market in Waipu. They asked if I would do Santa photos for their event. When I discovered that all of the market’s proceeds were donated to the Whangārei Hospital’s children’s ward, I decided to do it at no cost. “Santa hadn’t even shown up, and people were queueing waiting for photos to be taken. It brought back memories of doing that as a child. It is a joy to do. It is tough out there for most families and a good way of giving back is what it is all about.” The OTP Artisan Market features various craft, food and activity stalls. It is held on the third Sunday of each month and many gift-worthy items are available. “I am so looking forward to attending this market and a great opportunity if anyone has any questions if you are thinking of having a family photo shoot with a professional photographer.” ¢
Your local Drainage Specialists Wishing everyone a safe and happy festive season, see you in 2023!
Domestic Drainage
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p Sarah Warrington is bringing Christmas joy to children and families with her free Santa photo stall at the OTP Artisan Market
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12 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
p Some of the photographs that Andy had on display at Elevated Media’s gallery
Master of the lens u by Ann van Engelen
Photographer Andy Bruce has spent many hours capturing images of the scenery and nature in Mangawhai and the surrounding areas since moving to town three years ago. “When my family and I moved to Mangawhai from the North Shore in Auckland, it didn’t take long for us to realise that living here was one of the best decisions we’ve made,” says Andy. Andy owns Elevated Media a n d i s i nvo l ve d i n s eve r a l community organisations. “I was born in the United Kingdom and grew up in Hampshire, South of London.
“
businesses, including daycares, gyms, and restaurants. I generally work with clients based on their goals to increase sales revenue or to help answer questions their customers may have.” Andy completes his work tasks from concept and planning to filming and editing alone. “I just did a cool video for Aotearoa Surf. It came up really well. I enjoy
so naturally to me now, such as exposure and all the technical things. When I think back, it took me a few tries to understand the theory myself. “My dad in the UK suggested I open a gallery here when he saw my work, and it grew from there. I think photography became a passion because of the beauty of the area and the fact that I was out and about all the time.
My joy comes from actually being in the moment and taking the photos I immigrated here 20 years ago and spent 17 of those in Auckland until I saw the light. We moved to Mangawhai on a whim when Milena found a house here. “We were looking to buy in Auckland but couldn’t find anything decent. Everything fell into place here, so it was just meant to be, and now I say I love it more than she does. “My love for photography has come through since I started my business, Elevated Media, six years ago. I create promotional video content for
creating content that not only wows my customers but achieves their marketing goals around their content. Video is a powerful tool to get your message out there, especially with the power of social media. “When I started my business, I did a photography course to learn the basics, but the rest is self-taught. A few weeks ago, I did my first-ever stint teaching photography as part of the Mangawhai Artists workshop programme. It was really interesting explaining what comes
”
“Getting out barefoot in nature, taking pictures and being in the moment became my favourite thing to do. I’m currently between galleries and do the Mangawhai Tavern Markets every Saturday. That’s the highlight of my week. “I love catching up with the vendors, the regular market-goers and visitors to the area. I consider myself a nature and landscape photographer. People tell me what they love about my photographs, and it’s a bonus when I sell one.
THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER December 8 2023
p Andy Bruce loves the creativity he is able to achieve behind the lens of his camera
p Andy’s client Rebecca receiving one of his commissioned works of art
p Spending time with family is important to Andy
p The photograph of Mangawhai Heads Andy took is one of his memorable moments
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13
I consider myself a nature and landscape photographer. People tell me what they love about my photographs, and it’s a bonus when I sell one “The symmetry of landscapes and being in the moment to the best shots of wildlife like birds and orcas, and whatever else I can get my lens focussed on is what I love the most. “Orcas seem to be my customers’ favourite subject, but you never know when they are going to be in the harbour, so I always have my camera at the ready for exciting moments.” Andy started the Orca Watch Mangawhai Facebook page so people can report when orcas are in the harbour. “People come up to me who have lived here their whole lives and have never seen an orca, so I set up the Facebook page as an alert, and it now has 1,500 followers. It’s incredible, and I get to put the pictures that I take up for them to see as well. “I’m also a part of the local photography club, the Mangawhai Snappers. We need fortnightly at the fishing club on a Monday. To me, the secret to a good photo is 90 per cent having an eye for the composition, and the rest is the technical aspect of getting the right settings.
