Eastlife October 2016

eastlife.co.nz

October 2016

Intrepid Kiwis’ WORLD IN FOCUS

COLIN MUNRO The hit-man cometh?

AHOY,

Roy

Win! GREAT PRIZES

OUT & ABOUT | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY | FOOD | ART | HOME | MOTORING | EVENTS | TRAVEL

MREINZ

total focus

Issue Forty Fourty

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Welcome to Issue No 40 of Eastlife

It had to finally happen, here I am reminding all of daylight saving approaching the week prior, to find by glancing at an unchanged clock and not my regular cell phone screen I, to my embarrassment, missed a rather important appointment .

Waking up the following morning was just that little bit harder and the forecast for that evening was rain - not a great start to daylight saving, but on the bright side it can only get better right?

Take care, Leigh

'Ahead' above the Rest Due for competition later this year.

Your choice of two brand new two level homes with four bedrooms plus more, in a great location. These top quality homes are located in one of the most sought after West Auckland areas.

Conveniently positioned with bus stops and train station very close by.

Zoned and within walking distance of the very popular Summerland School, plus only a short drive to Westfield shopping centre. Enjoy living in the safe and leafy suburban area, this will be a great home for a growing family.

To avoid disappointment, add this to your watch list or call to register your interest.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“What you are is what you have been, what you will be is what you do now” Buddha

www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38106

To have your property featured in Eastlife for next month call one of our team today.

Lawrence Roy 021660085

21 Robbies Road, Cockle Bay Let Me Entertain You

This Robbies road home will definitely entertain and delight you.

Just perfect for families, young professionals, and investors with an eye on the future. Built in the 1970s on a full 603msq (approx) section this home has character, style and is in tune with its modern touches. Offering 3 bedrooms, separate lounge and open plan kitchen/dining featuring French doors that open out onto a lovely entertaining decked area.

Enjoy the best of school zones and an easy walk to Cockle Bay beach via the path at the cul-de-sac end.

This home certainly has star quality and an inspection will certainly prove worthwhile.

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Our team!

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

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Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

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David Prescott 021 821 131

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Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Paul Charlesworth 027 280 9551

Karen Dawson 538 0151

www.tfproperty.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

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on the cover

Whispers of Christmas As we head into the final quarter of the year, Christmas suddenly seems awfully close and usually organised me is anything but! I’m now of an age where I really do wish it would come around every second year – I’ve hardly caught my breath after one yuletide season than another is on us and I know the next few weeks will see all the big malls decked out in their festive finery.

FLYING KIWIS’ WORLD VIEW: For Howickians, Bianca and Brett, the world is not their oyster, it’s a veritable sightseeing buffet!

The intrepid duo (on this month’s cover, pictured in Switzerland) has taken the term ‘overseas experience’ to new heights (often literally) during travels spanning the globe. On pages 20-21 the former Macleans College students share just some of their adventures, as well as plenty of amazing photos taken along numerous paths less travelled.

Photo Brett Sweden

And, of course, that means it’s time to make a gift list and start popping a few items away. For me the pleasure is all about finding those special gifts for my little grandsons although, the other day I passed a local Botany store displaying the prettiest range of ‘fairy dresses’ – a far cry from the superhero suits my youngest grandie covets.

Looking at the layers of tulle trimmed with flowers and bows, I thought of my own daughter’s childhood when such dresses were hard to find and expensive.

These days it’s lovely to see wee misses out and about in their angel frocks – sometimes with wings attached too – how daughter would

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Shelley Taylor 09 271 8092, shelley@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rashna Tata 09 271 8091, rashna@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz Photography: Wayne Martin Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine DISCLAIMER: Articles published in EastLife do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times Newspapers Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Newspapers Ltd.

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have loved to have done that in her day.

beat the goodies in this free-range bag!

Reminiscing aside, it seems our entire office has been struggling with early spring ailments which have sent several to their beds. I managed to survive the whole winter without as much as a sniffle and then – whammy!

Finally, this month the public has its say on a new Auckland Council plus community and health boards.

While we all know there will be a new mayor (and I’m sure everyone will watch how that plays out over time) frankly, I was hoping to see some invigorating young people with bold ideas step up to the mark, particularly on community boards.

But with many familiar faces back in the running, I think we will see much of the same crew returned – for better or for worse.

I cannot remember the last time I felt so ill or needed to take time off work.

However, I keep telling myself I’m glad it happened now as I have my niece’s wedding at the end of this month and I really do want to be fit as a flash aunt for this happy event.

But, now, it’s cuppa time for readers who are ready to put their feet up and enjoy this month’s EastLife. In particular, our travel pages feature some fascinating global adventures and photography.

I’m not saying they’ve done a poor job – most believe fiercely in the wellbeing of the city and their wards – but I do think the emergence of fresh blood is required every few years. Perhaps, next time!

We also chat with brave walker Vicky Williamson who has returned from her trek across Europe and see what a Maraetai couple cooked up in Peru. And, how I wish I could enter the draw for the Freedom Farms hamper (see page 50). It’s hard to

Helen Perry Editor

This month...

4-5

interview

Greg Roy – house/boat man!

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Out & about

astLife photographers E focus on local events

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interview

In the field with James Foote

12-13 community calendar 14-15 Q&A ArtWeek artist, Matthew Cowan

16 WIN

Prizes up for grabs

17-31 lifestyle

• Over the hills • And far away • Penchant for Peru • Kids giveaways • Youth fashion • Retire to Marlin Waters

Honda Civic see page 71

• Black Cap Colin Munro • Puzzle time

32-45 health, beauty and fashion

• Forties trending • Ketz-ke’s summer • Cup Day attire • Columnists • Mind, Body & Soul

46-53 food • Tasty lady

• Mitch makes awards list

• Wine time

• Panfried tarakihi

• Taste • Dining Guide

54-65 Home • My favourite thing

• D.Y.C. DIY

• Out of Europe

• Resene colour take

• Regular columnists

66-70 business

• Right ‘Hon’ Key • Horse biz

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motoring

• Honda Civic eastlife | october 2016 |

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Blame it on the Moonshine...

For more than a decade, Greg Roy may have been offering real deals on real estate. However, the Total Focus Property director harbours a much less down to earth passion, as JON RAWLINSON recently discovered.

They don’t build them like they used to. Well, they might not, but EastLife columnist, Greg Roy, sure does! When he’s not busy making people feel right at home (as a real estate agent) Greg is often found on deck at his local workshop – a veritable Aladdin’s cave of marvellous machinery.

Amongst the vintage and classic cars, a kayak and even airbrush paintings, is Miss Moonshine, a replica of its alter ego, a 1950s hydroplane named Alter Ego. “It’s a style of racing boat that basically has little contact with the water,” Greg explains.

“Alter Ego was the fastest limited hydro’ in its day. In ’52, when its owner, Paul Sawyer, moved on to his next boat, he published the plans so others could get into the sport, which is pretty cool.”

‘

While faithful recreation in the form of Miss Moonshine – the third of a series of vintage boats he’s constructed – ultimately came down to the availability of plans, all Greg’s projects seem indicative of a fascination with the way we were.

“Aside from some minor points, the construction method and materials are identical. I have a passion for old stuff, I guess, from when it was real, made out of wood and metal; before they invented plastic.

“There is a real challenge in staying true to the materials and components of the day,” he says.

I have a passion for old stuff, I guess, from when it was real, made out of wood and metal; before they invented plastic... I love the building process. It tests your mental and physical abilities; it’s like creating a piece of art and history rolled into one.”

a sea change of sorts, taking the helm of a new company, Formula Boats, in the late 1980s.

“My dad, John, was having a boat built when the company went into receivership. So, as much to get his boat finished as anything, he bought the company and I ended up running it. I didn’t do anything hands-on, but I certainly learnt how bigger boats came together.”

At home on the water – above, Bootlegger and Gangsta; right Greg with Miss Moonshine.

Photo supplied/Wayne Martin it has a double meaning. Because it’s essentially a copy of another boat from that time, in itself, the Bootlegger is a bootleg.

“As for Gangsta, my kids [Brad and daughter, Aleesha] liked that name, because at the time we built it, if they liked something they’d say it was ‘really gangsta!’”

Miss Moonshine carries this theme further. Although ‘Miss’ is not short for Mississippi, Greg confirms it is simply a common honorific given to racing boats.

While in no particular hurry to complete his current project, he expects Miss Moonshine to turn a few heads at Lake Rotoiti’s NZ Antique & Classic Boat Show next summer.

“It’s not just about the finished product, it’s about the whole journey.

I love the building process. It tests my mental and physical abilities; it’s like creating a piece of art and history rolled into one.”

In 2000, Greg first put this knowledge into practice building a replica 1930s Barrelback runabout christened, Bootlegger. In 2010, a sister ship, Gangsta, (a 10 foot speedboat of a similar vintage built with his son, Brad) was also launched.

In fact, she could even follow in the wake of Bootlegger and claim the Jens Hansen Cup, awarded to the best boat with the best story on board, not necessarily the craft which is fleetest of propeller.

A former motor mechanic, Greg says he first developed a fascination with boats while growing up near the water in Howick. This passion was further fuelled when he experienced

“The names? Yes, there’s a theme going on there all right! Bootlegger was so named because boats of that vintage were used to run bootleg booze from Canada to the States. But,

“We are not really supposed to race as such, but we do a few laps and there’s a guy at the end with a flag to tell you when you’re finished, so make of that what you will! We

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usually ‘win’,” he laughs.

Although he confirms no other boat he builds will float before Miss Moonshine runs, Greg is already preparing for his next project, a 192030s gentleman’s racer.

But retirement fund these boats will never be. While some may say that ‘if you love something, set it free’, Greg is adamant that he will not cast away a single vessel.

“These boats really are like the last bastion of freedom when it comes to vehicles. Unlike cars, it’s pretty unlikely you’ll get a speeding ticket, and unlike hot rods, there’s not such a rigmarole in how they must be built,” he explains.

“I just like the look of them; the shape, the wood and chrome, the aesthetics in general. I’ve built hotrods since I was young and these are really just like hot rods... only as well as petrol [or moonshine?], they run on water!”

And passion, but that’s obvious.

• To follow Greg’s progress on Miss Moonshine visit sites.google.com/ site/thehydroplaneproject www.eastlife.co.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2016 |

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new lone star sparkles Photographer JANET KEELING headed down to the Lone Star to ‘get a little conversation’ recently during the restaurant’s Botany Town Centre opening and discovered what happens when the American west meets Auckland’s east.

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1. Charlie & Emily O’Connell 2. Reece McLaughlan, Damien De Ment, Brendan Loe 3. Alastair Mile, Shane Hausler, Andy Allan 4. Judith Stubbs, Jackie Furniss

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5. Wendy Zitzenbecher, Kurt Knowles 6. Paul Armstrong, Micky Armstrong 7. Laurie Wright, Nicola Bartlett 8. Olivia Brooks, Kate Carville 9. Dean & Andrea Curley

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n Photography by Janet Keeling | For orders email jk.photography@xtra.co.nz | www.facebook.com/jkphotographynz

now open For listings phone 271 2456 or listings@lonestarbotany.co.nz

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Botany Town Centre, First floor, opposite Hoyts www.lonestar.co.nz 14137

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www.eastlife.co.nz

ASB Waterfront Theatre opens Auckland Theatre Company sure knows how to ‘stage’ an event! As Photographer SARAH MOROVIC discovered during the launch of the company’s new downtown home, these thespianic specialists are well rehearsed in packing them in come curtain call.

1. A nne Hinton, Robyn Reynolds, Chris Nolan, Hilary Liddell 2. Angela Lewis, Jane Marris, Lady (Gail) Fistonich 3. Liz Lorigan, Maak Bow 4. Toni & Duncan Ferens 5. Natasha Gordon, Roz Hemmings 6. Rosemary Langham, Linden Tierney, Jill Moore 7. Vincent Lipanovic, Mikayla Journee, Jane Sanders 8. Evinc Yiuav, Sir James Wallace, Richard & Christine Didsbury

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稀攀戀爀愀渀漀⸀挀漀⸀渀稀 eastlife | october 2016 |

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taiwan food festival Taiwanese master chefs Chia-Cheng Lee and Po-Chang Huang had no trouble wooing guests at the recent Auckland Taiwan Food Festival. They dished up delicious tastes of their homeland to an appreciative audience – photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there too.

1 1. Jerry Shih, Chung Chou, Alf Filipaina, Janet Lee 2. Chia-Cheng Lee, Po-Chang Huang 3. Ron & Sharon Seeto 4. Paula Schaafhausen, Sally & Ena Manuireva 5. Dianna Fan, Aditi Karjodkar 6. Bee Tan, Lincoln Tan 7. Yailin Chen, Susan Chen 8. Tommy Huang, Ika Tseng

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BEETHOVEN TO BOWIE (AND LOTS IN BETWEEN)

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2017 Season Subscriptions now on sale!

Visit apo.co.nz or call APO Ticketing 09 623 1052

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ZONTA FUNDRAISER IN VOGUE Team new season styles with an undercover story waiting to be told and what do you get?

A fashion and lingerie extravaganza courtesy of Belle Boutique and Lily Whyte of Howick to assist the Zonta Club of East Auckland raise funds for its President’s Scholarship which gives a mature woman a second chance at tertiary education. Photographer SARAH MOROVIC also attended the event at The Apothecary in Picton Street.

1. Michelle Pietras, Bodelle Cross 2. Mell Whittle-Scholes, Leanne Wilson 3. Rayner Bowman 4. Jane Wilsher, Janette Adams 5. Amanda Reed, Behrokh Clark 6. Judy Bruce, Ellen Fromont 7. Katrina Cole, Maria Stephens 8. Madeleine East, Mary Mouncey 9. Ceri McVinnie 10. Eleanor Moonie, Robyn Fox

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Belle’s First Fashion Show Held at The Apothecary, over 100 people attended this sold out event which showcased gorgeous lingerie from Lily Whyte together with Belle’s own stunning range of garments.

Burlesque dancer, Lilly Loca also performed.

Deemed an overwhelming success, Belle owner, Rayner Bowman says she is already planning the next event.

21 Picton St, Howick (next to Apothecary Cafe). Ph 533 5384

www.belle.kiwi

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two years in Celebrating e, ue boutiqu Howick, uniq ne o d the milest Belle, marke g in a fundrais by hosting de for the fashion para kland. of East Auc Zonta Club

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eastlife | october 2016 |

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Footie, Foote and farming Considering the legacy of such players as Colin ‘Pinetree’ Meads, Dave ‘Trapper’ Loveridge, Sid Going, Richard Loe, Andrew Hore and even the Barrett boys of today, it’s fair to say that the cream of the crop of New Zealand’s rugby talent often grows from rural roots. Former Saint Kentigern College and ITM Cup player, James Foote, explains to JON RAWLINSON why men of the land are so tough to tackle.

In preparation for a game of footie, Wal Footrot used to tackle sheep; cows are tougher, so that’s out of the question for sharemilker and former Tasman Makos first five-eighth, James Foote. However, the drystock farmer’s son believes his rural upbringing served him well in transition from paddock to sports field.

“A farming background instils [in players] a strong work ethic. Rural children tend to know that things aren’t going to be handed to them on a plate, which is reflected on their sports and lives in general. I guess farming just tends to breed tougher people,” he says.

While, in a professional era, fortune may favour the game’s major players (or unions) James believes provincial rugby remains relatively strong.

Although he may not have attained the same heights as the greats of the game, James’ hard work did pay off during a semi-professional career. The talented kicker scored a rugby scholarship to Saint Kentigern College, which led to a place at the Auckland Rugby Academy, selection for NZ Secondary Schools.

HOME WITH JAMES: James Foote with his children, Cooper and Emerson, and their calf club lambs.

“I had two passions growing up: rugby and farming. I couldn’t really do both so, while I was young and fit, I gave rugby a good crack, but I knew that when I finished up I’d come back to farming and I’ve been lucky enough to be able to do that,” he says.

“Saint Kents opened up opportunities, exposing me to the Auckland rugby system, which was a more professional setup. I passed all my fifth form subjects, whereas at another school, I probably would have struggled to do so. The bigger schools do have the upper hand [in attracting the best players] but, then

10 | eastlife | october 2016

again, it’s good for New Zealand rugby overall because such schools [as Saint Kents] set a benchmark for smaller schools to aspire to.”

When the Tasman Makos offered a contract in ‘06, James took the bait, followed by a two-season stint with Eastwood in Sydney. In 2011, he and his wife, Louise, returned home keen for James to take aim at his next career goal of raising a herd and a family to boot.

“I started to get itchy feet. I was keen to get back to New Zealand and back on the farm, so I traded in the rugby

boots for gumboots. Farming offers a longer term way to make a living and we wanted to start our family.”

Now sharemilking in nearby Karaka, James and the rest of ‘team Foote’ – including his parents, Louise and their two young children – rely on teamwork as they attempt to tackle their next step, farm ownership.

“You can battle away as hard as you like by yourself on a farm, but it takes a team to succeed. In either case [farming or rugby], if you can build a good team, things just happen so much easier,” James explains.

Photo Wayne Martin

“We’re halfway through our 10 year plan to own our own farm.

The goalposts do move, so we’ve had to re-evaluate our goals, but sharemilking is exactly where we wanted to be by now.”

As I bid James all the best – dodging a pair of errant calf club lambs on my way out the door – I ask whether today’s country-reared All Blacks could be at risk of losing their rural ruggedness. He answers, with a laugh: “Yeah, I suppose it can happen, if they move away from their rural roots too early and start drinking too many lattes, that is!” www.eastlife.co.nz

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community calendar October 2016 ➤ muSicalS, thEatrE & DancE tempo Dance festival October 4-16, times vary, Q Theatre, 305 Queen St, Auckland City Featuring a variety of performances, workshops and other dance-related events, this festival is sure to prove a moving experience! See qtheatre. co.nz for a full programme of events. the Operative October 5-8, Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd dr, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga The truth is up there on stage at Howick Little Theatre. However, when two adversaries engage in a game of wits, revealing the truth is another matter entirely. The story about a game of ‘I spy’ of the most serious kind, this thriller is expected to keep audiences guessing to the bitter end.

See hlt.org.nz for details. billy Elliot – the musical October 7 – november 6, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey St, Auckland City The inspirational story of a young boy’s fight to make his dream come true, Billy Elliot is about to step up on stage at Auckland Theatre Company’s brand new home on the waterfront.

Charting a plucky youngster’s journey from boxing to ballet, this toe-tapping hit musical shows how passion can carry us wherever our heart’s desire.

See atc.co.nz or asbbillyelliot.co.nz.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert, the musical October 14-22, times vary, The Civic, Corner Queen St & Wellesley St, Auckland City There are no small parts; only small actors. And while 10-year-old Howick

Primary student, Quinn Bevan, might not be the tallest of actors in this story, let’s all raise a mighty cheer when this local hits the stage during this ‘fabulous’ production. See priscillathemusical.co.nz. the great mario lanza October 18, 11am-1pm, The Picton Centre, 120 Picton Street, Howick There’s no need to sing for our supper at the Picton Centre because lunch is included with this show and the singing is perhaps best left to its performers! Celebrating the charismatic Mario Lanza this performance is complete with anecdotes and insights offered by broadcaster Lindsay Perigo. Visit daytimeconcerts.co.nz for more information.

Don Juan October 27 – november 12, Q Theatre Loft, 305 Queen Street, Auckland City Don’t hate the player, embrace the performance! Long before Tom Jones, Leonard Cohen and even Del Boy, Don Juan was long renowned as a ladies’ man. Seducing, fighting, and charming his way through life, this Latin lothario lives again, thanks to this seductive (and often comic) performance. If you’re as romantic as a V8, blokes, take the missus along and let Don do his work! See qtheatre.co.nz for details.

➤ art Pat nielsen exhibition October 1-30 (Fridays-Sundays), 10am-3pm, Green Gables Cottage Art Gallery, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook St, Howick Green Gables cooks up another exhibition (presenting the works of Pat Nielsen) this month.

➤ art artweek auckland October 8-16, various locations Auckland-wide Voices and imagery come together, once again, in a celebration of arts throughout Auckland this month. Local events include Sacred Economies (exhibition and poetry reading) at Uxbridge’s Malcolm Contact Howick Art Group (see howickartgroup.co.nz) for details.

Original art Sale October 13-16, times vary, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Beginning with a gala night (6.308.30pm, October 13), the Original Art Sale – billed as Auckland’s largest art market – seeks to connect talented artists with collectors and buyers.

Scoop a bargain, maybe? For details, see theoriginalartsale.co.nz.

➤ SPOrt & fitnESS maraetai beachlands Kindergarten fun run October 16, from 9am (run starts at 10), from the pirate ship playground, Omana Esplanade, Maraetai Hop to it, or run, or walk, it’s your choice! But, however you intend to tackle these five or eight kilometre courses, just be sure to have fun doing so. Complete with a sausage sizzle, face painting, a bouncy castle and more, this event is liable to have participants jumping for joy! Details via pohutukawacoast.co.nz/events

Monterey exhibition – Fisherman’s Haven by Graham Young Smith Gallery (features East Auckland-raised artist, Matthew Cowan – see pages 14-15 to read more), and Monterey Art Gallery’s Home and Away exhibition focused on the work of Graham Young and Wayne Sinclair. For a full programme, see artweekauckland. co.nz.

King of the mountain October 16, 8am-1pm, from The Landmark Bar & Functions Venue, 163 Queens Rd, Panmure Couch potatoes may be kings of their castles, but it takes a special effort to be crowned King (or Queen) of the Mountain. Featuring half marathon, 10km, 5km and 2km (children’s) running/walking events, as well as a 5km wheelbarrow challenge for teams of four, this event sees participants run up and over Mount Wellington. kingofthemountain.co.nz. aSb auckland marathon October 30, from 6am, King Edward Parade, devonport Devonport might be a long way to travel for an event, but it’s an even longer way back when on foot, that’s for ‘shore’! Those content to talk the talk best step aside this month as serious runners take on a marathon effort. However, as the Auckland Marathon is designed to encourage Kiwis of all sizes, ages and fitness levels to make a move, shorter events (including a half and kids’ versions) are also on offer. Details at aucklandmarathon.co.nz.

➤ hallOwEEn allhallowe’en Evening October 29, 8.30-11pm, Howick Historical Village, Bells Rd, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga Twas the night before the night of Halloween and all through the village, strange creatures were stirring and doing, undertaking other such activities which rhyme with village!

During an eerie evening tour through Howick Historical Village, visitors can expect unexpected tricks and treats in abundance. See fencible.org.nz.

the talents of St Andrew’s Big Band, big band music is set to stage a return during efforts to raise funds for the Youth & Community Development Trust. See uxbridge.co.nz. final Symphony October 21 & 22, from 8pm, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral drive, Auckland City Video may have killed the radio star but video games, it seems, can work in perfect harmony with classical music. During a most unusual concert, Eckehard Stier will conduct a remarkable score based on music from the Final Fantasy series of video games and films. Details at apo.co.nz.

➤ fEStivalS & ExPOS

Olde hallows Eve: mOtat masquerade October 29, 805 Great north Rd, Western Springs Looking for a darn good scare in the lead-up to Halloween? If so, then the MOTAT Masquerade is made to measure. Visitors (who are invited to arrive disguised in costume) are in for more than just a ghost of a chance of frights aplenty, with ghouls, masked monsters and otherworldly apparitions around almost every corner. Information at motat.org.nz.

➤ muSic

thrive October 6, 8.50am-5.15pm, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Don’t just survive in business...

Thrive! Designed to showcase Kiwi business strategies and innovations, this event features international business leaders, sports’ stars and experts from a wide range of industries ready to share their secrets for success. See thrivenz.co.nz. uxbridge festival October 7-21, times vary, Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick To mark the opening if its new theatre, Uxbridge is laying on a host of performances. The festival begins with its opening cabaret night, hosted

by Kiwi comedian Tarun ‘That Indian

St andrews big band October 6, Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick Count on Basie to deliver the goods when tunes from that goodman Benny Goodman (as well as Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller and more) swing into life. Thanks to

www.eastlife.co.nz

Guy’ Mohanbhai on October 7.

Highlights include: Sal Valentine & the Babyshakes, Oct 8; Comedy Night (featuring Urzila Carlson and Nick Rado) Oct 14; and The Lady Killers (Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch and Jackie Clarke) Oct 15. See uxbridge.co.nz for a full programme. auckland Diwali festival October 15-16, 12-9pm, Aotea Square, Auckland City Aucklanders will be looking on the light side of life as Auckland’s Diwali Festival unfolds. Billed as a celebration of Auckland’s ethnic diversity, the fest will feature live entertainment (including dance, music and theatre performances), workshops for children and adults, a feast of food stalls, rides, games and more. See aucklandnz.com/diwali. big boys toys October 28-30, 10am-6pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Greenlane West, Epsom While Big Boys Toys is billed as ‘New Zealand’s largest and most dynamic male lifestyle show’, we know it’s really designed just to get the blokes out the road for a while! Big Boys Toys showcases a wide range of products and services (automotive to electronics and more), as well as plenty of entertainment, including action-packed sports demonstrations.

See igboystoys.co.nz for details.

