THE POWER IN US SAVING OUR OCEANS
What a pleasure it is to be greeting EastLife readers once again, if only for this month. Editor, Farida Master, is ‘away from her desk’ for a spell so, a er 18 months of semiretirement, I nd myself overseeing this July issue. What fun!
I am especially impressed by Farida’s article on Anderson Rocio’s stirring song, Power In Us, to assist in the world-wide call for immediate solutions to our climate emergency. Yet again, we discover another talented Kiwi using her influence for good.
With the earth buckling under the stresses of climate change, caused in part by di culties of our own making, the article is a timely reminder that our planet urgently needs transformative change.
In particular, we should all be concerned about the deteriorating state of our oceans where plastics are starting to take a horrendous toll. It is not so long ago that New Zealand’s beautiful Marlborough Sounds were considered to be pristine but two years ago, a study by NIWA and the University of Auckland, found microplastics on the Sounds seafloor.
With microplastics having been found in alpine soils, Antarctic waters and at the bottom of
oceanic trenches, we should all be gravely concerned and calling for action especially as the devastation they are having on marine life is well documented.
This month’s EastLife also brings a diverse range of talented people to its pages. Author, Vanessa Hatley-Owen, artist, Cathy Cowin, pilot and NZ Warbirds general manager, Kim Parker provide fresh insights into women with presence.
This month, school holidays return which raises the issue of keeping youngsters active and entertained. Fortunately, there are plenty of activities on o er locally and further a eld (but not too far) to preclude boredom. See ‘Events’ for Uxbridge workshops plus other July pastimes.
And, with that, it’s “Bye” from me! I’ve so enjoyed being hands-on at EastLife again, but my retirement activities beckon –life is still very full!
HELEN PERRY
Ph 09 271 8000
www.eastlife.co.nz
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 Media 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 Media Ltd.
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EDITOR: FARIDA MASTER 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz
SALES: JANINE HICKMORE 09 271 8023, janine@eastlife.co.nz
SALES: DIANA HONEY 09 271 8050, dianah@eastlife.co.nz
SALES: KELLY COOKE 09 271 8026, kellyc@eastlife.co.nz
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This colourful canvas by Cathy Cowin expresses the cheerful philosophy behind community-minded Clevedon artists.
DESIGN: CLAIRE ROBERTSON 09 271 8061, clairer@times.co.nz
DESIGN: CLARE MCGILLIVRAY 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz
PHOTOGRAPHY: WAYNE MARTIN
Published by Times Media Ltd 10 Central Terrace, Howick, Auckland. PO Box 38 232 Howick, Auckland 2145
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Celebrating 30 years of the Manukau Symphony Orchestra (MSO), HAMILTON & HOUSTOUN begins with Shostakovich’s e ervescent Festive Overture, followed by renowned pianist Michael Houstoun playing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.3. Commissioned for the MSO, David Hamilton’s Manukau Songs: A Choral Symphony will feature over 200 performers on stage, including Counter-tenor Stephen ‘Coco’ Diaz, Bass James Ioelu, Auckland Choral, and Puhinui School Choir, conducted by Uwe Grodd. We have two tickets to giveaway to MSO’s HAMILTON & HOUSTOUN.
Discover this must-have Wet n Wild pack with favourite products. Here’s your chance to indulge with a range of mesmerising Rose & Shine products which will leave you looking fabulous – from vibrant nail polish to versatile eyeshadow palettes and adding a pop of colour with the iconic Color Icon Blush. You also get to upgrade your makeup game with plush vegan brushes and amplify your lashes with the LashOMatic Mascara Kit. What more could a girl want, except to win it? More on page 24.
Have you always thought of updating your bathroom but never got down to it. Well, here’s your chance to win a Showerdome®, a clear acrylic dome which attaches to the shower top and keeps the moisture away. It will ensure the humidity levels in your home take a big dip. One lucky person gets to win the Showerdome®, a brilliant Kiwi invention which ensures mist-free mirrors, a dry bathroom and a warm, clear shower enclosure. Yes, you’ve heard that right! More on page 35.
Howick Ward councillor ,Sharon Stewart, QSM, again raised the flag for the monarchy when she hosted her first King’s Birthday celebration at Fisher House last month. Last year’s function marked the platinum anniversary of the late Queen Elizabeth 11’s reign so, it was fitting that this year the cake was cut in honour of her son, King Charles 111’s ascendancy to the throne.
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July 6 – July 13, 2023, Uxbridge Arts & Culture, Uxbridge Rd, Howick.
Schools out but it’s all on for youngsters upwards of six years old at Uxbridge Arts & Culture in Howick. Check out creative holiday workshops running on various days – crazy clay, soap making, hooked on crochet, painting, digital art, sewing (cushions, tote bags) and more, all on a theme. Explore your creativity – classes lling fast.
Sunday, July 9, 2-4pm Polish Museum, 125 Elliot St, Howick
An educational activity for the school holidays. Learn about the scienti c work and discoveries of Copernicus in this 550th anniversary of his birth. Create a model of the heliocentric solar system to take home. Part of East Auckland Art Trail 2023. Ages 6-adult. $10 pp, includes cra materials. Ph 533 3530 to book.
July 11, Howick Bowling Club, 33 Selwyn Street, Howick.
Here’s your chance to join with other music lovers and hear the fabulous voice of Lisa Lorrell at the next Elevenses concert on July 11 at the Howick Bowling Club. Bookings are essential for this celebration of songs across the genres; morning tea included! Just $25 per ticket, phone Anne 09 232 6588 or Lisa 021 541 511 (email lisalorrell@outlook.com).
Friday-Sunday July 14-16, 2023. Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau.
Hey cra ers – here’s an event for those seeking a load of cra ing fun for all ages. Classes in cardmaking, mixed media, scrapbooking, stamping and more run across three days. Plenty of fresh ideas – use your imagination and your skills! It’s the perfect winter pastime. www.senz.co.nz
Saturday, July 15, Ellerslie Racecourse
R18’s it’s time to party! Auckland’s biggest winter music festival is back! Brace yourself for a mind-blowing experience as a wide spectrum of talented local and international artists, appear across six stages all in one night! It’s the ultimate party destination in July! For more information see: deephardnfunky. eventbrite.co.nz
Saturday, July 22, 9am-4pm, Ellerslie War Memorial Hall, 134/138 Main Highway, Ellerslie.
Lego-lovers will be excited by this impressive show featuring all manner of Lego creations with two competition Lego Masters present. Also learn about the organisers, AuckLUG (Auckland LEGO® User Group), consisting of adult and teenage Lego enthusiasts who collect, build and display their ‘brick’ works. Entry, $5 pp; family of 4, $15; no charge for under three years.
July 27-30, from 10am, Auckland Showgrounds, Green Lane West, Epsom
By now, the last of the summer wine should be a distant memory but that doesn’t mean we should whine about it! Instead, we can head to this show where we’ll nd plenty of tipples to top our tables throughout winter and beyond. Oh, and there will also be plenty to eat, plus exciting new products, cooking demonstrations and more. See www.foodshow.co.nz.
Saturday 29 & Sunday July 30, St Andrews Presbyterian Church, Clevedon
The Clevedon Valley Music Foundation Trust has an exciting new project – ‘Workshop with Concert’, developing drama/ stagecra , visual art (painting), musicianship & performance on the Saturday and culminating in a mixed-media presentation collaboration of rising talent and professionals on the Sunday. Limited to 25 participants aged between 8 and 20.
Classically trained musician, Anderson Rocio (our cover girl, March 2022), who shuttles between Los Angeles and Half Moon Bay has made a spine-tingling contribution to the earth. The singer-songwriter composed the song, Power in Us released on June 8, World Ocean Day. Anderson talks to FARIDA MASTER about the opportunity of a lifetime to garner support for the future of humanity.
,
It’s not o en a young songwriter gets the opportunity to give back to a world she deeply cares for.
