Times Media Covid-19 Lockdown Flipbook 05-05-20

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LATEST NEWS Saint Kentigern Boys’ School student James Hunter with one of his face shields – see page 3.

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3D HELP IN TIME OF NEED Year 8 Saint Kentigern Boys’ School student James Hunter is a self-professed ‘tinkerer’ and actively enjoys being engaged in projects, especially if they include some engineering.

During the Covid-19 Alert Level 4 Lockdown, he saw a news item on television putting out the call for volunteers with access to 3D printers to assist in creating PPE-type face shields to protect front line staff who worked for essential services.

James made contact through the website of ‘ShieldsUp’, an initiative bringing volunteer workers into a virtual space to assist, and received a 3D printing file in return, to produce the head pieces that support the shields.

James said it took about two hours to print the band for each head piece, adhering to the conditions set out by ShieldsUp. He had also received the laser cut face masks from another source and assembled these to the bands he had created to strict specifications.

James said he had a sense of accomplishment doing this work knowing that, at this difficult time for health workers, he was playing a part in keeping them safe.

Having assembled and packed 24 completed face shields, he was proud to deliver them to Ascot Radiologyhome, chosen from a suggested list of centres grateful to receive extra supplies.

James Saint Kentigern Boys’ School student ks. mas his with y iolog Rad t Asco at Hunter

“Service plays an important part of a Saint Kentigern education and we encourage our students to look for ways they can offer help in meaningful ways.

Well done James for stepping up to help in a time of need,” the school said on its site www.saintkentigern.com.

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TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 3

Puzzle Page Cryptic Puzzle ACROSS

NO. 7956

2

3

4

10

11

5

6

DOWN

1. Take fewer breaks, being uneasy (8).

2. Will be shut up within a month, note (6).

3. To proclaim yourself as not single would be detrimental (6).

4. Crack up the cricketers (4).

5. Accuse a minor (6).

6. A girl from the outback (5).

11. The above expense (8).

13. Are about to ring us and to get us excited (6).

14. Giving knockout drops to the dog, pop back inside (6).

15. Said to rub out “vehicle” (6).

16. Handed right in: it’s serious (5).

18. Duck with honey (4).

7

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Quick Puzzle 6.

7.

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Sudoku

16

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ACROSS

NO. 008

6. A hotly contested sewing competition?

(6,5).

7. The one Ed joined (4).

8. A sword swallower!

(8).

9. Of course I would need to break in (6).

10. Firmly established, gave one’s support to (6).

12. Didn’t notice it was handed on (6).

15. What one’s carried off in after a fall (6) 17. Go to pieces and brake, all shaky inside (8).

19. The man attending has a temperature (4).

20. In being economical, the girl has a redeeming quality (6,5).

1

Shilly-shally (11) Group (4) Demote (8) Soften (6) Beam (6) Save (6) Easy (6) Honest (8) Many (4) Thoughtful (11)

NO. 7956

DOWN

1.

2.

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Fuel (8) Vegetable (6) Helm (6) Suspend (4) Insect (6) Bag (5) Conversant (8) Lure (6) Bird (6) Dog (6) Measure (5) Relative (4)

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TRIBUTE VETERAN: RSA STALWART PASSES AWAY

By PHIL (PJ) TAYLOR It’s been a sad and emotional day with the passing of Ronald George Hulse, the loving father of my partner his devoted and caring daughter Janine.

A NZ Defence Force veteran who fought in the Korean War, Ron was well into his 89th year – his birthday was July 29 – and he went just after daybreak this morning (Saturday, May 2) after a short battle with cancer, with Janine holding his hand.

Up until two months ago, Ron was living in his own home at Little Manly, Whangaparaoa, before being admitted to North Shore Hospital for treatment and then onto Halldene rest home and hospital in Red Beach.

Born in Huntly in 1931, Ron had a long and happy life and spent more than 60 years married to his one and true love Daphne, who passed away four years ago on Mother’s Day. Among many interesting endeavours, adventures and roles throughout his life, Ron joined the Royal New Zealand Navy as an enthusiastic young buck at 15-16 and served in our Defence Force for many years including active combat duties in the Korean War. He often said that he made the right decision to leave Huntly and run away to sea, as the alternative future of a working life in the sooty coalmines did not appeal.

The Hulse family were based in Howick for four decades and during that time Ron proudly served as president of the Howick Returned and Services Association after joining its ranks in 1962. He credited the late Russ Rice as his mentor.

He was, until today, I’m pretty sure, the longest-serving living member of Howick RSA and he was awarded life membership in 2015. He was also a member of Silverdale RSA.

Ron Hulse joined the Royal New Zealand Navy as an enthusiastic young buck at 15-16; he was also believed to be the longest-serving living member of Howick RSA and he was awarded life membership in 2015; Ron with his daughter Janine.

Photos supplied On a personal note, I extend my sincere condolences, sympathies and love to Janine and the extended Hulse family.

You all loved Ron and he loved you. It was a pleasure and privilege to have known Ron and to have called him my mate.

great people-person, who genuinely cared about others, the RSAs, his local communities and country.

He will always be remembered fondly.

Rest in peace my dear friend, RG Hulse.

Since Daphne’s passing in 2016, Janine and I spent a lot of time with Ron and his devoted cat Beau, who we now have as our loyal and friendly companion at “Botany Cat Hotel”.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff of North Shore Hospital, and especially Halldene rest home and hospital, for their care and consideration of Ron in his final days.

Thank you.

We are very grateful of these days we had together.

HULSE, Ronald George (Ron), Service No 11428, L/Seaman RNZN

I knew Ron for seven years, in his gentle charming golden years, so I missed seeing him at his peak. But I’ve learned in this period that Ron was a

Privately cremated. A memorial service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held as soon as the family is safely able to do this.

TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 5

COVID 19: SUPPORT FOR TERTIARY STUDENTS TO LEARN ONLINE Education Minister Chris Hipkins has announced a $20 million fund to help eligible tertiary learners access digital devices and internet connections to continue their study disrupted by Covid-19.

“Many programmes are being delivered online in response to Covid-19, including courses like carpentry that are traditionally delivered on-the-job. As we rebuild the economy, we need a skilled workforce to keep our sectors such as construction moving forward,” Hipkins said.

A recent survey by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) and New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) shows at least 11,150 learners do not have the right devices to engage in distance learning and at least 11,350 learners do not have access to broadband internet at home.

“The Government wants to make sure that students in need can access support for distance learning so they can continue their studies. We moved swiftly to help cover extra costs, by increasing the student loan amount

available for course-related costs for full-time students from $1000 to $2000, on a temporary basis.

“Now we have set up a fund that tertiary education organisations can access including Wananga, the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) and its subsidiaries, universities, transitional industry training organisations and private training establishments.

“Tertiary providers are best placed to work with their learners to identify those who are most in need during this time. Learners should contact their tertiary provider to discuss what kind of support they require,” Chris Hipkins said.

The NZIST will distribute funding to its 16 subsidiaries. The NZIST was formed on April 1 as part of the Reform of Vocational Education, providing on-thejob, on-campus and online learning.

