EastLife May 2014

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

www.eastlife.co.nz

May 2014

WINTER FASHION

It’s a wrap!

Mother and daughter HANDS-ON BUSINESS

Win!

Najo sterling silver triple heart necklace plus loads more www.eastlife.co.nz OUT & ABOUT

eastlife || may 2014 | 1 | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY | FOOD | ART | HOME | MOTORING | EVENTS TRAVEL

 eastlife | out & about

 

Issue Issue Thirteen Thirteen Thirteen 

 

    

    

                                                                                

   

   

       

 

                                                       

 

 

                                            

quote quote quote>>> >>> >>>               Check Check Check out out out our our our blackboard blackboard blackboard atat at the the the office office office for for for more more more inspirational inspirational inspirational quotes quotes quotes oror or drop drop drop byby by and and and tell tell tell usus us your your your favourite. favourite. favourite.  

  

  

    

        

        

     

     

     

     

     

     

    2

  | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

   out & about | eastlife

                  

       

     

 

                   

     

        

www.eastlife.co.nz

 

 

  



where where where people people people matter matter matter   eastlife | may 2014 | 3

   E510001-v13

eastlife | contents

on the cover

Resigned to

political correctness Wasn’t April an interesting month?

Easter, ANZAC commemorations, extended holidays, massive weather systems, Lydia Ko winning the Swinging Skirts LPGA Classic and the bombshell – Pakuranga MP Maurice Williamson’s resignation from his ministerial portfolios.

Hats and scarves are integral to the 2014 winter wardrobe and this month, EastLife’s cover shot features just one fabulous look to stay head and shoulders above in vogue competition. Sophisticated, snug and alluring, knits are hot this season but also think Fedora hats, feminine cloches, all-encompassing snoods and gorgeous possum wraps when making a style statement.

Photo supplied

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: Caroline Boe 09 271 8091, caroline@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Gina McNeill 09 271 8020, gina@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz Photography: Wayne Martin Manager: Karla Wairau 09 271 8083, karla@eastlife.co.nz Managing Director: Reay Neben 09 271 8012, reayn@eastlife.co.nz Publisher: Times Newspapers Ltd 50 Stonedon Drive, East Tamaki, 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 newspaper. All the material in this newspaper has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Newspapers Ltd.

4 | eastlife | may 2014

This came on the back of “a significant error of judgment” as the Prime Minister, John Key described Mr Williamson’s part in contacting a top ranking police officer regarding the arrest of businessman Donghua Liu on domestic violence charges.

While Mr Williamson apparently assured the PM that he did not in any way intend to influence the police investigation, his actions were seen as so erroneous as to warrant his resignation as a Minister outside Cabinet.

Yet the recent debacle over supposed conflicts of interest when Justice Minister, Judith Collins attended a meeting and a dinner with the management of Chinese company, Oravida, of which her

husband is a director, failed to elicit the same outcome.

Just before going to print we dashed off a question to the National Party, Labour and the Greens asking if they could see any parallel between the Maurice Williamson and Judith Collins’ ‘errors of judgment’.

Labour’s Grant Robertson responded with: “From my point of view they are very similar errors of judgment and, while I think Maurice has done the right thing by resigning before he was sacked, the same criteria, applied to Judith Collins, would have seen her gone as well. So, I think the Prime Minister is showing double standards here.”

And from Green’s co-leader Russel Norman: “We believe there are parallels... Williamson’s wrongful intervention related to a criminal matter which on the face of it makes it more clear cut. But both cases highlight the thin line between money and political influence... so we think they should be treated similarly.”

In the meantime, we wait and see what the future holds for Maurice who will remain in Parliament and will contest his Pakuranga seat at the September election. On a personal note I’m saddened by this development in Maurice’s career which has suffered a few ups and downs. Yet, he has always remained committed to his constituents.

But enough of political correctness.

Mother’s Day looms, giving us a chance to honour our mums and it isn’t all about expensive gifts. I love it when my grown-up children do a few special jobs for me – a bit of weeding or a garage clean-up. Such efforts are truly appreciated.

Finally, we have some wonderful gifts up for grabs on our WIN page, check it out and enjoy EastLife,

Helen Perry Editor

This month...

6 10 questions in 10 minutes Goran Paladin, Radio Sport presenter/producer

7-10 out & about Around the town

14-15 pakuranga hunt Where’s the Hunt galloping now?

16-17 interview a mini with more

Alpacas a ‘shoe-in’ with cobbler

18-19 jubilee Pakuranga Choral Society celebrates 40 years

20-21 interview Crafting dragons’ flight of fancy

22

interview

Podiatrist James Baxter foots it with sport stars

25-37 Lifestyle

• Go bush on great walks

• Career success for selftaught artist

• Pharmacist praises the Energy Experience

• The Sex Lives of Siamese Twins – review

• Essentials

52-58 food

38-51 health, beauty and fashion

• Curtains • Heating

• Regular columnists

• Wrapping up for winter 2014 • Spa journey a family affair

• Pamper

• Local butcher makes the judges cut • Check out our delicious range of recipes

• Dining guide

59-76 home

77-83 drive

• Step back in time with Mazda MX-5 www.eastlife.co.nz

McMillan | eastlife outTeam & about BMW

Newmarket

DESIRABLE MEETS ATTAINABLE.

ZERO DEPOSIT. $199 PER WEEK.

An unprecedented opportunity to upgrade to the style, innovation and sportiness of the BMW 1 Series Sports Hatch. Loaded with over $10,000 worth of complimentary options, and for an extremely limited time it’s available with no deposit down, and then payments of just $199 a week. Now’s your chance - make your move.

BMW 1 SERIES: THE PERFECT BALANCE OF AGILITY AND EFFICIENCY. TOTAL VALUE ADDED PACKAGE WORTH OVER

10,000

$

COMPLIMENTARY OPTIONS INCLUDE: • M SPORT INTERIOR / EXTERIOR STYLING PACKAGE • ONBOARD NAVIGATION • 18” LIGHT ALLOY WHEELS • XENON HEADLIGHTS

BMD0007_1 Series_EL

E510002-v12

• REAR VIEW CAMERA

Drive away

51,900

$

199* per week

5

YEAR WARRANTY

or just $

PLUS

3 YEAR NO-COST SERVICING 5 YEAR ROADSIDE ASSIST

This Ultimate Driving Machine now comes with an unbeatable 5 year warranty, for the ultimate peace of mind package.

Visit Team McMillan BMW today to experience this Ultimate Driving Machine, and find out why BMW is the best selling premium vehicle in New Zealand and around the world.

Team McMillan BMW 7 –15 Great South Road, Newmarket. Ph (09) 524 3300. www.teambmw.com *Offer based on Drive Away Price. Finance offer based on a contract consisting of a 60 month loan agreement, 6.85% interest rate and a $250 documentation fee and a final payment due in month 60 of $12,750. Offer expires 31/05/2014 and is subject to BMW Financial Services lending criteria.

eastlife | interview

10 TEN

Ten questions in ten minutes with

Goran Paladin

Those in radio may hope it’ll be all right on the night, but who needs a ‘knight’ when a Paladin’s behind the desk? Along with his partner in crime, D’Arcy Waldegrave, Radio Sport producer/presenter, Goran Paladin, takes to the airwaves with a ‘distinctive brand of locker-room humour’, interviews and opinion. The Pakuranga-raised DJ regularly visits his mum who still lives locally and says she would be chuffed to find her boy featured in EastLife, particularly on Mother’s Day!

The strangest, ‘Pete the Urban Maori;’ he gave himself that nickname! He calls with every intention of talking about sport but ends up ranting and raving until he’s suddenly talking about the drug trade in Columbia or human trafficking! Very odd. Most memorable, Stephen from Dunedin – basically NZ’s oldest child – and also a lovely old man dubbed ‘Elias Peter.’ He called Graeme Hill to talk about our greatest sportsmen and said Edmund Hillary was the best.

When Graeme questioned Hillary’s credentials, Elias quipped that he was ‘competing against the mountain’ and that Graeme should ‘go out and try it’ – radio gold! Elias also claimed to have ‘gotten rid of Hitler’ and that the Black Caps should be called the ‘New Zealand Men’s First Eleven,’ because if they’re called the Black Caps, South Africa will be Green Caps, Pakistan the Green Caps, Ireland the Green Caps... you get the drift!

Who’s the most interesting sportsperson you’ve met?

Can I say Mark Watson? He’s a Radio Sport colleague, but I think he was an athlete at some point... wasn’t he?

He certainly talks like he was! He’s a lovely guy and a good friend, but he’s got a lot going on in that head of his.

One of his favourite quotes (he has many) is ‘he’s living rent free inside your head,’ as in, someone is getting the better of you mentally. Watto must have a lot of rooms in that old head of his because I think everyone’s in there! It’s some kind of hotel or hostel for New Zealand cricketers and Warriors players.

Are today’s sportspeople accessible enough to media and public?

Social media has made it easier for fans to get in touch with players. You can see what they’re up to daily, what they’re eating, who they’re hanging

6 | eastlife | may 2014

out with. I’m assuming that excites some people! But we’re the conduit between the fan and the sports star.

Sometimes it’s difficult to get exactly who you want for the show – it’s not as easy as calling up Benji Marshall and asking him to appear – there are guidelines you have to follow.

Do fans have the right to expect sportspeople and organisations to listen to their views?

Sports organisations would love to think they can be successful on the field and make plenty of money, but it’s easier said than done. Which is exactly why the NZRU ‘sold’ the jersey, for want of a better term, to sponsor AIG. But look at the Warriors, for example. According to CEO Wayne Scurrah, the club is doing well financially, but fans are suffering a disconnect. They don’t know where the team’s home ground is, which jersey players will wear, who will be coaching the side since Matt Elliott’s ‘resignation’. Fans are upset, but I’m not sure if grievances are being heard

by Warriors’ management.

What role do sports media play in projecting the ‘voice of the fans’?

Radio Sport plays a big part; we give listeners the opportunity to voice their point of view. And it’s important they’re heard, because not everyone agrees with our hosts, so we need to hear from them to balance it out... and to shut Mark Watson up because he does tend to go on a bit!

Do you support or play for local sports teams and did you dream of being an All White?

I’ve had friends who played league for the Hornets and Jaguars, so I’d watch the odd game. I play for an Over 30s side at Fencibles United; we call ourselves the Pakuranga Legends. I started playing aged six; it would’ve been five, but Mum forced me to play the recorder, a total waste of a year!

Playing for New Zealand would’ve

Photo Wayne Martin

What is the strangest or most memorable talk back call you’ve dealt with?

been wonderful, but the closest I got was making a tournament team at the Napier Under-19 football competition.

After that, study and work got in the way and football took a backseat.

support and money from fans and players (because, nothing is free!) the next generation will have nowhere to play, and there will be no place for future stars to develop.

Do Kiwis take sports too seriously?

If you could be head of Radio Network for a day, what would you do?

We are super passionate, but don’t take it too seriously on the whole. In other parts of the world, supporters fight in the streets because some guy is wearing the wrong colour shirt!

That’s ridiculous. At least when the Blues beat the Crusaders both sets of supporters can talk it over in the pub in a civilised manner.

How important to grassroots development is support for local teams?

It means everything. Without support, clubs will die, or at least lose their identity in order to survive. We see it all the time when historically-strong clubs are forced to merge. Without

It looks like the current boss doesn’t do a great deal, so with increased wealth I’d go for a long, late boozy lunch with mates and not come back until the next day!

If you could invite any three sportspeople – living or dead – to dinner, who and why?

Steven Gerrard, a Liverpool hero.

Parramatta Eels legend, Peter Sterling too. And last but certainly not least, BMX star Sarah Walker. The guys can leave after dinner, but Sarah is definitely staying for dessert! In fact, if Sarah wants to come by for dinner on her own, that would be preferred. www.eastlife.co.nz

out & about | eastlife

Howick Primary celebrates golden jubilee

1. Brenda Reuben, Christina Bevan 2. Lynley Jones, Michelle Teirney 3. Jenni Stulich, Sarah Jones 4. Tracey Monaghan, Lynne Kilmartin, Sarah Smith, Judy Coker 5. Jan Kennington, Brenda Tolhurst

2

6. Jane Woodhouse, Deborah Dowson 7. Ann-Marie Kawana, Angelique Wendzich 8. Lynne McIlroy 9. Bruce Eversfield, Ethan Cook 10. Leyette Callister, Lynne Kilmartin, Kathy Pittaway

3

1

4

6

5

8

Photos supplied

Past and present pupils, parents, staff, members of the Board of Trustees and PTA members renewed friendships and reminisced at a dinner and other events to mark Howick Primary School’s golden jubilee last month. A time capsule was also put in the ground to commemorate the school’s opening 50 years ago. Here guests mix and mingle at jubilee events.

6

7

9

10

Howick Primary School Willoughby Avenue, Howick. Phone 534 6082. www.howickprimary.school.nz • Innovation • Student Centred • E-Learning • Core Values • Music Specialist • Montessori Unit • Specialist English Language Teacher • Spacious Grounds • Personalised Learning • Strong Leadership • Family Focused • High Expectations

HPS Sunflowers Thursdays at 1.30pm Give your 4yr old a head start with our pre-school class Since 1964

Inspiring Confident Life-long Learners E512178

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

7

eastlife | out & about

bbyc enjoys breakfast on the spit Glitzy tops and neckties paired with jandals and board shorts captured the fun spirit of Bucklands Beach Yacht Club’s annual Breakfast On The Spit for members last month. The sparkling morning began with bubbles at the clubhouse and was followed by a lavish finger food brunch on the Tamaki River accompanied by the smooth sounds of a live jazz band. EastLife photographer Janet Keeling was there.

1

2

3

4

5

6

1. Richard and Sharon Pittam 2. Helen Robinson and Kaylene Martlew 3. Christine and Graham Lloyd 4. Sandy Goldsbro and Sonja Pickering 5. Simon and Elise Jennings 6. Hayley Neale and Sharon Wilder 7. Gerald Pastor

7

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

MOTHERS DAY Sunday, May 11th

GIFT MUM A GIFT CARD A Plaza Gift Card presented in a nice little box tied with ribbon.

PROUD TO BE LOCAL pakurangaplaza.co.nz

MUM’S THE WORD It’s no secret we love mum lots... show her how much with something special from the Plaza PLUS WIN MUM AN ISLAND ESCAPE 8 | eastlife | may 2014

FREE GIFT WRAPPING

Thur 8th – Sun 11th Please see website for timetable

PRIZE DRAW

Just spend $30 and go in the draw to win mum and a friend a weekend away on Great Barrier Island.

Excludes Countdown and Banking www.eastlife.co.nz purchases.

Promotional period from 9am 30th April 2014 – 5pm 11th May 2014.

Further terms and conditions apply.

Please see online or at customer service.

E510217-v4

out & about | eastlife

the good home opens Prospect of Howick friends and foodies turned out last month for the festive opening of the hotel’s revamped and renamed restaurant, The Good Home. The totally transformed venue (formerly GBS Bar & Restaurant) is everything its name implies – warm, welcoming and with all the attributes of a home. Guests enjoyed live music, tasty food and good company – EastLife photographer CARMEN BIRD was there.

1. Pauline Amos, Janice Douche 2. Barry and Angela O’Shaughnessy 3. Lauren Verrall, Jade Woolf 4. Janine Hickmore, Phil Taylor 5. Georgia Petheram, Kim Stratton

and Sarah Ander 6. Sue Tomlins, Stephanie Falgate 7. Veronica Lye, Trevor Helliwell 8. Sue and Peter Davies 9. Annette Gay, Keith Gay

1

3

2

4

6

7

5

8

9

n Photography by Carmen Bird | For orders email carmen-marie@xtra.co.nz | www.carmenbirdphotography.co.nz

The Good Home Howick is your home away from home.

Good food, good company, good feeling, good times.

MOTHER’S DAY – SUNDAY, MAY 11 BOOK YOUR TABLE TODAY. BRUNCH FROM 10AM, DINNER FROM 5.30PM

Open 7 days Mon-Fri from 11am and Sat-Sun from 10am Daily specials from 5.30pm n Live music every Saturday from 8.30pm The Good Home Howick has six dining areas to suit all occasions and moods Check our website for more details www.thegoodhomehowick.co.nz For bookings ph 534 3199, cnr Picton St and Uxbridge Rd, Howick E510313

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

9

eastlife | out & about

in remembrance Local residents and visitors turned out in force for the annual ANZAC Day commemorations at Stockade Hill in Howick. Past and present servicemen and women, as well as representatives from various local organisations, marched proudly in respect of the fallen at Gallipoli in the First World War and of all New Zealand military who fought and died in that war and later conflicts. WAYNE MARTIN captured the mood.

THERE CAN BE MANY REASONS FOR HAIR LOSS BUT NOT MANY ANSWERS

CLIVE HAIR CLINICS HAS THE SOLUTION. Our hair-gain treatment can improve thinning hair and baldness with a guaranteed, non-drug treatment. >L NP]L `V\ IHJR [OL JVUĂ„KLUJL VM `V\Y V^U OHPY Âś ^P[OV\[ ZPKL LMMLJ[Z 0[ PZ Z\P[HISL MVY TLU HUK ^VTLU with hair that is starting to thin out or who have severe hair loss. But the sooner you seek help the better. ( WLYZVUHS JVUZ\S[H[PVU HUK TPJYVZJVWPJ L_HTPUH[PVU ^P[O V\Y 8\HSPĂ„LK ;YPJOVSVNPZ[ [HRLZ TPU\[LZ HUK JVZ[Z Q\Z[

AUCKLAND� ��� QUEEN ST �OPEN � DAYS, CARPARKING AVAILABLE�

HAMILTON� ��� VICTORIA ST

10 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz WELLINGTON� ��� CUSTOMHOUSE QUAY ALL MAJOR CENTRES IN NZ VISITED REGULARLY E510318

THE NEW MINI. THE NEW ORIGINAL.

out & about | eastlife

JUST LANDED AT TEAM MCMILLAN MINI GARAGE.

MID0052_MCM_EL

The new MINI is revved, ready to go and on sale in New Zealand. With new engines, a new design, new options, new safety features and new driver assist features, not to mention new attitude, the new MINI Hatch is all new. To meet the new original, contact Team McMillan MINI Garage UPEBZ BOE CF POF PG UIF ĹźSTU UP ESJWF UIF OFX .*/* UIF OFX PSJHJOBM

TEAM MCMILLAN MINI GARAGE 430 Broadway, Newmarket. 0800 548 352. MINI.CO.NZ www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

11 E510304

eastlife | events

MAY 2014 ➤ writers festival Digital Art Live Exhibition May 15-July 14, Level 2, Aotea Centre, Mayoral Drive, Auckland CBD, FREE Cut and Paste is a refreshing exhibition that mixes play, art and literature. Using the metaphor of a scrapbook, this interactive work, crafted by artist Jenna Gavin, invites the audience to select words from New Zealand poems. These words become a trigger for a digital poetry lexicon, creating a brand new poem that will appear on the screen. The exhibition will be open to all from 5.30pm, May 15.

➤ music ‘Saul’ by Handel May 25, 2pm, All Saints Church, Picton St, Howick Celebrate Pakuranga Choral Society’s 40th anniversary with a mix of new and old voices. Soloist and leading counter tenor, Stephen Diaz, reprises his role as David in Handel’s Saul which he performed in 2006 as a schoolboy. Other familiar faces include tenor Lachlain Craig who will sing the part of Jonathan and guest conductor Myra Smith who conducted Saul also in 2006. Soprano Ella Smith will perform as Michal with the choir for the first time. For enquiries, visit pakchoral.org.nz or phone Sylvia Jones on 534 9093.

Michael Bublé May 21 & 22, 7.30pm, Vector Arena, Quay St, Auckland CBD Triple-Grammy winner and singer Michael Bublé will jazz and swing his way on stage with inimitable charm and presence for two nights. It’s been more than 10 years since the Canadian heart-throb first wowed Kiwis with his presence and he’s all set to deliver warm, fuzzy feelings

and a generous dose of chart toppers such as Sway, Home and Haven’t Met You Yet as well as fresh hits from his latest album, To Be Loved.

See ticketmaster.co.nz for booking information.

Naturally 7 May 24, 8pm, Skycity Theatre, Victoria St West, Auckland CBD New York’s all-vocal R’n’B beatboxing sensation Naturally 7 has wowed audiences around the world and will debut in New Zealand for one night only following from an appearance as support act for Michael Bublé. Taking a cappella to the next level, this urban soul phenomenon pumps out the sounds of drums, guitars, horns, strings, turntables and beats using just their voices! Covering popular hits from The Beatles, Coldplay and Queen and performing its own originals, this group is set to deliver a “nothing short of mind-blowing” performance as described by critics.

Tickets $79-$89 from ticketek.co.nz

➤ pink ribbon charity breakfasts 50’s Retro Theme May 18, 10am, The General Store Restaurant & Bar, Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford All the groovy dudes and divas, get ready to rockabilly on! Raising funds for the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation, the General Store Restaurant is hosting a 50’s retro themed breakfast. With prizes for best dressed and the pinkest threads, it will be a fun morning for all. Dip into the mega raffle valued above $500, enjoy live entertainment and sample a buffet breakfast spread including tea and coffee for just $25. For more details, contact Julie on 021 1630174.

Fashion and Bubbles May 25, 9.30am, Grangers Taphouse & Kitchen, Half Moon Bay Marina Pink it up with a fashionable crowd at one of the marina’s best locations for a good cause. This year’s Pink

➤ ART The Original Art Sale May 15 (gala evening), 6.30pm, May 16, 10am-7pm, May 17-18, 10am-3pm, Vodafone Events Centre, Great South Rd, Manukau Be an artful shopper and hurry to The Original Art Sale, presented

by AUT University. Launching on May 15 with a charity gala night in support of Kidz First Children’s Hospital, the monster exhibition features more than 1200 paintings and sculptures by more than 350 emerging and established artists.

It will also display 40 of the best artworks from AUT’s secondary

school art competition. Gala guests will be able to preview the collection and make purchases; tickets $49, from ticketdirect.co.nz.

Entry to the sale is $15 adults, $10 children up to 16, $10 seniors.

E510101

Austen’s Women May 17, 11.15am-12.25pm, Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre, Mayoral Drive, Auckland CBD Prepare to fall in love with Jane Austen again as English actor/ playwright Rebecca Vaughan brings 13 crisply observed Austenian heroines to life in this bold theatrical revisiting. Sit back and acknowledge universal truths as Vaughan transforms into Emma Woodhouse, Lizzy Bennet, Mrs Norris and 10 other women at critical junctures in their lives. An Edinburgh Fringe Festival favourite, performed in New Zealand for the first time. Tickets $35; see ticketmaster.co.nz

Our Booker Winner: Eleanor Catton May 17, 5.30pm-6.30pm, ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre, Mayoral Drive, Auckland CBD See the woman behind the story as New Zealand’s reigning literary queen Eleanor Catton appears for an hour of conversation with broadcaster John Campbell on stage. This is a rare opportunity to learn about the winner of the 2013 Man Booker Prize and the motivations behind her writing, storytelling and literary success.

Tickets range from $12.50 to $25 and are available from ticketmaster.co.nz

12 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

events | eastlife Ribbon Fashion Breakfast sees Marina Salon, Grangers Taphouse & Kitchen, and fashion labels Augustine and Minx join hands yet again for a blushing morning of pink bubbles, a fashion parade, goody bags, and heaps of spot prizes. Featuring former TrueBliss singer Megan Alatini as MC and other entertainment, tickets are $55 per person and are available from Grangers and Marina Salon.

➤ outdoors Volcano to Sea Walk May 13, 9.30am-12pm, 54R Pigeon Mountain Rd (car park), Pakuranga, FREE Step this way for a guided walk with a local park ranger and explore wonderful coastal scenery right on our eastern doorstep. Enjoy the fresh air as nature’s ways are revealed.

Starting in Pigeon Mountain Rd, this walk will finish at the picturesque Wakaaranga Creek Reserve.

BBYC Major Rum Race May 9, 2.30pm, Bucklands Beach Yacht Club, Half Moon Bay Marina The rum race to rule all rum races is here so sail along for some action on the waves. Watch the ‘greyhounds catch up to all the rabbits’ in a nailbiting finale and see who will be the lucky seamen to capture a bottle or two of rum! Live entertainment, prize giving and the partying will continue at the clubrooms from 6pm. See bbyc.org.nz for more details.

➤ lifestyle Your Life is Like a Puzzle – Testimony May 23, 7pm, Picton Centre, Picton St, Howick Struggling through a bad patch in life? When the burdens of stress,

unemployment, and relationships become too much, encouragement is necessary. Listen to speaker Lynette Cornelius’ life testimony and be inspired. A fundraising event for Camellia House Women’s Refuge, the event includes food and drinks and costs $10 per person. For more details or to purchase tickets visit eventbrite. co.nz and search for the event.

different types of tea and how tea and food matching is a growing pastime.

Plus, enjoy a tea-tasting session accompanied by a delectable high tea platter. All in all, a decadently delicious afternoon not to be missed!

Tickets are $7; see uxbridge.org.nz for more info.

➤ fashion

Howick Village Market Every Saturday and Sunday, 9am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick

Blueprint May 24, 6.30pm, Somerville Intermediate School Gymnasium, Somerville Road, Howick Witness Howick’s inaugural fashion and wearable art awards come to life with a spectacular fashion show. Featuring designs that push boundaries and test the limits of reality, Blueprint is set to make its print on the local fashion scene.

Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students and include finger food, a complimentary drink, live entertainment and the awards show.

A cash bar will be available and attendees are advised not to wear stiletto heels. Tickets are available from the Howick Village Business Association; see howickvillage.co.nz or phone 534 4505.

➤ food Ostro Lunch with Josh Emett May 18, 11am-1pm, Ostro Restaurant, Quay St, Auckland CBD Experience one of Auckland’s newest and hottest dining destinations whilst in the presence of its creator and Michelin-starred chef of the moment, Josh Emett. Dine on a special two-course Ostro lunch and complimentary glass of wine in the company of Josh who will speak

➤ Markets

josh emett about his food philosophy and introduce his new cookbook, Cut. Food and wine writer Lauraine Jacobs, will MC the event which is part of the Auckland Writers Festival. Tickets are $95. See ticketmaster.co.nz for more details and to book.

A Foodies Night with Chelsea Winter May 21, 7pm, Uxbridge Creative Centre, Uxbridge Rd, Howick MasterChef NZ 2012 winner Chelsea Winter joins Uxbridge for an evening dedicated to all the self-confessed foodies out there. Hear about her experiences on MasterChef, learn some great winter warmer recipes and find out what she is serving on her table. Pick up some handy in-thekitchen tips and solve those kitchen dilemmas. Best of all, grab a glass of wine and sample Chelsea’s tempting tasters. Tickets are $25; see uxbridge. org.nz for more info.

Classy Crafts Every Saturday, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick Pine Harbour Fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands Clevedon Village Farmers’ Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 PapakuraClevedon Rd, Clevedon Pakuranga Night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza

Tea Appreciation Workshop May 27, 12pm-2pm, Uxbridge Creative Centre, Uxbridge Rd, Howick Join Dilmah’s John Houldsworth and learn about the production of tea, the

Calling all small car owners!

Head to Waiheke Island with your Bambina, old Mini Cooper, Smart car or any other car under 3 metres!

Small car + driver return

* Save $129.50!

We believe that good things come in small packages, and feel the time has finally come to give the little ones a break!

Don’t worry if your car is over 3m long, our Super Saver fares are available.

Call us on 0800 SEALINK (0800 732 546) to book! *Conditions: Car must be less than 3m long, even if it is one of the vehicle makes that we have mentioned. Yes, motorbikes are included in this special deal. Travel must be completed by 25 May 2014. Also valid for travel commencing from Waiheke Island.

www.sealink.co.nz E510279

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

13

Hare we go!

No one’s running with the hare when it comes to The Pakuranga Hunt – they’re all riding with the hounds and loving it as the 2014 hunting season goes ahead at the gallop some 45 kilometres south of its original home.

Foreseeing a fast-growing, postwar Auckland, The Pakuranga Hunt purchased land and moved to Karaka in 1954 where it still has its kennels and hosts meetings despite new subdivisions again converging on its property.

Nevertheless, the Hunt, with some 450 members, appears to be going from strength to strength.

Former master and equine veterinarian, Dr Ivan Bridge, says the Hunt’s hounds (more than 18 couple) are kept at the Karaka property with huntsman, Guy Marriner ensuring they are meticulously cared for and well prepared for the hunting season, which opened mid-March and continues until mid-July.

Having led the hunt for 14 years, Dr Bridge handed over to presentday Master, Rick Mannering two years ago, happy to have less responsibility.

14 | eastlife | may 2014

Founded in 1872 The Pakuranga Hunt once gave chase across local fields and farmland but not for some 60 years. However, while suburban spread may have gobbled up the district’s green spaces, the Hunt has not gone to ground as HELEN PERRY discovered.

“During the season we run two weekly hunts, one mid-week, the other at the weekend and I try to go on as many as possible. Then during school holidays we organise three extra hunts so school-age riders can really have a go. We usually see about 50-60 riders midweek and at least 100 come the weekends.”

and until recently, their daughter Jodie.

norm. And, of course, we often join hunts in other areas”

Pakuranga Hunt’s official area starts at Karaka, extends to Mangatawhiri in the east, down to Pokeno in the south and is bordered by the Waikato River in the west but also takes in the Awhitu Peninsula.

With the Hunt attracting men and women and young and old from all walks of life, Dr Bridge says being a non-competitive event makes it appealing.

“We are extremely grateful to have the support of so many local farmers who make their land available to us and we are ever-mindful and respectful of that privilege,” says Dr Bridge adding that it is not just a matter of saddling up and setting out once or twice a week.

As a veterinarian, a partner in Karaka’s Veterinary Associates – Equine Hospital and Referral Centre, and chairman of the Equine Health Association, Dr Bridge is acutely aware that horses and hounds need to be fit and in good health when the season starts.

“You have only to compete with yourself. Enjoying the day to whatever level is appropriate makes all participants winners and grinners,” he says. “You don’t even have to be an especially good rider. Many people join the hunt just so they can enjoy nature and the opportunity to ride freely across farmland.

“What’s more it’s a real family sport.

We have several instances of three generations, all of whom participate.”

And Dr Bridge’s own family is united in its enthusiasm for hunting. Both he and his wife Rebecca hunt as do their son Simon, daughter-in-law Jessie,

“There’s a lot of preparation too.