Just as the LA-based musician, Anderson Rocio, who once sailed halfway across the world with her family – and a Yamaha p60 piano – was wondering ‘what next?’, the universe conspired to present an exciting challenge. She was asked to write a song inspired by the pivotal Antarctic Climate Expedition 2023, onboard , a purposed built ship designed for discovery in the most remote and beautiful places
“Power in Us is now a full-fledged project to bring these worlds together,” says the talented pop singer.
Having written the song to create an awareness about environmental conservation, Anderson is giving it License Free to anyone advocating for the protection of the environment. The mission is to bring the voices of conservation together for the bigger cause.
She deep dived into it.
the Sylvia Earle, a purposed built on earth. She deep dived into it.
The Antarctic Climate Expedition, was led by Dr Sylvia Earle, a world-famous oceanographer, explorer, marine biologist and Time Magazine’s Hero of the Planet. It attracted a top selection of brilliant minds including world renowned photographers, lmmakers, conservationists, scientists, ocean luminaries, specialists in arts and economics, brought together to nd creative solutions to our climate emergency.
“The song reminds us that as humans, have the power to make huge changes if we work together,” says Anderson, who is using the power of music to create change.
Antarctic Mission Blue in February of this year aimed to inspire transformative change for global net zero emissions by 2035 and make a commitment towards action.
was led by Dr Sylvia Earle, a world renowned photographers, scientists, ocean luminaries, specialists our climate emergency. of global zero emissions by 2035 and make a commitment towards action.
and lmmaker, and mentioned he was looking for the songwriter of Paradise (which crossed the 5m mark on Spotify) to work on the Oceans project. Little did Aw know that the songstress he was talking about, happened to be Romero’s daughter, Anderson.
The half Spanish, half American, Kiwi singer songwriter, who has travelled widely with her dad, visiting the world’s biggest aquariums says, “It is a cause which is close to home for me. I ended up writing a song called ‘Power in Us’.
“I want it to be a piece that will always be connected to helping bring exposure to conservation projects and the beauty of our planet. This is a way for me to give back to a world I care deeply about.”
The song, produced by Kiwi, Joseph Corban-Banks who gave up his percentage for the cause, passionately calls for unity and change. He urges us to pause and listen to the earth’s cries.
“To do whatever it takes to move from where we are right now to a better place,” said Earle. “To influence global climate like never before.”
from where we are right now to never before.”
“Whilst researching for the song, I noticed that within the world of Environmental Conservation, there is not much of a crossover for popular music – soundtracks consisted mostly of instrumentals and classical pieces.”
“It highlights, the overwhelming noise of our own voices which o en overshadow the urgent need to address the crisis we face,” Anderson says “It invites us to recognise the power within us; the power of love and nature, reminding us that by not listening, we hinder the transformative change our planet desperately needs.
Talking about how it came
Romero a marine biologist and lmmaker for 35 years, was the for the expedition.”
Talking about how it came to be, Anderson says “My father, Juan Antonio Romero a marine biologist and lmmaker for 35 years, was the director of photography for the expedition.”
As luck would have it, Michael Aw was one of the leads of the expedition. He is the winner of more than 67 photography awards, author of 37 books
The former diver at the Dubai Mall Aquarium, UAE and pro-kiteboarder, realised she had a big project on her hands to bridge the gap between the two worlds of conservation media and popular culture.
Anderson ends saying, if there is anyone around the world interested in the song for an environmental project, they can contact her at: powerinus@andersonrocio.com.
NOTE: One hundred percent of the streaming revenue from Power InUs (the song) will be split three ways and donated to the three major environmental groups which the Power in Us Project supports. They are: Live Ocean, the New Zealand Ocean advocates, Ocean Generation (Based out of the UK) and Mission Blue (Based out of the USA).
No ordinary girl, Hannie Scha refused to bow her head to oppression, as this page-turner con rms. Based on the true story of a young woman who became a freedom ghter with the Dutch Resistance during the Second World War, this book provides a unique perspective on war and its impact on civilians. Ideal for history bu s as well as fans of historical ction, this story takes readers through Hannie’s harrowing experiences.
Buzzy Jackson: The Girl with the Red Hair | RRP $37 | Michael Joseph
The latest work by the bestselling author of Night Race to Kawau, this book is perfect for teenagers, aged 12 and up. Alone on a distant and foreign shore, Harry must nd his way while keeping his real identity secret. Featuring real characters based on historical gures, this blend of fact and ction charts the course of a young settler, arriving in New Zealand in 1840.
Tessa Duder: The Sparrow | RRP $22 | Penguin
In his garden overlooking the Kaipara Harbour, Sidney King prepares to mark his one hundredth birthday. Set on a single day in 2016, this multi-generational novel explores the fatal history of two families, Pakeha and Maori. Sidney is on the brink of solving a mystery which has haunted him since he fought in the Spanish Civil War in a tale of memory, how it serves and deceives us.
Cli Taylor: The Spanish Garden | RRP $37.50 | Quentin Wilson Publishing
Renowned author and columnist, Joe Bennett, charts the rst 30 years of his life in this book, the rst volume of his memoirs. Known for his irreverent wit, Joe presents a humorous account covering his early years, while growing up in the UK, and then on to nding his feet (as well as his unique voice) here in New Zealand.
Joe Bennett: From There to Here
| RRP $39.99 | HarperCollins NZ
The majesty and mystery of desert landscapes are presented in this informative book, ideal for children aged three and up. Revealing that even the world’s most (seemingly) desolate and unforgiving regions are home to a rich range of life, Desert Jungle is intended to teach young ones more about the world around them and why it needs to be protected.
Jeannie Baker: Desert Jungle
| RRP $29.99 | Walker Books
Not all nanas are well mannered, as this children’s book reveals. When three grandmothers head away on holiday only to nd the resort doesn’t serve such goodies as chocolate nachos with cheese, a cheeky and funny story develops. They’re rude and not in the mood for anything other than their favourite food!
Justin Christopher & Minky Stapleton (illustrator): Nanas with No Manners
| RRP $21.99 | Scholastic NZ
One or two cats are o en included as ‘family’ in a household but Danielle Campbell’s Pakuranga property is, at any one time, home to eight gorgeous ragdolls and, in kitten season, several more.
“Feline cuddles are a given when you own a ragdoll,” the licensed breeder declares. “I’m ADHD and if I’m ever feeling anxious I just lie on the floor and these delightful cats will come and lie with me. Their presence is calming and comforting.”
A life-long lover of all cats, and supporter of cat rescue groups, Danielle says she became a ragdoll breeder primarily because she believed their temperament and a ectionate nature would prove the ideal therapy for her three autistic children.
“They have made 100 percent di erence to the lives of my children who have learned empathy from them, how to deal with loss and to appreciate the circle of life. Subsequently, I am very particular about the homes my cats go to. My ragdolls are my babies; they are pets rst and never lack love.”
The owner of three sires and ve queens, including champions, Danielle is presently preparing for The Zombie Cat Show at Kumeu on July 9.
“I especially want to show my kittens in the hope they will start the journey to becoming champions. Of course, I’d like my champions to eventually become grand champions.”
Aware that not everyone is principled when it comes to breeding animals, Danielle says it’s important to buy from a licensed ragdoll breeder, to ensure DNA testing is carried out and that the breeder is NZCF and CATZINC certi ed.
“I am focused on a meticulous breeding programme and follow-up. I only breed from the queens for 2-3 years and then place them in forever homes where they can have a good life. I want them to go to owners who are loving and will appreciate the so , warm-hearted nature of these cats.”
A LIFE-LONG LOVER OF ALL CATS, ANDSUPPORTER OF CAT RESCUE GROUPS, DANIELLE SAYS SHE BECAME A RAGDOLL BREEDER PRIMARILY BECAUSE SHE BELIEVED THEIR TEMPERAMENT AND AFFECTIONATE NATURE WOULD PROVE THE IDEAL THERAPY FOR HER THREE AUTISTIC CHILDREN.