SFO-LED PROGRAMME TO SAFEGUARD COVID-19 RELIEF FUNDS The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is working with other government departments to prevent Covid-19 relief funds from being defrauded.

of the International Public Sector Fraud Forum, where the agency has access to the collective experience of its Five Eyes partners.

The SFO is providing guidance to ensure counter-fraud measures across government are aligned to international best practice in terms of the provision of emergency relief and associated services. The agency is also establishing an advisory group made up of fraud experts within agencies to support the government’s Covid-19 counter-fraud response.

The Director of the SFO, Julie Read, says, “We are aware from our international counterparts that other countries have seen a significant rise in fraudulent activity generally as a result of Covid-19. This has reflected both the opportunistic targeting of those in need and the redeployment of established criminal activity to defraud government relief programmes. There is no reason to believe that New Zealand would be any different in this regard.”

The counter-fraud guidance the SFO has been sharing is based on its expertise in investigating and prosecuting public sector fraud and from its membership

The SFO understands that the government agencies responsible for

6 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

Julie Read, SFO disbursement of relief funds are aware of the risks and have in place measures to counter them.

Ms Read says, “In times of emergency it is particularly important to ensure that every dollar of public funding reaches the intended beneficiaries not those who would fraudulently line their own pockets. New Zealand government agencies are generally well placed to restrict any rise in fraudulent activities by being alert to the risks. However, the SFO is under no illusion that financial crime will almost certainly increase as a result of Covid-19.”

NO NEW COVID-19 CASES IN NEW ZEALAND From Dr Ashley Bloomfield, DirectorGeneral of Health

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

“These are encouraging figures,” says the Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield.

Today (Monday) we have no new cases of Covid-19 to report.

One probable case already known to us has been reclassified as confirmed following a positive test.

This means there is no change to the overall total of confirmed and probable cases which remains at 1487.

There are no additional deaths to report.

New Zealand’s total number of confirmed cases rises by one and is now 1137. This is the number we report to the World Health Organization and in many instances this is the number reported publicly by other countries.

There were 2473 tests completed

considered closed as there is no longer transmission of the virus associated with the cluster.

As at Monday, May 4, 2020

yesterday (Sunday), with a combined total to date of 152,696.

Of our cases, 1276 are reported as recovered – an increase of 10 on yesterday. A total of 86 per cent of all confirmed and probable cases are now considered as recovered.

There are four people in hospital, none in ICU. There are still 16 significant clusters.

Three of these clusters are now

“But today is one moment in time. The real test will come later this week as we factor in the incubation period of this virus.

That’s when we will able to consider any new cases which might emerge in the community as a result of the step from Level 4 to Level 3. “We can’t afford to squander all the hard work and effort of the past weeks.

“We saw at the weekend that it can be easy to start slackening off. We need to maintain discipline, continue pushing on and sustain the advantage we have fought so hard for.”

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TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 7

LEVEL 4 LOCKDOWN: AUCKLAND

BY THE NUMBERS Auckland Council and Auckland Emergency Management initiatives during the Covid-19 Level 4 lockdown have included delivering tens of thousands of food and welfare parcels, calling more than 15,000 seniors and supporting thousands of people in managed isolation, Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says.

LOCKDOWN SUPPORT AT A GLANCE ■■ D istributed 20,000+ food and welfare parcels ■■ 30,000+ calls handled through support hotlines ■■ Library staff made 15,000 calls to over 70s ■■ 300,000+ essential trips taken across Auckland Transport network ■■ 112,456 views of Auckland leisure centre’s exercise videos ■■ 330,000+ eBooks issued to Aucklanders ■■ 330,000 people watched orangutans arriving home to Auckland Zoo ■■ 5430 people assisted with managed isolation ■■ 120,000 people read stories on OurAuckland’s dedicated COVID-19 landing page A range of Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) and council-wide initiatives have helped keep New Zealand’s largest city running during the month-long nationwide lockdown.

Between the March 26 and April 27, thousands of Aucklanders have been provided a range of support including food parcels, regular access to key information, public transport, improved walkways and cycleways, business support and welfare calls.

Goff thanked teams across the Auckland Council group and AEM who mobilised to support the emergency response for Covid-19.

“This has been an extraordinary time for Aucklanders, and we’ve seen inspiring examples of how our communities have been helping during such a challenging period. I would like to acknowledge these efforts and those of our council teams,” he said.

“More than 150 council staff were 8 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

redeployed to assist with the AEM response, with the teams handling more than 30,000 calls to the welfare support and Emergency Management hotlines, and the emergency food distribution centre set up at Spark Arena delivering more than 20,000 food and welfare parcels to people experiencing financial hardship.

“Redeployed library staff have made 15,000 calls to check in on Auckland residents over 70 as part of a multiagency Ministry of Social Developmentled outreach initiative.

“Council staff have also assisted with the managed isolation of more than 5430 people including the 3570 people who arrived in Auckland from overseas between April 9 and 27 and were required to spend the full 14 days in managed isolation or quarantine,” Goff said.

Goff said that, despite being physically closed, the council’s libraries and leisure centres also provided important services throughout the lockdown.

“Aucklanders downloaded 330,000 eBooks during the lockdown, and there was a surge in online library memberships, with 2868 people signing up to Auckland Libraries’ digital services,” he said.

“Sixty exercise videos produced by Auckland Council’s leisure centre teams have received 112,456 views.

“And Auckland Zoo has helped people stay connected providing a steady stream of content including live animal webcams. A video of orangutans arriving home was the most popular, reaching over 330,000 people.”

Councillor Alf Filipaina of the Manukau Ward, who chairs the Parks, Arts, Community and Events Committee, said he was proud of the role the council had played in support of Auckland’s communities during the crisis.

“Delivery of our welfare parcels is triaged through a central call centre and those eligible receive parcels via courier to ensure they get the support they need,” he said.

“In addition to the wider community response, AEM have also established Te Pouwhakarae, a Maori-focused team working alongside iwi, hapu, whanau and marae to identify and bridge gaps in the delivery of welfare services.”

“This team provided support to Maori communities, including the delivery of approximately 1239 kai, hygiene and care parcels to Maori.”

Small-to-medium sized businesses have been provided with a range of advice, access to online tools, including refreshed templates and resources on the AEM’s Work Ready section of the website.

As well as a range of webinars and online

training, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development has had 1226 businesses register for support via the Regional Business Partner Network, and issued 769 vouchers for governmentfunded expert business support totalling $1.4 million.

Around 15,000 essential trips happened each day of the lockdown on average across Auckland Transport’s network, which included trips by essential workers and those traveling to supermarkets or pharmacies.

Auckland Council’s building and consents teams also continued to operate with 1834 building applications lodged. Likewise, Animal Management was kept busy, handling 2160 jobs over the month, including dealing with 412 roaming dog call-outs.

AEM Group Controller Kate Crawford says the teams have been working hard throughout the lockdown and continue to do so in Alert Level 3.

“It’s been heartening to see how quickly the teams have been able to respond to the various needs of the communities as they have risen, particularly given the scale and logistics that has been required,” she says.

“We have been able to help thousands of Aucklanders get access to much needed assistance during this time and establish vital connections with some of our most vulnerable people.”

TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 9

GAME-CHANGING $450M EASTERN BUSWAY CONTRACT WILL GENERATE THOUSANDS OF JOBS

By JIM BIRCHALL The Times ran a story last week detailing a numbered list of priority projects for council, highlighting the refurbishment of marae being placed third on a list of 72, one place above completion of the Eastern Busway 1 project.

A media release from Auckland Council outlines their plan for delivery of the remainder of the AMETI project.

The releases advises that ‘Thousands of new jobs in the infrastructure sector will result from Auckland Transport’s announcement to proceed with a Registration of Interest (ROI) for an integrated design, engineering and construction partner consortium to deliver the remaining stages of the $1.4b AMETI Eastern Busway project between Pakuranga and Botany.’

They add ‘the contract value for the construction phase alone will be $450m - with the total spend on stages 2,3 and 4 being $700m’ an amount described as ‘game changing’ by council.

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said the decision to proceed with the next three stages of the Eastern Busway makes the project one of the biggest investment decisions across the whole of Auckland.

“It represents a total spend of $700 million, with huge benefits for expanding rapid public transit, cycling and walking as well as easing pressure on traffic congestion,” said Goff.

“Coming as we recover from the Covid19-induced international recession, it will create a much-needed boost to jobs and incomes and assist Auckland’s economic recovery” he added.

Howick Ward Councillors Sharon Stewart and Paul Young also welcome the decision.

“This project will be transformational for regional public transport,” Cr Stewart says.

Cr Young says: “This investment provides certainty and will help tackle congestion on our transport network.”

Minister of Transport Phil Twyford says the Eastern Busway is an important project which will help boost Auckland’s post-Covid-19 economy and create jobs.

“The Registration of Interest for stages 2-4 proceeding is another step closer to East Auckland finally getting the transport links it deserves and is part of our Government’s $29 billion transport infrastructure plan with Auckland Council,” he says.

“It will help give East Aucklanders a congestion-free alternative to sitting in traffic and a less than 40 minute commute from Botany to the CBD.” Targeted for completion in 2025, stages 2, 3 and 4 of the project will extend the rapid transit network, high frequency busway currently under construction between Panmure and Pakuranga from Pakuranga Plaza through to Botany Town Centre.

The project will include the congestionfree busway along Ti Rakau Drive, major stations at Pakuranga and Botany Town Centres, a flyover connecting Pakuranga Road with Waipuna Bridge, along with extensive cycling, walking, place making and environmental improvements.

AT will also include social procurement measures as part of the tendering process. This will require commitment from suppliers to deliver positive environmental, cultural, social and employment outcomes – such as local community employment and upskilling, during the design and construction phases.

Shane Ellison, chief executive of Auckland Transport, says that in addition to the economic benefits of a large-scale contract being launched to the market, the concept of forming an alliance to fast-track overall design, consenting and construction of the whole project is also a major factor in this procurement;

10 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

with enhanced focus on improving community and transport outcomes while reducing impacts through greater industry collaboration and access to expertise and resources.

“This is the first time AT has adopted the alliance model and it is the best option for a project of this scale and complexity. Forming an alliance is a tested tool for delivering complex large-scale projects across the world and some good local examples include the Waterview Connection, Northern Corridor Improvements and Wynyard Edge,” Ellison says.

The Eastern Busway Alliance will be formed in late 2020, and will move quickly towards finalising design and working to lodgement of consent in 2021, followed by construction of the full works in 2022. The Alliance also provides the opportunity to target early enabling works in advance of the main construction works.

“We have received uniquely intense interest from industry and look forward to progressing our conversations with these organisations very shortly,” says Mr Ellison.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency director of regional relationships Steve Mutton says the AMETI Eastern Busway will create faster, more reliable and more connected public transport solutions for Auckland’s eastern communities.

“The dedicated urban busway, with supporting cycling and walking paths, will provide transport options so people won’t have to use private vehicles to get to work, school and to the shops. The busway will also connect with a future rapid transit network linking Botany to a rail and bus interchange at Puhinui and along SH20B to Auckland Airport.”

Stage 1 of the project between Panmure and Pakuranga is currently under construction and targeted for completion in 2021.

OPEN LETTER TO SHANE ELLISON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE AUCKLAND TRANSPORT Dear Shane

2. A grade separated Busway/Ti Rakau Dr & Reeves Road intersection (currently assumed to be the Reeves Road Flyover).

We are writing to you on behalf of the East Auckland community regarding the AMETI/Eastern Busway project.

A key component of the Eastern Busway has been the Reeves Road Flyover connecting Pakuranga Road with the Pakuranga Highway.

However, according to Auckland Transports ‘Indicative Project Scope’ released to the market this week it is not a required component of this project.

The Reeves Road Flyover serves two important purposes: 1.It improves the traffic flow in and around the Pakuranga Plaza, one of the most congested parts of Auckland.

2.It grade separates the traffic at the intersection of Reeves Road and Ti Rakau Drive to ensure that the proposed

Simeon Brown

Christopher Luxon

Eastern Busway does not compete with the traffic accessing the Pakuranga Highway.

According to the ‘Indicative Project Scope’, which has been released to the market for expressions of interest, the Reeves Road Flyover is no longer a required component of the project.

Instead the project scope requires: 1. Improved access between Pakuranga Road and Pakuranga Highway to reduce general traffic loads through and about the Pakuranga town centre; and

The Reeves Road Flyover has always been a critical component of the AMETI/ Eastern Busway project, committed to in the Auckland Transport Alignment Project, the Auckland Regional Land Transport Plan (2018-2028), and by the Minister of Transport Phil Twyford in answers to Parliamentary Written Questions in August last year.

The East Auckland community has been promised a Reeves Road Flyover and expects a Reeves Road Flyover to be delivered. We request confirmation that the Flyover will be a required component of the Eastern Busway in the formal procurement process which starts later this month.

■ Simeon Brown, MP for Pakuranga ■ Christopher Luxon, National Party Candidate for Botany

TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 11

LOCAL BUSINE IN ALERT 101 HOWICK

Messages and orders available through Facebook or phone 535-2101. Hours: 10.00am–3.00pm. Door pickups and local delivery during Level 3.

www.facebook.com/101Howick/

AUCKLAND GUITAR SCHOOL

Remaining closed but classes being held remotely.

COOPERS TYRES

Essential business – extended hours are 8.00am–5.00pm – from Tues.

CRE.ATE CAFÉ

Open Tues-Sat 8.00am-2.00pm then Mon – Sat week 2 of Level 3. Takeaway ordering available and option to order on-site with zero contact.

Check FB/Instagram pages for more info.

www.facebook.com/CREATE-Cafe

HOWICK HOUSE DISPENSARY Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm. Phone 537 0923 or email howickhousedisp@gmail.com.

HOWICK VILLAGE BUTCHERS Online orders and delivery.

www.howickvillagebutchery.nz/delivery

HOWICK VILLAGE DENTAL Open during Level 3 for emergency and urgent dental care. Phone 534-8052 or 534-8931.

AUNT LEE’S SUSHI

CRYSTAL NAILS

Will remain closed during Level 3.

HOWICK VILLAGE GROCERS

www.facebook.co./auntleesushi

DAISY CHANG’S/THE APOTHECARY

Essential business – normal hours from Level 3.

