The
Issue number 032 April/May 2013
South African
CONNECTING SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND
Beautiful Karoo page 11
SA Masterchef in Ireland page 14
Free
From the editor
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his is the hottest, driest summer I have ever experienced in Auckland. Great for people on holiday and Mally, the ice-cream man - but what about the farmers? As most of you know we come from a very dry part of the world and even KwaZulu Natal, the wettest region in South Africa, have huge dams to provide water for local consumption and for farmers. We are spoilt in New Zealand as we rely on the rains to fall when we need it but for times like this we need more dams, surely. Our front cover celebrates the fantastic artistry of Rodriquez. Those of you who saw him perform were not disappointed. The cover photograph was taken by our very own Sherelee Clarke who was at the concert. Well done, Sherelee! We have put together another full, interesting magazine and welcome to our new advertisers. Please visit Care Pharmacy at the Mega Centre in Albany as it is now South African owned and Cheryl, from Dansbaan fame, works there and will give you good old South African service in both languages. Education is important in this country and we have two educational advertisers this month - Quantum Education Group and Browns Bay Kip McGrath. Evette du Plessis from Quantum is campaigning for South Africans who still live in South Africa to come and study in New Zealand. We hear some bad stories of certain students being victimised in the classes in SA. This is a huge pity and a great opportunity for a safe education in New Zealand. If you have not been to Bushman’s Grill yet for a steak you should give them a try. The best steaks to ‘leave home for’ on the Shore, with sauces to die for!
The
South African PUBLISHER & EDITOR Peter Woodberg e-mail : jepwood@xtra.co.nz; mob: 0274 520 794 ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Sherelee Clarke e-mail: sherelee.samagazine@gmail.com; ph 09 281 5069 ADDRESS The South African, P.O.Box 300 155, Albany, AUCKLAND 0752 17 Corinthian Drive, Albany, AUCKLAND, 0630 JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! THE SOUTH AFRICAN MAGAZINE http://www.facebook.com/groups/401361333247671 CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS The SANZ Charitable Trust – George Deeb Tel: 09-486 1415 e-mail: george@georgedeeb.co.nz Die Afrikaanse Klub – Thys Oosthuizen e-mail: die.afrikaanse.klub@clear.net.nz Christchurch contact: Linda Klok: e-mail: info@sinzasa.org.nz THE SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COMMISSION, WELLINGTON Tel: 04 815 8484 Level 7, State Insurance Tower, 1 Willis Street, Wellington. e-mail: consular@sahcwellington.co.nz COVER Rodriquez in Concert - Auckland photo Sherelee Clarke 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.”
Regards Peter Woodberg
Clarke: sherelee.samagazine@gmail.com Sherelee 2
The South African
LEGAL UPDATE: EMPLOYMENT LAW
Sham Redundancy A $30 000 mistake!
A
$30,000 award for compensation and lost salary was awarded by the Employment Relations Authority in January this year to a Christchurch Head Chef, Natasha James. This should sound a warning to employers who do not think it important to comply with procedural requirements, and who fail to follow a fair consultation process first.
On 16 January 2013, newspapers in Auckland and Christchurch reported on the case of Ms James who was employed in July 2011. Her ex-employer, La Famia Foundation NZ, is a charitable organisation. La Famia claimed to be in financial difficulty, and it had decided to merge two roles into one, and one role redundant. When informed in October 2011 that either she or the other chef in the restaurant would be declared redundant, Ms James allegedly became “belligerent”, and referred to the company’s reason given for the redundancy, as a “f****** ruse”. In consequence, Ms James was suspended on full pay. The employer claimed that Ms James “peppered” them with phone messages and e-mails over the weekend to the point where a trespass notice was issued against her. Regarding herself as unjustifiably dismissed, Ms James did not return to work. The Authority Member held that the outburst “was understandable”, and that “While not wanting to condone Ms James’ behaviour…it was hardly surprising that she flew off the handle and behaved as she did’’.
to keep their job’’ and that “Employers should treat people the way they’d like to be treated themselves”. Ms James was awarded $5,000 compensation, six months’ lost wages in the sum of $20,900, and $4,000 for her final pay, which she had never received. Because of her behaviour over the weekend after being told the role would be made redundant, she was not awarded compensation for the unjustified suspension. The employer told the Star that the decision would be challenged in the Employment Court, and that “We won’t be accepting the decision that’s for sure”.
Further, The Authority Member said that he was not persuaded that the predominant motive for La Famia getting rid of Ms James was redundancy, but rather it was various concerns about her behaviour, including that she was disruptive and upset staff.
Employment law in New Zealand requires that employers follow the correct process for each situation.
“The employer simply took advantage of the expiry notice period as a way of ending a relationship that had become unsatisfactory to it.’’ And Ms James “saw the situation for what it was, a fait accompli.’’
Taking action against an employee for misconduct or attitude problems is not a consultation process, but is a disciplinary process.
Eska Hartdegen
This process has its own procedural requirements, and the outcome may be a warning, or in circumstances of serious misconduct, may result in the dismissal of the employee. Not following a fair consultation process before making a decision about a restructuring of a business, is a trap easily fallen into by employers. It would be wise to seek legal advice prior to embarking on the restructuring of a business, especially where it involves the disestablishment of any roles. Selection criteria must be clearly identified and established, and the consultation process to be followed with affected employees understood, planned and documented prior. Extracts and quotes from the NZ Herald online, 7:11 PM, Wednesday Jan 16, 2013 and The Star online, Friday Jan 18, 2013 8:43 AM
The Authority held that “La Famia, as employer, had an absolute obligation to enter into a robust and genuine process of consultation before determining that the position... was surplus to its requirements…That simply did not happen and in consequence La Famia failed absolutely in their obligations to undertake a fair process in accordance with New Zealand’s law.” Professor Paul Roth of Otago University’s Law Faculty, commented on the case saying that it was higher “than most” awards in the Authority, and was a “wake-up call for employers’’. He said employers “can’t be sneaky…They can’t beat around the bush. If the problem was her behaviour, they should have addressed that”. He said further that “If an employee has a bad attitude they need to be told that and be told what they need to do The South African
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KiwiSaver
T
contribution increases
he KiwiSaver rates changed from the first pay period starting on or after 1 April 2013. This means that if you were contributing the minimum of 2%, your rate will automatically change to 3%. However, you’ll still be able to select a higher employee contribution rate of 4% or 8%. For example, if you earn $52,000 a year before tax and were contributing 2% to KiwiSaver, your monthly contributions worked out to be just under $87 a month. With the rise to 3% your monthly contributions will have increased to $130. Looking at this example long-term, let’s say you are 25 years away from retirement, based on current inflation rates, at the new 3% rate you will contribute approximately an additional $19,000* to your KiwiSaver fund and the overall investment value increases by over $52,500*.
