The Weekend Lifestyler, July 7th 2023

A heart to share

Since she was a child, Rosie Guthrie has had a strong love for art and found herself constantly creating. After graduating Industrial Design and Interior Architecture, Rosie has worked in the film and tv industry for many years. She is excited to

have recently secured a cottage at Rakaunui Arts Village in Mangawhai which is now home to her Big Little Art idea, giving children and adults the opportunity to learn the skills of drawing through collaboration.

continued on page 12 …

THE WEEKEND LIFESTYLER IS PUBLISHED WITH PRIDE BY INTEGRITY COMMUNITY MEDIA, A PRIVATELY OWNED NORTHLAND COMPANY.

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: Ruth Webb 027 525 9172

Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Anna Fredericksen | Kelsey Harrison | Liz Clark

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7,780 copies, distributed on Friday to every residential and rural home throughout the district including Whangārei, One Tree Point, Ruakākā, Waipū, Mangawhai, Kaiwaka and Wellsford.

Team enjoys sponsorship

u by Ann van Engelen

The Tomarata Rugby Club junior players, coaches and managers are delighted to be wearing their new off-field hoodies and staying warm this season thanks to the sponsorship of Mike Hutton.

Local Mangawhai contractor servicing the Kaipara district for over 30 years South to Pakiri and North to Waipu areas

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All enquiries to: 09 431 5773

NORTHPOWER ELECTRIC POWER TRUST (NEPT) NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting of beneficiaries is to be held at the Northland Events Centre, 51 Okara Drive, Whangārei at 1pm on Wednesday 26 July, 2023. A light lunch will be served at 12.30pm.

Agenda

1 Minutes of last year’s Annual Meeting in July 2022

2 Matters Arising

3 Presentation of the Trust’s Annual Report to Beneficiaries for the year ending 31 March 2023

4 Appointment of an Auditor for the 2023/2024 Financial Year

5 Report on Code of Practice

In accordance with S100 of the Electricity Industry Act 2010 the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Trust for the year ended 31 March 2023 and the Auditors Report on those financial statements will be available for inspection, Monday to Friday, between 9.00am and 4.30pm at the office of the secretary (details below) and at www.northpower.com

Plus Chartered Accountants

22 John Street Whangarei

Phone 09 438 3322

In accordance with S102 of the Electricity Industry Act 2010 — s(2) every beneficiary has one vote — s(3) The quorum for the annual meeting is 20 beneficiaries.

All people in the Kaipara and Whangārei Districts who are connected to the Northpower electricity network are encouraged to attend.

“Mike is from Barfoot and Thompson Mangawhai and is our 2023 Tomarata Junior Rugby Grass Roots major sponsor,” says club administrator Michelle Keast.

“Our tamariki are proud to be rocking red, looking very stylish and doing Tomarata proud this season. We are very thankful for Mike’s generous sponsorship and his help with some much-needed equipment.

“Mike has been involved with our club for many years as his children played for the club. He approached us last year offering sponsorship, and it’s great to see him back helping with our BBQs and being active in other ways.”

to adults playing in the evening. Tag usually starts at the beginning of term four, and we align it with school terms. The club is a central hub for our wider community throughout the year. It’s not just about rugby, and in 2026, we will be celebrating 100 years.

“We have worked hard to build our player numbers, and we have some amazing kids and families with a high number of girls playing too now, which is fantastic. Anyone wanting information can check the Tomarata Rugby Football Inc Facebook Page. We would love more senior players and are finding ways guys can strap on their boots.

Mike says his three sons all went through the club, and his wife Sue ran the junior teams for around eight years with him.

“We love the grassroots club, it is a great place to be, and now we have the opportunity to give back and help them.”

Michelle says the involvement at Tomarata Rugby Club helped create the family atmosphere it is well known for.

“Tomarata is very much a family club and has a long history of local families, with many committee members previously playing themselves, along with their children and now their grandchildren. Although we are Tomarata, we have lots of players from Mangawhai, Wellsford and beyond.