➤ EDucatiOn historical walk of howick & the history of auckland’s first Zoo October 5 & 7, from 10.30am, Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Road, Howick Looking to learn more about our history? Join Alan La Roche for a wander around Howick as the renowned local historian delivers a detailed account of our town’s prominent heritage buildings and significant sites. Then, on October 7, the library will host historian and

author, Lisa Truttman, as she speaks about J.J. Boyd’s Royal Oak Zoo, Auckland’s first. Anyone interested should RSVP by contacting the library on 09 534 5301. the maori Portraits: gottfried lindauer’s new Zealand October 22 – February 19, 10am-5pm, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, Corner Kitchener and Wellesley Streets, Auckland City Depicting the raw, essential elements of humanity is a tough task for any artist to master. And yet, acclaimed painter, Gottfried Lindauer, managed this time and time again. From the late 19th to early 20th centuries, Lindauer captured real people in real settings in an array of finely detailed portraits, which have themselves become preserved pieces of New Zealand’s history. See aucklandartgallery.com.

➤ family fun the great auckland Duck race & Salmon run October 29, 9-11.30am, Vector Wero Whitewater Park, 770 Great South Road, Manukau City Head on down to Manukau in October for a cracking good time!

Not only will schools, businesses and individuals cheer on their golden (not so) feathered friends during the duck race, but surf lifesavers will fight time and tides (of a sort) swimming upstream in the Salmon Run. For more information, see thegreataucklandduckrace.org.nz.

➤ funDraiSErS bookarama October 4-9, 9am-5pm, Howick RSA, 25 Wellington Street, Howick Giving old books a new lease on life, Rotary Club of Howick’s largest annual fundraiser has many a tale to tell. More information via howickrotary.org.nz.

Q&A

with artist

Matthew Cowan

Matthew Cowan’s art works need to be seen to be believed; even then, beliefs are subjective! However, this highly talented, former Macleans College student has been embraced by the art world, crafting success from hard graft and setting synapses afire in the process. In this month’s issue, we posed a few questions to the Berlin-based artist, whose work features during the Sacred Economies exhibition at the Malcolm Smith Gallery, Uxbridge Arts and Culture, now until October 22.

What can visitors expect from Sacred Economies? Which of your works on show are your favourites and why?

I can’t really speak for the show as a whole, but my works suggest a kind of ritual exchange, or things that touch on our mythical imagination in a contemporary setting. I know other works are also dealing with transactions of this kind too.

My work includes an older video piece I made in Poland in 2008, featuring a Polish-made Ursus tractor and a mythical straw man called a Chochol, a set of brooms and a performance photograph made just up the road on Stockade Hill.

I am fond of all of these for different reasons, but if I had to pick one, it would be the image from Stockade Hill because it is a very familiar place to me. I grew up just opposite, and my father took the photograph, despite me being a difficult subject and the wind playing havoc with the plastic bag tied to my head.

How important are events such as Auckland Art Week in making art accessible?

I’m sure people can find their way into ‘the arts’ if they want to, but I guess as far as contemporary art goes, having some kind of focus, or a programme is a good thing, because the art world can be a bit mysterious or beyond the pale, if you’ve not experienced it before.

What’s the general intention behind your work?

I’m just really interested in people and culture and how we identify with our place in the world.

From photographs to video, installation and performance art, your artistic bag of tricks seems pretty full. How uncommon is it for today’s artists to focus on one medium?

That has been common for quite a few generations now. Art schools

14 | eastlife | october 2016

Right, Matthew Cowan, artist. Left, Matthew on Stockade Hill as a mythical straw man (Chochol). seldom encourage students to focus on a singular medium, and this is because contemporary art is mostly about ideas. I think it’s more important to consider whether the concept matches the form.

What is your preferred medium to work in?

Usually I’d say performance is the thread that ties my work together, whether in a documentary form – such as video or photography – or more object-based, a costume or another kind of object, for example.

I guess that, as long as the work makes sense in relation to the original spark for it, then the medium can be whatever works best.

Which is your favourite from a punter’s perspective?

In terms of an investment, paintings are the surest bet. As they can go on walls, they are easily collected.

But my preference is really for experiencing something that is

mysterious and familiar at the same time. That’s impossible to define as a form, and you never really know where you might come across something that might give you that sense, either inside or outside the art world. For that reason, I’ve found myself more likely to visit museums than galleries recently.

Were you a keen art student at Macleans or did you move into arts after leaving high school? Was your talent truly appreciated at the time?

from your peers, inside or outside the art school. That said, the context you work in and the chance to develop work in an environment that challenges you to experiment is what most people take from their time at art school.

You studied English and psychology at University of Auckland. Why the switch to Fine Art for your MA at the University of Northumbria?

I guess I was sadly overlooked! I never really studied art at school beyond third form but maybe that ended up being a blessing in disguise. I started as an artist a bit later, and it helped that I took a different path along the way because I was a little surer about what I wanted by then.

It was never really a radical switch in paths, more a development of the things I was interested in. My BA had a big focus on culture and I was always a photographer. I became bored with taking documentary photographs of traditional events in Britain, and wanted to inhabit that world in a way that was more meaningful to me. At art school, opening up my practice to deal with that question was the first step.

There is so much about being an artist that is untaught. Perhaps the most important education you get is

How beneficial were your studies in psychology to fuelling artistic inspiration? www.eastlife.co.nz

Photo Otto Väätäinen/Kone Foundation

‘

More information regarding Sacred Economies, and a full programme of Artweek Auckland events are available via uxbridge.co.nz and artweekauckland.co.nz.

Psychology gave me quite a solid grounding in thinking about identity and how we function as individuals.

These things are bubbling away in my work somewhere, in terms of gender and how we represent ourselves.

Now that I’m working in Europe, I realise studying in New Zealand in the 1990s meant that I was thoroughly briefed in a post-colonial dialogue that never really occurred in the same way here.

You’ve exhibited in numerous countries, from England and the USA to Poland and Japan. Is the language of art universally understood or are messages often lost in translation?

I’m not sure I have a perfect answer but, in my experience, there are always audiences for art. Visual art can be read in a different way that precludes language difference.

My own works are definitely read differently in various places, which opens up other interpretations and new conversations. www.eastlife.co.nz

You’ve secured grants and residencies worldwide. How necessary are these for supporting yourself?

They’re essential for any artist at any stage. It’s simply not possible to live and develop work without funds for rent, studio, materials, transport and food. Also, opportunities to participate, make connections and exchange practices beyond your normal realm are invaluable to creating better work.

Although currently studying in Helsinki, you call Berlin home these days. Why did you leave Auckland and why settle in Germany?

Leaving New Zealand is something that many Kiwi artists are confronted with at some point. It’s now possible to connect with more than one place in ways that never used to be possible.

I left in 2001 to live and study in the UK and, although I’ve been back for a

few years in between, Berlin is a great place to be. The question of what an artist might do, or what place they may have in the fabric of the city is never uncomfortable or questionable in Berlin. Also, there are superb falafels, an abundance of good ice cream stores, and it’s possible to get about by bike easily.

If you could be Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage for one day, what would you do first and why?

At that level, it’d all be about juggling funds. Artists and institutions are always crying out for money. There needs to be a bigger conversation about funding models in New Zealand – there’s not a large amount of funding available from the private sector, or trusts and foundations, as there is in Europe and the USA, for example.

When it comes down to it, it’s a matter of recognition and hearing artists’ voices as part of the political conversation. The complete debacle

of the flag referendum offers plenty of evidence for that!

If you could invite any three people (living or dead) to dinner, who and why?

As far as dead painters go, I would like to talk to Belgian James Ensor about demons, death and the carnival. [Ed – look him up, readers, James’ paintings are magnificent and macabre!] Perhaps I could leave the seating arrangements, costumes and masks up to him, but it would be also good to hear what Edward Snowdon might say about temptation and human nature in our digital age.

I’d also ask Te Kooti a question about the symbolism and colours used in his war flags, and then get some technical celluloid advice from Tacita Dean and stroll a little in Lee Miller’s garden. I know that’s more than three already but, of course, I couldn’t leave out the Wizard of Christchurch, simply because I know for certain that he’s a fan of Morris dancing! eastlife | october 2016 |

15

Win! win! a brOil King imPErial tOOl SEt

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.eastlife.co.nz click on the competitions link and fill in the form. One entry per email address / person; entries close October 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

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win! thiS mODEl wOrlD win! twin PacK OaSiS bEauty SKin carE Summer’s coming and readers heading outdoor will soon need extra sun protection. That’s why our prize pack of popular Oasis Sun SPF30 (50ml) and Oasis Beauty Rhino Repair (50ml) should be a godsend! Both come in the larger sizes but our prize is a great sampler of both. Oasis Sun SPF30 is fragrance-free, non-greasy and uses non-nano Zinc Oxide, a natural agent which provides an invisible barrier between the skin and damaging UVA and UVB rays! Oasis Beauty Rhino Repair is a multi-tasking repair cream packed with natural ingredients to give soothing and healing relief for irritated, dry, itchy or flaky skin conditions; use as a nourishing facial cream, too. Available at some doctors, skin dermatologists, selected health stores and pharmacies, RRP for 50ml size, $17.90.

Based on hundreds of hours spent in galleries, artists’ studios and on the road (from Brisbane to Detroit and Venice), This Model World is a journey through the world of contemporary art.

Award-winning Kiwi critic and journalist, Anthony Byrt, seeks to ‘investigate the boundary where our bodies hit the world.’

• Anthony Byrt: This Model World – Travels to the Edge of Contemporary Art | RRP $45 | Auckland University Press

for last month’s Eastlife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 16 | eastlife | october 2016

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Open week festivities

MARK bucklandS beach yacht club makeover

The building has stood at Half Moon Bay for the some 30 years and although the general layout and its distinctive architecture remains intrinsically the same, this month Bucklands Beach Yacht Club is making a splash with its refreshing new makeover.

features such as the Allan Warwickdesigned exposed sail boat hull hanging from the ceiling (assembled by member Colin Shoebridge), plus leaners topped with marine charts, all add modern, marine appeal.

In addition, a new, spacious deck ensures members can still enjoy the sea air, all day sun and Marina outlook to the harbour beyond.

What’s more, the public is invited to come along, free of charge, and enjoy several days of celebration events starting with trivia night on Wednesday October 5 and ending with the official Open Day on Sunday, October 9.

A fabulous Red Carpet night and another evening of Mexican festivities will provide more opportunities to view the new decor while throughout the celebrations, and until the end of October, visitors can take advantage of a generous introductory membership offer: • Families – $170 • Seniors & partner – $160 • Single senior – $145 • Intermediate (18-25 years) – $55 Bucklands Beach Yacht Club General Manager, Lyle Tresadern, says after three decades it was time for

While dark colours have made way for a lighter interior, the reverse has been exercised outside. New charcoal paintwork – to complement elements of white – plus plantings, exude exterior sophistication . rejuvenation. “In particular, members are delighted that the former dark ceiling and paintwork, 30-year-old carpet and dated furniture have all gone from the restaurant – ‘a great place to dine’ – the bar and the neighbouring function room,” he says.

“These areas have been transformed.

They are now light and white with the honey timber tones of new tables and chairs adding a warm note.

The former dark pillars have been stripped back to reveal their natural

timber and parquet areas have been revitalised.

“Thanks to the contribution and hard work of members, the whole project, which has included refreshing the entrance foyer and offices, as well as the exterior, has come together extremely smoothly.”

And, indeed, character European beech furniture throughout the lighter, brighter restaurant, new bar fronts, a serviceable but harmonious, sand-coloured carpet, and added

Furthermore, a newly formed, paved pathway runs across the front of the yacht club providing connectivity to the neighbouring Half Moon Bay shopping centre and the Bucklands Beach Marina and boat ramps giving locals – mariners or otherwise – an assurance of welcome.

That welcome is further extended to the public to sail into the open day plus other celebrations, see what Bucklands Beach Yacht Club has to offer and consider becoming members – there is plenty on offer.

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eastlife | october 2016 |

17

I have walked 1200 miles Earlier this year EastLife talked to super walker, Vicky Williamson as she prepared to set out on the Via Francigena – an estimated three month trek from Canterbury in Kent, England to Rome in Italy. Returned from her pilgrimage Vicky provided HELEN PERRY with a few insights into her exacting journey.

Six weeks after arriving back at her Bucklands Beach home looking out on the beautiful Waitemata Harbour, Vicky Williamson says she’s still ‘spaced out’, the reality of returning to suburban living after tramping 2000 kilometres, often in rugged conditions, not yet sinking home.

“I still expect to get up every morning, put my pack on my back and set out wondering where I will sleep the night and who with!

“It’s hard to let go but I’m slowly settling in and it helps that I’m training for the Auckland marathon. I’d decided that as I would be reasonably fit after the Via Francigena, I would tackle the marathon and make it my last. It’s not really the running that’s the problem; it’s afterwards. The body is starting to hurt.”

Not that you’d know. This lithe, fit, 71-year-old looks like she could do the trek all over again. But she laughs at the suggestion.

“At one stage I thought I wouldn’t make it to the end. By time I entered Italy I had a badly infected blister; my foot was swollen and I could hardly walk. Earlier, two weeks of miserable weather, wind, rain and cold, meant my feet were constantly wet and the blister just never had a chance to heal.

“Luckily as I came into Aosta, there, walking up the hill towards me, with a

18 | eastlife | october 2016

bottle of cold water in hand, was my daughter, Daria. She was on holiday in Europe and we had arranged to meet up for a couple of days. She took me straight to a doctor and did he ever give my foot the treatment.

“He assured me a few days rest and I’d be off again. I took his advice and missed just 137 kilometres of the trail.

Instead, I travelled by car with my daughter and by time we parted three days later. I was fit to carry on.’

While the blister proved bothersome it wasn’t the only painful part of her journey.

“Some of the terrain was extremely steep, rough and rocky. With the early wet, cold weather it was hard going.

In fact, in one area the guide book advised: ‘if it is wet and windy, you have no head for heights and aren’t agile, take a train!’

“Northern France was very bleak with not a lot of people around but I appreciated the chance to visit First World War battlefields and show my respect at the graves of fallen. They were all immaculately kept, but not the German graves.”

However, the tough times continued.

Vicky recalls crawling up icy, snowcovered ground from Switzerland to the Col Gran Saint-Bernard and into Italy.

“I used my fingers to dig into the ground as I didn’t have poles. It

Vicky Williamson travels a fl ooded trail on the way to Le Meix Tiercelin, France. was very steep and rocky but as I descended to lower ground, the weather cleared. It was fine and beautiful with flower-filled meadows – wild azaleas, primula, pansies and irises everywhere. The spring floral display was breath-taking.”

This meant I walked most of the trail on my own, teaming up with other groups for short stints. Sometimes I passed walkers then we would all catch up in the evening, occasionally staying in the same place or, perhaps, sharing a meal together.”

Two weeks into the walk Vicky and travelling companion Lee Jakich’s plans hit a bump with Lee preferring to use an alternative guide to Vicky’s.

Accommodation, while never a real issue, didn’t necessarily work as planned either. Vicky says in France beds had to be booked two days out but because she didn’t have a phone that proved pretty well impossible.

“My pace was also a lot faster than hers so we agreed to meet up at rest spots but I didn’t see Lee again.

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From left – flowers in Pont Saint-Martin, Italy; snow toward the top of the Col Gran Saint-Bernard; police car in Verres, Italy; brewing a cuppa, France.

“For that part of the journey I stayed mostly in one and two star hotels.

However, once I had passed into Italy, there was little need to book ahead as places for pilgrims were always open late. On the one of two occasions I needed to ‘borrow’ a phone in Italy it wasn’t a problem because there were so many more pilgrims on the walk in those parts.”

When it came to laying down her head, Vicky’s places of rest included convents and monasteries, a home for disabled adults, a boys boarding school, a municipal dormitory and even a family home. Once, when there was no room in any inn, a kindly local took her in.

“But, really, considering I tramped 2000 kilometres in 79 days, there were very few issues I couldn’t handle. Yes, I got lost a few times, usually from tiredness or inattention, but everywhere one looked there was something beautiful or interesting to

see and the people, the people made it wonderful.”

In particular, Vicky was full of praise for her ‘trail angels’ people who stepped ‘out of the blue’ to assist or offer kindnesses just when they were needed.

“At one place, early in the walk, Lee and I were sitting at a bus stop. A man passed by, saw us and went home then returned with some sandwiches he had made for us. Another time I arrived in a town too late for a bed and would have had to trek on 10 kilometres but for a walking companion who returned to find me.

“He was accompanied by a young woman who offered me a place at her B&B. At yet another stay place, where I was part of a small group, we all underwent a moving foot washing ceremony accompanied by prayers for our safety before enjoying a communal meal.

+ Car ple o 2 Pe

“Once, in France, it was late in the day as I headed for Besancon.

Throughout the journey the only time I was offered a lift was on this piece of road. In fact, I was offered lifts three times. Third time round I saw it as a sign and accepted a ride from a young woman who then gave me a bed at her place that night.

banana if I could get it – and some yoghurt plus a tomato.

“I took her and her partner to dinner at a cafe to show my thanks and, in the morning when I woke, my clothes had been washed and dried – that was just wonderful. Washing wasn’t easy at any time!”

Arriving in Rome ahead of schedule, Vicky says she managed to bring her flight forward so had just three days relaxing and wandering the city.

“I’d been to Rome before so didn’t need to do the popular tourist sights.

I was feeling really tired by then so just enjoyed mooching around then I was on my way home.

And with little in the way of cooking facilities during the journey, Vicky says rare meals at a restaurant or with a family were really appreciated.

“I couldn’t afford to eat regularly at cafes and returned home craving green vegetables. Buying decent food was often difficult. Most days I managed a meal of muesli, fruit – a

“Fruit was abundant including delicious New Zealand kiwifruit, which was great but there was also a lot of processed meat, such as ham and salami, which played up on me.

Cooked greens were scarce.”

“Of course, before leaving Rome I made sure I sent my dinner order ahead to Ian [Vicky’s husband] – steak, potato wedges with sour cream and salad plus a glass of my favourite single malt whiskey and, boy, was it good!”

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eastlife | october 2016 |

19

Young Kiwis set their own course From small town Howick to big city London and the world, one go-getting couple is conquering Europe and Latin America one country at a time. They mused about their travels with NATALIE BRITTAN over Skype from Nicaragua.

The Auckland housing market may be out of reach for most Kiwis, but one globetrotting couple wouldn’t trade the world for a house.

In fact, travellers Bianca Brunschwiler and Brett Sweden, of blog, Kiwis Off Course, fame would advise their peers to do the same.

“If you have some savings, don’t buy a car, don’t buy a house, go travelling,” says Brett. “Cut your losses now, you can’t afford Auckland, so why not travel?”

The born and raised Howickians in their 20s are certainly living the dream, having travelled to more than 30 different countries (32, at last count!) together.

It began a few years ago, when the duo who go by the moniker ‘B1 and B2’, set their sights abroad.

Both former Macleans College students – Brett’s mum, Margaret Sweden, also taught at Macleans – they began working towards their goal after graduating from university.

Bianca set off for Switzerland where she had relatives while Brett headed to Australia where he worked in land surveying.

The pair reunited in London in 2014.

Bianca worked for retail giant, Marks & Spencer, and Brett dabbled in film

20 | eastlife | october 2016

Brett and Bianca enjoying life and the incredible views encountered while hiking through Scotland’s ‘Isle of Skye’ to reach the stunning rock formations of ‘Old Man Storr’. Find more on Instagram @kiwisoffcourse Photos Brett Sweden (which he had studied) and land surveying.

“We would travel every weekend and take advantage of all the cheap flights – our cheapest was £20!” says Bianca.

But the savvy duo never lost sight of their bigger travel goals, and lived frugally, eventually saving up £17,000. They embarked on their trip in May this year, beginning with Romania.

By the time EastLife spoke to the pair, the avid surfers were in Central America’s Nicaragua, volunteering at a surf hostel in exchange for food and accommodation.

From there, they will make their way down the varied South American region before finishing their eightmonth-long trip in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

They will return to New Zealand early next year and intend to stay for six months before embarking on the next chapter: Asia.

And, like all seasoned travellers, they have a few tricks up their sleeve to make the journey more easily documented on their blog.

Bianca says it came about when she started researching travel tips on the web. “I kind of made my own Lonely Planet book from blog posts. That’s

‘

You take a boat out for what seems like hours and you get so far you can’t see land. You’re in open water, then all of a sudden, you’re told to jump off the boat and swim to chase the whale sharks because they’re so fast,” says Brett.”

what influenced us to create our own blog, to create a guide around transport, accommodation and food.”

From topics such as travel packing for women to accommodation round-ups of different countries and regions, Bianca and Brett have it all covered. www.eastlife.co.nz

Combined with Brett’s stunning photography, the blog’s winning formula has amassed a large following on social media.

Sailing down the river Nile, seeing the Great Pyramids of Egypt, flying in a hot air balloon over Turkey and sighting ancient Mayan ruins are just some of the highlights.

But the elusive whale sharks in Cancun left a particularly lasting impression on the couple.

“You take a boat out for what seems like hours and you get so far you can’t see land. You’re in open water, then all of a sudden, you’re told to jump off the boat and swim to chase the whale sharks because they’re so fast,” says Brett.

“When you jump in, you discover there’s this huge animal coming right for you. They’re so cool, such beautiful animals.”

These amazing experiences are priceless but they do cost a pretty penny. As a result, Bianca and Brett stick to a strict budget of around USD$20 a day as well as work in exchange for food and

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accommodation where they can.

They also keep their wits about them. “You have to be a smart traveller. It’s about being frugal, spending wisely, and never taking costs at face value.”

And when you live like a local, there’s lots to save. “It’s 30 cents to take the chicken bus!” Bianca exclaims, describing the colourful, crowded mode of transport popular in Latin American countries.

In another instance, Brett recounts saving USD$25 at the Mexican border, by not giving in to a wellknown scam.

“Even a BP steak and pepper pie or butter chicken pie; they’re still better than any other pie we’ve had in England,” Brett concludes.

When their travels are over, the proud Kiwis would eventually like to settle down in Howick.

“When we meet people we say we’re from New Zealand and everyone says they want to go there,” says Brett. “We’ve really enjoyed everywhere else but in the back of our minds, and hearts, we get New Zealand to go home to. That’s really cool.”

Through it all, the intrepid adventurers insist there’s no place like home, especially when it comes to food. “We miss pies, seafood, fresh fish that you’ve just caught, brought straight back home and cooked up,” says Brett.

“Bakeries and cream doughnuts too”, pipes up Bianca.

eastlife | october 2016 |

21

Peruvian classics served The mysteries of Machu Picchu have mesmerised many a traveller and like other keen explorers, Maraetai couple, Andy and Kathy Graves were drawn to visit the Incan citadel. This month EastLife features the first of two articles by KATHY GRAVES, on the couple’s recent South American trip. The first focuses on Peru, a colourful wonderland rich in culture.

Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca had long been on our bucket list. Both lived up to our expectations but, almost to our surprise, many other aspects of Peru emerged to thrill us no end.

When we were in Lima, two days ahead of our long awaited trip to Machu Picchu, and with time to spare, we decided to immerse ourselves in a little Peruvian culture and have some fun along the way.

A quick Google search revealed cooking classes at Skykitchen in the Miraflores area where we were staying. We booked in for the following morning.

22 | eastlife | october 2016

After a hearty breakfast (the theory being that after cooking four courses we wouldn’t be eating until way past lunch time) we walked to the premises – a kitchen located on a top floor where an attractive outdoor terrace took in views across the city.

Two couples were there ahead of us; they had also attended the early morning market tour and were just finishing their fruit tasting experience. It looked interesting – perhaps we should have signed up for that too!

Chef Christian led the class and before we knew it we were prepping

‘

Excellent briefings beforehand, attentive and experienced guides, the availability of oxygen if needed and a relatively easy pace meant tourists of all ages (some were in their 80s) were able to manage the altitude and the walking.”

the dough for our dessert and cooking the beans for the ceviche course; then on to the first course – Causa. Under the expert guidance of Christian, we each created a stacked tower consisting of alternating layers of mashed potato flavoured with lime juice and aji amarillo – a puree made from Peruvian chillies – with chopped chicken and avocado.

Each layer was firmly pressed down into a ring to produce the perfect pillar. A firm tap and it slid smoothly out of the ring. For presentation we added a little more avocado, a delicate twist of carrot, a dollop of chilli sauce dripping down one side and a drizzle of mayonnaise to finish.

What a masterpiece!

Now, what was I saying earlier about eating later? ……. Once that first course was ready we sat as a group and enjoyed our first taste of Peru.

The ‘kitchen fairies’ swept in whilst we were eating, cleaned up all the mess and left us with fresh clean workstations to start again.

I was really looking forward to mastering the ceviche. I love it but had never made it.

Under Christian’s watchful eye we cut, chopped, measured and stirred then, voila! Perfect ceviche served www.eastlife.co.nz

Kathy and Andy Graves – delighted with their Peruvian cooking experience. Left, Lake Titicaca with its floating reed islands.

with a modern twist with an accompaniment of white beans and fried plantain discs. It tasted wonderful but by then I was feeling quite full and there were two more courses to come!

Course three, Lomo Saltado – a fusion of Peruvian stir fry beef with Asian flavours. Again we sliced and diced and prepared a cooking sauce to add to the beef.

We discovered that many Peruvian main courses are served with both rice and fries so whilst we were doing the vegetables and stir frying the beef, the kitchen crew steamed the rice and cooked the fries.

The sauce, consisting of red wine and soy sauce, brought this dish to life. Once plated, (beautifully, I might add), we sat down to indulge. At this stage I didn’t think I could possibly eat anything else even if it was a dessert. www.eastlife.co.nz

But the fun was about to begin. Our picarone dough, prepared earlier, had risen perfectly and we were shown how to scoop out a small handful with our fingers and using our thumb, shape it into a perfect circle before dropping it into hot oil to deep fry, Easy-peasy – yeah, right.