Before the hunt we ensure hedges are clipped and in many instances top wires on fences are lowered.

Afterwards, those fences need to be restored to their original condition.

“Each hunt runs from 11.30am to 3pm but in the early part of the season we are often in by 2pm because it’s just too hot for the hounds and the ground so dry it’s hard on their pads.

However, as the season progresses, and the cooler weather sets in, then a full three and a half hour event is the

“Fortunately we see very few problems. On rare occasions a horse may stumble but we usually have a few veterinarians in the field and we’ve seen few significant injuries.

Riders, of course, have to maintain a certain amount of discipline otherwise it can be dangerous but everyone here rides responsibly.

“When it comes to the hounds they are always in peak condition as the huntsman will have started their conditioning – swimming, walking and running – back around Christmas.”

A local landowner (who grazes heifers on his 25-acre Karaka block), a racing enthusiast (both thoroughbreds and standardbreds) and an able horseman, Dr Bridge started riding www.eastlife.co.nz

pakuranga hunt | eastlife

Hunt jumps suburbs

Riding to hounds in New Zealand has never faltered for lack of foxes. In fact, the Pakuranga Hunt can thank Governor, Sir George Grey for introducing the first hounds in 1868 then selling them to settler William McLaughlin, who later became Master of The Pakuranga Hunt.

The first hunt club in New Zealand, it was founded in 1872 in the offices of the Auckland businessman, the late Alfred Buckland (for whom Bucklands Beach is named) and from the first, thrived.

‘

Photo supplied

With Buckland adding a dog, a bitch and eight pups to the pack, the first kennels were established on Pakuranga Road near where the fire station is today.

Enjoying the day to whatever level is appropriate makes all participants winners and grinners. You don’t even have to be an especially good rider.

Many people join the hunt just so they can enjoy nature and the opportunity to ride freely across farmland.”

as a child on his parent’s Hawkes Bay sheep and beef farm where horses and their associated sports were a part of life.

“Mustering on horseback was a given; there were no quad bikes in those days,” he laughs. “I was at university when I first took an interest in hunting and then, when working in Dargaville after graduation, I joined the hunt there.”

Moving to Auckland in 1977 Dr Bridge joined The Pakuranga Hunt and has been a member ever since.

“While I was Master I had three or four horses but these days keep only two. I’ve also owned and raced both thoroughbreds and standardbreds and while I don’t have any at present, racing remains a keen interest.

Photo Wayne Martin

www.eastlife.co.nz

dr ivan bridge

“However, I love the hunt and appreciate being part of a riding culture with such a rich history.”

Of course, in those days it was all farmland in what is now known as the Howick Ward although the club also hunted across land much further afield – Remuera, Epsom, Auckland Domain, Mt Albert, Mangere and beyond.

The Club’s hunting colours for men – green coat with a black collar – were registered in 1912 while the women’s black coat with a green collar and red piping was established some years later.

After the Second World War, Auckland slowly began to expand and thanks to the foresight of progressive members, the club bought land in Karaka and has operated from there since 1954.

While Pakuranga might never again see horses, hounds and hare scarpering across the landscape, it can be proud that at nearby Ellerslie Racecourse, the Pakuranga Hunt Cup, New Zealand’s longest running steeplechase, is fiercely competed every year in August.

The Cup was first fielded in 1874 but it wasn’t until 1915 that it received a tote licence.

Run over three miles and twice over the farmed Ellerslie Hill, it is now held two weeks out from the Great Northern Steeplechase and provides a great lead in to that race which is run over four miles and three times over the Ellerslie Hill.

Naturally, winner of the Pakuranga Hunt Cup is generally expected to do well in the Great Northern. And indeed, the Pakuranga Hunt Cup has seen some wonderful outcomes such as jockey Isaac Lupton riding Hypnotize to win the cup three times, in 2007, 2008 and 2010.

Hypnotize then went on to also win the Great Northern in those same years, making him the only horse to achieve that remarkable double three times. eastlife | may 2014 |

15

eastlife | interview

Cobbling together a lifestyle Sounds of hammering and grinding can be heard all day long at the Howick Heel & Sole Bar, but at home, it’s peace and quiet for its owner, Hans Ankersmit. NATALIE BRITTAN steps into Hans’ sanctuary and meets some unexpected residents in his paddock.

It was the first house they looked at but Hans Ankersmit and Andrea French knew it was the one for them when they bought it in 1997.

“It was probably one of the worst houses in the road”, says Hans, the owner of Howick Heel & Sole Bar in Howick Village Mall. “But when I stood in the top paddock and looked down at the valley, I was sold.”

Now, after much hard work, the property hardly resembles the rundown estate it once was.

A quaint English garden has been established, a gabled second storey has been built, and the walls have been clad in cedar.

In fact, just last year, the New Zealand Herald’s Canvas magazine listed the panoramic Clevedon vista as one of the top five views in Auckland.

“They didn’t ask me; they just took the photo,” says Hans. “But it’s a nice photo and it has my alpacas in it too!”

16 | eastlife | may 2014

Hans owns 12 alpacas, nine of which are kept on his 3.6 hectare land. “The boys have to be separated from the girls because all they’re interested in is sex!” he laughs.

However, the enterprising breeder has plans to bring the males back by sectioning his three paddocks into a further five paddocks.

A hobby that began nearly three years ago, breeding alpacas was always one of the things Hans and his late partner, Andrea, wanted to do.

But when Andrea developed a brain tumour and passed away seven years ago, that dream was put on the back burner. Hans also hung up his cobbler’s tools to care for Andrea when she became ill.

The loss of a loved one has been devastating but having alpacas has helped somewhat. “You have to have interests to move on,” explains Hans.

Each of the alpacas has been given

a name. There’s Johannes, Casey, Jethro, Summer and Andreas (named after Andrea). And each alpaca has its own personality, always a source of amusement.

“You form a bond with them. There are some that you like and some that you don’t like as much.”

Fascinatingly, alpaca disputes are common. “When feeding them, they often have arguments. When they get upset they’ll regurgitate food and spit all over each other. Then the bottom lip will drop down and they can’t eat!

It’s stupid but it’s hilarious to watch.”

There’s also what Hans calls “alpaca politics” in which the dynamics of the group are altered.

“There’s actually a society in the group. They hook their necks around each other and start to wrestle.

“I’ve seen the oldest one, Brooke, once the matriarch being deposed in this way. She was pinned to the ground and pushed steadily down the pecking order.”

Sociable animals by nature, alpacas tend to go the whole nine yards with their communal habits.

www.eastlife.co.nz

“They’re interesting animals in that they all go to toilet in the same place and they all go at the same time.”

But the most defining moment for Hans was witnessing the birth of three of his alpacas. “I was absolutely shell-shocked. It’s a very humbling experience,” he says.

“Within an hour, they’re standing up and walking around, and after four to five hours, they’re running. It’s magical.”

Gesturing at a slim, brown alpaca, Hans says they make good mothers too. “She’s what we call the walking incubator. She’s just the best mother around.”

Although the alpacas were not initially for financial gain, Hans is realising that they have to start paying for themselves. They are shorn once a year for their fibre and Hans intends to breed more females.

So far, things haven’t been going as planned with five out of six babies,

males. “It’s mercenary, but I prefer to have females to breed.”

than 50 alpacas roaming her 5.7 hectare property in Pukekohe.

Little maintenance is required for the curious four-legged creatures – just yearly vaccinations, nail clippings and shearing. For advice and any help, Hans turns to alpaca expert Lynda Mathews who sold him his six adult alpacas.

Hans’ parents, Gerard and Thea Ankersmit, happened to tour Lynda’s alpaca shop and farm a few years ago and told Hans about it.

A former Howickian, Lynda has more

Then, on visiting the farm, it was love at first sight. “One came up to me so I put my arm around it, started patting it and fell in love with it.”

That love just seems to grow by the day with the animals displaying the most endearing qualities.

“The sounds they make when you go to give them food – it’s like the biggest sigh in the world. To come home at the end of the day and to sit with them in the paddocks for 10 minutes or in the morning when you feed them just gets you in the mood to have a good day.”

Highland Park Shopping Centre

www.highlandparkshoppingcentre.co.nz

CORNER AVIEMORE DRIVE & PAKURANGA ROAD

Highland Park Shopping Centre

Experience the difference with the team at Mike Pero Real Estate. With www.highlandparkshoppingcentre.co.nz our premium service we could save you thousands!

CORNER AVIEMORE DRIVE & PAKURANGA ROAD

Wags pets are now stockist of Carnivoro Raw Food. Come in and check out the great range from rabbit to fish.

Suzanne McDowell Tel: 09 215 2787 Mob: 027 494 2405 suzanne.mcdowell@mikepero.com

Some of our fantastic May deals are De-scale treatments: small breeds just $39, large breeds just $49 Dog jerseys and rain coats from only $20 Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

www.mikepero.com Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

We are located in the Highland Park Shopping Centre (next to La Casserole Café)

Highland Park Shopping Centre. Ph 551 3549. www.wagspets.co.nz E510311

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

17

eastlife | jubilee

Forty years of high notes A local musical institution is celebrating its 40th anniversary this month. One of its longestserving members and driving forces reminisces about some of its highlights with NATALIE BRITTAN.

If it weren’t for the hard work and dedication of the Pakuranga Choral Society, the local choral scene would be a very quiet one.

It all began 40 years ago when Ross Lewis, an organist at the All Saints Anglican Church in Howick, decided to start an official choir.

Life and founding member Sylvia Jones says he thought there was a need for serious choral work in the Howick and Pakuranga areas and called a meeting in 1973.

Elle Smith, Stephen Diaz, Lachlan Craig, Matthew Landreth and conductor Myra Smith with accompanist Valerie Sowerby.

“Sadly, Ross was not in the best of health and his time conducting the choir was short-lived, just three years,” Sylvia says. “Soon afterwards he passed away.”

Ross was succeeded by well known local, Hal Marryatt who today remains an influential member, formerly as resident conductor, and now as patron.

Now, after 40 years, she and members, Pamela Sethton and Christine Knock, are the only remaining original members of the choir.

“Pamela’s husband and daughter also sang in the choir so it was a family affair,” recalls Sylvia, who has held various society positions including chairperson, secretary and president.

Other key members included Lola Boswell, who remained active in her role as musical director and as a founding member up until last year.

Other members have also remained loyal. Long-standing pianist, Valerie Sowerby has faithfully served the choir for 37 years; members cannot imagine the choir without her.

In 1974, the society called for members and received a strong response – Sylvia included.

Over the years, the society’s concerts have featured many young talents, some of whom have gone on to become leading vocalists in New Zealand and abroad.

“I didn’t know anybody. My husband and I had just arrived in Auckland from Wellington with two children and a baby when we went to see a production by the Howick Operatic Society (now Harlequin Musical Theatre) called Bless the Bride.”

That sparked Sylvia’s interest in the local music scene and when she discovered that the Pakuranga Choral Society was calling for members, she and her late husband,

18 | eastlife | may 2014

Cecil Jones, decided to join.

“In the very first concert in 1974, we had four soloists singing with the choir when it performed Handel’s Elijah – Charles Naylor, Maureen Hamilton-Shaw, Anthony Benfell and Marion Gray,” Sylvia says.

One of New Zealand’s most renowned tenors, Anthony’s threedecade career flourished through performances on television, in

operatic productions, and at church concerts until his death in 1999.

Other well-known names have included the likes of bass baritone Rodney Macann, tenor Christopher Doig (also known for his role as chief executive of New Zealand Cricket), Wendy Dickson, Morag Atchison and Kate Spence.

“The most outstanding person for me was Wendy,” says Sylvia. “The first time I heard her sing she was like Hayley Westenra!”

What’s more, the choir has never been short on professional talent.

“We just had the nerve to ask people to come and sing with us, and quite often they would!”

This can-do attitude led to the choir performing all around Auckland and even in far-flung places such as Whangarei and Morrinsville. Yet again, plans are in place to perform in Tauranga next year.

However, the biggest highlight had to be Australia, says Sylvia. “We sang with Pavarotti at the World Festival Choir in Australia in 1994. There were more than 2000 singers from all over the world and we were the largest contingent with 20 people representing our choir.” www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

WIN CONCERT TICKETS – EastLife has two double passes to the Pakuranga Choral Society 40th Anniversary Concert on May 25, 2pm at All Saints Anglican Church to give away. Entries close May 22, 2014.

Visit www.eastlife.co.nz to enter.

Photos Carmen Bird

Chorus conductor Stuart Weightman with some members of the choir including Sylvia Jones front left.

On touring the cities of Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, Sylvia says the experience was, “incredible. It was quite something to perform with such amazing talents on a world stage.”

Above all, the Pakuranga Choral Society has continued to give young singers an avenue to perform and showcase their talent.

To this end, the choir is welcoming back Stephen Diaz, one of New Zealand’s leading countertenors to reprise his role as David in Handel’s Saul for the choir’s 40th anniversary concert on May 25, 2pm at All Saints Anglican Church in Howick.

“Stephen sang this role in 2006 as a schoolboy,” says Sylvia. “I asked him if he would come back and do the same part and he said ‘you were my first gig and I would be delighted to return’.”

Other vocalists such as Matthew Landreth and Lachlan Craig have also sung with the society and will return to perform.

To kick off celebrations the choral group will host a dinner at the Howick Bowling Club at 6pm on May 23, 2014, the same date of the first concert 40 years ago. Anyone interested is invited to call Sylvia on 534-9093. www.eastlife.co.nz

In tune with choir In its 40 years, Pakuranga Choral Society has seen some of the country’s finest classical singers perform with its choir, some as youngsters setting out on career paths, others already wellestablished.

Among them have been the likes of internationally-acclaimed soprano, Morag Atchison who grew up in Howick and gained a music degree from the University of Auckland.

Morag went on to postgraduate studies at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London and later graduated with a PhD in musical arts from the University of Auckland but first sang with the Pakuranga Choral Society at its 1994 Christmas concert. She returned to sing with the choir at its 30th anniversary concert 10 years later.

Morag has explored various oratorio and concert repertoire roles extensively and for Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee she sang with Sir David Willcocks in Kenya and the Seychelles in performances of Mozart’s Requiem and Gounod’s Messe solennelle de Sainte Cecile.

As well as singing many acclaimed operatic roles in New Zealand

and overseas she has also performed with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and all of New Zealand’s major orchestras and choral societies.

An award-winning vocalist, Morag teaches voice at the University of Auckland and is the vocal coach for the New Zealand Youth Choir, Auckland Chamber Choir and various secondary school choirs.

Another fine artist, Rodney Macann first sang with the Pakuranga Choral Society at its second concert in November 1974. He was then 24 years old performing Haydn’s Creation. Two years later he again featured as a soloist when the choir performed Handel’s Elijah.

A highly successful bass baritone for more than 40 years, Rodney travelled to the UK and sang as principle bass baritone with the English Opera Company, touring much of Europe.

On returning to New Zealand in 1990 he later became a senior pastor at Wellington Central Baptist Church and subsequently, the National Leader of the Baptist Church in New Zealand.

Since his retirement, Rodney has appeared in a number of operas and concerts, notably as Count Monterone in Rigoletto with the NBR New Zealand Opera in 2012.

Last but not least, the late Christopher Doig also sang with the Pakuranga Choral Society when he was just 26, after winning the Mobil Song Quest.

He went on to be principal tenor at the Vienna State Opera, spending the next 10 years in major opera houses around Europe including performances at the Salzburg and Vienna festivals.

Christopher returned to New Zealand in 1984 to be with family but his love for opera and the arts saw him establish the Canterbury Opera and he later played a key role in the New Zealand International Arts Festival in Wellington which first debuted in 1986.

He added another feather to his cap when he became Chief Executive of New Zealand Cricket in 1995.

Christopher’s contributions to the arts, sports and musical sectors continue to be recognised after his death in 2011. eastlife | may 2014 |

19

20 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz Photo Wayne Martin

interview | eastlife

Enter the dragon’s lair Dragons may dwell in dungeons and caves, but thousands of dragons have instead found their home in a sunken Whitford valley. NATALIE BRITTAN steps into the lair of their creator.

It was a love of books that first led Brian Stewart to his fascination with dragons. Through books also, the Howick-born and bred craftsman met his wife and fellow bookworm, Karen.

wizard and two smaller dragons is an example of this. “Initially it was just going to be a big dragon around a rock. But it kept growing and just evolved.”

“She was working at a bookshop in Highland Park. I liked books, she liked books and that’s how we met.”

He has even made a dragon as a prop for renowned photographer, Anne Geddes who is famous for her internationally acclaimed photographs of infants.

Later, when the couple went on their honeymoon in the South Island, the call of the dragon beckoned.

“We tracked down a lady in Oamaru who made dragon pottery and she said, ‘why don’t you have a go at making some?’ ” The idea appealed to Brian so much that when he returned from his trip, he joined the local arts and crafts group in Beachlands and taught himself how to make dragons from clay at his then Beachlands home.

“I’ve always loved dragons. I’ve never known why. I used to draw and collect them.”

As a result, Crafty Dragon was born in 1988 and began to flourish. Together with his wife, Brian started fashioning magical creations with a fantasy theme. They also made bride and groom dragons as well as catering for special, made-to-order projects.

Owning a ‘crafty dragon’ began something of a trend with many young people gathering a collection of the whimsical creatures.

Karen then branched out into crystals, and, these days, a dragon or tuatara figurine is often imposed onto decorative crystals of all shapes, sizes and colours.

A Tolkien fan, Brian has made many versions of Smaug, the infamous dragon from JRR. Tolkien’s famous literary work, The Hobbit, which was recently translated onto the big screen.

The initial process of creating each individual dragon flows freely for Brian. “I never sketch it; it’s all in my mind.”

He says one of his favourite works which features a little tower, a www.eastlife.co.nz

“It was the biggest dragon I’d ever made. It was lying on its back, cradling a baby,” says Brian.

He had hoped his youngest son, Rory, who was just the right age, would star in the photo shoot.

“But he wouldn’t go to sleep for the camera and so they ended up using another baby. But it’s still our dragon.”

Twelve years ago, the Stewarts moved to Whitford, where they are now based, with their two adult sons.

Unfortunately, the recession hit and big chain retailers began affecting smaller businesses, including the Stewarts’.

“While we were at Beachlands we supplied 60 shops around the country. But an awful lot of those shops have now closed. We kept Crafty Dragon going on a part-time basis and we both went and got real jobs for a while. ”

‘

These days, Karen works in sales and Brian works for a swimming pool maintenance company.

They still supply to a handful of shops and their eldest son, Toby, helps them out by selling their wares at a stall in the Howick Village Market.

As operations remain trim, the dragons, too, have shed some weight.

“The bigger ones are hard to transport and sell and our goal is to travel in our campervan around New Zealand and Australia in the next few years. That way we can make them while we’re travelling.”

While we were at Beachlands we supplied 60 shops around the country. But an awful lot of those shops have now closed.

We kept Crafty Dragon going on a part-time basis and we both went and got real jobs for a while. ”

For this reason, many of the creatures that feature in the Crafty Dragon range are palm-size or smaller.

Brian designs some of these and commissions a mould maker to turn his design into pewter figurines in a process called spin casting.

He says he considered investing in the right equipment to achieve this, but it wasn’t viable.

“It’s a very big set up that uses quite expensive equipment. You have to mass produce to make it worthwhile but we want to keep it small and manageable.”

Photo Wayne Martin

A conservationist at heart, Brian prefers to let nature inspire him so, stones and driftwood are often the backdrop for his mythical creatures.

“When we go to the beach we’re always on the lookout for nice stones and driftwood. We have one bag for rubbish and one bag for picking up other things!”

Both avid travellers, Brian and Karen hope their craft will help fund their mobile lifestyle abroad and also pave the way for more business opportunities.

“It’s a different lifestyle,” says Brian.

“You can work together and travel together. We meet a lot of nice people – customers as well as other craftspeople. It’s a fun, interesting way to live.” eastlife | may 2014 |

21

eastlife | interview

Suitably booted, SUFFICIENTLY SHOD Whether bowling over the opposition, kicking for goal, or taking it to the hoop, podiatrist to Kiwi sports stars, James Baxter, told JON RAWLINSON, in any sport it pays to put your best feet forward.

Charged with ensuring sportspeople stand in good stead, James Baxter has long treated top athletes – including Howick Pakuranga cricketers, Kyle Mills and the recentlynamed New Zealand Cricket awards’ T20 Player of the Year, Mitchell McClenaghan.

‘

Across the board, lower limbs account for significantly more injuries than any other group, so it’s important that those who rely on staying in peak condition look after their feet.”

“We look after players from the Auckland Aces as well as a number of Black Caps,” says the Unisports Sports Medicine podiatrist.

“Mitch is up and coming and his numbers certainly prove it. However, fast bowling produces phenomenal loading in the feet, so we see a disproportionate number of them compared to other cricketers, and Mitch is no exception.

“He has a few things we need to look after, but thanks to the right preventative measures and treatment, his feet are in good hands!”

Photo Wayne Martin

In addition to McClenaghan, James has treated a goodly number of sports stars. From Black Caps, All Blacks, Silver Ferns and Black Ferns, to Auckland Aces, Blues, Warriors and New Zealand Hockey team members, it seems no boot is too big for this man to fit!

“I’ve been involved with lots of sportspeople over the years, treating foot problems, shin pain, Achilles pain, knee pain and the like,” he says.

“Across the board, lower limbs account for significantly more injuries than any other group, so it’s important that those who rely on staying in peak condition look after their feet.”

With Super Rugby season underway, James has also been busy treating rugby players.

“They tend to have problems with shin pain and need orthotics in their boots early in the season when they’re doing a lot of running on harder grounds. We primarily see two groups of injuries, early season

22 | eastlife | may 2014

shin pain and calf pain, and later more traumatic injuries, with strains through the mid foot, or planter fascia, which is an arch pain.”

He says prevention is usually the best medicine. “We run pre-season screening programmes to help identify risks. Our programme with the Warriors is a good example.

We go in and make sure they have appropriate shoes and boots for their foot types and players using orthotics are all squared away and made ready for the season.”

While any player can come off second

best to a foot or lower leg injury, the best feet don’t necessarily belong to forwards.

“Tight five players tend to have problems resulting from loads they put on toes and forefeet when scrummaging. Tony Woodcock [veteran Blues and All Blacks prop] was a good example of this.

“He had a foot injury leading into the Rugby World Cup, so orthopaedics sent him to me. If we hadn’t helped him, he may not have been on deck to score in the final, and we all know how important that try was!”

Another forward, used to beating all before him while in black and blue also required James’ services in the past. “I’ve battled with Ali Williams during through the last three World Cup campaigns in particular,” says James.

“Despite a number of problems, it’s incredible he made it to all those World Cups. A lot of guys would have hung up their boots long before he did. He’s an incredibly tough, bloody-minded individual, but it’s also a credit to all the guys who’ve looked after him, the surgeons and everyone.” www.eastlife.co.nz

out & about | eastlife

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

23

Win!

eastlife | competitions

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 May 31, 2014. Winners notified by phone or email.

WIN! NAJO STERLING SILVER TRIPLE HEART PENDANT Those seeking a stunning piece of jewellery for mum or that special lady should look no further than beautiful silver creations from NAJO. Since its first powerful stirrings in Mexico some 25 years ago, NAJO has been creating exceptional silver jewellery which has that enduring elegance. It’s sophisticated, bold and the ultimate means of selfexpression and celebration. What’s more thanks to Highland Park Jewellers, which carries NAJO pieces, EastLife has a tiered triple-heart pendant of woven silver reflecting timeless quality; value $239. Enter the draw and it could be yours or the consummate gift for the woman in your life.

WIN! COLOUR CONTROL 3-IN-1 STICK MIXER WIN! AN EVOLU BOTANICAL SKINCARE PACK Nourish your skin the natural way! The uniquely NZ-made range of Evolu Botanical Skincare products contains none of the usual nasties and is designed to restore and maintain the skin’s natural balance. Thanks to our friends at Evolu, EastLife has a fabulous prize pack worth $95 to give away.

It contains Evolu Facial Serum to help soften skin and reduce visible signs of ageing as well as Evolu 100% Pure Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, which works to rehydrate tired skin. What better time to check out this gorgeous, nourishing range, just as Mother’s Day looms and winter weather arrives.

This multipurpose machine from Russell Hobbs is the perfect go-to for everything from soups to smoothies and would make a great Mother’s Day gift. As with all products in the Russell Hobbs Colour Control range, it features a ‘light ring’ that indicates the four different speeds and functions for delicious soups, smoothies, purees and larger batches. Additionally, the stainless steel titanium coated blades and blending leg are encompassed in this 700W appliance, which also includes a 100ml beaker, 750ml chopping bowl and whisk.

All in all, the Colour Control 3-in-1 Stick Mixer (RRP $199) is a stylish addition to any kitchen and one that you could win for yourself. Available from Noel Leeming.

WIN! NEW MASHA POTATO & VEGETABLE MASHER Making mash needn’t be a lumpy chore. With the new Masha Potato & Vegetable Masher it’s super easy! Simply prepare veggies as normal and let the Masha create perfect, lump-free mash in a flash. Try adding kumara or carrot to your mash or use your Masha to whizz batter, cake mix or for perfectly whipped cream. Create your own healthy baby food too! Featuring a special wave blade and low speed motor, the motion of the blade pushes food through the outer mesh casing to ensure perfectly smooth and creamy mash every time. Masha’s moving parts are dishwasher safe for a nice and easy clean. Available from Mitre 10 RRP $69.99 or enter our draw for a chance to win one for yourself.

WIN! LITTLE INDIA AT HOME Look here – New Zealand’s popular Little India restaurants have shared their signature North Indian dishes in a beautifully-styled cookbook – Little India at Home and we have one copy to give away.

The mouth-watering, traditional recipes have been handed down by the original Little India owner’s mother, Premjit Kaur Gill whose kitchen in Chandigarh is still used to train Little India chefs. Grandson, Arjun Gill, brand manager for Little India, wanted to dispel the myth that Indian food was difficult to make so, Little India At Home offers an authentic Indian experience without lengthy cooking instructions or the need for specialty equipment. Little India At Home: Indian Dishes Made Easy, photography

by Sean Shadbolt, published by Penguin Group (NZ), RRP $40.

WIN! A PAIR OF TOMS SHOES When Blake Mycoskie visited Argentina he realised how desperately many children needed shoes. In efforts to make a difference, he put his thinking cap on and best foot forward in establishing TOMS Shoes. Now, whenever a new pair is purchased, another pair is given to a child in need. As a result, more than 10 million children have walked a mile in Blake’s shoes! EastLife has a pair of TOMS Shoes – available from northbeach.co.nz, valued at $85 – up for grabs. Style subject to availability; please specify size when entering.

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 24 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

lifestyle Under siege no more

history | travel | ART | read | children | essentials

Local resident and history buff CHRISTINE MILES gives the low down on the history behind some of our thoroughfares.

Gibraltar – a small peninsula at the opening of the Mediterranean Sea – was for more than 500 years an area often under siege.

There are, in fact, 14 recorded sieges, many of them resulting in great loss of life with no corresponding ‘success’ until the last one known today as, the Great Siege of Gibraltar.

It could be expected that Howick’s Gibraltar Street might have been placed in an area that reflects its historical significance.

Instead it runs on from Elliot Street, which may or may not have been deliberate as it was General Elliot who commanded Gibraltar’s garrison during the Great Siege resulting in a triumph for Great Britan.

The siege lasted about three and a half years in which the Spanish and the French aimed to starve the British forces into submission.

However, the British, with their stiff upper lip, didn’t succumb and today, some 240 years later, Gibraltar remains a protectorate of the United Kingdom.

During the time of the Waikato Wars, Howick had its ‘taste’ of war when

gibraltar street

Photo Wayne Martin

it scrambled to defend itself against invading Maori who were rumoured to be heading north via the coast.

A stockade was hastily erected (on Stockade Hill) and was patrolled by armed soldiers at all times. Women, children, and valuables were removed to Auckland town.

In July, 1863, Governor George Grey authorised a notice via the militia and volunteer office urging militia-men, volunteers, and others to dob in men

aged 16-40 years who were ‘shirking their duty’.

Panic broke out; the remaining women and children were taken to Auckland. Men from Howick and Otahuhu marched to Whitford then into the Hunuas to hunt the Maori invaders. The warship HMS Miranda also steamed down the Gulf from Auckland with a further 200 defenders on board.

By September, 50 men from the 70th Regiment were stationed at the stockade and the Bohemians, based at Puhoi, sent their mercenaries to assist.

Then, in October, two young Whitford boys were shot and tomahawked while driving cows to the milking shed, now the Whitford Park Golf Club.

The stoush was no Gibraltar, and the war was over before 1864 was over, but a bit of the Waikato Wars remains a part of our story, for better or worse.

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

Tell us what is happening Your MonthLY LifEstYLE MagazinE

We want to know... what you think... what you like... what you want to see in EastLife

Be in our June issue Copy deadline May 20, 2014. Distributed first week of June

Contact us Ph 271 8020 • info@eastlife.co.nz • www.eastlife.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

25

eastlife | travel

Great Walks – two of the Best In New Zealand we are blessed with some of the world’s best tramping experiences – 13,000km of tracks and more than 900 huts maintained by the Department of Conservation. However, experienced tramper, MAX RAWNSLEY from Howick Tramping Club believes the jewels in the crown are undoubtedly the nine Great Walks.

Without question the Milford Track is the most famous of New Zealand’s walking tracks, but perhaps the most popular – and deservedly so – are the Routeburn and the Abel Tasman.

The vastly different experiences that these walks offer reflect the amazing diversity of tramping in New Zealand.

Every able bodied Kiwi should do these tracks at least once.

After a stroll along Onetahuti Bay, the track crosses Tonga Saddle, then drops to Awaroa Inlet and its lovely, sunny hut.

Day four to Whariwharangi (five hours) starts with another tidal crossing that is only safe two hours either side of low water.

The Abel Tasman is entirely a coastal walk, best done in the summer when full benefit of pristine beaches can be taken with a refreshing dip after a hot day’s tramping.

Having said that, however, many prefer to do the walk later in the season when the track and the huts are not so crowded.

whariwharangi hut

While the Abel Tasman can be walked in three to five days there are many options with water taxi pickups/drop offs at places along the route. The track has four nice huts ($32 pp/pn) and 18 camp sites ($14 pp/pn) but trampers under 18 years stay free.