•M embers have flexibility to increase or decrease their contributions (subject to the minimum contribution level) at any time. •M embers can, if eligible, stop their contributions for a specific period by applying for a contributions holiday. To maximise your KiwiSaver savings, there are a couple of key things you should consider, now and in the years to come: 1. Make sure that you understand current and any future changes to KiwiSaver, and what they mean for you and your retirement savings goals.
If you are not in KiwiSaver you should consider the ‘cost of delay’ i.e. the Employer contributions and member tax credits you are not receiving. For the example above, over the same time period, this could be as much as $86,000 that was not contributed into your investment on your behalf. Remember that the loss in value is not now, but at the end of the timeframe, as not only have you missed out on additional funds to which you were entitled, you’ve missed out on the growth of those funds as well. As a reminder, to be in KiwiSaver, you must be a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident. If you have obtained permanent residency since starting your current job, you may not have automatically been enrolled into KiwiSaver. It might pay to check with your employer.
2. Ensure that the KiwiSaver investment funds you are invested continue to match your risk profile, situation, needs and financial goals. One of the advantages of KiwiSaver is that it provides access to a range of investment funds that suit different circumstances. Give yourself the best possible chance of achieving your retirement savings goals by being proactive about your KiwiSaver investment. Further retirement planning will still be required as KiwiSaver is not likely to satisfy your income expectations at retirement. Speak to or consult an AFA (Authorised financial Adviser) to assist you with your goals and help to plan a comfortable retirement.
*Due to calculation method, some minor discrepancies in future values will occur. Information provided as a ‘class’ advice by Neil Clarke AFA (FSP10261) - 09 915 0100 – www.hwp.co.nz
KiwiSaver remains a great way to save for retirement. Here are a few reasons why: • Members joining KiwiSaver for the first time still receive the government’s $1,000 kick-start contribution. • The Member Tax Credit is still available to eligible members (max $10 per week). • Employer contributions remain compulsory for employers of eligible members (3% less withholding tax at individual marginal tax rate). • A ‘First Home Deposit Subsidy’ is still available to eligible members (refer Housing NZ)
Neil B Clarke
FSP10261
Authorised Financial Adviser Phone: 09 915 0100, Mobile: 021 609 247 Email: enquiry@hwp.co.nz www.hwp.co.nz
Insurance:
Life Cover; Trauma Cover; Income Protection
Medical:
Hospital; Specialists & Tests; GP visits; Dental & Optical
ACC:
Review of Cover Types & Levies
Investments:
Unit Trusts; Managed Funds; KiwiSaver
Mortgages:
Access to Bank & Non-Bank options
Big Benefits - Best Rates - Assured HWP Ltd trading since 2001 DISCOUNTED INSURANCE RATES AVAILABLE 4
‡NZ Funds medium case estimate (total industry KiwiSaver assets under management)
GEORGE DEEB A S S O C I AT E S Barristers ~ Solicitors ~ Notaries Public
Are you SorTed? For expert legal advice, from a team with 30 years combined experience in New Zealand and South African law, call us. We’ll help you sort out your affairs and make sure your new life in New Zealand is successful. Property - Trusts and Estate Planning - Company and Commercial Business Law - Immigration - Matrimonial ENSURING YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PRACTICE
94 Anzac Street Takapuna Auckland Tel: 09 486 1415 | george@georgedeeb.co.nz | www.georgedeeb.co.nz The South African
Gerda, the Story Painter 1st advt business card size; 9cm x 6cm
Dr Stephen Kruger AfrikAAns & English spEAking
Located at the Northshore Womens Specialist Centre in Auckland, Dr Stephen Kruger is dedicated to the highest quality of gynaecology services, with patient service to match.
SpecialiSing in: • Heavy menstrual bleeding and period problems • Fibroids Dr Stephen Kruger MB.Bch (Wits), FRCOG, • Abnormal smears and colposcopy FRANZCOG Vaginalbasis. repairs mixed-media on watercolour paper and managed on a••daily oil Post delivery vaginal repairs Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Miscarriage earlystretched pregnancy issues Phillip and her•boys are aand allon canvas. (formerly from Durban) • General Gynaecology including smears great help as they do Gynaecological the North Shore Womens • General Hersurgery artwork has been exhibited atSpecialist the Centre • Infertility cooking and share the
U
pington born Gerda Smit (43) moved to Wellington twelve years ago. She’s a wife to Phillip, a mother to two boys aged 14 and 17, an artist and an art tutor.
Gerda Smit
Smit suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME) and finds she has to pace herself with her activities during the day. Although she is on medication, there is no cure for this disease and it has to be
New Zealand art show, Pataka, theGround Floor, 104 For all appointments please call Wendy on 09 479 9016 Rosedale Road, Albany, household duties. She is Academy of Fine Arts and in galleriesAuckland all www.gynaecologistauckland.co.nz grateful to them for all over the country. She has a Hon.Diploma the support they give her. in Art and Creativity. On her ‘good days’ Everyone should own an original work painting keeps her going and sane. Smit and her artwork can be bought on describes her work as telling a story. It’s www.etsy.com/shop/PaintingGerdaSmit. fun, bold and colourful bringing a smile Gerdasmitart.blogspot.com or to follow her to all who view them. She works in all advtmostly 1/4 pagepaintings 14cm x 9cm media but at the moment she2nd does arthome-arthome.blogspot.com
Shades of Exodus by Barry Levy
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avid Levinrad wants to go home - to South Africa. Only everyone thinks he’s crazy, including his Aussie wife, Penny Hunter. He has lived in Australia for 22 years and his grown-up children are Australian. He has a steady job as a journalist, a comfortable home and is doing relatively well. So, the question is why would anyone in their right mind want to leave that behind for a country that all we hear about, both in Australia and from the waves of migrating South Africans, is the endemic violent crime, rape, murder and AIDS, not to mention discrimination at the expense of whites? It is a scenario that has brought hundreds of thousands of well-off white South Africans to the Anglo-Saxon world, ‘the prize’ destination among them being Australia. Among those who have arrived are the main characters of the book: the Gersons and the Segals. But, like all migrants, they soon find migration is a lot more complex than imagined. There are physical and subliminal factors at play that we do not, or can never, take into account. The Gersons, for example, have an unhappy daughter, Hannah, who only becomes unhappier through migration. The book opens with her fatal trauma. Then there are the Segals (‘wings to fly’), around whom most of the first half of the book revolves. The Segals end up caught in a vicious and violent tragedy that could happen anywhere – but was the exact thing they were running away from in South Africa. In each of these cases the families have to decide whether to stay or go back home. The South African
Dr Stephen Kruger AfrikAAns & English spEAking
Located at the Northshore Womens Specialist Centre in Auckland, Dr Stephen Kruger is dedicated to the highest quality of gynaecology services, with patient service to match. the practice SpecialiSeS in: • General Gynaecology including PAP smears • Heavy menstrual bleeding and period problems • Fibroids • Abnormal smears and colposcopy • Vaginal repairs • Post delivery vaginal repairs • Miscarriage and all early pregnancy issues • General Gynaecological surgery • Infertility Sadly, the majority of women who have cervical cancer diagnosed have not had a smear in the past 3 to 5 years. The greatest single reason when cervical cancer is diagnosed is that regular smear testing was not done. Call our practice nurse Wendy now to arrange your PAP smear and examination as part of your overall health care. IF yOu ARe exPeRIeNCING: • on-going pelvic pain • any unusual and/or persistent vaginal discharge, • bleeding between periods • bleeding after sexual intercourse • heavy vaginal bleeding • painful, uncomfortable sexual intercourse
We can help you. to arrange a consultation, please call Wendy on 09 479 9016
Dr Stephen Kruger
MB.Bch (Wits), FRCOG, FRANZCOG Obstetrician and Gynaecologist (formerly from Durban)
north Shore Womens Specialist centre
Ground Floor, 104 Rosedale Road, Albany, Auckland www.gynaecologistauckland.co.nz
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Braais and beers for africa! Flags blowing in the breeze, brightly coloured shirts and the most amazing arts and crafts stalls could be seen at The South African in Browns Bay. Small businesses proudly introduced their wares and services to the mingling crowd. Thousands of people wandered around eating boerewors rolls, samoosas, vetkoek and curries, drinking castles in the beer garden and listening to the amazing sounds of ZohZoh, Street Level and the Burundian Drummers.
