Rural Living August-September 2014 by Times Media

F E

R E

August/September 2014

www.ruralliving.co.nz

HITTING THAT

CLASSROOM ACT

WELL STAGED

DUFTY

TRAIL pages 6-7

page 27

TUAKAU PAST TIMES

page 29

PUKEKOHE BRANCH 68 King St, PO Box 147, Pukekohe bus. 09 238 7019 | fax. 09 238 7018 www.barfoot.co.nz

SePTeMBeR ■ sALes Pukekohe Saleyard Every Saturday except holiday weekends, A&P Showgrounds, Station Rd, Pukekohe 10.30am – pigs, sheep, calves 12pm – cattle Tuakau Saleyard Every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, Tuakau Saleyards Rd Mon – sheep 10.30am, feeder calves 11am, dairy 12pm Wed – prime cattle 11.30am Thurs – store cattle 12pm

■ hAMPton downs Motorsport Open Day August 31, 10am-4pm, Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata New to the circuit? Then test the limits in your own car with two sessions – driving behind a safety car at under 100 km/h ($30 per car), and driving at a faster pace with training and test driving ($50). There will also be a gymkhana course on the Skid Pan for $20 a car. Go to hamptondowns.com for more info. Race Car Test Days September 5, 12 & 26, 9am-4pm, Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Zoom down to Hampton Downs and whip around the circuit all day in 20-minute race sessions. Passengers and spectators are welcome; but strictly no drifting! All entrants will be closely supervised. Preregister at hdticketing.co.nz

HRC Icebreaker September 13-14, 12pm (Saturday), 9.30am (Sunday), Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Witness historic and classic racing at its best with more than 250 vehicles showing what they’re made of. It will be a sight for spectators too, offering free access to pits and free parking. Entry $20 per adult, and free for children under 12.

■ coUnties rAcing Pukekohe Park Speights Awards Dinner September 4, Sponsors Lounge, 6.30pm, Pukekohe Park, Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Celebrate racing excellence with this glamorous awards evening. Held in conjunction with the Auckland District Apprentice School Prizegiving, this event celebrates the success of the Pukekohe Park track riders, jockeys, owners, trainers, and, of course, horses. Tickets, $60pp or $600 for a table of 10, include a pre-drink at the Sponsors Lounge followed by a three-course dinner at The Oaks Lounge. To book, phone 09 238 8049 or email karen@ countiesracing.co.nz Westbury Stud Karaka Classic Feature Race Day September 20, The Oaks Lounge, Pukekohe Park, Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Don’t miss out on one of the most popular racing events of the year! Featuring nine races as well as the running of the Westbury Stud Karaka Classic,

this race day also plays host to an Owners’ Function held at the Oaks Lounge and open to all 2500 owners who have raced a horse at Counties Racing Club in the past year. For more, contact Karen on 09 238 8049 or karen@countiesracing.co.nz

■ entertAinMent 40 Years of PLOC – A Musical Celebration of People in Theatre September 4-7 & 11-14, ThursFri, 8pm, Sunday, 2pm, Harrington Theatre, Harrington St, Pukekohe Join Pukekohe Performing Arts (formerly Pukekohe Light Opera Company) for its 40th anniversary. Be thoroughly entertained by a show drawing from the many fabulous productions – Les Miserables, Oliver, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music, etc – staged at Harrington Theatre. Featuring past and present performers, this musical extravaganza is backed by a solid chorus and includes memorabilia from past productions for an extra touch of nostalgia. Tickets $20 per person with concessions for students and seniors; see ploc. org.nz for more info. ‘Beauty & the Bro’ with Mel Parsons and James Nokise in Cabaret September 27, 8pm, OSPA Theatre, Hall Rd, Onewhero Acclaimed folk singer Mel Parsons and celebrated Samoan/Welsh comic James Nokise join talents to reward audiences with an evening of music and comedy like

Mel Parsons

no other. Their intimate live cabaret show, ‘Beauty & the Bro’ is sure to entertain with James’ hilarious but true take on New Zealand culture melodiously in tune with songs from Parsons’ new and old album which range from rollicking country numbers to heartfelt ballads. Tickets $20 per person; phone 09 236 8875 for bookings. Monster Comedy Club August 30, 7pm, Waiuku Cosmopolitan Club, Victoria Ave, Waiuku Laugh your heart out with some of NZ’s best comedians! Featuring stand-up comedian Mike King, award-winning comedian/magician Jared Fell, and international rising star Andre King. Tickets $35 per person or $60 for a double pass. Proceeds will help fund a local student’s World Challenge educational programme as well as the Key For Life Charitable Trust. For tickets phone Vanilla on 09 235 0300.

Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

Largest Rural/Lifestyle Sales Team Stephanie Alderlieste Craig Ashby 027 246 7911 021 998 605

David Powell 027 485 9321

Community Calendar The Hypnotist September 16, 7.15pm, Waiuku Cosmopolitan Club, Victoria Ave, Waiuku Sit up and pay attention! Showman extraordinaire, academic and world-renowned hypnotist, Andrew Newton will grace the stage to entertain, enthrall, and mystify audiences. For a taste of Andrew’s talents, book now on 09 235 9131; tickets just $20 per person.

■ shows Paeroa Vintage & Classic Car Show September 13, 11am, Normanby Rd, Paeroa Take a step back in time (and a country drive) for Paeroa’s Antiques Weekend, kicking off with a street parade. As it proceeds down Paeroa’s main street, onlookers can enjoy live entertainment which includes a re-enactment of a battle from the Second World War as well as static displays of military vehicles. See paeroa.org.nz for more details. Franklin Bride of the Year 2014 September 19, 7.30pm, Pukekohe Town Hall, Cnr Massey Ave and Edinburgh St, Pukekohe Calling all newlyweds! This is your chance to win a host of prizes including a trip for two to romantic Rarotonga. The Franklin Bride of the Year show and competition has been running for nearly 50 years and is now receiving photo entries from brides who were married between November last year up until the date of the show. Dust off those beautiful shoes and dresses, relive the memories and wear them to the show for a chance

Kevin Lim 027 497 8223

to win! All proceeds will go to Surf Live Saving Kariotahi and Bellyful Franklin. For entry forms and more details, phone 09 238 2235 or pop in to Designer Flowers in King St, Pukekohe.

■ Books Secondhand Book Fair September 13 & 14, 8.30am4pm, Waiuku Memorial Town Hall, Cnr Queen St & Victoria Ave, Waiuku Here’s a treat for bookworms, music geeks and hobbyists! Spend hours browsing thousands of literary gems, DVDs, CDs, sheet music, games and jigsaw puzzles at this massive two-day event. With something to suit all tastes and ages at extremely affordable prices, there are treasures to be found. EFTPOS is available.

■ FestivALs Hamilton Tulip Festival September 13, 10am-4pm, Hamilton Gardens Pavilion, Cobham Drive, Hamilton, FREE Slip on those wooden clogs and dance all the way to the vibrant Hamilton Tulip Festival.

Bring the family and celebrate spring by viewing thousands of beautiful tulips in bloom, sampling delicious Dutch food and enjoying live music and cultural performances. There’ll be plenty to see and do with floral art and wearable art shows, an arts and crafts exhibition, children’s corner as well as market stalls galore.

■ Food The Great New Zealand Food Show September 6 & 7, 9am-5pm, Mystery Creek Events Centre, Mystery Creek Rd, Hamilton Rural foodies are in for a feast at Hamilton’s first premier food show debut. This new culinary event will showcase the best and latest in food, wine, delicious edibles, specialty foods and innovative products. With a little bit for everyone, the show will feature celebrity chefs Annabelle White (former Hamiltonian) and Nici Wickes (Port Waikato local) as well as Julie Biuso and Eugene Hamilton (ex- Euro). There will be cooking classes, demos, tastings and gadgets galore, and there’s even an

Take Me to Italy! September 19, 7.30pm-10.30pm, Castaways Resort, Kariotahi Rd, Kariotahi Beach Tickle the taste buds with a taste of Italy! Pairing Italian cuisine with a stunning setting, Agave Restaurant’s Italian themed night is sure to entertain. A feast for the senses, the evening will feature a three-course Italian meal as well as an interlude by local and operatic songbird Carla Parry. Tickets $55 and include the meal and performance; phone 0800 BUY TIX to book.

■ MArkets Pukekohe Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Massey St, Pukekohe Pokeno Market Every Sunday, 9am-4pm, main street, Pokeno Awhitu Country Market Last Sunday of each month, 10am-2pm, Matakawau Hall, Awhitu Rd, Awhitu Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon

Hamilton Tulip Festival

Scott McElhinney Katrina Riedel 027 210 8887 021 170 2970

area dedicated to the Best of the Mighty Waikato. Visit greatnzfoodshow.co.nz for more info and tickets.

Clevedon Farmers Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon Pine Harbour Fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands

Hunter Utatao 027 482 2488

Trudy Boyce 021 898 483

Graeme Willson 021 770 733

Sue McCardle 027 527 0094

covershot

Horse trainer, businessman, stuntman, Dan Dufty from Paerata regularly moves from one gig to another. But whichever way the wind blows, his life has always been directed by a draught (or several!). This month we speak with Dan and discover how his passion for Clydesdales has steered him down some interesting trails, from buggy rides to movie screens, and ask what will become of his horses should Auckland Council development plans hit close to his home. See Photo Wayne Martin pages 6 and 7.

From the editor... September brings spring and also Father’s Day – both joyous occasions but it does make me realise just how quickly the year is flying by. It won’t be long before we are all talking Christmas! I’ve been off for a couple of weeks and, having become accustomed to more leisurely days, I’m glad the return to full hours comes as the evenings grow lighter and the days warmer – well, nearly. While away, I’ve enjoyed the chance to catch up on some reading. In particular, a new release, Stop the Train, I Want to Get On by Graham Hutchins, was a delight. There is a chapter that addresses the advent of the Silver Fern Railcar in the early 1970’s. As a young Herald reporter I remember attending a media launch for the new railcar. We travelled from the city rail terminal to the Wiri Woolshed on this wonderful, new train with its exceptional decor – it seemed like heaven. With the railcar licensed to

serve alcohol, we were treated to a tipple but in those days I had no idea what to order. I heard the man behind me say to the waiter, “gin and tonic, please”. So, when it was my turn, I repeated the request. Not having tried spirits before I thought it the most horrible tasting drink but for the next couple of years, still knowing nothing better, I always ordered a gin and tonic. Today, this short drink remains a favourite and always brings back memories of that special event. It was such a pleasure to recall again this then ‘revolution’ in local transport and read more on our rail history. Despite being away from the office, I was able to keep up with events via my ipad and phone. In particular, I appreciated the warm comments about last month’s article on Cathie Perrot and her work providing animal-assisted therapy. Personally, I commend the gorgeous photos by Therese Ann Photography – just loved

the one of horse, mule, donkey and dogs – and Cathie too, of course! Before I go I must also mention the passing of former All Black, Kevin Barry who died this month (August). He played for Counties, as well as Thames Valley and Auckland; some 23 games (I think) for the ABs, but no test caps. His father, Ned was an All Black and so was his son, Liam. There is always a great sense of sadness when well-known sportspeople and personalities leave this life but what a legacy Kevin left behind – there will be many who have fond memories of his contribution to rugby. And on that note, I’ll say goodbye until next month.

Helen Perry Editor

inside A Publication of Times House Publishing Ltd

Freephone: 0800 456 789 www.ruralliving.co.nz info@ruralliving.co.nz

Editor: Helen Perry DDI 09 271 8036 Email: editor@ruralliving.co.nz Sales: Kate Ockelford-Green DDI 09 271 8090 Email: kate@ruralliving.co.nz Caroline Boe DDI 09 271 8091 Email: caroline@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 DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times House Publishing Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times House Publishing Ltd.

RURAL Page 8 Brian’s Diary

Page 10-11 Over the Gate with southern regional parks senior ranger Ali Meade

Page 12-13 Fired up over insurance

Page 14 Spring jobs on the farm

Page 16 Bumpkin Banter

Page 18-19 Restoration planting along the Wairoa River

Page 17 Water policy debated

Page 23 Brown beetle poses threat to vineyards and more

4 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

Spicy shin beef and vegetable casserole – see page 37.

Living Page 27 Burlesque beauty multitalented

Page 28 Reay’s Diary – perspective from a city lass

Page 29 Stuart Graham steps back in time

Photo supplied

Page 32-33 Over the ocean waves to Waiheke

Page 35 War time letters spark novel title

Page 41 Colour trends from Dulux

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Local horseman’s ‘bit’ part A man walks into a stable and says ‘why the long face?’ The horse, of course, doesn’t know what to say. Fortunately, local Clydesdale breeder, Dan Dufty, is happy to field the questions from Rural Living’s JON RAWLINSON instead. Since the mid 1980s, when Paerata’s Dan Dufty saw an opportunity to make a buck off the backs of Clydesdale draught horses, the breeder, trainer and unorthodox chauffeur has never looked a gift horse in the mouth. On launching his business, Town and Country Clydesdales, Dan began offering horse and buggy rides. However, via film his horses’ fame has spread much further. “Around 1990-1991, I sold a horse to a film company for Xena Warrior Princess and Hercules. Later, they asked me if I could bring two horses in and look after them. I was happy to help,” he says. “Lucy Lawless [lead actress in Xena] had to drive or ride them quite often. But being an ex-pony club girl she was a hell of a rider and a really good horsewoman; the horses sensed that and loved her too.” Dan’s horses may have enjoyed the spotlight, but he also found himself in front of the camera. “Sometimes I was in costume, sometimes not; it was bloody fantastic! I worked a lot on Xena and Hercules, which helped me into the industry. After that, I worked on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Last

Samurai, starring Tom Cruise, and a number of other programmes as well.” One scene, during The Legend of the Seeker series even saw Dan cast in the role of stuntman. “The actress was lying ‘dead’ over the front of the cart and I was covered with blankets, driving while looking through a little hole, doing what they call ‘hidden driving’. The reins had to be loose, and the horses were at full gallop, so it seemed as if they were bolting. It looked marvellous on TV!” He says an incident during Spartacus was perhaps the most humorous of his cinematic career. “They’d had a problem with horses so I was called in and did what was needed; everything was perfect,” he says. “Later we got a blast from the States, ‘sorry, Dan, there were no Clydesdales in Rome in those days!’ So they had to use a couple of black horses instead!” Despite his steeds’ starring roles, Dan chuckles when asked if his Clydesdales have become big-headed. And, ‘neigh’, they have never had trouble remembering their lines! “Clydesdales have a great nature; they’re smart and have an incredible memory. I’ve

worked with other horses, but not too often. I’m confident with my own horses, I know what they can do and that they won’t be any trouble.” While life on the silver screen may seem glamorous, Dan says team Dufty has not given up its day job of providing buggy rides to those looking to tour the town in style – mostly in Devonport – as well as helping many brides in the process of becoming ‘hitched’ to ‘grooms.’ “We do weddings, but only for those who want an authentic experience. I want to show people how things used to be, without the horses and gear being all flashed up for a show.” Looking back to when it all began, Dan says his affinity with horses began as a youngster, growing up on his family farm in what is now Runciman. “Dad [John Dufty] was an exjockey. He didn’t buy his first tractor until the 1950s, so we always had horses on the farm and used to go everywhere in the gig. “But we weren’t allowed a horse of our own because Dad said they ate too much grass! We had to ride the workhorses or the old trotter who pulled the gig instead.” Since undergoing knee surgery, Dan no longer rides.

