EastLife October 2015 by Times Media

HOWICK, BOTANY, PAKURANGA AND SURROUNDS

eastlife.co.nz

Out of Europe

AL FRESCO LIVING

October 2015

A walk on the

WILDE SIDE

eastlife | october 2015 |

MREINZ

total focus

Issue Twenty Nine

PROPERTY LTD

Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

Welcome to Issue No 29 of Eastlife October already, just where did the year go? And what a heated market it has been. With just three months left of the year and spring upon us now it couldn't be a better time to spring into action and get moving if you are considering a move soon. We would love to hear from you. Until next month, take care. Leigh

New to market - Sandspit Road, Shelley Park Here is a great opportunity for you to secure this superbly located 5 bedroom home on a 1126m2 (mol) freehold section, offering family lifestyle and potential to add further value. While the location speaks for itself the home currently provides large living, open plan dining kitchen area which flows out to entertaining decks. The downstairs level could be used for extended family as there is a bathroom, bedroom & living area all on this level. Privately positioned with picturesque views towards Whitford & the Mangemangeroa Estuary - An absolute must view property.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH Who says that nothing is impossible? I’ve been doing nothing for years. Offers invited now... Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

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

HOME OF THE MONTH - 17 Castleton Drive, Mellons Bay This home speaks ‘volumes’ With so much room you could easily get lost in this superb family home. If space is important, then this is definitely the one. An elevated position with sea views & double road frontage. With a large “wow” kitchen & dining area that flow out to deck and lawn your friends will be well entertained. A separate lower room with a bathroom would be well suited as a media room, or ideal as selfcontained accommodation. 3+ car garaging and large workshop. Zoned for Mellons Bay Primary & Macleans College. This is a must view property for anyone looking for a quality large home & a solid investment in highly sought after Mellons Bay. www.tfproperty.co.nz - ref:TFP38082 Bed

Bath

Car

Lawrence Roy 021 660 085

Greg Roy 0274 966 966

Our team! “The Real Estate” Specialists

Greg Roy AREINZ 0274 966 966 Principal

Leigh Roy 021 646 565 Director

Tracey Flack 0278 230 557

2 | eastlife | october 2015

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

RW1231-v5

on the cover

Panda-moanium As we enter October with daylight saving just days away, there is a definite expectation that summer must surely be coming. There is also a greater sense of renewal and joy with many folk buoyed by Rugby World Cup action and the prospect of a long weekend this month.

OUTDOOR OF EUROPE: As spring sets in, we’re already loving the latest summer furniture fashions featured by top European designers. Italy’s Roberti Rattan Igloo collection is an excellent example. With effortless juxtaposition, the range offsets arctic style with a tropical material to create more than just a little outdoor opulence. This month, EastLife gives Rattan a hand (or a palm at least!) as we look ahead to a bellissimo summer to come. See our Out of Europe column, page 47 to read more about this range.

But midst all this feeling of wellbeing there is debate over many critical issues. In my case, I can’t help but think spending millions on bringing two pandas, adorable as they are, to New Zealand for an expected 10-year loan period, seems a ridiculous waste of money, particularly for Wellington City Council, which has much more important projects to consider. It seems just as farcical for the Government to support such a move. While we toy with the idea of pandas in the local pen, the country faces housing shortages which especially

affect lower income families and house prices – in Auckland – that make it prohibitive for many people to even think of owning a home. We are also battling with major infrastructure issues (who enjoys peak hour motorway crawls of an hour or more?) and most cities are faced with every-increasing rates hikes – under our present wage structure the latter are surely not sustainable for the average income earner? And, of course, we are already spending a fair whack on the highly important flag debate.

And, here’s hoping this month’s EastLife content is of interest to you all. Personally, I was fascinated by PJ Taylor’s interview with local rocker Jesse Wilde; he’s delivered a yarn I am sure many musicians will be on song with. Naturally there is plenty more between the pages from travel through to sport – enjoy! Cheers

While I am usually content to let the incumbent government divvy up the national income I have to question a move which is likely to result in panda-moanium. Of course, I am just ruminating and trying to make sense of the things we each see as important or not. It’s what makes living in these times so interesting.

Helen Perry Editor

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

4-5 community calendar Sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson

6-7

interview

A walk on the Wilde side

interview

Mayen Mehta – taking to the stage

Photography: Wayne Martin

11 Q&A

Manager: Karla Wairau 09 271 8083, karla@eastlife.co.nz

Managing Director: Reay Neben 09 271 8012, reayn@eastlife.co.nz Publisher: Times Newspapers Ltd Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Botany, Auckland. PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163

astLife talks to Blake E Twigden in his Nelson nest

12-13 OUT & ABOUT Town and around

win

Prizes galore

16-28 Lifestyle Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/ eastlifemagazine DISCLAIMER: Articles published in EastLife do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times Newspapers Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Newspapers Ltd.

www.eastlife.co.nz

• No moonlight swims but plenty of Hawaiian sun • Local street history • Making retirement plans • For love of horses • Puzzle time

29-36 health, beauty and fashion

• A Minx in the hotel • Beauty Counter • Mediterranean magic

Avocado and mango rice paper rolls, page 38

with Yvonne Bennetti • Kaji charms • Anti depressant caution

37-43 food • Blueberry lemon yoghurt cake • Avocado and mango rice paper rolls • Cookbook giveaways • Dining Guide • Taste

44-56 home

• Out of Europe • My favourite things • Sunflowers • Regular columnists

57-59 business • Pay rise vs bonus • Right ‘Hon’ Key

60-63 SPORT/Motoring

• Shiraz Soysa down for the season • Mini on track • Honda HR-V surprises

• Exhibitions eastlife | october 2015 |

October 2015 ➤ halloween Olde Hallows Eve – The Danse Macabre at MOTAT October 25, 7pm-midnight, MOTAT, 805 Great North Road, Western Springs Although ghastly dancing is usually reserved for nightclubs and high school socials, as Halloween approaches, all manner of grim creatures will be digging the chance to boogie down during their deadly dance at MOTAT. While we would usually have a bone to pick with EastLifers who go west, as this event looks dead set to offer plenty of scary fun, we’ll make an exception. So, dress up for a spine-tingling experience and see motat.org.nz/ experience/events for details. The Lady Killers October 31, from 8pm, Bosuns Bar, The Prospect of Howick, Corner Picton Street and Uxbridge Road, Howick The prospect of seeing some of New Zealand’s most frighteningly talented singers make a killing on stage is very real this Halloween-night. Featuring Jackie Clarke, Tina Cross and Suzanne Lynch, with special guest star, Annie Crummer, this dream team of (sometimes) screaming songstresses is ready to play regardless of whether the (black) cat’s away! Details at theprospect.co.nz.

➤ music Sunday Music Night October 4, from 4pm, Turanga Creek Wine Bar, 133 Whitford Park Road, Whitford If music be the food of love, it’s often best washed down with a glass or two (or several!) of the vine-er things

4 | eastlife | october 2015

➤ halloween

in life. And that’s just what the vintner ordered ahead of an evening of ‘creeky’ tunes from The Hand, Andrew McLennan & The Underminers, and Chapman Wills Revue. Contact the vineyard (via turangacreek.co.nz). Guitar-tar Away October 25, 2pm, Alberton, 100 Mt Albert Road, Mt Albert Ham-fisted, all-thumbs guitarists may fare well on the pop charts, but there’s a fine line between pleasure and ‘Paine’ when it comes to mastering classical guitar. Visitors are in for a treat this month when historic Alberton homestead hosts internationally renowned classical guitarist and composer, Bruce Paine. Contact details via heritage.org.nz. The Bill Perry Band October 30, 7-8pm, The Lounge, 186 Wellington Street, Howick Topping the Bill at The Lounge this month is... Bill! From roots, rock and reggae, to funk, soul and blues, this talented singer/songwriter will be launching The Bill Perry Band with toe-tapping sounds from local musicians during a seated, New York-style night of music. For more information, see perrysongs. com or contact The Lounge via howicklounge.co.nz. An Evening with Burt Bacharach November 7, Vector Arena, Mahuhu Cresent, Auckland If Phil Rudd called in this hit-man instead, maybe he wouldn’t have been in as much trouble! Anyway, what New Zealand needs now is Burt Bacharach! Since the swinging sixties (yeah, baby!), Burt has been an icon for musicians worldwide. Named the Grammys’ ‘Greatest Living Composer’ a few years back, he’s penned such

Haunted Historical Village October 30, 8.30pm-11pm, Howick Historical Village, Bells Rd, Pakuranga Who says spooks and ghouls only gallivant on October 31? This year, they’re out in force a day early at Howick Historical Village as visitors enjoy the eerie atmosphere, trick or treating at cottages and hearing Haunted Auckland’s ghost stories about the village itself. All ages are welcome, although under 12’s must be accompanied by an adult. See fencible.org.nz for more information. classics as: I Say a Little Prayer, Walk on By, Always Something There to Remind Me, I’ll Never Fall in Love Again, Do You Know the Way to San Jose, What’s New Pussy Cat? and Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head... the hit-list rolls on! While his Auckland gig (appearing with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra) isn’t until November, tickets are expected to sell out. For details, see vectorarena.co.nz/burt-bacharach.

➤ theatre & dance Tempo Dance Festival – featuring Brandon Carter Chan September 30 – October 18, Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street, Auckland CBD When tripping the light fantastic, it pays to move on... Q. And that’s exactly what NZ Tap Champion, Brandon Carter Chan, is expected to do at Auckland’s Q Theatre on October 6 and 7. The Sancta Maria student will perform as part of the all male showcase group, Y-Chromozone during Tempo Dance Festival 2015. For a full programme (including all festival events) see tempo.co.nz.

The Leaf Jar October 7-10, Howick Little Theatre, 1 Sir Lloyd Drive, Pakuranga Peter seems to have it all, but when the harsh truth surrounding his relationships threatens to tear his seemingly perfect life apart, he will be faced with a difficult choice. Will this destroy his belief in the ones he loves? In the Leaf Jar – a new drama by Alex Gleed – the fragility of human relationships is laid bare. Featuring award-winning actor, Alistair Browning, The Leaf Jar looks set to be another big performance from our favourite Little Theatre! More details at hlt.org.nz. Oliver! October 14 – November 28, Harlequin Musical Theatre, 563r Pakuranga Road, Howick If you’ve been driven round the Twist by poor performances of literary classics, then relief is at hand! In this musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ immortal novel, one of our favourite local theatres is set to let its colours shine. With orphans and pickpockets, who could ask for more? See harlequintheatre.co.nz.

www.eastlife.co.nz

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the Many faces of gilbert & Sullivan October 27, 11am-1pm, Picton Centre, 120 Picton Street, Howick Audiences will be expecting the very model of a modern major production as Operatunity Entertainment presents its Gilbert and Sullivan extravaganza. Featuring ‘fabulous, funky, fun and famous’ characters from such classics as The Mikado, Pirates of Penzance, The Gondoliers, HMS Pinafore, Iolanthe and The Yeoman of the Guard, this show will present Victorian (in)sensibility at its best. Full details available via daytimeconcerts.co.nz.

➤ faShion Botany town centre Botany Design awards October 19, from 6pm, HOYTS cinemas, Botany Town Centre, Town Centre Drive, Botany Whether you’re a dedicated follower or a fashion disaster, all comers are expected to be inspired by the work of young designers during this runway show and awards night. As top talent takes its turn (to the left and the right) prizes will be on the line, including a $2000 scholarship. For more information, see the ‘What’s On’ page at botanytowncentre.co.nz.

tournament. With all proceeds supporting the important work of Totara Hospice, and a total prize haul of more than $60,000 up for grabs – including a hole in one prize of a 2015 Subaru Forester 2.0i – the day will also include a charity auction and barbecue. Open to women and men, novices and seasoned veterans it’s sure to suit keen golfers to a... tee! For more details (including entry fees) contact the club via pakurangagolfclub.co.nz Maraetai Beachlands Kindergarten fun run October 18, from 9am, from the pirate ship playground, Omana Esplanade, Maraetai Ideal even for little legs, this five or eight kilometre run is sure to see many on the move to Maraetai, while a sausage sizzle, bouncy castle, face painting, games and

more will also be on offer. Contact organisers – Maraetai Beachlands Kindergarten: 09 536 6934, or maraetaibeachlands@aka.org.nz.

➤ tournaMEnt Junior chess competition October 17-18, Pakuranga Plaza, Corner Ti Rakau Drive and Pakuranga Road, Pakuranga Budding Kasparovs or Carlsens will be in for the ‘knight’ of their lives when the Plaza and the Howick Pakuranga Chess Club host their Junior Chess Competition. Players aged under 20 years (as at Jan 1, 2015) will compete to become ‘kings’ and ‘queens’ of the board, with $1000 in prizes up for grabs. And there’s still time to enter! Email tonybooth@ihug. co.nz before October 2 to participate, or simply drop by to ‘check’ this one out, ‘mate’!

➤ thEatrE & DancE

totara hospice annual charity golf tournament From 10am, October 9, Pakuranga Golf Club, 199 Botany Rd, Golﬂ ands There’ll be a ‘hole’ lot of swinging going on at Pakuranga Golf Club in October during its annual charity

www.eastlife.co.nz

auckland art week October 10-18, various locations Artweek is back for the sixth year and set to explore every corner of our community. Events will be held throughout the greater Auckland region, including Uxbridge Creative Centre and Te Tuhi gallery – see page 49 for details. artweekauckland.co.nz.

➤ MarKEtS howick village Market Every Saturday, 9am-12.30pm, Picton St, Howick classy crafts First and third Saturday of each month, 9am-1pm, All Saints Community Centre, Cook St, Howick Pine harbour fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands clevedon village farmers’ Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon clevedon village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 PapakuraClevedon Rd, Clevedon

➤ SPort & fitnESS 2015 run walk Series – Sir Barry curtis Park October 4, Sir Barry Curtis Park, Stancombe and Chapel Rds, Botany Last month, we advised that two events in this series were being held locally; just one remains! See runwalk.co.nz for details.

➤ art

Pakuranga night Market Every Saturday night, 6pm-12midnight, under The Warehouse, Pakuranga Plaza Puttin’ on the ritz October 11, from 6pm, Howick RSA, 25-29 Wellington Street, Howick Get dressed up like a million dollar trouper to mix with the Rock-ing-fellers at the Howick RSA this month. Yes, it’s time to forgo Park Avenue for Wellington Street as local cabaret legend,

Debbie Dorday, along with popular performer, Jim Joll, set about Puttin’ on the Ritz during their fabulous variety show. It’s just plain super duper! See howickrsa. co.nz for details and, to read EastLife’s recent Q&A with our doll, Debbie, see our September issue at eastlife.co.nz.

Botany night Market Every Wednesday night, 5.30pm-11pm, beneath Hoyts Cinema, Botany Town Centre alfriston country Market First Saturday of each month except January, 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston

eastlife | october 2015 |

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Adventures in the wild, Wilde West Good guy Jesse Wilde went on an Americana musical odyssey and had the adventures of a lifetime rubbing shoulders with his influences and PJ TAYLOR found out.

If you didn’t know Jesse Wilde was from Bucklands Beach, you’d swear he was born and bred in Tennessee – somewhere between Nashville and Memphis – such is the way he wears his musical influences on his sleeve. Then there’s the look – the flowing long hair, goatee beard, confident swagger in cowboy boots and guitar case in hand. For Jesse, aka 44-year-old Aron Neale, there are other projects occupying his time, including a Face TV show with his equally talented wife, Cath Vincent. But music is always at the heart of what he loves to do. He’s a respected working musician of two and a half decades and there’s excitement about the new Jesse Wilde and The Drive album set to be released. He’s also running the successful Wilde Records Recording Studios, where he mentors aspiring musicians and singers, encouraging them to their best performances. Jesse’s own songs are about love and loss, love and gains, travelling on the road and chasing dreams. In 1994, he decided to fulfil a goal, to meet his three US musical icons: Bob Seger, John Mellencamp and Steve Earle. The challenge of getting an audience with such big names in American music would be a daunting task for the boldest of fans, but true to his Kiwi roots, he showed great ingenuity and investigative skill. Seger, writer and performer of

6 | eastlife | october 2015

countless worldwide hits, was living on the outskirts of Detroit, Michigan. “I drove there at 10 o’clock at night because I was pretty keen, with my first album I’m Still Looking. I just wanted to meet him and shake his hand,” says Jesse. “I had a psychic feeling this was his house. I slept in my car and in the morning swam in the lake to freshen up. “I knocked at this door. Wrong house, so my psychic feeling was a load of bollocks. But the lady said he lives two houses up. I had parked my car literally on Bob Seger’s front lawn. “His wife said ‘who are you?’ I said I was a musician from Auckland, New Zealand. She said ‘if you leave your CD on the doorstep, I’ll get it to him’. “I’m in my car writing a note to Bob Seger and he came out. His first words were ‘who the f* are you?’ – ‘this is not how it’s done’. I told him I didn’t come all this way to piss him off. “He said, ‘if you found this place from Auckland, NZ, you must have something going for you. Get your f* car off my f* lawn and into my driveway and then we’ll talk’. “He asked, ‘what would make a guy do this?’ I said, ‘Bob you’ve met your influences’. Then I said his songwriting was such an influence on my songwriting.”

on Steve Earle’s door he will shoot you. He’s done it before’. “When I finally found Earle’s house, it had a sign ‘trespassers will be shot’. I didn’t knock.” After surveying Mellencamp’s military base-style residence, Jesse decided on a different approach. He managed to meet John’s friends and let their time with him convince them that Jesse was worthy of a meeting. Those were golden weeks, says Jesse, hanging out with Mellencamp’s friends and band, firstly at a bar down the road from John’s. Bo and T were Harley Davidson riders who traded tales and had Jesse play songs on guitar. He went on to stay at T’s, after a night of beers and eight-ball pool. “The next day they dropped me back and the bar-lady asked, ‘did they end up telling you who they were?’ Bo is John’s best mate and T works for him.” Jesse settles into the community and bumps into Bo, who says John’s interested in meeting him. He’s heard Jesse’s CD, and the bigger news is Mellencamp’s given him permission to meet the band – one of the hottest of the era. His photo with them still stands on his piano.

Jesse told Seger he was heading next to track down Mellencamp in Indiana, and Earle in Nashville.

“I got to play with the band and sing a few songs with them. John wasn’t there. The band rehearsed for two weeks then he’d join them for another two.”

“Bob had good advice: ‘If you knock

Meeting day arrived and Jesse

Jesse wilde www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

Bob had good advice: ‘If you knock on Steve Earle’s door he will shoot you. He’s done it before’. When I finally found Earle’s house, it had a sign ‘trespassers will be shot’. I didn’t knock.”

strides into a studio full of tension. “You could have cut the air with a knife. I walked straight up to John, looked him in the eye, told him who I was, and that he was a huge influence on my music. It’s not about hero worship, it’s about meeting your influences. “He goes, ‘yeah I’ve heard about you. What are you trying to do, take over? Why don’t you sit and let me show you how it’s done’. I sat in on the rehearsal – pretty cool.” Next stop, Nashville, Tennessee, but Earle’s in jail. “I met his sister Stacey Earle, and band, and we all played a gig at a rib joint. With Steve indisposed, they were doing everything they could to make money.” Jesse stayed on in Nashville, recorded songs, and got to be a feature artist at the famous Bluebird Café, where Taylor Swift was discovered and which was a regular haunt of Garth Brooks and Earle, when he was out. The quest didn’t end there. A few years later, Earle’s playing the St James Theatre and Jesse’s on a shortlist of two to be support act. “Graham Brazier got the gig. After he played, he took his backstage pass and put it round my neck. I walked in backstage and right past Steve, up to one of his band who I’d played with in Nashville in 1994. “After a while, Steve came over and joined the conversation and said, ‘do you know this guy?’... “Hi, I’m Jesse Wilde, a musician from Auckland, New Zealand and....” www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2015 | Photo Wayne Martin

Rising star strikes ‘a fine balance’ ‘ From reading for film industry bigwigs in Canada, to featuring in a special anniversary performance, one local actor’s future is certainly looking bright. EastLife’s NATALIE BRITTAN found out how the script to his life is reading so far.