“We have Tomarata Tag with players from three years old right through

“We are excited to be hosting our next rally day on July 22 with all the clubs in the district playing at Tomarata. From 1.30pm, we will invite parents to show the kids how they used to play with our Town and Country social game.

“Partners, grandparents, uncles and aunts come along and show how they still know how to get it done, and the married versus singles game is always fun too. The day starts at 9am with our Under Sevens at the Tomarata Rugby Club, 710 Mangawhai Road.

“Our junior club is growing again after a few years of challenges, and the door is always open to anyone who wants to come along. Once you are a part of the Tomarata, you are always a part of Tomarata.” ¢

p The Tomarata Rugby Club junior players show off their new red hoodies thanks to their sponsor Mike Hutton

“We love the grassroots club, it is a great place to be, and now we have the opportunity to give back and help them”

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS – NEWS YOU CAN TRUST

Volunteer turns professional

u by Ann van Engelen

Eden Kereopa from the Ruakākā Volunteer Fire Brigade has become one of the newest career firefighters after graduating from the National Training Centre in Rotorua recently.

“I was born in Whangārei and spent a lot of my childhood at Waipū on a dairy farm working alongside my uncle,” says Eden.

“There used to be a lot of stock truck crashes on State Highway One, and early one morning, someone called to ask if we could put some cows in the yard. It was early morning, and when we got to the end of the driveway, it looked like a circus was being set up on the road.”

Eden says there were police and firefighters everywhere with lights on.

“They were trying to round up the wild bulls and had lots of trucks and equipment. From that day on, I idolised them and the work they do. Later, I lived on SH1 at Ruakākā with my mum, and

one day, a car rolled in the paddock and caught fire. Mum called the fire brigade, and within five minutes, while she was still on the phone, they arrived.

“It was 2am, and it shocked me when I realised they were all volunteers, working together professionally. I was boarding at Whangārei Boys’ High School, and the experience had such a positive impact on my life I applied to be a volunteer at the Whangārei Volunteer Fire Brigade. It has been an amazing journey, and the following year, in 2014, I joined the team at Ruakākā.

“I had a break for four years while I was dairy farming and returned last year. After three months, I was talking to a paid firefighter in Whangārei, and he said if I was attending so many call-

outs and loved it so much, I may as well get paid doing the job. I went home and applied that night and got accepted. I was crazy, and it felt really easy for me to get in, but I think it’s because it’s what I wanted to do.

“I love the challenge of the work. You have no idea what you are going to do on each call-out. For instance, a car can crash in so many ways — it’s never as straightforward as people think.

“Being able to help people when they are in need and knowing what to do is another factor. In the brigade, we all work as part of the team, and that is fulfilling. I had my first day as a career firefighter in Whangārei on Monday and I loved it — it’s the best job in the world.

“I encourage anyone interested in becoming a firefighter to pop along to their local station and see what they do.” ¢

p Eden celebrating his graduation with his grandmother Barbara Winter

p Stationed in Auckland, Luke Fraser and Nicholas Choat also graduated the career course with Eden

Fundraising for tournament

u by Ann van Engelen

The Bream Bay College hockey teams are hosting a Music Bingo Night to fundraise for Tournament Week which is being held in Auckland from August 27 to September 1.

“There is a girls’ and boys’ team consisting of 32 students,” says teacher Kathy McCully.

“The students have been doing well this year. The boys are in Division One of the Northland Hockey Competition and are winning a few of their games and are holding their own after being in Division Two last year.

“The girls are in Division Two and are doing well too. Last year they won the tournament. We were pretty elated because we are not a massive school, so we don’t have a large group of students to choose from. It was the first time attending the tournament for a lot of the students, so to go away and win was an amazing experience.