Both huts and campsites must be booked in advance.

Most trampers start at Marahau with a nice flat introduction across a causeway before a gentle ascent into beech and kanuka forest. After about four hours there is a steepish descent to Anchorage Bay and hut where golden sands and pristine waters provide an idyllic overnight spot.

The second day requires some co-ordination with the tide as the Torrent Bay crossing can only be done comfortably two hours either side of low tide (there is an all tide alternative round the head of the bay, but this is much longer).

anapai bay awaroa hut Once across, the track proceeds to Totaranui where walkers can pick up a water taxi if they decide against doing the whole track.

Finally, on to Separation Point where you cross a steep little climb before dropping down to Whariwharangi Bay and its quirky little hut, once a local farm house, now restored and in service as the last hut.

Again there is an ascent into some beautiful stretches of coastal forest and an exciting crossing of the 47 metre swing bridge at Falls River before dropping to Bark Bay hut.

For final extraction trampers must either walk back to Totaranui and catch the water taxi or continue on to Wainui Bay and catch the bus either to Totaranui or back over the Takaka Hill to Nelson.

Day three climbs over another forested ridge before the descent to Tonga Quarry, a lovely spot for lunch and a swim. Trampers may even see fur seals around the coastal rocks.

The Routeburn Track is a complete contrast. This is a true alpine crossing with stunning mountain scenery.

The track can be walked in either direction.

26 | eastlife | may 2014

The Routeburn Road end is about half an hour from Glenorchy and most trampers start here at the northern end. Almost immediately they head uphill through beautiful mature beech forest along the true left of the Routeburn River.

There is a brief respite on reaching Routeburn Flats (1.5 hours) where there is a hut if it all seems too hard to carry on – huts must be booked in advance during the summer season and cost $54 pp/pn.

However, most prefer to press on to Routeburn Falls hut (another hour up) where the views are jaw-dropping on a good day. Hardy types might also have a dip in the stream.

The next section to Lake Mackenzie (5-6 hours) starts with a warming climb up to the Harris Saddle which,

at 1255m, is the high point of the track.

The views across to the Darran Mountains are simply magnificent and, on a good day, you can see all the way down the Hollyford Valley to Martin’s Bay. For an even better view there is a side trip to Conical Hill.

From the Harris Shelter, the track is semi-level for some distance until it overlooks Lake Mackenzie and then it is a long descent to the lake and a spacious hut.

A swim in the lake is an option here but it is chilly. Day three is mostly flat or down hill passing Earland Falls which are spectacular especially if there has been recent rain. Howden hut is reached after about four hours.

Nestled by the shore of Lake Howden www.eastlife.co.nz

routeburn valley this is a very pretty spot. Many trampers press on out to the Divide (about 1.5 hours) so they can get back to Te Anau for a celebration dinner, but an extra night at Howden allows time for the side trip up to Key Summit (about 1.5 hours return).

On a clear day the panorama must rank as one of the best views in New Zealand and a wonderful climax to a great walk.

Note: Howick Tramping Club meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 7.30pm at the Howick Leisure Centre, 563 Pakuranga Highway (under the Howick Bridge Club rooms). Visitors welcome. Membership enquiries, phone Leslie Hume 537 0776.

win! track maps There’s no need to get lost when tackling any of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks. For the first time all nine have been superbly and individually mapped in a comprehensive format which trampers, and people who love the outdoors, will appreciate.

Craig Potton Publishers has combined the talents of leading New Zealand map maker, Roger Smith from Geographx, with an amazing environmentally-friendly product that is tough and will withstand the rigour required to go on these walks. The maps can be

HELP US HELP US HELP US HELP NATURE HELP HELP NATURE NATURE

routeburn track

used as a rain hat, to catch water, make a small tent and even to boil an egg in! Available in bookstores they retail at $24.99 each.

Geographx is based at the Dominion Observatory, Wellington Botanical Gardens where Roger Smith’s work in 3D maps and visualisation has been ground-breaking.

To win a copy of Geographx Abel Tasman Track and Routeburn Track maps just visit competitions at www.eastlife.co.nz and complete the form. One entry per person; entries close May 31, 2014.

emergency shelters

Upgrade Your Cruise Receive a FREE* veranda upgrade on selected 2014-2015 Azamara voyages.

Ask us about Azamara Greek Isles, Turkey, Mediterranean, Thailand, Malaysia cruises & more.

Photo: David Hallett

For the price of a couple of coffees each week, you Photo: canDavid Hallett For price&of a couple coffees each you Photo: canDavid Hallett helpthe Forest Bird protectofand restore of week, New Zealand’s help Forest Bird protect restore of week, New Zealand’s For the price&of a couple ofand coffees each you can unique wildlife and wild places. unique wildlife andprotect wild places. help Forest & Bird and restore of New Zealand’s Become a Nature’s voice member With so many of New Zealand’s unique wildlife and wild places.

Become a Nature’s member With sonative many animals, of New Zealand’s and you will receivevoice complimentary unique plants and unique plants and habitats at riskanimals, weNew need your support With sonative many of Zealand’s habitats at riskanimals, needplants your support to give nature awe greater voice. unique native and to give nature awe greater voice. habitats riskare need your support Forest & at Bird an independent to give&nature a greater voice.

Forest Birdt organisation. are an independent not-for-profi We have not-for-profi We natural have been protecting Zealand Forest & Birdt organisation. areNew an independent been protecting Newand Zealand environment land inWe thenatural sea, not-for-profi t on organisation. have environment land and in the sea, since 1923.

Ason the governor general been protecting New Zealand natural since the governor general said in1923.

2009,As “It island diffi cult in tothe imagine environment on and sea, said 2009,As “It is diffi cult to general imagine New Zealand without the Royal sincein 1923. the governor New Zealand without the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society.” said in 2009, “It is difficult to imagine Forest and Bird Protection Society.”

New Zealand without the Royal

and you will receive complimentary membership of Forest & Bird, and Become a Nature’s voice member membership of Forest & Bird,you andwill with yourwill additional support and you receive complimentary with your additional support you be helping usofprotect and restore our membership Forest & Bird, andwill be us ensuring protect and our environment, thatrestore there will withhelping your additional support you will environment, ensuring thatrestore therefor will always be aus natural environment be helping protect and our always a natural environment you andbeyour children. environment, ensuring that therefor will you and your children. always be a natural environment for you and your children.

Forest and Bird Help Protection Society.” us help nature at www.forestandbird.org.nz/joinus Help us help nature at www.forestandbird.org.nz/joinus

Help us help nature at www.forestandbird.org.nz/joinus

*T&Cs: Sales end 31/05/14 unless sold out prior. Valid when booking an Interior stateroom (cat. 12) with a double upgrade to a Veranda stateroom (cat. V3) on select itineraries departing between Oct 14-Dec 15. Please ask for eligible departure dates. Applicable to a limited number of staterooms (subject to availability). Not combinable with any other offer Valid for new bookings, fully named & deposited by 31/05/14. Further terms & conditions apply, please ask for full details. UT1926

United Travel Manukau 652 Great South Rd

(09) 262 1829 E512020-V9

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

27

eastlife | travel

South America today Chris Lyons – Director and Tour Host, World Journeys The contrast between now and 20 years ago is unbelievable! After visiting South America numerous times over many years, what strikes me most is how all aspects of travelling there have improved – dramatically.

Flights now generally run on time and in-flight service is very good.

The hotels, vehicles, tour guides and dining options are light years ahead of where they used to be.

Furthermore, South America has never been more accessible to the Kiwi traveller with daily flights from Auckland non-stop to Santiago in Chile and offering connections all over the continent.

Another bonus for those travelling on a New Zealand passport is that they don’t need any visas in advance!

As specialists to the region, World Journeys probably sends more visitors to South America from New Zealand than any other company – both as individuals or as organised groups.

Most of that continent is best visited from April to October. This generally means excellent clear weather and little rain in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia with pleasant, less humid weather in Argentina and especially Brazil.

However, if planning to visit the southern region of Patagonia then October to March is best.

I am often asked what are my favourite places to visit in South America. This is a tough question!

However, top of the list must be Ecuador, an extraordinary country

‘

South America has never been more accessible to the Kiwi traveller with daily flights from Auckland nonstop to Santiago in Chile and offering connections all over the continent.”

of contrasts with the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, a fascinating and vibrant Indian culture in the highlands, and the wonders of the Amazon jungle.

Other great Amazon experiences are also found in Peru and of course, Brazil. History abounds everywhere but especially in Peru, a treasurehouse of amazing early Spanish architecture and of course the incredible Inca story found at places such as amazing Machu Picchu (the lost city of the Incas).

Colourful local culture is everywhere, as is beautiful scenery found in the Sacred Valley of the Incas or at Lake Titicaca, separating Peru from Bolivia and dominated by the impressive Andes mountain range.

Argentina is like visiting another

totally different continent from the Andean countries. Elegant Buenos Aires; great food, wonderful wines and fantastic shopping (their currency is weak at present) contrast with the planet’s mightiest waterfall at Iguazu and the vast expanses and Fjords of Patagonia.

Then there’s Northern Chile’s Atacama Desert one of the most wondrous places on earth. This high arid plateau has amazing scenery and fabulous accommodation – go there, you will love it!

Finally, one must mention Rio de Janeiro – there is no more beautiful

setting on earth and now a much safer city with a plummeting crime rate due to increased security in preparation for the Football World Cup this year and the Olympic Games in 2016.

Great natural beauty, wonderful beaches, fantastic food and incredibly friendly people make this a place to spend several days.

This year’s small group journey to South America takes in many of the above highlights. Give me a call to find out more – talking about South America is something of which I will never tire.

Grand South America small group hosted tour departing 31 August 2014 Cruise the Galapagos & explore the Amazon Jungle. Visit Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca & Iguazu Falls, plus the vibrant cities of Quito, Lima, Buenos Aires & Rio. Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil & Argentina - history, culture & colour await.

34 days from $20,995 per person (twin) incl. ights Airline taxes, tipping & travel insurance additional.

Contact your Travel Agent or World Journeys Tel 360 7311 Web www.worldjourneys.co.nz E513097-v8

28 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

Photo Wayne Martin

Natural talent sells The life of an artist may not be easy, but for one local woman it’s the perfect lifestyle. She explains her motivation to NATALIE BRITTAN in light of an upcoming art event.

When she was younger, Natasha Wheeler had not the slightest inkling she would be an artist. “I never did art at school. I guess I was too busy being a teenager and going out partying!”

Completely self-taught, Natasha first began in the early 2000s, when she picked up a paint brush and started painting on wood. “Someone asked me to put it on Trade Me and it sold for $185. From there I went on to sell 2000-3000 pieces on the website.”

As word spread about her Kiwiana and nature-inspired creations, Natasha’s work began appearing in gift shops and, eventually, at big chain names such as Harvey Norman, Freedom and Paper Plus.

Today, her art graces the halls and rooms of approximately 60 hotels and motels around New Zealand and she has just started creating her own stationery line.

This month, the vivacious young woman is exhibiting four large works at The Original Art Sale at the Vodafone Events Centre in Manukau.

Featuring more than 1200 artworks, the monster sale showcases affordable pieces from more than 350 emerging and established artists.

natasha wheeler Hand-painted in acrylic, Natasha’s pieces are fully varnished and waterresistant. They are painted with wild, vibrant colours offering a taste of Aotearoa and our islands around us.

Quirky and tactile, featuring shells, beads and kete, they are almost a reflection of the free-spirited Howickian who is found at local markets each weekend. “When I go out I’m normally in pinks, purples, greens – I’m very loud!” she says.

On the day of my visit, Natasha was a little more “conservative” but was still sporting hot pink nails, navy colours and bold red lipstick.

The former Macleans College student was invited to participate at the annual sale’s first event seven years ago and has never looked back. “It’s

huge. I love having a wander and looking at all the different styles.”

Although she spent her childhood in South Africa’s Cape Town, Natasha is every inch a Kiwi girl. “I just love everything about New Zealand and Maori culture and I take advantage of its beauty every chance I get.”

Pacific themes and nature also serve as artistic fodder for Natasha and her family who are regular campers.

“Every week we go down to the beach to collect shells. I love walking along New Zealand’s beautiful beaches with my mum collecting all the broken shells and empty sea urchins. Now and again we find something special.”

The mother of two young children says it’s an ideal lifestyle. “I have two special needs kids so I would never

be able to go into a full-time job. I’m actually quite fortunate. For me it’s worked out amazingly, I get to paint and be with my children.”

Success has come easily to this natural artist and it seems to have a positive effect on her family too.

“I’m pretty lucky. I love art and I just love painting. And my daughter’s following in my footsteps. If I can’t find her she’s downstairs in my studio painting my walls!”

The Original Art Sale presented by AUT begins with a charity gala on May 15 in support of Kidz First Children’s Hospital. It is open to the public at Vodafone Events Centre, Manukau on Friday, May 16, 10am-7pm, and Saturday and Sunday, May 17 & 18, 10am to 3pm. For more details see What’s Where on pages 12-13.

E510314

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

29

eastlife | lifestyle

Arthritis in cats how we can help?

Arthritis is very common in cats with 90% of cats aged over 12 years living with some degree of arthritis.

Ferry across the harbour With the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour lapping at the feet of Auckland City, residents and visitors have every opportunity to enjoy a wide range of watersports and boating or yachting opportunities.

But thanks to Fullers Ferries, those without the means to explore the harbour and Hauraki Gulf beyond, have an excellent passenger service to nearby Devonport, Half Moon Bay, Stanley Bay, gorgeous Waiheke Island and more.

In addition there are a selection of tours and services to other Gulf destinations. Whether one wants to spend a day picnicking on Motuihe Island (just a 35-minute trip from downtown Auckland), hop to Devonport or Birkenhead for lunch and shopping, head off on a weekend escape to Waiheke or even to Great Barrier Island (summer only) and Coromandel, Fullers will take you there.

What’s more it has associated

land tours and bus services at some destinations, all designed to provide a comprehensive transport package.

Of course, daily commuters, who live one side of the harbour and work the other, are particularly well-catered for. They can even take their bikes (and their dogs) on board free of charge.

Fullers Ferries, established for more than 20 years, are modern, quick, regular and well appointed with food and beverages available on board.

The Downtown Terminal is located behind the historic Ferry Building on Quay Street and is close to The Viaduct, Vector Arena, restaurants, Auckland’s business centre, Britomart, theatres and shopping.

Information is available from ticket offices located around the terminal and there are ticket offices at Devonport Wharf and at Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke Island.

THE HAURAKI GULF STARTS WITH US

It is often seen in younger cats as well. The elbows and hips are the most commonly affected, but other joints can also be arthritic.

“It can be very difficult to tell whether your cat is suffering from the pain of arthritis,” says veterinarian, Dr Andrea Gits.

“Cats are tough, independent pets and often they’ll avoid painful situations, rather than outwardly show any signs of discomfort.”

But she says some of the clues to watch for can include: reluctance to jump up or down, wanting to sleep more, stiffness when walking around, being grouchy and withdrawn, and loss of appetite.

“Matted coats can be another sign, because they’re having difficulty reaching around to groom themselves.”

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. It can be due to general wear and tear from a normal life (which is why it commonly occurs in old age), or it can be related to a previous injury.

“Fortunately,” explains Andrea, “there is a lot we can do to help your cat live a more comfortable life. Once a diagnosis is made, we use a combination of therapies to give your pet some relief.

“There are anti-inflammatory medications that are formulated for ongoing use. It’s important never to give human medications to cats as these can be very dangerous.

“Weight control is also a very

dr andrea gits important part of arthritis management, as carrying excess weight always makes the pain of arthritis worse and causes more inflammation in the joints.”

Other therapies include prescription diets, joint supplements, and light exercise with active games.

Often before starting medication in an older cat it is important to run some blood and urine tests so that a medication and treatment plan can be tailored to the patient.

If you have an elderly cat, or you suspect he or she may be showing signs of arthritis, make sure you discuss this with your vet.

If you have any questions, feel free to call us at:

48 Ridge Road, Howick Ph 537 1002 2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany Junction, Botany Ph 265 0035 www.nzpetdoctors.co.nz

Book your experience today!

fullers.co.nz E510312

30 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

lifestyle | eastlife I wanted to spend more time with people because it’s not just about the medicine. It’s nice to step out and look at the whole picture – people’s lifestyles and ways to change things if necessary.”

sally freebairn

Photo Wayne Martin

New energy source As the demands of life continue to mount, a newly formed Beachlands collective is steering the focus back to wellness. NATALIE BRITTAN meets its founder to spark a conversation about the Energy Experience.

Taking time out can be one of the hardest things to do in this busy day and age but a beautiful Beachlands setting could be just what the doctor ordered.

Beachlands local, Sally Freebairn (formerly Ross) can firmly attest to this. Since her arrival at the seaside suburb two years ago, Sally has never felt more energised.

“When I arrived I was physically and mentally drained. But here, all the stress just melts away. It’s a magical and uplifting place where sea meets land.”

Speaking from her beachfront home, Sally says her job as a dispensing pharmacist and interest in health inspired her to look for a better way to reach out to people.

“I wanted to spend more time with people because it’s not just about the medicine. It’s nice to step out and look at the whole picture – people’s lifestyles and ways to change things if necessary.”

Thus, the Energy Experience was formed. Made up of a group of www.eastlife.co.nz

health and fitness professionals from naturopaths and nutritionists to personal trainers and yoga instructors, the Energy Experience offers a wide range of experiences including retreats suited to different groups and individuals.

For example, one of the outdoor adventures offered is a three-day kayaking journey along the idyllic Pohutukawa coast from Sunkist Bay to Tapapakanga Regional Park.

During that time, participants explore all the outdoors has to offer by camping, kayaking with dolphins, bush walking, and picnicking in a natural paradise.

Having experienced the journey herself, Sally says she discovered a new appreciation of nature which saw her enjoying fresh air, the smell of the sea, the colours of the sky, darkness under the stars, sunrise and a moonlit portrait of the sea.

“I had gained an appreciation of our unique place in Aotearoa and the richness of our culture and playground,” she says.

Based on the Maori health model of Te Whare Tapa Wha, developed by fellow local, Professor Mason Durie, these experiences serve to strengthen an individual using the analogy of a house.

Housed in a building on Wakelin Road by the bus stop, the Energy Experience Centre encompasses all aspects of wellness under one roof, described by Sally as a “threepronged, multi-directional approach”.

“A house is strong if all walls are balanced and connected,” explains Sally. “Using this model, the sides of the house is the physical health. We see the back of the house as the mind and emotional health, the front of the house is the uplifting factor – the buzz factor – which is our cultural background, environment and our outward focus of the world, and the roof of the house is the family and social relationships.”

The centre will retail health supplements, nutritional products and sports accessories and serve as a meeting point for health consultations as well as facilitate future Energy Experiences.

When things go wrong we feel vulnerable, says Sally. “As a result we need a basket underneath to hold us; something that gives us strength so no matter what happens we can draw from that strength – family, community, culture; all those aspects.”

The retreats can be catered to every age, level of fitness and health state.

“For example, people can add a nutritional aspect, or if they just want to relax they can have a massage or do yoga – we listen to people and find out what they want from an Energy Experience.”

“Whether you need a nutritionist, pain relief or personal training, we can help,” Sally says. ‘We offer physiotherapists, acupuncturists and naturopaths. It’s about connecting with other health professionals.”

Raised in the close-knit community of Feilding, Sally comes from a family of professional sportspeople and has always known the value of staying active.

“The Energy Experience is a tester for people. Once they try an experience and enjoy it then the self-motivation will kick in, giving people the confidence to do things themselves.

“For me, personally, this is one way I can spend more time with people and step out of the dispensary – it’s an exciting journey.” eastlife | may 2014 |

31

eastlife | lifestyle

Murph’...

That’s Entertainment!

In ’65 Dylan went electric, then not much happened in the entertainment biz until 2014 when the Entertainment Book went mobile!

best served hot Mighty Murph’s memorabilia from Melbourne will fuel motorheads’ dreams at the ‘Downs when the V8 legend pulls up for a hot lap!

Brian McGinn from Entertainment Publications says, while the traditional hard copy books are still available, Entertainment Digital Members can now redeem special offers simply by presenting their smartphones.

“They can search and map businesses that are near to them.

And what we particularly like is how easily people will be able to discover new businesses with the Entertainment Digital Membership,” he says.

In its fifteenth year, the Entertainment Book has helped raise more than $13million for community groups in New Zealand.

2014/2015 Entertainment Memberships (operating on Apple or Android platforms) and books are available now. See entertainmentbook.co.nz for details.

‘

On June 1, 20 fans will take a front seat as Greg Murphy careers around the track in a V8 Supercar at Hampton Downs. In addition, the man himself will also offer up a plethora of memorabilia for auction.

WIN! $100 DOOLAN BROTHERS’ DINING VOUCHER – Thanks to the good folk at Entertainment Publications, EastLife has a dining voucher, redeemable at Doolan Brothers’ restaurants in Botany, Ellerslie, Newmarket and Lynfield (formerly Cock and Bull). Enter at eastlife.co.nz.

“I guess all of us at one point have been surprised at how much stuff we’ve accumulated when it comes time to put it all in one place... I think I’ve taken that to the limit!” says Murphy, who has recently moved back to New Zealand from Melbourne.

The collection features everything from podium hats – marked with the details of particular wins – team apparel from professional drives and limited edition racing prints, to die-cast model cars and even the

bonnet of Murph’s Pepsi Max V8 Supercar! “I can’t keep collecting and hoarding it and I have my fair share of legacy items for myself and the family. If there are race fans who will get enjoyment from owning these things then I’m happy to see them go,” he says.

While the Hot Laps’ auction will be conducted ahead of time on Trademe, there will be live and silent auctions – as well as prearranged phone bidding for serious collectors – for items from Murph’s mighty motorsport collection.

A portion of funds raised – including all profits from Hot Laps, will be donated to charity. In addition, a selection of the motoring industry’s finest vehicles will be on display and on the track during the day.

Visit murphhotlaps.com for more information, including a full inventory of items.

You’ll love You’ll lovethe theLifestyle Lifestyle here! here!

Discoverthese these high Discover high quality quality33bedroom bedroom homes within safe homes withinthe the safe and andsecure secureOrewa Orewa neighbourhood of neighbourhood of Kensington Park Kensington Park

NOW!

ARTIST IMPRESSION

Esplanade Terraces Esplanade Terraces

Show Homes Open daily 10am to 4pm Show Homes 1 Parkside Drive, Open dailyPark, 10am to 4pm Kensington OREWA

‘Where Neighbours become Friends’ ‘Where Neighbours become Friends’

1 Parkside Drive, Kensington Park, OREWA

Imagine living in a friendly community where your neighbours become good friends and someone takes care of the lawns! Under construction now, these superbly designed 221min2 three bedroom doublewhere garaged homes have dual a lovely park withlawns! sea views from the upper now, level.these There’s even Imagine living a friendly community yourterraced neighbours become goodbalconies, friends andoverlooking someone takes care of the Under construction superbly 2 adesigned bonus ‘man off bedroom the garage!

A 10% depositterraced will secure yourhave purchase at todays overlooking price, with ana expected date for thethe sixupper Esplanade Terraceseven for 221mcave’ three double garaged homes dual balconies, lovely parkcompletion with sea views from level. There’s July this ‘man year. cave’ Comeoff and a genuine in a friendly neighbourhood. a bonus theenjoy garage!

A 10% community deposit will lifestyle secure your purchase at todays price, with an expected completion date for the six Esplanade Terraces for Freehold titles give peace of mind and future investment advantages - no leases to pay here! Priced from $872,000 July www.kensingtonpark.co.nz this year.

Come and enjoy a genuine community lifestyle in a friendly neighbourhood. www.kensingtonpark.co.nz Freehold give|peace of mind and future investment advantages - no leases to pay here! Priced from $872,000 32titles | eastlife may 2014 www.eastlife.co.nz

www.kensingtonpark.co.nz www.kensingtonpark.co.nz

Call 0800 57 67 392 or Come to Orewa today Call 0800 57 67 392 or Come to Orewa today

E510310

ARTIST IMPRESSION

ENQUIRE ENQUIRE NOW!

book review | eastlife

Welsh offers more food for thought

Yes, Lucy is nasty!

The Sex Lives of Siamese Twins

In an age of convenience eating and obesity, Irvine seems to portray junk food as the new heroin; or should that be heroine, considering the outcome of Welsh’s twisted tale?

Genre: Crime/Drama Author: Irvine Welsh Rating: ★★★★ Reviewed by: Jon Rawlinson I’ve weighed and measured this book, but was it found wanting? It’s easy to ask, but tough answering without giving the game away to anyone yet to read The Sex Lives of Siamese Twins.

Widely known for his debut, 1993 novel, Trainspotting, Edinburghborn Irvine Welsh has served a feast of work including nine novels and four collections of shorter fiction, developing a cult following as a result.

Overall, his latest work did not disappoint this particular ‘cultist,’ who’s sampled the majority of these.

The Sex Lives of Siamese Twins follows odd couple, Lucy Brennan – a merciless personal trainer – and Lena Sorensen – a seemingly meek artist – through a ‘sado-masochistic folies à deux’ where we find (figuratively speaking) the whip, in love, is not given lightly!

Although known for his exploration of drug culture – for which he can be referenced in the same breath as William S. Burroughs, Hunter

I was a little disappointed by the figurative and literal climax of this narrative.

irvine welsh S. Thompson and Aldous Huxley – Welsh investigates a more modern addiction in his latest work. Focused on junk food rather than junkies, the characters find disease could actually be better than cure when two diametrically opposed forms of addiction go to war.

Looking for a taste? The first one’s always free, and should this passage disturb, it’s probably not for you!

‘She’s about halfway through that poison and on course to self-mutilate further by finishing the f-ing lot. She disgusts me; she’s worse than any pathetic junkie or alcoholic... how they always wear that same stupid, hapless expression. Looking for help.

Well, I’ll help you... I’ll help every last one of you... by drowning you like kittens!’

While not shy of the explicit, I feel more ambiguity and less gratuitousness would have better served the denouement of this novel, where lessons are learnt and a bow (or should that be chain?) is wrapped around it.

Also, the plot is similar to that of another of Irvine’s books, The Bedroom Secrets of the Master Chefs – from which parallels can be drawn to Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. I must concede this may be because it was the last of Welsh’s work I sampled.

Ultimately, a reader gets out what he/ she puts in. The Sex Lives of Siamese Twins provides a gripping narrative with enough subtext to treat those wishing to dig a little deeper.

Welsh claims Andy Warhol said he never read reviews, only weighed them. Should Irvine follow this example, and is unhappy what this ‘p-k clinging on to his miserable hack

‘

WIN A COPY – EastLife has a copy of The Sex Lives of Siamese Twins by Irvine Welsh – RRP $37.99, distributed in New Zealand

by Random House – up for grabs. Visit the Competitions page at eastlife.co.nz to enter.

job’ has to say, I’d implore him not to sick Lucy and Lena on to me, I wouldn’t have the stomach to take their abuse!

Oh, and who are the Siamese twins?

Readers will find answers, both literal and metaphoric within!

• Irvine Welsh will visit Auckland during the Auckland Writers Festival (May 14-18). See writersfestival. co.nz for more information; tickets available through Ticketmaster.

Eastcliffe on Orakei Retirement Resort Available now: One bedroom apartments in the main building, priced from $245,000.

Enjoy amazing sea views from our four large lounges. Security and small hospital onsite.

CONTACT US All occupational licenses for units at the village are secured by a first ranking encumbrance over the village land in favour of the Statutory Supervisor.

217 Kupe Street, Orakei, Auckland.

Phone: 521 9015 Fax: 521 9011 Website: www.eastcliffe.co.nz E510315

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

33

eastlife | lifestyle

New products at Carlton Party Hire Carlton Party Hire is constantly adding to its product ranges to provide original and fun options for parties, functions and events.

The new wedding range includes blackboards, easels, LED lighting curtains, antique signing tables, wedding arch with love seat and centrepiece options.

Carlton Party Hire also has the largest selection of wedding products including tables and chairs, dance floors, PA systems, wishing wells, red carpets, bar leaners, linen, LED furniture, crockery, cutlery and glassware.

With such an extensive selection, it is easy for Carlton to offer many solutions to meet all wedding requirements and needs.

The new children’s range of little people chairs will be launched over the coming winter months.

The white folding mini me chair is a miniature of the adult size

white folding chair, which allows functions to have a consistent design for both adult and children tables.

The ability to create a candy bar for your party has never been so simple with a selection of candy jars and drink dispensers available for hire.

The new children’s product ranges will be posted on our facebook and web pages as they become available.

The new glassware range is a stunning European design and consists of tall pilsner beer glasses, stemless wine glasses and burgundy red wine glasses all of which bring a touch of professionalism to the table.

These glasses are strong with a high level of lead content and give off a great sparkle. The stemless wine glass is also very stable; if knocked it will wobble but not fall over, saving on glass breakages.

For all the products to assist in making your party, function or event a success visit our Carlton Party Hire website www.carltonpartyhire.co.nz or call one of our friendly party hire team at the eastern branch, 62 Ti Rakau Drive, Pakuranga, phone 577-0328 or for events, call our events team on 0800 10 10 65.

Stand side by side with Kiwis in need

Like us on facebook – facebook.com/ carltonpartyhire to receive information on all Carlton Party Hire’s great promotions and competitions.

Stand side Standside side by by side with need withKiwis Kiwis in in need

Today in New Zealand, there are thousands of women, men and children living in desperate situations.

Today inEvery Newday, Zealand, there Army are thousands women,better menoptions and children in desperate situations.

The Salvation works hard of to provide in life forliving struggling families and to help people take positive future.

Every day, The Salvation Armysteps workstoward hardatobrighter provide better options in life for struggling families and to Today in New Zealand, there are thousands of women, men and children living in desperate situations. help people take positive a brighter future.

But we simply cannotsteps do thistoward alone. That’s why we ask you to please donate to the Red Shield appeal.

Every day, The Salvation Army works hard to provide better options in life for struggling families and to Your donation will provide much-needed supportive services such as life skills programmes and help people take positive steps toward a brighter future.

Be Rescuea a pet.

Be aa hero. hero. Rescue pet.

budgeting advice, as well as emergency help with food and clothing.

But we simply cannot do this alone. That’s why we ask you to please donate to the Red Shield appeal.

