Rural Living July-August 2014 by Times Media

F E

R E

July/August 2014

www.ruralliving.co.nz

TALKING TO THE

animals pages 6-7

FARM OR FAMILY?

Planning ahead pages 16-17

FAMOUS

KICK

ON FILM page 31

AUGUST ■ MARKETS

■ SPORT

Pukekohe Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Massey St, Pukekohe

New Zealand Spinal Trust Race Day August 9, The Oaks Lounge, Counties Racing Club, Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Gallop away with the racing action and feast on a glorious luncheon for a wonderful cause – the New Zealand Spinal Trust which supports those with spinal cord injuries. Raising $13,000 last year, this year organisers are setting the bar higher. You can help through sponsorship, buying tickets to the luncheon or donating goods or services to the auctions. Tickets are $70 and include racebook, drink on arrival, buffet lunch with a glass of wine, dessert, tea and coffee, silent auctions, giveaways as well as tote facilities in a prime viewing lounge. Tables of 10 are discounted to $650. For more info or to purchase tickets, contact the club on 09 238 8049.

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 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

■ 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

TEAR Fund Poverty Cycle August 30, 7.30am-3pm, Ti Papa Special Events Centre, Brookby Rd, Brookby Did you know, around the world, every 30 seconds a child is trafﬁcked and sold into slavery? Make a difference to this appalling statistic by taking part in TEAR Fund’s Poverty Cycle Challenge which sees cyclists put the pedal to the metal raising funds for TEAR Fund’s global and domestic projects. Ride in a team of six in a 120km relay or race

TEAR Fund Poverty Cycle

solo around a 20km course surrounded by beautiful native bush to raise funds for a global cause. To enter or for more information, visit povertycycle. org.nz 2014 ITM Cup Draw August 23, 4.35pm & August 30, 2.35pm, ECOLight Stadium, Franklin Rd, Pukekohe Support the Steelers as they take on Otago (August 23) and Hawke’s Bay (August 30). After two stunning pre-season matches, the boys will be on top form to defend their precious Log O’Wood. The Magpies will be keen to settle the score after losing the Shield to Counties Manukau just a week after wrestling it from Otago last year. Visit ticketdirect.co.nz for tickets.

■ HAMPTON DOWNS Chrome Expression Session August 10-11, Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Release the adrenaline and zoom down to the track for a two-day car extravaganza! Whatever the vehicle or driving style, Chrome Expression

Session has something for everyone – choose from the passenger, dyno, drag racing, burnout, drifting and Gymkhana (a tight and twisty track) sessions, or sit and look pretty with the Show & Shine awards. The smell of burnt rubber, the screeching tyres, and an enthusiastic crowd all make for a vibrant atmosphere petrolheads won’t want to miss! For more info or to register, checkout chromenz.co.nz Hampton Downs Playdays August 2 (cars only) & 16 (cars and bikes), 8.30am-7.30pm, Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Put the car or motorcycle through the paces at a Playday! Bring an insatiable need for speed and be part of the exhilarating action that takes place at Hampton Downs. With a range of levels and groups to suit different abilities, Playdays allow drivers and riders to push their vehicles’ performances to the limit in a safe, professional and noncompetitive environment. Tickets $135 cars; $150 bikes. Visit hamptondowns.com.

Rural Living — May/June 2013 — 15

■ CELEBRATION Franklin Adult Riding Group 25th Anniversary Dinner August 30, 6.30pm, Country Inn, Great South Road, Ramarama Hi-ho silver anniversary! Established in 1989 by a few equine enthusiasts to organise non-competitive horsey happenings with a strong social bias, Franklin Adult Riding Group has grown from strength to strength. To help celebrate its silver jubilee FARG is hoping foundation members, especially from early committees, will gallop over to the Ramarama watering hole to join current members and ﬁll their nosebags, kick up their heels and chaff each other over times past. Contact dgpenman@ihug.co.nz by August 15 to book.

■ MUSIC Tuakau Idol August 1-September 5, Fridays, 8.30pm, Tuakau Hotel, George St, Tuakau Feel the competition heat up at Tuakau Hotel as singers vie for a chance to win $1000 at this year’s Tuakau Idol 2014 competition. Promising live entertainment galore as well as Steinlager and Wild Turkey giveaways and specials, this ﬁve-night series will reveal one supreme idol. Phone 236 8084 for more information. The Searchers August 2, 7.30pm-10pm, Pukekohe Town Hall, cnrMassey Ave & Edinburgh St, Pukekohe Revisit the sound of the ‘60s with one of the most inﬂuential ‘Merseybeat’ groups from Liverpool, The Searchers. This

32 — Rural Living — May/June 2013

world famous band performed as part of The Merseybeat scene at Cavern Club then headed to Hamburg for a residency at The Star Club before signing with Pye Records to release their ﬁrst album Meet The Searchers in 1963. Known for hits such as Sweets for My Sweet and Needles and Pins, The Searchers are back in top form. For tickets visit ticketek.co.nz 2014 National Country Music Awards August 16, 7.30pm, Founders Theatre, Tristram St, Hamilton Strap on those country boots and head to New Zealand’s annual star-studded red carpet awards for a grand performance by some of NZ’s brightest country music stars. This year’s special guests include The Howie Morrison Trio, Pat & Brendan Dugan, Leslie Nia Nia, Kylie Austin and Australia’s Morgan Evans (who toured with Taylor Swift!). Catch also performances by 2014 Horizon Award nominees as well as 2013 Horizon winner Cameron Scott. Jr X Factor Talent Quest August 17, Waiuku Cosmopolitan Club, Victoria Ave, Waiuku Singers, dancers, musicians, get your act together for this year’s Jr X Factor Talent Quest! Open to all youngsters aged 19 and under, this competition is all set to showcase fresh talent to awe audiences. For more info or to enter, go to waiukucossi.co.nz

to graft with expert assistance from the New Zealand Tree Crops Association Franklin branch. MM6 rootstock will be available for $3 each and proud grafters will be able to take their projects home to plant. Save wood of the same thickness as the tree you want to grow (scion wood) from any prunings in July and bring them along to the workshop. Some donated scion wood will be available. See treecrops.org.nz for location details and info.

