Rural Living August-September 2013 by Times Media

August-September 2013

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Win!

Philips electric shaver – page 21

karaka homes shine – pages 33-37

Pig out

Pukekohe 09 238 7019

covershot

Local gardener, Christine Bristow’s kunekune, Graham, loves making a pig of himself at breakfast time and what healthier way to start the day than with a giant size carton of yoghurt. Yep, Graham’s a real little pig when it comes to gobbling up his favourite treats which also includes lemons. Here’s hoping he doesn’t pour on the weight otherwise, by this time next year it could be a case of, this little piggy went to …market! We welcome photos and anecdotes from readers – email to editor@ruralliving.co.nz Photo Wayne Martin

A Publication of Times House Publishing Ltd

Freephone: 0800 456 789 Ph: 09 271 8080 www.ruralliving.co.nz info@ruralliving.co.nz Editor: Helen Perry DDI 09 271 8036 Email: editor@ruralliving.co.nz Sales Consultant: Maree Aucamp DDI 09 271 8090 Email: mareea@ruralliving.co.nz Classified Advertising: 0800 456 789 Email: classifieds@ruralliving.co.nz Art Director: Clare McGillivray DDI 09 271 8067, Fax: 09 271 8071 Email: clare@ruralliving.co.nz Manager: Karla Wairau DDI 09 271 8083, Fax: 09 271 8099 karla@timeshouse.co.nz Publisher: Brian Neben 50 Stonedon Dr, East Tamaki, AKLD PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Ph: 09 271 8080, Fax: 09 271 8099 Like us on facebook 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 newspaper. All the material in this newspaper has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times House Publishing Ltd.

From the editor... Hi everyone, The warm winter continues despite half-hearted efforts by nature to remind us that there’s still a bit of cold air, a puff of wind and a few heavy raindrops, not to mention an occasional misty morning, lurking around. Nevertheless, spring really is making an early bid to burst forth. Seeing green paddocks and pink blossoms all over Franklin makes it hard to imagine that a few months ago fields were brown and bare from drought. Hopefully, this lush rebirth will be a sign of even better times ahead with plenty of surplus spring growth for two cuts in the upcoming months. Of course, with spring comes the round of Ag Days, Country Days, Calf Club events and more at our wonderful rural schools. Always fun and a great experience for children to be involved with the rearing and caring of young farm animals,

these special days tend to see parents and students capturing animal antics and awardwinning moments on camera. And because the team at Rural Living loves to showcase those efforts we’ve decided to run an AG DAY photographic competition giving students and schools a chance to compete for some great prizes. Over the next few weeks, we’ll welcome images submitted by students and schools. Later, students’ photos will be judged by the team here but we’ll encourage readers to vote online for photos submitted by schools. Then in November we will run a photo spread of entries and winners in our magazine. Check out our full competition details on page 9. With a lot on the calendar over the next few weeks, I’m so glad I managed to make my second escape to Raglan a few weeks back. We stayed at Horizon Lodge (appropri-

ately part of the Sleeping Lady Lodges) where the views were fantastic and the weather, perfect, as was the company. You can read about Ruapuke Artisan Bread baker, Jenny Carter on pages 22-23. She quite inspired me! And next month I’ll tell you about Rick Thorpe’s and Liz Stanway’s amazing permaculture operation down that a-way! In the, meantime, here’s to spring, and, for those who still have a dad in their lives, do give him a great Father’s Day. Cheers

Helen Perry Editor

inside RURAL Page 6-7 Robyn’s nest – saviour of birds and other small animals

Page 8 Brian’s Diary – a country lad’s perspective

Page 9 Check out Rural Living’s Ag Day photo competition

Page 10-11 Kaimanawa horses – photographer’s dream

Page 12-13 No time for slacking on the farm this month

Page 16-17

Alpacas charm wins hearts – page 19.

Living Page 22-23 Artisan baker rises to rural challenge

Page 24

Reader tells her story of three crazy chicks

Reay’s Diary – our city lass heads to Vanuatu

Page 19

Page 25

Expo sparks interest in alpaca farming

Page 21 Win - check out latest prizes 4 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

Tour takes in Alaska and Canada’s magnificence

Page 27 Spring fashion

Page 30-31 Superfood bottled – pomegranates

Page 35-36 Karaka homes big winners in 2013 House of the Year Awards

Page 39 Artist’s journey started 40 years ago

Page 42 Comedian driven to raise funds for children

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Lifestyling – for the birds! Quick cat, slow duckling; the result is a fait accompli, unless humans step in. Hence, when JON RAWLINSON snatched a ‘daffy’ young duck from the paws of a salivating feline and placed it in the care of Franklin Vets, he discovered another local ‘bird’ who’s a champion for the region’s feathered friends. Local vets may do their best to heal injured birds found by members of the public, but experts, such as Robyn Sampson, from Pokeno’s Robyn’s Nest rescue centre – a non profit auxiliary under the ‘wing’ of the SPCA – are often called upon to provide ongoing care. “If someone contacts me and it sounds like it’s probably a fatal injury, I’ll send them to the vets first, otherwise I’ll bring them home. We try and release birds back where they came from but anything that’s too old or injured will live out its life here,” Robyn says. “We also offer home stay so owners can head off on holiday knowing their birds are in good hands. But it’s not just boarding, we also offer advice regarding nutrition and behavioural problems, for example.” Nine years ago Robyn and husband, Greg, moved to their lifestyle property to establish the centre; a fitting occupation for one so passionate about the welfare of animals. “Maybe it was destiny for me to rescue birds, considering I was named Robyn! “I always wanted to work with animals, and after my daughter, Amy, found a couple of little sparrows and we raised them, it

just moved on from there.” Largely self-taught, Robyn also learnt to become ‘bird brained’ by working in administration for a vet clinic and also from her good friend and former Franklin Zoo director, Dr Helen Schofield. “If you have a passion for something you will soon know how to do what’s needed. “I’ve read many books and Helen, who had previously worked with birds in Australia, also taught me to teach myself. I would research things and bounce information off her.

Birds of a feather – Robyn Sampson providing refuge for a variety of birds such as this galah, left, and cockatoo. Right; Jon’s rescued Photos Wayne Martin duckling.

6 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

“When Helen started at the zoo, I went up regularly to talk about bird rescue. “That’s how our friendship started. She was very good with birds and more than happy to help me out.” Unfortunately, plans to expand the centre with help

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RURAL

MEATING CALL FOR LABELLING

from Helen were cut short following the zoo director’s tragic death last year. “The plan was that when the vet clinic was built at the zoo, the rescue centre would move there, so we could expose students to different types of birds and injuries,” Robyn says. “If Helen hadn’t died, I would have been much more into this by now. But that was part of the reason I decided to pull back. When your phone rings 24/7, you don’t get much time for yourself, so I decided to take a break. Also, I now have a six month old grandson and I’m busy enjoying more time with my family.” Nevertheless, Robyn’s Nest is still home to a range of animals. “Nothing’s really changed, except I’m not taking birds from other centres, just from locals and vets. These days I’m probably taking two or three birds a week, but, originally it was often 10 a week and even more during duckling season or disease outbreaks.” In addition to the couple’s

eight cats, two dogs, two goats, one cow, two turtles, at least 20 chickens, four ducks, a guinea fowl, two geese, two cockatoos, a wide range of other rescued birds, and home stay boarders, Helen and Greg even run a retirement village of sorts. “When elderly people have problems with their birds I go and check on them, offering advice where I can. As a result, I’ve ended up promising many older folk that when they pass on, I will take care of their beloved pets,” Robyn says. Whether for a holiday or to receive treatment, it seems Robyn’s Nest has become the right roost for many. And, while some orphans may be rehomed, Robyn ensures that no rescued bird’s goose will ever be cooked. “No, absolutely not!” she says. “New owners are vetted very carefully to make sure the birds will be okay. After so much effort from caring people to help these birds, I certainly won’t pass on anything if I think it’s going to be eaten!”

A decision to label all beef and lamb from Australia has been welcomed by retailers and consumers who have long called for ‘country of origin’ labelling. The new system, which will see all Australian beef and lamb clearly stated as Product of Australia, began on August 1. For 15 years, the New Zealand Beef & Lamb Quality Mark has given consumers the assurance that product carrying this logo has been naturally raised in New Zealand. Now the industry is taking it one step further with Beef + Lamb New Zealand CEO, Rod Slater, saying this is a signiﬁcant step in ensuring Kiwis are fully informed about their beef and lamb. “It was an unanimous decision by Quality Mark

retailers to support country of origin labelling and it shows how proud we are of the product we produce,” says Mr Slater. “If beef and lamb is imported, it comes from Australia. It is brought in if there is an occasional supply issue, or if companies are running particularly big promotions. “Even so, it is great to be able to give customers a clear message, as we recognise country of origin is becoming increasingly important to Kiwis.” The New Zealand Beef & Lamb Quality Mark is a red, yellow and black rosette on product. It not only conﬁrms the beef or lamb is from New Zealand, but that it has also reached the highest standards of tenderness and food safety.

