‘Pan’ plans: off grid, on

‘PAN’ PLANS: off grid, on radar

It may be uncouth but suggesting visitors ‘follow their nose’ when asked where the privy is located can be an effective method. Although locating our region’s septic tanks has been a little more complicated, it appears as though Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters team is satisfied with its efforts.

“By giving us accurate and consistent information within hours of an inspection [of septic tanks], our system will go a long way to help us reduce public health risks from wastewater and improve our water quality,” Lizzie Johnson from Healthy Waters explains.

Under the Auckland Unitary Plan, owners of septic tanks must provide regular inspection records verifying their wastewater systems are in satisfactory working condition.

Efforts to log all locations using septic tanks has been a Herculean effort, taking Healthy Waters and Proactive Compliance teams two years. In total 45,000 properties were identified; property owners were then advised of their obligations.

From 2022 on, contractors who clean and inspect septic tanks will automatically update records by using a new app.

“This system will have a huge impact on our beaches and streams and on people’s health,” Ms Johnson added. “It gives us more confidence septic tanks are being properly maintained and if they don’t meet safety standards, we can act more quickly to ensure they’re fixed.”

WE’LL SEE YOU RIGHT

WITH THREE LOCAL BRANCHES, INCLUDING THE FRAME & TRUSS PLANT, WECKS ITM CAN OFFER THE COMPLETE PACKAGE

Talk to our knowledgeable team members – 100+ years combined industry experience. They can assist with any build projects.

WECKS ITM PUKEKOHE

Corner Kitchener & Manukau Roads, Pukekohe e: sales@wecksitm.co.nz | t: 09 238 3678 WECKS ITM PATUMAHOE

10 Patumahoe Road, Patumahoe e: sales@wecksitm.co.nz | t: 09 236 3684

WECKS ITM FRAME & TRUSS

108 Patumahoe Road, Patumahoe e: frametruss@wecksitm.co.nz | t: 09 236 3950

Franklin Aluminium

THERMAL EFFICIENCY YEAR-ROUND

Playing it cool in summer or staying cosy in winter is not just a matter of comfort. Due to new government regulations, the wrong choice in windows and frames could cost homeowners dearly.

“To ensure Kiwi homes are healthy homes, new standards [in effect from November 1, 2022] mean Low ‘E’ glass is essential in new builds or even when replacing windows,” Robert Brown from Franklin Aluminium advises. “This type of glass is especially good when it comes to regulating temperature.”

In addition, from November 2023, thermal frames will also become mandatory in new homes and with regards to replacements.

Fortunately, Robert (who has almost 40 years’ experience in the industry) and his team specialise in providing thermally efficient windows and frames designed to meet (or even exceed) all government regulations.

“From Low ‘E’ glass (especially when combined with our ThermalHEART system), to state-of-the-art UPVC frames, which can equal aluminium in terms of thermal protection, we have the right solutions for any home.”

Thermal efficiency has become more important than ever, but future-proofing when building or replacing windows is important too.

“Precisely which products people choose depends on how they’ll be used – from windows that may rarely be opened to bi-fold doors, more often open than closed during summer, for example. But it’s also a matter of taste and budget too. If you’re looking to sell, you may go for options with wider appeal, or think more about your own lifestyle and preferences if planning to stay.”

Especially in summer, Franklin Aluminium (and the First brand) are in step with modern living through its floor-to-ceiling windows as well as sliding and bi-fold doors.

