EastLife November 2016

eastlife.co.nz

November 2016

SCIENTISTS’

Double treat

BEHIND GARDEN GATES

Win! GREAT PRIZES

OUT & ABOUT | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY |

bird’s eye view B.I.N.G.O But David was his name-oh!

| ART | HOME | MOTORING | EVENTS | TRAVEL

MREINZ

total focus

Issue Forty one

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Roll on Summer!

Welcome to Issue No 41 of Eastlife

Another month gone surely not and I’m guessing the next two will be gone in a blink of an eye. So do try to stop and take time out to enjoy the journey especially coming into the festive season, it will make the destination or the more worth while.

It’s traditionally a busy time in the real estate world especially as the warmer weather is returning.

Cockle Bay - new to the market

Just one look and this home will delight and surprise you. If you're all about adventure, fun and relaxing overlooking the bush or lounging by the pool, you're going to absolutely love this property. Offering 3 bed, 1 bath plus study, single garage and plenty of under house storage. The layout gives the space required for today’s living and the un-utilized space under the home providing numerous options for adding value in the future.

It’s one to view so come visit.

Auction on site 3rd December 2016 @12PM Phone now for viewing times www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38119

Until next month Take care, keep safe Leigh QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

“Home is a place you grow up wanting to leave and grow old wanting to get back to” John Eddie Pearce

David Prescott 021 821 131

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

355 Pakuranga Road, Pakuranga “A bit of alright”

Easy on the eye with good lines.

From the moment you arrive this home is sure to make you smile, built in the 1970’s but looking like it was only built yesterday this sassy little number offers a great entry level home. Centrally located to just about everything, whether it is schooling, transport, the mall, motorway or marina you really are spoilt for choice.

Bathed in all day sun, this light and bright home is both warm and inviting. Just move in an enjoy with modern kitchen and fully renovated bathroom, plus loads of off street parking for friends and family.

Auction on site Sat 26 November 2016 @ 12pm www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38118

Our team!

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Bath

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Greg Roy 0274 966 966

Leigh Roy 021 646 565

The “Real Estate Specialists”

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

David Prescott 021 821 131

Contact us on 5380151

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Bed

111 Picton Street, Howick

Lynne Hodges 021 467 940

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Paul Charlesworth 027 280 9551

Karen Dawson 538 0151

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

00792-v10

on the cover

Thumbs up for the ‘Naki!

Gosh, readers, don’t you just love it when New Zealand’s beauty is recognised by the world? I certainly do and when I heard that Taranaki had been chosen as one of the world’s Top 10 Regions for next year in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017, I was delighted.

WATCH... THE BIRDIE: Who shot the albatross? It turns out, it wasn’t the ancient mariner but rather a modern-day scientist, Dr Rob Murdoch. And to further debunk Coleridge’s fanciful poem, Rob didn’t suffer from ill fortune as a result. Quite the contrary, he picked up two awards in this year’s NIWA photo competition, including one for this majestic picture of a Southern Buller’s albatross, (commonly called a mollymawk), titled Bird’s Eye View. To read (and see) more, turn to page 26.

Ph 09 271 8020 www.eastlife.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry 09 271 8036, editor@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rachel Watts 09 271 8019, rachel@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Shelley Taylor 09 271 8092, shelley@eastlife.co.nz Sales: Rashna Tata 09 271 8091, rashna@eastlife.co.nz

Some six years ago, man about the house suggested we tiki-tour to New Plymouth and enjoy the city’s famous Festival of Lights. I was keen. It had been decades since I had previously visited the area and I knew there was much to see.

Initially, we stayed a couple of nights at the glorious 1906 homestead at Bushy Park, north/west of Whanganui, then another night at the unique Headlands Hotel in the tiny township of Opunake. What a treat that was especially the morning view of Mt Taranaki bathed in early morning sunshine – the weather was perfect, the mountain magnificent and the Headlands dining most fulfilling!

While in the district we meandered up Mt Taranaki to Dawson Falls and visited several small townships. At Stratford we stopped to admire the

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Out & about

astLife photographers E focus on local events

Saddle sore Alistair Davidson

www.eastlife.co.nz

We also talk to new Blues half back Augustine Pulu, to Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra’s lead trombonist and an award-winning photographer whose new book captures more stunning New Zealand scenery. Of course, there’s loads more, so do sit down with a cuppa and enjoy!

Some people may think of the ‘Naki as home to farmers and footballers (oops – I really mean rugby players of the All Black kind such as Kieran Crowley, Bull Allen, Beauden Barrett, Waisake Naholo and Dave Loveridge, both farmer and footy

Helen Perry Editor

12-13 Q&A

Photography: Wayne Martin

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

Eventually we made our way back to Auckland up the coast which provided plenty of reasons to stop for scenic photographs. I said then that this route should be ‘a must’ on tourist itineraries and now, with Lonely Planet’s endorsement – No 2 on the list – perhaps it will be.

On the other hand, those hankering to head overseas should read Kathy Graves fascinating account of her visit to the Galapagos Islands in this month’s EastLife and Robyn Yousef’s account of a thriving body pampering venture in Samoa.

10-11 community calendar

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

Sadly, on our one night in New Plymouth, the heavens opened and the Festival of Lights was cancelled.

However, the following day we wandered around lovely Pukekura Park and adjoining Brooklands Park and were charmed. We also took in some of the coastal walkway and indulged in a flambé table service for dinner.

player) but it is one of the country’s scenic secrets. Sadly, I haven’t managed to return to those parts but I’ve been re-inspired. Hopefully, with summer holidays on the horizon, EastLife readers will also be galvanised into visiting the region.

This month...

Design: Clare McGillivray 09 271 8067, clare@eastlife.co.nz

Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163

town’s glorious Elizabeth clock with its life-sized Romeo and Juliet figures and in Hawera, visited the Tawhiti Museum. We were dumbstruck by the museum’s realistic, life-size and scale models – a must-see.

Clowning around

14-15 interview

16 WIN

Prizes up for grabs

17-32 lifestyle

• Christmas gift essentials • Galapagos wonders • Fresh smell of success in Samoa • Sorting life’s details • Doug Cross - art of brass • NIWA scientists shoot environment • David’s eye for scenery • Books for boys • Puzzle time

Alistair Davidson – gruelling 7100 km bike ride – page 14-15

33-45 health, beauty and fashion

• Summer fling fashion • Gold Hawk lingerie • New Resortwear • Sugar gel trial success • Beauty counter • Columnists

46-53 food • Hot spots for dining

• Lone Star bright spot

• Cook books up for grabs

• Meatball heaven

• Taste

• Dining Guide

54-64 Home • My favourite thing

• Dulux forecast

• Out of Europe

• Faye’s garden to bloom in Uxbridge Safari

• Regular columnists

65-69 business

• Right ‘Hon’ Key • Book giveaways • Columnists

70-72 motoring/Sport

• Augie Pulu • Electric Mini eastlife | november 2016 |

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EXCELLENCE HONOURED Guests at the recent Westpac Auckland Business Awards 2016 (South) gladly toasted the success of companies who reaped the rewards of their industry efforts. Held at the Vodafone Events Centre in Manukau, the evening saw Auckland Motorways Alliance take home the Supreme Award for Business Excellence. Photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there too.

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1. Benjamin Born, Kuini Peteli, Bobbie-Allen Aramoana 2. Dee Whelan, Kirsten Hawke, Angel Lee 3. Debbie & Mark Morley 4. Loretta & David Verry 5. Natalie Blanckenberg, Katherine Guevarra 6. Ray Glass, Tania Collinson 7. Ash Parekh, Surene Singh 8. Brian & Angela Pullar 9. Doreen Sami, Ronelie Clemente 10. Petite Elazegui, Allison Dobbs, Roseen Chetty, Elisa Teanedero 11. Raewyn McKenzie, Christine Hills, Sandy Trapsai

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raising glasses to 20 years 1

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Guests were in high spirits when they recently celebrated Mike Langhorne’s 20 year ownership of East Tamaki company, Possumdown. The anniversary function was held at The Officers Club affiliated with the The Northern Club, in Auckland’s CBD. Photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there to record the festivities.

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1. Aiwa Liu, Sophie Shu 2. Nicki Clasby, Rosemary Cox 3. Joss Madsen, Odette Jury 4. Jane Connell, Richard Connell, Peter Bould 5. Ashleigh Harding, Amber-Rose Henshall, Samantha-Jane Harding 6. Karina Andriola, Shirley Butler, Kirsten & Peter Blacklock 7. Emma & Michael Langhorne 8. Owen McLeod, Rose & Paul Tomlinson 9. Bailey & Ricky Sciberras 10. Gary Weinberg, Rob Gardiner

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CELEBRATING CUFF CAFE’S OPENING It’s said the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach but at the official opening of the attractive and welcoming Cuff Cafe, inside Highland Park Shopping Centre, all guests – men women – were endeared to owner and chef, Eugene Sokolovski and his wife Anna, after the couple treated them to a sumptuous celebration lunch.

Photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there.

1. R owen Ben-Harosh, Michael Steiner, Yossi Shannon 2. Hugo Jenkins 3. Clyde Sole, David Collings 4. Rano Koutsos, Lana Steiner 5. Magdalena Jicinska, Adrien Pepin 6. Anna Ianovski, Eugene Sokolovski 7. Gavin Houston, Tracey Barker 8. Adele White, Reay Neben, Katrina Bungard 9. Rita Chan, Val Lott, Livia Li

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Anna and Eugene eastlife | november 2016 |

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RED CARPET NIGHT AT the yacht club 1

With the renovation of Bucklands Beach Yacht Club complete, celebrations covered several days and included a chic, red carpet event to mark the makeover in style. Guests, dressed in their finery, ensured the evening lived up to its name. Photographer SARAH MOROVIC was there too.

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1. Murray & Sharon Wells 2. Sharon & Spring Humphreys 3. David & Lynda Clark 4. Jannie Cook, Diane Stevenson, Chloe Stevenson 5. Rob & Linda Thomas, Linda & Erle Robinson 6. Peggy & Tony Kendall 7. Wendy Folkard, Allan Kaerney 8. Brett King, Patrice Thompson 9. Joy & Nick Adams

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Celebrating 21 years in Pakuranga Diamond Jewellery

Handmade Jewellery

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Please note our VIP evening is on Wednesday 30th November 2016 S173 Pakuranga Plaza, Auckland Ph 09 576 3818 • brownsonsjewellers@gmail.com 14438

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eastlife | november 2016 |

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community calendar november 2016 ➤ hOmE & garDEn festive home tour 2016 November 4, 10am-4pm, locations vary.

When it comes to decking out your home for Christmas, ‘Yule’ find plenty of inspiration during this year’s Festive Home Tour! Taking in 10 Auckland homes, this tour presents an eclectic mix of architectural and interior design styles. What’s more, visitors will be treated to gourmet delights from top chefs along the way. See mindfood.com for details. the uxbridge garden Safari November 5, 9.30am-4.30pm, leaves from Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick.

Uxbridge Arts & Culture is bringing back a classic, presenting a tour of 10 of the finest gardens our district has to offer. For more (including a sneak peek at one garden on show) see pages 58 & 59 or visit uxbridge.co.nz for more information.

in the visitors’ centre, Dinosaur Encounters (on most weekends) promises an experience fit for a Rex! See aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/ whats-on.

➤ muSic mozart and Elgar November 4, from 7pm, Auckland Town Hall, Queen St, Auckland City.

While Mozart may have been a rock star of his time, Elgar is perhaps a little less well known. However, this English composer has to be amongst one of the most influential of his age. This performance by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra is set to showcase the talents of both these remarkable men. See nzso.co.nz/ concerts for details.

franklin hospice garden ramble November 12-13, from 10am, leaves from Ramarama School, 126 Ararimu Rd, Ramarama.

Roam wherever you want but when it comes to great gardens, Auckland boasts some of the best! Once again, this event (in nearby Franklin) will explore glorious gardens. For details see franklinhospiceramble.org.nz.

Pink floyd Double feature November 8-22, 8-10pm (Tuesdays), Stardome Observatory & Planetarium, 670 Manukau Rd, One Tree Hill Domain, Royal Oak. When it comes to stars, they don’t shine much brighter than Pink Floyd... except at the Stardome. From The Dark Side of the Moon to The Wall visitors will experience the music of these iconic rockers, set to surroundsound, complimented by a laser light show. So, if think you might like to go to the show, see stardome.org.nz ticket information.

Dinosaurs in the gardens November 19 -February 5, Auckland Botanic Gardens, 102 Hill Rd, The Gardens.

While lounge lizards may prefer to kick back and put their feet up over summer, more adventurous sorts are sure to venture to the Auckland Botanic Gardens. As well as the Gondwana forest and a display

nZtrio loft Series – flare November 13 (from 5pm) & 15 (from 6.30pm), Q’s Loft Theatre, 305 Queen St, Auckland City.

The final of three concerts, Flare features Kiwi tenor, Simon O’Neill, and works by Richard Strauss as a broad range of music rings out at Q. Details via qtheatre.co.nz/ whats-on.

➤ muSic Dennis marsh – lest we forget rSa tour November 20, 5.30-8.30pm, Howick RSA, 25 Wellington Street, Howick Kiwi country music superstar, Dennis Marsh, will be marching on up to Howick this month to perform material from his gold album, Lest we Forget, a tribute to those who sacrificed so much for us all.

What’s more, he’ll be joined on stage by another legend from the ‘biz’, Brendan Dugan. For details, see howickrsa.co.nz.

abbey road – nZ beatles tribute Show November 26, Howick RSA, 25 Wellington St, Howick.

While the Fab Four might now be better known as the ‘mature two’, there are still plenty of rocks to roll when it comes to the timeless music of one of the most influential bands in music history. So, when tribute act, Abbey Road, hits the road and comes to Howick, they’re liable to supply music which is right up our street!

Contact the RSA (via howickrsa.co.nz).

➤ thEatrE, cOmEDy & DancE as night falls November 1-5, Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Dr, Auckland City.

Contemporary dance is flavour of the day as night falls on the city in November. Set to the sounds of vivaldi, this performance by the Black Grace dance troupe is billed as ‘a poetic ode to our troubled world’.

Details via aucklandlive.co.nz.

Oliver twist November 11 - December 3, Dolphin Theatre, 12 Spring St, Onehunga.

Ever since this little ‘Dickensian’ lept forth from the imagination of one

of the greats of English literature, audiences have also been calling for more performances of this ‘grueling’ tale. Charles Dickens’ timeless characters (from Oliver to Fagin and the malicious Sykes) will again take centre stage in nearby Onehunga soon. See dolphintheatre.org.

Snort November 12, 8-9pm, Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick.

The phrase ‘expect the unexpected’ is used quite often. However, the unexpected is exactly what we can expect from Snort. As this is a New York-style improv show, it’s hard to say exactly what will happen when such comedians as Guy Montgomery, Laura Daniel and Eli Matthewson are involved, but it’s bound to involve more than just a little funny business.

Details via uxbridge.co.nz.

Peter Pan November 12-26, Harlequin Musical Theatre, 563 Pakuranga Rd, Howick.

Ironically, this is one production which has both been widely Pan-ned by critics and critically acclaimed at the same time. Since JM Barrie first penned the part of Peter in the early

1900s, the boy who never grew up has become a favourite of fairies, pirates, mermaids, Neverland natives, and lost boys. For details see harlequintheatre.co.nz. the ladykillers November 12 – December 3, times vary, Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Dr, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga.

Based on a movie so delightfully strange that it inspired the Cohen brothers to remake it, The Ladykillers was a West End smash hit for good reason. When bank robbers (posing as musicians) rent a room from an (apparently) harmless little old lady, a ‘madcap comedy caper brimming with crazy characters and lethal laughter’ unfolds. See hlt.org.nz.

➤ artS christmas exhibition November 4-27 (Fridays-Sundays), 10am-3pm, Green Gables Cottage Art Gallery, Hawthornden Reserve, 66 Cook St, Howick.

Festive works take their place at Green Gables this month with a wide variety of paintings specially chosen for Christmas on display. Sales will help support South Auckland Totara Hospice. See howickartgroup.co.nz isobel thom exhibition November 5 – December 17, Malcolm Smith Gallery, Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick.

From watercolours to ceramics, many a medium has been explored

by Howick’s Isobel Thom. During this solo exhibition, she will present various works. For more information, see malcolmsmithgallery.org.nz. nZ book festival November 5, 10am-4.30pm, Mt Eden War Memorial Hall, 489 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden.

A world of imagination waits in Mt Eden this month as writers from throughout New Zealand gather.

Offering signings, readings and more, this event gives fans the chance to connect with the minds behind the books they love. Suited to readers of all ages, the festival also includes a special kid’s zone, sponsored by talented children’s author, Zee Southcombe, who has twice featured in EastLife. See nzbookfestival.co.nz.

Jem noble: Dream Dialects November 12-February 26, 2017, Te Tuhi Centre For The Arts, 13 Reeves Rd, Pakuranga.

Smith’s Dream could yet become a waking nightmare, should ‘progress’ march on relentlessly. In this exhibition, British artist, Jem Nobel, takes a novel approach, using C. K. Stead’s acclaimed 1971 book, Smith’s Dream (and the subsequent film, Sleeping Dogs) as a starting point for an exploration of the effects of globalisation. See tetuhi.org.nz. ann Shelton: Dark matter exhibition November 26 – April 17, Auckland Art Gallery, cnr Kitchener and Wellesley St, Auckland City.

While scientists may understand five percent of the universe, at least for the time being, the remaining 95 percent (dark matter and dark energy) is best left to artists to contemplate.

In this free exhibition, acclaimed photographer, Ann Shelton, seeks to reveal the ‘dark matter’ (or unknown substances and ideas which may go unnoticed) existing within her work.

See aucklandartgallery.com.

➤ chilDrEn’S & family EntErtainmEnt Superman & Supergirl November 19, 10.30-11.30am, Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick.

Some time to shop or perhaps catch up on a coffee while the kids are captivated by a man and woman who wear their undies on the outside?

That sounds absolutely super!

Suited to children aged 3-10 (and, we suppose comic book enthusiasts 40 and up!) this kids’ show looks set to be a flay away hit! See uxbridge. co.nz. aPO 4 Kids christmas November 26, 10am and 11.30am, Auckland Town Hall, Queen St, Auckland City.

It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas! So, it’s time to head down to the centre of town for a concert designed especially for preschoolers with sing-alongs par for the course.

See apo.co.nz for details and to read our interview with APO’s principle trombonist, Doug Cross, see page 25. mums with bubs howick market November 26, 9.30-12.30, The Picton Centre, 120 Picton St, Howick.

With Christmas around the corner, busy mums will be run ragged.

However, thanks to this event, seasonal shopping can be combined with time to unwind with a cuppa.

Featuring a wide range of products, handcrafted by mums, this market offers plenty for parents and their progeny. See essentialmum. wordpress.com.

➤ EXPOS & fEStivalS

Dark Matter

www.eastlife.co.nz

clevedon a&P Show 2016 November 12-13, Clevedon Showgrounds, 107 Monument Rd, Clevedon.

Those who know their A&Ps need know no more about this event other

than when it’s set to run. However, for the benefit of those who don’t, Clevedon’s Agricultural & Pastoral show is one of New Zealand’s best.

Celebrating all things country, this right rural affair offers everything from horse trials and shows for almost every animal under the sun, as well as food, flower shows, helicopter rides, bouncy castles and much more. See clevedonshow.co.nz.

time travellers convention November 19, 10am-4pm, Great North Rd, Western Springs.

Despite what RiffRaff and his friends believed, taking a trip back in time requires a little more effort than just a jump to the left and a step to the right.

Yet, driving out to Western Springs isn’t such a tall order if it means taking a journey back in time to notable (and not quite so prominent) moments in history. For details, see motat.org.nz.

➤ hOrSE racing alexandra Park & Ellerslie christmas at the races November 11 - December 22, Alexandra Park Raceway, Greenlane Rd West, Epsom, and Ellerslie.

Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera Do you know what you’re getting for Christmas? As anyone with little ones will tell you, the mind practically races! So, rather than leave it all up to chance, why not treat yourself to an early Chrissie party at Christmas at the Races? See theraces.co.nz.

Q&A Send in the clowns? Don’t bother, they’re here. Well, at least one of them is anyway.

From Pagliacci, to Krusty (of The Simpsons’ fame) and Ronald McDonald, it seems no one even raises an eyebrow at grown-ups sporting makeup and bizarre costumes. However, what lies behind the comically exaggerated smiles?

This month, we put a few questions to Howick clown and stand up comedian, David McCartney, about his unusual professions.

with

Bingo the clown

aka david mccartney

There has been a recent social media-fuelled fad of scary clowns intent on frightening people. Is this giving clowns a bad name?

Has it had a negative effect on your business?

I actually heard recently, after a performance at a school, parents were asking teachers if everything was okay with me; was I legit. I’ve never heard that before, so I guess it might be affecting my business.

However, ever since the Stephen King movie, It came out, there has been some negativity. I feel like that movie did to clowns what Jaws did to sharks!

In pop culture, there has long been an association of clowns with bad, bad people. That’s a shame because clowning is probably one of the most innocent forms of entertainment there is. I guess that’s their agenda, to take something innocent and corrupt it.

You haven’t opted for the full ‘white face’ with your costume. Instead you appear a little more human. Do modern day children better relate to this image?

I actually used to have a little bit of white on my face but I’ve recently stripped back the makeup even further. Usually, the thing that tends to frighten young children, in particular, about clowns is the white face when they can’t identify that there’s a person behind the costume.

Did you grow up with an interest in performing and when and why did you decide to become a clown?

I’ve always enjoyed making people laugh so, whatever platform I need to take to make that happen, I’ll go for it. I’m actually a trained primary school teacher who’s also enjoyed engaging the imaginations of children.

Clowning came later on. I didn’t adorn my first clown shoes and put on the makeup until I was about 27. It’s been a great way to mix comedy and magic in a fairly innocent way that’s suited to younger audiences.

Did you undertake any formal training?

I had been working as a stand up comedian and actor, but I actually learned the ropes from another clown, Cornflake. He taught me how to perform the magic tricks and introduced me to quite a market for children’s entertainment.

Have you modelled yourself on any one clown in particular?