Actors may be known to strut and fret, but Mayen Mehta keeps his cool. He can be seen most days with screeds of paper in his hand and dog lead in the other, strolling with his trusty companion, Rex, in Macleans Park, Eastern Beach. “That’s how I learn my lines,” says the long-time Eastern Beach resident. The walks may well become longer as the big day for his appearance in A Fine Balance at Western Springs’ TAPAC looms. Set in 1970s India, the play takes a popular tale, written by Canadian author, Rohinton Mistry, from page to stage to coincide with the 40th anniversary of emergency rule in India and the 10th birthday of Kiwi Indian collective, Prayas Theatre Company. The story is about the core of human spirit and revolves around two tailors, a spirited widow and a student boarder which Mayen plays. “It’s about how this major event [the emergency] in Indian history had such a severe impact on the lives of four ordinary people,” says Mayen. Although South African born, Mayen says it resonates with his ancestry, particularly with his greatgrandfather, Kaba Mehta, who was born in Porbandar, India and went to school with Mahatma Gandhi. When Gandhi went to South Africa to set up the Indian Opinion newspaper, he invited Kaba to help him. “He said to my great-grandfather: ‘If you want a new life, come this way. I can promise you better things’,” Mayen says. With such an exciting family history, it seems this bright 26-year-old is destined for great things. Just returned from Vancouver, Canada (“North Hollywood”) where he spent a year auditioning and attending performing arts workshops, Mayen was shortlisted for big production houses such as the CW network, Paramount Pictures and 20th Century Fox.

For the mammoth North American film industry, to be shortlisted for roles that have hundreds of applicants is no mean feat. Mayen described the experience as an eye-opener. “I never felt racial barriers particularly when it came to castings. It’s very selective here but you go there and everything is open ethnicity. That’s what I loved about Canada.” Back home, Mayen, a graduate of elite academy The Actors’ Program (TAP), has appeared in TV shows such as Spartacus and Shortland Street as well as the docudrama, Cabbie.

A Fine Balance runs from October 8-18 at TAPAC, 100 Motions Road, Western Springs. Tickets are $25 per person and are available from www.tapac.org.nz

Trump) for a soon-to-be wed cousin, Mayen watches life around him and absorbs it into his work. And weekend rehearsals, especially, are a highlight. “I want to wake up every Monday not looking forward to Friday. My model is make everyday your weekend, make it your holiday!”

However, his acting career began much earlier with a keen audience at Bucklands Beach Intermediate. “It started out with observing teachers and imitating them. Every time a teacher walked out everyone knew it was my turn to stand up and perform. I would come into class every day with a different voice or cartoon.” Off stage, Mayen works parttime in healthcare and holds a biomedical science degree from the University of Auckland. At Macleans College, he did the “Asian Five” (three sciences, two maths) partly due to “family expectations” but admits it has been beneficial. “It’s given me discipline; I understand the need to balance things in your life – it’s very difficult to sustain a living here as an artist.” But hardly a day goes by in which Mayen is not constantly thinking along the lines of acting, directing and writing. He’s working on a comedy web series, “Harold and Kumar meets Flight of the Conchords,” amongst many other things. From filming his dog “reuniting with Rex – expectation versus reality” to recording a video message of famous personalities (his current favourite is GOP presidential candidate, Donald

mayen mehta

8 | eastlife | october 2015 Photo Wayne Martin

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eastlife | october 2015 |

^Promotional price for BMW 1 Series 118i. On-road costs additional totaling $1300.00. Offer ends 31/10/2015. BMD0088_MCM_1S_3S_EM

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RW1289

10 | eastlife | october 2015

Q&A

with

Blake Twigden

For many years, visitors from all over the country and overseas flocked to the former Whitford Bird Park owned by internationally renowned artist and conservationist, Blake Twigden. The tropical sanctuary had its beginnings in 1988 when, after years of travelling to remote parts and of living in Australia, Blake returned to New Zealand and bought five acres in Trig Road, Whitford. He had previously gone ‘bush’ in the jungles of New Guinea and South America studying exotic birds and plants for his paintings. Through these wandering came a commitment to protecting the earth’s beautiful flora and fauna. Subsequently, Blake developed a one-acre lush, tropical paradise on his property featuring a free-flight aviary, boardwalk and thousands of native plants and exotics as well as many rare birds. But, as he approached 70, Blake sought new challenges, a visit to Nelson sparking a desire for change. Captivated by this lovely city, sitting on the doorstep of the Abel Tasman National Park, he eventually found the perfect home, sold his Whitford property and flew south in 2013. The move left many naturalists and bird lovers mourning his departure.

creative additions to the property include a heated tropical outdoor pond and a fountain, a glasshouse, vegetable garden, tortoise enclosure and nine-hole mini golf course. I must admit being free of attention-needing pets gives me more time to garden and explore the South island.

EastLife caught up with Blake in his southern nest:

Do you miss the Whitford property and/or your life in Auckland?

Is life in Nelson everything you expected? Have there been ups and downs?

I have lovely memories of the Whitford Bird Garden and its visitors but it was another era in my life. There are two birds, the Monal and the Lady Amherst pheasants that I miss as well as lovely friends.

I was attracted to Nelson after a short holiday here and have not regretted the move in any way. The city is small but sophisticated and has convenient access to beaches, wilderness and a great food basket. The only negative I can think of was the air connections to the rest of New Zealand, but that is, thankfully, being solved this year with new airlines establishing routes via Nelson. Do you have any birds in your care now and have you developed a garden? I have restored a large house and developed a wonderful garden here in Nelson above the city with views to the sea and the mountains. The www.eastlife.co.nz

Are you still painting and if so, what are you concentrating on? If not, why not? After painting for 47 years and having such fulfilling success I’m putting my creative energy into the property and using the facilities of the pottery school to make saleable items which I am donating to help fund the huge sanctuary fence being built at the nearby Waimarama Sanctuary. The only paintings I have done down here have been birthday gifts for newfound friends. Do you still travel overseas and if

so is it purely for pleasure or do you still visit remote parts for artistic inspiration? Travel overseas is always inspirational but for enjoyment not productive study these days. However, occasions do arise like another one next July when I have been asked to accompany rich clients on a chartered liner around the coast of Alaska.

still enjoy? Do you entertain a lot? I still find being healthy and creative in the kitchen a great source of enjoyment and we do enjoy entertaining staying visitors and some of the friends we have made in Nelson. We’ve even had a mock “Come Dine with Me” If you were in Maggie Barry’s gumboots for a day as Minister of Conservation what would you do?

How do you fill your days in Nelson? Looking after a large house and garden takes up most of my time. Do you move in local artistic circles? Areas such as Golden Bay are renowned for its artists and artisans. I visit local exhibitions and was a judge at last year’s Art Expo but I can’t say that I want to get very busy in that social world now. What is your number one goal in life now? The number one goal in life hasn’t changed and that is to make happiness. You were always extremely capable in the kitchen – is this something you

I would start an Earth First programme in all schools, educating future generations to think about the planet and to put its survival before selfish expectations. I would also create a plan for bounty on vermin with severe penalties for anyone breeding species to claim reward. If you could ask any three people – living or dead – to dinner who would you ask and why? My first dinner guest would be my mother who died in 1973 so I could hear what she thinks about what I have done with my life. Secondly, it would be Judith Collins MP as I admire the way she has handled her huge and difficult job. My third guest would have to be Marilyn Monroe, just so I could look at her! eastlife | october 2015 |

kids hospital appeal When forecasts of rain never eventuated on a mid-September Saturday, locals and visitors enjoyed a fun-filled day at Highland Park Shopping Centre to help raise funds for the Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal. With, stalls, quick fire raffles, face painting, karaoke, a sausage sizzle, entertainment and more, this family-friendly centre came to the party for a good cause. Photographer JANET KEELING was there.

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

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market day at nosh Locals recently turned out for rations at the newly opened Nosh Food Market on Pakuranga Road, opposite Pakuranga Plaza. A busy market day offering tastings and the opportunity to check out premium pantry products had keen cooks and chefs enthusing over the selection. Photographer GARRY BRANDON joined the crowd. 1. Jo Cardno and Hayley Schodt 2. Sienna, Ruby and Amelia McKenzie 3. Simone Dennis and Zennie McErlane 4. Jorgie Sly and Litisha Rogers 5. Nathan and Jono Cardno 6. Emma Westbrooke 7. Sophia and Lucas Urlich 8. Rijeta Bacoba 9. Karla and Charmaine Robottom

OCTOBER EVENTS

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JUNIOR CHESS HALLOWEEN TOURNAMENT TASTY FUN SAT 17TH - SUN 18TH OCTOBER www.eastlife.co.nz

SAT 31 OCTOBER 2PM - 4PM

eastlife | october 2015 |

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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 October 31, 2015. Winners notified by phone or email.

WIN! Hansells yoghurt maker prize pack Once upon a time, a certain young German lad was addicted to sweets and almost became a Sunday roast! Sweeties can be healthy, but ‘witch’ ones to choose? Subsequently, many ‘cultured’ parents are turning to yoghurt for the probiotics, calcium, protein and other nutritious goodies it contains, and thanks to Hansells’ flavoured sachets and yoghurt makers, kinder of all kinds (and grown-ups, too) can enjoy tasty treats served up quick. While Hansells products are available from supermarkets – Lite sachets ($4.19), Thick & Creamy ($4.69), makers ($20) – EastLife has a yoghurt maker and three sachets for one lucky reader.

WIN! LA MAV DAY AND NIGHT CREAMS Here’s your chance to win a pretty duo designed to nourish and hydrate tired skin. Nutrient-rich, La Mav’s Hyaluronan Daily Moisture Crème and its bedtime partner, Intense Moisture Nightly Repair Nectar, aid skin prone to dryness. Bursting with ingredients, which maintain the natural pH of the skin, they can work together or separately. Hyaluronan Daily Moisture Crème (RRP $49.95) is formulated with argan oil and hyaluronic acid, to boost skin prone to dehydration and fine lines. Intense Moisture Nightly Repair Nectar (RRP $64.95) rebuilds the skin while you sleep – oat extract soothes and softens while cucumber phytosterols help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. Both available at participating Health 2000 stores and selected retail outlets.

WIN! WAIHEKE GARDEN SAFARI TICKEts AND SEALINK CROSSING Dig this! EastLife has a fabulous prize pack up for grabs – four tickets to the Waiheke Garden Safari plus a SeaLink ferry pass from Half Moon Bay to Waiheke for one car and four passengers. With a total value of approximately $450, this blooming great prize is the perfect opportunity to join with friends and experience the wonders of beautiful Waiheke gardens and, perhaps, to enjoy some stunning Waiheke wines. The safari is the primary fundraiser for the Jassy Dean Trust, which supports sick children and their families on Waiheke Island. All proceeds from the two day event – Saturday and Sunday, November 7-8 – go to the Trust.

No fuss Grab & Go Goodness Try-Me Kit Why let bags full of potions and lotions drag you down when heading for holidays in the sun? Proving Goodness things come in small packages (and that a little Goodness can go a long way), these handy Try-Me Kits from Goodness Natural Beauty Lab feature: Certified Organic Chia Seed Oil (5ml), Every Day Cream Cleanser (20ml), Every Morning Moisturiser (20ml), Every Week Face Scrub (10ml) and Every Evening Cream (25ml) are just the ticket when luggage restrictions apply. These handy kits are available (RRP $24.99) from selected Farmers, New World and Countdown stores nationwide – buy one for yourself and for a friend!

Win! A Natural Meds twin pack – valued at more than $130

WIN! Hand guide to the Birds of NZ

Joint problems can affect people of all ages, resulting from sporting injuries, diet or even simply due to dropping temperatures. Luckily, relief can hinge on natural products from Natural Meds such as NeoCell’s Collagen 2 (RRP $76.65 – 120 capsules), which is designed to support and maintain healthy joint function. Meanwhile, Redd Remedies’ Gouch! (RRP $55.65 – 60 capsules) helps kidneys deal with build-ups of uric acid, which can lead to gout – a type of arthritis often brought on by life’s little indulgences. EastLife has a twin pack featuring these two products to give away.

Nature lovers will be all a twitter while birds of a feather will be flocking together at bookshops throughout the country now that The Hand Guide to the Birds of New Zealand, by Hugh Robertson and Barrie Heather, has hit store shelves. This easy to use, invaluable reference on New Zealand birds features 374 species including 35 new additions, the book’s biggest revision since first publication. It includes an introduction to key bird-watching sites, fabulous illustrations of birds and an in-depth guide to field identification. The only hand guide to New Zealand birds officially endorsed by the Ornithological Society of NZ, this book is a beauty and EastLife has one copy up for grabs.

For last month’s EastLife winners visit www.eastlife.co.nz/competitions 14 | eastlife | october 2015

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Hawaiian serenade Long ago, a teenage HELEN PERRY, smitten by a young and handsome Elvis Presley hula-lulu-ing in Honolulu, swore she would one day visit the beautiful shores of Waikiki. Decades later she finally made it and discovered the ‘king’ was right when he sang, ‘dreams come true in blue Hawaii. A cinema buff, whose taste in screen idols has followed a twisted path, Hawaii has long conjured up images of memorable celluloid scenes none more so than the famous, or rather infamous, kiss between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr as they grappled in the surf at secluded Halolo Cove on the island of Oahu.

Photo Hawaii Tourism Authority/Kirk Lee Aeder

Last month I stood on the very spot where that passionate, From Here to Eternity embrace took place and it was as if I’d arrived just a tad too late to witness the action. And so it went on. At pristine Haunamu Bay, a marine life conservation area famed for its crystal clear waters and snorkelling opportunities, I ‘closed my eyes and clearly my heart remembered..” a very sexy Elvis leaning against a dinghy, strumming his guitar and singing, “No More do I see the starlight caress your hair, No more feel the tender kisses we used to share ....” Well, I could but dream and, yes let the mind linger on the huge number of artists and actors who either put Hawaii on the big screen, made a habit of vacationing there or were actually raised on one or other of the islands. And believe me, there have been scores of them as our amazing Roberts Tour driver, Pablo recounted on a tour that circled Oahu. His delightful, non-stop commentary, which included a phenomenal knowledge of film and celebrity trivia, made me look at many buildings and tourist spots in a new light. I and the 49 others on board were given insights into island life we would never have learned otherwise. At this point I must comment on the Hawaiian tour bus companies, which do an amazing job. Between Roberts and VIP Aloha tours, not to mention our trolley bus drivers, we were not only ferried here and there but were entertained, informed and given what I can only describe as ‘the rides of our lives.” Our drivers deserved their tips. The dilemma is whether to focus on one superb experience or give readers with a taste of holidaying in Hawaii. I’ve decided on the latter. Here goes:

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Skip to the loo! Perhaps the easiest place to start (as most do on any day) is with our ablutions... when out and about, that is! Visitors caught short in Honolulu (and everywhere else I visited on Oahu) could count on clean restrooms in virtually every shopping centre, department store, hotel, restaurant and tourist attraction. I never entered one public convenience that was marred by graffiti, ‘spillages’ or ‘carvings’ by people wishing to leave their mark. But what I appreciated most was the tissue toilet seat covers included in every single cubicle and they never seemed to run out – so hygienic! On the other hand, when departing the plane at Auckland International Airport no such practicality was evident when I visited the loo there. What’s more the toilet seat had deep scratches, which was most off-putting. Perhaps we can learn something from our US neighbours!

Shopping: I swore that shopping wouldn’t be a priority – this holiday was supposed to be about R&R. That little plan soon went out with the tide. Shopping in and around Waikiki was all that it

promised. Shops of every description packed Lewers Ave, the Waikiki Beach Walk and all along Kalakaua Ave but look around before spending as prices vary. It’s easy to purchase in one spot then see something more suitable in another. • Ala Moana Mall – $2 each way on the open-air trolley bus or a $12 (approx) taxi ride – was an all day affair for us and even then we saw only half of what we intended. Good eateries but a pity Maceys and Nordstrom department stores were at opposite ends of this huge complex. • Waikele Outlet Centre – a shopper’s paradise. Unfortunately, we visited on a day when it was 33˚C with humidity so intense that walking from shop to shop saw us drenched in perspiration. Air conditioning provided cool relief. With its many international brand outlets there was a parade of top labels for the fashion-conscious and the budget-conscious! Even the youngest member of a family can exit wearing Tommy Hilfiger. But my favourite Waikele store was Skechers where I purchased four pairs of trendy sneakers and two packs of funky socks for $US154. I went back for another pair of sneakers, Skechers jandals plus

more socks – gift shopping for the family all done. Yep, there was no way to avoid shopping!

People watching: This was one of my favourite pastimes. I have never seen so many different style trends from hair and clothing through to shoes, hats, caps, bags, jewellery and even moustaches. I also doubt I saw one garment the same as another with the exception of a souvenir shirt or two. While Honolulu’s population is about 1.2 million, apparently tourists boost this to something like four to five million. And, what a mix of cultures, ethnicities, shapes and sizes, all with a colourful array of patterns, textures and grooming eccentricities thrown in for good measure. I loved it!

Tourist attractions: One tourist book listed 101 things to do on Oahu – in our nine days we managed just three organised tours although we might have managed one more if we hadn’t been torn in other directions. We wanted some relaxation time and a day or so to shop but I certainly became conscious of all the places and activities we missed especially swimming with the turtles. www.eastlife.co.nz

‘

What a mix of cultures, ethnicities, shapes and sizes, all with a colourful array of patterns, textures and grooming eccentricities thrown in for good measure. I loved it!”

One thing I could not fault was the service provided by tour drivers whose knowledge of Hawaii’s geography, history, places of interest and more, was mind-boggling.

one massive mansion (thousands of square feet) had just sold for $US23 million. Amazingly, it was considered a ‘tear down’ – the house will be demolished and a new one built!

One driver memorised the names of all 52 people on his bus never failing to recall each person’s name throughout the evening – we were gob-smacked. Another regaled us with his celebrity insights and appreciation of conservation efforts on Oahu. The third surprised us with his deep respect for the fallen of Pearl Harbour and veterans from other conflicts, many of whom are buried on the island.

I’ve already mentioned flawless Haunamu Bay and Halolo Cove where we stopped briefly. From there we headed westward then north, passing ever-changing landscapes and stopping at the Valley of Temples.

Our three tours consisted of:

Oahu Island circle trip with Roberts Tours: Pablo sneaked in as my favourite driver and considering he kept up the patter for a whole day, his knowledge and efforts must be applauded. On departing Waikiki and central Honolulu we first passed by Diamond Head and, not long after, Koko Crater, said to be a tough climb with 1048 stairs to negotiate. Passing through stunning Kahala Estate where homes sell in the millions, we were astounded to learn www.eastlife.co.nz

Eventually, we arrived at Kualoa Ranch for lunch then headed for the Dole pineapple plantation and on to lovely Sunset Beach. Not wishing to document every stop, I’ll just say we gained a brilliant overview of Oahu.

Luau at Paradise Cove: A pleasant afternoon and evening with skills such as coconut husking, hula dancing and fishing on show ahead of a buffet dinner then an enjoyable concert, which not only highlighted Hawaiian dancing and music, but that of New Zealand’s Maori people as well as Samoa, Tonga and Tahiti. Good for first timers. Women planning to wear heels to Paradise Cove – don’t! Heels sink into sand which also wriggles its way between the toes.

