EastLife May 2018 by Times Media

May 2018

eastlife.co.nz

COMPLIMENTARY

Swiss Mrs – paddock to plate Auckland Botanic Gardens – Jack Hobbs Weather-wise designer

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– SHE’S A COUNTRY GIRL

eastlife | may 2018 |

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Choosing a venue should be as easy as saying

Need help organising your special day? Please contact our Wedding Coordinator for more information. Michelle Gain 2 | eastlife | may 2018

09 526 3029 spec.events@waipunahotel.co.nz waipunahotel.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz CR0111

MREINZ

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

The days are definitely getting shorter and Winter does appear to be knocking on the door, so there has never been a better time to start to think about moving house. Less competition in Winter means premium prices can be achieved. So don’t put your life on hold fearing Winter isn’t the time to sell, because that’s just a myth. Let us chat further and get you moving sooner. Until next month, take care. QUOTE OF THE MONTH “If you can’t fly, run If you can’t run, walk If you can’t walk, crawl But by all means keep moving. ”

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

Dannemora Dream

11 Limerick Place

Come and see your new home! Featuring spacious formal and informal living areas, separate lounge and dining plus family room and kitchen. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, master with ensuite . Immaculately presented throughout, enjoy modern living with room for all the family to spread out. Wonderful outdoor living perfect for alfresco dining, situated in a secluded and private setting surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Don’t miss out viewing this lovely home all ready for you to just move on in, sit back and relax!

www.tfproperty.co.nz Ref:TFP38165

Expressions of Interest closing 4pm 30th May 2018 (USP)

Call Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

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On arrival, this attractive home is sure to make you smile, and then once inside does its beauty truly unfold. Prepare to be wowed at every corner and we seriously mean this. We are constantly being asked for 3 bedroom homes by the village, all on one level, with nothing to do but move in and enjoy. Sound like you? Then look no further as we have found the one. This superior home has been meticulously renovated to a very high standard and is super spacious with an expansive living area that combines an entertainers kitchen, dining and lounge. Offering three bedrooms and two bathrooms, set on a manageable 833 sqm section (mol) of mature planting, shrubs, trees and garden. So if you have ever dreamed of owning a home worthy of appearing in House and Garden then you had better put this property at the top of your viewing list. www.tfproperty.co.nz Ref: TFP38164

Call Leigh 021646565 or Greg 0274966966

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Ph 09-5380151

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

111 Picton Street, Howick Village

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Paul Charlesworth 027 280 9551

Karen Dawson 538 0151

eastlife | may 2018 |

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on the cover

Holiday blessings School holidays! What bliss driving to work these past couple of weeks – we have done the morning trip in half the usual time! Of course, holidays also mean snatching outings with the grandies and first up was the Peter Rabbit movie, which charmed us all.

ALICE HITS THE CITY: Local country music singers can expect plenty of support thanks to the Eastern Districts Country Music Club. Recently, we caught up with a fresh addition to the club (2016 NZ Golden Guitar winner and Owairoa School teacher, Alice Fraser) at Howick Historical Village. We discovered that, even in the Super City, country music can hit all the right notes. See more page 17. Photo Wayne Martin

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz

I did enjoy this contemporary take on Peter’s antics almost as much as listening to the laughter that gurgled up not just from my two grandsons but from all the children in the theatre. It was infectious – we laughed too! How I wish there were more times like this in life! Naturally, holidays also mean keeping boredom at bay on rainy days and, in our family, books do the job very well. I was particularly delighted to find Elastic Island Adventures – Jewel Lagoon (by Karen McMillan) for eight-year-old grandson who is an avid reader. I think it was colourful friends, Pangali the Platypus, Olaf the Giant, and Big Wig and Wee Wig Knockulous that caught my attention first; knowing how my boys love an adventure full of dangers, plus a bit of quirkiness

Sales: Jackie Underhill 09 271 8092, jackie@eastlife.co.nz

This month

Sales: Cathy Renolds 09 271 8019, cathy@eastlife.co.nz

Sales: Kate Ockelford-Green 09 271 8090, kate@eastlife.co.nz Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz

DISCLAIMER: Articles published in EastLife do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times Media Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Media Ltd.

4 | eastlife | may 2018

I am so glad my daughter’s children love their books and that they appreciate a wide cross section of reading. Eldest grandson has recently been exploring the Guinness World Records – Science and Stuff. He took great delight in telling me all about (wait for it) farts and why it could be fatal if you held them in. Did I need to know this? Probably not, but I do now, and better late than never, I suppose. Well, the holidays are now behind us and I guess it’s back to the same old daily grind on the roads but I’m delighted to hear the Mill Road project is back on track and is part of the Government’s new 10-year funding package for Auckland. But for now, a little light reading is a good way to forget driving worries and this month’s EastLife

WIN

8-9

could be the kind of reading which will please others, too. Gardeners can surely learn a thing or two from our Q&A with Auckland Botanic Gardens manager (and former local) Jack Hobbs while family cooks, seeking a quick easy meal, should check out the delicious stir fry on page 31 from former Australia MasterChef runner-up Poh Ling Yeow. Earlier, I mentioned rainy days and this month’s fashion pages showcase a clever local whose water-proof coats are sure to leave some readers tickled pink! I could tell you more, but why not grab a cuppa, and just enjoy!

Helen Perry Editor P.S. Just a quick reminder that Mother’s Day looms and, no matter what life’s circumstances, this is a day to remember our mums and, where possible to acknowledge their love and care while expressing our own love.

17-19 interviewS

Prizes up for grabs

• A touch of country • Living the good life

sponsored by Andrew Simms Experience Centre

Photography: Wayne Martin

Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine

On seeking a book for the fiveyear-old, I came up with Marion Day’s latest, Skiddies (don’t ask, but I can hear those boys giggling now!) about mischievous Benji who is constantly caught up in scary, silly and funny incidents and accidents.

6-7 community calendar

Design: Claire Robertson 09 271 8067, media@eastlife.co.nz Published by Times Media Ltd Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163

too, it seemed ideal.

faces & Places

astLife E photographers focus on local events

22-29 fashion, beauty & health

• Rain, rain, go away • Project to boost selfconfidence • Boho glamour

30-33 Food

10-11 Q&A

• Taste • Recipe • Dining Guide

12-13 Mother’s day

34-37 home

with Jack Hobbs Essentials for mum

14-16 travel

• E n-lightened hotel on skis! • Wildlife thrives in park

• Out of Europe • Regular columnists • We know Jacs

Camila Dixon page 22 www.eastlife.co.nz

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.eastlife.co.nz and enter this month’s code ELmAY8090. one entry per email address / person; entries close may 31, 2018. Winners notified by phone or email.

WIN! WEt N WIlD makEuP Pack once upon a time, in order to achieve that ‘wet’ look, we’d need to first learn to swim! These days, however, it’s much easier to look both wet and wild thanks to the good folk at Wet n Wild. Featuring everything from blushes to lashes, concealer and more – as well as a handy makeup bag – this prize pack is sure to have at least one reader (or their mum!) ready to dive right in!

WIN! Go GIrl: a Storybook of EPIc NZ WomEN When it comes to gender equality it’s time to get with the programme or... Else! From Whina Cooper, Janet Frame and Jean Batten to Farah Palmer and even (our good) Lorde, women have taken centre stage in new Zealand society. however, it’s easy to forget just how strong these famous femmes (and many more) have needed to be to reach the summit of their chosen fields. With this powerful, inspirational book – a great gift idea for mother’s Day – Barbara Else encourages every Kiwi girl (of any age) to reach for the top and write her own story of success. Barbara Else: Go Girl – a Storybook of Epic NZ Women | RRP $45 (hardback) | Puffin / Penguin NZ

WIN! tIckEtS to thE chErry orcharD When the servant becomes a master, society itself turns on its head. Writing more than a decade before a revolution, the repercussions of which are still being felt to this day, Anton Chekhov saw that Russia was on the brink of societal upheaval. in The Cherry Orchard the notions of society are explored in a tale which lays bare the nature of materialism. Thanks to Auckland Theatre Company, EastLife has a double pass to this stage show (on June 12-26) to give away. more information about this play is available via atc.co.nz/whats-on.

WIN! $160 GooD hEalth famouS fIvE Throughout the year, summoning up the energy we need to be at our best isn’t easy. Thankfully, Good health is on hand to help. While Adrenal Balance and B stress Free are designed to fight fatigue and the pressures of everyday work or home life, immuno-Biotic seeks to support digestive and immune health. And, with synetrim slim’s assistance on the weight management front, and Body Cleanse’s cleaning prowess, this famous five is ready to help us put health at the top of their agenda. We have a prize pack featuring all of these products up for grabs.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2018 |

E X P E R I E N C E

C E N T R E

B O TA N Y

➤ fEStIval

May ➤ EXPoS & fEStIvalS arts out East festival May 12-26, times and locations vary A celebration of fine arts, film, music, cultural performances, theatre, workshops, demonstrations and more, this festival expects to ensure our corner of Auckland has its cup flowing over with creative juices! For a full schedule, visit artsouteast.org.nz. in particular, check out the Ceramika exhibition, (at howick’s Polish heritage museum). We’re predicting this event will be a real... cracker!

➤ thEatrE mrs Warren’s Profession May 1-16, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey St, Auckland City soon after George Bernard shaw penned this play, it was promptly banned, as much for the hypocrisies it exposed as its subject matter. Thanks to Auckland Theatre Company, however, this story of sexuality and empowerment is set to be told on the Auckland stage. see atc. co.nz/whats-on for details. the house by the lake May 5-26, times vary, Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Dr, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga maurice has murder on his mind. As this play unfolds, will this coldblooded killer and his accomplice get away with the perfect murder or will the discovery of his fiendish plot mean he must kill again? There’s only one way to find out for sure! see hlt.org.nz.

the Story of the Panda bears told by a Saxophonist (Who has a Girlfriend in frankfurt) May 30 – June 2, times vary, Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Dr, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga if awards were given for play titles alone, this production should clean up! Written by matei visniec – who’s big in Romania – this hLT studio play is a surreal (aka weird) adventure which sets out to challenge logic itself. Details via hlt.org.nz/whats-on/hlt-studio.

➤ muSIc

feature during this star-studded show. visit apo.co.nz/whats-on for details of this (and more) concerts on this month.

handel - messiah at twilight May 6, 5-7pm, All Saints Church, 17 Selwyn Rd, Howick Looking to be in tune with a ‘choir’ power? since German-born composer, George Frideric handel, first penned his masterpiece, Messiah this work has lifted the spirits of millions. now, thanks to the talents of the Pakuranga Choral society, locals will experience his marvellous music at All saints Church. For details, see pakchoralsociety.wordpress. com.

auckland youth orchestra concert May 26, 2-2.45pm, Ormiston Senior College, 275 Ormiston Rd, Flat Bush Presenting works by Wagner, Greig and Elgar, some of Auckland’s most talented young musicians are set to prove that the greatest tunes of all time come with strings attached! Details via ayo.org.nz/concert.

the Planets May 10, from 7.30pm, Auckland Town Hall, Queen St, Auckland City ‘holst’ on to your hats, classical music fans, because the Auckland Philharmonia orchestra is about to blow the roof off the Town hall! English composer, Gustav holst, was so spellbound by astrology that he created beautiful music about the devoted deities after which the planets in our solar system are named. Works by Debussy and Tchaikovsky also

E X P E R I E N C E

• 6Eight Brands in One Place | eastlife | may 2018 • Large Service Centre

the Documentary Edge International film festival May 23 - June 4, Q Theatre, 305 Queen St, Auckland City What’s up? Docs! Featuring 50

C E N T R E

➤ artS Pat Neilsen exhibition May 4-27 (Fridays – Sundays), 10am – 3pm, Green Gables Art Gallery, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook St, Howick Pat neilsen will show her true colours in may with sales from paintings helping south Auckland Totara hospice support the community. For further details, contact howick Art Group via howickartgroup.co.nz.

documentaries by filmmakers both foreign and domestic, this festival shows our world in many an interesting light. see docedge.nz for details. acts of Passage May 18-27, Te Tuhi Offsite, Silo 6, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland City Throughout history, ritual practices have been developed to help us establish order in our alltoo-chaotic lives. Acts of Passage – a performance exhibition – explores such rituals from south America, Africa, the Pacific and new Zealand revealing how they have become so closely tied to our way of life. For more information, visit tetuhi.org.nz.