But simply cannot do this alone. That’s why we hope askservices you to to please toneed the ReditShield appeal.

Yourwe donation willdonate provide much-needed such asdonate life skills programmes and Please today andsupportive give those who most.

Your donation will provide much-needed supportive services such as life skills programmes and budgeting advice, as well as emergency help with food and clothing.

Txt RED to 4411 (standard charges apply)

budgeting advice, as well as emergency help with food and clothing.

This is the perfect time to adopt a pet.

This is the perfect time to adopt a pet.

We’ve got hundreds of animals that’ve We’ve got hundreds of animals that’ve been vet checked, desexed, vaccinated been vet checked, desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. and microchipped.

at any Countdown checkout Txt RED to (standard charges apply) TxtGive RED to 4411 4411 (standard charges apply)

and we’ll call you back for your donation

and we’ll call you back for your donation

AS 576801

TSA NAS 576801

Give at any Countdown checkout or at

TSA NAS 576801

SoSovisit orcall call0909 256 7300, visitour our website website or 256 7300, thencome come and and meet forfor you. then meetthe theone one you.

We’reopen open 7 7 days, at at We’re days,from from10am-4pm, 10am-4pm, 50Westney Westney Road, Road, Mangere. spca.org.nz 50 Mangere. spca.org.nz

34 | eastlife | may 2014

Please and hope Please donate today and give hope to to those those who who need need it it most. most. anddonate we’ll calltoday you back forgive your donation

salvationarmy.org.nz

Give at any Countdown checkout

RED SHIELD APPEAL

or at

salvationarmy.org.nz

RED SHIELD APPEAL

or at

salvationarmy.org.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

RED SHIELD APPEAL

Healthy

children | eastlife

BABY FOOD IN MINUTES

Call us now to register your interest in joining our local Stems Pre-School Playgroups and Music Group

New mums need all the help they can get when raising a family and, fortunately, in this modern day there are a wealth of products and books to help the process.

Store-bought baby food can be expensive, and it’s hard to know exactly what additives have been included. Ideally, fresh food prepared and cooked at home is great for baby; better still if it can all come together quickly.

The new George Foreman Baby Food Express is one of the latest products to help parents and caregivers to easily create nutritious and delicious homemade meals baby is sure to love.

What’s more, ‘cooks’ will have the confidence of knowing exactly what little ones are consuming.

The George Foreman Baby Food Express steams and purees ingredients to create fresh and healthy baby food in minutes.

From vegetables and fruits to chicken, fish, rice, and even hard boiled eggs, the Baby Food Express allows for experimentation with different flavours and combinations so that new tastes, which include important vitamins and minerals, can be introduced slowly to baby’s diet.

The George Foreman Baby Food Express boasts three manual settings – steam, steam + puree and pulse and 10 pre-programmed settings which recognise how long to steam and blend specific ingredients for – just set and forget!

The thermal resistant glass bowl is a BPA-free safe option, and the fourcup (950ml) capacity, allows multiple meals to be prepared all at once, or fresh every day.

Features include a 500W heating www.eastlife.co.nz

“Growing Young Minds FROM HOME” We’d love to chat to you about local home-based childcare today! element, 200W blender motor, stainless steel blades for lumpfree puree and a pulse function for complete control over the consistency of baby food. The dishwasher safe parts make cleaning up a breeze, and the compact unit is great for travelling.

SUGGESTED COMBINATIONS

Please contact Emma on 536 7103 or emma@stemsfromhome.co.nz

www.stemsfromhome.co.nz

E510094-v5

A crucial part of early growth and development comes when introducing solids into baby’s diet.

Parents need to ensure their little one is getting the right nutrients while slowly easing different tastes and textures into meal times.

Need Childcare?

Need Work?

• Broccoli & Cauliflower Puree – Wash broccoli and cauliflower florets well. Slice into 2cm pieces and press the BROCCOLI setting, STEAM & PUREE. If you want a thicker puree, pour off some of the cooking liquid before it reaches the PUREE cycle.

• Carrot & Apple Puree – Wash, peel and dice 2 medium carrots into 1cm pieces. STEAM for 10 minutes. Wash, peel and core 1 apple and dice into 2cm pieces. Add the apple to the carrots and steam for a further 8 minutes. Pour off some of the cooking liquid if you want a thicker puree.

Blend using PULSE for 30 seconds.

• Triple the Veg – Wash, peel and dice 1 potato and 2 carrots and steam for 12 minutes. Pour off the cooking liquid and add 1 cup of washed and diced broccoli. STEAM for a further 8 minutes and blend using PULSE for 30 seconds, check the consistency and blend again if required.

• Chicken & Pumpkin – Rinse 1 single boneless chicken breast and dice into 2cm pieces. Wash, peel and dice the pumpkin into 2cm pieces. Select the CHICKEN setting, STEAM & PUREE. If you want a thicker puree, pour off some of the cooking liquid before it reaches the PUREE cycle.

Available from department stores and electrical retailers. RRP $199

E510184-v2

eastlife | may 2014 |

35

eastlife | essentials

Essentials Personal and household essentials are many and varied. Some are determined by practicality, some by need and some by pure desire. Essentials may be about making the workload easier, providing for health and wellbeing or simply ensuring the total look be it fashion-wise or décor directed. Take a look at this month’s EastLife Essentials.

KAGI ADDS PINK BLUSH TO RANGE Kagi’s new Pink Blush Mother’s Day collection includes double-sided ‘eclipse’ blush necklace and bracelet designs and (pictured) a fresh water pearl necklace, bracelet as well as earring set in shades of sunset pink.

Adding elegance to any outfit for mothers and daughters of all ages, they are priced from $79 and available from Brownsons Jewellers, Pakuranga Plaza.

Ph 09 576 3818

KEEP THE KIDS HAPPY & HEALTHY WITH RADIANCE® KIDS IMMUNE! PURSE FOR EVERY OUTFIT The winter months are looming and the temperature dropping so it’s the perfect time to add a pop of colour to your winter wardrobe.

These may be Saben’s most compact purses but they sure do pack a punch! Saben Bec purses are available in yellow, pink, red and electric blue – RRP $220 each.

INSTANT SMARTPHONE PRINTER The new Fujifilm Instax SHARE is an instant smartphone printer which allows you to print instax images wirelessly from your smartphone via the downloaded Instax SHARE app. The app is available for iPhone and Android and it offers various features such as image enlargement or reduction, filters and a selection of photo templates. RRP $249

36 | eastlife | may 2014

Winter brings the usual onslaught of germs and illness. Unfortunately, kids seem to share them around! Supporting their immature and susceptible immune systems comes down to a healthy diet, adequate rest, teaching them to cover their sneezes and coughs and also to wash hands properly. But sometimes, kids require extra nutritional and herbal support to get through winter unscathed.

Radiance® Kids Immune offers customised, immune system support by providing vitamins A, C and E, minerals, crucial anti-oxidants and herbs, such as olive and echinacea, in a tasty chewable tablet to help bolster a child’s immune system function. Use Radiance® Kids Immune (RRP $21.90 – 60 chewable tabs) as a supportive measure when winter immune challenges are prevalent.

Available at selected health stores and pharmacies. Always read label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see a healthcare professional.

MISTER MAGNOLIA A CHARMER Mister Magnolia is a classic, exuberant, rhyming picture book from the muchloved Quentin Blake. In this witty, rhyming picture book, Mister Magnolia has a full and happy life except for one serious omission – a boot. But one day, he receives a mysterious parcel, and at last Mister Magnolia can splash in the puddles with everyone else! Published

by Random House, RRP $19.99 (Paperback) www.eastlife.co.nz

essentials | eastlife

STADLER FORM FAMILY DELIVERS THE GOODS

GRIPPING TALE If you thought Wall Street was about alpha males standing in trading pits hollering at each other, think again. That world is dead. Now, the world’s money is traded by computer code, inside black boxes in heavily guarded buildings. In Flash Boys: Cracking the Money Code, Michael Lewis tells the explosive story of how one group of ingenious oddballs and misfits set out to expose what is going on. It’s the story of what it’s like to declare war on some of the richest and most powerful people in the world. It’s about taking on an entire system. And it’s about the madness that has taken hold of the financial markets today.

Published by Penguin Group, RRP $50 (Hardback)

If you’re an appliance fan (excuse the pun), you’re going to be thrilled to hear that Stadler Form has landed in NZ. Known for creating premium home appliances the Swiss brand has released four key items from its global range. Developed to be quiet, energy efficient and user-friendly, these products, which all have names, will perfect the internal climate of your home without intrusive noise. So please, meet the Stadler Form family.... from left, Max (fan heater) RRP $149.99, Selina (home hygrometer) RRP $49.99, Anna (fan heater) RRP $179.99, Albert (dehumidifier) RRP $899.99

JE T’AIME MAMAN Show Mum you love her with Jewellery from AGATHA Paris – or buy the jewellery for yourself and give her the bag! Exclusively for Mother’s Day and throughout May, you will receive a gorgeous canvas bag FREE with any purchase of $150 or more. The perfect opportunity to indulge and check out the New Scottie Collection – the guilt-free way to treat yourself, and your mum this Mother’s Day. Available NOW at Walker and Hall Botany, Botany Town Centre. Ph 09 271 0390. www.walkerandhall.co.nz

‘ PALE ALE FOR CREATURE COMFORT You know the old saying – all good things come to those who wait; well, that certainly can be said for the arrival of the new Little Creatures India Pale Ale. The Little Creatures team across the ditch has craftily conjured up this perfectly balanced (6.4% IPA), drop that combines passionfruit and grapefruit aromas with a big, long bitter finish. RRP $17.99 (4 pack) www.eastlife.co.nz

I love shopping for things online because when they arrive it’s like a present to me from me.”

CULINARY DELIGHTS TO PAMPER MUM Mother's Day is a special Day to honour our Mums. Yes, we can say thanks to Mum any day of the week, but this Mother's Day, May 11 is the one day to really spoil her. At the Prenzel shop we create great gifts just for you to give your Mum. She’ll just love a little liquid luxury or culinary pizazz on her special day. Visit us at 7 Whitford Wharf Road, Whitford Village, phone 09 530 8888 or buy online www.theprenzelshop.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

37

& fashion Warming to winter fashion HEALTH BEAUTY

trends | style | beauty | health | fitness

Winter has suddenly pounced and, once again, it is time for warm clothes. This month we look at what’s on offer in the way of scarves, hats, gloves and wraps – in fact, everything needed to embrace the climate with a fashionable face.

Long scarves are heating things up for winter 2014. But, how long is long enough?

Wattle Hill Gloves $119.95, EMU

Well, it should be possible to wrap one around the neck a couple of times and still have both ends dangle to the waist.

Opting for a medium weight weave provides a nice amount of drape without feeling as if you’ve been engulfed by fabric.

Fedora $59, Max

For those who enjoy winter-warm bulk around the neck but are happy to discard length, then a snood is the way to go. Not sure what a snood is?

Well, perhaps it’s best described as a tubular neck scarf which is easy to wrap and wear.

Berber Neck Warmer $129, Loobie’s Story

Colour-wise, there are various options. You could go with this season’s monochrome palette, or perhaps a floral print in moody, wintery tones, or keep it fresh with muted shades such as dusky pink.

Not only will they keep the head warm and hair protected from any wild and chilly weather, they will add panache to any outfit and look great with this season’s emphasis on coats.

Gloves, too, feature for the colder weather and it really is fashion over function. Ditch the old winter woollies and make way for a pair of gorgeous kid or, perhaps, fur-cuffed gloves – total sophistication.

Boston & Bailey Floral Spot Scarf $29.99, Farmers

NZ Fashion Tech

Hats are making a strong comeback this season but not in the way of the traditional beanie. Although knitted hats with feminine embellishments are definitely in. Smarten your look with a Fedora or a lady-like cloche too.

E100074

38 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

#nineties ISIS TRENDING TRENDING fashion | eastlife

The bestof of the‘90s ‘90s is back back for winter winter 2014 @ @ Westfield Manukau The The best best of the the ‘90s is is back for for winter 2014 2014 @ Westfield Westfield Manukau Manukau @ Dotti @ Dotti @ Dotti

@ Factorie @ Factorie @ Factorie

The season of throwback styles is upon us, The The season season of of throwback throwback styles styles is is upon upon us, us, and the only regret you’ll have this time around is and the regret you’ll have time around and the only only regret have this this around is is throwing away youryou’ll favourite pair time of overalls. throwing throwing away away your your favourite favourite pair pair of of overalls. overalls.

@ Factorie @ Factorie @ Factorie

@ Just Jeans @ Just Jeans @ Just Jeans

@ Cotton On @ Cotton On @ Cotton On @ Lovisa

@ Lovisa @ Lovisa

Slashed jeans, plaid shirts, Slashed jeans, plaid Slashed plaid shirts, shirts, vintage knits,jeans, and chunky boots vintage knits, and chunky boots vintage boots areknits, readyand for chunky your revival. are are ready ready for for your your revival. revival.

TAILOR THIS TREND TO YOU AT THE TAILOR THIS TO AT TAILOR THIS TREND TREND TO YOU YOU AT THE THE WINTER STYLE LOUNGE

WINTER STYLE LOUNGE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BROUGHT TO YOU BY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

E510302

Book a free 15 minute one-on-one session with our resident stylist at the Winter Style Lounge. Find out with more online.

Book Book aa free free 15 15 minute minute one-on-one one-on-one session session with our our resident resident stylist at the Winter Style Lounge.

Find out more Thursday 15th May 11am 8pm | Friday 16th May 10am - 8pm stylist at the Winter Style Lounge. Find out more online. online.

Saturday 17th May May 10am--8pm 6pm | Sunday16th 11th May10am 11am - 5pm Thursday Thursday 15th 15th May 11am 11am - 8pm || Friday Friday 16th May May 10am -- 8pm 8pm Saturday Saturday 17th 17th May May 10am 10am -- 6pm 6pm || Sunday Sunday 11th 11th May May 11am 11am -- 5pm 5pm

FOLLOW FASHION? FOLLOW US @WESTFIELDNZ Find WestfieldNZ o FOLLOW FASHION? FOLLOW FASHION? FOLLOW US @WESTFIELDNZ Find WestfieldNZ FOLLOW US @WESTFIELDNZ Find WestfieldNZ www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

39

20% off on Presentation of this ad

i n s t o r e n o w

NEW SEASON

Are you tired of shopping in chain stores and wish you could find something different, stylish, edgy and affordable?

Then it’s time you visited Twirl Boutique located right here in Howick!

Sizes 8-18

eastlife | profile

Daughter mirrors

mother’s passion

The Terraces, 24 Wellington St, Howick Village.

Located behind LJ Hooker Howick

twirl.net.nz E510319

Nutthida Boonprasert says when it comes to trend-setting style, her mother, Gaye Fasher, owner of Cocoon Thai Spa, is a leader not a follower. On talking to mother and daughter, HELEN PERRY soon realised this attribute goes beyond the fashion front.

to sell Kanokporn Fasher, or Gaye, as she is mostly known, landed in New Zealand some 15 years ago seeking a new direction in life.

WIN WIth

www.eastlife.co.nz

magazine

designer clothing

E512182

s Size 6 2 0 1 Locations: Takapuna Silverdale & Outlet Mt Eden Pukekohe Mt Maunganui Tirau & Outlet Taihape & Outlet Palmerston North

www.magazineclothing.co.nz

To some, the quick-fire decision made seven days earlier, to fly here from Thailand with a friend, might seem impetuous but to others it provides an inkling to the decisive nature behind a woman who presents as gracious, smiling and, perhaps, even a little unworldly.

Warm, quietly spoken and obliging, nevertheless Gaye has proved a venturesome and formidable businesswoman. But not without hard work.

“I was 14 when I did my first course in textile design,” she says. “Later in life, I spent months parted from my daughters in order to cement a future for us. Then, when establishing Cocoon Thai Spa here, I had to battle misinformation and the stigma often associated with Thai massage.

“In the early days men would come for all the wrong reasons and we were constantly turning away unsavoury types. Then there were the wives who rang suspicious of our intentions.”

Undeterred, Gaye maintained

professionalism, and elegance, working doubly hard to educate New Zealanders on the finer elements of a five-star spa experience. Now, nearly 11 years after opening Cocoon Thai Spa, she can be well satisfied with her patience and pioneering efforts.

Furthermore, clients can attest to the serene environment of these two local spas and their therapeutic benefits.

Despite facing many challenges, Gaye has seldom shied away from obstacles or opportunities. As a young teenager, with an eye for beautiful clothes, she is grateful to her mother for sending her on that first design course.

“I then did time in sales and soon realised I could use both skills to make and sell clothes,” she says. “I started at home with a few machines and two helpers. Before long I had a fashion factory up and running.”

Gaye kept up the business after marrying and giving birth first to daughter, Nutthida now 22 and then, three years later, to second daughter, View. When her youngest was just three, Gaye and her husband parted.

“I needed to rethink my life so in 1997 I sold the business and travelled

She’s a

GEM Treat mum to the perfect gift with the latest Pink Blush range

S173 Pakuranga Plaza.

Ph: 576 3818 Meadowbank Shopping Centre. Ph: 521 6188 E510325

40 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

gaye and nutthida to Denmark where my brotherin-law was the Thai Ambassador to both Denmark and the United Kingdom. The children remained with their father while I assisted in the consulate offices for several months.”

Finally, ready to return to Thailand, Gaye planned to attend a nannying school with a view of setting up business. But back a week, she couldn’t resist visiting New Zealand.

“I arrived in Auckland and here I am some 15 years later,” she laughs.

“Strangely it was in my first week I met Rob [Gaye’s second husband].

Twenty months later he asked me to marry him and I did.”

While Rob has his own business interests, Gaye says he has given her every support – “without him I wouldn’t have handled the immigration paperwork required to bring trained Thai therapists here.”

Three months after arriving in Auckland, Gaye was joined by 7-year-old Nutthida who was enrolled at school. “I, too, went to school to improve my English then did a small business course. After marrying Rob, I returned to Thailand to study beauty therapy and Thai massage.”

Photo Wayne Martin

but we worked hard to dispel that initial poor image of Thai massage.

and nail art as well as a wide range of other beauty therapy treatments.

“And, we did everything possible to create an international spa experience where ambience, quality products, decor, hygiene – just everything – was of the highest standard.”

Following in her mother’s footsteps, she also learnt to sew and in 2005, as a Year 10 student at the new Botany College she was first runner-up in the matrimonial bliss section of the Villa Maria Cult Couture show.

It worked. In no time Gaye had established a sound clientele keen to experience the spa’s benefits including leading sportspeople, such as David Tua and Ruben Wiki, who required the more exacting Thai stretching and deep tissue massage.

“As word spread, the spa moved to bigger premises also in Chapel Road,” Gaye says. “Then four years ago I opened a second spa on Pakuranga Rd and, now, I’m considering a third.”

In planning a third spa, Gaye is seeking assistance from daughter Nutthida, who had her first beauty lessons at just 12-years-old.

“We were in Thailand; Mum was on a course and I was bored so she sent me to learn to apply eyelash extensions,” says Nutthida, now multi-skilled in the beauty arena.

Finally, back in New Zealand with both her daughters, Gaye set up Cocoon Thai Spa in Chapel Rd, Dannemora.

“When we came back to New Zealand I just kept practising. And mum just kept sending me to courses. I’m sure she was determined I would have no opportunity to be led astray in life!”

“That was 2003 and at first some wrong types did knock on the door

Today, Nutthida is skilled in Thai massage, facials, nail enhancements

www.eastlife.co.nz

Her four-piece entry included gold silk pants, corset, coat and ruffles accented with traditional Thai jewellery.

Keenly interested in design, Nutthida contemplated a fashion career but on leaving school completed a Diploma of Hospitality at Auckland University of Technology and then a Bachelor of Business Marketing and Design.

Whilst studying, she also managed to attend the L’Oreal Academy in Thailand to train as a makeup artist and, now, she has just completed her New Zealand real estate papers.

stops thinking about work; she works seven days a week, but occasionally she relaxes and we have a lot of laughs like the time we decided to visit the highest sky bar in Thailand.

“It featured in the movie, The Hangover, so, off we went. Mum only drinks champagne but even she nearly died when we were given the bill – $100 for one glass of bubbles and $72 for my cocktail!”

While Nutthida confesses to being “quite domesticated; I like to cook” she says whipping up the evening meal is not her mother’s priority.

“But my grandmother lives with Mum and Rob so they never have to worry about cooking Thai favourites!”

Nutthida adds, however, that her interest in fashion comes from her mother. “Mum loves clothes; she has three wardrobes full, dozens of shoes and lovely jewellery. But she never likes to wear what others are wearing.

She prefers to be one step ahead.

Like her mother, Nutthida is a beauty and appears to have the same inner strength to achieve her dreams. “Although I’m keen to study chiropractic in Auckland – I’ve always been interested in how the body works – the idea of managing our third Cocoon Thai Spa is appealing.”

“I remember we attended an international fashion show and afterwards Mum cleverly insisted on buying one particular dress not due for release until the following season.

She got her way and was wearing it long before it hit the streets.”

While the decision will ultimately be hers, Nutthida admits she is close to her mother and respects her advice. “We’ve had some fun times together,” she says. “Mum rarely

And perhaps that sums up the attitude of this mother and daughter team – tenacious and determined to achieve their goals whilst remaining professional in every way. eastlife | may 2014 |

41

eastlife | fashion

Celestial Dreamer A romantic collection for dreamy days & starry nights

Style radar

Repertoire’s Style Director, Meghan Maher, answers questions about fashion and style from EastLife readers.

Q:

My tummy is my biggest concern when dressing. Clothing this season seems to be shorter and straighter in shape – I am struggling to find pieces that suit me. Do you have any tips?

WINTER 14

A:

Vision Dress | Romeo Jacket | Lace Slip

Yes. This season’s fashion is more structured and tailored.

Clothing is more fitted than it has been for a long time.

E510058-v6

• Look for styles that have a similar shape to your body shape to achieve a great fit. Styles that have some extra give, coverage or other diffusing techniques directly over the tummy area are fantastic.

• Anything that wraps! Styles that wrap will create flattering necklines, coverage and waist definition.

This silhouette is particularly difficult for ladies that have tummy concerns or for some women after having children. Here are a few tips that I have shared with my clients:

• Statement necklaces on the décolletage bring attention high on your body. These are particularly stunning in heavy metals such as silver, gold or, my favourite this season, rose gold.

• Fabric choice is most important!

Heavier, sturdy, structured fabrics with a bit of give and hold to them are perfect for a more defined look.

Also soft fluid fabrics that don’t cling but rather drape beautifully over the body also work well.

• Always add a framing piece such as a jacket, cardigan or waistcoat.

Wear open to elongate your torso whilst bringing attention to the centre of the body. This kind of illusion dressing can make you appear smaller.

going natural NEW ZEALAND FASHION ONLINE

With loads of gorgeous colour in this winter’s wardrobes, it’s vital to have a failsafe lipstick to complement any outfit.

Suited to any complexion, Karen Murrell’s Cordovan Natural combines deep tones of burnt cinnamon with uplifting dashes of lush peach that leave lips with a perfectly warm and inviting pout.

NEW ZEALAND FASHION ONLINE

Like other Karen Murrell lipsticks, Cordovan Natural does not use animal-based materials or animal testing but is rich in natural pigment, is long wearing, and does not feather.

It does contain avocado oil for hydration and protection; cinnamon for fuller looking lips; evening primrose oil to soothe and moisturise and carnauba wax for a hard-wearing texture. RRP $29.95.

BOLD PRINTS Designer clothing and accessories

Spoil yourself or someone else

GREAT GIFT IDEAS

Gift vouchers available. Layby Now Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm

114 Main Highway, Ellerslie

WWW.FASHIONZ.CO.NZ

Ph 579 3535 E510252-v2

42 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

fashion | eastlife

Coat trends to Welcome Winter

Winter may not be everyone’s favourite season, but one way to make the most of shorter and colder days is to buy a fabulous new coat to wrap up in when temperatures turn chilly.

And we all know that you can’t go wrong with timeless style – a classic coat will serve through many a winter so invest wisely.

But this season we are taking a look at five key coat trends to inspire and excite.

Cape No longer reserved for super heroes, capes have forged their way to popularity in the outer-wear stakes this season. So easy to layer, so easy to wear, cape coats allow you to be glam and cosy when wind and rain let fly.

• Carlson – Manhattan Cape $399

Colour Why not have some colour fun this season? With an array of fabulous shades to choose from it’s easy to add a splash of outer colour to cold, grey days.

Texture

Trench

Military

If you tend to shy away from bold and brights, then plaid or tweed may be perfect for you. Texture provides variation, subtly introducing colour while oozing sophistication.

The classic trench is a good investment and is a great option if you don’t want anything too bulky.

Neutral shades are more traditional but prints can be more fun, it’s up to you!

Trendsetters are wearing militaryinspired jackets and it’s easy to see why. With an ability to look stylish from day to play, combat chic has never commanded this much attention.

• Ezibuy – Animal Print Trench $84.99

• Max – Zip Funnel Coat $199

• Caroline Sills – Reefer Check Jacket $589

• Repertoire – Zarina Cashmere Coat $459

Stockists: Repertoire (07) 574 1143 Ezibuy 0508 500 500 Caroline Sills (09) 445 3356 Max (09) 304 0791 Carlson (09) 361 2137

$30 voucher Present this advert at Footloose Pukekohe and receive $30 off your next footwear purchase. VALID UNTIL MAY 31 2014 Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

ONE advert per purchase over $99

98 King Street Pukekohe 09 238 7161 www.footloose.co.nz

E512181

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

43

eastlife | beauty

Andrew Riley FRANZCO

Eye Doctors eye surgeons service East Auckland from their clinics in Botany Junction and Half Moon Bay with surgery performed locally at Ormiston Hospital.

Mark Donaldson FRANZCO

“ “

I LOVE my new eyes.

Blepharoplasty patient

I can see every blade of grass again.

Cataract patient

Shuan Dai

HIGHLAND PARK

open!

” ”

C AL

L 09

5990 535

Amazing staff staff,f, fanta fantastic classes, a gorgeous fresh approach. Full service, environment – a fr not self service. Meeting great people.

Fitness, sure. Diet and nutrition, naturally.

But headspace too. Feeling safe and supported. And not having to compete just to be you.

Drop in and see us today at Level 1, 17 Aviemore Drive, Highland Park.

Or call us on 09 535 5990

FRANZCO

Contact Eye Doctors today on

09 277 6787

Penny McAllum

now

RY N TA I M E ASS L P C O MG U E S T P

for leading edge diagnosis and treatment for all eye health concerns including cataract surgery.

FRANZCO

web web www.eyedoctors.co.nz www.eyedoctors.co.nz

(09) (09) 277 277 67876787 call call

E512026

We’d love to hear from you!

V I VAW O M E N . C O. N Z

E510253

MARINA PLASTIC SURGERY Have your dentures crafted by an award-winning Clinical Dental Technician with over 25 years experience.

“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

Using the highest quality materials from Europe and the latest techniques to ensure you have the smile you deserve...

Full dentures Partial dentures Denture cleaning Mobile service (Ak) Denture repairs/relines Implant retained dentures Mouthguards

Make an appointment Leah Taylor RCDT, PGDipCDenTech (Otago) to come and see us: 2 Edgewater Drive Pakuranga Auckland 2010 t: 09 576 6987 e: info@pdpdenturestudio.co.nz www.pdpdenturestudio.co.nz 44 | eastlife | may 2014

■ Mole Checks

Marina Specialists

E512016

• • • • • • •

■ 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

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

urgery” E512142

www.eastlife.co.nz

health | eastlife

Cataract experts in east auckland All about cataracts

What is a cataract?

Like a camera, every eye has a lens.

When the lens inside your eye clouds over, it reduces the amount of light reaching the retina. This makes it difficult to see clearly and is called a cataract.

What causes a cataract?

In most cases cataracts develop as a normal part of the ageing process.

By the age of 70, nearly everyone has some degree of cataract formation.

Sometimes younger people may develop cataracts due to an eye injury, specific medications such as steroids or diseases such as diabetes.

Shuan Dai, Mark donaldson, Penny McAllum, Andrew Riley At Eye Doctors, modern-day miracles happen on a regular basis.

Restoring sight to those who have lost their vision due to cataracts is just one of the life changing services offered in east Auckland.

Eye Doctors have convenient clinics in Half Moon Bay Marina and Botany Junction, as well as Ascot Hospital in Remuera. They perform surgery at Ormiston Hospital in Botany Junction and Ascot Hospital, and are one of the leading providers of cataract surgery in the country.

Eye Doctors boasts a highly-skilled team, including four surgeons; Drs Penny McAllum, Andrew Riley, Shuan Dai and Mark Donaldson. All surgeons have trained extensively in New Zealand and overseas, and have many years of hands-on experience. Eye Doctors offers comprehensive eye care, with a personalised approach, to ensure patients receive the best care possible.

Practice Manager Monique Morrison says continuity of care is something patients value greatly.

“Patients are assured they are in good hands every time they visit.

They’re not being shuffled from one person to another and are never left in the lurch; yet there’s always a backup surgeon available for emergencies.”

The most common operation

undertaken by Eye Doctors is cataract surgery. It is a quick and painless procedure, which can be done whether the cataract is just starting to affect the vision or is much more advanced. It makes a huge difference to people’s lives.

“Some patients turn up virtually blind and after the surgery they can see again!” says Monique.

“It’s the most rewarding part of the job for our surgeons – giving someone their sight back.”

Once surgery is completed, patients can go home the same day with a post-operative cataract kit filled with helpful information and eye drops. They follow up with their surgeon, generally the next day and then one month later, but they are able to contact them anytime, giving them peace of mind.

In addition to cataract surgery at Eye Doctors, the specialist team covers a wide range of conditions, including pterygium surgery, eyelid surgery, squint surgery and management of glaucoma, retinal disease and ocular surface diseases.

Andrew Riley

FRANZCO Each surgeon has different areas of subspecialty interest and all work in the public health care system as well as in private practice. They have published widely in ophthalmology journals and travel to theMark Pacific Donaldson FRANZCO Islands regularly to volunteer their expertise.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Shuan Dai

‘

Some patients turn up virtually blind and once the surgery is performed they can see again! It’s the most rewarding part of the job for our surgeons – giving someone their sight back.”

When visiting any Eye Doctors’ clinic, patients are instantly made to feel welcome and comfortable by a long-serving, friendly team of support staff. Some staff members are also fluent in Mandarin.