“Because big back yards aren’t as common as they used to be, we’ve found large windows and sliding or folding glass doors to be increasingly popular while also adding value to customers’ homes,” Robert says. “Not only do these give the impression of added space, they also provide improved access so we can better utilise outdoor areas. Thanks to the latest technology, we can ensure these doors and windows won’t leak heat during the evening and (particularly)

At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our top-notch service and comprehensive product offering. We also have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe. Our customers have the choice of a range of mainstream residential windows and doors, as well as our other ranges like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series. • Decades of experience • Modern showroom • ThermalHEART product available • Residential & Metro displays • We are always keen to talk, and provide a quote Windows & Doors for all seasons

At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our top-notch service and comprehensive product offering. We also At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe. top-notch service and comprehensive product offering. We also have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe. Our customers have the choice of a range of mainstream Our customers have the choice of a range of residential windows and doors, as well as our other ranges mainstream residential windows and doors, as like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series. well as our other ranges like our Metro Series • and the APL Architectural Series.Decades of experience • • Decades of experienceModern showroom • • Modern showroom ThermalHEART product available • • ThermalHEART product availableResidential & Metro displays • • Residential & Metro displays We are always keen to talk, and provide a quote • We are always keen to talk, and provide a quote PH 09 238 8828 franklinfirst.co.nz PH 09 238 8828 franklinfirst.co.nz Windows & Doors for all seasons

during those cold winter months.” Through a combination of customerfocused, individual service and cutting-edge machinery, experience and a comprehensive product range, Franklin Aluminium continues to provide effective, stylish solutions. “With such a wide range of products, and because people’s requirements can differ greatly, it’s well worth taking a look at our website (www.franklinfirst.co.nz) or visiting our showroom (4 Alpito Place, Pukekohe) for some inspiration,” Robert adds. “Or simply give us a call (09 238 8828) and we’ll be happy to discuss your preferences and offer expert advice concerning the options best suited to you, your home and your lifestyle.” At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our top-notch service and comprehensive product offering. We also At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our top-notch At Franklin Aluminium we pride ourselves on our have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe. service and comprehensive product offering. We also top-notch service and comprehensive product have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe. Our customers have the choice of a range of mainstream residential windows and doors, as well as our other ranges like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series. offering. We also have one of the most modern and extensive showrooms in Pukekohe. Our customers have the choice of a range of mainstream residential windows and doors, as well as our other ranges like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series. Our customers have the choice of a range of mainstream residential windows and doors, as well as our other ranges like our Metro Series and the APL Architectural Series. • Decades of experience • Decades of experience • Decades of experienceModern showroom

Tilyard Plumbing

WORKING THE PIPES SINCE 1989

Proud local owners of Tilyard Plumbing, Josh and Samantha Tilyard, are taking their business to the next level. Their dad, fondly known to many as Kimbo, started the business back in 1989. After purchasing the company, Josh and Samantha have expanded it into three divisions focusing on new builds, drainage, and maintenance. The company has invested significantly in expanding its scope of services, which comprises plumbing, drainage and gas fitting, Josh explains.

“By separating the business into dedicated divisions, each can be operated to the highest of standards, maintaining solid quality control and ensuring no detail is overlooked. We take the same approach when it comes to our team – we don’t just look for capable, reliable and trustworthy people, we look for strong values and the right fit to represent us.”

When building a new home, engaging the right builder is a significant decision, one that can impact the entire process. Comparatively, if plumbing can be seen as the circulatory system of a home, it makes sense to employ plumbing experts too.

“Tilyard Plumbing works with major building companies and individual builders across Auckland and Waikato for a good reason – they trust us to provide comprehensive and reliable solutions for all plumbing, gas fitting and drainage requirements.” Josh says, “Good, old fashioned, word of mouth recommendations are crucial; if you do a great job, you will always be spoken of fondly around summer barbecue tables! We are big believers in ‘you get back what you put in’, which is why we put a significant amount of effort into ensuring the culture in our team is the best in the industry.”

Visit www.tilyardplumbing.co.nz for details regarding Tilyard’s full range of services. However, because every project is different, Josh and team will be happy to discuss your individual requirements.

PLUMBING GAS MAINTENANCE

One Stop Shop, Operating for over 30 years Dedicated onsite managers for every project Targeted quality checklists at every stage

DRAINAGE CIVIL

A large dedicated and experienced team Ready to go when you need us Call us to learn about the Tilyard Way