➤ comEDy heath franklin’s chopper – bogan Jesus May 11-12, from 7.30pm, Sky City Theatre, cnr Victoria and Federal Sts, Auckland City Basing a comedy persona on a self-confessed multiple murderer should be, quite simply, a bad idea, right? Wrong! if it wasn’t for the horrific actions of one mark ‘Chopper’ Read, there’s a good chance Aussie comedian, heath Franklin, may never have risen to the heights of fame he has. Even

B O TA N Y

• Highly Trained Team • Great Value for Money

• Award Winners www.eastlife.co.nz • Partners with the Community

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

➤ SPort & fItNESS trail buster Duder May 6, 8am-12pm, Duder Regional Park, 891 North Rd, Clevedon Why hit that dusty trail when you can bust it wide open... dude? set in Clevedon’s picturesque Duder Regional Park, this fun run/ walk winds through bush and farmland. more information via trailbusterduder2018.gofundraise. co.nz. Chopper though Chopper (the real one) has now gone to that big ole stony lonesome in the sky (more likely, located somewhere a little more ‘tropical’) his legacy lives on, just in a much more society-friendly way. irreverent to the extreme, heath’s shows are well worth their cover charge. Details regarding this new Zealand tour accessible via skycityauckland.co.nz/ whats-on.

➤ famIly fuN the Snot-Gobbler May 5-6, times vary, Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick if anyone’s ever suggested that they’ll ‘wipe that smile off your face’ you’ll know how much that only encourages us to smirk even more! When Gotten-Gitten von schnauzelburger invents a slimy rag which does this quite literally, however, its no laughing matter... well, it’s still pretty funny for the audience anyway! This familyfriendly puppet show looks as though it’ll have adults as well as children snorting with laughter, however please note that the late show (from 7pm, may 5) is strictly R18; sounds intriguing! Details via uxbridge.org.nz.

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Jennian homes mother’s Day fun run – Ellerslie May 13, from 10am, Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera Giving mums the run-around is par for the ‘course’! however, this mother’s Day, it’s time to show her some solidarity during this fun run designed to help raise funds to fight heart disease. For details, see jennianmothersday.com. botany Swarm season opener May 26 & 27, from 4.45pm, Paradice Ice Skating, 490 Ti Rakau Dr, Botany Downs Playing Devil ‘may’ care will only

get you so far on skates! When the Botany swarm hits the ice for its nZihL season opening double header (games on both saturday and sunday) players will be hoping it’s the Canterbury Red Devils that hit the skids. For details (including a full season schedule) see botanyswarm.co.nz. auckland run Series May 27, from 7.15am, Barry Curtis Park, Flat Bush With five and 10km courses, as well as a two kilometre ‘Kids Dash’ on offer, race three of the Auckland Run series is suited to participants of all ages and levels of fitness. To register, or for details, visit runauckland.co.nz. o rock May 27, 8am-12pm, Barry Curtis Park, Flat Bush, Auckland Those who about to rock... o how we salute you! Designed for those who think that life and fun runs are more fun the rockier they get, this obstacle course sees competitors run, crawl, climb and jump their way over five and 10km courses. more information at orock.co.nz.

➤ homE & GarDEN ayrlies Plant fair May 11-12, 9.30am-4.30pm, Ayrlies, 125 Potts Rd, Whitford stroll through one of Auckland’s most splendid country gardens and experience autumn in all its living colours before picking a few plants (available for sale) and a few thoughts from some of the country’s most experienced growers. offering a festive occasion – complete with refreshments and live music – the Ayrlies Plant Fair is ideal for those in the ‘know’ as well as those who simply love to let it grow! see ayrlies.co.nz.

350 Te Irirangi Drive, Botany | Ph (09) 523 7270 | www.andrewsimms.co.nz

➤ markEtS hunua village St Patrick’s market March 17, 10am-2pm, Hunua Village Green & Hall, Hunua Rd howick village market Every Saturday, 8am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick classy crafts Indoor market First and third Saturday of the month until end of October and then every Saturday until Christmas, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick 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, 6pm-12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza botany Night market Every Wednesday night, 5.30-11pm, beneath Hoyts, Botany Town Centre alfriston country market First Saturday of the month except January, 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston Pine harbour fresh market Every Friday, 4-8pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands

eastlife | may 2018 |

BuddhAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BIRTHDay More than 8000 visitors joined the two-day festivities celebrating Buddhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, a Multicultural Festival for World Peace at Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple in Flat Bush last month. Attractions included a blessing ceremony for babies and children, bathing the Buddha ceremony, Prince Siddhartha costume competition, art exhibitions, cultural performances, vegetarian food stalls, a variety of community stalls and more. 1. Annie Devereaux & Coco Zhang 2. Darryl Cattanach & Reyansh Batra 3. Vicky Su & Dennis Low 4. Josh & Rawiri Purdue & Maria Pahulu Jr

5. Justin Zeng & Kun Zhao 6. Srisook Good & Martin Good 7. Iris, Bella & Tommy Zhao 8. Jocelyn Chow 9. Shiv Sharma 10. Mary Loke

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EXQUISITE WOOD WORKS Visitors to the opening of wood artist, Jane Allnattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exhibition of extraordinary timber carvings were treated to a remarkable display of 32 works, covering a variety of themes, at the Howick Information Centre last month. The week-long exhibition attracted fresh appreciation of this awardwinning artist whose respect for nature was evident in every piece. EastLife photographer JANET KEELING was there too. 7. Eric Koh, Heather Miller & Lauren Males 8. Morrin Cooper and David Westwick 9. Jim & Jane Allnatt 10 Grant & Jacqui Oxenbridge

1. Gay & Grant Sykes, Helen Hodgeson 2. Steve Moore & Ena Yu 3. Rebecca & Alan Moore 4. Jennifer Feng & Cynthia Crock 5. Marian Baars & Vicky Williamson 6. Sam Stephens

8 www.eastlife.co.nz

10 eastlife | may 2018 |

Q&A Jack Hobbs WiTh

most kiwi gardeners are familiar with Jack hobbs, manager of the auckland botanic Gardens for the past 20 years, a well-known gardening presenter of various tv shows and also author of several gardening books and articles. although Jack is a franklin local living on a ﬁve-acre mauku lifestyle property. he grew up in hamilton but spent every summer of his childhood at the family bach, cliff-side on clovelly rd, bucklands beach. his family moved to ‘little bucks’ when he was in his late teens and he met his wife Sandra (also raised in bucklands beach) at the local tennis club. they moved to mauku in their early 20s giving Jack the opportunity to foster both his love of gardening and of horses. Eastlife caught up with him recently.

how big a team do you oversee at the auckland botanic Gardens (abG) and is there any one area you are particularly involved in?

Plant breeding has been a focus at the gardens; what particular plants are you focusing on at present?

We have a team of 32 (not all are full time). This includes collection curators, gardeners, apprentices, a visitor services team and nursery staff. Around 110 volunteers provide invaluable support to our activities from the library and escorting visitors on the Wiri Ramber to helping out in our gardens and nursery. As manager i spend little time in the gardens, but i get a great thrill out of seeing so many people enjoying their visit.

my main early plant-breeding focus was to develop hebe hybrids which remain healthy and perform well in gardens. Recently we have been working on developing camellia hybrids which are resistant to Camellia petal blight, and also daylilies (hemerocallis) which are resistant to daylily rust. We are making good progress with our new daylilies, but the camellia programme is long term with results still several years away.

What is the main focus of the abG and how big an area is covered?

What research if any is being done by the abG team to develop disease-resistant plants?

The main focus of the Botanic Gardens is to engage people with plants and gardens. We think there are huge opportunities for people to benefit from actively gardening and spending time with real living things, and we focus our energies towards promoting these in a ways that are accessible and appealing. The Gardens cover 64 hectares, with most gardens at the southern end near the visitor centre. northern areas are more park-like with stands of large trees, and there is a wonderful remnant stand of native forest with good safe tracks.

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some 15 years ago we decide to cease using insecticides and fungicides on our plants. This met with early resistance and scepticism but we think our plants are healthier today than they were when we were spraying. The overall environment is certainly healthier for visitors and staff. our gardens are now abundant with life, from highly visible birds to bees and insects. Just as importantly, our soils are teaming with microscopic organisms which maintain a healthy garden

ecosystem. We conduct trials to determine which plants will thrive in our spray-free environment and publicly display these as well as recommending them through our website, leaflets and social media. We also breed disease-resistant hybrids. has there been success in either the breeding programme or other research that you are proud of? i remain proud of hebe ‘Wiri mist, an early hybrid that has stood the test of time. several ornamental manuka also perform well such as ‘Wiri sandra’ (pink) and ‘Wiri Donna’ (red). the abG team has been working on a garden advice series, Growing for auckland; is the service up and running, do people know about it and are they using it? The garden advice programme is very active. i think most people access information from our website aucklandbotanicgardnes. co.nz. We also have leaflets and encourage people to follow us on Facebook and instagram for regular updates. Every year we run Drop n Learn programmes where public can join one of our staff who will share their expertise on a particular topic. Details are available on our website.

mid 2017 the garden was awarded a Qualmark Gold Sustainable tourism business award, how signiﬁcant is this and what does it actually mean to visitors? Qualmark provides an assessment of the quality of visitor experience, and we use it as validation of our approach. The sustainability award confirms we act in a sustainable manner and that we convey ideas and information on best practice to public. our sustainable stormwater Trail is an example of this and it has attracted considerable interest from schools, public, contractors and businesses. the abG hosts some major events, such as the biennial Sculpture in the Park, and the annual Elvis in the Gardens amoung others. Which event do you consider to be the most informative, valuable, successful or just plain fun and why? i am a big fan of Eye on nature, our annual event in partnership with manukau Beautification Trust aimed mainly at kids. it really connects young people with nature and important environmental messages, and they have great fun along the way. What plans do you have for abG over 2018 and beyond? www.eastlife.co.nz

We are expanding parking capacity and will soon turn our attention to improving our pathway network. Both projects will feature attractive new plantings and enhance visitors’ enjoyment of the gardens. We are constantly reviewing and improving the gardens to make them more beautiful and engaging. Do you have a favourite ﬂower? i love many plants, but cannot compare how i feel about say pansies versus kauri. in particular, i love seeing plants in the wild. over the past few years i have viewed wildflowers in Borneo, Chatham islands, namaqualand, namibia, mongolia and siberia. so rather than saying a particular plant is my favourite, i would say i get most pleasure from wild plants flourishing and flowering in natural communities. you live in mauku and have horses. how many and are they for racing, trail riding, hunting or just as companions? my wife sandra has two horses which she enjoys riding and occasionally showing. We also have small shares in a few harness racing horses with several friends from our tennis club. nothing beats sharing a horse’s victory with close friends. www.eastlife.co.nz

how many acres do you have and do you have a garden? If so what do you grow and do you have much time for it? We have five acres with a large garden. i have planted many trees over the past 40 years, probably too many. We both love the magnolias when they flower, but all the trees are special. i have a large vegetable garden and an orchard from where we produce almost all our fruit and vegetables. i work in my garden most nights; it is the perfect way to unwind. i also spend quite a lot of my weekends there and love every minute. When and how did you ﬁrst become interested in gardening and when did you realise it could be a career? i became a gardener by accident when i was an arts student and had a holiday job looking after Fisher & Paykel’s gardens at East Tamaki. A few years later i realised it was the most fun of any job i had worked in and, fortunately, i found a role at Auckland Botanic Gardens which are such a great asset for Auckland. your great-great grandfather was an avid gardener and developed a commercially viable peach. Is that peach still grown commercially today or even in private gardens?

my great-great grandfather Rev. John hobbs came to nZ in 1823 and spent most of his time in northland. he was a master of many skills including being an accomplished horticulturist, breeding a peach named ‘hobbs Late’. it was commercially grown for many years and today we have a specimen at the botanic gardens. you have been a gardening presenter of tv shows and have also written gardening books and articles. have you ever considered a permanent media career role? Working in the media was lots of fun and a great way to communicate my passion for plants. i loved Maggie’s Garden Show and, before that, Living Earth, but television was never something i envisaged as a career. i do love writing and photography though, and hope to do more when i finally leave the botanic gardens. you’ve travelled quite extensively and led gardening tours; which is your favourite ‘must-see’ garden (anywhere in the world) and why? Wisley in Woking near London is my favourite garden as it has such extensive plant displays and high horticultural standards. Wisley is also about plantsmanship and experimentation.

If you could grow any plant or species – ﬂower or vegetable – what would it be? i would probably grow citrus as they are both beautiful and useful. however, it would be a nightmare growing only one plant group. If you could be minister of conservation for a day what would be the ﬁrst thing you would do and why? i would place more emphasis on threatened plant conservation. Plants receive relatively little attention or resources compared to birds, but they are just as important to people and the environment. If you could ask any three people (living or dead) to dinner who and why? sir David Attenborough who i once had lunch with along with maggie Barry and others from maggie’s Garden show. sir David was superb company, very entertaining and easy to be with. Also, Barrack obama who i regard as a great leader and brilliant mind. Finally, that great botanist, Joseph Banks.

Photo Wayne Martin

eastlife | may 2018 |

Essentials for Mum once again, mother’s Day provides the perfect opportunity to say ‘thank you’ and ‘i love you mum’ and what better way to show care and appreciation but with a gift that makes her feel extra special. here are just a few ideas designed to make mum’s day!