A Southern Cross affiliated provider, Eye Doctors makes it easy for patients to make claims from Southern Cross insurance, as well as other insurance providers.

For personalised eye care and crystal clear vision, call or email Eye Doctors. No referral needed.

PhEye 277Doctors 6787, www.eyedoctors.co.nz eye surgeons ormiston@eyedoctors.co.nz service East Auckland from their clinics in Botany Junction and Half Moon

Botany Junction 110 Michael Bay with surgery Clinic, performed locally at Jones Drive, BotanyHospital.

Junction Ormiston Half Moon Bay Clinic, Marina Specialists, Level 1, Compass I LOVE my new eyes.

Building, Half Moon Bay Marina Blepharoplasty patient

“ “

”

I can see every blade of grass again.

Cataract patient

”

What are the main symptoms of a cataract?

Glare or sensitivity to bright light are common early symptoms. Vision then typically becomes progressively blurred, foggy and sometimes doubled. Colours often become duller and darker.

What does cataract surgery involve?

Modern cataract surgery restores eyesight by removing the cloudy lens in the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. Eye Doctors uses the latest small incision techniques and up to date equipment, helping to ensure the fastest recovery and best possible vision. Cataract surgery can be carried out under local or (very rarely) general anaesthesia.

How long does cataract surgery take?

The procedure itself generally takes about 10-20 minutes. Patients go home the same day after spending two to three hours at the hospital.

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

A patch is usually worn overnight following surgery and patients are advised not to drive until given clearance by the surgeon, often the next day. Avoid rubbing the eye, very strenuous activity and swimming for a week; most other activities can be resumed straight away.

Is cataract surgery safe?

Removal of a cataract is the most common eye operation and one of the most common surgical procedures performed in New Zealand. It has a very high success rate due to the modern methods used by Eye Doctors.

Like any operation, there is a small risk of complications which your surgeon will discuss with you. eastlife | may 2014 |

45

eastlife | health Reformaskin®

Revealing you At Caci our latest advanced skincare treatment uses the Fractional CO2 laser and is available as part of our Reformaskin® treatment programme designed to reveal the best possible skin for you.

Big C anymore CLIVE PLUCKNETT, Naturopath, P.G.Dip. Anti Aging Medicine, P.G.Dip. Cancer Nutrition, P.G.Dip. Mental Health Nutrition, MBA, BA, P.G.Dip Science

The Fractional CO2 laser reaches the deeper layers of the skin to encourage collagen production reversing advanced signs of ageing and damaged skin, correcting tone, firmness and texture while reducing lines and wrinkles.

After

Before

i am not doing the

Be in to WIN a consultation and Microdermabrasion facial.

Simply email us at pakuranga@caci.co.nz before the end of May and let us know why you and your skin deserve it.*

This month, I have asked one of my clients to write about her journey.

This is an abridged version. The full story appears on our website.

I spoke to everyone I could think of.

There were so many, ‘I don’t knows’ or contradictory statements. I was confused.

“I am writing this because I hope that something here will help someone else.

It was a Wednesday morning and I was at the hairdressers. I aimlessly flicked through a magazine and it opened at a page featuring an article by a naturopath.

When I was diagnosed with cancer it came as a bombshell. I didn’t smoke, I wasn’t overweight (much), and I ate pretty well (though certain people disagreed). It took a long time for the diagnosis to sink in.

Book a free consultation, ask us about the Fractional CO2 Laser, Reformaskin® and our easy payment options. *1 entry per person. 1 x Microdermabrasion & consultation to be won. Prize drawn May 31 2014.

Caci Pakuranga Shop 446, Pakuranga Shopping Plaza 0800 458 458 | caci.co.nz E510281

Elos Rejuventation Pigmentation Treatment with Elos Rejuvenation

There was pressure to make a decision about surgery, chemotherapy and other things. I felt I was being pushed. My husband is a GP and he was very clear that I needed to follow the conventional path. Everything was being decided for me.

That evening we sat on a balcony outside his rooms and I blurted out question after question.

A couple of days later, I was looking at the sunset. It was something that I previously took for granted, but in the days following the diagnosis, everything was different.

When I awoke the next day, I had many more questions. We went through my tests. We did more tests.

He explained them so that I could understand what was going on in my body.

As I watched the sun go down, it occurred to me that this was the most important decision of my life and that I could either trust others to make it for me or I could make it myself.

I started researching. I wanted to know what treatments were available, what the success rates were for various treatments, how other people fared. There were many questions.

before

after

Full Face for only $290 (Elsewhere pay up to $700)

Décolletage chest area for $300

5 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga, East Auckland. Ph 576 1550. info@aboutskin.co.nz • www.aboutskin.co.nz E510308

46 | eastlife | may 2014

It sparked something in me. I went home, researched the website and made the call. He said that he could see me that evening.

He answered each of them in a measured and complete way, giving me different viewpoints, statistics and laying out various possibilities.

He explained the various theories on the causes of cancer. He mapped out how the treatments worked and what treatments would work together and what wouldn’t.

I remember asking him what he would do in my situation. He told me that his job was to answer my questions; mine was to make the decision.

All the while I was being pressured to undergo conventional treatment. I was told that time was of the essence.

I made my decision – I am not doing the Big C any more.”

I figured that if THE cancer (not MY cancer) had been growing away silently for a few years, a week wasn’t going to make much difference.

• Note: Clive is not a doctor. His qualifications are in natural medicine.

His postgraduate work is in cancer nutrition.

BeWell Clinic – Unleash Your Wellness Potential 730 Whitford Road, Whitford Village Ph 530 8143, 021 490 801 bewell@clear.net.nz www.bewell.net.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

beauty | eastlife

Bring confidence to your skin

Six facts about pigmentation

Beautiful transformations are on the rise thanks to the arrival of revolutionary technology at Caci in Pakuranga Plaza.

• Hyperpigmentation is when the skin becomes darker and hypopigmentation is when the skin becomes lighter.

The beauty experts at this clinic have recently introduced the new Reformaskin™ Fractional CO2 laser programme which is only available locally at this branch of Caci.

• Hyperpigmentation is often referred to as freckling or age, sun or liver spots.

The fractional CO2 laser reverses the visible signs of ageing and sun damage by treating uneven skin tone and texture, restoring natural skin elasticity and stimulating the rebuilding of collagen.

Caci Pakuranga owner Emma Martin says it is an all-in-one solution for everyone. “It doesn’t just treat surface imperfections but also tightens the skin, creating an overall youthful appearance.”

It works by treating microscopic areas with a laser pulse, triggering the skin’s natural healing process.

“As skin heals and replaces tissue removed by the laser, new, healthy collagen is produced and skin becomes smoother, tauter and more even – the results are simply amazing,” says Emma.

This non-invasive treatment is significantly more comfortable than traditional laser treatments because it focuses on smaller surfaces of skin being treated at one time. It is also considered safer and has a lower risk of any post-treatment complications.

The programme runs on a casual basis or over the course of 48 weeks, but clients can expect to see results within just 12 weeks of their first treatment.

Photo Wayne Martin

As a result, common skin concerns such as pigmentation spots, lines and wrinkles can be addressed.

‘

Emma Martin, Sarah Ahern, Ashley Olivier Be in to WIN a consultation and Microdermabrasion facial. Simply email Caci at pakuranga@caci.co.nz before the end of May and let us know why you and your skin deserve it. One entry per person, drawn May 31, 2014.

Celebrating a year since she acquired the clinic, Emma is thrilled to offer new services to her clients.

“It’s been a fantastic year for the clinic. We have just brought another fully qualified nurse on board and, as a result, we have increased the availability of our appearance medicine treatments.”

What’s more, even though the treatment produces dramatic results, its recuperation period is not as lengthy as some other laser resurfacing treatments.

Now available each week from Tuesday to Thursday and every alternate Saturday, the nurses offer consultations as well as treatments such as Botox, fillers and collagen induction.

Ideal for those with advanced age-damaged skin, the programme includes a series of microdermabrasion treatments which prepare the skin so it is in optimal condition to receive the best possible results from the laser.

“We’d also like to welcome back long-time beauty therapist Sarah Ahern who has been away on maternity leave. We’ve had so many clients ask about her and we’re sure they’ll be glad to know she’s back.”

www.eastlife.co.nz

For all beauty therapy, laser hair removal and photo rejuvenation needs, book with Sarah who is available every Wednesday from 11am-7pm.

In fact, this year is a good year to sign up with Caci, a leading provider of skincare and appearance medicine in Australasia.

• Most women know that pregnancy can cause dark pigmentation to appear on the face (this is often referred to as the ‘mask of pregnancy’) but did you know the contraceptive pill can also cause these changes too?

If you’re concerned that the pill may be causing pigmentation, talk to your doctor.

• The most common cause of hyperpigmentation is the sun.

Wear sun block every day to prevent dark patches from appearing and to prevent any spots worsening.

• Hyperpigmentation can be caused by various medical conditions and medications.

However, treatments such as Reformask microdermabrasion, photo rejuvenation (VPL) and topical treatments can still prove effective.

Reve you

• Finding out if your pigmentation can be treated at Caci is At Caci our latest advanced skincare treatm “We’re celebrating 20 years of Caci free!

Book a complimentary CO2 laser and is available in New Zealand – 20 years young, to consultation to learn about as part of our R programme Reformaskin™ designed to reveal the best po be exact!” says Emma. “With plenty Reformaskin® our 48-week of rewards and birthday gifts lined up program. Reformaskin™ has been The Fractional CO2 laser reaches the dee for the following months, clients are specifically designed to treat the encourage collagen production reversing a sure to be pampered.” signs of sun damage including and damaged skin, red correcting tone, firmnes hyperpigmentation, veins and lines and A major draw card for Caci’s clients areducing dull or uneven skinwrinkles. tone. is its flexible payment options which are also available for its latest At Caci our latest advanced skincare treatment uses the Fractional Reformaskin programme.

Revealing you

CO2 laser and is available as part of our Reformaskin® treatment designed To bookprogramme a consultation with theto reveal the best possible skin for you. knowledgeable beauty professionals, The Fractional CO2 laser reaches the deeper layers of the skin to contact:encourage collagen production reversing advanced signs of ageing

and damaged skin, correcting tone, firmness and texture while Before reducing lines and wrinkles.

After

Be in to WIN a consultation and Microder Simply email us at pakuranga@caci.co.nz and let us know why you and your skin des Caci (opposite Shanton) Aylesbury St, Pakuranga Plaza, Pakuranga. Ph 576 5453 Before www.caci.co.nz

Book a free consultation, ask us about the Reformaskin® and our easy payment option *1 entry per person. 1 x Microdermabrasion & consultation to

After

Cacieastlife Pakuranga Shop 446, Pakurang | may 2014 | 47 Be in to WIN a consultation and Microdermabrasion facial.

0800 458 458 | caci.c Simply email us at pakuranga@caci.co.nz before the end of May and let us know why you and your skin deserve it.*

eastlife | heath & fitness

Active play – Learning from our children If we could find the joy that children find in movement, we would never miss an exercise session or fail to be active each day. Most adults need to make a conscious effort to be active.

Olly Coffey is the National PT Manager for Jetts Fitness New Zealand. He is a REPS-registered Skills Active Assessor and plays an important role in ensuring our personal trainers are fully equipped to meet the diverse needs of all Jetts members.

If adults moved like children, we would all be better off. They hop, jump, run and climb. When they play they turn and twist and crouch and stretch.

While some jobs require some level of activity, most of us could easily go through a normal day without having to move much at all. In fact, if you recorded what you did each day; you may be surprised at how inactive you really are.

your head, or bent down to your toes?

When was the last time you moved down to the floor onto your hands and knees or climbed up a ladder, a tree or onto a raised platform?

A child’s playground is full of ropes, ladders, monkey bars and other obstacles to challenge them physically and mentally through active play. Movement is fun and they love being active with their friends.

If adults played like this for just 30 minutes a day, we would exceed the weekly activity recommendations outlined by the World Health Organisation to stay healthy.

Children move in different planes and on different levels. Our adult lives can be very one-dimensional.

When was East Life Adv2.pdf 1 5/1/2014 the last time you reached up above

Most of our top shelves are filled with items that we don’t need that often so we don’t have to reach up high.

We don’t need to climb down onto the floor on a daily basis, so we get stuck in a world between knee height and shoulder height. This, despite the fact that our bodies are designed to reach up and bend down.

Kids are creative and will make a game out of anything. They interact socially with other children through play and have fun exploring movement and challenging each 11:55:31 AM other.

When watching children in a playground you see them hanging upside down, running up slides, swinging through the monkey bars, balancing on beams and climbing ladders or cargo nets. They are probably racing their friends or pretending they can’t touch the ground for fear of being eaten by a shark!

Transform your life Low Sugar Lifestyle

Following a planned exercise programme is fantastic. However, remember to incorporate activity into your normal day. It is not enough to exercise at home or in the gym, and then to proceed to sit for the remaining 23 hours of the day.

Have a look at our children; they play before school, at morning tea, at lunchtime and then after school.

You can add activity into your day simply by walking more often, sitting less often and choosing to do jobs or activities like gardening, mowing the lawn or playing with your children.

Our members have achieved inspirational results on the mibody transformation...It’s now YOUR time to take up the challenge!

mibodycoach.com

JOIN THE 8 WEEK CHALLENGE STARTS 12 MAY 2014

JOIN TODAY for only $99.00. Includes your 8 week mibody challenge, water bottle and challenge book. Great prizes on offer!

No lock in contracts or cancellation fees Membership fees from $10.95 per person per week or $418.00 per person per year* Complimentary one-on-one professional consultation State of the art equipment in fully air-conditioned facilities Free access to over 50 clubs across New Zealand 48 | eastlife | may 2014

* Fortnightly membership options are based on a recurring direct debit from a nominated bank account or credit card.

12 month memberships are paid a year in advance. Family membership option is available when two or more friends or family members join the same club. Joining fees may vary between clubs. Jetts Fitness terms and conditions apply and are available at www.jetts.co.nz or at your local club.

www.eastlife.co.nz

E510052a

health & fitness | eastlife

Reaching peak OF HEALTH AND FITNESS Too often people leap into a new fitness programme then come to a grinding halt when out of condition body parts ache with displeasure.

But for those people who take health and fitness seriously and want to strengthen their core muscles, develop stability and improve flexibility and co-ordination then Peak Pilates provides a combination of achievable exercise and challenging workouts.

However, Pilates is not only for the fit and well. Many people combine Pilates mat and machine exercises with physiotherapy for post operative recovery, injury rehabilitation and to relieve and rectify back, neck and shoulder pain.

What’s more with autumn starting to make way for winter skilled physiotherapists at the Peak Pilates studio, Botany Road, who are also trained Pilates instructors, have boundless enthusiasm for helping clients to be fit, strong, well, and free of pain.

Photos Wayne Martin

Treating people of all ages, from all walks of life, and with all kinds of injuries, the team, which includes Deirdre Collins and Sarah Diskin, all physios and Pilates instructors, are confident clients can experience lifechanging results.

Reap the benefits and call in to this registered ACC provider today – clients who book an introductory session with Sarah or Deirdre will receive a fantastic 50% DISCOUNT!

They spend many hours with their clients to ensure every area is covered where rehabilitation and improved physical health is called for.

They agree that posture is of prime importance for overall performance and flexibility in daily life.

To this end they work hard to help clients actively participate and incorporate the likes of correct posture, into their daily lives.

They carry out thorough consultations in order to understand their clients’ lifestyles, goals and daily habits before individually tailoring an exercise programme to their needs.

For example, where posture needs correcting and spinal support improved to combat chronic neck pain and back pain, a combination of mat-based and reformer classes are likely to be offered to rebalance and strengthen muscles and to increase spinal flexibility. www.eastlife.co.nz

DEIRDRE

SARAH

Peak Pilates owner Jason Richardson adds that because many people sit at a desk all day it causes them to hunch.

“With Pilates offering more than 600 exercises involving stretching, balancing and learning proper breathing patterns, it is extremely effective especially when used in conjunction with physiotherapy.

Relief of chronic pain, rehabilitation of injuries, increased joint mobility and improved mental and physical fitness are the result.”

“Neck pain is often the result. If this happens on a daily basis, it needs to be counter balanced with extension and rotation. It’s about reinforcing correct posture and flushing out those bad habits,” he says.

“On the other hand we also train a lot of top athletes who may require much more intense exercises.”

The good thing about Pilates is that clients can start at a really low level and keep building up to an advanced level and it’s suitable for everyone.

Of course, the benefits of Pilates can only be seen and felt in the course

of time and contributes to long term fitness goals. As a result, concession cards are available for regulars, and an easy online booking system is used to minimise hassle.

As a one-stop health hub, Peak Pilates in Botany also offers acupuncture and sports massage services to keep muscles in optimum condition and is a registered ACC provider with no doctor’s referral required.

Peak Pilates & Physiotherapy 309 Botany Road (next to Jetts Gym) Botany, Ph 274 6000 Also at 347 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers Ph 575 6418 www.peakpilatesgroup.co.nz eastlife | may 2014 |

49

pamper TWIRL BOUTIQUE

HAIR & BEAUTY

Proudly stocking NZ labels Augustine, Charlo, Ketz-ke, Seduce, Zafina, Vargo, Artstyle, Lemon Tree Design and MINX Shoes also the incredible, comfortable Tru Luxe Jeans.

Spoil yourself with a Diamond dermabrasion treatment. Great for stretch marks, acne scars and increased blood flow to skin.

The Terraces, 24 Wellington St, Howick. Open Mon-Wed, Fri 9am-5.30pm, Thur 9am-7pm, Sat 9am-3pm. www.twirl.net.nz

• Was $160 – NOW $49 FOR TWO TREATMENTS* 15 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga Ph 576 3500. Open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat by appointment Email eddyandmay@xtra.co.nz

Sizes 8-18 *Must mention advert – April only

BEAUTYBIBLE.CO.NZ

MINERAL SKIN SPA

Visit www.beautybible.co.nz and shop online for great products and packages from the likes of Maybelline, L’Oreal, CoverGirl, Aveeno, Garnier, Neutrogena, Thin Lizzy, Trilogy, Dr Lewinn’s, Sukin, Nature’s Own, Clinicians, Elevit. Organix, Innoxa and more.

• MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL – 75 min package includes back scrub, facial, ear candling, eye and lip mask, eyebrow shape and tint, worth $215, NOW ONLY $90*. First 12 clients get FREE 30min back massage.

www.beautybible.co.nz

Unit C, 335 Ti Rakau Dr, opposite Bunnings Warehouse.

Ph 271 5294. Open 7 days. www.mineralspa.co.nz *Valid for May, 2014

GOLDEN MOTHER’S DAY SPECIALS • 24ct Gold Facial Treatment 90mins. Usually $120 NOW ONLY $109. Valid till May 31, 2014 • 24ct Gold Body Treatment 120mins. Usually $259 NOW ONLY $189. Valid till May 31, 2014 180 Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga Ph 577 2998. 2/166 Chapel Rd, Botany South. Ph 274 9489. www.thaispa.co.nz

CELEBRATE A MOTHERˇS LOVE Discover PANDORAˇs new Mother's Day Collection at PANDORA Botany featuring beautiful blooms and delicate hearts inspired by the ethereal beauty of a motherˇs love.

Be inspired at www.pandora.net PANDORA BOTANY KIOSK SPK103 · THE PAVILLION BOTANY TOWN CENTRE 588 CHAPEL ROAD · EAST TAMAKI AUCKLAND · 2013 · T: 278 5550

50 | eastlife | may 2014

COVERTOGS More cover...More confidence.

Covertogs are a new and different brand of two piece tankini swimwear for women who want a bit more cover.

Covertogs will help to keep you active and out there. 100% NZ designed, made and delivered.

Ph (09) 533 8441.

Email info@covertogs.co.nz www.covertogs.co.nz

NO. 5 DESIGN Indulgence for Mother’s Day...

Ashley & Co NZ made home perfume, soaps and candles.

• AUTUMN CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES IN STORE NOW 5 Whitford-Maraetai Rd, Whitford Village Ph 530 9333 Open 7 days

DESIGN STORE www.eastlife.co.nz

health & fitness | eastlife

Tax food high in fat, sugar GINNY MCARTHUR – Outlook for Life. Ginny is not only a nutritionalist and personal trainer but also a marathon runner and regular on Newstalk ZB.

It is wonderful to hear that the Government has banned legal highs.

I also think that the ban on cigarette advertising and keeping cigarettes out of sight at the dairy, supermarket and petrol station has had a big impact on our falling smoking rate.

However, what are we doing about our nutrition? When sugar, fat and salt are cheap and so readily available, how are we going to save a generation from diabetes, heart disease and stroke?

Is it time the Government stepped in?

How do we teach people to eat well when soft drink is cheaper than milk and a pie and $2 worth of chips is an ample family meal?

I am all for taking personal responsibility but when parents

are making unhealthy food choices for their kids, based on a tight budget and convenience surely, we as a society, need to make some changes.

These young parents were themselves the children who nutritionists identified as the first generation not to outlive their parents.

Nine people a day die in New Zealand from lifestyle diseases which are preventable with good nutrition and moderate exercise.

Taking the GST off meat, fish, vegetables and fruit has been cited as too complicated but other countries manage it. A tax on food and drink with unhealthy fat and sugar content would help make these foods the treat foods they should be.

While it is possible to buy two litres of soft drink and a family-sized bag of chips for $5 they will be a daily part of some people’s diets.

A ban on dairies and takeaways selling sugar-laden sweets and fizzy drinks and fat-laden chips and pies

to children on their way to and from school would help too. Sell filled rolls and fruit instead.

Come on New Zealand, we need to do something about this before our eating habits are totally out of control.

E510321

food Butchers got the chops?

recipes | food | news | pantry | dining guide

When the cream of the crop step up to the block in the Young Butcher of the Year competition, it’ll take a lot to make the grade. Anthony ‘Herb’ Hancock, ‘meated’ out the measure required of the men and women involved to JON RAWLINSON.

“They’ll have to show a passion for dealing with the public and for learning about new cuts and products. We’ll be judging the practicality and saleability of their work,” says Herb, who will be judging the entrants’ practical skills.

“It’s their chance to showcase product knowledge and how well they understand customers.

“They also have to show cooking knowledge too; being able to advise customers about cooking is a huge part of our industry,” he adds.

During the competition, entrants will be given three cuts of meat – chicken, beef and pork – to turn into sellable items, which can be garnished or wrapped in pastry, for example, to add value.

Those who shine will go on to take their places at the industry’s top table, the National Grand Final, later this year.

Completing his own apprenticeship more than 35 years ago, Herb opened Seaside Gourmet Meats in 1994.

Keen to give something back to the industry, he has taken on a judging role at the event five times over the past 10 years, stepping aside when his own apprentices were involved.

“Butchery is my passion and I get a lot out of it, seeing these young men and women lead the way to the future of our industry,” he says.

Herb has also been a judge for the Great New Zealand Sausage Competition, whenever his own snags weren’t on the line.

“Sausages have been our primary field. Last year, I was one of the judges and, because there were so many different categories, we were able to enter as well.”

The multi-award-winner is happy to

’

rts AND Airpo

“AUCKL

kepett!”

bestsecr

E510296

52 | eastlife | may 2014

‘

Butchery is my passion and I get a lot out of it, seeing these young men and women lead the way to the future of our industry.”

Photo Wayne Martin

We mix our own spices, which allows us more control over quality,” he says.

have the tables turned.

“It all comes down to putting good quality ingredients into our sausages.

While Herb will be seeking a new apprentice in the near future, until then, it seems the sausage secrets of his spices will remain under wraps!

Choice food.

Great beer.

NZ green lipped mussels with Thai green Goodtimes.

curry sauce & coriander

www.szimpla.co.nz 2 Leonard Isitt Drive, Auckland Airport (Under the ibis budget Hotel) PH 09 215 1220 E info@szimpla.co.nz

E510296

Well-known owner of Howick’s Seaside Gourmet Meats, Herb Hancock, says butchers will need to demonstrate they’re a cut above during the upcoming Upper North Island section of the Young Butcher of the Year competition, June 29.

www.eastlife.co.nz

recipe | eastlife

Milk-fed Lamb Navarin, Soft

polenta & Sauté Baby Vegetables

The very best of NZ free range meat at everyday low prices

OPEN 7 DAYS

Lamb navarin

Ajay Zalte – executive chef, Novotel Auckland International Airport. Ajay is a Pakuranga resident and has worked in leading hotels and first class restaurants worldwide.

• 1kg milk-fed lamb on the bone • 150gm carrot, diced • 150gm celery, diced • 200gm onion, diced • 150gm leek, diced • 20gm thyme • 6 bay leaves • 15 pepper corns • 150gm tomato paste • 250ml Cabernet Sauvignon wine • 2 litres lamb stock • 20 gm garlic cloves • Canola oil to sear

May SPECIaLS Whole Beef Eye Fillet (butt end) $21.99kg frozen Mini Beef Wellington

$1.99 each

Marinated Butterfly Chicken

$10.99 each

METHOD:

SHOP ONLINE at www.seasidemeats.co.nz

Sauté carrots, onions, celery and leeks until golden brown; add tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, pepper corn, merlot wine and reduce.

seasidemeats.co.nz

Add lamb stock, add the seared lamb and cook on a low heat for two and a half hours or until tender. Remove the lamb, strain the sauce and reduce.

Serve with soft polenta, sautéed baby vegetables and the reduced sauce.

Open 7 Days: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat 7am-5pm, Sun 8am-4pm

Photo Wayne Martin

Serves four

METHOD:

Soft polenta, sauté baby vegetables

Sweat onions and garlic in a medium hot pan with 50gm of butter. Add in vegetable stock, bring to a boil and simmer.

• 400gm polenta • 150gm butter • 100gm finely chopped onion • 20gm chopped garlic • 800-900ml vegetable stock • 150gm baby vegetables (any three variety) • 150ml cream • Salt and pepper to taste

The perfect setting for your next intimate party or business gathering.

We welcome you to view at 186 Wellington St, Howick.

E510324

3 Litten Rd, Cockle Bay Phone 534 7248

Fry polenta stirring often for 10-15 mins with 50gm butter. Add the polenta to the boiling stock and whisk continuously until there are no lumps and polenta doubles in size.

Season with salt and pepper then

whisk in hot cream to make a smooth soft consistency.

Blanch baby vegetables, sauté in remaining 50gm butter, season and serve hot.

Chef’s note: When cooking polenta please ensure that it is stirred frequently so as to avoid any lumps. Milk-fed lamb is very delicate therefore it is crucial to keep checking it for doneness as the meat will shred if overcooked.

WIN with

www.eastlife.co.nz

Unique Venue For Hire

Ph 535 1397 Fax 535 1497 www.howicklounge.co.nz E510033

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

53

eastlife | recipe

k QuicHigh protein wrap Well-known former Pakuranga couple, Neville and Judy Green now run home-based Gluten-Free Made Easy workshops in Pukekohe. Today EastLife launches the first in a four part series featuring gluten-free recipes. www.glutenfreemadeeasy.co.nz

INGREDIENTS

Hot Filling

• 2 egg whites • 1 tbsp buckwheat, quinoa or millet flour • salt and pepper to taste

Cajun Chicken, Bacon and Banana with a Yoghurt and Mint Dressing

Makes one wrap

METHOD Mix ingredients together. Heat a medium-sized frying pan on stovetop. Pour in the mixture to form a pancake. Cook until set on the bottom then flip and cook the other side.

Turn out onto a plate and cool. Fill with either hot or cold filling. Roll up and enjoy.

• 2-3 chicken tenderloins • 2-3 rashers of bacon • 1-2 tsp Cajun spice or to taste • 1/2 cup Greek yoghurt • 2-3 sprigs of mint finely chopped mixed into the yoghurt

Photo Wayne Martin

Cut chicken tenderloins into strips and toss in Cajun spice. Sauté in pan till cooked, remove from pan and add the bacon and cook until crisp.

Cold Filling

Place chicken and bacon in the wrap and top with sliced banana. Drizzle with a little of the minted Greek yoghurt.

Chef’s note: These are great for a quick easy wrap to make in the morning for lunch, lazy brunch or evening meal with a side of salad.

Fill with salad and meat of your choice.

Recipe book springs

from wholesome Raglan childhood HELEN PERRY has enjoyed a love affair with Raglan since visiting the coastal township for the first time just on a year ago. So when she received a copy of a new recipe book, focused on nutritious, meat-free dishes, by a daughter of Raglan she was intrigued.

Emma Galloway, author of My Darling Lemon Thyme: Recipes from My Real Food Kitchen, grew up in Raglan in the wooden house built by her father, its stained glass windows greeting visitors and its kitchen the hub of the home – many would say idyllic.

Like others in the area, the family collected rain water for drinking, grew their own fruit and vegetables and collected goat’s milk from a farmer at the end of their gravel road in order to make yogurt. Eating seasonally was a way of life, not a fad, she says.

That was at a time when many New Zealand families were discovering the convenience of microwave ovens and ready-made meals.

But Emma’s parents continued to grow their own vegetables and

54 | eastlife | may 2014

this is a book that will please those who love the ‘good’ stuff.

My Darling Lemon Thyme takes its name from Emma’s food blog which she began initially as a place to share gluten-free vegetarian recipes after discovering she and her two children suffered from food intolerances. This blog now receives more than 125,000 hits a month.

provide the family with food as it is often best eaten and appreciated – fresh from the earth to the kitchen, seasonal, nourishing and delicious.

Since then the former New Zealander, now living in Perth has carried this philosophy through to her roles as a chef, mother and a highly successful food blogger. cooking using diverse ingredients.

Her culinary journey has resulted in her living meat-free and gluten free and she also avoids most dairy foods.

But rather than going down the “gluten-free route of pre-packaged, nutrition-free, gluten-free flour mixes” she was “drawn down the whole food, made-from-scratch path” which will please cooks who want to celebrate and enjoy nutritious, wholesome, and delicious real

Emma’s passion shines through in the wide array of innovative recipes and photographs in her debut cookbook as does her philosophy that natural, whole food should be flavoursome, fun and easy to prepare.

My only criticism would be the size of the type. I would have liked it to be it a little bigger, a little bolder – age catches up with us all! Nevertheless

“My aim is to inspire people with fresh, simple, flavourful recipes and to help break down the boring, flavourless stigma commonly attached to allergy-free eating,” she says.