Do you know that many New Zealanders think that ‘butterflies’ equate to ‘monarchs’? That there are only two species of butterfly in NZ: the monarch and the cabbage white?
The Moths and Butterflies of NZ Trust is determined to change all that by ensuring New Zealand’s ecosystems support thriving moth and butterfly populations. Ninety-three percent of New Zealand’s native butterflies and moths are unique to Aotearoa! They are found nowhere else in the world – if they die out, they can never be reintroduced.
The family of copper butterflies is a great example. They are native to NZ whereas the monarch and cabbage white butterflies are not.
“Some native butterflies are already teetering on the edge of survival,” says
“There’s a tiny purple copper butterfly which now exists only in one coastal carpark in the South Island. It needs our protection but rstly it needs to be identi ed!”
Butterflies need to thrive so that they can continue their important work as pollinators, food for birds and to brighten our summers.
“Sadly, successive governments have invested too little in research and taxonomy, the naming of species,” says Angela Moon-Jones, who is
spearheading a campaign to save our butterflies. “We are far behind most other countries of the world.
“We have a chance to change this, but we need the support of caring New Zealanders to save our precious butterflies,” says Angela. “We are so grateful that we have some wonderful sponsors and supporters already.”
The Moths and Butterflies of NZ Trust is campaigning to raise funds for DNA research into identifying copper butterflies and understanding their habitats. For more information: www. nzbutterflies.org.nz/project/butterflydiscovery-project/
SUNDAY 13 AUGUST, 5PM
Celebrating 30 years of the MSO, this event begins with Shostakovich’s effervescent Festive Overture, followed by renowned pianist Michael Houstoun playing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.3. Commissioned for the MSO, David Hamilton’s Manukau Songs: A Choral Symphony will feature over 200 performers on stage, including counter-tenor Stephen ‘Coco’ Diaz, bass James Ioelu, Auckland Choral, and Puhinui School Choir, conducted by Uwe Grodd. Tickets from $45 Adult, $40 Senior. Students $15.
Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau Tickets From Eventfinda.co.nz or Ph: 0800 289 849 www.manukausymphony.org.nz
Purchase NZ made Possum Merino direct from the factory. Perfect gi s to take or send to loved ones overseas, now we can travel again. Super ne Merino wool, Possum and silk bre are uniquely Aotearoa. Our luxurious knitwear is designed, knitted and manufactured locally, right here in Howick. Cra ed with the utmost care and attention, we draw inspiration from New Zealand’s astonishing natural beauty. Creating our range of capes, shawls, cardigans, jerseys, baby blankets, gloves, socks, scarves, beanies and more. Export quality at outlet prices. Shop in store or online
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Eastgate Op Shop opened its doors as a second-hand shop for the rst time in 2002 and is now a big part of the east Auckland community. They o er a huge range of new and second-hand furniture including antiques, linen, bric-a-brac and clothing. Great deals. Delivery service available. WINZ, A erpay, Layby available.
9 Ben Lomond Cres, Pakuranga
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The time has come again, the Howick Village Optometrists Annual Sale. With the largest selection of frames in the country you’ll be spoilt with choice with a wide range of brands. A huge variety for everyone, men’s, women’s and kids frames available. Sale on now with 20 – 50% off all frames storewide plus selected styles FREE with lenses. Come in and see the friendly, professional team today and find yourself a new pair of glasses at a great price.
94 Picton St, Howick
Phone 09 534 8716
Book online at www.howickoptometrists.co.nz
Clevedon artist, Cathy Cowin admits it’s an ‘aeon’ since art classes at Pakuranga College first revealed a budding talent and although painting, in particular, took a back seat for many years, she tells HELEN PERRY it is now a driver in her life.
Cathy Cowin credits her 88-year-old mother’s proli c art portfolio as inspiration for her desire to paint, especially watercolours.
But if anyone should visualise a mature Cathy spending her days in the quiet Clevedon countryside, painting to her heart’s content, that would be far from the truth.
In between painting, overseeing a growing group of Clevedon Creatives (their gallery and shop) and teaching a weekly art class, Cathy manages to sandwich in a bookkeeping job and her role as a hypnotherapist. She also works in the family’s small textile company making haberdashery fringes.
Perhaps best known for her flamboyant, colourful roosters and more subtle florals, plus pen and ink work, Cathy says it is only in the past six or seven years that she has had time for painting. However, her artistic journey has embraced a variety of cra paths.
“I’ve sewed all my life and turned my hand to a number of cra s; anything creative – decopage, mosaics, fabric work and more.
As a teenager I admired the pencil drawings sketched by my older, architect brother. More recently I’ve
drawn on memories of his work and developed my own style, but my heart lies in watercolors.
“It was my mother, Mary Maxwell who really guided me back into painting. I always wanted to paint like her so when mum asked if I wanted to attend night classes with her at Te Tuhi in Pakuranga, I was up for it.”
Cathy says studying under Kohl TylerDunshea was a revelation. “She didn’t just show us how she painted, she taught us technique whilst encouraging our own personal style. I’ve tried to adopt the same approach with the art group I now teach on Wednesday mornings in Clevedon.”
The [Clevedon] art classes are a natural progression from founding the Clevedon Creatives in 2019 when Cathy, together with fellow artist Helene Henare (Maraetai), discussed the idea of starting a weekly social group for local artists and cra ers.
“It’s much like a drop-in centre where members can talk and work together,” Cathy elaborates. “Initially, there were four of us running the group – Helene and I, Elizabeth Ambrose and Emma York.
We started in the Clevedon District Centre and grew quickly.”
Come their rst Christmas, the ‘creatives’ were o ered a former saddlery premises for a two -day pop up shop to display their work.
“We never closed; soon it was open ve days and now it’s seven,” Cathy laughs.
Showcasing an eclectic range of art and cra s, the gallery-cum-shop is operated by an enthusiastic group of volunteers most of whom are talented artists or cra ers in their own right.
Visitors will nd everything from sculptures, paintings, quilts and glass works through to baby clothes, homewares, decorative wall art and much more.
However, in time work and family pressures saw some founder members depart on new challenges and just when Cathy was thinking she needed help, her daughter, Caitlin Se on stepped in to co-manage the enterprise.
“That’s been wonderful; it’s given me time to run the weekly art class which I love. My hypnotherapy training has shown me that art can
be an emotional outlet, helping people become aware of their own creativity. Many don’t realise how creative they until they try. They are then amazed.
“No one here has to be fantastic; they just need to enjoy what they are doing. Sometimes the idea of mixing with “artists” can make one feel apprehensive and that should never happen.
“We are community-focused and I see how much members’ con dence grows as they mix and learn from each other. What’s more, it’s important for me as a teacher to be patient and to not dominate with my style.”
When it comes to her own paintings, Cathy says although time to paint has o en been limited, she remained encouraged by other artists
and through former membership of the Howick Art Group.
“But, at last I am pursuing my own direction. I love painting roosters; they are fun, cheeky and have personality. I’d also like to do more botanical works. I’d like to achieve the more translucent e ect which flowers o en have; that’s my goal at present even though life is extremely busy.”
No pilot prefers flying a desk but knowing Kim Parker is at the controls on the ground is sure to set their minds at ease. We put some questions to Kim, who recently took ‘the stick’ at NZ Warbirds, based in Ardmore.
WHY IS NZ WARBIRDS SO IMPORTANT?
NZ Warbirds is a large stakeholder in the preservation of historical aircra . We have a wonderful flying collection, based at Ardmore, which we like to share with the public through our visitors’ centre. Visitors can have a walk through our hangars as well as attend our regular (and popular) airshows and open days. There is cafe onsite.
WHY DID YOU ‘TAKE THE STICK’ AT NZ WARBIRDS AS GENERAL MANAGER? HAS THE FORMER GM, MIKE CURWOOD, LEFT BIG FLYING BOOTS TO FILL?
The chair is de nitely nicer! As the accounts administrator, I worked closely with the management team (almost like an apprenticeship) and, a er four years, I was ready for more challenges and responsibility. Mike le to fly with Qantas – he was a great guy to work with and supported me going into my new role.
