The SA issue 18 by The South African Magazine

The

Issue number 018

December/January 2011

South African

CONNECTING SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND

Free

SA Music

Memory Lane -

see page 12

Marc Lottering SA comedy special see page 13

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The

South African

From the editor From the Editor All the experts are saying that the slowdown is coming to an end and 2011 should be a much better year with 2012 getting back to 2006 levels with regards to demand for housing and retail goods. The proof of the pudding will be the Xmas sales. Housing sales are still very sluggish and no one is really spending any money as can be seen by the massive sales going on just weeks before Xmas. New Zealand has fared very well through this period but Europe is still in a tail spin with countries like Ireland, Portugal, Greece and Spain threatening to pull down the European Union. This will have an effect on New Zealand if this should happen. On a brighter note we once again have a full magazine with a few new advertisers, one being the newly established Pinehill Butchery. This business has South African connections and will be producing top quality South African products like Biltong, Borewors, thick steaks & real pork bangers. Pinehill Butchery will be one of the sponsors for next month’s South African social evening, so you will get a chance to savour their products. A special note for the social evening is that we have been able to secure a troupe of Zulu Dancers for the night. Please invite your friends as this will be a nostalgic night. I have also written a restaurant review on Serengeti Restaurant which I think is now one of the top restaurants on the Shore with heaps of traditional South African flavours. Please try them. This is the last Magazine for the year and I wish everyone a happy Christmas and a very special New Year. For all of those in business I hope the festive season is good to you. See you soon. Regards Peter Woodberg

The

South African PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Peter Woodberg

jepwood@xtra.co.nz mob: 0274 520 794

SUB EDITOR

Kate Richards - kate.kznkiwi@gmail.com

ADVERTISING

Norma Vaz

norma.samag@xtra.co.nz mob: 021 043 7342

Postal Address

The South African, P.O.Box 300-155, Albany. AUCKLAND 0752 www.samag.co.nz Click on http://thesouthafricanmag.wordpress.com then click on the facebook logo

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS The South African Social Group – Richard Pearce Mob: 0275 357535 e-mail: r.pearce2@barfoot.co.nz Die Afrikaanse Klub – Thys Oosthuizen die.afrikaanse.klub@clear.net.nz THE SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSION, WELLINGTON Tel: 04 815 8484 level 7, State Insurance Tower. 1 Willis St. Wellington. Email: consular@sahcwellington.co.nz

Front cover:

Detail of painting by artist Craig Bone entitled “Last Stand”.

Mission Statement

“The South African Magazine shall provide current, high quality, relevant editorial on subjects relating to the links between South Africa and New Zealand. It shall be the vehicle for SA immigrants living in NZ to integrate socially with their own community and to advertise their products and services.”

Mike Hackner Architects Ph. 09- 580 1914 mobile : 021-459 110 Email: mike@hackner.co.nz Website: www.hackner.co.nz

All rights reserved “The South African” is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part without the consent of the Editor. Opinions expressed in the magazine are those of its contributors and not necessarily those of the Editor. While every effort Life&Leasure Ad 2.indd 1 has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the Editor assumesAD1004 no responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this publication.

2010/09/22 1:37 PM

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The

South African

QUAY LAW LEGAL UPDATE

Advertorial

by Ian Mellett of Quay Law Solicitors Ian Mellett

In this issue, Auckland lawyer Ian Mellett discusses some of the matters that you should consider when deciding to purchase a business. The decision to purchase a business is both exciting and daunting. On the one hand it signifies the start of a new venture, yet on the other it raises the uncertainty and risk inherent in any commercial undertaking. You may also be unsure as to whether to buy an existing business or to start your own from scratch. Generally speaking when you buy an existing business, there should be existing customers from day one which will ensure an instant cash flow. However if you start from scratch, then you will need to generate new customers. Both approaches have their own hurdles that you will need to overcome, and particularly so in light of the tough economic climate currently prevailing. It is important that you engage your professional advisors at an early stage in the process. Your lawyer and accountant, along with a business broker if there is one involved, are well placed to give you the necessary input and advice to enable you to make an informed decision. There are various aspects which require careful consideration. Some of these are set out below:

The Agreement

business and its assets, or the shares. The last issue is extremely important, as it will determine how certain aspects of the purchase need to be dealt with from a taxation perspective. Generally, due diligence only needs to be done once you have signed the Agreement. However, in practice, much of this work is often done in finding out about the business and in determining what amount to offer. Now you will need to decide! Due to space constraints, I have only briefly touched on some of the more significant aspects which you need to consider when purchasing a business. My recommendation is that you consult your lawyer (and accountant) early in the process to ensure that the proposed transaction proceeds smoothly. There is a cost associated with obtaining professional advice, but it is my experience that this will be far cheaper than the cost of getting it wrong. Please feel free to contact Ian Mellett (BComm LLB H Dip Tax) at Auckland law firm Quay Law for more information, or if you have any questions regarding your business or other legal needs visit our website www.quaylaw.co.nz.

It is preferable to use the standard Agreement for Sale and Purchase of a Business which has been compiled, and amended over the years, by the forms committee of the Auckland District Law Society. The agreement, much like its counterpart for residential and commercial property transactions, is designed to cater for the needs of both the vendor and the purchaser. Always ask your lawyer to cast his eye over the agreement before you sign the document. There are a number of things that need to be considered, including the names of the vendor and purchaser; what is being sold; the price; terms of payment; warranties by the vendor; conditions such as the obtaining of suitable finance, solicitor’s approval (if appropriate) and due diligence; possible restraints of trade and all issues relating to existing employee contracts.

Purchasing Entity It is recommended that the purchaser be reflected as (name)….. “and/or nominee.” This will give you the opportunity to discuss the most appropriate purchasing entity with your lawyer and accountant. Issues such as limited liability protection, tax, succession planning and the like, all need to be considered prior to settlement. There are various options, including but not limited to sole proprietorship; partnership; limited liability company and trading trusts. I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these entities in an article sometime in the new year.

Due Diligence This is the most important aspect of any business purchase, as it provides you with an opportunity to perform an in-depth analysis across the entire spectrum of the business. Your accountant will be able to assist you in inspecting the financial statements for the past 3-5 years (this will vary from business to business) in order to judge the “financial health” of the business, and to raise any concerns or request further information if necessary. Your lawyer will be able to assist you with all the legal aspects of the due diligence process. These include, but are not limited to, reviewing all lease and/or licensing agreements; patents and copyright (if any); stock valuations, and evidence of ownership of equipment and assets (and whether these are unencumbered or not). He will also ascertain what is being sold namely the

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The

South African

FRONT PAGE ARTIST

Craig Bone

f Craig’s wildlife painting is hanging on your living room wall you are prompted to run to your window to see if it’s actually happening outside your house! That’s reality, man! We continue with Part 2 of Craig Bone’s interesting life story. His painting “Last Stand” is featured on our front cover. Craig Bone started painting while he was serving as a soldier in the Rhodesian bush war that was sparked by governor Ian Smith’s declaration of independence against the British Government’s decision to convert Southern