“We have gone up to tier three of the competition this year, which will be a bit more challenging for them. The tournament has four tiers, with the top tier having the best of the best team playing. Being able to experience competing in these competitions is valuable for our children. They learn so much, build their confidence and get to

be among other great players from around the country.

“The coaches are all volunteers, and they love helping the players. They have a passion for the sport, and really enjoy seeing the children thrive in a team environment, and they know that there are a lot of valuable lessons that come with team sports.

“The teams are fundraising because it is $715 per student for the week, which is a lot of money to find. I hope that every student will be able to experience the tournament, so we are doing a sausage sizzle at Fresh Choice in the future and holding a Mixed Tape Bingo night at the Waipū RSA on Wednesday, July 12.”

A mixed tape bingo night is songs instead of numbers.

“Tickets can be brought directly from Shellie at the RSA for $25. She can be called on 021 782 662. The night starts at 6pm, and the kitchen opens to buy your dinner at 5pm if you want to make it a night out with friends and family.

“It will be a fantastic night with music. Local businesses have sponsored great prizes for the event, and we would love others to come on board with

sponsorship, if possible, to help get every team member to the tournament as it is such a great opportunity. I can be contacted on 021 046 4096.” ¢

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p Bream Bay College girls’ Division Two hockey team with their winning medals from last year’s competition

“The coaches are all volunteers, and they love helping the players”

Bringing history to life

u by Ann van Engelen

The Waipū Scottish Migration Museum’s old Heritage School is hosting the Waipū Art & Tartan+ Revisited display for the next two weekends.

“The Waipū Art & Tartan+ organising committee is presenting it at the old heritage school which has recently been renovated,” says committee member Sue Barker.

“The school has beautiful polished wooden floors with fresh white walls, and it is perfect to display the brightly coloured costumes. Earlier this year, Waipū Art & Tartan+ became a biannual event and is doing the display to remind people of the show. Some of the beautiful costumes on display are from last year.

been generous enough to loan them for this event.

“We have had wonderful support setting up this event, including one of the models travelling to Tauranga to collect two costumes when the designer became sick. Volunteer New Zealand statistics show that 20 per cent of New Zealanders participate in formal volunteering.

“A comment frequently made at the show from members of the audience is that they would like to see the fine details up close. For this display, we have tried to select a variety of designs that will reflect the sewing and construction skills of the entrants as well as a diverse range of costume styles.”

It is not just frocks on display.

“There is a construction made of vehicle hub caps, a Thorondor Eagle made into a bra inspired by Lord of the Rings, and a merperson created by using windscreen wipers. The creators have worked very hard on their costumes, and I am very pleased that they have

“The team enjoy volunteering because of the comradery and joy of putting on the show. We get excited to see all the costumes, including the children’s masks, and the team is looking forward to locals and visitors enjoying these wonderful creations up close.

“We are also hosting a workshop on the last day of the Revisited display where members of the public can ask the designers questions about the design, construction and the creative ideas that went into the making of their costumes.

“The Waipū Art & Tartan+ Revisited display is on the weekends of July 7, 8 and 9 and 14, 15 and 16, from 10am to 3pm, at The Heritage School, behind the museum in Waipū. Car access is through Nova Scotia River Estate, Halifax Drive,

Waipū. Entry is by gold coin donation koha, and the workshop is set for 2pm on Sunday, July 16. For this we need

people to register at wearbleartWaipū@ gmail.com. The next Waipū Art & Tartan+ show is set for spring 2024.”

“We get excited to see all the costumes, including the children’s masks”

p Sue Barker from the Waipū Art & Tartan+ organising committee adjusting The Tarty Bug designed by Glenys Henry, which received the Judges’ Special Mention for a New Entrant Award

Heavenly delights for spring

u by Liz Clark

Begonias are one of the most prolific plant species in the botanical world and are more than a popular choice by garden enthusiasts nationwide.