DO YOU FLY A PLANE AS WELL AS A DESK? HAVE YOU EVER COMPETED IN AIR RACES? CAN YOU AND DO YOU PERFORM AEROBATICS?
Yes. My husband (Scott) and I enjoy flying together, we have a Cessna 177 Cardinal – we call it the ‘family wagon’. No to air races. I enjoyed aerobatics when I was younger but not so much these days.
WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST AMAZING PLANE YOU’VE FLOWN AND WHY? HAVE YOU FLOWN THE BRISTOL F2B, FOKKER DR1, SPITFIRE OR ANY (OR ALL) OF WARBIRDS’ MOST NOTABLE WARBIRDS?
The most amazing so far would be open-cockpit aircra , such as the Tiger Moth or the Boeing Stearman. There’s something special about being out in the fresh air. I’ve been up [with others as pilots] in Warbirds’ Beaver, Tiger Moth, Stearman and Harvards, but the ghters are de nitely on my wish list.
WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED? HAVE YOU ALWAYS LIVED IN OUR AREA?
I was born in Auckland and spent my early years in Pakuranga before we moved to Conifer Grove, Papakura. As my mother worked for an aeroclub on the air eld at Ardmore in the ‘70s and ‘80s, my sister and I practically grew up out here.
ARE OTHER MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY INVOLVED WITH WARBIRDS? DO THEY SHARE YOUR LOVE OF FLYING?
Scott is an airline pilot with Cathay Paci c Airways, a member of Warbirds and flies when he can. Our two children have both flown solo and enjoy recreational flying too.
WHAT EVENTS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO AT NZ WARBIRDS?
We should be flying on November 11 (Armistice Day). We keep information about our shows up to date on our website: www.nzwarbirds.org.nz.
IF YOU COULD GROW ANY PLANT OR RAISE ANY ANIMAL (REAL OR IMAGINED), WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
I have a Jack Russell terrier and I would love to have more but that would ensure absolute chaos around my home!
IF YOU COULD BE PRIME MINISTER FOR A DAY, WHAT WOULD YOU DO FIRST AND WHY?
I’d make sure that museums (not just our own), and anyone else who preserves our heritage, received all the funding they needed.
IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY THREE PEOPLE (LIVING OR DEAD) TO DINNER, WHO AND WHY?
I could say I’d invite such great aviators as the Wright brothers, Jean Batten or Amelia Earhart, but I think I’d just prefer the company of friends and family.
A self-confessed bookworm with a vivid imagination, Vanessa Hatley-Owen is delighted to have her second children’s picture book, Farewell Anahera, published and make the list of finalists for 2023 NZ Book Awards for Children and Young Adults. She chats with HELEN PERRY about her journey.
If, as a child, Vanessa Hatley-Owen “always had her nose in and book and was happiest reading,” the status quo hasn’t changed. However, as an adult and school librarian she says she is even happier opening up the world of books to young people.
In fact, Botany Downs Primary School pupils are already familiar with Vanessa’s rst published picture book,
When Dad Came Home, with its ‘return from war’ theme, a popular read when ANZAC Day comes around.
Inspired by well-known children’s authors such as Joy Cowley, Margaret Mahy, Sheryl Jordan and more, nevertheless inspiration for Farewell Anahera, (featuring text in English and Maori), came mostly from a family trip to the northern tip of New Zealand.
“Maori hold the belief that on passing, the spirits of the dead travel to the headland of Te Rerenga Wairua [Cape Reinga] where they descend into the underworld or return to their ancestral home, Hawaiki,” Vanessa explains.
“Standing at the cape, I felt a connection to that belief. In my story about Anahera’s departing spirit, and its subsequent journey, I wanted to
convey the goodbye to family and the land.”
Although this, and her earlier picture book, are her rst of this genre to be published, the Cockle Bay local is not new to writing – manuscripts abound in her home and she has long written text for a range of education journals, school readers, newsletters and more.
Perhaps that’s why writing Farewell Anahera came easily. “I wrote the dra over a weekend then spent a few weeks re ning it,” she says. “On the other hand, nding a publisher is seldom as quick!
“It can take time to nd the right home but along the way good feedback is welcome and helpful. Best of all, there is a market for children’s books; kids still love to read and to have books around them.”
Reflecting on her career path, Vanessa says writing for children has been a “natural t with her role as a school librarian. On occasion, when I read my own work to students, they ask good questions and give excellent feedback.”
But there are times when writing and Vanessa’s day job conflict. “I’m de nitely a night owl. I’m not one of those writers who can leap up early and tap out 2000 words before heading to work.
“When writing, I’m more of a mida ernoon person; when the morning activities are done, I’m in the mood to write. Not always conducive with school hours,” she says with a smile.
But that hasn’t stopped Vanessa’s creative flow. She has completed three junior ction novels which she hopes to have published. Two have been shortlisted for the Storylines Tom Fitzgibbon Award, awarded annually to the author of a children’s ction manuscript for youngsters aged between 8 and 12 years.
Presently plotting a new junior ction title, with more ideas in the pipeline, she recalls her early dialogue as, “tending to be a bit formal – a product of my childhood reading! However. I quickly learned that kids don’t talk like that. On the other hand, language is influenced by the characters in a book.
“In my latest junior ction title, one of the characters is quite cheeky and his personality is reflected in what he says and the way he says it.
“Then there’s my next picture book which is a lot of fun for little ones. It’s due for release early next year.”
With no intention of giving up her day job to concentrate solely on writing, Vanessa says the two roles are well balanced.
“Some might think I write to make money. The answer to that is, “no”, I doubt that writing children’s books will make me rich,” she laughs.
But, does one write to get published?
“Well, you have to be aware that it may never happen. I write just for the joy of writing and hope my stories will keep putting books in children’s hands.
“I know, when I was in Year 5, about nine years old, it was a teacher who read to my class, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe [from the Narnia series] which made me fall in love with the book and with reading.
“Later, I read to my own children [now 18, 21 and 23] and that generated their love of reading; I hope other parents do the same. In particular, I encourage children to read New Zealand authors; they really are among the best.”
Picture this. Breathtaking lagoons, crystal-clear waters, and pristine coral reefs. The best way to discover the rich marine life inhabited by majestic, deep-sea guardians in the Islands of Tahiti is through diving and snorkelling. The clear blue waters are teeming with precious marine life including turtles, dolphins, sharks, stingrays, whales, and other deep-sea treasures. EastLife dives in, right after World Oceans Day.
FAKARAVA: The remote island of Fakarava is mother nature’s ultimate sanctuary. It is home to rare, native, and protected wildlife species across land and water. The untouched atoll is a natural reserve for many rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans and has been o cially classi ed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to the rich diversity of its ecosystem. A diver’s paradise, with one of the largest concentrations of grey sharks residing here, it also has breathtaking undersea flora and fauna.
TIKEHAU: The most peaceful island is in the northern region of the Tuamotus and is a favourite among visitors for its beauty and pink sand! It’s here that you meet millions of tropical sh as it is one of the most sh-rich atolls in the world. Tikehau is a great spot to dive, no matter the level of experience. It feels like swimming in an aquarium surrounded by a wide variety of marine life. This o en leaves even the most advanced diver speechless.
MOOREA: This sister island of Tahiti, an underwater paradise located just 20 minutes across the ocean by ferry, o ers spectacular dives on the outside reef. Moorea is shaped like a heart with two beautiful bays, Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, both of which o er the perfect location to dive against the scenic backdrop of the mountain. With a vibrant array of marine life, it is an ideal location for travellers to immerse themselves in a rich and healthy coral reef ecosystem. A unique experience to swim with the very social lemon shark.