A great day was had by all.
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The South African
Imake a Difference By Peter Eastwood
“I
first became fascinated by Africa as a teenager when I read Wilbur Smith books. The tales of Zulu kings and the struggles of white settlers gave me a desire to visit the continent. I met up with South Africans Chill and Shelley Hedges on GE17, a Contiki tour around Europe in 1982.
On my return to London I made my way to South Africa to explore this amazing country and instantly fell in love with the African Continent. It was however not until 2001 that I returned to visit Chill and Shelley and their family whom have all become the closest of friends through the many trips since. Each time we would visit the country the Hedges family would take us into Kruger or Umfolozi National Parks and pass on their extensive knowledge of the wildlife, bird, flora and trees. The combined bush knowledge of the Hedges family would rival most South African families. Shelley had been working for the Parks Board in the 80’s before she had children and could talk for hours on the fantastic work being done to reintroduce the Rhino species to far flung parts of the world. Our repeated trips slowly introduced more people to the bush as we brought more family and friends along with us. One night around the braai in Mpila camp (Umfolozi Park) with the hyena watching from the edge of the light we decided that we should be more proactive in bringing people and formed Dtourz, which is the not-for-profit umbrella that we use to run tours to South Africa. The largest tour run so far was July 2012 where we had
Mike Eastwood
a 30 year reunion for our Contiki tour. We had 34 people involved in a hugely successful tour with many people planning a follow up trip in the years ahead. The recent escalation of Rhino Poaching is extremely alarming and as with the concept of Dtourz we decided around a braai to do something tangible to help. Hamish, my business partner, and I discussed escalating my private efforts to become a company cause and after a discussion with key team members we have decided to launch our “Imake a Difference Fund”. We aim
to use our staff, customers, suppliers and end users to help raise funds for this cause. These funds will be used for specific projects such as advanced communication systems for the rangers, helicopter pilot programme, adopting rhino and so on. The money will be controlled in Africa by Charles Hedges llb who will ensure all the money reaches the intended causes”.
Visit www.imakeadifference. co.nz if you wish to find out more or donate to the cause. We will have rhino t-shirts available soon to purchase.
EAST COAST BAYS DENTAL LTD Dentists: Willie Steenkamp Colin Angelo Jan Steenkamp Anneke Steenkamp
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Bookings call: Anna Steenkamp or Annelize Angelo
Phone: 09·478 1300 or 09·478 1309 Mble: 021 192 9592
Free Review of Your Insurance Products • • • •
Life, Disability and Trauma. Commercial and Residential Mortgages. Fire and General. Assistance with SA Retirement Annuities and policies.
Contact Bernard or Michelle De Wet 09 9636291 bernard@fincare.co.nz or michelle@fincare.co.nz
www.fincare.co.nz (FSP 14663)
The South African
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Cleo man, Alex
M
eet Alexandre Vaz, the only son of Norma Vaz, who many South Africans in New Zealand will remember from her work in The South African Magazine. Norma and Alex immigrated to New Zealand from Johannesburg nearly 7 years ago, when Alex was only 12. Seven years on and Alex has grown into a very handsome young man and is one of the 12 finalists in the CLEO NZ CRUISER Bachelor of the Year 2013 competition.
CLEO Magazine is a very established women’s magazine published in around 7 countries in the world. Once a year, they host a competition, the CLEO CRUISER Bachelor of the Year competition, to find the ‘sexiest single guy in the country’. CLEO magazine choose 12 finalists and print a calendar with each of the guys photo occupying a month. There was also an interview of each bachelor taken at the photo shoot, and these can be viewed on Facebook. This calendar was distributed in the February issue of CLEO and at that time they ask readers to vote for their favourite Bachelor. Voting closed in March and the winner will be announced at a WINNER REVEAL PARTY in Auckland on 5th April.
Photo: Laura Tait
Alex, who was born in Johannesburg, is the only South African in the contest (he does have Portuguese genes as his dad, Carlos, was born and bred in Lisbon). Alex is a part-time model and was signed up with a top modelling agency in Auckland a year ago. He took a gap-year after graduating from Albany Senior High School and has just started his business management and marketing degree at Auckland University this year.
Alexandre Vaz
The South African magazine staff are proud of Alex for making it into the finals and wish him well both in the competition and his university studies. Go Alex!
CONNECTING SOUTH AFRICA & NZ CHECK in now for Group Departures December 2013 CHECK: the special fares and terms CHECK: South African Travel Club benefits CHECK our Website www.skytrainlionworld.co.nz Email: travel@lionworld.co.nz Ph: AKL 09 9215110 ex AKL: 0800 277 477 8
Being an ex-Durbanite, Carol understands what South African’s are looking for when buying and selling houses. If you are thinking of buying or selling, please get in touch for a friendly chat.
M: 021 308 035 P: 481 0930 Licensed Agent REAA 2008
The South African
Care Pharmacy, Albany Mega Centre
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ichelle and Andrew Davies lived in Johannesburg, South Africa. Michelle completed her Pharmacy degree at Potchefstroom University in 1995 and worked in retail pharmacy in South Africa for 11 years.
Michelle and Andrew immigrated to New Zealand in 2007 with their 2 children, aged 4 and 2. Starting their lives in East Auckland, Michelle stayed with the children while Andrew was employed in Quality Assurance and Business Improvements. In 2008, Michelle completed her NZ Pharmacy training and became a registered Pharmacist with the NZ Pharmacy Council. Michelle started as a pharmacist in East Auckland.