”
“I use drones and ground-based cameras equally. The benefit of the drone is you can put it exactly where you want it to frame the shot perfectly. It can be half a metre off the ground and or up high, but there’s a point where you lose your subject matter if you go too high. I like to be close to my subject. “With my normal camera, I like to move to get better composition. I love symmetry and lining things up, whether it’s a dune, rock, bird or boat — I use the rule of thirds. “My joy comes from actually being in the moment and taking the photos, nailing the composition of adjusting my settings on the fly while trying to capture a bird in flight. When it’s edited, that’s me done with the picture, but when I speak to people who buy them, they tell me how them seeing it on the wall takes them places or activates a memory. I’d never thought about how others get joy out of my work every time they look at it.” Andy is the chair of the Mangawhai Business Association and a member of the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society committee.
“Being involved in the community is important to me and is a byproduct of my business as well. It’s quite challenging, but I enjoy helping to grow the association. “Mangawhai used to be a sleepy beach town and is now rapidly evolving into a business hub. It’s one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, with Mangawhai Central and the golf course. The new motorway means there is huge potential for business to grow even more. “With the harbour restoration society, I look after public relations to raise awareness of the issues that the harbour faces. Without the healthy harbour, Mangawhai wouldn’t be what it is today, especially when you look back to the Big Dig, Cyclone Bola and other incidents. “Being involved in community things is great. When you do the school run, you are waving to people in each direction and chatting in the supermarket or the street. Mangawhai has a lovely vibe. “The art world and creative scene here is huge. Mangawhai is home to a vast array of creative talent, and I’m
proud to be a part of that and would love to see some dedicated space for Mangawhai creatives to collaborate and work together more. “Another service I offer is VHS and DVD conversion. I can’t do the old, old film, but converting VHS and DVDs to digital helps people store and view their childhood or old family memories, which is important. “If people want to purchase framed prints or canvases for Christmas gifts, they need to get their orders to me by December 15. Gift vouchers are also available. “My photography work comes as framed prints or on canvas. I do commissions, but I don’t do weddings. Commissions I have completed include a three-metre-long framed print across five frames, like a drone panorama photo of Mangawhai Heads. “When you open the front door to the house, it looks like you are looking through a window at the view. It is stunning. I can do commissions for things like pets, surfers and boaties, too, which is what I want to do more of.” ¢
14 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
p The Mangawhai students waiata touched the audience
Photos: KOA photography
Kapa haka unites u by Ann van Engelen
The Ōtamatea Toi Maori Festival held last week saw kura come together to celebrate Maori culture and ti kanga through kapa haka. “Our school’s senior kapa haka group, Te Waka Rāngimārie, were really excited to be taking part,” says Kaiwaka School principal Sharlene McCormack. “We appreciate all the time and work whaea Mina and the teachers put into supporting the group through practices. The group had performed earlier in the year at Eutopia Cafe in Kaiwaka for Matariki. We had lots of whānau turn up to support the kaupapa.”
“There was an array of amazing performances from Mangawhai Beach, Maungatūroto, Kaiwaka, Ōtamatea High School and beyond. Whānau, all the way from Dargaville, came to watch and awhi the children. You could see the hard work and dedication they put into their performances and the love and passion they have for what they do. Our local Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāringaomatariki were particularly outstanding.” ¢
CLASSIFIEDS
PHONE 0800 466 793
p The boys from Mangawhai Beach School showed their determination and vigour
Closing date for classified advertising for the December 22 2023 edition is Wednesday, December 20 2023 SHOW HOME
TRADES & SERVICES
POP UP SHOW HOME OPEN HOME SATURDAY 9TH & 16TH DECEMBER 1PM - 3PM 27 BEACH ROAD DARGAVILLE
TL B ILD
PLUMBER AVAILABLE for new builds. Contact James 021 0263 9558, Plumb Hub Northland Ltd. Servicing Hikurangi to Mangawhai.