RURUTU: Unlike most islands in the Islands of Tahiti, Rurutu is one of the few islands without a lagoon. This means it has access to the big ocean lled with marine creatures with which divers and snorkellers can swim. Dive into crystal clear waters swimming with the majestic humpback whales and other marine wildlife that reside in these waters. Rurutu is one of the best places where you can swim with whales and has been best described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
RANGIROA: Dive into one of the world’s most immense natural aquariums in the largest atoll in French Polynesia and the second largest in the world. The extraordinary fact about Rangiroa is that each dive changes with the currents, in addition to the seasons and lunar cycles. Rangiroa is on the bucket list for every enthusiastic diver as it’s one of the best places to observe and play with dolphins.
ACROSS
7. Stewed vegetable? (7,5).
8. Tell you to back the favourite: “Cape” (6).
9. Washed and had a drink (6).
10. In the beginning, we went back to get him (7).
12. Fills the vacancy for a dentist (5).
15. Aim to get the soldier into the box (5).
16. Irritates the two Elizabeths (7).
18. Principal means of fastening (6).
20. Did he go round painting? (6).
22. Decode, say (3,4,5).
1. Le in with a nun to guard it (8).
2. Jump, but miss (4).
3. When the rest wander in, running the new lm (7).
4. Plays cricket (that’s a game)! (5).
5. Send the water into the trench (8).
6. As as soon as one catches cold (4).
11. Dogs and a cat: domestic animals (8).
13. Means to stop entering the harbours (8).
14. The part that’s le I take over (7).
17. Intended to change the name to “Tiptop” (5).
19. Record time you do the same as (4).
21. A bird sting! (4).
ACROSS
7. Shortening (12)
8. Thread (6)
9. Missile (6)
10. Acrid (7)
12. Mouldy (5)
DOWN
1. Obscure (8)
2. Region (4)
3. Obvious (7)
4. Hirsute (5)
5. Title (8)
Puzzle answers on page 39.
15. Dye (5)
16. Compete (7)
18. Put o (6)
20. Read (6)
22. Polluted (12)
6. Previously (4)
11. Lanky (8)
13. Metal (8)
14. Narcotic (7)
17. Rot (5)
19. Wine (4)
21. Wander (4)
JH18094-v2
Keep warm with superfine, 100% natural blend Merino wool, possum, and silk fibre clothing from NZ KNIT.
New Zealand cra ed and manufactured on-site, discover a beautiful selection of knitwear ranging from luxury capes, wraps, shawls and scarves to cardigans, jerseys, jackets, hats, neck gaiters and accessories for both men and women. There is no substitute for quality; nd out for yourself.
NZ KNIT: 1/113 Vincent Street, Howick www.mountaincountry.co.nz
Winter days may be grey, but these beauty products are designed to keep skin glowing and shining year-round.
As part of the latest Rose & Shine collection from DB Cosmetics, the Luminous Hydrating Foundation (RRP $24.99) leaves you with a naturally radiant and dewy complexion. The lightweight gel texture can be built from medium to full coverage with nourishing ingredients, including Vitamin C, E, and Hyaluronic Acid plus SPF15 – 100% Certi ed Vegan and Certi ed Cruelty-Free.
With its 12 pure and precious oils and extracts, JUARA Radiance Vitality Oil is a light-as-air, fast-absorbing, dry-face oil formulated to address signs of premature ageing by increasing elasticity and boosting radiance to minimise ne lines and wrinkles. The meticulously cra ed formulation helps restore the skin’s youthful look with a single drop. Perfect for use under foundation and can be used with a moisturiser or on its own. JUARA Radiance Vitality Oil RRP $140.00.
Using laser skin analysis technology, the new Technocolor range from Bondi Sands evaluates varying skin tones and their ability to process self-tanning actives. The range consists of four products formulated with DermachromaticTM Colour Technology, boasting the perfect blend of active tanning ingredients, electrolyte hydration and colour enhancers. Each product addresses tanning concerns such as orange or unnatural tones, dehydration, streakiness and poor colour. RRP $31.99 each.
Mamaku is the black tree fern native to Aotearoa which has been used in traditional Māori medicine to treat inflammatory skin diseases such as eczema. Now, this natural product is available in the Mamaku Skincare range. The key ingredient, Mamaku, aims to give skin the ultimate hydration. Mamaku Skincare is available in three essential products – Gentle Hydra Cleansing Wash, Advanced Hydra Gel and Gentle Hydra Moisturising Cream. Products available from mamakuskin.com
Dr. LeWinn’s Inner Beauty Hyaluronic Acid+ Vegan Collagen Cloudy Apple Flavour Liquid Shot is formulated to support healthy skin, hair and nails. It contains 4000mg VeCollal™, a plant-based vegan collagen amino acid alternative which mimics Type 1 human collagen. VeCollal is blended with a vegan form of 100mg hyaluronic acid with Vitamin C to support and promote a healthy complexion from the inside out.
vegan form of 100mg hyaluronic acid
Dr. LeWinn’s Inner Beauty Hyaluronic Acid+ Vegan Collagen Cloudy Apple Flavour Liquid Shot 50ml RRP$79.99
Natio’s Skin Brightening Liquid Exfoliant is formulated with a unique combination of AHAs and BHAs to lightly dissolve expired skin cells and reveal a fresh and radiant complexion. Blended with essential oils and sodium hyaluronate, it helps to hydrate and refresh for visibly brighter skin. Natio Skin Brightening Liquid Exfoliant RRP NZ$22.99
Staying healthy over winter is a priority for most people but teenage students often forget those important steps to maintain wellbeing. Here are a few tips to help teens remain active, alert, and free of seasonal illnesses.
We are dedicated to your personal well-being through dental health
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WHITFORD VILLAGE, WHITFORD
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Dentists: Dr.Rick Parfitt B.D.S
Dr.Alex Lindsay B.D.S
Dr. Maad Youhanna B.D.S
Hygienist: Shelley Chadwick R.D.H Zahraa Talib B.O.H JU0302-v10
Regular sleep: Older students o en form their own routines which may involve late nights. A regular bedtime with at least seven to eight hours sleep per night can help promote general health, recovery a er illness, and improve concentration.
A well-balanced diet: Students are notorious for waking late and skipping breakfast. Fast foods eaten on the run are o en full of carbohydrates and lack protein. Remind teens about the importance of eating regular meals with protein, fresh fruits, and veggies.
Exercise daily: Regular activity increases the circulation of antibodies and white blood cells which ght infection. Stress can also increase risk of illness making exercise all the more important.
Check Vitamin D level: Low Vitamin D can contribute to the winter blues. Our bodies naturally make Vitamin D in the sunshine however, some parts of the country see little sun in winter and people are also more inclined to remain indoors. A Vitamin D boost may be required to ease winter fatigue and low moods.
Hand washing: An easy way to maintain good health is to WASH YOUR HANDS especially before eating! Avoid touching eyes, mouth, or nose. Nailbiting, chewing on the ends of pens and pencils and even playing ball in the playground can transmit infection.
biting, chewing on the ends of pens and
Drink water regularly: supports the body’s ability to ght o of so drink may a water bottle
Drink water regularly: Hydration supports the body’s ability to ght o infection. Dehydration can be caused by fevers, salty diets, and ca eine. A can of so drink may seem appealing but sipping on a water bottle during the day is better.
Remember, if feeling unwell with cold or flu-like symptoms, test for Covid, stay home, keep warm, drink fluids.
unwell with cold or
The wellness conference Clive Plucknett recently attended showed great vision for managing mental, beauty and anti-aging wellness.
I have returned from a wellness conference in Sydney featuring renowned international speakers. The consensus was that as a species, we are heading to a dark place.
By 2030, anxiety and depression were predicted to be the major causes of mortality. Chronic disease will increase exponentially.
Why? Well, because, as a species, we are moving further and further away from our evolutionary past.
Your body was designed to be incredibly resilient, but only if it gets the things it needs to regenerate. Compare how we used to live to modern living: polluted air, chemical water, nutritionless food, poor light spectrum, magnetic pollution, drugs, poor connection with nature, toxins, emotional stress and more.