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Rural Living — August-September — 7

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Never short on advice Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD Last month, after recalling how green I was when I first moved onto our lifestyle property at Runciman, I provided new lifestylers with five tips from Lifestyle Farming in Zealand, a book that has helped me no end over the years. Publishers, Craig Potton, kindly gave permission to quote from the Top Ten Tips section of this helpful tome written by former Franklin vet, Paul Martin. As space in the last edition of Rural Living only allowed for five tips, this month I am providing the other five which I am sure many people on small blocks, especially those with livestock, will appreciate. ■ If someone such as a vet or stock agent is coming to see your stock, you should have the animals in the yards before they arrive. These people are busy and have a schedule of appointments each day. They don’t schedule time for helping you get your stock in, and the novelty of chasing somebody else’s animals around a paddock soon wears thin. ■ Get your fences up to scratch

before you bring in stock. Animals will always ﬁnd ways to get through inadequate fences, especially if they are short of feed. If you are out at work when they escape anything could happen. You are personally liable if your animals cause an accident, and it’s not very good for neighbourhood relations if they keep getting out and nibbling the plants in other people’s gardens. ■ Don’t overstock. One of the most common mistakes made by lifestyle farmers is having too many animals for the size of the property. It is far better to have too few animals than too many, especially if you are just starting out. In doing so, you will have far fewer animal health problems and will suffer a lot less stress yourself if you have to cope with a bit too much grass rather than running out of it completely. ■ Remember that farming relies very heavily on the vagaries of the weather. Each year brings different challenges, and just because you scraped by this year doesn’t mean you will next year. Always expect the worst seasons and hopefully you will occasionally be pleasantly surprised. ■ Plan, plan, plan and plan. Plan how you are going to feed your stock all year round; plan when you should sell stock; plan when you should mate stock and when that means they will produce their young; and plan how you will cope with these

Vet’s book valuable helpmate. young. The decisions that are so vital on commercial farms are just as important on a lifestyle block. If you don’t plan, then you plan to fail! I am hopeful that the sound advice offered here by Paul Martin will assist new and, perhaps, some not so new, small block farmers. Sometimes, the ﬁrst step is just realising there is a great deal to plan for when you take on an acreage and are keen to buy in livestock, have a few domestic

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Ag Day Competition Actor Robin Williams said, “spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘let’s party’,” and what better way to celebrate the season than at our local school Ag Days, Calf Club or Country Day events. What’s more Rural Living just loves to see youngsters having a good time at these annual fun days where new life is paraded for all to see. So, we’re running a great photo competition for schools and want them to register their participation now by emailing us at info@ruralliving.co.nz. Then, after their special Ag Day event is over, schools should send us up to 20 of their best shots for public voting online. The winning school will receive more than $1000 worth of fabulous prizes. Rural Living will publish a selection of those photos in a special Ag Day feature.

But THERE’S MORE! Students can also individually email us their photographs taken with baby animals at home (or school) to be judged by the Rural Living team. Three lucky children will be rewarded for their photographic efforts…more next month!

ag days Sandspit Road School Sept 17 Paerata School Sept 20 Ardmore School Sept 21 Mauku School Sept 21 Patumahoe School Sept 21 Ramarama School Sept 21 Ararimu School Sept 28 Bombay School Sept 28 Brookby School Sept 28 Buckland School Sept 28 Drury School Sept 28 Paparimu School Sept 28 Pukekohe East Sept 28 Puni School Sept 28

Clevedon School Otaua School Pukekawa School Waiau Pa Aka Aka School Glenbrook School Harrisville School Hunua School Kaiaua School Karaka School Onewhero School Pukeoware School Te Hihi School

Oct 18 Oct 18 Oct 18 Oct 18 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — August-September — 9

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Calling in cavalry Who’s going to save our wild horses? When it comes to Kaimanawas, there are more than a few lending a hand. In fact, as Kingseat lifestyler, Kimber Brown explained to Rural Living’s JON RAWLINSON, it’s more like an army! Efforts by the Kaimanawa Heritage Horses Trust (KHH) mean the wild equines are out of the firing line in Waiouru, free to roam certain areas away from army exercise grounds. Kimber Brown, (pictured) a photographer for the trust, says Pukeoware couple, Marilyn and Elder Jenks, initiated KHH efforts with help from diverse organisations. “There’s been a lot of work done by many passionate people to give these horses a better lifestyle. It’s been possible because the Defence Force, DOC, KHH and the SPCA have all worked together. As a result, Waiouru is one of the only places in New Zealand where horses can do what they do naturally.” The Karaka-based KHH

organises regular trips to Waiouru to raise awareness of preservation efforts by showing Kaimanawas at home on the ranges. Kimber’s images go a long way to assisting in this. Born and raised in Raetihi, she will again be ‘shooting’ through in November to capture the horses on film. “My first trip was last year. I’ve always loved horses so I jumped at the chance. I’ve been down twice since and go whenever possible. Aside from the horses, it’s pretty amazing country.” Kimber says witnessing the horses in the wild is exhilarating and educational. “They show an amazing spirit; you can actually see how they behave in their family groups. They don’t have any-

one to groom them or provide the niceties that horses around Karaka have. “They’re different to other horses, they’re focused on survival and you can really see them thinking as opposed to just doing,” she says. “And it’s such a beautiful environment; stunning and very addictive. When people go in they usually want to go back for more.” In addition to joining one of the trips, local lifestylers can further assist with preservation efforts by offering horses a range to graze. “It’s an ongoing endeavour because the horses aren’t going to stop repopulating. Every two years there’s a muster resulting in horses needing homes. To keep them healthy, numbers need to be kept under control,

so there’s a need for people to come forward.” The KHH vets potential homes and provides advice and support to ensure owners will offer the best of care. Kimber is enthusiastic about her return to the wilds of Waiouru where Kaimanawa horses may well be on track to a more stable future. “Places such as these, where horses can do what comes naturally are very rare. Hopefully they can stay there; otherwise I just don’t know what would happen to them.” Readers interested in joining the November trip to Waiouru, or providing a home for Kaimanawa horses can contact the KHH online at www. kaimanawaheritagehorses.org for more information.

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survival story Marilyn and Elder Jenks have become synonymous with efforts to preserve Kaimanawa horses. Involved in the long fight to ensure the survival of the wild horses in the central North Island tussocklands, the local couple has worked closely with various organisations to save a living example of New Zealand’s natural heritage. Designed to raise awareness of the plight of Kaimanawa horses, newly released book, Survivors – Kaimanawa, A Story of Endurance is a must have for those appreciative of nature or photography. It features stylish photos and a detailed history of the fight to save the Kaimanawas. Survivors is available solely from the non-profit charitable trust, Kaimanawa Heritage Horses; visit the Contact Us section of the trust’s website, at www.kaimanawaheritagehorses.org to request a copy.

RURAL

Safer sex message no bull TBfree New Zealand is encouraging herd owners to ensure service bulls are tested for bovine tuberculosis (TB) before allowing them near their herds. The organisation’s national disease manager, Dr Kevin Crews, says while the majority of cattle and deer infections can be traced to infected possums, stock movement-related infections remain a concern. “Protecting the pastoral production sector from TB

n Survivors – Kaimanawa, A Story of Endurance. Written by Simone Frewin and Kristine Jones. Photographs by Kimber Brown, Susie Hare, Abey Vasey. RRP: $27.50 (plus $.2.50 P&P). Available only from Kaimanawa Heritage Horses.

Win! Survivors – Kaimanawa To be in to win, simply visit the Competitions page at www. ruralliving.co.nz and complete the form. One entry per email address / person; entries close September 30, 2013. Winner notified by phone or email.

requires constant vigilance, especially when bringing new animals, such as service bulls, onto a property.” He says all service bulls must be accompanied by an Animal Status Declaration (ASD) form which herd owners need to check has been correctly completed. This includes making sure the TB test date of the animal is recorded and the herd status is supplied. “Don’t be complacent and don’t think that TB is not out there,” says Kevin, “Make sure you do your checks and you will know you have done everything you can to prevent TB from infecting your herd.” If there is any doubt about a bull’s TB status, herd owners are encouraged to contact TBfree New Zealand. Visit www.tbfree.org.nz for details.

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Rural Living — August-September — 11

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On the farm this month Abnormally warm temperatures, a goodly number of fine days (after all that rain), and not a great deal of wind, has produced a spring-like August so here’s hoping the real spring will continue the trend and pastures will be on the ‘rise’. For many lifestylers, whose animal numbers may not be so great, pastures should be looking good, but for others, last summer’s drought may well have impacted heavily and grass could still be in short supply. This may mean buying feed is still a reality. With luck, land owners will have fertilised paddocks back in autumn and this will be helping, but for those who forgot, didn’t know or never got around to this important task, a nitrogen boost may help in the short term. And remember not all pasture is equal. Newbies (and the experienced lifestylers too) will want plenty of ryegrass and clover, although recent research shows that mixed pasture is more resilient to dry conditions and will also leach 50% less nitrogen. By adding chicory, plantain and lucerne to that all important ryegrass and highly nutritious clover, it is believed that cows fed on such mixed pasture excrete half the amount of nitrogen in their urine compared to cows on standard pasture. This has implications in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

Keep cows suckling calves on good feed and supplements. Weeds, of course, will also be starting to grow, especially thistles and ragwort, so learn to identify them correctly and seek advice as to how to remove when they are still young. Don’t let these nasties go to seed like so many folk do. If re-growth is slow on your patch it may be due to a reversal in weather – cold winds, less sun, water-logged paddocks. While pasture shouldn’t get too long, don’t allow stock to graze too low either – leave enough ‘residual’ pasture to generate the re-growth. To fill any feed gap, use up wrapped silage or balage, as well as any past-season’s hay, as

these feeds will deteriorate in nutritional value and quality as they age. Feeding hay is ideal to counteract the very high protein and low fibre of spring pasture. If you have pugged areas ask advice on what to sow over these patches in order to avoid the same next season. Lambing should be virtually at an end now and early lambs docked, but remember not to dock tails too short. The tail dock should cover the vulva of a ewe lamb and the equivalent in the male. This allows lambs to wag their tails when passing faeces and tends to keep them cleaner.

(See the Sheep Code of Welfare avail-able on the Ministry for Primary Industries website). For those with sheep, a vaccination programme should have been sorted out with your vet before lambing, but doublecheck that lambs are covered for pulpy kidney and tetanus. When it comes to drenching avoid doing this task at docking time – only start to drench lambs at/after weaning. Mature ewes should not need drenching. If ewes are really skinny, the problem is more likely to be lack of feed prior to lambing. Don’t drench any sheep before you have some definitive evidence from a Faecal Egg Count (FEC). Give your best feed to heavymilking ewes, especially those suckling more than one lamb. Dag all dirty ewes (to avoid them becoming fly-blown) and ensure all ewes and lambs have plenty of good clean water. Ensure troughs are covered with mesh to prevent lambs drowning. Book the shearer to get the wool off hoggets in the next few weeks. Calving should be well underway, almost finished locally. Calves should be dehorned using the hot iron and an anaesthetic before they are six weeks old. Consult your vet about this. Calves sucking cows should be growing well. Keep their mothers on good feed with good quality supplements if feed gets short. Make sure all livestock have

Subscribe to Rural Living

August-September 2013

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Win!