Mainly tropical and subtropical plants, there are more than 2,000 species classified in the begonia family. Six main types are available in New Zealand for gardeners, including tuberous, trailing, semperflorens, rhizomatous, cane-like and elatior. These species range in height from 15 centimetres to more than two metres.

With so many species to choose from, the choices available are numerous.

Tuberous begonias produce stunning rose-like flowers with a range of colours produced to please the eye. These are

ideal for pots with an upright growing habit. There is also a trailing variety for hanging baskets giving colour and life in spring and summer. These thrive in dappled shade — avoid planting in full sun.

For the garden, tubers should be planted out in spring in well-drained fertile soil after the danger of frost has passed. Cultivars to consider are Silver Shower, Molten Gold, Leaping Salmon, Bridesmaid and Autumn Wind. Trailing begonias can grow up to two metres or more in length. The Cascade cultivars,

also tuberous, are available in a range of colours from specialist nurseries. These include varieties such as Avalanche, Aurora Glow, Summer Salmon, Picot, Golden Cascade and Desert Storm.

Regardless of the type, all begonias need good drainage. It’s the main reason why potted begonias rot due to overwatering. Keep the potting soil moist but not soaking wet — plants should not be allowed to dry out. It will prevent any fungal disease from taking hold, causing the root system to collapse, resulting in plant death.

Liquid feed during the growing season and ensure plenty of light is available — avoid exposure to full sunlight.

While begonias are relatively pest and disease-free, powdery mildew can be an issue if there is poor air circulation. Treat the affected plant with a fungicide and ensure there is airflow around it. Mealy bug can be treated with an appropriate insecticide; use slug and snail bait for any unwanted slimy visitors in the garden. Visit your local garden centre or look online for more information and available begonia cultivars. ¢

Wearable arts embracing the new

u by Andy Bryenton

Only seven weeks separate us from Dargaville’s 2023 Wearable Arts extravaganza, which has taken up residence under canvas in a brand new marquee setting this year.

Postponements in 2021 and 2022 have led to more space to plan and sculpt a showcase for contestants and performers and planned reconstruction work at Dargaville’s town hall prompted organisers to think big and establish a new ‘gallery’ in which to present the living, moving artworks of those involved.

This September, an expanded runway will greet patrons as they are seated in a truly massive marquee set on the field of Pioneer Rugby Park, entirely floored and covered like a concert venue. The canvas of the metalframed marquee is the perfect backdrop for illuminations by night, and the team from AwhiWorld will reprise their three-dimensional image mapping magic and audio soundscaping against this new backdrop to incredible effect. They’ve also got some technological wizardry on hand to transform the space in different ways for the matinee daytime performances.

“The setting will be spectacular in its own right, with nothing of this kind seen in Dargaville before,” says event organiser John Pickworth, who has been working very hard behind the scenes with a talented crew to make the extravaganza possible.

“However, there’s more in store as well. Terri Donaldson has crafted an incredible show to frame the work of our 29 contestants, while local musician and composer Brian Baker has created a suite of original works to accompany the wearable arts.”

“It’s a collaboration of sight, sound and local talent,” says Terri. “It’s truly an experience not to be missed.”

Sound, sight and creativity have come together to form a singular vision for this year’s event, which will occur on September 1 and 2. Tickets are on sale now via iticket.co.nz, or by calling 050 848 4253. ¢

Jeanette Logie’s artwork was titled Carpark Angel, and featured an elaborate vintage dress made entirely of parking tickets; an example of creativity turning the mundane into the miraculous

“Terri Donaldson has crafted an incredible show to frame the work of our contestants”

Styling

An illuminating discovery

u by Andy Bryenton

Lighting transforms spaces and adds another level of artistry to the interior design of your home, with light fittings attaining the stature of functional sculpture.

Certainly, our ancestors knew that harnessing light to make the interior of buildings functional at night was a cornerstone of civilisation. The smoky fire pits of ancient times gave way to oil lamps during the era of the Egyptians and Mesopotamians, about 3500 BC. The first glass vessels come from the same time, and Pliny the Elder, the Roman historian, describes a legend which he believed explains the origin of this technology.