“I’ve only ridden a couple of times since then. I just get a little bit scared that if I fall, I might bugger my knees up. I do miss it though, but I’ve always enjoyed driving more than riding anyway.” And driven he has been, going the extra mile for his customers and enjoying every minute. “Over the years, I’ve estimated – based on takings – that from March 1990 until this year, I’ve given buggy rides to at least 223,633 people from all over the world,” says Dan. “It’s been a great way to make a living.”

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6 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

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DOUBTS OVER FUTURE

Photos Wayne Martin

A ride on the Clyde-side Originating in the Clyde River Valley in Scotland, the Clydesdale breed (Equus ferus caballus) was developed from Flemish stallions crossed with local mares. The name ‘Clydesdale’ fell into common usage in the early 1800s, with the breed formally registered in 1877. Due to their size and strength, Clydesdales were widely employed for draught and agricultural purposes. Breeding animals were specially selected

to produce taller offspring. Widely recognised by their size – growing to roughly 16-19 hands and weighing around 820-910kg – Clydesdales are generally bay in colour but have distinctive white markings (also known as feathering) on their lower legs. They can also be predominantly brown, grey, black, white, roan or chestnut also with white markings, particularly on the legs and face.

From the late 1800s, Clydesdales became popular workhorses throughout the world, exported as far away as New Zealand and Australia. Employed by the army, large numbers were conscripted during the First World War to transport men, supplies and artillery. Their numbers declined thereafter, due to mechanisation in the military and on farms. Vulnerable to extinction by the mid 1970s, their numbers have risen slightly since.

While local Clydesdale breeder, Dan Dufty, may have lived in the region most of his life, his business, Town and Country Clydesdales, may soon come to the end of its long road, should owners of its base, Wesley College, choose to develop the site. Five or six years after the college purchased the property, Dan worries that he may need to sell his beloved horses. “The people at Wesley College have been very good and I’m sure they’ll give me ample notice, but I don’t know when or if it’ll happen; it’s the uncertainty that’s tough to deal with,” he says. “I just don’t know what I’ll do if I have to leave. I want to keep going, though, because the minute you don’t, you die.” Dan believes Auckland Council’s plans to encourage construction of some 4500 new homes in the region, including many right on his doorstep, will destroy the district’s rural lifestyle. Those looking for a little bit of country will soon find the city closing in, he says. “I simply don’t like what they’re doing under this scheme [the Auckland Unitary Plan]. “This beautiful land is top country, not second grade soil, so having so many new houses going in on top of it is just bloody ridiculous! “When it was Franklin county, it was good as gold, but under the super city, it’s a different matter. “If people want to move here, they need to think about where they’re going to work, for a start. “The roads into Auckland are already jammed. If you put thousands more homes in, it’ll only get worse. “Why can’t the council see that?”

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 7

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no butts about it... Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD This is the time of year when there is very little to do on our property except sit around and wait for spring. The heavy rainfall over the past few weeks has really soaked in and, although the grass is not growing at the moment, in two or three weeks it should be away. It is probably a good time to get out the lawnmower and have it serviced. I normally forget this task and when I drop it off at the mower shop every man and his dog has had the same thought – so, to the back of the queue I go! I recently noticed a plea on television from the Cancer Society for men to have an examination to check for bowel cancer. They stressed that the earlier the cancer is detected the greater chance of recovery. With this in mind I felt the need to tell my story of early detection. About 15 years ago I was visiting my GP regarding medication for my cholesterol levels. He informed me that the medication I had been on for some time was no longer available as

Some men might shy away from a colon check but it could save your life.

Pharmac had a cheaper option. He suggested I try the new choice, and come back in a month to see if I was experiencing any side effects from the change. When I went back I told him the only thing I had noticed was a slight change in my bowel habits which he didn’t think would be caused by the new medication. Subsequently, my doctor suggested he check my bowel. For this I am very grateful as he found some lumps that he said shouldn’t be there and immediately sent me to a specialist for confirmation.

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Sure enough it was cancer of the lower bowel and as we were fortunate enough to have medical insurance I was able to have my operation within the next two weeks. It was not a pleasant operation and forced me into a long recuperation period during which I had a colostomy bag attached for three months. The specialist said that because the cancer was detected early it had not gone through the bowel and spread to other parts of my body. He estimated that the cancer would have taken only about 24

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8 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

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months to spread with major complications. I returned to the hospital after three months and, to my relief, had the bag removed. Since then I have had a colonoscopy every two years which is just as well as five years ago they found cancer in my upper bowel which was removed within a week or two. Once again, thanks to early detection, I am here writing this column and still going for my two-yearly check up. I advise you all to have things checked out and keep doing so. Cheers, Brian.

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kiwi Growers to show ya! New Zealand president, says the competition was a testament to the outstanding level of talent in this country. “The competition is now in its sixth year and the standard we’ve seen has really been outstanding... we are always blown away by our finalists, and this year was no different,” he says. “Each finalist has such a promising career ahead of them and they give us huge confidence for the future of the New Zealand horticulture industry.” Patrick Malley from Northland secured top honours, as well as the Young Fruit Grower of the Year title and awards for best speech and outstanding leadership. All finalists received $1000 towards personal development.

Horse of the year award a Dundeel Although Dundeel pipped rivals at the post for top honours in the recent Thoroughbred Horse of the Year Awards in Hamilton, Karaka graduates – Vespa and Puccini – were also on a winning run. Group 1 Diamond Stakes winner, Vespa, secured the Champion Two-Year-Old award after winning four of six starts as a juvenile, including New Zealand’s richest race, the New Zealand Bloodstock $1m Karaka Million. The Champion Three-YearOld title went to Group 1 New

Zealand Derby winner, Puccini. As well as winning New Zealand’s premier three-yearold race, the colt won the Group 2 Great Northern Guineas, Group 2 Waikato Guineas and Group 2 Avondale Guineas in a productive season. Held to honour top performers from the 2013/14 racing season, the awards also featured Dundeel, crowned New Zealand Horse of the Year, Costa Viva, New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year, and O’Reilly who swept all three stallion awards. For full details see nzb.co.nz.

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Although a Northland avocado orchard manager may have enjoyed the sweetest fruits of all at Horticulture New Zealand’s Young Grower of the Year competition, Brett Parker from Pukekawa also proved to be amongst the cream of the crop. As holder of the Young Vegetable Grower of the Year 2014 title, Brett – assistant crop manager for Hinemoa Quality Producers – recently competed in the finals of the competition against three top regional fruit growers from New Zealand. The final phase saw competitors go head-to-head in a series of practical and theoretical challenges testing their industry knowledge and skills. Julian Raine, Horticulture

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RURAL ��

Over

the gate

With

Ali Meade

For many of us, heading out into our region’s local parks is truly a joy. However, it takes a special breed to ensure they’re kept in top shape. Tasked with overseeing conservation and environmental projects in Auckland Council’s southern regional parks, senior ranger, Ali Meade, spoke with Rural Living about her intriguing occupation and passion... over the gate. How long have you been a ranger and how did you come to be in this role? For just over four years now. I grew up in the UK and completed a Natural Science degree and an MSc in Contaminated Land Remediation. After uni, I joined the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) as a reserve warden. I learned about practical conservation work, wetland restoration and developed practical skills, such as using chainsaws, building tracks and driving tractors and dumper trucks. What are your duties? My role is strategic, overseeing conservation work on the parks. It encompasses a range of duties, including threatened species protection, re-vegetation, animal pest control and weed control. How often are you out in the field, what regions do you cover and what distances do you travel? I try to get out into the field a few times a week – as much as possible, really – but it doesn’t always work out that way and the bulk of fieldwork is carried out by the park rangers. My area covers 13 regional parks, stretching from Whakanewha on Waiheke Island, to Ambury on the Manukau Harbour, the Awhitu Peninsula and Whakatiwai down near Kaiaua. The Hunua Ranges Regional Park is the largest and many areas within are only accessible by foot. While I spend several

hours a week driving or on the ferry, sometimes I also have a reasonable walk to reach the areas where I’m working. Are you passionate about any particular project? If so, what are you trying to achieve? The Insect Garden at Ambury Regional Park is one of my favourites. We’re trying to create a garden that will attract native insects and provide an educational resource for schools. The area has been planted with natives that are particularly good for insects, including various stinging nettles. My goal is that children will leave understanding that, despite their small size, insects are incredibly important, beautiful and interesting. Do you mostly work in forested areas? The regional parks are all different. Some, such as the Hunua Ranges, are dominated by forest and wetlands. Others, including Tapapakanga or Duder, have a mosaic of forest and farmland. This makes my job varied and I have to know about a large range of habitats and ecosystems. How dangerous is your job? Have you been injured when off the beaten track? I don’t see my job as dangerous and I’ve never been injured out in the bush. We’re well trained and, as a team, make sure training is kept up to date. I always carry a first aid kit, radio and phone and ensure someone knows where I’m going, particularly if I head out into the bush on my own.

10 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

What’s done if illegal crops are discovered in the bush? We work closely with police on a number of issues and anything suspicious we see is reported straight to them. Are you involved in creating parks and reserves? We’ve just opened Waitawa Regional Park, a brand new park on the Clevedon- Kawakawa Bay Road. I was involved getting it ready to open to the public. The site once had 28ha of pine forest; this has been removed and replaced with nearly 100,000 native trees. Roughly 8ha of wetland has been fenced from stock and riparian restoration begun. It will take many years to completely plant these areas. Weed control has also been a major ongoing project at Waitawa. My next task is to set up animal pest control throughout the park. How important is biosecurity in day to day routines? It is an essential part of conservation. Franklin has many of the same nasties as other parts of Auckland, from possums and goats to moth plant and pampas. I work closely with the council’s biosecurity team to ensure we control these pests. Is kauri dieback a problem in our area and, if so, what’s being done? Kauri dieback is a major concern. It has been found in Northland, the Waitakere Ranges, Awhitu Peninsula, North Auckland and

Ali Meade

the Coromandel. We’ve carried out detailed surveys in the Hunua Ranges and, although there is no sign of the disease there, everything going in has to be cleaned and disinfected. I clean my boots, equipment and vehicles on a regular basis. There are several kauri protection zones with access limited to essential works, and all other areas have phytosanitary stations at carparks and track entrances, so everyone can ensure they clean boots, mountain bikes and equipment before and after using the park. We also ask visitors to keep to defined walking tracks. Auckland Council is part of the national joint agency response to kauri dieback and we have a separate ‘Healthy Hunua’ programme focused on keeping it out of the ranges. More information is available at kauridieback.co.nz. Are you a lifestyle farmer or gardener?

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RURAL

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Photo Wayne Martin

I’m a keen gardener and we have managed to squeeze a bee hive, chicken coop, fruit trees and large veggie patch into our small section. I’m currently trying to turn what is left of the lawn into a wildflower meadow for bees.

increase funding and encourage more New Zealanders to support conservation causes.

If you could grow any plant, or raise any animal, what and why?

David Attenborough. As a child, I read all of his books and was hooked on his ‘Trials of Life’ series. Rene Haller, who restored a lifeless cement factory in Kenya and made it a wildlife sanctuary. I visited it in 1999 and his work inspired me to get involved in restoration projects. I’m still fascinated by the jigsaw of restoring degraded and contaminated industrial land back into conservation land. I don’t think I would be working in conservation now without the influence of David and Rene. I would also invite Terry Pratchett. I love his books and his sense of humour, so he would be a great dinner guest.

Probably New Zealand’s giant dragonfly, Uropetala carovei. I saw them on a recent tramping holiday and they so are beautiful and majestic I would love to have them zipping around my house. If you could be Minister of Conservation for one day, what would you do first and why?

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

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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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 11

Considerable damage resulted from a blaze in the Waiuku Forest in January 2011. Starting in dunes, it rapidly spread to nearby farmland.

Photo supplied

Fired up about insurance? When fire rages through rural areas, surely insurance companies and council will have us covered. Unfortunately, that may not always be the case, as ANNA MCNAUGHTON explains. One aspect of rural living we all need to consider is fire. While insurance levies cover the cost of quelling fires affecting buildings – including farmhouses, woolsheds, and barns – should they spread, it could be the farmer who’s left to carry the can! When fires spread to crops, high value plantation forest, or protected native bush, for example, local authorities are ‘legally bound’ – or, at least permitted by legislation – to recover fire fighting costs. What’s more, insurers may not look too kindly on claims resulting from unper-

mitted fires which have ‘gone rogue’! There is one anomalous area. The Forest and Rural Fires Act allows for costs to be charged to rural landowners for any fire which originates from their property, whether caused by a natural phenomenon, such as lightning, or a cigarette butt carelessly thrown by a passer-by. Although discretion can be applied by local authorities, Local Board chair, Andy Baker – formerly principal rural fire officer for Franklin District Council – warns it’s better to be

safe than sorry. “Franklin Council was reluctant to charge landowners in such circumstances,” says Andy. “However, NZ Fire Service policy now means they will charge councils for their attendance at rural fires. This means councils are having to on charge to protect the general ratepayers.” An example of this can be seen in the case of one local landowner whose riparian zonelong dry grass caught fire. The cause of the fire was unproven and it began while the landowners were away from the site. Considering the extremely

dry conditions, local volunteer and professional forces attended and a helicopter fitted with a monsoon bucket was needed to bring the large bushfire under control. Fortunately, a sound insurance policy protected this landowner from substantial charges which were levied by Auckland Council. However, this is a cautionary tale – without sufficient insurance, the hefty bill would have left them bankrupt. With farmers now liable for accidents or problems caused by stock on the roads, liability insurance has become much

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more important for farmers. Insurance broker Malcolm Wrigley confirms farmers need to ensure all necessary fire cover is in place. “Rural Farmers Liability Insurance – essential public liability cover – only includes protection for fire control costs of up to $250,000,” he says. However, it is possible that a large forest fire – requiring helicopters, monsoon buckets and large teams of fire fighters, for example – could generate a very large bill. And Malcolm also suggests farmers with property featuring boundaries of plantation forest – both high-risk for fire, and highly valued – or protected native bush, should seek a separate, specific policy. For these reasons, it’s become even more important for rural landowners to assess their own level of risk and discuss insurance requirements with agents or brokers.