ElEGaNcE aND Warmth – Naturally! Treat mum to something as special as she is. This exquisite Air Cape sweater from Untouched World™ is beautifully crafted in new Zealand from a luxurious blend of merino, brushtail possum and silk. it is available in store at untouched World™, 20 high St, auckland, phone 09 303 1382 or online at www.untouchedworld.com

Say It WIth GuylIaN There’s nothing like the unforgettable taste sensation of famous sea shell Guylian Chocolates! originating from an exceptional blend of West African cocoa and using 100% pure cocoa butter to provide a rich, creamy, melt in your mouth texture, Guylian Chocolates should be savoured slowly. The signature toasted hazelnut Praliné filling, invented the founder Guy Foubert, is still used today – fresh mediterranean hazelnuts gently roasted until they reach the perfect level of caramelisation – delicious! You’ll know a true Guylian sea shell chocolate by its G-stamp of quality. Available from a store near you.

GorGEouS GIftS for mothErS Day at NumbEr 5 DESIGN Emu slippers, kimonos and lounge pants in pretty patterns and colours. We stock the moR range of hand and body lotions, soaps, diffusers and candles. A new shipment of La Chamba cookware has just landed including a tagine for those winter casseroles. The favourites are still here, Lyttelton Lights, Kea Rose, Fabienne jewellery and saben handbags. open 7 days in the Whitford village. No 5 Design, 5 Whitford maraetai rd, Whitford Ph 09 530 9333, Email shop@no5design.co.nz

DESIGN STORE

PINk PEtalS for mum Treat your mum this mother’s Day with Pink Petal hand Cream by Linden Leaves. An intensely nourishing, fast absorbing therapy for your hands, it is beautifully fragranced with top notes of pink petals layered over fresh florals – the perfect treat to achieve soft and beautiful skin. made with love in new Zealand. Available from leading pharmacies, Farmers, gift stores and online at www.lindenleaves.com.

12 | eastlife | may 2018

hoW much IS thIS momENt Worth? so imagine if you couldn’t look into their eyes or see their face. Your vision is priceless, that’s why you can’t cut corners with it. At howick village optometrists we leave no stone unturned when examining your family’s eyes Book an appointment today for your peace of mind. howick village optometrist, 94 Picton Street, howick. Phone 09 534 8716. www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

www.eastlife.co.nz

BooKs –

made for mums hoW WE mEt by mIchElE a’court

a SIStEr IN my houSE by lINDa olSSoN

Everyone loves a good ‘meet cute’, well, their own anyway. But it seems how couples meet can actually set the stage for their relationships from that fated day until death does part us or (perhaps) we wish it would! in How We Met, comedian michele A’Court presents a collection of such stories, from the romantic and serendipitous, to the convoluted, scandalous, breath-taking and downright absurd. Based on how the couples featured in this book tell their story, michelle explores how great love can last the distance.

While maria may have found respite in a rented house, her spanish haven may not be as safe as she believes. When her younger sister, Emma, arrives, she brings with her memories of a childhood the pair would rather forget. in this heart-warming story, maria and Emma must learn how to overcome personal tragedies and leave the past where it belongs.

if you’re like most of us, your mum can probably read you like a book, but she’d probably prefer one of these top titles for mother’s Day instead!

Linda Olsson: A sister in my house | RRP $35 | Penguin

Michele A’Court: how We met | RRP $35 | HarperCollins

kEEPING It rEal by makaIa carr

rEbEl PrINcE by tom boWEr

makaia Carr was a ‘maori teen mum from the ’naki’ who others expected to end up on the DPB. But, despite leaving school at 16 and becoming pregnant just a year later, this inspirational woman wasn’t going to ‘end up’ how others expected! Working her way up in the fashion industry, makaia has struggled but this motivational speaker has found that physical and emotional well-being starts with self-acceptance, as this moving book reveals.

Being a prince under the microscope in this modern world is no picnic! in this book, author, Tom Bower, seeks to better understand Prince Charles who, despite his hard work and concern for the disadvantaged, has struggled to overcome unpopularity. Drawn from accounts by some who have connections to the inner sanctum of Clarence house, this book attempts to reveal just how heavy hangs the head of a man who would be a king.

Makaia Carr: Keeping it Real | RRP $38 | Random House NZ

Tom Bower: Rebel Prince – The Power, Passion and Defiance of Prince Charles | RRP $32.99 | HarperCollins

Beautiful Mother’s Day Gifts are on

Handcrafed Rings Fitted Wedding Bands All Jewellery Repairs Direct Diamond Importers Insurance Quotations Duty Free Agents

SALE Hurry in for a limited time only!

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Botany Town Centre Ph 09 277 7746 nzjewellers.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2018 |

En-lightened hotel on skis! Ever dreamed of seeing the Northern lights but thought the chances of doing so were remote? Well, perhaps not so chancy after all.

off the map travel has launched a new hotel experience in northern finland where a well appointed, glamping cabin is towed into a remote wilderness location, deep in the arctic circle, perfectly situated for lying back to experience the Northern lights (aurora borealis) from the comfort of your bed.

use of the cabin’s snowshoes and kicksleds giving them the chance to explore the local area during their stay.

the new mobile rooms, which include a clear aurora viewing roof, are located six kilometres east of kilpisjärvi, finland. these cosy cabins measure 2.5m wide, 4.5m long and 2m tall, and include a comfortable, wide bed to lie back and take in the night sky. there’s a table, dry toilet and a gas heater with thermostat to ensure the night is warm. Guests will also have exclusive

14 | eastlife | may 2018

Photo courtesy of Kilpissafarit

more than a 70 percent chance of seeing the Northern lights.

ice thaws, rooms are relocated to a new home for the following season.

the experience starts at 6pm when a guide transports guests by snowmobile to their room for the night before teaching them how to make a campﬁre and grill some local sausages. after the wilderness grill, guests have the camp to themselves.

Every off the map travel itinerary can be tailor-made to ﬁt the requirements of guests. for example, a 3-night, 4-day itinerary costs from approximately $NZ 3100 based on two adults sharing.

“away from any man-made light pollution, it is here that the wilderness camp is placed for the winter giving guests the best possible opportunity to experience the Northern lights.”

to fuel guests’ Northern lights hunting, local snacks and hot drinks are provided, with a warming breakfast also included in the overnight experience

this includes private transfers to and from the airport in tromso, two nights in a log chalet and one in the new aurora Wilderness camp with all meals included and great opportunities to see the aurora. flights not included.

Statistically, the kilpisjärvi area has more clear night skies and records more Northern lights activity than any other place in finland. Experts have estimated that if the sky is clear, visitors have

With three mobile rooms available to book, each comfortably sleeping two people, they combine to make an aurora wilderness camp, placed in the best possible location for seeing the lights. When the winter

founder of off the map travel and arctic travel expert, Jonny cooper says the wilderness surrounding kilpisjärvi is known for its remote and uninterrupted arctic tundra.

for more information visit: www.offthemap.travel. this season’s wilderness trips ﬁnished mid-april. they will resume in January 2019.

www.eastlife.co.nz

SkyCouch upgrade soars with parents Improved toddler bedtimes and relaxation on board some Air New Zealand planes is more than likely now that the airline’s award-winning Skycouch has been revised. Introduced in 2011 the original design saw a row of three economy seat convert into a flat flexible surface for rest, and play. Now, Air New Zealand has introduced a dedicated infant harness and belt, allowing infants to remain lying down throughout the cruise phase of flight. Previously they were required to be seated on a guardian’s lap when the seatbelt sign was on. A new infant pod also provides additional comfort and protection for the airline’s youngest Skycouch customers.

children to use it thus providing greater flexibility for families. Air New Zealand general manager, (customer experience), Anita Hawthorne says the Skycouch has proven to be a real game changer in the economy cabin. “While we initially marketed it to couples, we quickly found the

product suited parents with young families especially well. Parents can relax while their children are able to have their own space and flat area to play without interrupting other passengers.”

Pending certification and regulatory approvals, the airline plans to make the modified Skycouch product available progressively in the coming months onboard its Boeing 777 and 787-9 Dreamliner fleets.

Ms Hawthorne says updates and refinements were introduced this year after taking into account flight feedback from parents.

These improvements will also be made available to offshore airlines to which Air New Zealand has licensed the Skycouch.

airvanuatu.com

CALL US: 09 373 3435

JU0292-v2

/airvanuatu

REDRET055

The Skycouch Cuddle Belt, which was previously certified to allow only two adults or an adult and child travelling together to lie down side by side on the Skycouch, has also been updated to allow two

Air New Zealand’s Economy Skycouch infant harness.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2018 |

Wildlife thrives in park Most city-siders in the heart of an urban environment such as Sydney, could expect to go a long way to see the kind of wildlife normally associated with the great outdoors including Kiwis familiar with this ‘neighbouring’ Australian metropolis. Yet, visitors to Sydney Park – a former industrial wasteland just eight kilometres from the Sydney Opera House – have spotted everything from owls to emeraldspotted tree frogs, peregrine falcons to blue-tongue lizards and migratory birds from Siberia. Made up of 40 hectares this fascinating park is now a thriving ecosystem off lush grass, landscaped gardens, rolling hills, streams, meandering pathways and picturesque wetlands, providing habitat for native bats, birds, bugs, fronts, turtles and plants. Last month the local community was asked to become citizen scientists for a weekend to help discover even more species of plants and animals living in the park.

16 | eastlife | march 2018

Above: an eastern long neck turtle being released in Sydney Park. Left: a white-faced heron. Photos Gokay Gul One scientist who took part in the event, Associate Professor Dieter Hochuli from the Sydney University School of Life and Environmental Sciences, said cities tend to be pretty hostile environments for nature. “But there’s a really remarkable group of animals and plants that not only get past these [urban] pressures, but thrive in them.

“Here [Sydney Park] we have a park that gives native plants a space to grow, a habitat for animals to thrive and a place for locals and visitors to enjoy.” Although Sydney Park is known to be home to many species of birds, bats and reptiles, Professor Hochuli said there were many other creatures and insects in the park which hopefully would be

documented during the bioblitz. Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the city had long aimed to strike the right balance in providing native habitat and recreation spaces for visitors in Sydney Park. “This kind of urban biodiversity is a vital part of creating a healthy city which is why the park is important”. www.eastlife.co.nz

Country comes to town While Auckland may be a metropolis, you’ll still find plenty of gifted musicians who are more than just a little bit country, as JON RAWLINSON reveals. Nashville, Memphis, Tamworth... Bucklands Beach? Auckland’s eastern suburbs might not seem like a country music hub, but some talented performers from the Eastern Districts Country Music Club – including one of its newest members – are intent on changing that. Since heading up country to the Super City, Alice Fraser has found locals are keen to roll out the welcome wagon. Originally from Southland, the 2016 Golden Guitar Award-winner has come to learn and teach while pursuing her passion. “I’m a bit of a fish out of water up here!” She laughs. “I’m really starting fresh. I wanted to give living in the big smoke a go and it’s a good place to move forward with my music. Back home, there’s a real love of country music but, because of the sheer number of people in Auckland, there’s definitely a strong following here.” The opportunity to teach at Owairoa Primary School provided an extra incentive for Alice to take her love of music to town. “Singing professionally is a lifelong dream but I adore teaching. While you have to be a ‘jack of all trades’, I’m most passionate about helping children draw on their own

creativity, particularly through music and drama. Helping [them] achieve in anything they pursue, and nurturing their talent has to be one of the most rewarding things in life,” she says. In ‘a-chord-ance’ with the stories behind many a country song, Alice has faced adversity on her journey to the top of the genre down-under. “I first sang in public [as a teenager] at the Riverton Sound Shell – in a little beach town near Invercargill. I sang the same verse over and over because I was so nervous! I’ve come a long way since those days but it’s never easy.” Despite her inauspicious start, Alice went on to learn how to shake off her demons in pursuit of her lifelong dream. After cutting her teeth on musical theatre, she won the Southland Entertainer of the Year title (2013) followed by the much-coveted NZ Golden Guitar award in 2016. “The nerves were just insane but, once I was on stage and singing, they just dissipated; I was living and breathing the song [Tami Neilson’s Lonely], it was as if I was in my own little bubble. Athletes talk about being ‘in the zone’ and I guess it’s the same with music. “It was an amazing opportunity;

the Golden Guitar is massive! Once you’ve won, you have that title for life so it’s definitely helped my career.” The win also gave this talented teacher an invaluable opportunity to learn from some of the best at the Australian Country Music Academy ahead of 2017’s Australian Golden Guitar Awards in Tamworth, New South Wales.

jazz and blues; anything with soul, to be honest,” she says. “It doesn’t matter whether I’m singing in front of two people or two thousand, the nerves are always there. But you learn to embrace them; it’s a matter of mindset. On the other side of that fear is an awesome feeling. Knowing you’ve touched someone through your music makes it all worthwhile.”

