Rural Living April 2017

Fr ee!

ruralliving.co.nz

April 2017

Jo dips deep

Success CENT OF

win!

WITH RURAL LIVING TEAM AT FRANKLIN HOME & LIFESTYLE EXPO

s k o o ch chick out

RURAL | FASHION | BEAUTY | FOOD | GARDEN | HOME | Living MOTORING Rural — April-May 2016 — 1

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

Largest Rural/Lifestyle Sales Team PUKEKOHE | TUAKAU PUKEKOHE 68 King St, PO Box 147, Pukekohe | bus. 09 238 7019 | fax. 09 238 7018 | www.barfoot.co.nz/pukekohe

Anzac Day

april n anZac day

sign that we’re about to... rock! Tony Painting is set to paint the town purple this month when, with a little help from The Power and Leon Ruwhiu (vocals), he pays tribute to legendary rockers Deep Purple.

With two and a half hours of classic songs, this show expects to be (almost) bigger than Made in Japan! See raglanclub.co.nz or contact the club for details.

anZaC day parades & services April 25, locations & times vary Contact your local RSA for details of this year’s events – Pukekohe & Districts (09 238 7869), Papakura (09 298 5091) or Waiuku (09 235 7518). Or visit rsa.org.nz.

n musIc, theatre & dance

n eXpos, festIVaLs & fetes

glenn miller and the andrews sisters April 20, 11am-1pm, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, papakura He may once have been a famous trumpet man from out Chicago way, but these days the boogie woogie bugle boy of Company B is best remembered thanks to the timeless talents of the Andrews Sisters. During this tribute to the big band era, audiences are invited to get into the swing of things once again. For more information, see daytimeconcerts.co.nz.

Beauty & the Beast junior April 20-29, evening shows from 7.30pm & matinees from 3.30pm, Off Broadway Theatre, 41 elliot Street, papakura If beauty really is in the eye of the beholder then maybe Beauty should’ve gone to Specsavers! And yet, despite his homely countenance, this Beast turns out to be quite a nice chap really. If that description doesn’t provide enough information, the Papakura Theatre Company is gearing up to fill us in on the finer points of this popular tale inspired by Disney’s fantasy flick and brought to life thanks to the talents of some of the region’s finest young thespians. See ptc.org.nz for details. deep purple tribute April 22, 9-11.30pm, Raglan Club, 22 Bow St, Raglan If there’s smoke on the water it’s a sure

Craig

Trudy

Brendon

021 998 605

021 898 483

027 238 6660

2 — Rural Living — April 2017 Moore Ashby Boyce

the great pumpkin Carnival April 2, Hungerford Cres, SH1 (Off Cobham Dr), Hamilton While employees of a certain children’s clothing manufacturer might be rather fed up about pumpkins by now, that doesn’t mean the rest of us can’t enjoy a celebration focused on these famous fruits.

From carving competitions to prizes for the biggest and best, as well as plenty of entertainment, this event provides plenty of fun. See hamiltongardens.co.nz/events.

Waikato show April 7-9, 10am-5pm, Claudelands Arena, Brooklyn Rd, Hamilton With the Waikato Show fast approaching, there’s more reason than the Auckland house prices to go south, albeit just for a sneak peek. Billed as 15 shows in one, this spectacular expo has plenty on offer, from exhibitions to shopping, food, entertainment, rides and more. See waikatoshow.co.nz. franklin home & lifestyle expo April 8-9, 9.30am-5pm (Saturday) & 9.30am-4pm (Sunday), pIA event Centre, 57 Ward St, pukekohe Organisers of the Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo are preparing to build on the success (despite inclement weather) of this show’s inaugural event last September.

Sue

Stephanie

027 527 0094

027 246 7911

McCardle Alderlieste

James

Heard

027 281 3021

Suited to anyone intent on building, renovating, landscaping, decorating or simply furnishing their homes, this show is again expected to offer products, ideas and expert advice, in addition to food, music, entertainment and more. What’s more, Rural Living will be there too! See franklinexpo.co.nz for details. magick earth easter gathering April 14-17 (easter weekend), 10am-5pm, Schlaepfer park Scout Camp, 41C Ostrich Farm Rd, pukekohe There’s a kind of magic (Magick to be precise) coming to Pukekohe. Billed as a ‘conscious gathering’ this four day festival celebrates our connection to Mother Earth through music and spirituality.

Accommodation options are available. See mindbodyandspirit.co.nz. pukekohe park Wedding expo April 30, 10am-4pm, pukekohe park event Centre, Manukau Road, pukekohe Going to the chapel? Planning to get married? If so, head down to Manukau Road on April 30. As this expo also features hot laps on track, some reluctant partners may well be encouraged to come along! Details at pukekohepark. co.nz/weddingexpo.

Waiuku steel ‘n’ Wheels festival April 30, 10am-2pm, Waiuku Town Centre, 40 Queen St, Waiuku Whether by bikes or by car, in tanks or helicopters, every year vehicular

Hadley

Pierce

027 480 2741

Graeme

David

021 770 733

027 485 9321

Willsonwww.ruralliving.co.nz Powell

Community Calendar TUAKAU 22 George St, Tuakau | bus. 09 237 8310 | fax. 09 237 8331 | www.barfoot.co.nz/tuakau

enthusiasts of many a make and model roll into Waiuku for the famous Steel ‘n’ Wheels Festival. In addition to displays – featuring everything from hotrods to cool classics and vintage trucks to military vehicles – this event offers food, music and more. See waiukutown.co.nz.

n arts Contemporary Chalk paint Workshops April 1 10.30am – 1.30pm, Franklin Arts & Cultural Centre, The Centre, 12 Massey Ave, pukekohe Looking to sharpen your artistic skills?

Chalk this one up for experience! Anna Hull from Ella Raik Chalkpaints will provide a hands-on workshop to reveal how we can use using chalk paint to transform furniture. Be sure to bring your own piece of furniture and an old over-shirt. Chalk paint, brushes and tape provided. Booking essential – contact nansi.thompson@ aucklandcouncil.govt.nz. pollok Co-op easter exhibition April 13 (opening night – from 6.30pm) & April 15 – May 7, 10am-4pm, pollok Arts & Crafts Co-op, 2141 Awhitu Rd, pollok All roads (on the Awhitu peninsula, at least) will lead to Pollock when Pollok Co-op’s annual Easter exhibition begins. Themed ‘crossroads’ this year’s showcase expects to see a meeting of minds and skills at one of our region’s artistic hubs. The exhibition will begin with a special opening evening on Thursday, April 13, from 6.30pm; all are welcome. Call the co-op on 09 2352225.

n sport, fItness & racIng speed Works motorsport Championship March 31 – April 2, times vary, pukekohe park, 222-250 Manukau Rd, pukekohe When harnessed responsibly, speed thrills.

And, that’s most definitely the case when the behemoths of motor racing (NZ SuperTrucks) take to the track. Designed as a fuel-filled, fun, family weekend, Speed Works Motorsport Championship also includes plenty more classifications which will see Porsches and beamers, Mazdas, Hondas and more to the fore in Pukekohe.

See speedworksevents.co.nz. toyota festival 2017 April 1, from 8am, Hampton Downs, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Hampton Downs is turning Japanese this month as the 2017 Toyota Festival rolls into town. From high performance and sports cars, to SUVs and four-by-fours and best selling family models, such as the Corolla, this event will see Toyotas of many kinds take to the track. More information available via hamptondowns. com or toyota.co.nz.

Relay for life franklin April 1-2, from 4pm & 10am, pukekohe Showgrounds, Station Rd, pukekohe While the best parties last all night long, so too do the best fundraising events. As team members take turns on track during this all night relay, there will be plenty of activities and entertainment on offer to keep everyone focused on raising funds to support Kiwis with cancer. To take part, of for more information, see relay.org.nz.

Waiuku lions sand to mud fun Run & family day April 2, from 10am (registrations from 7.30am), Lions Den, 2/50 Belgium St, Waiuku Followed by a family day – with events including egg & spoon races and tug of war, as well as prizes, stalls and

entertainment - this mucky, muddy, fantastically fun-filled 8.4km run/walk is sure to encourage many a local to put their best foot forward... over and over again. Free parking available and a free bus to the start line will be provided. See facebook.com/WaiukuLions or call Nick Herrold (09 235 8794) for details. lexus jumping spectacular April 7-9, from 9am, Willow park polo fields, 289 Karaka north Rd, Karaka Cricketers may no longer be chirping on local fields at this time of year but the sound of hoof beats on Willow is most certainly in the air! Designed to showcase show jumping, this festival also celebrates wine, food and fashion. For more information, see karakaspectacular.co.nz and, to read our Q&A feature with event co-organiser, Jaime Campbell, see pages 6 and 7.

World masters games auckland 2017 April 21-30, times & locations vary Rio may have been a long way to go to see the finest sportspeople in action but there’s no need to jump through hoops to witness the lords and ladies of the Olympic rings during April! Featuring 25,000 of the world’s best masters’ athletes in sporting competitions throughout the Super City, this event (presented by our good friends at Barfoot & Thompson) will surely show mastery of sport at its finest. See worldmastersgames2017.co.nz manco easter stakes Raceday April 22, from 11am, ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera Cap the racing season off in style (before popping a cork or two when your horse comes in) at the Manco Easter Stakes.

Designed to offer a fun, family day out, there will be plenty to occupy young ones (including swingball sets and a bouncy castle) as wagers (and wages?) change hands. More information via ellerslie.co.nz.

Speed Works Motorsport Championship

Scott

Kevin

027 210 8887

027 497 8223

www.ruralliving.co.nz Lim McElhinney

Hunter

Utatao

027 482 2488

Simon

Macrae

Vicky

Vendt

027 420 2540

027 405 3440

Tuakau

Tuakau

Murray Nick RuralDawson Living — April 2017 —3 Bates Sales Manager Branch Manager

From the editor...

But, enough of what I’ve been up to.

In this latest Rural Living there’s plenty of reading, prizes, recipes and advice. But, importantly, I must say a big thanks to AS Wilcox. The Pukekohe-based company not only sponsored our Christmas colouring competition, with support from several local retailers, but has been feeding us some great information on potatoes, including those yum perlas.

Last month Rural Living’s marketing manager put her cooking skills to work and made the Thai Chicken Perlas Potato Curry (see page 34 March edition) and was impressed at how easy it was to prepare – “not too spicy for little ones and just the ticket when needing a quick meal!”

And with that, it’s time to grab a cuppa and spend some time with this month’s Rural Living – enjoy!

work so I’m thrilled with this option.

I have no induction-suitable pots either and haven’t yet sorted the new oven so we have eaten out a lot. I’ve been impressed by specials at Ginger Indian Restaurant – the $15 entree platter for two was enough to satisfy us entirely. Also impressive is the admirable wine list at Monarch Cafe and the community support this business gives to schools and sports clubs.

I just love the way Poco Loco has been extended and I’m delighted it is now open for lunch at the weekends, and I must commend The Longkeeper for keeping us full and happy on several occasions (great value, too!).

Finally, although not in Pukekohe, we have popped into the Manurewa Cosmopolitan Club several nights on our way home from work, thus avoiding the motorway crush. It offers a comprehensive menu with a fab veggie buffet to complement every restaurant meal. Good, old fashioned tucker with a splash of pizzazz and at value plus prices – I just had to become a member while man about the house joined Pukekohe Cosmopolitan Club, so we have a foot in both camps.

Helen perry, editor

a k i

Aw

Orapiu

w

k he nn ai h a C e

aa

el

er

A PUBLICATION OF TIMES HOUSE PUBLISHING LTD Orakei Ward

D C

S

Omana Beach

W

tr a

1010

it

Freephone: 0800 456 789 � www.ruralliving.co.nz Freephone 2018

Albert-Eden-Roskill Ward

Waitakere Resvr

oa

AUCKLAND

iv i R

0781

T a m

Mechanics Bay Mission Bay Saint Orakei 1052 Westmere Newton 1071 Heliers Parnell Glendowie Kohimarama Western 1021 Bucklands Beach Point Chevalier Springs Ranui Newmarket Eden Wai o Taiki 16 Terrace Western Kingsland Eastern Beach Bay Remuera Meadowbank Heights 1050 2012 1026 Waterview Glen Innes Saint Morningside Mount Henderson Eden J ohns Point Half Moon 1024 1025 Bay 1072 England Epsom Henderson Mount Albert Tamaki Glendene Greenlane Valley Mellons Bay Balmoral Owairaka Avondale Sunnyvale 1051 Farm Cove Kelston Sandringham Ellerslie McLaren Howick 2014 One Tree Hill Wesley Three Park Cockle Bay 1023 Kings 0602 Panmure Sunnyhills Highland New Windsor Mount 0612 Shelly Park Wellington Park Oranga 1041 New 2010 Botany Downs 1060 Pakuranga Glen Eden Royal Oak Lynn 0600 Penrose Mount 20 Oratia Pakuranga Roskill Onehunga 1061 Southdown Blockhouse Heights Bay North Te Papapa Waikowhai Hillsborough Titirangi Waiatarua Konini Green 1 Lynfield 1042 Bay Westfield Titirangi 2013 East Tamaki Waima 1062 Wood Bay Heights Ambury Park Mangere Otahuhu South Titirangi Whitford Bridge Favona Woodlands French Bay Park East Tamaki Lower

1022

Te Atatu South

ak

CoveRshot

0614

1011

m

Herne Bay

0610

Lincoln

Swanson

B ay

Ta

Waitemata Harbour

Waitakere

ar

w

ell, we’re finally, here. The big move to our new Pukekohe home was exhausting but went ahead relatively smoothly even though I can’t remember a time when I was so tired.

Now, a few weeks later, the interior is taking shape except I keep forgetting where I’ve put this and that! I’m also waiting on new furniture – very exciting.

But, then there’s the boxes! I’ve recycled heaps of cartons but also have a mountain of lidded plastic containers. I’ll keep some for storage but what to do with the rest?

More exciting has been discovering the wide range of shops and eateries.

Although Pukekohe is well known to me through work, and because my daughter has lived here for five years, nevertheless I am enjoying more time to explore.

The local Farmers has furnished me with new coffee cups, Laundry 4 U has kept my washing, and drying up to date (returned so neatly folded, too) while Bed, Bath & Beyond gets a pat on the back for finding me a weighted, free-standing toilet roll holder – with a magazine rack! A cavity slider in the en suite, means the logical place for a wall-mounted holder didn’t

Maraetai

Beachlands

2018

Waitemata and Gulf Ward

Howick Ward

D C

Whau Ward

Rural Living is a FREE monthly magazine aimed at the rural lifestyle market. Delivered to RD lifestyle addresses throughout Franklin, it is also available from pick-up boxes in the main townships including Pukekohe, Waiuku, Tuakau, Pokeno and Te Kauwhata.

0772

Huia Resvr

0604

2024

Nihotupu Resvr

Parau

Lower Huia Resvr

Karekare

Laingholm

2022

Mangere

Ihumatao

Middlemore

2023

Papatoetoe 20 D C 2025 Puhinui

Ri

a

Kawakawa Bay

Manukau Ward

Orere Point

2016

2576

Flat Bush

Orere

Brookby

Ness Valley

Clevedon

Huia

Kawakawa Bay

ai

ro

Wairoa Bay

W

Otara

Mangere East

20A

Te Tau Bank

r

2571

D C

Upper Nihotupu Resvr

Piha

ve

Waitakere Ward

Wiri

Big Bay Orua Bay

Ardmore

Takanini

Weymouth

Grahams Beach

Wattle Downs Cosseys Reservoir

Papakura

Hingaia

Awhitu Awhitu Central

Seagrove

Opaheke

Matakawau Te Hihi

2684

Clarks Beach

Pollok

Drury

2580

2122

Wairoa Resvr

2584

Runciman

2577

Kingseat

2583

Kohekohe

Waiau Pa

2579

Ramarama

Ararimu Paparimu

Glenbrook Beach

Paerata

Mission Bush

Pukekohe

Sedgebrook Mauku

2681

2675

Helvetia

Patumahoe

2678

2677

2675

Mangatangi Mangatawhiri

2677

2472

Puni

Waiuku

Pukeoware

2678

Taurangaruru

Harrisville

2471

Pokeno

Tuakau

Whiriwhiri

Pick-up points in Pukekohe, Waiuku, Tuakau, Pokeno, Drury, Kauwhata, Ardmore, Clevedon

Aka Aka

Te Kohanga Tauranganui

Rural Living Distribution

Island Block

Meremere Onewhero Pukekawa

Port Waikato

Maramarua

Mercer

2693

2682

Otaua 2682 Maioro

2474

2694

2121

Lake Puketi

Kopuku

Kellyville

Whangarata

Karioitahi

Lake Otamatearoa

Bombay

Pukekohe East

Buckland

2683

Happy Valley

Paparata

2676

Glenbrook

Waipipi

Reservoir

2583

Ponga

2679

Lake Pokorua

Mangatangi

Moumoukai

2578

Waiau Beach

Te Toro

Upper Mangatawhiri Reservoir

Hunua

Elletts Beach Karaka

Riv er

4 — Rural Living — April 2017

Wattle Bay

Alfriston Manurewa East

Big Bay

i uk u

Photo Wayne Martin

Matingarahi

Manurewa Orua Bay

Wa

OF PLUMMER, PILATES & (WATER) POLO: Over the years, Karaka’s Jo Plummer (pictured on this month’s cover) has sunk herself into many challenges.

However, when Auckland hosts the World Masters Games (from April 21), she will need to dig (or dive) even deeper. More than two decades after representing New Zealand in water polo, Jo is back in the pool, preparing to take on the world. To read more about her preparations and plans, see page 29.

info@ruralliving.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry DDI 09 271 8036 editor@ruralliving.co.nz Sales: Kate Ockelford-Green DDI 09 271 8090 kate@ruralliving.co.nz Jackie Underhill DDI 09 271 8092 jackie@ruralliving.co.nz Art Director: Clare McGillivray DDI 09 271 8067 clare@ruralliving.co.nz Publisher: Brian Neben Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Chapel Road, Auckland PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Ph: 09 271 8080, Fax: 09 271 8099

Okaeria

2696

Whangamarino

Waerenga

Orton

Kai

2697 Wairamarama

Te Kauwhata

Opuatia

Taniwha Churchill

Rangiriri Rangiriri West

Glen Murray

Lake Waikare

Matahuru

Home delivery areas Waiterimu

Tikotiko Ohinewai

DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times House Publishing 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 Mangawara Woodleigh Ruawaro in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times House Publishing Ltd.

design

Settling In build SOUTH EAST WAIKATO FRANKLIN

Botany and Ormiston

www.ruralliving.co.nz

asy.

Easy.

Contact: Tony Smith t: 09 238 1000 m: 021 880 380 e: tony.smith@A1homes.co.nz

Your big plans made easy.

Your bigplans plansmade made easy.

Your big easy.

Showhome: 8 Kilbryde Crescent, Pokeno

From this point, till the day you move in, we are here to make things easy.

Whether choosing from one of our plans, or creating something a little different, visit our website to discover the easiest way to get the home you want.

Open: from over 60 plans or modify one toare suit your needs. to You make can choosethings to manage the From this point, till theSelect day you move in, we here easy.

Tues to Fri 10am build you yourselfmove with an A1 Home,are or take it a step and have us take easy. care of it for you.

From this- 3pmpoint, till the day in,Kit we here tofurther make things Sat 12pm - 3pm Whether choosing from one ofor visit our orbuilding creating a little different, visit our ourplans, website to start your homesomething today.

Whether choosing from Call oneA1homes of our plans, or creating something a little different, visit our website discoverthethe easiest to the get home the home you want. website totodiscover easiest wayway to get you want.

. Easy.

Select fromover over6060plans plans modify to your suit your needs.

You can choose to manage the Select from or or modify oneone to suit needs.

You can choose to manage the build yourselfwith withanan Home, or take it a step further andushave take of it for you. build yourself A1A1 KitKit Home, or take it a step further and have takeus care of itcare for you.

Call A1homes ourour website to start building your home today. today.

Call A1homesororvisit visit website to start building your home

Contact: Nicky Booker t: 09 238 1000 m: 027 226 5880 e: office.sthakld@A1homes.co.nz

Contact: Tony Smith ns made easy. t: 09 238 1000 m: 021 880 380

Showhome: e: tony.smith@A1homes.co.nz

Your big plans made easy.

y you move in, we are here to make things easy.