How healthy is our rural fire service?

Overall, our rural areas are well served by dedicated volunteer fire forces – featuring locals trained in the latest fire fighting techniques – and highly-trained first responders, able to deal with accidents and health emergencies. Councillor Andy Baker – former principal rural fire officer for Franklin District Council – and leader of one of Franklin’s remaining rural fire forces – Andrew Hamilton at

Photo supplied/Pohutukawa Coast Times

Awhitu – agree funding has increased under the Super City structure. “It’s actually increased rather dramatically,” says Andrew. “However, compliance paperwork has also increased exponentially – no surprises there! I’d estimate that callouts are pretty evenly divided between fires and accident/health issues these days.” He confirms restricted fire seasons through summer months are also playing their part. “Restricted fire seasons are well publicised and largely respected by locals aware of the need for permits during this period. “They’ve helped reduce the number of summer callouts from unplanned burn-offs or rubbish fires which can, with a change in wind speed or direction, become disastrous very quickly,” Andrew says. Acting Rural Fire Chief for Auckland, Thomas Harre, adds that education is crucial when it comes to lessening the risk of fire. “The Rural Fire Service motto of ‘check it’s alright, before you light’, brings the message home well, and publicity in traditional print media and online through such sites as the Auckland Council website has been beneficial. “Permits can be obtained online, or by phoning the tollfree Auckland Council number. They come with a full safety checklist, so sound guidelines can be followed.”

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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 13

RURAL ��

Spring into action Spring is on the doorstep but there’s no time to sit in the sun, admiring blossom burst whilst sipping a cuppa and browsing the latest Rural Living because there’s work to be done. A mild winter means it’s time to spring into action so rev up the tractor, haul out the chainsaw and grab that grubber because lifestylers, like their farmer ‘cousins’, will need to look at fence, gate and race repairs after winter storms. Some will have young livestock to care for especially if rearing a lamb or calf for school Ag Days and, for many, pasture management will be a priority. Management is all about ‘pasture utilisation’. Feeding value of pasture is at its best in the green, leafy ‘vegetative stage’ and not when it starts to grow long, becomes fibrous and rushes to maturity, going to seed. However, because the golden rule is – never starve stock – be sure you have options if feed gets short. And remember, pasture is not ‘free’ feed; it costs landowners rent, rates, fertiliser, fences and labour so it shouldn’t be wasted. Those lifestylers with larger blocks of land should check with silage/hay contractors as to when they will be needed and start planning which paddocks to take out of grazing for silage. Also consider adding some nitrogen to help build feed for early next year – January and

February. With soil temperatures rising, nitrogen fertiliser will give pastures that desirable boost, but don’t view it as a magic fix. You should, at least, expect a response of 10:1 or 10kg of dry matter for each kg of nitrogen in the fertiliser. While often all the emphasis is on nitrogen, ensure those other big players, such as phosphorus and potassium, are also adequate, with secondary nutrients such as sulphur and magnesium at good levels too. Check your last soil test, and get it updated. However, if you are new to soil testing and if reading a soil test is a mystery, then seek help as to what it all means and whether you need to spend any money. Plan fertiliser applications and, if you are a land newbie, ask fertiliser company reps about products and soil or herbage tests too. If you’re lucky enough to have plenty of grass the excess can be shut up for silage – it’s great feed and can be wrapped to sizes from 10 bale to single bale equivalent. Best of all it doesn’t need storing under cover. Under-sowing is an option for tired pasture but be careful what you sow. ‘Horse friendly’ pasture species used to replace

Use granules for spot application on ragwort.

ryegrass and clover may not produce pasture of sufficient quality for the other livestock which should be cross grazing horse paddocks to reduce parasites. And, of course, get ready to battle weeds – you don’t want these to get out of control. Fortunately, there are numerous products available to assist in winning the weed war; try to choose sprays which won’t harm clover and ask for advice if overcome by the multitude of choices.

Photo supplied

Wind can make spraying difficult but granules can be used for spot application on weeds such as ragwort. A couple of months back Rural Living reminded readers that a good, old fashioned, double-ended grubber would prove a godsend when dastardly weeds burst forth. Use one for winkling out thistles and ragwort and employ the wide end to deal to gorse, blackberry and flannelweed before it becomes established and needs more radical treatment.

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14 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

•

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preventing health headaches in ag day pets By Dr Ilyse Jennens BVSc Franklin Vets One of the commonly seen problems this time of year when raising young calves, lambs and kids is scours (diarrhoea). There are several causes of scours in young animals; many are nutrition-related, resulting from changes in the type, amount or temperature of milk being fed. However, cases are also caused by bugs including bacteria, viruses, protozoa and other parasites. Because affected animals can rapidly deteriorate, becoming weak and unwilling to feed, it is important to seek veterinary advice early on. Veterinarians will also provide advice specific to your situation. Some key points when treating animals affected with scours are: ■■ Keep animals in a warm, dry, draught-free environment ■■ Alternate feeding between milk and a good quality electrolyte – ask veterinarians for advice regarding amounts and frequency of feeds

■■ Keep healthy animals separate from scouring animals until they recover ■■ Clean pens and equipment daily and apply virucidal spray The keys to prevention are keeping a clean environment and minimising stress: ■■ Ensure the calf, lamb or kid has received colostrum within six hours of birth ■■ Minimise stress and chilling during transport ■■ House in a dry, draft-free, hygienic environment ■■ Avoid sudden changes in the type, quantity or temperature of milk or milk powder ■■ Clean pens and any

www.franklinvets.co.nz

equipment regularly Another common problem we see in reared lambs is abomasal bloat. This typically occurs in 2-4-week-old lambs within 30 minutes of feeding them warm milk. Undesirable gas-producing bacteria in the abomasum (stomach) have been implicated as the cause, leading to the lamb’s belly becoming distended and, in severe cases, causing death. The answer lies in preventative measures that include: ■■ Feeding cold milk in amounts less than 600mls per feed ■■ Ensuring teat ends are not cracked or damaged to prevent milk flowing too fast ■■ Vaccination with 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 vaccine ■■ Having meal available from day five to help the rumen adapt to grass ■■ Feeding soured milk to lambs from five days of age – recipe available on Franklin Vet’s website If animals seem to be experiencing either of these problems, contact Franklin Vets veterinarian for more detailed advice.

september Check List

■■ Horses: Spring is a good time to make sure the basics are under control such as your annual moxidectin worm drench to control redworm larvae. A full dental examination is recommended to ensure a painful mouth isn’t holding your horse back. The grass has been growing well so watch those waistlines too! For those expecting a new bundle of four-legged cuteness, we are ready to advise and assist with all your foaling concerns. ■■ Pets: With the mild Auckland winter, flea control is something that needs to be done all year round. The lifecycle of the flea may be a bit slower but will still continue to occur. Using a veterinaryrecommended flea control product is the best way to protect pets from fleas. Since only five percent of the fleas are on the animal, using environmental control such as flea bombs is also important to help control the environmental contamination. ■■ Lifestyle: As we move into warmer spring weather this provides ideal conditions for parasite larval growth on pasture. Young stock starting to graze grass will not yet have developed immunity against parasites so it is important that a worm control strategy is in place. Call into Franklin Vets to discuss the best options for your farm including which drench to use.

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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 15

RURAL ��

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

Big Jake the Giant Horse It’s often thought that things are bigger in Texas but, if Big Jake is anything to go by, they’re none too petite at Smokey Hollow Farm in Wisconsin, USA either! After a Rural Living reader brought this mammoth mount to our attention (how could we have missed him!), Guinness World Records kindly provided the photo below and more information about the World’s Tallest Living Horse, aptly named Big Jake. While he may be a gelding, what the 12-year-old Belgian draught horse lacks in some places is more than made up when it comes to height. Standing at over 1.85 metres (approximately 20.3 hands) tall, Jake towers above stable mates and his owner, Jerry Gilbert, who raised him from a weanling.

“He was extremely hard to hold on to when he was young and when I would turn him outside sometimes he would take me with him!” says Jerry. And he’s not cheap to keep. Consuming 1.5 bales of hay and almost 40 litres of oats per day, Big Jake also requires spacious accommodation. “Everything has to be big! His stall is 20 by 20 feet, when an average stall is about 12 by 12, and when we transport him we have to use a semitrailer.” However, Jerry says Big Jake has been a larger than life addition to his farm. “We enjoy meeting people who visit and appreciate their reactions when they leave, happy from seeing him.” For more information about Big Jake – and many more world records – see guinnessworldrecords.com; the 2014 edition is due for release soon.

An Animate-d day Cassie Plaisier came into town to take a ride upon a pony during the launch of Animates’ new Pukekohe outlet recently. Although Cassie and her twin brother, Tyler, both enjoyed their time in the saddle, their dad (Pukekawa lifestyler, Marcel ‘Stretch’ Plaisier) was heard to remark, “No, you’re not having one!” in response to country kid Cassie’s giggles of glee. However, mum (Melissa) responded with: “We’ll just have to wait and see about that!” Thanks so much to the Plaisier family for this photo; we’ll keenly wait to see who really holds the reins!

Running commentary! Our five-year-old son recently started at Puni School. Despite living in Pukekohe we had wanted our little guy to experience a rural environment – country days, large fields bordered by farmland and, of course, “real cross country”, with muddy feet and legs to prove it! Mr Five started last month just in time for cross-country training. A keen participant in summer athletics, we were excited to

16 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

hear how the first trial run had gone. “Well, I was even faster than some of the kids in Room Two!” “You must have done pretty good, then,” his dad replied. “Sort of. You see, once I ran past the bigger kids I distracted them and slowed them down so our Room One girls could beat them too!” Not sure if that’s sportsmanship or not! – New to school mum

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RURAL

Rural water wars hit home The National Party and Federated Farmers have slammed Labour’s planned “water tax.” The policy – which includes resource rentals on large water takes used for irrigation – is a pointed attack on rural New Zealand, says Environment Minister, Amy Adams. She says Pukekohe market gardeners will be among those to bear the costs. “Isn’t just dairy farmers,” she says, adding others such as sheep and beef farmers in Canterbury, apricot growers in Roxburgh, and kumara growers in Dargaville could all be hit by Labour’s water tax. “Labour is suggesting that rural New Zealand should pay taxes that no other New Zealander has to pay... If it was really about ensuring efficient water use, why is every other commercial water user, except

farmers, exempt?” Ms Adams’ comments come in response to Labour’s Water policy, announced in early August. Designed to clean up rivers and lakes, it includes provision for “fairly priced resource rentals”. Labour water spokesperson, Meka Whaitiri, said at the time: “We believe the use of water for irrigation is a privilege, not an inalienable right. A resource rental is the best tool for making sure fresh water is used efficiently.” Labour intends to use resource rentals to pay for irrigation schemes rather than funding from the public purse. “Under Labour’s plan, the productive sector could be hit with a $60 million bill for every one cent of tax Labour imposes per cubic metre of water,” Ms Whaitiri adds. “You have to ask why Labour is looking to penalise farmers

and small, rural businesses by making them and only them pay for water use when the issue of water quality is one that applies across urban and rural New Zealand!”

Fed Farmers wades in

Federated Farmers’ environment spokesperson, Ian Mackenzie, also believes Labour needs to reconsider its water policy. “This is a thinly disguised anti-farming policy that is trying to blame farmers, who irrigate, for all New Zealand’s water problems,” he says. “It is clearly misguided and, worse, is opening the divide between town and country when we should be working together!” He says provincial economies, as a whole, will be adversely affected and the policy may prove counter-productive with

regards to Labour’s intention to clean up waterways. “This is all money that farmers are currently spending on protecting rivers and streams; money that is making towns places of employment for thousands of people. I don’t understand how you can help those towns by punitively taxing the one thing that has driven some prosperity.” And wider implications could result. “A water tax will increase the cost of production which could mean higher costs for New Zealanders for products such as milk, cheese and fresh vegetables,” Mr Mackenzie adds. “Improving the quality of freshwater is important, but we must do it sensibly so it doesn’t cost thousands of jobs across regional New Zealand and impose millions of dollars of costs on our communities!”

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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 17

RURAL ��

Ripples of change A healthy river is one that runs, but one of Clevedon’s most iconic waterways can’t run, let alone breathe because of the proliferation of crack willow. Thanks to the hard work of a local family, improvements are being made as NATALIE BRITTAN discovers. The countryside may be nature’s domain, but sometimes, the labour of man is needed for it to reveal its true beauty. The Wairoa River is one such work in progress. A popular kayaking trail linking Clevedon Village to the Tamaki Strait, it is an idyllic scene for many sightseers and visitors. However, further upstream, the river does not paint such a pretty picture as the Frizzell family discovered. Clevedon residents Emma and Hamish Frizzell bought 40 hectares of land along Monument Road more than four years ago with the aim of establishing a rural lifestyle for them and their three children. Originally a Hawke’s Bay boy, who grew up on farm land more than 16 times the size of his current property, Hamish had always wanted to introduce his formerly city-based family to what he knew. With the river and several springs running onto his

Clevedon land, it seemed ideal at first. “We liked the concept of the river but we didn’t realise how blocked up it was. “At the moment you cannot go up the river, because of crack willow growing along it,” Hamish says. “This has led to erosion and exacerbated the flooding further down the river – it has been a major issue and has been for a long time.” In fact, when the Frizzells tried to use the river for their son’s birthday, they had their work cut out for them. “We could only raft a small section because of the willows – maybe 300m – and most of that was made possible on my part by working with a chainsaw,” says Hamish. Now, with the whole family pitching in to address the problem with the help of a few environmental organisations, it seems there is light at the end of the river. Working whenever they can

The Frizzells hard at work – Emma, Sophie, Hamish and Josh with Lucy and dog, Stella.

