Onehunga Community News by The Auckland Newsletter Company

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OnehungaCommunity Keeping you in touch with your neighbourhood MARCH 2012

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Action-packed fun at the Bay The Onehunga Bay Lagoon Festival will be held this year on Saturday March 24th, from 11am to 4pm, at the Onehunga Bay Lagoon on Beachcroft Avenue. There will be all the usual fun of the festival – the waterslide, climbing wall, and waka on the lake.

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Presenting Midnight Youth continued... wonderful school children and local cultural groups who practise for this showcase event. The Festival committee have signed up one of New Zealand’s hottest acts to entertain the crowds expected at the annual event. To great critical acclaim Midnight Youth have recently released a second album, "World Comes Calling". This follows their successful debut album "The Brave Don't Run" recorded in New York in 2008/9. According to the critics the group have grown and matured since then, which means those attending the festival should expect a fantastic experience from the guys who won “Best Rock Album” and “Best Group” at the 2009 NZ Music Awards. Also rocking the crowds is local band Young Lyre – who can proudly state that they have opened for Green Day. “I hope people feel alive and energetic when they see us play” says vocalist Jordan Curtis. While enjoying the entertainment don’t forget to stretch your legs once in a while. If dancing isn’t your thing and you’re too mature for the waterslide, then go for a walk around the craft, food and drink stalls. There will be a wide range of vendors, refreshments and also information stalls from local organisations. Learn more about your community while you sip on a cold drink or a coffee and decide what to have for lunch. Please remember however that there are NO EFTPOS FACILITIES on site. Thanks to all the volunteers and sponsors who make the festival such a great event every year. This will be the last festival at the Lagoon until after the foreshore restoration, so make sure you come along and enjoy it – it may be even better next year but it will never be the same again.

Onehunga’s Susan Boyle? Every second Friday Onehunga Mall is treated to a medley of old songs from a woman that passers-by have referred to as “Onehunga’s Susan Boyle.”

Onehunga Community News caught up with Marie Jayet outside her ANZ spot to see what inspired this plucky, blind member of the Onehunga Community to belt out favourites like “..You’re sixteen, you’re beautiful, and you’re mine...” Resident in Onehunga for over 15 years, Marie was well used to singing in one of the Blind Foundation’s homes that she lived in with her long-time life partner, Leah. But Leah sadly passed away from cancer in 2010. Marie and Leah shared 39 years of friendship, 24 of them living together. “Leah used to tell me I had to get out and do some busking and let the rest of the world hear my voice. Eventually I decided I had to give it a go. I really enjoy it and usually manage a couple of hours every other week with one of my care-givers.” Manager of Onehunga Mall ANZ, David Milne, says that Marie was a long time customer of the bank and even used to sing in the queue. “She was very entertaining. One day there were some buskers outside and Marie asked me if she could do it instead, so of course I said yes. Her care-giver is with her all the time but we get the security guard to keep an eye on things too.” The day that Onehunga Community News visited, several people stopped to donate money and one generous man even commented that she was “just like Susan Boyle – except better!”

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Celebrating our children Children’s Day 2012 will be celebrated at the Onehunga Community Centre on Sunday 4th March, from 11am to 2pm. This is always a wonderful day for families, where lots of fun events for the kids are interspersed with great information for parents and caregivers.

A bouncy castle, art activities, performances and demonstrations, story time and bubbles – come along and try something new. Treat yourself to a sizzling sausage and some candy floss, and then have a laugh with the kids as you work it off dancing along to the Zumbatomic demonstration. Join in some trial classes and discover some new interests to entertain and educate your children. Celebrate your children, and everything that makes a family such a wonderful place to be, at the Onehunga Community Centre, 83 Church Street. Omana Children’s Day is also a celebration of children. This event will be held on the 11th March from 10-3pm. From horse & tractor rides to gumboot throwing and kite making, there's something fun for the whole family.

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Sam's month in review It’s been a busy start to the year as Parliament got under way last month. 26 members of parliament have delivered their maiden speeches and we are now going about the task of advancing the Government’s legislative agenda.

We have had the 1st reading of the Consumer Law Reform Bill. Consumer laws affect everyone in daily life. The law has not been updated for 20 years and the reforms will seek to adequately deal with modern transactions. These include Trade-Me style auctions, supermarket self-service systems, telephone sales using credit cards and the sale of extended warranties. We also recently released a free phone number 0800 LOAN STRESS to assist people having difficulties with loan sharks. We are working hard to finalise detailed legislation based on my private member’s bill which will be introduced soon. We are progressing well with our green paper discussion on vulnerable children. It is an issue which has touched the hearts of many New Zealanders in recent years with many high profile child abuse cases. How we value, nurture, and protect our children is a long overdue debate. The green paper has been seeking public feedback and discussion on a broad range of solutions to address the problems facing our vulnerable children. Some of these issues include: • When and where services should be targeted and prioritised. • The level of intervention that’s needed to protect children. • Whether the government should monitor children. • How much information should be shared? The Government has received more than 3,500 submissions