Pearl Harbour and the Punchbowl Crater: It was an effort to rise at 5.30am to be ready for pick-up at 6.15am but it was worth the early start on a day which was as hot as h... and the humidity at its highest of the year. I thoroughly recommend an early start for Pearl Harbour. It is far less crowded and those who make their own way there are free to linger as long as they want. We didn’t visit the Battle Ship USS Missouri or the Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island being fully occupied at the visitor centre where exhibitions, narratives, a memorial walk, 25-minute live footage from the 1941 bombing and the brief boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial took time. The other half managed to also visit the Bowfin submarine and museum. Frankly, I wished I’d had longer there but at 10.45am the bus was ready to depart on a tiki tour. This included the Punchbowl crater with beautiful park-line grounds encompassing the National Memorial Military Cemetery for veterans of US wars; the Iolani palace (the only royal palace in the USA), King Kamehameha’s statue in front of the Hawaiian State Capitol Building and

a route which took in magnificent city views. I enjoyed this part of the tour as much as the Pearl Harbour visit.

Tipping: I can’t go without mentioning the tipping. Kiwis often tip good service (and I mean good) in a restaurant or special event but most of us know tipping is a given for a good deal more in the USA. It drove me mad. Yet, when I learned that waiters were on about $2.17 per hour, I understood the need for tips to give them a living wage. That said, while happy to tip most wait staff, on the few occasions when service was poor, the practice really irked me. And the tipping didn’t stop there – taxi drivers, bus drivers, bell boys, cleaning staff, and almost anyone who gave you their attention. There was no real tips guide although many food bills listed on the bill the equivalent of 15%, 18% and 20% tips. I mostly tipped 10%! I left a couple of dollars on our pillow each day for the cleaner (who left me warm notes of thanks) and there were a few people we tipped handsomely. What I do suggest is that Hawaii visitors keep plenty of $1, $5 and $10 notes on hand. You’ll need them! eastlife | october 2015 |

Ladies swing into golf this summer

Photo James Miller/Mint Kitchen

Waiheke Oyster Festival 2015

Ladies – Time on your hands? Interested in golf and looking to join a club? We offer a FREE introduction to golf with two 1-hour clinics and morning tea provided

199 Botany Rd, Howick • www.pakurangagolf.co.nz

Festival attractions include:

Tuesday, October 6-Sunday, October 11 Howick RSA, 25 Wellington Street, Howick Please note new address

WE NEED YOUR GOOD CONDITION, PRE-LOVED

BOOKS. CDs. DVDs. PUZZLES Goods can be dropped off at the following places: • • • • • • • • • •

A day to relax on the lawn and listen to music while enjoying a glass of wine or craft beer, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge one’s appreciation of this coveted shellfish said to be an aphrodisiac – anyone for love? Festival ticket includes your first drink and oyster trio.

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Pearl of the Hauraki Gulf – Waiheke Island – is set to host its first Oyster Festival on Saturday, October 10 in the lush garden setting of Rangihoua Olive Grove.

Grasslands, 209 Moore Street, Howick David Fels Gemtime Jewellers, 53 Picton Street, Howick Placemakers, 481 Pakuranga Road, Highland Park Farm Cove Intermediate School, Butley Drive, Pakuranga Lawn Heat & Leisure, 64a Ti Rakau Drive, Pakuranga Carba-Tec NZ Ltd, 110 Harris Road, East Tamaki The Gallery Café, inside Danske Mobler, Botany Town Centre Harvey Furnishings, 500 Ti Rakau Drive, Botany Somerville Intermediate School, Somerville Road, Howick House of Travel, 117 Picton Street, Howick

• Live music from Mojo Risers and ROOK • Facts and information from the oyster farmer himself • Delicious cuisine for everyone – seafood sausages, platters, vegetarian options...and, of course, oysters galore! • Waiheke wines and craft beers • Oyster shots with a difference

What’s more, top chefs, Des Harris of Clooney, Marco Edwards of Te Whau, and Anthony McNamara of Oyster Inn, will be on hand preparing their favourite oyster creations – by the end of the day they’re sure to be yours too! The festival runs from 11am-5pm with Saturday, October 17 set aside as a rain day. And, there’s no need to worry about transport. A fabulous Fullers Ferry, Bus and Festival package is available at $70 (adults) and $25 (children). Catch a mid-morning ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke. The bus to Rangihoua Estate will depart Matiatia Wharf at 11am then departs Rangihoua Estate at 4.15pm for the 5pm ferry to Auckland, or at 5.15pm for the 6pm ferry to Auckland. Package available online at fullers.co.nz, from Fullers Matiatia Ticket Office, info@tmbo.co.nz or phone 09 372 8600.

THE HAURAKI GULF STARTS WITH US Book your experience today!

Books can be collected by calling John 534 6566, Colin 535 6443, Bill 533 3322 or 0800 4ROTARY

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Waikiki sands on our doorstep There are at least 280 hotels on the island of Oahu so choosing a place to stay for a nine-night vacation was not easy but HELEN PERRY eventually settled on The Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort.

Hula Pie

Hawaii was a holiday in the making for several years, always deferred in preference of somewhere else. However, this year the call of lovely hula hands was too much to resist. Then, when an Air NZ 75th birthday fare popped up we grabbed it. After trawling accommodation websites, the location of Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort proved ideal. It was among the best in Waikiki – one of the very few where guests literally stepped from bar to beach. The pool complex was also bordered by sand and the outlook from all restaurants was of shoreline, sea and swaying palms. We couldn’t afford ocean front but we did opt for ocean view. Positioned on the eighth floor, we enjoyed a generous ocean outlook from the lounge and the balcony. However, the balcony was a squeeze – big enough for just a small table and two chairs with one chair having to look away from that lovely view to a not so lovely rooftop storage area. Inside, our air-conditioned room (a must) was extremely spacious – we definitely needed room because the shopping soon took over! Nicely

furnished with a good size bathroom, it came with free WiFi and, unlike others, no added resort fee. Guest facilities, including a laundry, were great. Restful lounge, plenty of internal shops, a trolley bus stop right outside and being on bustling Kalakaua Ave, added to the appeal. But one of the big attractions here was the famous Dukes Bar and Restaurant, named for one of Hawaii’s most revered citizens, and ‘the father of international surfing,” Duke Paoa Kahanamoku. At 21 Duke won his first Olympic gold and silver swim medals at the 1912 Stockholm Games. Then, in 1920 he won two golds at the Antwerp Olympics followed by silver at the 1924 Paris games. More followed.

Today, Dukes is never dull with a constant swell of people moving through the bar. There wasn’t day when we didn’t relax there as efficient staff kept the cocktails coming! The adjacent Dukes dining room provided a daily buffet breakfast (included in our costs) and catered for lunch and dinner. However, the Hula Grille, one floor up, was my favourite. We dined there three times, savouring the excellent menu – loads of fish – the deck, the outlook and possibly the most committed wait staff I’ve experienced in a long time. This was one place we felt compelled to tip for outstanding service. I should also mention the main course seafood chowder. Creamy, refreshingly light and very different

from the heavy custard-like versions in New Zealand, it was packed with fresh seafood including a lobster tail – mmmhhhh! And, then there was the Hula Pie an amazing icecream, chocolate and nut concoction that every foodie should try. There was no disputing the excellent location and facilities of Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, but on our tight budget I’m not sure would opt for the same again. Our accommodation for nine nights was $US3078 but with extra in-house spending, airfares, tours and shopping galore we spent about $NZ11,000. Should we return we would probably seek less expensive accommodation but for those who want only beachfront, then Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, fits the bill perfectly.

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eastlife | october 2015 |

Mini venture, maxi joyride There’s Ronan and Precious, Sweetie and Piggy, Basil and Captain Jack Sparrow, all with a story to tell if they could but talk. These miniature horses are among the 13 that Manukau Minis has taken into care and are now giving a new purpose in life. HELEN PERRY visited their new home to learn more about the scheme of things to come. Tooki Riggs and her young business partner, Hannah Thomson, know their horses – ponies and hacks, standard breds and thoroughbreds, Arabs and appaloosas but most recently it is 13 little miniature horses that have won their hearts. What started as something of a rescue mission – being asked to take a few miniatures, destined for the meat works, under their wing, has grown into a small business which makes keeping the little horses viable. “The idea is to lease them to people who would like to know more about caring for a horse without have the responsibility of full ownership,” Tooki says. “Little ones become confident around horses that don’t dwarf them and they can also learn the rudiments of riding. Parents learn about grooming, feeding and what is required in keeping a horse.”

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In the USA, miniature horses have been introduced to help rehabilitate the elderly in retirement homes. The equine presence has proved very therapeutic especially for those who were around horses when they were young.”

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But there are other benefits too, says Tooki. “I have one mother who brings her autistic daughter here. Mum puts the little one on her horse and leads her around the paddock for about three hours most days and this ‘therapy’ is now having a positive effect.” Tooki, who has lived in rural Flatbush for some 20 years, breeds and buys standardbreds, hunts and has her own Arab mare. Up until last month she leased stables in Thomas Rd, Flat Bush where she kept her breeding mares, the miniatures and provided grazing to other horse owners. But, with the urban invasion bearing down, and the land due to be subdivided, her lease ended on August 31 and now the stables – built in the 1980s as a state of the art complex – will be demolished. “I’ve taken my horses, six grazers and the miniatures to the 60-acre property I lease nearby,” says Tooki.

“I have stabling for six horses but I’m on the lookout for a couple of barns so I can increase my capacity to stable more and to operate the business efficiently. We’re just settling in, now.” With her and Hannah now into the swing of their new venture, they have been booked for calf club days, kindy parties, galas and even private children’s parties. “We provide rides for little children and a couple of the minis also tow carts, offering another dimension. Children quickly gain confidence

around these small horses which all have distinct personalities and come in all sorts of colours. “Eventually we hope we can use them in other ways too. In the USA, miniature horses have been introduced to help rehabilitate the elderly in retirement homes. The equine presence has proved very therapeutic especially for those who were around horses when they were young.” While Tooki readily admits to being an ‘old hand’ around horses, Hannah, at 19, is no novice. She was first put

www.eastlife.co.nz Tooki, left, and Hannah with some of their mini charges.

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on a horse at the age of three and has been around the equestrian scene ever since. She works part time as a stable hand in Takanini and confesses to being “something of a pony collector!”

especially if owners have no equine experience,” Hannah says. “This way we can oversee their health but lease owners have all the benefits of handling the horses and learning about pony care before committing to buying or taking on full time care.”

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The two women met when Tooki took on a couple of Hannah’s horses as grazers. Having a lot in common, including an affinity for miniature horses, they saw the lease idea as a way to save at least some unwanted, and charming young horses, from going to the meat works.

And both Tooki and Hannah agree that it’s been a joy to see young children experiencing their first contact with the little horses – “it is far less frightening than encountering even a pony for the first time and before long you can see them become self-assured and eager to take over the handling all by themselves.”

“But at the end of the day, the downside of miniatures is that they are mutants and a lot can go wrong

Photos Wayne Martin

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CLEVEDON CLEVEDON

SHOWGROUNDS SHOWGROUNDS CLEVEDON SHOWGROUNDS

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Auckland SPCA, 50 Westney Road, Mangere.

FREE 5yrsFREE UNDER5yrs CHILDRENUNDER $5 | | CHILDREN 5-14yrs $5 PARKING FREE KIDS 5-14yrs $10 || KIDS ADULTS $10 9am-5pm | | ADULTS OPEN9am-5pm PARKING| |OPEN FREE

Ph: 09 256 7300.

PARKING | OPEN 9am-5pm | ADULTS $10 | KIDS 5-14yrs $5 | CHILDREN UNDER 5yrs FREE te d Vi si tFREE usFREE $25 3 KIDS) & UP TO ADULTS (2$5 FAMILY $5 $10 GOLD CARD WITH CITIZENS SENIOR 5yrsKeFREE UNDER | CHILDREN 5-14yrs | KIDS PASS | ADULTS 9am-5pm | OPEN PARKING ep on Fa ceSENIOR $25up da am 3 KIDS) & UP ADULTS PASS || FAMILY $5 CARD GOLD WITH CITIZENS $25 3 KIDS) TO3TO UP ADULTS (2(2ADULTS PASS WITH CITIZENS bo okSENIOR $25 KIDS) TO & &UP (2 FAMILY PASS $5 || FAMILY CARD $5 GOLDCARD WITHGOLD CITIZENS SENIOR on Ins ta gr

V is it uVi si t on s

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Visit our website at www.spca.org.nz eastlife | october 2015 |

Honourable Abercromby Local resident and history buff CHRISTINE MILES gives the low down on the history behind some of our thoroughfares and well known places. Howick’s Abercrombie Street, running down the hill from Cook Street, to meet Howe Street, is named for Sir Ralph Abercromby, sometimes spelled Abercrombie. As with many of Howick street names, it recognises a man of military significance. Sir Ralph (1734-1801) was a Scottish lad, raised in a decent home and sent to university to study law, finally escaping (with the permission of his father) to begin a career in soldiering. His was a steady climb through the ranks. While recognised for his “coolness, decision, and intrepidity” in battle, he was not a man to distance himself from his soldiers. Along with Sir John Moore, Abercromby set out to improve both the discipline and the reputation of the militia. He and his wife, Mary-Anne (nee Menzies), raised seven children and his reputation as a civilian – as much

as a knight of the Bath can be one – was highly regarded. He was a friend of the “destitute poor”, creating opportunities for improvement, and encouraging education regardless of one’s station in life. Abercromby’s final battle was against the French in the Battle of Alexandria. A significant delay, resulting from weather conditions, allowed the French time to prepare their onslaught. Abercromby also put the time to good use, training his soldiers to disembark ship with speed and precision. As a result, not only did 16,000 men disembark in a day, but they immediately formed into their lines, advancing three miles inland before the night fell even though pounded by gun fire as Bonaparte’s 2500 men stormed the beach. In the battle of Alexandria,

Abercromby took a bullet through his groin that wedged deeply into his hip socket. Such was his stamina and strength of mind that he continued in active battle, cheering his men and afterwards acknowledging each one in their victory. Throughout he gave no sign of his injury or discomfort.

deteriorated and he died.

Once his duties were discharged, however, Abercromby fell in a faint and was speedily removed on a stretcher. Unsuccessful attempts were made to remove the bullet, then a week later, his condition rapidly

A great man, whose life is commemorated in many ways including on a Howick street sign, more than 200 years after his death.

Henry Morse Stephens, historian, wrote, “It is more difficult to breathe the spirit of military prowess and military discipline into an army than to win a battle; and this is what Abercromby did.”1

1 From A Web of English History (1885), by Henry Morse Stephens.

The Acacia Cove lifestyle Acacia Cove is a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula. For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym. Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in. If you’re aged 60 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer. A right to occupy dwelling at Acacia Cove Village is unsecured.

New Zealand Owned and Operated

Wattle Farm Rd, Wattle Downs, Manurewa Ph 268 8522 • Email: bruce@kirkdale.co.nz www.acaciacovevillage.co.nz SC3515

22 | eastlife | october 2015

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Village life suited to enterprising seniors Seniors today enjoy the best of all worlds. In general they are fit, active, and because they have worked hard through largely bountiful years, most have enough put aside to enjoy many little (and sometimes big) pleasures in life. As the baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, head into retirement, most aren’t prepared to sit at home and vegetate. They travel, join clubs, dine out, involve themselves in volunteer roles, go back to school, socialise with family and friends and some even remain working late into life. But when they are at home they usually want security, less housework to worry about and a community in which they are comfortable and where a variety of activities are available close to their own special retreat.

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And, now, they can have it all. Today’s retirement villages offer a wide variety of options from serviced apartments with kitchenette, living, bedroom and en suite through to one and two bedroom apartments or even stand alone townhouses. What’s more, should the time ever come when hospital care is needed many villages have this care available on site. Importantly, pro-active seniors see this new stage in life as an adventure.

While some will want to stay close to family and old friends, others are ready to explore greener pastures and welcome a move to fresh fields providing they still have the support of a village environment where assistance is available if needed.”

While some will want to stay close to family and old friends, others are ready to explore greener pastures and welcome a move to fresh fields providing they still have the support

Retirement...or not! Retirement can seem like a blessing or a blight. Some folk are ready at 65 years to shut the door on their careers; others have no intention of leaving the workplace while they still feel able to contribute.

a daily basis and feel emotionally or physically drained at the end of the day • Constantly dreaming of holidays away or spending more time with grandchildren

The time to retire will differ according to one’s health, career satisfaction, desire to do ‘other things’ in life, financial position, family commitments and more.

• Own your own business but feel weighed down by self employment pressures, staff responsibilities and ongoing paperwork

The main thing is to recognise signs that may indicate you are ready to retire such as:

• Have some medical problems but have budgeted for these on a retirement income

• No longer enjoy going to work on

• Have finances sorted and have

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of a village environment where assistance is available if needed. Indeed, how often does one hear seniors being told how wonderful they look? A lot! Keeping up skin care, exercising, trying new hairstyles, wearing fashionable clothes and having access to all manner of hobbies and activities, means today’ seniors look and feel younger than ever. And while the vagaries of age may sometimes be bothersome, there is

formulated a plan for living which you can sustain

a tendency for this group to ‘look on the bright side’ and to ‘make the most of every day.’ With this kind of positive outlook, there is every reason for them to make the move into one of today’s contemporary, well equipped, and fabulously serviced retirement villages. Once there, a high standard of living, with few worries, will almost surely leave seniors, keen for a challenge and plenty of opportunity to live life to the full.

enjoy your role and do not feel overwhelmed by the workload

However, it is equally important to acknowledge signs that show retirement is not yet an option:

• Need to save more to sustain basic needs, finish paying a mortgage or to deal with health issues

• Still enjoy working and feel you have plenty to offer

• Don’t relish time at home when many friends are still working

• Operate your own business,

• Still have debt that needs to be dealt with There are many other signs which indicate retirement readiness...or not. Often family members will help with that decision but, once made, be sure to have a plan for staying active, for maintaining good health as long as possible and for living within your new means enjoyably. eastlife | october 2015 |

Bethlehem Shores – stunning location, luxurious living Retirees looking for a home away from home should visit Bethlehem Shores, which enjoys an enviable location on the harbour front in one of Tauranga’s most desirable suburbs, Bethlehem. The site is perfectly positioned for stunning sunrises and sunsets and is an easy walk from boutique shops and award-winning cafes at Bethlehem Town Centre. What’s more, it is only a short drive from the amenities of beautiful Tauranga city, and the beaches and walks of Mount Maunganui. Bethlehem Shores is presently building brand new, luxury housing and when completed, will comprise 150 houses and 60 apartments, all architecturally-designed to capture loads of natural light and the warmth of the Bay of Plenty sunshine. Residents can choose from various lifestyle options – waterfront locations, harbour views and extras such as home offices and media rooms.

Bethlehem Shores offers both independent living and security for the future. Residents have priority transfer to sister care facilities as needs require, and there are plans to build a 120-bed rest home, hospital and dementia care facility, as well as 60 serviced apartments just down the road.

Bethlehem Shores will offer residents first-class facilities. Central to village life will be the clubhouse, where it is proposed to have spacious lounge areas and a well-stocked library, movie theatre and restaurant. A health spa is proposed to house a heated lap pool and fully equipped gym, as well as a beauty salon for

massage, beauty therapies, hair treatments and manicures. There will also be a calendar of social activities to enjoy, from Tai Chi and chorus singing to line dancing. Enjoy fine retirement living in a Sanderson Group village. For more information on Bethlehem Shores, please make an enquiry.

EASTCLIFFE ON ORAKEI RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Affordable care suites with generous bathrooms are now available at $190,000 in the small care facility of our boutique retirement village. Personalised rest home or hospital care is delivered by care staff and registered nurses and subsidised residents are welcome. Enjoy Eastcliffe’s wonderful position on Bastion Point, and its handy location to the CBD and eastern suburbs. Please call Penelope on 521 9015 to view and discuss care needs.