– weekends and school holidays are a bonus – the Frizzells have fenced off springs and riverbanks, poisoned willow and planted more than 2000 native plants such as kanuka, manuka, kauri and puriri on their land. The plants are mainly sourced from the established nursery of council-led initiative Trees for Survival which also provides volunteers from local schools annually to help the Frizzells with planting. Local group Wairoa Landcare has also helped with securing a grant for

willow poisoning. “Wairoa Landcare Group received a grant from the Auckland Council and our property was put forward because of its extensive river boundary. This was put towards willow poisoning which local company, Arbor Pacific, has carried out.” With 1.6km river boundary on their land, however, planting all along the river remains a mammoth task. “For every kilometre, there needs to be 5000 plants,” says Hamish. “It’s going to be slow

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18 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

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RURAL

Tool Talk

Lawnmower care

Before the first mow of the season:

Photo Wayne Martin

and gradual but the idea is to get the willows removed and plant natives along the river from here all the way down to Clevedon Village once we have consulted other landowners who share the river boundary.” And there’s weeding to be done for the young trees planted by Trees for Survival too. This is done once or twice a year by the family over the course of two to three days. Importantly, the Frizzells would like to see the river restored to its full potential and

be able to be used for recreational activities. The Wairoa River is one of the most important resources and water features in the Auckland area, says Hamish. “What we want to see is kayaking, rafting and all those sorts of activities that are part of rural living.” And while it has been pretty tough going, Hamish says it will be worth it in the long run. “It’s definitely something that we want to see improved that would benefit us and the whole community.”

did you know? The nile is credited as the longest river in the world. its main source is Lake Victoria in east central Africa. From its farthest stream in Burundi, it extends 6,695 km (4,160 miles) in length.

During the mowing season: ■■ Hose or scrape grass clippings from beneath the mower body after each mow. Allowing grass clippings to dry on the body makes them harder to remove later. Caked on clippings will compromise catching and mulching by upsetting airflow under the body. Regular cleaning of the body will prolong its life significantly. Caution: The spark plug lead should be discon-

Photo supplied

nected prior to cleaning the mower. ■■ Remove grass and debris from the engine’s cooling fins and engine covers to help prevent engine overheating. ■■ Check air filters are clean and in good condition. Dirty air will quickly cause major damage to the motor. Wash foam filters in soap and water, rinse and squeeze dry, then oil with engine oil and squeeze dry again before reinstalling. Damaged paper filters should be replaced.

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■■ On four stroke mowers, use the dipstick to check the oil level is at or near the full mark. If necessary, add oil but don’t overfill. Engine damage can be caused by too much or too little. If the oil is not clean it should be replaced. ■■ On two stroke mowers, mix fresh petrol and quality two stroke oil at the ratio recommended by the oil manufacturer. Too little oil can severely damage the engine by under lubricating moving parts, while too much oil can cause poor running, excessive exhaust emissions, and fouled spark plugs. ■■ Check the pull start cord and replace if damaged. ■■ Check the blades are sharp. Blunt blades cut unevenly and tear the grass.

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 19

RURAL ��

Hay as winter feed By Neil Houston, Veterinary Associates Hay is a common feed to supplement horses’ diet in the winter months. For proper digestive tract function, horses require a minimum of one percent of their body weight per day in longstem dry matter or fibre – this means the average adult horse needs five kilograms of hay or grass per day. As the availability of grass reduces in winter, hay becomes an important feed source. Hay should be of good quality; some criteria for the selection of good hay are: ■■ Must be made from good quality pasture ■■ There should be no dust or mould ■■ Should be weed-free with fine stems and lots of leaves Hay made from good quality pasture can provide more than half the nutrients required by a

Photo supplied

horse in little or no work. When grass is in very short supply, a fat, idle horse can survive on hay alone. However, most horses need some other feed source as it is difficult for them to physically eat enough hay in the course of a day to get sufficient nutrition. Mould reduces hay qual-

ity, palatability and dry matter digestibility. The mould spores can also create respiratory problems or aggravate an existing problem as the horse inhales the fungal spores into its lungs. Very mouldy hay can cause blood clotting disorders and abortion in pregnant mares.

Lone staR When Equidays 2014 rides into town, visitors will be treated to a display of skills from a ‘Lone’ medalling great Dane who calls Australia home! Originally from Denmark, Australian-based Olympian Lone Joergensen has ridden horses up to International Grand Prix level. She has also claimed two Danish Championships and achieved highly at the Olympics. Lone will be joined at Equidays by other international and Kiwi clinicians, including Pukekawa’s own, Tina Fagan. Other Kiwi talent includes Sean Cubitt, Ben Longwell, Samantha van der Sande, Russell Higgins, Vicki Wilson, Rebecca Wylie, and Jo Evans. Bernie Traurig and Warwick Schiller from the USA, and Australian Manuela McLean will also look to put a best hoof forward. Equidays 2014, October 17-19 at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Hamilton, features ‘a world class equine event, bringing a full showcase of education, entertainment and competition.’

Auckland president on the trots Last month Rural Living spoke with retiring Franklin Trotting Club (FTC) president, Don Smith who expects the planned merger with Auckland Trotting Club (ATC) will be beneficial across the board. This month, we caught up with ATC president, Kerry Hoggard, to see if the grass

really is as green on the other side of this amalgamation. “I think this move is recognised as being beneficial and is the first step to strengthening the industry,” says Kerry. “Many New Zealand racing clubs are facing difficulty because there’s just not enough funding from owners. Clearly, Franklin, like other clubs,

needed to maintain its assets, which can prove difficult.” By taking on FTC’s liabilities – including debts and deferred maintenance costs – as well as its assets, he believes everyone involved with harness racing across the greater Auckland region will benefit. “In harness racing, around 70 percent of racing stock comes

from the South Island, so we need to increase the stakes in this region and provide more incentives to owners. To do so, we needed to have the training facilities in the area,” he says. “We’ll be putting a master plan together for going forward and progressing down the track towards major developments in order to increase these stakes.”

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Benefits of a natural, meaty diet Why is feeding a natural meaty diet or BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food diet) beneficial to your special pets? As pet owners, we at Bombay Petfoods Ltd believe in providing the very best for our animals and stand behind the principle that the nutrition of their wild relatives is the finest example of how to feed our own pets. Take a look at the big cats next time you visit the zoo. The basis of their provided diet is whole chunks of fresh meat containing bone and hide. This is not only aimed at replicating their diet in the wild, but also to promote natural feeding behaviours such as chewing and tearing. So many animals today – especially indoor cats – are not given the opportunity to use their teeth and jaws appropriately. Stabbing, chewing and crunching organic matter is important for their dental health. As many of us know, dental issues are becoming increasingly common among domestic animals. Having an appropriate diet that supports the ability of a cat or dog to naturally work the tartar off its teeth, and also to exercise the jaw, neck and shoulder muscles, can signifi

cantly improve the dental and overall health of pets. Dogs are opportunistic carnivores, meaning they can eat a range of available food. However, they greatly benefit from having a diet of chewy meat and bones. Chewing produces saliva and promotes gastric juices to help aid digestion. Coupled with the high digestibility of a fresh natural meaty diet this means more efficient nutrients, greater vitality and finally low stool volume, which is good for those of us cleaning up after them! And they’ll love you for giving them something so delicious. Cats, unlike dogs, are obligate carnivores. This means they need particular amino acids,

namely Taurine, only found naturally in animal sources, to survive. In commercial diets these essential amino acids are reduced or eliminated during heat processing, which means they have to be added in later. Good unprocessed natural meaty diets already contain the necessary amino acids required for maintaining a cat’s healthy, long and happy life and do not require any Taurine supplementing. The high digestibility of a natural meaty diet also caters for the relatively short intestinal tracts our feline friends possess. We often forget that in the wild our animals would be hunting, tracking and catching prey. With the steady routines of simply placing kibble into a bowl to be instantly swallowed, our pets are less and less encouraged to exercise as their wild relatives would. What’s more, we are increasingly becoming used to seeing obese pets as the norm. Providing a fresh, natural, meaty diet not only supplies a wealth of valuable, digestible nutrition but also promotes natural feeding behaviour and complete body health. Start a natural raw food diet today and see the difference!

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Nanotechnology –

what’s it all about?

Whether on the modern battlefield, grooving to new tunes, or ensuring fishing stories aren’t about the one that got away, thanks to nanotechnology, grand things really do come in small packages. Nanotechnology is the combination of words, Nano – which in the SI (System International) is the prefix denoting a factor of one billionth, and technology. Therefore a nanometre is one billionth of a metre. A millimetre (mm) is one thousandth of a metre. So we are talking about a very small measurement of small particles that make up materials we find all around us. It is the study of manipulating matter on the atomic and molecular scale. By understanding the relationship between nano particles, which make up both naturally

Photo supplied

occurring and man-made materials, scientists have been able to modify the relationship to achieve desired outcomes. This technology has an impact on our everyday products from sunscreen, wrinkle-free clothing and MP3 player to scratchresistant sunglasses and sports equipment – to name just a few. Carbon nanotubes are the

strongest and stiffest material discovered to date in terms of tensile strength and elastic modulus. In 2000, multi-walled carbon nanotube was tested with a tensile strength to endure 6300kg on a cable with a cross section of only one sq mm. The technology has its roots back in the graphite technology

developed for rotary blades on the new generation of Apache attack helicopters because the engine rotation was so powerful it would shatter the olderstyled blades. It is this technology in sports equipment, and in fishing rod blanks in particular, that delivers lighter, stronger and more durable materials for recreational fishing. New nanotechnology provided 2.5 times the impact resistance of standard graphite rods through the manipulation of graphite at an atomic level. This prevents microscopic nicks and dings that caused the older generation graphite rods to snap for no apparent reason. The technology won’t stop there and has been applied to modern fishing line, reels and components.

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Whoa, brown beetle! While Kiwi viticulturalists usually have much to ‘wine’ about, thanks to havoc caused by brown beetle they now have every right to complain. According to recent reports, brown beetle (Costelytra zealandica) is causing havoc as more vineyards head towards organic and biodynamic practices and away from using insecticides. More commonly known as grass grubs – when in their immature stages, causing damage to grass roots – these pests can graduate to beetles whereupon they will feed on the young foliage of plants including grape vines. To mitigate the damage caused, Kono Beverages, producer of Tohu and Aronui wines, has teamed up with scientists at Lincoln University to better understand and best this pest through biological

Photos supplied

controls. Trials will also be undertaken, ranging from the planting of intercepting hedges and use of organic sprays, to experiments on soil with the aim of reducing vine palatability to these beetles.

Fast facts Measuring

approximately

10mm in length, brown beetles are tan in colour. Depending on region, they are usually present only in spring to early summer over the course of a few weeks and tend to fly after dark, attracted to bright lights. After emerging from the soil – where they have matured from their grass grub stage – the beetles fly first to find mates and

then to feed. In addition to grape and kiwifruit vines, brown beetles also feed on a variety of plants on farms and in gardens, including brassicas, cereal crops, berry bushes, feijoa leaves and ornamentals. Damage from these pests is in the form of irregular-shaped pieces eaten from leaf margins.

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RURAL ��

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By Ditch Keeling Coastal Pest Solutions Ltd Way back in September 2013 I wrote about people being frustrated at DOC’s management of the permit system that was supposed to allow for control of game birds, such as pukeko, when problems arise. This system was managed for 20 plus years without an issue until being handed to a Specialist Permissions Centre around two years ago. Then costs went from ‘free’ to $440.00 plus gst and a 13-page application form! This was obviously unworkable for those needing to remove only a small number of birds to protect new plantings or commercial crops. I am aware of only one permit being issued under this system in the last two years. Imagine my delight on recently hearing that DOC has acknowledged that there were issues by handing the authority to manage these permits to Fish and Game NZ. Actually, it’s a little bittersweet. Because I know that, ultimately, F&G is there to protect game birds for seasonal shooters, seeing them as a pest may be asking a lot of this organisation. We recently put it to the acid test by applying for a permit to remove a number of pukeko from a development site that is undergoing extensive wetland planting. We just needed some time to

establish the new plants so all of our birds could flourish. The permit application was extremely straight forward and it was great to find I was dealing with someone that understood the frustration of the last two years. Furthermore the permit arrived via email the same day I applied for it! I take a lot of calls from people with pukeko issues and, in all fairness, not all would qualify for a permit under any system. The basic requirements are very well thought out and designed to avoid any unnecessary control. Good examples of the types of situations that generally qualify for a permit are: ■■ where they are a threat to industry e.g. a free range farmer that is not allowed legally to

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For more information contact: gary@ratzapper.co.nz Website: www.ratzapper.co.nz Ph: 027 455 0097 33387-v2 24 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

have wild birds in amongst captive stock ■■ where birds pose a risk to human or animal health, e.g. by fouling troughs and water sources ■■ where pukeko are a threat to young chicks or are in situations where environmental restoration is taking place and plantings are being decimated by pukeko. If you find yourself in a situation that you believe meets the above criteria and warrants control, it is worth doing some groundwork prior to applying for a permit. The key is to count the number of birds in question and do this enough times to be sure exactly how many are there. This will help decide how many need to be removed. In general, removing around half the population is often enough to establish new trees. The next question is how you intend to carry out the control. Shooting may be fine for small numbers of birds in a rural setting but is not always appropriate for large numbers of birds in a well-developed area. I use both shooting and alphachloralose, which is a mild narcotic that dopes the birds and allows for revival if needed. If you have any bird control questions, feel free to drop me a line. Please help us to provide the advice you require by sending all pest animal questions to info@ coastalpestsolutions.co.nz.

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; August - September 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 25

Living ��

win!

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, 2014. Winner notified by phone or email.

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WIN! BEST FOODS PRIZE PACK

With water bills on the rise for many and user-pays water charges inevitable for everyone on town supply, it pays to save pennies from those rainy days! And those on tank or bore water can also benefit by installing a rainwater butt to a shed or outbuilding to catch a little extra water for the garden or stock. With a wide range of rainwater-harvesting products and systems, including rainwater diverters and pumps, Whitford-based Rainline is ready to ensure we don’t feel down in the next shower! See Rainline.co.nz for more information. In the meantime, Rural Living has a 210L Rainwater Butt valued at $128.95 up for grabs.

Hold the mayo? No way! Because Best Foods Mayonnaise and Aioli feature top quality ingredients, we won’t need to miss out on our mayo no more! Whether as an accompaniment to favourite dishes or as a delicious addition to cooking, Best Foods is designed to bring out the best in ﬂavour. And now, readers have the chance to savour the ﬂavour because Rural Living has a Best Foods prize pack up for grabs. Prize includes: Vouchers for Best Foods Aioli and Mayo (Light or Real), a Best Foods tea towel, and a handy collection of recipes.

WIN! SMOKED BY JEREMY SCHMID

WIN! A BEE NESTING PRIZE PACK FROM CREATIVE WOODCRAFT

WIN! SCHWARZKOPF PRIZE PACKS What do you get for a man who has everything? Nothing is a good start! However, for the man who still needs a little upkeep, Schwarzkopf and Dial hair and body products could be just the ticket for Father’s Day (September 7). While these products make great last minute gift ideas, Rural Living also has prize packs for three lucky readers. Valued at almost $30 a piece, each pack includes: Schwarzkopf Taft Structured Modelling Wax, Schwarzkopf Taft Rough & Tough Matt Paste, Dial For Men Body Wash Ultimate Clean Hair & Body and Dial For Men Body Wash 24HR Odor Armour.