from concerned people, frontline workers and community organisations. People have been contributing through email, on Facebook and by post, and having their say at the many road shows Minister Paula Bennett has been hosting throughout the country. The Government will now produce a Children’s Action Plan and legislation that puts our children first in every way. Finally, New Zealanders voted to keep MMP in the referendum last year and we are going to deliver on our promise by having the Electoral Commission undertake a review of how MMP works. I strongly urge you to have your say on this review by making a submission. Details of the review and the aspects being reviewed can be found at: www.mmpreview.org.nz or by calling 0800 36 76 56. You may also obtain information from our office at 268 Onehunga Mall. In Onehunga it has been extremely busy with the Chinese New Year’s celebrations at the Onehunga Library drawing many locals. I also had the pleasure of handing out the medals at the Waka Ama Portage Crossing. It is good to see the Manukau Harbour used for these types of recreational activities and is a testament to the work of TOES and other community groups who have been pushing for the improvement of our local facilities. I attended the 50th birthday celebrations of the Dolphin Theatre. It was a great night out and Agatha Christie’s “Mousetrap” certainly had the audience guessing right until the end. I have been making my regular visits to local schools. It will be a big year for our children and I can report that the state of local schools is healthy but there is always room for improvement. This coming month I’m looking forward to attending the Onehunga Bay Festival, Pasefika Festival and ASB Polyfest to support our local schools. I hope to see you there. Peseta Sam Lotu-liga, MP for Maungakiekie

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International Food Festival in Royal Oak Royal Oak Primary School is pleased to invite you to their annual food festival, which will run from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Saturday 31st March. Parents, children and staff have been busy preparing for this much anticipated day, with lots of fun things to do when you are not sampling the amazing array of tasty treats. From Mexican to Maori, from Asia and the Pacific – you can try dishes from a wide range of cultures, and then top off your meal with one of an enticing selection of desserts. All funds raised at the festival will go towards IT equipment for the school, so come prepared for some wonderful raffles and silent auctions. Your children could take a trip to school in a fire engine or be Principal for the day, if they are lucky enough to win one of the raffles. Local businesses have donated goods and services to the silent auction, so you can bid on swimming lessons for the kids, fitness programmes for yourself, a professional photography session for your family and lots of other prizes. There will also be bouncy castles, face painting, lucky dips, books, preserves – all the fun of the festival. For further information visit the festival website, www. royaloakfoodfestival.com. The festival will be held at Royal Oak Primary School, Chandler Ave, Royal Oak.

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Boutique on The Green The sun was well and truly out for Mangere Bridge Boutique Market on Sunday 19th February. The market debuted in November last year and recently returned for the rest of 2012.

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It was entitled ‘boutique’ as it differentiates itself from Farmers markets in that the cooking of food does not occur on site, nor are there any vehicles on site. However all foodstuffs available have appropriate certification. The colourful stalls are framed by the soft grass of Coronation Road’s Naomi and Bill Kirk Park and the bustling Coronation Road cafes. Mangere Bridge Progressive Business Association Manager Carol Anne Armitage is thrilled that despite a very rainy summer both patrons and businesses have still endeavoured to make it work. “We have our regular salmon man who offers, of course, smoked salmon and quite often scallops. Then there is Sara’s Authentic Indian Cuisine and Blackwoods Artisan Bread. Glenbrook Lavender offers a range of body products and Dunnsmure Crafts offer a range of handmade gifts and wooden toys. There are many more, as well as the curiously named, award winning ‘Gruff Junction’ cheeses.” This delightfully rustic stall has become a fixture at the market since local Bri Dimattina suggested she help close friend and Christchurch based co-owner Anna Moorhead, rebuild lost business by doing markets in Mangere Bridge. The cheeses are made from the milk of 250 white Saanen goats and are proving incredibly popular. Carol Anne is still looking for more stall holders to fill the village green though. She is keen to meet good buskers to add to the Sunday fair atmosphere too. For more information please contact phone 622-1338 or email mbvillage@maxnet.co.nz

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| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

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Strange behaviour Members of the Rotary Club of Onehunga – One Tree Hill have been raising a few eyebrows lately with their behaviour. Normally sane, rational Rotary members have frequently been seen carrying large plastic bags full of wine bottle caps into their meetings; however there is a method in their madness.

The reason? The club is helping fund-raise for the Kidney-Kids Charity. The bottle caps can be recycled for their aluminium and traces of other metals like titanium. The proceeds go to fund two camps every year for children with kidney problems; plus a BiAnnual International Camp. The local Rotarians became involved around three years ago after Kidney Kids representative Paul Norfolk visited the club and told them about recycling efforts being carried out by other organisations. Rotary member Bruce Murdoch says that when Paul told them about recycling wine bottle caps a few eyebrows were raised and we said, “we can do that.” Since then every meeting the club members arrive with bags full of wine bottle caps. Bruce says he has also got into the habit when at a party, of asking if he can take all bottle caps home. He admits he gets strange looks when he makes the first request, but once he explains what it is for everyone is delighted to help. Now every few weeks a bag full of caps will get dropped off by various friends who have joined in the effort. He says it is very positive that some good can come from the indirect refuse of wine making - not normally seen as an industry supporting young people with kidney problems. Paul Norfolk of Kidney Kids says the efforts of groups like Rotary to collect the used caps has been wonderful and has grown over the last few years. He even gets regular deliveries of bottle caps from as far away as Hong Kong, while the Napier Lioness club recently managed to collect more than a tonne in one go. Paul says it has been a wonderful project for the charity as most people find it an easy and amusing way to help out, plus he admits it is easier to get people to collect things like bottle caps than to ask directly for money. He also adds that along with wine bottle caps, they also accept the metal cages from Champagne bottles and opening-tabs from cans. However he is keen to point out not to send the cans themselves as they are too bulky for them to process; the cans should be recycled through the Council collections. If you would like to help with Rotary’s collections you can contact Bruce Murdoch on 625-5745 to find out where to deliver the bottle tops. To find out more about Kidney Kids other work call their helpline 0800 215 437.