“The tradition is that a merchant ship laden with nitrum (potassium nitrate) was moored in a sandy bay. The merchants were preparing their meal on the beach, and not having stones to prop up their pots, they used lumps of natrum from the ship, which fused and mixed with the sands of the shore, and there flowed streams of a new translucent liquid, and thus was the origin of glass.”

It didn’t take long for the oil lamp and the technology of the glass blowers to come together. Roman lamps were combined into the earliest chandeliers, a word meaning ‘holders of candles’.

The skills of glassworkers were closely held secrets, combined with the work of dyers to create ornate and brightly coloured artefacts, which today grace museums and private collections. Some have even been copied by modern lighting designers.

In mediaeval times, the best glass lamps came from Venice, where the island of Murano was a secretive, closely guarded enclave. Their advantage came from the pure silica quartz found in that part of the world, which the Murano artisans combined with soda ash sourced from the Middle East, via trade routes dominated by the Venetian lords. Together, these substances were ground up and turned into masterpieces of glasswork. Revealing the secrets of Murano glass to foreigners was punishable by death.

Electric lighting didn’t come about purely for aesthetic purposes. Still, it has allowed the creators of lighting fixtures to let their imaginations soar. In the early days of electricity, when Edison was working to craft the first light bulbs, the focus was on illuminating industry.

Gardens of Beauty

Working at night, working down mines without the threat of explosions, and working in big, smoky factories which couldn’t have windows were all drivers of the electric lamp.

Today, we’re moving into the era of LED bulbs the size of a grain of rice. What designs and illuminated works of art will come from technologies even further advanced? We can only guess. ¢

p Glassblowers were crafting incredible lamps even in mediaeval times and earlier; the advent of electric power spurred an aesthetic revolution in lighting

Matariki with community

u by Ann van Engelen

Te Whai Community House is hosting

together on Friday, July 14, from 1pm to 5pm at 73 Moir Street, Mangawhai Domain.

“Te Whai Community Trust is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting wellbeing and social services within the community,” says general manager Kiri Eriwata.

“We are excited to announce our support for the upcoming Matariki celebrations. As the public holiday approaches on Friday, July 14, we urge individuals and whānau to take part in the festivities, fostering a sense of unity and connection among community members.

“Matariki, also known as the Māori New Year, is a time to celebrate the Pleiades star cluster rising in the sky, symbolising new beginnings, reflection, and gratitude. Through the eyes of Te Whai, we recognise the importance of embracing Matariki as an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and enhance overall wellbeing.

“One of the key aspects of Matariki celebrations is the traditional hāngī, a communal meal cooked in an earth oven. Te Whai emphasises the significance of sharing a meal together during this

time. Volunteers spend the morning in the kīhini (kitchen) peeling veggies, while the tāne put the meat, stuffing and veggies into the pit.”

Kiri says the act of gathering around the hāngī fosters a spirit of togetherness and connection.

“It provides an opportunity for individuals to engage in conversations,

Mangawhai Books & Gifts

share stories and create lasting memories, ultimately strengthening the fabric of the community.

“Matariki also serves as an ideal time for whānau, or extended family, to come together. Te Whai recognises the importance of family support and the positive impact it has on individual wellbeing.

“During Matariki, we encourage whānau members to set aside time to celebrate, share meals and engage in cultural activities. Tamariki and whānau are encouraged to make a putiputi, flax flower with Ngā Whetū Creations, or be thoughtful in your offering to te taiao — the natural world with Sustainable Kaipara.

“By fostering these connections, Matariki becomes a motivation for enhancing whānau relationships and community cohesion. Additionally, we are thrilled to witness the involvement of young people in the Matariki celebrations at Te Whai.