Tristan de Chalain MSc MB ChB FCS(SA) FRCSC FRACS

Specialist Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon Consulting in Auckland, Tauranga, Pukekohe and

now Botany Downs

Immediate Past President

Rhodesia into a country ruled by the black majority. He ended up in hospital after being severely injured by a mortar attack where he decided that he needed to get out of the military and become a full time artist. So he headed out into familiar territory, the African bush, where he would photograph wild animals and then reproduce them on canvas. Bone feels this is what sets him apart because a lot of artists buy their slides from professional photographers. Viewers can see the experience in his paintings because he was there. “I know what fresh dung looks like,” he says. Just that seemingly small detail, a pile of fresh dung, makes his paintings even more realistic and sets them apart from other wildlife artists. Craig’s strong sense of community spirit and his passion for the military has encouraged him to support veteran programs throughout the United States and in Zimbabwe. Most recently, Craig has raised over $100,000 for the Safari Club International Veterans Committee which supports soldiers from Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraqi battlefields who have been wounded during active duty. His painting entitled “Earth, Wind and Fire,” is a depiction of the reality of the Vietnam War and honors the sacrifice of American soldiers. This work of art presently hangs in the Pentagon. Craig is currently working on similar projects connected to the Iraq and Afghanistan War. Craig has been awarded the Safari Club Medal of Valor for his consistent support and dedication to the Veteran’s Committee, and in 2003, Craig was also awarded the Safari Club International Wildlife Artist of the year. Due to his obvious passion and support of veteran programs, Craig was honored to participate in the official opening of Fort Bragg’s Airborne and Special Operations Museum in North Carolina. Within his own community, Craig has volunteered his time to the Cancer center Health Park of Fort Myers, Florida. Recently, Craig was approached and commissioned to paint a portrait of the Zulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu, the reigning king of Zululand. Veiw the full sized painting at www.craigbone.com

New Zealand Foundation for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery NZACPS www.cosmeticsurgery.org.nz

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The

South African Helpful tips for immigrants

Job hunting ideas; thinking outside the box

by Kate Richards

pdate your resume and start seeking: Securing a job on arrival can be a daunting task but the following tips and useful websites should give you the “heads up” you need. A good place to start is the Seek website. Click on the tab that reads, “Salary, advice and tips” and follow the instructions on how to create an impressive, local-style resume. Click on the tab “Job search” and let the hunt begin. Trademe also has a healthy jobs section.

Useful websites for job seekers: www.seek.co.nz www.trademe.co.nz Education Gazette: http://www.edgazette.govt.nz/Vacancies/ Iris Support Services: http://www.iris-health.org.nz Randstad: http://www.randstad.co.nz/jobseekers PORSE: http://www.porse.co.nz/ Wwoofers: www.wwoof.co.nz Auckland City Council: www. http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/ Drake: http://www.drakeintl.com OMEGA: http://www.omega.org.nz/ If at first you don’t succeed, read on. New Zealand work experience can be an essential ingredient in getting that coveted job. So how does one avoid the Catch 22 situation of no NZ experience, no job? Flexibility, humility and tenacity are key attitudes. Take Action: Network, volunteer and/or consider a stepping stone or even a new career path. Talk to people and get yourself out there. If money is running out faster than the job offers are coming in, you may need to widen your job search or embrace a new direction. There may even be unexpected benefits to this. For example, corporate working mums battling to land positions in NZ might consider a move into an Educational environment. Volunteering is an excellent way to gain New Zealand experience and to make valuable connections. I volunteered at a school for blind children in Manakau and at a local district school – firstly as an observer and then as a teacher aide. This led to paid teacher aide work which is incredibly rewarding. The benefit to working in Education is that one need not outsource for aftercare or holiday childcare while gaining quality time with your kids. Teacher aide positions are often not advertised in the education gazette, but are occasionally advertised in local newspapers. You could be proactive and offer to volunteer in order to gain invaluable experience and confidence. To find out more about TA work, visit: http://www.careers.govt.nz and click on “Get Job info” and then search for information on being anything from teacher aide to professional sports coach. Care work / support work is another personally rewarding way to secure

an income. Visit Iris Support Services or Randstad for health and community care/ support work. Randstad also advertise positions across a broad spectrum of industries such as Industrial, Pr/communications, Education, Accounting, etc. Alternately, type “support work” in the Seek website and explore a variety of options. Stay-at-home mums who would like to work as home educators or nannies may like to explore PORSE as an option. The organisation offers specialised training, professional support and career opportunities so that you can be of service to families and the children you care for. The Wwoofer route might be worth investigating for the young and the hardy. According to the website you “live with families and get hands-on experience with organic and sustainable practices including earth building, cooking and preserving, wine, cheese and bread making, crafts, companion planting, worm farming, composting and a whole lot more.” For 4-5 hours work a day, one gets “reasonable accommodation”, three meals a day and a chance to experience farm life. Lastly, for qualified professionals, OMEGA offers a mentoring programme that is essentially networking at its most productive and focused. There will be more to come on OMEGA in the next issue. I hope these leads are helpful. Happy job hunting!

Dr Bernie Brenner

MB BCh (Wits), FRCOG, FRANZCOG, MBA, M Phil, BA (UNISA)

Gynaecologist and Uro Gynaecologist

Specialising in: • Female Urinary Incontinence and Urodynamic Assessments • Minimally Invasive Surgery for Bladder Leaking • Menopause - Hormone replacement therapy • Colposcopy (the treatment of abnormal cervical cytology) including Laser • Office Hysteroscopy for diagnosis of menstrual problems • Gynaecological Ultrasound • Laporoscopic Surgery - for removal of Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts and Endometriosis Consulting rooms at 131 Shakespeare Road, Milford

For appointments Phone 486 0182 • Email: pelvic-floor-clinic@clear.net.nz Webpage: www.berniebrenner.co.nz

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The

South African RESTAURANT REVIEW

Finding SA flavours by the sea Serengeti Restaurant by Peter Woodberg

size 120 x 75mm

f you haven’t been to Serengeti you don’t know what you’re missing. I am a regular customer and I thought that it was about time I wrote a piece on this typically South African restaurant.

restaurant

. . . . . . the taste of Africa

Sunday from 12 to 2.30pm

open christmas lunch and new years eve see website for details

If you close your eyes all of the accents heard are distinctly South African. They do have patrons of other ethnicities but most of their support comes from the South African community. The ambience is great, with the walls depicting murals of the Serengeti plains, painted by South African artist Don Guy; making you feel like you were back in the place where you used to be, mother Africa! The smell of the steaks passing by reminds me of the old “Spur” franchise and the salad bar is reminiscent of the old “Mike’s Kitchen” venue layout. Where am I? At the Serengeti in Murrays Bay as close to the water as you can get; what a beautiful setting! The service is quick and the place is buzzing as I order the Wednesday night special of tiger prawns and the Chicken combo for $29.00 with a choice of peri-peri, garlic or lemon butter sauce. I am in heaven. The last time I enjoyed these flavours was in my favourite Portuguese restaurant Agruta, in Durban. Simona orders the Madam Fillet steak and is equally impressed. We help ourselves to heaps of fresh salads and we are served with an accompaniment of the best French fried chips on the Shore. No complaints, just great wholesome food that titillates the palate. Serengeti has some amazing side orders as well as some well known mains; for example as starters you can order Calamari, Peri-Peri Chicken livers, Serengeti Chicken wings & snails. For your main meal you can order “Steak done your way,” Chicken, Oxtail, Bobotie, Chicken Schnitzel & Tiger Prawns. Your mouth should be watering by now. Where else in NZ can you order samp & beans, I ask you? If you want a perfect meal Serengeti is the place to go and you can finish off your mains with a great Dom Pedro or Irish Coffee. Have I convinced you yet? Serengeti has a wonderful playroom for kids. This facility is ideal if you want the kids entertained while you are left in peace to enjoy the fabulous fare on offer. Check out Serengeti’s very colourful websitewww.serengetirestaurant.co.nz. You will find them at 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay. To avoid disappointment phone them on 475 5988 to book a table or e-mail reservations@serengetirestaurant.co.nz.