In the end, we all did pretty well.

Our desserts looked delicious and, strangely, I found I did have a little room to squeeze in one or two that had been drizzled in a molasses sauce flavoured with orange peel, cinnamon and cardamom. What was there not to like?

The class proved to be a wonderful experience, although, being new to Peru, Andy and I had no idea what we were creating were actually authentic dishes. As it turned out, while touring over the next couple of weeks we came across three or four of these same dishes several times, one

being served for lunch when we were guests at the home of a charming Andean couple.

On returning to Lima, we then embarked on a 12-hour coach trip to Lake Titicaca.

And, while their Lomo Saltado had a more rustic presentation, there was no denying this was the same dish we’d made at the cooking school albeit, slightly modernised. The class was an exhilarating way to start our tour of Peru and things just went from good to great. The trip to Machu Picchu turned out to be all and more that we expected.

At one point we had intended to fly or take a train but our daughter advised that the coach route was breathtaking and to take it. Despite the long journey it was extremely beautiful as was Lake Titicaca.

Excellent briefings beforehand, attentive and experienced guides, the availability of oxygen if needed and a relatively easy pace meant tourists of all ages (some were in their 80s) were able to manage the altitude and the walking. What’s more, we definitely felt a sense of spirituality or mysticism, at this intriguing archaeological and World Heritage site.

We knew the Uros people lived on floating reed islands but like anything, looking at pictures or reading books falls way short of seeing the real thing. We were only there for a day but these colourful people, and they way in which they keep adding to upper layers of the isles as they disintegrated from below, was fascinating.

We left Lake Titicaca looking forward to the next stage of our journey – the Galapagos Islands. Read more next month. eastlife | october 2016 |

23

Kettle Korn LUNCH TREAT Win!

HAIRY MACLARY – BABY’S FIRST YEAR CARDS That dishevelled dog, Hairy Maclary, is back again, but this time he has more than just one story to tell!

Featuring favourite characters and scenes from Lynley Dodd’s famous books, these delightfully illustrated cards are designed to help capture and celebrate all the mischief and madness during baby’s first year.

Parents can attach photographs to the cards to mark such milestones as first steps, first smiles and that epic first birthday.

Produced by Puffin (and Penguin NZ) this card pack is available from bookstores (RRP $26) now.

EastLife has a pack up for grabs.

To be in to win, complete the form on the competitions page at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close October 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

24 | eastlife | october 2016

There’s nothing, or perhaps everything, corny about the magnanimous gesture of one New Zealand snack company.

This has allowed Eat My Lunch to take another school off the waiting list and add them to the programme.

Additionally NZ Kettle Korn provides thousands of bags of extra product every month so all children in the lunch programme regularly receive it at school.

With thousands of Kiwi kids going to school without lunch every day, New Zealand Kettle Korn has popped up as an official partner of the Eat My Lunch schools programme to feed hungry youngsters.

Setting a goal to donate 100,000 bags of Kettle Korn to children in low decile schools, the principle is simple, for every bag of Kettle Korn someone ‘Buys’, the company will ‘Give’ another to Eat My Lunch which is based on a similar principle – for every lunch someone ‘Buys’, Eat My Lunch, which is co-run by awardwinning chef Michael Meredith, ‘Gives’ another to a hungry, local child in a low decile school.

In just over one year, Eat My Lunch has ‘Given’ more than 180,000

Eat My Lunch co-founders Michael Meredith and Lisa King say kids love having popcorn in their lunches.

“It’s one of their favourite snacks!

Some have never had Kettle Korn before so it’s been a real treat”.

lunches to children in 34 schools and counting.

As an official partner, NZ Kettle Korn has also committed to donating $20,000 a year, which provides 4000 extra lunches.

NZ Kettle Korn director, Michael Howe says the company wanted to do something that made a real, tangible difference to a child’s lunch and life.

“And, I think we’ve achieved this with our supporters’ bag and hopeful long-term partnership.”

Win! BOOKS TO MAKE KIDS HAPPY ‘ thE witch’S vacuum clEanEr

You simply have to admire a man who becomes a knight through writing books with titles such as The Witch’s Vacuum Cleaner.

In his latest rib-tickling children’s book, master storyteller Sir Terry Pratchett presents 14 humorous yarns loaded with everything from food fights and pirates, to wizards and crooks.

In particular, there’s the case of poor Mr Swimble. Even friends at the Magic Rectangle can’t help this wizard conjure up a solution to his bad day.

To enter either of these draws, see the competitions page at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person; entries close October 31, 2016.

Winners notified by phone or email.

SQuEaKOPOtamuS How will the kids keep him fed? This pet is unlike any other, he could be a hippo who looks like a mouse or even a mouse who’s too big for his house!

When everything goes wrong – rabbits bouncing out of his hat, pigeons flying out of his jacket and cheese sandwiches and socks appearing unintentionally – it turns out a mysterious vacuum cleaner could be to blame.

One thing’s for sure, though, young readers are bound to have some great fun finding out more about the astonishing, demolishing Squeakopotamus! EastLife has TWO copies of this book up for grabs.

• Terry Pratchett: The Witch’s Vacuum Cleaner | RRP $35 | Doubleday / Random House

• Dawn McMillan & Ross Kinnaird: Squeakopotamus | RRP $19.99 | Oratia Books www.eastlife.co.nz

Swim school stroke of genius

SPONSORED

When your child’s swim skills are more of a splish and a splash than a smoothly executed stroke then, perhaps, it’s time to start them on lessons at the Trent Bray Swim School in East Tamaki.

And, who better to oversee a programme of classes for all ages and abilities, than a former Olympic swimmer and Commonwealth Games and World Champs medallist.

Trent Bray, and his family, started the Trent Bray Swim School in 2001 and for the past 15 years have been teaching in the central Auckland area. Their Mt Eden branch is one of the biggest swim schools in the country.

Recently the Splash Central pool in East Tamaki was taken over by Trent and his team and they have wasted no time implementing a comprehensive swim programme which draws on their extensive experience.

“The opportunity to take our lessons outside of central Auckland was extremely important to me,” says Trent. “I wanted to offer our unique teaching method to

the wider community and with this new facility it gives us the opportunity to do that.”

Trent says the school’s swimming lessons have been a continual development over many years focusing on correct techniques that make swimming fun and easy to grasp.

“Swimming should be fun and learning correct techniques from day one is not only enjoyable but helps students to learn faster and before more confident and capable swimmers.”

The newly renovated facility in East Tamaki, with its 15x8 metre pool, has a state of the art filtration

system allowing it to be bromine and chlorine-free, benefiting babies with delicate skin or anyone who suffers from dry skin, eczema or allergies.

With term four classes set to begin on October 10, running through to December 22, Trent says there’s no time like the present to prepare children for the upcoming summer.

“New Zealand’s drowning statistics are not good and every year children drown in backyard pools or at beaches and waterways.

I believe it is imperative in a country likes ours – blessed with wonderful beaches and rivers –

that all youngsters should learn to swim and to swim properly.

The swim school has vacancies across a range of age groups starting from six months old.

Private lessons are also available.

The team of instructors is highly experienced and constant training with Trent ensures the high standards continue through all lessons.

“We offer a no-obligation, free assessment to new and returning swimmers. This provides a great opportunity to see the new look inside and view how our lessons are run. So, give us a call on 09 272 2029 or pop in and see for yourself.”

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eastlife | october 2016 |

25

Spring

into some gardening…

Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner Caryn Mawkes suggests using garden skills to promote healthy eating.

Well, spring is here heralding incredible growth in the garden – what a brilliant time to encourage children outside in the weekend to learn about planting and growing.

Sit down as a family and decide what to plant. Certain crops will grow better depending on the soil type. Ask your children what they would like to grow.

We all know that if they are involved in growing vegetables, they are much more likely to eat them.

Here are some ideas for what you could grow – lettuce, cabbage, peas, beans, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, beetroot, celery, onions and potatoes.

Plant tomatoes, capsicum, courgettes and cucumbers a bit later in the spring and you may want to plant some flowers, too. Choose easy-care varieties that offer lots of bright colour – pansies, marigolds, alyssum and polyanthus for example.

Soil in the garden will start to warm in spring and is, of course, the foundation of your garden. If you don’t get it right, nothing will grow to its full potential.

Try preparing it by adding some compost and, depending on what you plan to grow, also use other soil enhancers such as blood and bone.

Consult your local garden centre for advice on products that will work best for your selected plants.

Once you’ve brought the bags of soil home encourage your children’s

involvement. Pull out their buckets and spades and get everyone digging.

• Plants or seeds? – You can easily buy small plants (seedlings) which are ready to go, and are often a good choice because children can quickly see the results of growth.

You may, however, choose to use seeds. Some seeds can be planted directly into the garden such as peas, beans and carrots. Others, such as courgettes, need to be carefully cultivated in a seed pottle tray until they’re big enough to be transferred to the garden. They need to be carefully watered or, perhaps, just sprayed daily with a water mist bottle.

• Water – A fun thing to do is to make a watering roster duty. Each day, assign an adult or child to do the watering. Try to teach children how to ensure plants receive enough water but aren’t being drowned.

• Weeding – Weeding isn’t a big chore if done regularly. Weeds absorb precious nutrients from the soil, stealing them from the plants you’re trying to grow. Show your children how to pull up weeds without damaging legitimate plants.

• Reap the benefits – Before you know it, little seeds will become little plants, and little plants will become big plants that produce lots of vegetables. Your children will love eating these delicious, fresh veggies straight from their own garden!

Happy Gardening….

Exam stress Brainstorm Tuition director Bill Porter, BA MPhil, offers his opinions on education in the 21st century.

Some of my students have expressed to me how stressed they are at this time of year. Knowing that in New Zealand, and elsewhere, a few students every year have resorted to suicide or self harm because of this stress, I always take these comments very seriously.

I ask them to look at their current situation through a lens 10 years into the future. How important will all this seem then?

Regardless of how well they do in these exams they will probably be married, with a job and children. It may not be the job they dreamed of but it will probably be rewarding in its own way with other things such as family and community taking on greater importance.

Most teenagers interviewed after suicide attempts talk about feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Often they are afraid of disappointing their parents and teachers, so it’s important to let tell them that we only expect them to do their best – not perform miracles.

There are many other causes behind suicide such as emotional crises, and I encourage them to talk to school counsellors, parents and friends. I can only talk about putting their education and qualifications into perspective.

However, I have a friend in Sydney with a beautiful, clever daughter who 15 years ago left him a suicide note and disappeared.

He drove around with tears in his eyes checking the bottom of every cliff. She turned up safe and sound in the morning, and today is a qualified doctor with a handsome husband and a million-dollar house.

I tell students this story so they can see that what seems unbearable now can seem almost irrelevant with the perspective of time. Students often turn up at class stressed about their study, but after a few lessons parents will comment that he or she “seems much less stressed now.”

That’s because they understand the material better, and can go home and study productively. They leave here knowing how to do things they couldn’t when they arrived, and I always set more of the same kinds of problems for them to do at home to consolidate the lesson and make sure they remember the techniques.

If they have trouble with any of the examples they can bring them back and ask me instead of sitting in their room tearing their hair out.

Years ago I had a Year 8 student who refused to go to school because she “hated the teacher”.

After a few lessons with me she returned to school. When the teacher asked the class a question she put up her hand and answered correctly. From then on there were no more problems.

This was clearly a critical point in her scholastic career, and clearly caused by stress.

Brainstorm Tuition – Cambridge & NCEA Unlocking each student’s potential

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Education Review Office in April 2014 rated our centre in the top 5%. They stated: Consistent, effective teaching practice; Children happy and settled, with a strong sense of belonging; Children involved in rich literacy, numeracy and science opportunities

Professional Tuition Maths, English and Science Many marks go up by 30% “He has got a lot out of the sessions with you. It makes a huge difference getting help from someone who actually knows how to teach.” Satisfied parent Visit www.BrainstormTuition.com for more testimomials

WE WELCOME YOU TO VISIT OR CONTACT US:

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Rockabye Early Learning Centre, 122 Aviemore Dr, Highland Park • Email caryn@rockabye.school.nz Ph 533 0218 • www.rockabye.school.nz

Phone: 533-9092 or 021-254-0350 Email: Bill@BrainstormTuition.com

26 | eastlife | october 2016

01990

13517-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

Glamour dressing for kids Party time for kids goes glam this summer as Witchery Girl +Boy’s newest edition, Occasion, cranks up the volume on dressing to celebrate.

Luxe fabrications, jewel colours, on-trend cuts and dynamic details fizz but are neither forced nor fussy.

Rather it’s a case of functional fashion with a bit of fantasy thrown in.

And, if there’s one piece that could elevate any look into ‘must-have’ status, it’s the jewelled and beribboned tiara – an absolute summer essential.

103 103

For boys, the focus shifts to smart tailoring with a cheeky spin. Think suits, striped shirts, open waistcoats and the season’s ultimate comeback piece – the bow tie. It’s traditional menswear refreshed by a cavalier spirit.

In most looks, the attention centres on the jacket and a standout embellished style with contrast trim and buttons looks as perfect with dress pants as it does with everyday jeans.

Sticking to a palette of royal blue,

Haunted Historical Village

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AllHallowe’en event October 29th 8.30pm – 11pm

12 -13 TH

TH

Tour the eerie village as villains lurk in the shadows and trick or treat at the cottages if you dare.

12 -13 -13 NOV 12 TH

TH

Listen to Haunted Auckland explain the findings of ‘Sarita’, the ghost of Puhi Nui and go on a ghost hunt.

TH

Enjoy a Halloween skit on the green as you take a break with a hot drink or chips, plus more.

TH

NOV NOV 12 -13 TH

Purchase your tickets on: eventfinda.co.nz No ticket sales on the night 1x Adult $30, 2x Adult $50, Family $60 Children under 14 years need to be accompanied by an adult Free Parking

TH

NOV 12TH-13TH NOV

line tickets on Get your online No fees booking fees n tio (Transac ply) s online may apour ticket Get y line line ets online tickets on No on r tick Get your online Get youfees No ing No online feesbook booking fees ction fees fees tion(Transa oking (Transac ply boply) ) es may ap may ap ction fe

s online

www.eastlife.co.nz

ice blue and black means the design details really shine. For the season’s coolest alternative, the metallictrimmed band jacket, skinny trousers and striped tee combination are winning tickets. Ultimately, Witchery has the party season sorted.

r ticket Get you online No fees booking fees (Trarannsasactioplny) (T may ap ply) 14116 may ap

HoWiCk HisToriCal Howick Historical Village Village

Step back in time a liVing HisTory MuseuM of THe fenCiBle Period

Ph 576 9506 Cnr Lady Marie Dr & Bells Rd, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga events@fencible.org.nz www.fencible.org.nz Follow us on facebook

Ph 576 9506

A LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM OF THE FENCIBLE PERIOD 14241

eastlife | october 2016 |

A LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM OF THE FENCIBLE PERIOD

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For girls, it’s about playful sophistication with a feminine twist. This year’s collection includes beautiful embroideries, oversized bows and outsized ruffles in a palette of nude, antique white, scarlet and soft pink. Allowing for plenty of personal expression, it’s totally up to the wearer whether she teams her lace-trimmed mini dress with Grecian sandals smattered with stars and studs, slip-on ballet flats or so-rightnow sneakers.

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27

Puzzle Cryptic Puzzle

time 1

1. He is among the best in command (6) 2. Run up against some heartless woman in uniform (5) 3. Rode off, embarrassed, when told to (7) 4. Sound indication that you’ve been right (4) 5. Is paid, one finds out, a British pound to start with (5) 6. At the time, certain to have made a deletion (7) 7. In the German pub, having a meal (6) 13. When not working on the garland, doubtless (7) 15. Making it clear I’d been entered in the race (7) 16. Kept out of Dorset (6) 17. For the record, by a quarter to five, the fish were rising (6) 19. Has bags of interest for the reader?

(5) 21. Under an hour hiding in the plant (5) 22. Are bowed and slight (4)

4

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Quick Puzzle Puzzle answers on page 73

puzzle no. 27

DOWN

1. A fringe? (4,2,3,4) 8. Shout, “An agitator has been taken on!” (5) 9. Convinced I am in a trance of some kind (7) 10. Sees that the animals don’t bump into the walls (6) 11. Shrewd, putting the last of the suet into a suet pudding (6) 12. Slipped a pound in old money, inside (5) 14. Cut a point, always (5) 18. Having put weight back on, the dean feels uncomfortable (6) 20. Given money, the boy came back with the decorative material (6) 23. The usual procedure when holding a metal rake (7) 24. As ever, I’ve put in two fives too many: it’s weird (5) 25. Is it for taking the bare look from the bedroom? (8-5)

Sudoku

3

NO. 10027

ACROSS

For Sale

2

ACROSS

DOWN

1.

8.

9.

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Argument (13) Instruct (5) Animal (7) Planet (6) More than one (6) Faint (5) Race course (England) (5) Pester (6) American Indian (6) Nationality (7) Accustom (5) Tireless (13)

Vanuatu 90m white sand beach

No. 10027

Tax (6) Braid (5) Composition (7) Press (4) Of the ear (5) Hell (7) Irritate (6) Wool fabric (7) Tree (7) Seasoning (6) Calm (6) Boat (5) Morsel (5) Tie (4)

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28 | eastlife | october 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

SPONSORED

Marlin Waters – superb lifestyle Life is a Beach… so why not retire to a life of beach and boating at one of New Zealand’s most unique waterfront retirement settings, Marlin Waters.

Marlin Waters is the canal front retirement resort located right in the heart of the highly acclaimed Whitianga Waterways.

This complex is designed specifically for the active or recently retired who want the added benefit of an exclusive water lifestyle.

Marlin Waters features homes designed for mature residents within a seaside community, providing security and privacy. Upon completion the village will include dedicated community facilities including: • A common-room • Private boat-ramp • Jetties available for residents exclusive usage • Common space landscaping • Onsite management with 24 hour call facilities.

• Exclusive, private beaches and more.

The Marlin Waters Lifestyle Village offers a choice of single

level 2 or 3 bedroom units with 1 or 2 bathroom options, with some located right at the water’s edge.

While dedicated to the needs of the older resident, Marlin Waters provides an attractive destination for visitors and family, located on the Waterways with exclusive facilities for residents and guests.

The fast growing township of Whitianga has a large variety of

amenities all within a short distance of Marlin Waters.

This includes New World, Countdown and The Warehouse all found within a few minutes’ walk as well as nearby restaurants, cafes, clothing and gift shops, beauty salons and much more found in the CBD. Whitianga is the Coromandel’s fastest growing coastal township

with expanding amenities such as the new sports complex, Waterways Event Park, and a site adjacent to Marlin Waters destined for a future medical centre.

When it comes to medical and healthcare, the emergency services of major hospitals have become so much closer with the establishment of a Westpac Rescue Helicopter base at Whitianga.

Marlin Waters is coastal living at its best where the options are endless.

Whether you enjoy getting out on the water for a fish before breakfast or watching the sun go down over the Coromandel Ranges with a wine in hand, Marlin Waters has it all.

Come join us on the Waterways for a way of life that you have only dreamt about.

For more information talk to our friendly staff at the Whitianga Waterways Sales Office, or visit the show home on the corner of Joan Gaskel and Vanita Drive, Whitianga. Phone 07 866 0164 wwloffice@whitiangawaterways.co.nz whitiangawaterways.co.nz

Relax and Enjoy a Waterfront Lifestyle Village The unique villa complex is designed for the active retiree, situated within the heart of the highly acclaimed Whitianga Waterways - Everything is here so there is no need to leave. Once complete Marlin Waters will offer exclusive facilities including: shared boat ramp and jetties, private beach, common area and more.

The first stage is now complete. View the show home on the corner of Joan Gaskell and Vanita Drive, Whitianga.

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2016 |

29

Munro’s 20/20 vision Professional cricket is a tough trade to master, but securing a spot in the world’s biggest T20 leagues is a whole different ball game. JON RAWLINSON recently spoke with Black Cap, Howick-Pakuranga Cricket Club’s Colin Munro, who is rapidly making a name for himself on the world stage.

Cricket purists would suggest that there are few more beautiful sights in sport than an elegantly executed, textbook forward defensive stroke.

Then again, to the volatile, one-eyed fan in me, there’s something pretty damn special about a swashbuckling, unorthodox, dirty great heave into the stands too.

Less a candle in the wind, at the crease, Colin Munro is more like a hurricane in an inferno. And yet, despite being one of the world’s most aggressive batsmen – with an international T20 strike rate topping 145 – the Howick local often combines technical excellence along with his raw, unabashed brutality.

“Nine times out of 10, in T20 cricket, batsmen get themselves out because you have to go for it and take those risks. That’s the nature of the beast and what keeps everyone on the edge of their seats,” he says. “It’s about trying to be the best I can and, if I break a record here and there, then so be it. I just tend to go out there and play with freedom, as though every game is my last, and whatever happens, happens.”

And record-breaking occasions there have been. At Eden Park in January, Colin became the fastest New Zealander (second fastest overall) to 50 runs (from 14 balls) in T20 cricket history. In July, he smashed the Caribbean Premier League’s (CPL) first T20 hundred (65 balls).

However, he believes records and statistics (in general) are merely indicative of quality. Stats can’t truly reflect all situations within games; they don’t tell the full story.

This year, during Colin’s first season in the CPL and second in the IPL (Indian Premier League), his Trinbago and Kolkata Knight Riders (respectively) both reached their leagues’ knockout stages. “The CPL was good. I had more opportunities, which meant I could get into a bit of a rhythm. In the IPL we had a lot of excellent top order batsmen, so it was harder to get a go.

“Also, in the IPL, you’re under a bit more pressure because it’s a bigger tournament; it’s more relaxed in the

30 | eastlife | october 2016

Caribbean. Those West Indian boys are more leisurely in their approach, while being really intense and passionate on the pitch at the same time.”

He adds that the CPL finals’ loss to league-winners, Jamaica Tallawahs, was disappointing. While former Black Cap captain, Brendon McCullum, managed just eight runs, both Colin and Protea, Hashim Amla, scored well for the Knight Riders during a rain-affected run chase.

“Andre Russell scored 100 off 40 balls and just took the game away from us. When we went back out after the rain, we needed around 15 [runs] an over. That was always going to be tough. It all comes down to how much pressure you put on yourself. The biggest issue I had this year was the added pressure of being an overseas pro’ [in the IPL and CPL] and maybe I tried too hard.”

The T20 leagues may seem a little mercenary, considering the inclusion of overseas professionals, but Colin says camaraderie within such teams, and the overall drive to succeed, is universal. “You’re playing for franchises, but you do come to feel a real part of those teams too. And, you’re motivated to put in matchwinning performances to make the fans proud. However, there’s definitely an extra buzz when you put on the silver fern or that Aces helmet,

because you’re representing your country, or province. Nothing beats that.”

I ask if any special KIT is required to play for the Knight Riders. He looks at me strangely, as if I’ve just hassled the Hoff! I don’t think Colin’s a fan of 1980s TV shows, so my joke falls flatter than a Kolkata wicket!

Depending on international duties, Colin should also line up for the Auckland Aces during the upcoming domestic season. Two out of three may be good enough for some – Auckland claimed both the four-day Plunket Shield and Georgie Pie Super Smash (T20) titles last season – but not for Colin! He assures me the Aces will be trying for a clean sweep of all three formats.

Considering the big money leagues abroad, I wonder whether New Zealand’s T20 league is sustainable.

Colin seems to believe it is, although he suggests private ownership of the franchises could be the answer to attracting more top talent.

“We’ll never work on the same scale as the IPL because of the sheer difference in population but it would be great to have more overseas players involved. How awesome would it be to see the likes of Chris Gayle, Kumar Sangakkara or Lasith Malinga playing? It’d only make our cricket stronger.”

back in action?

While the Black Caps negotiate sub continent wickets during the current test series in India, Colin Munro is confident of joining his teammates later this summer. Due to a stress fracture of the back, he is currently unavailable.

“My back hasn’t healed right from a couple of years ago. I’ve been playing through it but, because I’m focusing on more red ball [test] cricket and more as an all-rounder, I need to get my body right,” he says. “I’m hoping to play for Auckland in November and for the Black Caps (as a batsman) in the

Chappell Hadlee Series [December], if everything goes to plan.”

Although cavalier innings (particularly in T20) have catapulted Colin to fame, the mediumpacer insists he is committed to developing as an all-rounder across all three formats. “At the moment, I’m more a batsman who can bowl.

Because of my back, I haven’t been able to bowl as many overs or at the intensity I want. If I can get that right, hopefully I’ll become the allrounder that I’d like to be. Although T20 is my number one, I want to play all formats if I can.”

Colin’s test career didn’t get off the mark in the best way possible.

Instead, in his first innings during a 2013 tour to his native South Africa, he didn’t get off the mark at all, dismissed for a golden duck.

“That felt pretty shitty, to be honest!” he exclaims. Hashim Amla, who’s a good friend now, gave me a tap on the shoulder and said ‘Mate, it happens to the best of us. You’ll come back better and stronger.’ You can’t dwell on such things, but I would like to get another crack to prove I can play test cricket.” www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

[In the T20 leagues] you’re playing for franchises, but you do come to feel a real part of those teams too... however, there’s definitely an extra buzz when you put on the silver fern or that Aces helmet, that’s for sure, because you’re representing your country, or province. Nothing beats that.”