Business open for limited hours for contactless takeaway. Phone 021-023-24196 for enquiries.

ASCO LEGAL

Open for phone contact 8.30am-5.30pm – Mon-Fri (remote contact).

www.ascolegal.co.nz/

BAKERS DELIGHT

Online orders and contactless delivery available – click and collect platform available from Tues (Level 3). Bakery will be open from 7.00am-4.00pm Tues, Thurs and Sat for order collection/ contactless service. Please refer to website for ordering and delivery conditions.

www.bakersdelighthowickdelivery.com/

BELLE BOUTIQUE

Open from 11.00am-3.00pm for Click and Collect and online. Phone 021-241-0733.

www.info@belle.kiwi

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

Open for pick up takeaway from front window.

Phone 533-9568 or check menu.

www.benjarong,co,nz/takeout

CAROLINE EVE

Store is currently closed but online ordering and delivery available. Phone 0800 CAROLINE or 533 7480 to place a click and collect order.

www.carolinevee.co.nz

CINNAMON BROWN

Online sales – either door pick up or delivery – during level 3.

Open for takeaways 7 days from 5pm.

Contactless service and delivery. Teaming up with the Apothecary (from Daisy) with coffee & morning treats from 7.30am till 2.00pm, 7 days.

Again contactless.

www.daisychang.co.nz

ELITE PROPERTY

Contactable on office phone number and email throughout lockdown. Available for showing properties from level 3.

www.facebook.com/Villagegrocerhowick

HOWICK VILLAGE OPTOMETRISTS Contact for online orders/delivery during business hours.

www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

HOWICK VILLAGE JEWELLERS Workshop is open for repairs – available for online orders and delivery can be arranged.

www.eliteproperty.co.nz

www.villagejeweller.co.nz

EYES OF HOWICK

JOHN RUSSELL’S SCHOOLWEAR

Onsite during Level 3 to offer urgent repairs or eyewear replacement. Please contact 5345565 or email info@eyesofhowick.co.nz.

FENCIBLE LAW

Open for business by phone, email or video call – Mon to Fri 8.30am-5.00pm. Phone 533 3539 or email kim@fenciblelaw.co.nz.

Online orders during Level 3.

www.johnrussellmenswear.co.nz/

INDIAN KITCHEN RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAYS Open for contactless takeaways, pick ups and Uber Eats deliveries – phone 537-5116 or 021-287-7921.

FLOORING XTRA

KENT MORGAN JEWELLERY

www.mtwellingtonflooringxtra.co.nz

Open for online appointments via Whatsapp and Zoom – phone 021-159-1251 or 216-0386 or email brendan@kentmorgan.co.nz.

FOCUS HEARING

LIFE PHARMACY

Available for online or in-home consultations – retail store remains closed during Level 3.

Will be operating Mons, Tues and Thurs from 9.00am–4.00pm. Please phone 533 6463 or email info@focushearing.net.

HELLOWORLD

www.cinnamonbrown.co.nz

Not open in Level 3 but any enquiries welcome, email howick@helloworld.co.nz.

CLAIRE THOMPSON COUNSELLOR

HONEYBUN JEWELLERS

Essential business – Level 3 hours are 9.00am5.00pm weekdays, 9.00am- 12.00pm Sat. Free local daily delivery service available.

www.lifepharmacy.co.nz

LILY WHYTE Online orders and delivery available or phone 021-034-7625.

Closed but please phone Angela on 021-162-0447 for enquiries.

www.lilywhyte.co.nz

www.clairethompson.co.nz

COFFIX

HOUSE OF TRAVEL

Online and phone orders from Tues – store hours 10.00am-3.00pm including Saturdays.

Available for Skype/Zoom meetings.

7.00am–2.00pm from Tues – contactless service at business address.

Not open during Level 3 but can be contacted on 535-4559 or email howick@hot.co.nz.

MARDELLS www.annemardell.co.nz/contact

ESSES OPEN LEVEL 3 www.marigoldmerchant.co.nz

MEHMAAN INDIAN RESTAURANT & BAR

Open for takeaways and deliveries. Phone 537-0444 for information/ordering.

MICHAELS EMPORIUM

Now open at 35 Cook Street (Rombus Café) for contactless pick up. Please phone Holly on 021-812-208 for enquiries.

PURPLE MOON SHOP Online delivery orders available and contactless pick up – email purplemoonshopnz@yahoo.com.

THE NATURAL HEALTH CO

RESTHAVEN FUNERALS

THE PROSPECT / THE GOOD HOME

Open 24/7 – phone 533-7493.

www.resthavenfunerals.co.nz/

SHOES ON PICTON

Open for phone and online purchases and contactless pick up.

www.mooiskin.co.nz

NZ SKIN HEALTH

Level 3 – re-opening on Tues – normal business hours.

www.nzskinhealth.co.nz

PAPERPLUS

Available for online orders and click and collect.

Customers can also email or phone the store to arrange supply of stock in store – can be collected or delivery available. Phone 534-8715.

www.paperplus.co.nz

PAPER, SCISSORS, ROCK HAIR SALON

Open for online orders and free delivery in Howick area – info@psrhair.co.nz.

PICTON STREET CLOTHING ALTERATIONS Will remain closed until Level 2.

POPPIES BOOKS

Re-opening from Tues 28 April – online orders available.

Open from level 3 – please contact directly for hours/details.

Open from Level 3 via Shoes on Picton Facebook page messenger or contacting sarah@shoesonpicton.co.nz. Contactless delivery available.

SPICE HR Mon to Fri 9.00am-5.00pm by phone on 021-501-525 or contact by email info@spicehr.co.nz.

www.spicehr.co.nz

SPCA OP STORE To remain closed until level 2.

SPILLERS HARDWARE Online orders and delivery – increased hours from Level 3 9.00am-4.00pm – email and social media orders available spillershammer@ outlook.com or phone 534-7411. Credit card or DD payments only. Contactless pick up from rear carpark between 9.00am-4.00pm – please phone to arrange a pick up time.

STEFANS BAKERY 7.00am-2.00pm Mon-Sat for phone orders and pick-up. Phone 534-3858 or 021-203-9428.

SUPER LIQUOR Online orders and contactless delivery – superlhowick@gmail.com

THE APOTHECARY

www.poppiesbooks.co.nz

Refer to Daisy Chang’s information – both are teaming up.

PORTOFINO

THE CORNER BAR

Contactless takeaways – phone orders and credit card/phone payments or payWave at front of restaurant for pick ups. Email howick@portofino.co.nz.

H

THE FLOWER BAR

MINOS PIZZA

MOOI SKIN

NE S S E S

Open for business 9.00am-5.30pm. Phone 533-3600 or email enquiry@pryor.co.nz.

ROMBUS CAFÉ

www.minos.co.nz

SI

L

PRYOR CONSULTANTS

Mike can be contacted for orders/enquiries/ online deliveries from Tues on 021-766-611 or email mwardtrading@outlook.com.

Tues-Sun for contactless pick-up and delivery – 4.00–9.00pm.

U

TH

Online deliveries and contactless pick ups available. Please phone florist shop on 535-6503 or 021-664-322. Visit our website for online purchases.