With bee numbers in decline, the National Beekeepers’ Association (NBA) has again been buzzing during August, to raise awareness of Bee Aware month. Because much of the world’s food supply relies on pollination by bees, the organisation has been running a range of events to help curb threats to a vital contributor to our world. For more information, see nba. org.nz. And, to mark Bee Aware month, Creative Woodcraft has provided us with a super bee nesting prize pack – a Bumble Bee Nesting Box, a Solitary Bee House and 50 Leafcutter Bee Cells – to give away. Bee in to win this bee-utiful prize, valued at $168!

Looking for that perfect Father’s Day gift? Then consider Jeremy Schmid’s newly released, smoking hot cookbook, Smoked – How to ﬂavour, cure and prepare meat, seafood, vegetables, fruit & more, available at RRP $45 from all good bookstores. But if you’re willing to take a punt, thanks to publisher, New Holland, we have one copy to give away although it won’t be drawn until after dad’s special day. Featuring a plethora of recipes including decadent delights as well as the expected meaty morsels, this book, with photography by Devin Hart, is the sequel to Jeremy’s award-winning earlier book Bangers to Bacon. Why not grab one from your local book store and have it all wrapped up for Father’s Day and enter the draw too? If you win then you’ll have a copy for yourself!

For last month’s Rural Living winners visit www.ruralliving.co.nz/competitions 26 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

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living

Living La Lilly Loca Life has its dramas but one established performer is making the best of hers having launched performing arts classes in Pukekohe. NATALIE BRITTAN chats with Natalie Hugill, better known as Lilly Loca, a talented star from the colourful worlds of vaudeville, cabaret and burlesque. She has played hundreds of stage roles and personas, but playing the victim was not a path Natalie Hugill willingly chose as a child.

Photo supplied – Paradox Photography

Experiencing bullying from a young age, Natalie began attending drama classes at Uxbridge Children’s Theatre, now the Howick Children’s and Youth Theatre. “I was going through some really bad times with bullying and when I went there I finally found a place where I was accepted.” Now 27, the Whitford resident still remembers her first play, Oliver Twist.

Photo supplied – Jocelen Janon Photography

“I played a girl called Lockup Lottie, a character created for the play. And my first line was ‘he’s a bi’ ov a looker, ain’t ‘e!’” she says convincingly. On leaving school, Natalie received a scholarship from youth magazine, Tearaway, to study drama in Hamilton which led to her first year of tertiary studies at Waikato University. “It was awesome and so quintessentially rural New Zealand. The dairy boys who had been milking since five in the morning would ride their four-wheel motorbikes up to the lecture door, take off their gumboots and do a lecture!”

The many faces of Natalie Hugill clockwise from above – ‘50s pin-up girl with a ‘58 Corvette owned by David Parker; alter-ego Lilly Loca and on stage performing.

However, later, life as a student at the University of Auckland was an entirely different scene.

Graduating from university in 2008 with a double major in English and Classics and a minor in Theatre, Natalie decided to put on her “adult hat” and get a “real job”.

“I found the transition really hard because in Waikato everybody was super friendly,” she says. “I went into a bout of mild depression for about 6 months because everyone [at the university] seemed so cold! They kept to themselves and I wasn’t used to that.” Then she discovered Stage Two Productions, the university theatre club. “Again, theatre came in and saved my life. Everything works in circles. I finally found a place where I felt comfortable and people like me.”

Photo Wayne Martin

ADULT LIFE & CAREER

She began working for an advertising company, but the recession hit and the company was liquidated. That’s when she came to the realisation that she was stopping herself doing what she loved. “What life’s worth living if you’re not doing something you enjoy?” she asks. Striking a balance between paying the bills and fuelling her love for acting, Natalie discovered a love for teaching through ThePerformance. net, a school of performing arts with classes held around Auckland.

Meanwhile, the performer within began exploring new avenues and the sultry mediums of burlesque and cabaret appealed. These days, the multi-talented starlet is best known as her burlesque alterego Lilly Loca, a vivacious entertainer and “mistress of disguise” dolled up in a jet black pin-up wig, tight corset, fishnet stockings and bordello heels. The 1.7m tall Natalie also dabbles in the world of modelling, dressing for vintage-themed shoots as a pin-up girl and gracing the fashion runway.

A FRESH CHAPTER Natalie now teaches performing arts to children at the Te Puru Community Centre in Beachlands and Harrington Theatre in Pukekohe through her

academy, Defying Gravity Performing Arts. While her time in the spotlight has been rewarding, the young entrepreneur is enjoying the new challenge and focus. “My academy comes first,” she says. “It’s been great to get back into teaching; I really miss it. I’ve always had a huge passion for enriching others’ lives and for getting students to reach their potential.” But it’s certainly not the last of Lilly Loca. “If I don’t perform for a certain amount of time I suffer withdrawal symptoms. I love interacting with crowds. Every performer enjoys being on stage; it’s not a vanity thing. I’m at home on the stage – it’s where I’m happiest, it’s where I’m most comfortable and it’s what I was meant to do.”

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 27

Living ��

Vanuatu here we come Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS The year is galloping along and by the time you read this I will be lying on the beach in Vanuatu reading a book and hoping that this particular week will not fly by as fast as the past weeks. It has been a really hard year so far with all sorts of things happening. We decided to cancel our big trip to Europe and, now, I am glad we did. Not only were we flying Malaysian Airlines we were flying to Istanbul so we could have flown over the Ukraine. I guess the tragedy of flight MA17 made our decision not to go seem easier. Instead we settled on a new resort in Vanuatu putting in an order for lots of sunshine, lots of books and very few people – my dream holiday. Living on a lifestyle property means a holiday needs lots of planning and lots of people to help while we are away. Although a relative will look after the house we didn’t want to thrust our menagerie of animals on him. Subsequently, I have just bought a Grandpa’s Feeder from one of our advertisers to ensure our chooks are fed every morning. The horses

Photo supplied

are off to Alta Dream Lodge to have babies and the sheep will look after themselves. The cats (notice the plural as the stray is now Jessica and a permanent addition to our home) are off to the cattery. All this before I think of those essentials such as attention to finger nails and, of course, a spray tan so I don’t look ridiculously super white in the summer clothes. Then there’s the planning of which clothes to take. Brian says his are easy – just a few pairs of shorts, undies and some T-shirts and that’s that. How good it must be to not have to think about all the different options for dressing that may arise such as going out for lunch then a change of clothing for dinner. That’s already two different outfits for one day.

Shorts and T-shirts – so simple. I wish I could be like that. The last time we went to Europe my bag weighed 29 kilos. After a week in London it was even heavier. You would think at my age I would have learnt how to travel light but, no. Now, to the local front. I see that the whitebait season has started so I’m looking forward to those fabulous whitebait fritters that Monarch Cafe has on its menu. I have been a few times into Whisk since it opened and what a fabulous selection of food – really lovely choices of savoury and sweet. Being owned by the boys from Kaos, patrons can expect the unexpected and they won’t be disappointed. We are so lucky in Pukekohe to have such fine food venues. We don’t eat

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out a lot for dinner so cafe-style food is much to our liking. A few weeks ago, on a dreadfully wet Sunday, members of our horse syndicate went out to Geoff Small’s to see Will Desire run around the track. This was the first time any of us have seen the horse harnessed to a sulky, let alone racing. Brian had bred the horse and decided that a syndicate was the way to get more people interested in harness racing. I am not sure that the day helped in any way but after the viewing we headed off to The Butcher Shop for a bit of morning tea and a good hot drink. Food, again! I have been out more this month than I thought. Have a great month everyone, and I’ll tell you about the holiday next month.

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Tuakau

– the best is history It’s often said there are many stories in the city, however it seems our towns also abound with a tale to tell too, as one Tuakau history buff and author explained to JON RAWLINSON. After compiling his first book, Memories, Tuakau +, in 2012, Tuakau’s Stuart Graham soon found himself beset with more information and photos; in fact, enough to produce a second volume, More Memories, Tuakau +. He says both books were designed to record the history of the area and its people. “They’re history books about Tuakau featuring people who don’t usually receive recognition, but who’re well worth remembering,” Stuart says. “I’m community-minded and I saw there was a need to record our history. I thought, I’m the patron of the museum, so I should do something!” While he says the books are intended primarily for those featured on their pages, they are texts for the town and the regional community as a whole, and anyone interested in New Zealand history at a local level. However, no history of Tuakau would be complete without a few mentions of the surname, Graham. Since patriarch of the family, James, ventured to New Zealand, the family has been active in the community,

particularly through its businesses, Tuakau ITM and Graham’s Funeral Services. “Many local families had ancestors who came here on the Ganges [sailing ship] in 1863 and 1865. In our case it was James Graham who was born in Armagh in Northern Ireland and is now buried in Pukekohe,” Stuart says. The new book includes a detailed 50-page section about the voyages of the Ganges. “There were a number of lives lost on board, mostly because of bad conditions, food running out and sickness. I’ve included quite a few photos of the ship and the section about it is well worth reading, especially with the 150th anniversary of its arrival coming up next year.” Stuart adds that prominent local sportspeople also feature. “From rugby to netball, cricket and rugby league, Tuakau has had some high profile athletes. The book includes such people as Jimmy Graham – a cousin who played for Counties – as well as Ricki Clark, Henk Habraken, Adam Cathcart, Bobby Wilson, Bill Duncan, and many more

Photo Wayne Martin

who also wore the Counties jersey.” Although the books are focused on Tuakau, Stuart couldn’t help but include stories and photos from further afield, including Pokeno, Pukekohe and Waiuku, this time around. “Putting these books together was something I could do in my spare time, but I had a lot of helpers. Locals trusted me with their precious photos and shared their stories. Without their input, the books could never have been completed. “It’s great to hear wonderful feedback

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and have money from sales to to our museum. The books are about local, everyday people who make Tuakau what it is today, so hopefully we can all help keep our history alive.” With his second work now complete and available from the Tuakau & Districts Museum, a third is not on the cards. “I feel I’ve now done my share of recording local history, so I won’t be putting together another book,” he says. “It’s been hard for my wife, Helen, too, who’s put up with me, even when there were papers all over the place!”

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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 29

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Fashion’s favourite event Hey, fashionistas, New Zealand Fashion Weekend will be in full swing at Auckland’s ANZ Viaduct Events Centre, August 29-31. This is your chance to experience all the fun and excitement of New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW). Across the three days, a packed schedule will feature some of New Zealand’s most sought-after designers. They will show their in-season collections and there’ll be beauty sessions, bargain designer shopping, the Beauty Hub, DJ’s, stylish bars, amazing goodie bags and loads of giveaways. NZ Fashion Weekend kicks off with the biggest party of the week. Held at the ANZ Viaduct Events Centre on the Friday night the NZ Fashion Weekend opening party will be rocking with entertainment from George FM DJ Aroha Harawira; the incredible sister DJ duo, MayaVanya; amazing electronic funk band, L.A.B (Brad and Laughton Kora) and closing the night off will be one-man musical force, Beat Mob! The NZ Fashion Weekend opening party is a chance to rub shoulders with some of the country’s top fashion designers, local and international fashion media and celebs. Limited public tickets available from www.iticket.co.nz The now famous Designer Garage Sale is back in full swing too, with New Zealand’s favourite designer clothing, footwear and accessory labels, all on sale for a fraction of the

Photo Michael Ng

price. What’s more, in a NZ Fashion Weekend first, it will start with special VIP Designer Garage Sale access.

you a show not to be missed, NZ Fashion Weekend will be THE place to be if you love fashion!

The fabulous fashion-packed runway schedule starts with YMCA & Raise Up Presents Walk the Line show and offers something for everyone.

The Beauty Hub at NZ Fashion Weekend features some of the top names in hair and beauty including OPI, St. Tropez, Smashbox, GLAM, Schwarzkopf and so much more! In a custom-designed space visitors can trial, experience, pamper and beautify to their heart’s content.

Showing an in-season collection for the first time at NZ Fashion Weekend, Stolen Girlfriends Club will bring its unique brand of rock and roll delinquency to the catwalk. Newcomers Sly Guild joins forces with Huffer to showcase the best of streetwear fashion and, with TK Store, BLAK, Kowtow and Company Of Strangers coming together to bring

Always a sell-out, the Resene Designer Selection shows, which run throughout NZFW and NZ Fashion Weekend, are a fashion extravaganza, showcasing a little bit of every NZFW designers’ in-season looks. Each

spectacular runway show presents and features a segment styled by the editor or fashion editor from some of New Zealand’s leading magazines – Fashion Quarterly, Simply You, CLEO, Next and Woman’s Day. This year NZ Fashion Weekend will offer more exciting activities and will provide a great place to relax and spend the day shopping, sampling and trying out the latest in hair and makeup. GA tickets start at $20, so this is shaping up to be a great day out and shouldn’t be missed! For tickets visit www.iticket.co.nz or to view the full schedule www. nzfashionweek.com

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A 2014 overseas holiday has been off the agenda for HELEN PERRY so, instead, she eyed up a harbour crossing taking advantage of a valued-packed SeaLink package to Waiheke Island. Vehicular ferry company, SeaLink’s winter special of a return crossing from Half Moon Bay to Waiheke for a car and two people plus two night’s accommodation for just $318 was too good to resist.

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This inexpensive short break wouldn’t take the husband and I far from home but, once there, it seemed we were a million miles away. Unable to make the trip at the weekend, which would have been perfect, we settled for a Monday and Tuesday being the only days that suited us both. Despite opting for this quieter time of the week, when many vineyards were closed, nevertheless, there were still plenty of places to see and things to do including wine tasting, a wetland walk, visiting art studios, pounding the shoreline, sipping coffee (and wine) beachfront and dining at some great restaurants.

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Onetangi Beachfront Apartments two away – 4th Avenue and Charlie Farleys – both with large outdoor decks. We enjoyed hearty breakfasts at both locations regretful that the sun was hiding. On a fine day the outdoor settings, looking straight at the sea, were near perfect. Once we had our bearings we were off, turning first into Trig Road in the hope of visiting Peacock Sky vineyard. Sadly, winter opening hours were Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 4pm so we were denied luncheon and a sampling of their wines. However, we did enjoy the drive and en route passed EcoZip Adventures, a well set up adventure park with flying fox and forest walk experience – definitely something to consider for those in tune with nature and who love a buzz. On returning to the main road we headed for Oneroa to check out dining spots for later in the evening and to see what else of interest we could spot along the way. Amazingly, our explorations turned up some great eateries, vineyards, artists studios and a gorgeous wetland and sculpture paradise.