“And while it is perfect for anyone with food intolerances, it aims to please everyone who loves great food.”

• My Darling Lemon Thyme: Recipes from my Real Food Kitchen by Emma Galloway. Publishers: HarperCollins.

RRP $44.99 www.eastlife.co.nz

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

THE LIGHT HORSE

BeEr Table ‘n’ Kitchen

THE LIGHT HORSE

“Instagram us and you could win a $100 bar shout!”

See Highbrook in a new light at The Light Horse.

Stunning new bar and restaurant. Casual and relaxed atmosphere. Convenient location linked to motorway. Refreshing international beer on tap. Bar snacks, pizzas, delicious cocktails.

Corporate parties and evening soirees. Book your table or function today.

• WINTER SPECIALS: 1/2 price Saturday steak night from 5pm, Sunday $10 all day breakfast & 1/2 price dessert for a limited time only..

THE GOOD HOME HOWICK

THE VILLAGE BAR & KITCHEN

The Good Home Howick is the place to meet family and friends, your home away from home.

With 6 dining areas, open every day for Brunch, Lunch and Dinner, daily specials and a range of family favourites on our menu. Check our website for more details.

The Village Bar offers you a great vibe and delicious food. Come along and soak up the atmosphere in the bar or all-weather garden bar and enjoy casual dining prepared by our experienced kitchen staff. Our authentic Italian home baked breads and sourdough pizza bases make our pizzas a very popular choice!

• DAILY SPECIALS 7 DAYS A WEEK – see website for details

• ComE ALoNG AND ENjoy ouR BIKER NIGHTS oN THE THIRD THuRSDAy of EVERy moNTH

• MOTHER’S DAY, SUNDAY, MAY 11th – book your table now!

60 Highbrook Dr, East Tamaki. Ph 271 5811.

Open 7 days, Monday-Saturday 11.30am-late, Sunday 9am-late www.thelighthorse.co.nz

Cnr Picton St & Uxbridge Rd, Howick.

Ph 534 3199 Open Mon-Fri 11am-late, Sat-Sun 10am-late www.thegoodhomehowick.co.nz

LICENSED

LICENSED

$

$$

3/272 Ti Rakau Dr, Pakuranga. Ph 274 5656.

Email pakuranga@thevillagebar.co.nz mon to Thurs 11am-10pm, fri & Sat 10am-late www.thevillagebar.co.nz

LICENSED

$-$$

PORTERHOUSE GRILL

buCkLaNDS ESprESSo LouNgE

CELSIUS

At Porterhouse Grill our dedicated team aim to bring you superb meals, served with a smile, in a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere.

We strive to serve great steak and a variety of other mouth-watering dishes, as well as delicious desserts. We are fully licensed and offer a comprehensive selection of beverages to suit a variety of tastes. All ages and appetites welcome... Porterhouse Grill is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The award-winning cafe has launched its new Kiwi-inspired autumn menu as well as an updated wine and beer list. Sample fresh food made on-site in a bright and breezy outdoor setting. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available and children are well catered for with the kids’ menu. Taste the best of fresh, local produce today!

Celsius is a purpose-built bar, restaurant and function facility located at Botany Junction.

The perfect place for catching up with friends, Celsius offers great service and an extensive range of food. Celsius is East Tamaki’s hot spot for after-work drinks, casual lunches, or your next business meeting or event.

• PERFECT VENUE FOR CORPORATE BREAKFAST OR LUNCH 10 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga Plaza. Ph 576 3030.

Open Mon to Sun 9am-late www.porterhousegrill.co.nz

LICENSED www.eastlife.co.nz

$$$

• FrIDay – $12 LuNChES • NEw autumN DINNEr mENu – book Now Cnr wharf rd & hattaway ave, bucklands beach. ph 533 7810. open for breakfast & lunch – 7 days, Dinner – thursday-Saturday

LICENSED

$$

• VIEW THEIR DAILY SPECIALS ON WWW. CELSIUSBAR.CO.NZ 125 Ormiston Rd, Botany Junction.

Ph 271 4822.

Open 7 days, Mon-Fri 11.30am-late, Sat-Sun 11am-late www.celsiusbar.co.nz

LICENSED

$$ eastlife | may 2014 |

55

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

NANDOS

AMPHORA RESTAURANT

GENERAL STORE RESTAURANT & BAR

Oil was meant for your car, not chicken. That’s why Nandos chicken is flame grilled. Perfectly cooked, perfectly flavoured and perfect for eating – that’s why chicken lovers keep coming back for more.

Mediterranean/Italian restaurant in Botany Junction. Award winning chef and former NZ Beef & Lamb Ambassador. Indoor and outdoor seating. Open 7 nights for dinner, lunch Monday-Friday.

• IT’S FAMILY FIESTA TIME the perfect family fix – one whole flame grilled chicken partnered with two large sides

• $14.50 LUNCHES – Also check out our special on Sunday-Wednesday nights

Enjoy the pleasant rural setting of the General Store Restaurant located in the heart of Whitford Village. Specialising in a la carte dining, weddings, functions and corporate events it is just 5 minutes drive from Howick.

Relax on the sun-drenched verandah, enjoy a drink in the bar, dine in style.

1 Town Centre Drive, Botany Town Centre.

Ph 271 2411 Open Sun to Wed 10am-9pm, Thurs to Sat 10am-10pm www.nandos.co.nz

LICENSED

• OPEN FOR MOTHER’S DAY – lunch and dinner Shop 20a, 123 Ormiston Rd, Botany Junction.

Ph 271 6416.

Open Lunch Mon-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 5.30-late www.amphorabotany.co.nz

$

BYO • LICENSED

$$

• SUNDAY ROAST $14.50 • HOT ROD MEET 1st and 3rd Friday of each month from 4pm 1 Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford. Ph 530 8437 Open Wed-Fri 6pm till late, Sat-Sun 10am till late www.generalstorerestaurant.co.nz

LICENSED

$$

E

The lephant Thai Restaurant

THE ELEPHANT THAI RESTAURANT

CASA TUA RESTAURANT

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

With its blend of traditional and modern techniques The Elephant Thai Restaurant offers guests a magnificent dining experience whether enjoying an evening out or a working lunch! Its vast range of South-East Asian cuisine makes it the place to relax and enjoy foods of Thailand.

All dishes available for takeaway so enjoy the renowned cuisine at home with a 15% discount!

If you’re looking for tasty Italian fare, then look no further. Cosily tucked away in Farm Cove, you’ll find Casa Tua Restaurant & The Tapas Room. We’re open Tuesday-Sunday every evening where you can dine in our main restaurant, enjoy tapas in The Tapas Room or grab takeaways on your way home. BYO Wine is available when dining in the main restaurant.

Full bar available in The Tapas Room. We’re also the perfect venue for private functions.

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.

• MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL – 25% OFF TOTAL BILL (up to $25) on presentation of this advert.

Dinner menu only. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Valid till May 31, 2014.

• DAILY HAPPY HOUR 5-6PM

1 Moore St, Howick. Ph 534 0588. $10 Lunch Tue-Sun 12-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 5.30-10.30pm. www.theelephant.co.nz

190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove. Ph 576 3739.

Open 6 nights, Tues to Sun Bar from 4pm, Restaurant 6pm-late www.casa-tua.co.nz

BYO • LICENSED

BYO • LICENSED

56 | eastlife | may 2014

$$

• wITh EvERY $50 YOU SpEND, RECEIvE A $10 vOUChER fOR YOUR NExT vISIT! 7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, howick. ph 537 5554.

Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-late

$$

LICENSED • BYO

$ www.eastlife.co.nz

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

TUAKAU HOTEL

TE MARORO RESTAURANT

URBAN SOUL CAFÉ

Planning a night out? Try one of our new cocktails to tempt your palate, or one of our extensive range of craft and international beers in stock, before sitting down to a meal in the restaurant or enjoying the last of the summer sun on our Palm Terrace. Let the team here at the award winning Tuakau Hotel, help you relax and unwind after a long day.

Experience Te Maroro Restaurant, winner 2013 ‘People’s Choice’ NZ Beef and Lamb and 2011 Culinary Fare ‘Restaurant of the Year’.

Located at Jet Park Hotel, just 5mins from Auckland Airport, enjoy an excellent range of seasonal dishes reflecting a fusion of local and international cuisine. Open for dinner, lunch, and breakfast daily. Executive Chef, Nancye Pirini and team take pride in creating a superb experience for the most demanding diners.

Treat Mum this Mother’s Day to breakfast, brunch, lunch or an afternoon “High Tea” at Urban Soul. We know mums are special, so why not take the stress out of the day and let us take care of the details.

Tuakau Hotel, 1-3 George St, Tuakau.

Ph 09 236 8084. restaurant@tuakauhotel.co.nz Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat & Sun 8am-9pm or by arrangement for group functions

LICENSED

$$

• SPECIAL – Receive 25% off the total bill up to the value of $40 when quoting this advert.

It’s our busiest day of the year, so don’t miss out! Bookings are essential.

652 Great South Rd, Manukau.

Ph 262 2435.

Open Mon-Thurs 7am-4.30pm, Fri 7am-late, Sat-Sun 8am-4pm www.urbansoul.co.nz

Jet Park Hotel, 63 Westney Rd, Mangere.

Ph 275 4100. Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch, dinner, 6am-10pm. www.jetpark.co.nz

LICENSED

$$$

LICENSED

$

STAMPEDE BAR & GRILL

wELLINgtoNS rEStauraNt

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

Stampede Bar & Grill is the premier nightspot and function venue. Stampede is an authentic Western style bar and restaurant and boasts an exciting western saloon style environment.

Wellingtons Restaurant is located within the Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre and overlooks Auckland’s picturesque Panmure Lagoon.

Folks are coming from miles around to eat from the mouth watering menu on western saddle seats in the restaurant with its authentic wild west décor.

Come and dance the night away in Auckland at our Saturday Dine & Dance, with resident band, Tall Order, bring the girls in for High Tea, or join us on Sunday evenings and bring the kids for a night of fun and surprises with award winning magician, Alan Watson!

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.

• BOOK NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAY 238 Great South Road, Papakura.

Ph 297 8991 Open 7 days, 11.00am-3am www.stampedenz.com

LICENSED www.eastlife.co.nz

waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre, 58 waipuna rd, Mt wellington. Ph 526 3000. open 7 days – breakfast, lunch, dinner www.wellingtonsrestaurant.co.nz

$$

LICENSED

$$$

• CuRE KIDS QuIZ fuNDRAISER 6pm, May 13 email info@szimpla.co.nz for tickets • BOOK NOw fOR MOThER’S DAy! Free dessert for all Mums with a booking 2 Leonard Isitt Dr, Auckland Airport.

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

LICENSED

$ eastlife | may 2014 |

57

eastlife | pantry

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.

NOTHING MORE DELIGHTFUL THAN….

CRANBERRY DELIGHTS!

WATTIE’S HAS BEANS! It seems Wattie’s is convinced its new range of flavoured legumes will become a table-top favourite. Wattie’s nutritionist, Julie North, says the range – which features Indian-style lentils, Moroccan-style chickpeas, Italian-style cannellini beans and Mexican-style red kidney beans – is perfect for people who want good taste and good nutrition with a minimum of fuss. “The new flavoured range gives confidence for everyone to leap into legumes, with something appropriate to all cuisines. They are an easy way to add extra fibre to a variety of meals,” says Julie, “and, as they help you feel fuller for longer, they’re the ideal food for hungry teenagers!”

NATURALS’ SWEET SECRET IS OUT

Iconic brand Cinderella has been meeting Kiwi baking needs and dried fruit cravings since 1956.

Now Cinderella has taken its little red cranberries and coated them in rich dark chocolate and the name can’t be faulted – Cinderella Cranberry Delights are quite simply, delightful! These nuggets are ideal for baking or just on their own and the handy resealable pack makes them perfect for when your sweet tooth is calling.

Cinderella Dark Chocolate Coated Cranberry Delights are a must have in the pantry. Available in supermarkets nationwide. RRP $4.99

STOCK UP FOR WINTER! Bring out the slow cooker for winter soups and casseroles but for depth of flavour, speed and convenience, check out the Vegeta range of top quality, powdered stock. Vegeta Chicken Stock is made from 11.7% of dehydrated vegetables plus chicken meat extract and extra virgin oil. Vegeta Gourmet Stock is 99% fat-free, gluten-free, lactose-free and has no animal content. Ingredients include 15.5% of dehydrated vegetables. Add a teaspoon to water when boiling rice or pasta or dissolve 1 teaspoon of Vegeta in 500ml of hot water for a nourishing base for soups. Vegeta Chicken Stock (200g) and Vegeta Gourmet Stock (250g) available at participating supermarkets. RRP $4.99.

INSPIRED BY WORLD’S GREAT KITCHENS

Kiwis are no strangers to sweet things but the demand for lowcalorie, natural sugar-alternatives has escalated. Now with new Naturals by Equal, you can have your cake and eat it too – without the calories! Made from extracts of the Stevia plant and other natural fruit sugars, Naturals is the chic new look for Equal Stevia – 100% natural sweeteners. With the launch of Naturals comes a new addition: Naturals Crunch, New Zealand’s first crystallised sweetener, combining the texture of sugar with a resistance to high temperatures – a great substitute for sugar in baking and cooking.

Naturals comes as a box of 40 single serve sticks (RRP $6.99), spoon for spoon granule jar 40g (RRP $6.99), crunch granule 250g pack (RRP $9.99) and a dispenser of 200 tablets (RRP $11.99).

Three new exotic flavours from The East have been added to Naked Kitchen’s array of contemporary meals using traditional recipes and natural ingredients. Healthy and convenient, all three are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. Thai Massaman Curry with Edamame and Kaffir Lime – a fragrant, rich and creamy, medium heat, Massaman curry. North Indian Spiced Pea, Paneer & Potato Dahl – a flavoursome, mild Dahl.

Malaysian Laksa with Vermicelli & Coriander – a rich, spicy, medium heat Laksa made gluten-free with two types of rice noodles.

Available from supermarkets nationwide, 500g packs, RRP $6.49 each.

PUT A HÖPT IN YOUR STEP Love a refreshing soft drink but conscious of the sugar load and artificial ingredients? Then check out Höpt Sodas, a revitalising new range of sodas made with natural flavours and less than half the sugar of many regular soft drinks. Designed to be drunk with friends, the word Höpt is an ancient skaldic word thought to mean ‘connected’. Höpt Sodas feature intriguing flavours including; Salted Lychee; Pear and Basil; Watermelon and Mint; and Elderberry and Herb. They contain natural flavours and colours, and fuse real hops with ingredients such as natural fermented rice extract.

Available at selected bars, cafes and specialty foodstores, RRP $3.99–$6.50 for a 330ml bottle in bars and cafés or $6.99 per four-pack in foodstores.

58 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

home

design | heating | real estate | comment | business

Winter colour-up With winter on the horizon it’s time to add a warm yet cheerful note to the home. Today MARION WOOLFORD from Howick Furnishings talks about the latest in window treatments that are anything but dull.

Large scale floral patterns will impact on this season’s curtains with a delectable mix of semi-stylised treatments and more traditional designs, featuring a contemporary edge, taking drab to fab.

Photos supplied

‘

Wonderful bold renditions of colour against neutral backdrops are evident in vibrant jewel tones on ivory and in those marginally muted orange and taupe, duck egg and citrus, navy and grey combinations, plus a stronger palette of strawberry and cherry shades mixed with mauves and purples.

One of my favourites is a swirl of charcoal, against an ash background accentuated by a strong splash of yellow in the floral component – just one of many designs and patterns that make this year’s window treatments so exciting.

What’s more, there is a mid-century element to some of this season’s movement – the browns, putty and oranges, the use of semi geometric patterns as well as stripes and florals and the emphasis on texture.

Linen is a significant fabric and ideal

for helping shut out draughts. Other grainy fabrics will also play a role.

In particular, woven sheers, many with a metallic element, over softly draped coloured linings, promise to be hugely popular as an alternative to the focus on bold patterns.

And remember because they team well with almost anything, stripes can be treated as a plain.

Designs in this vivid collection from James Dunlop Textiles feature clean lines, the latest fashion colour combinations and simple, organic motifs. The Mariken (pictured), is inspired by ginkgo leaves.”

Of course, many of these wonderful new fabrics are ideal for upholstery e.g. for dining or occasional chairs as cushions or even to accessorise bed linen.

Importantly, there’s plenty of incentive to redecorate inside while the weather sets in outside or, at the very least, to freshen up a room with new drapes and accessories.

UP TO

80% OFF THE RETAILERS PRICE

E512184

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

59

eastlife | heating

Keep safe and snug in bed Cooler, shorter days will see more people wrapping up, staying indoors and taking to their beds for longer – providing the latter are snug and warm, that is!

And for those who love to slip in between cosy sheets, an electric blanket is a ‘must’ although it is imperative that they are used safely.

Importantly, keep the manufacturer’s instructions and follow the proper advice for using your electric blanket.

Firstly, be sure to lay your electric blanket out flat as creasing can damage the heating elements. Use the attached ties; don’t use pins or sharp objects. Keep the power cord extended, not coiled and keep the cord and control switch in a clear area away from the bed where they won’t become damaged.

• Check your electric blanket regularly, no matter how new it is.

Three to five years of regular use is about the maximum expected safe

feel for hot spots. A hot spot means the heating coil has been kinked or damaged. Take the blanket to a licensed repairer or buy a new one.

life of an electric blanket. Replace it sooner if the blanket has had a lot of use or been damaged.

• Before using your electric blanket for the first time each season, check it for damage or wear. Check again each time the sheets are changed.

Look at the control switch, cord, and plug, and check for any kinks, worn wires, scorch marks, or breaks in the heating element.

• After inspecting the blanket, turn it on for 15 minutes at the highest setting (don’t leave the room); then turn off and unplug from mains supply.

• Run your hand over the blanket and

• If an electric blanket remains switched on while you sleep, the body can become overheated.

Overheating can be life-threatening, especially for very young children or the elderly.

• If you want to sleep with the blanket switched on, first check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if it can be used in this way. If so, keep controls on the lowest settings.

• Don’t put clothes, other things, or allow pets on top of the bedding while an electric blanket is switched on. This could cause the blanket to overheat and start a fire. And never leave an electric blanket unattended for a long time when it is switched on.

• Keep the blanket away from anything wet.

• Never drink in bed or place a hot water bottle in your bed when using an electric blanket. If an electric blanket gets wet, dry it thoroughly following the manufacturer’s instructions. Young children should only use electric blankets when they no longer need nappies and have been taught to use a blanket safely.

Dampness could cause an electric shock if the blanket is faulty.

• Store your blanket safely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and if you don’t have instructions, store the blanket loosely rolled (in corrugated cardboard if possible) or leave it flat in a dry place where no objects can be placed on it. Poor storage can damage and reduce the blanket’s safe working life.

For more safety tips, visit www.med. govt.nz/energysafety. Energy Safety is the government agency responsible for electrical and gas safety issues.

– Courtesy of A Word of Advice

from Consumer Affairs

Wood – If only I knew then what I know now Of course, I’m going to say that woodfires are great aren’t I? After all, I am the sales and marketing manager for Firenzo Woodfires made in Hawkes Bay, Onekawa to be precise.

But guess what… I don’t have a woodfire in my house!

When my wife and I built our house three years ago I thought wood was not good. If only I knew then what I know now. Don’t be duped into thinking wood is not a superb option as a heating fuel.

The talk then was all about using alternate forms of heating because woodfire smoke was polluting the planet. If you installed a new freestanding or insert woodfire you would be contributing to the untimely deaths of babies, oldies and life in general.

How wrong was that!

Here are some reasons why you need to seriously consider a woodfire as a clean and efficient heating option.

Modern woodfires are exceptionally

60 | eastlife | may 2014

clean burning meaning the fire produces low amounts of smoke giving low emissions into the air.

They are also very efficient meaning the warmth goes into the home not up the chimney.

They are relatively cheap to run, even if the purchase of firewood is necessary. However, if you have access to free firewood, your running costs will be close to zero.

Woodfires work during power cuts.

Many Firenzo woodfires have a wetback system to heat household hot water and have hot plates to cook food.

Firenzo has plenty of customers in and around Christchurch who can’t say enough about how their Firenzo Lady Kitchener, Contessa or Viking fires gave them comfort and kept them going during the dark winter following the earthquake of February 2011.

Burning wood from sustainable forests is carbon neutral. While trees are growing, they capture carbon dioxide from the air.

firenzo encore This carbon dioxide is released either when the wood is burnt, or when the tree dies and rots.

Wood is renewable and sustainable.

New Zealand has extensive areas of forestry. Generation after generation of trees can be successfully harvested to produce firewood. Whether a green voter or a tory, woodfires are loved by us all with maybe the exception of power company executives.

Photo supplied

There is no substitute for sitting in front of the fire, watching the flames, letting your thoughts fly and your mind wander. Why not indulge in this freedom?

I look forward to the day that I install a woodfire in my place and I can settle down with my wife and the kids in front of the fire and gaze lazily into the flames.

If only…

– Steve McCarty www.eastlife.co.nz

heating | eastlife

Wood is good Winter is coming so now’s the time to enjoy the comfort of a wood fire in your home. What’s more, wood fires can be installed in Auckland.

However, all new wood burners must meet the emission standards set by the Ministry for the Environment.

Open wood fires and pot belly stoves are outside of the National environmental standard so cannot be used but if unsure, please check with your local council.

The good news is Stihl Shop, Botany™ offers a wide range of clean air fires that are compliant with the Ministry for the Environment standards.

Why buy a wood fire?

• Wood fires are energy efficient and designed to heat your whole home.

masport r1500 • A wood fire has multiple functions, apart from warming your home they can be used for water heating and cooking, making it a smart solution if the power goes out.

• Wood is cost effective, making it

Photo supplied

the cheapest form of heating, and as wood is a renewable energy source it is a sound environmental choice.

meet Ministry for the Environment’s standards include rural fires for properties over two hectares and free-standing fires or built-in fires.

Stihl Shop, Botany’s™ extensive range of wood fire solutions, which

Trust STIHL SHOP™ to keep you warm this winter with expert advice!

WHY A WOODFIRE

IS a GreaT way To heaT yoUr home • Low cost p/kW heating – free if you have your own firewood!

• Makes your house a home – a real fireplace is a great focal point

• A woodfire produces the highest peak output of all heating types • Clean & Green – A carbon neutral appliance!

we offer a full installation service, with qualified tradesmen, full certification and free Building Consent administration – all at competitive pricing.

Right into Outdoor Power Equipment STIHL SHOP™ Botany Home Base, 16H Bishop Dunn Place, Botany Phone 09 271 3000 www.eastlife.co.nz Showroom open 7 DayS | www.stihlshopbotany.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

61

MONTEREY ART GALLERY

eastlife | home interiors

Features an ever-changing range of contemporary New Zealand art

Autumn Colours Dalene Meiring, Jeri Elliot, Rachael Errington

May 29 – June 20 Preview evening 7pm, Wednesday, May 28

not all sofas created equal GEMMA HUDSON interior designer at Forma Contemporary Furniture provides sound advice on buying a sofa.

5 Cook St, Howick. T: 532 9022. www.montereyartgallery.co.nz E510298

We all desire a certain look when purchasing new furniture but our individual tastes vary from person to person.

One thing that doesn’t vary is our desire for quality and obtaining the very best we can for our budget.

Garden

What do you really pay for when you buy a sofa? How is the frame constructed? What’s inside and how long will it last?

Visit New Zealand’s best gardening website

These are the questions you should be asking when purchasing your next sofa. The style and fabric are what you can see, but it’s actually what’s on the inside that is just as important

JOIN FOR

FREE

GARDENING ADVICE

garden-nz.co.nz

offers information and advice on home gardens, fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, trees and shrubs.

It also includes great giveaways, competitions and a comprehensive directory of products, services and more.

Let’s start with the frame. Most people know that if a house has strong foundations it can withstand just about anything. It’s the same with a sofa. Stapling and gluing particle board together isn’t quite going to cut it.

Sofas should be manufactured using construction grade materials and, when necessary, using processes where ply and pine are laminated together to provide added strength.

QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

Quality manufacturers will reinforce with steel if the frame needs to be built to a very fine proportion to create that sleek, aesthetic look.

Mobile Ceramics NZ Ltd

Tile Importers and Specifiers

tiles

www.garden-nz.co.nz

Gone are the days of springs. Now, high quality, elastic webbing provides the ultimate strength and comfort.

The webbing should be interwoven on a “one-to-one” basis then stretched and stapled on to the framework producing a superior suspension system for the piece of furniture. The final result is a unique interwoven pattern of webbing providing even support across the entire seating area.

What we see a lot of at the moment is a much softer and casual look achieved by using feather filled cushions. There should also be a foam core in the centre of the cushion to provide stability and help it hold its shape. Although this requires a little more maintenance to keep tidy, it provides the ultimate comfort and luxury in a sofa.

If deciding on a more structured option of foam fill, do ask what type it is as not all foams are created equal. A high density, commercial grade foam with high rubber content, should be used to ensure cushions don’t flatten over time.

There is a lot of choice when buying a new sofa. Do some research and ask the right questions; you’ll be rewarded with furniture that will last a lifetime.

meet pad visit our showroom

Create texture with Balimix Grey or Natural

ph 0800 002 005

ALBANY SHOWROOM Tawa Trade Centre, Shop 5, 2 Tawa Drive, Albany HOWICK SHOWROOM 198 Moore Street Howick E512180

62 | eastlife | may 2014

www.mobileceramics.co.nz

www.forma.co.nz auckland 09 368 7694 parnell | hamilton 07 854 9495 E512151-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

Custom-sized KitChens at sensible PriCes

At Jag Kitchens we specialise in custom-sized kitchens designed and built to a variety of budgets.

We have a complete range of materials covered by our 10 year warranty.

Ask about our sophisticated 3D computer design program (see how your kitchen will look before it is built).

Whether you are building a new home or simply planning to replace an existing kitchen contact Jag Kitchens. Our showroom is open seven days a week or a visit to our website will give you lots of information and photographs.

Visit our showroom open 7 days Inside Danske Mobler, Botany Town Centre. Open 7 days. Ph 271 3131. www.jagkitchens.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

63 E510306

eastlife | home interiors

Furnishing with style

Electricians you can trust

– urban-o style!

The Bull Electrical team pride themselves on their high quality workmanship and friendly service.

With years of experience under their belts as your local electricians Bull Electrical are proud to be sporting a new look.

For all your electrical requirements call Tony on 021 949 961 or office 535 4759 e. tony@bullelectrical.co.nz w. www.bullelectrical.co.nz 186 Wellington St, Howick E510293

NEW AUCKLAND SHOWROOM OPEN

Transforming a room can begin with something as simple as a single occasional chair. Add new artworks, different cushions or a stylish lamp and in no time the character has been completely altered.

However, finding those special items to add decor presence can take time. So, thank goodness for Urbano Interiors in East Tamaki.

This intriguing boutique showroom offers plenty of stylish ideas from small to large furniture items, wall art, book shelves, rugs, clock and intriguing accessories.

Well-known in Christchurch for its quality furniture, Urbano Interiors opened its East Tamaki store last year but is something of a hidden gem in Polaris Place, a location where customers can shop in a relaxed, quiet environment with good parking.

to provide many added options it’s as easy as talking to staff or visiting the website.

With its melange of styles that can be mixed and matched, Urbano Interiors offers every reason to reinvent a room or, better still, the whole house.

Visit the new Auckland showroom, Unit 1, 6 Polaris Place, East Tamaki, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays 10am-3pm.

After hours viewings are available by appointment, please call on 021 819 098. www.urbanointeriors.co.nz

COLLECTIONS: DINING FURNITURE | FABRIC COLLECTION INTERIOR ACCESSORIES | LEATHER COLLECTIONS | STUDY FURNITURE OCCASIONAL FURNITURE | BEDROOM FURNITURE | LOUNGE SUITES

Those seeking fashionable accessories or a one-off conversation piece, which doesn’t compromise craftsmanship, will find a visit to Urbano Interiors well worthwhile.

URBANO INTERIORS

Unit 1, 6 Polaris Pl, East Tamaki. Ph 272 9165, 273 8588, Mob 021 819 098. 145 Blenheim Rd, Christchurch. Ph 03 348 8358.

Showroom Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat 10am-3pm or by appointment www.urbanointeriors.co.nz E512027-v2

64 | eastlife | may 2014

Choose from the comprehensive in-store range or, if needing to match a family heritage piece, then Urbano Interiors’ custom-make service could fit the bill.

From Italian, aged vintage leather to French country-style furniture or utilitarian metallic looks, there is plenty of choice, all of which can be teamed with contemporary artworks, trendy accessories and fabrics of choice.

And, with the Christchurch store able www.eastlife.co.nz

home interiors | eastlife

out of europe

Seated in style NAMIB Armchair – Fresh from Europe, the news is all vibrant colour and striking lines for those seeking interiors impact.

Here Africa’s Namib Desert is the inspiration for the NAMIB armchair, its unusual high-

crested back and startling colours reflecting the struggle between the Atlantic waters and the desert sands.

feeling of being embraced by a classic – designed for those who wish to make an impression without sacrificing comfort.

Invigorating, balanced and curved, this statement armchair teams timeless wood and elegant satin cotton to convey a sublime

• Materials: Fabric: satin cotton • Legs: stained ash wood www.brabbu.com

Design | Manufacture | Installation

Superior KITCHENS Qu ality Custom Built Kitchens a nd Ca binets

Road Harris

Ruby

Drive

d

oa

sR

ale

ive angi Dr

gs Ro

Corro

illiam

Te Irir

Baker

by Drive

Lady Ru

Sprin

nA ve

East Tamaki

ad

rwy

Sir W

Ke

www.eastlife.co.nz

Drive

Ac nt ce ive

Road

Dr

maki

ast Ta

2y7ears 1 9 8

We also manufacture ✓ Laundry Units ✓ Vanities ✓ Entertainment Units ✓ Shelving & Storage Units ✓ Counters ✓ Desks ✓ Plus lots more...

fin Drive

Ave

Sm

LISH

6

ESTA

Ave illiam Sir W

d Sprin gs Roa

Lady

B

D

Factory & Showroom, Unit J, 4 Lady Ruby Dr, East Tamaki. Ph 274 8900 Mon-Fri 7.30am-5pm; Sat 9am-1pm.