“I wrote a song over there, which I performed live and, as an academy, we sang to thousands of people. The Tamworth Country Music Festival opened up a whole new world, giving an opportunity to rub elbows with some of the greats and learn from them.” Drawing from a wide range of influences – including former APRA Silver Scroll winner, Tami Neilson, and nine-time Grammy winner, Norah Jones – Alice is looking forward to sharing her passion for music no matter where her dusty trail leads. And, this ‘cowgirl’ still sings the blues! “I love all sorts of country music – particularly the stories that often lie behind the songs – but also

When ‘West’ meets East When country music talent rides on in to town, Alice Fraser will be a part of quite the posse. Headlined by Kiwi country superstar, Dennis Marsh, the Eastern Districts Country Music Club’s latest show (May 2) showcases the voices of many more rising and established artists. “I’m quite the fan of Dennis’ music,” Alice says. “I’m going to enjoy working alongside him as well as the other musicians involved. I’m really looking forward to it!” In addition to serving up a helping of classic and contemporary tunes, www.eastlife.co.nz

the concert (from 7.15pm at the Bucklands Beach Memorial Hall) will help raise funds for the Young Star Awards, to be held on May 30. “Young Star is designed to encourage young singers to give it a go,” Alice adds. “The stage experience can be invaluable for those who do take their talents further but it’s really about having fun.” Contact the club via facebook.com/ easterndistrictscmc for more information. Photo Wayne Martin

alice fraser 17

eastlife | may 2018 |

Gentle shepherdess loves living The Good Life Its many years since Meret Horlacher walked sheep through her home village in Switzerland. She’s still a shepherdess and the former Howick resident likes nothing better than tending to her flock south of Auckland. By modern standards her way of life is time-consuming and hard but as ANGELA KEMP discovered, living the good life has benefits. Meret Horlacher is 63 and had a hip replaced just before last Christmas. I saw her barely a month after her op and she showed no signs of having had major surgery bar a slight limp. Apparently the day before she’d been lifting 25kg sacks of zinc which I estimate would be around half her weight! The removed hip bone is in the fridge awaiting a decent burial when Meret will mark its final resting place with a fencepost and plaque. “It’s part of me and I didn’t want to just chuck it out or leave it in the hospital,” she says. By now, readers may have come to the same conclusion as I have about this diminutive but determined woman – she’s quite a girl.

Today, home is a 126-acre farm to the east of Pukekohe which she shares with partner, Malcolm Brown along with about 100 beef cattle, a few dairy cows, horses, chickens, ducks, two llamas and a small but much-loved flock of milking sheep. Meret insisted I taste her sheep milk, homemade soft sheep cheese and sheep milk yogurt before our interview and, yes, they were all delicious. Thing is, I could have spent all day (and probably the next) sampling other foods (both savoury and sweet) she’s bottled and preserved. Because Meret is a wise woman of the old school, who doesn’t believe in waste, she uses everything that’s produced on the farm.

In the guest bedroom a wardrobe doubles as an overflow pantry, its shelves packed with a mindboggling array of preserved fruit and vegetables. Dried leeks, grapes, beans and stevia, poached feijoas, dried feijoas, bottled apples and peaches, jams, chutneys and pickles stand row on row. The produce is obviously home grown – fruit from the orchard (peach trees grown from stones by Meret), as well as apples and plums, oranges, mandarins, limes and lemons. Tamarillos flourish in the duck pen which is presided over by elderly Rose who came from (the now defunct) Franklin Zoo several years ago. “I used to give the zoo honey and citrus branches to hang up for

the monkeys so I asked if I could have some ducks. They’d only let me have Rose because she was by herself.” Needless to say, the couple enjoy good food all year round and what makes it taste even sweeter is that they spend less than $2000 at the supermarket per year for essentials such as olive oil, tuna, rice, flour, salt and spices. Meret’s pieces de resistance are the cheeses and yoghurt she makes from her small flock of sheep, East Friesians with a bit of Border Leicester to strengthen the bloodlines. They produce up to seven litres a day, more than enough for the couple’s daily needs so the surplus

Riding school popular with youngsters

18 | eastlife | may 2018

Meret Horlacher has run riding schools all her life both in Switzerland and Howick and currently has nine horses and ponies at her Pukekohe east property.

Meret’s granddaughter, Lilia (12), and her daughter-in-law, Delwyn help out with the riding school as they live just next door.

Recently she and Malcolm built a large sand area so lessons can continue even when the weather is as wet as it was last winter.

Meret now plans to develop the facility further by enlarging a pond so the children can enjoy the fun of riding through the shallows.

“Children come from across the district, as far away as Papakura and Onewhero. We also run a holiday programme which gives the kids a longer time to handle the horses and learn how to look after them.”

And, true to her nature, Meret has promised a home to two rescued Kaimanawa ponies from the this year’s muster. In no way does it look like she is slowing down! www.eastlife.co.nz

is turned into yogurt and cheese or frozen. Meret milks them by hand for nine months of the year and says they jostle to be first in line. “They are absolutely gorgeous. Sheep are wonderful, you can live off them.” Meret likes to keep the flock size manageable so each sheep can receive her personal attention – she even shears them herself. Her cheeses are made to simple recipes and alter in taste and texture during different stages of their maturity. “The first one is eaten very quickly and we don’t eat the second one until the first one has gone, and so on. They get older and harder. We don’t make a particular cheese, we just make cheese; it’s a way of preserving the milk.” Nothing is wasted. The whey left over from cheese-making is used in bread-making or turned into ricotta and then perhaps used in cheesecakes. If the calves are lucky, they’ll get a whey feed too. “We just live from what we have,” Meret says adding that sheep’s milk contains twice as much calcium as cow’s milk so is especially good for children and older people. But unlike Switzerland where the sheep milk industry is well established, commercial production is only in its infancy in New Zealand. Growing up in Switzerland, Meret’s family home was a farmhouse with just a little bit of land. “I kept sheep but had to graze them in the surrounding orchards. Every morning after milking I would tie the three ewes and a ram together and with the kids I’d walk them to their grazing, before returning them to their stable at the end of the day. They wore bells and they missed me when I left them.” Meret immigrated to New Zealand www.eastlife.co.nz

Meret in her well stocked pantry. with her then husband Christof and three small children, first setting up home in Howick where she lived for some six years. However, the property could only accommodate two ponies and Meret wanted more – a lot more – so when the opportunity arose the couple moved to the Harrisville farm 20 years ago.

Photos Wayne Martin

friends, separated a few years ago but Meret was determined to carry on running the farm herself. Then five years ago love blossomed between Meret and retired firefighter, Malcolm Brown.

“It was my dream to move to more land and to live a more sustainable life.”

“I brought my grandchildren for a riding lesson and basically never went away,” says Malcolm. “I worked as a professional firefighter for 41 years in and around Auckland but was raised on 600 acres in Hawkes Bay.

The couple, who remain good

“We came to Auckland after my

dad switched to horticulture where he tried to do what they did on Pukekohe Hill, but in Papakura.” Malcolm chose the fire service over a career on the land and later lived on a lifestyle block in Karaka before meeting Meret. He says Meret can’t wait to get up at 5am to go and see the sheep. After seeing to her horses and other chores she doesn’t return to the house for breakfast till 8am. “When she’s not working on the farm or cooking she’s sleeping.” eastlife | may 2018 |

WinTER WARmERs

BRAnD nEW DAYs! Each new ‘Day’ can be marvellous indeed for little ones, as shown by these two recent releases from one of new Zealand’s most widely read children’s authors.

SkIDDIES

PEPE & tutu Four weeks might not seem like a long lifespan but Pepe the forest ringlet butterfly is intent on making every moment count. After laying her eggs, she asked Tutu the tui to watch over them but can this flighty bird really be trusted? ideal for readers aged 5-7, this marion Day book features beautiful illustrations by Anna Evans and fact pages to help little ones learn about these remarkable creatures.

•B

it’s that time of year when the food on your table needs to be that little bit more warming and comforting. What better way to welcome in the colder months than with a lovely stew, casserole, curry or pie.

t suited f es

ages

• or

Farm life comes with all sorts of pitfalls, from avoiding creepy-crawlies that don’t often creep their way around town, to dealing with animals that don’t really like to be patted. Along with illustrations by Robyn hoglund, marion Day presents a humourous tale of the mischievous Benji and his adventures best suited to children aged 5-7.

5-7

• macaroni cheese • Potato top lamb casserole • Chicken and leek hot pot • slow cooked sausages and lentils • Pesto chicken pasta • Cheesy chicken meatball sliders • Creamy fish pie • Fish and corn cakes • sausage and broccoli frittata • Beef stroganoff • Roast chicken thighs with orange and tarragon • Bacon-wrapped meat loaf • Roast vegetable tart • Ratatouille

a fEW hElPful hINtS:

Forget plastic fantastics, the quickest way to travel around the Pacific is not by a yacht but thanks to an elastic island, as four kids discover.

t suited f es

ages

• or

•B

• make an extra portion and place it in the freezer.

8-12

• Karen McMillan: Elastic Island Adventures – Jewel Lagoon | RRP $19.99 | Duckling Publishing

20 | eastlife | may 2018

With everyone having such busy lifestyles, it may be helpful to meal plan for the week; this will take away the stress of having to think about what to cook each day.

WINtEr WarmErS:

ELAsTiC isLAnD ADvEnTUREs – JEWEL LAGoon

Best suited to readers aged 8-12, this south Pacific action-adventure – available in bookstores from may 7 – is sure to inspire young minds.

When it comes to raising a family, one of the hardest jobs is coming up with dinner ideas every night – let alone finding the time to cook!

Why not make meals a family affair with everyone putting forward their favourite meal ideas? With that in mind, we’ve put together a collection of easy winter meals.

• Marion Day: Pepe & Tutu and Skiddies| RRP $19.99 each | AM Publishing

‘Pinging’ from one tropical island to another, Kiri, Jed and the twins (Emma and Ethan) meet many of colourful creatures but, as their latest adventure reveals, there’s trouble in store too. Will they find their way home or forever be stuck by the Jewel Lagoon on Trinity island? There’s only one way to find out!

Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner CARYn mAWKEs has some practical and helpful winter-warming meal ideas. • Put the slow cooker on in the morning so dinner will be ready for when you arrive home. • Use left-over roast meat and turn it into a shepherd’s pie or a frittata. • schedule a day each week to plan meals and shopping lists. • Pick one night a week to have a designated meal, such as ‘Taco Tuesday’ or ‘sandwich saturday’. This helps simplify your menu and grocery list. • Embrace colourful fruit and veg. Children eat with their eyes; the more colourful and fun a plate of food looks to them, the more delicious it will appear. • Citrus, such as lemons, oranges and limes, can be frozen whole. Take them out and grate the zest (still frozen) when needed it for cooking. • You can freeze cheese. it’s best to grate hard cheeses, such as cheddar or parmesan, before freezing. Leftover cream cheese, cottage cheese, ricotta and feta cheese can also be frozen. • storing onions and potatoes together makes them both spoil faster. Potatoes are best kept in a dark place to stop them going green (away from the onions). overall, the number one goal is to help simplify what should be an enjoyable and special part of every day – sharing a meal together.

Early Learning Centre • Hours 7.30am-5.30pm, full & part time • Positions for children aged 0-5 years • Our family relationships are important to us. Education Review Ofﬁce in April 2014 rated our centre in the top 5%. They stated: Consistent, effective teaching practice; Children happy and settled, with a strong sense of belonging; Children involved in rich literacy, numeracy and science opportunities

WE WELCOME YOU TO VISIT OR CONTACT US: Rockabye Early Learning Centre, 122 Aviemore Dr, Highland Park • Email caryn@rockabye.school.nz Ph 533 0218 • www.rockabye.school.nz

CR0050-v2

www.eastlife.co.nz

Puzzle Cryptic Puzzle

ACROSS

1 NO. 10046

5 7

DOWN

1. Taking great objection to the crone holding the box (6). 2. Post is not sorted at the interior (7). 3. Forced out the spider (6). 4. Brought up to be a new golden girl (6). 5. Lower down, but not enough (5). 7. It’s soft and long and black and sticky (5). 13. There’s no point to going back a long time (3). 14. He doesn’t believe at first it’s he that’s wrong (7). 15. Am now held up by the female (5). 17. Anxious and difficult (6). 18. Pretty arch about the man (6). 19. New style British Navy (6). 21. Jack and I take Edward back to stay (5).