The family then moved to the North Shore in 2010 where Michelle continued to work as a pharmacist. In 2011 while working for Care Pharmacy, the business became available for sale, which lead to Michelle and Andrew purchasing the pharmacy in April 2011. Michelle manages the dispensary and Andrew manages the retail side of the business. Using Andrew’s Business Improvement skills and the skills of Lloyd Sinton Design, they have recently given the store a new, fresh look providing spaces for customers to get the advice they need. Michelle assists new immigrants by offering advice in understanding the New Zealand health care service. Having relatively recently emigrated from South Africa, Michelle has the working knowledge of medication and healthcare products in South Africa and is able to offer available alternatives. Care Pharmacy has a *Care Club offering a $30 voucher after reaching a spend of $300 on most regular priced items.
Go Healthy Co-Q10 160 mg 60's
$35.99
lus ub *P e Cl r Ca ints Po
Offer ends 31st May 2013
Care Pharmacy
WELLNESS ● HEALTH ● SPORT ● BEAUTY
The South African
Cheryl Garcia, Shelby Foots, Michelle and Andrew Davies
Michelle and Andrew, together with friendly, knowledgeable staff, look forward to meeting you and discussing your wellness, healthcare, beauty and sports needs. Care Pharmacy also offers: Medicine Management Blood Pressure Monitoring Natural Health Care Products & Advice Beauty and Skin Care Products & Advice Passport Photos (including new Digital Passports) Ear Piercing Care Pharmacy is located at the entrance to The Warehouse in Albany, which has lots of covered parking with easy access. Care Pharmacy is open 7 days a week 9 am to 6 pm and open until 8 pm on Thursdays.
Nature’s Own Ultra Krill Oil 1000 mg 30's
Nutralife Joint Care 200's
$35.99
$54.99
Offer ends 31st May 2013
Offer ends 31st May 2013
lus ub *P e Cl r Ca ints Po
lus ub *P e Cl r Ca ints Po
Care Pharmacy, Albany Mega Centre Phone: (09) 415 0655 ● Fax: (09) 415 0656 Open 7 days a week 9 am to 6 pm Thursdays until 8 pm 9
A winner!
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his stunning scenic picture, taken by Delroy Riley, won the Best Overall Picture in a recent ‘SaffaZealanders Best Holiday Photography’ competition. Riley was born and educated in Pietermaritzburg, and after serving two years in the military, his life consisted of travelling around South Africa working. After the work dried up there was a spell of working for three years in Malawi, followed by six in Botswana. A stint in the townships around Pretoria and Johannesburg was the wake-up call he needed and he decided to immigrate to New Zealand with his family four years ago.
LINK NZ offices are Licensed REAA08
The family settled in Coopers Beach, a experience the beautiful sights the North small holiday town, on the northern east is renowned for. coast. Riley was fortunate enough to work After three years in the “winterless” North in the Civil Engineering industry in and he accepted a job offer in Christchurch, around Cape Reinga, Te Hapua, Mangonui, settled there and it’s now called ‘home’. Whangaroa, Matai Bay, Kaitaia, Kohukohu Deciding they needed to go to South and Whangapae. This allowed The him toauthority on selling businesses
Africa in 2010 for a four week holiday, they could not believe it when they wanted to come home after two! They are now residents and couldn’t be happier. On one of their road trips touring the South Island and travelling to Queensland they passed Lake Tekapo which is where he photographed the winning entry. Riley does not go anywhere without his HD Panasonic video camera. Keep on filming, Riley! Riley’s favourite quote is “You may not always end up where you thought you were going, but you’ll always end up where you meant to be” – Unknown.
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The South African
Beautiful Bo Karoo By Suan-Elize Janse van Rensburg suanievanrensburg@gmail.com
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amed by the Hottentots, Karoo means “place of big drought”. It is one of the world’s most unique arid zones and considered a wonder of the scientific world. It is an ancient, fossil-rich land, with more than 9000 species of plants. It’s the largest variety of succulents found anywhere on earth. Being told that the Bo Karoo will force you to relax, I was still surprised by the truth of it. After a previous drive through, I made my family promise to not even think of burying me in “that godforsaken place”. With no rain until a week before, I was surprised at the unending green vegetation, proving the fertility of the soil. Arrival on the farm was in pouring rain! Hooked, I could not wait to start exploring! With cloudless skies and a glorious explosion of colour as the sun rises over the mountains the next morning, I head into the karoo bush to find myself surrounded by prehistoric treasure - from meteorites to semi-precious stone to ancient stone tools and weapons. 280 million years ago it was a vast swamp where mammal-like reptiles ruled. Over aeons, it disappeared and gradually changed into a desert with rugged beauty and eternal rock layers. As the climate
changed, temperatures climbed, slowly drying the land. The huge inland sea, fed by north-flowing rivers, silted up. Glaciers and vast ice sheets slid downwards, bringing down abundant rock debris. Streams became sludge and winds carried debris into the lake building layers of sediment and silt, burying skeletons of aquatic creatures. Over the next 100 million years lush plant growth on the land wilted. Plodding the rim of the lake in search of edibles, creatures battled for survival as they left muddy footprints and tail drag marks. Around water holes thick mud trapped heavier creatures, creating fossils. Over the past 120 million years, it eroded into the vast plains and flat-topped mountains.
Extremely isolated, the nearest township for basic supplies is 70kms away and sealed road is a 2 hour drive. Few sheep farmers have the guts to battle these challenges. They’re faced with an over population of jackal and lynx amongst other hardships. A farm of 7000ha can only support a herd of 1000 sheep. Losses to wild animals will yield only around 45% lambs to sell per season. Better yielding is only possible with electric or dense fencing and active hunting making it financially unviable to farm causing massive rural decay, with hundreds of kilometres of barren land. Power and telephone cables were Back home, struggling to find radio recep- stolen a long time ago and there is no aid from government for fencing, communication, I’m told that the SKA is situated nearby. Chosen for its low radio frequency tion or electricity. Power comes from solar interference, the area will share the Square power and telephones via satelite with no Kilometre Array project with Australia and cellphone reception. New Zealand. It will shed light on quesEntranced I find myself standing on the tions about how the universe began, it’s huge veranda staring at the wind pump expansion and if there’s life beyond our that stands as a lone silhouetted sentinel. planet. It will be the largest and most caClouds have moved in again and the end pable radio telescope ever constructed. of another day brings about a breathtaking explosion of orange, red and gold. It’s a harsh climate with little rain, severe droughts, fiery summers and bitter winters. The Bo Karoo has bewitched me.
james pretorius B.Ch.D. M.Ch.D. (Pret)
orthodontist Suite 3, North Shore Medical Centre 326 Sunset Road, Mairangi Bay Auckland 0632, NEW ZEALAND Telephone: Surgery (09) 479-7963 Fax (09) 479-7941 Home (09) 413-9854 Email: j.pretorius@clear.net.nz The South African
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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*Conditions apply: DutyFree Voucher is for JR DutyFree shop in New Zealand. By signing up to our email newsletter, you give permission for Harvey World Travel to send email updates of which you can opt out at any stage. Discounts and offers mentioned are valid per booking. Offers are only valid for new bookings made with Harvey World Travel Browns Bay by 30 September 2013. Offers are combinable. Offers are not redeemable for cash. This ad must be quoted at the time of booking to qualify for the above discounts and offers. All prices are in NZD. We welcome American Express Cardmembers. ^Memberships Rewards & partner terms & conditions apply. Other special conditions apply, please ask Harvey World Travel Browns Bay for full terms & conditions. HWT2594
Harvey World Travel Browns Bay 24 Clyde Rd, Ph: (09) 478 4416 E: brownsbay@harveyworld.co.nz
Insurance Advice since 1984 and since 2001 in New Zealand
· For all your NZ$ Personal Insurance needs.
