The
Issue number 019
February/March 2011
South African
CONNECTING SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND
Free
SA Music
Freshlyground -
see page 12
Pieter Dirk Uys SA comedy special see page 13
The SA issue19.indd 1
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The
South African
From the editor 2011 will be remembered as the year of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand and all the rugby enthusiasts in New Zealand believe the All Blacks will be victorious. This may be so, but whenever there is Rugby World Cup every country puts in their best players and best coaches to try and win the coveted award. The Springboks, the Wallabies and the French will not just roll over and allow the All Blacks to win, so competition will be fierce and no prisoners will be taken. It is always good when the host team wins the cup but there are no guarantees. The magazine has grown from strength to strength and we have provided some fantastic articles from job hunting, legal advice, business advice, Immigration advice and how to cope with the pressures of immigration to a strange new land. Whenever I hand out a copy of The South African to a brand new immigrant, just off the boat, I say use this as your new network of contacts. Our advertisers cover just about every trade, service or health need. Please use them; they are all recognised suppliers of quality services and products. We also follow the prime minister to functions to report back on what is in store for us and what changes and benefits we will receive in the future. John Key regularly writes an article for the South African Magazine and strongly values the contribution South Africans make to the communities as well as their hard work to re-establish themselves in New Zealand. Business confidence is up and all I can say is stay positive and make 2011 your best year yet in New Zealand.
The
South African PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Peter Woodberg e-mail : jepwood@xtra.co.nz; mob: 0274 520 794 CO-EDITOR & ADVERTISING
Ted Woodberg e-mail : tedw@orcon.net.nz; mob: 021 027 030 11 POSTAL ADDRESS
The South African, P.O.Box 300 155, Albany, AUCKLAND 0752 www.samag.co.nz click on “www.thesouthafrican.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
Regards
Die Afrikaanse Klub – Thys Oosthuizen e-mail: die.afrikaanse.klub@clear.net.nz
Peter Woodberg
THE SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSION, WELLINGTON
Tel: 04 815 8484 Level 7, State Insurance Tower, I Willis Street, automotive repair
OUR MOTTO We do it right the first time!
Wellington. e-mail: consular@sahcwellington.co.nz FRONT COVER
• Full servicing on European & Japanese Vehicles • Suspension repairs • Transmission Flushing & repairs • WOF & WOF repairs • Cooling system • All auto electrical work • New and used tyres
• Petrol & Diesel vehicles • Full diagnostics with scanning • Emissions testing • Engine reconditioning • ECU problems • Cam belts • AA supplied Batteries • Brake and clutch overhauls
phone 09 442 1091
email: spargauto@xtra.co.nz
on subjects relating to the links between South Africa and New Zealand.
www.spargsautotune.co.nz
It shall be the vehicle for SA immigrants living in NZ to integrate socially with
Unit 9/7-9 Marken Place, Wairau Valley
Painting by SA Artist Roelof Rossouw ‘The Gold Miner” MISSION STATEMENT “The South African Magazine shall provide current, high quality, relevant editorial
their own community and to advertise their products and services.”
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 has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the Editor assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this publication.
The SA issue19.indd 2
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The
QUAY LAW LEGAL UPDATE
South African Advertorial
by Ian Mellett of Quay Law Solicitors
Ian Mellett
In this issue, Auckland lawyer Ian Mellett reviews the various entities that are available to you when deciding upon the appropriate operating structure for your business.
In a previous article, I discussed the matters that should be considered when deciding to purchase a business. A key aspect in this process is necessarily the choice of the most appropriate purchasing entity. It is important that you obtain the requisite advice from both your lawyer and accountant, as they will be in a position to explain issues such as limited liability protection, tax and succession planning to facilitate an informed decision being made. There are four main entities that are predominantly used to operate businesses in New Zealand, namely the sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Company and trading trust. Each of these is discussed briefly below.
Sole Proprietorship Also known as a sole trader, this is a type of business entity that is owned and operated by one individual on his or her own. The key characteristic is that the owner is inseparable from the business, in other words there is no legal distinction between the owner and the business. The obvious advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is easy to start and run, and there is no requirement regarding registration. The major disadvantage is that there is unlimited personal liability for all business obligations (including, amongst others, debts and taxes) which means that personal assets are potentially at risk. Sole traders also often lack credibility in the marketplace, and it is invariably more difficult to sell this type of business.
trusts have increased in popularity over the last ten to fifteen years and have now emerged as an alternative option to owning and operating a business. Essentially a trading trust is a discretionary trust similar to a family trust, but instead of merely holding investment assets it actively carries on a business and derives business profits. One of the key advantages of using a trading trust is the flexibility that it provides, particularly with regard to the allocation of business profits to the beneficiaries of the trading trust. Trading trusts are, however, a topic on their own, and I would suggest that anyone interested in utilising this type of business vehicle contact our offices to obtain more detailed information. It goes without saying that it is critical to “get the structure right upfront”. This is also particularly important in light of the Inland Revenue Department’s stance that a change in operating entity “downstream” has occurred not for commercial but rather for tax (and possible tax avoidance) reasons. 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 or blog www.aucklandlawfirm. co.nz for more information.
Partnership A partnership is an arrangement where individuals and/or entities agree to co-operate to advance their business interests. It is recommended that the partnership be established by way of a formal partnership agreement. The partners share responsibility for running the business, share in any profits or losses as stated in the partnership agreement and are liable for any debt within the partnership. The main advantages of a partnership are that no registration is required to commence business, and this entity can provide an effective way to share business operation costs. The disadvantages are that partners may be held liable for debts incurred by the other partners; personal assets are potentially at risk and complications may arise if a partner dies or wishes to leave the partnership.
Limited Liability Company This entity is by far the most popular and successful form of business structure. A company is a formal and legal entity in its own right, being separate from its shareholders or owners. The protection that a limited liability company affords to its shareholders is the primary reason for selecting this type of operating entity. If the company is unable to pay its debts, the shareholders are not liable for the business debts of the company unless their shares are not fully paid up, or they have given personal guarantees to lenders or creditors, or they are also directors of the company and have traded recklessly. This situation should be contrasted with a sole proprietor or partner who will always be exposed and personally liable for any business debts that cannot be met by the business. The advantages of a limited liability company are continuity of existence (a company will continue to exist until it is removed from the Companies Office register), transferability of shares (making it easier to sell a company or pass on to others such as children) and marketplace credibility.