8 9

10 11 13

14 15 20

21 22

24 25

Quick Puzzle ACROSS

Puzzle answers on page 41

Sudoku

puzzle no. 46

6. What’s wrong with a warning device on the mountain? (10). 8. Stand back to see the one in the blue frame (4). 9. Into the hole put a quarter the quantity (4). 10. Foreigner who appeared one day in the beginning of September (5). 11. Run the nation (4). 12. It’s a lot to expect from a crooked card player! (1,4,4). 16. What one is generally considered to be (5-4). 20. She’s all wrong about love! (4). 22. The fish – a ray – gets right inside (5). 23. A spinner is something with which fishermen are familiar (4). 24. When it reverses, cut in with the vehicle (4). 25. A revelation about the re-opening? (10).

time

6. Lawsuit (10) 8. Game (4) 9. Cure (4) 10. Scorch (5) 11. Marriage token (4) 12. Censure (9) 16. Operation (9) 20. Insect (4) 22. Let in (5) 23. Ceremony (4) 24. Error (4) 25. Disloyal (10)

No. 10046

DOWN

1. Frank (6) 2. Steak (7) 3. Hound (6) 4. Meal (6) 5. Wrath (5) 7. Outspoken (5) 13. Vessel (3) 14. Vegetable (7) 15. Shrub (5) 17. Respect (6) 18. Costume (6) 19. Commotion (6) 21. Pleased (5)

Poverty isn’t always easy to see It may not always be easy to see in New Zealand, but poverty is all around us—in our communities and neighbourhoods, hidden behind the doors of family homes, down alleyways at night, even in the workplace. Sometimes it’s hidden because the thousands of people living in poverty don’t want you to see it, for fear of being judged or ostracised. Other times it’s because people choose not to see it—after all, how could a country as beautiful and prosperous as New Zealand have so many people living in poverty, often not knowing where their next meal is coming from?

forever and live independent, happy lives. The Salvation Army helps over 120,000 Kiwis each year, working to lift them out of poverty. We’re committed to ending poverty in New Zealand, but we can’t do it alone. You can make a difference to those in need, because seeing poverty is not enough—we must act now.

Donate now and help end poverty

salvationarmy.org.nz

But it’s here, in every city and every town. And these people need your help—not only to survive, but to lift themselves out of poverty

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2018 |

Swinging in the rain! a childhood passion for designing and sewing barbie doll clothes was probably the ﬁrst indication that some aspect of couture would likely ﬁgure in camila Dixon’s future and, so it has, as hElEN PErry explains. fashion and clothing have always been a part of camila Dixon’s life – her father was a textile chemist and as a young girl she accompanied him to factories and laundries where she gained a solid education in fabrics and their wash capabilities. at 15 she was given her own sewing machine and quickly progressed from making doll’s clothes to designing and making her own clothes. Now, more than 20 years later, the colombian-born, South african-raised creative is behind a range of water-proof rain jackets which scream ‘style!’ “my husband, a clothing performance designer, and I moved to New Zealand from Durban in 2016 with our son and daughter, settling in Eastern beach. We are very much into

22 | eastlife | may 2018

garment design and he offered great advice when it came to the technical side of this venture.” coming from South africa where warm, dry weather is a given for much of the year, camila says it was the many weeks of rain she experienced during her ﬁrst auckland winter that inspired her to think about the rainwear business. “I was a bit taken back by just how much it rained that ﬁrst year just when we were loving the country and dying to get out and explore. Needing coats, I tried several styles but some left us hot and sweaty, some were uncomfortable and others just didn’t keep out the wet. “I thought I’d like to produce something that was fun, bright and did the job properly. the coats needed to work.” www.eastlife.co.nz Photo Wayne Martin

Camila adds that living in such a beautiful location helped inspire her scribbler Gear range. “These are not just rain jackets or fashion coats, they are waterproof, performance coats. “While looking good they are also technically functional, protecting the wearer from the elements – wind, rain, and cold.” But, tired of ditch dull rain wear, her objective from the beginning was to feature the work of local and international artists on her jackets. “The first was south African artist, ingrid marais, now living locally. she created the beautiful protea print on our African Protea coat; it’s this kind of detail i want to pursue.” scribbler Gear offers four styles: www.eastlife.co.nz

• The ‘breathable’ Amazonas shell rain coat constructed to withstand wind and strong downpours of rain whilst allowing for plenty of activity without the wearer sweating excessively. • The Amazonas bonded and African Protea are both fleecebonded coats designed to protect from wind and light rain. Breathable but not to the extent of the shell rain coat, these coats are warm and soft to touch but less suitable for strenuous activities. They are water-proof in a shower but aren’t designed to keep out extended periods of heavy rain. • The fantail performance coat – the crème de la crème of the range. A versatile, year-round rain coat designed to cope on

cold and warmers days whilst keeping the weather at bay. “The latter is made from our premium waterproof and breathable twill fabric,” Camila says. “it is soft to the touch and doesn’t crackle with movement. i absolutely love wearing this coat with its gorgeous fantail-printed lining and sweat wicking fabric which is silky to the touch.” now aiming to extend the range, Camila – who is also a marketing research consultant – is presently working on coats for children and has plans for a men’s coat, too. “i also want to add a trench style to the women’s range, keeping to the water-proof ethic and colourful nature of the brand.” Presently talking with two artists, one local, the other from mexico, Camila’s enthusiasm is boundless.

“so far, reaction to the coats has been very positive so i’m really hoping both new artists will come on board, the prototypes can be designed and that the extended range will soon be available online. Then it’s just a matter of marketing!”

See Scribbler Gear rain wear at: The General Collective, may 6, AsB showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Greenlane. for more information about the range contact: Email: camila@ scribblergear.com Ph 0274471130 www.scribblergear.com

eastlife | may 2018 |

Boho Glamour Pastels, flowers and a subtle sprinkling of sequins all mark autumn’s Boho Deluxe range from new Zealand fashion label Libertine. Featuring a delicately designed mosaic background with bold sprays of flowers, the colours and textures are trans-seasonal, holding on to summer’s florals while moving into a moodier

autumn by adding dramatic metallics and textured layers. Easy wear shapes contrast with glamorous panels of sequin and gold foil which catch the light – perfect for day or night. Feminine blush pink and dove grey tones, mixed with luxurious snowflake fur, create a versatile range with a feel of luxury which can be worn every day.

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Vein specialists

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24 | eastlife | may 2018

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Positive thinking After many years struggling with self doubt, Bucklands Beach mum, Tamryn Broodryk was determined to change her mind set. she told hELEn PERRY that a social media platform promoting positive self-worth in women evolved from her own recovery. Years of fiercely disliking herself threatened to ‘cripple’ Tamryn Broodryk until she reached the point she knew something had to change. “For a long time i wondered if i measured up to other people’s standards – was i good enough, pretty enough or skinny enough; i spent a lot of time worrying about what others thought of me until i resolved to overcome self doubt.” Finally, realising she didn’t have to be perfect, or to worry about rejection if she wasn’t, Tamryn gradually discovered her own self worth and from there sprung the idea for The hello Lovely Project. “i perceived a way to use social media to change the perspective of a society where self- loathing exists. Too often it [social media] is used negatively whereas i wanted to use the medium in positive way.” Tamryn’s long journey began when she reached her teenage years. “it was about then that self doubt really began to set in. social media was still in its early stages but ideas of how women should look or measure up were still there. This whole area just worsened as social media became more prevalent.” Tamryn confesses that no matter how often friends and family reassured her, she just didn’t see her abilities in the same way. it wasn’t until reaching 20 that she knew she had to change. “i’d suffered some depression and was naturally introspective. But at

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18, i had joined the C3 Church in highland Park and my faith played a pivotal role in changing my life.” nevertheless, it was a difficult journey which included counselling. But five years down the track a more confident Tamryn emerged. “During that time i also met my husband, matthew who was to play an integral part of my going forward. he helped me 100 percent. he was the first and only man who was so totally respectful and patient. he is naturally easy going, nothing bothers him, which attracted me in the first place, but he also took time to let me work through my issues without pressuring me.” As Tamryn’s self-confidence developed, she undertook a threeyear counselling diploma and today works with 10 to 14 year old high school students. “however, it became my passion to encourage women, who felt like i once did, to start believing in themselves,” she says. “Throughout 2014 i had the idea i wanted to use social media to make a positive impact. Then, one day, i was at The Warehouse and saw a canvas that said hello Lovely. i bought it and then felt i could use those words differently. From there The hello Lovely project was born.” With her husband a photographer and skilled in i.T., Tamryn enlisted his help to create the project’s website, completed in 2015. As people from all around the

PAvEs PRoJECT’s WAY

world discovered the site, often through Facebook, Tamryn says they began answering the invitation to send photos accompanied by one positive affirmation about their looks or abilities. Posted on her website, they encourage others. “it’s amazing how we can all think of 10 things we dislike about ourselves but to come up with one positive can sometimes be so hard. i’ve come to realise, most people have issues in their life. While, for some, they may rear up only now and again, for others these issues can remain a constant. “The challenge is to ask oneself why hang on to them. is it because the idea of letting go and making changes is even scarier?” Tamryn says some can pick up the challenge and cope relatively easily; others need a lot more help and that may also involve counselling. “i see so much value in counselling yet many women still feel there is a stigma attached to this kind of help; it can become another hurdle to surmount. Yet, once done, the outcomes can be so rewarding.”

still developing. “i am looking at ways to make it even more effective although that may take a little longer than in the past as matthew and i now have our six-month-old son, Austin, to keep us busy.” But because she believes so strongly in her project, and helping women who are dealing with feelings of worthlessness, Tamryn says she will keep encouraging them to access the site and share with each other. “my heartfelt desire behind hello Lovely is that each and every woman should be able to believe deep inside that they are more than enough; that they all have amazing qualities.” “The project came about from my own struggle to truly love who i am and how i look. sometimes i still struggle, but learning to believe in myself changed my life. i know others in a similar position can turn their lives around too.”

With The hello Lovely Project helping many women take steps to overcome self loathing or doubt. Tamryn says the website is

eastlife | may 2018 |

AnD ThE AWARDs Go To…

starting a family is a joyous decision but pregnancy success isn’t always a given. Fertility Associates provides advice. if you are thinking of having a baby in your future the first thing to do is seek information – gain an understanding of your own unique situation. it is also wise to start taking folic acid and think about your lifestyle – reduce caffeine, stop alcohol and aim for that perfect Body mass index. Also to be considered: • age: The Biological Clock is the most important factor when having a baby. Young women without fertility problems have about a 25% chance per month of having a baby naturally if they try at the right time of the month. This falls to about 12% at age 37 and 5% at 42. To work out your chances, visit our biological clock at fertilityassociates.co.nz. • how long to wait before seeking help: The online Biological Clock or App can also tell you how long to try naturally, before seeking help.

• fertility timeframe: Today we have the Anti-mullerian hormone (Amh) test to estimate ovarian reserve. This test can help predict how many eggs you are likely to obtain during an ivF cycle and can help identify who may experience early menopause. Like most tests, Amh is not perfect so you’ll need the help of a fertility specialist to interpret the results. • Get him tested too: of the couples seen at Fertility Associates, approximately 50% are experiencing fertility issues that stem from the male – so, if it is taking longer than you think it should, don’t leave him at home. • Not met mr right? You do have options; you could benefit from talking through your options with a specialist or even calling the Free nurse Consult. There is a waiting time for sperm donors, but if the fertility clinic is approached early, you are more likely to find a donor within your time frame. We recommend you start the conversation early with your GP or a fertility specialist. Being informed is the best thing you can do.

Trying for a baby?

Katherine Daniels GIvE EyE arEa a lIft The Katherine Daniels multiTasking Eye Balm, winner of the Best Eye remedy at the independent Beauty shortlist Awards, may be just what tired eyes need. A multi-tasking, melt-inbalm which is designed to bring a soft, smooth finish to the delicate eye area, this product provides an extra fine, silky texture which cushions the area without leaving it feeling greasy. Key active ingredients bring radiance and lift eyelids through minimising puffiness, dark circles and fine lines. Katherine Daniels multi-Tasking Eye Balm (RRP $78).

GENtlE makEuP rEmovEr The Katherine Daniels Essential micellar Face and Eye makeup Remover also scored big at the independent UK Beauty shortlist Awards winning the award for Best micellar Water. The aqueous texture gently and efficiently removes all traces of make-up whilst caring for the delicate eye area thanks to the inclusion of cornflower water-efficient cleansing

Make the right choice about your dental care JU0550

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26 | eastlife | may 2018

EDItor’S choIcE DoublE Katherine Daniels management can be well pleased with being awarded Editor’s Choice Awards (UK Beauty shortlist Awards) for its Urban shield Concentrate (RRP $84) and instant Effect Eye masks (RRP $99.95). The Urban shield Concentrate is a super-hydrating serum that soothes the skin while reducing the appearance of pores and dehydration lines. The serum’s efficacy was shown to be proven by clinical studies which saw it increase hydration in the skin by up to 73% in 30 minutes. The instant Effect Eye masks are salon strength, instant effect eye masks which activate directly before use. With concentrated sea kelp, mineral complex and hyaluronic acid, the eye masks have been found to achieve visible results after one application, ideal for pre-special occasions prior to make-up application.

We are dedicated to your personal well-being through dental health

Everyone’s experience of having a baby is different. It’s hard to know when you should check your fertility. We offer a free fertility nurse phone consultation: fertilityassociates.co.nz 0800 255 522

in a single gesture. Katherine Daniels Essential micellar Face and Eye makeup Remover (RRP $45).

• Teeth whitening • All ceramic tooth ﬁlling materials using CerecAC omnicam, 3D technology • Permanent tooth replacements with dental implants • For gum health and maintenance call our hygienist Shelley Chadwick • All aspects of general dentistry Evening appointments available Call us now on 530 8461 or 530 8271, Whitford Village, Whitford

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KEEn To ConCEivE? WhAT YoU CAn Do

Rick Parfitt B.D.S. Dr Alex Lindsay B.D.S. Dr Antonia Nagels B.D.S. Fernanda Flores R.D.H. Shelley Chadwick R.D.H.