New Zealand Inspired
N
ew Zealand Inspired in Browns Bay opened in March and is run along the same lines as the successful Nikau New Zealand Made, Mairangi Bay. Gifts and Souvenirs are inspired by the fauna and flora have either been made or designed here. Many visitors come to the Bays area and are inspired to take a little of New Zealand away with them. We carry a large range of small gifts ranging from scarves, t-shirts, key rings, magnets, wine charms and beanies which are easily transported and very affordable. Also available are our Manuka Honey and Lanolin skincare products. We are now open on Sundays 10am – 3pm.
· Free last Will & Testament for life Insurance clients. · Advice anywhere in New Zealand. · Advice on how to deal with South African policies. For valuable information please visit my website on www.fritzswart.co.nz Tel 021 183 8936 Ph 09-473 5210 Fax 09-473 5211
Inspiryed’ d n la a e Z ‘New rowns Ba uvenirs in B Gifts and So
APRIL SPECIAL TEST AND TAG FROM
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Radiant Electrical offers residential, commercial and industrial electrical services operating on the North Shore of Auckland. m to 5pm Mon to Fri: 9a m 3p to Sat: 9am 3pm to am Sun: 10 ic Holidays bl pu on ed Clos
Shop 5, rness Corner Inve & Clyde Rd, Browns Bay
Areas serviced are North Shore, Silverdale, Orewa and the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Residential electrical including stoves, hot water, no power, lights and power repairs and maintenance. Commercial and industrial test and tagging for appliances to ASNZ standards meeting your OSH requirements as a company.
In Emergency call Mark on: 021 619 091 PH: 09 476 2555 Mobile: 021 619 091 e-mail: radiantelectrical@xtra.co.nz
PO Box 35921 Browns Bay North Shore, 0753
*conditions apply
The South African
13
Masterchef champ
S
outh African Tamarin Blackmur moved to Ireland just over 5 years ago having lived in Australia and the UK. As a Masterchef follower and fan Blackmur always wanted to apply to be on the show. When the applications for the second series of Masterchef Ireland opened she jumped at the chance and had the form filled out and sent in in minutes. She received a call back and progressed through to the live cookoff. It was nerve wracking to say the least but she was calm in the kitchen and received the apron when one of the judges said her curry dish was the best he had ever tasted. Sixteen potential amateur chefs made it through and so began with challenges, cook offs, cooking for the public, cooking for Michelin star chefs, Master class challenges, pressure tests – “you Tamarin Blackmur name it, we did it”. Their very first challenge was to swop boxes with the person to their left cooking with someone else’s ingredients. There were many ups and downs in the competition. Blackmur shed a few tears but pulled herself together to meet the challenges head on. For her, the not knowing
what lay ahead was the most annoying part but she just got on with the job at hand. She came close to elimination once and it was a dreadful feeling but she stuck with it! “The most rewarding of all challenges was meeting amazing chefs and doing their master classes and actually working in a professional kitchen”, beams Blackmur. She was lucky and worked in a 1star London restaurant North Road and a 2star in Stockholm Frantzen Linderberg. Going into the final Blackmur was nervous but had a clear vision of what she wanted to achieve. With a short practice of the final dishes the contestants cooked their little hearts out with her taking the top honours. Her mother is a citizen of New Zealand and she went over to Ireland to support Blackmur at the final and when she took the title Mother was so proud. Winning Masterchef Ireland has changed her life and she has decided to go into food full time and is working as a chef at Fade Street Social, one of Dylan McGraths Dublin restaurants. Good Luck!
About Julian Haw Julian Haw has been in the financial services industry in South Africa for nearly three decades, before which he was in business. He is a Chartered Secretary (ACIS) and a registered tax practitioner with the South African Revenue Services (SARS) and has been arranging the formal emigration of clients since 2001. In 2008, SARS changed the tax laws allowing formal emigrants to access 100% of their retirement annuities at any age. He realised that there was a large number of people who had left the country and written off their retirement annuities and decided to use his tax expertise in assisting former South African residents to access their own cash. This money could be from retirement annuities, inheritances and any other funds or investments which remained in the country. He controls operations worldwide from his Brisbane office ably supported by Glynnis and her staff at the South African clearing centre in Durban. We can arrange the following services: • f acilitate the opening of your bank account in South Africa; • r eactivate your SARS tax account; •e stablish if you have any outstanding taxes; • l odge your Tax Clearance Certificate application with SARS; • l odge your Reserve Bank application; • a rrange the surrender your retirement annuities; • k eep you informed every step of the way; and • a dvise you when payment is in your South African bank account with instructions on transferring these funds. Horst B of New Zealand says: Thanks for completing this whole complicated process so efficiently. We appreciate your clear communication and help along the way. December 2012 14
The South African
Ex-Capetonian changes students lives through education By Evette Du Plessis, Sales & Marketing - International, Quantum Education Group.
I Evette Du Plessis
left Cape Town in 2010 to further my career path in New Zealand. This came soon after conquering Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya. My thoughts after completing this duelling ascent were… ‘if you can conquer Kili, you can conquer anything!’