• Top quality products • 3D design • Latest technology • Latest trends • Over 27 years experience • Manufacture and install • Manufacture to your plans

E

Phone 09 274 8900 www.superiorkitchens.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

E510300

Another quality home designed by

65

Manufacturing Distribution Light Engineering Self-Employed Personal Rentals Trusts

Contact us for a free quote Competitive rates for all accounting and financial matters

Cabinetry with Style Let us turn your dreams into reality

Visit our new Inside Vision kitchen showroom at 1 Ron Driver Place, East Tamaki. Phone 262 0608

www.stewart-scott.co.nz

3/9 Allens Road, Highbrook.

Phone 09 533 8420

Modular and customised kitchen design options to suit your budget, taste and requirements Proudly manfactured by

Pat Callinan 021 1750348 Melt Louw 021 365725 E510087-v2

E510299

Flexible living Granny Flat/Sleepouts StudioXtra specialises in supplying garden studios with or without ensuites, plus one and two bedroom self contained sleepouts and minor dwellings.

Available as kitsets, built on-site to close-in, or built on-site to completion.

For further information phone 0800 882 623 or 027 492 8504, email: malcolm@malricgroup.co.nz

www.studioxtra.co.nz 53538-v6

66 | eastlife | may 2014

E512176

www.eastlife.co.nz

Photos supplied

Local kitchen design seminar East Auckland locals are about to be enlightened with fresh ideas from a leader in innovative kitchen design, Inside Vision.

The in-house kitchen design division of long-established manufacturer Stewart Scott Cabinetry, Inside Vision is holding a FREE kitchen design seminar on June 4 at 6 pm.

Fresh from a successful information evening held in Christchurch, the intuitive company decided that locals, too, would benefit first hand from their expert knowledge.

Perfect for those contemplating a new kitchen, this information-packed evening will give people a chance to answer questions such as: What’s the difference between granite and engineered stone, what are some of the latest lighting trends, and what sort of materials do I need to achieve a particular look?

Held on Inside Vision premises in its elegant showroom, guests will be able to absorb information whilst gleaning visual inspiration from their surroundings.

Structured and informative, the seminar aims to be stimulating and engaging – participants can see, feel and touch a variety of materials and witness demonstrations of how things work.

Excellent communicators and qualified design professionals, the Inside Vision team will be on hand to conduct the evening. www.eastlife.co.nz

FREE KITCHEN DESIGN SEMINAR DETAILS Where: Inside Vision showroom, 1 Ron Driver Pl (off Nandina Ave), East Tamaki When: 6pm June 4 Topics Covered: • Planning your kitchen • How to stop budget blowout • Styles and handles • Rangehoods • Bench tops • Surface finishes

The designers who make up the team at Inside Vision are the only Kitchen designers in an east Auckland company qualified with both the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), and the Certified Design Society (CDS).

As a result, word of this exceptional team’s ability has travelled far and wide and Inside Vision has become synonymous with cutting edge innovation and design.

What’s more, this inspiring company has proven it has just the recipe for success having earned multiple awards and accolades for a host of stunning kitchens.

exceeds expectations. Alongside these services, on-site manufacturing and in house installation complete the package, all done by Stewart Scott Cabinetry Ltd. To register for the Kitchen Seminar evening on June 4, phone or email the team at Inside Vision, come along to enjoy an informative evening and join them for a glass of bubbles and nibbles at:

1 Ron Driver Place (just off Nandina Avenue), East Tamaki. Ph 262 0608 sales@insidevision.co.nz www.insidevision.co.nz

Offering a full design and consultation service, Inside Vision can help create a dream kitchen that eastlife | may 2014 |

67

eastlife | comment

Lest we forget Nick Neben is a director of specialist renovation company Smith & Sons Howick and a time-served builder of more than 30 years experience.

By this time next year we will have commemorated the 100th anniversary of the start of the Battle of Gallipoli. A poignant reminder of the loyalty we had as a country for Mother England.

Unbeknown to those who went to battle at the time, we would cement April 25 each year as a time to reflect on Gallipoli and on all those who have since been to war for New Zealand.

After the Second World War ended in 1945, New Zealanders were left shell-shocked and battle-scarred from a conflict which saw 12,000 New Zealand troops perish.

When that war started in 1939 the lines were drawn and New Zealand’s history was changed forever. Then, on May 8, 1945 it came to an end

but it took more than eight months to bring all our soldiers back home.

And, home wasn’t what it had been.

The war saw an almost immediate cessation of building and our economy took a real hit.

The initial few months after the war saw many families confined to living in tents and make-shift accommodation left behind by American soldiers who had been based in Auckland and Wellington after Japan joined the war in late 1941.

depression and alcoholism while struggling to adapt to everyday life again.

On a more positive note, 2% interest rates for ex army personnel along with a gradual improvement in the economy saw normality slowly restored.

By the 1950s a housing boom saw more than 10,000 state houses per year being built. The scale of the building boom post Second World War resulted in such a demand on resources that the Government started importing pre-cut houses from Austria.

After the war, Auckland Domain resembled a 1980’s music festival with a sea of tents lining it’s acres of grassland.

Much like today, supply and demand put so much pressure on the industry, costs sky-rocketed. The Government started underwriting private developers (as long as they built to government designs) and subsidised the building industry to bring prices down.

Post war had its highs and lows.

Thousands of soldiers suffered

The strain on the industry saw the styles of houses change with brick

cladding and fibrolite replacing ‘hard to get’ timber weatherboards.

Since the end of the Second World War the roller coaster has seen interest rates drop below 5% and during the 1980s reach a staggering 21.5%.

Although the threshold for borrowing has now been increased from a 5% deposit to 20%, a large amount of young people have been lured into the hype of the property market and invested everything they have to get onto the property ladder.

Let’s just hope rising interest rates don’t cripple too many dreams.

I’d really like to see government subsidies and grants for first time home owners; this would be a big help towards owning a home.

So, what advice can I give young home owners? First and foremost, if lucky enough to get a loan fix your interest rates (because it seems as if they are on the rise) and don’t borrow more than you can afford.

E513056

68 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

Photos supplied

Enjoy benefits of coastal living Busy professionals, active retirees and families wanting relaxed country living close to the sea will find no better place to make home than Auckland’s magnificent Pohutukawa Coast.

The lovely communities of Pine Harbour and Spinnaker Bay, close to charming Beachlands village, are just a 15-minute drive from Botany Town Centre or a mere 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

They have everything to make life grand – cafes, safe beaches, coastal walks, recreational facilities and even an international standard golf course.

Boaties and yachties will love Pine Harbour Marina with its friendly pub, weekend Fresh Market and regular ferry service. Then there’s the Te Puru Sports Complex, where netball, cricket, soccer, tennis and a fully equipped gym are available.

Of course, the easiest way to enjoy such an idyllic lifestyle, is to talk to Jalcon Homes about its new executive home at Spinnaker Bay and its new development, The Brae at Pine Harbour.

The 220m2 single-level Jalcon Home on an 800m2 Spinnaker Bay section, features painted pine weatherboards, double glazed windows and long run, colour steel roofing.

With four bedrooms, study nook, a fabulous island kitchen with a walk-in www.eastlife.co.nz

pantry and quality Fisher & Paykel appliances, separate laundry, family bathroom, separate powder room and a master bedroom with en suite, you’ll love it.

Sustainable features include water retention tanks to recycle grey water and LED lighting plus digital marine weather station panels providing live weather and marine forecasts.

Tiles and carpets are included but, best of all, there’s time to choose your own colour scheme with Jalcon’s skilled interior designers – put your personal touch on this house!

The 227m2 or more double-level, three and four-bedroom houses also feature four metre or more high ceilings in the living areas, which open onto covered, north-facing decks.

They come with a 10-year Master Builder’s guarantee and a Jalcon 15-year Active Weathertight Warranty.

Construction on The Brae stage one starts next month with completion early next year. Four homes have already sold off the plan.

Offering a superb ‘lock-up-and-leave” lifestyle, owners will have plenty of time to pursue other interests such as travel – perfect for baby boomers as well as young professionals keen to leave the city behind at the end of a hard working day.

Alternatively, ask about The Brae, Jalcon’s new Pine Harbour With both Pine Harbour and development with a look of the Spinnaker Bay offering lifestyle iconic Kiwi boat shed, but exuding This means as Jalcon-built homes advantages – surrounding farmland, Denise Gale 0800 512bush nearby and a beautiful contemporary design, luxuryPhone and they are inspected every three years512native to ensure owners are keeping up coastline with water sports, fishing, comfort. www.jalcon.co.nz maintenance such as painting in order swimming and picnicking – talking to to protect the owner’s investment.

Jalcon Homes is a must!

Brae, Scottish for steep hillside, bank or a slope to the sea, is an especially appropriate name for this enclave of 12 architect-designed, low maintenance houses with raked tongue and groove detailing and Phone Denise Gale on 0800 512 512 • www.jalcon.co.nz driftwood-coloured flooring. eastlife | may 2014 |

69

eastlife | property

Why hire a property manager?

Rental property is a profitable investment for a myriad of people in New Zealand but to make the most of your investment it is essential to manage things effectively and there’s a lot more to property management than most people think.

Are you a “DIY” landlord? Currently between 70 and 75% of all rental properties in New Zealand are ‘managed’ by the owners. But are they?

Often people’s definition of managing their properties is that they check that the rent is in the bank each week.

Some don’t even manage that!

People often avoid visiting their investments for fear of what they might find. They don’t enjoy the possibility of conflict and not knowing their legal obligations they shy away from everyday situations.

It’s vital that there is good communication between the landlord and tenant; that all the correct paperwork is in place and that both

70 | eastlife | may 2014

parties know the rules or you could end up at the tribunal.

• Better tenant selection including full reference checking

So, why hire a property manager?

Here are just a few of the reasons:

• Compilation of Tenancy Agreements

• Maintaining your capital asset through regular inspections and initiating necessary maintenance using tried and tested tradespeople

• Property condition reports

• Gaining time back for the landlord and relieving the stress of having to personally oversee their rentals – creating a buffer between the owner and the tenant

• Rent collection and preparation of monthly statements

• Bond collection, lodgement and eventual sign off

• Recovery of rent arrears • Tenancy Tribunal hearings

• Keeping things legal to avoid landlord fines • Regular assessment of rent to ensure the best return is being achieved • Minimising down time between tenants through better advertising mediums • Advertising your property and carrying out viewings

jane wilsher The business is owned and operated

by Jane Wilsher. Along with her team, Jane provides a comprehensive and professional service to all landlords from first timers to long standing investors.

If you would like some advice or some more information about our service please contact Elite Property Management at:

• Payments of accounts eg land rates, water rates etc • Satisfying your insurance policy requirements with written inspection reports Elite Property Management is a local, independent company specialising in providing a quality property management service without the distraction of property sales.

128 Picton Street, Howick.

Phone 09 535 0911 www.eliteproperty.co.nz Email: jane@eliteproperty.co.nz or info@eliteproperty.co.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

E510307

What’s all this about the OCR? Remax, (Zest for Realty) Principal Licensee Eric Chase, MREINZ, gives his take on the property market.

There’s been a lot of noise in the media of late about the OCR (Official Cash Rate) set by the Reserve Bank of NZ going up 0.25%. What does this mean to the property market and the price of your home? Are we all going to see the local real estate market fall because the OCR goes up 0.25%?

Well, let’s get some perspective on the issue. The current OCR as of April 24, 2014 was 3.00%. This has climbed from 2.50% which is where it had been sitting since March 2011.

So there was no change in the OCR for three years, yes, that’s right three years!

What we’re all forgetting is that the OCR was at 6.5% back in early 2001 and went to 7.0% in late 2005.

Those were the years when we saw the property market go up and up.

Between 2006 and mid-2008 it stayed at 8.25% and only started to drop dramatically to 3.00% in 2009 and then fluctuated between 3.00% and 2.50%.

So, how does this affect your local property values? Well, it doesn’t much, not if you look at the way the market was moving the last time the OCR was a lot higher.

‘

real estate | eastlife

Median spike unusual Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on local real estate market happenings.

At the moment Auckland is undersupplied with the volume of housing that is required and until this is balanced up, prices are going to remain constant.”

The biggest effect on prices is, and always has been, supply and demand. At the moment Auckland is undersupplied with the volume of housing that is required and until this is balanced up, prices are going to remain constant. They may not rise but they certainly do not look like they are going to fall in a hurry.

I’m not an expert on borrowing money but the same rules apply now as always; only borrow what you can service comfortably, not what you can just service.

The interest rates are only ever going to be fixed for a short period of time, so borrow wisely and fix your rates for as long as you can and always ensure that you don’t over borrow just because the banks say you can.

Which houses are getting the high prices? The recently released March 2014 sales figures for our area – Eastern Beaches – have again set some new records.

The median for the area has risen to a new high of $770,000 on the back of 246 sales. To put that into context, and talking about the median price first, last March we had a median of $675,000 so a rise of $95,000 (or 14%) over one year is quite significant.

From about August 2013 up until January this year we had been running relatively level in the early $700,000’s and last month it moved up to $762,500 and now this!

Secondly, talking about the number of sales, consistent with the last 5 years, we again see March having the highest number of sales over a 12 month period.

The total value of houses sold in March (for our area) was $207,384,580 – we haven’t had a figure over $200,000,000 since March 2007 when it was $203,066,150

on the back of 352 sales (just to emphasise the price increase – 108 sales more than this March).

Looking at the numbers for all of Auckland, the median for March 2014 was $637,000 up from $562,000 for March 2013 – a 13.35% increase.

For all of New Zealand, the increase March to March was 10% from $400,000 to $440,000.

So, which properties are getting the high prices? We found last year, with a huge lack of listings and multiple buyers competing, that buyers couldn’t be too fussy on the condition of the property.

This year that appears to have changed and we are finding buyers are more selective and are only paying a premium for properties that are deserving. So, existing properties, with new kitchens or bathrooms and great presentation, are highly sought after and attract competitive bidding.

As I write this there is strong rumour that the official cash rate will be rising again at its next review to keep a tight check on inflation and house prices.

Want FREE property management?

Talk to Alana to find out about our May Madness Management Deal ALANA NATHAN

▲ 15 years experience in the residential property management industry ▲ Extensive knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 ▲ Great communication is the key ▲ It’s building relationships that counts

Alana Nathan looks forward to meeting you Licenced Agent REAA 2008 DDI 538 0108 | Mob 021 228 9902 | email: alana@fnhowick.co.nz 09 538 0105 www.fnhowick.co.nz E512052-v5

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

71

eastlife | home

THE

AGENTS BRIANNE BIGNELL

WAYNE RHODE

greg & Leigh roy

LICENSED SALES PERSON

NEW HOME CONSULTANT

AREINZ

P: 536 6922 (a/h) M: 021 400 979 E: brianne@lighthouserealestate.co.nz

P: 09 296 1695 M: 021 998 093 E: wayne.rhode@gjgardner.co.nz

P: 09 538 0151 M: Greg 0274 966 966 Leigh 021 646 565

Brianne Bignell is a natural people person, animal person and salesperson. Brie’s openness, confidence and ability to form lasting relationships is a proven recipe for success. To experience a level of service to rival the very best in her field, call Brie today.

Brie Bignell – specialising in real estate on the Pohutukawa Coast.

Civil engineering background with 10 years New Zealand experience in residential building sector. Franklin/Papakura specialist specialising in new home builds using our extensive range of great standard plan designs or using your own plan. Contact me directly to talk about my wide range of house and land packages available in the Franklin/ Papakura area starting from $390,000.

Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina, Beachlands www.lighthouserealestate.co.nz

“New Zealand’s favourite home builders”

Your Independent Local Specialists 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.

56 Broadway, Papakura. www.gjgardner.co.nz

111 Picton St, Howick. www.tfproperty.co.nz

Rachael meyeR

SUZANNE McDOWELL

LICENSED SALESPERSON

LICENSED SALESPERSON

JANE WILSHER

P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com

P: 215 2787 M: 027 494 2405 E: suzanne.mcdowell@mikepero.com

P: 535 0911 M: 027 573 9531 E: jane@eliteproperty.co.nz

If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call. “Thanks for thinking outside the box and making us consider options we may not have on our own. I trusted you throughout the process and always thought you had our best interests at heart.” Theodora – Bucklands Beach

Experience the difference with the team at Mike Pero Real Estate. Suzanne McDowell is commited to great customer service and client satisfaction, combined with her highest level of personal integrity and ability. She listens to her clients’ requirements. These are just some of the attributes that make Suzanne an award-winning agent.

Providing quality property management to investors with large portfolios and single homeowners alike. We operate from our office in Howick and concentrate our business in the Eastern suburbs. This enables us to effectively manage issues with properties as we are close at hand.

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

12 Uxbridge Rd, Howick. www.raywhite.co.nz

Highland Park Shopping Centre. www.mikepero.com

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

128 Picton St, Howick. www.eliteproperty.co.nz

kevin seymOUR

GILLIAN QuANtrILL

SCOTT McELHINNEY

LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT

Licensed saLesperson

LICENSED SALESPERSON

P: 09 238 4244 m: 0800 345 563 e: kevin.seymour@harcourts.co.nz

P: 09 534 1213 M: 0272 866 806 E: gillianquantrill@hotmail.com

P: 09 237 3125 M: 027 210 8887 E: s.mcelhinney@barfoot.co.nz

Kevin, and the Kevin’s country team, focus on you and your needs throughout the sales process. Pointed and aggressive marketing campaigns followed up with accurate and honest reporting, allowing life decisions made with full information. Phone the awardwinning Kevin’s country team, for prompt service and property advice.

“It costs No MorE to usE thE bEst” Your local area specialist, Gillian has consistently been the number one salesperson in the Howick office as well as securing a number of other achievements regionally, nationally and internationally.

When marketing a home, Gillian takes the time to listen to her clients and suggests a tailored approach to best meet their needs.

Personable, presentable and the ultimate professional, Scott McElhinney has successfully achieved excellent prices for his sellers and sourced the perfect homes at the right prices for his buyers since 2007. Scott McElhinney, your ‘go-to’ person for professional appraisals and property transactions, specialising in rural and lifestyle properties.

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Licensed real estate agent (reaa 2008)

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

57 King St, Pukekohe. www.harcourts.co.nz

92 picton st, Howick. www.fnhowick.co.nz

68 King St, Pukekohe. www.barfoot.co.nz

72 | eastlife | may 2014

www.eastlife.co.nz

telecommunication | eastlife

Connecting businesses face to face The face of telecommunications is constantly changing but the face that greets customers at east Auckland’s Telecom Business Hub Tamaki is always a familiar one.

The experienced telecommunications professional says maintaining a direct point of contact simplifies operations for many business owners.

“We understand the needs of small to medium businesses in this area – the infrastructure and technology available to them. We want to help them tap into that as much as possible.”

Understanding how critical reliable communication systems are to a business, Kalpesh works to ensure his clients stay connected at all times.

“When the flow of communication is interrupted, businesses are disrupted. But because we offer support services 24/7 and give a high priority to businesses, that disruption is minimised greatly.”

It’s like insurance, says Kalpesh. “It’s our job to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible and businesses should be able to have the peace of mind that there is always help available.”

When businesses request technical support, their request is forwarded straight to the third or fourth tier in the technical team.

“This means the team is better equipped and more skilled to handle advanced issues. As a result, they can troubleshoot the problem in a much shorter period, ensuring the issue is resolved in a timely manner.”

Servicing the needs of businesses from Remuera to Beachlands, Kalpesh goes the extra mile for each client, visiting them wherever they are.

“Our clients deal with one person all the way,” says Kalpesh. “If we don’t have a particular service, product or solution, we will outsource and www.eastlife.co.nz

liaise with the provider on behalf of our clients so they receive the best possible outcome.”

Examples of these include ultrafast broadband, web design and cloud services. “Our clients don’t have to waste precious time researching different providers and contacting them – we can do it for them.”

Having previously worked at Telecom Business Hub Manukau, Kalpesh is well versed with a variety of businesses and how they work.

“Some businesses may not be on the best mobile plan to suit their needs.

That’s where I come in – consulting with the business on the whole to find out every need, and following up with them regularly to review these needs.”

As a result, different mobile plans and contracts vary depending on the amount of data required, as well as the amount of calls made internally, externally or overseas.

“Our mobile plans are some of the most competitive on the market – having a plan these days is so affordable and has so many benefits to offer,” Kalpesh says.

“We have a fantastic range of smartphones to offer clients at a subsidised price or even free depending on their contract. All the latest Android phones and iPhones are available including the Samsung Galaxy S3, S4 and S5, and more recently, the iPhone 4S and 5S.” What’s more, Telecom offers deferred payments. “If clients purchase a phone with us where the cost of the phone is $199 or above, they can choose to pay that over the period of 12 months or 24 months interest-free.

All they need do is have a mobile account with us and for as little as $10 per month they could essentially own a phone that was previously unaffordable.”

Not even major retailers can match such an attractive deal, Kalpesh adds.

‘

To grow and build a customer base, businesses need effective systems that allow them to achieve results and improve profits. That’s where the Hub can help.”

“We also reward some of our clients with extra credit or waive certain fees depending on the number of services they sign up with us, as well as taking into account their loyalty over the years.”

And, when it comes to setting up a new phone, there’s absolutely no hassle involved. “We understand how difficult it can be to learn how to use a different interface,” says Kalpesh.

“So, we put ourselves in our client’s shoes to anticipate the issues they may face and speak to them in layman’s terms so they have a better grasp of how their phone works.”

Kalpesh will even personally deliver new phones to his clients and remain on-site until the set up of the phone is complete, ensuring settings have been reconfigured for each individual and overseeing the transfer of important data and contacts.

Photo Wayne Martin

Account manager Kalpesh Patel is one of the familiar faces at this one-stop shop in Harris Rd managing business telecommunication needs from landlines and mobiles to broadband and web solutions.

kalpesh patel “To grow and build a customer base, businesses need effective systems that allow them to achieve results and improve profits. That’s where the Hub can help,” says Kalpesh.

“Whether it’s a new mobile phone, the latest telephone system, or mobile broadband to keep you up to date, we offer everything a business needs to stay in touch.”

Call Kalpesh at Telecom Business Hub Tamaki now on 0800 588 494 and arrange a FREE business communications health check.

Tamaki Telecom Business Hub Tamaki (next to Kreem Cafe) 50 Harris Rd, East Tamaki.

Email info@hubtamaki.co.nz eastlife | may 2014 |

73

At the heart of Highbrook At the heart of Highbrook

LET’S TALK LOCAL BUSINESS Situated in the heart of Highbrook, Waipuna Conference Suites offers three versatile Situated in the heart of Highbrook, rooms catering for up to 300 people.

Waipuna Conference Suites offers three versatile rooms catering for up to 300 people.

Itt is the ideal venue for board meetings, conferences, cocktail functions, banquet dinners, weddings banquet and more. conferences, cocktail functions, dinners, weddings and more.

And as part of the established and trusted Hotel brand, you you’ll be in And asWaipuna part of the established andknow trusted good hands.

Waipuna Hotel brand, you know you’ll be in good hands.

free entry free seminars free connections!

15 -16 MAY 10.30am - 5pm

WAIPUNA CONFERENCE SUITES HIGHBROOK. EAST TAMAKI

getba.org.nz

E51282

E510328

60 Highbrook Drive 60 Highbrook Drive East Tamaki, Auckland East Tamaki, Auckland CONFERENCE SUITES Ph: 571 4888 CONFERENCE SUITES Ph: 571 4888 HIGHBROOK www.waipunahighbrook.co.nz HIGHBROOK www.waipunahighbrook.co.nz

Shouldn’t your business consider the possibilities?

FOR LEASE

At Highbrook, 6,260 sqm of additional warehouse space will be available for lease mid-2014. Existing office, retail and industrial vacancy at Highbrook ranges from 89 sqm – 6,260 sqm as shown below. highbrook.co.nz

OFFICE & RETAIL The Crossing, LG House

INDUSTRIAL 60 Highbrook Drive ∫ Level 2 office - 418 sqm ∫ Level 1 office - 165 sqm ∫ Ground floor retail 89 sqm

Level 2 Level 1

38A Highbrook Drive

Highbrook Drive Units

∫ 1,620 sqm warehouse space ∫ 365 sqm office space (ground floor only) ∫ 134 sqm mezzanine space

A

Ground

Highbrook Drive Units

Level 1, Unit B, 38 Highbrook Drive

New Warehouse

∫ 210 sqm office space, fit-out included B

AVAILABLE JUN 2014

38 Business Parade North ∫ 6,260 sqm warehouse space ∫ 400 sqm office space over two floors ∫ 720 sqm canopy space

CONTACT: Louisa Viall 021 511 921; William Main 021 583 887; Scott Campbell 021 414 107 E510327

74 | eastlife | may 2014

We are pleased to announce construction of the large new warehouse development on Business Parade North is nearly complete. The development adds.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Photos supplied

Highbrook drives forward Highbrook Business Park is set to benefit from ventures by two major companies, Ford New Zealand and Steel & Tube Holdings Ltd. Both companies are preparing to move into new facilities which will add 17,920 sqm of industrial space to the Goodman Property Trust, developers of Highbrook.

A new facility being built for Steel & Tube is due for completion in February 2015 while completion of a 10,150 sqm building to accommodate Ford’s parts warehouse, relocating from Wiri, is scheduled for March 2015.

Reinforcing the park’s reputation as a prime site with easy access to Auckland’s infrastructure, the two new developments have a combined total cost of $26.5million (including land, construction costs and all professional fees).

They will be funded through the Trust’s existing debt facilities and a continuation of its asset disposal programme.

further investment demonstrates the desirability of Highbrook as a premier business location.

company is pleased to be facilitating the business growth of Steel & Tube and Ford.

After the opening of retail complex, The Crossing late last year, this

Goodman (NZ) Limited’s chief executive officer, John Dakin says the

“There has been a sustained lift in the level of development activity

being undertaken by the Trust over the last 18 months,” he says.

“Subsequently, we are accelerating our development programme in Auckland and also in Christchurch to meet demand.”

+ Business and Commercial + Property + Litigation, Mediation & Intellectual Property + Trusts and Asset Management + Family and Matrimonial + Employment + Immigration + Wills and Estates Wynyard Wood, Level 1, The Crossing, Cnr Highbrook Drive and Business Parade South, Highbrook Business Park P: 09 969 0126 E: manager@wynyardwood.co.nz

www.wynyardwood.co.nz HIGHBROOK | AUCKLAND | WARKWORTH E510138-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2014 |

75

eastlife | comment

Am I different? Really?Part II Bill Potter – the Business Maverick. Bill is a Speaker, FriendCoach*, Thought Leader and...

The 3Guy*. www.speakers.co.nz/billpotter.html www.btob.co.nz/the-business-maverick As I promised in the previous issue of ‘EastLife’ (You did read it, right?

Terrific!), here are some positive terms that we can use to describe a ‘maverick’.

I have to do this, because the media uses the term, to ‘explain’ folks who only display ‘extreme’ behaviour.

My fave alternative name is ‘free spirit’. All children are naturally free spirits, until they meet up with adults.

So, we have all been a ‘maverick’ at

some phase of our lives. Another is ‘non-conformist’. Altogether... Oooh!

He or she does not want to be told how to behave or live.

This doesn’t mean becoming a dissident or an anarchist, even. A good maverick is one who knows that some things must change and be done differently.

He or she will only adjust that which needs transformation, and will search for the best ways to do that well.

What about being a ‘revolutionary’?

Not the political, war-like kind.

Scientists in particular, make ‘revolutionary breakthroughs’ while searching for ‘different’ solutions to current probs.

If they had stayed with ‘same old, same old’, we would be in crisis mode! So don’t join ‘sheople’!

What about lousy bosses and lazy workers? Oh. Did I mention that mavericks are seriously interesting people? Are you? Hello?

You will like... ‘trend-setter’. Yes you will. Go look in the mirror. Or you can be a ‘liberal’, but not in the political sense. Most political liberals don’t know what they believe at any given time. Our teenagers are professional ‘rebels’. So once again, we inadvertently, join the ‘maverick club’.

In our personal transformation programme, OMNIS: The Online 3Percenter Course©, for serious Go-getters, we focus on not only giving you the best all-round instruction on living ‘best life’, but we help you become really interesting.

Really! Cheers.

– duitdammit@xtra.co.nz

parents bank on phone app Ever thought how to make life as a parent a little easier? Are your youngsters not really into homework or domestic work? Are you the one always left with the beds, the dishes and other chores while the kids run out and play?

One Finnish couple noticed that this was often their lot as parents and decided to create an app to make children more active and helpful around the home by rewarding them.

They created Banked, a bank for kids suitable for Windows phones.

is worth set points; when that goal is achieved, the child can choose a reward. Rewards may be cold cash handed over by a parent or it could be a toy which is directly buyable via the application.

Kid gets points whenever something good and helpful has been done.

There are lots of different tasks in Banked such as cleaning a room, washing the dishes, calling on grandparents, success in school and more.

A maverick is an ‘individualist’. Aren’t we all trying to be one of those?

Mavericks are accused of not ‘fitting in’ and therefore a possible hindrance to teamwork.

have been achieved, the child gets the prize.

Looking ahead, the developers believe Banked could also be used to teach children how to save money and use banking facilities.

They are also working on a system to pay reward money directly to the child’s bank account.

‘

Do you remember when you were a child and earned stickers for deeds done good? And when you reached five stickers, you got an extra prize?

Banked is a new, fun way to reward your kids for doing something boring!”

Banked has been developed by It can be downloaded free of charge Helsinki-based company, Kelmi from Windows Phone Marketplace: Oy and has been created in part at http://bit.ly/1ivw9de LAW • Parents can also create new tasks for Microsoft’s and Nokia’s Appcampus- IES • LENDING • SPORTS DING IL ET BU CI • SO ES & IS S OM UB PR Banked is an application which their children. Every task is rewarded programme Aalto University in See Facebook http://www.

RY on TAalso RAITH •atCL LB • TESTAMEN A DUNRAJ • RICHARD GA S • goal WALMSLEY TY • LAVANY IBLE starts by setting the goal. Each goal with points andTE when points Helsinki ISONFinland.