Not as such, but I have been influenced by many including comedians who, in a way, are clowns. I particularly like [legendary, fez-sporting British comedian] Tommy Cooper. He was a shambolic comedian/magician who would always get things wrong for comic effect.

I’ve always loved the idea of making an audience think you’ve messed things up, only to turn things around in the end and leave them wondering how you did what you did.

In general, what does your clown act involve and do you have other characters in addition to Bingo?

I do a lot of balloon twisting, magic, comedy and just plain general buffoonery. I have a few characters, which either I or other performers take on.

Bingo is the main man, the flagship of the troupe, but I also have Bongo, another clown then there’s Captain Jack Pukeko – who’s a magical pirate

12 | eastlife | november 2016

with tall tales of the seas and his adventures to tell – Fairy Fabulous, and Tommy Tricky, our magician (a kid-ified version of Tommy Cooper).

I also have superheroes (including Batman and Spiderman) and, lastly, Charlie the Christmas Elf – he’s insanely busy at this time of year!

Is the slapstick style of clowning now considered old hat, or does the tried and true still work?

The tried and true still works. At the end of the day, you’re still dealing with kids and it’s new to them.

However, while a lot of entertainers may shoo the adults off to a corner, I try to appeal to all ages, with levels the adults can enjoy too.

Have you any aspirations to progress with other forms of acting?

I do some TV commercials from time to time, such as the Speight’s ad’ where a bunch of Aucklanders realise what life on a farm is really like. It’s been fun and I’d love to do more.

You are also a stand-up comic.

How’s that progressing? Would you ever lay aside the red nose to take on stand up comedy full time?

Really well! A couple of years ago I was a finalist in the Raw Comedy Quest, and last year, I was in Ben Hurley’s Next Big Things during the NZ International Comedy Festival.

I was also nominated by the NZ Comedy Guild as best newcomer, so I’m making some really positive steps. Beyond that, I’ve been busy hosting a bimonthly comedy night at The Apothecary in Howick, featuring some of New Zealand’s best comedians, such as Leigh ‘that guy’ Hart and Brendhan Lovegrove.

Inevitably, I will have to set clowning aside. I’ve been successful because I’m young, full of energy and able to keep up with the kids. To me, there’s nothing worse than a sad, old clown! I would prefer to retire at my peak and get into more TV and radio work and stand up. www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

I’ve always loved the idea of making an audience think you’ve messed things up, only to turn things around in the end and leave them wondering how you did what you did.”

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

I would probably put more money into local productions on stage and screen. We have such a massive pool of talent in this country which does not get the backing it needs.

If you could ask any three people (living or dead) to dinner who would they be and why?

Harry Houdini would be most interesting. His whole life was shrouded in mystery and was a massive inspiration to me. Also, Charlie Chaplin. He pioneered film as the world’s first truly international movie star. He had such an adept eye for slapstick, physical comedy.

Comedy wouldn’t be the same without him. As for one more, let’s see, Houdini, Chaplin and... Jesus, I don’t know! Actually, why not Jesus?

He could turn water into wine. If he could repeat that one, it’d make the party even better! www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

13

Davidson rides again A bike might seem like an odd mode of conveyance for a man who loves his motors. Even stranger is the prospect of riding said cycle all the way across the USA. However, as JON RAWLINSON recently discovered, hot rod enthusiast, magazine publisher and EastLife motoring columnist, Alistair Davidson, has method for his madness.

When Alistair had a date to keep, he couldn’t hang around. And yet, after crossing a continent on a bicycle in just 27 days – followed by a seven hour drive from virginia to the Big Apple – somehow the Beachlands local still managed to keep his good lady waiting.

“In order to meet my wife, Sharron, with some time to spare, I needed to finish the Trans Am Bike Race in 25 days,” he says. “She arrived in New York at 3am; I met her at four.

After all that, I was one hour late! If I hadn’t been sick and lost a day and a half because of a repair, I could have made it sooner, so I was a bit disappointed.”

Luckily, Sharron didn’t mind Alistair’s tardiness too much. Considering that the Trans Am is North America’s longest bike race, covering an epic 7100km route coast to coast, it’s not exactly a walk in the park; it’s more a ride on the wild side.

“To put it in perspective, it’d be the equivalent of riding to Taupo every day for a month. It’s about five times the length of New Zealand. And, then there are the climbs. The highest is Hoosier Pass [in Colorado – 3518m] which is almost the height of Mount Cook,” he explains.

“You have to be fit, but it’s mental drive that really counts. I’d trained for 18 months and thought I was totally prepared, but I wasn’t prepared for the heat, with temperatures into the mid 40s at times. That almost destroyed me.”

One would assume the publisher of a magazine titled Petrolhead would be more inclined to opt for a motorised

14 | eastlife | november 2016

form transport when making his way across the USA. But where’s the sport in that?

“I’ve always been fascinated by America’s car culture and thought, when I cross the States, it’ll be in a muscle car. So why did I do it on a bike? I guess I couldn’t think of anything more radical. I’m not trying to balance out my carbon emissions or anything like that, though. That would take some doing!”

Since turning his need for speed into a pedalling passion, Alistair has raced regularly on road and off. Last year, he undertook the gut-busting Kiwi Brevet, a mountain bike endurance ride covering 1200km around the top of the South Island. He says the Trans Am was a much different beast to battle. An inauspicious start certainly didn’t help.

“The night I landed, I contracted food poisoning and couldn’t even leave my room. I was still crook as a dog when the race started and couldn’t eat for the first few days. That definitely held me back.”

As if the heat, sickness and sheer mental exhaustion weren’t hurdles enough, further setbacks were to follow as both rider and bike reached breaking point.

“It was a stupid. I stopped for a pee one night and, exhausted, I dropped my bike and snapped the carbon handlebar.

“Then, a week later, the gear-change cable snapped. I took a heap of spares but not the part I needed.

Fortunately, my brother, Julian (who was working in New York),

‘

When you’re out in the middle of Kansas with nothing for days, it’s forty-five degrees with a headwind, you don’t have much of an option. You just have to take a concrete pill and harden the hell up!”

Above: Hoosier pass is the route’s highest point. At 11,539 feet (3500 metres) it overshadows Ruapehu (2500 metres) and is just 200 metres shy of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.

saved my arse big time. He found a mechanic prepared to shut his shop and drive four hours to fix it.”

By this time, Alistair says that, mentally, he was “over it” but remained determined to finish “that damn race!”

“There came a point where, even if I pulled the pin, by the time I detoured and caught a train, I still wouldn’t have reached New York to meet Sharron on time. When you’re out in the middle of Kansas with nothing for days, it’s forty-five degrees with

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The race route follows the American Adventure Cycling Association’s TransAmerica Cycle Trail.

The aptly named Victory Monument in Yorktown, Virginia. There’s no finish line, welcoming party or officials to record a rider’s finish. Just the satisfaction of covering 4270 miles (7100km) as quickly as possible. a headwind, you don’t have much of an option. You just have to take a concrete pill and harden the hell up!”

Sufficiently hardened to the task, Alistair pedalled ahead to the race’s home straight in virginia, almost in time to make his date.

“After finishing, I was amazed at how good I felt, aside from wearing the skin off my hands and feet, and the saddle sores. I didn’t even get backache. I had a few hours sleep, then we were up sightseeing and didn’t stop for two weeks. The

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exhaustion didn’t really catch up with me until I arrived home.”

do that one either. Hell no! Sharron would divorce me!” he exclaims.

Asked if he would consider tackling the Trans Am again, or look to chalk off the world’s longest endurance race (Trans-Siberian Extreme (9200km), Alistair allows no pause for thought:

“From now on, I’m going to try and stay in her good books by restricting my insane ways to New Zealand soil.”

“No way! The experience was about 30 percent enjoyment (exhilaratingly so), but probably 70 percent torture – and I mean torture.

“As for the Trans-Siberian, I wouldn’t

However, there are other major rides on Alistair’s bucket list. The next, he expects, will be the Tour of Aotearoa, a mountain bike ride from Cape Reinga to Bluff, in 2018.

Overall, he says the thrill of accomplishment keeps him in the saddle.

“One of the greatest things about endurance riding is that it’s just you, the bike and the road.

“You don’t think about work or anything else; you just ride. With the Trans Am, I guess I just wanted to do something really ridiculous before I tip over. And, now I have.”

• To read more about Alistair’s earlier efforts during the Kiwi Brevet ride, or the man himself, see EastLife’s April 2015 and October 2014 issues at eastlife.co.nz.

eastlife | november 2016 |

15

Howick Santa Parade Sunday, December 4 Parade starts 2.30pm Pre-Parade entertainment from 1.30pm

u o y See ! e r e h t SPONSORS: 16 | eastlife | november 2016

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Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.eastlife.co.nz click on the competitions link and fill in the form. One entry per email address / person; entries close November 30, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

Win! A Garden Pollination Pack from Creative Woodcraft How does your garden grow? Well, not very well at all without pollinating insects, that’s for sure!

However, attracting pollinators into the garden (for vibrant veggies and bountiful blooms) can be easily achieved thanks to this handy pack from our good friends at Creative Woodcraft. Valued at $199, this prize features: a handcrafted Bumble Bee Nesting Box, Solitary Bee House (suitable for leafcutter and solitary bees) Leafcutter Bee Cocoons and Wildflower Seed Mix. Check out beegap.co.nz for hints and tips for raising bees.

WIN! MANUKA DOCTOR DROPS OF CRYSTAL Beautiful skin needs beautiful products to keep it radiant and Manuka Doctor’s new Drops of Crystal range is sure to add a little sparkle to skincare routines. These treatments are enriched with a high concentration of oils to moisturise, hydrate and nourish skin and EastLife has a bottle of the Drops of Crystal Beautifying Bi-Phase Oil to give away. Containing Manuka Honey and Patented Purified Bee Venom (PBV™) as well as Crystal Tears, (an oil from the resinous sap of the Pistacia Lentiscus tree), Chilean Tree Bark and Tomato Stem Cells, Manuka Doctor Drops of Crystal Beautifying Bi-Phase Oil (RRP$49.95 30ml) is available at department stores.

Win! A Skin & Tonic prize pack

Win! Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook Cook, Jamie, and don’t spare the cranberries! Tucking into festive fare can be a chore in itself, let alone cooking for an army of friends and family. Fortunately, Jamie Oliver has more to offer with his latest tome which is practically stuffed with recipes designed especially for Christmas.

In addition to the classics, Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook also features recipes for edible gifts, party food and new ways to love those leftovers. • Jamie Oliver: Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook | RRP $65 | Michael Joseph (UK) / Penguin NZ

There can be many reasons to sing in the shower and few (if any) involve Simon Cowell! The number one reason is simply that it makes us feel good. That’s where Skin & Tonic comes in, with a new range liable to have many a Kiwi bathroom superstar singing its praises. Formulated with nutrients, coconut water and even superfruits, these body cleansers are (almost) good enough to drink. EastLife has a pack (valued at $22.47) featuring three 400ml bottles (one each of: Salute to the Sun, You Little Beauties and Apple of my Eye varieties) up for grabs.

Win! Gottfried Lindauer’s New Zealand: The Maori Portraits There are picture books and then there are books chock full of extraordinary pictures. Gottfried Lindauer’s New Zealand: The Maori Portraits certainly falls into the latter category. Released to coincide with Auckland Art Gallery’s exhibition of the same name (October 22 – February 10), this book breathes new life into paintings which are masterpieces of art, history and New Zealand heritage.

• Gottfried Lindauer (edited by Ngahiraka Mason & Zara Stanhope): Gottfried Lindauer’s New Zealand – The Maori Portraits | RRP $75 | Auckland University Press

WIN! SUPERHERO SPIRULINA Everyone wants to stay healthy over summer so they can make the most of holidays and leisure time. The good news is GO Superfood Organic Spirulina has just what’s needed when it comes to nutrients found in nature. A fresh water, blue-green algae, Spirulina is a rich source of essential amino acids, iron, omegas, protein B vitamins and vitamins C, D and E. In fact, one kilogram spirulina has the same quantity of nutrients as around 1,000 kilograms of assorted vegetables.

Best of all EastLife has two forms of GO Superfood Spirulina to give away – green powder for smoothies, juices, energy bars and baking (200g RRP $34.90) and green tablets for ease of convenience (300 tablets RRP $39.90).

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

17

Essentials bagging thE bESt merrell Delta leisure canvas Shopper (rrP $99) – Featuring a large, zippered main compartment and inner zipper pocket, this canvas shopper will take you from the mall to the beach in style. merrell maricara yoga bag (rrP $119) – With two zippered side pockets, adjustable loops for a yoga mat and a large zippered main compartment, the Maricara bag is perfect for the gym or a night away. check out our range of bags at merrell, 41 Picton St, howick. www.merrell.co.nz

chriStmaS giftS guarantEED tO bE EnJOyED by all – fOOD!!!!

Rococo Gifts & Goodies have a spectacular array of food and confectionery related gifts (mostly manufactured in our own premises). From a simple small container to a large and fantastic gift basket we can satisfy any budget. Come for a coffee (free if you mention this ad.) while you browse through our range.

From $5 to $300 for family, friends, co-workers, business clients. Make it easy for yourself and get it done soon. visit our shop 3/39 cavendish Dr, manukau. orders@rococogifts.co.nz

fEmininE fragrancES This Christmas Linden Leaves is proud to launch one of their prettiest collections yet. ‘In Bloom’ encapsulates fun, femininity and frivolity at its very best. It’s a breath of sweet air, a posy of fresh flowers and offers the most exquisite gift ideas for mums, daughters, sisters and grandmothers alike. This beautiful new range includes hand-poured 100% natural soy wax candles, room diffusers, nourishing hand creams and hand-pressed bath bombs in two new fragrances; Pink petal & Green verbena. Available online and in leading pharmacies and department stores. www.lindenleaves.com

SalE nOw On! PErfEct fOr chriStmaS...

Guylian’s original marbled-chocolate sea shells are made from the finest West African cocoa beans and filled with a delicious, roasted-hazelnut praline. Guylian is the world’s favourite Belgian chocolate and is the ideal, indulgent gift for someone special.

18 | eastlife | november 2016

Perfect presents to post overseas to those in colder climates! An extensive range of luxurious Possum & Merino garments and accessories for him, her and the kids! Summer styles also available. Everything reduced but only until November 12, so don’t delay! come and visit us at 59b Sir william ave, East tamaki, 9am – 4pm weekdays, 9am – 2pm Saturdays.

Ph 09 273 9669 www.possumdown.co.nz

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Make Christmas shopping easy on yourself – EastLife’s range of stunning festive Essentials takes the hard yards out of finding those special gifts for people you love.

Check out our suggestions and wrap up your gift buying in no time at all!

PrOtEct thE EyES

StylE StatEmEntS

Summer’s coming and so is the sun with all those harmful Uv rays. That means it’s time to protect our skin and, just as importantly, our eyes! Ultraviolet radiation (UvR) is the enemy when it comes to the eyes and though a hat will help, it won’t fully protect against reflected UvR. Sand reflects about 15% UvR; surf, about 25% and snow, about 80% so it’s imperative to wear quality sunglasses that offer the proper protection. The Howick village Optometrists team is here to help you choose from a large selection of sunglasses to suit your requirements and help preserve eye health. howick village Optometrist, 94 Picton Street, howick.

Phone 09 534 8716. www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

Hugo Boss timepieces are the perfect accessory for the man who likes to make a style statement. The BOSS watch collection are sold exclusively at NZ Jewellers in New Zealand and combine classic and contemporary style with fine Swiss watchmaking. nZ Jewellers, town centre Drive, botany town centre or on-line at nzjewellers.co.nz, phone 09 277-7746.

NZ JEWELLERS Your Manufacturing Jeweller

fOr all yOur chriStmaS EntErtaining & giftS! New items and super specials in store now – beautiful complimentary gift wrapping. See us for the best selection of dinnerware, glassware, linen, kitchenware and cookware, gifts and NZ’s largest range of quality cutlery (stainless and silver).

Dedication to service, combined with fantastic parking right outside the door, makes The Studio of Tableware Auckland’s easiest and most enjoyable shopping experience.

5 harold Street, mt Eden, Ph 09 638 8082 www.thestudio.co.nz

the studio OF TABLEWARE rOmantic watchES This summer, Walker & Hall introduces a striking new addition to its collection of Olivia Burton must-have timepieces with the introduction of a charming new season collection of floral dials that will make a romantic addition to any wrist.

Taking inspiration from English country gardens, the collection includes the intricately detailed Painterly Prints Hummingbird style featuring a hand-painted watercolour, this charming new style references the season’s must-have catwalk floral trend. available at walker & hall botany, botany town centre.

Ph 09 271 0390. www.walkerandhall.co.nz

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framing maDE EaSy Howick Frames and Gallery (located on the corner of Wellington and Elliot Streets) has been serving Howick for over 35 years. Our state of the art equipment allows us to do all our framing on the premises. Whether you have sports or music memorabilia, photos, certificates, kids art, or needlework, we’ll frame it to make the perfect personal Christmas Gift. And you can spread the cost with our layby service until Christmas. howick frames and gallery, Ph 09 534 1307. cnr wellington and Elliot Sts, howick. www.framesandgallery.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

19

Riveting Galapagos ADvENTURE Andy and Kathy Graves never thought they’d go wild with excitement on spying a dancing blue footed booby. That’s because they’d never heard of one and, secondly, bird spotting wasn’t high on their travel itinerary focused on Peru and visiting Machu Picchu (see last month’s EastLife). Nevertheless, that all changed when they tagged on a fourday cruise to the Galapagos Islands. KATHY GRAvES explains. visiting the Galapagos Island was something of an after-thought. The islands weren’t high on our wish list but as they were unique, and not so far from our main destination of Peru, we thought they would be worth a visit.

itinerary. Morning excursions set out at 8.30 am and we had to be prepared for wet or dry landings from the ‘pangas’ (Zodiac inflatables).

Expedition organiser, Ramiro ensured we were all ready to go by delivering a wake-up call each morning!

After a short flight from Guayaquil in Ecuador, which adjoins Peru in the north, we landed on San Cristobel Island where we transferred to our ship, Mv Santa Cruz II, for a four-day mini cruise.

In total we visited five different islands in the Eastern Galapagos and each one was totally different from the others. Each had its own unique character; plants, terrain and of course, the wildlife. Though complete fauna novices at the beginning of this tour, by the end we had become quite accomplished at identifying the many kinds of creatures (and their species) we saw on this trip.

We soon learnt this wasn’t to be a relaxed cruise viewing wildlife from the ship’s deck. Oh no, it was action-packed with two three-hour, shore-based excursions each day.

Sandwiched between them was a short lunch break.

What an amazing five days. Each evening, over a leisurely drink, we were given the following day’s

A day on Santa Cruz Island was one of the highlights. We visited the Charles Darwin Research Centre, had a little time for shopping in the main town and also, opted to do the

four kilometre bike ride to our next stop where we sampled the local moonshine – quite an experience.

After a delicious barbecue lunch we explored the lava tunnels before setting out to find the giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat.

‘

Another highlight here was sitting on the cliff tops watching albatross take off and soar high above us then seeing one tenderly position itself to protect its egg – this was an experience I will never forget.

I was stunned to hear that these extremely slowAndy and Kathy Graves – captivated by the Galapagos Islands.

20 | eastlife | november 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

moving giants could travel up to four kilometres a day! We saw dozens of them – some wallowing in mud pools, cooling off from the sun’s heat whilst others dozed or were eating their way through the foliage.

Amazingly, we were able to get almost within touching distance.

In fact, wherever we went in the Galapagos, the wildlife was not at all frightened by human company.

However, the islands clearly belonged to their special inhabitants and we had clear instructions about keeping our distance most of the time.

In return, as we weren’t a threat to them we were able to get close

Fun, Social, Seamless Travel

enough to take some incredible photographs. At one stage two land iguanas on Santé Fe Island took no notice of us whilst having a standoff with each other over territory ownership – it was we who had to make a quick dash to move out of their way as their tiff brought them scuttling towards us.

Of all the amazing islands we visited, my personal favourite was Espanola Island. The creatures there were too many to name but we did see the Christmas Iguanas – red and green and unique to this location.

Another highlight here was sitting on the cliff tops watching albatross

take off and soar high above us then seeing one tenderly position itself to protect its egg – this was an experience I will never forget.

Finally, before leaving this special island we saw the blue-footed booby we had heard about. This rather comical marine bird has truly bright blue feet. It is often called the dancing blue footed booby, which comes from its stamping, dance-like movements during the mating ritual.

Before our trip, I knew nothing about this bird, however they became the absolute highlight and, in my mind, a ‘must see’ for any visitor travelling to these parts – who would

have thought I would ever been so enamoured by birdlife!

Everyone on the cruise also appreciated that the tour guides were all locals and knew the islands extremely well; they understood the needs of both the plants and the creatures they took such pride in showing us.

All in all, this was an amazing journey and which will remain one of the best and most unexpected pleasures I have experienced. Indeed, the Galapagos Islands are a rare and remarkable sanctuary in today’s world, their flora and fauna, things of beauty in such a troubled world.

Galapagos & Easter Island 17 extraordinary days

23 October-8 November, 2017

Cruise amongst the beautiful Galapagos Islands while spotting some of the world’s most unique wildlife. Also includes a stop in Easter Island. Don’t miss your chance to explore this isolated and mysterious place!

From $16,499 pp

www.eastlife.co.nz

0800 868 748 (toll-free) www.toursdirect.co.nz

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eastlife | november 2016 |

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Mailelani – HEAvEN-SENT FOR SAMOA Samoa has become almost second home to regular EastLife correspondent ROBYN YOUSEF who visits as often as she can. Of her most recent trip to the Pacific country she talked to a Swiss born woman who has, indeed, made Samoa home and cultivated a thriving business too.

Samoa offer so much more than just a tropical holiday. It is packed with wonderful stories and I unashamedly shed tears when visiting the Apia museum dedicated to that ultimate Teller of Tales – or Tusitala as the Samoans called him – Robert Louis Stevenson.

The great writer loved Samoa and the Samoans and was greatly loved in return. He named his beautiful villa, vailima (now the museum) and lived there from 1889 until his death in 1894.