From this point, till the day you move in, we are here to make th 8 Kilbryde Crescent, Pokeno Showhome: ne of our plans, or creating something a little different, Whether visit our choosing from one of our plans, or creating somethin 8 Kilbryde Crescent, Pokeno asiest way to get the home you want. website to discover the easiest way to get the home you want.

Open:

s or modifyOpen: one to suit your needs. You can choose to Select manage fromthe over 60 plans or modify one to suit your needs. Yo Tues Fri 10am Tues to to Fri 10am - 3pm - 3pm | Sat 12pm - 3pm Kit Home, Sat or take it a step further and have us take care build of yourself it for you. with an A1 Kit Home, or take it a step further and 12pm - 3pm website to start building your home today.

Call A1homes or visit our website to start building your home t

00811-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — April 2017 — 5

Brought to you by 12 Wrightson Way, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 5559

Over

with

the gate

Pukekohe

Jamie Campbell

(and travis morgan)

Staging any sort of sporting event is tough, but few have as many hurdles to overcome as organisers of Karaka’s Lexus Jumping Spectacular (April 9), Jaime Campbell and Travis Morgan. This month, we chat with Jamie... Over the Gate!

This is the second year you’ve run this annual event. Are you expecting an even greater turnout this time around?

Last year was a super successful show.

Spectators, riders and sponsors were very complimentary. We sold out our VIP tent and we actually had to expand it to cater the numbers for the show. This year, our main VIP tent has tripled in size and we have already sold 250 tickets; we are expecting a minimum of 600 people.

Why Tony van den Brink’s private polo field at Willow Park as the venue?

Travis spoke with Tony and we both fell in love with the venue. It is perfect as the grass surface, designed for polo, is one of the best in New Zealand for jumping. Tony has been amazing to work with. He’s had some great ideas and is very supportive of the event. We go for quality over quantity, which makes this venue ideal.

Roger Laplanche designed this year’s course. How important is it to have the services of a top level course designer?

Roger also designed last year’s course and we loved the passion and commitment he put into the event. He was friendly to work with and built the course to a great standard. It is important to ensure courses are a suitable level for each class of riders and that the course is exciting for spectators to watch.

You’ve put on a few such events. When was the first and what is it about event management that keeps you coming back?

I started running small training shows 10 years ago at my parents’ property. Each year, the shows became bigger and bigger and when Travis came on board a couple of years ago they stepped up and reached a new level. From there I found a love of event management and I haven’t looked back. During the first big show I held at 6 — Rural Living — April 2017

my parents’ place, I stopped and asked myself, ‘how did I get all these top riders here?’ I was proud of our work and how happy everyone looked. I love bringing new people into the sport and sharing my love of it. Travis and I have worked with the best overseas and a huge difference over there is how well the shows bring hospitality and show jumping together. This is what we are striving for. I love pushing the envelope, going beyond people’s expectations.

Former Olympic silver medallist, Trudy Boyce, is one of the sponsors (through Barfoot and Thompson), but can you hint at which top jumpers will be competing?

We have received entries from Olympian, John Cottle and British rider, Helen McNaught, as well as many other top New Zealand Grand Prix show jumpers. We are excited to have our first South Island entrant, a young rider, Steffi Whittaker, who just won the New Zealand Pony of the Year title. New Zealand Junior Rider of the Year, Tyla Hackett has also entered.

With regards to the event’s Westbury Jockey Challenge, can you confirm which celebrity jockeys will be involved?

We have top Kiwi jockey Daniel Stackhouse flying in from Australia and New Zealandbased, Mark Du Plessis among others.

In general, how well do Kiwi riders fare in show jumping on the world stage?

We are small country located a fair distance from Europe which makes it tough for Kiwis to train and ride amongst the best. We hope shows such as the Karaka Spectacular will give our riders experience in a setting similar to European standards and will help produce riders capable of footing it against the best.

European shows are much bigger and that can be overwhelming for horses and riders. We need to encourage new sponsors and riders.

By combining hospitality with the

sport we hope to achieve a great day of entertainment and help showcase our riders to the country.

While jumping is at the heart of this event, it offers much more from food and wine to fashion as well as combining the thoroughbred industry into the show jumping world. Do today’s Kiwis expect more from such events than an ‘old school’ meat pie and can of beer on the sidelines?

I don’t think they expect more, but most people love that we can provide more. It’s about introducing a more social side and marketing it in a way that will appeal to people outside the sport.

Travis (who’s also a real estate agent) runs a saddlery company (Arlington Equestrian); similarly, you run your own business (JC Equestrian) training riders.

Does this leave for competing?

I recently sold my top horse and have backed off competing until the show is over. Then, I’ll start with new horses in Cambridge, which is pretty exciting.

You’ve both enjoyed successful careers abroad. Do you still travel to Europe?

I have been back and forth to Germany (mainly) during our winters, but the longest I’ve been away is six months. I’m looking forward to heading to France for training in May. I love Europe because of the professionalism over there, but I love the NZ lifestyle. Travis has spent 20 years in Europe, the majority in Germany. He’s trained with Olympians and world champs.

If you could choose only one mode of transport for the rest of your life – horse or Lexus – which would you choose?

For transport I would choose [show sponsor’s] Lexus, and keep my sport as riding. Horses are not very fast when it comes to getting around! www.ruralliving.co.nz

Jamie Campbell, left, and Travis Morgan with Tony van den Brink’s daughter, Greta, exercising her mount in the background.

Photo Wayne Martin

If you could grow any plant or raise any animal (real or imagined) what and why?

That’s easy. I’d probably realise my childhood dream of raising a unicorn.

If you could be Minister for Sport and Recreation for one day, what would you do first and why?

You have me stumped here. I’d probably quit as quickly as I could, leave politics to the experts and go riding instead!

If you could invite any three people (dead or living) to dinner, who and why?

Barack Obama – he’s a very inspiring man; we could all learn a lot from him. Jan Tops, founder of the Global Champions Tour, which is the biggest and best international show jumping tour. I would love to pick his brain about running shows. Lastly, I’d invite [British TV host, actor and comedian] James Corden. He’s hilarious and would bring plenty of laughs to our dinner.

14061-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — April 2017 — 7

Call to preserve land Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD

a

s with many of my monthly columns I am again starting with a comment on the weather.

Well, what can I say about March except that it fell in the middle of one of the worst summers I can remember and it was a disaster for many readers who have had to cope with severe flooding and the loss of many animals.

It was also one of those times when we were really grateful to have our own water supply; we really sympathised with those relying on the old Auckland plant for their water.

Since making the move from Runciman to the Glenbrook/Patumahoe area I have become more aware of the importance of the superb market gardening hectares within the Pukekohe and Franklin districts which enjoy unique soil and weather systems.

Along with my interest in this I have also become concerned to see some of this land being sub-divided for housing.

Interestingly, I noticed a letter in the nZ Herald that I thought was excellent and also followed my own line of thinking.

Subsequently, I though it appropriate to share some of it with our readers.

The letter was written by a Whangarei correspondent and was headed, Pukekohe Food Bowl. Content included: With a lifetime as a horticulturist I have

long held the conviction , in view of trends, that the unique, highly productive soils around pukekohe should be protected as an important food bowl. now we have those with influence and power more or less giving the nod to the further fragmentation of the pukekohe area.......

With food security becoming a pressing concern in many countries due to the loss of productive land, diminishing aquifers, climate change and growing populations

QUALITY FEED Ultra Low GI 20kg

$29.50

✔ CHECK

with resulting social unrest, I would have thought the preservation of our pocket of high quality soil would be a priority not only to take advantage of export demand but to feed the rapidly growing population in the Auckland region.

I think this says it all! The early Auckland settlers recognised the potential of Pukekohe and districts as essential for food supplies. I just want to keep it that way.

Go the Chiefs.

STYLISH GEAR

✔ CHECK

Louise Jacket

$109.99

01012-v14

COME CHECK OUT FISKEN’S 8 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Locals claim cups at HOY

A

number of locals have shown the nation that the highest hurdles can be overcome.

This month, we take a quick look at a handful who made the grade at the recent Horse of the Year (HOY) equestrian show in Hawkes Bay.

Willis on a Roll Claiming the Norwood Gold Cup, Karaka’s William Willis and his horse, Dollar Roll MS, earned the adulation of the crowd. “I am absolutely thrilled!”

William says. “He [Dollar Roll MS] tried his heart out and I’m just stoked!”

Weeks before competing, a respiratory virus kept his horse from competing at build-up events. However, despite preparations being hampered, horse and rider overcame a jump off to claim the cup for the first time.

“It is a very special win and especially for my mother [Mary-Rose Sharp] who bred the horse. This means the world to her. The amount of time and effort she has spent on me, my brothers and the breeding programme is incredible.”

In just his second appearance at HOY since returning from a 10-year stint in Germany, William also finished seventh in the Olympic Cup. Mary-Rose (co-owner with William of Matawhio Sporthorses) believes this success offers a taste of ‘wins’ to come.

“To produce horses well requires a ‘system’. Will was trained in Germany and uses the German classical training system for all MS horses. They only compete when ready and only at a level at which they can cope. Will is patient with their development; horses shouldn’t be rushed,” she explains.

“He had a horse that was mature and strong enough, despite recent ill-health, to do well at top level. But next season, he will be an even stronger horse you can expect to see really great results.”

Lily’s odyssey Considering the awful weather of late, one could be forgiven for thinking the gods were conspiring against the competitors at HOY. However, the trying conditions could not stop Lily Tootill and her horse (aptly named Ulysses NZPH) from blowing the competition away www.ruralliving.co.nz

William Willis.

Photo KAMPIC/Kerry Marshall

during the prestigious Olympic Cup. “My horse is a bit of a mud lark, so he felt pretty happy out there. Actually, he didn’t feel any different to normal,” the Karaka local says. “I’m ecstatic. I didn’t think it was impossible to win.”

Not content with leaving all rails in place (the only competitor to do so) during her first round, the 20-year-old from Karaka recorded another clear round to claim the cup.

The win capped off a superb show for Lily, who also finished second in the Young Rider of the Year and sixth in the Lady Rider class.

‘Hackett’? Waiuku can!

Young though she may be, Waiuku’s Tyla Hackett is quite the sight when out on the... Gin! Fresh from competing in the Pony of the Year class, Tyla and her horse, Gin, negotiated a rain-affected course to secure prestigious Junior Rider of the Year accolades.

Another Waiuku local to star in the winners’ circle was Marie Whitworth – whose daughter, Georgia, has featured in past issues of Rural Living. Marie’s six month old foal (named WRS Rebel Wilson) was awarded the In Hand Youngstock Pinto Horse of the Year title.

For a complete list of Horse of the Year 2017 results, see hoy.kiwi

Farmers face climate change The sky might not be falling but (the views of certain world leaders aside) it appears that climate change is certain to affect our farming future, Anders Crofoot from Federated Farmers contends.

“The scientific consensus is that climate change is happening and that humanity, including agriculture, contributes,” he says. “Farming must remain viable and that requires exploring the implications of the threats and opportunities arising from a changing climate.”

Federated Farmers’ recently released Policy on Climate Change lays out a 12-point strategy calls for greater investment in research efforts with a view to reducing biological agricultural emissions.

However, controlling temperatures must be measured against the need to feed a growing population, and until “effective mitigation tools” are in place, there is no sense in including emission levels in the Emissions Trading Scheme, Mr Crofoot adds. “[If so] we would simply be exporting production to other less efficient players, making the global environmental problem worse, not better.”

Federated Farmers’ Policy on Climate Change is accessible via fedfarm.org.nz.

Cash injection fuels adaptation Preparing New Zealand’s primary industries to cope with climate change requires fuel in the form of funding.

The Sustainable Land Management and Climate Change (SLMACC) research programme is designed to do just that, Martyn Dunne from MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) asserts.

“Funding plays an important part in helping our primary industries prepare for the future challenges of climate change,” he says. “This year, we anticipate a high calibre of applications... The research undertaken provides valuable insights that inform decisions from policy making through to farm management.”

The programme’s latest research round concludes April 21.

Rural Living — April 2017 — 9

Something

fishyabout

A north Waikato woman has turned her love for the gentle giants of the dog world into a burgeoning business. Fiona Robertson ships animal health supplements from her lifestyle block to a growing list of international stockists. She talked to Angela Kemp.

F

iona Robertson will never forget May 12, 2010. Her beautiful Newfoundland dog, Rosie, was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a terminal heart condition common to the breed.

Fiona, a qualified veterinary nurse, was not about to give up on her pet.

She had read about the benefits of fish oil and decided to try and find a fish oil supplement in the hope that it would improve the quality of her dog’s life and even prolong it.

But the product she was looking for – a fish oil supplement which was sustainable, ethically-sourced and produced, and a NZ product – wasn’t available. So she decided to make her own.

Fiona started her trials using a refined human-grade product on her Newfoundland dogs. The results were spectacular, not least on Rosie.

“Rosie’s arrhythmia was better controlled and my oldest dog, Flame, gained increased mobility as a result of improved joint health.

“After her diagnosis the vet thought Rosie would have only about eight months of quality life left but she lived a full and

Three of the best. Fiona’s Newfoundlands Lace, Fleur and Abbey make beautiful models for her product’s packaging.

healthy life for another three years and actually died of breast cancer,” says Fiona.

The teacher and former share milker began her love affair with Newfoundlands some 20 years ago when she and husband, Gavin imported Pip, their first ‘Newfie’ from Australia. The purchase prompted their move from Takanini to Pukekawa.

The black beauty was a success in the

show ring and sparked Fiona’s interest in breeding Newfoundlands. At one time her Pukekawa property was home to 16 of the giant breed who enjoyed the privilege of sleeping on the couches inside (as all of her current five dogs do).

Despite their size Fiona says they are gentle and love human company.

“They want to be close all the time and

Rural living joys business headache

A

nyone would think running a business from your rural property wouldn’t be a problem these days thanks to the internet and the wonders of on-line shopping and banking.

But in reality it’s not that easy if Fiona Robertson’s experience is typical of the problems facing rural entrepreneurs.

An appalling internet connection and lack of a courier service to her remote property might have caused her to abandon plans for her pet supplements business shortly after its launch.

But like a dog with a bone, Fiona was tenacious and refused to let the logistical setbacks stand in her way.

And, her struggles to grow a successful business in the sticks were recognised

by The David Awards in which she was a finalist last year.

The awards recognise the unsung heroes in home and small businesses

10 — Rural Living — April 2017

Fiona Robertson

throughout the country and acknowledge their contribution to NZ, their communities, families and the Kiwi business landscape.

In the same way that David conquered the giant Goliath, these entrepreneurial ‘Davids’ are recognised for punching well

above their weight.

Fiona’s Newflands business was a finalist in the category for ‘most outstanding triumph over adversity’.

She impressed the judges by succeeding in spite of challenges beyond the usual.

“Couriers will neither deliver nor collect from me so I have a 20-minute drive into Tuakau with all my orders. Furthermore, postal deliveries have dropped to only three times a week,” said Fiona.

“The internet was too slow for recreational use let alone running a business. That’s despite there being fibre optic cables beneath the stock bank next to our property but we were told we couldn’t access them. Fortunately we managed to find a company who has given us our own wireless connection.”

But thanks to the faster internet she can now Skype, eliminating the need to travel to Auckland several times a week. www.ruralliving.co.nz

this Pukekawa success story! are very loving and caring animals which don’t bother with other stock such as horses, cows, sheep or chickens.”

Since launching her pet health supplements business, Newflands with omega-i oil and hoki oil, the range has expanded to include healthy treats.

They’ve been developed to support pets’ immune system or work with their current veterinary treatment if they have arthritis, itchy, flaky or scratchy skin conditions, eye issues or heart problems. They are suitable for both dogs and cats and even humans!

Fiona works alongside Massey University to provide scientific proof of the benefits of using fish and krill oil supplements.

Other Newflands products are currently at the research and development stage.

The supplements are manufactured at factories in Auckland and beyond and returned to Fiona’s home for distribution (unless they are overseas orders).

Newflands is available at 60 stockists in NZ as well as in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and from Amazon in the USA.

park barks up right tree A dog park in the middle of the country sounds absurd but is proving to be a big hit with the lucky pooches of Pukekawa and beyond.

Fiona Robertson has designated a fenced paddock where owners can safely let their dogs exercise off leash in a safe environment. They can even go for a swim in a pool.

“Although we are in a rural area there are actually very few places where dogs can be safely allowed to let off steam.

“Depending on the visitors, I either put my dogs away or let them join in. It enables people to let their dogs exercise on their own or with other dogs. ”I recently had someone bring three chihuahuas from Orewa so they could play happily without fear of being

picked on by bigger dogs.

“Many visitors make a day of it and bring a picnic. People make a booking through our Facebook page and generally come in the evenings or weekends. We’ve even had a dog’s birthday party.”

Admission to the dog park is by donation which Fiona says will go towards developing the facilities further.

Eventually she’d like to see the park used for dog training and agility, to teach first aid for dogs, provide pets with a grooming and massage service and extend her boarding facilities.

As if looking after her own five Newfoundlands isn’t enough, Fiona runs a ‘staycation’ for medium to large dogs, which, not surprisingly, enjoy a home away from home.

Akarana Timbers nails the job!

Leading independent manufacturer of pre-nail frames and trusses, Akarana Timbers is a one-stop building supply shop for the trade.

We make it our business to be a cut above the rest, stocking a wide range of timber, fencing, decking and landscaping products. We also source other building materials such as hardwood timbers, concrete, blocks, pavers, scaffolding, safety nets, mesh and reinforcing. Rental site toilets and bins also supplied. We serve greater Auckland, Rodney and Franklin with a fleet of specialist delivery vehicles rangings from long reach crane trucks to flat deck and tipper trucks. Our reach extends from Warkworth in the north to Te Kauwhata in the south with account managers constantly on the road.

• FTMA member • Mitek fabrication plant • Buildlink Group member

• Full estimation and in-house quoting service • Knowledgeable, friendly trade desk • Mandarin-speaking account managers and support staff

28 Trugood Dr, East Tamaki Phone 0508 AKARANA sales@akaranatimbers.co.nz www.akaranatimbers.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

14705

Rural Living — April 2017 — 11

Purple haze gets right up your nose Gazing at the rows of deep purple flowers, their heady perfume hovering like a heat haze, you might imagine you were in the lavender fields of Provence. But as ANGELA KEMP discovered, this visual and olfactory delight is in a rather less auspicious location much closer to home.

M

ention Glenbrook and there’s two things that spring to mind – the steel mill and the vintage railway. It certainly isn’t somewhere you would expect to find a profitable lavender farm.

Glenbrook Lavender produces some of the finest lavender oil you’ll find – so special Harrods asked to stock it. But its down-to-earth grower, Paul Chainey prefers to peddle his fragrant beauty products at local markets such as Howick Village, Pokeno Country Market, Red Shed Palazzo and Parnell Farmers Market.

Paul started Glenbrook Lavender about 14 years ago after he and wife Miriam moved from Auckland to the 11 acre block when she was appointed head of art at Wesley College.

After some brainstorming about what to do with their lifestyle block, they decided to plant lavender in a semi-commercial capacity to keep Paul out of mischief after his retirement from real estate.

“We started with 5000 plants but had a battle with the pukekos; they were pulling the plants out nearly as fast as we were putting them in. I was putting anything between 150 and 200 plants back in the ground every morning.”

Paul subsequently reduced the planting to around 3000 plants which grow on a hectare of land with Glenbrook Steel Mill in clear view on the horizon.

He said there was no secret to growing lavender, he just ploughed up a former paddock and ‘stuck the plants in’.

12 — Rural Living — April 2017

“I devised a gadget on the back of our small tractor and rotary hoe which mounded up the rows and we just went from there. The clay soil isn’t the best for growing lavender, it’s claggy in winter and dries out into big cracks in summer.”

Although it may not be ideal growing conditions, the grosso lavender plants don’t seem to mind too much and produce more than enough oil to meet Glenbrook Lavender’s needs.

As with any crop, oil production varies year to year. “When we had 5000 plants our first crop of oil was 25 litres. The second year that went up to 40 litres and by the time we were up to the fifth and sixth year we were at nearly 80 litres of oil.”

The couple’s son Bradley is in charge of distilling the precious oil, a process his father says he’s especially good at.

They now have their own distillation plant on the farm after Paul became fed up driving his harvest to Taupo for processing.