LOCA

HB

MARIGOLD MERCHANT

H

SUPPOR

Takeaway service – coffees and breakfast bites 7.00-11.00am daily. Dinner takeaways from 4.00pm-8.30pm every night.

www.thecornerbar.co.nz

Free local delivery for online orders – level 3.

www.thenaturalhealthcompany.co.nz Opening for takeaways in level 3 – 5.00-8.00pm every day.

www.theprospect.co.nz

TIM ENGLAND & CO ACCOUNTANTS Open for business 8.30am–5.00pm. Please contact by phoning 532-9971 or email tim@timengland.co.nz . Contactless drop off or pick up of documents/records.

TIMES MEDIA Back in print May 12, 2020.

Digital flipbook online.

www.times.co.nz

UNICHEM PHARMACY Essential service provider – Mon-Wed 8.30am– 6.00pm; Thurs 8.30am–7.00pm; Fri 8.30am– 6.00pm; Sat 9.00am-4.00pm and Sun 10.00am3.00pm. Free local delivery. Phone 535-6739.

www.unichem.co.nz

VELCA Your health centre – offering telehealth consultations during Level 3 – re-opening at Level 2. Phone 950-6801.

VITIS CELLARS Online orders - contactless delivery.

www.vitiscellars.co..nz

WILD WHEAT One delivery per week on a Wed but pre-order and pick up can be arranged – information on our website.

www.wildwheat.co.nz/monthly-specials

SHOWCASE TO CELEBRATE EAST AUCKLAND YOUNG ARTISTS Howick Youth Council’s East Auckland Visual Arts Showcase will once again showcase the best of visual art created by young artists living in east Auckland.

and is open to submissions from youth aged between 12 and 24 who live in the area covered by the Howick Local Board. 2020 will be the third year in which the showcase has been run.

The idea behind the showcase is to give young artists in our community the opportunity to show off their work — whether it be painting, sculpture, animation, photography, or mixed media, says Howick Youth Council’s (HYC) team lead Cuan Pillay.

“Running this event into its third year has been such a privilege. It‘s always so inspiring to see the amazing work produced by the young artists of east Auckland. This year is no different,” says Cuan, whose team is in charge of the project.

In partnership with Arts out East and Uxbridge Arts & Culture, art produced by young artists will be on showcase from Friday, June 19 to Friday, June 27 at the Malcolm Smith Gallery in Howick.

For the first time, the showcase will also include two main categories: Themed Art and Open Art — with a chance to submit art that relates to the theme: ‘Modern and Traditional Connection’. Submissions for the showcase close on May 17.

The Howick Youth Council is a collective of passionate young individuals striving to make Howick, Botany, Ormiston, and Pakuranga a more attractive and vibrant place for its young people.

With 32 members in 2020, HYC is one of the largest youth voice groups operating in New Zealand. They are supported by the Howick Local Board with an aim to connect, develop and represent young people in the east Auckland area through running a variety of events and ensuring youth voices are heard in the decisions that shape our city.

To learn more about submissions, visit http://howickyouthcouncil.org.nz/ post/hyc-visual-art-2020

This exhibition will be free to view

open W E ’R E

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS OR FOR DELIVERY CONTACTLESS PICKUPS

Michael’s Emporium ‘Fully Stocked’

SHOP ONLINE eastgatecc.org.nz/op-shop

DE0177

JH15961

• Wool • Fabric & Haberdashery • Over 800 sewing threads • Full range of DMC embroidery threads • We are happy to deliver

5 Rices Mall, Howick | Phone 021 766611 michaelsemporium.co.nz mwardtrading@outlook.com

14 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 7956 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Prevaricate. 7, Trio. 8, Relegate. 9, Relent. 10, Rafter. 12, Redeem. 15, Simple. 17, Straight. 19, Lots. 20, Considerate.

Down - 1, Kerosene. 2, Carrot. 3, Tiller. 4, Hang. 5, Beetle. 6, Purse. 11, Familiar. 13, Entice. 14, Magpie. 15, Setter. 16, Litre. 18, Aunt.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 7956 - SOLUTIONS Across - 6, Needle match. 7, Unit (Ed)). 8, Scabbard. 9, I-ndee-’d. 10, Rooted. 12, Passed.

15, Sledge. 17, Co-lla-pse . 19, He-at. 20, Saving Grace.

Down - 1, Rest-less. 2, C-los-eD (rev.). 3, I’mpair. 4, Stab (rev.). 5, Charge. 6, Ni-non (rev.). 11, Overhead. 13, Ar-o-us-e. 14, Dopin-g. 15, Sleigh (slay). 16, G-r-ave. 18, Love.

POLICE: NO PARTIES – NO EXCUSES Police are urging people to resist the temptation to socialise in gatherings that breach the Alert Level 3 restrictions.

Since the introduction of the Alert Level 3 restrictions, police have received 1200 reports from the public to the 105 breach notification line in regard to mass gatherings.

Of the 1200 reports, 685 were received in the 24 hours between 6pm May 1 and 6pm May 2.

“Under no circumstances should anyone be having a party under the Alert Level 3 restrictions. Such behaviour could waste all the sacrifices made by our team of five million over the last five weeks,” said Acting Assistant Commissioner Scott Fraser.

“Now is not the time to be complacent and we know from the volume of people reporting these parties and gatherings, that they don’t want to lose all the gains made in the collective effort to beat Covid-19.

“Police are prioritising attendance to reports of mass gatherings of 10 or more people.

Holding a party in the current environment is in breach of the Health Act and where appropriate enforcement action will be taken, this could be against the party hosts and the attendees,” said Fraser.

Since the introduction of Alert Level 3 restrictions, police have taken enforcement action against 514 people for breaches of either the Health Act or

the Civil Defence Emergency Act. Of the 514 breaches there have been between 135 prosecutions and 342 warnings.

In the 24 hours between 6pm May 1 and 6pm May 2, police took enforcement action against 112 people.

HACK THE CRISIS WINNER More than 950 participants joined in #HacktheCrisisNZ, a 48-hour online challenge recently hosted online across New Zealand.

In total, 221 problem statements were submitted, 55 teams formed and 46 final pitches tackling challenges of life beyond Covid were uploaded - making #HacktheCrisisNZ New Zealand’s largest collaborative StartUp event.

The judging panel included Sir Stephen Tindall, Greg Cross, Lisa King, Mike King and Vic Crone, and all were immensely impressed with the calibre of pitches.

Ultimately, they crowned Draw This! as the winning start-up.

Draw This! uses story-telling and art to build safe and fun connections across generations and between bubbles throughout New Zealand, and ultimately, that won the heart of the judges.

Project Leader and co-founder of Draw This! Holly Grover said the team gave themselves limitations early in the weekend with a narrow problem to solve: engaging with elderly people using only a landline.

“We focused on making meaningful connections in all that we were doing. It warmed our hearts to gather descriptions, and then get the first drawings in response.”

Greg Cross of Soul Machines said it was a privilege to be a part of such an innovative community “thinking deeply how to make a difference in the everchanging and uncertain world we live in now.”