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Crime drops as CCTV cameras watch Security on the streets of Onehunga has long been an issue which has exercised the minds of those who live, work and shop in the area. Theft from parked cars was a constant issue, deterring shoppers and worrying those who drove to work. The bus station was Satia Sami from Icon Security keeping an eye on Onehunga often a gathering point for youth disorder, with legitimate users left feeling threatened and wary. The Onehunga Business Association’s Town Manager, Amanda Kinzett, recognised the problem soon after arriving in the job, and has been budgeting assiduously to enable new security measures to be installed. Over the past year closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been installed throughout the CBD, and 23 cameras are now operating. The association and local police could not be more pleased with the outcomes. The security project covers public areas, car parks, alleys and the bus station. During the day footage is constantly monitored by a security guard, again paid for by the association. This constant vigilance has allowed the police to be notified instantly of any untoward activity. This in turn has led to a number of successful arrests; sometimes literally “in the act”. Footage from the cameras is recorded 24 hours a day so that after hours incidents can be reviewed by police. Community Constable Don Allan says the impact of the cameras has “been outstanding”. He notes that there has been a remarkable decrease in crime and youth disorder since the cameras came in to operation and that evidence gathered has helped to identify offenders as well as gathering evidence and prosecuting offenders. While CCTV is one measure for security, Amanda is also working in with organisations such as the Police, Community Centre, Library and Jordon Centre to monitor further initiatives placed within the community. These security initiatives, and the cooperation of the wider community, are making a positive difference to Onehunga.

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Put a cap on debt

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It is not easy to recover from the financial excesses of Christmas, even without the effects of a global recession to contend with. Consequently it can seem that clearing or reducing the debt that many of us incur is an insurmountable task. But have hope; there is light at the end of the tunnel.

The Auckland region’s library reports for the last quarter of 2011 showed that Onehunga is one of the fastest growing venues. Manager Rachael Town-Treweek explained at a February Local Board meeting that figures showed a 13% increase in issues and a 14% increase in items checked in. She also said that Diwali Festival numbers showed a record high.

It’s called the Cap Money Course - or Simple Money Management and Budgeting. It is run by the national debt counselling charity, Christians Against Poverty (CAP). They say that NZ households now spend $1.15 for every dollar earned. However, CAP’s unique ‘hands on’ approach is understood to empower people to the extent that they help themselves out of poverty. They are then released from the fear, oppression and worry generated by overwhelming debts. There is no fee, you just need to turn up to the Life Church, 95 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, for 3 Mondays in March: Monday 5th, the 12th, and the 19th. Sessions begin at 7.30pm. Don’t delay booking your place as seats are limited to 25! Call Doug White on 022-0337940 or email capmoneycoach. mangere@gmail.com. You can also visit www.capmoney.org for more information.

The library’s quarterly activity tables showed library visits are still steadily rising - now more than 60,000 per quarter, with a growing number of books being borrowed. An average of nearly 2500 ‘info skill’ participants took part in programmes each quarter and computer usage averaged at almost 80% for the 9 computers. This represents a slight drop in computer usage from last year. Rachael suggests that an increase of private computers and internet devices would be a contributing factor. One of the most popular programmes was the region wide ‘Dare to Explore’ reading programme for 5-13 year olds. “The number of registrations we’ve had has meant that we have been able to implement some great activities. Of note were the story competition based on an old photo of Onehunga, and the Taniwha drawing competition” says Rachael. For more information phone 374-1319

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March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News |

Deserving Honours

Latin fever in Onehunga

Sitting in the sunny Hillsborough living room of George Arulanantham and his wife Anne Uma George, it is hard to imagine what the Tamil couple went through to enjoy a quiet, elevated view of Onehunga today.

Saxophonist Cameron McKenzie says Kantuta was thrilled to play in Onehunga in January. Jellicoe Park was filled with 2000 bodies enjoying their special Latino mix of music and rhythms. Their repertoire includes Salsa, Merengue, Modern Latin Dance Tunes and Classic Latin Favourites.

They became refugees in 1991, left with only what they could carry. Yet despite a perilous escape from Sri Lanka the couple worked tirelessly to help fellow refugees find their feet in New Zealand. Their efforts earned them both a Queens Service Medal in the 2012 Honours. “The global community did not realise how bad things were there. Within Sri Lanka the Tamil people had become a persecuted group and life became very dangerous there for us” says Anne. Her own escape plan involved leaving separately to her husband so she could flee en masse, by nightfall, with her then infant daughter. The family found refuge in Thailand and years later chose New Zealand over Canada and Australia to finish bringing up their family safely in Mt Roskill. “It is still very hard to leave loved ones in a forced migration like that. Settling down anew is very difficult. That is why we wanted to do as much as we could to have a community Tamil people could come to here.” On arrival they took other younger refugees under their wings to help them find work. They became heavily involved in human rights and worked to bring Tamil MP’s to New Zealand to reiterate their stories. George, a highly educated engineer, had no difficulty finding employment here in renewable energy. Anne put her social work degree to good use in the childcare sector. She coordinates the Tamil Community Education Centre as well as the Auckland Refuge Community Coalition Women’s Group. To hear more phone 625-6255 or 021 134 4304. Email: tcpg@hotmail.com

“They were a great crowd - from the people with their picnic baskets laid out to the ones up dancing. Everyone had a great time. The nature of Latino music is that it gets you up to move and a cycle of energy is created- we put the energy out and it comes back to us. It’s about relaxing and letting the mind go, feeling the rhythm.” Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board Deputy Chair, Bridget Graham, said the performance was superb. “People were really enjoying themselves and getting on their feet – Latin American music seems to do this very easily. We all had a great afternoon.” The 8 strong band, 2 stage dancers and later, two more Latin members of the audience filled the stage. Cameron said he spotted the latter two and “knew they could sing” so told them to come on up. Auckland Council made Kantuta’s Onehunga performance possible as part of their Music in Parks programme. For more information on other events visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or call 301-0101.