“It’s like a giant pressure cooker and the main basket we put in there holds 300kgs of flowers which produces five to seven litres of oil. We’re expecting about five lots like that from this year’s harvest.”

At harvest time in early January, Bradley’s job was to cut the florets and stems with a hedgetrimmer before they were collected in sacks and taken to the distillation shed. With extra help drafted in, the entire crop was gathered in a day.

“The smell of the lavender oil when it is first done is quite acidic and I won’t use

that, I leave it to mature for at least 12 months because the longer you leave it the better it is,” Paul says.

Virtually all the lavender oil goes into soaps and other beauty products such as hand and body creams, shower gel and shampoo which Paul sells at local markets as well as online.

A specialist soap company produces several types of soap to Paul’s recipe. He

Timeless lavender heaven sent Smelling of fresh flowers and green herbs, lavender is one of the most recognised scents in the world.

Lavender derives its name from the Latin ‘lavare’ meaning ‘to wash”. The Romans used lavender to scent their baths, beds, clothes and even hair.

They also discovered its medicinal properties.

The essential oil distilled from its florets and leaves is used as a disinfectant, an antiseptic, an antiinflammatory and for aromatherapy.

An infusion of lavender is claimed to soothe and heal insect bites, sunburn and small cuts, burns and inflammatory conditions and even acne.

Lavender oil is said to relieve headaches, migraines and motion sickness when applied to the temples.

It is frequently used as an aid to sleep and relaxation but it’s most popular application is as the aromatic base for thousands of cosmetic products, such as lotions, massage oils, perfumes and soaps.

The oil is extracted from the plant using distillation which produces both the essential oil and a lavender hydrosol, more commonly known as lavender water. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Paul Chainey – lavender products selling fast at the Parnell Farmers Market.

Photo Wayne Martin

Short of grass on your lifestyle block?

No 2 Plus Soya 25kg

Pig Pellets 25kg

Economy Pellets 25kg

2 for $45 $29.00

$24.60

RLJAN16

insists on including extra oil to ensure the lavender scent lingers right to the end.

One of the best sellers is lavender and goats’ milk soap which he said was very popular among people with skin conditions.

“I had a woman come up to me to say her grandson’s eczema had all but cleared after using my soap.”

Another satisfied customer in Howick swears by the company’s blended lavender oil for curing stretch marks and had to be prevented from showing Paul the results.

Growing lavender as a money-maker is only possible if you are prepared to turn the oil into product yourself, Paul says. His one experience of supplying oil wholesale convinced him that he would do it his way or not at all.

“I did have a rep who wanted to try and sell it to shops but they wanted to change the packaging, said it was too plain, not fancy wrapped.

“I said I didn’t believe in fancy wrapping because the first thing you do when you take it home is rip off the wrapping and throw it away. That’s a waste of money plus it’s only going to add to the price.”

“I’m confident that our soaps and beauty products are as good as, and in many cases better than, anything you’ll find on the shelf.”

The pukekos are still pecking around the lavender but that doesn’t worry Paul anymore.

“The plants have become too big for them to pull up and I’m happy for them to eat up some of the thousands of snails that live amongst them.”

2 for $56 $29.60

• Alpacas • Sheep • Goats • Calves • Horses • Pigs • Pets

01145-v12

We’re open Mon to Fri 8.30am - 5.30pm and Sat 9am - 2pm

DRURY - 222 Great South Road Ph 294 7266

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KARAKA - 681 Karaka Road Ph 294 7831

TAKANINI - 192 Airfield Road Ph 299 9786

www.animalstuff.co.nz R100050-V8

Rural Living — April 2017 — 13

Get off the grass!

Comical anecdotes, cute photographs and other bits and bobs sent in by our readers. Keep sending us your briefs, trivia and photos of country life – email to info@ruralliving.co.nz.

how

g

sweet it isn’t!

ood licking isn’t the reserve of the good looking, it seems, as this little letter from a local reader suggests: I took my granddaughter to Pokeno for a treat before she went back to school and she led me to the ‘Original Pokeno Icecream and Cafe’.

While quite a few of the many flavours had sold out (understandable, given the popularity of the place), service was friendly and our cornets large and very reasonably priced – at just $2, they were a bargain in my view.

However, the experience was spoiled by the scruffy exterior of the shop, something I had time to contemplate in the 15 minutes it took to eat our ice-creams.

Old food cartoons littered our table which was beneath a faded menu board which in turn was mounted on a dirty wall which drastically needed a lick of paint.

While we were there, two American visitors stopped by and I felt ashamed of the place. The establishment has an ‘A’ grade food hygiene certificate on display, so no worries there, but it could (and should) be so much better.

in Response...

Rural Living sent our reader’s photo (and a brief summation of his letter) to Rachina Touch, owner of the Original Pokeno Icecream and Cafe. The response we received was prompt and courteous, confirming that new signage was ordered from Tip Top some time ago.

“This is a small town with busy shops and people travelling by all the time... the council have removed the old rubbish bins and replaced them with new ones recently, but they overflow quickly,” she explains.

“My team always tries to keep our customers happy and the place tidy and clean, but we do get extremely busy and we don’t always have time to go outside to check up. We ask customers to use commonsense and use the bins that are provided. We do apologise if [the reader] is unhappy.”

Thanks so much to both our reader and the respondent from the cafe.

elvis lives... in hawera!

Since Elvis joined the ‘choir invisible’, fans have been seeking him here and there; however, perhaps they should have been seeking him in Hawera.

Waiuku’s Jo Slater sent us this photo, taken at KD’s Elvis Presley Museum during a recent visit to South Taranaki.

“I was told about this museum by a neighbour,” she says. “I went to see it and meet Kevin [Wasley], the owner, whose collection spans a period of 40 years. I have seen many Elvis museums but his is by far the best; truly spectacular!”

Jo knows a thing or two (or a few thousand!) about ‘The King’; she boasts an extensive collection of memorabilia of her own – see Rural Living’s Feb-Mar 2016.

EQUESTRIAN SURFACING

HORSE ARENA SURFACING Made exclusively by REHARVEST TIMBER PRODUCTS LTD

CUSHIONRIDE retains no moisture, and due to its

excellent drainage qualities it provides a very secure footing, allowing horses to travel over it, not through it.

CUSHIONRIDE – a quality woodfibre product which guarantees an exceptional, virtually dust-free surface, reliable in all weather conditions.

A quality performance equestrian surface.

A favourite with Auckland Manukau Dressage Group

MANUFACTURED BY REHARVEST TIMBER PRODUCTS, 41A HUNUA RD, PAPAKURA. We have already supplied over 100 private arenas with PHONE (09) 299 3999 FAX (09) 298 2988 (OFFICE) OR (0274) 988 126 ‘Cushionride’ in the shor t time it’s been on the market.

WEB ADDRESS: www.reharvest.co.nz EMAIL ADDRESS: ted@reharvest.co.nz FOR MORE INFORMATION 02028

14 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

SEMINAR

SUMMER CHALLENGES FACING LIFESTYLE BLOC

THURSDAY 16TH FEBRUARY, 7PM AT 86 HARRIS ST, PUKEKOHE

Vet Talk

Please RSV or pukekoh

Pet emergency!

By Paul Eason, BVM&S MANZCVS (Surgery; Emergency and Critical Care) Our four-legged friends mostly have a life of great fun, exploring their world and putting their noses into everything.

But this can get them into real problems, some of which may require emergency treatment at a vet clinic.

Since they explore with their mouths while we (normally) use our hands, cats and dogs are at risk of swallowing, or even just tasting, all sorts of things they shouldn’t. This can result in a lot of upset stomachs.

Vomiting and diarrhoea are common problems in dogs and while the majority of cases quickly resolve, they can also deteriorate very quickly, so it is usually best to contact your local clinic for advice. Vomiting leads to dehydration, so always contact the clinic if the vomiting will not stop quickly.

Cats and dogs unfortunately suffer a lot of traumatic incidents, such as being hit by a car, or suffering fight wounds. It is important they are taken to the

clinic quickly so they can be checked thoroughly.

Even if your pet appears fine, there may be serious internal injuries which, initially, may be difficult to spot. Wounds may be deeper than they appear and complications can result from delaying veterinary attention.

If you notice your pet’s abdomen is rapidly distending and it appear breathless and in distress, this could be the dreaded twisted stomach. This is one of the most dangerous medical emergencies a dog can get. It requires urgent medical attention. Time is critical, so do not delay; go to the nearest emergency vet clinic immediately.

Dogs and cats are very susceptible to poisoning since they explore with their mouths. Rat bait is a highly effective killer of rodents, but will also kill our pets if they eat it. Signs of poisoning are to do with blood loss, which commonly

BEACHLANDS | KOPU | PAEROA | PAPAKURA | PUKEKOHE | TAUPIRI | TE K WWW.FRANKLINVETS.CO.NZ

presents as a cough from bleeding in the lungs. Rapid, early treatment is life-saving.

Other poisons such as slug bait, antifreeze, fungal toxins, and human medications are all seen frequently. Contact your local vet for advice immediately.

Difficulty breathing, problems giving birth, sore eyes, bleeding from anywhere, are all potential emergencies as well.

Your local vet is best equipped to assess, stabilise, and treat your pet in case of an emergency.

Emergency medicine for vets is similar to that for humans: high adrenaline at times, challenging cases, and professionally very rewarding when you save lives.

But we all hate losing patients, and especially when we know we could have saved them if we had seen them earlier. We like seeing healthy pets too!

If you are at all concerned

april CHECK LIST

n Continue to monitor facial eczema spore counts and ensure cattle and sheep are protected with oral zinc.

In most situations, zinc boluses provide the most reliable protection. n Parasite challenge becomes high in autumn with warm, wet weather.

Ensure you have an effective control strategy in place. This may involve treatment with drenches. n Flystrike in sheep remains a risk during the warm weather. Prevent with good parasite control and crutching to avoid tags, shearing and treatment with protective sprays. your pet may be having a medical emergency, just bring them down to the clinic and let the professionals check them out.

Franklin Vets Papakura, Waiuku and Pukekohe hospitals are well equipped to cater for any emergencies you may have.

Our clinics have well trained vets and the latest in diagnostic equipment such as digital x-rays, ultrasound and in-house blood testing equipment. See website for opening hours.

Franklin Vets Papakura and Pukekohe Veterinary Hospitals are open 7 days a week and late nights for emergencies.

Only four clinics in Auckland are Best Practice accredited.

PAPAKURA 365 GREAT SOUTH ROAD. 09 298 8575 | PUKEKOHE 86 HARRIS STREET. 09 238 7486 WAIUKU 2 COURT STREET. 09 235 9101 | BEACHLANDS 42 WAKELIN ROAD. 09 538 0010 WWW.FRANKLINVETS.CO.NZ www.ruralliving.co.nz

14647-v4

Three of them are Franklin Vets Clinics.

Rural Living — April 2017 — 15

Fed not up with Trump newsbites I

n the wake of scathing remarks

by Federated Farmers about the impact of the US President’s trade shenanigans, Rural Living sought the reaction of one Donald J Trump – seriously... we did!

Federated Farmers president, Dr William Rolleston, claims that: “[Trump’s] determination to promote American interests above all else, even at the expense of long-standing, and mutually beneficial agreements could be devastating for New Zealand.

“If [he] decides to use the might of the USA to bully their way out of trade agreements, negotiated in good faith, and to be mutually beneficial to all parties, then NZ and many other countries could be severely compromised.”

A recent report by the Trump administration outlines the president’s intentions to consider World Trade Organisation rulings to be non-binding, Dr Rolleston confirms. “This is extraordinary.

If allowed to continue in this vein, it will undermine all the work we’ve done as a nation,” he says. “We have long advocated for countries to live up to their commitments and obligations.

“This thinking will take global trade backwards and will ultimately be as damaging for the US as anywhere else.”

Despite our best efforts to gain comment in regards to these statements, Mr Trump’s press secretary, Sean Spicer, did not respond in time for publication. Maybe the Donald thought, as Rural Living doesn’t broadcast on Fox, it must be... fake news.

GROWTH FOR GRANTED

KENDALL TO FINAL

Karaka’s Lisa Kendall has stormed to victory at Young Farmer of the Year’s Northern Regionals, claiming four from five Agri-Challenge titles along the way.

Consequently, Lisa has secured a place in the Young Farmer’s Grand Final (July 6-8). During 49 years of competition, just three women have reached this stage and none have ever won the title.

As Rural Living went to print, another local woman was also looking to change this - Jo Jordan (North Waikato), was set to compete at the Waikato/BOP Regionals.

New Zealand Young Farmers CEO Terry Copeland describes Lisa as “a real role model”. He hopes her success will encourage other young women to participate in the event.

To read our Q&A interview with Lisa, see our February issue at ruralliving.co.nz.

GAMES’ GOOD SPORTS During a weekend of ‘sports that built the nation’, thousands descended on Palmerston North recently for the third annual New Zealand Rural Games.

From the running of the wools, to national championships (including shearing, speed fencing and caber tossing), the event presented a taste of country competition.

Two Olympic greats also pitched in. Dame Valerie Adams comfortably claimed the women’s Gumboot Throwing Championship, while Mahé Drysdale fell well short, finishing last in the men’s event.

For full results see ruralgames.co.nz.

A new breed of teens is being encouraged to turn to plough sheers in efforts to build a better agricultural industry.

Youth Minister, Nikki Kaye, says the TeenAg initiative will be nurtured by $146,000 in government funding.

“TeenAg aims to promote a positive picture of agriculture and raise awareness of careers. The funding will support around 500 more young people in the programme,” she says.

The funding will (in part) assist TeenAg in extending its reach into urban centres.

“This is about supporting more young people to develop skills such as leadership and learn about potential career opportunities in the primary sector, which is such a vital part of our economy.”

MANUKA MEASURES UP If a friend with seeds is a friend indeed, Kiwi landowners could make the acquaintance of the ‘manuka men’ (and women) soon.

Facing increased demand for high performance seedlings (up 500 percent in three years), Manuka Farming NZ is seeking fresh fields. However, the company’s commercial manager, Stephen Lee, says not all seedlings are created equal.

“We have narrowed the varieties down to four; suited to specific growing regions and climates... it’s about [finding] the right seedling for the site that will bring the landowner a good return,” he explains.

The company also offers seminars to help farmers keen to grow manuka as well as eco-sourcing. This involves examining existing manuka trees with a view to collecting seeds so more can be planted.

DRAFT

HOMES BUILT WITH EXCELLENCE

WE DO...

• ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED HOMES • NEW BUILDS • EXTENSIONS • ALTERATIONS

CALL NOW: 0800 LOFROTH (0800 563 768)

EMAIL:INFO@LOFROTHBUILDERS.CO.NZ

WWW.LOFROTHBUILDERS.CO.NZ 15562

16 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

. nd Valves a s g in t it r it...

Hansen F r word fo u o Kiwis love e k a t just But don’t

. . . r u o b h g i e N r u o Y Ask

er, beef farm le y t s e lif a ultant I’m farm cons y ir a d a s a nd about ff. Luckily not out a f land. o s e m dried o r o When I’m a r t f c e r h e t 0 a help out. my w ter 4 happy to s looking af ere I get a h w w e m h a d d the ly an to the 2009/2010 o I went ater supp S w in . s m t h e in t g a u s m o y the e dr me day. ter s During th nected to to his wa up the sa n o ll s c a k c s it lo a b t w e y s m our up one of gs and we my neighb ff eap fittin h s to hook c a w e ad come o m n o la s p The s and fittings h e e ip h ap p t e h e f c h o t a one on ght shop, bou r wasted aying that e s t a e w d m n s a g in n a s m ra ting neighbour expensive ansen fit rning my ! All that proper H o t m h h ig it t n x w e ll n m a e th The leaking replaced lesson. ater was So then I arned my . le it ly and the w e e v it lie in f an ouldn’t be again. I de and you c fitting! I c od stuff er leaked o v g e n e h t it t a h y t Bu at life. I love and time. guess wh u just with your of money n e o t s o a g w break. Yo d l n a ’t a t n o ld t m u e o a h w t e out hey ty for tings ar fittings t forget ab e warran e t h im s t t Cheap fit ju e n lif n o e a s h ve tep m and t y even ha if a cow s install the gain. The st, even a u b r o e r v e o s m they are about the to worry e v a h r e v ne our. reason. my neighb h it that very w ip h s ion the relat r saving o f n e s n a Thanks H hland mer, Nort r a f f e e b njala, - Tafi Ma

Hansen products are available in over 1,400 stores nationwide

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — April 2017 — 17

Check out www.hansenproducts.com to find your local stockist 14942

Septic Tank Owners How you can save money by keeping your septic system effective and healthy will be operating effectively and not endangering you or your family’s health.

What is SeptiCure™?

Septi-Cure™ is a concentrated mixture of selected naturally occurring micro-organisms.

These harmless tiny organisms live and multiply by feeding on waste material. When introduced to your septic tank system, they go to work straight away digesting waste material, reducing solids and scum, allowing your septic system to start operating to its maximum efficiency. As they progress through to your irrigation field they feed on the slimes that prevent seepage and evaporation. When seepage and evaporation return to normal, you have reduced the risk of contaminating groundwater and the environment as well as reducing the chances of infection for you and your family.

Eventually, they get washed out of the system and have to be replaced to continue their work.

This is why you introduce SeptiCure™ to your septic system every six months for maximum efficiency.

A satisfied customer in Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for three years.

He says this allows them to have an odour-free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well SeptiCure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition.

Problematic septic tanks – treat with Septi-Cure™.

Prevent septic system problems – treat with Septi-Cure™.

For Septi-Cure™ – call 0800-109-202 Website: www.ecoworld.co.nz Also available at:

Specialised in pipe fittings and valves, Kiwi owned and operated company HANSEN is selling its products in more than 1400 stockists nationwide. But exactly how popular are they?

K

iwis love Hansen products – a bold statement on its own. But in this case the company is backing the claim with real testimonies from real customers.

Hansen obviously don’t expect people to just believe them, instead they are confident that they have so many happy customers out there that you don’t need to go far to find someone who would be pleased to recommend Hansen – just ask your neighbour! That’s their latest marketing campaign.

Recently we have seen several advertorials featuring customer testimonies. They are fun to read and provide solutions to people who face similar challenges. A truly inspiring advertising campaign and we are looking forward to the new stories.

In addition to the great customer feedback Hansen Products constantly receives, the firm is also approved by internationally recognised standards.

Hansen Threaded Pipe Fittings as well as Easy Fit Compression Fittings carry the WRAS approval by the Water Research Council in the UK. This is the highest recognised water testing qualification in the world. A WRAS approved fitting must not cause waste, misuse or undue consumption or contamination of the water supply and must be of a high quality and standard.

Hansen fittings also meet the requirements for products in contact with drinking water as per AS/NZS 4020 Australia & New Zealand (potable) drinking water standard.

And of course they have achieved the esteemed WaterMark™ certification for use in plumbing and drainage installations.

All of the above make Hansen fittings and valves the first choice in all commercial applications not only by reputation but by standards as well. The fittings are often used by city councils and recommended by system engineers for this very reason.

CHRIS JULIAN Freephone (0508) RURAL H20 (0508) 787 254 Chris – mobile 021 765 629 Water Tank Cleaning (while full or empty) Water Deliveries ~ Swimming Pools Filled

11900-V2

Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them.

Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good and best economical practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained.

A malfunctioning septic system can become a health hazard.

When a system is not maintained or operated as a delicately balanced environment, problems occur. These problems include nasty odours, leach line blockages, untreated liquid rising to the surface, toilets gurgling and taking time to empty.

At this stage your septic system is a serious health hazard to you and your children. Human waste produces faecal coliform bacteria, a source of viral and bacterial gastroenteritis as well as Hepatitis A and other diseases. Hepatitis can be a debilitating condition and cause long-term harm to children.

There are only three remedies.

One: stop using the septic system until it recovers. This can take over a month and is not normally practical. Two: excavate your septic system and relocate it. This is very costly and time consuming, sometimes requiring new resource consents and different systems. Three: treat your septic system with Septi-Cure™ every six months.

Septi-Cure is cost effective.