Trading Trust
Until relatively recently, the choice of business structures in New Zealand was generally limited to the entities discussed above. However, trading
The SA issue19.indd 3
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The
South African
FRONT PAGE ARTIST
Roelof Rossouw
O
nce again, our front cover highlights the magnificent work of one of our own South African artists who has achieved worldwide success with his paintings. We have already featured Roelof Rossouw in issue number 11, October/November 2009, but we couldn’t resist this one, known as “The Gold Miner.” Here is a short synopsis from Roelof about his art and this particular painting:“Today, so much of my success as a painter is owed to the great old masters such as Van Gogh, Sickert, Monet, John Singer Sargent, Degas and Renoir. They paved the way for us modern day artists. They ‘’pushed the envelope’’ and showed us that we can paint with more confidence and flare. Many new masters have appeared, following in their footsteps. I will never forget how impressed I was years ago when I discovered the work of English painters Ken Howard, Bernard Dunstan and Frederick Cuming. Their work seemed so amazingly economical and loose, so unlaboured. I had a dream to be able to paint as confidently as them one day and it took me twenty years. Ken Howard says: ‘Painting is, I believe, about giving one’s own identity to a subject. Finding one’s own way of depicting a subject shows others a way ofseeing it in terms which convince them that it is what it really looks like.’ The work of Alex Powers of USA also inspired me to paint figures, especially black faces. Alex believes in using a ‘design approach’ when planning a painting. The inspiration behind ‘’The Gold Miner’’ goes back to my college days as
a Graphic Design student in Johannesburg. I did black and white photography as a subject and the figure comes from a black and white photo. I really liked the strong contrasts, but I needed a background, so I decided to use a mine shaft. While at the college six of my lecturers worked on an illustration project for an international corrosion consulting firm. All the illustrations were of mining, mineral processing, the petrochemical industry, marine and shipping, offshore oil and gas, etc. The way they illustrated; the colours and the techniques they used, greatly inspired me and I tried it on my mine shaft in this painting.”
Visit our website to view our collection of over 4000 original artworks. Worldwide shipping gladly arranged. info@fineartportfolio.co.za | www.fineartportfolio.co.za
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The SA issue19.indd 4
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The
Equestrian teen prodigy
South African
M
arisna Roodt, daughter of Auckland insurance broker Herman Roodt, has excelled as a highly professional equestrian, despite her age, and has confounded her judges with an amazing record of achievements in her field. In our December 2008 issue we presented Marisna in a special teen double feature article that put this young lady squarely in the spotlight and since then she has gone on to win a number of equestrian awards. In her final year at school in 2009 at Long Bay College, she was promoted to Deputy Head Girl; Captain of the Equestrian Team; Vice Secretary of the Student Council and Senior Director of Stage Challenge, which is a national intercollegiate competition where students perform an original dance and drama piece to address a social issue. After a long process of applications and submissions, she was finally granted a Massey University Captain’s Club Scholarship; a Scholarship from the New Zealand Federation of Graduate Women, North Shore and also one from Yarntons, school uniform suppliers. Needless to say, at the beginning of 2010 she was overjoyed to begin her studies at Massey University in Albany. Marisna is doing a Bachelor of Arts conjoint with a Bachelor of Business Studies, in order to keep her options open. Her first year of studies has gone well and she looks forward to her second year in 2011. Along with her studies, she has spent much of her time training her young grey horse Magnum Opus (Paddock name “Charlie”) and has quietly been taking him up through the levels, gaining very good results in doing so. Marisna has also won many of the eventing competitions she has competed in. In April of 2010 Marisna was one of a few to be awarded the prestigious New Zealand Pony Club Achievers Award for 2010, and was flown down to
picturesque Queenstown to receive her award at the annual NZPCA conference. According to Marisna, this was definitely one of the highlights of her equestrian career and one of her proudest moments. For the time being, Marisna says she would like to continue taking her horse up through the levels and produce consistent results; hopefully finishing the season at North Island Champs. However, her main focus will now be to prepare herself as she would love to be selected for the Inter Pacific Team, as it has always been her goal to represent her country. She says she feels incredibly blessed and would not be where she is if it was not for the endless support of her parents and the strength she receives from God.
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The
South African
The impact of the nz high school on the family by Susanna Kruger
F
rom my experience as mother of teenagers and of their friends flocking to our home, I believe that the high school in particular is the place where domestic violence manifests itself e.g. bullying. From my observations as school secretary, reader-writer and relief teacher, I believe that learner outcomes are suffering because schools still fail to attend to the social welfare of their children. From my studies as postgraduate student doing a Master of Education at Unitec, Mt Albert, I believe that real world learning is hardly recognized by industry, professionals and academics. I am the single mother of two teenage girls living on the DPB and in a 3 single bedroom apartment in the Auckland CBD. My youngest daughter, Barbara, goes to Auckland Girls’ Grammar School and the eldest, Alexandra,
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
hopes to skip year 13 and do a Level 4 Certificate at AUT. I am a NZ registered and overs eas trained Science & Biology Teacher with sole citizenship of NZ yet I do not have the formal experience required to find a teaching position. By doing a MEd I hope to use my personal story to turn the misconception about informal learning into a lifestyle for others. My strategy for achieving this is to study ‘The Impact of the NZ High School on the family: a multi-cultural voice!’ I see this research to become the foundation for dealing with the National Standards issue which causes so many problems for teachers, union and the Ministry of Education. I therefore submitted my research proposal to the Minister of Education, Anne Tolley and the Prime Minister, John Key. If accepted, this research could well serve the General Elections 2011. As a NZ registered teacher but not teaching, I am the most objective person to conduct this research. As a beneficiary of the social security system but not trapped by it, my personal circumstances are ideal for doing such government funded research. As a post-graduate student using the formal academic channel to achieve in the informal real world, I am happy to risk forfeiting a further qualification for the sake of bringing about positive change. As a NZ resident for 11 years and NZ citizen for 6 ½ years and being multi-cultural in body, mind and spirit I have the compassion for the nation to understand their needs. As an emerging politician yet not into party politics I have what it takes to do such hot-potato research. As part of my studies I have already written a paper for establishing a Curriculum and Evaluation System for disengaged students to follow their calling rather than a career. I presented this document at the 14th Annual Waikato Student Research Conference in Hamilton on 18th October 2010. As a result I represented my university at another event and got feedback from a wide range of academics and professionals, both formally and informally, who encouraged me to start making this vision a reality for teenagers. What better way can I do it than by following my own calling against all odds? As an innovative and visionary thinker, I have the capacity to see the big picture; this coupled with my ability to assess, implement and monitor process and policy enables me to deliver results. My flexible, rationale style, positive and enthusiastic approach helps me to be an effective communicator. With over 10 year’s expertise in Education and Governmental roles, Namibian and New Zealand Education curriculum and business management experience, I am hoping to have this opportunity where I can make a real difference. Read more about my plans and life as I write about it on my website with an unwavering faith. Contact Susanna on e-mail:susanna@susannakruger.co.nz Website: www.susannakruger.co.nz
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The
South African
Government recommends refilled ink/toner cartridges!
K
evin Van Den Berg, owner of the Inkworks North Shore Franchise, reports on an important directive from the Ministry for the Environment dealing with the recycling and remanufacturing of printer ink and toner cartridges. A policy document issued by the ministry of the environment suggests that consumers should purchase remanufactured cartridges that are backed by suitable performance guarantees. Kevin suggests that you call your local Inkworks branch for a quote on remanufacturing your cartridges and enquire about their triple performance guarantee that covers your printer as well. The direct benefits to the environment and society in general are:• Diverting plastic and metal waste away from landfill • Help support a viable market for materials recycling • Reduce resource extraction and manufacturing-related impacts • Reduce net energy use and contribution to climate change Inkworks have a “no waste to landfill policy “ which provides for the storage of the waste toners from the old cartridges at the Inkworks factory in Auckland, awaiting the final development of a process which uses these waste toners in the road building process. For many laser printer models, when the toner cartridge is replaced, the whole print engine is being replaced, and each new or compatible laser cartridge uses approximately 3.5 litres of oil in the manufacturing process which is extremely wasteful. Besides helping the environment, you are also helping your pocket! Recycled print cartridges are much cheaper than brand new ones!â€?