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

217 Kupe Street, Orakei, Auckland. Ph: 521 9015 Fax: 521 9011 www.eastcliffe.co.nz RW1285

24 | eastlife | october 2015

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RW1294

eastlife | october 2015 |

Exciting lifestyle awaits Living the retirement dream in the sunny Bay of Plenty is looking more appealing than ever as Auckland property prices continue to escalate. Tauranga’s Copper Crest Village Estate has already welcomed transplanted Aucklanders, who are thrilled they have sold up and made the move with cash to spare. They’re amongst the first to enthuse over life at this premier retirement village, in a part of the country where the living is easy – minus big city bustle, but big enough to offer all the essential amenities to make preretirement and retirement life both easy and pleasurable.

Facilities include a library, gym, indoor heated swimming pool, spa, cinema, indoor bowls, snooker and table tennis, hair and beauty salon, bar and dancing and dining areas and a luxurious common area with gas fireplace. There are communal and individual

‘

vegetable gardens, too, bowling greens, a hobby room and campervan parking. Outdoor seating areas make the most of the quiet surroundings. It’s a beautiful part of the country. Mt

Maunganui beach – repeatedly voted New Zealand’s best beach – is only minutes away. What a great place to take visiting grandchildren! Copper Crest also has an active social and events committee and a van for outings. At Copper Crest there is a healthy understanding that retirement isn’t necessarily about doing less; it’s about doing more of what you enjoy. Come and join the fun!

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Various housing options are available at Copper Crest with prices starting at $485,000. The quality homes (of which there are more than 85, with more under construction) are two or three bedroomed, with single or double garaging. All are built on elevated sites that enjoy a northerly aspect.

There’s much to enthuse over at Copper Crest, where independent living is on offer within a secure and manicured environment.

26 | eastlife | october 2015

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Pedal power Children’s Rockabye Early Learning Centre takes the care and education of young children seriously. Today, centre owner CARYN MAWKES has helpful tips on teaching children to ride a bike.

If there’s one mode of transport children seem to love, it’s anything that moves. Now, with summer looming, and the school holidays near, what better time to encourage your child onto a bike.

‘

Life is like learning to ride a bicycle, to keep your balance you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein

Is your child ready for his or her first bike? Most youngsters learn the basics of pedalling, steering and braking on a tricycle and at about the age of four they are ready to try a twowheeler with training wheels. Don’t forget that safety is paramount and always ensure your child is wearing a well-fitted helmet when on a bike or scooter. Toddlers will need to be confident walkers before they can use this mode of transport. When ready, they can start with a ride-on. It needs to be low for them to push it along with their feet. A ride-on toy usually has four wheels and handles that are easy to grip. Once your toddler gets the hang of using both feet to push the toy forward, he or she will move onto alternating feet, soon learning that this can make the ride-on go faster! Once confident on a four-wheeler, toddlers can progress to a balance bike or scooter, which have only two wheels and no stabilisers. These are low enough for toddlers to plant their feet firmly on the ground, while learning to balance before they have to co-ordinate pedalling. When their balance is under control, they can move onto a two-wheeler. Starting on a bike with trainer wheels allows children to practise without worrying. Between the ages of four

and eight, your child will probably develop enough co-ordination, agility and sense of balance to graduate to a bike without trainer wheels. You are the best judge of your child. Some children are mentally ready at five years or even earlier and some not until age 10 or older. Let your child’s interest in biking indicate whether he or she is ready. Keep in mind that most children younger than five don’t have the strength or coordination to use hand brakes, To help your child gain confidence, find a safe, flat area for them to practise their biking skills, perhaps your driveway, a local park or school. Encourage your child to keep pedalling and to look straight ahead and not at the ground. This will help him or her to travel in a straight line. As we all know, practice makes perfect and over time your child will grow in confidence, strength, and co-ordination taking their riding to a whole new level.

TREASURE TROVE There are books we’ll enjoy, then there are classics we’ll treasure for years to come such as these two top titles.

hairy Maclary anD friEnDS trEaSury Since the early 1980s Dame Lynley Dodd’s famous canine has become a ‘living’ Kiwi treasure. Now, at the spry old age of 32 (that’s around 150 in dog years!), Hairy Maclary is wagging his way into the hearts of even more youngsters. Featuring TEN ‘tails’ – each introduced by Lynley, who shares hilarious real-life episodes which inspired them – this book brings all of Hairy Maclary’s adventures together in one book, which comes complete with a CD, with stories read by Kyle Pryor. • Lynley Dodd: Hairy Maclary and Friends Treasury – The Complete Adventures of Hairy Maclary | RRP $50 | Puffin/Penguin NZ

thE littlE yEllow DiggEr trEaSury

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win! – EastLife has TWO copies EACH of these books to give away. To be in to win, simply complete the form at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/ email address; entries close October 31, 2015. Winners notified by phone or email.

Can you dig it, readers? Because, at EastLife we sure can! Yes, locallybased publisher, Scholastic, is releasing ALL FIVE of its much loved children’s The Little Yellow Digger classic books in one hardback volume!

chap, and now the Little Yellow Digger is back at work ready to become a favourite of a new generation.

For more than 20 years, children have been delighted by the adventures of this hard working

• Betty & Alan Gilderdale: The Little Yellow Digger Treasury | RRP $30 | Scholastic

SANTAS, BABY! If KidsCan can take great strides in making life better for disadvantaged children, then the least Santa can do is get up off his bowl full of jelly bottom and jingle all the way during The Great KidsCan Santa Run!

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

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

www.eastlife.co.nz

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Registrations are now open for these fun-filled, two to three kilometre runs/walks (to be held nationwide on December 2, including at Barry Curtis Park). Early bird entries are available until October 16 (20% saving). Santa Suits will be provided to entrants over 13 years old, and Santa hats to under-13s, but all manner of elves, Rudolphs

and other festive characters are welcome too – spot prizes for the best dressed! So, polish those gumboots and go online all ye faithful to santarun. co.nz to register or for more information – it’s time to tune into Christmas! eastlife | october 2015 |

Puzzle Cryptic Puzzle

time 1

NO. 10016

DOWN

6. Like someone saluting, but supercilious (4-6). 8. Fall for a doctor at work (4). 9. Reckon you’ll spill the beans (4). 10. Be situated, for instance, in one part of Belgium (5). 11. I managed to swallow the water (4). 12. Strong tea brewed for a VIP (9). 16. Flower and plant wine (9). 20. Grumble and there’s no vegetarian food (4). 22. Due to the duck-shoot (5). 23. A burden for the boy who has nothing to carry (4). 24. Have a big part to play in getting the animals back (4). 25. Not all there! (4,2,4).

1. Author of “The Sanctimonious Emperor” (6). 2. I’ll get Edward to put on the central heating; it’s cold (7). 3. One takes notes! (6). 4. Coming, or now opening (6). 5. Day after day are reset to trap the snake (5). 7. She’ll point one gun upwards (5). 13. Be sick of the sound of drink (3). 14. At the church, the girl gets the cup (7). 15. Elizabeth gets right into the bed (5). 17. Among the wild roses I find willows (6). 18. The diplomat in general has a gun (6). 19. Daily the writing delights one (6). 21. Makes work for civil servants (5).

5 7 8

10 11

13 14 15

16 17

21 22

24 25

Quick Puzzle Puzzle answers on page 65

Sudoku

puzzle no. 16

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.

Puppet (10) List (4) Opulent (4) Elector (5) Story (4) Dismal (9) Playright (9) Plant (4) Principle (5) Nobleman (4) Carry (4) Youngster (10)

to sell

No. 10016

Extravagant (6) Boxer (7) Whimper (6) Rank (6) Blithe (5) Lead on (5) Age (3) Extend (7) Lid (5) Haphazard (6) Animal (6) Well (6) Fragment (5)

Haunted Historical Village A Halloween Event October 30th 8.30pm-11pm

WIN WIth

Join us for a ‘spooktacular’ night.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Children under 12 years need to be accompanied by an adult. RW1297

28 | eastlife | october 2015

Purchase your tickets on No ticket sales on the night 1x Adult $25, 2x Adult $40, Family $50 www.fencible.org.nz Free Parking

Cnr Lady Marie Drive and Bells Rd, Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga email:liveday@fencible.org.nz

Ph: 576 9506

The Howick Historical Village reserves the right to make changes to the programme without prior notice.

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Charity begins at KAGI Renowned for its luxurious jewellery, the KAGI brand is synonymous with elegance – its collections adding that extra sparkle to women who want to stand out in the crowd. But now KAGI is showing extra heart, by designing two special pieces to assist the Child Cancer Foundation and the Look Good Feel Better charity. Over the years KAGI has designed bespoke jewellery collections to raise money to help provide much needed practical support and care for families of children suffering from cancer. With the Hope Drops collection Kagi

raised more than $15,000 but it is now set to release the delightful new Hope Acorn Charm next month. Five dollars from every sale – the charm costs $79 – will go directly to the Child Cancer Foundation. In addition KAGI has designed the ‘Wings of Love’ collection – beautiful butterfly-inspired pieces to help support the Look Good Feel Better charity. Sales of these pieces will see $25 from the large pendant, and $15 from the small pendant, go directly to the charity. Gift one to a friend or family member and know that you are also helping two very worthwhile causes.

‘ Kagi Wings of Love Large Pendant $169 on Steel Me Petite 47cm Chain $89

Diamond Jewellery

Kagi Hope Drops Acorn Pendant $135 on 47cm Steel Me Petite $89 and Kagi Hope Drops Blue Acorn Earring Charms $79 on Silver Smooth Huggies $30

Handmade Jewellery

BAROMETER

ALTIMETER

Kagi’s new jewellery pieces to help raise funds for the Child Cancer Foundation and the Feel Good Fell Better charity both hold special significance. The acorn is a symbol of strength, new life, potential and knowledge while the butterfly has long represented endurance, change, hope and life.”

C O M PAS S

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eastlife | october 2015 |

Loving care LOOBIE’S STORY • SILLS • BAZAAR • DAVID POND • OBI TOBY • DEANNA HOBBS • PAULA RYAN • SILVER LINING RANDOM • NEW LONDON JEANS • CHALET • HOLIDAY Supporting NZ Designers

New Season

In Store Now – Layby available

Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm

114 Main Highway, Ellerslie. Ph 579 3535 • www.sashaboutique.co.nz RW1304

Put a spring into your step with a stylish new look We have one of the largest ranges in the country

E510407-v2

Serving the community for more than 50 years

David Fels, owner of Showcase Jewellers, Howick, says jewellery is all about love – true love, friendship, families, even pieces you’ve fallen in love with. That’s why he and his team love hearing your stories and making your dreams come true. Jewellery is precious and very often sentimental so it pays to look after it properly. Here’s how to keep yours looking it’s best. • Diamonds – Because diamonds can scratch other jewellery (even other diamonds) it’s best to keep your diamond jewellery in a fabric-lined jewellery case with dividers. Prevent damage by taking off your jewellery when doing rough jobs such as gardening. Diamonds should be cleaned regularly as even natural skin oils can apply a film that cuts down their brilliance. • Gemstones – Wipe your precious stone jewellery with a clean, soft damp cloth after wearing. When it’s not being worn store in a soft cloth pouch. With some gemstones, such as opals and especially pearls, avoid salt water and chemicals, for example, chlorine bleach, detergents, hairspray and perfume. Wipe clean instantly if they come into contact. • Gold – Store gold jewellery carefully to prevent scratching, a compartmentalised jewellery box makes this easy. Remove gold jewellery when bathing, showering or washing up as soap can cause a film that makes the surface appear dull and dingy. White gold does require special care, we are happy to advise on what is required to retain its brightness.

94 Picton Street, Howick. Phone 534 8716

www.howickoptometrists.co.nz

Spring Specials Slim Down

To burn fat down against cellulite • Exfoliating marine salts • Body clay mask wrap and shower • Slimming cream, massage with G5 machine • Draining active oil and detoxifying the body

120 mins

$199

Anti-Aging Ginger Facial Peel Off Masks

• Silver – Like most precious metals, silver will tarnish over time. Simply clean with a mild soap and water solution then pat dry with a soft cloth. If the tarnish is stubborn we recommend using Hagerty’s, a silver cleaning product which is available in store. After the use of silver cleaning products it’s important to rinse thoroughly, normally with hot, running water. Avoid wearing silver jewellery in chlorinated water and when not wearing, store it somewhere sealed and dry. All jewellery is different so ask us how to best clean yours. We can professionally clean your jewellery in store and at the same time offer free advice on any maintenance that may be required from time to time to ensure that the gems are secure and the setting is in good condition. This service can normally be done while you wait.

Your Diamond Specialist

60 mins

$85

• Anti-aging • Helps cellular renewal • Refreshes skin • Improves skin elasticity • Oxygenates • Anti-inflamatory • Antioxidant • Prevents cutaneous aging

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 180 Pakuranga Rd, Pakuranga. Ph: 577 2998. 2/166 Chapel Rd, Botany South. Ph: 274 9489. www.thaispa.co.nz

30 | eastlife | october 2015

We recommend that you regularly clean your gold jewellery as perfume, fluoride in water or even the acidity in your skin can cause discolouration.

David Fels Showcase Jewellers 53 Picton St, Howick Ph: 09 537 2347 howick@showcasejeweller.com E510303-v14

SHOWCASE JEWELLERS

KW0406

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Mediterranean magic! Inspired by the colours of the magical Mediterranean, Yvonne Bennetti introduces her Sicilian Summer 2016 collection. Vibrant, citrus shades complemented by jewel tones, this range exudes a sense of joy and freedom. The Fabiene dress (right) was designed by Yvonne Bennetti and created with the former seamstress of El Jay – the fashion house that introduced and held the exclusive license to make Christian Dior in New Zealand. The dress took four days to make using 20 metres of pure silk and is hand finished. Available from Yvonne Bennetti, Herne Bay.

From left, Jayne Tie Blouse RRP $445, Metallic Shorts RRP $295, Luisa Dress RRP $695, Alexia Dress RRP $595, Fabiene Dress RRP $2900

www.nzjewellers.co.nz

SALE!

30% off Gold & Sil ver Jewellery! DIRECT DIAMOND IMPORTERS

ph 09 277 7746

20%

off

all Watc hes!

ff 50% o ent m e g a Eng Rings!

ALL JEWELLERY REPAIRS RW1310

off % 0 3 ding d e W s! Band

botany town centre

INTEREST VALUATIONS FREE OPTIONS & INSURANCE QUOTATIONS AVAILABLE www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2015 |

Beauty

counter REVEAL SENSATIONAL SUMMER-READY SKIN!

Say goodbye to those annoying skin imperfections and hello to beautiful smooth, soft skin. Manuka Doctor ApiNourish Polishing Facial Exfoliator will refresh and invigorate a dull-looking complexion, repolishing the skin by resurfacing and hydrating! Regular exfoliation will improve the results of your current skincare routine and help visibly brighten and rejuvenate skin for a new youthful appearance. The age-defying creamy formula contains sweet almond oil, which is rich in vitamin E, A, B1, B2 and B6, effectively balancing moisture in dry and irritated skin. Manuka Doctor ApiNourish Polishing Facial Exfoliator (RRP$39.95 100ml) available at selected pharmacies and department stores nationwide.

Soft and Fresh - World Organic Nurture Baby Care Nurture’s First Step Plus Set has all the essentials for naturally nurturing the delicate skin of babies and toddlers. The set contains a gentle baby shampoo & wash, baby powder (talc free), nappy rash cream, child SPF 30+ (great for mums face too), mother and baby multi-purpose balm all contained in a lined drawstring baby bag and completed with 3 super soft bamboo cloths. *Please note all items are also available individually. Available online at www.worldorganic.co.nz/karyn

From great looking lips at the 2015 Oscars to the world’s most luxurious beach resorts, nude lipstick is an unstoppable makeup trend. Inspired by the rugged landscape along Highway 1, USA, Karen Murrell Lipstick – Sand Storm – is a gorgeous nude lipstick hue combining a sandy-brown top note with a rich and creamy cinnamon undertone. This chic little number is best paired with smoky eye makeup for a dramatic evening look or applied with minimal makeup for an instant “I’m naturally this good looking” everyday look. Hailed as ‘vegetarian lipsticks’, Karen Murrell long lasting lipsticks do not contain animal-based materials and are not tested on animals. Karen Murrell Lipstick – Sand Storm (RRP $29.95) available at selected pharmacies and health food stores nationwide.

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Nouvelle, 1A The Village Green, 415 Remuera Road, Remuera 09 524 6575 • nouvelleremuera@gmail.com | Monday-Friday 9:30am-5pm Saturday 9:30am-3pm 32 | eastlife | october 2015

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Hotel steps into designer shoes Not just confined to the hallway, shoes spilled from every room as Stamford Plaza, with Minx Shoes, clicked heels to create a fashionable event. It must be every woman’s dream to walk into a luxurious hotel room filled with enough shoes to meet their hearts’ desire. That dream turned into reality when the Stamford Plaza unveiled it’s recently refurbished rooms with the help of Minx Shoes founder and designer, Cushla Reed, from Whitford.

The much-anticipated $10 million makeover of the city hotel’s 286 rooms was completed over the space of a year. Designed by interior design royalty, Stewart Harris of Macintosh Harris fame, the rooms feature a cosy, contemporary palette of neutral colours inspired by the Auckland Botanical Gardens. With a boardroom, two bathrooms, a kitchen, dining and lounge areas, a walk-in wardrobe and a study nook, the Governor’s Suite was fit for a queen. And the crown jewels were Minx spring/summer collections as well as previews for next winter.

Metallics are coming through this summer – metallics of all shades which are deepening to brassy, coppery tones for winter.”

Hudson, Cushla paired her effortless, two-piece outfit with metallic silver lace-ups which she had been standing in all day. “I’m really loving these. They have a mini wedge so are really comfortable and can cross over from dressy to everyday styles,” she said. The eclectic creative admitted she was also partial to her hundreds and thousands-inspired peep toe heels for the new season. Taking a leaf out of the ’50s and ’60s for her latest designs, Cushla blended feminine patterns with masculine styles by introducing themes such as pink leopard,

splashes of mustard and a hint of Dorothy of Oz with red, sparkly, man-tailored shoes. “Importantly, metallics are coming through this summer – metallics of all shades which are deepening to brassy, coppery tones for winter,” she said. But it wasn’t just all about shoes.

Minx Dots jewellery and bags were also on show, as well as NZ-made merino socks in Cushla’s signature polka dot theme, and bag tassels to be released just before Christmas. All in all, the unlikely partnership between a hotel and a shoe designer was a match made in heaven – who would’ve thought?

ION ESS AL

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‘

Not even a wet, grey day could keep a well-heeled crowd away as they admired the well-appointed Governor’s Suite that had Cushla’s hand-sketched designs, shoes and accessories poised in every nook and cranny.

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eastlife | october 2015 |

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25 years With the social season comingThe support we give is free to anyoneworkshops with any over cancer, and ago. The work we do helps women, men and teens with cancer improve the way they look, making a real fast upon us looking your bestextends right across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, difference to their confidence, strength and positivity. becomes paramount so book the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of volunteers The support we give free to anyone with any cancer, and in ASAP. to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better youis help

extends across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, make a difference to people’s lives when theyright need it most. the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of volunteers And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops. to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better you help Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute.

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34 | eastlife | october 2015

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Another helping of antidepressants, anyone? CLIVE PLUCKNETT, Naturopath, P.G.Dip. Anti Aging Medicine, P.G.Dip. Cancer Nutrition, P.G.Dip. Mental Health Nutrition, MBA, BA, P.G.Dip Science A few years ago, a good friend of mine, Mar, went to see her doctor about her lack of energy, motivation and generally feeling down. After a few standard tests, she was pronounced “well” and given some “mood support”, a common SSRI (an anti-depressant, that works with serotonin in the body).

and she would give me the Hawaiian happy sign.