Philips electric shaver – page 21

karaka homes shine – pages 33-37

Rural Living is a stimulating magazine delivered to RD addresses in the Franklin district. It is designed to provide readers with varied rural information, which is both informative and helpful to the lifestyle market, as well as a ‘Living’ section providing for all aspects of living. HOW TO SUBSCRIBE: For your free e-edition of Rural Living delivered straight to your inbox go to www.ruralliving.co.nz/ subscriptions/e-edition For a copy of Rural Living mailed to your letterbox go to www.ruralliving.co.nz/subscriptions/print subscriptions. Postage costs $49 inc GST per annum.

Pig out

2013 12 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

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a good supply of good quality water and keep the troughs clean; this also applies to pigs, alpaca, chickens as well as sheep and cattle. Don’t treat any cattle for worms with pourons before talking to your vet. For those who have pigs, goats, alpaca or llamas remember foot trimming is an ongoing task and has to be done regularly to prevent any lameness occurring. All animals need a regular vet check – feet (hooves), teeth, parasites, are just a few issues to contend with.

Finally, check financial budgets and allow for unexpected expenses and pay accounts. Keep a regular check on farm machinery – spring accidents are all too common. Be safety conscious at all times, especially when children are around lambing and calving paddocks or in farm sheds where there are all sorts of implements which can be a danger to youngsters. Re-check fences that can take a battering from livestock and the weather. If you have never

rural

Vaccinations should have been organised in autumn. put in fences before seek professional help. A good fence will last many

years and remember different stock require different levels of fencing.

artificIal insemination options With the increasing number of sport-horse stallions available for breeding in New Zealand using chilled semen, breeding a mare is more exciting than ever. However, the use of imported frozen semen is also becoming more common. The breeding of sport-horses is not bound by the same constraints as the breeding of thoroughbreds or standardbreds, where foaling – as close to August 1 as possible – is desirable for an early racing career. So a birthdate in later spring is usually ideal. Mares start to breed in response to increasing daylight hours so this makes breeding of sport-horses generally easier as we can wait until late September/October. By that time, the mare is typically hav-

ing a regular oestrus cycle or ‘season’ every 21 days, compared with earlier when many mares are not cycling regularly as the days are still short and the weather still a little cold. Breeding a mare usually involves an injection of prostaglandin (“PG”) to bring her into

season at a predictable time. It is helpful if you know the dates when she was in season naturally so she can be injected at the appropriate time in her cycle. An initial vet visit is also useful to assess the mare’s suitability for breeding. The mare’s ovaries are then

scanned on alternate days using an ultrasound machine via rectal examination to accurately determine when ovulation is likely to occur. When ovulation is predicted to occur within 24-36 hours the mare is inseminated. Frozen semen requires more accurate observation of ovulation. If necessary the mare can be given a drug to help her ovulate. The mare is scanned for pregnancy on day 15 or 16 postservice. This examination is important to ensure the mare isn’t carrying twins. If there are twins one is reduced so that a single pregnancy remains. Consult with your veterinarian if you wish to discuss any aspects of breeding your mare with either fresh or frozen semen.

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Rural Living — August-September — 13

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Butcher makes cut • Survey & fence line clearing • Hedge & shelterbelt removal • Gorse & scrub mulching • Tree felling & removal • Tree mulching & chipping up to 18” • Stump grinding • Gravel road and farm race refurbishing

The Pure South Sharp Blacks have their ‘Phill’ as a local butcher joins the national team to compete at the Tri Nations Butchery Competition in Britain next year. York-born butcher from Pokeno Bacon, Phill Pirie, says, while he is pleased to be selected to return to England and display his skills, the competition the Sharp Blacks will face is expected to be tough. “I’ve been working very hard

for this so it’s pretty honouring. I think our chances are very strong, with the experience we have there’s nothing to say we can’t do it. Then again, every year the bar is raised and the English and Australians will certainly put on a good show.” Phill’s selection was announced at the recent Alto Young Butcher and Competenz Butcher Apprentice Grand Final, held at the Viaduct Events Centre.

Glenn Mackenzie Phone 0800 CLEAR IT

When it’s spring again, I’ll bring again… not tulips from Amsterdam but lambs, calves and piglets by the yardful including in Franklin where nature’s life cycle is doing its job admirably. For new lifestylers raising their first farmyard young it is, indeed, a joyous time.

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Phill Pirie

LevEt not cross at Bridges There are no shortcuts to safety, especially down on the farm. And, thanks to recently announced government reforms, a safer rural workplace could soon be a reality. Rural Contractors New Zealand (RCNZ) president, Steve Levet, says the Working Safer package – extensive reforms of workplace health and safety – orchestrated by Labour Minister, Simon Bridges, can’t come too soon. “Unfortunately, the attitude towards ensuring workplace safety is not universal in the agricultural scene and it can be a battle to get safety seen as a priority by every individual,” says Levet.

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14 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

“Our people are our biggest asset and we need to do everything possible to ensure their health and safety while at work. Unsafe work practices are unacceptable and a danger to both our lives and livelihoods.” Working Safer aims to lead to a 25 percent reduction in workplace injury and deaths by 2020. The reforms will encompass a new law – the Health and Safety at Work Act – identification of risk areas, stronger enforcement and penalties and improved communications between government agencies, including ACC and WorkSafe, businesses, experts and workers. Mr Levet believes the reforms will reinforce the aim of RCNZ

of creating safer workplaces for members and staff. “However, while enforcement of regulations is crucial, we cannot ensure safe workplaces without strong leadership from all rural contractors and 100% commitment to safety from the agricultural industry.” He says collective and personal responsibility for health and safety is crucial. “Rural contractors are acutely aware of the need for robust and safe workplace practices, with most having already implemented major safety initiatives and plans. But we are always open to new ideas about how we can do things better and further improve workplace safety.”

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Vet Talk with Franklin Vets

RURAL

Redworm treatment

By Holly Walton, BVSc, Equine Veterinarian Spring is the time of the year we recommend all horses receive a moxidectin-based de-worming treatment, contained in Equest® Plus or Ultramox™. Moxidectin is the only product that helps treat all stages of the Cyathastomeor redworm and is also the only product to date with no documented resistance in New Zealand against redworm. Redworm is the major disease causing worms in horses in New Zealand. It has a complicated lifecycle and is associated with diarrhoea, weight loss, colic and is life threatening if left untreated. The juvenile redworm forms cysts within the bowel wall and often enters a state of arrested development over winter. Certain environmental conditions can trigger the larvae to be released from these cysts en masse. Spring pasture conditions, using a de-wormer that only treats adult redworm, or general stress can trigger this mass release. We are seeing a large number of redworm cases at present which may be attributed to the drought of late summer.

Using a faecal egg count (FEC) is usually a very useful tool for decision making around whether your horse requires a de-worming treatment or not. A limitation of the FEC with redworm diagnosis is that it may return a negative result until the worms reach adult egg laying age. In these cases we perform faecal laboratory testing to detect the juvenile larvae itself. Blood testing is also used to help indicate an active infection. Throughout summer and autumn we recommend a combination de-wormer such as Triumph™, EquitakExcel™ or Strategy T.

These products do not help treat the encysted juvenile redworm but are good options for helping minimise drench resistance development on your property. We advise when to use these products based on FEC results. At Franklin Vets we have developed the Equiworm-rite programme that helps take the guess work out of worming programmes for horses. This programme: ■■ reduces drench resistance on your property ■■ protects horses against worm-related disease with evidence-based advice ■■ ultimately saves money on worming products by using the right product at the right time.

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Research has shown that 50% of horses should only be de-wormed twice a year! These horses have naturally high immunity against worms themselves. By identifying horses as having individual de-worming requirements rather than blanket treating every horse at set intervals we will start to address the very serious problem of drench resistance in New Zealand. We can identify individual horse de-worming requirements with strategic FEC monitoring. Please contact us for advice on setting up the Equiworm-rite programme on your property.

EQUINE SEMINAR

Thursday 12th September 7pm Meet & Greet our equine vets at Franklin Vets 86 Harris Street Pukekohe (next to PaknSave) Topics: • Spring Healthcheck • Laminitis • Using Faecal Egg Counts (FEC) to formulate drench programmes/redworm – problems and control • Q&A 53923-v4

www.franklinvets.co.nz Rural Living — August-September — 15

RURAL ��

Three feathered psychos In response to Rural Living’s appeal for readers to send us their lifestyle anecdotes for a Bumpkin Banter page, LIZ CLARK sent us a hilarious, full blown article which we are still crowing over. Here’s hoping for more of the same in future. Once upon a time, six little eggs were placed under a broody, very grumpy black hen named Maggie May. Maggie May wanted some little chickens all of her own and, after 21 days, out hatched five little chicks all fluffy and sweet. One little chick did not survive the night, so then there were four. Another was a little hen named Feather, with the remaining three roosters named Flick, Sunshine and Flake. The three little roosters grew more quickly, becoming much bigger than little Feather, and were soon cramping her style.