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AUTUmn insPiRATion WiTh oLAPLEX AnD vivo Autumn is the time of year when vibrant colours hang like halos around the tops of trees – bright crowns of red, brown, purple, pink and gold. The richness of these autumnal hues reminds us how glorious a vivid and dynamic colour can be, particularly when it comes to our hair. When talking hair colour and health, there’s a new name on the lips of celebrities and hair stylists – olaplex, the product which is paving the way for instant, gorgeous, glossy colour. vivo always strives to stay ahead of the hair game so, naturally they were quick to bring it into their salons. The buzz surrounding olaplex was promptly put to the test by excited stylists across 80 salons. The verdict? vivo hair stylists agree – it’s a total game changer. so, what is olaplex? Let’s be clear – olaplex is not a conditioning treatment. instead, it was developed by scientists, who created an entirely new molecule which works on repairing broken and damaged bonds in the hair. it doesn’t just superficially treat hair, but actually reforms its structural integrity. Even in cases where the hair has been badly damaged after years of heating and colouring, olaplex is bringing new life to our tresses. With three impressive products in this process, olaplex enables vivo stylists to achieve unprecedented results, particularly in the area of hair lightening.

nUTRiEnT sUPPLEmEnTs AnD EYE hEALTh

in the past, frizzy, damaged strands and brassy, patchy colour have been unwanted outcomes in some chemical services. But with olaplex’s powerful Bond multiplier, vivo hair stylists can add this product directly into a client’s chemical treatment.

owner-optometrist of Eyes of howick, KRisTinE JEnsEn talks about how vitamins and minerals can impact on eye health. As we become more proactive in looking after our health, it is easy to become overwhelmed by nutrition advice and the abundance of dietary supplements available.

There, it will work to counteract any potential damage. instead of the hair deteriorating, olaplex activates a process which works on protecting and repairing the disulphide sulphur bonds.

When it comes to eye health, i base my recommendations on reliable evidence. This is a short summary of what we know so far:

This rebuilds hair health from inside the strand, encouraging strength and softness, and opens the way for instant extreme lightening. in some cases, in circumstances that used to be lengthy and risky, vivo stylists are able to achieve results in one salon visit with the use of olaplex.

macular DEGENEratIoN The AREDs clinical trials resulted in a formulation of antioxidants and minerals which were effective in reducing the progression of the high-risk stage of age-related macular degeneration (ARm) to a severe form by 25 percent. Furthermore, those with late stage ARm in one eye reduced the risk of developing severe changes in the fellow eye by 20%.

This wonder product goes even further with the Bond Perfector and the hair Perfector. Your vivo stylist will apply the Bond Perfector after your colour treatment to really seal the deal and make sure hair is at its optimum when leaving the salon.

The AREDs formula; • 500mg vitamin C • 400 iU vitamin E • 80mg zinc as zinc oxide • 2mg copper as cupric oxide • 10mg lutein and • 2mg zeaxanthin

At home, the hair Perfector is used as an ongoing treatment, continuing to encourage healthy, luscious hair which also holds onto colour longer. it’s basically insurance for your hair – you’re able to have that incredible colour while also mitigating the risk of damage to it.

While the AREDs study did not show any benefit of a fish oil supplement, other nutritional studies have shown omega 3 to be beneficial. it is recommended to eat fish 2-3 times per week and if this is not possible take a quality omega 3 supplement.

olaplex is a truly extraordinary product. Take a cue from those autumn leaves, and get that beautiful, vibrant colour today with olaplex and vivo.

And, while no supplement matches the AREDs formula, there are

a number of excellent options on the market which follow this recommendation closely.

Dry EyE omega 3 supplements have been shown to reduce both signs and symptoms of dry eye. one large clinical trial, which demonstrated the benefit, involved participants taking 3 x 1000mg fish oil capsules and 1 x 1000mg flaxseed oil per day.

a NotE oN omEGa 6 While our diet tends to be low on the omega 3 front, we have an abundance of omega 6 dietary sources. And, while we need both, if the ratio of omega 6 to 3 is too high, the omega 6 can become proinflammatory. Therefore, if you have concerns about AmD or dry eye, certain supplements which contain omega 6 may actually be detrimental; these include evening primrose oil, blackcurrant oil and spirulina. For more information on nutrition for eye health read my blog. www.eyesofhowick.co.nz/kjs-blog/

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eastlife | may 2018 |

What’s all the fuss about personalised medicine? CLIVE PLUCKNETT, Naturopath, Bachelor Holistic Health Science, AdvDip Naturopathy, AdvDip Nutrition, AdvDip Western Herbal Medicine, PG Dip Cancer Nutrition Medicine, PG Dip Mental Health Nutrition, PG Dip AntiAgeing Medicine, MBA(Dist), BA, PG Dip Science. The next time you are in a public place and have some time to kill, take a look at the people around you. See if you can find two who are identical. HINT: you won’t.

Find out as much about yourself as you can; the bad news is that a few pages of blood test results is not going to cut it and, yes, it does cost money.

In fact, on this planet of seven billion people, you will not find two identical people. No, not even twins.

Find out as much as you can about how your body is really functioning.

You can have two people who are losing hair, gaining weight, lacking in energy, feeling depressed, and who are having gut issues. With one it may be hormonal issues, with another it could be neurotransmitters, or thyroid, or parasites, or heavy metals, or adrenals or so many other things. If you treat all the people the same, you may fix one, you certainly won’t fix them all. You are you. You are unique. So many things shape who and what you are and make you different. In so many realms we embrace our differences yet, when it comes to healthcare, we accept that we are the same. So, how do you find out what is wrong with you and how to fix it? The answer lies in ‘personalised healthcare.’

Don’t become distracted by symptoms, look for underlying causes and imbalances. They drive not only your current issues, but what is to come.

Sedation

a big help YVONNE VANNOORT, from Sanctuary Dental, Bishop Dunn Place, Botany talks about the options for nervous patients.

Remember, you are you. There is no one on the planet like you. You can try many different things; some may help. Some may just disguise or delay the inevitable. New Zealand is leading the world in so many chronic conditions. These start from imbalances. I suggest identifying and fixing them before they manifest into something scary. At bewell we conduct a range of individually relevant tests to see exactly where your individual body is at and we plan an individual programme for your individual body. Visit our website to see what we do and follow just one person’s journey.

Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not to be used as a substitute to professional, personalised advice. The views are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor.

If you classify yourself as a scaredy cat at the dentist, these days there are many ways that the experience can be made easier for you. We get that we need to listen to you, understand what you need from us, and never judge you. We also know that we need to be gentle and caring in what we do and how we go about your experience whether it’s a discussion, an X-ray or any other treatment you may need. For some people, intravenous sedation is a great technique to use. A sedative is placed in a vein in your arm. It means that you

can snooze through whatever procedure is being carried out. This is a wonderful way to achieve either a lot of treatment in one appointment or when you are scheduled for a difficult treatment and it’s really best you are unaware of what needs to happen. The time passes very quickly for you and the whole experience is smooth and easy – later on, you won’t remember. Our team is here to cater to your needs; call us or book online to make your first step towards visiting dentists that really care about you!

BeWell Clinic – Unleash Your Wellness Potential Anti-Ageing Cancer Nutrition Cardiovascular Disease Dementia Detoxification

TreaTmenTs Diabetes Energy Deficiency Fat Loss Gut Health Men’s Health Mental Health

Sports Performance Stress Less Stroke Wellness Program Women’s Health

Clive Plucknett Naturopath 730 Whitford Road, Whitford Village Ph 09 530 8143 | 021 490 801 bewellltdnz@gmail.com www.bewell.net.nz

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All about your wellbeing 5 Children’s dentistry 5 Tongue tie release –

using water laser

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Unit 20, 2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany

09 273 2173

The Dentist

166 King Street, Pukekohe

09 238 4619

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Personal enhancement procedures Respected plastic surgeon, mARTin REEs from marina specialists addresses the desire by many people to improve on biological features they were born with or changes that have occurred through ageing.

‘

human nature is such that many of us are not content with how we look or ‘who we are’ for some reason. nearly all of us have an aesthetic sense that we use to recognise what is beautiful in life; a flower, a bird, child or one’s partner; even one’s self! Equally there are some creatures, sights or people that we do not like to look at as our aesthetic sense of beauty is offended, which is an unpleasant experience. We all have a strong sense of personal identity from seeing ourselves in photos (as other people see us) or in the mirror as we usually see ourselves ( the reverse of how we actually look!) some people are unfortunately born with features that are outside the ‘normal range’ (biological variation). some of us as we age change considerably and become something we are not used to seeing...a face or body reminiscent of our mother or father! That person looking back at me is no longer ‘me’ as my brain remembers but the image of an old man or woman. so many patients tell me things like this. The photos taken at a family wedding often catch one unawares, ‘side-on’ showing that humped or hooked nose, or a thick, fat neck that isn’t obvious from the front when looking in the mirror. This may precipitate a person into

What is vitally important is to engage with a plastic surgeon you feel comfortable with; someone whose integrity you can trust, who has many years of experience with well-honed surgical skills to produce consistently good results with a minimum number of unwanted side effects.”

seeking professional advice from a plastic surgeon as to what can be done to ‘reverse the clock’ or take 20 years off the face. some people like to ‘grow old gracefully’ and simply accept themselves as they are. They are perfectly content with themselves and their lives. others struggle with the effects of ageing and want to fight against it as strongly as possible.

needed.

modern surgical techniques and medical advances can produce some astounding transformations for the better. Big improvements are often possible; sometimes subtle changes are all that are

This person must be able to offer high quality surgery and be available for post-op care and support. no one regrets buying quality.

What is vitally important is to engage with a plastic surgeon you feel comfortable with; someone whose integrity you can trust and who has many years of experience with well-honed surgical skills to produce consistently good results with a minimum number of unwanted side effects.

Going for the cheapest price with a holiday thrown in at a distant and exotic destination may be a good idea at the time but i’ve seen many complications and bad results from ‘cosmetic tourism’. it is much better not to go to someone whose credentials, skills and training cannot be easily ascertained. At marina specialists we offer quality surgery in a quality facility with quality after care by highly skilled surgeons with many years of training and surgical experience to produce results you will be pleased with and we can be proud of!

martin Rees FRACs Cosmetic Plastic surgeon marina specialists, First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, half moon Bay marina, Bucklands Beach Ph 534 4040, EDi: marinasp, www.plassurg.co.nz, www.marinamedical.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2018 |

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.

SWEEt aS PoPcorN barS Forget ‘snap’ and “Crackle’, it’s all about ‘Pop’, the kind that comes from snazzy new popcorn bars by sweet As Popcorn. The perfect treat alongside the rest of the sweet As range, check out these three classic Kiwi flavours – sweet & salty, manuka honey, and Coconut. Pop one into school lunchboxes or have ready as an after-school snack. Gluten and dairy-free, sweet As popcorn bars are an alternative to the traditional muesli bar, having less sugars than many other like products and no artificial colours. Available at new World supermarkets and selected food stores.

No ‘hum-Drum’ brEW They once ‘roasted’ Donald Trump... although not to the degree(s) many would prefer he’d be ‘roasted’ these days! Fortunately, however, hummingbird Coffee has been hand roasted to perfection, resulting in a smooth, uplifting flavour which goes down easy. Using fair trade beans – rather than starting trade wars – this flighty beverage is long on good taste as well as sound ethics. Then again, as they are organic, nutty and rich, we suppose that means these beans are at least a little like our American friend after all! hummingbird coffee is available from selected retailers now.

tEa for tWo? Thanks to Paddock to Pantry, tea time on mother’s Day will be no ordinary affair! Beautifully presented, this Tea Time hamper (RRP $129) features hogarth Rose and vanilla as well as Tealia strawberry Green and Ceylon Black teas. But, if that’s not quite mum’s cup of whatever-she-fancies, this delightful pack also boasts such delicious delectables as Coconut Triple o Waffles, Rabitos Royale white chocolate fig bonbons, sugarsin sparkling Rose Gummies and Patience biscuits from A Taste of Paris. Tea Time can be collected from Paddock to Pantry’s Karaka store or ordered (via paddocktopantry.co.nz) for delivery direct to mum’s door.

JEWElStoNE ImmaculatE! mission Estate wasn’t reluctant to claim well-deserved laurels recently as more than just one of its jewels was adorned with gold. Winning gold medals for its 2015 Jewelstone syrah and 2017 Estate Pinot Gris, the hawkes Bay winery was soon to toast its success following the prestigious Royal Easter show Wine Awards. Produced entirely from fruit grown organically on mission’s own vineyard, the Jewelstone (RRP $50 from selected retailers and via missionestate.co.nz) is ideally paired with chocolate, which is reason enough to indulge, we think!