When she told me, I took a deep breath, and then had the conversation:

We started with some facts:

“Why did your doctor put you on an SSRI?” I asked. “I don’t know, something about a chemical imbalance in my brain.” “Did he mention what chemicals? “Yes, serro..something.” “How did he know? Did he do a test to measure serotonin levels?” “No, he just knew.” “How?” “I don’t know, he asked me some questions about how I was feeling.” “How long will you be on them?” “I don’t know.” “Okay, so a SSRI does not fix the cause of the problem, it just deals with symptoms. What is being done to address the cause?” “What do you mean?” “Well, we have a diagnosis that there is something wrong with your serotonin levels, but we haven’t tested them. We have you on a drug to make you feel better, but what is causing this supposed low serotonin?” “I don’t know, does it matter, because the drug will make more serotonin.” “No it will not. What it does do is shut down mechanisms for conserving serotonin. Because the serotonin is not being conserved it is lost from the body. So, over time, you actually have less serotonin.” “I am sure that my doctor knows what he is doing.” My friend stayed on the SSRI for two years. I used to shake my head at her

One day she arrived on my doorstep saying that she had had enough. She wasn’t feeling any happier, her energy and motivation were shot, but she was too scared to come off the SSRIs for fear of what might happen.

• Depression is the leading cause of disability. • After six decades of testing, the use of SSRIs has not been explained or validated. • The urgency with putting patients on a SSRI for their safety is flawed because it takes about 6 weeks to have an effect in the body. Think about that, if the SSRI is making more serotonin available, then surely it should work immediately. • If low serotonin is the cause of depression, then why is it that when serotonin is artificially depleted in people who do not have depression, they do not become depressed? • There is more evidence that high serotonin levels lead to depression than low levels. • Several studies have looked at the effects of SSRIs compared to placebo (sugar pills). Between 75% and 80% of the positive results were attributable to the placebo effect (believing that something will happen) or the impact of time on the condition. • Whitaker in his book, The Anatomy of an Epidemic revised the available scientific literature, which leads to the inescapable conclusion that our drugbased paradigm of care is fuelling the epidemic of mental illness. Drugs increase the likelihood of a person

becoming chronically ill and induce new and more severe psychiatric symptoms in a significant percentage of patients. • There is a growing body of evidence showing the relationship between inflammation and depression. If this is so, then depression is a disease of the body, not the mind. • Many researchers believe that treatment can change a single episode problem into a reoccurring process. 60% of depression resolves itself in 6 weeks and 70% in a year, without treatment at all. After the education, came the hard work. We started with some testing. Mar’s serotonin was low, but GABA another inhibitory neurotransmitter, was lower. She was very low in her excitory neurotransmitters (the opposite of inhibitory). She had high levels of inflammation, high levels of homocysteine (a key measurement of something called methylation). She also had low blood sugar and her cortisol readings were out of whack

in the latter part of the day (cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenals and a key to how the body handles stress and inflammation). Mar also had a less than desirable lifestyle and diet. You can read about Mar’s recovery journey at our website. There is a place for SSRIs, in some cases, but in my view they are a shortterm solution addressing symptoms, while the real causes should be identified and addressed. Coming off SSRIs is not something that should be attempted without the support of your naturopath and doctor. In case you are wonderings whether these words are the meandering of a trendy leftie, ex hippie, touchyfeely naturopath, you should know that there is a growing number of psychiatrists and doctors who are moving away from the use of SSRIs and embracing more natural solutions, because of their effectiveness. If SSRIs are not getting you to your goals, then you may wish to see what the bewell clinic can offer you.

BeWell Clinic – Unleash Your Wellness Potential 730 Whitford Road, Whitford Village. Ph 530 8143, 021 490 801. bewell@clear.net.nz. www.bewell.net.nz Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not to be used as a substitute to professional, personalised advice. The views are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor. www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2015 |

Personal enhancement procedures Respected plastic surgeon, MARTIN REES from Marina Specialists addresses the desire by many people to improve on biological features they were born with or changes that have occurred through ageing.

‘

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

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

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

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

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

This person must be able to offer high quality surgery and be available for post-op care and support. No one regrets buying quality. Going for the cheapest price with a

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

Martin Rees FRACS Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon Marina Specialists, First Floor, “Compass Building”, Ara Tai Drive, Half Moon Bay Marina, Bucklands Beach Ph 534 4040, EDI: marinasp, www.plassurg.co.nz, www.marinamedical.co.nz

36 | eastlife | october 2015

www.eastlife.co.nz

Blueberry Lemon YOGURT CAKE Nothing says spring better than this recipe for something that’s as Kiwi as... well... blueberry pie! A delicious afternoon tea or dessert cake, this is one to wow family and friends.

IngredIents:

MetHOd:

• 1.5 cups white whole wheat flour (plus more for dusting) • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt • 2 medium lemons (zested and juiced) • 1 cup sugar • 3/4 cup plain whole-milk (full fat) yogurt or Greek yogurt • 3 extra large eggs • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 1 cup New Zealand frozen blueberries (do not defrost!) • 2 teaspoons honey

Preheat oven to 180 degrees C. Generously butter and flour a 8.5 (approx 20cm) by 2.5-inch (approx 6cm) loaf pan.

Prep time: 15 Minutes. Cook Time: 50 mins. Serves 12

Gently whisk in the dry ingredients, just until incorporated. Switch to a spatula and fold in the oil, making sure it’s all well blended.

Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour sugar into a separate mixing bowl. Grate all the zest from the lemons before rubbing zest into the sugar until the sugar is yellow and fragrant. Add yogurt, eggs and vanilla to the sugar mixture and whisk well, until combined.

In a separate bowl, toss frozen blueberries together with approximately one teaspoon of flour. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter. Pour batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sides begin to pull away from the sides of the pan. Test by inserting a toothpick into the centre; it should come out clean. Allow cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, warm two tablespoons lemon juice and two teaspoons honey – just long enough to whisk the honey into the juice – in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

Brush the lemon-honey glaze on top of the warm cake with a pastry brush until all liquid is used. Run a knife between the cake and the sides of the pan to loosen. Unmold the cake by placing a large plate or cutting board upside down over the loaf pan and carefully turning it over.

Turn the cake back onto a flat surface to cool completely. Slice, serve with thick Greek yogurt and enjoy! Recipe courtesy of Blueberries New Zealand; see blueberriesnz.co.nz/ recipes for more tasty treats.

Christmas functions made ‘Szimple’. Choose from the delicious set menu, all day menu or our exclusive ‘Feast’ sharing menu available for larger groups. Groups can also hire our famous outdoor oasis suitable for 60-100 ppl. Only 10 minutes from Manukau and plenty of parking, we’ve got your office party covered.

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2015 |

Rice, rice (paper) baby! E5222318

NEW SPRING MENU! A stylish restaurant and bar, with great atmosphere and cosy fireplace featuring delicious Thai cuisine.

Book now for Christmas functions Dinner 7 nights from 5.30pm Easy parking nearby Private function room Fully licensed/BYOW 590 Dominion Rd, Balmoral Ph 09 638 9516 • www.tusk.co.nz E515025-V2

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It’s time to turn away from those heavy, winter-warming dishes and say ‘Hi-de-Hi’ to healthy, spring dishes. That’s what CEO of the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation and all-round happy camper, Sue Pollard contends. “Fruit and vegetables are affordable, highly nutritious foods that not only

www.eastlife.co.nz 38 | eastlife | october 2015

So, to kick the season off in style, here’s a recipe that’s twice as rice for half the price:

Avocado and Mango Rice Paper Rolls Ingredients:

METHOD:

• 10 rice paper wrappers (or more) • 2 avocados, slice each into 10 wedges – sprinkle with lemon • Juice of 1 lemon • 1/4 red cabbage • 1 handful rocket or spinach • 2 carrots – cut into long thin strips (approximately 8cm) • 1 mango, peeled and sliced lengthways • 1/2 handful of coriander leaves

Mix dipping sauce ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Dipping sauce

WIN WIth

taste great but also help to protect against major illnesses,” she says. “Because most are low in calories and fill us up, eating plenty of vegetables has the added bonus of helping with maintaining a healthy weight.”

• 2 tablespoons honey • 1/4 cup soy sauce • 1 teaspoon grated ginger • 1 red and green chilli, sliced thinly at an angle • 2 cloves of garlic, crushed • Juice of 1/2 a lemon

Fill a large, shallow dish (large enough to fit the rice paper) with warm-hot water. Wet a clean tea towel and wrap around a chopping board. Submerge rice papers, one at a time, in the water for 20-30 seconds or until softened. Place the first of these on tea towel. Arrange two wedges of avocado in a row in the middle of the paper; alternate with strips of mango, carrot, red cabbage, salad greens and a little coriander. Fold the short side of the paper over ingredients until covered. Fold in each side and roll to seal ingredients. Repeat for each roll and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Recipe provided by 5+ A Day. See 5aday.co.nz/recipes for more. www.eastlife.co.nz

Now for a feast... What’s on the menu this month? With plenty on our plate, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite new and recent release ‘foodie’ books. To be in to win any of these tasty titles, see the competitions section at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close October 31, 2015. Winners notified by phone or email.

fIsH Of tHe MOntH

BLUE COD WIN! A WHEAT BELLY BOOK PACK

From Oceanz Seafood, The Hub, Botany

On reaching the disturbing conclusion that wheat is the single largest contributor to obesity, one good doctor prescribed its elimination from our diets.

Blue Cod is one of New Zealand’s most sought-after fish species. Mild and stunningly tasty, this fish fits any occasion. It can be cooked in many ways both whole or as a fillet.

Since witnessing more than 2000 patients regain their health after giving up wheat, Dr William Davis penned Wheat Belly, the first in a series of four books which cover how to lead a wheat-free lifestyle.

The next step was a pair of cookbooks – Wheat Belly Cookbook, and Wheat Belly 30 Minute or Less Cookbook – bursting with such treats as sausage pizza, chocolate chip cookies, mocha walnut brownies, triple-berry muffins, clam chowder and jambalaya, all without wheat. And, with the latest addition– Total Health – Dr Davis draws on lessons learnt since the release of his first

book. Providing a wide range of new tips and strategies to help us heal from a lifetime of damage caused by a grain-filled diet, Total Health caps off this best-selling series. Thanks to HarperCollins, EastLife has a book pack valued at more than $150 up for grabs including ALL FOUR of the titles mentioned above! • Dr William Davis: Wheat Belly series | HarperCollins

Asians, who love the white flesh of Blue Cod, tend to steam it whole and it is extremely popular on special occasions such as Chinese New Year.

WIn! sIMpLe saLads by penny OLIver When we saw this book was due for release we thought it looked delightful... then the ‘penny’ dropped. Considering it’s by the same famous food writer as One Dish Dinners, we simply had to ask Oliver for more! Featuring a comprehensive variety of salads – based around grains and pulses, noodles, fragrant herbs and vegetables, with meat or fish – Simple Salads is set to become a classic. • Penny Oliver: Simple Salads | RRP $40 | Penguin NZ

WIn! My garden kItcHen What’s cooking in your garden? Well, in Burch’s backyard it seems it’s a feast of delicious dishes! Designed to forge a path from garden to kitchen and beyond, this helpful book delivers recipes by the barrow full. Complete with beautiful photos, My Garden Kitchen dishes up an ideal meal of advice suited to those with a love of good gardening or great food. • Unna Burch: My Garden Kitchen | RRP $45 | New Holland www.eastlife.co.nz

Europeans tend to take full advantage of its delicate, flaky texture by pan-searing it until the flesh just turns white.

While it can occasionally be caught in the Hauraki Gulf, Blue Cod sold in Auckland predominantly comes from the Chatham Islands or Southland coast where stocks are abundant.

WIn! revIve cafe cOOkbOOk 5 It’s not often you can say the fifth of anything is like a breath of fresh air. However, that’s definitely the case with the latest in Jeremy Dixon’s Revive Cafe Cookbook series. With a feast of vegetarian fare focused on whole grains, plant-based protein, fresh produce and virtually no processed sugars or flours, all recipes are dairy and egg-free, while most are gluten-free too. • Jeremy Dixon: Revive Cafe Cookbook 5 | RRP $29.99 | Revive Concepts

One of the unique things about Blue Cod is that it is caught by potting. Pots are baited and laid on the ocean floor for around 20 minutes then hauled up. This is great for the environment and ensures only fish of the correct size are kept. Blue Cod is a good source of phosphorus which plays an important role assisting in building strong bones and teeth and in the conversion of food into energy. What’s more Blue Cod can be hermaphroditic, switching from female to male after reaching maturity – something to envy perhaps! eastlife | october 2015 |

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.

Got to be NUTTERS You don’t have to be nuts to work here, but it helps! Especially when coming across NUTTERS, a new range of tasty, nutty mixtures. From sweet and salty crunch of Sweet n’ Sassy, Smokin’ Chipotle’s spice, or a little indulgence with Chocoholic Chomp, to Ginger Nuts, Almond Craze, Cruisin’ Cashews and Off the Wall nuts, there are seven varieties from which to choose. So use your nut, pick up a pack (RRP $3.99-$4.29) at Countdown!

Baby food from the garden A baby’s first taste of ‘solids’ can prompt a multitude of reactions from pleasure to disgust but when it comes to a new range of four smooth purees in squeezable pouches from Rafferty’s Garden, little ones will be treated to wholesome, delicious and nutritious foods. The new flavours are pear & apricot; pear & superberries; spinach apple, broccoli & pea and pumpkin apple & sweetcorn, bringing the Rafferty’s Garden range of nutritionally balanced flavours to nine. Each 120g pouch is the perfect size to pop into a baby bag. No extra spoon needed and these foods don’t need heating – so convenient for busy parents! Available from supermarkets nationwide – RRP $2.19 each

Wendy’s not quite ‘all black’ burger While watching the All Blacks sink their teeth into the Rugby World Cup, Kiwis will hope the fruits of victory won’t become ashes in their mouths. However, (on a completely unrelated matter, of course!), Wendy’s new Gourmet Kiwi Classic on Black Brioche burgers leave the competition in the dust, thanks to their fresh fillings and black (as opposed to All Black) buns. Using just a touch of flavourless, food-grade charcoal, to achieve their colour, these burgers are available for a limited time in beef (RRP $10.90) or chicken ($11.40) varieties.

Take a break with soft-baked oatmeal squares Mums on the run,will love the new crack snack from Nature Valley. Perfectly soft and deliciously chewy, softbacked, Oatmeal Squares will get kids, partners, and ‘not a minute to spare’ mums, through the day! Packed with the goodness of whole grain for a great energy boost, Nature Valley Oatmeal Squares are gently baked then lightly drizzled with delicious peanut butter topping. A quick and yummy breakfast, ideal for the lunchbox and a handy snack solution for slow afternoons, Nature Valley Oatmeal Squares (RRP $4.79) are available at leading supermarkets nationwide.

Moa’s flexes muscles for Brussels What’s Belgian for Moa? It may vary depending on which of the country’s official languages one speaks, but the universal term is... mmmm! After successful releases of his Green and Red editions, Moa’s head brewer, David Nicholls, has cooked up his limited edition Festive IPA Belgian. Sporting a royal purple and bronze label, this beer offers a fusion of American and Belgian styles, with fruity, spicy flavours. American hops, Citra and Amarillo are used for aromatics. This bitter brew is available (RRP $7.99) from liquor outlets and supermarkets nationwide.

40 | eastlife | october 2015

Loving the spread Let’s give a hand to Alfa One Rice Bran Oil spreads for turning its back on palm oil! Because the development of palm oil has been linked to issues such as deforestation, climate change and even animal cruelty, Alfa One spreads use rice bran oil instead. And this appears to be pretty good news for we people too, as it contains naturally occurring antioxidants, no artificial colours and flavours, and less saturated fat than butter. What’s more, we hear it can even help lower cholesterol absorption. Way to make nice with the rice, Alpha One! www.eastlife.co.nz

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

PORTOFINO

THE APOTHECARY

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Portofino is a family of local restaurants focused on delighting every guest with a genuine Italian dining experience. We are proud to serve fresh, simple, delicious Italian food, complemented by a great glass of wine, served in a comfortable, home-like Italian setting where everyone is welcomed as family and friends....

COME IN and TRY the NEW MENU at The Apothecary Licensed Bar and Eatery!

Come in and try our award-winning wood-fired pizza or gourmet pasta from our NEW SUMMER MENU!

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298B Ti Rakau Dr, Burswood. Ph 273 9797. Open Monday-Sunday 11.30am-late www.passito.co.nz • Find us on facebook

27-29 Picton St, Howick. Ph 535 9661. www.facebook.com/theapothecaryhowick

LICENSED

• OPEN LUNCH EVERY DAY • AWARD-WINNING WOOD-FIRED PIZZA – Take-away available • NEW SUMMER MENU • GOLF MEMBERS 10% OFF: Pakuranga Golf Club, Howick Golf Club. T&C apply • CATERING OPTIONS AVAILABLE • PRIVATE FUNCTIONS AVAILABLE – We create menus to suit your needs and budgets

LICENSED

THAI

RESTAURANT & BAR

Restaurant

XACUTI RESTAURANT & BAR

ROSSINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

BENJARONG THAI RESTAURANT

Xacuti is Auckland’s ﬁrst Goan-Portuguese restaurant. It celebrates the cuisine and culture of Goa which was colonised by the Portuguese for more than 450 years. Its culinary style is largely seafood-based and symbolises a harmony of ﬂavours from East and West. Intense spices especially chilli, as well as chicken and coconut milk, are also typical of this unique cuisine.

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.

After 16 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. Now, a stunning new makeover and a Monday to Thursday Happy Hour with the most delectable snacking plates and low, low prices, is providing dedicated foodies who love the exotic with scores of reasons to dine at this Howick jewel.

• CUISINE BEYOND BOUNDARIES – EAT. LIVE. ENJOY.

• 20% Off YOUR BILL ON pRESENTATION Of ThIS ADvERT

124 Picton St, Howick. Ph 534 3051. Open Tuesday-Sunday 6pm till 10.30pm www.xacuti.co.nz

LICENSED • BYO www.eastlife.co.nz

87 Picton Street, Howick. Ph 533 9568. Open Lunch Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm, Dinner 7 nights 4.30pm till late www.benjarong.co.nz

7A/125 Meadowlands Drive, Meadowlands, howick. ph 537 5554. Open Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-11.00pm

LICENSED • BYO

• HAPPY HOUR MON-THURS – $6 beers and house wine from 4.30-6.30pm

LICENSED • BYOW

$$ eastlife | october 2015 |

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

DooLaN BrothErS BotaNy

CASA TUA RESTAURANT

TEXTURE CAFE – Taste, Experience, Indulge

Doolans Botany serves a fine array of pub food, encompassing NZ’s freshest produce. Our kids’ meals all come with a wee surprise to keep the little ones occupied whilst you enjoy your meal. Sundays are a great day to spend relaxing at Doolans. With a live acoustic duo and outdoor cocktail bar serving fruit daiquiris in our sunny beer garden, it’s worth giving the beach a miss.

If you’re looking for tasty Italian fare, then look no further. Cosily tucked away in Farm Cove, you’ll find Casa Tua Restaurant & The Tapas Room. We’re open Tuesday-Sunday every evening where you can dine in our main restaurant, enjoy tapas in The Tapas Room or grab takeaways on your way home. BYO Wine is available when dining in the main restaurant. Full bar available in The Tapas Room. We’re also the perfect venue for private functions.

A boutique cafe that aims to exceed expectations, Texture Cafe delivers different tastes, textures and styles and is a comfortable spot to enjoy ample fresh and flavoursome food and great coffee.

• rEStaUraNt QUaLIty FooD @ PUB PrICES – 2 courses for $34.95 or 3 courses for $39.95 from 5pm weekdays and all day weekends. 588 Chapel road, Botany town Centre Ph 271 2001. open 7 days, 9am-10pm www.doolanbrothers.co.nz

LICENSED

• DAILY HAPPY HOUR 5-6PM

• BOOK NOW FOR IN HOUSE AND OUT CATERING CHRISTMAS FUNCTIONS – at Texture we create menus to suit all budgets and dietary requirements. Come and talk to us today to see how we can accommodate your special event.