• ESTA • INCAPACIfacebook.com/bankedapp TION • AL ATS • FENC TY • WILLS

VE ER TION PROTEC OYMENT • CA • UNIT TITLES • CING • PROP • CONSTRUC Y • FAMILY CONVEYAN UGH • EMPL GALBRAITH S W • CUSTOD OR Y MCCULLO L TENANCIE NCING • KIM LL • FAMILY LA IA FE D KE NT • • EL DE S FI NS SI LAW • VEND IP IO NI SH TO • RE IVIS E • BUSINESS S & T RELATION ORTGAGES RNE • SUBD NC UL UB M • BO GE AD CL • • LI ES OS H DI E EY NC IT E LI SL RA DU M LICE • KY • LEASES • CT COURT • ALISON WAL CHARD GALB • RI RI TS S • ST RY EN TE W DI M TA • TA LA SE EN R ER ES • AM SF ELDE ES • EA TION • TEST ERTY • WILLS • LAND TRAN S LEASE TITL ISTRATION A DUNRAJ • MILY PROTEC CING • PROP LAW • CROS S OF ADMIN STODY • FA TY • LAVANY • CONVEYAN CI ER CU W • TT PA LA W LE CA • LA LE IN E Y • IB S LEASE IL NC M ON OS TI FE FA • CR • PROBAT UC • D D W TR EL EL LA FI NS NI FI LE S • TONI LBRAITH • CO T • CAVEATS • FENCIB TENANCIES TS LAW • TO L GA IA OR M WARRANTIE NT SP KI • • DE G G SI MEN NCIN S • LENDIN TGAGES • RE • BUSINESS H • EMPLOY OR ISIONS • FE E M IV UG • NC BD LO & SOCIETIE GE ES SU LI UL • CC E DI CENC • BUILDING S • KELLY M COURT • DU RICHARD DUNRAJ • LI IP • A CT S SH NY RI TE ON VA ST PROMISES TA TI DI LA • LA • • ES TRANSFER • ADULT RE TY • WILLS TS • LEASES ECTION • ER ND EN OT LA M OP • PR SE PR N • Y EA IO ELDER LAW IL • AT M E CING ADMINISTR STODY • FA LIE OSBORN CONVEYAN CU UCTION OF • • S TR W W ER LA NS LA TT Y LE CO LE IL • TITLES • KY • M G NCIB • PROBATE NI FIELD • FA NS • FENCIN W• COURT • FE ES IO Y LA TO TL IL • IS TI LE M IV W IB IT FA BD LA • NC UN • TS • SU IES • FE ING • SPOR E OSBORNE • CAVEATS OBATE OR WARRANT ND LI T PR LE ND KY • EN • • M VE S ES • IE OY NG TL W ET DI PL LA IT TI ISES • BUIL UBS & SOCI LOUGH • EM NCIES • UN LS CL OM UL IL • NA W PR H CC • TE IT M RY L Y OR RA IA TA LL NT KE VEND GALB AMEN ES • RESIDE ONSHIPS • NESS LAW • GHAM • TEST • MORTGAG ULT RELATI RAITH • NCE • BUSI AD ES LB • GE PAM BELLIN NC GA W LI DI CE M LA E LI KI R • • T • DU TES • ELDE LEASES • FAMILY RICT COUR ILLS • ESTA • INCAPACITY SEMENTS • • CUSTODY SFER • DIST OPERTY • W E TITLES • EA FAMILY LAW • LAND TRAN ANCING • PR • FENCING • N EY D NS IO NV EL CROSS LEAS IO AT FI IS CO TR • NI IV BD • TO LAW ADMINIS LLY BORNE • SU ORTS LAW • FENCIBLE KE OS T SP • E • S UR LI G • LETTERS OF IP IN CO KY • SH Y ND ON NG IES • FAMIL ES CIETIES • LE ULT RELATI ES • BUILDI NC SO IS AD & • CE OM S LI W • • WARRANT PR UB LA ES R AS DE TARY LBRAITH • CL MENTS • LE ER • TESTAMEN DUNRAJ • EL SE SF A EY EA AN NY • SL TR VA M ES RICHARD GA LA AL ND • E TITL • ALISON W TRATION • LA INCAPACITY CROSS LEAS LAW • PROTECTION OF ADMINIS TRUCTION • IBLE LAW • T • FENCIBLE E • LETTERS W • RAITH • CONS ENT • CAVEATS • FENC UR AT LB CO OB Y GA PR IL M • M KI ES • • SPORTS LA • FA M TL G S TI OY IN IE IT PL ND NT UN EM LE RA • • • NG • H AR S IES W DI IE UG IL NC ET OR LO BU CI NA • UL ND TE SO VE ES L CC & • M IS IA R ITH • CLUBS • RESIDENT TARY PROM SINESS LAW DE RA EN ES BU EL • LB • AG AM E GA TG ST AJ NC D TE OR NR AR DU •M EY • E DILIGE • LAVANYA TATES • RICH ON WALMSL COURT • DU ASE TITLES • WILLS • ES INCAPACITY TION • ALIS • LE TY • DISTRICT EC S ON ER OT OS TI OP PR CR UC Y PR • W LA • FAMIL Richard Galbraith CONSTR • McCullough Alison Kelly Lavanya Dunraj Toni Field Pam Bellingham ANCING • Kylie Osborne IBLE ODYWalmsley EYGalbraith CONVKim • LETTERS OF GALBRAITH ATS • FENC Y LAW • CUST ILY PROBATE Legal ENT • CAVE Lawyer IT TITLLegal NCING • KIMDirector• EMPLOYM ES •Executive Accountant Lawyer Lawyer Assistant ELD • FAMILLegal Executive NS • FE NTIES • FAM IO UN TONI FI RA IS • H IV S AR UG W IE BD NC OR ULLO RNE • SU ETIES • NTIAL TENA LAW • VEND CI KELLY MCC DE • SS SO SI S & NE KYLIE OSBO IP RE S SI • SH UB BU ES NCE • T RELATION • MORTGAG LBRAITH • CL STAMENTAR DUE DILIGE LAW • ADUL • LICENCES RICHARD GA MSLEY • TE CT COURT • TS • LEASES • ESTATES • ALISON WAL CITY • • LS ER • DISTRI IL PA SF ON W CA • TI AN IN • EASEMEN EC TY • TR ER PROT UCTION3539 www.fenciblelaw.co.nz phone NSTR533 ATION • LAND CING • PROP Y • FAMILY IBLE CO AN • OD NC H EY ST IT FE NV • CU RA S ADMINISTR • CO LB • AT W • FAMILY LA ING • KIM GA NCIBLE LAW MENT • CAVE COURT • FE IONS • FENC H • EMPLOY • TONI FIELD IS UG W IV LO LA BD UL TS SU • CC OR E 76 | eastlife | may 2014 www.eastlife.co.nz YM LENDING • SP ILDING • KYLIE OSBORN SHIPS • KELL T RELATION • BU LAW • ADUL PROMISES R DE EL • NRAJ LAVANYA DU

0800 fencible

E513062-v5

“Make it happen! ”

drive

news | review | new models

Mini with more Third generation Mini hatch has just gone on local sale, boasting more room, more power and more sophistication.

New Mini has grown in every direction, with increased dimensions for the chassis, body and interior space. More shoulder room and foot space in the front seating area, and a roomier rear-seat layout, enhance passenger comfort.

Load capacity is significantly improved with the luggage compartment increased to 211 litres, an increase of 51 litres over the outgoing model.

Still unmistakeably Mini, the new hatch sports a fresh interpretation of the traditional design features such as the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, the side indicator surrounds known as side scuttles, the circular headlights, the upright rear light clusters and the black detailing around the bottom edge of the body.

Inside, a new display and operating concept combines the typical Mini look and feel of the cockpit with improved functionality. A newly designed instrument cluster is located directly in front of the driver on the steering column.

‘

Although this is a lefthand drive car, the photo below shows how the speedometer has moved from the centre display unit to directly behind the steering wheel. There are significant improvements in the areas of upholstery, dash, and steering wheel material finishes.”

Photos supplied

The central instrument display now includes a 6.5 inch or 8.8 inch colour display depending on model and options fitted. In each case, the display provides feedback on vehicle functions, infotainment and communication, as well as navigation maps and route directions in the case of the larger displays.

For the first time, both three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines are used, all featuring Mini TwinPower Turbo Technology.

All model variants of the new Mini have improved engine and driving performance figures while their fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced by as much as 19 per cent when compared to the previous model.

The chassis and suspension systems www.eastlife.co.nz

underwent a full scale revision aimed at intensifying the ‘go kart’ driving experience.

The new Mini Driving Modes, ‘Sport’ and ‘Green’, allow an individual set-up via a rotary switch at the base of the gear shift or selector level.

Depending on vehicle specification, changing the setting affects not just the characteristic curve of the

accelerator and steering but also the ambient lighting, the displays in the central instrument cluster, the shift times of the automatic transmission and the characteristics of Dynamic Damper Control.

The $36,200 Cooper six-speed manual is powered by a 1500cc threecylinder petrol engine that develops 100kW of power and 220Nm of torque between 1250 and 4000rpm (230 Nm with overboost).

New Mini hatch is available in Cooper and Cooper S variants, and you do get more Mini for your money as drive-away pricing is unchanged from the previous models.

Six-speed Cooper S has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 141kW, and 280Nm from 1250 to 4750rpm (300 Nm with overboost). It retails for $44,200. eastlife | may 2014 |

77

Test Drive one today

The next great drive.

Starting From $32,795

1. $32,795 For GLX Model. SP25 Shown.

1

Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer details Dealer MANUKAU | BOTANY | PUKEKOHE | P 0800 114 443 | southaucklandmotors.co.nz Pukekohe Botany P 0800 114 443 details Dealer details Dealer details| Dealer details| Dealer details 78 | eastlife | may 2014 | Manukau www.eastlife.co.nz

E512028

South Auckland Motors South Auckland Motors allnewmazda3.co.nz

motoring | eastlife

Mazda MX5 marks 25 years EastLife motoring writer ALISTAIR DAVIDSON takes a trip down memory lane as Mazda MX-5 celebrates its silver jubilee.

The current MX-5 has a 2.0-litre engine, can be had with a soft top or power operated hardtop, and is priced from $55,190.

Twenty-five years ago I road tested the all new Mazda MX-5 for East City News.

The newspaper is long gone, but MX-5 is still around, with an all-new fourth generation model about to be revealed.

East City News (owned by EastLife’s parent company Times Newspapers Ltd) was one of the first local publications to feature the revolutionary 1.6-litre five-speed manual sports car.

I had the Mazda press car for a week, back when my wife and I had only one child. This was great, because the MX-5 was a pure, two-seat roadster: “Sorry hun, I’d love to take you and grizzly three-year-old Ryan for a drive, but there are only two seats. See ya!”

Photos supplied

Second generation was introduced in 2000, with a bigger 1.8-litre engine.

Carolyn Davidson, a car enthusiast from way back, had just purchased one of the first MX-5s so we set up a photo shoot of her blue vehicle and the red press car at her and husband Chris’ expansive property in Clevedon.

I’ll never forget that drive to Clevedon via Whitford, over the twisting Twilight Road and up Monument Road to the photo shoot.

The MX-5 was built for those roads.

Low slung with perfect weight distribution, it wasn’t fast but it sure felt like it.

It handled beautifully, the steering was communicative, the gearbox delightfully direct and the exhaust sounded great. Downsides? I couldn’t find any.

That first generation Mazda MX-5 wasn’t weighed down with creature comforts and gadgets or, heaven forbid, an automatic gearbox. It was all about the drive, plain and simple.

Subsequent MX-5 models lost some of that purity. I road tested each one, zipping along that same rural route, my hair blowing in the wind and me being too proud to go back and get it.

Yep, I was becoming folically www.eastlife.co.nz

challenged; we also had two more kids (thankfully MX-5 was still a twoseater) and MX-5 had gone a little soft – just like my waistline.

With each new model the engines got bigger: a 1.8-litre was followed by a 2.0-litre, which almost indecently overpowered this wee sports car.

‘

That first generation Mazda MX-5 wasn’t weighed down with creature comforts and gadgets or, heaven forbid, an automatic gearbox. It was all about the drive, plain and simple.”

When the first generation MX-5 was launched in 1989 there was a waiting list here and overseas, something that was almost unheard of at the time.

Mazda bowed to buyer pressure by introducing an automatic (with paddle shifts, no less), a power operated hard top option with a glass rear ‘screen, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, leather upholstery, speakers in the headrests, the list goes on and on.

Enthusiasts might have cringed, but Mazda knew what it was doing. The ‘jellybean’ went on to become the world’s best selling two-seat sports car with close to one million produced in 25 years.

Our three boys have grown up, two have left home and I have no hair at

all, but there’s been one constant for the last quarter century: my infatuation with the first generation MX-5.

That a tiny, lightweight, 1.6-litre four-cylinder Japanese car could light a fire under this V8 petrol head’s butt speaks volumes for how involving, addictive and enjoyable this iconic

sports car really was.

For more information on the 25th anniversary of the MX-5 visit Mazda’s new digital edition of Zoom Zoom magazine www.zoomzoom.co.nz or follow Mazda on Facebook www. facebook.com/MazdaNewZealand to get the latest on MX-5 celebrations as they are announced. eastlife | may 2014 |

79

directory Kelly Flavell Law

LAWYERS

Assisting In Your Success

KNOW HOW to maximise the value of your property Carolynne Scott Licensee Branch Manager

•COMPANIES •SELF EMPLOYED •CONTRACTORS •RENTAL PROPERTIES •GST RETURNS • TAX RETURNS View more details at

Ph DDI: 09 538 1208 Mobile: 0274 991 466 Email: carolynne.scott@raywhite.com

www.patcallinan.co.nz

Reliability, Integrity, Experience

For all your legal requirements

For aLL your LegaL needs

18 Uxbridge Road, Howick, PO Box 39056, Howick, Auckland 2145

mullerlaw

or email karend@patcallinan.co.nz

22 Picton St, Howick.

Phone 533-8420

Level 1, Plaza Tower, Pakuranga Plaza Ph 576 7047 www.mullerlaw.co.nz

t: 09 535 2150 f: 09 535 2151 web: kellyflavell.co.nz

architect E125091

New Homes & Alterations

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

Mary Campbell NZ Registered Architect BArch ANZIA

www.plusharchitect.co.nz plush@xtra.co.nz 027 362 8869

www.kimveltman.co.nz

Electricians you can trust

For all residential projects Call David Beeson

Ph 021 980 549

www.beesonbuilding.co.nz E510130-v5

With years of experience under their belts as your local electricians the Bull Electrical team pride themselves on their high quality workmanship and friendly service.

Call Tony on 021 949 961 or office 535 4759 e. tony@bullelectrical.co.nz w. www.bullelectrical.co.nz 186 Wellington St, Howick

E512060

E513095-v2

NO MESS, NO FUSS.

WE LOVE THE JOB YOU HATE!

Franchises available 53586-v2

EastLife is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations: Botany Botany Information Centre, Conservatory, Botany Town Centre Botany Library, Level 1 Sunset Tce, Botany Town Centre Jag Kitchens, inside Danske Mobler, Botany Town Centre Harvey Norman, 500 Ti Rakau Dr Munn’s the Man’s Store, 451 Ti Rakau Dr

80 | eastlife | may 2014

Pakuranga Golf Club, 199 Botany Rd Eves Pantry, 309 Botany Rd Botany south Hot Spring Spas, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl Art and Framing, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl Mitre 10 Mega, Bishop Dunn Pl Columbus Coffee, Homebase Botany, 16J Bishop Dunn Pl

Bucklands Beach Bucklands Espresso Lounge, Cnr Wharf Rd and Hattaway Ave Bucklands Beach Veterinary Hospital, 340 Bucklands Beach Rd Farm Cove Mon Bichon, 190 Fisher Pde Half Moon Bay Sealink Ferry Terminal, 1 Ara Tai Dr

Marina Fitness, Compass Building, Ara Tai Dr A&J Cafe, Promenade Building, Ara Tai Dr Highland Park Highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Dr Highland Park Shopping Centre, Central Pavillion, Cnr Aviemore Dr and Pakuranga Rd www.eastlife.co.nz

directory NOT JUST KITCHENS LTD is the customer focused company with a big reputation for creating kitchens with that elusive ‘wow’ factor.

R11009

Bluebells

In-Home Childcare Childcare on your terms

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm. Closed Sundays & Public Holidays.

E: admin@notjustkitchensltd.co.nz | W: www.notjustkitchensltd.co.nz

09 215 8335 / 021 338 639 stephanie@bluebells.co.nz www.bluebells.co.nz

350 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland PH: 522 2626 | www.countrytheme.co.nz

E510166-v2

Showroom: 1/13 West St, Pukekohe. Ph (09) 238 3429.

EDUCATORS NEEDED URGENTLY We have families needing care in East Auckland NOW!!!

E510169

Mike Just has an instinctive flair for designing and manufacturing stylish kitchens of the highest quality. You will never find a Not Just Kitchen design like yours anywhere else.

Accredited Member (design & horticulture) of Landscape Industries Assoc. of NZ Inc.

ph: 534 1823 mob: 021 123 5650 lynn@fusionlandscapedesign.co.nz www.fusionlandscapedesign.co.nz E520002-v3

Service & Value

GUARANTEED

Commerical / Industrial / Residential

Beaufords

in Totara Park

Weddings • Conferences • Private Functions

Waterblasters

• House soft wash • Roof cleaning • Gutter cleaning • Pre-paint cleaning • Fence and walls • Deck cleaning • Path cleaning WE ALSO OFFER...

Pest control

Window cleaning Carpet cleaning Furniture and upholstery cleaning Ph 0508 932 532 (0508 WE CLEAN), mobile 021 366 615 Email: office@bestpropertyservices.co.nz

For enquiries P (09) 267-6979 E john@beaufords.co.nz 90 Wairere Rd, The Gardens, Manurewa

www.bestpropertyservices.co.nz

www.beaufords.co.nz

Highbrook Fisher House, 117 Kerwyn Ave Howick Howick Information Centre, 91 Picton St Total Focus Property, 111 Picton St Timeless Images Photography, Howick Village Mall, Central Tce Monterey Cinemas, 4/2 Fencible Dr Smith and Sons, 22 Moore St Mobile Ceramics, 198 Moore St www.eastlife.co.nz

CALL ROB: 534 1337

54050

Inner Concepts, 186 Wellington St Westpac Howick, 19 Wellington St Shamrock Cottage, 73 Selwyn Rd Pakuranga Frames Today, 421 Pakuranga Rd Pakuranga Plaza Information Desk Pakuranga Library, 7 Aylesbury St Brownson’s Jewellers, Pakuranga Plaza

Howick Historical Village, Cnr Bells Road and Lady Marie Drive, Lloyd Elsmore Park Howick Little Theatre, Sir Lloyd Dr Placemakers Pakuranga, 481 Pakuranga Rd Pine Harbour The Jolly Roger Pub, 190 Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina Whitford Prenzel of Whitford, 7 Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford Village

E513096

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.

eastlife | may 2014 |

81

directory EAST

BEAUTY CLINIC

Health, Beauty & Well Being

Hydrating Facial deep cleanse; brow shape; face, neck, ONLY

CARE

CARE

ACCIDENT | MEDICAL | SPECIALISTS

BOTANY ROAD

ACCIDENT|MEDICAL|SPECIALISTS

BOTANY ROAD

OPEN 24/7

$35

• Reduced after hours charges*

(6pm to 8am weekdays, all weekend hours & public holidays)

60 minutes

• Aroma body massage • waxing • makeup • lash perming • tinting Treatment: lymphatic drainage • deep cleansing • native collagen • acne • whitening

*applies to ✓ FREE under 6’s after hours ✓ Over 65’s ✓ Community Service Card holders ✓ High User Card holders • Doctors and nurses on site 24 hours • No appointment necessary • Over 40 visiting specialists

Two convenient locations

Shop 8E, 119 Meadowlands Dr, Howick

Ph 535 8400 / 021 558 658

www.thaispa.co.nz

E512122-v2

260 Botany Road, Howick 700m from Botany Town Centre Phone 277 1516 www.eastcare.co.nz

HOT SPRINGS

100% NATURAL MINERAL POOLS

COMPLIMENTARY check-up to all new patients

100% Natural Mineral Pools ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€ ď€†ď€‡ď€ˆď€‰ď€Šď€‹ď€Œď€‚ď€?ď€?ď€? ď€?ď€†ď€ƒď€“ď€Šď€‰ď€?ď€?ď€Šď€•ď€ ď€’ď€„ď€?ď€?ď€Šď€‘ď€Œď€’ď€Šď€Š ď€‘ď€Œď€Œď€‡ď€Šď€?ď€?ď€“ď€‚ď€‰ď€Žď€ ď€‰ď€?ď€‰ď€Šď€Žď€†ď€Šď€ ď€Šď€Š ď€?ď€’ď€‹ď€Šď€—ď€ ď€?ď€?ď€?ď€Šď€…ď€Œď€ƒď€ ď€?ď€Žď€Œď€†ď€Šď€Š

Come and relax with us at Miranda Hot Springs in our thermal fresh mineral water. Centrally located, we have three pools to suit all swimmers.

Come on in and check us out!

Experienced dentists, same day dentistry, state of the art technology, fair rates, friendly team and relaxing environment

E513052-v2

180 Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga.

Ph: 577 2998 2/166 Chapel Rd, Botany South.

Ph: 274 9489

E510303b

shoulder massage; FHD machine; hydrating mask

EAST

ď€

Miranda Hot Springs – 100% Natural Mineral Pools

ď€ ď€‚ď€ ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‡ď€ˆď€‰ď€ƒď€Šď€‡ď€„ď€… ď€ ď€‚ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€‡ď€‚ď€†ď€ˆď€‰ď€„ď€…ď€Š ď€ ď€†

595 Front Miranda Rd, R.D.6, Thames Phone: 07 867 3055 | Fax: 07 867 3187 Email: info@mirandahotsprings.co.nz Web: www.mirandahotsprings.co.nz

ď€ ď€‚ď€ ď€ƒď€„ď€…ď€†ď€ ď€‡ď€ˆď€‰ď€Šď€‹ď€Œď€‰ď€ ď€?ď€ˆď€‰ď€„ď€…ď€ˆď€ ď€‚ď€

 ď€ƒ     ď€ˆ  ď€ ď€

53796

E513094-v2

E510182

Everlasting Daisies

Half Moon Bay Marina Anchor Building, 1 Ara Tai Dr, Half Moon Bay. Ph 535 1074.

Mon-Fri 8am-7pm.

Sat: 9.30am-2.30pm

NZ’s most comprehensive display of artificial flowers www.everlastingdaisies.co.nz

• Decor • Gourmet food • Local produce • Original art

ECIAL After hours by appointment

ASH WITHwww.marinadentists.co.nz VICE

E513054-v4

Unit 7G, Bishop’s Gate Business Centre, cnr Te Irirangi Drive & Bishop Dunn Pl, Botany South opp Mitre 10 Mega Ph 265 0472

E512064-v3

Gift vouchers available now for Mother’s Day

PinE HarBoUr Marina Nor West House, 190 Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands.

Ph 536 4361. Mon-Fri 9.30am*5.30pm. Sat: 9.30am-2.30pm

7A Whitford Wharf Road, Whitford Ph 09 530 8259 info@thevillagebarn.co.nz : www.facebook.com/ thevillagebarnwhitford E512125

E512132

Team McMillan BMW

ICE*

H WITH EVERY FULL SERV

FREE W.O.F. & CARWAS • Mechanical Repairs • Japanese & European Car Specialists

• Easy Finance

• Transmission Flush • Mechanical Warranty • Tyres/Wheel Balance & Wheel Alignment

• Window Tinting • Air Conditioning Re-gassing

WE’RE OPEN 7 DAYS Monday to Friday 8:30am - 6pm • Saturday 8.30am - 5pm • Sunday 10am - 5pm

E512139

146B HARRIS ROAD, EAST TAMAKI Ph 272 4962 or 0800 327 838 (24 HRS)

info@nzfastcarseuros.co.nz • www.nzfastcarseuros.co.nz

82 | eastlife | may 2014

*Conditions apply

www.teambmw.com

GENUINE BMW PARTS. Ńź /;ŃłT MBSHFTU #.8 EFBMFS Ńź &YQFSJFODFE QBSUT UFBN Ńź NPOUI 'BDUPSZ (VBSBOUFF

$BSFFS PQQPSUVOJUJFT OPX BWBJMBCMF $POUBDU #MBJS (SPVCF UP FORVJSF Team McMillan BMW 7-15 Great South Road, Newmarket, Auckland.

09 524 3300. www.teambmw.com E513076

www.eastlife.co.nz

MANUKAU NISSAN motoring | eastlife

AUCKLAND’S NEWEST NISSAN DEALERSHIP IS NOW OPEN! Secondary Logo

Primary Logo AU UK AN r D AN SS I sh N di en v a C

d ui R

in Puh

NISSAN’S BIRTHDAY

Lambie Driv e

TH

M

SOUTH WESTE

DRIVE TO CAVENDISH VENDISH D DRIVE FOR AUCKLAND’S BEST DEAL ON A NIS

ER TH

EX-DEMO PULSAR M

Rd

N

th Sou

SALE

U SO

Gt

AU UK N r N SA D IS sh N i d en av C

AY W OR OT

OPENING SPECIAL

NEW NAVARA

EX-DEMO PULSAR

OPENING SPECIAL

$7,000 SAVE UP TORRP

2,000 SAVE UP TO $1 RRP

PULSAR bt Rd Redou SEDAN

OPENING SPECIAL

www.manukaunissan.co.nz

N MOTORWAY

OFF NEW

NEW X-TRAIL

NEW X-TRA

OPENING SPECIAL OFF NEW

SOUTH WESTER

NEW NAVARA

ENDS MAY 31

OPENING SPECIAL

OPENING SPE

0 SAVE UP TO $1 RRP OFF NEW

PULSAR

09 261 4000 • 17 Cavendish Drive • OPEN 7HATCH DAYS

Part of Austral

0 0 0 , 0 0 1 0 $ 0 , O 7 T $ P 0 O U 0 T MANUKAU MANUKA NISSAN E 0 , P V 2 U 1 A $ S O T SAVE RRP P U E V A P R S R W E N F F O FACTORY P OFF NEW R R W E OFF N BONUS

A NISSAN.

$5000

AUCKLAND’S AUCKLAND’S NEWEST NISSAN DEALERSHIP NEWEST IS NOW OPEN! NIS U SO

Gt

ER

TH

th Sou

M

Lambie Dri ve

AY W OR OT

M

Rd

N

AU UK AN r D AN SS I sh N di en av C

d ui R

in Puh

t Rd

Redoub

MOTORWAY SOUTH WESTERN

www.manukaunis an.co.nz

X-TRAIL $ 29,990 G SPECIAL RANGE STARTS FROM

+ORC

ACROSS THE ENTIRE RANGE

2.9%

While stocks last.

EX-DEMO EX-DEMO PULSAR PULSAR NEW NAVARA

OPENING OPENING SPECIAL SPECIAL OPENING SPECIAL

TO $10,000

FROM

$

54,990

09 261 4000 • 17 Cavendish Drive • OPEN 7 DAYS FINANCE

+ORC

• Class leading fuel economy • Class leading 2,700kg towing capacity

NEW X-TRAIL

OPENING SPECIAL

*The Pulsar recommended sale price of $24,990+orc is available on Pulsar ST Hatch and Sedan models and includes $5,000 Factory Bonus off the recommended retail price of $29,990.

0 0,00 00 VE 00 $1deposit ,0 ,0 TO $7SA TO VE UPwith 2,000only. The Navara 2.9% p.a interest rateSA UP TO UP Finance to new Navara (D22 & D40) variants for approved applicants$7 ofVE Nissan Financial is available zero and 36 VE applies TO $1Services SAOffer UP P SA RR W P P NE RR RR F W above offers are available inOF Woffer, are only while OF NE NE F with month term. None the conjunction any other stocks related fees, charges OFFof RRP last, and available between May 1-31, 2014. Additional finance OFF NEW and terms and conditions apply. Additional on-road charges apply. Excludes all lease and some fleets purchases. Navara Sports Bar and Nudge Bar shown as optional accessories.

NEW RRP

www.eastlife.co.nz

Part ofAustralasia’s LargestAutomotive

eastlife | may 2014 |

83

09 261 4000 • 17 Cavendish Drive • OPEN 7 DAYS www.manukaunissan.co.nz www.manukaunissan.co.nz

Part of Australasia’s Largest Automotive Group

E512175

WAY TOR MO

h Rd

ERN

Sout

TH SOU

Gt

U ACROSS THE ENTIRE PULSAR RANGE STARTING FROM $24,990 + ORC* A K U N r N SA DRIVE TO CAVENDISH VENDISH TO D DRIVECAVENDISH FOR AUCKLAND’S VENDISH BEST DEAL OND DRIVE A NISSAN. DDRIVE IS h N is d n e av QASHQAI PATHFINDER NAVARA C FINAL RUNOUT

Nobody in the World Sells More Real Estate than RE/MAX!

or the n.

Nobody in the World Sells More Real Estate than RE/MAX! Nobody in the World Sells More Real Estate than RE/MAX!

All the best for the All the best for the festive season. festive season.

Call David Hilliam for further details

From your local RE/MAX Team...

YOUR INVESTMENT DREAM From your local RE/MAX Team...

Graeme Kidd Perfectly located being just minutes from Botany Town Centre, and having 021 0824 0061 the ease of Ormiston Road and Te Irirangi Drive to get you to where you

have to be. With 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, recently refurbished, and a large back section with garage and workshop this is the perfect investment, with amazing long term tenants paying $420 per week.

View: Sat/Sun 2.15-2.45pm For Sale: Buyers Early to Mid $300,000’s For more details visit www.open2view#315197 Phone David Hilliam 021 925 996 / anytime 215 3153

RE/MAX Zest (Remuera) 322 Remuera Road, Remuera ph. 09 524 5242

David Hilliam 021 925 996 David Hilliam 021 925 996

Rob Hewison 021 284 3629 Rob Hewison 021 284 3629 RE/MAX Zest (Howick) 3/15 Cook Street, Howick ph. 09 538 0020

RE/MAX Zest (Howick)

3/15 Cook Street, Howick Zest for Realty Limited. Licensed Under the REAA (2008). ph. 09 538 0020

Graeme Kidd 021 0824 0061 Graeme Kidd 021 0824 0061 RE/MAX Zest (Remuera) 322 Remuera Road, Remuera ph. 09 524 5242

RE/MAX Zest (Remuera) 322 Remuera Road, Remuera ph. 09 524 5242

E512053-v4

Matt Clark 0273 811 733 Matt Clark 0273 811 733