Home ground advantage Absence may make the heart grow fonder but it’s no picnic for a family man. Considering the brevity of a pro sports’ career, local cricket star, Colin Munro, knows he must make every moment away from home count.

“I’m at that stage in my career where I need to make hay while the sun shines and earn as much as I can to support my family in the long run,” he explains.

“I don’t think the New Zealand domestic game pays enough so that players can choose to just stay home.

One day, I hope it gets there. Some, who can choose rugby or cricket, pick rugby because the money tends to be better. If we can close that gap, it will benefit the game.”

So far this year, the former Pakuranga College student has spent less than two months, in total, at home.

“My youngest, Connor, is only seven months old and we also have a twoyear-old daughter, Chloe. She’s at that age where she asks: ‘Where’s Daddy’, so it is tough on the family.”

Fortunately, Colin has a dedicated home team offering support when sport demands his time.

Photo Wayne Martin

“I’m pretty lucky; I’ve been with my wife, Tehere, for almost 10 years, so she knew what she was in for,” he laughs. “It’s hard for her, with two young kids, but we have a very good network of family and friends, which makes things easier.

www.eastlife.co.nz

“When you’re doing what you want to, and making a decent living from it, you want it to last as long as possible.

I’m lucky enough to have the family support which allows me to make that happen.” eastlife | october 2016 |

31

Flying 40s

make an impact!

The trendy look of 1940’s American sportswear meets the vibrant colours of Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo in Carlson’s Summer 2016-2017 collection featuring playful, interchangeable separates and relaxed, unstructured tailoring.

Photos by David Shields

In a nod to this year’s Olympic Games, Carlson mashes classic American denim with colour, stripes and flag-like prints to capture sportswear in the tradition of Coco Chanel – interchangeable, unstructured separates such as blouses, shirts, skirts and blazers.

32 | eastlife | october 2016

Carlson’s latest collection also captures the essence of South America and Mexico as an idyllic holiday destination of the 1940’s with playful leisurewear, such as the Miranda Jumpsuit or Cantina tee, alongside references to Frida Kahlo with floral prints and vibrant colour.

Made for the modern woman living a fastpaced lifestyle but who values her leisure time, the Carlson collection may be based on 1940’s pizzazz but has all the elements required by 21st century women!

Acapulco Blouse & Chula Short

Bonita Blouse & Cigarette Pant

Cha Cha Dress

Chiquita Playsuit

www.eastlife.co.nz Miranda Jumpsuit

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Frills and thrills Fun, flirty and bold in blue, Ketz-ke’s spring collection breaks new boundaries this season.

The eye-catching collection in celestial blue is a thoroughly modern nod to Victorian ruffles and ‘70s style volume, where daring ruffles juxtaposed with delicate frills act as the perfect complement to an existing wardrobe.

Ketz-Ke’s layer shirt flirts with bohemian prints and the ruffles of yesteryear, while the chic unity skirt or casual cool herd jumpsuit

anchors the look firmly in 2016.

Equal parts stylish as it is easy wearing, meet your new weekend staple in the versatile and transitional adventure dress or choose to drift away in a breezy maxi.

1. Ketz-ke Layer Short Sleeve Shirt, RRP $145 and Unity Skirt, RRP $119 2. Ketz-ke Herd Jumpsuit, RRP $185 and Ketz-ke Basic Short Sleeve Tee, RRP $59 3. Ketz-ke Adventure dress, RRP $198

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1/10 The Terraces, 24 Wellington Street, Howick Phone 535 9554 | Email salon@terraceshair.co.nz 00482-v7

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eastlife | october 2016 |

33

BEE-LIEVE IN BEEBIO BeeBio meaning “Bee Life” utilises the naturally powerful (and proven) benefits of Manuka Honey, pure Bee Venom and active botanical extracts to create a multi-functioning, anti-ageing skincare range that is specifically formulated to be topically effective and activate skin cell renewal for more youthful looking skin.

The latest products to join the BeeBio line up include Nectar Eye Serum, Nectar V Shaping Serum and Lava Mud Masque.

Combining the long-term anti-ageing benefits of Manuka Honey and Bee Venom with the instant tightening and firming effect of New Zealand Ponga Fern, this power trio is the perfect introduction to BeeBio.

QUALITY AND CONSCIENCE “We wanted to ensure the amount of Manuka Honey in BeeBio was more than enough to produce results. Our proprietary formulation has enabled us to use the same levels of concentration of Manuka Honey used in wound care. We use nothing less than 16+ medical grade Manuka Honey at specific concentration level, which is at least three times more than other brands, and this guarantees the results,” explains Adam.

“Nothing compares to BeeBio. The brand is backed by millions of dollars in medical testing and clinical trials and the product formulation is based on that used in wound care throughout Europe, America and in the military.”

While BeeBios’s active ingredients are all 100% New Zealand sourced, the brand also believes in a mutual, long-term commitment to its supplier partners and is committed to returning a fair deal to the landowners from whom the honey is harvested.

BeeBio’s Manuka Honey is grown in some of the most isolated, pristine areas of New Zealand — far away from the influence of urban contaminants or pollutants. To maintain the purity of the honey it is grown and harvested without the use of chemicals or pesticides.

“We have more hives and plant more Manuka than anyone. In fact, Watson & Son will plant three million Manuka seedlings this year alone. Every kilogram of honey can be traced back to the land and the hives from which the bees harvest honey from the flower of the Manuka bush. Each hive has a GPS location, so it’s possible to scan the batch number of each product and ‘Google Earth’ the location of the hive from where the honey came from,” says Adam.

All Manuka Honey supplied to BeeBio is tested under the Molan Gold Standard™ (MGS), a grading system reviewed by the Ministry of Primary Industries of New Zealand to ensure that the natural marker methylglyoxal found in Manuka Honey meets the legislative requirements, assuring purity and quality. The Molan Gold Standard™ helps give consumers full confidence in what they are purchasing.

ADVANCED MANUKA SKINCARE BeeBio is the result of more than $25 million in medical and clinical research and testing to ensure that every product baring the BeeBio badge of honour is of the highest quality.

Key to the range is Manuka Honey, but not just any Manuka. BeeBio uses only the best medical grade Manuka Honey.

“We took the same formulas and what we had learnt from the medical side of the business to develop the BeeBio advanced skincare range.”

“We use the same medical Grade Manuka Honey that is used across the world in advanced wound care for burns clinics and surgical trauma units. Manuka Honey is highly sought after for its ability to actively stimulate new skin cell production, which is not only reparative but also anti-ageing.

However, developing a first class product based on high levels of Manuka Honey combined with active botanicals and 100% Bee Venom is not as straightforward as it might sound. For BeeBio, the manufacturing process is equally as important as the quality of the Manuka Honey itself.

Our sister company Watson & Son is the world leader in the production of Manuka surgical dressings and advanced wound care treatments. They are also New Zealand’s largest producer of premium Manuka Honey, so our understanding of Manuka really is unsurpassed,” explains Adam Boot, Marketing Director, BeeBio Natural Health Products.

“It took a couple of years of design, development and formulation; we had to get the manufacturing right as Manuka doesn’t blend well, which leads to very small quantities of Manuka being used by other brands. The correct Manuka grades, quantities and formulation percentages are critical to achieving genuine topical effects on the skin”

BEEBIOSKIN.COM

34 | eastlife | october 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

FREE GIFT VALUED AT $115 RECEIVE A FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE* ONLY AT LIFE PHARMACY HOWICK AND LIFE PHARMACY PAKURANGA *DIFFERENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY FOR EACH STORE, PLEASE CHECK INSTORE FOR DETAILS.

ACTIVE MANUKA HONEY CRÈME PRODUCT RANGE. REVITALISE, REJUVENATE AND PRESERVE YOUTH.

‘Preservation’ by BeeBio is a natural multi-functional anti-aging skincare range. Created and produced in New Zealand using only the finest medical grade Manuka Honey, pure Bee Venom and native New Zealand botanicals. BeeBio proprietary formulations have highly effective anti-aging and youth enhancing benefits. BeeBio is the highest quality Manuka Honey and Bee Venom skincare product, using higher volumes of effective active ingredients.

Available from T Galleria, East Side Studio 09 379 2706, Life Pharmacy Botany 09 272 7700, Life Pharmacy Pakuranga 09 576 8074, www.eastlife.co.nz eastlife | october Life Pharmacy Howick 09 534 6811, Life Pharmacy Queen Street 09 309 0648, Life Pharmacy Browns Bay 09 478 7069, Life Pharmacy St Lukes 09 846 3213, Life Pharmacy Eastridge 09 528 6062, Aotea Gifts 09 379 5022, www.jtb.co.nz/beebio, and leading retailers.

2016 |

35

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Winning race wear for Cup day Bestselling author on how to look younger without surgery and managing director of Auckland Fashion Week www.aucklandfashionweek.nz DENYSE SAUNDERS talks head-turning race wear

‘

Racing and fashion are synonymous with style and glamour and there is no better time than the Melbourne Racing Cup to dress up in your finest at the myriad of parties and events happening for this year’s event on Tuesday, November 1.

Or, perhaps, some readers will even be at Flemington, in Melbourne where not only the racing but fabulous fashion finery will be under the spotlight.

Dressing appropriately for the races requires a little planning for both men and women. This is not the time to simply pull something out of the wardrobe at the last minute.

It’s a bit like preparing your outfit for a wedding – careful planning is required.

For the ladies, a hat please! One that matches your dress or suit, in this case it is best to take your dress to a milliner and have your hat designed and made specifically for you and your outfit.”

Your shoes and handbag must coordinate with the colour of your outfit; if you don’t have the correct colours take them to a professional and have your shoes and clutch purse dyed to exactly match each other.

Ladies, start with your dress or suit first, choose carefully a style that best flatters you in a vibrant colour to match the exhilarating mood of the races. There are a wide variety of fashion stores all over Auckland that cater for fabulous race wear from sizes 8 to 22, so there is no need to look overseas, Ideally choose a glamorous and sophisticated day suit or dress, not a cocktail dress unless of course it is a night meeting. Knee-length is best, neither too short (above the knee) nor too long (to the ankles). And do wear high stiletto shoes, not wedges, which are simply too heavy for race wear dressing.

For the ladies, a hat please! One that matches your dress or suit, in this case it is best to take your dress to a milliner and have your hat designed and made specifically for you and your outfit.

A fascinator with a piece of feather poking out is not suitable. Race wear dressing really is all about a stunning, vibrant, extravagant hat so that all eyes are on you. Contact your local milliner as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss out!

Also make an appointment to see your beauty therapist for a facial, manicure, pedicure and spray tan a day or two the event. And, book into your hair stylist and makeup artist on

Photographer: MODE Hat: Willmott-Dalton Design Millinery Model: Zara from DS MODELS Makeup: Yvette Weaver Makeup Artistry

the day to complete your look with perfectly groomed hair, makeup and nails – you’ll be the best dressed lady at the races.

For the men a suit and tie is essential to be appropriately dressed for Cup Day. Opt for new season colours

co-ordinated with stylish shoes, belt, watch and cufflinks, Well-groomed hair and facial hair are a given and, of course, don’t forget wearing a gorgeous designer fragrance and sunglasses. A hat could be the makings of male dressing an outfit but it is not absolutely essential.

Supporting New Zealand Designers OBI • DAVID POND • SILLS • LOOBIE’S STORY PAULA RYAN • SABATINI • RANDOM • BAZAAR DEEANNE HOBBS • STAPLE + CLOTH LEMON TREE • NEW LONDON JEANS

Spring has Arrived LAYBY NOW

Beautiful textiles, yarns, haberdashery and much more, all at affordable prices

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Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-4pm Ph 579 3535 • www.sashaboutique.co.nz

36 | eastlife | october 2016

5/10 24 Wellington St, Howick (behind Monterey Cinemas) Phone 09 5358845, www.elegantfabric.co.nz

13669

www.eastlife.co.nz

The power of a blow wave

skin discolourations jody burke, owner of About Skin is a CIDESCO and Cibtac qualified beauty therapist and a qualified advanced skin trainer with more than 20 years experience. Here she talks about solutions for hyper-pigmentation.

Hyper-pigmentation, brown spots, skin discolorations

Vivo Hair & Beauty, Howick shares hairdressing tips.

This month the focus is on the ease of blow wave styling.

If you suffer from hyper-pigmentation you know how frustrating it is to try to conceal, lighten or erase these spots and brown patches on your skin.

Most of us know the all-important power of a blow wave. It takes a masterful hand to conjure such an easy insouciance. In fact, it must be the magic touch of a hairstylist that has you leaving the salon with a skip in your step and every single strand in place.

Hyper-pigmentation is when pigmentproducing cells are being pushed into overdrive by either external factors (typically sun exposure) or internal factors such as hormonal shifts caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, medication or menopause. Any form of hyper-pigmentation will be worsened by sun exposure.

A blow wave, paired with a really good hair wash means minimal styling time throughout the busy working week. Therefore, Vivo’s top pick of the season is the magical blow wave. Whether its pin straight, curly or wavy hair, a blow wave can accomplish your best accessory in just 30 minutes.

It is easy, on-the-go styling, and is perfect for people who don’t have the time or don’t want to commit to a cut and colour. Senior stylist, Gina says it’s one of Vivo Howick’s most popular services.

“A blow wave? Ultra-chic. What’s more, it’s a quick style up before Friday night drinks or a big meeting on a Tuesday afternoon. It’s fantastic; everyone should hop on the blow wave band wagon.

“A classic blow wave is among my top requests through every season of the year. It’s easy styling and will last for days without the need for much upkeep or maintenance. A blow wave is perfect for the busy working woman who needs a pick me up”.

Hyper-pigmentation is often referred to as brown spots, melasma, age spots, ‘liver’ spots, sun spots, sun freckles or pregnancy mask. Whether diffuse, as in melasma, or in single concentrated areas such as those in a freckle, hyper-pigmentation is more often controlled than eliminated and in some cases the best response will be blending and lightening.

And, of course, another perk of the blow wave is instant gratification.

Walk in and walk out feeling like a million bucks in only 30 minutes.

Your stylist will also give your hair that extra oomph with hair styling serums and product to keep your tresses shining and healthy. It’s an overall win!

Melanin – good and bad of your natural pigment Skin gets its light or dark colour from melanin and its colour differs in different areas.

This spring, check out the new Vivo Blow Dry Bar menu. Come in and choose from 5 classic looks that take just 30 minutes each.

The blow dry menu is available at all Vivo salons meaning you book in on the go, nationwide. Choose to have your blow wave with or without a shampoo service. The concept is simple, the execution spot-on. Who knew luxury could come this easy?

THE VIVO BLOWDRY BAR Choose from five classic looks! only $ *

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Available at all Vivo salons.

Melanin rises to the surface of the skin in response to these triggers but is not immediately seen as the cells are produced deep in the skin and then rise slowly to the surface. That’s why brown spots may not be seen for weeks, even months after the cause.

Melanin is a skin protector and is the body’s attempt to stop cell damage from sun or heat. The tan sun lovers seek is the body’s reaction to cell damage. With repeated insult, skin that evenly tans will begin to take on a mottled appearance and then begin showing concentrated dark spots.

An effective solution to existing brown spots and unevenly-colored skin will be one or a combination of:

Elos IPL laser Choosing the right solution for pigmentation removal was once confusing and difficult. Many methods and technologies promised the best result, but often fell short. ELOS™ technology changed that. It is a safe, effective and comfortable skin rejuvenation solution with top results.

Chemical Peel At About Skin we offer effective and superior peels and have a least 10 peels some from leading US company, Cosmetix. Several peels can treat pigmentation problems but selection depends on the cause.

FAMOUS COSMEDIX MEDICAL SKINCARE TIMELESS PEEL ELSEWHERE PAY $350

Talk to your Vivo stylist for more information.

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This is the most popular peel world wide due to the results and lack of down time.

Amazing peel to dramatically reduce the visible signs of aging. Timeless peel increases your skin’s moisture level to give you an age defying, smooth textured complexion. The results are incredible treating acne skin with these peels. Down period is minimal. Best results course of three.

42 salons Nationwide Call 0800 400 300 to book in www.vivosalon.co.nz

* Terms & Conditions: Not valid with master stylists.

Shampoo service $4 extra.

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There are more melanocytes in darker areas e.g. the neck than there is in light areas e.g. the face. However, the concentration of some 1000 to 2000 melanocytes per cubic millimetre is the same for all race groups. It doesn’t matter if you are a black-skinned or a pale redhead, you will still have about the same number of melanocytes!

Sun exposure, heat, injury or hormonal changes can all trigger increased melanin production. It is the abnormal increase that causes irregular colour on the skin.

5 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga, East Auckland. Ph 576 1550. info@aboutskin.co.nz www.aboutskin.co.nz 13264

eastlife | october 2016 |

37

Facial, massage, make up, hair removal, slimming, beauty and health ITALY COLLAGEN FACIAL AND COLD MATE LIGHT TRANSMIT TREATMENT

NOW $68

(Was $176) New customers only

Unit 15/2 Bishop Dunn Place, Flat Bush Phone: 09 273 1998, mob: 021 883 989 Open: Tuesday-Sunday 9am-6pm www.theperfectlady.co.nz Facebook: theperfectladynz 14267

mind, body and soul

MARINA PLASTIC SURGERY

As Kiwis settle into spring and look forward to the summer ahead, there is a general feeling of rejuvenation and a desire to generally become more active and healthy.

“SURGERY BY THE SEA” ■ Facial Plastic Surgery for skin cancers, treatment of melanoma, BCC (Basal Cell Carcinoma), SCC (Squamous Cell Carcinoma) and various skin lesions

At the same time, the last of winter ills and chills linger and spring also brings its own little nasties such as an increase in hay fever resulting in sneezing, itchy eyes and more.

■ Cosmetic Plastic Surgery – Face lifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, breast augmentation, reduction and reconstruction, abdominoplasty, liposuction and liposculpture, hand surgery, injectable dermal fillers etc

What’s more, we were reminded that last month was designated Breath Better September by the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ.

■ Mole Checks

While most people can’t imagine not being able to breathe properly, that’s a reality for one in six New Zealanders. In fact, more than 700,000 Kiwis have respiratory conditions and this past month has been all about raising awareness.

Marina Specialists

Martin Rees

First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina Ph 534 4040 • Fax 537 0147 www.plassurg.co.nz • EDI: marinasp

Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive & Hand Surgeon

“High quality s

Chief executive of the Foundation, John Wills says respiratory conditions are the third leading cause of death and cost the country $5.5 billion

urgery” 01219

We are dedicated to your personal well-being through dental health • Teeth whitening • All ceramic tooth filling materials using Cerec3 cad-cam, 3D technology • Permanent tooth replacements with dental implants • For gum health and maintenance call our hygienist Shelley Chadwick • All aspects of general dentistry Evening appointments available Call us now on 530 8461 or 530 8271, Whitford Village, Whitford David Cain B.D.S(UK) Rick Parfitt B.D.S. Shelley Chadwick

38 | eastlife | october 2016

each year. “But despite New Zealand having one of the highest rates of respiratory disease in the world, it is not highly profiled,” he says.

Breathe Better September encouraged Kiwis to start thinking about how they can improve their respiratory health so for more information see the website www.breathebetterseptember.co.nz Of course, for those without a designated respiratory problem but who are feeling a need to overcome the kind of breathlessness that comes from lack of fitness, then now’s the time to step up and embark on a fresh fitness routine.

Whether that’s walking/jogging, swimming, a gym programme or even kick starting with a boot camp, accompanied by a little overall body pampering – massage, new hairdo, skin care – and general health checks, there’s no time like now to begin revitalising mind, body and soul.

WIN! Three month supply of Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract Like fine wines, we may think we get better as we grow older and that can be true with Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract!

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Make the right choice about your dental care

Revitalising

Designed to reduce blood pressure in adults with hypertension, it also helps provide immune and cardiovascular support, and maintain normal blood pressure in healthy people.

What’s more, made from organically-grown

garlic, this product is intended to be gentle on stomachs and even eliminate that garlic breath.

EastLife has TWO threemonth supplies of Kyolic Aged Garlic (valued at $210 each) up for grabs.

To enter the draw, simply complete the form on the competitions section at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close October 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email. www.eastlife.co.nz

Eye for healthy living Local optometrist and owner of Eyes of Howick, KRISTINE JENSEN talks to EastLife about her career, her business and her passions in life. how long have you been an optometrist?

Other than optometry what are you passionate about?

traditions will help cement Kiwisms for future generations.

I purchased my Howick optometry practice (now known as Eyes of Howick) 14 years ago but have been an optometrist for 22 years. The team at Eyes of Howick has a combined experience of more than 60 years so we know what we are talking about when it comes to optics!

• Health and general wellbeing – I’ve always had an interest in the human body and how it works. It amazes me what a complex but perfectly functioning machine it is.

what are you learning at the moment?

what makes Eyes of howick notable?

The public are spoilt for choice when it comes to who they trust to look after their eyes. I truly believe the practice being owned by a local optometrist is a key benefit to clients.

I understand how valuable each client is and, being an independent practice, we are not dictated to with what we can provide. Subsequently, we can truly personalise an optical solution for each client. tell us about your products Our eyewear collection includes the Paris label FACE A FACE which is fabulous and French, high-end, and rich in colour and expression.

The exclusive Danish-designed FLEYE range we have for men is characterised by lightness, durability and flexibility achieved through the use of allergy-friendly and solid materials. The latest edition to our frame display is the unisex Coppe & Sid which is hand-made in Italy. Eyes of Howick is the exclusive stockist of these ranges within our area, which means you shouldn’t bump into someone wearing the same frame!

• Learning – Life is one long lesson and there simply is not enough time to make my way through all the books I would love to read; I have a pile beside my bed and it never gets any smaller! My idea of heaven is a café-book store concept where I could take time to explore all the hidden treasures on the shelves while simultaneously enjoying my decaf Americano!

• Being a mum – It is rewarding to watch your children develop into amazing little human beings. I made a choice to work part time so I could play a big part in my daughter’s pre-school years. Jaime and I are members of Cockle Bay Playcentre where we both benefit from the positive environment full of likeminded parents who want the very best for their kids.

Over the next several months I am spending a weekly stint at the Auckland Medical School where I examine patients within the public health system who have or are at risk of glaucoma.

This is an opportunity to help clear the back log of patients requiring assessment and is a chance to work under the tutelage of senior ophthalmologists who specialise in the latest in glaucoma treatments.

This has been a truly rewarding experience.

• All things Kiwi – I am a proud New Zealander. Being a 4th generation on my mum’s side and a 4th generation Aucklander, I have a strong sense of ownership and belonging to this country. I am a bit concerned that we may lose what it means to be Kiwi, not because of immigration but because of our busy, over bureaucratic lives. I think by slowing down, ‘un-plugging’ ourselves and spending time to honour our

Trying for a baby?

Everyone’s experience of having a baby is different.

It’s hard to know when you should check your fertility.

We offer a free nurse phone consultation to talk through your questions and find out your options. To find out more visit fertilityassociates.co.nz or call 0800 255 522

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eastlife | october 2016 |

39

Ormiston Weight Loss Service

Obesity

– A Killer Epidemic

What is Obesity?

Welcome to the Ormiston Weight Loss Service. Our service is intended to offer our community a surgical choice and clinical support, to assist in taking ownership of your health and moving forward to a greater place of wellness.

Bariatric Surgery assists in weight loss and may be recommended as a last resort when diet, exercise and medication have not been successful and if obesity related conditions such as heart disease, asthma, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea and type II diabetes have worsened, among other problems.

The aim of the surgery is to reduce the food-holding capacity of the

Obesity is defined as excess accumulation of fat in the body.

It is a very serious health issue for individuals, communities and countries. The world has never seen a greater health epidemic than the current world obesity epidemic.

stomach so the patient has a feeling of fullness after eating very little. Without hunger pangs, the person tends to lose interest in overeating and is more likely to stick to a low-kilojoule diet.

In 2014, according to a World Health Organisation (WHO) report, 1.9 billion people were overweight with the trend of global obesity having doubled since 1980.

When you choose Ormiston Hospital Weight Loss Service for your surgery, you choose the most experienced surgeons, treating you in the well-established Ormiston Hospital.

New Zealand, unfortunately, is not a clean green country when it comes to obesity. We are the third fattest nation behind the USA and Mexico in the OECD nations. One in three adults above the age of 15 years are obese (31%) and one in nine children aged 2-14 years are also obese (11%).

We are dedicated to offering you a complete and comprehensive service with a fixed fee that will provide you with the best level of care through your journey to improved health.

Obesity causes severe and chronic diseases, certain cancers and premature death as well as diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnoea, cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, heart diseases and stroke as well as musculoskeletal disorders especially osteoarthritis which is a highly disabling degenerative disease of the joints.

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition which involves the stoppage of regular breathing during sleep. This is because of redundant fatty tissue at the back of the throat which results in lack of oxygen to the brain.

Contact us today on 09 926 5821 or email kirstyp@ormistonhospital.co.nz 125 Ormiston Road, FINA OPTI NCE Flat Bush, AVAI ONS LABL E Auckland 2019 You can now follow us on facebook

40 | eastlife | october 2016

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This, in turn, jolts the body to kick start breathing again. Sleep apnoea results in broken sleep, tiredness and random falling asleep during the day.

Certain cancers are caused by obesity, such as endometrial, breast, ovarian, prostate, liver, gallbladder and colon.