But still, none was to know that the three little roosters would turn out to be... The Three Feathered Psychos! Maggie May was the farmyard boss, no ifs, buts, or maybe’s about it. Not even the cats dared to take her on, otherwise punishment came at the end of a sharp chicken beak, complete with a good, old fashioned hen’s cackle scolding. The Three Feathered Psychos, however, had other ideas. They had it all planned by the time they were a year or so old. Complete with loud crows and shiny, pretty rooster tails,

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桜

they figured they were the best ever creations from Chicken Heaven. All three would chase Maggie May and Feather around the farm doing what all archetypal roosters attempt to do, jump the hens and try to make chickens. If ever the term ‘hen pecked

husbands’ could be applied literally, then this was a case in point! The stupid psycho roosters would jump on Maggie May, who would cackle with indignation then chase the offender of the moment down the long farm driveway pecking him as she went.

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Shaun Chisnall is owner/operator of Timberline Contracting, who specialise in the safe, controlled topping/felling of trees. Often shelterbelts are removed when they get too big, as there wasn’t an alternative, but now you can still have the advantage of having shelter, but at a manageable height. Timberline Contracting’s specialty is those shelter belts that have been left too long and are now too big for shelterbelt trimmers to handle. Controlled removal along driveways, boundaries and close to buildings are a big part of Shaun’s work.

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16 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

For an obligation-free quote, call Shaun on 027 354 5475 or for more information www.timberlinecontracting.co.nz

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Full speed he would go, squawking from each peck received. Served them right I say; darned psycho roosters! By the time they were 18 months old, the trio graduated to become the rooster mafia. Each sporting big, colourful feathers and large spurs, they started to target the farm’s human residents. The kids were chased, the cats terrorised, and I’d end up with Sunshine, another rooster, sitting on my bench every other day waiting for the cats to be fed. What’s more, no visitor was safe when approaching the farm gate. One of the Three Feathered Psychos would always be there, on guard, and ready to make a surprise attack. Our rural postie, however, bravely gave the psychos their marching orders every time they tried taking him on; a firm,

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swift boot in the tail feathers would soon have them showing him some serious respect. The last straw came when they started attacking everything else that moved, including their owner. From that point on it was war, human versus Three Feathered Psychos! We never left the house, not without a big stick at least, and they soon got the message: ‘take me on, Feathered Psychos, and it will be the last thing you ever do!’ At last, we imprisoned them in the chook house where they could do no further harm. As to their fate, I think most can guess. I don’t miss the Three Feathered Psychos and their 3am crowing competitions; I’m too busy enjoying the peace now they have long since returned to Chicken Heaven from whence they came.

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Rural Living — August-September — 17

rural ��

hot news from potato expert The act of reaching for a hot chip may have once been tinged with guilt but experts say there’s some reason to embrace it in all its golden glory – nutritionally. As one of New Zealand’s prime potato-growing districts, Pukekohe stands to reap from this bumper news which has been extensively researched by Dr Maureen Storey, president and CEO of the Alliance for Potato Research and Education in the USA. Maureen was in town recently to share statistics and scientific findings she and academics have dug up on the potato based on the diets of Americans. Often seen as an accompaniment to various fast foods, it’s no wonder the cheerful chip has received such a bad rap. This, coupled with the perception that colourful vegetables are healthier, leaves the palecomplexioned spud sidelined. However, the meat and pota-

toes of the matter lies not in the colour, but its nutritional properties, says Maureen. While many believe most of the nutrients of a potato lie in its skin, she says this is not entirely true. “There is still a good amount of potassium and fibre in a peeled potato. In fact, potassium levels and dietary fibre increase when a peeled potato is fried.” Potassium (responsible for regulating blood pressure and helping with hypertension), fibre, calcium and vitamin D are the four nutrients most lacking in American diets. Therefore, potatoes should be considered a main source of

nutrients. “Potatoes contain even more potassium than bananas,” says Maureen. To demonstrate this, a small (138g) skin-on, plain baked potato provides 738mg potassium and 128 calories. On the other hand, a large banana (136g) provides about the same number of calories but far less potassium (487mg). Despite this, fried potatoes are

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often automatically perceived as a calorie-dense, artery-clogging food and are, therefore, often removed from school menus. However, American children consume, on average, less than 1% of their daily caloric intake from potatoes at school. In general, Americans consume 2-3% of their total calories from potatoes, with sweet treats taking up more than 11%. Closer to home, The Chip Group is aiming to reduce salt and fat in each serving by educating operators. Using Matamata as a model, the operation has seen the reduction of fat per gram in chips from 9.6% to 7.8% which is equivalent to 1711kg of fat removed per year. This training model will hopefully take on NZ, town by town.

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rarer suri – the latter more highly prized for its fibre, which exhibits a soft, luxurious lustre. The huacaya’s fleece grows like sheep’s wool, at right angles to the body, and displays crimp – again like sheep’s wool. This is the animal most people visualise when they hear the word “alpaca”. The suri fleece hangs down in long silky locks. In New Zealand recognised colours are black, dark brown, medium brown, light brown, dark fawn, medium fawn, light fawn, white, dark grey, medium grey, light grey and rose grey (or roan) although, more recently, the leopard appaloosa, whose fleece is highly sought-after, is making an impact. Warm and lightweight, alpaca fleece is easy to felt and is suitable for a variety of garments and accessories as well as soft furnishings. For those who spin, the soft, luxurious yarn can be knitted, crocheted or woven. As a bonus, the colours don’t fade so a black scarf will be truly black, and will stay black. While it is possible to get up to six kilos of fibre from a top animal, the norm in New Zealand is about two kilos, earning between $10 and $100 per kilo, depending on the market.

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More than a few lifestylers have succumbed to the appeal of the alpaca. Graceful, personable, hardy, easy to keep, productive – its fleece is coveted worldwide – and with eyes to die for, this charming animal is hard to resist. Like its relation the llama, alpacas are South American camelids, members of the family Camelidae. Bred for its fibre, the alpaca has been fully domesticated for some 5000 years. New Zealand received its first alpacas in 1986 and is now home to some 15,000 alpacas. Intelligent and highly social, they are popular with lifestyle farmers, not just for their sweet nature but because they eat less grass than other grazers. Valued by the ancient Inca royalty for their fine, lustrous fibre, that’s still the case today. The alpaca’s beautiful fibre is prized by fashion designers the world over and was also used to create costumes for the ‘Lord of the Rings’ film series as it resembled the ‘fibre of the time’. Stronger than merino wool, it is hypo-allergenic, containing no lanolin or oils, making it suitable for anyone allergic to wool. There are two main alpaca breeds: the huacaya and the

Rural Living — August-September — 19

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Left, even the deadly Taipan is now under threat from cane toads. Right, wild water buffalo are another serious pest across the Territory, Ditch found this one in the bush beside the Stuart Highway.

Caning the toad By Ditch Keeling Coastal Pest Solutions Ltd This month I packed the family off to the sunny Northern Territory of Australia and finally found a pest problem to rival even our worst. We have all heard about the problems with cane toads in Oz, but it’s not until you get right in among them that you gain a real sense of the sheer environmental catastrophe that continues to spread its way across that beautiful country. Around 3000 toads were released into northern Queensland from Hawaii in 1935 to control cane beetles that were damaging sugar cane crops. In the same way our stoats failed to reduce rabbit numbers, the toads proved capable of killing almost everything but the cane beetles. Cane toads are prolific breeders with females producing 8000-35,000 eggs in each clutch and many do this twice each season. When you consider that they are also incredibly mobile, totally omnivorous and are highly toxic to anything that eats or even just tries to eat them, it’s obvious we are dealing with an ultimate invader. Toads spread an average of 10km per year during the first 10-20 years of liberation but once they hit the ideal habitat of the tropics this increased to 55km per year and is still spreading. Today it is estimated that there are at least 200 million cane toads in Australia “Crikey!” They were confirmed in Kakadu National Park in 2001 and locals out there told me they noticed an almost immediate and dramatic

20 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

Mackenzie, Ditch and Jack getting up close with the deadly cane toads.

decline in the number of important species such as Northern Quoll, large lizards and snakes. Sadly I heard the same thing everywhere we went. Cane toads are toxic through all life stages and adults store large amounts of toxin in glands above the shoulders, anything eating their eggs or tadpoles generally dies – just “mouthing” an adult is often enough to kill even a large pet dog. Between 1986 and 2010 the Australian Government spent more than $21 million on toad control research and “muster” programmes whereby locals went out at night and caught as many toads as they could. About $11 million of this amount was spent on investigating natural controls back in the toad’s homeland. However, this project was discontinued in 2008 after an independent inquiry found the development of an International Risk Assessment and Management

Plan for the release of a Virally Vectored Genetically Modified Organism would be a significant hurdle – pity we weren’t thinking like this in 1935 huh! Today Australia still lacks any real cane toad control methods and the Government is focused on developing bio-security plans to ensure populations of the most threatened species are held on offshore islands. This is very familiar territory for me as we have had to do exactly the same thing in New Zealand to protect our most vulnerable species from pests over the last 20 or so years. With the vast pest problems we face daily in our own country it’s not often we consider ourselves lucky in the pest stakes but, from now on, whenever it all seems a bit too much I will think of those toads and their victims and thank our forefathers for not coming up with a reason to bring them here. www.coastalpestsolutions.co.nz

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Win!

RURAL

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.ruralliving.co.nz click on the competitions link then fill in the form. One entry per person/ email address; entries close September 30, 2013. Winner notified by phone or email.

Win! A Philips 6000 Series men’s shaver Rural Living has one of these handy shavers to give away to one lucky reader – the Philips 6000 Series features Philips’ Reflex Action and CloseCut systems, guaranteeing a close and comfortable shave, every time. A perfect gift for Father’s Day, these quality shavers are in store now. RRP $99.95. www.philips.co.nz.

Photo Felix Wu / Creation Heart Photography

WIN! zen Cherry blossom festival family tickets Beautiful Zen Gardens at Whitford is preparing for its annual Cherry Blossom Festival on September 22 (rain/ late flowering option, September 29) from 11.30am to 4pm. In addition to viewing these beautiful blooms visitors can try Japanese style archery, swordsmanship, martial arts, and have a go on the taiko (drums). There will be different performances at every hour, artists from the Log Cabin at Beachlands will showcase their work and there will be plenty of food – Japanese, Thai, Chinese and Western. The best news is Rural Living has two family passes (2 adults, 2 children) valued at $150 each to give away. For festival information visit www.zengarden.co.nz.