Most New Zealanders just carry on and then… bugger! Chronic fatigue, depression, cancer, heart! We are a world leader in chronic disease and our success rates [combating these diseases] are among the worst. This may mean little until it happens to you.
I met Meg at the conference, a real go-getter. She has twins, a thriving career, doing her PhD and training for a marathon with no near family support. Meg should be one of the 30%, and growing number, of women who are su ering burnout. She is not. She provides her body with the support it needs to fuel her chosen lifestyle. In addition to a healthy lifestyle, she does therapies which support her body. She gives her body the boost it needs to do the extra she demands for superior performance and living the best version of herself.
So, what are these proven therapies. They include hyperbaric chambers, photo biomodulation, sonar therapy, pulsed electromagnetic therapy, ozone therapy, vagal nerve stimulation, hydrogen therapy and much more.
These therapies are used not only by athletic performance clinics, but also by disease clinics worldwide.
For a full list of the therapies and which ones may work for you, please visit our website.
Kristine Jensen of Eyes of Howick talks about eye care to preserve vision and mental health.
It was the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle (384-322BC) who rst talked of ‘The Big Five’ when it came to human senses – sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. While nowadays neurologists consider humans to have at least nine senses, sight or vision is still considered the most dominant.
It is o en stated that 80 percent of a child’s learning happens visually but how can vision a ect quality of life and mental health, particularly as we age?
The art of seeing or ‘vision’ involves neural pathways throughout the entire brain and not just the visual cortex at the back of our brain. So, while brain health is required for good vision, it is now also suggested that good vision has an impact on mental health.
It is known that elderly patients who develop cataracts have increased risk of falls, and glaucoma patients are more likely to su er depression. Furthermore, there is an apparent relationship between glaucoma and dementia, with Alzheimer’s and glaucoma appearing to share a similar inflammatory cascade.
Recently, a study has shown that a general decline in vision quality, for any reason, increases risk of dementia with untreated vision problems increasing risk of dementia by 44 percent!
The study, outlined in the Aging and Mental Health journal, is the rst to evaluate the association between vision and cognitive outcomes in the aging population. Authors suggest diagnoses and treatment of eye and vision conditions may be bene cial not just for quality of life but to slow or prevent memory loss.
Vision is clearly not just what we see. How we see and how our brain can process that visual information is paramount to our experience and enjoyment of the world we live in.
Take a positive step towards life-long good vision and brain health with a comprehensive eye examination.
Looking for a tummy-satisfying break with a fantastic coffee? All day breakfasts, homemade pies, keto options, daily specials and sweet treats all come with a smile and a welcome chat at the Cafe with No Name in Panmure. The cheerful team ensures all baking is done on-site and prides itself on everything being made from scratch.... some recipes have even been passed down from grandma’s cookbooks – delicious! Call in today and treat yourself, we are open seven days!
55 Queens Rd, Panmure Phone 09 570 2968
www.cafewithnoname.co.nz
...with
Time to don your festive glad rags and join in Mid-Winter Christmas celebrations at Wellington’s Restaurant (Waipuna Hotel). TWO FABULOUS EVENTS – LUNCH, July 18-22 and July 25-29 or grab your dancing shoes and get ready to trip the light fantastic for a great DINNER DINE AND DANCE – July 21, 22 and 29. COST: Lunch – Adults $60, Gold Card (over 65 years) $52 and children 3-12 years, $35; Dinner – Adults, $80, Children, 3-12 years, $40. (No Gold Card concession for dinner, children 0-3 years free for both events).
58 Waipuna Rd, Mt Wellington Phone 09 526 3020
www.waipunahotel.co.nz
APPLICATIONS FOR STALLS OPEN JULY 1 – GET IN QUICK AS SPACES RUN OUT FAST
SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER 2023 10AM-4PM
The Otahuhu Food Festival is Auckland’s (if not NZ’s) largest street food festival. More than 100 food trucks, caravans and stalls will line the mainstreet of the Otahuhu Town Centre selling food from around the world. More than 30 different ethnicities will be represented as well as vegan, halal, gluten free and even keto options. A stage with performances by epic kiwi artists will entertain the crowds. There’s a kids zone with cool free activities including facepainting and bouncy castle. The “urban sale street” has authentic non-food stalls.
otahuhufoodfestival | www.foodfestival.co.nz
Contact
09
Mt
Stampede Bar & Grill is an authentic Western-style Bar and Restaurant in an exciting saloon-style environment. Try our mouth watering menu on western saddle seats in an authentic Wild West décor. Let loose with a boot stompin’ boogie to one of our DJs and bands and enjoy the most elaborately themed bar in town! Now open 7 days from 10am till late with DJ’s every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. For the best steaks in town, a fantastic wine list, large open re and two big screens for sports matches. Come along and enjoy!
238 Great South Road, Papakura Ph 09 297 8991
www.facebook.com/StampedeNZ
Barracuda Restaurant, nestled at 32 The Esplanade, Eastern Beach, is a culinary gem that mesmerises with its tantalising offerings. With its stunning beachfront location, it offers a picturesque setting for an unforgettable dining experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance as you savor their exquisite seafood creations and delectable fusion cuisine. With exceptional service, breathtaking views, and an extensive menu, this culinary haven promises an unforgettable feast for all who step through its doors.
Open Tuesday-Sunday, dine in or take away.
32 The Esplanade, Eastern Beach Phone 09 534 1989
www.thebarracuda.co.nz
Golden Olive & Aroma Adriatica Pizzeria in Farmcove, is a haven for pizza lovers. The charming pizzeria o ers a wide array of mouthwatering pizzas, pasta and risotto cra ed with the nest ingredients and authentic Italian techniques. From classic margherita to gourmet and classic Kiwi combinations, every bite is a burst of flavor. The friendly sta create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or takeaway. Golden olive o ers a satisfying dine in or takeaway experience. Fully licensed and Now BYO.
Ph 576 0057
190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove www.goldenoliveonline.co.nz
& CHINESE CUISINE
Gorkha Restaurant at Eastern Beach is a culinary treasure that delights diners with its delectable flavours and inviting ambiance. Nestled along the coastal strip, this restaurant o ers a unique fusion of Nepalese, Indian, Indonesian and Chinese cuisine. From aromatic curries to flavourful tandoori dishes, each plate is cra ed with precision and passion. Whether you’re craving traditional favourites or looking to explore new taste sensations, Gorkha Restaurant is a destination that promises a memorable journey.
Ph 533 1020
1 Eastern Beach Rd, Eastern Beach www.gorkhaeasternbeach.co.nz
Nutritious and versatile the humble Cauliflower takes centre-stage. Here’s a slice of goodness – a crusty and crispy cauli pizza with a twist! It’s all about the base!
Recipes and images courtesy of the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust. For more recipes: www.5aday.co.nz
Serves: 2 | Prep: 10 minutes | Cooking: 25 minutes
> 1 medium cauliflower
> 1 egg
> ½ tsp garlic salt
> ½ tsp dried mixed herbs – or basil
> ¾ cup tomato paste or pizza sauce
> 1 cup mozzarella cheese (1/4 cup is for the base)
> ¼ red onion, nely sliced
> Fresh basil leaves to serve
Pre heat oven to 180°C on fan bake. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Remove stems from cauliflower, cut into chunks. Place cauli into a food processor and pulse until very ne.
Place cauliflower crumble into microwave safe bowl and microwave for 4 minutes. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes. It may be hot so be careful.
Place cauliflower into a clean tea towel and squeeze out excess water. Make sure you remove as much moisture as possible.
In a bowl, mix the cauliflower, egg, garlic salt, ¼ cup cheese, and dried herbs. Stir well until combined. Place onto lined oven tray and spread mixture into the shape of a pizza crust.
Bake 15 minutes or until crust is golden and crispy. Remove from oven, cover with tomato paste, onion & mozarella cheese. Bake further 5 minutes, or until cheese melts. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.