The teams were supported through every milestone with the help of over 40 mentors, a dedicated team coach plus the backing of innovation hubs from every corner of New Zealand.

“There’s no better business school than the one offered by #hackthecrisisNZ,” remarked Nuri Gocay, mentor to the teams.

LIST OF WINNING TEAMS AND FINALISTS The overall winner took home $5000.

Draw This! team members: Brandon Kwong, Holly Grover, Ruth Martin, Yu-ching Lee, Harsh Singh Garcha, Liz Breslin and Medha Bandari

Three runner-ups won $3000 each: PowerMove PeerPostie Wanderable-Riposte

Four other finalists: Lightning Lab GM, Luke Ball wanted to reiterate this was “not just a flash in the pan event.

The incubators across the country, want to continue supporting these businesses beyond the weekend.”

Maple - took home $2000 - prize for best student team Foodjockey Shopalong Roadmaps 4 Recovery

TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 15

MAY THE 11TH BE WITH US? Ironically, on May Day 2020 many working people were unable to work but, if the EMA has its way, it won’t be long before businesses that are still in business may open their doors “We’ve already seen a number of businesses going to the wall and a significant jump in the numbers of unemployed – we know that more businesses are certain to fold,” Brett O’Riley from EMA (Employers and Manufacturers Association) says.

“Unless there’s a compelling reason not to, the Government should announce on

May 11 that we are moving immediately from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 2.”

Although Mr O’Riley agrees that the Government needs to protect the health of New Zealanders, the health of our economy is also a pressing concern.

“The health arguments have rightly and understandably held sway... but it’s time for business to start recovering its health,” he says. “Businesses have complied well with Levels 4 and 3. It’s now time to trust them to continue work within Level 2 guidelines, allowing

the bulk of the economy to get back underway while maintaining the required vigilance under the health guidelines.”

The alternative could well see many more livelihoods at risk, he adds.

“With no sign yet of any cashflow assistance package from the Government we’ll see many more SMEs and some larger companies make the tough decision to close if there is a further extension of Alert Level 3 restrictions.”

NASH BACKS SMES

intended to ensure businesses are able to retain staff, SMEs can expect more help with non-wage fixed costs such as interest, rent and insurance.

Larger businesses may be able to retrench to offset profit losses due to the COVID-19 lockdown but many small and medium sized enterprises have little room (financially) to move. Thankfully, the Government appears to have assistance designed specifically with the needs of small to medium businesses in mind.

The latest addition is the Small Business Cashflow Loan Scheme. “We recognise many businesses have had little or no revenue through Alert Level 4 and Level 3. This scheme is designed to give them access to cashflow to meet fixed costs on concessionary terms,” Minister for Small Business, Stuart Nash, says.

The loans will provide assistance of up to $100,000 to companies with 50 or fewer employees. They will be interest free if paid back within a year or capped at an interest rate of 3% for a maximum term of five years. Repayments are not required for the first two years.

“In the absence of further support from

“Using established services including the Regional Business Partner Network and helplines, we can get specialist, tailored advice where it is needed, fast,” Mr Nash adds. “This could range from human resources advice to business continuity planning to financial management – because every one of these small businesses will have a different need.” the Government, otherwise viable SMEs may be forced to close down permanently... we don’t want that to happen,” Minister for Small Business, Stuart Nash, says.

“As well as tax measures, which should provide some cashflow relief, we are going to provide tailored support services to help businesses weather the storm, at no charge to the business.”

While wage subsidies already in place are

16 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

Mr Nash’s comments follow the announcement by Minister of Finance, Grant Robertson, of new, wider-ranging measures intended to reduce the number of businesses forced to close and workers losing their jobs.

For details regarding how to access business assistance, visit covid19.govt.nz or by contacting the EMA (Employers and Manufacturers’ Association) via ema.co.nz.

NZ POST COVID POLICY CONFUSES LOCALS

By JIM BIRCHALL Level 3 restrictions are continuing to confuse and frustrate people who need to send parcels during the Covid lockdown.

There appears to be a lack of clarity about which NZ Post sites can accept parcels for delivery.

A customer approached the Times regarding an incident where their parcels were refused by a staff member at an east Auckland NZ Post outlet, who stated they could not take them due to level 3 restrictions.

On this occasion the NZ Post services were contained within a bookstore that was open for business, (albeit with barricades and other preventative measures) and customers were even being asked to complete a contact tracing register.

The customer was directed to a Half Moon Bay pharmacy that offers postal services, and they were able to accommodate. The 4-kilometre journey took the customer, a Howick local, considerably out of their way, and was complicated by a lack of public transport options, causing them to be late for work.

The refusal seems to contradict the NZ Post website that offers an answer to the frequently asked question, ’Can I

accept & send packages Some NZ Posts outlets are allowed to postandparcel.info o: Phot ot. cann rs othe during level 3,

still send a personal parcel within New Zealand during alert level 3?’, which is answered with ‘Yes. you can do this by visiting one of our NZ Post retail outlets.’

It goes on to provide a link to a PostShop locator which allows the browser to check which branches are open.

NZ Post has also chosen to apply a surcharge to parcels heading offshore.

Their website states; ‘Due to Covid-19 there has been an increase in air freight charges with the airlines NZ Post uses to send parcels overseas’.

The Times approached NZ Post for comment, and a spokesperson advised; “Our partners in the retail network are confined by the rules of operation

under Level 3. This means not all of the retail network is allowed to open, the easiest way to find out if your local store is operating is by using the post shop locator on our website.

“Customers are able to book couriers to come and collect parcels from their homes or wherever they maybe – this can be done via our website too.”

The Times then queried why some outlets are not allowed to offer postal services despite them being open and trading other goods (aside from postal), and the spokesperson replied, “ It is up to our partners to get clearance from MBIE on whether they can open. Some of our partners, such as chemists or supermarkets, as essential services, have already been open.”

TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 17

Feedback Page WE MUST HELP LOCAL BUSINESSES Open Letter to the Residents of Pakuranga, Half Moon Bay, Bucklands Beach, Howick, Highland Park and Meadowlands ■■ Supporting your local businesses At the beginning of last week it was announced that we would move from Covid-19 level 4 to level 3 on Tuesday April 28 and this will open up the ability of many of the local businesses to get back into business albeit at a relatively restricted level, must practice social distancing and no direct sales one on one. Given that most of our local businesses will have been shut down or at best had limited trading, they will be very badly impacted and struggling to survive.

We as a community need them to survive and for this to happen the community needs to get behind them to assist this to happen.

■■ Why do we need this?

It is those businesses that through various levels of sponsorships over the past many years, have supported our local schools, youth groups, sports teams at all levels, our service clubs fundraising activities to name a few. I know that many of you have been involved in organising fundraising activities for your groups or those that your children belonged to and as part of this you did not hesitate to drop into the local business and ask for sponsorship by way of donations or product to help you achieve your goals. These businesses generously helped wherever they could.

■■ We now need to look after them to ensure that they are there in the future.

Our Lions Clubs have been very active within this area for the past 60 years and during that time have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars which have gone into support a very wide range of community groups and facilities. I know that we could not have achieved this without the generous support from the local business owners.

■■ What do we now need to do?