He was buried on Mt vaea above his home along the route called the Road of the Loving Heart – a walk of about 45 minutes which is very popular with visitors.

I have visited Samoa several times and always make sure I visit the historic vailima house, which resonates with history. But, on a recent visit I was intrigued to hear a much more modern tale about another expatriate – a Swiss woman who has made Apia home.

Sylvie Salanoa married her Samoan ‘best friend’, Kitiona Salanoa (they now have three daughters) and the couple went on to launch a successful business, Mailelani, meaning ‘from Heaven’.

If you’ve recently visited Samoa, and especially if you’ve stayed at one of the many high-end new resorts, you may have been lathered in Mailelani soaps or covered by their delicious creams.

Alternatively, you may have bought some of these popular products from the couple’s Papautu shop ( beside their home in Apia, just down the road from the RSL Museum). It is one of the many gift shops throughout Samoa – and even here in New Zealand – that market this bodypampering range.

The business, which started in 2000 on the family’s kitchen bench with one unscented soap, now has a range of 64 natural body care items, all based on Samoa’s coconut oil. There’s also the gift shop and a cute French-style café which they operate next to their Apia home.

Sylvie Prudente left her hometown in Switzerland at the age of 20 to work as a volunteer for a non-denominational Christian organisation, Youth With A Mission, in Hawaii.

When she returned home on leave, announcing she intended to marry another volunteer, (Kitiona), her Swiss parents were not at all surprised even though they didn’t even know where Samoa was.

“My father said he would have been more surprised if I’d married a banker from Geneva,” she laughs.

Life has never been ordinary for Sylvie. She lived in India with her missionary parents from when she was six months old and the first language she spoke was Tamil.

“I used to eat with my fingers and we lived in a hut. My father had a dream to make a difference there and my parents started an orphanage with their own money. However, when I was three years old my mother, who was pregnant with twins, became ill and we returned to Europe.”

Growing up, all Sylvie aspired to do was to learn English and travel the world.

In 1990, she married Kitiona in Switzerland and was soon coping with a busy corporate life in Geneva

22 | eastlife | november 2016

‘

Life has never been ordinary for Sylvie. She lived in India with her missionary parents from when she was six months old and the first language she spoke was Tamil.”

at the headquarters of a huge global pharmaceutical company.

“I was so busy, juggling three phones at once, but we always made regular trips back to Samoa.”

The couple had two children, Tailani (now 23) and Kezia (19) when they took a major “step of faith” and moved to Samoa in 1998.

When they arrived their plans to set up an IT training computer school went awry as they soon discovered there were already two schools operating successfully.

“We knew we’d done the right thing moving to Samoa but there were tough times when money was very short. family and friends helped out.”

Things were becoming financially desperate when Sylvie decided to send a shipment of Samoan art and homewares to her mother in Switzerland with a view to export.

“Some soaps were thrown in at the last minute, but it was the 12 soaps which caught my Mum’s imagination.

She said ‘that’s what you have to do, make soaps!’. She knew the natural Pacific product could be a major seller.”

So Sylvie and Kitiona hit the Internet

Sylvie Salanoa

and googled all they could on soap-making and their first soap was launched – unscented and based on Samoan coconut oil. Now, 16 years on, all their raw materials are produced off-site by workers throughout Samoa, while the finishing, manufacturing and all the packaging is done at the Apia base.

When I visited in September, smiling girls were packing up special Mailelani products for contestants in the annual Miss Samoa contest.

I was also able to enjoy a superb iced coffee made by Kezia in Le Petit Café, opened in March next to their charming retail shop.

The cafe is a real family affair – Tailani is the chef and Kitiona a specialist in European-style pastries. Eleven year old Shana helps out wherever she can during school holidays.

With Mailelani presently upgrading their recipes and packaging, the company is about to undergo fresh directions.

“We now export to New Zealand, Australia, and US. It’s not a big business yet – we’ve still got a way to go, but we’re almost, almost there,” says the big-hearted Swiss woman who has adopted Samoa as home.

“However, the business is all about the people, it’s all about Samoa.”

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Come fly with us Air Vanuatu’s brand new Boeing 737-800NG, appropriately named The Spirit of Vanuatu, embraces the very soul of the island group.

A full service carrier, Air Vanuatu provides not just a seat but checked bag(s), meals, drinks, entertainment and a carry-on – the perfect way to start your visit to this special part of the world.

The aircraft’s livery in varying shades of blues depicts the colours of the ocean, green represents the tropical rain forests and white, the island’s sandy beaches. Finally, the volcano on the tail portrays one of the Vanuatu’s most popular tourist attractions.

Summer events

– with the grain Markets will feature all sorts of goodies, with arts and crafts, food and beverages (including a wide selection of Kiwi-crafted craft beers and ciders), books, fashion and more on offer.

What’s more, to kick off the season in style, Silo is inviting ‘all ye faithful’, and the joyful in particular, to come and help decorate its impressively large Christmas tree and even take part in its Elf Training Camp!

Frith expects Silo is set to become a downtown hub this summer.

“It’s really important to bring the diverse neighbourhoods of Auckland together, and what better place to do so than at Silo Park?”

For more information – details of events coming soon – see silopark. co.nz.

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Only 3 hours away, you can go adventuring on a live volcano, witness land diving, experience incredible fishing and scuba diving. ...Or just laze on the beach and indulge in a great book.

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The call from this happy airline is: ‘sit back and relax while we fly you to the happiest country in the world, our home Vanuatu – we know our place better than anyone!’

The Ni-Vanuatu cabin crew are expected to greet travellers with their friendliest smiles, their charm preparing guests for all that Vanuatu promises.

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However, visitors will need to be in fine voice should they wish to attend.

Each movie will begin with a singalong led by a conductor.

Importantly, Air Vanuatu passengers experience Melanesian friendliness and warmth the moment they step on board.

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While such traditional favourites as the Mayor’s Movie and Valentine’s Day Movie will return, this season Silo’s cinema will also focus on international films from Africa, South America, Asia and India, as well as home-grown productions.

Another good reason for visiting Vanuatu, aside from commitment to great service and comfortable travel, is that Air Vanuatu now flies three times a week between Auckland and Port Vila – fly Wednesday, Thursday or Saturday with return flights on the same days as well. Flying time is approximately 3hrs 15mins.

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“We’re really excited to be able to incorporate well-loved favourites into programming, but also to introduce some really interesting and innovative activities and ideas, which will make Silo Park accessible to more people,” Silo Park’s Frith Walker says.

From games and sports to stories – read by well-known personalities – children, too, will be encouraged to roll up to enjoy the crazy days of summer.

The new aircraft is fitted with Boeing’s famed Sky Interior, curved overhead lockers to create a spacious feel, WiFi entertainment and leather seats to deliver a comfortable flight experience.

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This summer, the city really is set to be one hot town as the schedule for Silo Park’s 2016-17 season is revealed. In addition to the return of the open air Silo Cinema, entertainment food trucks and lively markets, from December 2 the waterfront location will host more than 50 events, activities and festivities.

When it comes to WiFi, remember to download the Air Vanuatu entertainment app to your smart phone or tablet before you board your flight. And bring your headphones.

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www.airvanuatu.com P H: 0 9 373 34 35 | airvanuatu@airvanuatu.co.nz Like us on Facebook:

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Don’t wait - come visit Vanuatu! eastlife | november 2016 |

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Book helps put houses in order!

Thoughts of our own demise are often pushed back of mind especially when young but such is the uncertainty of life, forward planning for one’s end is not just for the old. HELEN PERRY talked to an enterprising local who took on the task of compiling a book to help others ‘get sorted’ before their passing.

Even those of an age who know putting their houses in order is the wise thing to do, are often reluctant to address the nitty-gritty of such issues. But not Lynnette Kidd.

At 69 she embarked on the task of researching and compiling straight forward advice and documentation to help other people put their affairs in order so they could confidently say of their personal and estate wishes, “I am sorted.”

But this was no overnight endeavour.

Instead, it took three and a half years, with extensive legal advice, to complete the comprehensive 20-page booklet.

“It covers a wide range of personal and financial issues people should give heed to so that on their passing family members are not left with a tangle of unfinished business to unravel” Lynn says. “Many of the directives are of the kind most people give little or no thought to while they are well and life is good.

“However, if attended to early one can get on with living, assured their wishes for all aspects of their affairs can be attended to with little difficulty should they no longer be able to speak or act for themselves or in the event of accident, illness or their passing.”

In fact, it was a serious health scare that provided Lynn with a wakeup

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24 | eastlife | november 2016

call and ultimately set her on the ‘get sorted’ path.

“When I retired to Australia’s Sunshine Coast, life was wonderful for a while. Then I was taken seriously ill. Fortunately I qualified for the Australian Medicare but when I was recovered enough to return to New Zealand I did. I realised how much in my life needed sorting out.”

Lynn says while most seniors will have made a will and some may have attended to enduring powers of attorney, the majority may not have looked beyond those documents to something like an advanced care directive.

“And younger people may not have even done that much,” she says.

“Yet the unexpected can happen at any time. That’s when we often realise nobody knows about our funeral wishes, where we bank, how to access our computer passwords, whether we wish to be medical donors, resuscitation wishes, or the type of care we want should we suffer a stroke or be involved in an accident that leaves us in a vegetative state.”

Understanding fully for the first time how important it was to consider one’s future health and welfare, funeral details and wishes and the need to document personal background, property and finances, Lynn also realised what a knotted web that could be.

Give Give good good gifts gifts

Subsequently, her book, which is divided into four parts – part one, important reading; part two, health and welfare; part three, funeral details and wishes; part four, personal property and finance – begins simply with a basic checklist, and introduction, an explanation about the book and issues to be aware of.

“None of us like to think about the end of life or the awful possibility of being totally incapacitated. But once dealt with, then it’s easy to get on with living and those nagging thoughts of, “I should do something about this’ or ‘I must tell the kids where that is” can be put to rest. “

However, Lynn leaves no personal stone unturned. She has allowed for every conceivable request or piece of information to be covered ranging from family and medical history through to even naming one’s pallbearers if one so wishes.

Lynn also makes it clear that it is important to ensure those sections which need to signed in front of a lawyer or JP (and sometimes a GP) and witnessed should be attended to. She advises leaving copies with appropriate family members, lawyer, executor of one’s will or in a bank deposit box.

Those who read the book for the first time are nearly always astounded at the detail and sweeping issues covered. “Some people may find it confronting, and it is,” Lynn says.

“As long as people know they are there and they can be easily accessed when necessary, you will be able to say, ‘I’m sorted’ and get on with life.”

Is my house in order?

Would your family cope if something untoward happened to you?

Accident, illness or death can be overwhelming for family and friends.

Record your wishes in this comprehensive book/document I Am Sorted to give you and your loved ones peace of mind.

I Am Sorted – RRP $45 Available at Readaway Books, Howick, Paper Plus Howick and Highland Park.

Enquiries 021 178 5221 14391

www.eastlife.co.nz

Brass man instrumental for orchestral success A local with a well-honed talent is at the top of his game playing with one of the country’s most prestigious ensembles. NATALIE BRITTAN sought out the man making the music.

If trombone was a country, Doug Cross would be its ambassador.

The Pakuranga man has so many fingers in so many musical pies, he needs several sheets of paper to remind him of his numerous accolades and commitments – all related to the humble brass instrument.

The long-time Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO) principal trombonist has a varied life that takes him from recitals and rehearsals around the country to college and university halls.

His work comes home with him too.

“I re-decorated a room at the back of our garage – had it relined and sound-proofed – so I can practise,” says Doug.

The dedicated musician also teaches the trombone at Macleans and St Kentigern Colleges as well as Kings College and the University of Auckland.

“I enjoy teaching at all levels from beginner right up to tertiary level especially when you get results from students. Just raising the profile of brass playing in Auckland is something I’m passionate about,” he says.

While he caters to individual strengths, Doug is a pragmatic teacher. “I’m big on technique. I try to teach my students so they’re set up for the future to play well and have music for life.”

And it’s something he would like to implement with his own children, Lucas, nine, and Hannah four.

“Lucas is learning to play the trombone,” says Doug. “It’s a challenge to keep it interesting but we try and make it as much fun as possible.” www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

Doug will be performing at the Auckland Town Hall in four concerts this month: Soul of the Cello (Nov 3), Settling the Score Live (Nov 10), Fantastic! (Nov 17) and APO 4 Kids Christmas (Nov 26). Details of these and other upcoming performances via apo.co.nz.

Naturally, it brings back memories for the Christchurch native who picked up the trombone bug at the age of eight while at school. “I knew I really wanted to play the trombone because of the slide.”

He stayed on course, gaining a Bachelor of Music from Victoria University in Wellington and went on to obtain his Master’s at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2000.

A few years later, Doug landed a job with the APO and counts himself fortunate to have carved a career path – and a successful one at that – with the celebrated ensemble. “It’s a really good orchestra, a professional

Doug Cross (right) in concert.

Right: one and Auckland’s lucky to have an asset like that.”

Rehearsing in the Auckland Town Hall, in close proximity with his counterparts, Doug says it has become a second home. “You get to know each other very well and become very friendly. The orchestra’s like a large family.”

Photo Adrian Malloch Photography

We like the outdoors and having a bit more space for the kids. Plus, the schools here are great.”

Among his many gigs as father, teacher and breadwinner, Doug manages to find the time to be a part of other outfits including ‘NZ’s premier and only trombone quartet’ BonaNZa, as well as Aucktet, a trombone octet.

The APO holds children’s concerts twice a year which help build relationships. And the “little bit strange” work hours strike a chord with family life too.

In fact, performances are not limited to the City of Sails with his next engagement with BonaNZa in Blenheim on November 19.

“The good thing about the orchestra schedule is I can be there for the kids. Sometimes we’ll have a week off during holidays and because of working at nights, we have more time in the day.”

Above all, it’s Doug’s love for the sound of the trumpet-like instrument that keeps him on his toes. “They say the sound of the trombone is the closest to the human voice, a nice tambour.”

The Crosses can often be found at Pakuranga Rotary at weekends as well as nearby parks and beaches.

“We really like the lifestyle out east.

And from this writer’s perspective, it’s certainly easy to relate with a trombone player who is so real and down-to-earth! eastlife | november 2016 |

25

Science eyes Weathermen (and women) weren’t solely invented to tell us which way the wind blows. On any given day, NIWA staff members are found diving the depths of the oceans or scaling some of this country’s highest peaks.

The result? (aside from keeping an educated eye on our climate) is a stunning array of photographs of New Zealand’s uniquely beautiful landscapes and creatures which call it home.

Arctic Sunset by Dr Alison Kohout

This year, category winners were:

Stormy Evening by Dr Rob Murdoch

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Other shots of note were: Froggie Split Level by Crispin Middleton, Switched On by Chris Woods and Dystrophic Palette by Rohan Wells.

Froggie Split Level by Crispin MIddleton

Re Ne st no wl y Ta v ma a ki te co mp d l

E ent E FR ssm se As

• Dr Rob Murdoch (Our Places and Our Work categories) for Stormy Evening and Bird’s Eye View – see this month’s cover • Dr Alison Kohout (Our People) for Arctic Sunset • Shannan Crow (Freshwater section) for Freshwater Winner • Ayushi Kachhara (People’s Choice) for the Milky Way in the Remarkables

reception@howickgolf.co.nz www.howickgolf.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

nature...

Milky Way in the Remarkables by Ayushi Kachhara

Freshwater Winner by Shannan Crow

Dystrophic Palette

by Rohan Wells

Switched On by Chris Woods

Investment insights for breakfast Register your interest today Investment decisions in a new world Presented by local Authorised Financial Advisers Mark Steele and David Morgan this workshop is an opportunity that will help you to understand the difference between saving and investment; the importance of financial goal setting; and how careful investment can speed up the process of gathering wealth.

What will be covered?

• • • •

Investing - KiwiSaver, shares, property, managed funds, bonds Retirement planning Open question time with our advisers on any topic of interest Opportunity to book your free individual consultation meeting with one of our advisers at a later date • Enjoy breakfast ‘on us’.

To Register To attend a Spicers Investment Insight Breakfast planned for February and March 2017, just register your interest and we’ll get back to you soon with dates.

Complete the online web form, email veebha.jeram-patel@spicers.co.nz or call us on 09 271 1700. www.spicers.co.nz/investmentworkshop

www.eastlife.co.nz A disclosure statement is available from your adviser, on request and free of charge.

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eastlife | november 2016 |

27

WEL549498 08/16

Behind the perfect frame A self-taught photographer who has captured some of New Zealand’s best scenery is launching his fourth book this month.

NATALIE BRITTAN focuses on the man behind the lens.

28 | eastlife | november 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

Right, David Kerr.

Below and left, images from his new book, New Zealand Greatscapes.

The sight of pohutukawa blooming in time for Christmas is something most Kiwis take for granted – but not David Kerr.

The award-winning photographer once waited four years for a pohutukawa tree to bloom by the Mahurangi Harbour, north of Auckland. “I thought that tree would look bloody magnificent when fully in bloom and with the right light.

But every time I called in over the summertime it was never ever in bloom!”

That is just one small aspect, with everything from weather, seasons and tides to take into account when searching for the perfect photograph.

On another occasion, on the Coromandel Peninsula, David needed the weather and tides to align. “I thought ‘that’s a stunning composition’ but there was no water, it was all brown mud and cloudy skies. I wasn’t going to waste time taking a half-hearted image when it could be really something quite powerful – the harbour full and a late afternoon where you can get lovely shadows over the land.”

And that’s how the St John local has captured some of nature’s most beautiful and fleeting moments for more than 30 years – with bucketloads of patience and a lot of travelling – “It’s a constant road trip!”

When his children were growing up, they, went along for the ride, too.

“There’s nowhere my kids haven’t been!” says the father of two.

Born and raised in New Plymouth, David always had a special relationship with the outdoors.

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His artistic streak saw him pursue graphic design at ATI (now AUT) in Auckland in the early 1970’s. After graduating, he left for his OE in the United Kingdom and Europe.

While working for top ad agencies in London, he continued to indulge in his hobby, photography.

Photographing the English countryside, as well as Europe’s historic sites, he used his graphic design skills as a foundation.

“Because my job was to create ads, things like composition were really important. A lot of those skills were transferred over to photography.”

While there, he identified postcards as a lucrative avenue. So, after nearly two years abroad, David returned home to New Zealand and decided to launch his own range of postcards.

Depicting the stunning sights of Aotearoa, his work was so successful he earned a national tourism design award in 1986.

In 1990, he became the official licensee for the New Zealand Commonwealth Games and completed some high-profile commissions for global hotel chains.

Now, with changing consumer habits, the entirely self-taught artist has decided to move from postcards to books. His latest book, New Zealand

Greatscapes is a stunning coffee table creation.

Not only did David manage to secure corporate sponsorship, he also found a famous name to write a foreword – former Prime Minister Mike Moore, who presented him with his the award back in 1986.

David says he tracked down Mr Moore earlier this year and was invited to his home in Maraetai.

“His {Mike’s] place looked out onto Waiheke and Rangitoto Island and it was a horrible, wet Auckland day.

“He looked at me, said ‘I don’t remember you’ and I thought, ‘where is this going to go’? Then I pulled out the award, he had a big smile on his face, and said ‘yes, I remember that’.

“He was quite impressed with the book and he passed it to his wife, Yvonne, who said it was amazing.”

From snowcapped mountains and tranquil lakes to geothermal terrain and dramatic beaches, the aweinspiring collection features some of the best examples of our Antipodean diversity.

It’s hard to pick a favourite, but David says the Great Exhibition Bay in Northland, which the book opens with, has to be his top choice. “But I also love the gutsiness of Fiordland

‘

win! nEw ZEalanD grEatScaPES Thanks to the generosity of photographer David Kerr, EastLife has a copy of New Zealand Greatscapes to give away. To enter the draw visit eastlife.co.nz click on the competitions link and complete the appropriate form. One entry per person/email address; entries close November 30, 2016.

Winner notified by phone or email.

and the West Coast down to the glaciers.”

• New Zealand Greatscapes is available from selected bookstores from mid-November as well as online for an RRP of $39.95.

eastlife | november 2016 |

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Win! TINY OWL ON THE RAMSHACKLE FARM

Keep calm AND JINGLE ON

Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner CARYN MAWKES suggests ways to make the Christmas season fun.

Christmas is a busy time for children and adults. Though we love the process of getting ready for Christmas, it can sometimes be overwhelming and feel like one giant, stressful, to-do list.

Here are some helpful suggestions to get you into the Christmas swing.

gEtting OrganiSED fOr thE chriStmaS SEaSOn • Make a list and a budget for what you need to buy – that way you won’t be tempted to go overboard.

• Ask your family to write their wish lists – this will give you lots of ideas for what to buy, and is fantastic when family members call to ask what they can get others!

• If you are buying a toy that needs assembling for a small child then consider putting it together before the big day. This way they will enjoy the gift rather than becoming stressed if it’s not working or something is missing.

• Wrap gifts as you buy them – last minute wrapping can take hours.

• Plan your Christmas meals ahead of time, that way you will know exactly what’s required in the way of fresh food and extras.

• Plan to cook “Christmas Day” food you are comfortable with – now is not the time to learn new culinary showstoppers!

chriStmaS arOunD hOmE • Ask children to decorate the tree.

• Create your own traditions for

the holidays. Enjoy this time and create fantastic memories for your children.

• Encourage the children to make their own Christmas decorations.

• Make salt dough decorations for the tree.

• Create your own advent calendar with little Christmas messages and activities (decorate the tree, have your photo taken with Santa, get Christmas books from the library).

• Make your own Christmas crackers – personalise them.

Even the wisest old bird can find its feathers ruffled by things that go bump in the night. However, as this jaunty tale explains, even the strangest of scary sounds are most often nothing to fear.

A charming evening read this book

Finally, prepare for Christmas – write down everything you need to do, split into manageable tasks, and start ticking off items.

You’ll find you get there without the usual stresses and strains – and you‘ll enjoy it more!

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

• Lotte Wotherspoon: Tiny Owl on the Ramshackle Farm | RRP $29.95 (hardback) $19.95 (paperback) | David Bateman / Clay Press

‘

hOmE-maDE PrESEntS • Children of all ages love mixing up a batch of scented bath salts .