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The

South African

The immigrant song by Eve Hemming

e’re all bombarded by the screeds written about immigration. But one may serendipitously read a snippet that resonates during a desolate moment. Emigrating is a profound and impactful journey. Those who haven’t taken the plunge can’t remotely identify with what is essentially a life-altering paradigm shift. The decision may arise due to being affected by crime or a variety of circumstances in South Africa. Once it’s made its equivalent to crossing the great divide to plunge into a life forever altered, whereby one views the world differently. Thousands of local South Africans can identify with the incredible journey, not just because it’s across an immense ocean, but because it’s a colossal journey of the soul. After I made the decision, it was comforting acknowledging that NZ was on the same planet. But my desperate efforts to rationalise what I was doing lead to an inner sense of chaos and reactive over-justifications. The scenario was exacerbated by well-meaning souls who yacked on about The Global Village and “Oh well, there’s Skype…” Sure, the cyber spectrum shrinks the planet whereby technology creates a sense of immediacy compared with eons ago when letters took forever across boundless oceans. I kept saying, “It’s already inhabited by thousands of ‘Saffers’, so it’s like moving to another S.A. province.” But just prior to leaving I felt a hysterical madness. It was impossible to comprehend what this great leap into the unknown was all about. I was heading off to the land of the long white cloud, and may as well have been going into a different dimension, not just another time zone. I was about to vanish into a different space, as though I was falling through Alice in Wonderland’s looking glass and waking up an extraterrestrial in an alien landscape. Family and friends responded along the optimism-pessimism trajectory. Some patted me on the back exclaiming how courageous I was. Others accused me of being a traitor by abandoning the great African continent. The world’s a merry-go-round with intrepid humanity continent-skipping ever since time immemorial. But when it’s Africa that one’s exiting, abuse is hurled. Others called me ‘lucky’. It’s not about luck, but about having undiluted guts and perseverance. People back home have limited understanding about what courage, obstacles and bereavement it entails! Emigrating is a personal choice and odyssey. I, too, have Africa in my bone-marrow. But that doesn’t mean that I had to remain entrenched. We’re creatures of the universe, with options our birthright. Life’s transience should revere exploration and new horizons. It’s plucky

to climb out of one’s comfort zone or to aspire to seek more security - to transform one’s pastel daydream into a reality and seizing the moment can only grow one. A major life-change brings with it trepidation. It’s horrendously painful shedding the gut-naked stuff in one’s soul. It’s not about hedonistic pleasure or gratification. It’s usually about making sacrifices as path-finders for others. It’s in our blueprint to gravitate to safety for our offspring at whatever cost; pangs of loss of roots, identity, material comforts and the familiar. It’s a new chapter with character building adversity and numerous hindrances. After several years of adaptation it can hopefully be a celebration of one’s courage to cross the metaphorical and real boundaries of one’s life. In the final analysis it’s about survival and instinctive courage. Eve Hemming is a psychologist, educationist and freelance writer. More importantly she’s a wife, mother and grandmother. Together with her retired husband, they are pathfinders. In South Africa she was involved in freelance writing for the Natal Witness (Pietermaritzburg) and several other publications before moving to NZ in 2008.

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The

South African

A transformative go-getter with a family focus

SUCCESSFUL IMMIGRANT BUSINESSMEN IN NZ

Your one stop auto shop

Lanny Hokoza of Rolch Automotive in Glenfield, Auckland can service all vehicle types from minis to microbuses! He has the expertise and the team that will give your vehicle the tender love and care that it deserves. Lanny hails from Zimbabwe and arrived here in 2003 with a quiver full of qualifications after working for a variety of companies in his home country. He took home the ‘Mechanic of the Year´ award in Zimbabwe in 2000. He started out in a variety of workshops cutting his teeth as a new immigrant on the North Shore of Auckland, getting to know how things operate here. He looks back with pride at his time with the Vehicle Testing Station in Kingsland where he became top inspector. This has enabled him to provide a top of the drawer service to his clients no matter what vehicle they drive. He has been looking under the hoods and bonnets of everything mechanical since 1988 when he began his time as an apprentice mechanic in Harare, Zimbabwe. Lanny has invested in modern high end top quality equipment in his workshop so that he can cater for all varieties of vehicle makes. Your vehicle will get the work-over of its lifetime when it is lucky enough to spend a few hours with Lanny and his staff of highly experienced motor mechanics. He will gladly do a Warrant of Fitness inspection on any car, trailer, forklift truck or motorcycle. When you leave your car with Lanny for a service he gives you a free courtesy car that keeps you mobile while you wait. And did we mention that Lanny was open on Saturdays from 8am to 5pm? Thank goodness! If you have a hectic lifestyle and can’t get your vehicle to him during the week, don’t panic! We have a “NO PANIC WEEKEND MECHANIC” at your service. If you want out-of-this-world vehicle servicing in Auckland contact Lanny or his wife Romana on 09-443 6805 or e-mail Lanny on rolch@xtra.co.nz.

What we do: • Warrant of Fitness • Warrant of Fitness repairs Student offer : • Brakes & clutch WOF $30. • Suspension Oil change & general • Cam Belts check $59. • Lubes Student I.D required • C.V. joints • General Automotive repairs • 12 hour tow truck available

Free

Suspension checks, Brake checks, Courtesy car Lanny Hokoza Director Contact: Lanny or Romana, Rolch Automotive 3-29 Ashfield St. Glenfield, North Shore T: 09 443 6805, M: 021 1508605 E: rolch@xtra.co.nz

usanna Kruger says; “I am the dark horse running to bring about a system of transformational governance with the focus on the family.” As part of her doing a Master of Education at Unitec, Mt Albert, Kruger developed a concept for an Online Calling Curriculum and Evaluation System (OCCES) for teenagers, aiming to make Equity in Education happen for all people of our multi-cultural nation. She presented the OCCES at a conference in Hamilton on 18th October and received the support she needed to start making this vision a reality by 2011.

Susanna stood for Auckland Council: Albert-Eden-Roskill Ward and secured 2670 votes at a time that her personal circumstances did not allow her to do any marketing. Having obtained some local political experience has geared her for taking part in the General Elections 2011 and she now says; “My real campaign has just begun!” Susanna makes it clear that she is not into party politics but grassroots politics as she believes that she believes that parties don’t deliver anything worthwhile and everyday people make things happen. She has a one year action plan for touching the hearts of people in those areas which matter most: family, health, education, arts & culture, media, law & government and business. This courageous woman says that she is herself living the system of transformational governance and will prove the changes as her own personal story becomes a success. Susanna has a pioneer’s mind coupled with an activist’s spirit which makes her a bit too much for the faint-hearted, however, the perfect personality to potentially make the way for mega change in New Zealand. Susanna came from Namibia almost 11 years ago where she was a Deputy Director for Public Service Reform in the Office of the Prime Minister. She currently lives on the North Shore with her two teenage daughters, draws sole parent benefit and studies fulltime. Tying in with the OCCES and her educational research topic, her immediate goal is to find a contract position touring the country asking families; “Is your child’s school hurting your family?” Unfortunately for Susanna, her calling to make a difference to New Zealand has been accompanied with huge personal cost and you can read more about her plans and life as this authentic woman and youthful mother writes about it on her website (www.susannakruger.co.nz) with confessional candour.