“The participation of youth in cultural festivities such as the performances by Aliyah Connelly-Richards, music from Keri Cullen, and impromptu waiata from local tamariki, not only allows them to showcase their talents but also encourages them to connect with their whakapapa, develop self-confidence, and foster a sense of pride in their own identity.”

p Friends and whānau are encouraged to join in the Matariki celebrations together

Washing your way

u by Amy Fifita

It is often the smaller details that make a home which is why it is smart to consider styles of tapware in your design plans.

You can select various styles of tapware to add a splash of your desired style and give your home a personal feel. Fittings are often available in various colours, looks, design features and functions.

A dual showerhead could be a luxurious addition to your bathroom. There will be no rush to keep warm while you are hosing off the suds because the broader showerhead will have you covered. A similar feature is a rain head above your regular shower.

For those on tank water, conserving water and sustainability are often considerations. A low-flow showerhead offers efficiency; many of them work without sacrificing water pressure.

There are even options for the children, especially those who have an

aversion to showering. Make washing fun by getting a light-up shower head. It offers a great distraction, and many come with various colours to choose from for each use.

Another consideration is tap fixtures. Some people prefer mixer taps, while others would rather have two separate taps and various other water fixture capabilities. There are also various taps depending on the water pressure in your home.

In the kitchen, it might be ideal to have a spring tap to create ease when washing fruits, vegetables and dishes. It is a functional addition to a workstation sink.

Once you have chosen the function of your tap, you can move on to selecting the style and aesthetic design you would love in your home. It is something that

you will constantly see, so decide what is appealing to you.

There are various styles trending for 2023. Mixed metals are popular at the moment, and it adds different pops of colour and adds ease to the deciding process because you get to choose two.

Matte blacks offer contrast for the other colours in your bathroom or kitchen. Once you have a clear picture of what you want, you can put the steps into motion and have an end product that works and represents who you are and what you want. ¢

all forms of

Once you have a clear picture of what you want, you can put the steps into motion

An easy strip

u by Amy Fifita

The world of home improvements is not without its difficulties, like removing stuck wallpaper so you can have a higher quality paint job.

There are ways to make this task easier so you have the best results you can achieve. There are various techniques to remove wallpaper ready for painting.

Peel a corner of the wallpaper off and check to see if wallpaper primer was applied. Pull at the wallpaper and if it loosens easily and comes off in one strip, then it is likely primed and it will be an easy job.

the adhesive so it will be easier to remove. Let the water soak in for about 20 minutes before using a scraper to manoeuvre the paper off.

Another useful tool is a wallpaper steamer. It is the same principle. After scoring the paper, the moisture will create a disconnect between the adhesive and the paper, making it simple to remove. Start from the bottom of the wall, work upwards and remove

If not, you will need to collect items to assist in the task — stripper, scaper, scorer, ladder, hot water, towels and soap. With those items in hand, you can begin. To prepare, put towels or material on the ground by the walls so they can soak up whatever water escapes the process. Set up your operation and begin.

Score the paper and saturate it with hot water. The water will penetrate the wallpaper and get behind it, soaking

the paper with a scraper. Once the wall is bare, use sandpaper to smooth any protruding glue and rough spots and fill gaps with sealant. Now it is ready to paint.

Wallpaper strippers are another simple option if you don’t fancy the work out of using a machine. Enlist suitable protective equipment when using chemical strippers. It is for your safety and should not be overlooked.

All you will need now is a scraper, paint tray, roller, a drop cloth for the floor and a wire brush to score

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the paper

with. Following the chemical stripping, apply again where it is required and rinse with water. ¢

Start from the bottom of the wall, work upwards and remove the paper with a scraper

p There are various techniques that you can use to make stripping wallpaper an easier task

A heart to share

u by Ann van Engelen

After years in a film and television industry career, Rosie Guthrie is expanding her artistic horizons and following her dream to create a space for her Big Little Art concept in the heart of Mangawhai.