# ! ! ! % ! " ! % %
% !% % ! $ % # % ! " # !
! ! # # # % & % ! ! %
# ! ! % " ! ! % # %
Visit Kevin or Belinda at Inkworks Glenfield Mall,
Kiosk 6 , Level 3, Westfield Mall. ((( "$#(%&#' !% $) Ph - 09 444 4952 Fax 09 444 4652 Email kevin.vdberg@inkworks.co.nz
Source: Ministry for the Environment: www.mfe.govt.nz
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SOU3071_TSA_132x185_0208_0.1.indd 1
The SA issue19.indd 7
14/07/10 4:18 PM
24/1/11 3:49:23 PM
The
South African COUTTS NORTH SHORE MERCEDES BENZ
THE TEAM AT COUTTS IS GROWING…
Meet Helgard Dannhauser W
ith a ready smile and a firm handshake, the new team member on the salesroom floor at Coutts North Shore Mercedes-Benz in Wairau Park makes you feel welcome and at ease.
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
marketing the 2010 demonstration models at extremely competitive prices. After all, with the 2011 models starting to come onto the floor, now is the best time to take advantage of their impeccable range of 2010 demo’s, which, by the way, include everything from a C Class to a ML SUV(4x4). So don’t delay. Give Helgard a call on his dd 09-442 3349 or on his mobile 021 263 8760 so that he can let you have a look at this exciting range of demo models. Coutts North Shore are situated at 145 Diana Drive, Wairau park, as if you didn’t know!
MBNZ 117/RWS/SA
The new consultant is Helgard Dannhauser, all the way from Cape Town and the latest addition to the highly professional team at Coutts North shore in Wairau Park. Helgard decided to move his young family to New Zealand in 2007 and he has not looked back since. His children have made the transition to Kiwi schools with ease and have settled in to the more secure lifestyle in NZ without batting an eyelid. He began his illustrious career in motor vehicle marketing as a sales representative for Mercedes-Benz way back in 1988 in Johannesburg and since then has diversified into the Chrysler Jeep market. He was later transferred to Cape Town in 1998 and there he became General Manger at Wheels Chrysler Jeep. Since arriving in NZ he has been snapped up by the motor industry and after spending some time in Wellington with a Toyota Franchise, he has now settled back to his roots with Mercedes-Benz at Coutts North Shore. Helgard is now spearheading the Coutts North Shore campaign to begin
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Consulting rooms at 131 Shakespeare Road, Milford
For appointments Phone 486 0182 • Email: pelvic-floor-clinic@clear.net.nz Webpage: www.berniebrenner.co.nz
Coutts North Shore 145 Diana Drive Glenfield Auckland Ph (09) 443 3808 www.couttscars.com
The SA issue19.indd 8
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The
South African
Insights... Personality profile of... A South African doctor in New Zealand – Dr Lester Levy, graduate of Medicine and an MBA.
D
r Lester Levy is the foundation Chief Executive of The New Zealand Leadership Institute at the University of Auckland and Professor (Adjunct) of Leadership at the University of Auckland Business School. He is also the appointed Chairman of the Auckland and Waitemata District Health Boards, New Zealand’s largest District Health Boards. 1) What was your career history in South Africa? I grew up in Vereeniging and studied medicine at Wits University in Johannesburg. I was one of the many doctors who did their training at the famous Baragwanath Hospital (now Chris Hani Baragwanath). After my medical training, mainly at Bara, I decided to leave South Africa to explore the world. 2) When did you first arrive in New Zealand? I arrived here in December 1978. My decision to travel here was heavily influenced by my room-mate at university, who was a Kiwi. After hearing all his stories of this beautiful, charming and unspoilt land, my (then) wife and I decided we would visit New Zealand and stay here until we felt the urge to move on. We settled in Gisborne and I started work at Cook Hospital. 3) Describe how you settled into the professional world of New Zealand and give us details of any adjustments that were required to make it work? First of all, I must say that the Kiwis were very welcoming, so making the adjustments and settling in was quite effortless. At that time, there was a shortage of doctors and most of the young doctors were immigrants from all over the world. Also, there weren’t many other South Africans around in those days. I settled in to my new job at the hospital and worked really hard. My work ethic has always allowed me to do what needs to be done and working from 5 am to 9 pm was not unusual. I also felt that I wanted to be recognized for my achievements by working hard and performing my duties well. The work I had done at Bara hospital meant that I was already quite experienced as a young doctor, but I still had to be sensitive to the difference in the way medicine is practiced here in New Zealand. 4) Tell us about how your family made the “Kiwi integration” process work for them. My wife and I arrived in New Zealand with not much money, no assets and no liabilities. We knew that to start our new life here meant “getting on with it” and that is simply what we did. Our son was born in NZ and his life just unfolded here as one big opportunity. I convinced my parents to come out here in the mid 1980s and they are also very happy and settled. It’s important to note that we felt that making New Zealand our new home and being happy about it was as simple as deciding it would be so. We chose to be positive about it and embraced our new country. 5) What are some of the things that you love about your new life here? I love the fact that New Zealand is a young country and has a small population. It’s an extremely beautiful country and has so much potential for
enjoyment and also for growth. I also find it refreshing that there is tolerance between the different cultural groups and we all live together side by side. I do believe there are tremendous opportunities here and if you want to, you can really make a difference if you apply yourself. This country has been good to me and I believe in the principle of giving back. With loyalty, patriotism and hard work, you can leave your mark here and at the same time help develop this wonderful country. 6) What are your favourite recreational destinations in New Zealand? I lived in Mt. Maunganui for a few years and I still love that part of the country. In saying that, I live in Mission Bay and find that Auckland is a pretty city and a great place to live. My family and I are very happy here. 7) If you were to give one piece of advice to a new immigrant about how to succeed in their profession here, what would it be? As an immigrant, you may not be able to start off in the same place that you left off in South Africa. Sometimes you have to understand that to take a step back will, in time, allow you to move forward again. This can be done with dignity if you understand that it’s part of the whole process. Be prepared to work hard and have a desire to succeed, as it is very likely that you may need to work harder than others to prove yourself. Associate with positive people. One of my favourite quotes is from Henry Ford: ‘If you think you can or if you think you can’t — you will be right on both counts.”
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The SA issue19.indd 9
24/1/11 11:42:54 AM
The
South African SA TRAVEL GUIDE MEET THE NEW FACE AT LION WORLD TRAVEL!