Susanna Kruger The Dark Horse 2011 -transformational governanceAlternative multi-cultural schooling system for teenagers. Informal & volunteer experience recognized by employers. Better minimum wages, training & work relations for adults. Physical, mental & spiritual health care scrutinized. Social security system to include measures of social justice.

susanna@susannakruger.co.nz www.susannakruger.co.nz

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The

South African

Insights... Personality profile of... South African Businessman in New Zealand

n this new series we highlight the successful careers of South Africans that have made the bold move to NZ and despite all odds have achieved great things in a new and foreign environment. This issue we present:-

Tom Fox, co-owner of The Sound Room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a music composition & production company. 1) What was your career history in South Africa? I started out as a musician playing in bands around Cape Town in the 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, eventually landing up on guitar and vocals for a group called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bright Blueâ&#x20AC;? that had mild success on the local charts, but we were best known for our anti-apartheid song â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Weepingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which has since become a bit of a classic. 20 years later Josh Groban did a version of it on an album that sold 4 million copies worldwide. After Bright Blue I joined another big South African band â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Usualâ&#x20AC;? that became an overnight success in the 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with their hit song â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Shape That Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m In.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; My interest in computers gradually took over and I became more of a studio musician; writing music for advertisements and documentaries; producing other bands and doing session guitar work. 2) When did you first arrive in New Zealand? My wife Kerry, our son James and I arrived at the end of 2003. 3) Describe how you settled into the business world of New Zealand and give us details of any adjustments that were required to make it work? Kerry came to a university position here, so we were fortunate to have her income to support us while I went around to all the studios, production houses & musicians with my CV. Not many called back! Eventually I met my current business partner Marshall Smith and we started The Sound Room, a music composition & production company, which after 5 years is doing really well. We recently completed the music for a documentary about the 1995 Rugby World Cup called The 16th Man produced by Morgan Freeman and are currently busy with a 3 part TV series for ABC, as well as a documentary on pig cell transplantation to treat diabetics and the new NZ LOTTO theme! Over the last few years we have done the music for a 14 part series for Animal Planet as well as a number of other local and international documentaries and movies. We also write, produce and record songs for musicians locally and abroad.

4) Tell us about how your family made the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kiwi integrationâ&#x20AC;? process work for them. As any new immigrant can tell you, it takes a good couple of years to adjust to life in a new country. Although they say NZ and SA are similar, we found it took a while to understand the history and culture of â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Kiwis.â&#x20AC;? My wife lectures psychology at the University of Auckland and our son is about to finish school and study languages at Victoria University. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all had our bumps along the road, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really happy here now. 5) What are some of the things that you love about your new life here? The access to beaches, the peacefulness, the sense of humour of the locals, the relative lack of crime and the fact that anyone can make a living here if they are prepared to work. I like the local red wine, the rugby is good and of course I will always support SA against the All Blacks! 6) What are your favourite recreational destinations in New Zealand? Once again I must mention the beachesâ&#x20AC;Śand itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to get out of town for a drive and a walk somewhere. There are so many beautiful placesâ&#x20AC;Ś..our local beach is Narrowneck and we spend a lot of time there. 7) If you were to give one piece of advice to a new immigrant about how to succeed in the business world here, what would it be? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like being a visitor in someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house. There are ways of doing things that may not be the same as yours, but you must respect the fact that you have been given a chance to integrate into a new society. Arrogance or aggression will not get you very far! The biggest challenge for me was to find a way to hold on to my own culture while starting a new life here. Now I feel really glad that we made the move and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found most people here really welcoming and they just want the best for my family and I. So my advice would be to keep at itâ&#x20AC;Ś.however hard it feels at times. If you open yourself up to the Kiwi way of life, listen and learn instead of trying to impose your old values, you will feel accepted and more at home. Visit Tom at his website www.the soundroom.co.nz

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The SA issue18.indd 9

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The

South African SUPER SOUTH AFRICAN SPORTSMEN

Louis Oosthuizen MOVE OVER GARY, ERNIE AND “THE GOOSE” HERE COMES “SHREK!”

ittle known South African golfer Louis Oosthuizen (nick-named Shrek) has amazed the crowds and all the critics by winning the 2010 British Open Golf Championships at St Andrews in the UK.

How this humble, amiable man earned his nick-name is hard to understand because he is no ogre! He is affable, of medium height and has quite normal ears! His rise to fame at St Andrews was astronomical because he came from No 31 in the world golf rankings in 2009 after his performance at The Race to Dubai. He has leapfrogged past fellow South Africans Ernie Els and Retief Goosen (the “Goose”} with his incredible 65 on the first day of the competition, followed by an immaculate 67 on day two, 69 on day three and a record breaking 71 on the final day. His total of 272 holes is the second lowest in recorded history at St Andrews. He now stands at number 15 in the world. Look out Tiger. Shrek is out to bite your tail! Louis was born in Mossel Bay, Western Cape on the 19th October 1982 and as a schoolboy he always wanted to play golf. His early career was supported for three years by a golf foundation set up by fellow South African, Ernie Els. He won numerous amateur titles until his final coming of age in 2002 when he became professional at the tender age of 19. Since then he has filled his golf bag with numerous international titles that have put him on the inevitable road to fame that finally culminated in victory at the most important golf competition in the world next to the PGA Open. His victory at St Andrews didn’t come easy. It was a hectic competition that was dogged by bad weather on day two. The wind came up quite strongly across the fairways on that day that made every first tee a challenge. So how does he do it? Oosthuizen claims that his victory at St Andrews was due to focusing on a red spot that he has marked on his glove, designed to act as his trigger. He would look at the spot at the beginning of his pre-shot routine and use it as a type of “referee’s whistle” to get him properly focused on the shot he was about to play. He has consulted top flight sports psychologists like Karl Morris, based in Manchester, UK to up his game and improve his concentration for each and every golfing day that he encounters. His career highlights include winning the 2000 World Junior Championship, the 2001 Transvaal Amateur Stroke Play Championship and the Telkom PGA Championship twice in 2007 and 2008. Well done, Louis. You are our hero. If you bite Tiger’s tail you could become World No 1!

The SA issue18.indd 10

22/11/10 2:55:13 PM

The

South African

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The SA issue18.indd 11

22/11/10 2:55:20 PM

The

South African HOT SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC BANDS

SA Music Myosotis by Ted Woodberg

“S

itting on the deck of the Camps Bay Hotel, Cape Town, you are wrapped up in the beauty of the magnificent west facing sunset over the sea, a captivating sight that compares over-favourably well with any other in the western world. Behind you the music plays on, drawing you like a magnet to the dance floor. Submissively you wallow over, slowly engaging in the smoky realm of the other dancers on the floor that transforms you into a magical shadow, bouncing off the walls and ceiling like a lost laser beam.” It is a Saturday night in the mid-1970’s and you are dancing to the pounding rhythm of a music group collectively known as “The Bats” who play contemporary rock’n’roll with some of their own compositions thrown in. What a pleasure! Eddie Eckstein plays the drums, but he also plays a very good role as front man, which is a strange combination, reminding me of Phil Collins, ex-drummer of Genesis, who often did lead singing for the group. The Bats Eddie keeps the audience amused with his jokes and off-the-cuff remarks that later became so famous when he appeared on the South African TV programme, “Biltong and Potroast.” The Bats achieved mild fame in SA with a clutch of songs that included “In a Shabby Little Hut,” “Who’s That Girl,” and the SA rugby all time favourite “Vat Hom Dawie.” They consisted of Eddie, Pete Clifford, Barry Jarman and Paul Ditchfield. After the death of Barry in 2001, the group took on Peter Gordon and they continued to tour both locally and overseas, playing their own style of pop music that has endeared them to fans all across the globe. I have referred to this article as being a “myosotis” or “forget-me-not” of the wonderful times that we as South Africans had during those magical years when our old country was busy germinating its own seeds of rock’n’roll, country, R & B and soul music. These were the best of times, believe me! Besides the Bats, there were some other notable contributors:• From a poor district in Durban were a bunch of coloured guys who called themselves “The Flames.” They played pure “Elvis-type” rock’n’roll to begin with, at those (who can forget?) endless Saturday afternoons at the Mayville Hotel. Ultimately they graduated into soul music and their famous rendition of “Your Precious Love” still resounds in my head. Sadly this highly talented group made up mainly of the three Fataar brothers, disbanded quite ironically at the same time as the Beatles in 1970. • At a time of political uncertainty in 1968 five brave artists emerged onto the South African music stage and suddenly the whole world sat up and took notice. They were 4 Jacks and a Jill, made up of the beautiful Glenys Lynne, Bruce Bark, Till Hanneman, Tony Hughes and Clive Harding. Although they were an all-white group, their most successful song, Master Jack, spoke of the injustices against the black people working in the gold mines, a rather bold political statement for the day. This song immediately shot to the top of the SA charts in early 1968 and stayed there for a record-breaking 21 weeks. Master Jack was also