30 | eastlife | may 2018

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Meet chef Poh Ling Yeow readers are likely to have seen the incredible tv chef and personality, Poh ling yeow when she competed in masterchef australia. Poh now has her own show, Poh’s Kitchen and she has published several cookbooks too. her passion for re-creating delicious asian dishes has made her something of a household name and a go-to when looking for a healthy and delicious meal to whip up! In particular, this tasty stir-fry can be pulled together in less than 30 minutes and provides a delicious taste of china on your table! Poh has taken a classic chinese dish and simpliﬁed it to give an authentic taste without the fuss – ideal for a mid-week dinner.

GREEN BEAN, BLACK BEAN & CHICKEN STIR FRY feeds 4 Prep time: 15 minutes cook time: 10 minutes

mEthoD Cook the rice following packet instructions.

INGrEDIENtS • 2 cups sunRice Topaz Jasmine Rice • 2 tbs oil • 3-4 cloves garlic, peeled, finely chopped • 400g chicken oR pork mince • 300g stringless beans, sliced 1cm pieces • 1 tbs black bean sauce • 1-2 tsp dried chilli flakes • 1 tbs shaoxing rice wine (available at Asian grocers & some supermarkets) oR Chinese cooking wine • 1 tbs light soy oR fish sauce • Pinch of white pepper

To make the stir fry, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil and garlic in a large frypan and sauté until slightly golden. Add the chicken and stir fry until cooked through. Add the beans, preserved olive, or black bean sauce, chilli flakes and pepper and stir fry for about 30 seconds until the beans are not raw but still crunchy. Add the rice wine, soy and pepper, and remove from the heat. serve immediately with steamed rice. *Poh’s tip: For a delicious and authentic taste, simply substitute black bean sauce for 2 tablespoons of heaped preserved shredded olive, found in Asian grocers.

vinTAGE RoUnDUP

PAssion FoR QUALiTY WinEs Wine columnist and connoisseur, DEnnis KniLL, gives his view on new releases and awardwinning vintages.

hanz herzog Estate is one of our most respected wineries renowned for its artisan vintages and its impressive versatility. A larger than life wine port-folio of 29 classic grape varietals is appreciated by wine lovers all over the country The herzog family is a winemaking icon having been involved in the wine industry for centuries. Before immigrating to www.eastlife.co.nz

new Zealand in the early nineties, hans and Therese herzog owned a winery in switzerland. on arriving here they wasted no time taking up residence in marlborough where they purchased an apple orchard. Although the land was precious its potential as a grape-growing region was not fully recognised. it’s to the herzog’s credit that they converted the orchard into grapes.

now, 25 years on hanz herzog Estate is one name amongst no end of boutique wineries that is revered for its contribution to the wine industry. it’s also widely acclaimed as one of the best wineries in the country with its cellar door a ‘must do’. “We love the wine game,” says sommelier Arthur Griffoul. “For us it’s not about money; we’re driven by a passion for quality wines.”

2014 moNtEPulcIaNo rrP $64 intense in flavour, this full-bodied red is romance in a glass. Clean, fresh and balanced with soft tannins make this something to sing about. Will cellar well.

2016 PINot GrIS rrP $39 Big and bold with a concentrated freshness which is ripe and crisp, this wine is brightened by its depth in flavour and texture and its beautiful balance on the palate. eastlife | may 2018 |

dining

Mother’s Day HIGH TEA AT THE BURBS

Sunday, May 13 – $45 per person 11am-1pm or 2pm-4pm BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

doolan brothers Doolans Brothers Botany serves a fine array of pub food, encompassing New Zealand’s freshest produce. Plus, it’s the best place to bring the little ones for a feed. All kids meals are served in Bento Boxes with a healthy snack, wedges and a dessert. They will love it, and you will love how quiet it keeps them. Just $12.50 all day, everyday. Sundays are a great day to spend relaxing at Doolans in our sunny beer garden, it’s worth giving the beach a miss.

588 Chapel Road, Botany Town Centre Ph 271 2001. Open 7 days, 9am-10pm www.doolanbrothers.co.nz

THE BURBS EATERY Take the stress out of Mother’s Day and spoil her with a special High Tea at the Burbs. Indulge in a selection of home made sweet and savoury treats with a choice of either Allpress coffee or Storm and India teas. We will also have beautiful flower bouquets from Jardin Bell available to make her day perfect. All food is made in-house using free range eggs and meat. The Burbs also offers out catering – call the team. Open Monday-Friday, 7am-2pm, and Saturday, 7.30am-2pm. 190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove Phone 09 576 8840 www.facebook.com/the burbs JU0252-v3

CON0108

PALDO KOREAN BUFFET A take-away and delivery menu has been launched at Paldo Korean Buffet making it easy to eat at home, restaurant-style! Phone in your order to pick up or use UberEats App and wait for delivery – dinner’s done! See the take-away menu today at www.paldokoreanbuffet.co.nz! For your night out or lunch in the town, we offer over 50 hot and cold delicious Korean dishes – a touch of tradition and a dash of contemporary style! Open 7 days – Dinner, $28pp; lunch, $18pp; children under two years, free; 2-10 years, their age plus $4.90.

rossini italian restaurant

298B Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood. Ph 09 273 9797 Lunch 11.30-2pm, dinner 5.30pm-late. www.paldokoreanbuffet.co.nz

A local, family-owned and run establishment since 1993, Rossini Italian Restaurant in Howick prides itself on traditional Italian fare served in cosy, warm surroundings. Family-style meals – hearty, rustic and full of flavour. Check out this well-loved favourite offering lively music, friendly service and excellent food. Affordably priced and BYO, Rossini is perfect for a casual week night meal or for that special occasion. Available for functions 7 days, lunch and dinner. • 20% off your bill on presentation of this advert up to $35 value* *Expires May 31, 2018

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dining amphora Treat mum for Mother’s Day with a feast of heartwarming dishes from throughout the Mediterranean (such as pastas, calamari and parmigiana). With Kiwi favourites (including freshly steamed green lip mussels) and fine Italian and NZ wines, there’s a veritable cornucopia on offer from Amphora. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Shop 20a, 123 Ormiston Rd, Botany Junction Phone 09 271 6416 www.amphorabotany.co.nz

the apothecary Join us to make your mother feel special with our indulgent Mother’s Day High Tea at The Apothecary available on Saturday, May 12 or Sunday, May 13 from 9am. Delight in a mixture of sweet and savoury delicacies including mini lemon meringue tarts, Florentines, and the classic Devonshire scones with clotted cream and cucumber sandwiches. Gluten free and vegetarian options are also available. $50 per head, includes tea and coffee. Bookings essential. Contact us on Facebook or call 09-535-9661. Reservations: 09 535 9661 27-29 Picton Street, Howick theapothecary.co.nz JU0547-v2

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beaufords in totara park Specialising in weddings, conferences and private functions, Beaufords is set in the beautiful grounds of Totara Park, adjacent to the Auckland Botanical Gardens, just 5 minutes off the motorway at Manurewa. A popular venue for weddings and private functions for over 40 years, Beaufords offers the luxury of choice between the Historic Homestead and Garden Marquee. Full catering and bar service with style and elegance at affordable prices. 90R Wairere Rd, Manurewa Phone 09 267 6979 Email john@beaufords.co.nz www.beaufords.co.nz

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Sit back and relax at Five Stags, Whitford, where town meets country. Come on down with family and friends for great food and drinks – HAPPY HOUR (3-6.30pm) EVERY DAY. Enjoy $5.50 house wines (standard pour), $20* jugs, $25 jugs* and chips! CURRY CLUB EVERY THURSDAY – $20, buy 9 get 10th FrEE**. Open Mon-Thurs 12pm-late, Fri-Sun 11am-late and we’re serving breakfast and lunch until 3pm. Book to avoid disappointment! *Not Emersons, Stella or Tokyo Dry. **Conditions apply.

1 Whitford Wharf Road, Whitford Phone 09 530 8866 www.fivestagswhitford.co.nz facebook.com/5stagswhitford

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eastlife | may 2018 |

out of europe

There’s a snake in the kitchen... BEST OF BRITISH: You can take Great Britain out of the EU but (geographically speaking) you can’t take her out of Europe! And, as heavyweights such as Essence of Strength continue to lift the bar in interior design, there will always be a piece of our Out of Europe column which is forever England!

design, the team uses light weight ‘ultra-high-tech carbon composite materials’.The result is a rock ‘n’ roll steely look, as exemplified by their Cobra bar stool. When poised to strike in any kitchen, bar, man cave, or yacht for that matter, these stylish stools provide quite the perch.

Living up to its name, Essence of Strength produces furniture that’s ‘very metal’ in our books; and yet, not at all heavy. Drawing on a background in super yacht

For more information about the Cobra – and other products – see essenceofstrength.co.uk; these stools can be shipped to New Zealand by arrangement.

STORE NAME Full address and store

BEDPOST BOTANY AT THE HUB contact/opening hours 451 Ti Rakau Dr, The Hub, Botany Phone: 09 273 8088 E: bedpostbotanynz@gmail.com Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-5pm.

34 | eastlife | may 2018

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Terms and Conditions: *Combo offer applies to Queen size Tempur Aspire base and Lugano Mattress. Image for illustration purposes only.

WE ACCEPT THESE CARDS WE ACCEPT THESE

12 Months Interest Free Available†

CARDS 12 Months Interest Free Available†

†On in-store purchases $200 and over. Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. *Discount applies to normal ticketed price.

T&Cs: *Combo offer applies to Queen size Tempur Aspire base and Lugano mattress. Image for illustration purposes only.

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STORE NAME STORE NAME Full address andFull store address and store

contact/opening contact/opening hours hours

WE ACCEPTWE THESE ACCEPT CARDS THESE CARDS †

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Black and copper on the boil! Today’s contemporary kitchens go beyond cabinetry – designer appliances now add those refined finishing touches and, among the latest is the sophisticated urban Brooklyn kettle and toaster from Russell Hobbs, launched just in time for Mother’s Day. On trend with matte black housing and copper accents, the Brooklyn collection brings a stylish note to the bench top. It reflects the urban and industrial vibe of one of New York City’s hotbed boroughs, Brooklyn.

Matte black adds a contemporary contrast, while copper warms the dark hue simultaneously resulting in a chic toaster and kettle. Interior stylist, Aimee Tarulli says colours such as matte black and copper – key to the Brooklyn range – can add a wow factor to the kitchen. “If you’re looking for a kitchen design with timeless appeal use small pops of these accent colours to ensure the look is sophisticated. Metallics can really add a sense of opulence and luxury to the space.”

Aimee says copper works beautifully with warm tones such as natural timbers, but also with fresh whites – “accessorise with the likes of a large fruit bowl or tray to make the look sing.” • Brooklyn Kettle (RRP $189.99) Push button lid with perfect pour spout. 1.7L capacity and quiet boil technology, blue interior illumination. • Brooklyn 4 Slice Toaster (RRP $189.99) Defrost, reheat and cancel functions with variable browning control. Extra wide, selfcentering slots with high lift.

A showroom like no other Six full kitchens on display in our Highbrook showroom. Visit us to see the quality of our kitchens and let’s discuss how we can work together to enhance your main living space. VISIT OUR SHOWROOM:

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eastlife | may 2018 |

Anyone suggesting to an Aucklander that they could purchase a one bedroom home for less than $70,000 could easily be dismissed as a ‘space cadet’! however, Graham Bloxham from Eco Tiny is most down to earth while thinking beyond the box. Portable and stack-able, Eco Tiny’s homes are available for a lot less than deemed ‘affordable’ by government standards – from $69,000 for a single bedroom design, to $139,000 for a three-bed.

THE BUZZ

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While theoretical beekeeping could be loads of fun, to some the rewards reaped are seldom so sweet. since the first edition of Practical Beekeeping in New Zealand was released, this book has bee-n creating a buzz among those keen on making honey at home. This 5th edition, available in full colour, includes details for combating the catastrophic varroa mite and features pollination tips for horticulturalists and farmers.

measuring 22-60 metres square, these snug abodes pack a lot into their diminutive dimensions. What’s more, they can be constructed in as little as seven days, which is rather impressive by mortal standards!

suited to professional beekeepers and amateur apiarists alike, Practical Beekeeping is available from bookstores nationwide.

in addition to saving on construction costs, those keen to live life on Eco Tiny’s scale can also expect frugal running costs, thanks to such off-the-grid features as wind and solar energy generation systems.

Andrew matheson & murray Reid: Practical Beekeeping in New Zealand (RRP $49.99) Exisle Publishing

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Different strokes Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on the local real estate market happenings.

If there’s one thing that 25 years of selling real estate has taught me it’s that the property cycle is always moving and that the market is divided into not only different regions and price bands but also increasingly different segments of buyers. So, it’s always interesting when the different segments do different things to different regions over the same period, as is obvious from the figures coming through. The local real estate market continues its bumpy rises and falls in the median price. The median for this March is a figure we first saw back in the second quarter of 2016 as the market was rising to its peak – which occurred in March 2017.