• A painted stone paper-weight to sit on a desk-top – even the youngest children can make these.

• Fill a jar with the dry ingredients of your favourite recipe. Decorate the jar and add the instructions for baking.

• Wrap the presents using some of your child’s art work.

• Bake a batch of Christmasshaped biscuits.

• Create your own calendar using some family photos.

is particularly well suited to little ones less than confident come bedtime.

win! EastLife has a copy of this book up for grabs. Enter via eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address; entries close November 30, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Summer’s a-poppin’ Forget weasels that go POP! Check out new Zoku Ring Pops – wearable fun with a lick of ice too!

Start with Mod Pops, a classic ice block for any age; travel back to pre-historic times with Dino Pops, enjoy your own summer safari with Safari Pops or sparkle and shine with Gem Pops – all wearable ring pops kiddies are sure to love.

Whether you want to pop the question or just enjoy a tasty pop of summer, each Ring Pop set includes eight sticks with drip guards and a mould to make eight (8) tasty pops in your favourite flavours and shapes such as traditional gems and heartshaped jewels. Add juice, yoghurt, smoothies, or even chocolate.

Available from leading kitchen and homeware stores throughout New Zealand including Milly’s, Living & Giving, The Homestore and Smith & Caughey or visit the website www. zoku.co.nz RRP $34.95.

win! yOur Own SEt Of ring POPS Ring pops are all the rage and the good news is, thanks to Zoku, two lucky readers have the chance to win one set each just in time for Christmas and holiday fun.

To enter the draw visit www.eastlife.co.nz click on the competition link and complete the appropriate form. One entry per person/email address; entries close November 30, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

These frosty pops are easily removed from the mould by pulling on the ring – no rinsing required!

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

30 | eastlife | november 2016

01990

www.eastlife.co.nz

Puzzle Cryptic Puzzle

time 1

NO. 10028

ACROSS

DOWN

6. The very smallest? Certainly not! (5,2,3).

8. He came back furious, with the key (4).

9. The rate for page one (4).

10. Makes a change, of course, in the said levy (5).

11. The catch is forced on the piano (4).

12. Do the outhouse painting (9).

16. Just said the chaps had done it wrongly (9).

20. Caught the man on the leg (4).

22. Nothing turned up in it but a plant (5).

23. Spoil and get rid of (4).

24. Both out to hide you (4).

25. He ruins the wine, ensuring you wont have fun (5-5).

1. Smoothly, when the gun-man comes round (6).

2. Slander is the kind of Gaelic only a snake would talk! (7).

3. Drink up, fine lady (6).

4. Turning paler when caught going in for the post (6).

5. In a twinkling, give the news (5).

7. Was it packed in the middle of the trunk? (5).

13. Don’t allow to catch up (3).

14. Talks to the doctors about the SOS I sent out (7).

15. Swim when the British have a heatwave (5).

17. Use, to get me back, a stratagem (6).

18. The confusion gives one time to fish (6).

19. Give one the air again, perhaps (6).

21. Be embarrassed, but not financially embarrassed (5).

3

2

4

5

6

7 8

9

10 11 13

12

14 15 20

16

18

17

19

21 22

23

24 25

Puzzle answers on page 74

Sudoku

puzzle no. 28

Quick Puzzle

BEETHOVEN TO BOWIE (AND LOTS IN BETWEEN)

ACROSS

DOWN

6.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

16.

20.

22.

23.

24.

25.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

7.

13.

14.

15.

17.

18.

19.

21.

Unbending (10) Ale (4) Yield (4) Declaim (5) Earth (4) Urgent (9) Pierce (9) Boast (4) Shaver (5) Swamp (4) Previous Italian currency (4) Tiny (10)

No. 10028

Imprison (6) Country (7) Urge (6) Get (6) Revolt (5) Coin (5) Organ (3) Archbishop (7) Weak (5) Skin disease (6) Dismissal (6) Prosper (6) Degree (5)

2017 Season Subscriptions now on sale!

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

12698-v4

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eastlife | november 2016 |

31

Rollicking reads for boys ‘ Boy, oh boy it can be tough getting young lads to sit still long enough to enjoy a good book! However, with the help of Penguin Random House, EastLife has assembled a veritable dream team of top titles (new and recent releases) likely to intrigue and entertain even the most energetic young fellow (and fellowesses too!).

Snot Chocolate Snot topics could well be up for discussion at the dinner table once young readers get a load of this book! A collection of funny (although rather irreverent) short stories, Snot Chocolate spins many a delightful yarn, from stopping one’s mum picking her nose, and the secret diary of a dog, to unleashing the power of chips which pass in the night. While not everyone’s going to be a winner, it’s all right because we have one copy of this book to give away!

• Morris Gleitzman: Snot Chocolate – and other funny stories | RRP $21 | Puffin / Penguin Aus

Bruce Wants to go Faster Some backyard racers never graduate beyond becoming backseat drivers; Bruce McLaren did much more than that! Bruce may have become a Kiwi

hero who took the motor racing world by storm, but to even get behind the wheel required extraordinary determination, commitment and passion, as this books reveals. An inspirational tale, Bruce Wants to go Faster is designed to remind you readers that, with the right tools, even the biggest dreams can come true.

• Dreydon Sobanja: Bruce Wants to go Faster | RRP $24.99 | Inspired Kids / South Pacific Books

Johnny Danger – Spy Borg While Danger isn’t his middle name, it is the first part of his second!

In his latest adventure, Jonathan Dangerfield (aka Johnny Danger) must thwart the evil machinations of Dr Disastrous, evil inventor, Yuri Boom-Boom, and his army of cyborg clones. Can this teenage super spy tackle this task or is Danger’s mission

WIN! EastLife has copies of each of these titles up for grabs. To be in to win any (or, possibly all) of these books in time for Christmas, complete the form(s) on the competitions page at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address (for each title); entries close November 30, 2016. Winners notified by phone or email.

destined to be a disaster? Reading age 10 plus.

• Peter Millet: Johnny Danger – Spy Borg | RRP $17.99 | Puffin / Penguin Aus

It Wasn’t Me Harry Manners should mind his imagination! Daydreaming is almost

a way of life for Michael and, as long as he has his stash of comics and imaginary pet pig Monty, life isn’t too bad at all. Unfortunately, others – especially his teachers – would beg to differ. Artfully written by Michael Bond (of Paddington Bear fame), this book is suited to readers aged 7 years and older.

• Michael Bond: It Wasn’t Me | RRP $19.99 | Corgi Childrens / Random House

Watch this Space – In the Pink Sending a family to live in a glass dome on the moon could prove to be the premise of the greatest reality TV show ever; or not! However, the boredom which sets in will soon be shattered when the family makes a very premature return to earth, which is far from how they remembered their planet. The second of Colin Thompson’s Watch This Space books, In the Pink is intended for children aged nine and up.

• Colin Thompson: Watch this Space – In the Pink | RRP $18.99 | Random House

EastLife is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations: Botany Botany town Centre – Information Desk, conservatory – Food Court, carpark entrance – Outside Flight Centre – Botany Library, Level 1, Sunset Tce – Times Newspapers, Level 1, The Lane – Jag Kitchens, inside Danske Mobler – Pak’n Save Supermarket Munn’s Man’s Store, 451 Ti Rakau Dr Pakuranga Golf Club, 199 Botany Rd Eastcare, 260 Botany Rd Eves Pantry, 309 Botany Rd Z Petrol Station, Te Irirangi Dr Botany South hot Spring Spas, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl art and Framing, 1 Bishop Dunn Pl Mitre 10 Mega, Bishop Dunn Pl Columbus Coffee, 16J Bishop Dunn Pl BuCkLandS BEaCh Bucklands Beach Superette,

32 | eastlife | november 2016

224 Bucklands Beach Rd Bucklands Beach Veterinary hospital, 340 Bucklands Beach Rd CoCkLE Bay Seaside Meats, 3 Litten Rd haLF Moon Bay Sealink Ferry terminal, 1 Ara Tai Dr Marina Fitness, Ara Tai Dr a&J Cafe, Ara Tai Dr Fresh Choice Supermarket, Ara Tai Dr hiGhBRook Fisher house, 117 Kerwyn Ave hiGhLand PaRk highland Park Shopping Centre, Central Pavillion, Cnr Aviemore Dr and Pakuranga Rd highland Park Library, 16 Highland Park Dr howiCk howick information Centre, 91 Picton St howick Library, Uxbridge Rd

howick Village optometrist, 94 Picton St total Focus Property, 111 Picton St timeless images Photography, Howick Village Mall, Central Tce Rices Mall, Picton St Bay audiology, 24 Moore St Mobile Ceramics, 198 Moore St howick Frames & Gallery, 115 Elliot St inner Concepts, 186 Wellington St howick tyres & alignments, 33 Wellington St Shamrock Cottage, 73 Selwyn Rd MEadowLandS Meadowlands Shopping Centre, Cnr Meadowlands Dr and Whitford Rd PakuRanGa Z Petrol Station, 407 Pakuranga Rd Frames today, 421 Pakuranga Rd Pakuranga Library, 7 Aylesbury St Countdown, Pakuranga Plaza

Brownson’s Jewellers, Pakuranga Plaza nosh, 102 Pakuranga Road howick historical Village, Cnr Bells Rd and Lady Marie Dr, Lloyd Elsmore Park howick Little theatre, Sir Lloyd Dr Palmers, 189 Pigeon Mountain Rd PinE haRBouR kaizeki Japanese Restaurant, 190 Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina Pepperjacks Restaurant, Jack Lachlan Dr, Pine Harbour Marina BEaChLandS Barfoot & thompson, 42 Wakelin Rd whitFoRd Prenzel of whitford, 7 Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford Village Barfoot & thompson, Whitford Village oRMiSton ormiston Superette, 1 Arranmore Dr REMuERa new world Remuera, 10 Clonbern Road

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Beauty IS THE NEW black If black is beautiful then this range is downright gorgeous! Designed by Kiwi hair and makeup artist, Eithne Curran, the new Black Collection is designed to add a little touch of luxury into our daily beauty routines.

REMINGTON A SMOOTH OPERATOR If dad likes to think he’s the smooth one and son wants to be, you might believe any old razor will do the trick but you’d be wrong.

Eithne says she was inspired to create her own products with the purest of ingredients and the purest of intentions in mind.

Give the men of the house a new lithium-powered, 100% waterproof Remington HyperFlex shave and trim and they’ll be ‘super smooth’.

“Over the years, I found myself quite often coming across hair that lacked natural volume and body and was difficult to work with. Rather than add product after chemical-laden product on top of the hair to create the effect I was after, I realised beautiful, healthy hair starts at the basin – you need to target the root of the problem, and it can be done entirely naturally.”

With Precision Ultra dual track blades and a multi-directional pivoting neck with three flexing heads, this gem delivers a clean comfortable shave close to the skin and comes with a self-sharpening trimmer attachment for beard, sideburns and neckline.

The result is a collection (comprising shampoo, conditioner and restore treatment) designed to work with hair rather than rely (almost solely) on chemicals.

Travel friendly – worldwide voltage plus travel lock mode – it has a long lasting rechargeable battery with 60 minute run time and 90 minute full charge plus a five minute quick charge when one trim or shave is needed.

The range features 250ml products: Shampoo (RRP $46), Conditioner (RRP $48.00) and Restore Treatment (RRP $55.00). Products are available at eithnecurran.com and from salons nationwide.

Now you couldn’t ask for more than that! The HyperFlex (RRP $399) comes with a two year warranty and is available from Harvey Norman stores.

‘ WIN a two night stay at Tongariro Lodge

win! a blacK cOllEctiOn PriZE PacK To celebrate the launch of Eithne’s Black Collection, EastLife has a prize pack (valued at almost $150) up for grabs.

To be in to win, complete the form at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close November 30, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

SPEND & WIN IN OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

Every $30 spent before 25/11/16 gives one entry into our prize draw. See instore for details.

8 weekly prizes of a fabulous REDKEN gift pack

a chance to WIN one of two bottles of the Girl perfume

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

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

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Luxurious lingerie

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

Supporting New Zealand Designers

LUX CASUAL

Like us on facebook

114 Main Highway, Ellerslie

Esalare is the name. Exhale is the meaning. So, take a moment to breathe in and out, then surround yourself in the opulence of luxury sleep and loungewear from around the world.

01612-v10

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

rs le el ite w S Je On

Paul Taylor Managing Director

From Esalare

Made for you

Yes, Esalare is finally here with brands such as Derek Rose (London), Hesper Fox (London), ARAKS (New York), Asceno (London), Gold Hawk (California) and Papinelle (Sydney) that will take you from bed and boudoir to the lounge room with an elegant and sumptuous luxe downtime wardrobe.

11/14 Basalt Place East Tamaki, Manukau 2013 New Zealand E: ptjewel@xtra.co.nz P: 09 265 1169 F: 09 265 1179

Our Services

We manufacture and repair on the premises; anything fromHrepairing Paul Taylor a chain, to designing and creating a ring that may become a Jewellers family heirloom. We also have a ManufacTuring large range of quality jewellery.

Paul H Taylor ManufacTuring Jewellers

ManufacTures of qualiTy Jewellery

Re-modelling Experts What treasures lie hidden at the bottom of your jewellery box? A family keepsake, treasured but, sadly, worn out.

An old favourite you used to wear ‘always’ – now so dated.

Why not bundle up your neglected valuables and let us HighlandaPark Village heirloom for you to wear Paul Taylor and manufacture design new Managing Director 1/503 Pakuranga Rd, Howick, Auckland, New Zealand and enjoy. Treasured memories – re-invented – just for E: ptjewel@xtra.co.nz P: 09 537 5656 you.

F: 09 537 5616

Above, Gold Hawk Silk Romper in Moonrock RRP $275 Left, Marilyn Lace Shorts RRP $165 Below, Vintage Lace Kimono RRP $287, Anjelica Lace Cami RRP $145

ED IN OU ST

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TR U

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

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Make the right choice about your dental care

Give steamy Saturdays or lazy Sundays a glamorous upgrade with the sensual Gold Hawk collection – romantic, beautifully crafted and featuring liquid silk nightdresses, flattering camisoles, flirty silk shorts, sensual rompers and fluid shirts and trouser sets.

This range combines silk and lace with decadent robes and kimonos, Esalare’s Golden Hawk has a stunning range for both women and men.

Available online through Esalare. www.eastlife.co.nz

Summer Fling!

The Liann Bellis Spring/Summer 2016/17 collection includes the The Patriot, reacquainting fashionistas with a sartorial favourite – romantic summer dressing.

Fresh-looking florals, soft ruffles and bold colour are a reminder of the warmer months ahead. The ‘ethnic dress’ is a vivacious midi-length dress designed with a botanic motif in a burnt orange and bright persimmon hue.

Pair with crisp white sneakers, strappy sandals or a leather slide to create an effortless, en vogue look in tune with the effervescent spirit of summer.

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➌

1. Exponent Top, White RRP $159 2. Emblem Top, Persimmon RRP $148 3. Dignity Dress, Floral RRP $269 4. Dignity Dress, Navy RRP $269 5. Ethnic Dress, Floral RRP $320 www.eastlife.co.nz

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Whimsical romantics Lady-like lace and feminine florals come together in the flirtatious Ketz-Ke Black Spring/Summer 2016 collection.

We are a general practice providing quality healthcare to you and your family

A vibrant red floral print with splashes of black lace form the foundation for this romantic range designed to flatter feminine silhouettes. Inspired by loungewear trends straight from designer catwalks, consider the Murk Dress, an elegant date night, go-to outfit. Featuring delicate lace trim and a relaxed silhouette, this piece is easily dressed up with a pair or heels or opt for a casual air with classic trainers.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Adult and Child Medical Care • Minor Surgery • Immunisations • Contraception and Women’s Health • Men’s Health • Minor Accident Care • Travel Advice and Travel • Vaccines • Well Child/Tamariki Ora Health Checks • ECG • Spirometry • Liquid Nitrogen

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43 Moore Street, Howick Phone 535 8797

If separates are more your style, the eye-catching Sunset Cami features the same stunning design but for a chic, easy-wear evening look and do lock in the Nocturnal Pant as your new wardrobe staple.

Monday-Thursday 8.30am-6pm; Friday 8.30am-5pm

View our website www.howickhouse.co.nz

Pair these perfectly with on-trend tees such as the bright and bold Glow Top, or with the peek-a-boo lace of the After Glow Top, an ode to the sophisticated flounce that is defining summer 2017.

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Avail 10%* off on purchase of goods worth $100 and above on presenting this coupon before 30th November 2016.

*offers not in conjunction with other promotions

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@allbrandzofficial allbrandzofficial ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

So, here’s you chance to radiate daytime charm or to shine after dark – Ketz-ke Black has the look!

➍

1. Ketz-ke Black Murk Dress RRP $159 2. Ketz-ke Black Glow Top RRP $125, Ketz-ke Black Nocturnal Pant RRP $169 3. Ketz-ke Black After Glow Top RRP $98, Ketz-ke Black Nocturnal Pant RRP $169, Ketz-ke Box Bag RRP $59 4. Ketz-ke Black Sunset Cami RRP $115, Ketz-ke White Nocturnal Pant RRP $169 www.eastlife.co.nz

New Resortwear summer style Bestselling author on how to look younger without surgery and managing director of Auckland Fashion Week www.aucklandfashionweek.nz DENYSE SAUNDERS talks about her own Resortwear range.

Hooray! Summer is here when clothes become lighter and more colourful!, creating a sense of freedom, fun and laughter.

It is with sense of joie de vivre that I have launched my new season collection, Denyse Saunders Resortwear (sizes 8 to 18). I have chosen the most beautiful silks, colours and trims from around the world, incorporating them in styles that flatter the female silhouette.

I can hear the cheers now for sleeves that cover the top of arms! I’m sure may retailers are so tired of women saying, “I love that dress or top; if only it had sleeves!”

‘

I can hear the cheers now for sleeves that cover the top of arms!

I’m sure may retailers are so tired of women saying, “I love that dress or top; if only it had sleeves!”

hottest of weather with a pair of sandals or dressed up for evening glamour with your favourite heels.

Wear over ¾ length pants, shorts or slim leg pants or, on cooler days, team with gorgeous wide-legged pants and boots – the choice is yours!

Also look for V-shaped necklines in my collection – so flattering for women of any age. The V neckline increases a small bust and decreases a full bust! It elongates the neck to make the wearer appear tall and elegant.

For maximum versatility there’s the option to wear some styles loose and free – cover both shoulders, slip off one shoulder or remove your arms from the sleeves and tie them (the sleeves) around your bust-line to create a strapless dress.

The soft lines of many Resortwear garments hide not-so-flat tummies and create a natural waistline to slim and elongate. The relaxed fit is designed to gently glide over the body instead of clinging to those parts we would rather conceal. .

Each piece can be worn transseasonally from summer to winter and in-between.

Wear short or long – as a dress or top – wear with a belt, pants, skirt or shorts.. Alternatively, wear as a fabulous cover-up over your swimsuit – tie the Michelle style as tight or loose as you wish. Using the versatile DS BAND, garments can be tied in a multitude of ways to create different looks.

The versatility of different pieces means they can be worn in the

A Denyse Saunders Resortwear garment will last for years and is as

unique as you are. What’s more, you won’t find several other women wearing the same colour and fabric as you! No two garments are exactly the same – available online at www. denysesaunders.com

Photographer: MODE Models: DS Models Clothes: Denyse Saunders Resortwear www.denysesaunders.com

creates meaningful jewellery uniquely designed to empower wearers and positively impact our planet.

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JO I N T HE A LEX A ND AN I C H AI N O F P O SI T I V I T Y ADD YOUR POSITIVE MESSAGE TO OUR CHAIN WHILE BEING INSPIRED BY THE UNIQUE, SYMBOLIC AND ECO-CONSCIOUS COLLECTION OF JEWELLERY FROM ALEX AND ANI.

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37

The gift

The importance of exfoliating

that keeps on giving

jody burke, owner of About Skin is a CIDESCO and Cibtac qualified beauty therapist and a qualified advanced skin trainer with more than 20 years experience. Here she talks about the importance of exfoliating.

This month Vivo Hair & Beauty, Howick focuses on your most important asset – your skin and the role of facials.

The skin is a truly remarkable organ. It does so much for us. For example, it helps regulate our body temperature, it helps our body rid itself of unwanted wastes, and it protects us from the sun’s harmful rays, environmental aggressors and pathogens. It is also the organ which shows your age to the outside world.

Who doesn’t like to be fussed over, massaged and made to feel like they are in paradise?

Only a few, but the majority of us can’t wait until our next pampering session and the feeling of a skilled beauty therapist working her way around our skin, cleansing those pores and massaging stresses away.

The skin is constantly renewing itself, with the newer cells from the lower layers continuously pushing up the older ones to the surface where they are shed naturally. This process can take between 28 to 32 days.

What’s more, because your skin is your lifelong companion, it requires constant attention and care.

Here is where the all-important facial comes in, making it the holy grail of skin care this November.

So, what is a good facial? And how do you know which facial is for you?

The right facial for you frequently comes down to products used.

When using premium products, a facial can cure and relax your skin.

Senior beauty therapist at Vivo Howick, Jasween, says less is more.

“While chemical peels and microdermabrasion work for certain types of skin, high impact facials should not be a ‘go to’ every time,” she says.

“Less is more, and if you are the person who has a facial every few weeks, switch it up; opt for cleansing facials and then an advanced skin treatment once every six months or as recommended by your therapist.

“The best thing you can do is talk to your beauty therapist and let her know every detail about your skin.

Then she will be able to treat it properly.”

What about at home skin care routines? Jasween keeps it down to four essential products – cleanser, toner, moisturiser and sunblock.

Moisturising your skin keeps it hydrated which in turn can delay the skin ageing process. A good SPF also keeps skin protected from those harsh UV rays.

So, what are you waiting for? Book in today and start your best skin journey!

EastLife Beauty Offer

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Exfoliation assists the body’s natural shedding of dead skin cells.

This can be done physically with a granular scrub, chemically using enzymes, alpha hydroxy acids or peels, or mechanically with microdermabrasion treatments.