“I grew up in Meadowbank in Auckland, and my mother was very artistic and was always baking, gardening or dreaming up projects to create,” says Rosie.

“When I went to secondary school, I found that I constantly wanted to be in the art room because I love art, and that continued to be my happy place. I went on to study at Ilam School of Fine Arts in Christchurch and then transferred to Massey University in Wellington studying industrial design and, after another degree change, graduated in interior architecture.

“The idea of working in a design or architectural office didn’t immediately attract me. I found myself looking for something a little bit different. In 2000 I called a film company for work experience, and my combined studies ended up being a perfect fit to work in the art department.

“I got a job working on a mockumentary called the Love Mussel starring the much-loved but late star Kevin Smith. I started watching it again recently, and it is quite hilarious. I loved work and couldn’t believe you could actually get paid for doing what you love.

“From there, I met some designers and was accepted to work on larger dramas and feature films. I absolutely love my career and work with the most amazing creative technicians across all film departments.”

Rosie has worked on local, national and overseas productions, starting at the bottom as a runner and working her way up to assistant.

“In recent years, I art directed and assistant set decorated international and New Zealand films such as Pete’s Dragon, Mulan, Mortal Engines and The Lord of the Rings. I also production

designed the New Zealand feature film The Justice of Bunny King.

“When I had my son, I found myself trying to hold onto my career, which is traditionally a minimum of 11-hour days. When the choice had to be made for where he would go to school, we came to Mangawhai, and I felt that it was exactly what I wanted for him. I want him to grow up experiencing some of what I did as a kid in the 80s and 90s,

being local, easily connected and with a love of the outdoors, so we moved here from Auckland.

“We love being by the water here, connecting to the beaches and surrounds. Since moving to Mangawhai, I have worked in short-form television commercials as it suits the lifestyle choice of moving out of Auckland.

The latest is the Waka Kotahi antidrink driving campaign and also

“Making Art is a place of flow for me where time seems to disappear”

p Rosie and her son Donnie often enjoy time together at the local beaches p Rosie is creating an art space in her cottage where children and adults can learn how easy it is to draw

projects for Colorsteel, AAI Insurance, Fresh Choice Supermarkets and 2 Degrees.

“Just before moving from Auckland, Howick Community Centre was selling off easels, and I randomly purchased 10. During lockdown I got our close friends’ kids around to connect and draw together, and it started a new journey for drawing and having fun. I couldn’t believe how happy helping children to create made me, and I have kept it up ever since.”

Rosie came up with the name Big Little Art for her new artistic enterprise.

“Big Little Art will offer art and design experiences through drawing for all age groups, and my TV work will work hand in hand. It is a life-changing experience to fall back into my passion and what feels like purpose.

“What I have sensed is that a lot of us who have moved here still maintain commuting to Auckland. When it’s wet and cold and the roads are out of action, it’s not all that easy to stay positive about the drive.

“It’s taken me a good while, but I have gradually accepted the possibility of opening up to a new approach to working locally. It took me a long time to conquer the fear of failure that was holding me back as I wondered if I could combine my passion for drawing with my career together in the community.

“One day, I saw a little cottage at the Rakaunui Arts Village and thought if it ever became available — it would be perfect for my dream. Recently, I saw it was empty and called the landlord, and so the story begins. I decided to offer Big Little Art to the community and see if I can create a space that can support me and share my passion for art and design.

“It’s amazing how drawing together connects families and gives you a really special bond that I can now facilitate. I will start with the basics, and the children will have input on what they are creating and help drive what we do.

“I don’t want to teach people to make art in a traditional sense. I want

to facilitate through the space and offerings, ideas and guidance. For me, it’s the experience and process that is the real star.

“A friend called my offering a kind of art apothecary. I love that. It’s like the art doctor, a space for healing, connecting and creating. It will be curious, and I want it to be a magical, creative space that kids and adults want to be a part of.