By far the most cost effective solution is to pour one litre of Septi-Cure™ down the toilet bowl every six months. This simple action will help keep your system working at top efficiency by reducing solids and scum. Instead of emptying your tank frequently, the reduction in solids and scum saves you expensive pump out costs. Your irrigation field and leach lines will become clear of slimes and blockages so nature can handle the gradual seepage and evaporation for you. When this is happening your system

Approved by reputation and standards

02174

18 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

ROY F PARKER & SON LTD Servicing Franklin for over 45 years

GOT A PumP PRObLEm? We’ve got solutions at Think Water Pukekohe

Sales, Service & Design of: • Bores • Pumps • Irrigation

This makes the fittings a real winner in both domestic and commercial sectors.

With a true emphasis on quality and reliability in mind, Hansen Products has over 60 years experience in manufacturing fittings and valves, which has seen the company build a reputation that speaks volumes. Supported by customer testimonies, it appears that Kiwi’s indeed love Hansen products.

For a full list of all certifications, as well as a list of all the New Zealand councils which have approved Hansen fittings, visit www.hansenproducts.com.

INCLUDES

• 4 Bank Valve hydraulic top link and angle adjustment • Rock Spike kitset incudes 90mm Spike & Rock Spike cap • 4.25m 150uc beam • 270 kg hammer • Adjustable legs

SPECIAL PRICE

$ 14,800+GST

RRP $17,340 +GST

KINGHITTER TT

INCLUDES

• 4.25m (150UC) Beam • 270kg Hammer • 6 Bank Valve • Hydraulic Hinge • 250mm Mast Shift • 900mm Side Shift

SPECIAL PRICE

RRP $27,540 +GST

$ 23,850

+GST

ND LA

N

ZE

A

IN

EW

MA DE

freigh yard dealer’s

POSTDRIVER SPECIALS

01426

148 Manukau Road, Pukekohe 2120 P. 09 238 9588 F. 09 238 7802 E. pukekohe@thinkwater.co.nz www.thinkwater.co.nz

E FRt E to local

SERIES 2 ROCK SPIKE

• Pipes & Parts • Filtration • Pool & Spa

RANCHER DELUXE ON TERMINATOR BASE RANCHER DELUXE INCLUDES

• Terminator Base 900mm Side Shift • Top Link Ram and Angle Adjustment • 4m 180UB Mast • 4 Bank Valve • 227kg Hammer • Adjustable Legs

SPECIAL PRICE

$ 13,750+GST RRP $15,325 +GS

T

INCLUDES

• 4m 180UB Mast • 3 Bank Valve • Top Link Ram & Angle Adjustment • 227kg Hammer • Adjustable Legs

SPECIAL PRICE

RRP $8,650 +GST

$ 7,990+GST

See your agent for a full price list. NO TRADE INS on this offer.

12870

www.kinghitter.com 0800 476 868 sales@fairbrother.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Kinghitter Specials_HalfPgHorzntl_RuralLiving_May 2016.indd 1

Rural Living — April 2017 — 19 16/05/16 2:02 pm

Easy ways to manage chooks

D

o you have a lifestyle block or a good size section where you have always wanted to keep chooks but have felt it would be too much work and a hassle when you go away? Grandpas product range can help.

There is the tried and proven Grandpas feeder which will give chooks on demand food that stays dry, clean and is not accessible to wild birds and rodents. With this feeder there is no wasted feed as our special anti-flock grills mean the chooks cannot flick or scratch the food out onto the ground.

The feeder has an opening weight that allows the chooks to open it but it is too heavy for rats and wild birds. The feeder is also weather proof, so can be left anywhere that is convenient for the chooks. What’s more, it can be topped up at any stage from the hopper – the old feed will come through to the trough and surface first so there’s no stale food.

Grandpas now has drinker cups for chooks which will provide a good source of clean water without any hassle. The two-cup unit simply attaches to any water

Above, Grandpas ‘check in’ door allows ease of movement and (left) safe water feeder for adult chooks and young chickens.

container with a standard size bung and the cups fill as the chooks drink from it by a small valve that is pressed by their beak as they drink.

There is no dirty water, no spillage and it is perfectly safe to use with little chicks as there is not enough exposed water where they could drown.

For those people who like to free range their chooks for part of the day but are not always there to let them out, Grandpas ‘check in’ auto door will do it for you.

This comes as a complete unit with control and door ready to fit to your chook house. It runs on 2 AA batteries and a light sensor and can be programmed to close and open as you desire. It is easy to operate and like all Grandpas products comes with a full, two-year satisfaction guarantee.

With a good source of high protein food, a clean supply of water and an option to free range for part of the day, you will have happy healthy chooks which will give you a good supply of delicious tasty eggs. All you have to do is collect them!

formerly Chook N Things

Now with a hugely expanded range Professional Strength Coop Cleaners and

Red Mite Control

Treadle Feeders No more sparrows & mice.

No more wasted feed.

3 sizes available. from $109

Brinsea Incubators – 3 year guarantee 7 to 600 egg models from $189 Chick brooders from $119

from $19.90

18L Poutry Drinker Easy fill, easy carry, easy clean. Made in Europe from only $39.90 Open Tues to Fri 2-6pm; Sat 12-5pm

Order online at www.chookmanor.co.nz ph 09 238 7145 | 021 049 0138 or email north@chookmanor.co.nz 15360

20 — Rural Living — April 2017

NZ’s leading supplier of poultry accessories, incubators and health care products

13671

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Hen-pecking antics a poultry issue

By Wendy majoor, Chook manor

w

ith autumn upon us many backyard chicken owners will be considering whether it is time to add some new blood to their flocks and whether to retire some of their less productive laying birds. With this comes the decision as to what breed will be best suited.

The first question that needs asking is whether you want to completely replace your flock or just introduce a few new birds to up the production again. If choosing to just add a few new birds it’s important to ensure they are not bullied (or worse) when introduced to an existing flock.

Always add more than one bird and preferably keep the number introduced in an appropriate ratio to the existing birds e.g. For 5 existing birds in a flock, add 3 or more.

If possible, keep the new birds in a separate run adjacent to the existing flock so that they can see each other for a couple of weeks before introducing them in a run that gives them plenty of space to keep out of each other’s way. Keep a close eye on the ‘new kids’ for several days to ensure they are not being kept from food and water and they are not being bullied.

The next question you need to ask is do you want commercial bred hybrid birds that lay exceptionally well but are usually past their best after the first two seasons

Paul Butcher Building Ltd

laying? Or, do you want a colourful flock of crossbred or heritage breeds?

Commercial birds such as brown shavers and hylines are available pretty much year round and their egg laying is rarely affected by winter’s shorter days.

These birds are usually vaccinated at the hatchery and will produce a good supply of eggs from around 20+ weeks but production will drop considerably after the first moult (around 18 months usually).

Your heavy breed heritage birds take much longer to mature, often 30+ weeks before the first eggs and laying will slow down in winter. However they can easily continue to lay well into their third and fourth years. Heritage breeds are rarely vaccinated as the cost is prohibitive for smaller breeders but they are generally very hardy, healthy birds so don’t let that put you off!

Both commercial and heritage birds can be run in a mixed flock preferably from a young age and all make great pets. Expect to pay a bit more for the heritage birds as they take longer to rear and are bred in much smaller numbers so there are fewer available.

Don’t forget autumn is also a good time to give the hen house a good clean out to ensure your birds get over wintering in good health. Check for signs of mites or lice and treat now before they have the chance to weaken birds and also worm if necessary.

a wilZ...

While many a Kiwi escapes to the country to avoid being fenced in, that’s precisely what’s required when it comes to birds of a different feather, owner of Allan’s Lifestyle Products, Will (Wilz) Hammond, explains.

“Whether we live on a lifestyle block or in town, it’s essential to ensure our chooks don’t fly the coop!” he says. “That’s where our Chickin-Out Fencing comes into its own.”

Despite being light – easily moved when entertaining in the backyard – Chickin-Out is robust too, not only keeping birds in, but stopping curious cats and other would-be predators in their tracks too.

What’s more, as the system uses annealed wire mesh and standardised panels, it’s ideal for building coops to accommodate anything from a few birds to a few dozen. Easily joined, using cable ties, coops can take on many shapes.

“Nothing beats fresh, home-laid eggs in the morning, perhaps with a few extras to share with friends, family and neighbours. No wonder it’s becoming more and more common to raise a few birds at home.” Wilz says.

“Because coops can now be constructed to suit townies too, we’ve found that Chickin-Out is fast becoming the... in-thing!”

CONTROL YOUR CHOOKS

• Animal shelters e.g. chicken coops, goat shelters, aviaries, dog kennels, rabbit hutches and more

Chickin-Out Fencing

• Sturdy, well-constructed plywood sheds of various sizes, shapes and description • Custom built trellis • Internal and external stairs

Quality construction. Honest service. Great value

No posts needed Free-standing fencing Easily moved Visit the website!

A��a�’� L��e����e P������� www.lifestyleproducts.net.nz

54 John St, Pukekohe, Email b.butcher@xtra.co.nz Ph 09 238 3069, Mob 0274 808 168

Ph Wilz 027 279 3483 • wilz@lifestyleproducts.net.nz 15444

www.ruralliving.co.nz

where there’s

12356

Rural Living — April 2017 — 21

flood of

pests this autumN

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

T

he start of autumn is always a busy time for pest controllers but this year I’m busier than usual as I’m also dealing with the aftermath of a flood through my workshop at 2am!

The water came in with such force there were ripples on the surface, right in the middle of my workshop and trap museum – talk about Impressive! My heart goes out to those of you that copped it through your homes, I’m sure many of you will be dealing with the mess for a long while yet.

The water has also pushed pest animals around a bit; rats and mice have been particularly active over the past couple of weeks following that colossal downpour; they’re already heading indoors as if it’s winter and that’s causing problems for a lot of you.

If you have, or even suspect, rat and mouse issues in your buildings it’s time to get out the bait stations and load them up, Quality toxin and well placed stations are the only way to go and the right action now usually means you can forget about them for the rest of the winter.

Wasp nests often become very dangerous in late summer-autumn and if you have one of these I suggest you ask for help from a professional. Nests can usually be completely killed in just one treatment and doing them now will likely result in fewer wasps in your area next spring.

We are taking so many wasp calls that Janet is keeping the wasp kit with her every day so she can respond immediately.

The new Vespex product is showing some

The Keelings workshop was rain affected like many parts of Beachlands.

promise and we are paying close attention to trials being undertaken by a number of agencies at present.

The results of these won’t be known until next spring but I’m really hoping it turns out to be a winner and we can finally tackle these guys on a grand scale!

Until then, the only way forward is to deal with them one nest at a time so keep your eyes peeled and give us a call if you need help.

Many possum control programmes will be dusting off traps and ordering toxin for a mid-April start to the season. In this part of the country, most possums are born in April so it’s a great opportunity to get twice the bang for your buck by removing pregnant females and those with new young.

Engineering Supplies & Service • Bearings • Seals • Steel Sales • Tools • FASTENINGS – all types • V-Belts • Chains and Sprockets • Wire Rope • Galvanised and High Tensile Chain • Manufacture replacement machine parts • Total hydraulic service – make and repair hoses, services rams, pumps and hydraulic motors

Now is the right time to decide whether you intend to poison or trap, do it yourself or get some help. In general, small scale sites can be trapped with ease and a well designed poison operation can make even large scale possum control fairly easy.

Rabbits are continuing to do extremely well and I am yet to see any real decline in numbers following the floods around here. I shot more than 300 last week and will start again tonight with a fully booked week ahead.

Remember, you can always look at back issues of Rural Living online for our specific guidelines on doing much of this work yourself, if you need further help or advice with any pest problems I am only ever a phone call away.

Rabbit Control is fast, efficient and achievable Coastal Pest Solutions are working in your community – trapping, shooting, poisoning and dog work. Non toxic rabbit control is available.

• Possums • Rabbits & Hares • Ferrets, Stoats & Weasels • Rats & Mice • Feral Cats • Goats • Pigs • Deer • Pest Bird Control • Wasps

Protect your land and environment from all animal pests, call us today!

Coastal Pest Solutions Wild Animal Control & Biosecurity Services 23 Years’ Professional Experience

Tel: 09 536 6020 Mob: 027 393 2125

143-145 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe • Ph 09 238 3281 Fax 09 238 6019 • Email wallaceheron@xtra.co.nz 22 — Rural Living — April 2017

11655

Email: info@coastalpestsolutions.co.nz • www.coastalpestsolutions.co.nz

Since 1957

00402-v3

www.ruralliving.co.nz

the best of

Expo exhibitor Jennian Homes’ Pokeno showhome is one example of their work.

retailer, Gary Pye 100% and Panasonic have again sponsored a fantastic door prize – an up to the minute Panasonic Home Theatre System.

Last year’s door prize winners Michael and Dianne Chapman say they were thrilled when they heard they had won an

EXPO

FRANKLIN

EXPO

B

uilding, renovating or decorating?

Need to tackle the landscaping or looking for a garden shed?

Want help on every level?

Don’t panic because the upcoming 2017 Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo promises a myriad of solutions for both dreams and dilemmas.

Expected to be bigger and better than last year’s inaugural event, this year’s show takes place Saturday and Sunday, April 8 & 9 at the PIA Event Centre in Ward St, Pukekohe.

It will again offer locals and visitors a host of home and lifestyle ideas and options, further enhanced by a festive atmosphere with food, live music and entertainment. Also, look out for wood carving demonstrations and plenty of ‘show only’ specials, competitions, giveaways and prizes too – all adding up to a day out no one should miss.

More than 100 exhibitors from throughout Franklin will come together to showcase their wares and offer expert advice. What’s more, local appliance

8-9 APRIL 2017 PIA EVENT CENTRE WARD ST PUKEKOHE

array of appliances which came just as they were renovating. They expect this year’s winner to be just as elated.

And organisers, Richard and Aynsley Graham of Now Events, are equally delighted by the support again given to the expo.

Continues on page 25

WIN

GARY

PYES

100%

HOM

E THE SYST ATRE EM

13407-v2

FRANKLINEXPO.CO.NZ www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — April 2017 — 23

You design it. We’ll quote it.

SEE US AT THE EXPO! Waterjet Cutting, Unique Art, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Welding and Engineering Maintenance Services

See us at the Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo!

Our waterjet machine can cut wood, plastic, glass, tiles, ceramics, foam and all types of steel up to 100mm thick with an edge that needs little finishing.

High quality work is our top priority, delivered on time at a reasonable price.

April 8 and 9, 2017

www.scottssteelworkz.co.nz

15409

N SO U E SE

S ND A ST

Phone 09 236 8226 www.tuakauitm.co.nz

“We’ll see you right”

2016 CATEGORY WINNERS Best in Business Awards Pukekohe

4 3/5 5 / 52

SEE US AT STAND #50 We’re giving away a Smeg Retro Kettle and matching 4 Slice Toaster valued at $828!!

Ph 0800 468 836 www.nakedflame.co.nz

New showroom: 78 John Street, Pukekohe. www.kitcheninspirations.co.nz 15301

FLLOOR RIN NG

JB's

JB's

13903

www.designconcepts.co.nz Ph 0800 468 836

13874-v2

118 Kitchener Road, Waiuku Ph 027 330 5044, email scottssteelworkz@gmail.com

See us at the Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo – Stand 32-34

Carpet, Vinyl, Timber and Cork

We do it from start to finish – See in store for Special Deals Q card finance available Terms and conditions apply

153b Manukau Road, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 2954 Free Measure & Quote Give us a call or send us your plans Mon-Fri: 8.30am-5pm, Sat: 9am-1pm | www.flooringxtra.co.nz E: pukekohe@flooringxtra.co.nz Happy to assist in your next flooring purchase 15304

24 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

expo bursting with ideas From page 23 “It’s wonderful to have such a great door prize and it’s also fantastic to have so many local companies keen to showcase their products.

“These include everything from carpet, curtains and kitchens through to builders, home ventilation, interior design, indoor and outdoor furniture, garden art, vacuum systems, windows and doors, glass balustrading and open louvre roof systems, bio fuel fireplaces, specialty foods, house and shed construction, landscapers, gutter systems, swimming pools and much more.

“We are excited to have some of the best home and lifestyle businesses in Franklin displaying their products and services,” adds Richard.

“Franklin continues to experience extraordinary growth with more housing developments in the pipeline so the expo is the perfect place for all residents, including those planning to move this way, to see what’s on offer.

“With so many fantastic businesses right on our doorstep there’s no need to

MENT! EXPO EXCITLiE festyle Expo,

e& Franklin Hom kekohe 30am, PIA (Pu 9. m o fr 9, & 8 April entre, ation) Event C Indian Associ (Adults kohe. Tickets ke u P , St d ar 55 W ult) free with an ad $8, under 16s old coin oor. Parking g d e th at le b availa of e Rotary Club donation to th o.nz franklinexpo.c e Se e. h ko ke Pu for details.

Soft and subtle – from the Warwick Fabrics new Lida range available at Kevens Curtains.

travel out of the area to have work done or to purchase the latest products on the market. It’s all right here.”

This year’s expo will support the

Silver Lining Trust, the Bloom Centre for Children with Special Needs, the Rotary Club of Pukekohe and NZ Police.

Come on over...to our show home

131 HILLPARK DRIVE, POKENO Open: Wed to Fri 11am—2pm, Weekends 12pm—4pm, or by appointment.

FREE

Come on over to our show home and see for yourself what life could be like in a Jennian Home.

Visit our show home and enter in to a residential building contract with us before August 31st 2017, to receive a set of Italian cookware by Fisher & Paykel valued at $1,000.

Jennian Homes Franklin 131 Hillpark Drive, Pokeno P 09 238 6156 E franklin@jennian.co.nz jennian.co.nz

Official Partner of the New Zealand Olympic Team 15537

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — April 2017 — 25

ess m d n a r e Clutt ress? t s i d g n i s Cau

• Water Pumps • Bore Pumps • Water Filters • UV Systems Come and see us at the Franklin Home & LIfestyle Expo, we will be happy to discuss all your water requirements

pace Clear your s ead Clear your h ay forward Clear your w your space.

13822-v2

PH 09 237 0050

40 CROSBIE ROAD, PUKEKOHE

r you declutte lp e h Home e tt e ll o Let C the Franklin t a l a n io s s rofe Talk to the p 84 xpo – Stand & Lifestyle E 4744 ph 027 415 – r e rk a B z e Collett anising.co.n rg o e m re p u z collette@s anising.co.n

meorg www.supre

15539

Phone: 09 9479533. 19 Manukau Road, Pukekohe.

Email: franklin@smith-sons.co.nz www.smith-sons.co.nz

13913

Come and see us at Stand #40 at the Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo

GET THE BEST PRICE ON A HUGE RANGE OF CARPET | VINYL | CURTAINS | BLINDS SEE YOU AT THE FRANKLIN HOME & LIFESTYLE EXPO

MOBILE SERVICE ONLY

FREE COLOUR AND STYLE ADVICE

YOUR LOCAL OWNERS Tim & Tina Morrison – Local Owners Harrisons Carpet Counties

Maree McCloy – Local Owner Harrisons Curtains & Blinds South Auckland / North Waikato

 0800 421 002 www.harrisons.nz 26 — Rural Living — April 2017

13901

For a FREE in home consult

www.ruralliving.co.nz

country goodness hamper

up for grabs

H

ot hash! Rural Living is upping the tempo at this year’s Franklin Home and Lifestyle Expo, again joining exhibitors with our own stand and giving show goers a chance to enter our draw for a chocker full hamper of goodies for the whole family.

Come April 8 & 9, it’s time to burn the breeze and head into the PIA Centre in Ward Street where you’ll find everything to do with building, renovating, decorating, landscaping and more – the organisers have worked their magic to bring together a diverse range of exhibitors.

We’ll have the latest Rural Living on the stand as well as the new Franklin Design & Build magazine packed with products, services and information to help you with your design dreams.

Pick up your FREE copy from us and also enter our draw for a load of country goodness including a tub of 7 in 1 Organics Fertiliser, Olay Total Effects 7 in 1 cream, a selection of products from

The Body Shop, Barkers body scrub for men, a twin pack of Rural Living wine glasses, a $50 Cafe Kaos voucher, more vouchers to shop at Simon Gault’s Sous Chef, a selection of autumn reading – perfect for folk who love the rural life – chocolates, sweets, and all kinds of pantry treats including, of course, Easter eggs, to mark the season.

Yes, there’s every reason to come into the Franklin Home and Lifestyle Expo, say, ‘howdy’ to the Rural Living team and enter the draw for our feel good, real good hamper.

We’ll be manning our stall throughout the weekend and would welcome your feedback on the magazine, this year’s Expo, services in Pukekohe and anything else you like to chew the fat about! So pop your corn and we’ll see you at the show.