Habib Rahman Obesity leads to discrimination in society and within various aspects of life. It is associated with poor selfimage, lack of confidence and can often lead to depression and suicide.

Enjoyment of life is lost due to lack of ability to part-take in sports and activities.

Obesity is a huge burden on individuals, societies, governments and the country due to health budgets, job productivity and quality of life. There are multiple factors in the cause of obesity, but the major cause is an imbalance in calories consumed and calories expended.

Globally there is increased consumption of energy-dense food; food rich in calorie content (fats and sugars) and an increase in physical inactivity due to the sedentary nature of many forms e.g., better modes of transportation and urbanisation.

The policy makers, community leaders and all individuals should be alarmed by this killer epidemic. Each individual is responsible for their own health and should take heed and do something about it today. – Mr Habib Rahman is a General and Bariatric Surgeon. He consults at Ormiston Surgeons, Ormiston Hospital, Botany Junction and can be contacted on (09) 277 8249. www.eastlife.co.nz

Coronary calcium score testing A personalised approach to predicting heart attack risk What is a Calcium Score Scan?

This is a specialised CT scan test which provides pictures of your heart and allows your doctor to detect and measure the amount of calcium deposits in plaque inside the arteries that give blood supply to your heart.

Why look at the plaque in your heart arteries?

The plaque in your heart arteries is composed of fats, cholesterols, calcium and other cells from the blood. The plaque deposits in or on the walls of the arteries can eventually grow and restrict the flow of blood to the heart muscle, causing chest pain. The plaques can also burst, triggering a blood clot which can cause a heart attack.

Fig 1. Absence of coronary calcification (calcium score=0)

The calcium score scan is an imaging test which can take an early look at the amount of calcified plaque present in your heart arteries.

Your doctor or cardiologist may order this scan if they would like a better understanding and can personalise your risk of heart disease beyond what is estimated by the usual risk factor assessment (i.e. blood pressure, cholesterol), or if there is

uncertainty about your treatment.

Should I have a scan?

How does the Calcium Score scan predict risk?

You should consider having a scan if you have one or more of the following: • If you have a close family member who has had a heart attack at a young age • Your blood cholesterol levels are elevated and you want to know if plaque is present before starting statin medication • You are over 40 years of age • You have high blood pressure • You have diabetes

The absence of coronary calcium is associated with a very low risk of a cardiovascular event, estimated to be less than 1% over a 10 to 15 year period.

The CT scanner takes multiple images of calcium deposits and can provide a measure of how much plaque has accumulated. A calcium score is calculated, and when combined with other health information and risk factors for heart disease, it can refine a treatment plan to reduce your risk of a cardiovascular event.

An elevated coronary calcium score may suggest you are at increased risk of a heart attack. This may warrant the use of a cholesterol pill (statin) and or a low dose aspirin, to lower your risk.

Is there any risk involved?

The CT scan for the calcium score does not require a contrast (dye) injection and only requires a very small amount of radiation, in a dose similar to a mammogram and is therefore considered safe.

Local experience and expertise you can trust Dr Ruvin Gabriel

Dr Wil Harrison

Fig 2. Extensive coronary calcification of the left anterior descending artery (calcium score =786)

Dr Tim Sutton

Dr Niels van Pelt

When should I not have a scan?

You should not have a scan if: • You are under the age of 40 years • You already have a diagnosis of heart disease • You already have a previous abnormal calcium score • You are aware that you are at very high risk of heart disease

Does my health insurance cover the cost of a Coronary Calcium Score Scan?

Some of the health insurance companies in NZ, cover the cost of a coronary calcium score scan.

Please check with your insurance provider to determine whether or not they do.

How do I arrange to have a Coronary Calcium Score Scan?

Your GP or cardiologist at the Auckland Heart Group can organise a Coronary Calcium Score Scan for you.

The scans are done at Mercy Hospital in Epsom presently and will soon be available in Botany.

Please phone Auckland Heart Group at our Ormiston Hospital Clinic for more information. Direct Dial: 09 623 4731. Fax referral: 09 277 6402.

Drs Gabriel, Harrison, Sutton and Van Pelt are cardiologists at Middlemore Hospital and provide a private cardiology service with the Auckland Heart Group at Ormiston Hospital. They are committed to providing comprehensive assessments and management of outpatients and in-patients at Ormiston Hospital including exercise treadmill tests, echocardiography and vascular ultrasound, stress echocardiography, heart and blood pressure monitoring.

The Auckland Heart Group is an Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society and has Healthcare Partnerships with Sovereign and nib.

To find out more, talk to our team on 09 623 1020 or 09 623 4731 ahg@heartgroup.co.nz www.heartgroup.co.nz 125 Ormiston Road, Botany Junction, Auckland 01951-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

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Itchy eyes Kristine Jensen, Owner-Optometrist of Eyes of Howick talks about allergic eye disease.

Clean easily

As I write this article I am sitting outside at Whangamata. My niece, Jessie, asks about the pretty silver birch in the garden which is ironic given the topic of this article. That’s because this tree is a common cause of pollen allergy in New Zealand.

between your teeth

Spring and summer are allergy seasons and we have certainly been busy at work treating patients with allergic eye disease. As an optometrist it is common to come across children with allergy. Children susceptible to other conditions such as asthma, eczema and hay fever are even more prone to allergy in their eyes.

YVONNE VANNOORT, from Sanctuary Dental, Bishop Dunn Place, Botany talks about the alternatives to using floss Do you love to FLOSS? I expect many of you will say “NO Way!” Actually, I’ve heard many people say it’s one of their pet hates! Why? It’s tricky to get to those back teeth, it’s a smelly job, the floss is fiddly, the gums bleed afterwards and, guys, your fingers are too big, right?

And worse still, your dentist, or hygienists asks how many times a day you floss and is judgmental about the fact you don’t do it. You feel like you just can’t win!

So why is cleaning between your teeth a good idea? It’s helpful for removing plaque and food. Food catching between the teeth can cause decay which is a real problem to be avoided as this sets up the need for fillings.

Removing plaque is important because this irritates the gums and causes them to bleed and be infected. Teeth can gradually become loose and eventually need to be removed.

What can you use instead of floss?

Small brushes called “interdental brushes” are a bit like toothpicks.

They are more effective and more gentle on the teeth and gums and are a good alternative.

What is allergy?

An allergic response is the body’s defence reaction against a substance it perceives as a threat (an allergen).

Common allergens include pollens, dust mites and pet dander. With allergen exposure, the body releases histamine, which causes inflammation of nasal passages and eyes, resulting in sneezing, redness and itching.

A device called a Waterpik squirts warm water around the teeth and cleans under the gums and between the teeth.

A Waterpik is easier to use than floss and it is able to flush the teeth and gums well. These are a very good investment as they can save the cost of fillings or losing a tooth.

What happens in the eye?

Tiny inflammatory cells under the eyelids and on the conjunctiva, (the fine blood vessel layer over the white of the eye) increase in size, releasing mucous into the tear film. Blood vessels in the eye become red and inflamed, (conjunctivitis) and eyelids can become swollen. The eyes will water, often with stringy mucous in the tear film and will feel gritty and itchy. Rubbing the eyes increases the allergic response as this leads to the

Oil pulling with coconut oil is an interesting method for removing the bad bacteria around your teeth and gums. You could google that.

Your hygienist can identify the areas that are tricky for you to reach, and help you choose the tool that’s easiest for you to use.

And, by the way, our hygienists will be kind, gentle and non judgmental!

release of even more inflammatory mediators. In severe cases the cornea (the clear surface at the front of the eye), can become involved – this is known as keratitis. As the cornea is a sensitive tissue this leads to discomfort, light sensitivity and even blurred vision.

What helps?

• Avoid the allergen – It is possible to arrange allergy testing through your GP. If dust particles are a problem, regular vacuuming or removal of carpets and frequent washing of bed clothes can reduce exposure. Pet dander can be minimised by limiting exposure to animals. Regular pet grooming can help. Pollens are more difficult, but wearing sunglasses when outdoors can reduce exposure.

• Flush it out! – Frequent use of artificial tears (preservative-free) can help wash out any allergens in the eyes and reduce exposure. Keeping artificial tears cool in the fridge will help reduce any inflammation.

• Anti-allergy eye drops – These can be effective in reducing the histamine released and therefore minimising the allergic reaction. Not all drops are suitable for young children. While many conditions can cause red, uncomfortable eyes, itching is usually the hallmark of allergy. However, if any of your family is experiencing these symptoms it is important to have their eyes examined by an optometrist to ensure they have allergy rather than an eye infection which requires different treatment.

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42 | eastlife | october 2016

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Painful bunions?

Stefan R. Edwards FNZCPS MChS, Podiatric Surgeon Dip.Pod.Surg.B.Sc.(Hons) Pod.Med.M.NZ.C.Pod.Surg.

International Affiliate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Healthy, pain-free feet are important for a happy life. Unfortunately, three out of five people develop foot pain at some point in life. One of the more common foot disorders that I treat are bunions.

Ironically bunions can often look severe and yet produce little to no pain, however, when a bunion produces pain, irritation within footwear, or infection, then treatment is recommended.

Clinically described at Hallux Abducto Valgus (HAV) bunions are characterised by the abnormal location of the big toe positioned towards or against the lesser toes, often presenting with an enlargement at the big toe joint.

before Readers will probably be aware that the treatment of bunions is often shrouded in tales of painful surgery resulting in poor results.

It is no surprise, therefore, to hear of patients receiving advice to leave their bunion treatment until it becomes “really bad”.

We now know that a delay in receiving appropriate treatment, or waiting until your bunion becomes “really bad”, can often result in further damage to the bony and soft

after tissue structures of your foot, which may then require additional care.

and in most cases you can expect to return to walking in 4-6 weeks.

The effective treatment of bunions relies upon a full understanding of the deformity. The secret to the success of the treatment is in the planning.

Once the appropriate technique is chosen for your bunion, a good longterm result can be expected.

The vast majority of my patients deny any significant post-operative pain or discomfort and my clinic enjoys a 98.7% success rate in permanently correcting bunion deformities.

The latest surgical techniques offer the quickest, post-operative recovery, with no need for overnight hospital stays, cast or general anaesthetic

If you do have any questions relating to your bunion or foot problem, please feel free to contact my rooms on 09 579 0091 or email me info@ footcentre.co.nz and we will do our best to help.

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SPONSORED

Putting a permanent smile on people’s faces For someone who fainted at the sight of blood as a 16 year old dental assistant, she has come a long way.

Her reputation as one of the top clinical dental technicians in Howick, precedes her.

It was her love for aesthetics that led Ugie Moodley to put a permanent smile on people’s faces.

And, you know you are in great hands as you hear Ms Moodley talk passionately about the state- of-the-art technology she uses to create a smile from prostheses the size of a little finger to that of replacing all teeth.

Keeping herself regularly updated by attending workshops and courses, she says it is a blessing to be privy to all the new technology as it updates.

“Each course allows us to actually work with new materials and techniques which makes being a dental technician at this time very exciting and rewarding,” Ms Moodley says.

“Most partial dentures have anchors called clasps that are used to retain the denture in your mouth.

“These can sometimes show and ruin a beautiful smile.

“We are now equipped with technology to resolve this. There are so many combinations

At Niche Denture Centre the hot cure process is used to ensure 100% guaranteed quality dentures.

NICHE DENTURE CENTRE OFFERS: • All types of dentures • Repairs while you wait • Relines within 24 hours • 100% guarantee on all new work done Ugie Moodley available, that it is hardly ever the same for each patient.

“If light metal frameworks have to be used you can be assured that they are nickel and beryllium-free,” she says.

With more than 20 years creating dentures it is no wonder Ugie has local clients and from around the world that sing her praises.

A word from Ugie’s clients: Mae Salvador

Pamela Harrison

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Pro tips: n If the corners of your mouth are red and irritated with saliva leaking from them, you may have a condition called Angular Cheilitis.

This can be treated with a topical anti-fungal ointment but if the condition reappears it may be caused by the reduced vertical dimension of your dentures. n Dentures need to be checked on a regular basis, once or twice every two years. It’s very like getting a WOF for your car only your dentures are a part of you and must achieve far greater feats than your car.

“For me a smile is the prettiest thing a lady can wear. But I didn’t always feel that way. I had my previous set of dentures made overseas and I was embarrassed to smile. It was an awful feeling as they didn’t even work properly. When I returned to NZ, I was referred to Ugie at Niche Dental by my sister-inlaw and I can now smile confidently. In fact, I feel like smiling all the time. Thank you Ugie for my beautiful new smile.”

– Mae Salvador “I am very happy with the service I received. I got exactly what I needed with great respect and friendliness. The best dental practice yet!”

– Pamela Harrison

16 Selwyn Road, Howick, Phone 09 533 0036, Mobile 021 171 3433 Email nichedental@xtra.co.nz www.nichedental.co.nz, www.eastlife.co.nz

Fail to plan – plan to fail Spring! This is often a time when we start setting new goals to head into summer!

To ensure you achieve your goals, you need to start now but, before you blindly rush off towards your new goals, take the time to create a plan.

Abraham Lincoln said, “If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend six hours sharpening my axe”.

Your chances of success improve significantly when key action points are entered into your diary.

• Step 1 – Create a plan! It is too much to hope that you will arrive at your destination without mapping out the route.

• Step 2 – is equally as important; a plan is only effective when it is realistic to follow.

So, highlight any potential stumbling blocks in the plan you have set. This allows you to call on support you may require or create alternative options

that fit into your lifestyle. Excuses come when you are ill prepared.

You should aim to have a contingency plan for those barriers that may occur and could prevent you completing a task. Asking for advice on how to adapt your plan to meet your needs is as important as the plan itself.

A good way to trouble shoot your plan is to enter each task into your diary. This allows you to clearly see whether there are any conflicting appointments and highlight the days or times, which will be a challenge in sticking to your plan.

If, for example, you have an exercise session planned on the same day as an important meeting that could run over time, you could reschedule your exercise session.

However, rather than missing the exercise session, you could complete it before the meeting, choose a quickfire 20-minute circuit instead of the full workout or plan ahead and do it the day before the meeting.

We will all have a common thread of excuses that we tend to use time and time again – ‘I ran out of time’; ‘there was no one to look after the kids’; ‘my meeting ran longer than expected’.

To identify the recurring situations or circumstances that continue to trip us up is important.

There are some things that will not change; you are kidding yourself if you believe they will. You are better off concentrating on factors that you can control. It is more productive to create contingency plans and alternatives for times when faced with these situations than trying to change the situation itself.

Before setting off towards your ‘destination’, map out the ‘route’ to get there. You should also aim to have an alternative route in case the ‘main trunk line’ is blocked. If you don’t know the way, or you need guidance, ask for help.

This level of planning will give you confidence as you will know exactly where you are at all times and that you’re heading in the right direction.

This will allow you to for spend more energy on actually enjoying the journey.

– This article was submitted by the team at Jetts Fitness New Zealand.

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Sweet Mama cakes!

For most events it’s those special touches that add the ‘icing on the cake’ and one talented local mum sure does know how to add the icing on the cake – literally – as HELEN PERRRY discovered.

When Marie Antoinette famously said, ‘let them eat cake’ (or something like that) she might have been clairvoyant – seeing into a future when it was perfectly ‘everyday’ for children to covet and receive a beautifully decorated cake on their birthdays.

And one clever local knows just how much a beautiful cake, emanating the latest fantasy craze, will delight little ones and not so little ones too.

Gemma Smyth, doesn’t come from a long line a of bakers, patissieres or cake decorators but she has quietly pursued a passion that started nine years ago when she offered to make and decorate a birthday cake for a friend’s daughter.

It was so successful another soon followed and before she knew it Gemma was captivated by the creative possibilities of cake decorating.

“I’ve loved baking since childhood and at one stage even wanted to be a chef but I left school young and that just wasn’t an option. However, when I started on cake decorating, I began avidly researching and teaching myself skills that I never knew I had in me.”

Leaning from the internet and books, Gemma may be self-taught – and says she still has a long way to go to come close to the standards of top decorators – but her efforts have thrilled scores of children. And their parents – many a mum has undergone the trials and tribulations of baking and decorating children’s birthday cakes, sometimes with great success; other times a total disaster.

“Making the actual cake is easy for me, even applying a basic icing isn’t difficult but making the figures, flowers and decorative pieces is fiddly and takes time,” Gemma says.

“Food technology is continually advancing and there is so much to learn.

“For example, there isn’t just butter icing, but a whole range of butter

46 | eastlife | october 2016

Gemma with some of her creations. icings and some extremely technical if you want perfection. At the moment I’m learning to use mirror glaze, a technique I haven’t employed before.”

Like most things in life, the Flat Bush mum says trends often dictate what children want in a cake.

“Many have their own ideas for a theme but it’s up to me to come up with something that makes the theme spectacular. For example, while fairies never go out of fashion, at the moment little boys are into super heroes while popular television and movie characters such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Peppa Pig or Frozen’s Elsa are up there too. I recently did a Peppa Pig picnic cake and that was a huge success.”

Icing styles come and go, too, and Gemma says ‘drip icing’ is all the rage at present. Regardless of theme, she says every child wants icing dripping over the edge of the cake and down

Photo Wayne Martin

its side (generally over a contrasting colour underneath).

‘And it’s also my favourite look for now,” she says. “You can have a lot of fun with the end effect – it can be whimsical, funny or really elegant.

Incorporate an explosion of colour, add elements to the theme, and the outcomes are endless.”

From that first cake – a teddy dressed as a fairy bumble bee complete with wings and wand, Gemma’s hobby has grown. She initially allowed a small corner on one cupboard for her hobby. Now she has two huge cupboards bursting with equipment.

“I’ve taken time to learn properly but I’m not a very good freehand artist so a graphic artist friend creates templates for images which I then work to. I’ve had to learn the artistry side but amazingly I’ve not had any disasters. Rather I’ve just become more able and keep taking the complexity of designs further.”

Her own two children, eight-year- old Chloe and three-year old, Cameron have helped spur her interest.

“In particular, it has given me an interest beyond housework – I’m a stay-at-home mum – and I’m delighted that both children love to help. However, when it comes to their special events I generally keep the finished product out of sight until the last moment so it is a real surprise.

“But, of course, the best part of any cake I make is watching the faces of children when they see it for the first time. That’s precious. They are usually so astounded. It always reminds me that being at home doesn’t mean you can’t be productive.

“Perhaps in time I could go on to make a business of it but I think it will remain a hobby. What I’d most love to do is work with a patisserie or baker to learn more about that side of the industry. Now, that would be fantastic.” www.eastlife.co.nz

Ace aims to bowl judges over There are few awards which mean more to a professional cricketer than a series win in India. However, local Black Cap and Auckland Ace, Mitchell (Mitch) McClenaghan, says he could stomach humble pie abroad provided he could also savour victory at home.

Due to injury, Mitch won’t be hitting the pitches in India during the current series. However, the fast bowler has another challenge ahead this month as his company, CleanPaleo, seeks to deliver a win at the New Zealand Food Awards.

same euphoria as winning a game of cricket for New Zealand.”

The CleanPaleo team reached the finals in the Dry Goods category with its Cacao Berry Breakfast Cereal.

Established in 2013, the East Tamakibased company develops whole food products suited to a paleo diet. Just to reach the finals at first attempt is “amazing”, Mitch adds.

“In all honesty, [winning an NZ Food Award] would mean just as much to me as a Black Caps series win!” he confirmed to EastLife.

“The feeling is incredible! I’m just so incredibly proud of our team and, fingers crossed, we can pull through on the night. However, if not, nothing changes. We will continue to provide our loyal customers with the cleanest, tastiest, whole foods’ range of products on the market.”

“The commitment and passion I see on the international cricket stage is the same as that shown by the team at CleanPaleo. Congratulating them on being recognised is an absolute pleasure and gives me (at least) the

Two other local companies are also in the running for NZ Food Awards this year. East Tamaki’s East Open Country Dairy has the Food Safety Culture Award in its sights, while Clevedon’s The Larder Project will

really interesting is to see the healthy, nutritional side continue to grow.

feature in two categories (Artisan Food Producer and Health and Wellness) thanks to its Sesame and Linseed Bread Mix. Auckland restaurateur and judge, Geoff Scott, says he has been overwhelmed with the quality of entries across the board.

“There have been some real highlights and some massive, wonderful tastes. What has been

“The thing I love most about judging is seeing the different technology, types of innovation, creativity and aspects that producers, manufacturers and growers are bringing to the awards. [It] is really exciting!”

Organised by Massey University, the New Zealand Food Awards culminates in a gala dinner at Auckland War Memorial Museum.

To read more about CleanPaleo and the man behind the company, see EastLife’s first issue (April 2013) at eastlife.co.nz.

Triple deck pantry draw!

Flavours of the week are regularly featuring on the EastLife TASTE page, giving readers the heads up on new products – and sometimes old favourites with a fresh twist – hitting the supermarket shelves. But this week we have a bonus – yummy giveaways to match two TASTE products featured this month as well as a final chance to win ‘All Black’ Weet-Bix so, check out the following and be in to win:

‘

To be in the draw for any or all these prizes just visit www.eastlife. co.nz then click on the competition link and fill in the appropriate form(s).

One entry person/email address; entries close October 31, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Old El Paso Minis

Tasti SuperGrains

Weet-Bix

New Old El Paso Mini Stand n Stuff Tacos and Tortillas are an easy way to dine and a delicious addition to summer entertaining menus. With the regular Old El Paso Tortillas taste you know and love, new Old El Paso Mini Tortillas let you create bite-sized eats that are easy to hold and enjoy without mess! Then, when you want a bit of crunch with your Mexican munch, new Old El Paso Mini Stand n Stuff Tacos is just perfect for family and friends. EastLife has FIVE Old El Paso mini packs up for grabs. Each contains 1x Old El Paso Mini Tortillas and 1x Old El Paso Mini Stand n Stuff Tacos)

If the kids are bored with their usual lunchbox snacks and you need to find that nutritious snack alternative that you know is good for them and tastes great, too then let Tasti Supergrains bring a little superhero to snack time!

Tapping into the worldwide trend that is ‘superfoods’, Tasti SuperGrains are made with the perfect blend of ancient grains and seeds, including quinoa, chia seeds, amaranth, buckwheat, brown rice, oat and millet – now how good is that? What’s more we have FIVE Tasti Supergrains packs (each containing 2 x boxes of SuperGrains) for lucky readers to win.

On the back of the immensely popular Weet-Bix All Black World Champion Collector Cards campaign, there’s a last chance for readers to take a bite of All Black history and eat the breakfast of champions, too!

EastLife has FIVE ‘All Black’ boxes of Weet-Bix up for grabs and they all contain collectors’ cards so it really could be a last chance try to find the missing card you’re looking for! And, of course, there is nothing quite like a Weet-Bix brekkie – a favourite with Kiwi kids (and adults) for decades.

eastlife | october 2016 |

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vintage roundup

Marlborough reigns Wine columnist and connoisseur, DENNIS KNILL, gives his view on new releases and awardwinning vintages.

Compared with the great vineyards of Europe our wine industry, comparatively speaking, is still in its infancy. The first vines to be planted in New Zealand were in the Hawkes Bay during the early 1940s followed by Marlborough in the mid-70s. Today ingenuity and entrepreneurship lie at the very heart of New Zealand’s overwhelmingly impressive winemaking story.

Established 20 years ago by a small group of dedicated wine lovers, Astrolabe produces a range of wines under a variety of labels that express the purity and intensity of the grapes grown throughout the region.

When vines were initially cultivated in Marlborough the critics all said that the South Island was far too cold for growing grapes. History now tells us they were wrong. Apart from Marlborough being commercially important it is the undisputed wine capital of New Zealand.

There is an authenticity to the culture that runs deep in Marlborough, not only as New Zealand’s most famous wine growing region, but for producing outstanding wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with the great wines of the world.

And, of all the grapes grown throughout New Zealand, the most notable is sauvignon blanc.

It’s our signature varietal and one with a bold world-wide reputation that cannot be surpassed even by the French.

One of Marlborough’s many success stories is Astrolabe.

uncorks new

Generation(s) As youngsters, Josh, Sara and Victoria Scott would help their father Allan on the family vineyard in Marlborough, never short of questions about what makes an ordinary wine extraordinary.

Now, as Allan and wife Catherine prepare to hand over the winery reins to their children, the three siblings have stepped up to make their own mark on what has become one of New Zealand’s most respected familyowned businesses – Allan Scott Family Winemakers (ASFW).

Of course they knew their first foray at the helm would need to be a premium line, and so ASFW’s latest range, aptly named Generations, was borne.

Taihoa Vineyard 2013 sauvignon blanc RRP $32

A playful nod to the Scott’s family roots and tribute to this generational shift, the new Generations label is more than just a new wine flight or change of label says Josh Scott. “It’s a signal of a changing of the guard at the vineyard as a new Scott era takes over.”

Single-vineyard sourced and made from the best grapes on the Scott family estate, the Generations wines are made with love yet are produced in limited quantities.

The hero variety in the new range is the 2015 Sauvignon Blanc – no surprise given the region’s credentials. Straight from the grapes on the family’s oldest sauvignon blanc vineyards, this Sav’ fuses old world and new world winemaking techniques.

A great rendition of a Marlborough classic, it showcases the best of old world techniques (through mellow yeast degradation and highlight minerality) while new world methods add the punchy, tropical fruit notes and racy acidity – superb on the palate when paired with smoked foods or goats cheese.

Other Generations wines presently available are the 2015 Chardonnay RRP $31, 2015 Pinot Noir RRP $36, 2015 Riesling RRP $26 and 2015 Dry Riesling RRP $26.