You can purchase the most expensive product on the market that promises you the world, but if you do not exfoliate, you might as well be applying it to your clothes, because it won’t penetrate, be absorbed or make any difference to your skin at all.

Using a granular scrub – depending on the type of granule – can be harmful to the skin. That’s because the user can overwork the scrub on some areas of the face while neglecting others. Rough granules are effective at removing the dead skin cells but can cause micro tears in the skin and do more harm than good.

At About Skin we use Xcell skincare medical grade Enzyme Away in salon as well as recommending it to our clients for home use to complement our treatment plans and give your skin the extra boost it may need.

Containing enzymes of papaya, pineapple, fig and pumpkin plus antioxidants and kaolin, it’s a great enzyme exfoliator for any skin type.

Pick up your Xcell Enzyme Away for at home use for

Receive a: 30 minute relaxation facial 30 minute massage

Call 09 533 7417 to book VIVO HOWICK | 87 PICTON STREET WWW.VIVOSALON.CO.NZ

only

$85

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

Treatments you’ll love...

38 | eastlife | november 2016

However, with age or an unbalance within the body, these old dead cells don’t always shed properly. This can result in a build up of a dead skin cell layer, formation of blackheads, dull skin appearance and a reduced ability for the skin to function effectively or to absorb skincare ingredients.

Using an enzyme exfoliator will gently remove the surface layer of dead skin cells, so it is suitable for most skin types. It leaves skin feeling softer, smoother, more nourished and radiant-looking, more even toned and will allow your other products to absorb into your skin more effectively and therefore work better, whilst also stimulating your cell renewal and making your skin appear younger.

Call us today to book your FREE skin consultation.

Value up to $113

Call 09 533 7417 to book.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Valid for Vivo Howick with Jasween only.

Popular fruit enzymes used in skincare products and exfoliators are papain from papayas, bromelain from pineapples, ficin from figs and a modified pumpkin enzyme.

HAVE A SKIN CONCERN?

New Client Facial & Massage 60 Minute Package only $

A gentle and safe method to use in salon as well as at home, enzymes break down certain forms of protein, mainly the bonds between the old, dead skin cells, causing them to release from each other and be removed easily.

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Sweet solution to health issues When it comes to staving off a potentially devastating medical condition, a little dab could well do it. Auckland mum and nurse, Amanda Kamani, says she welcomed an application of a sugar gel for her sons, administered as part of a recent University of Auckland trial.

“I was really keen. This is an amazing trial because if it works it’ll be so good – if you can give all babies at risk this sugar gel, and then most of them don’t have low blood sugar and everything that goes with that, it’s a big step forward,” she says.

According to researchers, as many as a third of babies born in New Zealand are at risk of neonatal hypoglycaemia, which involves a sustained dip in blood sugar levels following birth. Left untreated, it can cause developmental brain damage.

Amanda’s firstborn son, Tobias (now aged three) took part in a preliminary trial designed to find the best dose of sugar gel to use.

Her second son, Xavier (six months), took part in a larger trial, dubbed hPOD, which is still underway, comparing dextrose gel with placebo in newborn babies at risk of this condition.

“The gel was rubbed in his mouth and he stayed with mum – I could still hold and cuddle him. Then they tested his blood sugars – a prick on his heel – which they would have done anyway because he was at risk for low blood sugars.”

The preliminary pre-hPOD study has revealed dextrose gel given an hour after birth can lower newborns’ risk of developing low blood sugar.

‘

Low blood sugar often requires babies to go into an intensive or special care unit, separating mother and baby just as they are trying to establish breastfeeding in the critical first days after birth.

Babies born smaller or larger than usual, pre-term babies and babies, whose mothers have any form of diabetes, are particularly vulnerable, researcher, senior lecturer at the University of Auckland Medical School and paediatrician at Auckland Hospital, Dr Jane Alsweiler, explains.

Low blood sugar often requires

Amanda Kamani with her sons, Xavier, left, and Tobias. babies to go into an intensive or special care unit, separating mother and baby just as they are trying to establish breastfeeding in the critical first days after birth. Currently, there is no established preventative, and many at-risk newborns are given formula, which can also disrupt breastfeeding, she says.

“We’re very excited about the results.

Using dextrose gel to prevent low blood sugars has the potential to stop babies being separated from their mothers in hospital and to improve their long-term development, without any disruption of breast feeding.”

The main trial will have enough babies to show this outcome more conclusively, Dr Alsweiler asserts.

Photo supplied

Amanda adds that pregnant women should consider taking part in the trial run at Auckland Hospital as well as seven others nationwide.

“It has the potential to make such a huge difference for so many babies and their families,” she says.

“Even though it might sound scary, it’s only a little bit of gel; the blood sugar testing they would do anyway. Furthermore, you still get to be the mum and do all the mum things first.”

For more information about these trials (conducted by Liggins Institute and University of Auckland), see liggins.auckland.ac.nz and search for: hpod-study.

Trying for a baby?

Everyone’s experience of having a baby is different.

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

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

CLINIC NOW IN HOWICK

免费电话咨询

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eastlife | november 2016 |

39

Beauty

1 PrOtEct anD SmOOth SKin with SuKin PurEly agElESS rangE What’s ageing you? Kids, late nights, stress or the many toxins which take their toll on our skin? Sukin’s Purely Ageless range helps replace moisture and gently softens and brightens skin, as well as promoting skin elasticity to reduce the signs of ageing. Check out: Sukin Purely Ageless Botanical Hydration Booster (rich in argan oil and Immortelle – RRP; $35.99 25mls); Sukin Purely Ageless Replenishing Night Cream (rich in macadamia, argan and jojoba oils – RRP; $32.50 60mls) and Sukin Purely Ageless Intensive Firming Serum – (containing argan oil, açai and goji extracts and cocoa butter – RRP; $37.99 30mls) available from Farmers, pharmacies and health stores.

40 | eastlife | november 2016

COUNTER

2 DErmalOgica DrawS a finE linE On agEing!

No one likes those fine lines around the eyes which are often the first tell-tale signs of ageing. But now, Age Reversal Eye Complex from Dermalogica® is powered to reverse the signs of ageing while you sleep.

Featuring new microencapsulation technology and a unique firming complex to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, puffiness and dark, under eye circles, Age Reversal Eye Complex helps fortify the eyes supporting underlying tissues, and refreshing the resiliency of surface skin. Thanks to the new technology and ingredients, the cell turnover process is sped up, stimulating collagen production and thickening cell layers around the eye.

Age Reversal Eye Complex (15 ml RRP $115) Available from Dermalogica stockists.

3 luSciOuS liPS! New Lip Glaze shades by Osmosis Colour – Sweet and Innocent – encapsulate the dreamy qualities of spring. Leaving lips hydrated and shining with colour, Osmosis Lip Glazes are the ultimate three-in-one for lips, providing moisture, gloss and a stain. The high shine lacquer enhances lips by providing a natural tint and is perfect to layer on top of lipstick or lip liner for a deeper or more dramatic colour. Containing olive oil, shea butter, almond oil, lavender extract and cocoa butter, Osmosis Lip Glazes are super nourishing and moisturising and are now available in six stunning shades: Desire, Flirt, Lust and Tease as well as the new, Sweet and Innocent hues.

(RRP $52) www.osmosisskin.co.nz.

4 natracarE – KEEPing it natural Kiwi women are increasingly aware of the importance of organic food and beauty products for their health, but may fail to think about what goes into their bodies – literally – when they use conventional feminine hygiene products which often contain plastic and chlorine. Natracare’s quality certified organic cotton tampons, natural pads and panty liners plus certified organic cotton wipes made from organic 100% cotton and natural materials, and are free from chlorine, plastic, superabsorbent gel and fragrance. Natracare products (RRP from $6.50) are available at leading supermarkets, health stores and selected pharmacies.

www.eastlife.co.nz

The quest to preserve our health and beauty has been ongoing through many civilisations and it’s no different today. Beauty and pharmaceutical companies constantly research new technologies and ingredients in their drive to produce effective products and every week sees the release of new ranges. The EastLife Beauty Counter seeks to showcase some of those products as they are released.

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SunactivE SPf50+ facE crEam SummEr aSSEt It time to face up to skin protection now that’s summer’s virtually here.

Designed for an active lifestyle, this fast-absorbing, lightweight sunscreen face cream contains complete spectrum UvA and UvB sunscreen actives and provides high protection SPF 50+. It contains advanced antioxidants to help protect the skin from solar-induced, free radical damage with biomimetic moisturising ingredients to help maintain the skin’s optimum hydration levels.

Regular use may assist in preventing solar keratosis and sun spots and may reduce the risk of some skin cancers. Suitable for all skin types (60ml RRP $59).

www.eastlife.co.nz

6

miniS big On PamPEring With all the delights of nature packed into purse- size tubes ideal for travellers, the Provincial range from Matakana Botanicals is made with ingredients sourced from the bountiful Matakana region. The range combines subtle macadamia, with fresh fig aromas in one revitalising hand cream and crisp, uplifting lime with olive in another, the two creating opposing, yet equally pure, and contemporary fragrances. These adorable minis, are perfect for your handbag, in your luggage or to keep at your desk (RRP $5 each).

7

8

luXuriOuS all-OvEr PurE Plant bODy Oil

gEntlE On hair, gEntlE On thE Earth

Coveted luxuries are apt to slip from grasp when we want them most but Trilogy’s new, silky Pure Plant Body Oil, (certified natural by NATRUE), is designed not to slip away but to glide on all-over the body to hydrate, nourish and improve skin health. With rosehip oil to repair and hydrate, sweet almond oil to stabilise the skin’s natural pH and apricot oil to soothe inflammation, it works to improve stretch marks and scarring, too. A natural alternative to petrochemical-based body oils, Trilogy Pure Plant Body Oil is ideal for use during pregnancy and is fragrance-free for those with sensitive skin. Suitable for all skin types, Trilogy Pure Plant Body Oil 110ml, RRP $29.99, available from selected Farmers, pharmacy, department and health stores.

If you crave beautiful hair then maybe it’s time to look to innovative New Zealand company, Earthwise which has recently launched its Nourish Natural Shampoo and Conditioner hair care range to help readers make eco-friendly hair-care easy.

Both the Earthwise Nourish Natural Shampoo and Conditioner (RRP $7.49 each) are free of nasties such as parabens, phosphate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate, cocoamide DEA, phenoxyethanol and synthetic dyes. Instead, Earthwise Nourish Natural Shampoos and Conditioners are crafted with essential oils and natural botanicals. Available in three divine varieties for different hair types – Revitalise, Protect and Balance – like all Earthwise products they are available at supermarkets. eastlife | november 2016 |

41

Obesity

Ormiston Weight Loss Service

– A Killer Epidemic part two In the last issue the severity and the magnitude of the obesity epidemic in New Zealand was highlighted.

This issue looks at prevention and treatment of obesity.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Prevention is the best form of cure.

This is achieved by being health conscious at all times and aware of what one eats. Many people don’t know what healthy eating is and what is not.

Roux and Y Gastric By Pass Eating at regular times and consuming food with less calories is advisable. Doing some form of regular exercise is the best practise to curb obesity.

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

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

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

This can be divided into:

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

1. Non-Surgical Weight Loss This involves lifestyle changes including a regular and consistent exercise programme for a minimum of 40 minutes per day. The best results are shown in people who attend a gym.

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

Single Anastomosis By Pass 2. Dietary Modifications Reduce the caloric intake by reducing portion sizes and eating the right type of food. This advice can be obtained in more detail from your local GP, dietician, nutritionist or specialist.

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

3. Change behaviour and habits towards food as certain cultures revolve around food.

4. Weight Loss Medication There are weight loss pills that are available on the market. Discuss these with your GP or specialist to see if they are suitable for you.

Unfortunately, non-surgical weight loss is not a long term solution as about 90% of people will put weight back on. At present the only solution for long term weight loss is surgery.

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

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Surgical weight loss means some form of surgical procedure which either restricts food intake or causes malabsorption of food.

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5. Surgical Weight Loss

The three commonest procedures done in the world today are:

All these procedures are performed with a laparoscope (keyhole) and are available at Ormiston Hospital and Middlemore Hospital.

These procedures will result in 60-80% of excess weight loss in 18-24 months. Also certain diseases are reversed with this weight loss.

Surgical weight loss is indicated if ones BMI is above 30.

Discuss with your local GP or your specialist to see if you are suitable for bariatric surgery.

– Mr Habib Rahman is a General and Bariatric Surgeon. He consults at Ormiston Surgeons, Ormiston Hospital, Botany Junction and can be contacted on (09) 277 8249. www.eastlife.co.nz

Your dental Keep eyes safe Warrant of Fitness

Kristine Jensen, Owner-Optometrist of Eyes of Howick talks about eye safety during summer.

YVONNE VANNOORT, from Sanctuary Dental, Bishop Dunn Place, Botany talks about the value dental checks and early prevention.

Just as your car benefits from regular checks, so do your teeth!

A regular check of your car keeps it functioning well, avoids breakdowns that are inconvenient and sometimes costly, and keeps it running longer over its lifetime.

It’s a similar situation with teeth... a check up can avoid problems that can become costly and painful. A dental WOF checks for decayed and/or cracked teeth or fillings as well as checking all areas of the mouth and the gums.

It’s also important to check other things such as the jaw joints, wisdom teeth, a cancer check, your bite, medications that affect your teeth, diet and nutrition. X-rays show what is happening in the bone around the teeth and 3D X-rays show more than we’ve been able to see previously.

Decayed teeth can often be sorted with a simple filling. If untreated, and left, the tooth may need to be extracted or, if you’re determined to keep the tooth, have a root canal .

The earlier we can help the better.

You would think that teeth with cracks in the fillings would be sore, some are, others are not.... they don’t always tell you something is wrong. The ones that are not sore will often have decay under and around the broken filling as the tooth is no longer sealed by a

With summer here, families will, in no doubt, be enjoying more time outdoors. The team at Eyes of Howick and I have tips to help keep eyes safe over the warmer months.

filling. These can reach the point of toothache before you know something is wrong and, at that stage the tooth usually needs to be removed.

• UV PROTECTION – the entire family should wear 100% UV blocking eyewear. Most UV damage to our skin and eyes occurs during childhood and teenage years, so it is especially important for younger family members to become accustomed to wearing sunglasses. A peaked hat will also go a long way to help block UV. Talk to us about your sunwear requirements as we have numerous solutions to help protect you and your family’s eyes this summer.

Teeth with an actual crack in the tooth, rather than a filling, are more likely to be sore to bite on especially if you catch the cracked part with a hard piece of food. They can be sore to hot and cold drinks too. Cracks in teeth are often hard to see. Sometimes the cracked part of the tooth will fall off. We see this often with teeth that still have mercury-amalgam fillings

• ALLERGIC EYE CONDITIONS – This time of year, pollens are plentiful and can be particularly bad in windy conditions. If family members have red, itchy, watery eyes, this may be allergy-related. It helps to avoid the allergen, and wrap sunglasses can reduce exposure. Try cold compresses or chilled preservativefree artificial tears. If symptoms persist, see your optometrist.

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss so we need to identify and treat this as early as we can.

Apart from causing smelly breath, gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, strokes and low birth weight babies. Gums act as a barrier and when they are infected and inflamed, bacteria gets into the blood stream because the barrier has been compromised.

• EYE INJURIES – Watch out for foreign bodies (big and small) in the eyes. If children get sand in their eyes don’t let them rub the eye but try and flush clean with water or saline. If they have persistent pain, light sensitivity or blurred vision, visit your optometrist or doctor to check for corneal abrasion. Educate your family on eye safety when playing sports involving small balls or toys with projectiles. These can do serious

We have found the system that benefits many people, is a sixmonthly visit to one of our very gentle hygienists. We incorporate a yearly check by one of our dentists with X-rays mostly two-yearly.

This allows us to monitor what is happening in your mouth.

Prevention is better than cure – your overall health depends on it!

and permanent damage to eyes and vision, so strict rules should apply about how such games are played.

How often do you see Dad weed trimming or mowing while junior plays nearby? While Dad is behind the mower, a flying rock could hit him, but more likely it will go sideways and hit someone lower to the ground. Dad and child should wear eye protection; either sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses or clear safety goggles. When chopping wood, hammering nails, generating sawdust or anything that can fly around, wear eye protection.

In the event of a serious eye injury, cover gently with a cotton pad, if available, and seek medical help immediately.

• SWIMMING – It’s important for a pool’s chlorine levels to be correct; too low and bacteria and algae will flourish leading to eye infections; too high and eyes may become irritated. Stinging or persistent redness following swimming can be relieved with preservative-free artificial tear drops. These should not be used for ‘red eye’. Water of any kind (particularly fresh or in thermal pools) harbours bacteria, which are dangerous for contact lens wearers who have a higher risk of sightthreatening corneal infections and ulcers.

With a few simple steps, you can rest assured that your family’s eyes will enjoy the summer! www.eyesofhowick.co.nz

CLEAR BRACES

PROMOTION sanctuarydental.co.nz Come in for a free initial assessment and receive a

Proudly caring for local eyes.

$500 voucher

towards your clear braces treatment with Sanctuary Dental*

Pop in and see our friendly team for quality eye care and advice or check out our wide range of the latest fashion glasses.

Call (09) 273 2173 and book your appointment today!

www.eastlife.co.nz

100 Picton Street, Howick, Auckland 2014

100 Picton Street, Howick.

T.Phone.

09 534 095565 534 5565, www.eyesofhowick.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

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*Terms and Conditions apply: This voucher is valid from 1.10.16 to 30.11.16. Limit of 1 voucher per person for all new and existing patients. Patients under the age of 18 must have parental consent. Any pre-existing decay or damage may need to be treated before braces can be applied. Timing of procedure to be agreed upon between customer and practitioner. Results will vary for each person. This voucher can only be redeemed against clear braces treatment. Voucher is not redeemable for cash.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. How to redeem: Present the voucher during payment.

43

Som dang e moles Don’ erous t are mo re t lea han v o e it t ther exci o s. o lat sion e can of Mela . Early nom save a lives !”

L Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Malignant Melanoma

Congenital Brown Naevus (benign)

“SURGERY BY THE SEA”

Marina Specialists First Floor, Compass Building, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina Ph: 534 4040 • EDI: marinasp

www.plassurg.co.nz www.marinamedical.co.nz

eaving skin cancers untreated is not a pretty sight and it could cost you your life.

Putting off surgery will almost certainly mean the tumour will grow bigger, be more invasive and this results in a bigger operation. In many areas simple excisions can be done but skin flaps or grafts may be required on the face or legs where there is little spare skin available – and in many cases if there had been earlier detection then extensive surgery could have been unnecessary.

The key to surviving skin cancer is being aware of your skin lesions and their changes and, importantly, having regular check-ups on any suspicious lesions.

Where needed, dermoscopy and biopsy will improve diagnosis and aid successful treatment.

Knowing the rules does not always mean we follow them, so: • Avoid sunburn.

• Check dark moles for increasing size, crusting, itching or blackness.

• Over 65 and noticed lots of moles and spots? Have an annual skin check.

• Early diagnosis may mean only freezing or topical chemotherapy cream is needed.

Don’t leave it too late – talk to Martin Rees at Marina Specialists, it could be a lifesaver Martin Rees Specialist Plastic, Cosmetic & Hand Surgeon

QUALITY SKIN SURGERY AT MARINA SPECIALISTS 44 | eastlife | november 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz 13739

Goal setting the SMART way Goal setting is a process and without a clear process, goals are quite simply a set of items on a wish list. Each goal needs be clearly defined, you must be able to measure each one and there needs to be a time frame for which you are held accountable.

Each goal also needs to be evaluated to ensure it is attainable and that the plan to achieve those goals is realistic. Without accurate goal setting and proper planning you could be setting yourself up to fail.

Although it is tempting to dive straight in and get started, thoughtful planning is the key to your success. In most cases the barriers to success can be avoided in the planning stage.

SMART is commonly used guide to break down a goal and ensure that it has all the elements required for your ultimate success, whatever that goal may be.

By following these simple steps it will take you through the goal setting

process to develop a clear plan that ticks off each of the essential criteria denoted by SMART: S– M– A– R– T–

Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time Frame

These simple steps help make this process easy. Your ultimate success, however, is in the level of thought and consideration you put into each question at the early stages.

You do not need to complete each step at once. This process can be revisited at any stage, once you have set your SMART goal, look to evaluate and repeat the steps to refine your goal.

S– M– A– R– T– E– R–

Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time Frame Evaluate Repeat

SMART goal setting can be used in all aspects of life and by following this simple process it can keep you accountable and help you achieve

any goals you may have.

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

It's YOUR body...

Love it.

Clubs in your area: Botany, Botany Junction, Highbrook, Highland Park & Howick www.jettsonline.co.nz The everday gym for everyday people

ak Off-Pe ps rshi membe lable ai now av 02156-v9

Hot Spots THE LOUNGE Hidden away in the Howick Valley, The Lounge is a fully licensed boutique function centre with a difference. Our eclectic dēcor and nostalgic feel are inviting, making The Lounge a comfortable relaxing venue for your next function, Christmas party or intimate gathering. Need a break from cooking? The Lounge has you covered! We hold regular My Night Off Wednesday dinners and are equipped for large or small dinner parties. Tell us about your next funtion, The Lounge could be your ideal solution.

beaufords in totara park

186 Wellington Street, Howick Phone 535 1397 www.howicklounge.co.nz

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

Beaufords

in Totara Park

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highwic Highwic Christmas Garden Festival November 19 and 20.

Explore the heritage house and gardens, take tea at the Cup Cake Café and shop at our pop up Christmas shop.

Entertainment through the weekend includes carols by ukulele, maypole dancing and garden tours with Dr Keith Hammett. A miniature Christmas Garden Competition for children, judged

by Santa, gives free entry for an adult accompanying the child.

(Must be booked). Adult entry $10, children free with adult.

Highwic is easy to get to by bus or train.

Mortimer Pass, Newmarket, Phone 09 524 5729 highwic@heritage.org.nz www.highwic.co.nz

MIKANO Mikano is one of Auckland’s top 50 restaurants. Whether guests arrive by land, sea or air, this Auckland icon delights.