WIN! WELEDA POMEGRANATE FIRMING FACE SERUM In this month’s Rural Living, food writer Tamara Rubanowski talks about pomegranates so, what better product to give away to two lucky readers than a tube of Weleda’s Pomegranate Firming Face Serum? With age comes wisdom but the accumulation of years also means skin loses elasticity and wrinkles appear. Weleda Pomegranate Firming Serum can help restore firm, naturally radiant skin. Packed with antioxidant-rich pomegranate seed oil, this intensive treatment helps ageing skin bounce back with natural nutrients and essential fatty acids that aid the skin’s ability to regenerate. RRP $46.50 (30ml)

WIN! $50 Animal Stuff Voucher Here’s a handy prize for lifestylers and farmers short on feed this winter. Animal Stuff, which has branches at Takanini, Karaka and Pukekohe has given us a $50 feed voucher to give away to one lucky reader. It can be used against any kind of feed depending on the winner’s particular needs – a great prize to bag at this time of the year – thanks Animal Stuff!

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WIN! dale’s brewing co. beer pack

‘Big Al’ Lester, the 6’4” detective sergeant, known as an ardent outdoors man who loves to hunt deer and other wild game, has again hit the target with his latest book, Mad Men of the Mountains. It’s filled with ‘plenty of off-the-wall adventure for the hunting mad and hard case.’ In this 7th collection of ‘tall’ tales, Lester and mates, armed with rucksack, rifle and a keen sense of humour, go bush and encounter all manner of beasts and curly situations. The result is a book of enthralling yarns to keep readers laughing. Mad Men of the Mountains, published by Penguin Group (NZ) RRP $38.

Here’s a chance for thirsty dads on the farm to kick back with a pint after a hard day’s work. Rural Living is giving all sons and daughters a chance to win one of two Dale’s Brewing Co. beer packs for dad. Each pack contains four beer varieties including the Belgian Pale Ale, Doppelbock, American Amber, Extra Special Bitter and a glass. Entrants must be 18 years or older and the winner must pick up the prize from Times House, 50 Stonedon Drive, East Tamaki. Proof of age required. Rural Living — August-September — 21

LIVING ��

Rising to employment

Jenny Carter’s Raglan bread shop is not much bigger than a telephone booth – about as wide and maybe twice the depth. It’s been open just two months yet, almost without fail, Jenny sells out of her home-made sour dough loaves by midday. HELEN PERRY talked to her about her baking journey. But determined to hang on to the life she had chosen and refusing to be pushed out of the home she so wanted to preserve, Jenny came upon the different idea to make a living – baking and selling sour dough bread.

Two redundancies, a commitment to caring for her grandchildren if required and living in the somewhat remote Waikato district of Ruapuke, 27 kilometres south of Raglan, is no easy situation for an independent woman in need of a living.

“I started by practising and practising. My early attempts were pretty terrible but then I produced my first proper, loaf. I was so proud of myself. Actually, it was a bit munted and absolutely not sellable; but I had made it all by myself.”

But Jenny Carter’s natural affinity for hard work – gleaned from years of farming – and her determination to look beyond the obvious, has finally paid off. Despite having never baked bread in her life, two years ago she used her ‘loaf’ and came up with a plan to make and sell sour dough bread to her local community and surrounds.

Jenny continued to persevere until she eventually got the mix right. That led to putting together a business plan in order to secure a WINZ enterprise grant and convince the bank she was worth supporting.

“It all started when two redundancies forced me onto a benefit,” Jenny says. “It wasn’t where I wanted to be. In addition, I had inherited the 100 year old homestead built by my grandparents on the waterfront at Ruapuke. It was derelict when I decided to make it home and with huge restoration work to do, I had a fairly hefty mortgage.” Fearing that she would be forced to move to a city for work but not wanting to give up her dream of living and working where she was most comfortable, Jenny began researching business ideas. “I’d been a farmer’s wife for 20 years

Fortunately the powers that be could see the potential. Plan aside, Jenny also consulted a number of local businesses. “We are a close knit group out this way and I didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes.

Jenny’s sourdough is sweet success. and then taught at a local literacy group but when funding for the service dried up, I was without work,” she says. Another local job in Raglan also

came on hard times and Jenny was again made redundant. What’s more she had given a commitment to be available for her grandchildren if needed – “It was a very difficult and stressful time.”

“I was thrilled when other Raglan bakeries were supportive and when the one business, which was buying sour dough from another source, decided to stick with her own supplier, I felt I could go ahead because I wasn’t cutting out anyone.” Initially selling via the local school to parents and friends and also at the

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LIVING

challenge More orders followed and Jenny was on her way – not to riches but at least to a liveable income. Last summer she sold about 300 loaves per week, about the most she can manage on her own. “The enterprise grant had allowed me to erect a building on my property and to outfit it with a commercial oven and other equipment I needed to comply with regulations.” However, with winter and the drop off in Raglan visitors, also came a drop off in sales to restaurants. Undeterred Jenny decided to open a retail outlet. By chance there was a tiny space between the Trade Aid shop and Frockin’ Gorgeous in Raglan township. With the approval of the landlord, and adjacent tenants, Jenny was given the thumbs up to create a cubbyhole shop. “I dug around the garage, found some paint and materials for shelves and with the help of friends we knocked this tiny space into shape. “Everyone was so encouraging especially the neighbouring shops; it’s just been

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fantastic. In particular, Trade Aid’s wholehearted support has meant a lot to me.” As a result Ruapuke Artisan Breads moved into its new retail home two months ago, the wee premises, no wider than the door Jenny shuts on it each night. And the boutique store is attracting much praise for its French provincial charm.

ph: 534 1823 mob: 021 123 5650 email: lynn@fusionlandscapedesign.co.nz www.fusionlandscapedesign.co.nz 54011

“I didn’t really intend it to be that way, I just happened to have some cream paint at home and found that wicker baskets with linen cloths were the best way to carry and display bread – it stays fresh and dry whereas an experiment with plastic bins left the loaves sweaty.” But best of all, Jenny’s sought-after bread is usually sold out by about noon. In addition, she still has her restaurant orders and sells at the Raglan market.

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local Raglan market, Jenny’s break came when a local restaurant decided to use her bread on its menu – “I was so excited!”

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“I’m not sure where it will take me in the long run. For now I am working pretty much to capacity and I get by. “The beauty of it is I’ve proved that I didn’t have to leave behind the life I love to make a living in the city. “By working from home, I can still ride my horse on the beach for relaxation and I have the satisfaction of selling to a warm and supportive community.”

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Rural Living — August-September — 23

LIVING _______________________________________________________________________________

Discovering Vanuatu Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS My love affair with Fiji has been sorely threatened since visiting Vanuatu for the first time. We were picked up at the airport by the resort shuttle and taken on about a half hour drive up huge hills with only the hint of sea in the distance before arriving at our beautiful resort, The Havannah. There we were met by our hosts, Frederik and Victoria Maclean and sat down in the outside courtyard with cool towels and refreshing fruit drinks. Best of all was the view from where we sat. It looked right out over the harbour to the bay entrance – just magnificent. We were then taken to our villa, one of five with its own poolside entry. Two loungers, a large double daybed in the shade and then just three or four steps into the pool made this sunny, warm day, perfect. Our friends had the villa next door but because of the intense privacy we had two choices for contacting each other – phone or walk around a wall

of the pool. A resort for adults only, there were just 15 villas, spa and as many activities as guests required. Every day Frederik tried to entice us into the various snorkelling or diving trips on offer but the thought of sunshine, lounger, our own private part of the pool and, of course, a good book meant the four of us were content to laze in our own patch of paradise. We did, however go out on one sunset cruise which left from the little jetty by the outdoor dining area. Looking back at the resort, tucked around the golden beach, we realised just how lucky we were to ﬁnd this jewel. Then, looking out to the harbour entrance, the sunset was amazing. We saw this view every night from our villa but on the water, it was extra special. Throughout our stay it was the little things that endeared us to the resort. For example, every night one of the housekeeping ladies left a handwritten message addressed to us personally together with our towels folded in the shape of animals. I must say, after our ﬁrst day, most of the staff addressed us by name making the four of us feel very special. Staff members at The Havannah were locals and their happy, smiling faces greeted us in the dining room every time we sat down to a gourmet meal – three times a

Above, the view from our villa; below left, an excerpt from the dual English/Pidgin menu; below right, sunset on the sea.

Bigfala Kaikai / Main Courses Titi blo faol wetem blu chis, apol sos mo potato kratin Chicken breast with a blue cheese sauce, glazed apples, gratin potatoes Nie blong sip sip oli kukum wetem wain mo karot sos I go wetem potato oli smashem Lamb shanks in red wine and carrot sauce, mashed potato

day. The menus were written in both English and Pidgin English which we had fun trying to translate.

for the American allies after Pearl Harbour, with the New Zealand, Australian, and US Navy based there.

We did head into Port Vila on one occasion and spent the time looking at the shops as well as some of the tourist spots. For the young there is plenty to do but for us (a little more on the mature side) The Havannah was all we needed.

At a small village museum, local man Ernest had collected all kinds of memorabilia found around the harbour. Among those he showed us was a huge collection of coca cola bottles dated back to during the war – fascinating.

Interestingly, I didn’t know until this holiday that during the Second World War, Port Havannah was strategically the second most important harbour

All too soon it was time to leave this Eden and head back to the real cold world of Auckland and that’s left me dreaming about Vanuatu in the sun.

www.beautybible.co.nz

E513015-v4

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LIVING

Spirit of the Rockies Experience the majestic Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s famous Inside Passage on the Globus ‘Spirit of the Rockies’ package which incorporates rail, coach and cruise.

flavour... Experience breakfast at Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, dine at world-famous Butchart Gardens and take an Ice Explorer ride on the Columbia Icefield, to name a few.