a hit in America, reaching #18 in June 1968, an amazing feat for a local SA music band. They followed up this success with hits like “Timothy” and “I Looked Back” which both had long sojourns on the SA music charts. • In the same year (1968) another group of five boys, calling themselves the Staccatos, made music history with their soulful rendition of “Cry to Me” a Bert Russell composition that was later covered by Tom Petty, The Pretty Things, The Rolling Stones and Betty Harris. The song was produced by Billy Forrest (the other half of the Dream Merchants, another successful duo from the 60’s) and it went on to be one of SA’s most successful singles ever, remaining 38 weeks on the charts and earning a double gold record. • In 1970 an ex-Rhodesian band made music headlines when they released their first self-titled album, The Otis Waygood Blues Band, after moving to SA in 1969. They took an old Elvis favourite, “Fever” and turned it into a major Blues song, catapulting them into the charts almost overnight. They were amazing when they performed live. I remember chasing them from venue to venue as they took their road trips across SA. • As we hit 1971 we were blessed with the sound of Hawk, an extremely forward-thinking band who first conceived of a fusion between traditional African music, classical, folk, jazz and progressive rock; ideas that were later to be endorsed by Johnny Clegg and his bands Jaluka and Savuka. Dave Ornellas, leader of Hawk, took an evergreen classic from the Beatles stable, “Here Comes The Sun” and turned it into an African Renaissance apogee on their most notable album release, African Day, which went platinum days after the disc hit the music stands in late 1971. • A ride back in time on the SA music bus would not be justified without the mention of two iconic figures from the early 70’s, Des and Dawn Lindberg. In July 1971 they produced an antipollution protest song that indirectly referred to Nelson Mandela, who was in jail at the time for political crimes. “The Seagull’s Name was Nelson” stayed on the SA music charts for 12 weeks in 1971, a good indication of the views of the SA public at the time on these two controversial issues. • The SA rock music scene in the mid-seventies was ruled by four boys from Jo’burg who took the country by storm and were dubbed as the ”SA answer to the Beatles” when they emerged with their plethora of hits that included “Charlie,” “Locomotive Breath” and many others. Yes, it was “Rabbitt” Rules, OK! Seeing them live on stage during their heyday was a special treat for me that I will never forget. The girls screamed at the top of their voices, but the music prevailed and we were able to enjoy the incredible talent of Trevor Rabin, founder and genius behind the group, with Ronnie Robot, Neil Cloud and the ever-popular Duncan Faure whose baby-face looks drove the women wild. I must mention in my tribute to this amazing band the fact that Tevor Rabin’s father, Godfrey, played a rather beautiful violin solo on the song “Hard Ride,” taken from the “Boys Will Be Boys” album that was released in 1975. We remember with much grief the passing of Godfrey Rabin in 1999. Thanks for your contribution, Godfrey! • I can go on and talk affectionately about bands that I followed religiously around the country as they did their local tours, but space will not allow mention of all of them. There were great rock bands like Freedom’s Children, Omega Limited, Ballyhoo, Abstract Truth, Third Eye, Clout, Stingray…..the list goes on. Suffice it to say that they made enormous contributions to our local music scene and despite the ‘music embargo’ that we as South Africans had to suffer, these bands made their mark on the international market simply by their presence here.

The SA issue18.indd 12

22/11/10 2:55:24 PM

The

South African SOUTH AFRICAN COMEDY MAESTROS

Marc “lotsa laughs” Lottering by Ted Woodberg

aking his dramatic stage debut at the tender age of 29 in his first show, a one-man stand-up cabaret entitled “After the Beep,” Marc Lottering displayed incredible comedic talent that has since placed him firmly on the international funny man stage alongside fellow South Africans Pieter Dirk Uys and David Kramer. His second show in 1997, directed by Warren Nebe, was “One Singular Sin-s ation” which featured at the Marc Lottering Grahamstown Arts Festival to muchvaunted national acclaim. He took the show on the road to sell-out seasons at Johannesburg and Cape Town. Lottering was overwhelmed by the success of his first two one-man shows and it was the beginning of an illustrious career that has so far taken him all over the world where his unique brand of Cape Coloured humour, together with the coarse, guttural Afrikaans accent, endeared him to his audiences. Lottering was born on the Cape Flats in 1968 to a Pentecostal father, who brought him up in the Church. Perhaps it was his boyhood exposure to the sins of mankind that gave Marc his colourful view of society at large and his understanding of human nature. He was no mental slouch either, taking up post-matric studies in Law at the University of Cape Town after much encouragement by his father. In 1994 he decided to abandon Law for an exciting career in Advertising and Communications. Soon he was dabbling in musical theatre and finally he discovered the wonderful world of entertainment. Marc has a string of highly successful stage shows under his belt, including “The Fourth Wise Man,” “That’s Mister Lottering To You,” “From the Cape Flats With Love” and in the new millennium, the hilarious “Big Stakes and Slap Chips.” Marc has had successful collaborations with David Kramer, a fellow Capetonian, who directed most of his shows to date. In 2001 he hit the international stage in London together with Pieter Dirk Uys, Hugh Masakela and Sibongile Khumalo as part of the “Celebrate South Africa” Concert. Later in September 2002 he extended his travels to New Zealand, Australia and Canada. Here he consoled home-sick immigrant South Africans at sold out concerts; depicting post-Mandela South Africa with a somewhat sarcastic skepticism that gave the ex-pats a modicum of joy amidst the stress of adjusting to their new and foreign environments. His international status grew even further when he entertained an estimated TV audience of 3.5 billion as official host of the opening ceremony to the 2003 Cricket World Cup. Lottering has complemented his successful stage career with a hatful of magical small screen cameo appearances on “It’s a Funny Country,” “People of the South” and “Big Okes.” Pieter Dirk Uys invited Marc to appear on his TV show “Evita Live and Dangerous” to widespread critical acclaim. This encouraged him to start his own TV shows “Marc Lottering and Friends” and “The Marc Lottering Show.” Marc has accumulated numerous awards during his career, adding to his quiver in 2001 a Vita Award for Best Actor in a Comedy for “From the Cape Flats with Love,” and a Fleur Du Cap Theatre Award at the end of 2004 for his performance in the controversial “Crash,” a one-man play that is

self-critical in that it portrays his reallife experiences after he was arrested on a much-publicized drunk driving charge. In 2008 after turning forty, Marc penned his most recent show, the tongue-in-cheek “Naughty Forty” that hilariously explores the mindset that haunts ageing manhood; as doublechins start to show and performances start to slow at the local gym. Lottering has invented two alteregos that bring added levity to his shows, the ever-popular “Auntie Merle Adams from Belgravia Road in Athlone” and “Smiley the Taxi Dude.” The former character has him cross-dressing and screaming like a banshee in true Cape Coloured style that is so real, it brings a tantalizing tear of recognition to the eyes of anyone who has ever lived in Cape Town. Here’s to your future, Marc. May they be full of mirth and merriment. Thank you for making the world laugh at the wonderful people of South Africa. Source: Face book

The SA issue18.indd 13

23/11/10 3:58:53 PM

The

South African

New butchery on North Shore

iwi butcher, Nicole Matthews and local restaurant owner, Steve Dewar, have teamed up to open a newly fitted out butchery at Pinehill, Browns Bay. They have been searching for a suitable site for the last 2 years and when the chance arose to take over the site of the old Maxi Meats business, they jumped in, gutted the old shop, replaced all the refrigeration and launched a beautifully appointed butchery. Pinehill Meats will appeal to a wide variety customers, with special focus on the local South African and British markets.