Intense and ripe this herbaceous, tropical, well rounded wine fills the mouth with powerful flavours that provides a lingering, fruity finish on the palate.

Astrolabe Province 2015 sauvignon blanc RRP $21 A ripe and fruity wine bursting with character and flavour that will please. This is an excellent example of an everyday sauvignon expected from Marlborough.

GREAT SCOTT! Allan Scott Family Winemakers premium range, ‘Scott Base’, and Sir Edmund Hillary’s Scott Base hut share a special link which goes beyond the name – it could be said both represent Kiwi ingenuity, passion and good old-fashioned hard work.

In 2008, the Scott family realised the nickname for their Cromwell vineyard – ‘Scott Base’ – had a strong connection to Sir Ed’s legacy, so they decided to give something back by supporting the

48 | eastlife | october 2016

Allan Scott

Antarctic Heritage Trust’s mission to preserve Kiwi history in the Antarctic – the restoration of Sir Ed’s iconic hut at Scott Base.

In fact, many readers will have followed the recent fund-raising journey for the Trust by three Massey Ferguson tractors which travelled 2012 kilometres across New Zealand (from Piha Beach to Mt Cook). This was the same distance covered by Sir Ed and his team when they made their 1958 expedition to the South Pole in the same model tractors.

In doing its bit to save the Scott Base hut, Allan Scott Family Winemakers has, since

2008, donated five percent of all Scott Base wine sales to the Trust.

Now, knowing every glass poured is helping to preserve Sir Ed’s legacy, there is good reason for wine lovers to explore the Scott Base range (all made in small quantities) , including the memorable Pinot Noir. Ripe cherries, raspberries and wild thyme combine to give this drop an oaky sweetness and a distinctively ‘Central Otago’ aroma.

Ideal with pâté and peppery Italian cured meats, the Pinot also matches beautifully with beef and lamb dishes. RRP $38. www.eastlife.co.nz

Beefing up This month introduces the first in a series of columns from local Aussie Butcher, Andrew Beatson who proudly sells fresh pork, beef, lamb and chicken of New Zealand origin only thus helping to support local farmers and the New Zealand economy. Here, he talks about the worth of a good old fashioned roast.

Spring Asparagus Welcome arrival There nothing quite like new season, spring asparagus so now’s the time to be ploughing into this nutritious, easy-to-prepare vegetable.

Green asparagus is, perhaps, best known to Kiwis although the purple variety is becoming more readily available. White asparagus is grown in some countries – it remains white because it is grown covered in soil – but little is grown here.

With freshly harvested asparagus now finding its way into greengrocers and supermarkets, look for firm, bright, smooth spears of similar size with a minimum of white butt. Fresh asparagus is ‘squeaky’ – when the spears are gently rubbed they squeak; old asparagus is rubbery and doesn’t squeak.

What’s more, the first spears are delicious sliced raw into salads!

These stems are usually so tender there’s seldom a ‘stringy’ tail but be quick, they don’t last long in the shops.

Caring for freshly cut asparagus is much like caring for cut flowers.

Keep your asparagus fresh by wrapping it in a damp tea towel, putting it in a plastic bag and storing it in the fridge crisper compartment.

Alternatively, stand spears upright in a container with about 1cm of cold water, cover with the lid and store in the fridge – super easy!

www.eastlife.co.nz

When serving asparagus, the less done the better. If cooking the spears, simply blanch in boiling well-salted water until bright green – about 1-2 minutes depending on thickness.

Some people dunk the cooked spears into iced water, but this means they will lose much of the heat. Instead, try blanching the asparagus to just before perfect, and let the residual heat cook it through.

Toss your blanched asparagus through butter or olive oil, season well with salt flakes and serve with whatever else you have planned as a plated vegetable or in salads.

Asparagus is also delicious lightly grilled with a little olive oil or butter – in fact, it is so versatile it can be lightly steamed, stir fried, microwaved, baked or barbecued. Serve with aioli or hollandaise sauce, add to soup, and quiches (as well as salads and stir fries) or eat with fresh bread – the asparagus roll remains a popular party plate.

• Health benefits: With only 16 calories per serve, asparagus is wonderful source of Vitamins A, B and C as well as potassium. Just one serve of asparagus provides a quarter of our daily vitamin C needs and 20% of daily folate requirements. The high level of potassium also contributes to maintaining a healthy blood pressure, so when you put all this together, there’s good reason to add to one’s diet.

To return to healthier, balanced eating habits, I suggest putting aside regular take-outs and having some fun in the kitchen using quality, lean meats from local markets. At the Aussie Butcher we stock only ‘quality mark’ beef and lamb with NZ grassfed Waygu beef a specialty.

With winter still lingering it’s hard to go past a good old fashioned roast. and here Aussie Butcher we have a great selection of top quality beef, pork and lamb roasts, bone in or bone out. But today I’m talking beef – roasts such as topside, bolar, wing rib, standing rib and eye fillet.

And, remember, all our rolled beef roasts are trimmed and rolled on the premises daily by qualified tradesmen who don’t take short cuts; they’re prepared just as they were 50 years ago.

First up, why not try this delicious, yet easy, recipe using a whole Scotch fillet, which has a tender, fine grain with some marbling and a small strip of fat running lengthwise. Whole scotch fillet is a well-flavoured cut which carves into beautiful neat slices.

Roast Brown 750g piece of beef Scotch fillet on all sides in a dash of oil in a hot frying pan. Transfer to a chopping board. Mix together two teaspoons horseradish cream, two teaspoons mustard and two teaspoons brown sugar, spread mixture on the top and sides of the meat.

Place on a foil-lined baking tray then place in 220°C oven, turn heat down immediately to 200°C and roast for 40 minutes. Set aside to rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving with mushroom sauce, roast potatoes and freshly steamed vegetables.

Mushroom Sauce Cook one peeled and finely chopped onion in a dash of oil in a saucepan over a moderate heat for about 5 minutes until softened. Add one teaspoon minced fresh garlic, cook for a further minute.

Stir in 1/2 cup port or medium/sweet sherry and simmer until reduced by half. Add one cup beef stock, four chopped Portobello mushrooms and 220g can of mushrooms in butter sauce. Simmer 10 minutes.

Top quality meat at everyday low prices!

NZ grass-fed wagyu beef our specialty Droewors, biltong, boerewors & a variety of game meats Ask about our speciality meats and special cuts

ORDER NOW – PH 274-0995. 312A TI RAKAU DR, BOTANY andrew@theaussiebutcher.co.nz | theaussiebutcher.co.nz eastlife | october 2016 |

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Spring asparagus should need little preparation but if your asparagus does have thick, tough butts just

snap off; you can use these to flavour stock or soup.

Recently, there’s been plenty of talk about obesity, both in adults and children, with much of the problem being attributed to indulging in too many ‘fast foods’ which are high in sugar, fats and carbohydrates.

Although eaten in moderation, none may be disastrous, too much, too often, can take its toll.

49

Panfried tarakihi

Maori (Taewa) purple potato, cauliflower, green peas and lemon butter sauce

There’s nothing quite like a fishy ‘tail’ presented on a relaxed summer’s evening to bring cheer to the family and this version from EastLife contributor AJAY ZALTE, executive chef at Waipuna Hotel and Conference Centre, is one readers are sure to enjoy.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS • 750g tarakihi fish • 80ml oil • 4 tbsp butter • Juice from 4 lemons • 500g peeled and sliced Maori potato • 4 sprigs thyme leaves • 160g green peas • 200g cauliflower florets blanched in hot water • 4 cloves crushed garlic • Salt and pepper to taste • 8 basil leaves

METHOD: Heat oil in a pan, sauté garlic, potatoes and thyme. Cover and

cook on a slow flame turning once in between. Add seasoning as per taste and keep warm.

Heat oil in a pan, sear the fish seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for three minutes on each side or until just done. Sauté cauliflower and green peas quickly in a pan. Season and keep aside.

Melt butter in warm (not hot!) pan.

Add lemon juice to the butter and warm briefly mixing all the way slowly. Adjust seasoning.

Arrange cooked Maori potatoes in the centre of a plate, place tarakihi fish on top, arrange green peas and cauliflower around, drizzle warm lemon butter sauce over. Garnish with basil leaves.

Something to crow about!

WHAT CAME FIRST, THE CHICKEN OR THE EGG? Well actually it was the bacon, then the egg, and now the chicken!

Have you heard…there’s a new chick in town! Freedom Farms – the people that bring you those beautiful free range eggs and delicious bacon, ham and pork – is excited to add free range chicken to its happy family.

Yes, Freedom Farms is on a mission to encourage farmers to open their barns so their chickens can head outside, feel the wind in their feathers, ‘peck about’ and play in the fields.

50 | eastlife | october 2016

‘

be in to win!

To celebrate the addition of chicken to its family, Freedom Farms is giving EastLife readers a chance to win a fabulous hamper valued at $180. It includes Freedom Farms whole bagged chicken, tray-packed chicken breasts and thighs, pork roast, bacon, champagne ham, carton of eggs, and chorizo sausages – now how good is that? To enter the draw visit www.ruralliving. co.nz click on the competition link and fill in the appropriate form. One entry per person/ email address; entries close October 31, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

www.eastlife.co.nz

dining Mains $10-$24 = $ Mains $25-$34 = $$ Mains $35+ = $$$

THAI

Restaurant

PALDO KOREAN BUFFET

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Adventuresome foodies with a taste for Asia will want to explore bustling Paldo Korean Buffet. Offering a sumptuous banquet of prepared hot and cold dishes encompassing a host of delicious flavours from mild to spicy, it’s all about balance and variety with a touch of tradition and a good dash of contemporary style – discover new taste sensations!

Your favourite Thai restaurant since 1998. After 18 successful years in the heart of Howick, Benjarong is a household name in the east, consistently maintaining its tradition of menu, service and decor excellence.

A local, family-owned and run establishment since 1993, Rossini Italian Restaurant in Howick prides itself on traditional Italian fare served in cosy, warm surroundings. Family-style meals – hearty, rustic and full of flavour. Check out this well-loved favourite offering lively music, friendly service and excellent food. Affordably priced and BYO, Rossini is perfect for a casual week night meal or for that special occasion.

Available for functions 7 days, lunch and dinner.

Dedicated foodies will love this Howick jewel which is committed to ensuring customers experience the authentic taste of Thailand, with many contemporary flavours from their homeland to select from.

• OPEN SEVEN DAYS – Dinner, $28 pp; lunch, $18 pp; children under two years, free; 2-10 years, their age plus $4.90.

• AVAILABLE FOR FUNCTIONS 298 Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood. Ph 273 9797.

Open 7 days, lunch 11.30-2pm, dinner 5.30pm-late www.paldo.co.nz • Find us on facebook

LICENSED

$$

• 20% Off YOUR BILL ON pRESENTATION Of ThIS ADvERT Up TO $50 vALUE

87 Picton Street, Howick. Ph 533 9568.

Lunch Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 4.30pm till late www.benjarong.co.nz

LICENSED • BYOW

7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, howick. ph 537 5554.

Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-11.00pm

$$

LICENSED • BYO

$

INDIaN aCCENt rEStauraNt & Bar

sierra cafe

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

Indian Accent has scoured India for the best cuisine and now serves up an eclectic range of dishes. The talented team has devised a fascinating menu ranging from dishes once enjoyed by Moghul kings to Indo-Chinese fusion delights. Offering a simple yet cleverly refined culinary style, even the most wellknown dishes encompass a delightful twist.

We offer a full breakfast and lunch menu, freshly prepared cabinet food, great coffees, teas, smoothies and iced cold drinks. Cozy atmosphere inside with ample seating outside.

Separate kids menu and group bookings available.

There’s nothing Szimpla than dropping in at a popular gastro bar for a taste of great food and atmosphere. Stop and linger before or after a flight, and revel in the magic of Szimpla’s beautiful Balinese courtyard and contemporary decor. Close to accommodation and the airport; forget the hassle, just sit back, relax and enjoy the Szimplicity. Weekend brunches from 10am.

• LuNCH SPECIaL – from $12.90, 7 days • HaPPY HOur Mon-Thur 5-6pm – all mains $14.90 5/308 te Irirangi Drive, Botany South.

Ph 09 272 2322. Open 7 days.

Lunch 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner from 5pm www.indianaccent.co.nz

LICENSED • BYOW www.eastlife.co.nz

$

• special weekday only offer – Buy one lunch or breakfast and recieve another half price when you mention this advert.

4 Town centre drive, Botany Town centre. ph 09 272 4496 open 7 days, Mon-wed 7.30am-5.30pm, Thurs-fri 7am-9pm, sat-sun 7.30am-5.30pm kitchen open 8am-2pm 7 days a week like sierra botany on facebook

$

• SET ChRISTMAS MENu AvAILABLE NOw • LARGE fuNCTION SPACE AvAILABLE fOR GROuPS Of uP TO 100 • kIwI CRAfT BREwS ON TAP 2 Leonard Isitt Dr, Auckland Airport.

Ph 215 1220. Open 7 days 10am-late. info@szimpla.co.nz • www.szimpla.co.nz

LICENSED

$ eastlife | october 2016 |

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www.eastlife.co.nz 13890-v2

52 | eastlife | october 2016

Taste

Try our latest flavours of the month and experience a range of new products with a real taste difference. EastLife is always on the lookout for new products to tantalise the tastebuds of our readers.

cavEman SnacK On thE gO!

SO mini wayS tO tacO! Say hola to tasty new meal ideas with new Old El Paso Mini Stand n Stuff Tacos and Tortillas. The new Mini Tortillas are ‘boat-shaped’, soft and super simple to fill, hold and eat. Try fillings such as carrot and beetroot salad and pulled pork, or spicy chicken mince, fresh tomato, lettuce and grated cheese. If you love a bit of crunch make new Old El Paso Mini Stand n Stuff Tacos the go-to for feeding family or friends. Uniquely shaped and easy to fill, create your own meal speciality with coriander slaw and fish, or spicy beef mince topped with guacamole and salsa.

Old El Paso Mini Stand ‘N Stuff Tortillas (RRP $5.99) and Old El Paso Mini Stand ’N Stuff Taco Shells (RRP $5.69) available in supermarkets.

Oh, thOSE Summit Day nightS! So let me get this straight, they put lime in their lager and we drink ‘em both together? After recently developing its Summit Lime Lager, that’s exactly how Speight’s is suggesting our summer plays out. But if you like them apples better, pick up Speight’s Summit Apple Lager instead.

Both new varieties to the Summit range are available now, in six, 12, 15 and 24 packs (RRP $11.99, $21.99, $26.99 and $39.99 respectively).

Venerdi launched PALEO Grain Free Bread in 2015; now it’s cracked the market with its PALEO Grain Free Crackers. Like no other they contain 5-10 times more protein than a standard cracker and are incredibly high in fibre with each serving containing 9.7g to help with positive gut bacteria. All ingredients are from plant sources with flavours such as turmeric, coriander and mozuku seaweed to name a few. The ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 exceeds normal requirements and with a low GI, they are designed to help sustain energy longer – a must in any gym bag! What’s more they are wheatfree. PALEO Grain Free Crackers (3 crackers RRP $4.49) available at specialty food stores.

taSti SuPErgrainS full Of anciEnt wiSDOm! When the day calls for a hunger-busting snack there’s just one way to go....with the grain! New Tasti Supergrains bring a little superhero to the lunch box or snack pack being made with a yum blend of ancient grains and seeds, including nutrition powerhouses quinoa, chia seeds, amaranth, buckwheat, brown rice, oat and millet. Offering a bar full of goodness, these deliciously moreish snack bars are a source of fibre, and protein. They contain less sugar and a higher percentage of wholegrains than other standard muesli bars, earning them 4+ health stars across the range. They’re also wheatfree! Take your pick from three delicious options – Pepita, Chia and Manuka Honey; Almond, Cranberry and Linseed; Cocoa, Toasted Coconut and Quinoa (RRP $4.49 each).

mEEt SuPErhErO SuPEr POwDEr! We could all do with some super powers to push through the last of winter and GO Superfood Organic Spirulina has just the punch. A freshwater, blue-green algae offering one of the most complete nutrient profiles found in nature – one kilogram of spirulina has the same quantity of nutrients as about 1000kg of assorted vegetables – it is a source of essential amino acids, iron, omegas, protein, and vitamins B, C, D and E. It’s packed with antioxidants, too while the blue phycocyanin outer coating on Spirulina Blue gives added boost to nutritional benefits. Go Superfood Organic Spirulina comes in three forms: green powder for smoothies, juices and baking (200g RRP $34.90), green tablets (300 tablets RRP $39.90) and spirulina blue tablets (300 tablets RRP $47.90). Available at major pharmacies and health stores. www.eastlife.co.nz

nEw milK POwDErS Stir it uP! The often short shelf life and addition of synthetic fillers and sugar in plantbased milk, has prompted. Harvest to create the Stir it Up range of plant-based milk powders, featuring a mix of gluten-free, non GMO and organic ingredients.

This healthy, dairy-free Stir It Up range includes Oat Milk Powder (dairy-free, non GMO), low fat and rich in calcium; Coconut Milk Powder (dairy-free, glutenfree, USDA Certified Organic), creamy and rich in phosphorus; Almond Milk Powder (dairy-free, gluten-free, USDA Certified Organic), light and nutty, low in cholesterol with a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E.; Soy Milk Powder (dairy-free, gluten-free) high in protein and low in fat and cholesterol. Available in 400g packets with a price range of RRP $12.99 to RRP $15.99, at leading supermarkets and Farro Fresh stores. eastlife | october 2016 |

53

OUT OF EUROPE

Deeply dippy design Dutch cOmfOrt: According to Charles Darwin for one, there was a time when our distant ancestors frolicked in the briny deep.

with the distinctively eye-catching design of a comfortable chair, which ‘evolved’ to take the shape of a bathtub.

So, it’s no wonder that, when the cares of the world stack up on our shoulders, we rediscover the sublime comfort of a luxurious, hot bath.

What’s more, as this tub is larger than average (measuring 188cm long, 87 wide and 59cm deep) even more corpulent sorts – such as the aforementioned historical Henry – can be King of their own ‘throne’ room comfortable in the knowledge that their ‘Netherland’ regions won’t feel exposed!

Reminiscent of Tudor architecture, (one can almost imagine Henry VIII bubbling it up in this tub!) the Evolution Bathtub surfaced following a eureka moment by Dutch designer, Thomas Linssen.

Seeking to combine aspects of traditional craftsmanship with modern features, Thomas began

While Evolution Bathtubs are not available here, all Dutch Design Only products can be shipped to New Zealand – see dutchdesignonly.com for details.

Factory Showroom 54D Sir William Ave, East Tamaki.

Phone: (09) 274 6471.

E-mail: info@dlcabinetmaking.co.nz www.dlcabinetmaking.co.nz 54 | eastlife | october 2016

12920-V3

QUALITY HAND CRAFTED KITCHENS CUSTOM MADE TO MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS QUALITY ASSURED PRODUCTS COMPLETE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALLATION

www.eastlife.co.nz

MY Favourit e Thing Since settling in Howick 44 years ago with her late husband, Roy, Jenny Hough is still in love with the seaside suburb and the gracious home the couple bought when they arrived here from Christchurch in 1972. Since then Jenny has accumulated many treasures, but told HELEN PERRY there were two items that are particularly precious.

Howickian, Jenny Hough is well known as a ‘doer’. Some would describe her as an entrepreneur but Jenny says she’s just a woman who when she sees something needs doing she does it if she can.

And that’s how the Howick Women’s Dinner Club started some 40 years ago, then the Uxbridge Travel Club, 10 years later and also the annual Uxbridge Garden Safaris, 25 years ago. She later became involved in a local breakfast club for businesswomen and, so, the list goes on.

What’s more, though now 80 years old – and spryer than many a 65 year old – Jenny is again organising a garden safari, albeit a little smaller than those of the past.

“It’s 25 years since we hosted the first Uxbridge Garden Safari to raise funds for the community and with Uxbridge Arts and Culture now celebrating its expansion, it seemed the perfect time to mark both occasions,” she says.

“The garden safaris have lapsed in recent years so why not revitalise the tradition as Uxbridge celebrates new growth?”

Jenny Hough reflects on war time letters from her father.

However, earlier this year, Jenny wondered if she would actually see the garden safari, (marked down for November 5), take root.

“I had a health scare and though I have quite recovered, it made me re-evaluate the things I prize. In fact, despite having gathered many beautiful material possessions, including from the years we spent in Singapore, I can honestly say my home, and the environment in which it sits, is what I value most.

“My peaceful location looks directly out to sea, with the sun streaming on to my terrace and into the house. My kitchen, lounge, and bedroom just soak up that wonderful vista while my www.eastlife.co.nz

garden, cultivated over the years, is full of colour even through winter and is home to many birds.

“When I sit outside, now, I am just so appreciative of all that surrounds me and realise how lucky I am to have enjoyed this for so many years.”

And, while her home and garden, with the ambience that exudes from both, have a special place in her heart, Jenny adds she also treasures letters from her late father, Harold Maitland, sent to her from Egypt during the Second World War. “My father was stationed in Maadi near Cairo. Because of his legal

background he was deemed more valuable in the office than in the field which meant he was able to write home quite often.

“I was about seven when he was shipped abroad and over the years he sent me the most extraordinary letters. Not really the sort a sevenyear-old might fully understand, but in time I really came to appreciate them.

They are a wonderful documentary of the times; a little bit of history.”

The letters, typed on fragile ‘airmail’ paper are crammed with information on the comings and goings of Maadi and Harold’s life during his years overseas.

Photo Wayne Martin

“In one he writes about the people, the culture, the buildings,” Jenny says. “In another he gives me a lesson on the Arabic language and in another on hieroglyphics. He talks at length about the wonders of Egypt and also nearby countries such as Syria and Lebanon and he even describes, in detail, the bed bugs which were a constant problem.”

In turn Jenny says she wrote back to her father who kept her letters and today she has both his and hers together – “in a shoebox, as you do!

But perhaps one day I’ll call at the museum [Auckland War Memorial Museum] and see if they are of any historical value or of use there.” eastlife | october 2016 |

55

Clever guide cuts through grime Spring cleaning’s on many an agenda but rather than relying purely on ‘elbow grease’ to send germs and grime packing try using a kitchen favourite more often found in the pantry than under the sink.

DYC Vinegar has launched a new room-by-room Cleaning Guide using “homemade cleaner” recipes suitable for cleaning everything from ovens and stainless steel appliances through to skirting boards, venetian blinds, tile grout and joinery.

Vinegar launched the guide in response to significant customer query via its clever living website www.cleverliving.co.nz which provides tips and recipes for cleaning.

DYC White Vinegar (RRP $3.29) is distilled, pasteurised and gluten-free and is available at supermarkets nationwide.

What’s more a cleaning time guide – showing jobs which can be done in as little as 10 minutes for ease or in 20 minutes and even an hour for those with a bit more time to spare – is sure to prove helpful.

Vinegar is non-toxic, making it perfect for cleaning your windows instead of using harsh chemicals. It is also more economical than chemical cleaning solutions.

vinegar so using this solution will help keep windows looking cleaner for longer.

Make your own sweet smelling Natural Cleaner This great multipurpose cleaner works well for spot cleaning or general cleaning of walls, skirting boards, ceilings, stainless steel benches and appliances, sinks, tile splashbacks, inside fridges and freezers, for venetian blinds, shutters, aluminium and painted wooden joinery. Not suitable for use on granite, marble or other stone benches, unsealed wood and floors.

• 1 cup DYC white vinegar • Dishwashing liquid (very small amount) • Warm water • Bucket • Sponge • Window blade

Instructions: Half fill a bucket with warm water.

Add a cup of DYC white vinegar and a very small dash of dish washing liquid. Mix gently.

Moisten sponge with mixture and squeeze out any excess.

Apply to window. Wipe clean with window blade, wiping the blade on a towel after each stroke.

Make your own Non Toxic Window Cleaner

In November last year, Consumer New Zealand* found Kiwis were wasting money on expensive household cleaners when a homemade batch of white vinegar and baking soda would do a better job in many cases than most manufactured cleaners. It would also produce significant cost savings.

The acid in vinegar breaks down the film on glass surfaces. Using a small amount of detergent in the mixture helps break down any wax residue left by commercial cleaning liquids.

Ingredients

“Being an affordable option and clear in colour, DYC white vinegar is the vinegar of choice for cleaning jobs,” Ms Harvey says. “It does, of course, have many other purposes in cooking too such as preventing boiled eggs from cracking as well as being a key ingredient in great salad dressings”

As well as recipes for a multipurpose cleaner, a natural cleaning paste and a window cleaner, the guide contains sensible decluttering tips for wardrobes, freezers, magazine shelves and bathroom cupboards.

The numbered guide is a timely reminder of jobs that need to be done and how to carry them out effectively.

How does it work?

• TIP: Crawling insects are not fond of

Ingredients: • 1/2 cup DYC white vinegar • 1 1/2 cups water • Thinly pared rind of 1/2 an orange • Spray bottle

Instructions: Combine vinegar and water into a spray bottle. Push rind into the bottle. Shake to combine and spray on surface to be cleaned. For harder to clean marks allow to soak for a few minutes before wiping away. Shake well before each use.

• TIP: For tougher marks try the natural cleaning paste recipe also feature in the Cleaning Guide booklet.

Do your homework!