With its ‘James Bond’ style setting, Mikano perches above the Hauraki Gulf next to the bustling helicopter pad and Ports of Auckland. Breathtaking views, fresh cuisine, and attentive wait staff provide a special dining experience. Open 7 days, 11.30am till late. Lunch, dinner, high tea, functions, weddings.

Chopper ride plus drinks and dining.

1 Solent St, Mechanics Bay, Auckland Waterfront Email info@mikano.co.nz Phone 09 309 9514 www.mikano.co.nz 14454

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Hot Spots red shed palazzo Recommending this cafe is easy for two good reasons: the food and service are that good and directions couldn’t be more straight forward: head along Karaka Rd and look out for the big... red shed! Along with their team, Paul (a chef with 30 years’ experience) and Kristina Smith serve quality food amidst beautiful, family and animal friendly, garden surrounds.

Creative breakfasts, morning and afternoon teas, gourmetstyle lunches and moreish cakes and desserts are all on offer at this fully licensed slice of rural paradise, open 8.30am-4pm.

Marina Thai/Thai FaMily

64 Jesmond Rd (just off Karaka Rd), Drury Ph 027 213 1440 www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Red Shed

Palazzo

Book a berth at Half Moon Bay’s Marina Thai over summer or wander into Pakuranga’s Thai Family restaurant at The Plaza where Thai-licious dishes are the order of the day. The sister venues are renowned for their 7-day service, and for catering to small or larger groups – the festive season is set to go so, now is the time to book corporate or social celebrations – lunch or dinner! Enjoy sun, views and indoor/outdoor charm at Half Moon Bay’s Marina Thai or the convenience of Pakuranga’s elegant Thai Family. Fully licensed, BYOW. 1 Ara-Tai Road, Half Moon Bay, Phone 09 533 2099 129 Pakuranga Road (Pakuranga Plaza) Ph 09 577 4028 www.marinathai.co.nz, www.thaifamily.co.nz 14466

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turanga creek A fantastic place to relax and enjoy fantastic wine and food.

The farm’s stables have been turned into a restaurant, function room and cellar door – the rural environment persuading head chef Barry Armstrong, to leave the city and bring his skills to the country. Producing great food ranging from nibbles and platters to a seven-course degustation menu there is food for everyone and every occasion. Great for families, couples and groups to spend a few hours, Turanga Creek is open Wednesday to Sunday with late nights Thursday to Saturday.

133 Whitford Park Road, Whitford Phone 09 530 8936 www.turangacreek.co.nz

the burbs eatery The Burbs offers quality café fare, Allpress coffee, Storm & India teas and a stylish setting tucked in the heart of Farm Cove. You’ll find an all-day breakfast menu, gluten-free options like french toast with coconut bread and free range bacon, topped with blueberry compote is a must try. The interior has ample cosy seating, oak tables and a customcoloured La Marzocco. Our courtyard is lovely on warmer days. Open 7 days – 7am till 2.30pm weekdays, 7.30am till 2.30pm weekends.

190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove Phone 09 576 8840 www.facebook.com/the burbs 14450

www.eastlife.co.nz

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Lone Star shines bright Anyone who has salivated over a platter of Lone Star ribs, or ploughed their way through a massive Lasso of Hog, will be ecstatic over the arrival of a brand new Lone Star at Botany Town Centre.

And the troops have certainly marshalled at the ‘Texan to a T’ venue. More than 10,000 customers sat down to eat in just the first four weeks – shades of Christchurch 1988 when the first Lone Star opened to a massive response.

And there’ll be those who recall discovering the Queenstown Lone Star in the early 90’s and thought they’d gone to cowboy heaven.

Now, more than a quarter of a century later, a new generation of guests already know, on walking through the Botany Lone Star doors, that they’ve hit the bull’s eye. It isn’t a matter of don’t tell the sheriff but rather let’s tell the whole district and fast.

With 28 Lone Stars spread across the country it was high time the local area had its own and it took the keen eye and business acumen of franchisee, Dean Curlew, and his wife Andrea, to see the potential.

“We’ve been Lone Star customers for years,” Dean says. “With kids of our own Andrea and I have eaten at many a Lone Star and had always

Dean and Andrea Curlew considered them to be the ideal family venue.

“But it wasn’t until we were enjoying yet another great meal at Newmarket Lone Star that Andrea commented on how it was always packed and what a great business model it was.

“Having been in customer service most of my working life, including a period in hospitality in Sydney, I’d been looking for a new business opportunity and that night started me thinking Lone Star could be it.”

Missing out on the Newmarket site when it came up for sale, Dean started talking seriously with the Lone Star franchise owners and signed up...pronto!

“As luck had it, the Botany Town

Centre site came up for lease and thankfully I was able to negotiate with the centre owners to build the deck which, to my mind, was essential to the ambience. Suddenly it was all go and it’s been that way ever since. The response has been unbelievable.”

Importantly, the new, fully licensed Lone Star, with its rustic Texan decor – a mix of timber and roughcast – harking back to the original Western theme, has provided some 70 new jobs and given the district a much needed family restaurant. But when little ones are tucked up in bed, the mood invites a more mature clientele.

Open daily from 12pm until late, the extensive lunch/dinner menu – featuring many original dishes – can be seen online. And anyone who knows Lone Star knows there are

classic size meals for hearty appetites and lighter, medium size meals for those who like to enjoy a couple of courses.

What’s more, with Dean focused on ensuring a genial atmosphere with a sense of camaraderie, there is a huge fireplace to warm patrons on colder days while the sun-drenched deck is just the ticket when the sun shines.

Botany Lone Star, it seems, couldn’t have asked for a better start. Talk of any new restaurant always gets around fast, but with Lone Star the word has spread faster than cowboys (and cowgirls) on horseback. Local foodies are turning up at the gallop and, with a Hoyts, theatre complex just across the way, you couldn’t find a more convenient location.

open for lunch 7 days from 12pm For listings phone 271 2456 or listings@lonestarbotany.co.nz

B

O

T

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Botany Town Centre, First floor, opposite Hoyts www.lonestar.co.nz 14137-v2

48 | eastlife | november 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

Win! Basics to Brilliance Making Hay may be an outdoor activity, however making like Hay is best suited to the kitchen.

In her latest book, acclaimed Aussie cook, Donna Hay, illustrates how even the most complex dishes can be easily mastered, from tried and true recipes for tender steak, golden roast chicken, crispy pork belly, and even her Nan’s sponge cake, to more sophisticated culinary creations.

Building on the basics, Basics to Brilliance also features numerous variations and simple flavour change-ups, so one recipe can prove the basis for many more as confidence and skills develop.

Recipes are peppered with helpful notes and tips while a glossary of ingredients and equipment is a boon to chefs of all abilities.

• Donna Hay: Basics to Brilliance | RRP $59.99 | HarperCollins

Doug Scott-Davidson (pictured) from Open Country Dairy was “proud and humbled” to claim the Food Safety Culture award.

“Everyone at Open Country Dairy and our suppliers up and down the supply chain played a part in our success with this award,” he says.

“Our vision is to be the leading dairy ingredient supply partner to the world.

Being recognised for, and continuing to foster, a food safety culture throughout the business and supply chain partners will assist in cementing this position.”

www.eastlife.co.nz

Twas the night before Christmas and all cooks were stirring....in preparation for the following day’s feasting. But, planning for the festive table had begun weeks earlier when wise chefs put in their orders for New Zealand ham, pork, lamb or a baron of beef needed to feed a crowd.

‘

EastLife has a copy of this book up for grabs.

To be in to win, see the competitions section of our website, eastlife. co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close November 30, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

Spring Lamb claimed the Massey University Supreme Award, as well securing the Export Innovation and Chilled Foods Award categories thanks to its lamb rack.

Clevedon company, The Larder Project, was also amongst the winners, named highly commended in the Artisan Food Producer category for its Sesame and Linseed Bread Mix. Judge, food writer and cookbook author, Nici Wickes, says the quality of products entered this year was inspiring.

“Judging was quite an onslaught of tasting but someone has to do it! It was a fantastic job and we were really delighted with the diversity of products and the level of innovation.”

New Zealand imports a lot of ham and pork from overseas but customers are asking for ‘New Zealand-made!’

Clients like to support local farms and the meat industry; they like to know where their meat comes from!

The Aussie Butcher also supplies a range of poultry – turkey, duck and chicken – as well as barbecue meats.

With more families keen to cook outdoors, even on Christmas Day, The Aussie Butcher’s customers are guaranteed the best meats available.

Ahead of Christmas, many companies are thinking of staff and clients. We prepare corporate meat packs and hams as management gifts – these are a popular way to say, thank you.

Once meats are bought, you’ll need to think about preparation and to make your ham special try this recipe courtesy of New Zealand Pork:

Ham with Almond and Apricot Crust • 1/2 100% NZ ham cooked on bone • Whole cloves (approx 1 tablespoon) • 1 cup chopped dried apricots • 100g blanched almonds halves

• 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard • 2 tbsp honey • 1 beaten egg yolk

Method Prepare your Nutty Crust and plaster it on ham surface. Roast extra nutty coating alongside ham and serve a spoonful with each slice. This crust is for half a ham on the bone. Double the recipe if using a whole ham.

Stud ham with whole cloves.

Mix together apricots, almonds, wholegrain mustard, honey and egg yolk; spread over ham or paste mixed mustard and honey over ham then place on almonds and whole dried apricots (secure with half toothpicks).

Remove skin by running your clean fingers under it and peeling back to leave a smooth layer of fat. If studding with cloves, cut fat into a criss-cross pattern and secure whole cloves in each criss-cross corner. Place ham on a rack in a lined roasting pan (use baking paper or foil) and press on nutty coating.

To crust and serve cold: bake in oven at 180°C for 35-40 mins, cool, cover and store in refrigerator until served.

To crust and serve hot: bake in oven at 160°C, allowing 20 mins per kilogram.

Top quality meat at everyday low prices!

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

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

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Wanganui’s Coastal

This month local Aussie Butcher, Andrew Beatson, who proudly sells fresh pork, beef, lamb and chicken of New Zealand origin, talks about the need to start preparing meat orders or Christmas.

Naturally they headed for the Aussie Butcher, Ti Rakau Drive, where top quality meats are the order of the day including New Zealand hams.

Safe bet at Food Awards When the cream of the crop rose to the top at the recent New Zealand Food Awards, one East Tamaki company had victory in the can!

plan for christmas

49

Taste of tradition parting shot

Macca’s menu ‘court’ short Well, burger me! JON RAWLINSON’S off on another fast food crusade... wonders will never cease!

From offering all day breakfasts to Create Your Taste (customised burgers), Ronald McDonald appears to be an old clown sporting new tricks.

However, this fast food chain – which has grown from delivering a uniform menu – has needed to let a few things slide in order to sate the tastes of the breakfast club.

Amidst fanfare trumpeting that Maccas would serve breakfast all day from May, I must have missed the announcement that their BBQ Cheeseburger was for the chop, at some smaller outlets that is.

A spokesperson from McDonald’s explains: “When we launched All Day Breakfast, we moved our foodcourt restaurants on to a single menu that combined our breakfast and regular menus. Due to kitchen capacity, only a selection of items is available [there].”

So, what else didn’t make the clown’s cut? I wasn’t relishing the prospect of putting some poor burger turner through the arduous process of saying ‘yay’ or ‘nay’ as I rattled off a list of more than 60 items!

Thankfully, it seems, ‘spokesperson’ wasn’t keen on this course of action either. After I indicated my intentions, she looked into this and confirmed there are a few other menu items affected.

These include: the Boss burger, Clubhouse burgers, Chicken McMuffin and the Kiwi Big Breakfast; hardly Ronald’s all star line-up, but disappointing for their fans, nonetheless. ‘Create Your Taste’ is similarly unavailable at smaller sites.

So, if you’d like fries with that, you’re in luck. But, if (like me), you’re favourite fare isn’t available everywhere, I guess you won’t be ‘lovin’ it’ quite so much, at least not all of it anyway.

50 | eastlife | november 2016

With spring weather starting to make itself felt, it’s time to ditch the warming soups and take on an Italian classic.

friends leaving you with added time to spend outdoors enjoying the warm sunshine as it begins to make its presence felt.

This Italian Meatball recipe is easy to throw together for family and

A truly Italian flavour with the taste of tradition and simplicity, these

meatballs are perfectly paired with a glass of fortified Italian red wine and either Acqua Panna still mineral water or S.Pellegrino sparkling mineral water to cleanse the palate – what better way to celebrate the new season?

ITALIAN MEATBALLS WITH TOMATO SAUCE PREP TIME: 20min | COOK TIME: 40min | SERVES: 4

ingredientS • 4 slices white bread • 100 ml milk • 50 g raw smoked ham • 2 tbsp finely chopped basil • 600 g minced meat • 1 tbsp capers • 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan • 1 onion • 1 carrot • 1 stick celery • 2 tbsp olive oil • 400 g peeled tomato • 200 ml dry red wine • 12 leaves sage • Freshly ground salt & pepper

method Cut crusts off the bread, put bread into a deep plate and pour the milk over it. Remove the fat from the ham and chop the ham.

Squeeze the bread out with your hands and crumble finely. Then put into a bowl with the mince, ham, basil, chopped capers and cheese.

Season with salt and pepper and knead to a ‘dough’. Form into small balls the size of table tennis balls.

Peel the onion and chop very finely.

Peel the carrot, wash the celery and finely dice both.

Heat the oil in a large frying pan and fry the vegetables for a minute or two. Then remove veggies from pan

and set aside. Put the meatballs into the pan and brown on all sides.

Puree the tomatoes with the red wine and add to the frying pan. Add the sage and vegetables, cover and simmer for approximately 30 minutes.

Finally, season to taste with salt and pepper.

Take a look at Vegetarian Kitchen Popeye grew up to be big and strong by eating his greens – namely spinach. These days, more and more people are taking their veggies more seriously and whether following a vegetarian diet or simply looking to add a few meat-free meals to their week, the new Vegetarian Kitchen cookbook will provide some great recipes.

Sure to inspire and nourish, this yum cook book contains 87 delicious recipes offering all the vitamins and minerals you need from a plant-based diet without compromising on taste or the need to give up family favourites.

With additional tips and variations

‘

WIN! Eastlife has a copy to give away to one lucky reader. To enter the draw visit the competitions page at www.eastlife.co.nz and fill in the appropriate form.

One entry per person/ email address; entries close November 30, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

for vegan and raw diets, Vegetarian Kitchen provides a mix of light meals breakfasts, main meals and desserts, making a vegetarian diet deliciously tempting, easy to stick

to and appealingly healthy.

This book can be purchased on line at www.thermomix.com.au/ vegetarian-kitchen. www.eastlife.co.nz

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

THAI

Restaurant

PALDO KOREAN BUFFET

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

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

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

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

Available for functions 7 days, lunch and dinner.

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

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

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

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

LICENSED

$$

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

87 Picton Street, Howick. Ph 533 9568.

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

LICENSED • BYOW

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

Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-11.00pm

$$

LICENSED • BYO

$

INDIaN aCCENt rEStauraNt & Bar

sierra cafe

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

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

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

Separate kids menu and group bookings available.

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

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

Ph 09 272 2322. Open 7 days.

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

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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.

cOrK ShOrt? While New Year’s Eve might seem like it’s still some time off, here’s a celebration that’s been brewing for years already! For five years, Gibbston valley’s Blanc de Blancs Methode Traditionelle and Rose Methode Traditionelle have been patiently waiting their turn to be savoured.

Now, they’re ready to burst forth and share their complexity, clarity and good taste with us all. Both varieties are available for $110 per bottle direct from the winery (via gibbstonvalley.com) from November 12 and limited to 200 cases of each.

fEStivE mEXican farE Craving Mexican for dinner? Then shake a maraca and rustle up a meal from Farrah’s new range of traditional flame baked tortillas and easy-to-use spice mixes. Fun for the whole family, Farrah’s Flame Baked Tortillas come in three varieties – Burrito, Taco and Chilli and these soft, light tortillas are guaranteed not to crack or split when rolled. Spice up your creations with Farrah’s gluten-free spice mixes, available in three flavours; Nacho Spice Mix for the mild palate, Taco Spice Mix and Burrito Spice Mix for those who love a bit more heat!

Made in New Zealand with no artificial colours, Farrah’s Mexican range is available in supermarkets. Farrah’s Flame Baked Tortillas (RRP $5.49) Farrah’s Spice Mixes (RRP $2.99).

fEED mE, bEtty!

While, these days, there may be few who look like Donna Reed, at least we can all claim to cook like Betty Crocker, thanks to the American brand’s handy packs of baking mix. Even in a little kitchen, swarming with little horrors, it’s reasonably easy to rustle up a batch of these Triple Chocolate Fudge Brownies before snuggling in to watch Lucy (or Shortland Street) with a cuppa. Decadent, moist and chewy, these sweet desserts (RRP $5.99 per 500g pack) are available from supermarkets nationwide.

Of chOcOlatE anD lEmOnS – nEw lOw cal SnacK

what’S thE bEEf? Who’s beefing about spring? Nutra Organics is! They’ve launched a wholesome Beef Bone Broth powder, high in protein and rich in minerals to support immunity, improve gut health and reduce inflammation. Paleo friendly, gluten-free and FODMAP compliant, this instant soup powder comes in three flavours – Hearty Original, Herb + Garlic and Turmeric. Forget labouring over a 48-hour bone broth; now it can be done in seconds! Just add 1 tsp per 100ml of boiling water for a hearty cup of goodness. Use as a base for soups, stews, sauces and gravies; make a broth bowl by adding 3 tsps to 300ml of water per person, bring to the boil and add a selection of veggies, protein and noodles – divine! RRP ($32.95 100gm)

Afternoon tea time? Fill up without filling out thanks to Fibre One, a tasty, new, low-calorie snack. New Fibre One Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Lemon Drizzle Squares are snack time treats that aim to keep your waistline wonderful. With just 90 calories per square, the soft-baked squares are also naturally high in fibre (5g per square) and lower in fat. What’s more there’s no compromise on taste – new Fibre One Chocolate Fudge Brownie is packed with chocolate flavoured fudge pieces and chocolate flavoured drizzle, while with Fibre One Lemon Drizzle Squares features lemon flavoured pieces and lemon flavoured drizzle. So, enliven your tastebuds with Fibre One Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Lemon Drizzle Squares (RRP $4.99) now available from leading supermarkets.

OlD SchOOl’S in fOr SummEr! Inspired by old school ways, The Collective’s new Pot Set range uses freshly warmed whole milk to help create yoghurts with a panna cotta-like texture. Probiotic, gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, they contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.

Pot Set yoghurts are available (RRP $5.99 per 450g pot) in Traditional, Cream on Top, vanilla, Raspberry and Lemon flavours from supermarkets nationwide.

52 | eastlife | november 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

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MY Favourit e Thing Howick architect Kim Veltman is renowned for designing spectacular homes so an accompanying interest in ‘miniature’ buildings should come as no real surprise.

However, it’s a bit of a bombshell to learn the building blocks for his favourite structures are plastic!

Today’s contemporary homes are built from numerous materials – brick, timber, masonry, veneers and even mud – but Kim Veltman believes his designer collection of architectural Lego buildings, bridges and monuments will prove to be as durable and long-lasting as the real thing.

It all started when his wife Shelley gave him a Lego kit of the famous Fallingwater house designed in 1935 by acclaimed American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright for Pennsylvanian department store owner, Edgar Kaufmann.

The ingenious reproduction in Lego captured his imagination and ever since, Shelley has presented Kim with a new gift of Lego every birthday to add to his collection.

To house the collection Kim had a purpose built unit constructed in his Pakuranga office but says he is rapidly running out of room.

“It was my birthday in October and another piece – Buckingham Palace – has now been added to the collection” The architectural series became even more meaningful after Kim took his family – Shelley and their 14-year-old twins, Alex and Renee – to Europe last year where they saw many of the real buildings adapted for Lego.”

“Renee is the one who really enjoys helping me construct the buildings,” Kim says. “She even has her own designer block series from which she can design and construct her own buildings.”

Of course, building Lego houses is a far cry from Kim’s day job! A Howick resident for the past 25 years, Kim says after graduating his first job was in Howick in 1984. But it wasn’t until 1990 that he set up practice in Pakuranga.

Since then the district has become

Photo Wayne Martin

home to many a Veltman-designed house, in fact, some 17 in the Compass Point subdivision at Half Moon Bay. “And, now, the building industry is booming again,” he says. “While architect-designed homes normally fall into the higher end of the market, that’s not always so.

“Many less expensive homes are today designed by architects for people who may not want a large residence but are still looking for some individual flair and personality.”

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“Most pieces come from overseas and are amazingly accurate in their depiction of famous attractions.

Amongst the collection I have the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Sydney Opera House, the Trevi Fountain, Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, the United Nations Building and many more – about 30 all told and still growing. Interestingly, nothing from New Zealand has popped up in this series.”

Architect, Kim Veltman with his architectural Lego collection.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

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out of europe

Three ‘chairs’ bottoms down!

HOT SEATS: Every man cave needs bar stools. However, these bar chairs are probably best reserved for more respectable rears!

Kate

Mulligan

Developed by classy Portuguese designer, Duquesa and Malvada – and available in three designs: Kate, Elizabeth and Mulligan – this range screams sophistication and (unlike the old wooden wonders) comfort as well.

Elizabeth

Perhaps better employed when sipping a Manhattan than glugging down a ‘Stein-grenade’, these chic posterior perches make for the perfect addition to any home bar, particularly during the summer entertaining season.

For more information (or to place an order) see duquesaemalvada. com; they are not available from New Zealand stores.

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Colour cure for new season Emphasis on tactility, deep blues and the evolution of ‘greiges’ are among the 2017 Dulux Colour Trends.

Presenting a collection of globally-inspired hues, saturated combinations and a cool tonal palette, as well as colours that promote tactility and warmth, the new season collection ‘Antidote: A Colour Cure’ comprises four carefully curated themes – Sentience, Chroma, Entwine and Construct.

Motivated by the desire to combat challenges faced in the digital age, ‘Antidote’, aims to offer a remedy for the senses through colour and texture.

Point are predicted to be dominant colours in 2017 and we will also see a rise in the popularity of earthy greens such as Dulux Dusky Forest,” she adds.