Nicole is a vastly experienced butcher having done her apprenticeship in NZ, building her production and retailing skills by working at small family butcheries and larger scale supermarket operations. Nicole spent 6 years overseas furthering her skills and worked in the UK, Spain, Greece and the USA and has gained an extensive knowledge of European gourmet foods. She spent 3 years working for Lidgates family butchery in Holland Park, London – this a 150 year old butchery and supplies

top end products to very affluent customers who demand the best of quality. Nicole also further honed her skills at Janssens. Production and smallgoods butcher, Conrad Fourie, worked in Durban for Bluff Meat Supply and went on to become Regional Manager of 16 Shoprite stores for Natal and Swaziland. He then worked for Pick n Pay as a divisional manager, 18 stores over North Cape, from Bloemfontein to Kuruman. He has many years manufacturing experience in smallgoods, with particular expertise in biltong, dry wors and cabanossi. Conrad has been living in NZ for 3 years with his wife, Zelda, and 2 kids. Nicole is keen to provide our South African customers with a more realistic and affordable pricing. According to Nicole, “Pinehill Meats is still in its infancy and we are looking at continuing product development so if what you want is not available, please ask and we will do our best to supply”. Co-owner, Steve Dewar, has had 30 years in the hospitality industry setting up beachfront restaurants in Browns Bay and more recently has started “Tides” Restaurant & Café on the beach at Torbay. Visit Pinehill Butchery 654 East Coast Rd. PineHill. Browns Bay.09.476 0060

The SA issue18.indd 14

22/11/10 2:55:30 PM

The

South African

INTRODUCING NZ PROPERTY TO NEW IMMIGRANTS We Present a Brand New Feature…..

Property Corner W

ritten by Richard Pearce of Barfoot and Thompson, this is the first of a series of articles on how to secure and purchase your own home here in NZ.

One of the first things that South Africans notice when they arrive in New Zealand is that the homes are different. This is because wood forms the structural framing for most New Zealand homes. In addition, homes are more expensive, double or triple what an equivalent home would cost in South Africa. Land is also more expensive. As a result, most of us end up living in smaller homes than those we were used to in South Africa. But with little or no domestic help, we quickly realize that there are advantages to living in a smaller home. When to buy..… Our editor, Peter Woodberg’s advice on when to buy a home is..”Buy as soon as you can afford to.” Many new arrivals rent initially as this gives them the opportunity to settle down and confirm their choice of suburb and schools before making the decision to buy. However, most of us are soon out looking to buy as we realize that living in our own home instead of renting has many advantages. Not least the opportunity for capital growth. The graph shows the median sales prices for homes in Auckland over the last eleven years as reported by REINZ. Looking for a home to buy….. There are two main options. The first is to look yourself. Alternatively, you can select a salesperson (estate agent), explain what you are looking for, and let them show you selection of homes that meet your requirements. The advantage of working with a salesperson is that you’ll get FREE expert advice. Finance..... You have a choice of approaching a bank directly, or using a mortgage broker. We used a mortgage broker when we purchased, and we think that we got a better loan package than we would have if we had gone directly to a bank. Methods of sale..... Homes that are for sale by negotiation, auction and tender do not have an asking price, and often do not have a price indicator. Your salesperson can save you time by only showing you homes within your price range. The purchase process..... Offers to purchaser a property, when accepted, are binding and legally enforceable contracts, so it is very important to do all your homework before you buy. I suggest that you download the guide for purchasers and sellers from www.reaa.govt.nz, the website of the Real Estate Agents Authority. Unconditional offers….. These are offers that have no conditions or “escape clauses”. Buying at auction requires you to be an unconditional buyer. Conditional offers….. As a buyer, you can include any conditions that you need in an offer, such as finance, builders report and LIM. Buying subject to builders report is very important, as the last thing that you want to do is buy a leaky home. Transfer and occupation….. The property transfer system is fast and

efficient in New Zealand, and you can own a home a few days after signing a purchase contract if you want . Enjoy you new home….. After you have purchased and moved in all that remains is to relax, and enjoy your new home and life in New Zealand…. Supporting fellow South Africans….. There are ex South Afric ans working a lawyer s, mortgage brokers and estate agents. They would all love to assist you and would certainly appreciate your business. Contact Richard Pearce, Residential Estate Agent with Barfoot and Thompson,MREINZ and Licenced Real Estate Agent REAA 2008. Richard specialises in properties on the Auckland North Shore. You are welcome to contact him any time for property advice.. Ph 027 535 7535

The SA issue18.indd 15

22/11/10 2:55:33 PM

The

South African

Valuable insights into…

The NZ Police Service

Charl Crous

e pres ent the final part of this most interesting series that focuses on the functioning of the NZ Police Service as written by Charl Crous, a South African born manager in the NZ Police.

In South Africa you could walk into any charge office of a police station (of which all would operate on a 24/7 basis) and speak with a police officer to lay a complaint; get your fingerprints taken; make a sworn statement or have copies of documents certified. In South Africa all police officers were designated as Commissioners of Oaths and it was expected that they would carry out these functions. The situation is quite different in New Zealand. Police stations are rarely open 24 hours per day. Only the larger stations, e.g. Auckland; Manukau and Wellington central will keep these hours. In New Zealand, the charge office is called the Watch house and you will very rarely find a sworn police officer working here. Watch houses operate normally between 08:00 and 16:00 and are staffed by well trained civilian people. You can lay a complaint at a Watch house and the civilian staff present will take your complaint and process it. If you can’t go to the police station between 08:00 and 16:00 and you need to lay a complaint or are in need to receive a police service urgently, you have to ring the 111 number. For some detail directives on how to lay a complaint with the New Zealand Police visit the New Zealand Police website or visit www.police.govt.nz/contact/report-crime.html. Crime is quite different from what you might have been experiencing in South Africa. Youth related crime, family violence and drug related offending are key drivers of criminality in New Zealand. The New Zealand police therefore have a strong focus on youth and youth crime as well as family violence. You can expect a no tolerance approach by the New Zealand police in terms of family violence. When incidents of family violence are reported to the Police, they shall be attended to promptly and dealt with as a priority. When police attend family violence incidents they will focus mainly on the safety of the

victim and any children. The offender can be expected to be held accountable which in most cases implies immediate arrest. Police are now also able to issue safety orders on the spot when dealing with family violence in order to protect the victim and any children. More information on family violence and the responses of the New Zealand police can be found on www.police. govt.nz/protection_order. Young people will find themselves easily in trouble with police here if they drive without the appropriate licence; drive so called “boy racer” cars or engage in alcohol-fuelled disorder. South African born youth have come to the attention of police here for a variety of issues. It is disconcerting to see that some of the offences committed by South African youth are also drug related. In New Zealand cannabis (dagga) and methamphetamine are the most prevalent illicit drugs in communities. This is sad, because South African parents are well renowned here for their family values. A great source of information and guidance on drug use is the NZ Drug Foundation. You will find excellent resources about illicit drugs and how to deal with issues related to drug use on the following websites: www.methhelp.org.nz; www.drughelp.org.nz. The New Zealand police have a dedicated component of youth service officers to deal with youth offenders. Information on youth offending and some advice on where to get help if your youngster is caught up in some illegal activity please visit www.police.govt.nz/getting-help. For more info contact Charl.Crous@police.govt.nz.