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Galileo once made reference to sunlight being held together by water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; he was referring to wine but he could easily have been talking about the Waiheke Island wine trail as HELEN PERRY discovered. Wines that burst with flavour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some tickling the tastebuds with lively fruit flavours or subtle hints of spice; others an explosion of plum and cherry notes and velvet smooth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are among Waihekeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest attractions. From one end of the island to the other, cellar doors beckon and like other visitors, the husband and I could not resist stepping inside a few. First stop was Kennedy Point, a magical vineyard and olive grove with sea views and only minutes from the Sealink vehicular ferry depot. Unlike many Waiheke venues, which open only at weekends in winter, Kennedy Pointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tasting room is open 7 days, 11am to 3pm. While the vineyardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syrah was very different from the big Barossa reds I usually favour, the 2012 Reserve Malbec took my fancy and although a bit outside my budget, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say no to itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich plumminess. On day two of our stay, we headed for the much lauded Loop Road, which also provides access to historic Stony Batter, named for the large boulders scattered over the site. Built during

the Second World War, as part of a top-secret defensive shield against German and Japanese attack, it took two years of labour to build. Although the big guns have long gone, the gun-emplacements and extensive underground fort can still be seen and are being restored. With the weather setting in we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make the 1.3 km walk to the site but continued along the Loop Road, famous for three distinguished vineyards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Man Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; War, Passage Rock and Poderi Crisci Estate. We stopped at Man Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; War, right on the beach, where the idyllic setting won us over. Although the building housing the tasting room and dining area is just two years old, its settler style with colonial windows and gorgeous wrap-around verandah, charms. It is open seven days with winter hours of 11am to 4pm.

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Win! It’s a bit Rugged, Mate by ‘big al’ lester inspired by mishaps and mayhem he’s endured while venturing in the bush.

Since the dawn of man, many have ventured into the wilds while others have stay safely gathering in their gardens.

“In truth, I am an average to poor hunter who has had more hunting cock-ups than the rest of the country combined! For every deer I’ve successfully shot, dozens have escaped only to hide in the bush peering back at me, clearly laughing at my stupidity,” he says.

And still today, intrepid Kiwis venture beyond the garden gate to make a meal of the hunting game. A compilation of yarns from Big Al’s first three books, It’s a Bit Rugged, Mate is a must-have for these wild men of Aotearoa, but it’s also ideal for anyone with a keen sense of adventure and humour.

“I have always managed to see the funny side of the situation and had a good old laugh at myself. I began to wonder if my stuff-ups, with a bit of humour and mayhem thrown in,

Described as ‘Barry Crump meets Fred Dagg’, ‘Big Al’ Lester says he’s

Memorable sequel By Janet Pates

In 2012, when Stuart Graham, patron of the Tuakau & Districts Museum, produced his book, Memories, Tuakau +, it received local acclaim as a source of information about the area and its people, past and present. It also drew a further flurry of photographs and supporting information from locals, so much so that Stuart decided to produce a companion volume, More Memories, Tuakau + with proceeds benefiting the museum.

Now complete, it features almost 1000 more pages of photos, newspaper cuttings and accounts of events in the town and surrounding region. It also covers arts, schools and transport with detailed sections about local sportspeople, the HMV Ganges – which brought many early settlers to the region – and the Maori King movement. Profiles on local business people will also appeal to readers. Memories, Tuakau + and More Memories, Tuakau + are available from the Tuakau & Districts Museum. • See page 29 for interview with Stuart.

might just make for good reading – the oddball, unusual, humorous, weird and fun side of hunting – and gave it a go. I must have got something right!” • It’s a Bit Rugged, Mate – the best yarns by ‘Big Al’ Lester. Published by Penguin Group (NZ). RRP $35. An ideal gift for Father’s Day, Rural Living has a copy of this Kiwi classic in the making to give away. Visit ruralliving.co.nz then click on the competition link and complete the form. One entry per person, entries close September 30, 2014. Winner advised by phone or email.

Win! NO FRONT LINE Thanks to our friends at Penguin Group NZ Rural Living has one copy of No Front Line by Claire Hall up for grabs. Featured in last month’s issue this book is an absorbing, frank and sometimes shocking look at an inescapable episode in our history. To enter the draw simply visit ruralliving.co.nz then click on the competition link and complete the form. One entry per person, entries close September 30, 2014. Winner advised by phone or email.

Got something to say? Tell us what is happening – we want to know what you think... what you like... what you want to see in Rural Living

Be in our next issue – booking deadline September 15 Phone 0800 456 789 • info@ruralliving.co.nz • www.ruralliving.co.nz 34 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

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Elaine Blick – When This War is Over It may be approximately 100 years since the First World War began, but it was not to be the ‘war to end all wars.’ However, it did inspire numerous books exploring the nature of wars since and their effects on the lives of so many. Local author, Elaine Blick, outlines one such work to DARREN MCDONALD. It was while writing her third novel set in England during the Second World War that Clarks Beach author Elaine Blick needed inspiration, and perhaps a little divine intervention. “I couldn’t think of the title and didn’t know what to call the book,” she says. “Then, I was cleaning out a drawer and out came this letter dated 1943. I read it. It was a beautiful letter.” The epistle turned out to be a love letter from her mother to her father who was serving far away as an officer during the war. The discovery gave Elaine an insight into her parents’ relationship and her mother’s own unique gift for prose. Sent from Salisbury, England, the letter described the day Elaine’s mother went to collect mushrooms at a local field. It reads: “I hunted, but not a sign of one! I frightened half a dozen hares or rabbits in that lane; they were dozing in the noontide sun. An aeroplane was droning lazily overhead and I just enjoyed walking in that field.”

Successful local author Elaine Blick. The latter book begins with a dramatic chapter describing a terrifying bus ride as a German plane attacks. On returning home, the main character (Rhoda) receives a telegram declaring her husband missing.

Elaine was delighted. “You can just picture the hares lying there, and mum has a lovely turn of phrase.” There was more, including a heartfelt desire for a blissful new life of love. “When this war is over dear, we will build our home again and make of it a lovely place, where happiness and love abide, and with God’s help we won’t let anything come into it which will spoil it’s peaceful atmosphere.” Reading those lines, Elaine knew she had found what she was looking for. “That’s where I got the title When This War is Over.” As for her mother’s beautiful prose, Elaine humbly denies that she might have inherited the same gift for descriptive writing. “I don’t know, I’m not very good on description, I don’t think. I can write

conversation and dialogue no trouble at all, but when it comes to description I struggle and struggle. I read other writers and wish, ‘if only I had their command of words.’ It doesn’t come naturally to me.” However, the former teacher has an MA in English from Auckland University and works to a strict and determined writing ethic. In fact, Elaine has penned a delightful war-time love story of a woman torn between two loves. Based loosely on her own mother’s life, When This War is Over is a sequel to a previous novel, No White Flowers, Please.

It is a reminder of war-time England when the women were left at home, never knowing where their lovers were, or when they would return. Reading Elaine’s novel, you sense that it is a profound tribute to a previous generation, when men were called to lay down their lives for their country, for freedom. It is also a romance novel with a love triangle set in uncertain days. However, don’t expect raunchy scenes. That is something Elaine is adamant about. “My books don’t have sex in them;

Photo who?

romance but not sex. So, I thought how do I get around the honeymoon? When they are together they have this wonderful closeness and I leave it to the imagination,” she says. “I think Gone with the Wind is one of the sexiest books ever written, without mentioning a thing... you don’t need to!”

Buy the book? Since When This War is Over was first published in August, 2013, Elaine has penned a new work First Names Only, telling the story of a girl who parts with her baby in the 1960s. This book will be available soon. Elaine’s books are available from Amazon or Book Depository, or direct from the author herself (email blickelaine@ gmail.com). For more information about Elaine and her work visit sbpra. com/elaineblick.

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 35

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Full steam ahead for Father’s Day! Here’s a marvellous gift idea for Father’s Day – a rattling good book which takes readers on a nostalgic trip on some of the southern hemisphere’s most picturesque rail journeys. And while there’s no train called the City of New Orleans in this tome, Stop the Train! I Want To Get On, by Graham Hutchins is a book that is surely bound for glory! It recounts journeys throughout both islands of New Zealand, on regular passenger trains, railcars, freight trains and work trains. Let your imagination wend its way along the Central Otago line, hop on board the Gisborne Railcar or the Southerner to Invercargill, take the mixed train through rural Taranaki or the workers’ train from Greymouth on the Rewanui Incline. Catch the Endeavour to Hawke’s Bay

From then on he travelled as much as he could and, as a young man, searched for smaller forgotten lines to experience what they offered.

and recall the halcyon days of the Silver Fern Railcar which introduced New Zealanders to a new era of almost opulent travel in the early 1970s. Perhaps some will remember enjoying the country’s first licensed train carriage, wall-towall carpet and comfortable, upholstered seats; for those who don’t, then marvel at what public trains gave us 40 years ago. Yes, this book will also bring back memories for some and open up a new world, or rather, an old world, for others. While many services have now been axed, Graham Hutchins vividly recalls their delights, from the scenery outside to the oftenprimitive conditions inside. He adds in memories of people he met along the way.

As a result, the sheer pleasure (and, sometimes, pain) of rail travel in every corner of New Zealand, from the 1950s to the present day, is revealed to readers. Author, Hutchins fell in love with trains at an early age. Living in the railway town of Te Kuiti, he often gazed on the steaming monsters as they thundered through the King Country. In his new book he recounts a journey he undertook alone on the night train to Auckland at the tender age of 10.

Well written and beautifully illustrated, Stop The Train! I Want To Get On, by Graham Hutchins, published by Exisle Publishing (RRP $49.99) is ideal for dads and granddads who still hanker to get their ticket at the station and even ride the north-bound train on a south-bound track.

Win! stop the train! I want to get on Thanks to Exisle Publishing Rural Living has one copy of Stop The Train! I Want To Get On to give away. To enter the draw simply visit ruralliving. co.nz then click on the competition link and complete the form. One entry per person, competition closes September 30, 2014. Winner advised by phone or email.

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Spicy Shin Beef

Saloon ‘deers’ to and Vegetable Casserole challenge A hearty meal may be just what the doctor ordered to help fend off the chill of a winter’s eve, but such fare can take quite some time to prepare.

The best of the herd have been rounded up for the Monteith’s Wild Food Challenge and one Pukekohe hunter has shown it has what it takes to be in the game.

Thankfully, this recipe from Simon and Alison Holst’s latest book, Slow Food Fast, can be prepared quickly, letting the slow cooker do the work.

Saloon Saloon Bar & Grill in Edinburgh St wowed judges and the public in the annual food and beer matching competition with its Deer to Indulge: Wild Venison and Chanterelle Mushroom Pie creation.

Cooking time 7.5 hours on high Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS: • 800g shin beef on the bone (500–600g if boneless) • 2 tsp curry powder • 1 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tsp salt • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce • 2 medium potatoes, halved • 2 medium carrots, scrubbed and cut into 1cm pieces • 1 medium onion, finely diced • 2 cups water • 1 tbsp cornflour • 2-3 tbsp cold water • 1 cup frozen peas

mETHOD: Coat inside of bowl of a mediumto-large slow cooker with non-stick spray and turn to HIGH. Put the pieces of shin beef into slow cooker. Sprinkle curry powder, brown sugar, salt and Worcestershire sauce over the meat. Add prepared potatoes and carrots to slow cooker, sprinkle in diced onion, then pour in water.

After 7 hours, lift out beef and remove and discard the bones. Cut beef into smaller pieces if you like, then return to slow cooker. Mix together cornflour and cold water and stir into cooking liquid. Add

frozen peas and cook for 30 minutes longer. Check the seasoning and adjust to taste, then serve in shallow bowls. Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for later use.

Win! Slow Food Fast Thanks to a couple of the Kiwi kitchen’s most renowned cooks, preparation time for winterwarming dishes can be cut back to the bone, courtesy of Slow Food Fast by Simon and Alison Holst. Published by Hyndman Publishing; RRP $14.99. Rural Living has THREE copies of this book up for grabs. Visit ruralliving. co.nz to be in to win.

Featuring locally sourced venison braised in Monteith’s Black Beer and chanterelle mushrooms with a light puff pastry lid, the pie is served on a bed of Franklin kumara and garlic mash. The dish is paired with a Monteith’s Bohemian Pilsner to cut through the richness of the venison and to complement the unique blend of spices. One of 12 finalists, Saloon Saloon beat more than 100 competitors around the country for a spot in the final which takes place on September 9. With a grand prize of $15,000 at stake and the coveted title of 2014’s Monteith’s Wild Food Challenge winner, here’s hoping Saloon Saloon’s Bambi has the flavours to outshine the likes of Babe and Bugs Bunny! www.monteiths.co.nz

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offering a fresh seasonal menu made with local produce, the Tuakau Hotel restaurant caters for your dining experience. Be that an intimate table of two, a night out with the family, or a function of up to 100 guests. Special dietary needs? Just ask and our Chefs will create a menu or dish to suit your palate. The team at the award-winning Tuakau Hotel looks forward to welcoming you soon!

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38 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

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Country Meats team set to snag comp honours When the top butchers on the block face off at the upcoming Devro New Zealand Sausage Competition, Charlie Compston, owner of Franklin Country Meats will be ready to reach for the brass (or preferably gold) ring. “People in our community are probably well aware about how well the former owners and founders – Dave and Trina Crosbie – have done in the past, scooping numerous awards,” Charlie says, “but now it’s our turn to show what we can do! “We held off on entering competitions while we got our feet under the desk, but we’re now ready to keep Franklin Country Meats’ winning tradition alive. We think we have a good shot and should come away with an award or two.” Charlie and his team will enter their pork sausages, boerewors – a South African variety – and a smoky bacon and Tasmanian apple cider variety in the competition. No stranger to success at past awards, Charlie served his butchery apprenticeship at Franklin Country Meats before travelling overseas. He says when the opportunity came to purchase the business in February it was too good to miss. “I was living in England when my dad (Dave) called and said Franklin Country Meats was for sale; I jumped

Left to right: Dave ‘Big Davo’ Compston, Carly ‘Kurly’ Anderson, Charlie Compston and Rick Dunn. at the chance! While I’m keen to build the business, I learnt a lot from the Crosbies and I’m certainly committed to making sure we stay true to our customers and our roots.” One way in which Charlie and his father have developed the business is by initiating a loyalty programme. “We thought this would be a good way to give more back to our customers. Basically, members of our loyalty club gain points with purchases which can be redeemed in store. It’s simple, but it has already

proved effective and people have received various rewards, including free products.” Aged just 23, Charlie says running the business has been a challenge, but thanks to its reputation in the community, he is certain Franklin Country Meats will go from strength to strength. “The business has always been about providing only the best New Zealand meat and local produce, such as milk and eggs, to our community; that won’t change,” he says.