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Onehunga

The Onehunga Enhancement Society www.toes.org.nz

FOR INFORMATION ON HOW YOU TOO CAN SHAPE THE FUTURE OF ONEHUNGA CALL Jim Jackson (chairman) 027 473 0226 or Peter Gibson (vice chair) 027 492 9326 OR VISIT www.toesociety.org.nz

| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

Keeping abreast of Local Board spending When Auckland Council melded seven councils into one, not only did many communities fear an identity crisis, they also wondered how to keep track of who was spending what, where and when.

It is important that people keep abreast of Local Board decisions when they can – the Maungakiekie -Tamaki Local Board meets every second month in Onehunga. We encourage you to check the

Soojin returns, by popular demand The Onehunga Community House is delighted to announce another recital by Operatic soprano Soojin Baek. Her previous two engagements at the House proved popular with local audiences, and Soojin enjoyed performing in the beautiful, historic building, so she is returning with friends for an evening of enchantment and entertainment. Soojin will be joined by tenor Greg Patel. They will sing solo and duet, accompanied by concert pianist Kim Naden who will also give a piano recital. The audience will be treated to a wide range of musical traditions, from Puccini and Verdi to Gershwin, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Irish folk music. Tickets are $30, which includes a supper to be served after the performances. To make a reservation, please contact Tony Broad at the Community House, 83 Selwyn Street, or phone on 636- 9900. Soojin and friends will perform on Saturday, March 17th at 7pm.

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council website for the agenda so you can attend. In the meantime however, it certainly appears there is plenty of spending going on. Onehunga’s affectionately known ‘Grotto’ on Grotto Street, formally entitled Hochstetter Pond, is undergoing a $25,000 transformation. This hectare of mixed dry and wetland is estimated to be weeded and planted to perfection by June 2012. The cost will come out of the Opex, or Operational budget. It might be surrounded by industry, but Miami Parade is part of the Manukau Foreshore East Cycle & Walkway. Planned improvements will add to ecologically sound ‘passive recreation.’ The development of this area is intended to link Waikaraka Cemetery-South DownsHamilins Hill / Mutukaroa. Some soils in this are understood to be contaminated with asbestos so a strict health and safety plan is being implemented as Council re-plant and beautify the area. By mid June 2012 they will have spent $21, 950 from the Opex purse. While discussions continue on placing public toilets in Fergusson Domain for park users, Council will have spent about $10,000 on trees and pathways by the end of March. The park has seen a substantial increase in use over the last year and the board has agreed on an area wide, phased improvement. While Waikaraka Cemetery gets another 200 plots, paid out of regional coffers, Waikaraka Park will have a whopping $250,000 spent on field #1 for major irrigation and storm water drainage. (See our article page 22). Organisers of the Watch & Clock Repairs Onehunga Bay Festival are also Onehunga Jewellers pleased to announce that The 214 The Mall Local Board also teamed with Ph 636 4760 Council to find $20,000 worth of funding for what is always a fantastic community event.

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Onehunga Community Centre Te Pito o te Iwi Whaanui

Onehunga Community Centre is a vibrant hub of the local community, and there is always plenty happening that YOU can be a part of. Stop in; say hi, we look forward to meeting you.

MARCH 2012 Arts & Crafts

• Registration Day Mondays 9am-1pm (by appointment only)

• Includes Aqua Aerobics, Aqua Zumba & Off Peak Group Fitness Classes

• Casual Entry between 9am-3pm Mon-Fri for Registered Green Prescription Participants only $5 per visit

• Concession Cards Available & Full Access Memberships from $12.80 per week

• Include Access to Fitness Club, Swimming Pools, Sauna, Spa & Steam Room

Onehunga War Memorial Pool Park Gardens Lane, Jellicoe Park Onehunga Ph: 0508 Onehunga (66348642) www.onehungapool.co.nz

• Access from 9am-3pm Mon-Fri Only, Must present Green Prescription Card on each visit

SEW STYLEY (L1) FLax WEaving SEW STYLEY (L2) JEWELLERY MaKing aRT CLaSSES YaRnS OnEHUnga aRT

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$5 $5 $5 $5 $5 Gold Coin $5

(sewing machines provided) (learning for all levels) (sewing machines provided) (soft tech & recyclables) (art with Rick Julian) (knitting/crochet/needlework) Adult Interest

Monday Monday & Thursday Thursday Friday Tuesday (1st Tues mthly) Friday

1.30pm - 2.30pm 10.30am - 2.30pm 10.30am - 11.30pm 1.00pm - 2.30am 1.00pm - 3.00pm 1.00pm - 3.00pm

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Check out our website www.onehungacentre.org.nz

March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News |

Greetings from the Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board! As we reported last month, we are now in the middle of the first of this year’s big milestones! On Friday 24 February, Auckland Council’s Draft Long Term Plan 2012-2022 was released and submissions on this close at 4pm on Friday 23 March.