■ DANCE Mana Wahine August 1, 7.30pm & August 3, 5pm, Playhouse, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, Knighton Rd, Hamilton World of WearableArt (WoW) artistic director Malia Johnston joins Okareka Dance Company artistic directors Taiaroa Royal and Taane Mete in choreographing a powerful all-women dance performance showcased as part of the 2014 Matariki Festival. Mana Wahine explores the essence of strength, power, integrity and beauty within women. Finding its

■ GARDENS Grafting Workshop August 17, 10am, Hunter Rd, Pukekohe Winter is time to plant! Learn

Mana Wahine

heart in Maori legends, it draws inspiration from the true story of Te Aokapurangi, a young maiden from Rotorua who was captured during battle and taken to live in the far North. She later returns to her home and saves her people. Phone 0800 BUY TIX to booking.

■ OUTDOORS Doggy Days Out August 11 & 25, 5.15pm, Rooseville Park, Totara Ave, Pukekohe, FREE Winter is no excuse for not going out! Our four legged friends need fresh air, so why not discover a new route, meet new friends and spoil them with a treat at the end of their walk? Pet bonding has never been more fun! Meet at the end of Totara Ave for this guided walk; no bookings required. Contact chris.earl@aucklandcouncil. govt.nz for more info.

■ FOOD Beef & Lamb Ambassador Series Dinner August 9, 6.30pm, Bracu, Main Road, Bombay One of ﬁve chefs around the country to be selected to be a NZ Beef & Lamb Ambassador, Mikey Newlands of Bracu will be beeﬁng up his culinary repertoire to present a night of gastronomic sensations. Cost includes a glass of French bubbles and exquisite canapés, followed by a four-course degustation menu expressing the diversity and excellence of New Zealand beef and lamb – $89 per person. Wine matching for each course, an extra $39; visit bracu.co.nz for more info.

covershot

Good Samaritan, Cathie Perrott and her four-footed friends are working wonders by providing animal-assisted therapy to both the old and young, who are ill, traumatised, confused or withdrawn. Cathie, plus two gorgeous canine friends, and a miniature horse help bridge communication gaps and provide comfort to a wide range of people whose situations differ vastly. Read about this caring and busy woman’s volunteer work and her affinity with creatures great and small on pages Photo Wayne Martin 6-7.

From the editor... Last month ended on a high note for the team at Rural Living. On attending the annual Community Newspapers Association conference and awards dinner in Wellington I was thrilled that the new-look magazine and its writers came away with several honours. Entered as an associate member (we publish monthly; full members publish more frequently) we brought home five major prizes as an associate: ■■ Frank Veale Memorial Award for Most Improved ■■ Best Front Page ■■ Best Junior Reporter, Natalie Brittan ■■ Best Headline Writing, Jon Rawlinson ■■ Best Senior Photographer – Runner-Up, Wayne Martin I cannot express how proud I am of the accomplished team that brings Rural Living together each month – their efforts, commitment to our readers and the awards recog-

nising individual talents are a credit to them. But there’s no time to rest on our laurels. This month’s Rural Living has kept everyone busy on stories such as the amazing LaValla at Tuakau, animal assisted therapy and the big changes affecting Franklin Trotting Club. See who you know among the beautifully attired guests at this year’s Lindauer Ladies’ Lunch hosted by Counties Racing and, if it’s fashion you want, take a look at what the agricultural world can do on the catwalk – sensational! Rural Life also quizzed Stephen ‘the Beaver’ Donald about a new movie which immortalises his famous 2011 Rugby World Cup winning kick and is due to screen on TV One, August 10. Finally, the team also sends condolences to the family of former All Black, Kevin Skinner, who passed away recently. In 1956, two years

after retiring from international rugby, Kevin took up a farming position in Waiuku during which time he turned out for the local club and for Counties before he was recalled to the All Blacks for two tests against South Africa that year. Though born in Dunedin and living in Auckland when he passed away on July 20, I think Franklin district can claim a little bit of Kevin for themselves – he will be remembered as one of the best props New Zealand has produced. And with that sad news, it’s time to let you all enjoy this month’s magazine, Cheers

Helen Perry Editor

inside RURAL 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

Page 8 Brian’s Diary

Page 10-11 Franklin and Auckland Trotting Clubs merge – big plans on track

Page 14-15 Over the Gate with Peter Jackson from LaValla

Page 16-17 Succession planning – look to the future of your farm investment

Page 18 Bumpkin Banter

Page 20 Hot toms? Maybe not

Page 24-25 DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times House Publishing Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this newspaper. All the material in this newspaper has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times House Publishing Ltd.

Ingenious BirdSpy to foil tractor fires

Page 28 Weed Report

4 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

Beautiful Bali beckons, pages 38-39.