Start in vibrant Vancouver and witness the unique beauty of the Canadian Rockies as you travel to Banff aboard one of the world’s most recognised rail journeys, the Rocky Mountaineer.

At night, retire to the comfort of your spectacular Fairmont and Delta hotels which Globus has selected for their comfort, beauty and proximity to key sites.

From Banff, board your first-class Globus coach (with extra leg room and free WiFi) and travel through Alberta and British Columbia. Marvel at glacier-fed lakes, untamed wilderness and incredible wildlife. Globus’ Local Favourites offer unique experiences that will take you behind the scenes and bring to life the local

For the perfect finale to your exploration of this region, board your 7-night Alaska cruise with Holland America. Step back in time as you stroll through Skagway, visit glacier bay and witness an amazing spectacle of thunder as tremendous slabs of ice break off glaciers and ‘calve’ into the sea and meander through quaint boutiques and art galleries in Ketchikan.

This 19-day package is priced from $6951*pp twin share with RedLeaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer and an Inside cabin on the cruise. There are various upgrade options available such as GoldLeaf service on Rocky Mountaineer and outside cabin on the cruise FROM $8387*pp, twin share. Talk to the team at Cruiseabout Pukekohe today about options to suit your travel dreams and budget. *Price based on 3 May 2014 departure.

Explore Canada Explore Canada

Spirit of the Rockies 19-day Tour & Cruise Package Departing Vancouver, 03 May 2014. Other departures available.

HIGHLIGHTS Sightseeing visits to Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, Whistler, Alaska’s Inside Passage, Fairmont & Delta hotel and resort accommodation in spectacular locations. Spirit of the 19-day Cruise Package WITH 12-day landRockies tour including 2-dayTour Rocky & Mountaineer Rail journey, D eparting Vancouver, May 2014. OtherMS departures available. 7-night cruise onboard03 Holland America’s Volendam. HIGHLIGHTS Sightseeing toRocky Banff Mountaineer National Park,&Lake Louise, Jasper UPGRADE options availablevisits on the Holland America cruise. National Park, Whistler, Alaska’s Inside Passage, Fairmont & Delta hotel and resort accommodation in spectacular locations. * Twin share pp WITH 12-day land tour including 2-day Rocky Mountaineer Rail from journey, Airfares are additional. 7-night cruise onboard Holland America’s MS Volendam. UPGRADE options available on the Rocky Mountaineer & Holland America cruise.

$6951

Cruise includes all main meals & entertainment onboard, taxes and port charges

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Cruiseabout Pukekohe Twin share from $6951 pp *

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Airfares are additional.

20taxes Kingand Street, Pukekohe Cruise includes all main meals & entertainment onboard, port charges Pukekohe 0800Cruiseabout 868 866

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53555

Rural Living — August-September — 25

LIVING ��

Spring into

Jean Jones!

If spring cleaning the wardrobe sounds like a plan, then make tracks for Jean Jones in Pukekohe! The colourful styles of a fresh season are blooming in store and the friendly, experienced staff will assist with all wardrobe woes to ensure the women of Pukekohe remain at the forefront of fashion. Headed by manager Marie Richardson (formerly Footloose), the knowledgeable team consists of retail experts Val Dickinson and Heather Morrow.

53401-V3

In fact, Rural Living managing director, Reay Neben, is delighted to count long-time friend, Val, amongst the Jean Jones team. “Val is an expert shopper with vast experience in using a credit card!” Reay says with a laugh. “Now, she is putting her talent to good purpose and encouraging others to spend their money.” Together, the customer-focused trio has built strong relationships with clients and go the extra mile for client satisfaction. “We rely on our diverse backgrounds to come up with style solutions for women of all ages and sizes,” says Marie.

We can’t believe it! Laundry 4 U won the ‘Most Votes’ category in the recent Pukekohe Business Association’s Best in Business Awards 2013

Known for their vast retail experience, the enthusiastic stylists offer unbiased advice. “The team prides itself on honesty,” says Marie. “As a result, we have a large base of repeat

We really appreciate your support!

Marie, Val and Heather customers, who trust us completely.” Of course, Jean Jones has built a reputation that is second to none with top quality, made in New Zealand clothing. Never short of accolades, Jean Jones, Pukekohe was recently named the best-performing Jean Jones store nationwide. It has also been nominated at the Pukekohe Business Awards as well as being awarded a Highly Commended in the Pukekohe Business Steelers Window Competition. To view the latest Jean Jones spring/ summer collection on the catwalk and for a fashionable time out, strut along to the Fashion Parade at Onewhero Golf Club on September 20, 7pm. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased from the store at: Jean Jones, 90 King St Pukekohe Ph 09 239 0857, www.jeanjones.co.nz

OPEN 7 DAYS Monday-Friday 7am-6pm Saturday 8am-6pm, Sunday 9am-5pm CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Colour is the theme this summer 53581

Shop 2, 33 Edinburgh St (next to Pizza Hut), Pukekohe. Phone 09 239 2964

26 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

81 King Street Pukekohe Phone: 09 238 7686 www.halliwellshoes.co.nz 53552

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LIVING

Casual Friday As the weather warms up it’s all about casual dressing on the fashion front and guys, well, there is nothing that you love more than to kick back on a casual Friday. Here’s a little Rural Living inspiration for all you country lads looking for some casual comfort and effortless cool this spring.

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Top Togs & Knitting 6 Broadway, Papakura PH: 298 5278

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1. Mr Vintage No 8 Wire Tee – Farmers $34.99 2. Dominion Shirt – Canterbury of New Zealand $90 3. Amco Jeans – The Warehouse $39 4. Stripe Polo Match – The Warehouse $20 5. Mayland Grey – Skechers $189.90 6. Amco Shorts – The Warehouse $39 7. Vinotti Canvas $24.99 – Number One Shoes

129 Great South Road, Papatoetoe | 09 2788422 Rural Living — August-September — 27

SERVICE

Special Occasions Sizes 8-24

Beautiful Accessories Swimwear Colour CASUAL ESSENTIALS

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2013 28 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

) • Fashion & NZ Made

Merino Clothing • Ph 09 239 2845

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Manscaping

Unichem

advice for hair and there

Pukekohe Pharmacy

Hair today is gone tomorrow for many men, particularly once they earn the pseudonym ‘husband aka dad’ writes JON RAWLINSON.

Dr. LeWinn’s PRIVATE FORMULA

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Kids were invented to get up our nose, but hair doesn’t have to. Tweezers may be effective, but rather than ‘plucking’ up the courage to use these pincers, electric trimmers offer a much less painful alternative. It’s often said that older men don’t lose their hearing, they simply choose to stop listening. However, while a little extra ear hair can help keep the sound of children and spouses to a dull roar, it can be a nuisance when trying to comprehend football commentary. Thankfully, trimmers again come to the rescue. Yes, luscious locks can maketh the man, but who wants to spend hours in the barber’s chair? Armed only with a set of good quality clippers, and a good enough woman whose resolve is fortified with promises of a night on the tiles, I ensure I look more like a silver fox than a woolly mammoth. And even the folic-ly challenged can find solace in clippers; keep it close cropped and no one will know about the struggle to grow! Finally, blokes who look like wild men from Borneo are not tops with

the ladies and are sure to embarrass the kids. Yes, manscaping is here; we must ‘face’ facts that, these days, it’s all about the manicured mo and designer stubble.

16 WEST STREET PUKEKOHE Phone 238 7690 Fax 238 7603 53451

12 WEEK CHALLENGE STARTS 2 SEPTEMBER. ONLY 30 PLACES.

While blades cut quick, just like Dylan, eventually we all have to go electric. And, thankfully, the latest electric razors are up to the task, turning ZZ Top into J Depp (not the gender-non-specific pirate version.)

Whether to help us land a lady, or to keep her from throwing us back once she becomes wise to her folly, it’s never too soon to groom. Because, although we men probably have the right to moan, considering the guff we put the women through, we’re lucky, lucky fellows!

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• Philips Nose, Ear and Eyebrow Trimmer – Provides fast and easy trimming. A safeguard trimmer means pulling, nicks and cuts are easily avoided. • Philips Hair Clipper – featuring rounded blades to prevent scratching, it is lightweight and can be used cordless. To win a Philips shaver see page 21.

BEFORE 53558-v2

Stress can cause hair to ‘migrate,’ cropping up where it’s not wanted, and is often difficult to manage where it stays. Fortunately, with the right products, men can ensure they’re in top ‘scape’ to face the day.

AFTER

BEFORE

phone 09 238 1888 151 manukau road www.countiesfitness.co.nz

Rural Living — August-September — 29

LIVING ��

Superfood in the garden By Tamara Rubanowski, member of the New Zealand Guild of Food Writers

Some of the bright red globes were already bursting open to reveal juicy crimson seeds.

When Rex and I bought our East Auckland property, we didn’t realise that the garden harboured a delicious surprise. An unsightly tree at the back of the section nearly ended up as firewood, but it suddenly burst into exquisite orange blossoms, revealing itself as a pomegranate tree.

After harvesting the fruit with thick garden gloves (watch those spikes), I started processing the pomegranates, washing them first and then splitting them open to reveal pretty rubycoloured seeds.

Intrigued by this exotic sight in my garden, and having heard about the many health benefits of pomegranates, I began to feed the tree with mulch. Tuis visited the bright blossoms and little pomegranates began to form, dotted all over the branches like miniature Chinese lanterns. At the end of summer, the tree was laden with rosy-cheeked pomegranates ready for picking.

It was a labour of love, but it was worth it. My kitchen produced fresh fruit salads, fancy cocktails and lamb tagines, all adorned with shiny pomegranate seeds bursting with flavour. To preserve the remaining fruit, I decided to cook up a batch of pomegranate jelly to share this ‘superfood’ from the garden with family and friends.