The SA issue18.indd 16

22/11/10 2:55:39 PM

The

South African

Immigration service you can trust

he private sector and immigration advisers in particular, would be best suited to take the lead in promoting the country as a migration destination, rather than the Department of Labour seeking to drive such initiatives.

Photo by Charl Louw Photographer

Incorporating industry professionals as We specialise in all stakeholders in the immigration industry forms of Immigration from Student permits, Long term Business Visas, Family, Work Permits, Investor category, Permanent Residence.

the insistence that investors must remain in New Zealand for five months a year during the conditional period of their Residence Visa will put off many wealthy applicants whose lifestyle and business interests would be stunted by such an imposition”. It is vital therefore, that the INZ department takes into account what investor migrants want if they are serious about attracting them here.

Considering that fundamentally Immigration New Zealand (INZ) Department’s role covers the processing of applications and the maintenance Information sourced from NZIMA. of the compliance regime, it would therefore be reasonable for the INZ department to direct its energies not so much in marketing New Zealand For more information on the Long Term Business Visa contact Simona Woodberg at itself, but work with, and provide support for the private sector to do that North Shore Immigration Services work on its behalf, as the private sector (i.e. smaller companies) do have Tel: +64 (09) 415 3392 or the benefit and ease of flexibility when it comes to accommodating policy e-mail simona@nsis.co.nz. changes, as opposed to (quote) “a monolithic government department which must answer to Cabinet and to policymakers in central government, rather Our advisors are allNewlicensed andforhave extensive knowledge and experience to than toskilled shareholders” as the chairman of the Zealand Association Migration and Investment (NZAMI) recently put it, in the NZAMI’s recent help you through the often difficult immigration process. Come on in and meet our friendly industry feedback to the INZ Department. staff who will takeadvisers, youwestep by the step through the process taking away all the guesswork Consequently, immigration argue, have greatest potential as a group to generate business for the immigration industry, especially as and stress of immigration, whether it is the investor category or permanent resident. We their areas of practice are not limited to, say, work visas or student visas have all are the skills and work with alone. There some practical ways often in which INZ can take stepsother to help professionals to give you a one stop superior advisers to doTake that job better. service. the risk out of the process and safeguard you and your family to a long and An issue of particular interest is the establishment of a dedicated enjoyable in Newlodged Zealand Our fees are very competitive and we go the extra mile processing centrelife for applications by licensed .and exempt advisers. We specialise in all forms of This topic has been debated for a number of years now, as it has long been to ensure total satisfaction. Immigration policies from recognised that there are clear and tangible advantages for advisers and more Student permits so fornot the INZ department itself, in terms of an your efficient and collaborative Long term Business Visas, Do delay and wait until permit expires, contact North Shore Immigration today relationship with industry professionals. Family Work. and out how weprovided can help you. the risk outPermits, of being refused entry to New Zealand As find the standards of service by advisers haveTake demonstrably Investor it is our now time for the INZ department to cease discouraging Category, Permanent Resi. improved, Look at web page and access our free e-book. applicants from using licensed immigration advisers, as this still appears to dence. Work Permits, Member of Family Category, Student recently be the case especially with certain staff at some of the offshore and permits onshore branches. At the NZAMI anniversary celebration in November 2009, now onmade 09 415 3392 the Associate Minister ofCall Immigration herself a point in acknowledging the value of immigration advisers’ work and contribution in making the North easier. Shore Immigration Services assessment of applications Call now on 09 415 3392 Business and Investment: at the www.nsis.co.nz meeting recently held between managers North Shore Immigration Services of the INZ department and NZAMI board members, talks were held around www.nsis.co.nz the Long Term Business Visa issues and Investment Policy in particular. Email: peter@nsis.co.nz Existing barriers to encouraging investment were outlined, such as New Address: 17 Corinthian Drive Albany North Shore Zealand potentially continuing to attract only mediocre levels of investment which will not achieve the sort of economic goals which the Government seeks. The volume of investment inflows during the first 15 months’ duration of the current investor policy have been low, and are nowhere near the cap of 300 investor applicants annually. The chairman of NZAMI further commented that (quote) “for instance,

Immigration service you can trust

The SA issue18.indd 17

22/11/10 2:55:41 PM

The

South African

A lucky day for the De Vries family

Cervical screening by By Dr. Mairai Wallace

t’s only been a year since they moved to New Zealand, and in that time they’ve won a KEA motorhome for two years and have met Prime Minister John Key!

cervical smear (or Pap smear) is now considered routine practice to screen for early signs prior to the onset of cervix cancer. The cervix is the neck of the womb (uterus) and in developing countries cancer of the cervix is one of the leading causes of death in women. Fortunately for us there is no longer any need for a woman to ever develop cancer of the cervix. Regular smears pick up early changes in the cells of the cervix thus enabling treatment before actually developing cancer.

Sandra and Paul De Vries went along to the Covi Motorhome Caravan & O ut do or S u p e r S how David Culpan congratulating Sandra De Vries. at the ASB Showgrounds in September to check out the range of motorhomes available at their budget. Along with thousands of other hopefuls, they entered the gate prize competition to win a six berth KEA motorhome. They couldn’t believe their luck when the call came that same evening to say they were the lucky winners of the luxurious motorhome for two years, courtesy of KEA Campers and organisers of the Covi SuperShow, and an annual membership to the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association. “I was in the middle of cooking the family dinner when the phone rang,” explains Sandra. “All I could do was scream! I frightened the life out of my family. I was so shocked I couldn’t actually get the words out to explain to them what had happened. In the end, I had to pass the phone to Paul.” The couple and their three children Aniza (22), Vianca (20) and Paul (18) have always loved the outdoors life, owning their own caravan in their native South Africa, often journeying to interesting places such as Mozambique. Now based in Titirangi, the family are keen to explore their new homeland and have already made a list of must-visit spots, starting with Pakiri Beach in Northland. Paul, who works for Carter Holt Harvey in Asset Management, has so far only seen glimpses of his newly adopted homeland with his job, and always promised his family that one day they would go together and enjoy the beautiful New Zealand countryside. His wife, Sandra, says: “I’ve always wanted to travel around the South Island. With our new motorhome, we’ll be able to take our time and have the freedom to go wherever we like. We can’t wait!” Prime Minister John Key ceremoniously handed over the keys to Sandra and Paul on 8thOctober while officially opening KEA Camper’s newly refurbished premises in Albany, North Shore.