190 Fisher Parade, Farm Cove. Ph 576 3739. Open 6 nights, Tues to Sun Bar from 4pm, Restaurant 6pm-late www.casa-tua.co.nz

1/1 Arranmore Dr, Flat Bush. Ph 550-9020 Open Mon-Fri 5.30am-3.30pm, Sat-Sun 5.30am-4.30pm www.texturecafe.co.nz texturecafe

BYO • LICENSED

LICENSED

FISHER HOUSE

SaLt INDIaN rEStauraNt

OCEANZ SEAFOOD BOTANY

Fisher House is East Tamaki’s premier dining and entertainment venue. Whether it’s for breakfast or brunch, lunch, one of our specialty High Teas or an intimate dinner for two or a larger group, we are here to look after your needs. And don’t forget about our Famous Sunday Roast available from midday every Sunday including Sunday nights.

Authentic, affordable, full-bodied Indian and vegetarian cuisine created with flair. A gorgeous seaside view and contemporary ambience sets the scene. We cater for all occasions, anywhere, anytime with friendly service, impeccable presentation and, most importantly, first-class food. All mains $10 – Mon, Tues, Wed. Dine in or takeaway – deliveries available.

At Oceanz we pride ourselves on the consistency and freshness of our seafood and on the award-winning takeaways we have been serving our customers for more than 10 years.

• COME HOME – TO FISHER HOUSE!

• LuNCH SPECIaL $10 – Any curry, rice, naan plus glass of house beer, wine or soft drink

117 Kerwyn Ave, Highbrook. Ph 271 1066 Open 7 days, Monday-Friday 6am-late, Saturday-Sunday 10am-late. www.fisherhouse.co.nz info@fisherhouse.co.nz

LICENSED

42 | eastlife | october 2015

The freshest seafood delicatessen in town – check out our huge range of fish and shellfish along with ready to eat seafood and mouthwatering, fresh takeaways – the best catch in town! ‘FROM OUR BOATS TO YOUR PLATES’ 1/451 Ti Rakau Drive, The Hub, Botany. Ph 271 4880 Open Sun-Thurs 9am-7pm, Fri-Sat 9am-7.30pm www.oceanz.co.nz

23a the Parade, Bucklands Beach. Ph 533 5200. Open 7 days 11.30am-late www.saltindian.co.nz

$-$$

BYO • LICENSED

$ www.eastlife.co.nz

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

TUAKAU HOTEL

RED SHED PALAZZO COUNTRY CAFE

SZIMPLA GASTRO BAR

Elsie’s Restaurant in the award-winning Tuakau Hotel offers classical dining with elegant country ambiance.

Tucked down Jesmond Rd, just one kilometre from the motorway off-ramp at Drury, Red Shed Palazzo is a stylish eatery nestled amongst beautiful country gardens. Family (and dog) friendly with a children’s playground, the tranquil environment offers relaxed indoor/ outdoor dining and is perfect for special occasions.

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.

For an intimate evening out or a group celebration, Elsie’s Restaurant is the popular choice and can cater for up to 60 guests. Our new Head Chef Jacqui Brown has created a brand new menu, adding a city sophistication to traditional menu favourites. Book your table today and try our new menu. Tuakau Hotel, 1-3 George St, Tuakau. Ph 09 236 8084. restaurant@tuakauhotel.co.nz Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat & Sun 10am-9pm or by arrangement for group functions

LICENSED

Red Shed Palazzo is a fully licensed country cafe offering a mouth-watering menu of creative breakfasts, well-balanced lunches, outstanding cake/dessert selection and delicious ALLPRESS coffee. 64 Jesmond Road, Karaka. Ph 09 294 6687. Open 7 days, 8.30am-4pm. www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz Wilcom ES-45 Designer

LICENSED

• $12.90 LuNCh SPECIALS – 12-3pm Mon-Fri 2 Leonard Isitt Dr, Auckland Airport. Ph 215 1220. Open 7 days 10am-late. info@szimpla.co.nz • www.szimpla.co.nz S: 12928 C: 2/3

Author:

• fuNCTION SPACES available up to 120 people

Last Saved: 29 May, 2013

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Fabric:

 thE waypoINt

1981 BAR & RESTAURANT

THE HOTEL CLEVEDON

At The Waypoint we combine fast and friendly service with a quality selection of delicious food and refreshing beverages. The Waypoint provides an inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy a quality coffee, relax with a wine over lunch or dinner, or pop in for social after-work drinks to unwind for the day. • Book your CompaNy ChrIStmaS fuNCtIoN toDay

Located just off the Southern Motorway, 1981 is Manukau’s busiest nightspot. For those wanting to dine in or simply socialise with a few after work drinks then 1981 has it all. An all day brunch and full dinner menu caters for all ages. Fully licensed with two function rooms, three outdoor decks and ample room for walk-ins, come check out our tasty bourbon ribs, homemade pizzas and more. Contact us for more information.

The Wairoa Brasserie at The Hotel Clevedon has a varied menu, smart modern decor and cosy fireplace. Come and try our new winter menu featuring hearty tasty food to warm you from the inside out. Try all you can eat pizza and pasta for $20 on Monday nights or the popular Sunday roast with all the trimmings. Private function area available.

• avaILaBLE for prIvatE fuNCtIoNS

• FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE – FREE HIRE

Cnr Springs and Smales rd, East tamaki. ph 273 1641. open mon-fri, 10am to late, Sat-Sun 11.30am to late www.waypoint.net.nz

712 Great South Road, Manukau. Ph 263 9696. Open 7 days from 12pm www.1981.co.nz

LICENSED www.eastlife.co.nz

LICENSED

• SPECIAL – Wednesday children eat free with paying adult 26 Clevedon Kawakawa Rd, Clevedon. Ph 292 8783 Brasserie open Wed 5-9pm, Thurs-Sun 11-1am. Bar meals Tues-Sun from 5pm www.thehotelclevedon.co.nz

LICENSED

$$ eastlife | october 2015 |

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS Perceptions as to the single most important thing in life vary enormously. The same can be said when contemplating a ‘favourite thing’. EastLife asked Keld and Brendan Kelly, owners of Quest Highbrook about their favourite things.

BATEAU FROM THE CHATEAU Photos of loved ones are tucked into many a wallet or, in today’s modern age, are stored as a screen saver. Keld Kelly is no different. He has a picture of husband, Brendan Kelly on his phone. On the other hand Brendan’s screen saver proudly displays an image of his beloved boat – a Searay 204. “I’ve always said of our marriage, ‘I came with a boat, and I’ll go (presumably in death) with a boat’.” Those profound words were uttered back in Denmark 16 years ago, when Brendan’s then Searay 200 sport boat was moored outside the couple’s apartment on one of Copenhagen’s lovely canals. There, it was mostly used for water skiing, travelling into town and for gin tours round the city waterways. But Auckland is a long way from Denmark and today Keld and Brendan are no longer revelling in Scandinavian life but instead own and operate Quest Highbrook at The Crossing. What hasn’t changed is Brendan’s love of his boat and today the apple of his eye is his current, bigger Searay 240. Here is what he has to say about his favourite thing: When we moved from Copenhagen to landlocked Brussels in 2001, my original Searay 200 had to go. But when we relocated to a chateau on the Canal du Midi, in France, it was time to bring a boat back into our fold.

The French didn’t “get” it but, regardless, this entirely inappropriate ‘canal’ boat was used over four seasons, for leisurely cruises doing no more than five knots max. She was the laughing stock of serious barge-owning friends but that never bothered me! When we sold the chateau, the boat was used to transport our interim possessions around the south of France and on to Italy although the road journey was not without mishap. Approaching Rome, a wheel fell off the trailer and overtook us! And, that was the second time! But eventually Bateau was back where she belonged – in the water!

In the aftermath of the GFC, I imported a “distressed sale” boat, taking the licence to upgrade, from Florida to EU port Zebrugge.

We ferried her to Crete where we settled for a year. Mooring in Chania was a dream – not! We had the boat there for a season, much of which was spent waiting for a new key as I had dropped the original – bloody thing – in the drink.

“My brother and I trailered it to the south of France to launch in the canal and after not much thought, she was named “Bateau at the Chateau”….a salute to the Allo Allo – gateau at the chateau TV series run.

After a year of trying hard, Crete was not for us. So we ditched the cars and moved home to New Zealand with our dog Sybelle, and two cats. We arranged for the boat to follow once shipping was arranged.

44 | eastlife | october 2015

However, after arriving back in New Zealand, we discovered that the boat had been impounded on its second leg of transportation in Pireaus by Greek customs, the authorities adamant GST on an EU registered vessel was required. Fortunately, brother James managed a rescue mission, driving down in a truck to uplift the boat from the shipping yard. He managed to get out via ferry from Patras to Italy with a “used” GST number AND a speeding ticket. But, finally, my boat was on its way south. Eventually, I picked her up in Auckland and drove straight to VTNZ for her trailer registration, only to find the EU braking system could not meet NZ regs. All that overcome, she now resides on the rack at Pine Harbour, regularly plying her way between there and our holiday home at Orapiu on Waiheke.

Above, Keld (left) and Brendan Kelly in the Quest Highbrook foyer where Keld’s 100 year old piano stool still supports avid interest. Top left, Brendan’s buoy toy.

Bateau (or the “bloody boat”, as she is referred to by Keld) has travelled far with us, is lovingly cleaned and mechanically manicured. She’s a great boy’s toy for fishing and fun and she is one definitely of my favourite things. www.eastlife.co.nz

a rousing ‘chair’ for fond memories If Brendan Kelly has had a long standing love affair with his Searay 204, his husband, Keld’s favourite thing, a velour-covered piano stool, looks best on terra firm, in fact it looks right at home in reception at Quest Highbrook, the hotel the pair own and operate locally. Here’s what he has to say about it: Round and covered in green velour, the piano stool stands on a simple four-legged mahogany foot that unites the seat through a large threaded screw enabling height adjustment of the chair. It doesn’t look much but, I imagine, it has had a life a bit more adventurous than others. For sure, famous composers may not have sat on my piano stool and it probably didn’t participate in soirees by Madame Bovary but it always seems to be at the centre of attention…… To be honest, I don’t even know the full story of the stool, which I first encountered when my mother married her second husband Olav, who brought the piano stool with him. It came from his childhood home in Hadsten, a small provincial town in the middle of Jutland, Denmark. Olav and the stool were a part of a warm and liberal-thinking family that actively participated in the local community, political meetings, parties and card evenings, all typical of the 30s and 40s Denmark.

Photo Wayne Martin

Unfortunately, their way and choice of life saw Olav’s dad arrested during the German occupation and taken to a camp in the south of Denmark. As a political prisoner, he was treated better than other groups of prisoners, but the experience affected him for life.

When Olav’s parents died, the piano stool followed him and the piano went to his sister. Olav liked to joke about this, when he went to the local balls and chatted with social snobs. He would start a sentence with: “Coming from a home with a piano” – then pause on seeing a slight acknowledgement in their eyes – and continue, “stool…….” further enjoying the bewilderment as his audience tried to follow the rest of the sentence. As time went by, I picked up playing the piano, using the same stool. Then when I met Brendan in Copenhagen, Olav easily took to him, calling him “Funny Man” – it took one to know one! Olav loved to point out to Brendan, who’s a BMW enthusiast, that even the piano stool at home was a BMW (it has those initials written under the seat). We eventually acquired a piano in Copenhagen and the piano stool moved in with us, then accompanied us on our move to Brussels and later France. It has accommodated many shapes and sizes and been the centre of many “Table D’Hotes” at our former B&B. Local wine “ad libitum” always brought, if not the best singing voices, then at least the loudest ones, to our sing-alongs! Now at 100 years plus, this lovely old stool stands in our reception area silently looking over newer furniture and contemporary design elements. Being from a musical family, I would not be surprised, if it hasn’t already picked up the Kiwi accent from everyone who has a go at the piano. Should it ever reflect on its time with Olav, who sadly died in February 2011, it might even say “Good on ya, Funny Man”.

The Christmas season brings many reasons to celebrate and gather. Get in early and book your table for an evening of Christmas cheer at The Lounge.

Unique Venue For Hire

The perfect setting for an intimate celebration, wedding or business function. The Lounge is a unique function centre in Howick Valley.

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www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2015 |

! g n i r p s relax in comfort

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New Season Outdoor Furniture In Store Now

Bring in this coupon for an extra 10% off your purchase in the Furniture or Bedding Departments at Harvey Norman Mt Wellington* Ends: 31/10/15. *Excludes Super Deals in the Bedding Department.

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SHOP with CONFIDENCE. 46 | eastlife | october 2015 Product offers are valid until 31/10/15.

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Furnishing a bedroom embraces the same elements as other rooms of the home – personal taste, a desire for comfort, the option of colourful accessories and a need for storage but perhaps the most important requirement is a supportive and comfortable mattress. There are many mattresses, but there is only one TEMPUR. Nothing adapts, conforms and supports like TEMPUR material. It responds to the body’s temperature, adapting to the occupant’s weight and unique shape giving personalised support and alignment. TEMPUR material delivers uninterrupted, quality sleep. At TEMPUR, designers believe that whatever one’s shape, size or age, a mattress should contour to the exact shape of your body, not the other way around. That’s why TEMPUR has created three distinct mattress collections, each uniquely different, but all designed to conform and adapt to the exact shape of the body. TEMPUR Zero Gs provide weightless comfort at the touch of a button. This mattress adjusts to form the ultimate

The EastLife team had a tough task selecting this Italian company’s finest designs, but its Igloo range of sofas, luxury ‘deck chairs’ and occasional tables was a shared

Portofino Day Bed www.eastlife.co.nz

By gently elevating the legs, the TEMPUR Zero G pre-set will increase circulation throughout your body for complete relaxation that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Choosing the right pillow can also improve how well your body is positioned at night, affecting the quality of your sleep. TEMPUR offers a wide range of pillows to accommodate a variety of preferences and sleep positions. All offer the optimal comfort and support of the TEMPUR material, but each uses distinctive technology, design and special features to match your sleep preference. Tempur – available at Harvey Norman, Mt Welllington.

out of europe

roll on summer BELLISSIMO! When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s more likely the bottle than amore, sorry Deano! However, it’s easy to fall in love with Italy when it’s home to such elegant designs as those in Roberti Rattan’s range of outdoor furniture.

position for a feeling of complete weightlessness in a single movement.

favourite which just screams outdoor opulence. While these designs, and the Portofino Day Bed too, have been enjoyed back in old Napoli (and elsewhere in the northern hemisphere), now that spring is here, it’s time for Kiwis to fall in love too! Products can be ordered direct (see robertirattan.com/en) or selected products are available from poynters.co.nz.

Igloo Sofa eastlife | october 2015 |

Art exhibition sails ahead If the kitchen is the hub of the home then art is the heart of contemporary living as many homeowners show an increasing desire to invest in quality paintings and artworks. There was a time when the finances of young couples might not have run to an ‘original’ work but growing appreciation of local talent and a desire to showcase their works, has seen impersonal prints rejected for more meaningful and meritorious canvasses. For those keen to add to a collection, works by local artists and by celebrated New Zealand painter, Lindsay Muirhead can be seen at The Bucklands Beach

Yacht Club’s 7th Annual Art Exhibition, Wednesday to Sunday, November 4-8.

Lindsay’s work will be available for purchase at the exhibition.

A former Pakuranga resident, Lindsay Muirhead has been capturing the beauty of our New Zealand wilderness in his paintings for more than 35 years.

Entry is free and the proceeds from sales will benefit the yacht club’s Junior Sailing Academy.

To gather material for his work, he has hired helicopters to fly to some of the more inaccessible parts of Fiordland and it is his love of this area that he frequently portrays using light and mood to capture the essence of his subject. Now living in Cambridge, where he has been exploring different styles,

Lindsay Muirhead

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48 | eastlife | october 2015

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Roman if you dare to! DICTATOR Genre: Historical fiction Author: Robert Harris Rated: ★★★★★ Reviewed by: JON RAWLINSON Forget dirty politics, in ancient Rome statecraft was downright filthy! With the sun setting on the Roman Republic and civil war on the cards, Marcus Tullius Cicero, is centrestage. Whether his cunning helps the orator, lawyer and politician weather the storm is revealed in this scintillating novel, based on historical events.

turn, Cicero attempts to safeguard his principles and devotion to democracy.

but Harris’s deliciously subversive humour provides many a laugh along the way as well.

From the duplicitous Pompey and brutish Milo, to ruthless pretty boy Clodius and the ever menacing Julius Caesar, Cicero has friends, enemies and ‘frenemies’ in the highest of places with which to contend.

While Dictator is the last in a trilogy (also Imperium and Conspirata – aka Lustrum) focused on Cicero’s career, it is not entirely necessary to first read the preceding works.

And their ambitions often lead to more than derisive heckling and hurt feelings – Caesar, for one, makes John Key look like Mother Teresa – albeit with a few more bad ‘habits’! This book could be described as Yes Minister meets Up Pompeii meets The Twelve Caesars. It is a serious commentary on politics at heart,

Falling in and out of favour, as fortunes of Rome’s eminent and notorious statesmen twist and

Some knowledge of Roman history is advantageous, allowing appreciation of more subtle points. However, while history books can be a little bland, with Dictator, Harris dishes up a luscious feast which, much like revenge, can be enjoyed cold! • Robert Harris: Dictator | RRP $38 or $60 (hardback) | Penguin Random House

In her element

Tiffany’s impressive site installations deal with notions of ritual and sacredness, they are multi-sensory works with swarms of text, ribbons and wind chimes.

Malcolm Smith Gallery curator, Balamohan Shingade says the exhibition was collaboratively realised by working closely with various schools and community groups in Owairoa. The River of Verses, for example will be complemented by A5 size tin embossings created by students at Somerville Intermediate. A 2008 graduate of Elam School of Fine Arts in 2008, Tiffany has exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the 18th

framestoday@gmail.com

www.eastlife.co.nz

Photo Wayne Martin

Showing jointly at Malcolm Smith Gallery, (Uxbridge) and Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery (Fo Guang Shan Temple), as part of ArtWeek Auckland 2015, Maha¯bhu¯ta: The Great Elements, opened at the end of September.

The installation at Fo Guang Art Galley will be on show until December 27 while the River of Verses segment at the Malcolm Smith Gallery will be exhibited until November 19, the twin exhibition, a rare chance to see a work of this magnitude and integrity.

Tiffany Singh Biennale of Sydney, the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, the Auckland Art Gallery, and more.

Te Tuhi gallery In its contribution to ArtWeek Auckland, Te Tuhi, Pakuranga brings four talented artists together for its Spring Exhibitions.

open mon-fri 9-5 sat 10-2

Wellingtonian, Jenny Gillam, combines art and science in an in-depth and ambitious project, while Mickey Smith presents a solo exhibition that taps into a body of work in exploration of the historic legacy of Carnegie Libraries in New Zealand. In addition, Shannon Novak displays a Te Tuhi Project Wall and Talia Smith offers up Te Tuhi Billboards.

PICTURE FRAMING . CANVAS PRINTING . NZ ART

eastlife | october 2015 |

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The natural elements have been debated for thousands of years and are constantly subject to new reflections. Now internationally acclaimed Auckland artist, Tiffany Singh has put forward an interpretation on the great elements in a solo exhibition across two local galleries.