“Greys and greiges, which have evolved to feature subtle undertones, will also be in demand.”

new Dulux Concrete Effect and Dulux Metallic Effect as well as deep inky blues to add interest.

“The combination of those deep blues, subtle greys and the rawness found in concrete with splashes of copper offers the perfect components to create understated luxury.”

Inspired by this yearning to create a tactile environment, the Sentience palette promotes harmony through its subtle pastels and soft neutrals including Dulux colours, Mt Albert and Glinks Gully Double.

sentience

“Textures in washed earth tones using Dulux Suede Effects add

entwine

Dulux colour expert Davina Harper says there is an ongoing desire to create havens that cater to all the senses and this will see the prominence of textures blended with muted hues next year.

She says reds with a burnished edge will also emerge influenced by the mix of tribal and South American themes which feature prominently in global design and interiors.

“Deeper blues such as Dulux Kea

construct another dimension, imitating earth’s natural materials such as clay, minerals, stone and wood,” says Davina.

“We will see colours such as red, burgundy, brown and oranges being combined with an unexpected twist of zesty yellow or blue, inspired by landscapes from South America to the Middle East,” says Davina.

“This year’s offering of colours deliver a simple, yet effective way for homeowners to add personality and ambience to their homes.

“Create a positive change in your space by adding a little colour or further dimension with texture,” Davina says. “Paint a whole room or a small nook – any new colour or finish will reflect an interesting new feel to your space.

“Use colour in areas of the home that have high impact such as the entrance where you greet visitors or the main living space where you spend the majority of time. Even the smallest touches of colour can help personalise the home.”

Meat the new BUTCHERboy PR N O EW DU CT

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With more focus on texture, the Construct palette inspires pared back beauty with the inclusion of industrial influences and metallic accents using

Reflecting this trend, Entwine – a palette that embraces the idea of connection and takes its cues from the simplicity of weaving – features an eclectic interior style incorporating rich shades that are deep and earthy.

In addition, making a daring statement is easy with the striking Chroma palette which takes its inspiration from the Memphis and Bauhaus movements. Peach, melon, yellow and teal hues are combined with optical illusions, layered materials and reflections.

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Garden surprise After an absence of several years the Uxbridge Garden Safari is back showcasing a selection of suburban gardens that grow just as well, if not better, than Contrary Mary’s. Come November 5, visitors can follow a trail of 10 local gardens including Faye Loughlin’s Cockle Bay charmer.

HELEN PERRY had a sneak preview.

Ongoing spring rain is often a blessing as gardens establish themselves ahead of summer. But this year Faye Loughlin has sent up a little prayer for a run of sunshine so lawns can dry out and last minute tidying can be done ahead of the Uxbridge Garden Safari on November 5.

But despite some sogginess underfoot, Faye’s garden, framed by gorgeous sea views, is looking a picture.

“We’ve been here seven years but it’s only in the last three years that the garden has really begun to take shape. There was no garden out back and the lawn was very rugged when we arrived. There were large yuccas, robellini palms, flax and agave in one area that needed to be removed and a mountain of river stones which didn’t suit my plan for the garden but which a neighbour made good use of.”

58 | eastlife | november 2016

jazz music playing to enhance the mood.”

Faye’s 2016 garden is the culmination of many years of experimentation and learning.

Today, Faye has used mini streamlined agapanthus to border her drive way and beyond the showy mauve blooms hides a myriad of plants such as cerastium (often called snow in summer), mosses, camellias, wisteria, arum lilies, port wine magnolia, an Australian frangipani tree, hydrangeas, alstromeria, clivias,, alyssum , hibiscus and more.

“I grew up on a farm in the Thames Valley and met my husband Graham while I was nursing in Thames. After we married we lived in the south Waikato for a number of years and I created my first garden in Tokoroa.

The land was flat and the area prone to severe frosts but in summer my dahlia beds were just beautiful.”

“I’ve just created a central circular bed containing roses, a weeping cherry and various ground cover all bordered by buxus,” she says.

“Hopefully the roses will be in bloom by time the safari comes around. And, in a special corner of interest, will be our ‘jazz band’ – three fabulous, brightly painted ‘musicians’ made by my husband. They’ll occupy a stage area and all going well we will have

The Loughlin’s then shifted to Hamilton where Faye says: “I got it into my head we needed some trees and without doing any research I just went out a bought some – liquid amber, pin oaks, birch and more. I never gave a thought to how big they would grow. Some years after we had migrated to Auckland I went past the Hamilton property and, oh my, those trees were enormous!” www.eastlife.co.nz

Faye Loughlin – ready to welcome visitors to her garden.

Moving to Auckland 30 years ago they first settled in Wellington Street where Faye’s green fingers really went to work.

“By then I’d fallen in love with standard roses and I had about 30 in the garden as well as carpet roses and a few showy exotics such as bougainvillea. Between work in our own business and tennis they kept me busy.”

With her enthusiasm growing as fast as her garden, Faye attended a three-month course with gardening guru, Simon Farrell and then went TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR

MASSIVE

4 DAY CLEARANCE 3-6 November

Photos Wayne Martin

on to do a three-month course on plant diseases and pests at the then Manukau Institute of Technology.

“On moving to our present home I no longer wanted a big garden that took constant work but because every garden is a work in progress it still offers plenty of ways to be creative, to plant and to replant.

“Right now I want to put in a titoki tree which means a nikau has to come out.

But that’s the way it is with gardens, they can bloom beautiful in so many different ways and they don’t have to be huge to be eye-catching.”

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Get a better outdoors by buying in bulk At Central Landscape and Garden Supplies East Tamaki we have garden and lawn mixes, mulches and a big choice of decorative pebbles available in bulk.

Buying in bulk is the best way to save money in your garden.

Borrow one of our FREE loan trailers, or ring 0800 TOPSOIL for a quote to deliver to your place.

Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 4pm 60 | eastlife | november 2016 www.eastlife.co.nz www.centrallandscapes.co.nz • 09 273 9271 • 64 Ormiston Rd, East Tamaki 14204-v2

Neals’ native paradise FLOURISHES

Dan’s Tip016s November 2

Now, that spring is well and truly in the air, it’s time to rave on about a ramble once again. The Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble (Nov 12-13) sees gardeners in the nearby Franklin region open their gates to provide a little inspiration while raising funds for a worthy cause. JON RAWLINSON visited one particular garden which is expected to shine.

After a saturated spring there’s plenty of ‘catch-up’ gardening to be done in November!

Since moving to Bombay a few years ago, Lisa and Brent Neal have taken a unique approach to Maggie Barry’s ‘war on weeds’. In efforts to restore their five-acre property to its former glory, the pair has well and truly ‘gone native.’

Encouraging growth in the Vegetable garden • Time to plant or sow beans, basil and corn. All three crops are very cold sensitive, so you get excellent results from sowing now as we head into summer.

Beans need a supporting frame and corn is best planted in blocks for optimal pollination

“The first year or so after we bought the property, we focused on getting rid of all the weeds and invasive plants such as agapanthus and wandering Jew,” says Lisa.

“Some of the native trees are absolutely amazing! Natives actually make for quite an easy-care garden once established. We’ve been focused on preserving the native beauty more than anything, maintaining it and ensuring it stays healthy.”

While neither Lisa (a veterinary pathologist) or Brent (a large animal vet) have any formal horticultural training, both have grown from rural roots, with gardening in the blood.

“Because we both work fulltime and haven’t been here all that long, our garden is a bit of a rough diamond.

I think people will love the mature, native trees in particular. They’re really the heroes. We even have a big puriri tree which would be well over 1000 years old.”

Ironically, because part of the property was once used in planning for destruction, its salvation was assured. “This piece of bush was used by the army around the Second World War. It’s probably a reason why it has been preserved so well.

It’s quite interesting to wander through; you come across all sorts of brickworks,” Lisa explains.

Although both partners share responsibilities when it comes to creative vision, the pair also benefits from extra sets of (albeit little) helping hands when it comes to rolling up their sleeves.

“Sometimes Brent will come up with an idea, other times I will. He does all the heavy work, the landscaping; like www.eastlife.co.nz

• Liquid fertilise all your vegetable plants by either watering in at the roots or as a foliar spray

‘

The Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble runs November 12-13. Visit franklinhospiceramble. org.nz.

many men, he enjoys building walls and digging holes,” she laughs. “Our kids [Frankie, aged 5, and Rona, 3] love getting involved too. Frankie has spent years at day care digging holes in the sandpit so he’s well qualified!”

In addition to ensuring the garden’s stunning natives thrive, the Neals have also introduced their own touches, including raised veggie gardens and even an orchard.

“We now have a cottage garden thing going on up top and we’ve planted an orchard lower down so, we’re working on it. In a few years, we’ll have quite a lot of fruit [citrus and stone fruit]. It’s good for the kids too, to learn where food really comes from.”

Lisa adds that she is looking forward to her first year of involvement in the Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble.

“Such events are very important as ways to raise money for great causes.

Also, as we’re fairly new to the area, it’s a good way to be more involved with our local community. Some properties have an interesting history so I’m really looking forward to it!”

• Bee friendly – we lacked much sun in the early part of spring and so any seasonal disruption to plants, such as pollination, could be helped along by lots of bee attracting plants in or near the vegetable patch Did you know – in Dan’s garden the flowers of the NZ rengarenga lily (arthropodium) are brilliant for getting the honey bees in and they flower now!

• Basil and tomatoes are great companions in the garden • Stake tomatoes, place straw or weedmat under strawberry plants and clear soil to give space to fast-growing summer vegetables like cucumber, zucchini, pumpkin and melons.

Other work • Trim hedges • Deadhead or rake up the spent flowers of camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas • Deal to weeds in the garden so that your chosen plants have room to grow over summer. Spray paving and driveways to ensure tough weeds don’t settle in for the summer • Mulching around plants and trees saves watering costs and reduces stress in the dry weather ahead.

Lawns in November

n, ma ke sur e you If you ’re sow ing a new law a kee n gar den er s, Elli wa ter it – wa tch An dy , sho w you by) rug g yin pla (wh en he’s not outube.com/ w.y ww how to sow a law n her e: tu.be you re= atu &fe watch?v=tTyHj1dCjsM 14033-v2

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62 | eastlife | november 2016

www.eastlife.co.nz 14370

Shifting market dynamics ‘ Total Focus Principal, Greg Roy areinz, gives an update on the local real estate market happenings.

Sales statistics just released by REINZ for September show an interesting trend for our area – Eastern Beaches.

Firstly, the number of sales for the month was an unseasonably low 137 – the lowest number of sales for this time of the year that I can remember.

Secondly, we hit a new record high median and average price. The median at $1,107,000 is a $7000 increase on the last high hit in May and June this year. The average at $1,260,190 is up from the previous record high of $1,213,886 set in June this year.

Combining these results it is evident that there are more sales happening in the very top end. Looking back and comparing the spread of sales in price bands really bears this out.

Looking at, say, September 2014, when the median was $813,000, the number of sales in the $600,000$800,000 bracket represented 35% of total sales. In September 2015, with a median of $965,000, it was 20% and this September it is only 12%.

Conversely sales over $1million have increased from a mere 17% share in September 2014, to 45% in September 2015, to 68% for September this year. And, 8% of sales this September were over $2 million.

As I write this the realestate.co.nz website shows there are 330 properties available in the Eastern Beaches area. This is up from last month when we had 294 – due in some part to the drop in sales numbers but there is at least more choice for local buyers.

With Auckland now definitely showing all signs of slowing down it should follow, that across the rest of the country, the peak has probably been reached and the recently announced cut back in immigration numbers, combined with the potential threat of interest rate rises should help to keep housing price increases more under control.

The median for Auckland overall saw a slight drop from last month’s record high of $842,500 down to $825,000 – still a 7% increase from September 2015’s $771,000. Sales volumes fell 23% compared to September 2015 with 2424 sales. Interesting to note is

that the number of sales by auction dropped 13% compared to a year ago.

Nationally there were 7397 sales in September, a fall of 2% on August but a 10% fall compared to the same month last year. A new national record median was struck at $515,000. Regionally new record medians were struck in Northland at $390,000, Waikato/Bay of Plenty at $458,000, Taranaki at $350,000, Wellington at $480,000, Nelson/ Marlborough at $450,000 and Otago at $296,000.

With Auckland now definitely showing all signs of slowing down it should follow, that across the rest of the country, the peak has probably been reached and the recently announced cut back in immigration numbers, combined with the potential threat of interest rate rises should help to keep housing price increases more under control.

Please feel free to contact me anytime on 0274966966 to discuss your property needs.

Cedar, New Zealand’s premium cladding TimberTECH Director MARK RALPH provides expert advice on your Cedar, email your questions to mark@timbertech.co.nz

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eastlife | november 2016 |

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THE

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Special Agents 003 IAN BOSWELL, MARK VAN ETTEN & NICOLETTE HALE RESIDENTIAL SALES, BEACHLANDS

Ian 027 285 9314, i.boswell@barfoot.co.nz Mark 027 523 2245, mark.vanetten@barfoot.co.nz Nicolette 027 702 9157, n.hale@barfoot.co.nz www.specialagents003.co.nz This vibrant team puts the fun back into real estate while also achieving outstanding sales results. Now is your time to take advantage of the fantastic service they provide!

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Leigh & greg roy

This month JANE WILSHER of Elite Property Management discusses the detail that goes into effective property management during an over-active property market.

AREINZ

Principal and Owners

P: 09 538 0151 M: Greg 0274 966 966 M: Leigh 021 646 565 Your Independent Local Specialists – Leigh & Greg Roy With a combined 40 years’ experience selling real estate in the area, you can rest assured you’re in good hands.

Providing good old fashioned service with outstanding results and never losing sight of who it is that we are working for is the absolute foundation of our business.

Call us if you simply want advice, or are looking to buy or sell your home.

Auckland’s booming property market and sky-rocketing house prices have impacted on rental markets with many families facing rent rises.

payments, which may not be excessive at present, but could rise in the future, then balancing the books can be a challenge.

We all know that when demand exceeds supply, prices go up – it’s basic economics! Unfortunately, for many tenants, predictions of rent rises made 18 months ago are coming true.

And, it’s not hard to see why.

So when demand is high and rental prices are rising, a savvy investor will capitalise on the situation. Of course, there are investors out there with large portfolios of rental properties but there are people with just one investment property.

As investors pay more for property, they expect the rents from them to provide a feasible return – keeping pace with the market is essential for successful investment.

With solid demand for quality rental properties in our area, there has never been a better time to convert bricks and mortar into weekly cash flow – it has been said that some people are reaping a better return from their property than annual wages!

111 Picton St, Howick. www.tfproperty.co.nz

We have all seen articles showing queues of people at viewings, sometimes 40 to 60 in prime areas.

While not quite like that in the Eastern Suburbs, nevertheless demand is very strong here and landlords need only one, quality tenant.

French Style Furniture

However, year on year, landlords have to adsorb increasing costs so property investment is not all a piece of cake. It is getting more and more expensive.

With median house prices having hit all-time highs, you may wonder how people can afford to become landlords in the first place. Combine that with rising land rates, insurances, maintenance, water and interest

Sometimes people decide to sell their investment property because they can no longer afford to pay the difference between the rent they are collecting and the actual cost of what they owe on the home. Then it turns out that the house has been under rented.

Tenants don’t like rent rises but they also don’t like being forced to move because the property they are renting has gone on the market. Sale of the property may mean they have no choice and that can be expensive, sometimes more so than a rent rise.

If a property is well maintained and the tenants really like it, they will want to stay and may find a rent rise preferable to moving.

In most cases landlords invest in property to make money for the future so rather than selling up earlier than planned, make sure the investment is achieving the best possible return.

If you need assistance with renting at the right price give Elite Property Management a call on 09 535 0911.

We can visit the property and provide a rental appraisal.

Are you a landlord short on time?

Heading overseas? Or just over dealing with tenants?

Buy direct from the importer 12 Ron Driver Place, East Tamaki.

Open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 11am-4pm. Ph 09 273 8985. www.homeabout.co.nz www.trademe.co.nz/stores/homeabout

We are your local specialist property managers based in Howick. Dedicated to finding quality tenants, maintaining your properties and getting you the best return on your investment.

128 Picton Street, Howick.

Phone 09 535 0911 www.eliteproperty.co.nz Email: jane@eliteproperty.co.nz or info@eliteproperty.co.nz

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Comparing prices difficult In this month series from G.J. Gardner Homes on building the dream home, price comparisons are shown to be fraught with difficulties. The question is how much does a square metre cost?

Similar to a car, the price of houses vary by the quality and specifications of what they are built from as well as engineering and design elements.

Therefore, making a decision to build a house based on the cost per square metre can be akin to buying a car based on the price per kilo.

Consider this, in a car one might have leather seats, another cloth, you might opt for 4WD option, diesel or petrol, you might want a sunroof, metallic paint and high performance brakes or you could be content with less power or fewer ‘extras’.

And naturally, a Ferrari weighs less than a Jeep but is built from more expensive materials and has higher specifications with more complexity.

• Design – a simple square-shaped home with four corners requires a lot less labour to build and less pre-nail complexity, pre-engineering and design requirements than a complicated or two storey home with multiple corners, angles and a complex roofline.

• Materials, fitting and decor – vinyl costs a lot less than timber flooring or carpet or slate.

Ditto with kitchen and bathroom finishes which may have different styles of taps, lights, showers, toilets, floors

size as can hardware and specialist features.

• Size – large houses can often appear to cost less per square metre than smaller houses with equivalent specifications and fittings. Larger homes can have three and four car garages where the interior fit out is minimal; (e.g. no floor coverings or cabinetry) whereas a smaller home can have similar amount spent on the two most expensive rooms – the kitchen and bathroom which may be 75 percent more expensive per square metre.

• Bathroom – a square metre of bathroom will cost a lot more than a square metre of bedroom because of the cost of bathroom fittings, tiles, plumbing and waterproofing membranes.

• Kitchens – a hugely lavish kitchen will increase the cost per square metre yet the difference is only seen in the kitchen itself. Just the type of finish or quality of cabinetry can make a significant difference in cost per square metre in kitchens of identical

• Section – a flat section on solid ground suitable for a concrete slab foundation will require minimal excavation or engineering work.

A sloping section, where ground conditions are unknown, may require significant excavation and geotechnical evaluation.

With most reputable builders once plans and specifications have been finalised, a contract is prepared which sets out responsibilities for both parties and includes a schedule of progress payments.

The cost per square metre can vary hugely for genuine reasons so you need to ensure you are armed with as much information as possible. Don’t allow yourself to be misled. Also make sure your building contract includes a clear progress payment schedule and you have absolute clarity about what is allowed for and what is not.

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Simply, put, like cars, not all houses are created equal and quality is not explicitly considered when talking cost per square metre. There are hundreds of components that go into a home and changing any one of them can affect the price.

Some reasons why there can be large variations in the cost per square metre include:

and appliances. Such choices will influence cost per square metre.

www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | november 2016 |

65

Right ‘Hon’ Key Whether riding high on a wave of public opinion or experiencing that sinking feeling, our honourable PM can always be relied upon to retain his head under fire. The EastLife team shares its thoughts on reports about some of John’s latest adventures.

Slow ‘coach’ to India Some political manoeuvres never get off the ground. Others become grounded in Queensland. As EastLife went to print, John had been forced to cut short his diplomatic expedition to India due to mechanical troubles with his chosen mode of transport, a Royal New Zealand Airforce Boeing 757.

While we were unable to reach the PM for comment in time, we would like to wish him bon voyage and the very best of luck in resolving this air farce (sorry, we mean air force!) issue.

Bainimarama goes to the Bledisloe A ‘politician’ with a signature (and ego?) bigger than John Hancock’s paid a visit to New Zealand recently.

John Key welcomed Fiji Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe (aka Frank) Bainimarama at Government House in Auckland where, we understand, he met with a better reception than that laid on for John in the islands earlier this year.

“New Zealand and Fiji have strong ties in a range of areas, and the Prime Minister’s visit presents a further opportunity to discuss issues of mutual interest,” Mr Key said shortly beforehand.

The visit also involved chats at the rugby and bilateral talks between the two leaders. However, despite visiting a country where citizens enjoy freedom of speech, the keen rugby fan was (ironically) not in the mood for too many ‘Frank’ discussions with New Zealand media.

Unfortunately this meant EastLife was unable to ask the great former dictator to confirm the identity of his favourite Spice Girl. How sad.

Users... pay!

Who says crime doesn’t pay? A recent announcement by the PM indicates that criminal activity is actually going a long way to funding New Zealand law enforcement.

Mr Key advised that 15 million dollars acquired under the Criminal

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Proceeds (Recovery) Act will soon be invested across a range of initiatives, from drug use prevention and treatment programmes, to Customs improvements.

“This funding will boost the Government’s efforts to combat methamphetamine [P] and make our communities safer... [this] brings the total amount invested under the Act in anti-drug programmes to around $31 million.”

Overall, police have restrained approximately $393 million in cash and assets since the Act came into force in 2009; $138 million has been subsequently forfeited, he confirmed.

“We are now dealing with a hard-core group of users struggling to kick the habit. So we are focusing more on them by investing in health-related initiatives, including treatment facilities, as well as funding more innovative ways for police to work with health services to reduce demand.

“When the Tackling Methamphetamine Action Plan was launched in 2009, New Zealand had one of the highest rates of P use in the world.

Through the combined efforts of law enforcement and health authorities we are making progress, but we need to do more.”

‘

We are now dealing with a hard-core group of users struggling to kick the habit.

So we are focusing more on them by investing in healthrelated initiatives, including treatment facilities, as well as funding more innovative ways for police to work with health services to reduce demand.”

The UN-sinkable Helen Clark Congratulations and commiserations often go hand in hand. Recently, John Key confirmed his disappointment as Helen Clark failed to claim the United Nations’ top job.

“We did everything we could to support Helen. She would have been an outstanding Secretary-General but the clear preference was for Antonio Guterres. Helen fought a good campaign and New Zealanders can be proud of her,” Mr Key said.

Instead, Portugal’s former Prime Minister, Antonio Guterres, will be the next UN Secretary-General.

“We look forward to working with him. He is a friend of New Zealand. He has solid credentials... and was the UN High Commissioner for Refugees for 10 years,” added the PM. “The role of UN Secretary-General is more important than ever and we have high expectations of him.”