In South Africa, I worked for many years in the fashion environment before embarking on a new study path in Auckland. After successfully graduating with a Distinction in Business Management, I started my career in a Sales and Marketing role at Quantum Education Group, New Zealand. Quantum Education Group is one of the largest Private Training Providers with boutique training establishments for International students located in Auckland and the Bay of Islands. These training establishments offer a wide range of Diplomas, University pathways and internationally recognised qualifications in Hotel & Tourism Management, Culinary Arts, Business and Professional Counselling. My passion lies in recruiting students and creating study pathways for South Africans to live and study in beautiful New Zealand. I’m very proud to call myself a Kiwi-Saffer! I have travelled extensively throughout South Africa to market
student education for the prestigious Quantum Education Group by talking about my own personal success story and how international education has changed my life. I’m in touch with the education system in South Africa and in my view the quality of education is rapidly deteriorating with qualifications not being internationally recognised. The fees to study in South African private institutions are very expensive compared to the earning potential working in South Africa. Studying in New Zealand is the way forward to ensure a successful career, and a good lifestyle can achieved, at whatever age, race, ethnic or cultural background. Quantum Education assists students from enquiry to accommodation, opening bank accounts and joining the local rugby club! With Quantum Education Group you’re in good hands. I have visited countries like South East Asia, USA, Australia and Africa with New Zealand being rated as one of the most multicultural countries in the world. When South African students come to New Zealand they adapt immediately and fit in very quickly into the daily lifestyle. If you are interested in studying in New Zealand or have family and/ or friends who might be, please contact me via email: evettedp@qegroup.co.nz or visit our website: www.qegroup.co.nz
study
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GET QUALIFIED IN NEW ZEALAND Chef > Tourism Management Counsellor > Travel Consultant Hotel Management > Business
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0508 267 767 15
I think of you, Rodriguez By Sherelee Clarke Anxiously I fidgeted for hours while waiting for Rodriguez to take to the stage at the Logan Campbell Centre in Epson on a wet Sunday night. I had met him at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban, South Africa, 15 years ago while working for a national newspaper and spent a wonderful 3 hours chatting to the man who penned and sang the incredible ‘Cold Fact’ album. Years later, and a million miles across the ocean, my daughter (who grew up listening to this album) and I sat in the circle seating in Auckland eagerly waiting to hear the songs we had been belting out for years. He finally walked on stage in his recognisable black hat and dark glasses and as he strummed the first cord of his first song I felt such a sense of familiarity, pride and sadness all rolled into one large overwhelming emotion. This is the artist who recorded two amazing albums, one of which found their way into South Africa in the 70s and into the hands of almost every young music lover, including yours truly. The sadness I felt was that this amazing songwriter, now in his seventies, could have been as well known as Bob Dylan and as wealthy as Mick Jagger had fate taken a different turn for him.
My memories came flooding back with each song – the people I knew, the situations and happenings from my youth. Never could I have imagined my life without ‘Inner City Blues, I wonder, The Establishment Blues, Sugar man or Rich Folks Hoax’, or the people who Rodrigeuz shared my life. Rodrigeuz thrilled me! Thanks, Sugar man, for your time!
Let’s talk about Rates, baby!! Ok, not the sexiest subject, but if you have a mortgage, you have to take an interest in interest! It would seem as if the OCR is likely to hold for a while longer, which has prompted another slight drop in the 1 year fixed rate, by at least one major bank so far. Good news for some, but no help in slowing the already very stimulated housing market. Towards the end of last year, the market was confident that, due to the Christchurch rebuild and general increase in business confidence, the OCR would increase toward the end of 2013. The growth has been weaker than first anticipated, and it would seem that the boost in economic activity will be more gradual, resulting in the OCR increase being closer to start of 2014. Banks are still very competitive in the rates market, with short term fixed rates dropping further – ANZ now offering 5.19% 1 year fixed, the lowest in the market at present date. This is excellent news for those who enjoy surety, and wish to hedge themselves against future rates increases, although, according to ANZ Spokesperson, Kerri Thompson, once this campaign has run it’s course, they will be looking to increase 1 year fixed to 5.45%. Interesting to note that we have been achieving this 1 year fixed rate, and lower, for our clients for a number of weeks prior to this announcement. For those who prefer flexibility, there is a still a benefit from the floating remaining at 40 year lows until at least the second half of the year. We would need a crystal ball to predict which option, fixed or floating, proves to be the right rate decision, but one thing we do know for sure, is that rates will increase eventually, and it is important to each individual to make sure that their finances have enough headroom to absorb the higher debt servicing costs. 16
The South African
SA teen writes her own books
K
imite Cancino (16) is a young published author in Cape Town, who wrote her book ‘Toxic Persuaded Love: Under the Influence’ when she was fifteen.
Synopsis “The Spirit World has been a place to go to when you depart Earth’s plan. Sacha Theart dies and meets the unravelled and unanswered problems that hide deep within the woods of the powerful realm.
Kimite Cancino
While writing her book she came upon Xlibris publishers in the United Kingdom and contacted them. They were interested in helping her get published but the marketing is beyond her means so her book doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Although the book is selling slowly online it would be great to get more recognition. Cancino, at fifteen, helped pay for the publishing by working twelve hour shifts as a cashier for scooters pizza.
Throughout her journey in the Spirit World she encounters conflicts, magic, betrayal and love. Not only is she blinded by the twin hotties of the spirit school but by the distraction of her new boyfriend who is masking something from everyone. Along the way, she accomplishes an unforeseen power that no one has yet analyzed. Available through your local bookstore’s order desk or at these online bookstores: Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, Xlibrispublishing.co.uk or by phone at 0800-644-6988
‘Vampires’, another book which Cancino has written, is in the editing phase and already has over 200 online reviews with over 15 000 readers on a site called Wattpad. She is currently writing the second book in the ‘Toxic’ series which she will be showing to other potential publishing houses. In this regard, the Los Angeles Times Book Fair is an event which is not to be missed for any new author with over 140 000 ‘connected’ people attending. It is a 2 day event during the 20th and 21st of April and her dream would be to attend this.
What happens when your friend betrays you for a guy? What happens when you find your boyfriend kissing his cousin? What happens when you become an angel? It’s only the beginning of their Influence upon you...
At the moment Cancino, her family and friends are fundraising for her trip to Los Angeles which will cost in the region of R30 000 and are looking for any ideas, advice or sponsors to make this possible. If you are able to assist with this fundraising effort, please contact Michelle Cancino on 072 018 9433. Her email is sunshineniki1@gmail.com. For donations: Nedbank Canal Walk Account: 1045215295 Branch Code: 19262100
Kip Mcgrath Education Centre Brown’s Bay
K
ip McGrath Education Centre in Brown’s Bay is now proudly owned by Alex and Diana Hartley. They are both well-qualified teachers each with over 25 years teaching experience.
Mathematics, Science subjects and English tuition at secondary level. Alex and Di are originally from South Africa and have been in New Zealand for 17 years. They believe they have a unique perspective of the education systems in both countries and can offer help and support to South African and all other learners.
They both love teaching young people and helping them to reach their full potential. The centre will continue to offer all the basic Kip programmes in Literacy and Numeracy and will also be specialising in
programmes are designed to support the great work done by the classroom teacher and to give the student the confidence to become a lifelong learner. Kip McGrath offers a free, no obligation assessment to all students and parents are welcome to visit the centre to see our facilities at any time.
Kip McGrath only employs qualified teachers and each student follows a personalised programme of learning. The
Kip McGrath Kip McGrath
Kip McGrath EDUCATION CENTRES
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Alex Hartley
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EDUCATION CENTRES
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Browns Bay A fter-s c h o ol Tu iti o n f ro m Qu alif ied (09)4788872
EDUCATION CENTRES
Browns Bay (09)4788872
Te ache rs
- Primary: Reading, Writing, Spelling, Mathematics - Intermediate: English, Mathematics
Browns Bay - Secondary: English, Mathematics, Science, Biology A fte r-s c h o ol Tu iti o n f ro m Qu alif ied Teache rs (09)4788872 Physics,ied Chemistry. A fte r-s c h o ol Tu iti o n f ro m Qu alif Teachers
- Primary: Reading, Writing, Spelling, Mathematics
Other subjects can be arranged.