Have your say about Auckland’s future

Leila Boyle, Chairperson Leila Boyle (Chair) (021) 287-8222 Bridget Graham (Deputy Chair) (09) 630-6205 Josephine Bartley (021) 287-5599 Brett Clark (027) 252-7543 Chris Makoare (021) 0206-2990 Simon Randall (021) 286-7999 Alan Verrall (021) 069-1547 Board members’ emails are Firstname.Secondname@AucklandCouncil.govt.nz

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Making a submission is easy – it’s just like writing a letter. You can: post your letter (without a stamp!) to Draft LTP/Draft RTLP, Auckland Council, Freepost 239296, Private Bag 92-300, Auckland 1142; email LongTermPlan@AucklandCouncil.govt.nz; go online at www.AucklandCouncil.govt.nz/LongTermPlan; or drop it off at any library, Auckland Council service centre or our office (7-13 Pilkington Rd, beside the Panmure Library). In addition to the draft budgets for the whole Auckland Council for the next ten years, there are also three other vitally important documents up for discussion in this public process. Firstly there is the Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board Agreement which outlines our budget for the 2012-13 financial year as well as the projects and advocacy we intend to focus on over the next twelve months. We would love to hear your thoughts on whether we have this right or any changes or additions you may like to see. Secondly, Mayor Len Brown has released the Alternative Funding for Transport Discussion Document which includes options for how we, as a region, might focus financial resources to pay for big transport infrastructure including projects affecting Onehunga like the Avondale-Southdown rail link and the final link in the ladder between State Highways 1 and 20. Thirdly, Auckland Transport has released its Draft Regional Land Transport Programme which outlines transport projects and

services to be funded over the next three years from 2012 to 2015. Find out more at www.AucklandTransport.govt.nz/RLTP. To help you understand these parallel processes and to ensure a strong Onehunga voice from our communities, we will be holding four public meetings. Check out the advertisement below for details of these. If you have any Auckland Council issues that need resolving, the call centre operates 24/7 on 301-0101. Auckland Transport, phone 355-3553 and Watercare, phone 442-2222, are also available around the clock for any transport and water issues respectively.

Contact Sally Webster M: 021 599 191 P: 627 1926 E: sallywebster@xtra.co.nz

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Important documents out for public feedback include: • Auckland Council’s Draft Long-term Plan • Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board’s Draft Agreement • Alternative Funding for Transport Discussion Document

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Submissions on these are due by 4pm, on Friday 23 March. You can ﬁnd out more at Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board’s community meetings: • Tuesday 6 March, 6pm – 8pm Tamaki Recreation Centre, Elstree Avenue, Glen Innes • Thursday 8 March, 10am – 12pm Onehunga Community House, 83 Selwyn Street • Wednesday 14 March, 6pm – 8pm Onehunga Community House, 83 Selwyn Street • Friday 16 March, 12pm – 2pm Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board Ofﬁce, 7-13 Pilkington Road (beside Panmure Library) We will have a brief presentation followed by discussion, including how you can have your say. For more information, go to: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/longtermplan

| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

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Find out more: Phone (09) 570 3840 or visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/MTLB

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We all hope that our neighbours are going to be friendly and reasonable, but unfortunately some people just aren’t easy to get along with.

While being tolerant is the key, there can be a point where tolerance is no longer an option and you have to start dealing with any problems you’re having. Neighbourhood disputes are common especially with those living in close proximity to each other. It is always advisable to try the, softly, softly approach first, instead of going in all guns blazing. Don’t approach your neighbour when you are angry this definitely will not help the situation as you will more than likely say something you will regret and inflame matters further. Ask the neighbour in question if you can have a quiet word with them, and try to stay friendly. It is possible that they may not have realized that a problem existed; such as loud noise levels, unruly children, or even issues over trees. Always give your neighbour the benefit of the doubt and see if you can resolve any niggling issues without making the problem worse. If you feel intimidated by your neighbour you could always try writing a letter, rather than speaking to them face to face. Of course, some bad neighbours just don’t care what they do, and in this case you probably don’t want to inflame the situation. Problem neighbours are sadly a fact of life in many areas and it takes a great deal of patience and tolerance to deal with them. Belonging to a Neighbourhood Watch/Support Group is another way to share your concerns and address issues. You may be surprised to find out that you are not the only one with concerns. Members of your support group may also be able to help with mediation. NEVER resort to physical violence to resolve your problem, you could find yourself prosecuted or injured. Remember, VIOLENCE RESOLVES NOTHING! If you feel that things are getting out of control or you can't cope with the situation, contact your local Community Constable who may be able to assist you with your problem. Feel free to contact me to discuss setting up a Neighbourhood Support/Watch Group in your street or advice on dealing with troublesome neighbours.

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Est.1976

Hearing needs extra time

If you play soccer, or think you might like to give it a try, then Onehunga Soccer and Sports are inviting you to come along and see what they have to offer.

The Resource Consent Applications Hearing for the Onehunga Foreshore Project was expected to take place from December 13th - 16th.

Registration is now open to all previous members and new players for the 2012 winter football season. You can register in person at the clubrooms at Waikaraka Park on Saturday 25th February between 11.00am and 1.00pm, or online by going to www.onehungasoccer.org.nz. Full details are also available on the website. Players from 5 to 55 are welcome to join.

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Council advised it wasn’t quite enough time for the 1002 strong submission-response from interested parties. Council advised that submissions tackled issues like water quality and sedimentation, plantings, foraging and roosting areas for birds, and much more. On-leash and off-leash areas for dogs was a major concern. 22 February was set aside to conclude due process - the focus being the closing of legal arguments. At the time the Onehunga Community News was going to print we were advised proceedings were expected to take about half a day. A decision is then due within 20 working days. This is followed by a 15 day appeal period. It is too early to tell if proceedings will delay Fulton Hogan’s hopeful start date from Autumn 2012 to Spring 2012. Council stresses that timing is dictated also by the weather, as good weather is necessary for earthworks. Visit http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/ onehungaforeshore for more information.