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“As well as our sausages, we prepare all of our own bacon, ham and many other products from scratch, on site. For that reason we’re better able to ensure quality and freshness, and, thanks to our own recipes, provide some products unavailable anywhere else.” The Devro New Zealand Sausage Competition commences with North Island judging on September 26; the Grand Final will be held on October 14. See the Retail Meat New Zealand website (rmnz.co.nz) for details, or visit franklincountrymeats.co.nz.

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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 39

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Colour to the fore Bright is beautiful this spring especially in the home as Dulux colour expert, LOUISE McKENZIE-SMITh reveals. TRIBAL INSPIRED Travel the world without leaving home – be inspired by an eclectic tribal aesthetic, featuring bold golden hues, deep indigo, vibrant pink and eclectic patterns. With unmistakable warmth, this palette sweeps from the earthy gold of Dulux Riverton, to the reddish clay of Dulux Rangataua and includes Dulux Cathedral Cove and Dulux Double Cove, a deep evening indigo and vibrant sunset pink plus pale sandy Dulux Paekakariki and Dulux Marahau, a soft teal oasis, for soothing contrast. Play with creative geometric shapes, imitating the aesthetic of colourful and chaotic desert bazaars – it’ll inject heat and energy into any home. Left: Dulux Paekakariki (foreground wall), Dulux Double Cove, Dulux Rangataua and Dulux Cathedral Cove (back wall). Available from Guthrie Bowron.

RICH MAROONS and REGAL NAVIES Dark, dramatic and classical looks are here to stay for spring 2014. Take inspiration from the palettes of the Dutch masters to create a sense of romantic nostalgia. Rich in sultry maroon, rosy pink and opulent navy, the palette features the plush pink of Dulux Ohaeawai with the softer blush of Dulux Opito Bay, the dramatic maroon of Dulux Lake Hayes, the crystal blue of Dulux Benmore Half and metallic glints in Dulux Gaby’s Gold Metallic, set against the deep blue of Dulux Tuatapere. Emphasise the look, by applying simple embellishments and flourishes resembling calligraphy strokes, and combine with timber forms. Right: Dulux Tuatapere (wall), Dulux Benmore Half (trim). Available from Guthrie Bowron.

ROCKY GREYS and CLOUDY BLUES For a softer, natural aesthetic try a scheme inspired by the earth’s natural elements and their geometric forms. Featuring subdued shades and blue-grey undertones, combine light stone such as Dulux Opononi Double, wet rock-grey of Dulux Mt Eden, and the deep charcoal of Dulux Rawene, matched with the moody sky of Dulux Waioeka, the cloudy white of Dulux Lyttelton, and the rough metal of Dulux Exposed Granite Metallic. Gentle, graduated colour application helps soften the look further while pairing with glints of metallic paint will add a sophisticated edge to a scheme. Left: Dulux Rawene (back wall), Dulux Waioeka (foreground), Dulux Exposed Granite Design Metallic (inside door frame). Available from Guthrie Bowron.

RETRO TONES First to impress, this spring, are retro tones, which make a stand against traditional monochrome – brighter is better. Colourful, crisp and clear palettes are especially big, taking inspiration from an experimental retro aesthetic – think citrus yellows, fresh emeralds, sky blues, and rosy pinks. Key colours: Dulux Mayfield (yellow); Dulux Lake Unknown (blue); Dulux Roseneath (pink), Dulux Grove Arm (green). Extend the retro look through sixties style colourblocking and playful pops of bright hues.

Right: Dulux Mayfield (feature), Dulux Hakataramea (walls), Dulux Lake Unknown, Dulux D’urville Island, Dulux Grove Arm, Dulux Roseneath (features). Available from Guthrie Bowron.

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 41

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living

Hot issue –

Warming up winter Gales, calm, sun, rain, dry, warm and cold across the country were experienced in August, indicating yet again the variability of our weather as the world is talking climate change. While New Zealand recorded its warmest winter on record last year you would have to think we are on track for another ‘hottie’ especially when Kaikoura recorded 18 degrees Celsius at 1am on July 31 and that same day Gisborne was expected to hit 19 degrees Celsius. Yes, the world definitely seems to be a warmer place. According to the American Meteorological Society’s State of the Climate report, Australia also had its warmest winter – and Argentina its second warmest – since record keeping began in 1910. What’s more, 2013 was also our country’s third warmest year overall.

Should such trends continue, gardeners and farmers may need to alter planting habits. The report findings emphasise that the past is no longer a reliable guide to the future, says Dr James Renwick from Victoria University in Wellington. “The average climate, and variability of the climate, are both changing and that will alter agricultural patterns in New Zealand and around the world. “Just because something has been grown successfully in an area for the past 100 years, there is no guarantee it can continue to be successfully grown there. A farmer is going to see significant change in what can be done on their land over his or her working life.” Compiled by 425 scientists from 57 countries, the intention of the report is to provide details about global

Stock photo

climate indicators. An associate professor of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences, Dr Renwick contributed to the report.

calling warmer than average now, will be considered colder than average in 50 or 60 years – that’s how quickly the climate is changing.”

He describes the findings as sobering, but says they are consistent with what scientists expect from the changing climate.

He says recent weather in Northland is an example of conditions New Zealanders can expect in future.

“Climate change does not mean a few extra nice days in summer – we are talking about a significant alteration in the climate. “The sort of temperatures we are

“The region has had a number of very dry summers in recent years and has now experienced much higher than normal rainfall. Going from drought conditions to very heavy rain and flooding is exactly the kind of pattern we can expect from climate change.”

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Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 43

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– more than bargained for? By Jon Rawlinson

It features a “dwelling of substantial size and is very well constructed with brick cladding and clay tiled roof... under floor and central heating... three double bedrooms and a slightly smaller fourth...” Oh, and quite an infamous history! Although this TradeMe listing for 1405 State Highway 22, Pukekawa may invite people to, “choose the quiet life,” considering the property is perhaps best known as the Crewe Farm, this may be easier said than done. As the scene of the 1970 murders of then owners, Jeanette and Harvey Crewe, the property has remained in the public eye, again brought to attention with the recent release of an extensive report concerning investigations into the case. With its current owners forging ahead with plans to sell, one can’t help but wonder whether such a history could deter buyers. Going by the listing, it appears to offer a slice of Franklin lifestyle living at a reasonable price. Rural Living spoke with a near neighbour, who preferred not to be named. He said potential buyers should look beyond the property’s history. “I think the price is a little high for what you get, but it’s a solid house with plenty of character, large shedding and space. It’s in a peaceful

Former Crewe property for sale. area – not too far from Auckland or Hamilton – with friendly neighbours, who all look out for each other,” he said. “There’s nothing wrong with the area; the house and property are just branded because of the murders 44 years ago and the fact that they’re still unsolved, which is a minor thing really.” Neither the current owners of the property nor their real estate company chose to make any comment on the record to Rural Living. When asked if he would have purchased the property, should it have been on the market when he moved to the area approximately 10 years ago, near neighbour said some

Photo supplied

consideration certainly would have been given. “It’s history wouldn’t have put me off... it makes it a bit more special, knowing you live on a property that everyone knows about.” Although, one would expect full disclosure would be made to interested parties, the listing does not mention anything of the property’s history on TradeMe. “I don’t know why [the real estate company] doesn’t mention its history in the listing; everyone around here knows anyway, they’d have to tell people sooner or later and, if it were me, I would have promoted the fact this was the Crewe house, it may actually make it more attractive to some buyers.”

auckland properties’ record high By student writer, Tammy Anderson

three months to June 2013.

Despite a fall in lifestyle property sales across the country – down 10.8% in the three months to June 2014 compared to June 2013 – the Auckland market appears strong.

However, the national median price for lifestyle blocks rose by $10,000 (or 2%) to $515,000 and, in Auckland, the median price reached a record high, rising by 15% to $912,500 during the same period.

Nationally, 1,572 sales were recorded by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) in the three months to June 2014, falling from 1,763 in the

In contrast, Waikato saw a drop in median price by 2.9% (to $482,500) and Canterbury by 5.1% (to $512,500).

r11030

44 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

The number of days to sell lifestyle properties across the country eased by four days to 74, however Auckland properties sold more quickly than the national average (55 days) during this same period. REINZ rural spokesman, Brian Peacock said, from a national perspective, prices for lifestyle properties had eased, but Auckland continued to benefit from increasing sales prices.

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Market comment

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I am constantly asked, of late, if our market has slowed. From my perspective there are a few signs indicating it is not as manic as last year. But, don’t get me wrong, it is still good, very good. The upward pressure on interest rates and Reserve Bank intervention in the housing market via the LVR has caused a slow down in the first home buyer market. This has rippled out to Franklin and surrounding areas. What effect is this having on our market locally? On average we are working with fewer buyers who are a lot more serious about moving. The net effect is that viewings of open homes are slightly less but viewing by appointment is little changed – the serious buyers! Purchasers are doing more research and probably we are seeing a few more conditional offers. Perceived value in the home is taking a higher priority than pure location. In other words, buyers are seeking the most bang for their buck and are prepared to travel to find it. As always, well-presented property, which is well (accurately) priced, is moving. Listings are in short

R100027

By Kevin Seymour, Harcourts Pukekohe

OPen 7 DaYs 11am-4pm or by appointment

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supply leading to some unrealistic expectations and possibly promises made re price that may be difficult to achieve.

  

If you are considering selling this spring do some research into your part of the market, not just the asking prices but actual selling prices.

 

If the promised return on your property is much greater than you expect then you need to ask for statistics to support the claim and substantiate it. Remember, buyers can access this information too. For those looking to list and sell this spring ask your preferred agent to help you make a ‘To Do List’. Make yourself accountable to the timetable and spend the weekends ticking off the jobs. Like all things, if planned, managed and acted on in a timely fashion, the chances of success are far greater. Good Luck and Good Selling. R11051

     

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(09) 238 7777

www.platinumhomes.co.nz

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 45

LIVING ��

Milking

Digger Dan’s

There’s no use crying over spilt milk but a few drops given to a worthy cause could give dairy farmers the chance to milk it in style!

You could call the winter that’s been, the silly season especially when some folk have seen strawberries in July! But take heart, that will just be a small, early crop; plants will still produce in summer as they should. New strawberry plants can still be planted in pots, hanging planters or in the garden but remember to feed regularly.

for a good cause

quick tips

Unseasonal though the weather has been, the end of winter and the start of spring means there are regular plantings to attend to. For example: • Broad beans: I receive endless questions as to why the pods of broad beans don’t form once the flowers are finished. They’re there; they just take time (quite a lot of time). Being a crop that starts late winter, temperature can play a big part in pod development. Be patient.

Dairy farms that are affiliated to the Dairy Women’s Network can donate a minimum of 5kg of milk solids to BCC each month. Funds raised from sales will go towards ground-breaking scientific research, helping to push the boundaries of cancer studies and offering more hope of a cure. BCC chairman Tony Moffatt says the milk drive gives the farming community a chance to rally together to help their own. “The average age of women on dairy farms is 58 years. Farming women affected by breast cancer are often in especially difficult circumstances as it can be hard for them to leave their farms and they are further away from treatment and support networks.”

digging potato food and compost through the soil.

Breast cancer statistics remain harsh around the country – one in nine women in New Zealand will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime, one woman every three hours will be told they have the disease and nearly two women will die from breast cancer every day.

• Harvesting broccoli: It’s been a good growing season for the brassicas and you’ll find this healthy vegetable ready to pick soon. Remember, the stalks are also full of goodness and that broccoli tastes yummy when roasted: blanch in boiling water for one minute then roast with a drizzle of olive oil.

With the dairy industry being such a big sector in New Zealand, BCC is keen for the support of dairy farmers across the country to help fight cancer face-on and donate milk solids to its charity each month.

• Potatoes: New season seed potatoes are around, so choose popular varieties - Rocket, Swift and Jersey Benne are good early croppers. Place seed potatoes on a tray in a dry area. Let them sprout over the next month ready for planting. Prepare potato beds by

To sign up to the donation scheme, see www.breastcancercure.org.nz

DRYOOD W FIREAILABLE AV NOW

• Sowing the seed: Start tomato, capsicum and chilli seeds Indoors or in glasshouses. Use seed-raising mix and water lightly each day. On a floral note: • Magnolias: Just admire them. Early flowering varieties are beautiful, often scented and a stunning addition to any garden. Most garden centres have plenty to choose from now. • Gladioli and dahlias: Plant these summer stars now. They like sunny spots with good drainage. When dahlias emerge sprinkle snail bait around them. • Prune hibiscus: Cutting them back is best left until now as the weather begins to warm and don’t forget roses and hydrangeas too. • Bulbs: Move potted spring flowering bulbs into warmer areas. However, bring indoors when they’re close to flowering – otherwise flowers will stretch out to the light and may not remain upright.

• Bulk • Bags • Free Loan Trailers • Delivery Service available make your landscaping easy

53568

We offer you an excellent range of top quality landscaping products in bulk and bags • Pavers, Garden • Reinforcing • Screened Topsoil • Scoria & Sand Edging, Sleepers Steel & Mesh • White Chip, Shell • Living Earth • Cement and Cemix & Ponga Logs & River Pebbles Compost & Plus much more... Instant Concrete • Builders Mix Garden Mix & Gap Metals • Bark & Mulches

141 Great South Road, Drury Phone: 0800TOPSOIL or 09 294 8410

Open 7 days a week www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

We can deliver and also have FREE LOAN TRAILERS

46 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

R100042

Fashion doyenne, Dame Trelise Cooper, Skellerup and ANZ have teamed up to create a limited edition pair of gumboots that will be given to the first 1000 dairy farmers across the nation who sign up to donate milk solids to the Breast Cancer Cure (BCC) charity through the Dairy Women’s Network.

��

living

Bright idea cool for schools? Rural schools could soon take rays when the sun shines, according to a recent announcement by the Green Party. Gareth Hughes (energy spokesperson) says the Greens will come to the party by assisting 500 schools with installation of solar panels in attempts to lower electricity costs. “Schools’ electricity bills are too high,” he said at the policy launch recently.

While Waipipi School principal, Michelle Brown, also sees merit in the policy, she wonders if the Green’s plan actually has the power to succeed. “The idea is good, if schools save money. However, I wonder whether the school’s share [of setup costs] would be paid from school funds or the Ministry’s five-year allocation money, and if the Government would then reduce

“Our Solar in Schools policy will allow them to save money on power – money which can be invested directly into teaching and learning instead.”

the amount provided towards electricity costs once panels were installed,” she says.

panel installation would be covered; maintenance costs, however, would not.

“I’ve also heard servicing solar powered systems can be expensive. Another concern would be after sales care; rural schools do not always get the same assistance as city schools.”