Shape up or don’t ship in A strongman Sampson (of sorts) will be visiting us soon; however she may first be required to undergo a haircut.

Although our PM recently welcomed the prospect of American warship, USS Sampson, visiting our waters, he confirmed this iron maiden will comply with NZ law.

Frank discussions – John Key meets Frank Bainimarama in Suva (June 2016).

Photo supplied “Under New Zealand’s nuclear free legislation I am required to be satisfied that any foreign military ship entering New Zealand is not nuclear armed... I have granted this approval after careful consideration,” Mr Key confirmed.

“Legislation also does not allow ships which are nuclear propelled... the advice I received from officials is that the USS Sampson is not nuclear powered.”

The destroyer will attend a naval review from November 17-22 in Auckland, Mr Key explained.

“New Zealand looks forward to the USS Sampson’s participation in the International Naval Review to mark the Royal New Zealand Navy’s 75th anniversary. The visit is a further reflection of the depth of the bilateral relationship with the United States.” www.eastlife.co.nz

UN DE RC ON ST RU CT IO N

Central Auckland Living - 3-5 bedroom freehold homes from $750,000* Right now, a selection of brand new, high-quality terraced houses are being built in Richmond. Just 12kms from Auckland’s CBD, minutes from Sylvia Park and with community amenities and transport hubs close by, this area is on a major rise.

Be a part of this growing community with families of all ages. Enjoy shared parks, beautiful landscaping, recreational areas and welcoming neighbours. It’s your new place to live happy.

Construction is underway with first homes completing from March 2017 - these homes are selling fast.

To find out more visit the Richmond display suite: Open daily 10am-2pm, late night Tuesdays and Thursdays 5pm-7pm, or by private appointment. 33 Panama Road, Mount Wellington. richmondauckland.co.nz | 0508 RICHMOND TRENT QUINTON trent.quinton@bayleys.co.nz M +64 21 894 070

JULIE PRINCE julie.prince@bayleys.co.nz M +64 21 894 071

HARRY CHENG harry.cheng@bayleys.co.nz M +64 21 230 6877

These marketing materials have been prepared prior to the commencement of construction of the development. They illustrate the proposed development but as design and construction progresses changes may be made. We reserve the right to make these changes without notice or obligation. All details should be rechecked carefully with us as construction proceeds and up to date information becomes available, and in particular before entering into a sale and purchase agreement. They are intended as a guide only. *Subject to availability.

Let us turn your dream into your reality!

Contact Us: 0800 828 453 09 237 1124 Visit Our Showhome: 12 Twomey Dr, Pukekohe Office Locations: 83 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 277 Te Irirangi Dr, Botany Junction

Whether building a dream home in a new location, or rebuiding on an existing site, Landmark Homes is committed to enhancing the way you live.

We have fabulous plans, flexible options and creative solutions that will make your next home a true Landmark.

Visit our website for inspiration.

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Don’t build a house, build a Landmark

www.landmarkhomes.co.nz

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eastlife | november 2016 |

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Investing in a contributory mortgage Heather Kentsley, sales and marketing manager of Southern Cross Financial explains the five things to look for when considering a contributory mortgage investment Many of our clients tell us they rely on interest income to subsidise their lifestyle and they find investing in a Contributory Mortgage, which offers higher returns than a bank deposit, makes a lot of sense for them.

1. SECURITY

Contributory Mortgages. Look for flexibility and a company that offers a variety of rates and terms. Southern Cross Financials’ current rates are from 6.00%*.

2. REPUTATION

4. RISKS

A reputable company to source and manage the loan in which you are investing is also essential. Find out how long they have been in business and what their core business activity is. How well do they know the mortgage and property market in NZ?

All investments have risks. Those that offer higher returns than mainstream bank term deposits have greater rewards but also carry risks. If you have chosen a Contributory Mortgage Investment, which is secured by way of a first mortgage over residential property, then the risks may be further influenced by the following factors: condition of the property, location, LVR (loan-to-value ratio) and reasons for the loan.

The most sought after type of security is property.

3. RETURNS

Choose to secure your funds by way of a first ranking mortgage over an individually titled piece of land and buildings that you can select from a portfolio of available Contributory Mortgage Investments.

Some companies offer only one level of interest rate and lock in your investment for up to five years. But while lower interest rates may equate to lower risk, a shorter term offers the chance to test out investing in

5. FLEXIBILITY If investing in the share market, it seems common sense to spread investments over a number of companies rather than just one.

A Contributory Mortgage Investment offers the same flexibility with the investor able to split their funds across different properties.

To find out if a Contributory Mortgage Investment is right for you contact sales and marketing manager Heather Kentsley on 535 2239 or heatherk@scfl.co.nz or see our website www.scfl.co.nz. Alternatively drop in and see us at Selwyn House, 16 Selwyn Road, Howick.

Disclaimers: *The rate of return requires a minimum investment of $50,000 per investment, for a minimum term of 6 months. *The rate of return is per annum as at the date of this publication and subject to change. * Southern Cross Financial are not Financial Advisors and all comments above are opinion only.

6.00%

* Investment rate subject tp change. This is a contributory mortgage investment offerd by SCFL Management Ltd who is regulated under the Securities Act [Contributory Mortgage] Regulations 1988.

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09 535 2239

www.eastlife.co.nz

Of domain names and other things…

Generation NOW. Generations win... together!

Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and Coach, who’s presented in 57 countries so far. www.speakers.co.nz/ our-speakers/all-speakers/bill-potter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToRhF22nARM

Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community Last issue, we looked at telephone numbers. As the user of a number you are a licensee under an international licensing system. You don’t own the number but you can use it under licence and transfer it.

Domain names or internet addresses are similar in that they are also subject to the international Domain Name System, which registers names and cascades downwards, through generic domains levels such as ‘com’, ‘edu’ and ‘org’ and country domain levels such as nz, with further sublevels moving to the left in the address: example.org.nz and so on.

You get a domain name as a registrant by applying to a registrar organisation authorised to sublicence your chosen domain name, in terms of the licence. It will generally exclude any ownership rights and allow cancellation if you don’t pay the continuing registration fee. A good example of a registration system is the .nz Domain Name Commission that oversees the .nz domain, including conflicted names.

A domain name will have commercial value in relation to a website which has a range of

elements some of which you own, most of which you don’t.

Working backwards as an ordinary user you don’t own-the browser (eg Chrome), the webserver, the webserver platform (eg Microsoft), the content management system (eg WordPress), and the webserver platform code. The browser connection language (eg HTML, CSS or Javascript) specific to your content links with your website might be owned by or only licensed to you (check the terms of your website creation agreement).

Similarly, you might assume that you own the visual design of the website, the photos used on it and its text. But this may not be so if you didn’t do the work yourself but bought a result from a website designer. Check what was done and by whom and the terms of your contract; you might get a surprise.

All this is highly simplified but is relevant to a fundamental issue – can you treat the website as effectively your own, as a finished transferable work made up of the text, images and HTML/CSS/ Javascript? If you can’t, this will be a potential issue for you which you should resolve.

part two

One such example is the mythical corralling of... ‘Generations’.

‘Respect’ is fading fast, from our human landscape. We don’t respect the planet, we don’t respect the law, we don’t respect our seniors, we don’t respect people in authority, we don’t respect privacy, and too often... we don’t respect each other! So, what do we respect?

There is only one ‘Generation’, folks.

I simply call it... ‘Generation NOW!’ Indeed, its age range is from birth into the 90s, but... guess wot? We are the only ones ‘around here’ right now, OK! Ta. We all have connected roles to play, for ‘the greater good’. So stop with the selective ‘pandering’ already!

According to one commentator, we have just about reached the nadir, because... ‘we have lost respect, for respect’. Wot? Despite political messages about ‘togetherness’ and ‘making us great again’, scant respect has ever been present in pollyticking anywhere. Yawwwn....

We should know that the enduring #1 problem in the world today, which I sum up in three words, is... ‘them against us’. Obviously, because ‘we’, are better than ‘them’ and surprisingly, that makes ‘them,’ inferior to us. This thinking easily wins, ‘The Golden Order of Moron’, team.

Also enduring, is the battle strategy of... ‘divide and conquer’. Unchanged from history (I hope that they start teaching it in our schools again... and soon!) is our lack of capability, rather than a lack of will, to work together.

When we stop demanding certain rights, privileges and entitlements, because we are members of a contrived grouping by ‘earth arrival time’, society can start to share again. Grandparents now parent their grandchildren, more than ever before, confirming that the ‘Generational’ boundaries are blurred and... mostly meaningless!

I coach... PATH2© : The Personal Power Course for 3Percenters, online.

This journey is only for serious Go-getters, who want to own their tomorrow, today. PATH2© contains world-unique content. Quadrennium 2017-2020 : The Perilous Period... is coming! Are you ready? Contact me...

I dare you!. Cheers. Bill.

– duitdammit@gmail.co.nz

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

www.wynyardwood.co.nz HIGHBROOK | AUCKLAND | WARKWORTH 00399

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eastlife | november 2016 |

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Win! Give a Man

Ethical investing in the spotlight

a Horse

Local Authorised Financial Adviser DAVID MORGAN discusses the opportunity to invest on both sides of the Tasman.

Give a man a fish and you’ll feed him for a day but, apparently, if you give a man a horse there’s no telling what could happen!

Some would contest that Sir Patrick Hogan enjoyed the luck of the Irish after selecting a certain young stallion sight-unseen.

However, as this book recounts, the Cambridge Stud owner relied on much more than good luck in ensuring his ill-tempered Irish mount (aka Sir Tristram) would become a champion.

‘

Forging ahead, Sir Patrick Hogan became one of the world’s leading figures in the highly competitive bloodstock industry. Originally published in 2007, Give a Man a Horse has been updated in a new edition as this compelling tale carries on.

When making an investment decision our first questions are usually, “How risky is it?” and “What is the projected return?” These are important considerations which are often best answered through well diversified investment portfolios.

win! EastLife has a copy of this book to give away. To be in to win, simply complete the form at eastlife. co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close November 30, 2016.

Winner notified by phone or email.

• Dianne Haworth: Give a Man a Horse | RRP $39.99 | HarperCollins NZ

Win! MarlborouGH Man by Allan Scott Great Scott, what a book!

Pioneer of the New Zealand winemaking industry, Allan Scott, recounts the rise of Marlborough and NZ Sauvignon Blanc in this memoir.

From the planting of the first vines as a young farm hand, to enjoying the fruits of global success, Allan tells his story, one which has become part of our country’s history itself.

Complete with images from awardwinning photographer Patrick Reynold, this memoir attempts to offer genuine body and good taste.

How did an unlikely region of New Zealand’s South Island become a powerhouse which grew a major export industry? Find out in this richly presented book.

• Allan Scott, with Eric Arnold: Marlborough Man | RRP $55 | HarperCollins NZ

‘

win! To be in to win a copy of this book, see the competitions section of our website, eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address; entries close November 30, 2016. Winner notified by phone or email.

But the inclusion of ‘unethical’ investments in some KiwiSaver funds has brought the composition of diversified funds more attention.

Many investors were disappointed to learn that their investments included shares in companies whose activities they don’t support (including the manufacture of bombs). However, responsible investing is on the rise.

When considering how to research investments in ethical companies, a practical approach is to identify industries that should be excluded according to your personal values (e.g. tobacco, arms and gambling).

Whilst some industries stand out as undesirable, companies in ALL sectors can vary greatly in how ‘ethically’ they operate. From employment practices and carbon emissions to ‘sweat shops’ and habitat loss, companies as diverse as banks, fashion brands, food producers and power companies all stack up differently.

This introduces the emergence of Socially Responsible Investing through which investors focus on environment, social justice, and corporate governance (ESG for short) in the pursuit of a financial return

The New Zealand Superannuation Fund is one of our notable Socially Responsible fund managers. The Super Fund screens companies they invest in based on their ESG credentials, and will exclude companies that perform poorly, but they’ll also encourage businesses to improve in these areas. Companies rely on the support of shareholders and it is pleasing to see Socially Responsible fund managers changing (and improving) business ethics around the world.

Finally, what about returns? Whilst it can be argued that excluding unethical or irresponsible companies removes some very profitable investment opportunities there is growing evidence that Socially Responsible fund management can enhance returns over the long-term.

Whilst many companies are run with ‘this year’s profit’ and ‘tomorrow’s share price’ as the priority, shorttermism doesn’t always pay off. The principals of SRI investing encourage companies to think long-term.

Whether its regulation, consumer attitudes or the environment, they are better prepared for change and outperform their competition.

Numerous Ethical and Socially Responsible managed funds are available to Kiwi investors. If you want to make a difference yet still enjoy the benefits of strongly performing investments, talk to your Authorised Financial Adviser today.

David Morgan has a disclosure statement that is available on request and free of charge. The information in this article is of a general nature only and is no substitute for personalised advice. To the extent that any of the above content constitutes financial advice, it is class advice only. If you would like advice that takes into account your particular financial situation or goals, please contact your Adviser.

Contact Mark or David, your local Authorised Financial Advisers.

Mark Steele E: mark.steele@spicers.co.nz P: 09 337 7824 David Morgan E: david.morgan@spicers.co.nz P: 09 271 1705

A disclosure statement is available on request and free of charge.

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Blues recruit’s august aspirations If potential gets us only half way to greatness, halfback Augustine Pulu is more than half way there. Ahead of the All Blacks’ northern hemisphere tour, JON RAWLINSON spoke with a new Blues’ acquisition who is committed to securing his place alongside rugby’s best.

There’s not much time to chew the fat; in fact, there’s precious little time for Augustine (Augie) Pulu to finish his lunch before the new Blues’ halfback and Counties Manukau Steelers’ co-captain has places to be.

But, it’s not hard to see why Blues’ boss (former Steelers’ coach), Tana Umaga, recently snapped up his signature. This two-cap All Black exhibits an air of calm rationality.

I suggest (jokingly) that Tana is ‘steeling’ the best Counties Manukau talent one player at a time.

Conspiracy theory maybe, but since both Pulu and the ‘incomparable’ Sonny Bill Williams now feature on Tana’s roster for the 2017 Super Rugby season, it’s not too farfetched.

Augie laughs this off so much I fear he’ll choke on his sushi. I persevere, asking who’d be top of his list if he were in his former coach’s boots.

“That’s a tough one; I’d want the whole team if I could!” he exclaims, sincerely. “We have so much talent that it’s hard to choose. Now that Tana’s had time with the Blues, he’d have a better idea of what he needs to move them forward. So he’ll be after the best players he can get across the board.”

Since leaving Wesley College, and making his provincial debut in 2010, this Papatoetoe-raised dynamo has won two Super Rugby titles with the Chiefs during a five-year stint, held the Ranfurly Shield with the Steelers (2013-14) and capped off the 2014 season with two All Black appearances.

His All Black aspirations may have been curtailed due to injuries and sevens’ commitments, but a solid 2016 season with the Mitre 10 Cup semifinalist Steelers hastened his return to the wider AB squad recently.

More All Black caps could follow should he carry his good form to the Blues. www.eastlife.co.nz

I ask whether the talents of his former Chiefs’ teammates (and fellow halfbacks), 21-cap All Black, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, and Brad Weber left him starved of Super Rugby game time, influencing his decision to move north.

“I loved the Chiefs but it’s time to move on. It wasn’t that [Kerr-Barlow and Weber] blocked me from getting the [number nine] jersey. People might think it’s a bad thing having such tough competition for a starting spot but it actually helps bring out the best in you.

“At the Blues, if I can focus more on playing rather than just making the 23, I’m sure my game will really grow.”

That said, he’s under no illusion of guaranteed game time with his new franchise. “When Tana was [coaching the Steelers] it didn’t matter to him if you were an All Black or a club player; if you didn’t play well, you’d be dropped. He works on performance; so I’ll need to deliver. I’ll just be trying to live up to his expectations.

“The [team’s potential] is waiting to explode. They’re definitely heading in the right direction. As long as we keep getting better every day then, sooner or later, the results will take care of themselves.”

New Blue back in black?

Following an encouraging All Black fifteens’ debut off the bench against the USA at Chicago’s Soldier Field in 2014, and just two minutes against Scotland during the same tour, Augustine Pulu’s third cap remains elusive.

However, he appears shocked at the merest suggestion that he could harbour any wishes to see an injury (just a little one!) affect the current

Counties co-captain, Augustine Pulu, in full flight. crop of All Black scrum-halves, leading to a call for him to join the team abroad.

“No way! I never think about other players getting injured! I want to play my way back in by playing the best footie I can. I haven’t been able to give the ABs a fair crack because of injury – I’ve broken my forearm twice – so that’s the goal. I’d love to [be selected], but all I can do is my best and hope things go well.”

Augie confirms that he has no plans (as yet) to head offshore after his New Zealand Rugby Union contract expires in 2018.

“One of the best memories of my life was pulling on that jersey and heading out to represent our nation.

It was a dream come true,” he says.

“Before even thinking about leaving New Zealand I’d want to know I’d left no stone unturned here, that I’m

Photo Richard Spranger

happy with what I’ve achieved and that I’ve made my family proud. ”I hate doing so, but I have to ask the All Blacks Sevens’ rep’ what went wrong at the Rio Olympics earlier this year. Following a shock opening loss to Japan, the much vaunted squad fell to Great Britain before being bundled out by eventual gold medallists, Fiji.

Coach, Gordon Tietjens, has since stepped down.

“On the day, we just didn’t perform.

We were all gutted. We had a chance to make history. However, you can’t stay in that place for too long; there’s always another game to be played.”

Despite missing out on Olympic laurels, Augie believes the experience was worth its weight in gold. “Just going to the Olympics was something I thought I’d never do. I took it as a blessing to be amongst the best athletes in the world; it was amazing!” eastlife | november 2016 |

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Charging ahead – MINI GOES ELECTRIC It’s coming – hallmark MINI driving combined with zero tailpipe emissions. Yes, the introduction of the first plug-in hybrid (PHEv) model by the British premium brand means this will soon be a reality.

wheels, the combustion engine to the front wheels, effectively making the Mini all-wheel drive.

Since the intelligent energy management is linked to the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), traction and drive stability are optimised via the drive system.

MINI hybrid will feature a combustion engine and an electric motor enabling purely electric propulsion for the first time in this iconic car. “[We wanted} to impress everyone who already has hybrid driving experience with MINI’s unique go-kart driving feel,” said head of MINI brand management, Sebastian Mackensen.

Mr Mackesen says the key to achieving this lies in intelligent energy management which is used to control how the combustion engine and electric motor operate together.

For this reason, the first MINI plug-in hybrid model is not solely focused on efficiency, but also driving fun.

Inside, everything also looks familiar.

The start/stop button in the centre of the dashboard glows yellow instead of red but as usual, you simply press the button to start the car – this vehicle, however, remains silent as the hybrid model always starts in electric mode.

The rpm counter in the instrument cluster on the steering column has been replaced with a power display.

When the combustion engine starts depends on the vehicle’s speed, and how the vehicle is being driven.

MINI hybrid makes full use of the electric motor’s entire torque, which

As soon as there is any risk of drive slip, the second drive unit is activated to provide additional traction when starting off or ensuring a high level of steering precision when cornering.

At first glance, it’s hard to recognise the test car as a hybrid model and that’s not because of the camouflage foil used. The charging socket for the highvoltage battery is discreetly integrated in the left-side front guard.

Photo supplied is available right from standstill, for brisk acceleration. Even after leaving the slower pace of the city, this vehicle maintains its zero-tailpipe emissions at motorway speeds.

Auto eDrive standard mode permits speeds of up to 80km/h, whilst in Max eDrive mode speeds of up to 125km/h are possible. “In a hybrid MINI, driving electrically must also be an exhilarating experience,” explains Mackensen. “This means that entirely electric driving is not limited to speeds of 30 or 40 km/h, but well beyond city traffic pace.”

MINI’s go-kart driving characteristics consist of more than just fast

A SPIDER FOR SUMMER

acceleration. “As far as the chassis and suspension are concerned, nothing changes from the conventionally driven model and the set-up benefits a lot from the hybrid concept,” says Mackensen.

“Thanks to the eDrive components, which are positioned very low down at the rear, the car’s centre of gravity is lowered and the weight is evenly balanced between the front and rear axle – ideal for achieving an even higher level of legendary MINI agility.”

The Hybrid concept provides yet another benefit: the electric motor transmits its power to the rear

The Abarth 124 Spider has arrived in New Zealand, just in time for summer, Built with a pure performance focus, the 2017 Fiat Abarth 124 Spider arrives with a comprehensive list of standard performance components including a mechanical limited-slip differential, sport suspension and Sport Mode selector as standard.

Brembo brakes and Bilstein shock absorbers are also standard, as are leather sports seats.

The iconic Abarth soundtrack is delivered through chrome quad-tip sports exhaust as standard, with optional Monza exhaust for a truly earth-shattering sound.

72 | eastlife | november 2016

The four-cylinder turbocharged 1.4 Turbo engine produces 125kW at 5500rpm and 250Nm of torque at 2500rpm, and is paired with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters.

Driving on the motorway, a third mode with the eDrive toggle switch: SAvE BATTERY can be activated. In this mode, the combustion engine powers the car whilst at the same time, the high voltage battery can retain charge at a constant level or indeed increase charge via a generator.

Extended driving in Save Battery mode enables enough power generation for purely electric driving later.

Paul Sherley, BMW Group NZ Corporate Communications, is excited about the opportunities that Mini hybrid offers. “Although I can’t comment what the actual Mini variant will be, we (BMW Group NZ) are very keen on Mini PHEv when it becomes available.

“Mini PHEv is a natural fit with our overall model line-up and our strategy to promote and get more hybrid vehicles on our roads.”

Much of the car’s weight is concentrated between the axles, and the engine is installed behind the front axle to provide agility and superior driving feel. Front suspension is double-wishbone, with a five-link set up in the rear.

The stunning Abarth 124 Spider will start at a recommended retail price of $52,990 plus on road costs for the six-speed manual or a recommended retail price of $54,990 plus on road costs for the six-speed automatic, complete with wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Note: Andrew Simms Experience Centre, Te Irirangi Drive, Botany, is now taking orders for the new Fiat Abarth 124 Spider. www.eastlife.co.nz

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