“Making Art is a place of flow for me where time seems to disappear. It’s a transformational process from the dreamed and imagined into the real. Drawing in its many forms, as we will explore, is an amazing tool to have. It can spark, record and direct creative projects. An artistic approach to problem-solving across all disciplines is a wonderful skill to have.

“A large component of my art practice is design orientated. I love collaborating and am excited to provide a space for the community with connectivity through art to create together as I start my new journey. Big Little Art will begin in term three in the week beginning July 17.”

Part of Rosie’s concept is having a Mess Club for preschoolers, an afterschool art club and an adults’ social night once a month at the Rakaunui Art Village, 34 Molesworth Drive.

“You can’t do anything wrong at Big Little Art. We try things and explore, which takes away the fear of what it might mean to draw or even be an artist. Working with large format, as we do a lot, helps people get out of the comfort zone and changes the approach to the page.

“People can follow me at Big Little Art on Facebook and Rosie_biglittleartcool on Instagram. I‘m based in Mangawhai but want to engage with the wider communities as there is a huge number of people homeschooling in the area as well.

“It’s kind of beautiful because, at age 17, I began my fine arts degree with a vision to go on and study to become a secondary school art teacher. It seems I have now come full circle with many surprise adventures and other skills learnt along the way.” ¢

“What I have sensed is that a lot of us who have moved here still maintain commuting to Auckland. When it’s wet and cold and the roads are out of action, it’s not all that easy to stay positive about the drive”

p Children are able to join together as a team to create their works of art

p Teaching people of all ages to draw together is a delight to Rosie

p Rosie is excited to have her dream for Big Little Art come to fruition

Surf lifesavers recognised

The Mangawhai Volunteer Surf Lifesaving Club is celebrating the nominations of senior surf lifesaver Jess Costello, club chair Gordon Finlayson for the Sport Northland 2023 Volunteer Awards and Vanessa Fulton for the Surf Lifesaving Excellence Award for Junior Surf Lifesaving Coordinator of the Year.

“I grew up in Mangawhai and became a lifeguard when I was 14 years old, and have been involved in the club for 25 years,” says Jess.

“My roles within the club have been numerous over the years, and I am heavily involved in training the new lifeguards each season. I really enjoy being a leader in the club. Last year, we took 21 students through their lifeguard award. To me, that is amazing and very dear to my heart.

“Through winter, the search and rescue group are continuing to train

“To be nominated for the sports award is an honour,” says Gordon. “Our club administrator Vickie Matich did our nominations with our acceptance, and it is an honour to receive the nomination and recognition. Vanessa and Jess have done a great job over the years too. I joined the club at 16 years old on January 31 1967, and have seen a lot of changes in Mangawhai over the years.

“Back then, it was all dirt roads, and it took Happy Cash, Arnie Leeder Senior, myself and Arnie Leeder Junior three

and trial new gear because, in the last couple of years, our role has become a lot more important, especially with the recent flooding where we were tasked by the police to respond nationally as a part of flood response.

“I am passionate about teaching and seeing both young and older people going through the 10-week programme. It is intense with a lot of physical and mental demand and I really enjoy helping them to become lifeguards.”

Gordon Finlayson is retiring from the club after more than 50 years service.

hours to get from Auckland to Mangawhai in an old V8 to do our patrols. We got a few more members in the 70s.

“We received Rescue of the Year one year once for rescuing a bible class group that came to the beach. We closed the beach, so they went up further and swam. We followed them, and by the time we got to them, they were in trouble, and we thankfully managed to get them all ashore, which was good.

“I have a lot of memories from my years in surf lifesaving, and the future looks bright for our club.”

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p Jess Costello with fellow search and rescue squad member Neil McInnes

“I joined the club at 16 years old on January 31 1967, and have seen a lot of changes in Mangawhai over the years”

PUZZLE TIME

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46 Spots (4)

47 Enlaces (anag)(7)

48 Single-celled animal (6)

49 Thin porridge (5)

51 Long ago (4)

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