Living Page 31 Stephen ‘The Beaver’ Donald film kicks off

Page 33 Swim ref lends hand to Special Olympics

Page 34 Reay’s Diary – perspective from a city lass

Page 35 Out and about at Counties Racing Lindauer Ladies’ Lunch

Page 42 Celebrate national roast day

Page 44 Painter’s castle for Queensland

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 5

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A not-so-shaggy dog tale Working with kids and animals is said to be fraught with difficulties. Rebecca Glover talks to Cathie Perrott who does it all for love. Once upon a time there was a little boy, who was mauled by a couple of dogs. Family pets, the boy, Montana, knew them well and often played with them. However, for reasons unknown, one day the dogs set upon him, inflicting serious injuries. He recovered physically but remained traumatised mentally, and terrified of dogs. His confidence was shattered, his school work went backwards, he struggled with reading. Enter Cathie Perrott – and her dogs. For eight years, the Drury small block owner and her animals, worked with the volunteer SPCA/St John joint venture, Outreach Pet Therapy, helping people, in hospitals, rest homes and schools. Although no longer with Outreach, Cathie and her fourfooted team still work independently, providing their own animal-assisted therapy to old and young, the traumatised,

confused or withdrawn. The animals act as a bridge to communication or to provide comfort. It was at Papatoetoe South Primary School that Cathie met Montana and learned his sad story. Cathie has since become a regular visitor to the school where, accompanied by her dogs, William, the black labradoodle, and fluffy, white Harry, she helps children with reading difficulties. “A lot of the kids won’t read because they’re having problems. They’re embarrassed when they can’t figure out the words,” she says. “I get them to read to the dogs, who are completely nonjudgmental, and eventually their confidence grows and their reading ability just shoots ahead.” Following his ordeal, Cathie had to work for some time with Montana before he was able to tolerate her dogs being close to him. But with patience

6 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

Cathie Perrott interacts with Fergus, a miniature horse, while Norman Holland, a well-known racing identity, looks on. Photo supplied

and encouragement, the boy’s trust gradually grew until they became his friends. “The real test came when he met a bull mastiff, similar to one of the dogs that attacked him,” Cathie says. “I introduced him to a friend’s gentle mastiff and he was happy to play with her.” Better still, Montana’s school work improved in leaps and bounds as his confidence was restored.

Cathie also had his story made into a picture book, in which Montana can see, and read, how he overcame his terrible experience. Cathie has no special training for this work, although as a grandmother of eight she’s had plenty of practice dealing with young children. She’s also a lifelong animal lover, with an eclectic collection of various species on her

Cathie surrounded by, from left, a rescued thoroughbred, Gentleman Jack; miniature poodle and Japanese spitz cross Harry; labradoodle William; Photo supplied Bluebell the mule and Hugo the donkey.

20-acre Drury block, all of whom play their part in her volunteer endeavours. “I reckon if I have animals, they might as well be doing something,” she says. Cathie’s animals have benefited from her big heart too. Most are rescues, including Hugo the donkey (a star of numerous Christmas tableaux), three miniature horses, Comet, Fergus and Paddy, and Jack the retired racehorse, who became her riding horse, when she was 61, renewing a lapsed interest after 30 years. Now, despite an artificial hip, Cathie is enjoying being back in the saddle, under the expert guidance of Karaka horsewoman Cheski Brown.

Interestingly, Cathie has had a long association with thoroughbreds, and as an owner/ trainer owned some useful racehorses. The thoroughbred connection was renewed unexpectedly on a visit to a retirement home. “I was visiting the dementia unit when I recognised a familiar face. It was Norman Holland, a former top jockey who became riding master at the apprentice jockey school for 17 years. “Norman and his wife helped me with a horse I had been given to look after, many years ago. I thought it would be special for him to meet my minis. “The supervisor at the unit was pretty dubious, but I per-

suaded her to let me bring them and the response was worth it! “Many of the residents – not to mention the staff – enjoyed patting the horses, but the best reaction was Norman’s. He got up from his chair and started massaging Fergus. “Do you think he’s well enough conditioned, Norman?” I asked. “He said, ‘Oh yes, he’s in great condition.’ They were the first words he’d spoken for a very long time.” Now the mini horses are regular visitors to the home where the residents’ faces light up when they see them. “It sparks something in their past,” Cathy says. With visiting schools and

retirement homes several times a week, not to mention keeping all her charges immaculately groomed, life for Cathie is not about to slow down any time soon. A former breeder of mules (one out of the half sister of former Auckland Cup runner La Selene, owned by legendary Pukekohe farrier, Earle Adlington), this active and caring woman has renewed her association with these animals by twice taking the mule train down the Grand Canyon trail. And she’s planning a threepeat for a 70th birthday treat. That’s a well deserved reward for someone who puts so much time and effort, totally unpaid, into helping others.

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The vagaries of winter weather... and forecasting! Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD In nearly 20 years of living in Runciman, I can’t remember experiencing frosts as heavy as we have had these past few weeks. Every year we have frosts but, perhaps, as we get older we start thinking the frosts of today are the worst! Although the timing is about the same each year, here’s the funny thing – this year, prior to the cold snap, our gardens, paddocks and lawns seemed to be under the impression that spring had arrived or was on its way. We had daffodils in June and grass growth was splendid. The mild weather was most comforting and I had this crazy notion that we weren’t going to have much of a winter. Wrong! Some months ago I mentioned that I considered our weather forecasting (as broadcast on the TV channels), had a very low rate of accurate predictions which made it difﬁcult for rural people who have to plan many tasks for different weathers.