Elna Tempelhoff The new face at Lion World Travel is Elna Tempelhoff who has a real passion for travel and customer service. She began with South African Airways 30 years ago and during her career she visited more than 23 different countries in Europe, America (North & South), Africa, Asia and Australasia. Throughout her travel career she has been instrumental in arranging conferences and incentive programmes and spoken in public at several events, workshops and presentations to large groups. She has also trained up many students in the skills of travel and tourism as Senior Tutor and Head of Studies at one of the largest Travel and Tourism Colleges in New Zealand. She considers ‘excellent customer service’ as a vital ingredient in the booking process. We offer the following services for all travel arrangements to all destinations: Experienced, professional service in Afrikaans and English; competitive air fares; advice on airlines’ reward programs; tailor made itineraries for individuals, groups & tours; group airfares; incentive packages; land arrangements; insurance; written quotes and Visa applications for all destinations. The South African Travel Club in New Zealand was originally established by the Friends of the Lion Group 30 years ago and was then known as the “Friends of the Springbok.” The Club’s main objective is to provide the best travel deals available to its members and over the years it has established longstanding relationships with South African Airways and other prominent airlines. Contact Elna now on dd: 09- 921 5316; mobile 021 939 696; E-mail: elna.tempelhoff@lionworld.co.za www.southafricantravelclub.co.nz
howzit A friendly welcome to our local South African community. At Westpac we believe in understanding and being a part of all of our local communities. So in Birkenhead, we have someone on our team who, naturally, knows what makes South Africans tick. Westpac Birkenhead Personal Manager Eddie Biesenbach brings with him many years of banking experience. He can assist you in all areas of banking, from account enquiries and cards to personal and home loans and insurance. To talk to Eddie and the team at Westpac Birkenhead, give them a call on 09 480 3325 or email eddie_biesenbach@westpac.co.nz
Westpac Birkenhead, 29 Birkenhead Road, Birkenhead.
Westpac New Zealand Limited
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The SA issue19.indd 10
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The
South African
South African Sports Achievements W ho sez that South Africans haven’t done well in sporting achievements across the decades? You’d better believe it…and read on, in case you get asked about these famous people in a quiz:-
Springbok fly half Jannie de Beer holds the world record for most dropped goals in a test match. Playing against England in the quarterfinals of the Rugby World Cup in October 1999, De Beer kicked five dropped goals, all in the second half, as South Africa won 44-21. De Beer scored 34 points. From 23 August 1997 to 28 November 1998, the Springboks won 17 successive rugby tests to equal the world record. Their record included three wins against Australia, two wins against New Zealand, two wins against England and two wins against France. Kitch Christie, who coached the Springboks to World Cup success in 1995, was in charge of the Boks for 14 tests. Those matches all ended in victory Long before South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994, Errol Tobias sealed his place in South African rugby history by becoming the first black player to start a test match for the Springboks, when he faced Ireland at Newlands on 30 May 1981. He was 31 at the time. In the four matches that Tobias played at fly half, South Africa scored 122 points, running in 18 tries, 12 of them by backline players. He played 15 times for the Springboks, including in six Tests – all of which South Africa won. Graeme Pollock’s test batting average of 60.97 is the second-highest in history, the highest ever by a left hander, and he is one of only four batsmen to average over 60 in a Test career. In February 2009, Pollock was voted into the International Cricket Council’s Hall of Fame as a member of the inaugural class of inductees.
The Comrades, widely regarded as the world’s greatest ultra-marathon, belonged to one man throughout the 1980s. Bruce Fordyce won the event one nine occasions: in 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988 and 1990. He didn’t win in 1989, but then again he didn’t run that year After boxer Brian Mitchell won the WBA junior-lightweight title in 1986, he successfully defended it on 12 occasions before retiring as an undefeated champion. All of his title defences took place outside of South Africa. In December 2008, Mitchell was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame, the first South African boxer to achieve the honour.
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The SA issue19.indd 11
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The
South African THE SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC SCENE
Freshlyground by Ted Woodberg
“Doo be Doo be Doo..”
T
he last time we heard these words in a song they were sung by ol’ Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra himself whilst putting the finishing touches to his 60’s classic, Strangers in the Night. This time round, some forty years later, a seven-piece Cape Town band of mixed race and nationality used those same words as the title of their first big hit single in South Africa in 2004. It became one of the most played songs on SA radio in 2005.
Hailing from different parts of Africa, inter alia Mozambique, Zimbabwe and the Eastern Cape, this phenomenal group known collectively as FRESHLYGROUND have broken new ground in the recording industry and have so impressed the world that they garnered the highly prestigious MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act in 2006. They were up against stiff competition, viz. Nigerian R&B twins P-Square, Tanzanian bongo flava star Juma Nature, Angolan R&B star Anselmo Ralph and Kenyan hip-hop artist Nameless. This award is a first for ANY band in South Africa! The group has not disclosed to the media how they came up with their name, but it certainly conjures up thoughts of the pleasant aroma of coffee that is brewed just after being “freshly ground.” The band first got together in Cape Town in 2002 and started working the local pubs and clubs. They released their first album Jika Jika in 2003 and despite the fact that it was a new sound that fused African folk & kwela, jazz, indie-rock and contemporary R&B, it achieved mild success. Then in 2004 they came out with album #2, Nomvula, which incorporated the instant hit “Doo Be Doo.” The release went platinum virtually overnight. The effortless, lilting vocals of lead singer Zolani Mahola weaved a magic web around your head and suddenly you found yourself wanting to ask her out to dinner! Petite Zo was born in Port Elizabeth and brought up in the little town of New Brighton, Eastern Cape. She studied drama at UCT and has starred as one of the leads of the Xhosa drama series Tsha Tsha which was aired on SABC 1 in 2003/4.
The rest of the band is made up of Josh Hawks, bass player; Peter Cohen, drums; Kyla-Rose Smith, violin; Simon Attwell, woodwind, sax and harmonica; Julio Sigauque, guitars and Aron Turest-Swartz on keyboards and vocals. They warmed to the hearts of all South Africans when they played at a fund raising concert for the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation in 2005. In 2007 the band released their next hit album, Ma Cheri, that shot to the top of the SA album charts in weeks, culminating in a number of South African Music Awards and 4 Metro FM Awards. During 2010 FRESHLYGROUND have performed at concerts throughout South Africa, Europe, the US and Asia. They wowed an international audience of billions when they performed at the closing ceremony of the Soccer World Cup at Soccer City in Johannesburg, sharing the stage with Johnny Clegg, Sibongile Kumalo and Shakira. Their act is simple, fresh and appealing, because it relies on the heartthrob of Africa; the distinctive rhythm of the kwela that is as unique to the dark continent as the mophane and the Kalahari bush. They have received rave revues from Time Magazine, The Washington Post, The Cape Argus, Die Beeld and the Citizen. In addition, they have been dubbed as “the new Mango Groove.” And where to now, FRESHLYGROUND? We can only wait with bated breath as this extremely versatile, accomplished band contemplate their future. They have already conquered the world, so it would be nice if they came to humble NZ and entertained us here! Source: FACEBOOK.
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The
South African SOUTH AFRICAN COMEDY MAESTROS
“PIETER PUTS THE PUN BACK INTO POLITICS”!
Pieter-Dirk Uys by Ted Woodberg
T
he one-man act gets under way. Wearing an immaculate suit, the solitary figure on stage disappears behind a screen and reappears wearing a PW Botha mask.