LET YOUR HOME WORK FOR YOU

H

O

M

E

O O OF FF F IC E

Marketing and Brand Development Manager at Wilson Consumer Products, Susan Harvey, says DYC

TRESTLE Desk

SIDEboy with DESKtop

STUDYboy 4-crate

$1190

$2042

$1290

$1011

$1735

$1096

SALE ENDS OCT 31 • SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

DESIGNED AND MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

56 | eastlife | october 2016

0800 MELUKA • INFO@MELUKA.CO.NZ

983 MT EDEN RD THREE KINGS 13A LINK DR NORTH SHORE 501 TI RAKAU DR BOTANY 4/683 CAMERON RD TAURANGA

11798-v9

Furniture. Simply.

MELUKA.CO.NZ

www.eastlife.co.nz

COME ON OVER.

Imagine living in a newly built, low maintenance 3-5 bedroom home from just $750,000* Be part of a growing community with families of all ages. With great retail and community amenities and transport hubs close by, the area is on a major rise. Construction underway. First homes complete from March 2017.

To find out more visit: Richmond Display Suite. Open daily 10am-2pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays 5pm-7pm, or by private appointment.

33 Panama Road, Mount Wellington. richmondauckland.co.nz

TRENT QUINTON

JULIE PRINCE

trent.quinton@bayleys.co.nz +64 21 894 070

julie.prince@bayleys.co.nz +64 21 894 071

HARRY CHENG

harry.cheng@bayleys.co.nz +64 21 230 6877

These marketing materials have been prepared prior to the commencement of construction of the development. They illustrate the proposed development but as design and construction progresses changes may be made. We reserve the right to make these changes without notice or obligation. All details should be rechecked carefully with us as construction proceeds and up to date information becomes available, and in particular before entering into a sale and purchase agreement. They are intended as a guide only. *Subject to availability.

14239

MASSIVE

OUTLET SPRING CLEARANCE SALE 20-60% OFF STOREWIDE

Atlantic Dining Chair Was $309 Now $199

SALE!

Full Grain Vintage Leather Chesterfield 2 Seater Was $4950 Now $2650

PAVING // SCHIST // RETAINING FIREPLACES // BBQ’S // STONES

Quality Gray Linen Dining Chair Was $375 Now $199 Victorian Feather Filled 2 Seater White Only Was $2450 Now $1495

Buy DIRECT and SAVE! Shop from the comfort of your own home, place your order 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, a smart way to order, no time wasting, no queues, no traffic jams!

Delivery Guaranteed. NZ’s Trusted Landscape Supplier.

Beautiful Landscape Solutions. Huge Range.

Industrial Cabinet Reclaimed Elm TV Unit 180cm Was $1669 Now $995 Was $3150 Now $1795

www.eastlife.co.nz

info@landscapesolutionsdirect.nz

www.urbanointeriors.co.nz

landscapesolutionsdirect.nz Massive sale is on selected products. Be quick - while stocks last!

SOLUTIONS DIRECT eastlife | october 2016 |

13389

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RBAN INTERIORS

0800 70 80 99 00708-v8

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6 Polaris Place, East Tamaki. Ph 272 9165 Open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday closed

57

Long range

French Style Furniture

House re-decorating starts in earnest at this time of year. Christmas looms and homeowners, invigorated by the new season, are ready to give rooms a makeover ahead of summer entertaining. To help them on their way are new season colours and advice from Resene.

Over the next couple of seasons fashionable homes are predicted to incorporate a whole lot of shimmer and glitz as well as white with black accents, unexpected colour combinations and iridescent as well as toned-down hues.

Luxe metallic finishes, whites with charcoals and earthy greys, dusky tones, as well as exuberant pops of bright colour are all on trend for the coming months. While it seems only yesterday we were celebrating New Year, colour forecasters are already predicting our palettes for 2017 and 2018.

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Dress your walls with earthy hues or dusky tones and you’ll be right on trend. Dusky pinks are here now (think Resene Ebb), but we’ll also see a rise in popularity of dusky blues and greens such as Resene Duck Egg Blue.

Colours such as Resene Secrets are bang on with the trend towards cool Nordic landscapes, where icy colours come to the fore. And, the Scandinavian look is here to stay with a continuing move towards whites and off-whites, with earthy tones.

Darker stains are giving way to more natural, lighter stains, such as Resene Woodsman Natural, and lighter rimu colours.

Wallpapers are becoming more adventurous, providing a lush, stylish backdrop along with a playful ambience.

Glamorous, shiny wallpapers are also on trend, with metallic finishes and a hint of shimmer. Want more intensity? Pops of colour remain strong, including vibrant jewel tones – teal blue being just one.

Milford Sounds room Feature walls are a great way to give any room added drama, but what about going a step further and adding a colour blocked, freehand masterpiece like this? It’s not as tricky as it looks, and because it’s freehand, if you make a bit of a mistake with your hill profiles, who would know?

Wall from top: Resene Spindle (sky), Resene Mischka (left hill), Resene Freestyling (right), Resene Santas Grey (right), Resene Mamba (right), Resene Hammerhead (left, behind sofa), Resene Casper (sea). The floor is in Resene Ivanhoe.

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colour forecast shimmers There’s also an increase in colour blocking, a design technique that uses blocks of colour together, either in similar shades or opposites.

cOurtyarD: With a bit of Mexican sizzle and a dash of Californian cool, this courtyard is the place to be on those lazy summer days. Black is a go-to colour for garden fences, often as a shadowy backdrop to perimeter planting. In this case, it’s up front and on show in Resene CoolColour All Black – the ultimate colour partner for sizzling turquoise blues and clean greens like Resene Dauntless for the upcycled pallet table, and Resene Ziggurat, Resene Java and Resene Dali for the pots. Throw in some mustard yellow accents in the low Resene Chenin pot and cushions for pops of citrusy warmth. The house wall on the right is Resene Double Truffle, and the concrete pavers have been stained in Resene Bleached Grey from the Resene Concrete Stain range. Just add a cocktail and you’re ready to relax.

“It’s a great way to introduce colour especially if you have a square room,” says Resene colour consultant, Deanna Hills.

“You might colour block half a wall, and it could look like a headboard. Or you could colour block random areas and nooks, or start from the ceiling and work diagonally to the floor.”

Stairwells are often colour blocked, with the bottom half painted charcoal, for example, and the top half painted white. “Colour blocking is really fun. It makes something of a space.”

Another continuing trend is brightly coloured front doors. “People are really opening up to having a bit more personality,” Deanna says. “For example, coloured front doors are a big trend. I’ve done a couple of reds, using Resene Red Berry, as well as

Resene Wild Thing, which is yellow – a charcoal house with a yellow front door, fabulous!”

Whether you prefer an achromatic colour scheme or one with a host of vibrant hues, the coming season’s colours has something to suit all tastes from wake-up shades of teal and red to cool icy blues and dusky pinks plus smatterings of black and white.

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Halloween pumpkins Halloween just wouldn’t be the same without pumpkins. Swedes carved up with strange faces just aren’t going to scare anyone... unless your name is Bjorn Bjornsen from Herbabingerbin, Stockholm that is! So we’ll concentrate on pumpkins; what they are and how they’ve come to play such a major part on All Hallows’ Eve. Deriving its name from the Greek for ‘large melon’, the pumpkin (Cucurbita) is a squash-like fruit native to North America.

Unlike the typical orange or yellow pumpkins, usually associated with Halloween, here in New Zealand one common variety, green in colour, is actually a close relative, also known as a winter squash.

So now we know what it is, here’s what we can do with it:

Wacko ‘jacko’ lantern – a real thriller

villagers for the things he had stolen from them, and the Devil would have the chance to procure their souls.

As soon as the Devil changed into a coin, Jack put him neatly in his pocket next to a cross, trapping the Devil.

While the carved pumpkin has long been associated with Halloween and the autumn harvest in the United States, according to legend the term jack-o’-lantern has its origin in an old Irish folktale that goes a little something like this:

So Jack made a deal with the Devil, setting the Devil free on the proviso that he would never take his soul.

This gave Jack a licence to menace and he spent the rest of his days sinning like a champ!

Once upon a time this fellow named Jack, who was so very, very bad and had stolen from some villagers was caught by the Devil and told it was his time to die.

But the Devil had the last laugh as when Jack passed away, due to his sinful ways he was barred from heaven and, due to their deal, he was also refused entrance to Hell.

Being a cunning sort, Jack conned the Devil into turning himself into a coin with which Jack said he would pay the

On asking the Devil where then he should go, the Devil threw him an ever-burning ember from Hell and

told him to find his own place to stay.

From that day to this, Jack wanders Earth mournfully seeking a place to rest, the ember from hell burning bright in his lantern, carved from a turnip.

Now I know this is not a pumpkin story as such; the use of pumpkins for jack-o’-lanterns came much later with settlers in America finding them easier to carve than turnips.

Get ‘a-head’ – best on the block You will need • A pumpkin • Dessertspoon • Teaspoon • Tea-light candle • A large pot or bowl • And of course... a sharp knife!

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To prepare First cut a hole around the stalk with the knife at a 45 degree angle, removing the ‘lid’.

Using the tablespoon scoop out loose flesh and seeds. Using a pen draw on the face of your jack-o’-lantern (if you’re not the greatest of artists, stencils can be downloaded from a number of websites).

Cut out the features of the lantern.

Using the tablespoon and knife, scrape away any loose flesh on the inside of the face. With the teaspoon, carefully hollow out a setting for the candle in the bottom of the lantern (to ensure the candle will stay in place).

Place your candle in the hollow, light and replace the lid. And... prepare to be scared!

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‘Must haves’ builders should provide In this month series from G.J. Gardner Homes on building the dream home, the focus is on knowing what documentation and guarantees you require from your builder.

Embarking on a new home build can be confusing so to ensure there are no misunderstandings or muddle ups ensure you receive proper paperwork which shows your builder is committed to providing what has been agreed to.

should also be set out in the contract.

Protect yourself and your family by taking the time to ask questions and, if any doubt about your contract, ask your lawyer to check it out.

The builder should also provide a set of detailed plans showing the floor plan, elevations, cross sections and site plan. A drainage plan may also be included.

Clients can also expect to receive a comprehensive and detailed schedule of every item supplied and all product and materials to be used in building the home.

There is a range of documents that should be provided to clients starting with a balanced and fair building contract setting out the building company’s responsibilities.

In addition ask for a clear list which includes your personal options and choices above the ‘normally’ specification.

This contract should include a set payment schedule so you don’t pay at any progress stage more than the agreed price for the stage of work completed. The process to deal with variations or changes

It stand to reason the builder will provide a set price cover the full contract with scheduled progress payments and clarity of any works or items (if any) not supplied under the contract.

knowing your ‘sums’ When building a new home your contract should include an explanation for any PC or PS sums – how much has been allowed and why? But firstly what are PC and PS Sums?

• PC SUMS: The builder may set aside a fixed sum for smaller costs.

These fixed sums are known as prime cost (PC) sums and enable you to choose items needed during the project.

• PS SUMS: Provisional sums

Your builder should also offer proof of insurance cover for professional indemnity and contract works as well as a building guarantee by a recognised provider such as Certified Builders or Registered Master Builders but be wary of self-provided insurance or guarantees.

are an estimate if there’s an unknown factor in the pricing i.e. difficult site works. Ask for details regarding PS sums to help ensure they are adequate and with no potential shortfalls. Some builders deliberately under assess to make their contract price look good.

Finally, be sure you have in writing an agreed build time and move in date. Time is your money and it should be an efficient, fun journey.

And remember you contract should provide for liquidated damages if the contract runs past the agreed date of practical completion.

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Time to spring into your garden At Central Landscape and Garden Supplies East Tamaki we know you’re keen to give your garden the best start.

We stock Living Earth’s famous 100% weed-free Garden Mix, so you can be sure of a great garden this spring.

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Festive tour ready to roll Kiwis won’t be restrained by a onesize-fits-all approach to architecture or interior design!

Organics: grow and eat healthy

On November 4, a number of Aucklanders will invite the public into their homes (from villas to elegant character properties and modern townhouses) for the first time as they prepare to celebrate Christmas.

“This is a must-do event for people wanting inspiration for their own Christmas style.” Penny Thompson from TWCCCT says. “We have a captivating range of properties each being made over by creative homeowners and professional stylists.”

The tour takes in 10 homes in Epsom, Remuera, Newmarket, Grey Lynn and Ponsonby.

Octob

October is a great a month to set things up in the garden for a long, hot summer!

Creating innovative places to call home is almost a national pastime in New Zealand, as the Festive Home Tour is (once again) set to prove.

Visitors will indulge in delectable food, made by well-known chefs, along the way, and Christmas adornments, cakes and goodie bags will available for sale, all with the aim of raising funds for The World Child Cancer Charitable Trust (TWCCCT).

s p i T s ’ n a D er 2016

• If you’re into growing healthy food or you want to

have a go, now’s the time! Central Landscapes are really excited to offer Living Earth’s organic certified Veggie Mix in bags, a great chemical-free mix to use in fill raised beds and planters.

What can I plant now?

More information (including ticket details) is available via mindfood. com.

Win! EastLife has FOUR double passes (valued at $130 each) to this year’s Festive Home Tour up for grabs. To be in to win, simply complete the form under the competitions tab at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address; entries close October 28. Winners notified by phone or email.

Uxbridge safari to bloom again!

Considering the hectic modern lifestyle ‘enjoyed’ by many, it’s often tough to find the time to stop and smell the roses. However, with some of Auckland’s finest gardens set to be showcased, there’s no time like November to do just that!

recent opening of its new centre.

Since the first Uxbridge Garden Safari 25 years ago, visitors have been led down many a fascinating garden path. While the event has been on hiatus for several years, Uxbridge Arts & Culture is breathing new life into this local classic in celebration of the

Ten gardens will be showcased during this half day bus tour, set to depart from Uxbridge Arts & Culture centre (35 Uxbridge Road) at 9.30am on November 5. Refreshments will be served along the way. For details, visit uxbridge.co.nz.

From smart thinking in small spaces, to contemplative corners, lush glades and exotic groves, what lies behind east Auckland’s garden gates is soon to be revealed!

• Top of the list would be the summer vegetables that can be harvested in the months after Christmas.

If you’ve got plenty of sun on your garden now, plant capsicum, chillies, zucchini and aubergines.

Maybe try a cucumber from Labour Weekend on.

• Herbs that really save money are coriander and parsley, French tarragon and dill. Wonderful flavours for summer, they don’t always last when bought in supermarkets and they’re so easy to grow at this time of the year.

• Structural elements – create a bit of height and fun in your edible or your ornamental garden by adding metal plant towers or willow teepees. Plant sweet peas, snow peas or nasturtiums as they’re easily trained up the framework.

October is perfect lawn sowing time • The most important aspects to sowing successful lawns are preparation (spraying out or removing weeds), the soil or mix you sow the seed into and the selection of the right lawn seed for the area. At our yards we have top quality lawn seed, starter fertilisers and that all important Ultra Lawn Mix to sow the seed into. Ask for our Prolawn leaflet that you can take away with you that will help you get started.

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THE

AgEnTS THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPERTY INSPECTIONS

Special Agents 003 IAN BOSWELL, MARK VAN ETTEN & NICOLETTE HALE RESIDENTIAL SALES, BEACHLANDS

Ian 027 285 9314, i.boswell@barfoot.co.nz Mark 027 523 2245, mark.vanetten@barfoot.co.nz Nicolette 027 702 9157, n.hale@barfoot.co.nz www.specialagents003.co.nz This vibrant team puts the fun back into real estate while also achieving outstanding sales results. Now is your time to take advantage of the fantastic service they provide!

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Principal and Owners

P: 09 538 0151 M: Greg 0274 966 966 M: Leigh 021 646 565 Your Independent Local Specialists – Leigh & Greg Roy With a combined 40 years’ experience selling real estate in the area, you can rest assured you’re in good hands.

Providing good old fashioned service with outstanding results and never losing sight of who it is that we are working for is the absolute foundation of our business.

Call us if you simply want advice, or are looking to buy or sell your home.

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This month JANE WILSHER of Elite Property Management discusses the detail that goes into effective property management and why it is necessary.

I have spoken in the past about people’s understanding of what “managing” a property actually entails. Unfortunately, there are landlords out there who think it’s as simple as checking that the rent is in the bank on the due date. In reality, that’s only a very small part of the job.

One of the really important aspects of the role is to carry out property inspections. These need to be done before the start of the tenancy, routinely during the tenancy and, of course, at the end.

It is the landlord’s responsibility to have a full record of the condition of the property before the tenants move in. This should relate to both the inside and outside areas and also be done on a room by room basis.

Photographs are very useful as often “a picture paints a thousand words”.

Saying there is a stain on the carpet isn’t sufficient. Is it the size of a 10 cent piece or a square metre? Taking a photograph with a reference point shows where the stain is, the colour and the size.

These photos are the bench mark for measuring the condition of the property during subsequent inspections so, in this example, new stains will be picked up during the tenancy and not left to the end when they are probably beyond the point of being easily removed.

Another really important reason for routine inspections is to make sure your insurance policy is valid. Most policies will now specify a minimum

number of inspections per year but just doing these isn’t enough.

The findings of the inspections need to be recorded in writing. The report also needs to be broken down into separate areas of the property so you can demonstrate all areas have been checked. A brief over view is not sufficient.

The final inspection must be carried out once the tenant has vacated the property. It is essential to check for any damage and also establish if this was present at the start or if in fact the tenant is liable for the damage.

Again, the entry inspection and routine inspection reports need to be in place in order to check any issues.

If it comes to it, these will enable you to prove liability and therefore allow you to charge the tenant for the cost of rectifying any damage that is beyond fair wear and tear. There is little point in holding a bond if you can’t claim against it in the event of a problem.

If you are a DIY landlord and don’t have the time, the know-how or the people to inspect and maintain your investment properties, talk to us about Elite Property Management looking after things for you.

If you would like some advice or some more information about our service, please contact us at 128 Picton Street, Howick.

Phone 09 535 0911 Website www.eliteproperty.co.nz Email: jane@eliteproperty.co.nz or info@eliteproperty.co.nz

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Low levels of stock nation wide ‘ Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on the local real estate market happenings.

The real estate market is still suffering from low levels of properties for sale, however, spring is usually a time when more properties come to the market.

The Real Estate Institute’s report for August shows an 18% decline in properties available year on year and this is impacting on the number of sales, which nationally, at 7527 sales for the month of August, is down 3% from the same month last year.

Auckland, however, with 2413 sales was a 20% drop on the same month last year. Locally there were 158 sales which is 14% less than last August but up slightly from July’s 151.

Currently realestate.co.nz is showing 294 local properties for sale which is an improvement from the last couple

of months in which we had about 250, so maybe our spring increase has started.

The local area median price dropped very slightly from July’s $1,075,000 to $1,070,000 so is now $30,000 off the peak hit in May and June this year. Two regions nationally had new record high medians.

The Auckland overall median hit $842,500 – a 14% increase from August 2015 and Nelson/ Marlborough hit $430,000, a 12% increase from last year.

Excluding, Auckland, Wellington, Nelson/Marlborough, Hawkes Bay, Otago and Southland, other regions median prices slipped back resulting in the national median price coming back 3% ($13,000) to $492,000 from

stock levels, may help in the short term to keep price rises in check – but for how long?

We would expect to see some changes as we move through the last quarter of the year. The newly introduced 40% deposit requirement and anticipated spring increase in stock levels, may help in the short term to keep price rises in check – but for how long?”

Similar moves starting in October 2013 when the reserve bank introduced the minimum 20% deposit, then October 2015 they moved it up to a 30% deposit, plus the requirement to have an IRD number had only a relatively small effect on the market for a month or two following their introduction.

Those measures didn’t stop the price increases.

its record high of $505,000 for July.

At $505,000 it still represents a 5.8% increase from the same month last year.

We would expect to see some changes as we move through the last quarter of the year. The newly introduced 40% deposit requirement and anticipated spring increase in

In fact, from October 2013, the Auckland median has increased by approx 45%. The immigration numbers, attractive interest rates and lack of new build homes seem to override everything else in the end.

So if you have been holding off getting into the market then right now could be a good time to revisit it.

Please feel free to contact me anytime on 0274966966 to discuss your property needs.

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eastlife | october 2016 |

65

Kenneth and Snejina with one of their hardy mounts.

Photo Wayne Martin

Professors’ stable occupation Averaging around 13-14 hands high, Icelandic horses aren’t exactly giants amongst equines. However, these Nordic beauties have enabled former Bucklands Beach couple, Kenneth Husted and Snejina Michailova, to build a thriving business, as JON RAWLINSON reports.

Waiting tables in a busy bar is no easy business, but it can be tackled at a canter compared to slinging suds on horseback! Kenneth Husted, from Neðri Bakki Icelandic Horses Stud, says, while some horses may be quicker, and others are stronger, few are as ‘stable’ as his favourite mounts.

“Icelandic horses have an extra gait, called ‘tölt’; it’s a bit like a rambling walk. I often demonstrate how steady this is by riding around with a jug of beer in hand – and I don’t spill a drop!”

Snejina (Kenneth’s wife), laughs: “I suppose he could show this just as well with water. Then again, if you spill water, who cares? But you simply can’t waste a good brew!”

However, it’s best not to request that an Icelandic horse halt, should it slip into a different gear entirely!

66 | eastlife | october 2016

The result of a unique gene, tölt is an additional four-beat gait where at least one foot is on the ground at any time, Kenneth explains.

“This makes for a very pleasant ride (as there’s hardly any back movement) but the horses retain a lot of power and energy. It’s a bit like driving a car with an extra, automatic gear; it accelerates and slows down very smoothly.”

The breed is now thought to have originated in England, where it became extinct. Introduced to Iceland in (approximately) 900AD, the strain enjoyed unrivalled protection. In a land where crops were difficult to cultivate and which lacked roads, their smaller size (therefore, appetites) and gait were well suited to the conditions.

By banning the import of horses, the business savvy Vikings not only

secured a monopoly, but prevented the spread of disease and kept their equine gene pool unsullied.

“Even today, if a horse leaves Iceland, it can never go back – that also applies when they’re taken overseas to compete. Much is still done to stop cross breeding, in and outside of Iceland. The advantage is that, after 1100 years, the breed has become extremely healthy and strong.”

Although the first recorded sale of an Icelandic horse in New Zealand occurred in 1868, it was not until the 1990s that a breeding programme actually began here.

After falling in love with New Zealand during an academic sabbatical, Kenneth and Snejina (both now business professors at The University of Auckland) emigrated from Denmark in 2005 and settled in Bucklands Beach.

While Kenneth practically grew up in the saddle, it wasn’t until the family moved to New Zealand that Snejina came to share his passion and a new business was born.

“While living in Bucklands Beach, our youngest [Alexia – now 15] talked a lot about horses, so we found her a teacher in Clevedon and I thought I should learn too,” says Snejina.

“Soon afterwards, I was out riding and it was such a great experience that I called Kenneth and said: “I think we should move to the countryside.’

He said: “Okay.” And that was it! We started looking for a property and soon settled in Pukekohe.”

Considering the couple’s occupation, establishing Neðri Bakki was the logical next step. In addition to providing training, the business supplies tack – Icelandics require special saddles. While no extra expense or set up is required above that for other breeds, those looking to buy should first seek advice.

“There are approximately 156 registered in this country and, currently, we have 35,” Kenneth adds. “Because they’re so unusual, we offer courses to ensure new owners can continue their training and understand how to manage their unique gait when riding.” www.eastlife.co.nz

parting shot

Same ‘old’ story...

Local resident and Authorised Financial Adviser Mark Steele talks about investment strategy options and how making decisions based on the past can be risky.

He rants, he raves and loves every minute of it! JON RAWLINSON presents his latest moan about the youth of today.

The missus says I’m rapidly becoming a grumpy old man. I disagree. Even as a teen, I had a cantankerous old soul embryonic within, waiting to burst forth during an Alien-esque scene.

If you remember Alien, (produced back before needless remakes were the cinematic norm) you’re old enough to relate to this literary, metaphorical version.

Of course, there are many methods by which I may gain admittance to the illustrious league of grumpy old men. But, for the sake of brevity, I’ll focus in on a short salvo (rather than a one-off shot) covering a few reasons why ‘the youth of today’ has gone astray.

Eye-See On a short walk recently, I encountered no less than three youngsters (products of this millennium) shuffle directly into me, despite my attempts to avoid a collision course.

Setting aside Pokémon hunting for the duration of their ambulation is obviously too much to ask! So, an app (aka application) which detects incoming pedestrians must be invented post-haste. At all costs, we must not abide Smart phones in the hands of dumb (or young) people.

Investing is about the future, not the past. While this may seem obvious, there are investors that don’t necessarily follow this rule.

Growing up in public Sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll – none alive invented these (not even Elvis), but each generation acts as though it did. Blasting our music at top volume with the windows down is nothing new, neither are investigations into illicit substances or sans-pants dances. However, thanks to social media, broadcasting methods have changed.

So, kids, before bragging about nocturnal fondlings online, remember that, while the mammas and the papas may seem square, they’re probably rolling stones of old. They’ve likely been there, done that, bought the concert t-shirts and don’t want details any more so than you want to know what happens when ‘Mummy’ and ‘Daddy’ send you to the movies!

Going old school Are adults really fascists? Raging against the machine is natural amongst the young and, in a democracy, challenging inequity is a civic duty.

When today’s adults were young, dumb and full of ‘it’, we all thought we were bulletproof. So, I would never dissuade the ‘kids of today’ from acting in the same manner – this attitude is useful as it helps thin out the herd, after all. On the other hand, surely, like us, they are actually waterproof.