Building a home?

Looking for reliable electrical & AV advice?

Gofox Electrical can help no matter what your requirements See us at Stand 77A

We offer: • Electrical • Data & WiFi • Audio • Home Theatre • TV Outlets • Phone & Data • Simple to Use Controls and Remotes • Control and Integration • Wall Mount TV’s • Security • Smart Lighting Control

Call our friendly team today, no matter if its the addition of a new outlet, building your dream home or renovating we can recommend your best options and get it done without any hassle or fuss.

We only use and recommend quality products so you can rest easy and enjoy a job well done. Talk to us today!

Ph 0800 95 99 99 www.gofox.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

15353

COME A ND SEE US AT S TAND 48 AT THE FRANKL IN HOME & LIFESTY LE EXPO !

15533

Rural Living — April 2017 — 27

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close April 30, 2017. Winner notified by phone or email.

Win! a kindling CRaCkeR king Since Ayla Hutchinson first presented the Kindling Cracker (which makes cutting firewood easier and safer) at Fieldays, the dedicated young inventor has been busily building a successful business. And now, the talented teen is thinking even bigger, launching a campaign on kickstarter.com to help raise funds needed to develop her new ‘King’ model, which helps cut larger and longer pieces of wood down to size. To read more about Ayla’s story, see our Feb-Mar 2014 issue (via ruralliving.co.nz) or visit kindlingcracker.com. Meantime, we have a Kindling Cracker King to give away to one lucky reader.

Win! linden leaves fig liCoRiCe gift sets Indulge in delicious Fig Licorice from Linden Leaves’ Bathtime range. Scent your home with a stylish, long-lasting room diffuser, which features a unique, fragrant oil blend to create a delightful ambience.

Next, wash and moisturise with Bathtime Fig licorice crème wash and lotion – gentle and enriched with kiwifruit extract (as well as sweet almond oil and shea butter) Linden Leaves is designed to leave skin brightened and moisturised. Rural Living has TWO gift sets (RRP $109.97 each) featuring these products up for grabs.

Win! fRom the BlitZ to the BuRmese jungle and Beyond Although Brian Hennessy may have passed on, his experiences take on new life in this gripping memoir.

Leading readers on a journey from blitz-battered London to an obliterated Hiroshima, this book tells the tale of an ordinary man living through an extraordinary time. To mark ANZAC Day, we have a copy of this amazing memoir to give away. ◆ Brian Hennessy, with Karen McKenzie: From the Blitz to the Burmese Jungle and Beyond | RRP $34.99| McKenzie Publishing

Win! a pet pampeR paCk fRom neWflands Win! luggage leash tRaCking deviCe Leash it, link it, track it, recover it – the idea is: never lose your luggage again! The new Luggage Leash, an easy-to-use, bluetooth GPS tracking device will help prevent your luggage from being lost or stolen. Simply place the coin-sized device into your luggage then download the free Leash It app on your smart phone. Once your Luggage Leash is synced to your phone a load alarm will activate should somebody try to remove your luggage from within your vicinity. Now available at selected Farmers and Briscoes stores and from some Relay stores. The good news is Rural Living has two devices (valued at $59.99 each) to give away – your chance to enjoy stress-free future travelling.

28 — Rural Living — April 2017

The seas around NZ provide sustainably fished Hoki to produce Newflands quality fish oil supplements to maintain pets’ well-being and support a healthy immune system. These can help with arthritis; itchy, flaky or scratchy skin conditions; eye issues or heart problems and are founded on the philosophy, “we want pet owners to give their pets the best quality of life. Newflands has now provided Rural Living with a Lifestyle Pet Pamper Pack (RRP $83.54) to give away. It contains Hoki oil, (high in Omegas and easily digested when pumped over pet food), Hoki Treats and Newflands Health Treats packed with goodness. All treats are freeze dried and have amazing palatability. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Plummer masters game Water polo is regarded as one of the toughest of sports so why on earth would you want to start playing it again in middle age? On the eve of the World Masters Games to be held in Auckland, ANGELA KEMP put that to Franklin’s Jo Plummer.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Masters massive event for Auckland

She was invited to play in the World Masters by her brother who also played water polo for New Zealand.

“Now living in America he was home in November and said he was with a bunch of guys who were getting together to play at World Masters. He is now 46 but used to play in the under 18s team.

“He said I should play and he messaged a mate of his who was putting a girls’ team together and that’s basically how I got in. To be fair, I haven’t played any water polo at any level for two years and now I’m freaking out. I’m swim training twice a week and encourage my kids to throw balls at me for practise as I am the goalie.”

Jo says she has played with most of the other women in the Masters’ team at either national or club level but they were training in other parts of the country as well as two who are overseas.

Jo’s preparations have included joining a social league at the Millennium Stadium on the North Shore but she says it is unlikely the Masters’ side will play as a team before match time.

Although Pilates has kept her strong, she compares entering the Masters as doing a year of power walking before running a marathon. The couple’s children are

Some 25,000 participants from 100 countries will converge on Auckland in April for the World Masters Games.

They will compete in 28 sports and 45 disciplines in what is regarded as the largest multi-sport event in the world.

Anyone can take part in the games so long as they are over the age of 35 (though some sports will allow athletes who are younger than that).

Participants compete for themselves – there are no country delegations.

In supporting the Olympic Games ethos of ‘sport for all’, the goal of the World Masters Games is to encourage participation in sport throughout life.

The opening ceremony will be held at Eden Park on Friday, April 21 and the games run until the end of the month. all sporty and Jo is looking forward to showing them her competitive side.

“This will show them you can be any age and still be fit and active and make high end teams if you put your mind to it.

Jo said a huge motivation was the recent death of a former team mate from a brain tumour. “She was meant to be our manager so it’s even more motivation for us to honour her the best way we can because she would have been on the side line if she’d made it.”

Rural Living — April 2017 — 29

Photo Wayne Martin

J

o Plummer says she can’t see what all the fuss is about her playing in the forthcoming World Masters Games.

“It’s not like it’s a national side or anything,” she says with typical modesty.

“Anyone can enter World Masters, so I do feel like a bit of a fraud.”

Well, let’s be honest, not everyone can enter the Masters and those that do generally have an impressive past track record albeit from their halcyon years.

Jo is a case in point. She represented New Zealand at water polo back in her 20s when the sport was relatively marginal.

Always a competitive swimmer, she started playing water polo while at Howick College and before long was selected for the Auckland and national under 15s teams. She enjoyed nearly 10 years on the NZ women’s team with monthly weekend training in Wellington.

She decided to hang up her goggles 22 years ago to concentrate on raising her four children and has become a successful Pilates instructor which she runs from a studio at the Karaka lifestyle block she shares with husband Mark, who is the head physiotherapist to Auckland Blues.

She spends around 30 hours a week teaching and has between 80-100 clients on her books including two other World Masters’ competitors, a cyclist and netball/ basketball player. “They’re a little bit older too and it’s great that it doesn’t matter what age you are, the Masters can still be competitive and give you another opportunity to compete at a high level.”

It could be Pilates will prove to be the not-so-secret weapon in a successful outcome for these Karaka crackers.

“What I love about the Pilates is that when I’ve been unable to get in the water I’ve been able to modify it to keep my strength training up. Wish they’d had Pilates when I played at top level all those years ago because I think my playing could have been so much better.

“I’m really hoping it’s like riding a bike and it will all come flooding back to me.

It’s a tough sport and is probably still a minority sport. But a lot more kids are getting into.”

Jo says the attraction for her of water polo was that she enjoys team sports and that it is “just a little bit aggressive”.

Settling in takes time Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS

i

t is now six weeks since we moved into our new property and what a hectic time it has been. People ask me if I miss the old place and the answer is, ‘of course but there is so much to do at this new place, I hardly have time to think.’

We were invited to dinner at our former home and we weren’t sure how we would feel going back. As we drove up the drive we noticed our old neighbours following behind us. They had also been invited to dinner.

After 22 years, strangely, it didn’t feel like our home at all. The new owners had made it so different from the way we had it but nevertheless it was fabulous and when we left that night, after a lovely evening, we realised it was time for our beautiful home to have young, vibrate and different owners. The next generation has taken over and we know the property is loved.

Now, on to current happenings.

Life is so different in the new location where we are re-establishing a large garden and are also changing around interior rooms. A rep from Kevens Curtains has been out and I have ordered Santa Fe shutters for our bedroom. I can’t wait for them to arrive.

Craig from Illuminate has also been there for days setting up the TVs in the different rooms. This new house does not have normal ceilings so in many places

A spot of gardening uncovered a pond we never knew we had!

access from one room to the other has had to go across the roof. It’s all done now so we are okay for television.

BW Henderson have been and changed the lights in the kitchen and done a few jobs but this house has so many light switches and we have no idea what or where some lights should be. There are two switches at the front door. I kept pressing them and wondering what on earth they were for with no luck. Then, Brian was outside one day while I was playing with each button and the garage doors opened – one problem solved many more to go.

One advantage of our new property is that my Waiau Pa friend can now pop in more easily and that’s a luxury we haven’t experienced since we both lived in Howick in the early 1980s.

Over the past weeks I’ve also tried different ways to avoid that awful

motorway traffic when heading for our Botany office. I have to say that like many people, the ability to work remotely is great and I can leave home later after doing some work at home, then travelling when the traffic is less congested.

I envy those who are lucky enough to work and live out here as coping with the Southern Motorway is a nightmare. We had a son flying in on Thursday from the USA, due here at 6.30am. We had no idea how much time to allow to get to the airport.

Luckily for us his flights from the East Coast were delayed due to the blizzards so his flight into Auckland was changed and we picked him up at 5.30am Sunday morning. No traffic worries then!

However, another holiday break is upon us – have a happy Easter everyone and, if travelling, do be careful on those dreadful roads.

Time For A Change?

Use My ESP - Experience, Support, Professionalism

M. 021 955 141 I E. c.cooper@barfoot.co.nz Papakura Office 09 298 8029 30 — Rural Living — April 2017

13543-v3

Cherry Cooper www.ruralliving.co.nz

APRIL 2017

IMPORTANT NEW COIN RELEASE

Intricately cast to capture a wealth of fine detail

Fully layered with pure 24 carat gold

With FREE deluxe display case, and informative Certificate of Authenticity

Apply now and it may be yours for just $49.99

Shown larger than actual size of 38.6mm in diameter

A new crown commemorating the

First World War Centenary

fully layered with pure 24 carat gold, yours for just $49.99 KEY DETAILS EVENT: The First World War Centenary, honouring all who fought for their country LIMITED RELEASE: The edition limit of this coin is 9,999 AUTHENTICATION: Each coin comes with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity

HIGH SPECIFICATION: Intended as a collectors’ item, this crown is fully layered with pure 24 carat gold YOURS FOR ONLY $49.99 (plus $9.99 p&h): an informative Certificate of Authenticity is included FREE of charge and successful applicants enjoy other benefits (see right)

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM: 2014 marked the centenary of the commencement of the First World War, the “war to end all wars”. There are generations alive today who have no direct knowledge of this conflict or of the sacrifice made by all who fought for their country.

Our debt to them is immeasurable making it more important than ever that we remember their courage with a lasting commemoration using the words from the famous ‘For The Fallen’ poem known as ‘We Will Remember Them’.

A crown coin has been released to mark this important anniversary. Struck to a high specification, only 9,999 are available. Applications are now open for the ‘We Will Remember Them’ Golden Crown, fully layered with pure 24 carat gold, for just $49.99 (plus $9.99 p&h).

This offer is likely to attract considerable interest, and not just from collectors.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICANTS

1. You may apply now to secure the 'We Will Remember Them' Golden Crown for just $49.99 (plus $9.99 p&h). A Certificate of Authenticity is included at no additional cost.

2. Apply now: Applications will be approved in strict order of receipt. If your application is successful you will be notified in writing within 14 days. Offer is limited to one per household.

3. Successful applicants will qualify to view the next coin in The First World War Centenary Crown Collection, a series of gold layered crowns commemorating major campaigns of the First World War. These further crowns, which may be yours for only $99.99 (plus $9.99 p&h) each will be sent at monthly intervals after your 'We Will Remember Them' Golden Crown. Each will be yours to view on approval for 14 days. You may cancel at any time.

4. To apply now, send the coupon below. For priority, call now on 09 829 0475.

Lines open 10am-7pm Monday-Friday.

FORMAL APPLICATION

THE ‘WE WILL REMEMBER THEM’ GOLDEN CROWN

YES, I wish to formally apply for ‘We Will Remember Them’ Golden Crown, for just $49.99 (plus $9.99 p&h).

An informative complimentary Certificate of Authenticity is included.

Send this coupon free post to: THE BRADFORD EXCHANGE, FREEPOST NO.98331, PO BOX 91901, VICTORIA STREET WEST, AUCKLAND 1142

I do not need to send any money now.

If my application is successful I will be notified in writing within 14 days.

Title

I understand I can apply for only one coin, and that my application should be made within 7 days. I may return the coin within 14 days if I am not satisfied. I confirm I am aged 18 years or over. Applications are only open to New Zealand households and is limited to one per household.

403-COM04.01 ©2017 The Bradford Exchange Ltd. A.B.N. 13 003 159 617

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Promotion Code:

29329

Offer closes:

Promptly

Apply by telephone on:

09 829 0475

Mr Mrs Ms Miss Other _______________

Name Address Postcode

Phone

Email Go online today at: www.bradford.net.nz/coins

Please allow up to 15 business days for delivery. All sales subject to product availability and reservation acceptance. Credit criteria may apply.

Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.net.nz. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you.

If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box. q

Rural Living — April 2017 — 31 15363

Terri’s mad for

hedgehogs

Terri Marchant’s haven for hedgehogs is not for the faint-hearted – she can have several baby hogs to care for at any one time not to mention numerous birds in need of care. HELEN PERRY soon realised that Terri’s efforts to preserve the environment and its wildlife are enough to keep a dozen people on the go.

‘R

escue, Recuperate, Release’, has been Terri Marchant’s tenet for the past 25 years, ever since she suggested to her late husband they turn their back yard and shed into a haven for destitute, hurt, or ailing hedgehogs.

Today she has 38 cages not just for hedgehogs but for other small strays in need of attention; her treatment table is seldom vacant. In fact, as we sat chatting over coffee, Terry told me she was (at that time) caring for 33 fledglings – “brought in by cats and kids!” These were released back into the environment just prior to Christmas, a number into the Franklin district.

But Terri’s lifelong dedication to animal welfare started long before her Hedgehog and Wildlife Clinic. Even as a child in Canada, living in an apartment block, she would buy 10 cent baby turtles from the pet shop and bring them home.

“When the family arrived here I was 11 and ecstatic that there was enough land for a puppy.”

Now, more than 50 years later, Terri has enough land not just for a puppy but for her veritable menagerie.

As well as hedgehogs, fledglings and other rescued birds, her family pets include 13-year-old Peter Rabbit, nine year old Skitz, the cat, two dogs – “not mine; one is my daughter’s, the other my son’s but for now they are living with me” – and her matriarch hedgehog, Mrs Tiggywinkle, aged nine who was rescued

32 — Rural Living — April 2017

and painstakingly nursed back to health after someone poured boiling water over her. “She took years to come right but it was worth the effort; she’s a delight.”

On leaving her school years behind, Terri went to work for the SPCA and stayed for 27 years, rising through the ranks to animal inspector – large animals.

“In the early days we were located in the inner city. As building began at Mangere it was a time of real change. Sadly, many newcomers to New Zealand didn’t understand the rules, laws and protocol surrounding animal welfare and we saw some horrific cases of abuse such as hens crammed into tiny cages and pigs hanging from chains.

“But it wasn’t only immigrants; it was very difficult seeing case after case of aggravated cruelty – dogs horribly beaten, dragged, roped, starved and so much more.

“As time went on we were more successful in bringing about prosecutions but eventually it all became too much especially the bestiality cases. I was pretty well burnt out and decided it was time to move on.”

Despite a shift in direction – Terri became a bailiff with the Otahuhu District Court and then worked in community development at the former Manukau City Council among other roles – she continued to do volunteer work and has had her fingers in plenty of community pies.

Today, she is secretary, acting treasurer,

education officer and event organiser for the Tamaki Estuary Protection Society, and has been involved in various clean-up operations around the estuary and associated waterways.

“I remember when there were 124 pairs of nesting shags in the pines lining the section of the estuary which connects the Panmure Basin to the main waterway?

Well, now, there are just 24 nesting pairs.

There’s just no food anymore. The shellfish are gone and fish are few and far between.

What’s why we need to work harder to preserve the estuary and environs.”

If that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, Terri is also an avid permaculturist – “the hedgehogs are heaven-sent in a garden like mine, gobbling up snails, slugs, earwigs and the like.

Because they are such garden-loving creatures, when rescued hedgehogs are ready for release I deliver most to permaculture gardens in the Pukekohe and Waiuku areas as well as to Thames and Coromandel, where they thrive.”

On the other hand, fledglings she raises to maturity are released back into the local environment and Terri says she has about a 72 per cent success rate of saving young birds that have fallen from nests or been hurt.

“But it’s not all about saving sick or hurt wildlife,” she says. “I’m keenly interested in healthy birdlife inhabiting reserves and banks along the Tamaki Estuary – spoonbills, godwits (my favourites) herons, pukeko and more. We’re very lucky that so www.ruralliving.co.nz

Photo Wayne Martin

many still thrive in what is, essentially, an urban area. That’s why it’s so important we keep the waterway, and others like it, free of rubbish.”

While rescue work means Terri is ‘nurse’ much of the year, her interest in gardening has seen her at the forefront of community gardening too – she is a founding member of the East Tamaki Community Garden, teaching gardening skills to new immigrants.

“There’s real joy in this work. Most come along with no idea about even the basics of gardening; in fact growing vegetables (and flowers) in the city, let alone anywhere else, is something some would never even have contemplated.

“Yet how they love it and as well as developing practical skills, they learn about

good nutrition. These gardens and others like it can do such a lot of good.”

Of course, with her interest in hedgehogs and birds, gardens and rivers, it’s hardly a surprise, (oh well, maybe a bit of a surprise), to learn Terri’s animal welfare domain also includes wetas.

Having worked as a volunteer in the entomology department of the Auckland War Memorial Museum, her interest in insects took her on a new path.

“There was a fascinating ‘weird and wonderful’ section that the kiddies loved especially the cockroach display. We decided it could do with some wetas, too!”

Subsequently, Terri became a weta breeder using some disused fish tanks she had at home.

“At my first ‘birthing’ scores of little

wetas were born. Nearly all were relocated to bush areas around Titirangi and a few went to the museum.”

Now you might think that’s enough to keep 10 women busy but despite being just one – even if she is a dynamo – Terri also works in a Howick Op Shop every third Wednesday and is grateful for the bags of rags they donate to help keep her cubicles clean.

But, with her multitude of jobs one could ask Terri does she ever get tired of the demands on her time?

“Never! Well, hardly ever. I don’t like being on my own and all my activities mean I seldom feel lonely or have time to sit around moping. I’m just glad I can still do the work and contribute to the community.”

Fully factory trained technicians State-of-the-art workshop facilities and equipment New Holden and Nissan Vehicles Access to over 300 used cars Onsite finance and insurance

EBBETT

MARQUE OF EXCELLENCE

PHONE 0800 405 050

Cnr Edinburgh & Tobin Sts • Pukekohe E: ross@ebbett.co.nz • www.ebbett.co.nz 01011-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — April 2017 — 33

Destination b

eautiful Cambridge, just south of Hamilton, has long been admired for its leafy environs with tree-lined streets, well kept period homes, landmark churches, eclectic shopping, galleries, cafes, schools and, now new suburbs to cope with the township’s continuing growth.

Surrounded by thoroughbred country, the township’s welcoming community has attracted residents who appreciate it’s handiness to Hamilton as well as to the Bay of Plenty towns of Rotorua and Tauranga.

New infrastructure, in the way of extensions to the Waikato Expressway, also means the run to Auckland is shorter than ever, taking motorists through pretty countryside along well formed, straight highways. So, it’s no wonder those living in the Franklin district think nothing of a day trip to Cambridge or have even eyed up property there with a view to retirement or as a great place to relocate the family.

With a population heading for 20,000, residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do. The town enjoys two stunning waterways – the Waikato River and lovely Lake Karapiro with swimming, rowing, kayaking, jet boating, water-skiing, cruising and fishing available

e g d i r b m Ca

to everyone and just minutes to the town centre.