Pieter-Dirk Uys
After much derogatory oratory and finger-wagging it as ideal material for a Laurel and he disappears again and re-merges as Nelson Mandela. Hardy movie! Later he is Pik Botha, Piet Koornhof (with a HUGE The life and times of Pieter-Dirk nose!)Janet Suzman (with a dress), Thabo Mbeki and Uys was recently highlighted in a finally, after a long costume change, he emerges as Evita documentary movie made by 17 Bezuidenhout, ambassadress of the fictional Bantustan, year old New Zealander Julian Shaw Bapetikosweti. entitled “Darling! The Pieter-Dirk The deliberate misquotes and gaffes by each of Uys Story.” The film went on to beat the characters he represents leave you doubled up in Madonna’s contribution “Filth and uncontrolled laughter. He has mastered the accents Wisdom” at the 2007 Berlin Film and posturing of each so perfectly that you are left Festival; winning second prize at wondering if you are actually seeing double! this prestigious award ceremony. The Pieter-Dirk Uys does not hold back any punches unbelievably young Shaw said that when he lampoons a politician. He switches between he first saw Uys live on stage when English and Afrikaans without dropping a syllable, he was only fifteen and decided ensuring that his words are heavily loaded with the then and there to make the movie. appropriate accent. The documentary focuses mainly Pieter was born in 1945 in Cape Town to a Calvinist Evita Bezuidenhout (Pieter-Dirk Uys) on the comedian’s Aids awareness Afrikaner father and a Berlin-born Jewish mother. programme and his sense of humour to confront fear and stigma. Growing up in such a culturally diverse home must have sharpened Pieter’s Holding his award aloft, the visibly thrilled Shaw exclaimed to a packed ability to make fun of people’s different ethnicities. He started his career as a Berlin theatre: serious playwright but he switched to one-man comedy revues at the height “You know what this means? We beat Madonna. And I won’t ever be able of the Apartheid era where he cleverly disguised his political insights by his to say that again!” subtle use of satire. Uys has been decorated with a number of awards and honorary degrees, Often the jokes exposed the absurdity of the Apartheid system and the viz “Truth and Reconciliation Award” in 2001; the Living Legacy 2000 Award equally absurd aspirations of the militant left wing. Through it all, Uys’s revues in San Diego, USA to Evita; doctorates in Literature from both Rhodes and UCT were never banned or censored, which makes one assume that the moderate and a doctorate in education from the University of the Western Cape. members of the right and left political groups probably gave closet approval Well done, Pieter. You have taught South Africans how to laugh at of his views. themselves. May your ever fiendish mind continue to dream up saucy satirical Uys’s character Evita Bezuidenhout has become a well respected jibes and jokes that will not only make us laugh, but also stop and think of personality in South African social circles. Not only is she openly critical of the point that you are driving home. the government; she also displays a genuine sympathy for those suffering Source: Face book from Aids. She is actively involved in Aids awareness programmes, which takes her around the country mainly to poor black schools. She was named by Uys after former Argentine first lady, Evita Peron. Today Evita Bezuidenhout can be seen regularly on a stage that Uys had specially built into the old Darling Railway Station, close to the house where he lives. He has dubbed these revues as “Evita se Perron,” which is another stroke of Uys genius, because “perron” is the Afrikaans word for a station platform. Shortly after the first non-racial elections in 1994, Uys starred in a TV series, Funigalore, in which Evita interviewed Nelson Mandela and other prominent politicians of the day. Having the politicians in the hot seat must have made it hard for Uys to use his normal asperity, but the show was funny, and judged by its ratings, was quite popular. On the stage Uys has put on a variety of one-man revues with corny names like “Farce about Uys” and “You ANC Nothing Yet,” each with a rich concoction of political satire that has been his benchmark. Uys has often said from the stage that he is glad that he grew up in South Africa because no other country in the world had the same political dynamics that was often so clumsy and hypocritical that anybody could use
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The SA issue19.indd 13
24/1/11 11:43:07 AM
The
South African
Time for a laugh “WHY DID THE RAINBOW CHICKEN CROSS THE OCEAN?”
S
A home improvements expert Chris Thom loves satire on South Africa – and he calls it S.A.-tire. Here is his diatribe…………
South Africans who stay put have a fraught relationship with South Africans who leave to live overseas. It’s an interesting mixture of envy and contempt, even a sense of betrayal. Hence the term ‘Chicken Run.’ Mandela once said,” Those who have not got the courage and patriotism to remain in their country – let them go. It’s good riddance.” And since the mid-nineties hundreds of thousands of “chickens” crossed the oceans to safer shores. Hospital wards from Auckland to Aberdeen to Abu-Dhabi are filled with doctors and nurses from S.A. - who are all making a good living, and surprisedly, are still alive! Big cheers for all of those South African expats who are responsible for spreading Ouma rusks and biltong around the world, and, of course, boerewors cooked on donkie- drolle charcoal. Meanwhile South Africans back home comfort themselves by listing Pratley Putty and Kreepy Krauly as a reason to be proudly South African. It’s as though this has to compensate for 40% unemployment and drug resistant TB, but hey, whatever floats your boat my china! The ex-pats are always asking:”Can you bring me a bottle of Mrs Ball’s chutney?”
“No….you left, so we get to eat the ‘Balls’ chutney. Sorry there will be no chutney in Putney.” “How’s Cape Town?” ‘’I’m not telling you …you left.” For those who used to live in Cape Town, it is a typical African city with hotels that have air conditioners that don’t work and staff that don’t want to serve you. It is an interesting blend of first world affluence with third world squalor. After the multi-billion arms deal that made all the politicians rich, one is tempted to ask the question: “What do they need guns and bombs for….who is going to invade them? The army is 60% HIV positive….all they’ve got to do is bite their enemy to death!” You know you are South African when you can’t even go on a business trip to Aussie without somebody saying knowingly: “Oh, having a look around, are you?” I even went and had a look around New Zealand, but it was closed..... must’ve been after 16h30. All the workers went home despite the fact that the job wasn’t done…….. Rainbow Chickens Ltd. has just succeeded in cloning the three legged chicken. The Africa Bank has sponsored this project from the word go. The intention is to enable five children families to get at least a leg or a wing at suppertime. They asked the CEO of Rainbow Chickens how the production and sales were going, to which he replied: “Not too good….we haven’t been able to catch them yet!”
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14 5(06 $G IRU 6WK $IULFD PDJ LQGG The SA issue19.indd 14
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The
South African INTRODUCING NZ PROPERTY TO NEW IMMIGRANTS
Property Corner
2010 residential property market update and review
The QV price indices for December show that New Zealand residential property values have continued to gradually decline. Values are now 0.9 percent below the same time last year, and 5.8 percent below the market peak of late 2007.
W
e continue with this regular feature written by Richard Pearce of Barfoot and Thompson for those who are considering purchasing their first home here in NZ:-
“What is happening to property values?” is a key question for both buyers and sellers. The January report from QV.co.nz provides a good answer to this, and an edited version of their report is included with permission. Jonno Ingerson, Research Director for QV.co.nz said: “Low sales volumes were the most notable feature of the residential property market throughout 2010. Contributing factors included a lack of consumer confidence; many would-be buyers and sellers being under financial pressure and choosing to reduce debt rather than buy or sell property; and sellers unwilling to realize potential losses while values were falling. Sellers were often only prepared to buy after they had sold.” “Securing finance was also an issue for many as the banks tightened their lending criteria. These criteria relaxed a little late in the year which probably contributed to the increase of sales in November” said Mr Ingerson. There are signs that the oversupply of property for sale may continue for the first half of this year as there are more people intending to sell than to buy. At some stage in the next year or two, the lack of building activity over the last couple of years, combined with a steadily increasing population is likely to lead to increased demand for housing and therefore a stabilisation and subsequent increase in values. This will mostly be seen first in the main centres.” Based on the above, my recommendation is that if you are planning to buy over the next few years, start looking now, and buy when you find the correct property.