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INSPIRATIONAL HOMES
ENTERTAINMENT At the old church just up from the Mangawhai Museum To book go to www.mangawhaimovies.com
Adults $12 Under 15s $5 p Students from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāringaomatariki brought the day to a close with their amazing performance
MERKEL
INDIANA JONES
Saturday 9 Dec 7pm
Saturday 16 Dec 7pm
2022 | Documentary 1h 37m | M
2023 | Action/Adventure 2h 22m | M
p Kaiwaka school’s senior kapa haka group, Te Waka Rāngimārie was delighted to perform at the festival
THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER December 8 2023
PUZZLE TIME
Jumbo crossword ACROSS 1 Harpoon (5) 4 Adopt the manners and customs of the people you are living with (2,2,3,6,2) 14 Glazier’s filler (5) 15 Motionless (5) 16 Intruder (10) 17 With cunning (5) 19 Meadow (3) 20 Masticating (7) 21 Rejoice (9) 22 Disquiet (6) 25 Turn to vapour (9) 27 Purplish antiseptic solution (6) 28 Flashy but shoddy (6) 33 Unappeasable (10) 35 Cancelled (3) 36 Led (6) 37 Charitable donations (4) 39 Look at (3) 41 Liable to sudden unpredictable change (7) 42 Stringed instrument (6) 43 Rally driver’s assistant (9) 44 Frosty (5) 45 Was part of (8) 50 In order that (2) 51 Book supplement (8) 55 Select, privileged group (5) 58 Wronged (9) 59 Saw eye to eye (6) 60 Mounted troops (7) 61 Regulation (3) 63 Slight quarrel (4) 64 Church room (6) 65 Age (3)
15
128
29 Crossed out (7) 30 Come out into view (6) 31 Night-flying insects (5) 32 Did duty (6) 34 Give off (4) 36 Lends a hand (5) 38 Inoculation fluid (5) 40 Leer (4) 45 Copper alloy (5) 46 Traveller’s belongings (7) 47 Steel pin (4) 48 Begrudged (6) 49 Daft (5) 50 Underwater plants (7) 52 Excruciatingly bad (10) 53 Eastern (anag)(7) DOWN 54 Boisterous (6) 2 Irregular in quality (6) 55 Book printing (7) 3 Let (5) 56 Expansive (5) 5 Rower’s implements 57 Hardens (4) (4) 6 Doubt the genuineness 62 Mixture (5) 67 Excite intensely (7) of (7) 68 Remain alive (7) 7 Cured (6) 70 Ancestry (7) 8 Vertical part of a step 72 Atomic (7) (5) 73 Breathe in (6) 9 Deserved (7) 74 Boy’s name (6) 10 Springtime 75 Fish covering (6) construction (4) 76 Durable twilled fabric 11 Removing moisture (5) (6) 78 Hawaiian greeting (5) 12 Manner (5) 80 Clan (5) 13 Line of hereditary 82 Record (4) rulers (7) 83 Passport 14 Nightwear (7) endorsement (4) 18 Examining closely (10) 23 Seizes (5) 24 Eerie (7) 26 Active mountain (7) 27 No finer (anag)(7) 66 Food poisoning (10) 68 Going out with (6) 69 Thwarted (6) 71 A nice tune (anag(9) 76 Mute (6) 77 Upset the equilibrium of (9) 79 Battle plans (7) 81 Compete (3) 84 City in Florida (5) 85 Contrite (10) 86 Assassinates (5) 87 Fashion (5) 88 Complexion of velvety skin with downy pink cheeks (7,3,5) 89 Rhyme (5)
Sudoku
2 7
Previous crossword solution