Brian and broodmare, Willowbrook.

I had two or three replies to my mild criticism and they nearly all said that Auckland weather was often difﬁcult to predict due to the narrowness and shape of the isthmus. I accept this but, nevertheless, I feel a daily, regional forecast covering say, the North Shore,

Photo Reay Neben

the west, eastern side, south, Waiuku and Franklin, would be most helpful as the weather between these relatively close regions is frequently very different throughout summer and winter. On another note, about this time last year, my broodmare,

Willowbrook, mother of Will Desire and Willedu, had a bad foot problem which I discovered was called seedy toe. This resulted in a large hole, right through her hoof, and she had to wear a special boot for a few weeks. Then, farrier, Richard Bizzarro bogged up the hole and got her back to her comfort zone. Richard returned last week to check on her progress. With the bog having grown out of the hoof, and her feet in good condition, he felt she was back to normal. This taught me that when needed, call the experts. During the summer our house can’t be seen from the roadside as a large array of deciduous trees give almost complete privacy. However, at this time of the year we can see all that surrounds us; this gives such a different perspective which is a nice change for a short time. It also provides us with a great planning opportunity as we can view all the garden rooms and can take out any unwanted trees or shrubs whilst tidying up messy parts. But we do look forward to the real spring. When our London plane trees come into leaf they make a such wonderful sight we forget all about the leaves we had to rake up in autumn! See you in spring!

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Show us your stuff!

dishing up the dairy

Once again rural women have the chance to show their resourcefulness in business despite living outside major commercial domains. With a total of $5000 in prizes up for grabs in the 2014 Enterprising Rural Women Awards, women operating small rural businesses have a great opportunity to boost their profiles and gain recognition for their achievements. Rural Women NZ national president, Wendy McGowan says this is the sixth year RWNZ has run the awards and it is already fielding enquiries from women keen to enter. Last year’s supreme winner, Diane Coleman of Treeline Native Nursery in Rotorua, says business is booming after her win. Though entering the awards may be outside some people’s comfort zone, Diane encour-

According to recent estimates Waikato is the country’s number one performing dairy farming region for the second year running. And, across the board, the industry is proving to be quite the cash cow for NZ’s economy. Tim Mackle, chief executive of DairyNZ says its recent Economic Survey shows the industry injected about 40% more into the economy in 20132014 than in the previous year, much of which was invested back into regional growth, farm spending and jobs. The regions earned roughly $14.3 billion from dairy farms over the last year, taking the lion’s share of national dairy earnings. Waikato was the top provincial performer, earning $3.8 billion, while Canterbury ($2.77 billion), Southland ($1.72 billion) and Taranaki ($1.44 billion) also topped the table.

ages rural businesswomen to pluck up the courage, as she did. “Winning this award has been a once in a lifetime opportunity that was challenging, exciting, scary, fun, humbling and has really put my business on the map.” There are four award categories in 2014: ■■ Love of the Land – sponsored by Agrisea – for all landbased businesses, from animals to agriculture. ■■ Help! I need somebody – sponsored by Access Homehealth – for businesses providing any type of service – from retailers to agricultural contractors. ■■ Making it in Rural – sponsored by Telecom – for businesses that involve manufacturing or creativity. ■■ Stay, Play Rural – sponsored by Xero – for businesses

engaged in rural tourism or hospitality. Each category winner will receive $1,000 in prize money and a trophy, with a further $1,000 for the supreme winner. To enter the awards, women have to own and operate a small business with less than 10 full time equivalent staff, based in a rural area. The business must have been running for at least two years. If in partnership, women must be an active partner of 50 percent or more in the business. Entries close Friday, September 5, 2014 with the awards being presented at the RWNZ national conference in Rotorua on Saturday, November 15, 2014. For entries and more information on the Enterprising Rural Women Awards visit www.ruralwomen.org.nz

Doing our best We’re celebrating outstanding success at the recent New Zealand Community Newspapers Association Awards in Wellington. Rural Living received accolades in the following associate categories: • • • • •

Frank Veale Memorial Award for Most Improved Best Front Page Best Junior Reporter – Natalie Brittan Best Headline – Jon Rawlinson Best Photographer Runner Up – Wayne Martin

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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On track for bright future Rebecca Glover finds every reason not to be ‘sulky’ about changes to the local harness racing scene. By the time you read this, another Franklin institution will have bitten the dust. Franklin Trotting Club, Pukekohe-based for 65 years, is merging with Auckland Trotting Club. Yet another takeover move from the big smoke? Retiring FTC president Don Smith sees it as anything but. Following on from a proposal floated at last year’s annual general meeting, FTC members agreed to the amalgamation after a presentation by ATC president, Kerry Hoggard at a special general meeting early in July. The merger will involve ATC taking over Franklin’s assets and liabilities, including land valued at more than $4.5 million and debts of $390,000. In return, ATC will provide $4 million to upgrade and enhance the Pukekohe property into a top class training facility, to be known as Franklin Park. Unlike the Auckland city takeover of Franklin district, Don sees the Franklin Trotting Club merger with its northern counterpart as a winner for Franklin.