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Chefs get festive As we swing into spring, the festive season isn’t too far off. And, in some of Auckland’s finest kitchens, some are already beginning to cook a lot like (it’s) Christmas! During the Festive Home Tour (Friday, November 6), a select group of Auckland homeowners will roll out the welcome mat as visitors experience some of the Super City’s most inspiring abodes, with proceeds donated to support World Child Cancer’s Pacific chapter. And beyond their festive-themed finery, these delightful domiciles will offer more to explore in their kitchens, thanks to dishes from some of the Super City’s top chefs. Involved with the event for three years, Ponsonby Road Bistro’s Sarah Conway says a cause is close to her heart. “It’s a heartbreaking scenario and one that struck a chord with us from

the start. It’s lovely being able to help in our small way. The lovely homes and the food are obviously great, but raising funds and awareness is the crux of what it’s all about!” Taking in homes in Saint Heliers, Kohimarama, Glendowie, Parnell and Remuera, the tour features an award-winning cliff-top residence, a tranquil oasis in solid concrete, a modern three level bungalow and more. Tickets are available from ticketek.co.nz.

Of berries and limes...

New season soft furnishing trends bite into the colour-rich tones of limes and berries prompted by thoughts of boysenberry icecream, blueberry pie and chartreuse parfait. Marion Woolford from Howick Furnishings says purple becomes the new pink while powerful burgundies soften to carmine and raspberry. “Put them all together and this softly smudged berry palette with hints of indigo will add juicy summer flair to any room. “Alternatively, fresh lemon and lime tones just fizz – gorgeous chartreuse, www.eastlife.co.nz

soft celery and a hint of butternut are all options. Temper with neutrals or add a flash of black for dramatic results indoors and out.” Curtains, cushions, upholstery and blinds, let Howick Furnishings co-ordinate your look.

Howick Furnishings Ltd Corner Moore & Vincent Sts, Howick Phone 534 6812 Email info@howickfurnishings.co.nz www.howickfurnishings.co.nz eastlife | october 2015 |

The Midas touch Turning bricks, mortar and timber into gold, silver and bronze may seem impossible but a number of local construction companies did just that at the Auckland Registered Master Builders 2015 House of the Year Awards. The winning builders, competing in a variety of categories, were revealed at a gala dinner in Auckland recently with the 33 Gold Award winners eligible – alongside Gold Award winners from other parts of the country – to become National Gold Reserve finalists. National Category winners and the Registered Master Builders’ Supreme Awards for Renovation of the Year and for House of the Year will be announced at a gala dinner in Auckland in November. Today, we feature the stunning contemporary home in Karaka which won David Reid Homes Counties a gold medal in the Carters New Home $1million to $2million category and has qualified as Gold Reserve Finalist at national level. Brendon Hamill, franchise owner of David Reid Homes Counties says he is delighted with the gold honour and with the build. “It is an outstanding design and we are proud of its remarkable architectural elements. The aim is to add more such attributes to the urban environment in the future.”

David Reid Homes is proud to be one of the top design and build companies in the Auckland area, with a well-established team to help create even the most challenging homes. Call Brendon today to arrange a time to discuss your options. David Reid Homes Counties

KAT4064

Unit 6, 23 Creek Street Drury 2247, Auckland

52 | eastlife | october 2015

09 294 9145 www.davidreidhomes.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

Wrapping up homes – effectively! Despairing property owners struggling to remedy leaky homes without going bankrupt have been thrown a unprecedented lifeline by Seamless Coatings, the enterprising company behind the newly developed Liquid Cladding System (LCS). Specialising in waterproof coatings, painting, and specialist protective coatings for all exterior surfaces of homes or buildings, the company – headed by Wellington entrepreneur Terry Archer – has recently completed various Auckland contracts including a 13-storey building with multiple moisture issues. Now it is focusing on monolithic houses with moisture issues. Terry says the LCS system was developed in conjunction with moisture technician Mike Winton. “Until now there has been no sound solution for houses suffering moisture issues other than to reclad,” Terry says. “In addition, there are also many other houses with water-tightness problems that do not necessarily fall into the wider ‘leaky homes’ issue.” Importantly, he says LCS addresses moisture issues without having to rip a monolithic home apart – “its an affordable and effective alternative to a total reclad,” he says. “Leaky homes came about between 1990 and 2005. Regardless of whether it was poor design, poor building practice or planning regulations that allowed leaking to occur, the results have proved disastrous for many.” However, until now, building consultants and specialists have mostly recommended a total re-clad posing a severe financial burden on many homeowners. What’s more, Terry believes that in trying to remedy the problems many industries lost sight of the basic issue – lack of water tightness. “LCS is the first process to address this issue from a different perspective, allowing each and every individual house to be attended to independently,” he explains. “A series of processes that determine water tightness, address causes and www.eastlife.co.nz

terry arcHer

‘

testIMOnIaLs “Overwhelmingly a positive experience. The project was completed on time with good results while under time pressure and unfavourable weather. The team was well-tuned to execute tasks fast and efficiently. No shortcuts were taken. They genuinely care about their reputation and take pride in their work. Very good communication – I was kept informed throughout the project. The team listened and showed flexibility – I really appreciated this aspect.” – Irek

A series of processes that determine water tightness, address causes and treat the issues with next-generation products, LCS is not just one product, but a comprehensive sequence of precise methods, evaluations and assessments.”

treat the issues with next-generation products, LCS is not just one product, but a comprehensive sequence of precise methods, evaluations and assessments.” Seamless Coatings uses the following tried and tested waterproofing products: • ffr-k1 – a flexible, multi-purpose, seamless, waterproof membrane designed to protect a variety of surfaces including asphalt, single-ply, PVC, TPO, rubber, concrete, foam, wood, and metal. It is also suitable for coating petroleum-based surfaces such as tar or rubber cement. • the bep blue barrier total building envelope system – a family of products developed to prevent water

and air intrusion, as well as mould growth, and to protect the building with a seamless, liquid-applied membrane. Before starting out, data on moisture content is gathered to give a real understanding of the condition of the framing, especially the amount of rot which may have occurred, Terry says. Once repairs and waterproof coatings have been completed, probes are installed to continue to gather data as an ongoing maintenance programme. And the LCS isn’t restricted to leaky homes. It is also ideal as a protective measure for all render-clad houses, providing the top coat is maintained. Talk to Seamless Coatings now!

“Terry was an absolute professional to deal with. He arrived when he said he would, covered every aspect of the job required and promptly produced a comprehensive quote. The work was done quickly and to a high standard. ” – Sue and Al

Seamless Coatings

all weather protection

Ph 0508 SEAMLESS (0508 732 653) Email: terry@seamlesscoatings.co.nz www.seamlesscoatings.co.nz eastlife | october 2015 |

Sun-sational efforts From the smallest of people come the biggest of efforts. That’s the philosophy behind Daltons Sunflowers in Kindergartens Project, which sees youngsters learn about the wonders of nature. Running until December, this year’s project features kindergartens from throughout the country, including Maraetai Beachlands Kindergarten, Highland Park kindergarten and Botany Downs Kindergarten. A wide range of prizes is up for grabs. But how can little hands reach for the sun? To help them along, we’ve prepared a few tips and tricks with a little help from our friends at Daltons.

WHat are sunfLOWers anyWay? Big, brash and truly fantastic, sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are easily recognised by their flowers – with brilliantly coloured flowering heads, reminiscent of the sun – wide, hairy stems and coarse leaves. No victim of the ‘tall poppy syndrome’, these majestic beauties grow quickly – to up to three metres within six months – turning all manner of nearby flowers into shrinking violets by comparison! Ideally planted between October and December, sunflowers can be grown from seeds, which are available at garden centres nationwide, or as young plants. Whether for their stunning good looks or tasty seeds, summer just wouldn’t be the same without sunflowers as these heliolatry honeys grace us with their presence, lifting and moving their heads from east to west, following the sun.

54 | eastlife | october 2015

HOW tO grOW

weather.

you will need:

After approximately 10-11 weeks, when the backs of the flowering heads become brown, sunflower seeds can be harvested. When heads begin to turn yellow and the petals fall, cover them with paper bags, to allow moisture out, while preventing birds from harvesting your seeds for you!

• Daltons seed mix • Kings Seeds – Skyscraper sunflower • a small pot such as a yogurt container with drainage holes in the bottom • a small shovel • a water spray bottle • a plastic dish or ice-cream container to hold the pots Fill the small pot, almost to the top, with the seed raising mix and sow sunflower seeds into the soil at a depth of roughly 1-1.5cm deep, but no more than twice the diameter of the seed. Add a little more soil on top and water lightly before placing pots into the plastic dish or ice-cream container. To give seeds the best chance to germinate, keep them indoors on a sunny windowsill for the first month or so, particularly if it’s still cold outside. You can also create your own, mini green-house by cutting the bottom out of a 1.5 litre plastic bottle, removing the lid and placing it over the pot. Water regularly for even germination and growth, but avoid overwatering which can rot the seeds. When seedlings sprout, they will develop a set of leaves which look almost like a four-leaf clover. A few days later, a single leaf (the first true leaf) will emerge that does not look like the others. Once seedlings have sprouted their second set of true leaves (they should be roughly 10-15cm tall), they will be big enough to plant outdoors depending on the

When ready, cut the stems roughly 30cms down and remove, with the paper bag intact. Simply shake the heads gently and the seeds will fall into the bag. Sunflower seeds can be enjoyed as a healthy snack, raw or toasted. Alternatively, they can be saved ready for the fun to begin all over again next summer.

‘

For more information about growing sunflowers, or Daltons Sunflowers in Kindergartens Project, see daltons. co.nz.

WIn! sunfLOWer grOWIng packs Thanks to Daltons, EastLife has FOUR packs to give away. Each includes a 5 litre pack of Daltons Premium Seed Mix and a packet of sunflower seeds (Skyscraper) from Kings Seeds. To be in to win, simply complete the form at eastlife. co.nz; one entry per person/ email address; entries close October 31, 2015. Winners notified by phone or email.

www.eastlife.co.nz

Has the

market peaked? ‘

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

It’s hard to say but I have read a couple of interesting articles recently about the Auckland market maybe hitting its peak. Property speculation is reportedly rife with QV noting in a recent release that in Auckland more than 2000 homes have been sold more than once in the past 12 months. Some have been on-sold two or three times, a sure sign speculators are buying and selling to take advantage of the rise in the market, and/or a sign that they believe the market is topping out. There are still reports of significant numbers of Auckland-based buyers present in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty areas buying up investments and/or moving out of the Auckland area for good. But to the numbers – and I feel a bit

like a broken record reporting every month of yet another increase in the local median house price – figures released from REINZ show the Eastern Beaches area median hit $977,500 in August – our highest ever and an increase of 4% over July and 29% from August 2014.

If you look at the median price for Auckland overall for August it was $740,000 – up slightly from July’s $735,000 but not as high as June’s record $755,000. This may be an indication that the Auckland market is/ has finally peaked.”

However, if you look at the August 3002 sales reported – again down median price for Auckland overall it from July’s 3160, but an increase of was $740,000 – up slightly from July’s 40% from the same month last year $735,000 but not as high as June’s at 2136. record $755,000. may be anAd | 90W x 135H Design & BuildThis Showroom indication that the Auckland market Each spring we see an increased has finally peaked despite our area’s number of homes coming on to latest numbers. the market, a trend which is fairly consistent. As of today on the Sales volumes vary and don’t realestate.co.nz website there are complete the picture one way or the 349 homes listed locally, whereas other. In the Eastern Beaches area two months ago it was 236, so the for August there was a very average shortage of supply problem appears 184 sales – down from July at 193 but to be improving for now – good news 17% more than the 158 of August for those looking to be settled into a 2014. Overall, for Auckland there were new home by Christmas.

Win! Small House Living As the housing shortage hits home, smaller houses are becoming made to measure for Aucklanders. However, this book shows great things can come in small boxes by featuring an inspiring collection of Kiwi homes that make up for their small dimensions (less than 90m2) with smart, efficient use of limited space. Showcasing family homes, baches and apartments, this book is loaded with tips for turning petite places into delightful dwellings. EastLife has a copy to give away. To enter see the competitions section at eastlife.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close October 31, 2015. Winners notified by phone or email. • Catherine Foster: Small House Living | RRP $50 | Penguin NZ

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www.jacobsens.co.nz CAR0742

eastlife | october 2015 |

THE

It’s spring...

AgEnTS

TIME TO GET CLEANING! JANE WILSHER, from Elite Property Management, talks about keeping up maintenance on rental properties.

Rachael meyeR

matthew brown

LICENSED SALESPERSON

RESIDENTIAL SALES

P: 09 538 1230 m: 021 110 3956 e: rachael.meyer@raywhite.com If you are looking for a real estate salesperson who provides great service, whilst providing second to none communication, please give me a call. “Thanks for thinking outside the box and making us consider options we may not have on our own. I trusted you throughout the process and always thought you had our best interests at heart.” Theodora – Bucklands Beach

P: 09 536 4990 m: 027 549 4673 e: m.brown@barfoot.co.nz After being so impressed buying his first Kiwi home in Beachlands through the Barfoot & Thompson team, Matthew decided to join it! Providing ongoing, dedicated service and satisfaction for loyal clients had been a way of life for many years, and now he’s applying that to real estate. For someone dedicated and motivated to get you results – look no further.

Mountfort Estate Agents Ltd Licensed (REAA 2008)

12 Uxbridge Rd, Howick. www.raywhite.co.nz

42 Wakelin Road, Beachlands. www.barfoot.co.nz

The first month of spring has slipped by and whether you are a home owner, a landlord or a tenant, it’s an ideal time to open the windows, air the house and give everything a good clean.

for all of this work is split between the landlord and the tenant.

As we move into the warmer months we start to use our homes differently. The days are getting longer and it’s time to start using the barbecue, deck areas and gardens.

A landlord needs to carry out property inspections and agree on work that needs to be done and who will be responsible for doing it.

Once winter has gone a general garden clean-up is a good idea and it’s an ideal time to clean the outside of your property too. Removing moss, mould and lichen from roofs, paintwork, walls and paths has several benefits. Firstly, the property will look so much better. Secondly, slippery surfaces are dangerous and a simple jet wash can sort this out and prevent unnecessary accidents. Cleaning painted surfaces will help coverings to last longer – it’s much cheaper to wash surfaces than eventually having to repaint or, worse still, replace windows and doors, weather boards and more.

Special Agents 003 IAN BOSWELL & NICOLETTE HALE RESIDENTIAL SALES, BEACHLANDS

Ian 027 285 9314, i.boswell@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. Whether developing advertising for your property or taking you to view homes they leave an impression not easily forgotten. Now is your time to take advantage of the fantastic service they provide!

42 Wakelin Rd, Beachlands www.barfoot.co.nz

56 | eastlife | october 2015

greg roy AREINZ Principal/Owner

P: 09 538 0151 M: Greg 0274 966 966 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.

Inside the home, a spring clean is a great idea. Lighter nights show up all the dust and mould that easily goes unnoticed during dark winter evenings. Removing this makes for a much healthier living environment. In a rental property the responsibility

As with all aspects of a well-run tenancy communication between the parties is essential.

Both parties will benefit from this as the tenant will then live in a well maintained, safe and healthy home and the owner/landlord has a well-maintained property thereby protecting his/her investment and ultimately providing the best possible return. Here at Elite Property Management we can deal with all of the hassle for you. We carry out regular property inspections to ensure general maintenance issues are up to date. These inspections are essential to satisfy your insurance provider. A lack of maintenance can mean that your insurance cover becomes invalid. If you are a DIY landlord and don’t have the time, the know-how or the people to inspect and maintain your investment properties, consider taking on Elite Property Management to look after things for you. If you would like some advice or added information about our services please contact us.

Are you a landlord short on time? Heading overseas? Or just over dealing with tenants? 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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111 Picton St, Howick. www.tfproperty.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

Pay rise boots bonus Kiwis it seems prefer regular money in the bank over the promise of a performance bonus even if the latter coughs up more dough eventually.

According to data recently released by online employment company, SEEK, performance bonuses may sound good on paper and may even deliver greater rewards but most Kiwis – in fact, 81 per cent of those surveyed – would rather have a guaranteed five percent pay rise over the option of a 10 per cent performance bonus. Apply this scenario to the average annual salary advertised on www. seek.co.nz, which is $74,965, the result is an increase of $3,748.25 for employees who chose the pay rise. However, for employees who achieve the performance bonus, the result would be a sizeable, $7,496.50. That’s an extra $3,748.25 in the pocket for someone willing to back their own capabilities for an at risk reward. But, it seems 10 per cent doesn’t cut the mustard with those Kiwis unwilling to gamble the risk of losing a five per cent pay rise. However, if the bonus was increased to 20 per cent, 49 per cent of those surveyed would take the bonus. General manager of SEEK New Zealand, Janet Faulding, says with a continued trend of low wage growth in New Zealand, it is possible that the lure of a bonus may prove more attractive to job seekers going forward. “The average annual salary grew

by just 2.3% year on year to June 2015 in New Zealand. Whilst salary increases and bonuses are important, employers should think beyond the tangible incentives that can be offered and consider the different motivators that work for different personalities. “Personal development opportunities and team dynamics should also be a priority – getting the balance between these, cash incentives and perks right can result in high performing and happy employees”. Interestingly, just one in five Kiwis currently have a bonus available as part of their remuneration package. Of those that do have this inclusion, 76 per cent felt they were likely to receive this on the completion of the financial year. The average amount expected was $6606.80, before tax.

‘

The priority for the majority of professionals is securing the maximum fixed term remuneration package and benefits, which may include a combination of base salary and superannuation as well as benefits and tools-of-trade such as company vehicle, vehicle allowance, car parking, subsidies and insurance.”

But James Dalrymple, director at specialist recruiter, Robert Walters, says Kiwi candidates are more focused on securing the best possible salary package when negotiating employment contracts than ensuring performance bonus inclusion. “With the exception of sales roles

where bonus and commission payments are expected, we have not seen an increase in bonus expectations. “The priority for the majority of professionals is securing the maximum fixed term remuneration package and benefits, which may include a combination of base salary and superannuation as well as benefits and tools-of-trade such as company vehicle, vehicle allowance, car parking, subsidies and insurance.” On the other hand, it appears those Kiwis who receive a bonus aren’t frivolous when it comes to spending it. Twenty-four per cent are most likely to spend the money paying off credit cards, 23 per cent would invest the money or save it for the future and only 12 per cent choose to spend it on a holiday.

“WE WILL PAY OFF OUR MORTGAGE IN FIVE YEARS RATHER THAN 30 THANKS TO ENABLEME” – Kirsten and Mike Mason – as seen on Fair Go KILL YOUR MORTGAGE FAST AND SORT YOUR FUTURE WITH YOUR OWN FINANCIAL PERSONAL TRAINER! enableMe have a patented mortgage repayment system that will help you save thousands in interest costs. Imagine if you could pay off your mortgage in 5 years instead of 30, while still having a life! The sooner you start to plan, the better – it’s not too late – your financial personal trainer will set you on the right track.

Dianne Barlow is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Financial Adviser. She is the owner and Financial Personal Trainer at the Manukau based franchise.

To find out more and book an obligation-free consultation with your local Financial Personal Trainer visit enableMe.co.nz. Enter the special code ‘EastLife’ when booking online and save $200 off the cost of your consultation, making it just $75+GST! (Usually $275+GST)

For more information visit www.enableme.co.nz www.eastlife.co.nz

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eastlife | october 2015 |

Right ‘Hon’ Key From splashing cash in the Pacific to dishing out dosh at home, John has been ‘note-ably’ on key recently while shaking his money maker. But, because Kiwis work hard for their money, forget new cars, caviar, or four-star daydreams, John’s not flipping a coin when it comes to investments, as EastLife explains.

No five and dime deal Money(men) were talking last month ahead of the release of new banknotes by the Reserve Bank. John said he was: “Really impressed with the new $5 and $10 bank note designs. [There are] lots of new security features to prevent counterfeiting.” However, in God we Trust may take a backseat to in Te Hau ki Turanga (we) Trust, as Maori claim a cultural pattern on the new $10 note was used without permission. The trust is seeking legal advice. The “technologically sophisticated” Series 7 notes don’t come cheap – $40m over five years. But, thanks to security features, Reserve Bank Governor, Graeme Wheeler, believes the investment is sound as a pound, and they look pretty too! “The polymer notes are striking in design and innovative in their security with transparent holographic windows and colour-changing birds a world first,” he said. While New Zealand and its amazing technicolor banknotes may be for the birds, the Reserve Bank hasn’t ‘knocked our heroes off’; Ed’ (Hillary) and Kate (Sheppard) still feature. New versions of $20, $50, and $100s are expected to follow from April next year.