As we move into Level 3 and very hopefully Level 2 in two weeks’ time the local business will be able to gradually

open and will then struggle to get their business back to a viable state. What they need is customers – these are you and me!

We are asking that as a priority you all to buy and spend locally so that we can return to the time that we will have good strong and viable businesses in our area who care about their community.

All communities need strong Service Clubs, not only at times like this, to help their communities and we would welcome enquiries for membership to assist us in these endeavours. Check out our websites.

Lions Club of Bucklands Beach President, Roger Robinson www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/bucklands_ beach/

“investors” are already lined up to buy farms and other productive enterprises.

Vetting their suitability as New Zealand citizens is next to impossible. As well, they will be wanting their cake and eat it.

We will be nothing more than a ready bolt hole and source of production and a place to dump their elderly for NZ-funded health care (maybe a bit of Super later on) and their kids for a less-expensive education than other advanced countries.

The ability to place funds in NZ and then ‘recycle them’ is well-travelled path. If a certain amount goes into property – not their problem! Who cares what the flow-on effect is on other NZ property prices? Too soon, Fran, too soon.

Dr Mike Schmidt Pakuranga

Lions Club of Howick President, Paul Curtis www.howicklions.org.nz/ Lions Club of Pakuranga-Panmure President, Terry Carroll www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/pakuranga_ panmure/

RICH INVESTORS WILL HAVE AN IMPACT I am appalled at a recent article by Fran O’Sullivan (a prominent columnist for the NZ Herald writing on business, politics and international affairs).

In her article titled “Call to Millionares: Come to ‘Sanctuary New Zealand’ – for a price”, Fran makes the investment case for rich-listers to have preferential entry to New Zealand.

Fran has international preferences, demonstrated through articles she has written over the years, and her being a Member of the NZ Council of China.

While on your next overseas trip you could write a supporting piece for the World Health Organization?

New Zealand is vulnerable - needing investment to get back on its feet postCovid-19 and ‘people’ are trying to get in on the ground floor to own NZ property and businesses. This is a deliberate strategy and the State-supported loyal

18 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

FERRIES FLEET GETS STERILISATION TREATMENT Fullers Ferries have really stepped up in this battle against Covid-19 by utilising our services to keep their crew and passengers safe.

Sterico Services sterilised their fleet of ferries and Waiheke Island buses with an anti-microbial disinfectant fogging spray called Zoono Z-71, a product which keeps surfaces sanitised for up to 30 days and has been successfully tested to work against Covid-19, while being non-toxic to people and animals.

The fogging is an additional measure and complements the increased regular and rigorous cleaning across their fleet.

We are very glad to be able to assist Fullers Ferries to ‘flatten the curve’ as they continue to provide this essential service.

OVER 2500 COVID-19 TESTS IN EAST AUCKLAND While they don’t have the confirmed number of Covid-19 cases in our region, the Community Based Assessment Centres (CBAC) for East Auckland, located at Spectrum House, Botany Road, has performed more than 2500 Covid-19 tests to-date.

Gordon Armstrong, chief executive East Care Group, says that the East Care Urgent Care, located next door, has conducted a further 100 swabs on patients presenting with urgent health needs both in and after hours.

“We do not keep data on recovered patients, clusters or means of transmission as this is managed by the Ministry of Health,” says Armstrong.

CAB BUREAUX REMAINS CLOSED

are offering

Church Service

Live streaming on website

Sunday, May 10, 2020

DE0178-V2

With the announced change in levels from 4 to 3, it was decided that the Pakuranga and Botany bureaux will remain closed in accordance with CABNZ guidelines.

Both bureaux are operating a phone and email service whilst CABNZ continues to provide an email, website and phone service via 0800 367 222 together with online chat capabilities. As circumstances change we will advise you accordingly.

St Paul’s In The Park

www.stpaulsinthepark.nz Rev Warner Wilder, 021 548 407 | warnerwilder30@gmail.com TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 19

SATSUMAS

a little dose of sunshine Easy as A, B, C and E, satsuma mandarins deliver vitamins (not to mention minerals) to give our immune systems a healthy boost. With satsumas available at supermarkets and veggie shops now, these easy-to-prepare recipes (courtesy of T&G and In Rhi’s Pantry inrhispantry.com) will ensure this delicious fruit shines to its fullest.

SUNSHINE SALAD

SAT-MOOTHIE

SPARKLING SATSUMA

Whisk the zest and juice of one lime, a teaspoon of honey and one and a 1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl. Add two tablespoons of freshly chopped mint leaves and two tablespoons of freshly chopped coriander.

Peel four satsumas and remove excess pith in the middle and around the outside. Put the segments into a smoothie/ blender cup and add in 1/2 a cup of ice, 1/4 cup of yoghurt or almond milk and a tiny dash of sea salt.

Peel and remove the pulp from 6 - 10 satsumas, two small grapefruits and a lemon, combine everything together and juice. Add a handful of mint leaves to the bottom of a glass along with a drizzle of maple syrup and a small splash of the juice.

Peel eight satsumas and slice each segment in half. Add sliced satsumas into the mixing bowl to create a zesty citrus salad dressing.

Add chunks of frozen banana, a drizzle of honey or a drop of vanilla extract to sweeten further. Blend until smooth and serve.

20 – TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK

Muddle the mint leaves until they are bruised and fragrant.

Next, pour approximately 3/4 of a cup of the juice into a glass, accompanied by 2-4 tablespoons of soda water or sparking water, add ice as needed.

“Seasonal produce such as mandarins, apples, pears, feijoas and persimmons are at their absolute best during autumn so, we’re encouraging people to look in their fruit bowl each morning and see what new breakfast ideas they can come up with.”

BOOST HEALTH with autumn fruits Autumn has taken hold and as the mornings become cooler, changing up breakfast routines with the addition of new season fresh fruits will boost nutritional needs.

With many folk having indulged in high sugar baking treats during the Covid-19 lockdown, the team at 5+ A Day is urging Kiwis to incorporate more fresh fruit and vegetables into diets because they are not getting enough.

While still providing a sweet touch to meals, fruit and veggies can also help increase immunity and deliver big health benefits.

Paula Dudley, general manager of 5+ A Day Charitable Trust says fresh fruit and vegetables are the best source of nutrition throughout the year but research shows Kiwis are just not getting enough.

Recent Ministry of Health data shows only 53 per cent of New Zealanders

are consuming the recommended daily intake of vegetables and just 51.5 per cent are eating enough fruit.

“Seasonal produce such as mandarins, apples, pears, feijoas and persimmons are at their absolute best during autumn so, we’re encouraging people to look in their fruit bowl each morning and see what new breakfast ideas they can come up with,” Ms Dudley says.

As freedom of movement increases, the variety of fresh, nutritious produce will also increase in stores and online. So, get creative, try serving up autumn favourites in new ways – poached pears are delicious sliced or diced and eaten with a dollop of yoghurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Two feijoas will provide almost two thirds of daily vitamin C needs while a mandarin will help check that particular box for the entire day and will boost immunity, too. Mandarins are also a good source of folate and thiamin (vitamin B1) which plays a key role in energy metabolism.