“We get an infusion of cash into our facilities, and we keep our identity. Our members will become ATC members and retain their existing privileges, and not much will change on the administrative side. We will have a representative on the ATC board and continue to meet monthly.” Sitting down at Franklin Trotting Club on a frosty Pukekohe morning, looking out over the expanse of tidy lawns dotted with trees while horses jog or gallop round the tracks, Don expounds his vision for the future of harness racing in the north. Such is his enthusiasm, it’s not hard to imagine the place alive with many more horses moving between the adjacent barns and the tracks, their attendants emerging from onsite quarters and owners leaning on the rail, enjoying the sight of their pride and joys working out. “Our Station Road complex would already be the equal of anything in Australasia – imagine what it would be like with $4 million spent on it. I know at the end of the day it will be something Franklin will be very

proud of, not just the harness racing industry but the whole community,” Don says. He explains that the initial spend will go to establishing additional barns for horses and will add accommodation for visiting trainers and stablehands. He’s anticipating horses will be attracted from the South Island, where harness racing is strongest. “When trainers bring horses up from down south it’s very costly to put their staff up in motels, and the expense goes back on the owners. This will make it easier for southern trainers to bring their teams north.”

Interest from the south is one way to help revive the flagging fortunes of the industry in the north, but Don sees the establishment of Franklin Park as a step towards attracting trainers from closer to home too. “This merger is so important for strengthening standardbred racing in the north. Already long term standardbred enthusiast John Street has land adjoining FTC and is spending $700,000 to turn it into a model property, as well as bringing his trainer Ray Green here from Kumeu. “Another well-known local trainer, Geoff Small has recently established his base next to the track too.”

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Horses work out at Franklin Trotting Club track in line for a $4 million upgrade.

LIFELONG PASSION FOR HORSES

Don Smith’s lifelong enthusiasm for standardbred racing was almost inevitable – he grew up living across Manukau Road from Bill Hosking, a prominent standardbred owner and FTC’s first president. “As a boy I couldn’t wait to get home from school and go over to the stables to help feed up. I probably should have been doing homework, and as a result I never even sat School Certificate. “On Friday nights I’d be in the back of the float on the way to races in Auckland or Cambridge. I’ve been going to Alexandra Park for over 50 years.” Don has done his share of driving workouts at the FTC track too. “I used to drive one horse in the cart down Manukau Road and leading a couple as well. We’d go over the railway lines to reach the training track, and Jack Hughes, Bill’s trainer, would follow up with the truck and all the gear.” Later on, Don’s involvement with racing deepened through horse ownership.

“With a good friend, Graham Reaks, I bought a 19 year old broodmare named Our Gaillard and got her in foal to Meadow Al. She produced a nice colt which we named Melanion. We raced him as a three-year-old and he won his first race, at Tauranga. Breeding your own horse, especially a winner – that’s a terrific thrill.” Don’s been an owner through syndicates too. He says syndication is a great way to become involved in the fun and excitement of the racing industry. He makes it sound really easy. “Joining a syndicate is a wonderful way to make the Kiwi dream of owning a racehorse come true. It’s so simple – just get some mates together, approach a trainer, sort out your costs and go and have a ball!” Don points out that compared to racing a thoroughbred, being a part of harness racing costs a lot less. Trials are currently held every Tuesday at the Pukekohe track, where owners can come and check how their investment is shaping up. As a young lad living and breathing standardbred racing and working for FTC’s first president, Don could never have envisaged that he would be the club’s last president. Yet it’s a fitting way to complete the circle, and he sees great things coming for Franklin Park. “Building for the future is what it’s all about. You can’t just plan five years ahead, you have to look down the track 20 years. We need to attract young trainers; we need new blood coming into the industry. The state of the art facility being established here will have everything set up to bring in new players. “And there will be huge spinoffs for Pukekohe. I’ve lived here all my life, and I’m as excited about the benefits for the town as I am about the gains for racing. “As I bow out I’d love to think Franklin Park will go a long way towards securing the future of standardbred racing in the north. It could be one of the best training facilities in the world – that’s my dream, and I can see it becoming reality.”

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Celebrating The Brae Inspired by the simple, elegant forms of the iconic boat shed The Brae consists of 12 three or four-bedroom homes offering a lifestyle that most of us can only dream of. We are about to start construction, so do keep an eye on the site to watch these stunning new homes come to life. With 3 already sold and 2 under option, time will be limited for you to secure one of these exclusive new homes!

Introducing The West Quarter, Terrace Homes Be the first to view this new release and have the opportunity to secure one of these amazing 3-storied terrace homes. These 8 architecturally designed terraced homes will be opposite the iconic car museum at Pine Harbour and a stones throw to the marina. This unique opportunity allows you to work from home, with one of the bedrooms/office space on the ground floor. Priced at $885,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out! A simple $1,000 option to hold deposit will secure your new lifestyle.