Right Hon The Money: John Key presents new banknotes.

Of money talks More than a guinea or two (in old money) is set for Island investment. Speaking at the Pacific Islands Forum in Papua New Guinea, the PM confirmed New Zealand would increase development assistance to a total of $1 billion in the Pacific region over the next three years. “New Zealand is a Pacific nation and we are committed to working with our closest neighbours to develop their economies and build a prosperous and stable region,” he said. “The decision to allocate close to 60 percent of our growing aid budget recognises the importance we place on our neighbourhood, the challenges we collectively face, and the enormous potential our region has.” The additional investment (of $100m) is intended to help Pacific governments grow such sectors as fisheries, tourism and agriculture. Mr Key believes it will also encourage sustainable economic development, improving access to affordable, reliable and clean energy, ICT connectivity, and education. “New Zealand has been at the forefront of efforts to shift the Pacific from reliance on fossil fuels to renewable

electricity,” he added. “This work to address energy insecurity and build resilience will continue as we step up our support for climate change adaptation.”

Money for nothing? The best things in life are free... even TV! More television content (including sports) will be provided throughout the Pacific Islands free of charge with help from the Government’s Pacific broadcasting project. The cost of the project will be borne by various broadcasters, production houses, and rights’ holders, along with approximately $400,000 a year from The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. “This initiative will significantly increase content available to Pacific audiences, and help showcase New Zealand productions in the region,” Mr Key said. In addition to documentaries and entertainment, free-to-air access for selected Super 15 matches, Rugby Championship Tests and ITM Cup matches will be available, with content provided by SANZAR, One News and South Pacific. The project also includes technical assistance and training to help create more local content. However, a National Party spokesperson confirmed the initiative is not just a case of Kiwis being ‘good sports’: “While it’s a very low cost way to provide large volumes of content to the Pacific, [this initiative] is more about helping our neighbours, just as New Zealand does via monetary aid and other resources. “It’s also about capacity building – helping train their production teams, so they [can produce] more content themselves. More connectivity throughout the pacific (Internet,

telecommunications etcetera) is one of the five key areas for this year’s [Pacific Islands] forum.” The first broadcasts are expected to commence early 2016.

Net incomes Teach a man to fish and he’ll feed for a lifetime; give his people $50 million and they’ll feast for generations! As the PM’s great Pacific adventure continued, John announced New Zealand will sink millions over the next three years into support of Pacific fisheries. “Fisheries are the most important natural resource for the majority of Pacific nations and more must be done to conserve stocks and boost returns,” he said. “While there has been an increase in fish caught [in Pacific Island waters] since 2012, the value of key fisheries has fallen by just over 20 percent. This has led governments to look for new approaches to lift returns and safeguard fisheries for future generations.” The new Roadmap for Sustainable Pacific Fisheries will include improvements to legal and management systems. “New Zealand will also invest in monitoring and enforcement systems to protect fish stocks,” Key added. “These steps will help ensure long term, sustainable economic development of Pacific fisheries.”

One good Turn(bull)? After Tony Abbott was defrocked as Australia’s PM late last month, John Key was quick to congratulate the country’s new man in ‘charge’, Malcolm Turnbull. “Australia remains New Zealand’s closest bilateral partner. We enjoy close ties in all areas of our relationship and I am looking forward to working with Mr Turnbull to advance that,” he said. “I am confident that the close relationship between New Zealand and Australia will continue.” This is probably a good plan from John because, as Abbott discovered, if you mess with the (Turn)bull, Liberal or not, you’re liable to get the horns!

58 | eastlife | october 2015

www.eastlife.co.nz

Shareholders’ Olde Fartitus agreements

Wynyard Wood consultant, RICHARD OSBORNE, whose specialties include commercial law and intellectual property law, writes on issues concerning the business community

If running a business through a company with more than one substantial shareholder you should think about whether you have a constitution. If you don’t, the Companies Act 1993 rules will apply but may not fit your business. If you don’t have a constitution, there won’t be any obligation on the part of other shareholders to offer their shares to you if they want to sell out. If they die, the shares may go through their will to someone you don’t know. A constitution may put some rules around things such as share transfers. However, a more complete option is to combine it with a shareholders’ agreement. An agreement must deal squarely with change as the underlying reality of any business relationship. For example, is there a business plan that is reviewed regularly? How are funding and supplier and rental guarantees to be dealt with? What board and shareholders’ decisions can be left to a majority decision as distinct from unanimous agreement? What happens if a shareholder is also a non-performing

employee? In what circumstances can the agreement be brought to an end with what consequences in terms of restraints of trade? How might disputes be dealt with? An important further issue is external tragedy – death or major mental or physical disability – which means that you or your co-shareholder can’t contribute to the business any more. In that case, there should be a clear means of exiting the affected shareholder and recognising his or her contribution by purchasing the shares and current accounts at a fair value. This is usually achieved through a share valuation and a compulsory purchase through a buy-sell agreement, with the purchase fully or partly funded by insurance. Each business relationship needs its own particular shareholders’ agreement. The effort put into negotiating and finalising one pays off in the short term by forcing shareholders to review their business positively, and in the longer term, by dealing with potential problems ahead of time.

lives! Part 2

Bill Potter – The Business Maverick. Bill is an international Keynote Speaker, MC and Coach, who has presented in 57 countries. www.speakers.co.nz/ our-speakers/all-speakers/bill-potter www.btob.co.nz/the-business-maverick Continued from the September Issue of ‘EastLife’... You read it, right? Great! ...I looked at him and kindly asked, ‘How long have you had this illness?’ The boy was taken aback. The others looked surprised. ‘I don’t have an illness,’ he retorted. ‘You have ‘Olde Fartitus’, the illness of the attitude,’ I smiled. I told him that... ‘Olde Fartitus’ is not about so-called, ‘old farts’, but about an attitude. I added that those ‘afflicted with OF, usually fought for the ‘status quo’. They preferred ‘same old, same old’, (no change) which all added up to...’if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!’ I told him that I wasn’t picking on him, but that I was surprised to see OF in one so young. ‘At your age, you should try everything,’ I added quietly. Then, converting my status to ‘Doctor Potter’, I offered him my OF antidote. For free even. Three ‘conceptual capsules’; to be ‘taken’ as often as necessary.

They must be taken in this sequence, preferably with a glass of ‘think juice’: ‘Hey!’ ‘Gosh!’ and ‘Wow!’ They work immediately, but only with the right attitude – ‘Hey’, I hadn’t thought of that. ‘Gosh’, I think I have an idea for this. ‘Wow’, I can see the potential of a ‘new way’ already. I teach this at PATH©. I gently challenged him to try my ‘prescription’ and have another go after lunch. He became a different Kid. Another life saved. ( Much of our world is crippled by an OF epidemic. If you don’t believe that, just watch the TV news every night, OK? Ta. Plenty of Kiwis have OF too! Sad, really... I coach... PATH©: The All-Rounder Course for 3Percenters, on Skype. Learn from home. It is only for serious Go-getters, 20-80 years of age. It prepares you for a dynamic future! You become successful and, ‘interesting’ even. There are spaces available! Email me. I dare you! Let’s talk. Till next time. – duitdammit@xtra.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 E510478

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eastlife | october 2015 |

Tamaki’s (grid)iron men ‘ American football has been hitting the headlines lately. However, in east Auckland, the hits have been coming thick and fast for more than 15 years, as JON RAWLINSON explains.

Whether a former rugby league star’s recent inclusion in San Francisco 49ers’ final roster will signal a gold rush on Australasian football talent remains to be seen. But, either way, Shiraz Soysa from Tamaki Lightning believes it will certainly help build the game in lands down-under.

“Jarryd Hayne’s success has piqued a lot of interest. We have been successfully growing our player base over the last few years but the sport’s recent peak in popularity could contribute even further,” he says. “Hayne’s changing the National Football League’s perception, making them see that while there’s a lot [top level] rugby or league players need to learn, they’re already world class athletes, able to work hard, adapt and handle pressure. I think we’ll see a lot more interest from scouts; however, I wouldn’t be too worried if I was the All Blacks just yet!”

unique. It has large teams of highly specialised players, so you can’t do someone else’s job; you have to rely on everyone to make a successful play.”

And successful plays there have been. Since its establishment in 1999, the Lightning’s premier team has won the Kiwibowl (2005-06 season), has come close on other occasions (including a final’s loss last year) and has held the Campbell-Palalagi Shield since its inception a few years ago. The shield is named after club founders, Brian Palalagi (Raiders) and Adam Campbell (Lightning). It is contested during the first regular season match between the two clubs’ premier teams. At 29, Shiraz is making the transition from player (wide receiver) to coach with the club’s Junior (ages 14-16) and Colts (17-19) teams.

While American football may be a minority sport in New Zealand, the AFA (American Football Auckland) has provided the grassroots needed to grow the game. Shiraz, an ex-Saint Kentigern College student, player, coach and president of Tamaki Lightning, says striking performances have become par for the course.

“I have a season or two left, but I’m enjoying coaching – this will be my third season. Many players are learning a completely new sport, so it’s important they know how to play properly and not just emulate what they see on TV. There’s a lot they need to go through before they can do that!

“I’ve played quite a few team sports – ice hockey, baseball, rugby and mainly basketball – but football is

“For a few years we had only a premier team, but we brought back our Juniors two years ago and Colts

For a few years we had only a premier team, but we brought back our Juniors two years ago and Colts last year and the club’s going from strength to strength. We’ve focused on teaching them the game and growing the teams, but we’re now ready for the next step.”

last year and the club’s going from strength to strength. We’ve focused on teaching them the game and growing the teams, but we’re now ready for the next step. We’re looking to be competitive across the board this year, aiming for titles in all three grades.” Because the New Zealand season runs throughout summer (OctoberFebruary), the heat is always on for the Lightning. “If we played during winter, we’d have to compete more with other codes for players. Also, because the American season runs at the same time, interest picks up more at this time of year. However, it’s hot, particularly with pads and helmets.” Shiraz says switching from other oval ball codes is not a major challenge, especially at a younger age. “Rugby and league boys tend to fit in no problem at all, but there are

some key differences. For example, when a receiver goes for a deep ball, a safety [on the defensive team] has loads of time to line him up and build momentum, and [because he’s looking up] the receiver may not even see him coming!” While players always run risks, all care is taken, Shiraz adds. “There are risks in rugby that gridiron doesn’t have and vice versa. We have less ongoing, but higher impact contact; you might not get hit as much, but when you do, you’re hit very hard! There’ will always be risks, so it’s important that our coaches and physios [from local company, BodyZone Physiotherapy] are on their game too.” Although Mountford Park, Manurewa, is the AFA’s game day home, the Lightning has been based at Pakuranga United Rugby Club since 2013, thanks (in part) to former Lightning player and current Pakuranga premier assistant coach, Jason McLean. Looking ahead, Shiraz is hopeful Bell Park could ring in a new age for the game and be ‘down’ for a little more gridiron action. “It would be great to bring some games to Pakuranga,” he says. “We’re definitely looking closely at playing here in future.”

Kiwis to get their kicks in the NFL? In March 2016, New Zealanders will experience American football in our own backyard. When two teams of professional players compete during the Southern Bowl (at Eden Park and Westpac Stadium) Kiwi placekickers and punters could feature. However, All Blacks selector and kicking great, Grant Fox, isn’t too worried that the National Football League will look to harvest the cream of the New Zealand kicking crop yet. “Could our kickers make it in the NFL? I think the answer’s ‘yes’. It wouldn’t be for everyone, but if you’re capable at kicking a rugby ball, it is possible.

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“You could be good enough to get a trial, but whether or not you’d cut the mustard is another matter,” he says. “I can’t think of anyone who’s [successfully] transitioned from top level rugby to the NFL, but if someone came knocking, you never know.” Aside from some notable exceptions, including David Dixon, Riki Ellison, and recently, ex-Waikato age grade rugby rep’, Paul Lasike, who fell just short of the final cut this year, Kiwis have been a rare breed in the NFL. And no top level kickers have made the grade – ex-Springbok first-five, Naas Botha, tried out for the Dallas

Cowboys in 1983 but wasn’t selected. And yet, the prospect is there for those up for a challenge, as kickers in American football are less often in the firing line and rich rewards can be accumulated over lengthy careers. To put this into perspective, Dan Carter will soon be the highest paid rugby player in history, earning just under $US2 million per season. In comparison, NFL kicker, Phil Dawson, earns roughly twice that, while New Orleans Saints’ quarterback, Drew Brees, receives an average annual salary of $20m! Still, president of Tamaki Lighting,

Shiraz Soysa, believes even ‘daring Dan’ would find the NFL a tough nut to crack with more skills to master than simply slotting a pigskin between the posts! “Kickers tend to have the longest careers in the NFL, but rugby players would need to compete against guys who have specialised in kicking and playing American football their whole lives. And each team has only one kicker, so there are just 32 spots.” “While Carter’s a really good kicker, he’d probably have to commit at least a couple of years to learn the intricacies of the game. That said, I’d certainly love to see it happen!” www.eastlife.co.nz

shiraz soysa www.eastlife.co.nz

eastlife | october 2015 |

Photo Wayne Martin

Put motoring correspondent, ALISTAIR DAVIDSON behind the wheel of a dynamic Mini John Cooper works, and let him loose at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park and you can expect some maxi action. Alistair showed he’s pretty handy on a racetrack. Time was running out. I had to get a move on, without breaking the 100km/h speed limit. To make it through unscathed I had to be fast and smooth, pushing the potent Mini John Cooper Works to its limit without spearing off into the scenery.

off speed as the ABS braking did its thing, the pedal pulsing under my right foot. I managed to stop the JCW without hitting anything.

I had the right tool for the job. JCW is the most potent Mini ever built. Its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine cranks out 170kW, and 320Nm of torque.

What to do now? The clock was ticking. I spotted a side road. It was littered with debris, but if I was careful I could squeeze through, just.

Then, of course, there was the benefit of Mini’s legendary go kart handling, and a myriad of driver aids.

Leaving the six-speed auto in ‘drive’ with Sport mode I was off again, weaving my way through the obstacles.

I’d have to do something pretty dumb to lose control. But hey, been there; done that… I mashed the accelerator to the floor. The front tyres lost traction for an instant, then the Mini launched fast and hard. As the speedo swung rapidly towards the 100km/h mark, I realised my narrow lane was blocked. Without any hesitation I was off the throttle and on the brakes, hard. The big Brembo sports brakes scrubbed

62 | eastlife | october 2015

Keeping the throttle steady and trying not to be too violent with the steering wheel, I managed to keep a fast pace and made it through without spinning the car or even worse, hitting anything. As I powered around a bend in the road and crested a rise I knew I was in trouble. My getaway route was blocked, it had started to rain, and I only had one minute left to get home. I hauled the JCW to a stop. I’ll be fine.

Above, hard on the brakes during the acceleration/braking module. Note how the rear wheels are barely touching the ground? That’s why a car’s rear end can slide out if you brake while cornering. Left, dodging cones, doing handbrake slides and J-turns on a skid pan; there are worse ways to spend a Monday afternoon.”

I’ve seen this done in the movies. How hard can it be?

of the back wall. I made it through without bending the car.

I banged the shifter into reverse and mashed the go pedal. I guess I must have been doing 30km/h backwards when I wrenched the wheel to the left.

“Well done Alistair, that’s the quickest time of the day,” radioed Mike Eady of BMW Advanced Driver Training. “In fact, that will put you in the top 10 on all-time leader board.”

The Mini literally spun a full 180 degrees on its axis. As the nose came around I snatched ‘drive’ and accelerated, using all the Mini’s power to get out of there. But I still had to get back through those obstacles.

“The car made me look good,” I replied, “and I mean that.”

There was no time left to muck around. All self control went out the window as I threw the car back down the lane. A couple of times I went in too hot and rear started to skid around on the wet road, yet somehow the Mini’s stability control kept it all together. A quick handbrake slide had the JCW pointing towards my garage. I flew in to the space, stopping just short

Around 100 guests were doing three modules (acceleration/braking, slalom and skid pan) at a series of Mini NZ track days at Hampton Downs. We were there to experience the new JCW in a safe controlled environment, while honing our driving skills. Not me. As I fanged the superb JCW through those rows of cones I was sure I was filming a chase scene in The Italian Job. Eady reckoned it was more the result of a misspent youth. You know what? I’m inclined to agree with him. www.eastlife.co.nz

Photos Alistair Davidson

Mini with the works ‘

A state of confusion It could be said the new Honda HR-V fits all – it’s a spacious, stylish vehicle, and as ALISTAIR DAVIDSON discovered, even the base model comes with a host of safety, comfort and convenience features.

‘

HR-V’s interior oozes quality, the fit and finish is impressive. Leather and chrome highlights are specific to Sport.”

My initial reaction to Honda’s new HR-V was one of confusion. “What on Earth is Honda doing revisiting HR-V?” I asked myself. “Where does it fit into the company’s line-up, and what’s it competing with?” The last time HR-V was offered new in New Zealand it was spectacularly unsuccessful. Its rakish styling, silly roof spoiler and car/SUV blend didn’t win favour with small-car buyers. With the benefit of hindsight, the HRV’s problem was that it was ahead of its time. Now Honda’s playing catch-up. Compact crossover SUVs are hugely popular, and one of the fastest growing segments in the new car market. And Honda didn’t have anything to offer. So, it’s a case of welcome back HR-V, a small, front-drive five-door that’s based on a stretched Honda Jazz platform and powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder that’s used in Civic. This sounds nice and straightforward, so why the confusion? HR-V is supposed to be ‘compact’, sitting between Jazz and CR-V in the size stakes, but there’s nothing small about it. The cabin felt surprisingly accommodating with good leg, head and elbow room front and rear, and the clever ‘Magic Seat System’ load area with its 18 permutations is ridiculously spacious. Unable to figure it out, I resorted to the specification sheet. My suspicions were confirmed. Although HR-V is 241mm shorter overall than big brother CR-V, its wheelbase is a mere 10mm less. This is what makes HR-V so appealing. It has a CR-V sized interior in a small package, making it roomy and comfortable while being easy to manoeuvre and park. www.eastlife.co.nz

Photos Alistair Davidson

HR-V’s overall size also means that the 105kW, 172Nm 1.8-litre petrol i-VTEC engine pushes it along quite nicely. This advanced engine, which is coupled to a redesigned CVT transmission, is frugal; Honda claims between 6.6 and 6.9 l/100km depending on model. Throttle response is good; the powerplant is smooth, and fairly quiet apart from the sustained high revs when accelerating hard due to the characteristics of the CVT transmission. Paddle shifters (‘manual’ mode) add

an element of fun to the drive should you get tired of letting the CVT do its own thing. No complaints about the ride and handling either. HR-V feels taut, composed and predictable, yet it’s comfortable and the cabin’s well insulated from road noise. The range starts with the base HR-V S which retails for $32,990, through to the range-topping Sport+ at $43,900 as tested. ‘Base’ is probably doing the car an injustice as all models come with a comprehensive number of safely, comfort and convenience features.

Cruise control, a seven-inch display audio touch screen, touch screen climate control, multi-angle reversing camera with Dynamic Parking Aid, Bluetooth, Siri eyes-free mode, daytime running lights, electric parking brake, brake hold function, hill start assist… the list goes on. Crikey, the thing even has a HDMI input port. I may have been confused about HR-V’s size, but I have no doubt whatsoever that this impressive vehicle will quickly become a major player in the competitive compact SUV class. eastlife | october 2015 |