Serves: 4 | Prep: 15 minutes | Cooking: 50 minutes
> 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets
> 1 small broccoli, cut into florets
> 1 cup kale, nely chopped
> 5 cups vegetable or chicken stock
> ½ white onion, cut
into cubes
> 3 garlic cloves, peeled
> ¼ tsp dried thyme
> 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
> 4 tbsp olive oil
> Lime juice
> Salt & pepper to taste
Pre heat oven to 180°C fan bake and line an oven tray with baking paper. In a bowl, toss the cauliflower, broccoli, onion, garlic, thyme and cayenne with 3 tbsp of olive oil. Place onto the lined oven tray, roast for 20 minutes or until golden.
On a separate lined oven tray, place the kale and cover with 1 tbsp of olive oil. Place in oven, bake for 10-15 minutes or until crispy.
In a large pot, add roasted veges and stock, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. In a blender or food processor, blend the soup in batches.
Once the soup is smooth and creamy pour into bowls and sprinkle with the roasted kale, juice of the lime, salt, pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
Cauliflower, cheese and onion make perfect partners in this dish which combines herbs and spices to deliver an inexpensive, tasty dinner for five.
Prep: 15 mins | Cooking: 35 mins
> 1 small head of cauliflower
> (Substitute fresh with approx 250g of frozen cauliflower florets – defrosted)
> 3 tbsp olive oil
> 1 tsp ground cumin
> 1 tsp ground paprika
> ½ tsp ground coriander
> ¼ tsp cayenne
pepper
> 7 eggs
> ½ cup cream
> ½ cup grated
parmesan cheese
> ½ cup grated tasty cheddar cheese
> 1 red onion sliced into thin rings
> 1 cup cooked long grain white rice
Preheat oven to 200°C. Grease a 20 x 28cm baking dish. Divide the cauliflower into florets and arrange in a roasting dish.
Drizzle with oil, season with salt, cumin, paprika, coriander and cayenne and bake for 15 minutes until the cauliflower is starting to colour.
Whisk the eggs together with the cream in a large bowl and stir through the cheeses.
Arrange the cauliflower and onion in the baking dish and scatter over the rice. Pour over the egg and cheese mixture.
and scatter over the rice. Pour over the egg and
Bake for 20 minutes or until the egg is just set. Sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe by Helen Jackson. Courtesy of NZ Eggs
Serves: 4 | Prep: 10 mins | Cooking: 40 mins
> 2 cups cooked or grated veggies – eg cauliflower, carrots, corn, parsnips, spinach, beans, peas…
> 2-3 spring onions, sliced thinly
> Handful of fresh herbs, chopped (try parsley, mint or coriander)
> 1 cup self-raising flour
> 5 eggs, lightly beaten
> 100 g grated or crumbled cheeses + extra for topping
> ¼ cup olive oil
> ½ tsp salt
> ¼ tsp black pepper
> olive oil – for drizzling
Preheat oven to 180 C. Line a standard loaf tin with baking paper.
In a large bowl combine grated veggies, spring onion, herbs, flour, eggs, cheese, olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly then scrape into lined loaf tin. Sprinkle over a little more cheese and a nal drizzle of olive oil.
This is a delicious, economical lunchbox filler or a light dinner, served warm, with a salad! It can be made with a range of veggies or leftovers – add in those remaining ends of a cheese block. clean. Leave to cool for 10-15 minutes before turning
Bake for 40-50 minutes until a skewer comes out clean. Leave to cool for 10-15 minutes before turning out to cool.
Slice thickly and top with butter or your fav chutney – serve with a salad for a lovely meal.
Recipe by NZ Eggs
With duck shooting season over in most parts many families will have a bag of birds in the freezer. However, whether preparing wild duck or butcher-bought for the table, the following recipe is sure to please.
> 1 whole duck (approx. 2.5kgs)
> 2 cloves garlic
> 2 French shallots (or brown onions), peeled
> 1 lemon, quartered
> 1 apple, quartered
> A few sprigs fresh thyme
Remove the duck’s giblets. Pat the skin dry with paper towels and leave uncovered in the fridge overnight.
Preheat oven to 150 Celsius. Score the fat on the breasts with a knife taking care not to cut the flesh. Salt outside and inside of the duck evenly. Stu cavity with the garlic, shallots, lemon, apple and thyme. Close the cavity with butcher’s twine or toothpicks.
Place the duck in a baking dish, breast side up, and bake for an hour. Turn the duck breast side down and bake for another hour. Turn back over and bake for one more hour.
This side dish provides an excellent accompaniment to roast duck – or any other roast meat for that matter –and proves good things really do take… thyme!
> 1 cup honey
> 2 tbsp molasses
> 3 tbsp orange juice
> 1 tbsp soy sauce
> 2 tsp garlic powder
> 2 tsp onion powder
> Salt and pepper, to taste
While the duck is cooking, bring the remaining ingredients to a boil in a small saucepan. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until the glaze thickens.
Remove duck from the oven and increase temperature to 205C. Brush the duck with the glaze and return it to oven for 10 minutes. Baste duck with the glaze again and bake for a further 10 minutes.
Remove the duck from the oven and leave it to rest for at least 15 minutes. Serve on a large platter garnished with holly leaves, oranges and fresh fruit.
> 16 thin carrots, with stalks
> 1/4 cup olive oil
> 1 tsp garlic powder
> 1 tsp onion powder
> 4 sprigs fresh thyme
> Salt and pepper, to taste
Preheat oven to 220 Celsius. Wash and peel carrots. Remove all except (roughly) 2cm of the carrot stalks. Place them in a baking dish, add olive oil, spices and leaves from three of the thyme sprigs. Season with salt and pepper, mix well so that each carrot is coated.
Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes turning the carrots a er 10 minutes. Place the carrots on a serving plate, garnish with a sprig of thyme and serve.
From tempting tipples to tasty treats, life can be ‘fare’ enough, thanks to these new (and recent) additions to
shelves.
As winter bites, big dreams of little islands are even more common. Made using a blend of plant-based ingredients, Little Island milks have been drawing ‘shakers and moovers’ to the ‘yard’. Available in four flavours (from supermarkets nationwide), these milks are dairy-free, but they also pack in calcium and vitamins to help support our immune systems.
Starring honey nougat crisps and roasted almond pieces, Whittaker’s Honey Nougat and Almond has had tongues wagging, albeit from within full mouths! While some chocolatiers appear content to rest on their laurels, Whittaker’s has come to the party.
It’s not bread, it’s knot bread! Since its humble beginnings as a small German-run artisanal buttery, Bloom’s has blossomed. Already known to many locals frequenting the Clevedon Village Farmers’ Market, Bloom’s Pretzels are now available (in a wide range of flavours, shapes and sizes) at select Auckland supermarkets, as well as cafes and restaurants.
A sweet siren song has called a foremost wine expert on an Odyssean voyage. Featuring spicy notes with fruity and floral undertones, Akarua’s The Siren (a Pinot Noir) attracted the attention of Baroness Ariane de Rothschild who is now looking to establish her company’s rst organic wine production facility in Otago. The Siren is available now but, with the Baroness impressed by Kiwi growing conditions, we may soon have more to sing about alongside our suppers.
KEEP GREY AT BAY! Why let dull, drab colours hold sway during winter?
Designer and artist, Anna von der Heiden (from AN-NA Design, Germany) contends that this is the perfect season to bene t from a little colour therapy.
Counteracting the natural colours of winter, AN-NA’s cushions and pillows boast upli ing pinks and violets. These help to improve mood and ensure homes retain plenty of colour through the darkest days of the year.
Warming and inviting, while promoting self-con dence and concentration, these brighter colours o er just the right amount of contrast to li our spirits, Anna believes.
needed most – AN-NA Design
In addition to colourful cushions and pillows – which can be dotted throughout the home, wherever warmth and cheer is needed most – AN-NA Design also o ers vivid, enlightening wall coverings to add extra pizzazz.
For further examples from the winter range, or to steal a march on spring, visit an-na-design.com. All products from this designer can be ordered and shipped to New Zealand.