For many South African Women an annual Gynae check up is as routine as going to the dentist. Moving to a new country is often bewildering. New neighbours can help with advice about where to find a good hairdresser and recommend a GP. Asking virtual strangers about how one arranges a Pap smear and mammogram can be another thing altogether. In New Zealand the recommendation is that sexually active women over the age of 20 have a smear every three years. Virgins of any age do not need to have a smear test. Any woman who has had a smear in New Zealand is automatically on the screening programme and receives reminder letters when the next smear is due. Smears can be done by GPs, GP Practise nurses, Family Planning Clinics and Gynaecologists. If the result is abnormal the woman is then referred to a specialist, either at the state hospital run clinics or a private Gynaecologist. For women who don’t like the idea of being examined by different people or are horrified by the idea of having to sit in a busy hospital waiting room, the easiest is to go directly to a Gynaecologist. No referral letter is needed to make an appointment at a Gynaecology practise. Most Gynaecologists will do a ‘well woman’ check up. This involves a blood pressure check, general and Gynaecological medical history and a gynaecological examination. Depending on the woman’s age; menstrual issues, contraception or menopausal problems will also be dealt with. For women over 50 this is also a good opportunity to ask for a referral to have a mammogram and bone density scan. Cervical cancer is the only cancer with an accurate early warning system, and simple treatment options to prevent the development of ongoing disease. There is no excuse for not having a regular smear test. Make an appointment today. Minor procedures are performed on site at Omnicare Womens Health. Remuera.Auckland. Major gynaecological surgery is performed at Gillies Hospital on Gillies Ave.Epsom.Auckland

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The

South African

PM column for The South African Magazine

t’s great to have this opportunity to update our South African communities on the National-led Government’s progress. National strongly values the contribution you make to our communities, and we share the same values as you. We believe in strong families and communities, competitive enterprise, and rewarding hard work. The National-led Government is working hard to secure a brighter future for you and your family. We are focused on lifting the long-term performance of the economy. That’s the only way we will create sustainable jobs, boost incomes, raise living standards, and provide the world-class public services Kiwis deserve. Many of you will be benefiting from the recent tax changes. On October 1 we reduced personal tax rates across the board. Now, more than 2.5 million people – or 72.9 per cent of taxpayers – are paying a top personal tax rate of no more than 17.5 cents in the dollar. These tax cuts are the biggest reform to our tax system in nearly 25 years and they are part of our comprehensive plan to grow the economy. We are also focused on improving frontline health services, making your communities safer, and making sure children learn the skills they need to succeed. In health, we are providing better, sooner, more convenient healthcare. We have delivered the largest annual increase in elective surgery in New Zealand’s history. Elective surgery includes the likes of joint replacements, cataract removal, or ear, nose and throat surgery. In law and order, we’ve passed a number of laws to support police, protect families, and improve safety. I’m proud of what we have achieved to help make our neighbourhoods and communities safer. Like you, I believe that every person in New Zealand has the right to feel safe and that victims receive the support and respect they deserve. We’ve strengthened bail laws, toughened sentences for crimes against children, and closed the loopholes for child sex offenders. Police can now issue on-the-spot safety orders for victims of domestic violence. We’re also well on our way to having an extra 600 police officers nationwide by December next year. In education, we’re working hard to lift achievement in our schools. National wants every young New Zealander to have the opportunities they need to succeed. We are not prepared to tolerate the shocking statistic that one in five children leave school without the reading, writing, and maths skills they need. National Standards in education are a core part of our plan to secure a brighter future for New Zealanders. Before the 2008 election we promised to implement National Standards, and that is what we have done. The Standards show what Year 1 to 8 children should be able to achieve in reading, writing, and maths, and by when. Schools report each child’s progress to parents twice a year. The Standards will identify which children are falling behind so we can help them catch up.

Simona and Peter Woodberg with PM John Key.

National is determined to secure the brighter future that New Zealanders deserve. We will continue to deliver on our promises, and work hard to grow the economy, improve frontline health services, make our communities safer, and lift achievement in our schools. I look forward to updating you again on our progress in a future issue of The South African Magazine.

Rt Hon John Key Prime Minister

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Launch of the South African Social Club in Remuera.

The

South African

SA social This months SA Social in Browns Bay was given the treat of having a fashion show put on by Natalie Sparg. Dresses were supplied by Ankia van der Berg of Golden Gown in Albany. Ankia is a dress-designer and also imports couture dresses from the States, Europe and China. The models are Mariska Schoeman, Minette de Lange, Monica Pretorius and Zoe de Lange. The evening was sponsored by Eddie Biesenbach of Wespac Bank (Birkenhead branch). The photos were taken by John-Wesley Franklin.

Rita & Carla Haagner provided a perfect venue for an elegant cocktail party on November 11. AfroDizzia has the largest collection of West African art in New Zealand and this beautiful gallery in Parnell, Auckland, was a perfect setting to introduce former Miss Global Teen N.Z, Mariska Schoeman to members of our community. A great evening with great company...we wish Mariska well in her career pursuits. - organiser - Norma Vaz. Photos taken by Chris Botha Photography. www.chrisBotha.co.nz

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The

South African

Ann Lachore in ‘messy play’ fun at playgroup “the wonder of icing sugar”

Quality care and education with an African flavour

nn Lachore moved country not once, but twice, and emerged a passionate educator. She shares her heartwarming story. I was born in Zimbabwe and immigrated to South Africa in 1984 where I married and had 3 children. In 2000 I set up my own crèche in Pinetown, Kwazulu Natal which ran successfully until we immigrated to New Zealand in 2003. Here I completed the New Zealand Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood and then worked briefly as an Early Intervention teacher with children with special needs. Out of this has emerged the passion to teach and respect each child as the unique individual they are. In February of this year I registered my own home based care network under the name of “Little Cubs.” In a very short time we have become a true “community of learners”, offering our families quality care and education for their children under 5. It is no surprise that we have a very African

flavour. Having attracted both South African and Zimbabwean families and educators, it is not uncommon to find sout-tert at our playgroups! Of course we embrace all cultures and incorporate varied languages and nationalities within our midst as well. Little Cubs Home Based Care offers quality care and education for your child, including play groups, gym mornings and training and resourcing for educators. Our secure and personal blog site features daily photographs, activity ideas and comments for all to enjoy and aids in building communication amongst our families and educators. We are licensed by the Ministry of Education and as such follow the New Zealand early childhood curriculum and adhere to legislation. We offer the 20 ECE hours for 3 to 5 year olds and can facilitate Winz subsidies. While we are based in East Auckland, we are looking to expand into all areas of the city. Should you wish to enquire about becoming an educator with us or placing your child in our care, please visit our website and give us a call.

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The

South African A couple from the Cape offer enthusiastic mortgage advice

ortgage People, one of the oldest independent mortgage advisory company’s in Auckland, is expanding into the North Shore. MP has been operating out of Ponsonby for over 20 years and is the largest independently owned Mortgage and Insurance Brokerages in Auckland. The fact that the company has remained successful and is in fact looking to expand in the midst of this economic climate is testimony to the reputation they hold and their vision for the future. Gary & Amanda Hey will be representing Mortgage & Insurance People on the Shore. They immigrated to New Zealand from Cape Town nine years ago, and with over 25 years of collective industry experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge and a “cando” attitude into an industry that they feel is currently lacking in creativity and enthusiasm. Gary has been with the company for over seven years heading up their Commercial Division and is an industry leader in structuring Gary and Amanda Hey of Mortgage People. finance for commercial and housing developments. Amanda has 11 years of property lending experience, six of do not suit the lender who they have applied to. those at Corporate Level within a major banking group in South Africa. At Mortgage & Insurance People the utmost care is taken to get a feel for In the past, the complicated structuring of loans, tailored to the each client, and accurately relay their story to those lenders most likely to specific circumstances of the client and criteria of lenders, was confined to respond favourably. Based centrally in Mairangi Bay, we are more than happy commercial and development loans, but this is not the case any more. Often to meet you at home or work at any time to discuss your particular funding applicants are unaware that the reasons their mortgages are declined is that or insurance requirements. the application has not been optimally submitted, or that their circumstances

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