Values across New Zealand increased in the first few months of the year continuing the trend from mid 2009. From April 2010 onwards, values in most cities and regions began to gradually decrease again and by the end of December had dropped 1.9 percent compared to March. The rate of decline slowed towards the end of the year, suggesting that values may be beginning to stabalise in some areas.
In the Auckland region values increased by over 1.5 percent between January and March then slid back until July. The decline slowed through the second half of the year with the last few months being relatively stable. Values in Auckland area ended the year 0.6 percent above the same time last year. Within the Wellington region values increased by just over 1.0 percent through until April before rapidly dropping away until October. Values ended the year 2.2 percent below the same time last year.
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The SA issue19.indd 15
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The
South African
FEELING THE FINANCIAL PINCH?
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The SA issue19.indd 16
24/1/11 11:43:13 AM
The
South African
The Entrepreneur Category: Is this the “easy access” route for new migrants? by Simona Woodberg
I
mmigration to New Zealand has been on top of the agenda for our politicians in order to make the move out of the sludge of the last world recession a reality. OK. So how does New Zealand attract more immigrants? We bring them in on the basis of their skills, their business acumen and how much money they have.
Photo by Charl Louw Photographer
Immigration service you can trust We specialise in all forms of Immigration from a baby boomer wanting to retire. Student permits, This is creating a hugeLong opportunity for new immigrants who have some term Business capital to invest in a business in New Zealand. If they have any expertise in Family, the business that is beingVisas, sold and they can prove Work this to the immigration authorities, they have an Permits, open door. Investor category, Certain conditions apply for both options above, health and character requirements Permanent Residence. will need to be met, and proof of English Language proficiency may need to be provided. If you would like to know more, it is important that you get expert advice from a qualified
If you own a business in SA and are looking at ways of doing the same in licensed immigration adviser. North Shore Immigration can provide this service and NZ or if you are toying with the idea of setting up or buying a business in NZ specialises in these policies. as an option to seeking NZ permanent residence then read on……. E-mail North Shore Immigration peter@nsis.co.nz or One of the pathways to gaining residency status in NZ is via the call us on : (+649) 415 3392. Entrepreneur Category. Under this category you would be able to apply for a 3 year business (work) visa called a “Long Term Business Visa.” Then after the first two years, provided that all is going well with your business Our advisors are all licensed have extensive knowledge and experience to and youskilled have also met the conditions of “benefiting NZ”, you canand apply for residence. help you through the often difficult immigration process. Come on in and meet our friendly
Whatwho doeswill thistake mean? staff you step by step through the process taking away all the guesswork For the Entrepreneur Category (Long Term Business Visa forit3 years) the investor category or permanent resident. We and stress of immigration, whether is the criteria requires that: have the andinoften work other a] Youall have beenskills self employed the business for a with minimum of two professionals to give you a one stop superior Immigration service you can trust years, and Take the risk out of the process and safeguard you and your family to a long and service. b] you need to prove that the business is “benefiting New Zealand”, in enjoyable life in New Zealand . Our fees are very competitive and we go the extra mile other words it would promote New Zealand’s economic growth. This can be We specialise in all forms of achieved by showing proofsatisfaction. that the business:to ensure total Immigration policies from • has introduced new, or enhanced existing technology;
Student permits
equiresdelay specialised management/technical skills; permit expires, Long term Business Visas, Do• rnot and wait until your contact North Shore Immigration today • has introduced new, or enhanced existing products/services; Family Work. and out how we can you. Take the risk outPermits, of being refused entry to New Zealand • hfind as created new, or expanded existinghelp export markets; Investor • has created employment for a Newand Zealand citizen or resident; or e-book. Category, Permanent Resi. Look at our web page access our free revitalised an existing New Zealand business. Last but not least, the business needs to be trading profitably on the date the residence application is lodged or you can prove to Immigration 09 415 3392 that the business clearlyCall has thenow potentialon to become profitable within the following 12 months. North Immigration Services Another option is via theShore Investor Category. If you have NZ$1.5 million to invest in New Zealand, by purchasing shares, a business, or commercial www.nsis.co.nz property – as a passive investor - you would then be able to immediately apply for New Zealand permanent residence, conditional to your investment being held in NZ for a period of four years. There are so many immigrants who are trying to come into NZ using the “Skilled Migrant” category and the “points” system that they have forgotten about this category that could make their journey much easier. With the recession losing its grip too slowly there are many NZ businesses that have not been able to recover fast enough and so the owners have given up the struggle and put their businesses up for sale; or the owner could be
dence. Work Permits, Family Category, Student permits
Member of
Call now on 09 415 3392 North Shore Immigration Services www.nsis.co.nz Email: peter@nsis.co.nz Address: 17 Corinthian Drive Albany North Shore
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The SA issue19.indd 17
24/1/11 11:43:16 AM
The
South African GREAT SOUTH AFRICAN SPORTSMEN MEET THE “SUPER SMASHER”
Jody Scheckter by Ted Woodberg
T
he squeal of tyres and the roar of F1 engines at top-throttle was deafening as the field of 28 cars emerged from a dense cloud of exhaust fumes and rubber smoke in the opening lap. All eyes in the crowd were on the “wild man” in the No 4 McLaren, Jody Scheckter. Then the field narrowed at the Woodcote corner and the No 4 went completely out of control, spinning collided with Francois Cevert’s Tyrell and wildly through the middle they were both put out of the race. Despite this setback, the Tyrells signed Scheckter to of the pack before thumping replace their retiring World Champion Jackie hard into the cement wall in Stewart and he became Cevert’s front of the pits. The driver 1977 a good day in Argentina for Scheckter and team mate for 1974. In a practice the Walter Wolf Racing team clambered out of the wrecked 1979 driving for Ferrari for the US Grand Prix Cevert was vehicle dazed and unharmed, killed in a horrible accident at Watkins Glen. Jody was the first but the carnage behind him man on the scene and what he was obscene. It continued for some time, with cars saw that day had a profound flying through the air and bits of wreckage raining affect on this racing career. down on the hapless crowd amidst billows of smoke In a total state of shock, Jody exclaimed to reporters: “From and dust. It was 1973 at the Silverstone track at the beginning of the British Grand Prix that our very own SA born Jody Scheckter managed to totally write off twelve F1 vehicles in this catastrophic crash that resulted in demands that he be banned from motor racing by the world racing fraternity. By that time Scheckter was well known as a fearless, hot tempered hell raiser that knew only one speed – flat out. In a previous race he unwittingly drove into world no 1 Emerson Fittipaldi’s Lotus, putting the ace out of the competition and sending him into a towering rage. He labeled Scheckter as a madman; a certain danger to both himself and everybody else and not fit to drive in F1. Jody was reprimanded by McLaren and put on ice to cool off before his next track event, which was the Canadian Grand Prix at Mosport. Here he
then on, all I was trying to do in Formula One was save my life!” Jody David Scheckter was born in East London in 1950 and educated at Selborne College. His father owned a Renault dealership and Jody worked there as an engineering apprentice in his first years after school. It was here that motor fuel got into his blood and he tried both motorcycle and saloon car racing. In his first national race he was black-flagged off the circuit for dangerous driving. He soon learnt how to temper his natural-born aggression and at the tender age of 20 he won the SA Formula One series and as his prize he got a scholarship to the UK. With his wife Pam he set off to try out the tracks of England and Europe with one goal in mind: to become the best driver in the world. In 1979, while driving for Ferrari, his dream came true and he was ultimately awarded the supreme prize in motor racing, World No I, after three successive wins in that year. His road to victory was unfortunately marred by a number of crashes, some of which were near fatal. He cruised through 1980 simply to fulfill his contractual obligations to Ferrari, but at the end of the year, at the age of 30, he retired from motor racing. Already rich from racing, he dabbled in business to increase his fortune. He took time out to shepherd the racing careers of his two sons, Tomas and Toby before embarking on an organic farming enterprise in England. As an organic farming expert, he was featured in 2005 on the Visionhealth DVD and TV documentaries: “Asthma, Arthritis and Diabetes: An integrated Approach,” expounding on the degree to which organic foods can positively affect these three ailments. The SA “Super-smasher” has come a long way from the world’s F1 fighting fields to a quiet life in an organic garden in West London. Congratulations, Jody. You were the only SA motor racer to ever receive the top honour of being World No 1, and we don’t think that you are in danger of losing your crown at any time in the future!