With temperatures dipping, the focus is on keeping healthy during the cold and flu season. It is also the perfect time for homeowners and landlords to think of ways to make their homes or rentals warmer, drier and heathier. One clever Kiwi invention, the Showerdome®, is a clear acrylic dome which attaches to the shower top – a brilliant way to help reduce moisture. Steam occurs when warm, moist air mixes inside the shower then collides with cold air outside the shower. A Showerdome® acts as a barrier between these two air masses, which thankfully means no-steam forms in the shower or bathroom. One of the main sources of house humidity is the shower which can make the bathroom and adjacent rooms damp and moist. Mould and mildew are caused by humidity and can result in a range of allergies, inflammation, and respiratory discomfort. Visit www.showerdome.co.nz
Love to sleep on your tummy? Toss and turn unless you’re on your back? Or do you side sleep? No matter what your sleeping position, we found an ergonomic pillow to rest your head in style and comfort. The Emma Foam Pillow is designed for every sleeping position with adjustable height and rmness for ultimate bedtime bliss! What makes it unique is that it can be individually adjusted for height and rmness according to your needs. Simply remove one of the three layers of foam to enjoy the level of comfort which works for you. Cra ed from high performing, durable foams, it retains its shape throughout the night and distributes weight across the head, neck and shoulders. The pressurerelieving viscoelastic memory foam layer in the Emma Foam Pillow is a concept developed by astrophysicists – turns out a good night’s sleep is, in fact, rocket science! For more information visit www.emma-sleep.co.nz
Bayleys’ well-known agent Angela Rudling reflects on where the market is at now.
A er 20 plus years of navigating through changes in the market, i.e. interest rate variation and economic change, government policy and immigration change, Angela Rudling of Bayleys Real Estate is always keen to stay informed.
She writes, “An independent economics commentator, Tony Alexander, who keeps a close eye on market statistics, recently asked, ‘Why is the housing market turning around?’.”
In his latest One Roof article he quoted a boom of net migration inflow in the past year compared to a large loss, a year ago. He went on to explain that demand for housing initially shows up in the rental sector. However, the rental sector can only satisfy those who are not able to purchase. Eventually, this new activity lters onto residential house sales, bringing a quicker pace of activity, which we have seen this last month or two in our local area.
A second reason for con dence is the Reserve Bank’s recent indication that it doesn’t plan to raise the o cial cash rate beyond 5.5% and this gives prospective owners more con dence to return to the housing market once again.
However, we must be careful not to over-predict the turning of a market, as Tony says at the end of his article, “The many indicators which I track and the factors that drive the housing market suggest waiting for lower prices is now extremely unlikely.”
So, if you are currently thinking of buying or selling, this is the most positive news we have had over the past 18 months and we encourage you to engage with your personal real estate professional or contact us for any assistance you may require.
BILL POTTER – Maverick Thinker. Global Speaker. Personal Power Coach. Bill has made personal presentations in 53 countries. Here is a summary of a keynote to 7,600 in Hong Kong https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToRhF22nARM
Those of us who take the time and make the e ort, to investigate those things that we believe will enhance our human journey, are rstly looking for good people with whom to ‘mix and mingle’. Many of us o en believe that we could do this alone. Good luck!
We must be su ciently knowledgeable about the desires and the dreams of the many, so that we can help design the plans involving enough talented others, who can and will create a better tomorrow for all. It sounds good, right? Because it is!
So let’s change tack and go back, to an earlier track. A sad human journey was revealed according to Isaiah, in an Old Testament Prayer 65 verse 5 in the King James Bible. There he introduced this quote. It was... ‘I am holier than thou’.
This is one fun reason why I adopted the term ‘stupidest’ very early in my young life. It has not occurred to gazillions of human beans, that not only is this ‘attitude’ stupid, but it reveals a self-righteous, narrow-minded, narcissistic, seeking moral ‘superiority’ Twit!
In summary, it sounds like this : ‘I am better than you!’ Use your ngers from one hand to touch the ngers of the other. In front of a group repeat,: ‘I’m Better Than You’, as you touch each nger. Have you any friends le ? Duh!
‘The Holier than Thou phenomenon’, is rife in all communities. There are, approximately 4000 ‘religions’ in the world. Each one is ‘better than yours’, OK. Next worst are political ‘parties’. They non-stop love yelling... ‘Our party is totally better than your useless mob!’
Hence, my simple suggestion to ALWAYS, ‘Check it out!’ Do this with businesses, sports, schools, careers etc. Avoid the damage that the ‘holier than thou’ brigade can do. Just ignore them! They hate that! But... do read this eBook below. It’s a ‘happy place’. https://personalexcellence.co/blog/bucket-list/ duitdammit@gmail.com
It’s important to conduct your own due diligence to understand which opportunities are legitimate, which are too good to be true, and which are fraudulent. This article shouldn’t be read in lieu of nancial advice and we always recommend talking to a nancial adviser before making any investments.
> Is it a legitimate company with directors and o ces in New Zealand? This information is publicly available on the Companies O ce website.
> Is it on the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) watchlist? This is a list on the FMA website regularly updated with known investment scams.
> Is it licensed by the FMA to provide the services o ered? Before investing with
Heather Kentsley
a company, it’s a good idea to check the FMA website to ensure it is licenced to operate in NZ.
> Does it have a real o ce that you can visit? A company without a local premise in New Zealand could be a sign of a fraudulent business.
> Can you sign up and view the investment opportunity in detail before investing? Understanding an investment opportunity and the risks involved is a key part of due diligence. Not having visibility over investment details could mean something shy.
> Are the funds going into a NZ bank account with an NZ IRD number? New Zealand investment companies should be dealing with New Zealand accounts, so be wary of any international money transfer requirements.
Southern Cross Partners is an FMA-licenced
Scams regarding fraudulent investments continue to fool many Kiwis. Southern Cross wants to make sure you’re equipped with the right questions to ask before investing, with our top six due diligence must-do’s.
peer-to-peer investment company. We are 100 per cent NZ owned with no o shore investments or parent company. We have real o ces at 16 Selwyn Road in Howick, and we welcome visits from investors whenever you’re in the area.
For more information on SCP’s investments, or if you have any questions about due diligence for our investment opportunities, feel free to call 0800 00 58 43 or go to www.southerncrosspaertners.co.nz
Disclaimer: All investment opportunities are subject to change and subject to availability. Southern Cross Partners Ltd is licensed to provide Peer to Peer lending services under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013. This article is general in nature only and has not taken into account any particular person’s objectives or circumstances. We recommend you speak with a nancial adviser before making any investment decisions.
Sometimes it can be hard to balance the need to save for your future, as well as enjoying the adventures that pop up every day. Our unique investment model offers you the flexibility to do both.
At Southern Cross Partners, we offer mortgage secured loans that allow investors to pick and choose their level of involvement. With current returns from 7.00% p.a.* paid out monthly. Talk to us today about a new, flexible way to invest, minimum investment $10,000.00.^
To find out more, visit us online at southerncrosspartners.co.nz *
Get monthly returns from 7.00% p.a.* that make the most of your savings, so you can make the most out of life.
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.
Creators
Just like you, your new kitchen keeps on giving… Life is a journey, best shared with friends and family. Our consultants are dedicated to helping you create the kitchen where you experience life’s finest moments. A kitchen feels like home, it’s a place where people are welcome; a place where you can be free to express your own personal style.
09 533 6956 aucklandce@dreamdoors.co.nz www.dreamdoors.co.nz
We specialise in providing the highest quality accounting, business advisory and taxation service with individual attention Trustworthy, Reliable, Experienced Botany: Unit 27, 2 Bishop Dunn
SERVICES: Accounting Tax Returns Tax planning Company Formation Trust and Estate Planning
Household Waste Garden Waste
General Rubbish
Full Tree Work (Qualified Arborist)
Pruning and Full Removal
Stump Grinding
QUICK PUZZLE NO. 10102 – SOLUTIONS
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