“Panels last! They are incredibly durable, difficult to damage and almost maintenance-free for 25 years. On that basis, we have not factored maintenance into costings particularly as this policy only covers three years,” Kathy confirms.

Clarifying that the $20m allocated would have “no impact on existing funding streams,” Kathy Cumming, a spokesperson for the Greens, says the full cost of solar

“In Australia, 60 percent of schools are fitted with panels, so there’s no reason we couldn’t do the same.” She adds that rural schools could be amongst the first to switch on to solar power.

Chair of Awhitu District School Board, Sally Clegg, welcomes the policy. She believes it will be particularly beneficial to her rural school.

“In terms of which schools receive the grants, decile rating, electricity outlay, and annual number of sunshine hours will be taken into account.

“Rural areas are prone to power cuts when it gets windy, and it gets really windy here! Solar panels would reduce outages, which is good because the water pumps won’t work during power cuts and the school, sometimes, has to close. “Our power bill needs to be controlled or curbed. With more use of internet, these will become an even bigger ticket item for small, rural schools such as ours. [Use of renewable energy] is also a great lesson for our kids.”

“We’d love to remain in government, for the scheme to prove popular, and to roll it out to even more schools [than the initial 500] over more years.

“Rural schools would be particularly well placed for grants, considering many are low decile, pay extraordinary power costs and tend to be in areas with good amounts of sun.”

Photo supplied

While the Greens seem set on bringing ‘power to the people’, whither the political winds blow come September 20 will ultimately decide whether this policy has enough juice to spark real savings for rural schools.

WAIAU PA TURF

Turf type: Native Kikuyu Uses: Sports grounds & house lawns Features: Tough in basically any weather. Hardwearing, outstanding appearance and colour, grows fast, ideal for coastal areas, easy to maintain, good for around pool areas, weed resistant.

71 Saddleton Rd, Waiau Pa, RD4 Pukekohe Phone 09 232 1008, mob 0272 489 813 email willowbrook.farm@xtra.co.nz 54160-v2

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 47

LIVING ��

Wolf in a grumpy sheep’s By Alistair Davidson

yet the handling is nothing short of impressive.

When you think HSV it is all about oodles of grunt, trick suspension, and wings, vents and spoilers.

There’s negligible body roll, an immense amount of grip, and the car feels beautifully controlled.

That look is fine and dandy for extroverts and Holden enthusiasts who want everyone to know that you’re driving the bee’s knees.

Which is just as well, because Senator packs a 340kW, 570Nm 6.2-litre LS3, the gruntiest V8 in the range except for the supercharged GTS.

However if you’re a meek and mild type, an executive who prefers some grace to go with your pace, then what do you do? Take a look at HSV’s Senator Signature model, that’s what.

This engine is a stunner. There’s more power than you’ll ever need, yet it’s supremely tractable around town.

Senator is all about acting like a larrikin, while wearing a sensible suit. The car looks classy (almost Euro) but packs an HSV-sized wallop. And that’s what I like about it. There’s a term for it that’s used in the modified car scene: ‘sleeper’. It’s a car that is fast, handles and stops, but doesn’t scream ‘hey, look at me’. It’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Or in Senator’s case, a wolf in a grumpy sheep’s clothing. Why? Because although it lacks the body kit addons, it still has some attitude thanks to the more aggressive bumper/chin spoiler treatment and big 20” wheels. Senator’s upmarket look is carried through to the interior, and it’s a nice place to be. Full leather upholstery feels upmarket and oozes quality, while the already impressive Commodore dash layout and styling is given a further lift.

Throttle response is instant, and there’s no let-up; the engine keeps pulling in a delightfully linear way for as long as you’re brave enough to keep your right foot down. The Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI) can display real time vehicle dynamics and performance data, as well as data logging journeys. Photos Alistair Davidson The only flaw is the two additional HSV gauges that are set so low in the centre console, down behind the auto shifter, that they’re basically pointless. On the upside, Senator has the highspec Commodore/Calais features such as a head-up display that projects a bunch of useful info onto the base of the windscreen, and a collision warning system. With this plush interior and upmarket look you could be excused for trundling around town like you’re driving a Corporate Cab. But that’s not what this high-speed hauler is all about. Use the Driver Preference Dial

to change the car’s set-up from ‘Touring’ to ‘Sport’ and the exhaust note changes from a subdued mumble to a growl; but more importantly the Magnetic Ride Control suspension (MRC) changes the car’s ride and handling characteristics. It’s a clever system that really works. In Touring mode the ride is compliant, and while the car still handles very well it’s not as pin sharp as it is in Sport mode. In Sport mode Senator still does an admirable job of soaking up the road’s irregularities; the ride is firm but not uncomfortable (I left the car in Sport for the duration of Rural Living’s week-long road test),

The six-speed auto is an important part of the equation. Silky smooth, it’s more than capable of handling the V8’s torque, and it’s clever: brake hard as you go into a tight corner and it’ll downshift a gear, or even two if needed, which makes the transmission’s manual mode pretty well redundant. At $105,990 Senator Signature is a decent chunk of change for what some people might see as an ‘upmarket Commodore’. Sure, it might look that way without the usual HSV wings and things, but when you delve deep into the car’s performance and handling, and experience the comfort, you’ll appreciate that it’s so much more than that.

Specialising in repairing all European brands – mechanical, diagnostic and panel Courtesy cars available 156 Manukau Road, Pukekohe. P: 09 238 2069. F: 09 238 2059. M: 0274 528 863. E: jan.van.den.berg@xtra.co.nz 48 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

R11070

EUROPEAN CAR REPAIR SPECIALIST

��

living

clothing The two HSV gauges add no real value to the interior. The HSV specific seats are comfortable and offer excellent lateral support.

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

APPARELL

EBBETT

MARQUE OF EXCELLENCE

APPARELL

PHONE 0800 405 050

Cnr Edinburgh & Tobin Sts • Pukekohe E: ross@ebbett.co.nz • www.ebbett.co.nz 53841

Rural Living — August - September 2014 — 49

Previously 25 Queen Street, Pukekohe

Rob Mitchell

now

MOVING to 21 Paerata Rd 1st September Opposite John Deere All brands available Tyre Management System Suspension & Brake Repairs Wheel Alignment Wheel Balancing Puncture Repairs Oil & Lube Service Batteries FREE pick-up & delivery * (*local area)

P: 237 1260 E: sales@tyresplus.co.nz R110112

win

LIVING ��

Bold front as Ford expands its Territory Ford’s freshened Territory will arrive in New Zealand in early 2015 with a more modern look that brings it into harmony with the rest of the company’s product portfolio.

Ford Territory customers will be able to choose from the proven sixcylinder petrol engine as well as the popular V6 TDCi engine.

The Melbourne-based Ford design team has taken the Territory to new levels with a bold grille and headlight execution that point to Ford’s global SUV styling.

Pricing, features and specifications of the new Falcon and Territory range will be revealed closer to launch. The Falcon range and ute and Ford Territory go on local sale early in 2015.

The multi-award winning SUV features a distinctive, refined front-end treatment that combines a purposeful new look with the packaging, functionality and space that customers have come to expect from the Ford Territory.

The arrival of the Falcon and Territory spearheads a massive product expansion in 2015 with the arrival of a refreshed Focus line-up, Focus ST update, all-new Mondeo, all-new Mustang and the eagerly anticipated Ford Everest SUV.

Ford Australia President and CEO, Bob Graziano, says Ford Territory sets the benchmark for family-friendly SUVs when it was launched.

By 2017 Ford in Australia and New Zealand will have refreshed, or completely updated, its entire line-up.

“The new-look Territory is set to carry this on,” he says. “Our customers love the comfort, space and fuel efficiency and now the refreshed design will provide another compelling reason to buy.”

“We’ve only just started,” Graziano says. “With the arrival of the new Falcon and Territory, we’re ramping up to enhance our product portfolio and provide a comprehensive range of vehicles that our customers value and desire.”

with

www.ruralliving.co.nz 50 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

Visually the surfacing is more architectural and achieves a very cohesive and sophisticated look. Photo supplied

BT-50 Double cabs From just

$28,995* + GST + ORC

PLUS, PAY NO MORE RHAN $200 ON A SERVICE WITH A MAZDA CAPPED SERVICE PLAN ^

^ Mazda Capped Service Plan Applies To Mazda Bt-50 Models And Is valid For 3 Years Or 100,0000 Kms (Whichever Occurs First) From The Date Of First Registration. Excludes Warrant Of Fitness And Brake Pad Replacement

R120011

DIRECTORY �� As a family business, Allen, Maureen & family have been serving Papakura and districts with quality paint, wallpaper and sundries since 1989, and are now able to supply drapes ❀ Professionally designed flower bouquets and arrangements ❀ Lovely gifts including chocolates, soft toys, Italian soaps and balloons ❀ Daily deliveries Mon to Sat throughout Auckland

6A Court St, Waiuku Phone 09 235 2769

Order online www.clevedonflowers.co.nz

Paint & Wallpaper Specialists Cnr. East & Elliot Streets, Papakura. Ph (09) 298 3347 Key Cutting Available Gold Card Welcome Hours: Mon - Fri 7:30am - 5pm Sat 8:30am - 2pm

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

Great South Rd

53800-v2

R100018

michelle@clevedonflowers.co.nz

CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

TREND DECOR

Ph (09) 2929 540 17 Papakura-Clevedon Road (Main Road) Clevedon Village

OPEN 7 DAYS

Elliot St We are here

R11069

Registered Property Valuers

CURTAINS

Makers of curtains, drapes, roman blinds plus suppliers of roller, venetian and timber blinds!

Fantastic opportunity to invest in top quality fabrics at clearance prices.

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Prompt, Professional Service for residential, lifestyle, commercial, industrial Valuations

Mortgage Finance • Building Project • Selling • Buying • Rent Reviews • Insurance Certificates

NO FUSS, NO MESS. WE LOVE THE JOB YOU HATE! 53586-v3

Ofﬁce 09 238 6276 or 0800 428 2583 • Andrew Hopping 027 287 3892

Call the girls at Rainbow Curtains for quality and affordable prices Ph / Fax: 09 298 9002 Email: sandywilson@xtra.co.nz www.rainbowcurtains.co.nz

TRADE PRICES for Rural Living customers! Up to 45% OFF!

We design, manufacture and install...we do the lot Whether you are planning on building a new home or renovating an existing home we can help you achieve your dream kitchen, laundry or vanity units.

Roller, Venetian, Vertical and Roman Blinds Plus Awnings and Insect Screens

Rural Living is delivered on the first week of each month. Copies will go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets. An electronic version is also available at ruralliving.co.nz

R11064-V2

09 299 9231

Unit 1/6 Vernon Street, Papakura www.countieskitchens.co.nz

R101117-V2

Give Andrew a call today for a free In-Home Design Consultation

www.venluree.co.nz

0800 836 587 021 775 168

Rural Living is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations: Pukekohe Barfoot and Thompson, 68 King St. Pukekohe Library, 12 Massey Ave. Kevens Department Store, 73 King St. Franklin Vets, 86 Harris St. Papakura Franklin Vets, 365 Great South Rd. Pokeno Pokeno Bacon, Great South Rd. Waiuku Franklin Vets, 2 Court St. Mitre 10, 25 Bowen St.

52 — Rural Living — August - September 2014

Bombay Autobahn. Tuakau H.R Fiskens, 295 Tuakau Rd. Tuakau Meats, 23 George St. Field Fresh Fruit & Vege, 3/53 George St. Profarm Tuakau, Cnr Madill Rd and George St. Ardmore Animal Stuff, 192 Airfield Rd. Karaka Animal Stuff, 671 Karaka Rd.

Drury Animal Stuff, 222 Great South Rd. Drury Butcher, 232a Great South Rd. Town & Country Vets, 257 Great South Rd. Hunua John Hill Estate, 144 John Hill Rd. Clevedon Clevedon Rural Supplies, 13 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon Village Patumahoe The Butchers Shop Cafe, 4 Patumahoe Rd.

R10108-V2

While stocks last.

09 295 1000 0800 66 00 44

■ Carpets ■ Vinyls ■ Auto & Marine carpets ■ Cork, Porcelain & Glass Tiles ■ Mat overlocking ■ Floor preparation ■ Concrete grinding ■ Quality installation

Holmes Flooring Ltd, 1 Mellsop Ave, Waiuku. Ph 09 235 0586, Fax 09 235 0589, Mobile 0274 990 298 Email holmesflooring@clear.net.nz

202 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Ph: 09 239 0136 or 021 399 298

0800 SUCKA1

Or:

0800 782 521

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066 Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

ROY F PARKER & SON LTD

BOBCAT & TRUCK HIRE

Servicing Franklin for over 45 years

Building Site Preparation Site Cleaning and Base Filling Driveways and Landscape Shaping Free Quotes

• Pipes & Parts

• Pumps

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Come and see us for a free consultation, great advice, and award winning design.

148 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe 52010

Franklin Car and Truck Rentals

www.parkerspumping.co.nz

09 238 9588

NOT JUST KITCHENS LTD is the customer focused company with a big reputation for creating kitchens with that elusive ‘wow’ factor. 53589

09 238 83 88 52 Manukau Road, Pukekohe www.franklintruckrentals.co.nz

R11009

Visit us online at www.mastercraft.co.nz

Diesel, Wood, Pellet or Solar High capacity, high eﬃciency hot

Diesel, Wood, or Solar water producti on forPellet your dairy farm, Diesel, Diesel, Wood, Wood, Pellet Pellet oror Solar Solar Diesel, Diesel, Wood, Wood, Pellet Pellet or or Solar Solar glasshouses and home

Mike Just has an instinctive flair for designing and manufacturing stylish kitchens of the highest quality. You will never find a Not Just Kitchen design like yours anywhere else.

Cars/trucks/utes/vans/trailers. Premium and budget vehicles. Taillift/2 ton/3 ton (car licence only) trucks available.

Phone 09 239 2226 Address: 171 Manukau Road, Pukekohe

Custom designed and installed packages for large scale hot water production using high eﬃciency applicances, a variety of fuel options and domestic radiator central heati ng opti ons. ph ph 0508 WARMFEET ph0508 0508 phWARMFEET 0508 WARMFEET WARMFEET www.warmfeet.co.nz www.warmfeet.co.nz www.warmfeet.co.nz www.warmfeet.co.nz ph 0508 WARMFEET www.warmfeet.co.nz R100033-V2

• Bores

R11056-v2

Sales, Service & Design of:

53434

KEVIN PLATT BOB CAT SERVICES 0274 928 701 ah 09 238 6923

53435

Our services include:

The only 24-hour Taxi Service covering the whole of the Counties Manukau district. 53427

Fully Qualified Arboricultural Specialists