ACROSS: 1 Spasm, 4 Other fish to fry, 11 Ideas, 14 Giant, 15 Stethoscope, 16 Saboteur, 19 Forceps, 20 Meter, 21 Tricolour, 24 Proceeded, 26 Tissue, 27 Valley, 31 Olive, 32 Zucchini, 34 Daydreamer, 38 Trivial, 39 Planet, 40 Odious, 41 Sign, 42 Cardiac, 45 Comparison, 50 Thirsty, 54 Rash, 55 Snares, 56 Python, 57 Soldier, 60 Delivering, 61 Abnormal, 62 Aches, 65 Munich, 66 Accent, 67 Presently, 72 Saddlebag, 73 Taint, 74 Heading, 79 Cyclists, 80 Microscopic, 81 Might, 82 Often, 83 Dog in the manger, 84 Stork. DOWN: 2 Poison, 3 Sonic, 5 Tutu, 6 Extreme, 4 7 6 7 Fooled, 8 Sock, 9 Top brass, 10 Yearly, 9 1 2 4 5 2 11 Inoculated, 12 Eden, 13 Surgery, 17 Spicy, 18 Occupation, 22 Debut, 23 5 6 7 Olympics, 25 Revived, 26 Twister, 28 Gloria, 6 2 5 3 29 Kidnap, 30 Adjust, 33 Cello, 35 Runny, 5 9 2 36 Lava, 37 Lots, 42 Cared, 43 Rustling, 44 3 4 Canary, 45 Chronicles, 46 Mist, 47 Asphalt, 7 8 1 2 48 Intent, 49 Odour, 51 Hook, 52 Radical, 53 4 9 6 Previous solution Teeter, 58 Evacuation, 59 False, 63 Relation, 64 Under, 65 Morocco, 68 Run-down, 5 2 4 1 7 9 3 6 8 6 9 1 2 8 3 7 4 5 69 Edited, 70 Balsam, 71 Anchor, 75 Drift, 8 3 7 6 4 5 9 1 2 76 Scot, 77 Arch, 78 Lime. 4 8 9 3 5 6 2 7 1
8 1 5 4 9 6 1 3 1 6 5 8 4 1 2 4 3 1 7 3 6 5 1 9 4 7 2 1 8 1 9 3
EASY
Fill 2 the3grid9 so8that1every 7 5 column, every row and 7 5 4 3 9 6 8 every 3x3 box contains 8 digits 1 61 to59. 4 2 9 the
6 4 17 622 8 1 4 5 3 9 1 5 3 9 2 7 4 8 6 739 71365 54 63 82 18 92 47 4 6 2 7 3 8 1 92 458 7 9 1 6 5 3 9 7solution 1 2 5 4 3 8 6 Previous 3 8 5 1 6 9 4 2 7 1 4 7 9 2 3 6 5 8 6 9 8 4 7 5 2 3 1 5 2 3 All6puzzles 8 ©1The 7Puzzle4Company 9 www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz
5x5 S E D
H L
A G N
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S W A T S T H R E E E A G E R
S R
C R T Insert the missing letters B S to complete ten words M the T — five across grid O and five down.R E More than one solution S O E may be possible.
E Previous solution
C A R A T A B A S H M O T T O P R I E S S T O R E
16 December 8 2023 THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER
Warkworth Toyota & Warkworth Foodbank
Please donate non-periish hable food items or new, unwrapped or wrapped gifts for the local families in our community. Accepting donations for the
Warkworth Foodbank & Homebuilders
Christmas Appeal at our
Warkworth Toyota showroom into the back of our Ute.
Drop off now, until 21st December
TOTALLY SORTED START TO FINISH We manage each stage of the building process, starting from a no-obligation site visit and qquotation,, all the way through to a comprehensive design and build, including facilitatingg any necessary building consents. For a seamless build experience contact the team at Totalspan Rodney today.
Visit us at Totalspan Rodney 229 State Highway One, Warkworth Phone: 09 422 3149 Email: rodney@totalspan.co.nz
18 Mansel Drive Warkworth Open: Mon - Sat 8am - 5pm Sun 10am - 3pm