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By Dr Ilyse Jennens BVSc Franklin Vets Rearing healthy, young stock begins before they are born with ewes and does being vaccinated with Ultravac® ‘5-in-1’ four weeks before lambing or kidding to ensure protection is passed to the newborn through the colostrum. This protects against sudden death caused by the clostridial diseases tetanus, pulpy kidney, malignant oedema, blackleg and black disease. Then put the dam in a sheltered, flat paddock with lots of feed. Once born, the newborn lambs, calves and kids must receive adequate colostrum within 12 hours of birth to help protect against illness; for orphan animals the colostrum will need to be bottle fed. Orphan animals should then be fed a good quality milk powder. Follow the instructions closely and avoid sudden changes in the type (brand), quantity or temperature of the milk. The vet-recommended product we stock is Anlamb. Thoroughly clean bottles and teats after each feed to prevent the spread of infection and provide plenty of clean water. From about two weeks of

age, lamb pellets or calf meal and hay/pasture can be made available to encourage rumen (stomach) development. Lambs or kid goats that have come from vaccinated mothers, and have received adequate colostrum in the first day of life, will have protection against clostridial diseases for about three months. Those from unvaccinated mothers should receive a Lamb Vaccine (or PK/Antitet) at one week old. All young lambs, kids and calves should be vaccinated with Ultravac® ‘5-in-1’ vaccine at weaning (or six weeks of age), followed by a booster four weeks later. This is available at

your local Franklin Vets clinic. Procedures such as tail docking (lambs), castration (male animals) and debudding should be carried out at around two weeks of age. Once past the newborn stage when grazing grass, drenching for parasites can begin from six weeks of age, using a combination drench, however care is needed to use the right product and use accurate weights as overdosing is common in this age, and can result in death. If at any time you have any concerns about an animal’s health, contact your veterinarian. Too often we are contacted when it is too late.

August Check List

■■ Puppies & Kittens: Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is always exciting, even magical, and no doubt about it, you will have lots of fun together. One of the best things you can do for your new addition is feeding a premium puppy or kitten food such as Eukanuba, Royal Canin or Hills. These diets are scientifically designed and tested to provide all the nutrients for strong bones and joints. Give your pet the best start in life and call into Franklin Vets to discuss which diet would be the best. ■■ Horses: It may be winter, but the relatively warm weather has brought spring pasture conditions with lush grass, which brings a number of nutritional challenges for horses. (For more info see franklinvets.co.nz.) We are also seeing colic as a result of these lush pasture conditions. A warm winter is also ideal for early Redworm larvae development, and as this is also associated with colic and weight loss, ensure you have a specific parasite programme in place. ■■ On the farm: Cows in milk (dairy and beef) need magnesium support pre-calving and in early lactation to defend against metabolic disease, and to ensure milk production is not limited. There are various options, so ask your vet what is best for your situation. Magnesium bullets are a great way of ensuring adequate magnesium to every cow.

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 13

RURAL ��

With

Over

the gate

Peter Jackson

While his namesake may be living in worlds of make-believe, Peter Jackson from Tuakau is down to earth. In fact, the owner of LaValla and his family (wife, Maria, son, Shaun, and daughter-in-law, Bernadette) have turned a rundown, former monastic school into a thriving business with farm, gardens, sports’ facilities and a function centre. Rural Living spoke to Peter Jackson about this labour of love.

Why did you purchase the property and were you ever overwhelmed by the work involved? Shaun, our son, had been working with us on other buildings – not to this scale – for about 10 years and we were looking for another project. For me, it offered the chance to have our children and grandchildren on the property too. When my mother first came here she said ‘Peter, what have you done!’ Although we hadn’t previously done anything to this scale, I discovered years ago that big jobs are only a number of small jobs put together. When we came here the farm was infested with weeds, gorse, blackberry, ragwort and tobacco weed. That’s all gone now. With so much to do, how does the Jackson four manage? We have four major areas of responsibilities. Bernadette looks after the events; Maria the gardens and landscaping; Shaun the renovation of the buildings; and I focus on the farm, but we integrate our skills when needed. Is it possible to make a living from lifestyle farms alone, or must a diverse range of products/services be offered? Lifestyle farming, conventionally, is impossible to make a living from, particularly with a mortgage. So you need some added form of alternative income to make it pay. How many acres are being farmed and what does the farm produce? We have around 97 acres dairy grazing land and the remainder of the 117 acres is taken up with buildings and venues. We had pigs for a while, as well as chickens and a number of other things on the go, but it all became too difficult with so lit-

tle time. We will look at it again once everything’s up and running, though. It’d be a rare farm of this size that would pay its own way, but it certainly adds to the property and the business as a whole. Your wife, Maria, predominantly takes care of the gardens, how extensive are they? It’s quite a large area, if you take in the road gardens, trees around the football ground and the buildings; you’re talking 10 acres. It’s a lot of work! Has it been tough remaining faithful to the heritage of the buildings during their renovation? Particularly when it comes to public buildings; regulations now mean it’s not possible to restore buildings to exactly how they were. We have no choice but to adhere to the rules. For example, in the accommodation block, we needed to replace all the beautiful native timber doors at a greater

14 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

expense to comply with fire codes. Steps and ramps had to be pulled out because the pathways didn’t comply. Also, a lot of modern sinks, benches and cupboards are much easier to keep clean than the old ones, and we live here, so sometimes decisions are about practicality as well. When do you think renovations and development will be completed, or is it an ongoing project? All being well and subject to council, we should have the last two buildings completed in about 12 months from now; the starting date will dictate when we finish. However, by their very nature, these things are never finished. What’s been the most recently completed project and what’s next? Our 90-seat theatre opened recently. It was built in conjunction with renowned country singer Dennis Marsh, who

we’ve known for many years. He will still perform from town, but he’ll be based here. We’ve also had Tom Sharplin, Brendan Dugan and Greg Johnson perform, and on July 6 world famous concert pianist, Jason Bae, played here too. We also have an airfield and I’m learning to fly. It is for fun, but there might be some profitable uses for it in the future too. What are the main attractions for visitors? When people come here for weddings, functions or other events, they can sit out under the trees and socialise in a free and easy setting. Flexibility is key; whatever the occasion, visitors can have it the way they want, because it’s their day. We offer accommodation too for those who want to stay longer. If you could raise any animal or grow any type of crop imaginable, what would it be and why? Maria has thought about a vine-