Cambridge is also well-suited to those who walk or bike while those into horses will know the town is often called the equine capital of New Zealand. Some of the world’s best racehorses have been bred there while many thoroughbred and standardbred trainers are based in the district. The Cambridge trots attracts punters from all over.

In addition, Cambridge annually

plays host to a growing number of annual events such as international, national and regional rowing regattas and other major water sports events such as the National Waka Ama Sprint Championships and the New Zealand Grand Prix hydroplane races.

The Autumn and Christmas festivals are hugely popular and with Cambridge also close to Mystery Creek, the National Agricultural Fieldays in June is a not to be missed event...as many Frankliners know!

A beautiful town whether visiting for a day or weighing up as a future living option, Cambridge is well endowed with every facility for young professionals, families or retirees.

ANTIQUES • COLLECTABLES • FURNITURE • ART • ARCHITECTURAL ANTIQUES Antiques on Victoria has been supplying North and South Island’s buyers with antiques and fine furniture from its shop on Victoria Street in Cambridge, and its sister business Designer’s Barn, since 2002. Patrick Delany, proprietor, sources an extensive range of European and NZ fine furniture, silver, porcelain, glassware, prints, clocks, table and garden garniture from across the globe. An extensive jewellery range has also been added.

65 Victoria St, Cambridge, phone 07 823 4501, 021 244 4292 email aonvictoria@gmail.com, www.antiquesonvictoria.com 15416

34 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

st peter’s, cambridge expanding

s

t Peter’s, Cambridge has started 2017 on a high with enrolments well ahead of previous years and top academic and sports results.

As the biggest co-educational boarding school in the country, 450 out of the 1100 students at St Peter’s are boarders. The school is upgrading and expanding its boarding facilities, with two new buildings being added this year to meet the increasing demand for beds.

Principal Dale Burden cites the enormous opportunities for students at St Peter’s as the primary reasons a place at the school is so sought-after.

“Parents are increasingly wanting worldclass opportunities for their children – opportunities that the state simply cannot provide,” says Dale.

Dale moved to St Peter’s at the start of 2016, after 10 years as headmaster at Auckland’s Mount Albert Grammar School.

The opportunities he refers to are smaller class sizes, individual care and attention, outstanding teachers, a choice of curriculum, extensive outdoor education and outstanding facilities.

Four of the school’s International

From top right – Rebecca Goodman, Emilie Hughes, Kevin Liu and Simran Saini.

Baccalaureate students, Rebecca Goodman, Emilie Hughes, Simran Saini and Kevin Liu, were recently honoured for their outstanding results at the Top Scholar Awards at Government House.

Another student, Varun Roy, received the highest mark in New Zealand in the IGCSE Cambridge International Mathematics

examination despite being only year 10.

Each year St Peter’s performs a professional quality stage show. This year it’s an ambitious one – the New Zealand secondary schools’ premiere of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock musical, Starlight Express, staged entirely on roller skates.

Pathways for students to excel in sports have increased with the introduction to the curriculum of four junior sports academies in football, netball, cricket and rugby.

These academies are led by high-profile coaches, including former All Whites player and coach, Ricki Herbert; Northern Districts cricket coach, Owen Steverson; former Silver Fern netballer, Amigene Metcalfe and former Chiefs rugby player, Sean Hohneck.

The school is producing excellent results across the sporting disciplines.

In rowing, St Peter’s is the current New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Champion.

The squad trains at Lake Karapiro, one of New Zealand’s premier rowing venues.

“Our ability to empower every student, be they academic, sporting or creative, is what makes St Peter’s unique,” says Dale.

World-cl ce as en sp l l e c x

Acade mi ce

Ph: 07 823 3684

Spo rtin g www.ruralliving.co.nz

lities aci sf as

15398

W o rld -c l

ce llen e c ex

arts ing rm fo er

Visit our open day or book a personalised tour today.

www.stpeters.school.nz Rural Living — April 2017 — 35

Tracey Wilson – healthy interests.

MY FAVOURITE THING

Photo Paul Vettoretti

BRING IN THIS ADVERT AND RECEIVE

25% off ALL TILES *

#

#

Interior Design, Furniture, Fashion, Homeware, Gifts, Handbags, Jewellery, Fashion Accessories

*Tile Depot Manukau only. Exclusions may apply. Expires 30/04/17

For all your tiling needs contact us at

Your Lifestore Store of Choice

The Tile DepoT Manukau Bruce & Shona Walters

R e ta i l S to R e

OWNER/OPERATORS

40M Cavendish Dr, Manukau Open 7 Days • Ph: 09 262 0634

458 Karaka Road, Karaka – within the Old Karaka Church Hours 10am-4pm – 7 days Ph 021 264 8432 14894

Email: tiledepotmanukau@diginet.co.nz

14339-v3

FREE DRAPE MAKING ON CHARLES PARSONS FABRICS*

20% OFF

30% OFF

22 Queen St, Pukekohe 36 — Rural Living — April 2017

SELECTED ASPECT BLINDS

SELECTED READYMADES*

HURRY LIMITED TIME ONLY

www.kevenscurtains.co.nz

*Conditions Apply

Ph: 09 2389326

01857-v15

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Fitness I on a plate!

The medieval walled town of Volterra in Tuscany, Italy has charmed many a tourist, its Etruscan past exuding intrigue. It was there that one Pukekohe business owner discovered a small treasure, hand-made while she watched – today it is among her favourites things, a reminder of life before New Zealand.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

f anyone’s fit for business its Tracey Wilson – she and husband Ian have owned Counties Fitness Gym and Health Club for the past 11 years and Tracey’s passion for her work has never waned.

However, there was a time when this couple led quite a different life in Europe and it was from Italy that Tracey brought home an ‘object de art’ that still holds fond memories of another life.

“I was born and raised in Somerset, England but met Ian when we were both working for the United Nations in The Hague. During our years there we not only married in Belgium but also did a lot of travelling,” Tracey explains.

“One trip was particularly memorable.

We drove to Italy in his two-seater Lotus Elise with Simon and Garfunkel playing, and, as they say, the wind blowing in our hair!

“In the Tuscan hills we visited the ancient town of Volterra – just fabulous.

It was there we spotted a small boutique shop displaying beautiful glass ornaments.

“While there we watched the creation of a lovely hand blown plate, its blue floral design made more stunning when lit from behind. Of course, we bought

it and today it sits in the lounge, a reminder of a wonderful holiday before we left Europe for a new life here.”

And what a life the couple enjoy today, operating the gym where Tracey, among other duties, embraces her role as a group fitness instructor taking several classes a week.

“At one time we thought to set up a gym in The Netherlands but with Ian being a Kiwi, we decided New Zealand was the place to make home.”

By sheer luck, Counties Fitness came their way.

“We had already decided to escape city life but we didn’t want to go too rural either,” Tracey says. “Pukekohe seemed ideal. Then we heard Countries Fitness was up for sale and it seemed meant to be.”

That was 11 years ago and now Tracey and Ian are fully immersed in their new life. They also have two sons – James (9) and Lewis (6) – so, between the gym and her family commitments, Tracey’s life is as full as it ever was.

“In fact, you could say that while my beautiful plate is a reminder of our past life overseas, the gym has to be a favourite aspect of my everyday life today. It is challenging and fulfilling.”

Rural Living — April 2017 — 37

Gum disease

freestyle colour

– how do you know you have it?

Natasha Harris from Alberts Hair Salon, Pukekohe talks about freehand colouring.

By Yvonne Vannoort, The Dentist

T

he signs of gum disease are red, swollen gums that bleed easily.

They are not necessarily sore and your breath may or may not smell. In fact, sometimes diseased gums can look normal to you.

Gum disease can be superficial or deep and everything between. When it’s superficial, the gums are red and they bleed. This is easy to change by removing plaque and deposits around the gums.

Plaque is bacteria and sticky stuff that the bacteria make to help them stick to the teeth. When plaque is around a tooth for a few days, it changes because of minerals in your saliva that make a hard deposit.

When gum disease is deeper, gaps form between the gum and tooth which we call pockets. Pockets start as shallow gaps but increase in depth as the disease progresses. The deposits form in these pockets too.

Pockets that go all the way to the end of the root of a tooth mean the tooth has to come out. The tooth will often be sore to bite on at this stage and may also be loose. An abscess can form in the gum next to the loose tooth and be full of pus.

A

s always Alberts is at the forefront of the industry’s leading trends and it is with much excitement that my team and I are able to offer clients freehand applications allowing us to be hair artists.

Paint, lift, highlight and create natural sun-kissed results with our gentle, no-drip formula which is rich in kaolin clay to strengthen and detoxify the hair.

The new freestyle lightener has the ability to accentuate the naturally occurring highs and lows of colour, while creating shimmering reflections for an effortless and seamless blend of chocolates, caramels and vanilla, this modern take on the clever French balayage technique delivers defined contrast and dimension giving your cut, colour and style a luscious, lived-in result.

“To freehand colour into that natural, sun-kissed look, it is imperative that the colour is applied correctly and with accurate precision. This unique formula creates maximum texture with minimum frizz.

Alberts’ stylists work with you to achieve those subtle shades you have in mind as well as recommending a take home regimen to maintain your look!

So what can we do to help gum disease?

Gentle and careful cleaning by a hygienist or dentist settles red and sore gums, and improves the bleeding and bad breath. The aim is to reduce the depth of the pockets therefore these are measured over the time.

The deposits build up at different rates for different people. It’s best to monitor this so we can determine the best time frame for you to have them removed.

It is also important that you know that gum disease contributes to other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and also low birth weight babies. You will find more information about this if you google.

Remember, to be healthy overall, you also need healthy gums!

You should love visiting

One hour hygiene appointment with full mouth xray JUST $170* *Mention this advert when making your appointment. Terms and conditions apply

Contact us now for your appointment 13201-v3

Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe | 09 238 75 76 | www.alberts.co.nz 01513

38 — Rural Living — April 2017

166 King St, Pukekohe | info@thedentistpukekohe.co.nz | Ph 09 238 4619

www.the-dentist-pukekohe.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Cyberspace beyond the Grave...

By Gavin Arnet, Lawyer, Arnet Law

W

hen you die, your assets and worldly goods are dealt with according to your will, but what happens to everything in the

Recognising Uniqueness

By Jenny Tibbotts, Suits & Gumboots Country Daycare

E

ach and every person is unique. A one of a kind, never to be repeated, original masterpiece. There are debates over nature vs nurture and which is the most influential force in developing our personalities. But, regardless, both these factors are present in a child’s life and will work in tandem to cultivate the person.

As parents you are the experts on your own children. You know their strengths and who they truly are in essence. One important skill which parents can instil in their children is to recognise what their own strengths and talents are.

It isn’t until someone else notices what you are good at something that you realise this ability is not inherent in everyone; it is your special talent. Talents are linked to our interests. If we are interested in something we are more likely to be motivated to persevere through difficulty and our talent grows as a result.

Knowing that we are good at something builds our selfesteem and grows a positive personal identity. Talk with your children about what they are good at. Simply saying, “I have noticed that you are really good at …” highlights to children what makes them unique.

From here you can foster your child’s passions through play. Provide a variety of books, toys and equipment to your children which will allow them to explore their talents.

Give them real experiences with the things they are passionate about. As they grow, consider extra-curricular activities that might support their talents e.g. sports, drama, hobby clubs.

Let your child take the lead and develop his or her own interests and talents. Your role as a parent is to be a support, guide and cheerleader.

“We do not believe in ourselves until someone reveals that deep inside us something is valuable, worth listening to, worthy of our trust, sacred to our touch. Once we believe in ourselves we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight or any experience that reveals the human spirit.”

– EE Cummings

cyber world?

Most people have more than just physical possessions these days. We have all sorts of digital information stored online including photos, email accounts and the like. Question: What happens to these when you die? ◆◆Have you considered a digital will?

A digital will is not a legal document, like an official will, but it can determine the fate of your digital presence once you die. It is a list of all your electronic information, where it is stored and the username or email address you signed up with. This information helps your administrators retrieve any assets and close your accounts. We do not recommend sharing your passwords as this could result in problems during your lifetime and is more than likely a breach of the service provider’s terms and conditions.

Once you have passed away, your executor can then set about providing evidence to providers that you have died in order to get access to the accounts using your login.

However large or small your digital presence, don’t forget the sentimental value of some of the things you store in the digital world. Photos and movies of loved ones are a good example of this. ◆◆What does a digital executor do?

The role of digital administrator usually involves contacting service providers to let them know you have died, retrieving data (if possible) and requesting closure of accounts.

A digital executor’s job involves emailing, arranging logins and scanning documents (some services require your death to be verified). The terms and conditions of some services allow the digital executor to retrieve data, so they need to know how to download and store data.

Once your digital assets are retrieved, we recommend requesting the account be closed or blocked. Some services, such as Facebook, won’t necessarily close an account but instead allow limited continued use by a digital administrator.

For expert legal advice contact your straight talking legal team.

Leave it all to us.

For expert advice on making or updating your will, leave it to the specialists at your straight-talking local legal team.

Suits & Gumboots Country Daycare 12 Helenslee Rd, Pokeno.

46 Waerenga Rd, Te Kauwhata Phone 0800 464656 www.suitsandgumboots.co.nz 13708-v6

Rural Living — April 2017 — 39

www.ruralliving.co.nz AL LEAVE IT TO US 67H X 90W 0816.indd 1

15/08/16 10:45 am

Tristan de Chalain MSc MB ChB FCS(SA) FRCSC FRACS

Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery by a Specialist Plastic Surgeon Consulting in Auckland, Tauranga and Pukekohe

The effect of cancer, and cancer treatment, on appearance can really lower spirits. That’s why we started our Look Good Feel Better workshops over 25 years ago. The work we do helps women, men and teens with cancer improve the way they look, making a real difference to their confidence, strength and positivity.

Cancer, and cancer treatment, has many impacts. One that The support we give is free to anyone with any cancer, and can be very hard to bear is the toll it takes on appearance. extends right across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, At Look Good Feel Better we’ve been supporting women, men the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of volunteers and teens with cancer for over 25 years. Our workshops help people with cancer improve the way they look, letting them to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better you help face the world with more confidence, strength and positivity. make a difference to people’s lives when they need it most.

The support we give is free to anyone with any cancer, and And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops. extends right across New Zealand. We rely entirely on donations, Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute. the generosity of the cosmetics industry and the work of

www.lgfb.co.nz

LookGoodFeelBetterNZ

volunteers to keep going. By donating to Look Good Feel Better you help bring smiles to faces that have had little to smile about.

And every dollar goes directly to running the workshops.

Please visit our website or find us on Facebook to contribute. www.lgfb.co.nz

LookGoodFeelBetterNZ

Ph (09) 522 0652 • Fax (09) 522 0435 plassurg@ihug.co.nz • www.plastic-surgery.co.nz Level 2, OneHealth Building, 122 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland

00431

The Denture and Denture Implant Clinics

M

issing teeth? There’s no need to any longer when the All Dentures team is on the case! While some may be able to keep their teeth in tip top condition, others are not so lucky.

Fortunately, clinical dental technician, Dr Marc Adams, and the team from All Dentures (in Pukekohe and Papatoetoe) are on hand to ensure smiles can last a lifetime.

“Years ago, dentures could be cumbersome and uncomfortable, but we’ve come a long way since then,” he says. “These days, by drawing on the best techniques and equipment modern technology can offer, at All Dentures we can tailor-make top quality dentures to suit.”

From full or partial dentures to repairs, relines and even mouth guards,

Marc’s highly trained team can ‘make it, fit it and fix it.’

“From initial consultation to dental work – undertaken by dentists and oral surgeons – we provide a comprehensive service, offering the highest level of care during every step of treatment,” Marc explains.

“We’re committed to making quality dentures that are comfortable and functional for our patients so they can get back to sinking their teeth into life!”

To take that first step to a brighter smile, contact Marc and team at either of their two clinics. “Simply give us a call and we’ll take it from there,” says Marc, “Our clinical dental technicians offer full dental laboratory services and no dentist appointments or referrals are required.”

11 West Street, Pukekohe. Phone 09 238 0095 3/208 Great South Road, Papatoetoe Phone 09 277 2233 40 — Rural Living — April 2017

02246

ALL DENTURES ALL ABOUT THOSE PEARLY WHITES

alldentures@yahoo.co.nz www.alldentures.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Nip and tuck CAN change life...

F

or some people ageing gracefully is a misnomer – multiple wrinkles, sagging skin (or breasts) and drooping eyelids give them no pleasure only stress and sometimes depression. However, forget the brave face, think new face!

Plastic surgeon, Tristan de Chalain, who attends clinic in Pukekohe every Friday fortnight, makes it possible to look younger, feel wonderful and have appearance confidence.

“The reason for tackling these problems is as practical as it is aesthetic,” says the experienced plastic surgeon.

“For example, brow lifts can enhance vision, breast reductions provide more freedom whether at the gym, heaving sacks of grain or wielding a spade, and a facelift can improve self-esteem. For those who have been stressed about their looks, decreasing that stress may also increase their general quality of life.”

And today, more and more women welcome the chance to improve their looks, confident that Tristan’s skill will achieve just the right result.

Client, Daniella says she had the pleasure of seeing the surgeon’s work (and the outcomes), many years ago when she was a registered nurse working at Middlemore Hospital.

“When it came to having some work done on myself there was no question as to whom I should go,” she says. “Tristan’s expertise is well recognised in the medical community and his professionalism is second to none.”

Daniella says during the pre-op consultations her areas of concern were discussed and a plan devised for optimum results. Her first surgery was carried out in September 2016 – a mid-facelift, lower blepharoplasty (eyelid tucks designed to reduce the signs of ageing around the eyes), tip of her nose refined and fat injections in the face.

“The recovery wasn’t too bad. Day four and five were the worst as swelling had reached its peak although a cooling eye mask applied post op for three 3 days helped with the pain and swelling.

“Importantly, the end results were fantastic. I regained my high cheekbones and no more dark circles under my eyes. The sutures were very fine with no scarring.

“I was able to go out to an event nine days post op as bruising and swelling were minimal and were hidden by a light layer of foundation.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

for the better!

Daniella’s second operation in November 2016 included a lower 2/3 facelift and fat injections harvested from her abdominal area.

“The recovery was more painful than the first time due to the amount of swelling, facial movement and the number of sutures but the result was amazing – I’m thrilled to have my youthful jawline back!

“Words cannot express how grateful and happy I am with my results due to Tristan’s excellent skills.”

local clinic ease Rapid advances in the field of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, laser technology and appearance medicine have changed the face of plastic surgery and also the faces and bodies of people from all walks of life.

And, no one knows this better than respected plastic surgeon Tristan de Chalain who says done properly, both non surgical and surgical procedures can have a life-changing effect.

As a plastic surgeon, he works wonders with physical imperfections and also deals with potentially life-threatening conditions such as skin cancers and melanoma.

“Country life is often said to be all about healthy living but this isn’t always the case,” Tristan says. “With my Pukekohe clinic at the heart of what is still a horticultural and agricultural region, I am

Services

◆◆Face – brow lift, canthopexy, ptosis and blepharoplasty (eyelid), rhinoplasty (nose), cleft palate ◆◆Ears – ear reshaping, ear setback ◆◆Breast – augmentation, reduction, lift and reconstruction ◆◆Skin – cancer and moles ◆◆Body contouring – abdominoplasty (stomach), buttock and brachioplasty (arm) lifts, liposuction acutely aware that skin cancers and melanoma can be a serious problem for many outdoor workers with the damage often severe. My job is to reverse the damage leaving a nearly invisible result.”

To this end, Tristan offers a surgical service to excise any ‘lumps and bumps’.

“I have the skills and experience to produce a result that is usually neater and cleaner than that of the average medical professional. What’s more, patients do not need a doctor’s referral.”

Tristan is in Pukekohe every Friday fortnight and Monday to Thursday at the Remuera clinic. “Essentially I’ll look at a potential skin cancer or spot and where suitable will incise it there and then. This saves time and disruption to routines.”

Widely-travelled, Tristan has worked at leading practices in the USA, Canada and South Africa and spent 10 years at Middlemore Hospital, lending his skills to post-trauma, craniofacial and cleft palate surgery.

A former president of the New Zealand Foundation for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery he moved into full time private practice in 2007 yet still volunteers to visit the Philippines annually to perform free cleft lip and palate operations on indigent children.