Angelic Light gift or For that special lic Light! nge occasion visit A 17A Spring Street, Onehunga (across from Dolphin Theatre) Entrance down the drive - parking right outside the door Open Mon - Fri 1pm - 5pm, Sat 10am - 5pm

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| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

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ONEHUNGA COMMUNITY NEWS

March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News | | 15 15

Golden Oldies celebrate 25 seasons The Onehunga Mallers’ Cricket team is currently celebrating their 25th full season playing Golden Oldies’ Cricket at Waikaraka Park.

The team emerged from a Golden Oldies’ festival held in Auckland in 1984. A number of members of the Onehunga Cricket Association (OCA) played in the festival and enjoyed it so much that they started talking about putting together an Onehunga team.

Onehunga Mallers Originals.Wayne Kneebone, Mike Ringrose, Ray Whelan, Bruce Conquer, Frank Ball, Ken Totty

In 1986 OCA President, Frank Ball, formally proposed the formation of the Onehunga Mallers Golden Oldies’ side. The team played one ‘trial’ game in the 1985-86 season, followed by their first full season in 1986-87. Now 25 years later many of the original members of the side, including Frank, are still part of the team; although some have put their playing days behind them.

The Mallers’ regular opponents are from all over the top half of the North Island; teams like Cambridge Antiques, Rosetown Rogues, Hamilton Planks and Counties Crocs. For the last 17 years they have also hosted an annual mini-festival at Waikaraka; this year 10 teams attended to help celebrate the Mallers’ anniversary. The games are officially for players over 40, but this is taken more as a suggestion than a rule. Current Mallers’ President, Mike Ringrose - one of the original team members, admits that he was one of the many members not “technically” eligible to play when he started with the Mallers. Given the age of the players the matches are more laidback than top level cricket. Games consist of 40 overs with the bowlers restricted to run ups of no more than 10 metres, “not that it matters” says Mike Ringrose “as most of the team can’t run anyway.” Everyone usually has to bowl at least one over and batsmen must retire once they reach 30 runs, although they can return to the crease once the rest of their side has been dismissed. Fielding positions are not chosen on skill, but rather on age. The younger team members get to patrol the boundary and the older you are, the closer to the stumps you get to field. Most importantly the team observes all of the great off-field traditions of the game, with lunch during the break between innings and a meal at the end of play. With the Anniversary past, the teams focus is on fundraising for the Golden Oldies’ World Cup to be held in Adelaide next year. As part of their efforts they will be holding a sponsors’ night at the Alexander Park Trots on April 20th and anyone wanting to reserve a table for the night can contact Russell Barke on 478-9796 or 027 345 0824. The team is open to new members. Contact Mike Ringrose through the team’s website www.sportsground.co.nz/ onemallers.

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| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

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March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News |

Behind the scenes Scattered throughout Auckland there are a number of small shopping districts – main streets with a row of shops, useful to those who live locally but not a destination for those from other suburbs.

By contrast there are places like Onehunga: vibrant, connected and moving forward towards a clear goal. The difference between these types of suburbs is organisations like the Onehunga Business Association (OBA). Set up in 1937 to represent local business owners, and incorporated into Auckland City’s Mainstreet Programme in 1991, the OBA is paid for, through their members’ rates, by the 400 businesses in its area. The businesses in the rateable area form a committee, and this committee employs the OBA staff. Amanda Kinzett is the current manager employed by the OBA, where she is assisted by Debbie Harkness. Their job is a time consuming mix of public relations, advocacy, event organisation and budgeting which would test people of lesser resolve. 2011 was a “ridiculously busy year” with the Rugby World Cup and the Super City added to an already packed work load. Scanning every piece of legislation for impacts and opportunity, making submissions to keep Onehunga in the forefront of politicians minds, attending committee meetings – everything contributes to ensuring that Onehunga gets its fair share of public money, infrastructure, events and publicity. This in turn ensures that people from around Auckland and New Zealand see Onehunga as a desirable place to visit, spend time, invest, live and work. Involvement of the OBA has been critical to the growing development of Onehunga over recent years. Previous Town

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Manager Barbara Holloway was instrumental in waging the battle to reopen Onehunga Mall to traffic and had the legions of stray cats rounded up and removed. She initiated many of the infrastructure projects which Town Manager Amanda Kinzett have so improved the community; a move towards a more community focus which has been continued by Amanda. A two year negotiation with the Council resulted in the Mall footpaths finally being cleared of old gum. A major security review has seen over 20 cameras placed around public areas to address safety and crime issues, and these are constantly monitored by the OBA. The Onehunga Lagoon Festival, Santa Parade, Chinese New Year – all of these local celebrations which bring joy to locals and attract people to the area are supported by the OBA in conjunction with local businesses, organisations, and volunteers. All this is in addition to constantly scanning and making submissions on bylaws – currently there are 32 bylaws up for review and the OBA will make submissions on all but a couple of these. Then there are the road, rail and environmental issues facing Onehunga. The OBA strongly supported the Onehunga Enhancement Society (TOES) from the outset, recognising how valuable this organisation would be in the ongoing success of the community. “The OBA has been extremely supportive in helping us bring about substantial quality change to Onehunga. It provides a strong representation of our community to other organisations and the Council” says TOES Chairman Jim Jackson. As Onehunga looks to the future, with its strong history and deep roots to help keep perspective, organisations like the OBA are invaluable. They help us celebrate the good, ensure we get a fair share of the public purse, and provide an infrastructure which informs us and helps us deal with challenges.