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The SA issue19.indd 18
24/1/11 11:43:20 AM
The
South African
Parenting – it’s not easy at the best of times! by Eve Hemming
O
ur resident freelance writer, Eve Hemming has some valuable tips for parents who face a constant challenge every day‌. their children!
No one ever said parenting was easy. It’s a lifelong dedication and the most significant and enduring role imaginable. The way in which parents rear their children makes a profound impact on their holistic development – socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively, as well as on their resilience and ability to adapt. A major role of any family who immigrates is to identify family members who are ‘at risk’, That is, family members who are most vulnerable and least likely to adapt well. Reaching out to ensure that they have adequate support is vital, as the entire family will all be adapting, and will need to work as proactively and collaboratively as possible. Newly arrived parents to NZ will be experiencing various degrees of trauma, bereavement and stress, due to factors such as leaving loved ones behind, severing ties with their roots and identity, and in some cases recovering from the trauma of experiencing or witnessing violence. Trying to fulfil their own ‘survival’ needs could lead to marital discord and high levels of anxiety, leaving little opportunity to be ultra vigilant parents. At this stage, one’s floundering child or adolescent could get ‘lost’ in the process whilst the smaller and more dependent children would continue to get parental attention and tend to readjust more quickly. The necessity to address one’s parenting styles may sound daunting but this could be the solution to prevent the ‘at risk’ child from withdrawing (with possible depression and associated risks) or alternatively ‘acting out’ by manifesting a raft of explosive and non compliant behaviours. In speaking to parents who immigrated with teens, they reiterated the need for a shift in one’s parenting style. In the SA context children have generally been reared along norms influenced by a fairly authoritarian style as opposed to a more democratic style. I’m not advocating a laissez faire child rearing style in which kids are given ‘carte blanche’ to run riot. I remember my first week in NZ, being flabbergasted by shoulder-length haired school boys ambling along pavements. It took me quite some time to reflect on this, to analyse and conceptualise NZ within the world context. We all live in a metamorphic state. The forces of universal change are impossible to suppress, halt or reverse. We can’t go back to the past; we can only adapt to the present and equip ourselves for the future. And every era has its pitfalls along with its stimulating new breakthroughs. In NZ it’s about modifying parenting styles so that adolescents can feel safe as they waver in a state of quandary somewhere between relatively controlling parents and an environment with more safety and freedom than they were accustomed to. Freedom is not the norm in a country suffused with fear and danger. Furthermore parenting styles in SA, albeit that they rear fine young citizens may actually have some deficits in a changing world. If a child is exposed to
punitive control mechanisms, he/she could ultimately break-out and rebel as the metaphorical pendulum swings. In NZ, I have found that children are empowered to take on more personal control, whilst parents take on a more collaborative and open-communication stance. Children appear to have a bigger role to play around thinking, decisionmaking and being accountable for themselves, by taking some ownership for their own development. Collaborative adaptation will better accommodate positive adjustment for all members of the family from the oldies through to the teens and the tots. Eve Hemming hails from Kwa-Zulu Natal. She is an educational psychologist now living and working in NZ. She is a wife, mum and grandmother with over 35 years’ experience in the field of education.
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The SA issue19.indd 19
24/1/11 11:43:33 AM
The
South African
SA social
Those who attended the last 2010 Social function for the N Shore at Browns Bay Bowling Club on Friday, 3rd December were given a special treat by a troupe of Zulu Dancers who mesmerised the crowd with their gyrations and fancy footwork.
The last Auckland Central SA Social for the year was held on Friday, 26th November at the Remuera Bowling Club. It was well organised by Ian Mellett of Quay Law and well attended by at least 100 people. The Mystery Guest was none other than Father Christmas who gave out special prizes to lucky ticket holders. Photos by Chris Botha.
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The SA issue19.indd 20
24/1/11 3:45:26 PM
The
South African
Rugby World Cup fever starts here!
T
he long awaited Rugby World Cup Year has finally arrived! 2011 is destined to be a landmark year for New Zealand because it represents the first time in 24 years that the NATIONAL SPORT’S World Cup is being held on home soil! The competition began in 1987 when it was first hosted by Australia and New Zealand. It was played across both continents and ably won by the All Blacks, who were the first team in history to raise the Web Ellis Trophy. Subsequently in 1991 it was won by Australia on home soil, but in 1995 the Springboks had their turn at a very strategic point in their political history. The cup was handed to Springbok captain Francois Pienaar by Nelson Mandela himself!
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS Come and be a part of the vibrant ex- sa community here in Auckland. Join in the fun and help each other by networking effectively. SOCIAL EVENTS: NORTH SHORE - We have a monthly fun social get together at the Browns Bay Bowling Club, Bute Road, Browns Bay on the first Friday evening of each month starting at 6pm. Kids allowed. Our next social will take place on Friday 4th February and after that on Friday 5th March 2011. AUCKLAND CENTRAL - We meet every two months on the last Friday of the month and we always feature a top guest speaker. No kids allowed. Next social Friday 25th February. At all functions a cash bar is available and good wholesome SA food! We would like to start other chapters in both West and East Auckland. If you know of suitable venues, please let us know. BUSINESS NETWORKING: As new immigrants you will be given a chance of introducing yourself to our regular attendees and we will ensure that you are entered on to the SA Biznet data base in order for all members to be able to access your details. Bring some of your business cards!
Then in 1999 it was won again by Australia followed by England in 2003. Who can forget the incredible victory by the ‘Bokke in 2007 against England, beating the reigning champs 15-6.
Is this the turn of the All Blacks? Time will tell! If you are following the World Cup fixtures for the Springboks on the North Shore then make a note of these dates so that you can book your tickets in advance. North Harbour Stadium: 22nd September RSA vs Namibia 30th September RSA vs Samoa. The Springboks have been extremely lucky to be drawn in a pool that shouldn’t be too difficult to emulate. The other two teams are Wales and Fiji. The Springbok team has announced that they will be training at the Onewa Domain, North Shore City during their 2011 campaign. If you want to meet them and get autographs, watch this space! We will be announcing the times and dates of their training programme in our future issues on the build up to the World Cup.