An accomplished author and sculptor, his interests, as well as his surgical expertise, means he has a comfortable rapport with patients.

Tristan de Chalain Ph 522 0652 www.plassurg.co.nz Rural Living — April 2017 — 41

Hot Spots red shed palazzo WINNER of Rural Cafe of the Year 2017. Recommending this cafe is easy – the food and service are that good and directions couldn’t be more straight forward: head along Karaka Rd and look out for the big... red shed! Along with their team, Paul (a chef with 30 years’ experience) and Kristina Smith serve quality food amidst beautiful, family and animal friendly, garden surrounds. Creative breakfasts, morning and afternoon teas, gourmet-style lunches and moreish cakes are all on offer at this fully licensed slice of rural paradise, open 8.30am-4pm.

Dinner Theater at its best - check out our website for dates.

64 Jesmond Rd (just off Karaka Rd), Drury Phone 09 294 6684 www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Red Shed

Palazzo

the village bar Our aim is to provide a home from home in the beautiful landscape of Patumahoe and surrounding area. You will surely see tractors and produce flying by and the smell of the country air will remind you that ‘life is good’! With an outdoor area basking in all day sun and a wholesome real wood fire for the colder winter months, The Village is a comforting place to be. Enjoy fine food with a thirst quenching drinks cabinet to accompany a friendly atmosphere and plenty of entertainment – relax and yarn to your heart’s content. Come say hello!

1 Patumahoe Rd, Franklin Mon to Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat 10am-late, Ph 09 236 3571 www.thevillagebar.co.nz

14263-v5

15549

turanga creek A fantastic place to relax and enjoy fantastic wine and food. The farm’s stables have been turned into a restaurant, function room and cellar door. Our Down to Earth philosophy is all about giving you great flavours from products that have real traceability. We have showcased this in a sharing style menu. Eggs, lamb and vegetables are all provided from our farm. Great for families, couples and groups to spend a few hours, open Wednesday to Sunday with nights Thursday to Saturday.

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

THE LONGKEEPER In 1865, the Turbot family began farming in Pukekohe East. Son, John was set on developing an onion free of doubles, with a round body, tightly layered flesh and ‘long keeping’ qualities.

After decades of trials, it is said he burst into joyful tears when finally cutting his ‘perfect’ onion! To honour this gem we named Pukekohe’s newest bar and restaurant, The Longkeeper and we’re keen to stick around. Check out our menu and drinks cabinet, chill in the afternoon sun, relax after work or party at night – weekly live music. And come try fun-filled Bitchin Bingo, you’ll love it! The Longkeeper – Somewhere local for everyone.

249 King St, Pukekohe. Open 7 days 11am-late, brunch Sat/ Sun 8-11am. Phone 09 239 2653 www.thelongkeeper.co.nz 14378-v3

42 — Rural Living — April 2017

15547

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Goulash with bacon and cranberries

L

ashings of this dish are bound to be requested once guests gain a taste of Mr Brown’s cooking! This month, we have another recipe kindly supplied by Duncan NZ Venison and conceived by Graham Brown from The Cookhouse.

Ingredients

Method Heat the olive oil in a frying pan; sauté the onions and garlic until transparent.

Increase to a high heat and pan-fry the diced venison with the paprika, thyme and pepper until lightly browned.

Remove and keep warm. Reduce to a medium to high heat and sauté the bacon and vegetables until soft.

Add the cranberries, tomato paste, red wine, vinegar, lemon zest, mustard and stock. Combine with the diced venison

and bring to the boil.

Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for an hour, or transfer to a casserole dish in a moderate oven and cook for the same length of time. If necessary, thicken with cornflour solution and return to the heat

for a couple of minutes. Stir in the lite sour cream before serving with rice or potatoes.

Tip: As an alternative, this goulash can be used as a pie filling, or cooked in a crockpot.

d ost Votes Receive M – ds ar w A l ua Business Ann Entree Best in Pukekohe Platter AUTHENTIC INDIAN FOOD Mix Platter for 2

$15

For more recipes, or to purchase Duncan NZ venison, see duncan-nz. com.

Normally $20

Indian Restaurant

TAKEAWAY – DELIVERY

Dine in only

Lunch Special Mon-Sun $12.99

Dinner Special Mon-Wed $12.99

Any $12.99mains with

Country Cafe

rice and naan

$12.99

Except Seafood & Tandoori Mon, Tues, Wed

Except Seafood & Tandoori

Dine in or pick up 2016 WINNER OF RURAL CAFE OF THE YEAR

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Conditions apply

Breakfast/Lunch – licensed OPEN 7 days 8.30am - 4.00pm

64 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Ph (09) 294 6687 Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

12891-v5

Palazzo

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Dine in or pick up

Free local delivery for orders over $30

2017 WINNER of RuRal cafE aucklaNd REgIoN 2016 WINNER of RuRal cafE of thE yEaR

Red Shed

Curry with rice

10 King St, Pukekohe Phone: 09 238 8338 or 09 238 7165

Order online www.gingerpukekohe.co.nz

13371-v2

◆◆ 500 grams Duncan venison diced goulash ◆◆1 tablespoon olive oil ◆◆2 onions, diced ◆◆2 garlic cloves, crushed ◆◆1 teaspoon paprika, ground ◆◆1/2 spring thyme, dried ◆◆Black pepper, freshly ground ◆◆1 rasher of lean bacon ◆◆ 1 cup each of leek, celery & diced peeled carrot ◆◆1/3 cup cranberries or cranberry jelly ◆◆1 tablespoon tomato paste ◆◆100ml red wine ◆◆½ teaspoon vinegar ◆◆Zest of 1/2 a lemon ◆◆1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ◆◆100ml reduced salt beef stock ◆◆ 1 tablespoon cornflour, mixed in cold water ◆◆2 tablespoons lite sour cream

Rural Living — April 2017 — 43

www.perlas.co.nz

Wilcox Perlas.

Fresh from the fields.

Now available.

Make the most of them while they’re here!

44 — Rural Living — April 2017 14333

www.ruralliving.co.nz

FunkyPotato PerlasCrusted Potato Perlas & Courgette Pizza Salad Cook Cook in: in: 3030 minmin

Serves: Serves: 44

What you’ll need: need:

How How you do it:

400g peeled 400gPerlas Perlas, halved

Heat to 225°C. the Perlas lightly salted water Drain Boil oven the Perlas inBoil water for 15inminutes with a liduntil ontender. until just

175g self-raising flour 2 medium courgettes

well and allow to cool, mash.

Meanwhile, broccoli floretsinin a cooked.

Drain andthen leave until cool. Boilcook thethe green beans

1200g tsp baking greenpowder beans

small pan for 3 minutes,and drainleave and set water forof5water minutes,drain toaside. cool. Toast the pine

250g tsp mixed herbs rocketdried leaves

Sift theinflour and while bakingslicing powder the into acourgettes bowl, add the mashed and herbs nuts a pan into ½ cmPerlas pieces.

150g cos lettuce 150ml (¼pt) milk hearts or

and to combine.

Add and the milk and mix to form a soft dough. a Tossstirthe courgettes sliced Perlas together in a Turn bowlonto with

similar

lightly floured surface and knead lightly formpepper. into a smooth on a tablespoon of olive oil and salttoand Placeball. thePlace Perlas

5g fresh mint

aand greased baking sheet. out evenly to a 23cm/9” round.charred, Bake for 10 courgettes intoPress the pan and cook until nicely then

20g toasted pine nuts

minutes.

Remove themay pizza be base lower thedepending temperature of oven to of keep warm.

This inand 3 batches onthe the size

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

200°C. your pan. In a large serving bowl add the rocket, cos lettuce,

3tbsp olive oil

Spread tomato puree over the surface; arrange tomatoes top then green the beans, mint and pine nuts. Mix the the lemon zest,on juice and

150g feta cheese, crumbed

scatter over broccolibowl. and ham.

Finally add the cheese, olive oil inthe a small Pour the dressing overthen the bake Perlas and

Salt and milled pepper

for a further 8-10 untilThen the cheese melted thesalad edge and courgettes andminutes mix well. toss has them withand the

Topping:

150g broccoli florets 2 tbsp tomato puree 2 tomatoes, sliced

75g wafer thin ham

50g smoked flavour cheese, grated

of the base is the crisp.feta cheese crumbled over. serve with For more recipes visit perlas.co.nz or wilcoxgoodness.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz 14334-v3

Rural Living — April 2017 — 45

Looking to redo your lawn or show it some love? Now is the time to do it!

With the cooler temperatures and more moisture in the earth, now is the time to show your lawn you care.

At Central Landscape and Garden Supplies Drury we have a wide range of grass seed, soils, fertilisers and lawn care products.

Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm www.centrallandscapes.co.nz • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, Auckland

46 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz 14032-v7

Spuds

to be sure

Dan’s Tips April 2017

Where would we be without the humble spud? The apple of the earth has become synonymous with Ireland so, hard on the heels of Saint Patrick’s Day, Rural Living takes a closer look at top nosh ‘tatties’.

Spanish conquistadors first encountered potatoes in the mountains of the Inca Empire during the 16th Century. Basque fishermen later introduced them to the Emerald Isle and since being introduced to Europe, gardeners everywhere have really ‘grown’ to dig the spud. Now, the average diet embraces approximately 33kg of potatoes per person, per year!

In some parts of NZ it is too early to plant potatoes but in warmer regions potatoes can be grown year-round. Before planting certified seed potatoes lay them in a single layer on a seed tray in a dry, warm place. Shoots will appear after a few weeks; when they reach 3-4cm in length, remove all but three of the strongest shoots before planting in free-draining soil.

Dig over soil to a depth of 20cm and mix in sheep pellets, compost and potato fertiliser. Plant in rows with shoots facing upwards – 10cm beneath the soil and 50cm apart. As shoots appear, cover over again with soil to gain a larger crop, retain moisture and protect against frosts. Place slug/snail bait around.

Early season varieties are usually ready to harvest about three months after planting, when the flowers are fully open. Main crop and late season varieties shouldn’t be dug until the tops have completely died down, usually in late March.

Once in the pantry, spuds are an awesome meal fix with speedy results easily achieved in the microwave!

Mashed Potatoes Creamy, mashed potato is a satisfying side veg!. First, pick a good variety – Moonlight or Vivaldi Gold go down well. Peel, place in a microwavable dish, cover and microwave for about 10 minutes on full power. Do not score or pierce beforehand – this helps the potatoes steam from the fluids inside giving you that soft mash texture. Once ready, place spuds in a bowl, add a knob of butter or tablespoon of cream then mash.

Jacket Potatoes Baked potatoes or jackets, with a scrumptious topping, are a great snack. Though usually started in the microwave then transferred to the oven, they can be done in the microwave alone. Scrub spuds, prick the skin several times all over and place into the microwave for 4-5 minutes per potato. Prodding the skin prior will allow it to crisp and the inside to soften. Then turn over and cook for a further 4-5 minutes. To cook more than one at a time just up the cooking duration by 4-5 minutes for every addition. Once done, slice down the middle and add topping.

It’s time to transition your garden from summer to autumn and remove crops that have finished producing. If you’re not doing a winter plant, sow a green crop like lupins; best of all, fork some compost around the garden.

Growing Food • Managing transition from the end of the summer garden: now is the time to remove spent diseased crops that have given up their best yields • Replenish organic matter ahead of spring planting: Dig over the cleared areas and add compost or Veggie Mix plus some sheep pellets to replenish organic matter ahead of new planting • Time to sow a green crop: generally lupins and mustard seed – lupins must be dug in when knee height before they flower • Seed-saving: the seed from any heritage/heirloom vegetables may be saved and stored in paper envelopes or bags in a cool dry area. For tomato seeds rub them in a sieve to get rid of pith and dry before storing.

Other Work • Nature’s Best: the planting season of the year.

The soil is warm and moist and there is time for to establish plants before the cold hits.

• Fork some compost around everything in the garden • Early flowering camellias (sasanqua varieties) begin their flowering season from now on. Excellent for medium height hedges • Baby cyclamen and the traditional polyanthus seedlings are available in punnets in the garden centres – brilliant for some winter groundcover where bright colour is needed • Plant spring flowering Bulbs: tulips, hyacinths and daffodils are ready to hit the soil.

Roasted Potatoes Integral to any Sunday roast is the roasted spud but don’t discount using the microwave when under pressure. Wash potatoes then chop into cubes or small thumb-size chunks. Splash a good two tablespoons of olive oil over the spuds, add preferred seasoning as well as salt and pepper. Cover with cling film leaving a little breathing space to allow the inside to steam and soften.

Microwave for 10 mins; the hot olive oil will crisp the exterior!

Remove and you have an awesome dish of roasties! www.ruralliving.co.nz

The Lawn:

See how Gre at time to sow new law ns.

Ellis : y And r ene to with TV One Sev en Sha rp gard jsM 1dC yHj v=tT ww w.y out ube .com /wa tch?

14033-v7

Rural Living — April 2017 — 47

Camping in Pukekohe?

A

lthough Franklin may offer some of the most splendid scenery New Zealand has to offer, Auckland Council is encouraging freedom campers to lay down (albeit temporary) roots right in the heart of Pukekohe!

A pilot programme now allows campers to stay overnight, free of charge, at 29 sites throughout the SuperCity, including seven in Franklin. While most locations in our region are in more secluded areas, two (Rosa Birch car park, Pukekohe, and Waiuku Service Centre, 10 King Street) are practically smack dab in the middle of our largest urban areas.

Fortunately, Franklin Ward chair, Angela Fulljames confirms public consultation was conducted before these sites were chosen and does not expect any backlash from residents.

“We are not aware of any problems and have been advised (anecdotally) by a resident that, at Rosa Birch, the site is being well utilised but, more importantly, it is complying much better with selfcontained vehicles only, resulting in better management... previously, this site had problems with vehicles that were not selfcontained,” she explained to Rural Living.

Various community groups assisted council officers in finalising locations, which were chosen to provide a “good geographical spread”, Ms Fulljames adds.

“This pilot aims to explore better ways to manage the growing ‘Free Independent Traveller’ market and, if managed well, it could have positive tourism benefits.

Interestingly, some [other residents] would have liked [their areas] to have been in the pilot but, due to the timing of finalising their locations, they were deferred.”

Unfortunately, Auckland’s Deputy

Feel free!

[We] have been advised (anecdotally) by a resident that, at Rosa Birch, the site is being well utilised, but more importantly, complying much better with self-contained vehicles only...”

❝

Mayor and Franklin Ward Councillor, Bill Cashmore – who lives within 10 minutes drive of two of the Franklin sites – could not be reached for comment. However, a spokesperson for Mr Cashmore advises that, should campers prove to be a nuisance, they should be reported.

“If any significant issues arise, the best thing is to call council directly on 09 301 0101 and provide as much detail as possible, including registration numbers.”

The Franklin pilot sites are: ◆◆ Rosa Birch car park off Beresford Street, Pukekohe ◆◆ Waiuku Service Centre, 10 King Street, Waiuku ◆◆ Hamilton’s Gap, 228 West Coast Road, Awhitu ◆◆Te Toro Reserve, Pollok ◆◆ Whitford Point Reserve, 1482R Clevedon Kawakawa Bay Road, Kawakawa Bay ◆◆ Clevedon Showgrounds Reserve, 73R Monument Road, Clevedon ◆◆ Orere Point Beach Reserve, 7R Howard Road, Orere

CHOOSE THE STRESS-FREE WAY TO BUILD CHOOSE THE STRESS-FREE WAY TO BUILD Select a Plan from our library of over 1000 plans • Select a planusing from our librarytime-tested of more than 1000 plans Crafted proven, methods and building materials • Crafted using proven, time-tested methods and building Create stunning features throughout you new homematerials • Create throughout your newguarantee home All stunning covered features by a TEN year independent • All covered by a TEN year independent guarantee

us today start planning CallCall us today andand start planning your dream home! your dream home!

ASK FOR YOUR FREE PLATINUM BOOK SHOWCASING NEW ZEALAND’S MOST POPULAR PLANS ASK FOR YOUR FREE PLATINUM BOOK SHOWCASING NEW ZEALAND’S MOST POPULAR PLANS

0508 Platinum (752 846) 01492-v3

0508 Platinum www.platinumhomesnz.co.nz

Showhomes Showhomes

(752 846) 340 Harbourside Drive, Karaka 24 Mark Ball Drive, Pokeno 24 Mark Ball Dr, Pokeno Ph 09 296Ph 017709 277 7093 Ph 09 238 7777 www.platinumhomes.co.nz 6 Twomey Dr, Pukekohe

48 — Rural Living — April 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Your time to Refresh?

F

orm follows function is a long-held creed, although many would argue that as function changes so must form; also known, in simpler terms, as chicken versus egg. These theories relate to the evolution of all things in life including architecture and interior design.

Good design considers harmony and integration within its setting, producing a positive impact on the human experience and the way we live and use a space. Key items to always consider when making changes to your home are: ◆◆Impact on quality of life ◆◆Improvements in productivity ◆◆Function ◆◆Ergonomics ◆◆Spatial relationships ◆◆Light and sun ◆◆Detail ◆◆Aesthetic ◆◆Longevity ◆◆Budget Before you start your next project, big or small, do your homework. Be clear about what you want to achieve and why. Make

The house is but the externalised man.”

– Frank A Parsons

❝

two lists - “must haves” and the “wish list”.

Set a realistic budget, but be prepared to compromise on a few items if necessary.

Once the details are finalised and you’re confident you are on the right path, sign a fixed price contract, with insured and qualified trades people who can stand by their warranties.

Consider a project manager to look after your investment and ensure all the boxes are ticked from the design through to completion.

Refresh Renovations are specialised, knowledgeable, and experienced design & building industry professionals offering outstanding design advice and a turn key solution. We use only licensed and registered tradespeople, who are fully insured, and health and safety compliant.

Refresh Franklin is a Master Builder member.

Send us a photo of your bathroom design disaster and go into the draw win a $200 Plumbing World voucher. Entries to Kim.reiche@refresh.co.nz. We would be delighted to discuss your next project.

Your specialist renovation builder

Refresh is New Zealand’s leading home renovation company As renovation design and build specialists; we offer solutions. One contact, expert advice, qualified builders and sub trades, completing your project on time and on budget to an exceptional standard.

15354

0800 33 60 33 www.ruralliving.co.nz

www.refresh.co.nz 15489

Rural Living — April 2017 — 49

local Firm brings

HERITAGE HOMES

to Franklin

m

ChoiCes There are many options available when building a new Heritage Home with Nick Bosanac Builders. ◆ Replicate a beloved home from your past ◆ Create a bespoke design of your own to suit your lifestyle, needs and site ◆ Use one of our standard plans, and if it doesn’t work perfectly modify or change it as needed Owning one of these beautiful homes does not have to be as expensive as some imagine. The reality is they can be built as authentic as required but you can also find the happy spot where costs are kept real.

Nick and Kylie welcome the opportunity to talk you through available options, applying their extensive local knowledge which is so important with today’s building regulations and processes.

For a no obligation chat about your next building project or to learn more about what Heritage Homes South Auckland is all about, call us today.

family business intent on giving clients the home of their dreams and an unrivalled build experience.

Kylie says when first approached by Heritage Homes to build a garage in the colonial style she and Nick liked the design so much they wanted to be further involved.

“We have always believed clients deserve more than a cookie cutter square box for a home and the Heritage Homes range of designs is a chance to take inspiration from the past, add the best of today and produce a home that will still be standing for generations.”

FUTURE-PROOF BUILDING She says, importantly, these homes have all the up to the minute modern essentials – open plan living, insulation, ventilation, Phone 09 236 8413 NewMobile Homes lighting, technology and many other 021 989 636 Decks modernisms – required for comfortable Additions nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz Concrete Work living. www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz Renovations Sheds BB BB

BB

BB

BB

50 — Rural Living — April 2017

“These are not your typical franchise or mass produced home. It takes real tradesmen to build them yet there are various, affordable options. Clients can choose from a kitset home but with the ability to make changes or we can design something completely unique.

“Naturally we provide fixed price contracts and the comprehensive Master Build 10-year guarantee.”

BB

odernism has influenced architecture for the past 80 years but despite the continuing ‘contemporary’ trend there are those who yearn for a home which embraces bygone eras.

On the other hand, few want the shortcomings that often accompanied colonial or Victorian character. Now, homeowners can have the best of both worlds thanks to the foresight of Nick Bosanac Builders.