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| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

Masonic Lodge Membership is open to men over 21 years of age with sound character and high integrity. Master T: 021 0240 0010 E: peter@zulia.co.nz Secretary T: 021 757 995 E: tvhackney@xtra.co.nz

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New market AIM's for excellence Onehunga has a fabulous new weekly market opening for business on Sunday, 25th March. Auckland Indoor Markets (AIM) has chosen upstairs at the Onehunga Working Men’s Club as the perfect indoor venue for a vibrant, memorable art and craft experience.

AIM's Stewart Whyte and OWC Secretary Manager Vicki Douglas indicate the size of the premises.

This is a market with more – offering a great café venue, ambient background music and the opportunity to experience an interactive weekly workshop with one of the stall holders. Browse through a fascinating range of jewellery, Maori art works, dresses, scented candles and flax arrangements. Talk tech with the website developer, or ease your aches with the onsite chiropractor. There will be dolls, table cloths, tapa cloths and coasters – plenty to interest and amuse, and the indoor venue means no problems with Auckland’s weather extremes. There are still spaces for those with goods to sell and while this is not a produce market, artisan producers of cheeses, chocolates, oils and the like are encouraged to join AIM while it is young and there is still room. Those who remember the wonderful market that ran at the Onehunga Community House will know that locals are avid market goers, just looking for an opportunity. The market will run every Sunday from 9-2pm, and is upstairs at 158 Onehunga Mall. For further information please email hmg.market@gmail. com or phone 021 192 5437.

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• NEW MEMBERS WELCOME • FOR MORE INFORMATION PH 636-5600 March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News |

Enjoying the challenge Onehunga High School’s new Head Pupils, Raniera PanioraHepi and Shekinah Gafa, say they are enjoying the extra responsibilities their new roles have given them. Raniera says for him the best part of the job is “it keeps me busy”. Shekinah agrees saying that “being so involved in the school and seeing how it works has been exciting”. Both admit though, that the down side has been they have not always had as much time for their friends as in previous years. They trust their friends will understand. While still getting to grips with their new role, they say one of their goals is “to try and bring the Year 13 students closer together because it is our last year and we want to form friendships that will last” says Shekinah. Both students say that the first time they had to stand in front of the school was nerve-racking; however after a few assemblies their confidence is growing and they are starting to enjoy that part of the job. At the end of the 2011 school year, staff and Year 12 students voted on who would be Head Boy and Girl, as well as the other Prefects, for 2012.Principal Deidre Shea interviewed all the Prefects individually, and it was then that Shekinah and Raniera were informed that they would be the Head Pupils. However they had to keep quiet about it until all the other Prefects had been interviewed which resulted in a long five day wait, during which time all their friends were trying to find out what they had been told and who the Head Pupils were. Both Shekinah and Raniera say it was a difficult time and they were constantly trying to change the subject whenever anyone started asking awkward questions.

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Both are primarily studying Sciences, with Raniera also doing Maori and Graphics. His plan is to move on to studying Engineering at University. Shekinah plans to study for a Bachelor in Health Sciences before making a choice between pursuing a full Medical Degree or Sport Physiotherapy. Either way her ultimate goal is to work in Sports Medicine.

Signs of change Many will have noticed some signage around parks, public toilets and other areas in Auckland has not yet been privy to the Auckland Council logo. This is soon to change. A representative for Council recently expressed at a recent Local Board meeting that currently a ‘signage suite’ was being decided upon. This could potentially include the Cancer Society’s Smoke Free signage. Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board member and Chair of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee, Chris Makaore requested that Council be sensitive to cultural and socio economic differences during the design process. He said that people in some areas will respond differently to those in wealthier areas when it comes to reading signage that enables them to report, for instance, damage. He said this would be mainly because of a lack of familiarity with due process. Ironically, Council representative Linda Lucas agreed he could be right. She confirmed that in fact Auckland Council call centre fields the highest number of complaints from the blue chip suburb of Remuera!

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| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

6 Seaforth Avenue, Mangere Bridge Phone/Fax: 636-3613 • Mobile: 027 652-8069 Email: appltd@xtra.co.nz

Attack of the rates Auckland property owners still reeling from news of volatile rates increases have just been hit with another round of bad news. The rates still won’t cover Auckland Transport’s bill.

Now looking for a solution, the AC Strategy and Finance Committee will brainstorm funding options for transport because they say ‘...it is clear that simply increasing tax and rates will not cope with an estimated $10-15 billion funding shortfall.’ Aucklanders will be asked to pick from 12 options. Said Mr Brown in February: “We need the buy-in of Aucklanders and their agreement on the way forward to unclog our roads and unleash the potential of all Auckland.....Our top priority is fixing Auckland’s transport problems....it is important that we as a region have an open and frank conversation about what options we are going to pursue...” So what can we expect? Fuel tax? A diesel levy? Visitor or departure tax? What about a regional income tax? “We have a three-year window in which to decide what approach to take, but doing nothing will mean leaving a legacy of transport chaos to our kids” he says. Council state that Auckland faces a population increase of more than 50 per cent within three decades, to more than 2.2 million people. This figure is based on the premise that homeowners will still be able to afford to produce and raise children within three decades. Many of our readers would have cringed at the Onehunga

Community News explanation in our February issue of how the amalgamation template could lift Maungakiekie residential rates by an average 11.7% Home owners in other wards are affected too; about 190,000 property owners overall will face a wild financial hike. Council will appeal to the Minister of Local Government for a legislation change so they can offer a reprieve: they will cap those rates at 10% and continue to do so for 3 years, in a ‘phased approach’ to recovering the balance. Those whose rates dropped under this template can enter into a “spirit of generosity”, says the Mayor, by chipping in towards their neighbours bill. Some fund-hungry projects that require a frank, conversational approach are the combined Auckland Manukau Eastern Transport Initiative (AMETI) and Onehunga to East Tamaki (East-West) Link, the City Rail Link, an additional Waitemata Harbour crossing, the extension of the Northern Busway, the Avondale-Southdown Rail Link and ferry service improvements. The discussion document will be available on the Auckland Council website, and at council service centres and libraries. Offer your feedback from 24 February to 23 March, and make verbal submissions from 10 April to May 7. In June, a most-popularoption will be decided. Of course, there is also a 13th option that Council don’t appear to have listed: ‘No.’