Peter shares his-story While the Jackson family may have been busy renovating LaValla, owner of the extensive Tuakau property, Peter Jackson, says he and his family have taken care to retain its historic charm. And what a history it has! Founded in 1922 as a Marist Juniorate (school for young men considering entering the Catholic Brotherhood), LaValla

yard, but that’s unlikely to happen with this soil, and we went to a tea plantation in Hamilton and thought that would be a good idea, but it’s a long term thing. I also saw a programme on raising turkeys and thought, ‘that could be a good idea!’ There’s a lot of farmland here that needs to be used more productively. There are a number of ideas we’ve considered and some may eventuate. If you could be Minister of Conservation for a day what would you do first and why? I believe the Department of Conservation shouldn’t require as much tax payer money to run it. There should be big tracts of land – which is less than ideal for farming – that could be used for growing productive native trees in sustainable forests. If you could invite any three people (living or dead) to dinner, who and why? The first two would be my father and one of my uncles to show them what we’ve achieved here. The other would be the King of Dubai [Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum]. I think he’s so people-orientated and wants the best for his country.

originally consisted of weatherboard homes acting as school houses and accommodation. Four years later, the school house – now known as LaValla House – was completed. It included classrooms, a chapel and student dormitories. The complex further expanded in the 1960s to include a gymnasium and two large dormitories to house brothers

involved in farming and teaching. Other buildings, including a communal kitchen and dining facility plus farm buildings such as a shearing shed and abattoir were also constructed. Since being purchased by

the Jackson family in 2010, the property has undergone extensive renovation and restoration. However, the goal has been to preserve the past and protect the future of LaValla as a unique location.

soil here is not the best, it’s very heavy.” Keen to restore the gardens to their former glory, Maria says she respects plants that were originally there such as the hydrangeas but adds she has also planted natives right along the road frontage to create a bird corridor. “We get lots of wood pigeons, tuis, all the usual suspects, here. It’s wonderful.” There’s also been a lot of structural landscaping to do and more to come in order to create the park-like grounds Maria envisages. “Traditionally, there were quite a few dahlias and I brought a lot with me too, so we have a huge annual display of these outside the lodge. Originally,

there were various camellias, so I’ll be putting in a camellia garden as well.” With the gardens a mix of aesthetic beauty and kitchen edibles, Maria has also planted about 100 feijoa trees as a windbreak and to complement the big and gnarly old feijoas that were already at the gate. The school nearby is also hoping to take advantage of the fruit from those bushes by making feijoa chutneys as a fundraiser. “Of course, in time I want to use more and more from the garden in the kitchen and eventually hope that the total garden will provide a real retreat for our guests and visitors,” Maria says. “But it will take time and more hard work to get everything looking as I would like.”

Digging LaValla gardens When Peter and Maria Jackson took possession of the former monastic school, that is now LaValla House at Tuakau, it was Maria who donned her gumboots and dug into the gardens with very little outside help. “We don’t hire gardeners, although we have had contractors for landscaping work and some wwoofers [willing workers on organic farms],” she says. “Mostly it’s just me, but if I need a hand, I have Peter, our son Shaun and his wife Bernadette to call on.” With the gardens gradually taking shape, Maria recalls the day the family arrived at their newly purchased property in 2010. “Bernie and I got stuck into the garden near the gateway; that was the first thing we did. It was really overgrown. There were no gardens back then, only mature trees. “But the property had been magnificent in the past and we wanted it to be even more lovely in the future. We started putting in hedges and wind breaks and began planting. However, the

Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 15

Farm succession planning What’s important: the family or the farm?

By Doug Rowan, director, Cullinane Steele Lawyers, Levin An effective succession plan enables a smooth transition of farm ownership and control to the next generation with appropriate legal structures in place which serve the whole family. Many people shy away from getting to grips with a plan and there are often significant roadblocks including: ■■ The parents being afraid or unsure of how to talk with their children about what they intend. ■■ The increasing average size of the economic farming unit raises capital requirements and exposes the farm business to more debt.

■■ The difficulty in keeping up momentum in implementing the farm succession plan. ■■ Acknowledging that every farm and family is unique and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

Where to start? A farm succession plan first requires you (the parents) to start a conversation with your family and professional advisors about the future. The first thing you’ll need to decide is whether the succession plan has the farm at the centre of the decision-making or the family who own it. This is crucial. If the farm is the centre of the succession plan then your decisions will revolve around

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how to maintain and develop the existing farm so that it doesn’t fall out of the family ownership. If the family is at the centre of the succession plan then decisions regarding what to do with the farm will revolve around what is best for the family – both now and in the future.

Involve the right people In a farm succession planning exercise a team approach will bring about the best results. This team should include you both, your lawyer, accountant and banker. It’s critical that all these professional advisors are prepared to work together and listen to your real wishes.

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Family expectations It’s important that the expectations of each child are managed well. Have each of your children expressed their expectations regarding the future farm ownership and what role they hope to play? A family meeting as part of your succession planning creates an opportunity for open discussion amongst all members of the family. Regardless of who is actually working on the farm it’s a good idea to listen to the whole family. You may be surprised who would like the farm retained and who is not concerned so much.