NORTH SHORE - Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at the Browns Bay Bowling Club, Bute Road, Browns Bay commencing 6pm. Next meetings: Wednesdays 2nd, 16th February; 2nd, 16th March 2011. AUCKLAND CENTRAL - We are planning to have monthly meetings on a Wednesday evening in the middle of the month, commencing in February. Date and venue to be announced. SA NEW ARRIVALS CLUB: In order to help you settle in to your new life in NZ this club holds meetings on the SECOND Wednesday evening of each month at a superb venue in a park like setting that will allow your kids to have fun while you listen to some good advice. The venue is the Kawai Parapura Retreat Centre, 14 Mills Lane, Albany off Oteha Valley Road. Next two meetings: Feb 9th, March 9th. Time: from 6pm to 8 pm MAIRANGI BAY SANZ COFFEE CLUB: Calling all SA housewives or retirees who are looking to socialize with others and share their stories! This club meets once per month on the 2nd Thursday of each month. The Venue: Café Windsor, 542 East Coast Road, Mairangi Bay, in front of the Baptist Church opposite the entrance to Hastings Road. Travel down a little road next to Kentucky Fried Chicken where you will find plenty of safe parking. Time: 10 am to 12pm. Next meetings: 10th February, 10th March. If you are aware of any other SA Clubs in the Auckland region, please contact the editors.
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The
South African S A BOOK REPORT
The Maori who fought with the Brits in the Boer War I
n this issue we feature a brand new book written by SA teacher/author Mike Dwight entitled “Walter Callaway – Maori Warrior of the Boer War.” Here is Mike’s report on this exciting new publication:The South African War 1899-1902 is deeply embedded into the psyche of most South Africans and most can relate to the many tragic events which unfolded then. However, what surprises nearly everyone, is the extent of New Zealand’s participation. Over 8,000 Kiwi’s, (per capita the greatest sacrifice out of all the British colonies), boarded ships – many with their own horses, and set sail for the southern African continent to support their queen and motherland. One of those volunteers was Walter Callaway - also known as Wata te Wahahuia. What is remarkable about Walter is that because of his colour, he was officially not allowed to enlist. Together with about twenty other Maori, he managed to slip under the radar of the British dictum of the day that ‘no native could fight in a white man’s war.’ His drive and determination ensured
that he was aboard the New Zealand’s first troopship, and made him possibly the first person of colour from abroad to fight in the South African War. Not only did he complete the usual one year stint like most other New Zealanders, but he returned three times! He served with distinction and was acknowledged for his dedicated service and gallantry in the field and by the end of the war he was promoted to become an officer. His experiences span the whole duration of the war, and so by following his story, one can get a comprehensive understanding of New Zealand’s contribution to the British war effort. Walter Callaway – Maori Warrior of the Boer War, tells the story of a little known and unsung Kiwi hero. In its foreword, the Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General Mateparae, commented that ‘this enterprising and well produced biography sheds light on a man who embodies many of the traits such as loyalty, courage and commitment that New Zealanders hold dear.’ ‘Walter Callaway – Maori Warrior of the Boer War’ was published in December 2010 and can be purchased through the website www. waltercallaway.com
Mike Dwight was born in Cape Town, South Africa and immigrated to New Zealand with his young family in 2000. He now lives on the Coromandel Peninsula, is a teacher by profession and has held dual NZ /SA citizenship for a number of years now. Both his grandparents were SA War veterans and it is remarkable that his paternal grandfather even fought in the same fighting column as Callaway. For him therefore, the making of this book has involved taking the threads of his own family’s and South African heritage and then weaving them into the New Zealand tapestry – a very meaningful process for any emigrant! For more personal information as well as more information about the book see www.waltercallaway.com. At 7.30pm on Thursday 24 February, he has been invited to speak about his book by the Devonport Library Associates at the Devonport library, Auckland. Anyone is welcome to attend.
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The
South African ESKA HARTDEGEN, EMPLOYMENT LAW SPECIALIST
Has the employment relations act stood the test of time? S
A Employment Law Specialist and Auckland Barrister Eska Hartdegen does some soul searching about this controversial piece of legislation. Here are her findings:October 2010 heralded a ten year reign of the Labour Government’s Employment Relations Act 2000 (ERA), which had replaced the Employment Contracts Act 1991. The new Act was sold to the citizens of New Zealand as legislation that would provide speedy, less legalistic and less costly access to justice for employees and employers. I propose here to explain my views on how the ERA has failed and let everyone down, employees and employers alike. Some of the major and most significant changes made in 2000 and in subsequent amendments to the ERA were: that a separate mediation service was established; the Employment Relations Tribunal was scrapped and replaced with the Employment Relations Authority (Authority); the right to cross-examine witnesses in hearings was removed; what employers could do in relation to misconduct by an employee (a subjective test) was replaced by what a fair employer would do (an objective test); and the concept of “good faith” was established as a primary principle underpinning employment relationships. So what impact have these changes had? Expect for exceptional situations, all cases filed must first go through an investigation meeting in the Authority, before the Authority’s decision can be challenged in the Court. As the challenge to the Court is not an appeal, but is a full hearing from scratch, this results in a duplication of process and of legal costs The right to cross-examine a witness is an inherent right in any justice system, and underpins the tenets of fairness in the law. This is no longer so in New Zealand employment law. Now the Authority, which is an inquisitorial body, questions the witnesses and may in the Member’s discretion allow counsel, only to ask “questions” of witnesses. Cross-examination by its very nature often is confrontational, trying to show that a witness is lying. The current legislation has bowed to the current fashion of political correctness by insisting that words such as lying, dishonest, and thief be banished, and are replaced with phrases such as: not being frank, not being completely
truthful, removing company property and so on. Whereas the Tribunal under the previous Act was supervised by the Court, and had to follow the precedents established in case law by the Court and follow fair process, this is no longer so. The Authority is autonomous and is not supervised by the Court. The only recourse parties have to the Court is by way of a challenge to the Authority’s decision. The processes followed by the Authority cannot be raised with- or in the Court. Aspects that were inherent to the jurisdiction of the Court have also been removed and devolved down to the Authority. One example is injunctions for interim reinstatement where an employee has been dismissed. Given that the Authority is a lay body, and is not equivalent to either a Tribunal or Court in status, this undermines the Employment Court’s jurisdiction and its status. To be appointed to the Authority, members did not need tertiary qualifications, although it seems that at least some experience of working in a union or as a Human Resources manager or consultant was required. The Authority keeps no record of its proceedings, so any challenge brought in the Court is a full de novo trial. New court documents have to be filed, a further filing fee has to be paid, and new briefs of evidence have to be filed. This constitutes duplication of proceedings, and of legal costs to the parties. Mediation had previously been voluntary when a case was filed; now it is a compulsory first step. To “encourage” parties to settle their differences, both the Authority and the Court are obliged to establish whether the parties have in fact mediated “in good faith”. If they hold the view that the parties have not, both those bodies must refer the parties back to mediation. To mediate yet again results in a multiplication of legal costs. I do embrace mediation as a good process where many claims are settled, but there is no need for more than one mediation. These law changes have altered the employment law landscape irrevocably, and in my view have undermined working citizens’ fundamental rights to access to justice.
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GILL
size 120 x 75mm
restaurant
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open christmas lunch and new years eve see website for details
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