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Waikaraka Park Improvements

Work has finally begun on the $250,000 drainage upgrade to Waikaraka Park. After two winters with the park being a virtual bog the main soccer pitch is having new drainage pipes installed and sand slitting.

Onehunga Sports and Soccer Club Captain Tony Porter says despite the disruption the work will cause, the Club is just pleased it has finally started; “for us it’s a must after the last two years. We are the only team in the Premier League without a sand based pitch.” While they haven't got the complete upgrade they had hoped for, at least the work being done will solve many of the club’s problems. In 2010 there was a small lake in the south-west corner of the park causing mud to such an extent that they had to turn the No.1 soccer pitch 90 degrees to find solid ground to play on. In fact things got so bad that Onehunga Sports was forced to move some of their home games to other parks and there was the distinct possibility that the club could have lost their Premier status if they could not provide a suitable pitch to play on. No-one is quite sure what has caused the problem as when Onehunga Sports moved to Waikaraka eight years ago there were no drainage issues. Tony Porter says that it has only been over the last two years that problems arose. The suspicion among park users is the problems were caused by development of the land between the park and Manukau Harbour. These developments included extensive compacting of the ground and the belief is this blocked some of the natural drainage in the area. The work also means significant disruption, not only to Onehunga Sports winter programme but also to The Onehunga Cricket Association’s season and the soccer clubs Seven-a-Side summer League. The Cricket Association has to play the rest of their season with reduced boundaries, while the Seven-a-Side was forced to move matches away from the clubrooms. The work is not expected to be completed until May or possibly even June, which has forced Onehunga Sports to play ‘away matches’ for the entire first round of the Northern Premiership League.

Cemetery nears capacity It is 122 years since the first burial at Waikaraka Park Cemetery. Over time it has reached capacity and been developed to make room for more plots. Extending the boundaries of the site was one of the core local issues that famous Onehunga Mayor, Elizabeth Yates, fiercely petitioned for during her one year term. The time has come to make more room again, and central government have happily backed the funding to create 200 more plots.

The Maungakiekie-Tamaki Local Board has approved the CAPEX budget of a little over $150,000 to remove and landscape internal roadways. This should allow the cemetery to remain ‘open’ for another 3 years. During that time thought must be given to an alternative. Once cemeteries reach capacity they are deemed ‘dead’ and responsibility is handed to the Local Board to maintain in the same way as a park. Work began in February and should be complete by 31st March.

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Joy and Bruce Crabtree moved into their new retirement apartment at Selwyn Heights Village two years ago. Bruce was working then as the Captain of the Devonport Ferry. They brought their bikes to train for their annual expeditions – this year across England and Wales, an 1100km journey. Their sunny, spacious two bedroom Selwyn Heights apartment has been the perfect base for their adventures, with room enough for Joy’s grand piano and visits from their three grandchildren. If you want to live life to the full like the Crabtrees, call us on 0800 4 SELWYN (0800 473 5996) for a tour of Selwyn Heights Village, 42 Herd Rd, Hillsborough, or visit www.selwyncare.org.nz for details.

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March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News |

Weepu comes to Te Papapa! Te Papapa-Mt Wellington Rugby Club’s players are rubbing shoulders with some big names these days. Not only do they now have Taniela Moa on their side, the team have been training under Gus Lam’s watchful eye, and using David Tua’s Kamp Tuaman gym in Onehunga. But the ‘piece de resistance’ for the club’s efforts so far is that the Rugby Union has just signed none other than Piri Weepu to the club!

Co-coach Stewart Whyte confirmed late February that out of all the clubs who applied for the All Black & Auckland Blues legend, Te Papapa-Mt Wellington got’im. “Everyone is thrilled of course. We don’t have the dates as yet but there will be a formal Powhiri to welcome Weepu to the club. This adds more weight to our aspirations to be one of the best in the country” says Stewart. “What’s so rewarding about this decision is that the Rugby Union is endorsing what Coach John Faamausili and I are trying to do here.” He explains that the club is enjoying other successes too. They have formed a great women’s team and are currently looking for a coach. The junior league teams have risen from 4 to 12, and they will host a set of 3 Ripper Rugby tournaments on March 7th, 14th, and 21st March for local primary schools too.

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“Imagine having your kids signed to the same club as Piri Weepu?” Stewart asks, grinning. However there is work to be done ahead of bragging. By the time ‘season proper’ starts the Premiere team will have tested themselves against Papakura in late February, and will have played against College Rifles at the Remuera team’s home ground on 10th March. The latter is part of the Waka Nathan Cup tournament. The first official games of the season start with 2.45pm Fergusson Domain Park home games, playing Teachers Eastern on April 7, then East Tamaki on April 14. Stewart and John are still keen to see a lot more players at the Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm training sessions. For more information phone/text Stewart on 021 1925 437, email aaronpascoe@xtra.co.nz or visit www.tp.org.nz

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| March 2012 ~ Onehunga Community News

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