What are superfoods? Superfoods are multi-taskers, brimming with nutrients and flavour and are usually low in calories. Think

vitamins A, C and E. The fruit’s polyphenols can help the body rid itself of cancer-causing agents, its tannins lower blood pressure and stimulate the immune system; and its anthocyanins help reduce inflammation and protect blood vessels. The sweet-sourness of pomegranates is something of an acquired taste and the way the seeds are embedded within a thin membrane means that the fruit is a little fiddly to eat.

blueberries, lemons, spinach, broccoli and, of course, pomegranates – all super healthy and easy to grow.

Drinking the juice is a more convenient alternative and it is available in most supermarkets and health food shops.

Pomegranates have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, but health studies have only recently revealed that this amazing fruit contains more antioxidants than green tea, plus it is rich in iron and

Whether you grow them in your garden, or buy them at the shops, make sure you add some superfoods to your daily diet. They will make you feel healthier and more energetic... the natural way.

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carpet

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30 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

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Curtains

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Can’t find what you want?

method:

www.flooringxtra.co.nz Hours: 8.30am-5pm Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday 53640-V3

Sleepers

Outdoor Furniture

Gap 40

Top Soil

Gazebos

Pebbles

Plaques

Living Earth

Phoenix Italia Weather Vanes

Paintings

Gnomes

Edging

Statuary

Lawn Mix

Pet Memorials

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Bird Feeders

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Compost

4/21 Ronwood Ave, Manukau. Phone 09 262 0048

Giftware Lime Chip

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Services we offer: • Free measure and quote • Supply and installation Carpet Vinyl Timber Cork Tiles for both domestic and commercial situations • Floor preparation • Repair service (for those little damages or restretches) • Insurance work

Ponga Carvings

Gap 7

149B Manukau Rd, Pukekohe. Phone 09 238 2954

n Use rubber gloves and an old apron when processing pomegranates (the juice can leave permanent stains). Jelly can also be made with storebought pomegranate juice. Sterilise preserving jars by washing in hot soapy water, rinse, then place in oven (preheated to 160°C) for 20 minutes.

Builders Mix

Ponga Logs

John Bannister has over 35 years experience in the flooring industry in both the domestic and commercial markets. Together with his family, they own and operate both the Pukekohe and Manukau JB’s Flooring Xtra stores.

Skim and discard any foam off the surface; ladle jelly carefully into the jars (a sterilised funnel helps). Fill jars nearly to the top; then seal. Label and store in a cool, dark pantry.

Weed Mat

Raised Gardens

Cut open a pomegranate and submerge in a large bowl of water. Remove the red seeds under water; most of the white membrane holding them together will float to the top. Discard peel and membranes. Strain the seeds and juice them in batches (1 1/2 cups at a time) in a blender, or food processor. Strain the crushed pulp (through cheesecloth or a jelly bag) to remove the small white

Stir gently at regular intervals, until jelly reaches setting point (drop a little jelly on a cold plate and place it quickly in the fridge; if it forms a skin the jelly is ready).

Rocks

Crown Road, Paerata, Pukekohe. Phone 09 238 9039 Open 7 Days: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 10am-3pm www.yardartdesigns.co.nz

Phoenix Italia

Rural Living — August-September — 31

www.phoenixitalia.co.nz

53591

Bring the pomegranate juice to a boil. Add sugar, lemon juice and pectin, whisk well to dissolve completely and simmer over a medium heat for 10-15 minutes.

Mulch

Water Features

• Seeds of 6-8 fresh, large pomegranates (or 5 cups pomegranate juice) • 4 cups sugar • 1 1/2 sachets jam-setting pectin (70g each) • Juice of 1 lemon • Large stainless steel pot, or preserving pan (other metals may react with the juice and taint the flavour) • Sterilised jam jars & sterilised lids

Garden Art

Handmade Jewellery

kernels inside the seeds.

Sand

Ingredients:

Wall Hangings

Planers

Pomegranate Jelly homemade

Bird Baths

Brustics

Interior Art

Hot Spring Portable Spas

Here’s just some of the range... Give us a call!

LIVING ��

Innovative storage Hit TV series The Block is known for amazing house transformations, some of which can be credited to leading wardrobe and storage company, Innovative Interiors. Innovative Interiors has been designing customised wardrobe and storage solutions in New Zealand for almost two decades and has a network of specialist franchisees nationwide.

Clients can choose from three Innovative ranges: • The Traditional is ideal for less complex storage options, offering exceptional value for money without compromising quality or style. • The Euro is a premium wardrobe solution suitable for contemporary walk-in wardrobes and dressing rooms, and includes the ultimate range of sophisticated accessories.

Innovative Interiors manufacture and supply Whisper sliding doors to provide the perfect finishing touch for any wardrobe, office or storage space. Fluid engineering and quality componentry ensure these sliding doors glide through the tracks with the lightest touch.

The company provides a complete service from creating initial concepts through to manufacturing and installation. “We oversee everything from measuring and design, right through to installation, keeping customers informed on each process and offering advice,” says design consultant Paul Duffy. He says this is important as wardrobes and storage systems have become carefully considered, stylish elements of the home. “They form an integral part of a well-planned and functioning living environment.”

‘whispER’ sliding dooRs

Take advantage of Innovative Interiors’ great offer of 20% DISCOUNT on all sliding doors from now until the end of September – so take action today. • The Classic is an elegant, floormounted wardrobe system and comes with an extensive selection of accessories. The Innovative Interiors team works closely with architects, builders and home-owners to develop the best solution for your wardrobe. A knowledgeable and experienced team offers innovative solutions for all areas of the home. Their insight maximises space and efficiency in the most challenging areas, increasing usability, enjoyment and value of any property. Importantly, Innovative Interiors offers a personal, FREE in-home consultation service that comes with

32 32— —Rural RuralLiving Living— —August-September August-September2013 2013

a no-obligation quote. Its range of high quality products are made in New Zealand and come with a 10-year guarantee on workmanship and componentry. The company also offers a full design, manufacturing, and installation service for all storage requirements, such as bookcases, entertainment units, storage for children’s rooms, the garage and laundry, shelving and wine cellars.

Innovative Interiors 24s Allright Pl, Mt Wellington. Showroom: Mon-Fri 9am-3pm. Ph 570 5029, 0800 80 30 50, www.innovative-interiors.co.nz

Your Wardrobe & Storage Solution Specialists 20% OFF SLIDISCOUNT DIN Due to po pular dem G DOORS offer h and,

CONTACT US FOR YOUR NEW HOME BUILD TODAY! For a free measure and quote designed+ Contact Paul Duﬀy produced 09 570 5029 | 021 606 229 0800 80 30 50 | innovative-interiors.co.nz

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Builders of quality custom-built concrete pools 118 Pakuranga H/way, Pakuranga Ph 576 4413 info@executivepools.co.nz Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-2pm www.executivepools.co.nz E510038-v2

53586

Rural Living — August-September — 33

Karaka Harbourside Estate Award winning showhomes, now for sale

1 Street

OPEN TO VIEW WEEKDAYS 10am - 2pm

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34 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

WEEKENDS 11am - 4pm

LOMBARDIA WAY ~ KARAKA HARBOURSIDE ESTATE

LifeatHome

The destination for home inspiration! www.lifeathome.co.nz

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LIVING

Franklin homes awarded House of Year accolades A number of new homes in the Franklin district – namely Karaka, Papakura and Waiuku – have nailed a total of 14 awards in the Auckland Registered Master Builders 2013 House of the Year awards. Eden Homes Ltd won both gold and was the category winner in the Gib Show Home Award while Frame Homes Ltd took out the Heart of the Kitchen Award in the Lifestyle Awards section for the kitchen in the Karaka home of Masterchef New Zealand judge, chef and restaurateur, Simon Gault. Local winners were: J ames Hardie New Homes award – $450,000-$600,000: • Silver – Waiuku – Jennian Homes Auckland Ltd Nulook New Homes award $600,000 – $1million: • Silver – Karaka – Frame Homes Ltd

L ifestyle Awards – Heart of the Kitchen Award: • Winner – Karaka – Frame Homes Ltd Gib Show Home Awards: • Gold and category winner – Karaka Harbourside – Eden Homes Ltd • Gold – Karaka Harbourside – Earth Masonry Homes Ltd • Gold – Karaka Harbourside – Falcon Homes • Gold – Karaka Harbourside – Frame Homes Ltd • Gold – Karaka Harbourside – Faulkner Construction • Gold – Karaka Harbourside – Finesse Residential Ltd • Silver – Karaka Harbourside – Total Buildings Solutions Ltd • Silver – Karaka Harbourside – Cartmer Construction • Bronze – Papakura – Latitude Homes • Bronze – Karaka – Landmark Homes Counties

Top right, GIB Show Home Gold Award – Faulkner Construction; bottom right, GIB Show Home Gold Award – Frame Homes Ltd

Frame Homes are experts in all aspects of the build process and can help you build your perfect home.

Visit our Gold Award-Winning show home at 4 Lombardia Way, Karaka Harbourside to see ﬁrst hand the attention to detail and immaculate ﬁnishing that goes into each and every home we build.

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Design Intelligence / Building Excellence / Finished to perfection Email: info@framehomes.co.nz Phone: 09 524 0779 53596

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LIVING

more award winners Jennian Homes Auckland took away five awards at the 2013 Master Builders House of the Year Awards! To build with and award winning builder contact us today on 09 582 1020 / 0800 JENNIAN or auckland@jennian.co.nz

Top: Gold Award and Category winner – Eden Homes Ltd; above left, Bronze Award – Latitude Homes; above right, Gold Award – Falcon Homes; below left, Silver Award – Jennian Homes Auckland Limited; below right, Gold Award – Finesse Residential Ltd

53594

Above, Gold Award – Earth Masonry Homes Ltd

CLEAN AIR FIRES • Clean air approved, energy efﬁcient ﬁres • Can be used for cooking and water heating with wetback options • Designed and built in New Zealand, with approved retailers nationwide • Great range of styles and sizes

36 — Rural Living — August-September 2013

www.ﬁresbydesign.co.nz

SHOWROOM AT 47 Sir William Avenue, East Tamaki, Auckland Ph: (09) 273 9227

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See our website for the full range of woodburners, outdoor fires, gas and open wood fires.