- Primary: Reading, Writing, Spelling, Mathematics
- Intermediate: English, Mathematics
- Secondary: English, Mathematics, Science, Biology
C a l l n o w f o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o b o o k a f r e e a s s e s s m e n t .
(09) 4788872
Email:bayskip@callplus.net.nz
Physics, Chemistry. Other subjects can be arranged.
- Intermediate: English, Mathematics
C a l l n o w f o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o b o o k a f r e e a s s e s s m e n t .
The South African
(09) 4788872
Email:bayskip@callplus.net.nz
17
T
he winner of the TV for the lucky draw at the Cairo to Cape is Philip Jensen! We had 10 prizes in total and all other 9 prize winners have been contacted and their prizes have been delivered to them by Theuns Lubbe. We also would like to make use of this opportunity to thank everyone who participated in the lucky draw. We will do something similar next year. Welcome Jacques Labuschagne to the Kingdom Financial Services team! He joined us in February and we are very excited to have him. He has 17 years experience in the financial services and advisory industry and with all the knowledge and skills we require for our clients. At Kingdom Financial Services we believe in providing good service and advice based on solid business principles. We can help you with financial advice and personal risk management. Looking after your family and loved ones is
We can also help you when your current mortgage fix term expires. If you want to buy a house please give us the opportunity to assist you with this very important step in your life. We have 24 years experience and we are here for you to use to your advantage. We are committed to helping our existing clients and also want to thank them for their loyal Jacques Labuschagne, Philip Jensen (the prize winner), Theuns support. With you, we are Lubbe and Braam Swanepoel in a position to help and very important and we provide a range make a difference. We will continue the of products different to other service journey with you and continue to make a providers which will address your difference. individual and family needs. Please give us a call and let us help you We also look after our business clients see your financial vision clearly. You will and we can help you with your ACC be pleasantly surprised at what we have restructuring and business ‘buy and sell’ to offer. agreements. Experience in New Zealand Theuns Lubbe: 021 028 54231 - 09 shows us that most business owners 476 4185 (Account Manager) do not have the correct documentation Jacques Labuschagne: 021 546 303 in place or they pay too much in ACC 09 959 0263 (Financial Advisor) levies. Give us a call for a ‘no obligation’ discussion and we assure you that you will Braam Swanepoel: 021 546 436 (Financial Advisor) be pleasantly surprised at what we can do to compliment your current structures. Office: 09 440 9029
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The South African
PROPERTY CORNER This regular article is brought to you by Richard Pearce of Barfoot & Thompson.
The Draft Auckland Unitary Plan Richard Pearce
T
his draft plan was released on 15 March and can be viewed on the website shapeauckland.co.nz or at Auckland Council offices.
By my understanding, the basic philosophy of this plan is that future population growth will be accommodated largely by increasing the population density within the existing areas of Auckland, with new green-fields residential areas limited to a few pre-identified areas. Two aspects of this plan will have a significant impact on our readers‌ Firstly an increase in the maximum building heights in city, town, local and neighbourhood centres. Secondly, a reduction in the minimum land size per dwelling in the residential areas to be zoned as terrace housing. The proposed zoning map for Browns Bay is included below as an example, with permission from Auckland Council. In this map, the proposed Town Centre zoning is shown in pink, and the proposed Terrace Housing and Apartment Buildings zone area is
Mob 027 535 7535 The South African
shown in orange. The North Shore Times of 19 March stated that the draft unitary plan proposed a maximum height of 24.5m, or 6 storeys, in Browns Bay, compared to the proposed maximum of 32.5m, or 8 storeys, in Milford and the proposed maximum of 72.5m, or 18 storeys, in Albany and Takapuna. I would recommend that our readers check which of the proposed zones their properties fall into, as the future zoning may affect their property values. Detailed zoning maps can be viewed at council offices or at maps.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/unitaryplanviewer. Submissions to council regarding the draft plan close on 31 May 2013. Disclaimer: The comments and opinions expressed above are my personal views and are NOT those of Barfoot & Thompson. The above is not intended as financial advice, and all persons should make their own decisions based on their personal circumstances and on advice from a number of sources.
DDI 09 414 5976
Phone me to get the value you deserve
19
First Friday Social A few new faces joined us for our First Friday Social held at Browns Bay Bowling Club last month. New faces always brings about new inquiries about South Africa and the people and places us ‘oldies’ have not seen in awhile, while at the same time discussing this beautiful country we’ve adopted. We also gave out ‘presents’ from our fabulous sponsors – Cuisine India, Annique, HWP Financial Services, SaffaZealanders Charity Fund and North Shore Immigration Services.
Tracey Smit and Peter Woodberg.
Peter Woodberg with the SaffaZealanders calendar. Britney Slabbert, Danica Wienand and Rushca Wienand.
Receiving his pepper grinder from HWP is Jacques Slabbert.
20
Peter Woodberg, Norman and Elaine,Dansbaan Clifford in the background and Cheryl Garcia.
Tracey Smit, Brad Joseph, Lee Slabbert and Candice Truter.
The South African
Photo: Joerg Mueller
Upcoming community events South African Social: North Shore: First Friday Social of the month at Browns Bay Bowling Club: 5 April and 3 May: 6pm – 10pm: Cash Bar. Mairangi Bay SA Group: Penelope Rijkaart-Berrington: 09 4265933 Christchurch Social: 12 April: Friday Night Catch-up: 6.30pm – 9.30pm: 27 April: Nibble and Natter: 2.30pm – 5.30pm. Linda Klok: info@sinzasa.org.nz SAMVOA: ANZAC Day: 25 April: South African Military Veterans join us mid-morning at the War Memorial in Auckland. To get an idea of numbers, please call or text me on 021 231 6612. South African Band Sons of Play will have their EP release party in May: keep an eye out on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sonsofplay).
New Arrivals Social
W
e understand that starting a new life in a new country can be a little daunting.
We therefore invite you to join us for a drink and the opportunity to meet with other like minded people who have recently arrived or have now settled in New Zealand. From time to time we will also be joined by a guest speaker, who will give a brief presentation on a relevant topic. When: 6.00pm, Tuesday, 30 Apri And 28 May 2013 Where: Level 1, Building 2, 100 Bush Road, Albany, North Shore We look forward to meeting you. RSVP Please confirm your attendance to Vicki Scott by 25 April and 25 May 201
Sons of Play
Free Property Seminar Creating Wealth with Property Investments You are invited to a free seminar at Unit 7A /331 Rosedale Road Albany. At the premises of Duberly Vincent Associates. The seminar will show you step by step how to gain financial freedom and a pathway to a comfortable retirement. The next two seminars will be held on 23rd April 2013 & 20th May 2013. Seats are limited so please e-mail peter@nsis.co.nz ASAP. The South African
E. enquiry@hwp.co.nz P. 09 915 0100.
Eugene Van Heerden: Ph: 09915 0100: Mobile:022 276 0082
New South African organisation NZSABC A relatively new organisation has been formed to promote long term economic trade relations with Southern Africa & assist new South Africans arriving in New Zealand with information to start and operate a business. This organisation is called the New Zealand Southern African Peter Woodberg Business Council. The Executive Director is Jean Barr and the newly appointed Chairman is Peter Woodberg. Peter can be contacted on 0274 520 794 or e-mail jepwood@xtra.co.nz. www.nzsabc.co.nz 21
Photographic safari
in the making of Tales of the Full Moon
I
had the pleasure of meeting Rowena Paxton, co-founder of Planet Afryca, the company that published ‘Tales of the Full Moon’. Paxton is a regular visitor to New Zealand, escaping winter in the northern hemisphere, visiting her sister and young family who live in Whangarei. We met up for a cup of coffee in Auckland and Paxton, bubbling over with enthusiasm, told me about her vision - to bring the African bush into children’s lives around the world. I asked her if she would tell us about her extraordinary photographic safari in the Kruger National Park with photographer Trevor Barrett (whom I knew from my Durban days).