However, if being required to wear school uniforms, maintain a shaven mug and cropped cranium, sport a ball gown which leaves something to the imagination, or (shock horror!) do your schoolwork is all too much, don’t worry, it’ll all be over soon. Then freedom can begin.

The freedom to chow down on a big steaming pile of responsibility as we pay our own way for the next 45 years at least. In the words of Irvine Welsh: ‘if you liked school, you’ll love work’!

For commuters’ sake, parents, please encourage little Johnny and Sally (or, these days, Cooper and Harper) to walk to school rather than be chauffeur driven. They won’t rot and (provided the app mentioned above is available) they should survive the experience as we did.

I could go on (and on and on), but then I’d be overqualified for admittance to said illustrious league. So, instead, I’ll sign off by saying to today’s whippersnappers that (ironically) I’m content with evolving into a grumpy old man simply because I know for a fact that, one day, you will too!

Waterproof, not bulletproof

www.eastlife.co.nz

Investment strategy – active or passive?

A recurring question in portfolio management circles is whether to take an active or passive approach to investing. This discussion is largely related to the success of the lower cost, passive approach in recent years and raises questions over the benefits of an active approach in the future.

Active management invests in a selected range of assets within a specific market (or index) and requires managers to constantly monitor these, making changes where they see necessary. The aim is to maximise returns and minimise losses for the investor in the short and long-term.

The passive approach invests in an entire index rather than a selected group of securities and relies on longer-term market forces to provide the result – more of a ‘set and forget’ type approach. Both have advantages and suit different individual objectives.

To link the two strategies to my first point of ‘investing in the future and not the past’, I’ll use the example of passive index funds and its successes over the years post the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). After the GFC, markets enjoyed a smooth upwards ride until the middle of 2015 when volatility returned. This was a long recovery period from one of history’s

biggest financial downturns, with share prices returning to ‘fair value’.

This meant that good returns could be achieved simply by being involved in the market using a passive approach.

Now, eight years after the GFC, using hindsight and acting on past performance, investors are transferring to a passive strategy as it is lower in cost and has provided strong returns. Makes sense? In hindsight it makes perfect sense but in the future it may make no sense.

We are now experiencing high levels of political and economic uncertainty.

As a result, market volatility is higher and passive returns from a ‘rising tide’ in asset prices may prove illusive.

Active investment strategies are most effective during volatile times.

Uncertainty and the fluctuation in share prices, create opportunities to pick up bargains that gain value quickly and outperform the market.

Portfolios can combine both active and passive strategies. Future investment selection needs a more dynamic approach than ‘one or the other.’

Rather than trying to pick the future or rely on the past, I develop a strategy that learns from the past but also looks to the future for opportunities and trends. This strategy is designed to cope with changing conditions and therefore is better equipped for the environment we face going forward.

Mark Steele has a disclosure statement that is available on request and free of charge. The information in this article is of a general nature only and is no substitute for personalised advice. To the extent that any of the above content constitutes financial advice, it is class advice only. If you would like advice that takes into account your particular financial situation or goals, please contact your Adviser.

Contact Mark or David, your local Authorised Financial Advisers.

Mark Steele E: mark.steele@spicers.co.nz P: 09 337 7824 David Morgan E: david.morgan@spicers.co.nz P: 09 271 1705

A disclosure statement is available on request and free of charge.

11732

eastlife | october 2016 |

67

Looking for an alternative Investment option to buying a rental Property?

Contributory Mortgage Investment Rental Property Ownership Security property is chosen from a list provided

Heather Kentsley, sales and marketing manager of Southern Cross Financial outlines why a Contributory Mortgage Investment could be worth considering.

Security property is chosen from what listings are available

No fees Pay Property Management fees (if using a manager) Income is paid monthly

Income is paid when rent is paid Tax is payable on income

Many of our clients tell us they are at the stage in their lives where they are looking at different ways to invest but they don’t want to be a landlord with all the associated headaches that come with owning another property yet how do they get a decent return on their funds?

The Government introduced new guidelines on September 1, 2016 increasing the amount of deposit required to purchase an investment property.

Investors are now required to have a 40% deposit to buy an investment property.

For those that have the full purchase price ready this is not a problem but for those needing a mortgage to complete the purchase, where does

this deposit come from?

Some of our current investors tell us that they would need to use a current term deposit which may not be ready to mature at the time required, sell other assets or raise funds against their own home which they are reluctant to do as they are currently mortgage-free.

Investing in a Contributory Mortgage is different to owning an investment property*. (see table) Our Contributory Mortgage Investments match investors, with a borrower who needs to raise funds against their property.

You choose the investment that suits best in terms of risk, rate of return, mortgage term, security property and

No capital gain/loss Property subject to capital gain/ loss Rate of return from 6.00%* Return affected by rental, debt repayment, capital gain No legal fees payable to invest

Purchase involves legal fees

No hands on management required by the investor

General maintenance of property required

amount of investment. Investments are secured by a first mortgage registered on the property title.

Experience is the key to our success and the Southern Cross Financial Group knows the New Zealand residential mortgage business inside out since 1997 and our team have a long history of sourcing and managing mortgage investments.

To find out if a Contributory

Mortgage Investment is right for you contact sales and marketing manager Heather Kentsley on 535 2239 or heatherk@scfl.co.nz or see our website www.scfl.co.nz.

Alternatively drop in and see us at Selwyn House, 16 Selwyn Rd, Howick.

Disclaimers: *The rate of return requires a minimum investment of $50,000 per investment, for a minimum term of 6 months. *The rate of return is per annum as at the date of this publication and subject to change.* Southern Cross Financial are not Financial Advisors nor Licenced Real Estate Agents and all comments above are opinion only.

6.00%

* Investment rate subject tp change. This is a contributory mortgage investment offerd by SCFL Management Ltd who is regulated under the Securities Act [Contributory Mortgage] Regulations 1988.

68 | eastlife | october 2016

12195-v5

09 535 2239

www.eastlife.co.nz

Right ‘Hon’ Key Shakers and movers can’t hold a candle to Key! Over the last month or so, our PM has well and truly earned his air miles representing New Zealand abroad. However, as our ‘tongue-in-cheek’ reports below show, even Key can’t be everywhere!

Key turns on Council John did not hold fire recently when addressing the UN General Assembly during New Zealand’s second term as President of its Security Council.

“We are deeply troubled to see the preeminent body for international peace and security, fail to live up to its responsibilities on the biggest crisis of our time, Syria. Here the Council has fallen short... [this] is exactly the type of crisis the Council was established to address,” he asserted.

Mr Key’s salvo continued with calls for an urgent, unified response on North Korea. “North Korea’s efforts to advance its nuclear and missile programmes, callous disregard for its own people, and its leader’s unpredictably ruthless rule, have made it one of our most pressing international security threats. We cannot afford further escalation.”

Use of the Council’s controversial veto powers were similarly slammed.

“No matter how hard we work to find compromises, time and time again we come up against the veto. [Its] exploitation is well beyond what the founders of the UN envisaged. The time for moving forward on Security Council reform is now.”

Travelling with Murray While John’s job may offer much in the way of overseas travel, such expeditions are rarely (if ever) all about hitting the beaches with Bronagh! Case in point: his recent travels to the Pacific with Foreign Minister, Murray McCully.

Regional issues – including climate change, economic integration and sustainable fisheries – were at the fore as the pair attended the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ meeting in the Federated States of Micronesia.

John emphasised the importance of protecting fisheries and NZ’s $50 million investment in their management.

“Work is well under way, with www.eastlife.co.nz

almost $30 million now allocated to important projects including strengthening management of coastal fisheries, improving long-line tuna management, and tightening monitoring and control of boats in ports,” he confirmed.

The PM also presented a $5 million renewable energy project support package for Micronesia, Marshall Islands and Palau, part of a $100 million commitment from the Pacific Energy Conference earlier this year.

“New Zealand is committed to boosting the supply of renewable energy across the Pacific in order to help Pacific nations build resilience, and reduce both emissions and dependence on imported diesel.”

He added that New Zealand now has significant renewable energy projects underway in 11 Pacific countries.

The forum followed John’s visit to the East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Laos, where regional concerns were also examined. Mr Key committed $11.5 million to help clear Vietnam War-era unexploded munitions.

“Laos is the most heavily bombed country on earth by head of population and is still clearing up around 80 million pieces of unexploded munitions from the 1960s and 1970s,” he said.

“New Zealand has a strong legacy of supporting UXO [unexploded ordnance] clearance, including in Laos... funding will make a real difference to the safety and economic prospects of the people there.”

Mr Key’s jet set September also included travels to New York, and Houston to promote business and tourism links.

Seeing red – John Key receives red carpet treatment in communist Laos. Photo supplied “The Government is making $8 million a year available to boost innovation and productivity, and lift the value of international tourism,” he said early in September.

“Arrivals are expected to reach 4.5 million in 2022, up from 3.1 million in 2015. Part of the Government’s tourism strategy is to ensure all parts of New Zealand benefit from this.”

The Tourism Growth Partnership has awarded $20.7 million and attracted co-funding of $60.5 million since 2013, Mr Key asserted.

Wales on Western Front New Zealand’s highest ranking military man represented our nation at Battle of the Somme centenary commemorations in France recently.

Perpetual tourism-ist

Complete with a (reasonably) new feather in his cap, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales attended the wreath-laying almost a year after his appointment as honorary Field Marshal of the New Zealand Army.

Considering John Key’s busy travel itinerary, he’d be forgiven for thinking that there’s no place like home!

However, to ensure more from aboard visit NZ instead of staying home, John recently opened another round of Tourism Growth Partnership funding.

“The Prince of Wales has attended many commemorations for New Zealand,” said Mr Key shortly beforehand. “We are honoured he will join New Zealanders as we mark one of the most significant and costly campaigns for our country during the First World War.”

Defence Minister (and civilian) Gerry Brownlee, also attended.

going gets tough...

Tougher penalties, new laws and a greater focus on profiling could help stem New Zealand’s rising tide of family violence, Mr Key predicts.

On announcing family violence laws will soon be subject to a $130 million overhaul over four years, he said: “[Our] rate of family violence is unacceptable. Police respond to 110,000 family violence call-outs a year. Children are present at nearly two-thirds of these incidents. There are too many households stuck in a life of fear and despair. They need help to stop the violence and repression so they can lead healthier, happier, more fulfilling lives.”

In wake of the two year review, the overhaul will see more than 50 changes to the Domestic Violence Act. “The challenge of reducing family violence lies with us all, Government, Police, social agencies, and everyone who knows violence is occurring.

None should be deterred by the difficulty of the problem. We should be motivated by the difference we can make. Succeeding in reducing family violence will save and transform lives.” eastlife | october 2016 |

69

Don’t lose that number, it’s the only one you own Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community In a device-driven digital age, a number is an identity, as precious as a name. But who owns it? This issue comes up for employees and for buyers of businesses: “It’s my number, I can do what I like with it”.

the Number Allocation Deed.

This is an agreement between telecommunications providers, approved by the Commerce Commission, and monitored by the Government.

Not necessarily so. In New Zealand, telephone numbers allocated under licence by the International Telecommunications Union are administered through

Under the Deed, The New Zealand numbering system is administered under the Deed. Unique numbers are allocated to providers and from them to the end-user. But, as with

the Deed itself, your use of the number is only under a licence or a “permission to use” – you have no property in the number as distinct from the licence rights.

reimbursing charges on a private number then the employee may have far fewer rights to the number than they suppose. In contrast, if a business has the licence to a number its use will usually be transferable.

The rules allow for number portability so that if you leave one provider for another you can take the licensed number with you. For many practical purposes this is enough.

A distinction may have to be made for business and personal numbers.

If, for example an employer has purchased the number licence or paid for the number as distinct from

However, both circumstances illustrate the importance of having a close look at key business numbers to see who actually has the right to use and whether anyone else has a competing claim.

Note that web addresses are not the same as telephone numbers and different rules apply there with generally stronger ownership rights.

Generation NOW. Generations win... together! Part 1 Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and Coach, who’s presented in 57 countries so far. www.speakers.co.nz/ our-speakers/all-speakers/bill-potter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToRhF22nARM So much nonsense has been written about the so-called ‘generations’, that Sheople are starting to believe that they are, what they are told!

Hint #1. Wake up! The supposed ‘baby boomers’ generation (19461964), originated as a... marketing strategy, just after the end of the Second World War. It became the first episode, in the ‘generation divertissement’. Uncle ‘Google’ will explain.

Apparently no prior generation

(1927-1945) had actually ‘begat them’. They just appeared...like the Martians. Idiot names for this ‘demographic’, duh, include ‘the silent generation’ and the ‘lost generation’. But, this ‘team’ I call... ‘generation breakout’. Mainly because they did! OK? Ta. The 18-year gap for sharing each ‘generation’ remains reasonably constant (I left home at 17).

After the boomers, came a brain fade, so the ‘experts’ defaulted to

‘generation X’ (1965-1983). The fade progressed to ‘gen Y’ (1984-2002).

It was condensed to ‘gen’, cos long words, made this group really tired.

The begetting continued, folks! After exhaustive research, more experts proclaimed a brilliant title... ‘gen z’. All right. We deserve a lie down now. This is the (2003-2021) crowd.

Which now, pretty much covers most EastLife readers. Yes? Great! But wait.

There will be more. Really?

This yet-to-arrive ‘generation’ (20222040) can’t wait to be begotten. OK. Settle down you current generations.

Yes. A cold shower will help. The next lot needs a name. It will be known as... ‘g’ something. Well, ‘gen’ is still a longish word, U know.

Indeed, to ‘think’, ‘innovate’ and ‘create’ can be sooo exhausting, Team. But... you can’t use, ‘A’, capeesh? This can only be the choice of unfortunates who were born without an IQ. In Part 2, I will introduce you to, the greatest ‘generation’ of all...

Generation NOW! Till then.

I coach... PATH2© : The Personal Power Course for 3Percenters, on Skype. This journey is only for serious Go-getters, who want to own their tomorrow, today. PATH2© contains world-unique content. Are you a 3Percenter? Join me... I dare you!.

Cheers. Bill.

– duitdammit@gmail.co.nz

+ Business and Commercial + Property + Litigation, Mediation & Intellectual Property + Trusts and Asset Management + Family and Matrimonial + Employment + Wills and Estates Wynyard Wood, Highbrook Business Park P: 09 969 0126 E: manager@wynyardwood.co.nz

www.wynyardwood.co.nz HIGHBROOK | AUCKLAND | WARKWORTH 00399

70 | eastlife | october 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

Civic gets a boost EastLife motoring correspondent ALISTAiR DAVIDSON takes a long, hard look at the new Honda Civic RS Turbo and finds a lot to like.

Once upon a time an ‘RS’ badge meant that the car it was attached to was the hottest of the hot, a high performance machine that would weaken the knees of the most enthusiastic driver.

Somebody forgot to tell Honda.

Honda spearheaded the local launch of its 10th generation Civic with the introduction of four eye-catching sedans. A hatchback version will be launched next year.

The entry-level $29,900 S has a normally aspirated 1.8-litre fourcylinder, while the $35,500 Turbo, $39,900 RS Turbo and $42,900 NT Turbo all sport identical turbocharged 1.5-litre engines.

Therein lies the problem. All three turbo Civics have the same power and torque figures: 127kW at 5500rpm and 220Nm between 1700 and 5500rpm.

If you expect the RS to live up to its badge, you’ll be disappointed. There are spoilers, a sporty interior and a few specification enhancements, however the RS performs, handles and stops much the same as its turbo siblings.

Here’s the good news: the turbocharged fourcylinder engine is no

www.eastlife.co.nz

Left, Civic rivals Accord for interior space. Right, poking a turbocharger under the bonnet is a first for Honda. It claims a fuel consumption figure of 6.0 litres per 100km (ADR); EastLife got a respectable 7.1 which included the occasional ‘acceleration test’.

Photos Alistair Davidson slouch; handling and roadholding is impressive; and new Civic sedan is handsome and extremely roomy.

The addition of a turbocharger means that a relatively small engine can perform as well as its bigger, normally aspirated competitors.

Civic’s 1.5-litre engine loves to rev.

It’s smooth, and with all of its torque available across such a wide rev range, overtaking is a cinch.

The transmission is a CVT. Although it acquits itself well, slightly slurred shifts take some of the edge of the engine’s performance. It’s good, but not great; the RS would be huge fun with a manual ‘box.

On the plus side of the ledger, RS (and the S and NT) has paddle shifters located nice and close to the steering wheel.

The CVT has seven speeds

programmed into it. In ‘Drive’ it happily does its own thing; when you fancy downshifting manually just flick the paddles (there are no ‘+’ or ‘-’ mode on the gear lever) to shift up or down a gear. Leave it alone and the CVT goes back to Drive mode.

Shift manually using the paddles in ‘S’ (Sport) mode and the transmission will hold a gear unless you do something really dumb like try to over-rev the engine, or pull away from rest in 7th gear.

The RS might not be super sporty, but the paddle shifts do inject a bit of fun into the drive.

Although firm, the MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension is geared more towards comfort than attacking a race track corkscrew.

Road noise is negligible.

If you’ve had anything to do with Hondas over the last couple of

decades you’ll know how well the interiors are put together. New Civic is no exception.

A model of simplicity, the instrument panel/dash design and layout, and ease of use, is a world away from the previous Civic’s. Whether you’re talking touchy-feely or styling, the interior is a class act.

Civic is big. Really, really big.

Supposedly a small car, rear legroom is spacious beyond belief. And boot space is only a whisker smaller than Ford Falcon’s. I kid you not. It’s like opening a wardrobe door and finding a whole new world lurking in there.

New Civic is the start of Honda’s rejuvenation. The sedan’s styling, first rate interior, clever packaging and overall refinement bodes well for the marque.

The RS badging is a bit of a misnomer, but the sporty cabin and styling add-ons will appeal to a younger audience, while the slightly more conservative variants won’t alienate Honda’s older buyers.

eastlife | october 2016 |

71

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Howick Village Optometrist, 94 Picton St Total Focus Property, 111 Picton St Timeless Images Photography, Howick Village Mall, Central Tce Howick Library, Uxbridge Rd Bay Audiology, 24 Moore St Mobile Ceramics, 198 Moore St Howick Frames & Gallery, 115 Elliot St Inner Concepts, 186 Wellington St Howick Tyres & Alignments, 33 Wellington St Shamrock Cottage, 73 Selwyn Rd www.eastlife.co.nz

MeAdOwLAndS Meadowlands Shopping Centre, Cnr Meadowlands Dr & Whitford Rd PAkurAnGA Z Petrol Station, 407 Pakuranga Rd Frames Today, 421 Pakuranga Rd Pakuranga Plaza, Countdown Pakuranga Library, 7 Aylesbury St Brownson’s Jewellers, Pakuranga Plaza nosh, 102 Pakuranga Road Howick Historical Village, Cnr Bells Rd and Lady Marie Dr, Lloyd Elsmore Park Howick Little Theatre, Sir Lloyd Dr Palmers Garden Centre, 189 Pigeon Mountain Rd

PIne HArBOur kaizeki Japanese restaurant, 190 Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina Pepperjacks restaurant, Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina BeACHLAndS Barfoot and Thompson, 42 Wakelin Rd wHITFOrd Prenzel of whitford, 7 Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford Village Barfoot and Thompson, Whitford Village OrMISTOn Ormiston Superette, 1 Arranmore Dr

EastLife is published on the first week of each month excluding January. Copies will go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets. An electronic version is also available at www.eastlife. co.nz.

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LAWYERS Reliability, Integrity, Experience

For aLL your LegaL needs

For all your legal requirements 18 Uxbridge Road, Howick, PO Box 39056, Howick, Auckland 2145

P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com

01492E

12 Uxbridge Road, Howick. https://rachaelmeyer.raywhite.co.nz

We can change this… to this

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Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008) 00461-v3

01760

Assisting In Your Success

Rachael meyeR LICENSED SALESPERSON

mullerlaw Level 1, Plaza Tower, Pakuranga Plaza Ph 576 7047 www.mullerlaw.co.nz

Kelly Flavell Law

If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call.

t: 09 535 2150 f: 09 535 2151 web: kellyflavell.co.nz

Your home could increase in value by talking to me

2.95% + GST commission fee

Fees are 2.95% up to $390,000 thereafter 1.95% + admin fee + gst

ACCREDITED BUILDING CONSENT AUTHORITY

Cathy McKenzine

Building or Buying or Selling?

LICENSED SALESPERSON

www.kimveltman.co.nz

Highland Park P: 09 216 8643 M: 027 327 6042 E: cathy.mckenzie@ mikepero.com W: www.mikepero.com Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

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Ph: 527-6835 Email: K i m kveltman@ihug.co.nz V e l t m a n 49 Pakuranga Road, A r c h i t e c t u r e Pakuranga

• Residential, Commercial & Industrial Plan Approval and Compliance Inspection Services • Pre-purchase Inspection Reports • Building Advice

Ph 272 2269 Fax 272 2270 Email: info@bldgcert.co.nz Unit 23/2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany South, Auckland 2013 PO Box 217 012, Botany Junction 2164 www.compassbuilding.co.nz

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0800 372 100 : www.litehouse.nz

phone 273 9114 email craig@ashbyarch.co.nz www.ashbyarch.co.nz

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Specialists in Quality Homes

Bishop’s Gate Business Centre 2 Bishop Browne Pl, Flat Bush Auckland 2013

• Unauthorised Building Resolution

HOWICK & REMUERA

WELLS & CO BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS For all legal services including • Family • employment law • Wills & estates

cnr Picton st & selwyn rd Howick howick@wellslawyers.com

AK 535 4211 ☎www.wellslawyers.com

KITCHEN • LAUNDRY • BATHROOM Alison Tait, Partner

VISIT OUR INSIDE VISION SHOWROOM 1 Ron Driver Pl, East Tamaki. Ph 09 262 0608

alison’s practice includes commercial and property, trusts, wills and estates. she also has significant experience in issues for seniors such as retirement villages and powers of attorney.

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74 | eastlife | october 2016

CALL ROB: 534 1337

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LED lights on trend H

Décor and technology an illuminating combination at LightingPlus.

omeowners across the land are seeing the light when it comes to LED technology which has brought about a revolution in lighting up buildings of all description.

To this end, 100 percent Kiwi-owned lighting specialist, LightingPlus has introduced to the New Zealand market a huge range of stylish, energysaving LED products which have won favour with homeowners renovating or building new.

The company experts know lighting is an exciting and important part of any new home build, renovation or décor scheme and, that proper use and positioning will bring warmth to a room, highlight interesting features or provide the right light to achieve important tasks.

And if LED lights offer high performance and low energy consumption, they also come in decorative, traditional or modern styles. What’s more, LightingPlus has LED solutions to suit most budgets and lighting needs.

Whether looking for something functional or keen to make a decor statement, LED lighting stretches across many tasteful designs including pendants. New LED pendants are not constrained by the need to consider how and where traditional incandescent light bulbs need to be placed. As such, the shapes and styles that are becoming available are some of the most stunning and creative seen to date.

And, thanks to extremely long life of the light source, they can be confidently hung in hard to reach places – no hauling out the ladder three months later to replace a blown bulb.

Of course, with any new technology it pays to consider possible drawbacks and weigh these up against advantages. The great thing about LED lighting is that there are no significant drawbacks.

What’s more, the potentially higher cost of purchase is quickly offset by the energy savings.

A great way to add a personal touch to any space, consider various pendant options. The soft light provided by a fabric shade pendant will help bring a warm atmosphere to the table – perfect for dining, relaxing and entertaining.

An adjustable suspension will give flexibility to bring light to the right height above a table and also means a pendant can be created that is suitable for all ceiling heights.

LED versatility is one of the reasons it has become so popular, with new LED light bulbs (or lamp) technology also capable of turning a conventional fixture into an energy-efficient one.

Lasting much longer than traditional light bulbs

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and, at a fraction of the cost to run, there is an LED replacement lamp available for almost any domestic application.

Furthermore, with more than 23 years industry experience, LightingPlus is committed to providing customers with quality, value and fashion. Giving customers honest advice and sharing knowledge is a key part of the company’s philosophy to help them find the right lighting solution.

But, with a multitude of lighting options available, the LightingPlus team knows making choices can be confusing so matching customer needs with that huge range of styles and price points is what it does perfectly. This makes the process a pleasurable, no pressure experience.

And do check out exciting exterior products from SG Lighting, Norway, which offer a quality, long-lasting finish. In many cases the patented

coating has a 20-year guarantee. Stylish and functional they can provide security or reveal stunning features and materials.

Remember, the outside of your home is often an overlooked area but it deserves to be seen. And it’s important to provide enough light so family and friends can sit, relax and entertain around the barbecue.

LightingPlus has worked with the trade and homebuilders consistently over more than two decades, offering the right product and the right advice for the job at hand.

Trained consultants can provide designs and draw up lighting plans, working with clients to provide more than just great prices.

LightingPlus welcomes trade accounts and has a special discount offer for home building. Whether you are a contractor or a homeowner we can light up your life!

BOTANY – Cnr Huntington & Ti Rakau Dr Phone 09 274 9808 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm Sat 9am-5pm Sun 10am-5pm MANUKAU – 67 Cavendish Dr, Manukau eastlife Phone 09 263 9808 | october 2016 | 75 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-5pm, Sun 10am-5pm 14175-v2

FREE WHITEWARE UPGRADE *

76 | eastlife | october 2016

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