70 Bayvista Drive  5 Bedroom  3 Bathroom

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Come and view our stunning new showhome... you’ll love it so much, you won’t want to leave! st

Opening August 31 2013 Saturday - Sunday 11am - 4pm

Why Karaka Lakes?

HINGAIA RD

 Mixture of homes, plans and styles  Large sections with great indoor outdoor flow

DR ST

GC RIN

GE RA HO ANC

community with a single entry/exit

Spaceline HINAU RD

www.spaceline.co.nz

 Handy to horse riding, fishing and golf

Y MOTORWA

 Karaka Lakes is a stunning landscaped,

RY ER

Exit at Papakura Offramp NZ BLOODSTOCK

IEW EV IDG BR

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IA R

A ING

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IA GA A HIN NSUL I L PEN HOO SC

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Rural Living — August-September — 37

GENUINE LA-Z-BOYS AT FANTASTIC PRICES Our business is on the market – all floor stock must be cleared!

CORTLAND 3PCE

CLARK 3PCE

$2895

$3750

$4185

METRO 3PCE

TYLER 3PCE

$2695

$3695

$2650

$3350

Leather La-Z-BOYS

$2195

TRENT

AVENGER

CLAYTON

CORONA

$1399

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$1299

$1899

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Fabric La-Z-BOYS – up to $1125 CLARK

METRO

$1655

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ALL $799 BENNET

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BONUS BUY

CORTLAND & GRAND CORTLAND CHAIRS MONTEREY FABRIC UP TO $1170

$699

MORGAN ARIA

1X ONLY IN CLOUD LEATHER $4185

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LIVING

Art journey stroke by stroke By Darren McDonald I am spying, but the GCSB is nowhere in sight. I am spying on a pristine pond where more than a dozen fantails are fluttering across the still water, snatching mosquitoes as they emerge from their aquatic metamorphosis. It is a beautiful sight. This is Fernbrook Gallery and the world of Pam Clarke, an artist who is about to exhibit for the first time in quite a number of years at Nathan Homestead at Manurewa. Pam is an artist who has had her own metamorphosis. It might sound like a strange career progression, but it is fair to say that if she had not been a nanny, Pam might not have become the talented artist she is today. “I began painting in 1973 when working as a nanny for six children in Florida,” she explains.

Drawing pictures to entertain her young charges, Pam’s artistic journey began when her client enrolled her in an art school for a year. On her return to New Zealand, she took a job as secretary to the principal of AUT. It was perfect, allowing Pam the opportunity to stay back after hours to attend the art classes. Ever inspired to grow as an artist, Pam found herself at the Nathan Homestead at Manurewa where she would paint in the art studio while her son enjoyed the creche downstairs. The suggestion that her upcoming exhibition at the Nathan Homestead might be a ‘spiritual coming home’ met with agreement. “It is; I hadn’t thought about it like that. It is quite strange. It is going back to my roots.” Since those early days, Pam has

been committed to her goal as evolving as an artist. Evidence of that is the tutorials and workshops she has attended with numerous New Zealand artists – “I don’t want to stay as I am. I want to grow,” she says.

hoarder?’ Pam explains: “I am a bit of a magpie. I pick up all sorts of things. If I go to the beach, I can’t come home with nothing. I’m always on the lookout for anything that might be suitable for my work.”

Spying again… I look around Pam’s studio. Dead butterflies lie on the shelf ready to be pasted to some upcoming piece of art.

This is the new Pam Clarke – an artist who defines herself by what she is about to become. She is someone eager to learn, eager to grow. For Pam, art is a journey.... A journey that began long ago, but in some ways is only just beginning,

There are boxes of leaves and rocks and pieces of slowly dying fungi. Bottles from another century are there, and a basket of old bird nests. I ask myself, ‘is this an artist or a

Pam Clarke’s exhibition is open for one month at the Nathan Homestead from September 19.

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Rural Living — August-September — 39

Tuakau 296 Whangarata Rd Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on in your district? Your local neighbours Colleen and Robin are selling their beloved home; they have raised their four sons under the roof of 296 Whangarata Road, Tuakau and now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to move on to something a little smaller so they can enjoy the next chapter of their lives. If you know of someone looking for a home that has been loved and looked after, helped raise a family and hold teenage parties by the pool and a wedding in the fantastic gardens, helped the young married couple live in the pleasant extra separate living areas whilst they built their own home. Then please contact Kevin 0800 345 563 before this house sells at Auction, 7 September at 11am in rooms: Campbell Tyson Building Centre Level 2, 1 Wesley Street, Pukekohe.

Karaka Show your neighbours your artistic flair 14.11 ha (34 acres) of classy land which deserves the building of a classic Karaka home. Personally pick the building site on this elongated gently rising property. Close to the quiet country road or create an impressive tree lined drive through gates to show your home to effect and assure your privacy. Look to the long Eastern boundary, an estuary planted in site specific natives at the base of the roling land. The old home is workable and tenanted but less than one might expect on such a prime site. Water is supplied from a bore. Phone Kevin to view and prepare to build something impressive.

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upward swing continues The popularity of lifestyle properties just keeps on keeping on with yet another big increase in sales in the three months to July 2013.

She came for the experience but stayed for the lifestyle. Seventeen years ago Jacqui Kendall fell in love with New Zealand, so much so that the Londoner chose to make herself right at home. And now, the latest addition to the ‘This is Kevin’s Country’ team at Harcourts Rural in Pukekohe is helping others feel right at home too. “I moved to New Zealand so I could provide a better life for my children and this area certainly offers that. It’s a wonderful place to live,” Jacqui says. The Tuakau resident says she enjoys being part of a team that welcomes people to the region. “When people look to move to lifestyle properties it really can be quite a big step, but we can make that move much easier for them. It

LIVING

certainly is rewarding finding the perfect property to match people’s dreams.” Jacqui will initially assist rural specialist, Kevin Seymour, with developing Harcourts’ burgeoning rural team while she works towards obtaining her New Zealand real estate licence. “When learning anything, I think it’s important to learn from the best, and as far as local knowledge and experience in the local lifestyle property market goes, Kevin certainly fits the bill,” says Jacqui. Kevin adds that, as the Franklin region faces increasing demand

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for lifestyle properties, Jacqui has already proven an asset to the company, helping form the nucleus of a customer-focused team of local property experts. “More and more, people are choosing to step away from the rat race, looking for a rural outlook with city convenience. This area certainly offers that,” Kevin says. “So, to make sure we continue to assist the growing numbers of people wanting to join our community, we need to develop our team. Jacqui’s marketing expertise, in particular, will be most valuable in this regard. Harcourts and Kevin’s Country warmly welcome Jacqui to the team.”

Up 18.2% on the three months to July 2012, this year saw 1790 lifestyle properties sold during that period compared to 1514 sales in the same period last year. What’s more there were 6368 unconditional sales of lifestyle properties in the 12 months to July this year, an increase of 18% over the 12 months to July last year. The national median price for lifestyle blocks also rose by $13,500 (+2.8%) from $475,000 for the three months to July 2012 to $488,500 for the three months to July 2013. In Auckland the median price for lifestyle blocks rose by 16.5% in the year to July 2013 and in Waikato the median price for the same period rose by 4.4%.

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Rural Living — August-September — 41

living ��

poverty cycle Breaking the chain is something most cyclists would prefer to avoid, but in early September, that’s exactly what riders will set out to do. In an attempt to help break the chain of poverty experienced by millions worldwide, aid and development agency, TEAR Fund, has developed The Poverty Cycle Challenge, a five lap, 20km circuit road relay race, which winds its way through Franklin. Poverty Cycle event manager, Beth Harper, says the event aims to raise $200,000 for vulnerable children both here and overseas. “The Poverty Cycle is a fantastic team-building event for businesses and groups that will challenge, unite, and encourage people to get together for a great cause,” she says. New Zealand businesses already onboard include Ricoh and Unlimited Potential; businesses, schools, groups and clubs are all being invited to join TEAR Fund’s efforts.

Westie gets the Bash Port Waikato’s own westie, Ewen Gilmour, is challenging locals to support the upcoming Variety Mini Bash. “If you have a car and a theme, the Mini Bash is open to everybody for a per person entry fee and your services,” he says.

Funds raised will aid in the rescue and rehabilitation of children caught up in human trafficking in Nepal, mothers and babies in India and at-risk youth in Auckland.

Organised by Variety – The Children’s Charity to raise money for children in need, the Mini Bash will wind its way from Port Waikato to Awhitu and Bombay to Pukekohe from September 20-22.

To become involved or for more information visit www.povertycycle.org.nz

“For me, it’s about money raised locally and used locally to look after underprivileged and disadvantaged

kids. Such events are about giving back to the community. And, when you see some of the kids we help, it’s very humbling; it puts life in perspective.

This year, cars and crews won’t be bush-bashing, in keeping with the origins of the event. They’ll be shaking buckets and delivering entertainment down local streets.

“Everyone goes home afterwards and gives their family a hug and thinks how lucky they are.

A veteran Basher, in his GT Radial stretch Falcon limo, Ewen says there are many ways to drive fundraising forward.

“I’ve travelled a lot of New Zealand with Variety and you get to some rural areas which can be forgotten in a sense. “We just try to fill some of the cracks that, while nobody’s fault, are there, but it’s a lot of fun along the way. We have a good time for a great cause.”

“Run cake stalls, wash cars or do anything legal you can think of to raise funds for kids, then come along on to South Auckland Ford on Saturday, September 21 to meet the Bashers, admire our cars and fire engines, enjoy the Bash’s lighthearted flavour – and hand over your donation!”

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