This is her story I was keen to retrace the footsteps of Sue Hart, the author of ‘Tales of the Full Moon’ as it was here where she gained inspiration for this book. Based on reality, her writings originated from her experiences in the 1960s, when she was practising as a vet in White River. I teamed up with South African born Trevor Barrett, who lives near Taunton in Somerset. Trevor is a professional photographer specialising in interiors and exteriors of houses but his real passion is African wildlife. He describes himself as a bush Baptist, his first trip to the KNP was when he was two. Our mission was to photograph as many of the ‘characters’ (animals, birds, reptiles and insects) that feature in “TOFM” which Trevor would then use to make into motion visuals for Apps and the eBook. A long-time love and affinity with wild places is an essential ingredient for this work and there is no-one better placed than Barrett with his years of being in the bush to impart bush empathy on to the screen with integrity, sincerity and a sensitivity which transcends the artifice of technology. A lot of tourists who go on a wildlife safari want to see the Big 5, namely lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino and elephant. We wanted to show there is so much more to the bush: a natural world of biodiversity – the little 5, the ugly 5, wild flowers, rivers, outcrops, koppies, trees, grasses, forests, changing landscapes that encompass different biospheres: combretum woodland, acacia 22
thornveld and thickets, mountain bushveld, knobthorn and marula savannah and mopani woods. The very fabric of the bush can be compared to an artist’s palette and all its colours.
Rowena Paxton, Trevor Barrett and Carol Ann Gillespie.
The seasoned wildlife photographer shrugged his shoulders and said ‘Good luck’! He already knew about the searing heat, the 4.30am starts, the long waits and wondering but because of budget restraints, we only had fifteen days. ‘Fifteen days – that’s a very tall order’, he remarked. There were so many variables to take into account and we were about to find out what it meant to capture the soul of an animal on camera. At the end of October, in an open air vehicle with Carol Anne Gillespie of Amber Safaris as our guide, an ideal time, as it was the cusp between seasons: winter and summer. The first week was spent in the northern parts which were crying out for rain, the land parched and dry. And then we travelled all the way down to the south where early rains had fallen and had already stimulated nature: the land was green, the grasses knee high, the rivers flowing with energy. All was changing before our eyes with the waterholes filling up, animals meandering down to drink and attracting the prolific birdlife. Awakening every morning with a tingling of anticipation, every day was a new adventure. We did experience some rather hairy moments: an elephant in musk cornered us and being in the middle of a fight between two alpha male baboons immediately springs to mind. Reactions had to be quick for fear that an animal would skip away into the bush or a bird take flight. Not being allowed out of the
vehicle was another restriction on being able to take the ‘perfect’ picture. ‘These are just grab shots’, Trevor would say, hoping for the best! The sightings we came across were amazing: we were looking for a big wise old tusker and we found our Rumble Drum up north in Shingwedzi, we came across male impalas locking horns just as they featured in Spinosa’s First Tale: Rumble Drum to the Rescue; we came across a male warthog with a stump as a tail. Perfect for ‘Wally Warthog parts with his Tail’ and many more wonderful sightings, including an orphaned black rhino who was perfect in Spinosa’s second Tale: ‘Rip Rhino and the Woodpecker’s Wisdom’. Barrett and I arrived back in England clutching the precious hard drive with all the material, confident that we had all – and more - in the can. Mission accomplished! The results are here for all to see: the Afrycanimals App and Bush Tales App are available to view and buy from the Apple store. The South African
National masters hockey tournament
G
lenn Gilbert plays hockey all year round. In the winter months, he plays For his club, ABC. During the summer months, Glenn plays Masters League Hockey, which is for those players aged 35 and over. He was selected to represent North Harbour in the National Masters Hockey Tournament in the 55+ age group, which takes place during the first week of March every year. The National Masters Hockey Tournament is played alternatively between venues in the North and South Islands. It is played on an interprovincial basis where 70 teams from all over New Zealand compete in the various age groups. Masters sport has become very popular as sportspersons wish to continue playing
Gold medal team.
into their ‘mature years’. People realise they do not have to give up their respective sport nor do they have to leave it to the young ones. Just as the Olympic Games every four years, there is the International Masters movement on a world scale. You may remember Gary Player plays golf on the Masters circuit! During the tournament the North Harbour 55+ team played six games in seven days including the finals so it was a relatively
tough task to stay injury free but the team managed that well. They had their full squad for the final day, played Nelson and won on penalty playoffs. “Personally I feel privileged to still be playing and enjoying a sport I started participating in when I was young. It is great to meet and play against some very talented international players. There is a great spirit at the tournament yet it is very competitive”, said Glenn. ggilbert.tower@xtra.co.nz
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17 Corinthian Drive, Albany, Auckland New Zealand
Immigration Service you can Trust (established 1993)
New Zealand is slowly coming out of the recession and there are now more skilled jobs being advertised in most of our cities. Christchurch will be needing hundreds of skilled people to assist with the rebuild, so trades people as well as civil and other engineering posts are now becoming available. North Shore Immigration with their wealth of experience & sound reputation can assist migrants relocate to New Zealand as providers of highly personalised service, from temporary, permanent and business visas. For those business people that would prefer to work for themselves, they can either start a brand new business in New Zealand or buy an existing business via the Long Term Business Visa. There are also two investor categories of $1.5 million & $10 million. Please contact us for more info at email: sim.woodberg@nsis.co.nz
We provide specialist immigration solutions for: U Residence (Skilled Migrants, Business, Family) U Business Visa (Entrepreneur and/or Investor Categories) U Work Visa (for those who have a job offer, based on their skills & experience) U Work/Student visas for their immediate family members U Student Visas for those who wish to study in New Zealand, and U Job Search/Graduate Work Experience Visas for students who have completed their NZ studies. website: www.nsis.co.nz
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We also offer help and assistance with: U unabridged birth certificates U police clearance certificates U passport renewals U translations U assessment of overseas qualifications U obtaining NZ registration for occupations where this is required.
email: info@nsis.co.nz
ph: 09 415 3392
The South African