The respected Pukekohe building firm has acquired the south Auckland licence to build Heritage Homes, which offers a character selection of bespoke and offplan timber homes exuding all the beauty and charm of the past.

Committed to building homes of unparalleled excellence, Nick and Kylie Bosanac share a passion for the Heritage Homes brand encompassing some 30 plus standard houses ranging from villas to bungalows, English cottages and even an art deco replica with more being added all the time.

Coming from Michigan in the USA, Nick’s sense of aesthetic has been strongly influenced by the architectural character and style of buildings so prevalent there.

“Heritage Homes fits really well with our philosophy of ‘building beautiful futures’ because and integral part of where we are going comes from where we have been.

“As an analogy (and a bit of philosophy) we use timber and timber cladding in our homes because it is a sustainable product which last and lasts – 100 to 200 years ago this wasn’t too different. Styles and colour choices may have changed but the bones are the same and will continue to be so for years to come.”

With Nick on the tools and Kylie managing the office, Nick Bosanac Builders is an independent firm and a

(09) 236 8413 (021) 989 636

www.ruralliving.co.nz bosanacbuilders.co.nz

a great heritage

ADVERTORIAL

By Kylie Bosanac, Nick Bosanac Builders Limited

I

am fascinated by history. The personalities, stories, fashion and architecture of the past enthral me – hence our joining hands with Heritage Homes to bring a taste of nostalgia to Franklin’s building boom. History is the blueprint that guides who you are and what you build your future into.

A wise man once said; “The best indicator of future performance is past performance.” Villas and bungalows have stood the test of time and, with a few modern twists, character homes have solidified their future for adoring generations to come.

But this quote should also apply when selecting who will build your home. We suggest asking your builder for references from recent clients. It is a good way to check that their work ethics and building habits match your expectations. Talk with the clients about their experience with the builder. Some items to discuss are: ◆◆Communication and problem solving ◆◆Keeping to the budget and timeline ◆◆Workmanship / quality ◆◆Respecting your vision, culture and expectations We would add that being an LBP – a Licensed Building Practitioner – is a must. This endorsement is a requirement for all structural or weather tightness work. It means your builder is up-to-date with their skills, knowledge of construction laws and regulations and with health & safety. LBP’s must personally guarantee their workmanship for 10 years.

Also visit some homes your builder has built – see the quality of workmanship and how those homes have worn over time.

Having good rapport with your builder is really important too.

Building a home is ranked as the second most stressful event in a relationship. You want to ensure you get on well with your builder.

We often find clients have looked at two or three builders before coming to us. It’s a great way to gain a well-rounded view of things.

One of our favourite references from a past client is: “They are honest, hard working, give attention to detail, funny, easy to talk to and have excellent building skills! I think a great build experience should be creative, fun, organised and stress-free. These are all skills that Bosanac Builders have!! We love our home!”

We aim for you to have this same enjoyable experience when it comes to building your home.

If you would like to talk about how we can help you and your family to build your beautiful future, get in touch with us today!

April 8 & 9, style Expo, fe Li & e m o e Franklin H See us at th

2017

Bring us your plans, or let us design you something unique.

We take pride in assuring that all work is of the highest quality.

Licensed, Quality Builders Off Plan & Custom Built Homes Modern and historical home experience Attention to detail We manage it all, design to finish!

Renovations & Addtions

Let us build your Forever Home www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz 09 236 8413

www.ruralliving.co.nz

021 989 636

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

01633-v3

We Build Beautiful Homes.

Barfoot & Thompson Waiuku rural experts – Patricia (021 836 242), Katrina (021 170 2970) and Shane (027 492 8128).

Inset: Rhonda (027 294 6836).

Lifestyle living?

Talk to Waiuku’s lifestyle experts

W

hen looking for that idyllic rural lifestyle block, Waiuku’s local lifestyle team is on hand to help.

As the SuperCity expands, finding country life on Auckland’s doorstep may seem like a pipe dream.

However, lifestyle living is closer than many expect. Shane Ogle (branch manager at Barfoot & Thompson Waiuku) says, as the city grows up, more and more are moving out.

“Plenty of people love living in the city, and they’ll sacrifice space to do so, but, increasingly, we’re meeting Aucklanders who don’t want to be fenced in. We may love our neighbours, but that doesn’t mean we want to live in their backyards!” he laughs.

“As a rural township, Waiuku’s the hub for a burgeoning country community. It’s known as the Raglan of Auckland for good reason – we’re close to such beautiful beaches as Karioitahi, just 10 minutes from town. So, we’re not at all surprised that so many want to join us here in paradise!”

Southwest Auckland has plenty of properties on offer, Shane contends. But what to look for in that perfect patch where we plan to set down roots?

“Whether people want to raise a few cows, sheep or ponies, grow their way towards self-sufficiency, or simply surround themselves with a big backyard, our rural experts (Katrina Riedel, Patricia Fenton and Rhonda Gillbanks) will match buyers’ specific desires to the right property.”

However, from Waiuku to Awhitu, AkaAka, Glenbrook and Patumahoe, quality of life all comes down... to the towns.

“Relatively speaking, we’re quite close to Auckland City – and getting closer all the time, thanks to improved roads and public transport,” Shane explains. “This means people can enjoy the best of both worlds – a relaxed country town lifestyle without being too far removed from that necessary evil, the rat race.

“Simply visit us online (barfoot.co.nz/branches/waiuku) or, better yet, call (09 235 0880) or drop in at 16-18 Queen Street, Waiuku for a chat. We still do that here, you know!”

Rural Living — April 2017 — 51

Mixed Market With Greater Choice

By David Powell, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

T

Make windows not walls.

Let the outside in through windows and doors from First.

PH 09 238 8828 franklinfirst.co.nz 00809-v2

he REINZ February analysis is out.

Over the whole NZ market it shows a lift of residential sales volumes and a firming of prices during the February period compared with January.

However comparing February 2017 with February 2016 the sales volumes dropped 8.9% across the country. Prices are remaining firm depending on each region’s demand.

For Auckland region the number of properties for sale increased by 20% on the number available February 2016, this is opposite to the other regions of New Zealand where listing numbers fell.

Median Price Auckland Region Outer Auckland (Franklin+) Rodney Auckland Metro Waikato/BoP Waikato Country Volume Sold Auckland Region Outer Auckland (Franklin+) Rodney Auckland Metro Waikato/BoP Waikato Country

Feb 17

Feb 16 $800,000 $750,000 $672,000 $620,000 $832,500 $760,000 $846,000 $785,000 $460,000 $402,500 $359,500 $325,000 1661 1936 341 345 148 112 1320 1591 1099 1436 208 261

The Auckland Region shows February 2017 median price is up 6.7% on February 2016. The number of sales is down 14.3% on February 2016. Waikato/BoP region has a 14.3% increase in median price since February 2016 but the number of properties sold in February 2017 was down 23.5% on February 2016.

14483

Lifestyle sales ups and downs

52 — Rural Living — April 2017

Despite there being 222 fewer lifestyle property sales (-10.9%) for the three months ended February 2017 than for the three months ended February 2016, the median price for all lifestyle properties sold in the three months to February 2017 reached a new record high of $600,000.

Furthermore, this was $57,000 higher compared to the three months ended February 2016 (+10.5%) according to data released by the Real Estate Institute of NZ. While 1809 lifestyle property sales were recorded in the three months ended February 2017, compared to 2,031 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended February 2016, in all 8886 lifestyle blocks were sold in the 12 months to February 2017, 472 more than were sold in the year to February 2016.

In summary: Auckland sales volumes have been generally lower than most periods over the last two years but some record prices have been achieved for smaller blocks with quality homes to the south of the city.

Waikato listings have been in short supply, but are improving, February sales were 50% below those achieved in October 2016. Quality properties in popular Waikato areas have been selling quickly within the medium price range and marketeducated purchasers have been active in all price ranges. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Right ‘Hon’, Guy! Love or loathe him – we leave to our readers to decide – our Minister for primary Industries, nathan Guy, is often at the centre of many decisions which affect our rural way of life. And, since parliament resumed its duties after their ‘summer hols’, our Guy has been particularly busy, as these reports from his office (seen through the unbiased eyes of the Rural Living team) demonstrate.

gulfood on plate Being an MP may seem like a great way to make a living but, as Nathan Guy would tell you, he often has a lot on his plate.

This was quite literally the case during a recent visit to the Middle East designed to strengthen trade links with GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. Aside from meetings to discuss food standards and safety, Mr Guy also attended Gulfood, the world’s largest food tradeshow.

“A number of our businesses have a strong presence in this market and are doing exceptionally well... my visit is aimed at opening doors and to [help] promote New Zealand companies,” he said.

Kiwi companies attending Gulfood included Fonterra, Tegel, ANZCO Foods, NZ Dairy Company, Open Country Dairy and Spring Sheep.

“Food and beverage is an important part of our trading relationship, built upon New Zealand’s high quality food offering and many Gulf countries’ food security needs.”

During his ‘fruitful’ visit, Nathan also announced a new sheep and beef export deal with Iran, and witnessed the signing of an agreement between Zespri and Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture.

stoRm again Soon after March’s weather bomb blew, Mr Guy was at ground zero (the Cashmore farm in Orere) in time to classify damage as a medium scale adverse event.

“Farmers in the Franklin Ward don’t get heavy rainfall as often, and say they’ve not seen anything like this since the 1960s,” Mr Guy said soon after visiting the farm, run by Rob Cashmore, son of Auckland’s Deputy Mayor, Bill.

“The more hilly areas have a lot of slips, debris and broken fences, and the flatter areas around Clevedon and Whitford suffered from floodwaters and silt.”

MPI has been working with Federated Farmers, Young Farmers, local councils and other community organisations to ascertain the impact of the flooding on www.ruralliving.co.nz

affected rural communities, he added.

“Extra funding will now be available if required... and in extreme cases there may also be Rural Assistance Payments (RAPs) available to farmers in severe hardship.”

nate Wades in New Zealand’s (so claimed) clean, green image could take on a new, blue (green) hue, should efforts to stop stock passing water (or excrement) in waterways pass muster. Coming in the wake of a Green Party petition, the Government’s reforms seek to ensure 90% of rivers and lakes will be ‘swimmable’ by 2040.

While some say National’s plans don’t hold water, Mr Guy believes new rules on stock exclusion will go a long way to ensuring the target is achieved.

“We know stock standing in, or regularly crossing, waterways can do significant damage. While dairy farmers have voluntarily fenced off around 96% of their waterways, we want to extend this to other types of farms as well.

“No single organisation or group is solely responsible for improving water quality.

Meeting the target will take a collective effort, but the primary industries have a key contribution to make.”

Proposed regulations would require pigs and deer, as well as dairy and beef cattle, are kept away from waterways.

“Farmers have made huge progress in recent years to improve environmental practices and this will be another important step forward,” Mr Guy said.

aint Calf safe, mate?

Following last year’s furore over mistreatment, it seems things could be looking up for the country’s bobby calves.

According to Mr Guy, the recent Bobby calf season progress report 2016 shows a major improvement in welfare standards.

“The wider industry and MPI have put a lot of work into improving practices and they deserve recognition for this. While there are still a few in the industry who

need to improve their behaviour, this is strong evidence that things are improving.”

Since the passing of the Animal Welfare Amendment Act in 2015, regulations for handling bobby calves have been progressively strengthened, with further changes regarding transportation to take affect from August 1.

“The MPI has vets at nearly every processing facility and, in the 2016 season, the mortality rate for bobby calves between farm and processing has more than halved,” Mr Guy said.

“This is a major drop of just over 50 percent and shows new regulations and education campaigns have made a real difference. As well as the big drop in mortality, calves are also arriving in much better health and condition.”

See full report via mpi.govt.nz.

daiRy deaR to nZ Just as milk may be important for growing bones, the backbone of our economy remains reliant on the health of our dairy industry, a recent report suggests.

“Dairy contributes $7.8 billion to New Zealand’s GDP and is our largest goods exporter. This is a timely reminder of just how important the dairy industry is,” Mr Guy said following the recent release of the Dairy trade’s Economic Contribution to New Zealand report.

Commissioned by the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ), the report also confirms that, in spite of a few lean years, the sector still boasted exports of more than $13 billion in the year to March 2016. It employs in excess of 40,000 workers with employment growing at twice the rate of total employment.

What’s more, the Government is playing its part in fostering growth, Mr Guy contends. “We are investing $89 million, matched by the dairy industry, through the Primary Growth Partnership to help create new products, reduce environmental impacts, increase on-farm productivity, and improve agricultural education,” he said.

The report is accessible via dcanz.com.

Rural Living — April 2017 — 53

directory ����������������������������������������������������������������������� Abercrombie

29b Elliot Street, Papakura • www. tilesonelliot.co.nz Phone 09 214 6044 • email sales@tilesonelliot.co.nz Open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 8am-1pm

Makers of curtains, drapes, roman blinds plus suppliers of roller, venetian and timber blinds!

All orders over $1000 receive

10% OFF

• Resin Trophies • Signs & Labels • Sports Trophies • Sublimation Printing

4 Hamlet Pl, Pukekohe Ph 09 238 4343 abercrombieengraving.co.nz

01057-v2

Call the girls at Rainbow Curtains for quality and affordable prices

00683

• Engraving • Badges & Cups • Laser Engraving • Medals & Ribbons

Mosiac Tiles

Woodgrain Tiles

CURTAINS

Professional service, quality products

Visit to discover a huge range of stylish, quality tiles

Wall & Floor Tiles

12803-v2

TILES

Engraving

on elliot

Ph / Fax: 09 298 9002 Email: sandywilson@xtra.co.nz www.rainbowcurtains.co.nz

Home and Away supply all cleaning products and equipment.

themselves in 2 years!

Phone 09 235 0350 or 022 0616 614

www.progressiveelectrics.co.nz 13985

Home and Away's services include: – Regular home and office cleaning – Show homes – Moving in and out cleans – Builder renovations or clean ups – Rental home cleaning – Window cleans – Gift vouchers for special occasions

01085

• 24 hour call out

LEAVE YOUR HOME IN OUR HANDS...

• Experts in rural, new builds, renovations, switchboards, LED’s, security lighting and LED’s pay for automation

Come and see us for a free consultation, great advice, and award winning design.

Contact Deb 021 772 957 Email deb@homeandaway.co.nz

01186-v2

• Based in Franklin

Phone 09 239 2226 Address: 171 Manukau Road, Pukekohe

Visit us online at www.mastercraft.co.nz

MADSEN LAWRIE CONSULTANTS LTD

Building in Franklin from North Waikato to City Fringe

PEST CONTROL

6A Court St, Waiuku Phone 09 235 2769

URbAN & RURAL LAND DEvELOpMENT pROpERTy & TITLE INvESTIgATION

Shop 2, 33 Edinburgh St (next to Pizza Hut) Pukekohe Phone 09 239 2964

fARM pLANS & AERIAL phOTOgRAphS RESOURCE MANAgEMENT AppLICATIONS bUILDINg SET OUTS

01111

David Lawrie Dan Madsen www.madsen-lawrie.co.nz Email: office@madsen-lawrie.co.nz

WALKERS • 10 Year Guarantee • Complete Project Management • Design Service, Renovations • 50+ Designs • Green Homes • Finance Assistance • Award Winning We offer a high level of workmanship and expertise

CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

LAND SUbDIvISION

Contact

14 Hall St PO Box 177, Pukekohe Tel 09 238 6369 Fax 09 238 2448

DESIGNS FOR YOUR DREAMS

OPEN 7 DAYS

01537

Check out our new website www.totalbuild.co.nz

LAND SURVEYORS

FIND YOUR BEST FRIEND AT THE

Auckland SPCA, 50 Westney Rd, Mangere.

Ph: 09 256 7300.

• Insects and rodents • Domestic and commercial • Consultancy work

Visit our website at www.spca.org.nz

YOU NAME IT – WE’LL KILL IT! Controlling your pests since 1988 Phone 238 9885 Mobile 0274 789 857 Main Highway, Paerata

Ph Grant 0274 780047 info@totalbuild.co.nz www.totalbuild.co.nz 01877-v5

54 — Rural Living — April 2017

02055-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

directory 03183-v2

������������������������������������������������������������������������ l 20 tonne diggers l 5.5 tonne digger

Call us for all your farming supply needs

l Tip trucks

& trailers l D65 Bulldozer & scoop l Low loader l Grader l Excavations l Dams

For the best advice and friendly service IN TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

PROFARM RURAL & LIFESTYLE

l Tree Removal l Drainage l Roading

l Stopbanks

l Building sites l Demolition

l Horse arenas

Whether your land is for your livelihood or your leisure, we help you get the best from your soil and stock with our complete spreading service

l Metal/sand/

slag supplied l General cartage

Experienced Operator 28 years+

18 Elliot St, Papakura.

Ph 09 298 7767.

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 8.30am-2.30pm

Craig Nicholson

Cnr Madill & George St, Tuakau.

Ph 09 236 8228.

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 8.30am-12noon

Ph/Fax: 09 238 4047 or 021 987402 600 Buckland Rd, RD2, Pukekohe

www.karakaspreaders.co.nz

Grant Escott FENCING

COUNTIES BULK SPREADERS

Mobile 0274844083 Ph 0800241501 / 092986029 Email stupinny@gmail.com

01421

00980

Earthmoving & General Cartage

CONTRACTOR

MR CLIP LTD

CHRIS JULIAN Freephone (0508) RURAL H20 (0508) 787 254 Chris mobile 021 765 629

12671

• GROUND SPREADING • LIME • FERTILISER • UREA • LS100 (50/50 Foul Manure & Lime Mix)

Totally mobile shearing service.

Bombays to Kaiwaka.

COUNTIES BULK HAULAGE • BULK CARTAGE OF METAL • SAND • FERTILISER • LIME

• Decks • Post Driving • Retaining Walls • Rural & Residential Fencing

EXPERIENCED NZ WOOL BOARD • CERTIFIED SHEARERS

Free quotes – Competitive rates

Ph 0274-853-234 Mr.Clip.Ltd@gmail.com

Boyd (09) 233 4466 0274 978 685 Brenton (09) 236 3639 0274 921 916 01114

00983

027 236 8753 • 09 236 8753 grant.kylie@xtra.co.nz

Sheep, Goats, Alpacas, Llamas

01260-v2

BOBCAT & TRUCK HIRE Building Site Preparation Site Cleaning and Base Filling Driveways and Landscape Shaping Free Quotes

Building or Buying or Selling?

• Residential, Commercial & Industrial Plan Approval and Compliance Inspection Services

Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

CALL IN AND SEE US • Service of all farm, industrial, agricultural irrigation and domestic pumps • Full range of galvanised, alkathene & pvc pipes and fittings • Pool pump sales and service – chemical supply • Bore pump design, installation and supplies • Drainage supplies • Water filter systems – Design and install • Bulk sand and cement • Water tanks – Agent for RX and Aqua • Deep well pump sales and service

24-Hour Callout Service • Pump & Well Services • Plumbing – Drainage – Concrete Supplies

SEPTIC TANK

• Pre-purchase Inspection Reports

ANd

GREASE TRAP CLEANING

• Bore Pump Sales & Servicing • Water Pump Sales & Servicing • Water Purification • Water Tanks • Water Testing • Electrical • Filters

Ph 272 2269 Fax 272 2270 Email: info@bldgcert.co.nz Unit 23/2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany South, Auckland 2013

00796

PO Box 217 012, Botany Junction 2164

SST SERVICES 39 Firth St, Drury

p: 09 294 7611

PH 09 237 0050

40 CROSBIE ROAD, PUKEKOHE

01322

• Unauthorised Building Resolution

e: msport@ihug.co.nz John: 0274 923 669 Robbie: 0274 967 430

02335

• Building Advice

www.ruralliving.co.nz

0800 782 521

14 Constable Rd, Waiuku.

Ph 09 235 8268.

03290

KEVIN PLATT BOB CAT SERVICES 0274 928 701 ah 09 238 6923

Or:

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

FOR ALL YOUR WATER NEEDS

00235

ACCREDITED BUILDING CONSENT AUTHORITY

0800 SUCKA1 11713

From One Animal Upwards

www.compassbuilding.co.nz

Water Tank Cleaning (While full or empty) Water Tank Maintenance Water Deliveries ~ Swimming Pools Filled

Rural Living — April 2017 — 55

www.ruralliving.co.nz

02231-v12

56 — Rural Living — April 2017