Looking more closely at the REINZ figures for this March we had a median for our area, Eastern Beaches, of $1,099,000 which is down 3.6% from March 2017’s peak of $1,140,000. It is, however, up on the last two months which were $1,000,000 and then $1,020,000. The number of sales, at 148, is low for a March – typically the month with the highest sales. Last March we had 187 sales and 214 in March 2016. The days to sell dropped back to 41 – from 45 for January and 62 from February. Currently realestate.co.nz is showing 441 properties for sale – more or less the same as last month. For Auckland, overall, the picture is similar – the median price fell

‘

2.2% year-on-year to $880,000 and, again, this is compared to the record high set in March 2017 of $900,000. On a monthly basis the median has also bounced back from $820,000 in January and $858,000 in February, so, again, similar to what is happening locally. With 2386 properties sold in Auckland during March, the increase from February’s 1600 is quite significant but is still down by 12% year-on-year in comparison to 2712 in March 2017. Nationally, overall, for the median price year-on-year, it’s quite a different picture to Auckland. The median is now $560,000 which is up 1.8% on March 2017’s record of $550,000. If you exclude Auckland, the median rose 6.2% year-on-year to $460,000. Median prices increased in 13 out of 16 regions, with the only regions

It’s always interesting when the different segments do different things to different regions over the same period, as is obvious from the figures coming through.

not experiencing an increase being Northland, Auckland and Taranaki. For the third month in a row, Hawke’s Bay set a new record median price for the region. And, quite opposite to Auckland, Wellington is up 10% from $530,000 to $583,000, with much of the growth being driven by areas outside Wellington’s CBD including South Wairarapa’s Martinborough Ward, up 57.4%, Porirua’s Eastern Ward, up 48%, Carterton District Ward up 27.3%, and Upper Hutt City Ward, up 25.6%. Please feel free to contact me anytime on 0274 966 966 to discuss your property needs.

Have your own plans? Bring them to us. Building a home but prefer to have your plan drawn independently? Bring them to us and we will price them for you. *Conditions apply

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eastlife | may 2018 |

Glass (less than) half full? The USA is yet to see a woman ensconced in the Oval Office but it seems in business management, females rule the roost more than in many western nations. This year’s Glass Ceiling Index shows, 43.5% of managerial roles are held by women in the USA compared to just 40.1% here in NZ. However, small Baltic nation, Latvia topped the table with 44.4% in key management positions. Part of a larger study focusing on the technology field, the data is indicative of a changing world, Emma Tracey, from research company, Honeypot, believes. “The World Economic Forum reported in 2017 that economic gender equality won’t be reached for 170 years, but that equality for women in the labour force would add $28 trillion to the global economy by 2025.” Of those nations included in the survey, South Korea had the smallest percentage of women in managerial positions at a mere 10.7%. See honeypot.io/nl/womenin-tech-2018.

Mediocrity is the new ‘acceptable’ Wot? Part 2 Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and FriendCoach, who has made presentations in 57 countries so far. www.speakers.co.nz/our-speakers/all-speakers/billpotter www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToRhF22nARM Visionary George Orwell, wrote ‘Animal Farm : A Fairy Story’. In it, is the quote… ‘All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others’. This truism is alive and well in all ‘human’ endeavour. Here is my variation on this theme… ‘Nobody is indispensable, but some persons are more indispensable than others.’ In which category, are you? Being indispensable is a deliberate behaviour. Decide that you (yes, you), will live a life, that offers dynamic, reliable and timely support for others. You are not needy, seeking attention or want to be loved unconditionally all the time. It is a lifestyle, driven by a desire to be the best, to enhance the most

and for the longest time. You do it not for material rewards, but for the inner fulfilment that only great results can bring. These can, ‘pay big’! Your ‘path to indispensability’ requires… a high level of awareness, a steadfast persistence, a contemporary knowledge ‘of everything’, a visionary degree of innovation, a modest persona, a stealthy capability to perform ‘behind the scenes’ and… a ‘thick skin’. So, what about you? Hello? From the time I was a boy, I had a natural sense of ‘perfection’. Used badly, perfection can stifle. Used well, it achieves wonders. Some of my greatest life successes came along my ‘path of indispensability’. I coach

this strategy to instill a ‘personal power behaviour’ in you too. Yes, it’s nice to hear such phrases as… ‘but what are we going to do without you?’ or… ‘you can’t leave… you’re my right-hand man’ or… ‘we are all really going to miss you’. These and barrow loads of similar sentiments confirmed that… if I could help to repair ‘mediocrity’, I became, indispensable! I coach... PATH2© : The Maverick Personal Power Course, on Skype. This journey is only for serious Go-getters worldwide, who want a terrific tomorrow, today. PATH2© contains world-unique content. Be aware. 2018-2022 : The Perilous Period... is here! Contact me now or miss out... again! Cheers. – duitdammit@gmail.com

LOOKING FOR RETIREMENT INCOME? As an alternative to owning rental property, we have a large selection of investment options that can provide a monthly payment to boost your retirement income. For a no obligation meeting contact David or Mark on 09 271 1700 0800 438 238 adviceﬁrst.co.nz David Morgan AUTHORISED FINANCIAL ADVISER

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Unfair contract terms Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community Recent power outages have raised concerns. The general approach is to distinguish between first, outages caused by the power consumer (their fault) and, secondly, outages which are to some degree under the control of the supplier. In the second case, the supplier has some control over supply continuity by way of maintenance, line upgrades and more. These can be reflected in contracts which set out positive service standards or commitments and payments for failure to meet them. The consumer may be able to claim various payments to compensate for the outage. The amount depends on where the consumer lives, and the likely time taken to restore the power. Any disputes not resolved between the supplier and the customer can be dealt with through a disputes resolution process, such as Utilities Disputes, www.utilitiesdisputes.co.nz”. Obligations placed on suppliers under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 are significant. The main implied and un-excludable

obligation in any consumer contract is that the goods or services are of acceptable quality, measured by what a reasonable consumer would expect and the surrounding, disclosed circumstances of the supply. If the guarantee is breached, then all reasonably foreseeable losses are recoverable, no matter what the contract may say. Some illustrative resolutions show that for ‘force majeure’ to work, the event has to be genuinely outside the control of the supplier. Any supplier failure to reasonably anticipate the event and deal with its consequences may mean that the force majeure exclusion is ineffective, unless there is compelling evidence outside the supplier’s control.

‘

imbalance in the parties’ rights and obligations arising under the contract? Is it reasonably necessary in order to protect the legitimate interests of the party who would be advantaged by the term? Would it cause detriment (financial or otherwise) to a party if it were applied, enforced, or relied on?

The consumer may be able to claim various payments to compensate for the outage. The amount depends on where the consumer lives, and the likely time taken to restore the power.

In applying those principles a court may take into account any matters it thinks relevant, but must take into account the extent to which the term is transparent and the contract as a whole.

contracts, such as those in the utilities supply area, where the consumer has little real bargaining power. Only the Commerce Commission can apply to the courts for a declaration that a standard form contract term is unfair and thus unenforceable. The unfair contract terms rules are in the Fair Trading Act 1986, ss 26A and 46H -M.

The tension between voluntary remedies, the implied guarantees in the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, and what is the supplierconsumer contract, carries over into legislation on unfair contract terms.

Section 46M gives as an example of a potentially unfair contract term ‘a term that permits, or has the effect of permitting, one party (but not another party) to avoid or limit performance of the contract.’ Potentially, this could apply to a force majeure exclusion.

This concept was borrowed from Australia and other jurisdictions. The term applies to standard form

Whether or not the term is unfair depends on a range of factors. Would the term cause a significant

One suspects that the expectations of consumers in the power area are high and that any outage, no matter how it is caused, would be regarded as unacceptable. The reality is that nothing is totally risk-free. Whether or not a force majeure clause is an unfair contract term is an open question. The issue will not be resolved unless the Commerce Commission takes a case on the point (a matter of resources and priorities) or the law is changed to allow consumers to take direct action in the courts or the Disputes Tribunal (selfinterest). For the time being, therefore, the only realistic remedy for aggrieved consumers is to use the disputes process and see what happens.

+ Business and Commercial + Property + Litigation, Mediation & Intellectual Property + Trusts and Asset Management + Family and Matrimonial + Employment + Wills and Estates Wynyard Wood, Highbrook Business Park P: 09 969 0126 E: manager@wynyardwood.co.nz

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | may 2018 |

We know Jacs While there are plenty of island countries, none can be islands when it comes to world politics, as these snapshots (based on reports from Jacinda Ardern’s office) reveal.

Left; Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern with Canadian PM, Justin Trudeau.

On the road again...

Offshore & off-shore

Touring can be arduous. However, even with the newest addition to her band in tow (in manner of speaking!), Ms Ardern still managed to make all of her tour dates during her recent travels.

With humanity facing the possibility of sinking in a sea of its own filth, washing out our tins and jars properly isn’t (in some cases, literally) cutting the mustard. Instead, staving off the affects of climate change requires an international effort.

Over recent weeks, the PM met with a number of world leaders including British PM Theresa May, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron. Unsurprisingly, trade, climate change and the arguably UN-democratic democratic actions of a certain member of the United Nations’ Security Council were ensconced on her agenda. “I am grateful for the strong support we have received from our EU friends in moving towards the launch of [Free Trade Agreement] negotiations,” she said. “France, Germany and the United Kingdom are important partners of New Zealand. They share our values and our commitment to maintaining the multilateral rules-based system.

During a speech at the Paris Institute of Political Studies, Ms Ardern reiterated statements made back home concerning moves to stop granting new offshore oil and gas exploration permits in a bid to transition away from the use of fossil fuels. “We cannot ignore the inevitable,” she said. “No doubt it would have been politically easier to leave this call to someone else, but I refuse to stand by and watch as communities who have economies that rely on these industries without certainty and a plan for what the next 20 to 30 years will look like.”

“As we all face numerous global challenges, it’s important that we maintain strong relationships with those who share these values.”

In addition, the PM offered the Paris crowd some sobering words regarding the impact of rising sea levels in the Pacific and outlined our government’s plans to help curb climate change.

During her tour the PM also went to London to visit the Queen and even made time for Canadian Prime Minister (and teenage heartthrob) Justin Trudeau – who wouldn’t?

“This could just point to a change in lifestyle or adaptation [but] not in low-lying Kiribati and Tuvalu. There, the oceans that have sustained local communities for thousands of

40 | eastlife | may 2018

years could soon rise up to swallow them forever,” Ms Ardern said. “We have committed to making our electricity system 100 percent renewable by 2035. Right now, we are preparing to consult with the New Zealand public on legislation to help us reach Zero Carbon that will become law next year.” Whether the New Zealand public will warm to these moves or Ms Ardern will sink at the next general election as a result remains to be seen.

Fighting? Talk! When two (or more) tribes went to war recently, our PM launched a fierce attack using this nation’s magic bullet... its disapproval. In ‘nah not cool, bro’ fashion, Ms Ardern voiced her support for airstrikes by the US, UK and France in response to alleged use of chemical weapons by the Syrian government. “We stand firm in our condemnation of the use of chemical weapons in Eastern Ghouta. This is clearly in breach of international law,” she said. “New Zealand therefore accepts why the US, UK and France responded... [their] action was intended to prevent further such atrocities being committed against Syrian civilians.”

Perhaps carrying more weight is our PM’s push for the United Nations’ to eliminate veto powers held by the permanent members of its Security Council, including Russia which blocked official UN action in this case.

I spy no spies? The thing about spies is that they’re tough to... spy! Despite international pressure to expel Russian diplomats following the former dictatorship’s involvement in a nerve agent attack in the UK, our PM insists she will not do so without just cause, rather than... just ‘cause. However, it seems that doesn’t mean our islands will become a haven for those sent packing. “We will be asking our security partners to provide names to us,” Ms Ardern said. “Those names [of Russian diplomats expelled from other countries] will be placed on a travel ban list to ensure that individuals who have been found to undertake activities incompatible with their diplomatic status in other countries do not enter New Zealand.” Of course, spies need not take up residence opposite the Beehive in order to ‘hack’ away at security systems, as more recent reports have suggested. www.eastlife.co.nz

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CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 10046 – SOLUTIONS Across – 6, Matter-horn. 8, Da-i-s (rev.). 9, Pi-n-t. 10, S-wed-e(ptember). 11, Race. 12, A good deal. 16, Lunch time. 20, L-o-la. 22, B-r-eam. 23, Eddy 24, T-ax-i. 25, Dis-closure. Down – 1, Ha-tin-g. 2, St-at-ion. 3, Prised (anag.). 4, Ro-wen-a (rev.). 5, Under. 7, P-itch. 13, E-on (rev.). 14, At-heist. 15, Wo-ma-n (rev.). 17, Un-easy. 18, Co-Mel-y. 19, Mode-RN. 21, Ab-i-de.

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Ground water problems

Phone Allen 027 546 0553 allen2harriman@gmail.com CD1998

www.eastlife.co.nz

PH 09 274 2727 9 TRUGOOD DR, EAST TAMAKI BOTANYHONDA.CO.NZ

eastlife | may 2018 |

JU0433

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