Trusty apples are full of hearthealthy nutrients including the peel containing polyphenols which have antioxidant effects – it’s best to leave the skin on.

“There are countless ways to incorporate fresh fruit and vegetables into your breakfast routine,” Ms Dudley says. “So, look beyond a loaf of bread or cereal packet and give seasonal fruits a try!”

TIMES MEDIA COVID-19 LOCKDOWN FLIPBOOK – 21

MOTHER’S Day

THE SUPERWOMAN SURVIVAL GUIDE There was a time when women fought for the freedom to ‘do it all’; these days it seems women need to do it all regardless of whether or not they want to! Balancing the roles of mother, worker and more may require superhuman efforts but, with a little help, we can all avoid feeling overwhelmed and overscheduled. In this book, author, life coach and international speaker, Jess Stuart, provides invaluable advice regarding how to tackle all aspects of life while remaining calm throughout the chaos.

Jess Stuart: The Superwoman Survival Guide | RRP $30 | Inspire Publishing

READS

THE BETTER HALF

TODDLER WHISPERING

SEPARATION ANXIETY

Suggesting that (in general) any group of people is ‘better’ than any other may be difficult ground to negotiate. However, considering that, on average, women live longer, have stronger immune systems and are even better at surviving famine than men, science is not always in step with social conventions. As this book reveals, in many ways, the female of the human species is genetically ‘better’. Based on extensive research and case studies, Dr. Sharon Moalem shares a compelling story.

Just when we begin to think we have this baby thing covered, walking, talking, tantrum-throwing toddlers prove us wrong! A followup to Baby Whispering, this handy guide is designed to help parents of one to five-year-olds as their little ones face a wide range of significant changes to their worlds, from bedtime and eating routines, to managing screen time, pre-school and toilet training.

With growing children and ageing parents to contend with, it’s no wonder that middle-aged people often feel surrounded! This book tells the story of a children’s author whose life hasn’t exactly gone to plan. Dealing with a teenage son who’s constantly embarrassed by her, and a pot-addled partner whom she can’t afford to divorce, Judy must find her way all while (ironically) making a living from writing for a self-help website.

Funny, heart-breaking and heart-warming, Separation Anxiety is sure to appeal to many a busy mum.

Sharon Moalem: The Better Half – On the Genetic Superiority of Women | RRP $38 | Allen Lane

Sharlene Poole: Toddler Whispering – 1 to 5 The Preschool Years | RRP $38 | Penguin

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Laura Zigman: Separation Anxiety | RRP $37 | Doubleday

NATIO SPIRIT NATURE’S

touch FOR

MUM

With Mother’s Day looming next week there’s no need to forget that special lady and with online shopping it’s possible to bring together a pamper pack like this one from Natio which she’s sure to adore. Inspired by the skin boosting properties of native Australian flora, the Spirit collection celebrates the remarkable nutrients and distinct aromas of nourishing native wildflowers and plant extracts. Check out these products from the collection of eight:

LEMON MYRTLE + BANKSIA BODY WASH 500ML (RRP $18.99)

LEMON IRONBARK + OLIVE HAND WASH 500ML (RRP $17.99)

A fresh and vibrant, gentle foaming body wash with vitamin C rich lemon myrtle and wildflower banksia to help improve skin firmness and vitality.

Zesty and vibrant, this sweet-smelling, luxurious, lathering gel hand wash will uplift the senses and leave hands feeling fresh and hydrated.

DESERT LIME + SALT COFFEE SCRUB 300G (RRP $19.99)

HEMP + MUNTRIE HARDWORKING HAND CREAM 90G (RRP $13.99)

An energising body scrub to buff away dull skin and invigorate the senses.

Vitamin C rich, Australian desert lime helps revitalise and rejuvenate for skin glowing with health.

Rich in antioxidants, muntrie berry helps protect from environmental damage and works in harmony with deeply hydrating hemp to restore skin. Australian lilly pilly, with vitamin C and fruit acids, helps promote collagen production.

KAKADU PLUM + ALMOND BODY LOTION 210ML (RRP $15.99)

GREEN CLAY + MANUKA HONEY PURIFYING FACE MASK 150G (RRP $17.99)

With its high concentration of vitamin C, kakadu plum helps protect the skin from free radical damage and reduce the signs of ageing. Paired with skin, nourishing almond oil, this body lotion will leave skin hydrated and protected.

Draw out congestion and help refine pores with this active, skin purifying mask.

PROPERTY MARKET BRUISED BUT STABLE The Auckland property market’s first month of trading under the Covid-19 lockdown left it bruised but with its underlying stability intact.

The sales data for April released by Barfoot & Thompson’s managing director Peter Thompson came with the cautionary note that the real effect of the lockdown would not show up until May’s trading statistics.

“Not surprisingly, it was the sales numbers for the month where the biggest decline was felt and at 552 sales these were half those for March,” said Thompson.

“However, those properties sold at prices not far below those in March, which were at their highest levels for more than two years and for higher prices than they were 12 months previously.

The average price at $962,136, was down 3.2 per cent on that for March but still well in excess of the average prices for February and January, and 3.6 perc ent higher than the average price in April last year.

The median price at $900,000 was down 2.7 perc”ent on that for March but again well in excess of the median prices for February and January and 8.4 per cent higher than in April last year.

“While some of these sales were made in April under the lockdown regulations, many were sales completed in April but agreed in March and therefore do not give a complete picture of the state of the market,” said Thompson.

“The tail of properties working their way through the sales system is now modest and it will not be till May’s trading results are available in early June that a true indication of where benchmark prices are at post-Covid-19.

“What April’s data does underline is that before Covid-19, the Auckland property market was experiencing a solid upturn in sales and prices and that upturn has been stopped in its tracks with a drastic fall in sales and a modest reduction in prices. In a normal month, the level of downturn in April prices might be

now modest and it ough the sales system is thr y wa ir the of ng rki wo s e that a true indication The tail of propertie are available in early Jun s ult res g Image supplied din tra y’s Ma will not be till are at post-Covid-19. where benchmark prices passed over as no more than a monthly variation.”

In the few days of trading possible in April under Level 3 there was a positive level of activity in new listings, viewings and sales.

“In April we listed 239 properties for sale, less than a quarter of the number we would anticipate listing at this time of the year,” he said.

“The low number is also a positive sign for market stability as it does not suggest there is a large number of people who are looking to exit the housing market quickly.”

Vendors appear to be taking a cautious wait-and-see approach, which is the same trend that occurred in past economic downturns.

A standout feature of April’s sales was that 40 per cent of all sales were for properties in the under $500,000 price

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category while property that sold for $1 million and above accounted for a quarter of sales. Normally, they account for a third of sales.

“This change in sales mix will have had some influence in reducing the average and median sales values for the month,” said Thompson. “At month end we had 3849 properties on our books. This is a higher number than the average for the previous three months but down 17.8 per cent on the number at the end of April last year.

“The Level 4 lockdown significantly affected the rural and lifestyle markets with sales numbers for the month only a quarter of what would be expected for this time of the year.

“Interest in far north dairy farms remained steady while lifestyle blocks, particularly those to the north of the Auckland urban area such as Waimauku, Woodhill and the Ararimu Valley, retained the interest of buyers.”

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