Is your plan viable? If a particular member of the family is appointed as the

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With the average age of New Zealand farmers rising, many farmers are facing the challenge of deciding what will happen to the farm after they have gone. What is needed is a formal farm succession plan. successor in terms of farm ownership it’s important for everybody to have confidence that the successor has the skills and aptitude to run the farm successfully. The plan needs to realistically address the capital requirements of the family members who continue the farm and the level of debt that’s sustainable. The goal is to ensure success for the next generation. A good plan addresses these questions: ■■ Would it be equitable for non-farming members of the family to allow the farming member of the family to receive a greater amount of assets when you both die? ■■ Does the family believe treating everybody equally is more important than maintaining farm ownership in the family name? ■■ How do you balance the interests of your non-farming family members in the succession plan? Are there other resources for them? You’ll need to get professional advice on what farm ownership structures should be established and the obligations you will both have to non-farming family members compared with the farming family members. You’ll also need advice about the Family Protection Act 1955 and the impact of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 on

those decisions. You’ll also need to make sure your Wills are up to date, regardless of whether or not trusts are in place. If you have a trust, or several trusts, you should also sign a Memorandum of Wishes setting out your intentions for those trust/s.

Making it happen A major issue in farm succession planning is that the issues can become too hard and the roadblocks we talked about earlier start to appear. It’s becoming increasing popular to appoint an independent person to be responsible to keep up the momentum so that the plan is put in place, it’s implemented and then reviewed regularly to ensure it’s actually working.

You are unique Every family is unique; it has a different number of children, debt loading, skill base and farm characteristics as well as expectations from each child. Don’t delay in getting your farm succession plan up and running. In the long run, you’ll be pleased you decided to tackle this now. This article was first published in Fineprint (Winter 2014), the client newsletter of NZ LAW Limited member firms. Cullinane Steele Lawyers is a member of NZ LAW.

Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them. Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good and best economical practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained. A malfunctioning septic system can become a health hazard. When a system is not maintained or operated as a delicately balanced environment, problems occur. These problems include nasty odours, leach line blockages, untreated liquid rising to the surface, toilets gurgling and taking time to empty. At this stage your septic system is a serious health hazard to you and your children. Human waste produces faecal coliform bacteria, a source of viral and bacterial gastroenteritis as well as Hepatitis A and other diseases. Hepatitis can be a debilitating condition and cause long-term harm to children. There are only three remedies. One: stop using the septic system until it recovers. This can take over a month and is not normally practical. Two: excavate your septic system and relocate it. This is very costly and time consuming, sometimes requiring new resource consents and different systems. Three: treat your septic system with Septi-Cure™ every six months. Septi-Cure is Cost effective. By far the most cost effective solution is to pour one litre of Septi-Cure™ down each toilet bowl every six months. This simple action will help keep your system working at top efficiency by reducing solids and scum. Instead of emptying your tank frequently, the reduction in solids and scum saves you expensive pump out costs. Your irrigation field and leach lines will become clear of slimes and blockages so nature can handle the gradual seepage and evaporation for you. When this is happening your system

will be operating effectively and not endangering you or your family’s health. What is SeptiCure™? Septi-Cure™ is a concentrated mixture of selected naturally occurring micro-organisms. These harmless tiny organisms live and multiply by feeding on waste material. When introduced to your septic tank system, they go to work straight away digesting waste material, reducing solids and scum, allowing your septic system to start operating to its maximum efficiency. As they progress through to your irrigation field they feed on the slimes that prevent seepage and evaporation. When seepage and evaporation return to normal, you have reduced the risk of contaminating groundwater and the environment as well as reducing the chances of infection for you and your family. Eventually, they get washed out of the system and have to be replaced to continue their work. This is why you introduce SeptiCure™ to your septic system every six months for maximum efficiency. A satisfied customer in Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for three years. He says this allows them to have an odour-free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well SeptiCure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition. Problematic septic tanks – treat with Septi-Cure™. Prevent septic system problems – treat with Septi-Cure™. For Septi-Cure™ – call 0800-109-202 Website: www.ecoworld.co.nz Also available at:

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 17

RURAL ��

Bumpkin Banter Another month of Bumpkin Banter – comical anecdotes, cute photographs and bits and bobs sent in by our readers.

Lucky Lucy A short story loosely based on a factual account of country living. By Mike Carter Most people think living in the country is all about keeping animals. This is only partly true because there’s more to animals than lambs springing around in paddocks or little calves nuzzling up to their mums. Farmers run a business and Dad says they can’t afford to be sentimental about the animals they own. Lambs and calves mostly end up on a dinner table. Tough. But, thankfully this is a story about one animal that survived against all the odds – to be precise, a hen. We live in the country on an acre of land where we keep a kuni-kuni pig, a goat and some hens. The pig and goat are real pets and in winter they spend as much time in the house in front of the fire as they do in the paddock. The hens provide us with eggs. I go to the local area school where Mum teaches. Dad works at a hatchery place that raises chicks to sell to the large poultry farms. He’d rather be painting pictures but he says that’s something that will have to keep until he retires. He’s in charge of a team of people which looks at the

chicks and sorts them into male and female. This isn’t easy and he says there are always some mistakes. The poultry farms only want the females which start laying eggs at four months and then about a year later they get sent off to some sort of takeaway place or wherever. Not as pets. Most of the thousands of dead male chicks get sold to pig farmers and each night Dad brings home a bucket of dead chicks for Janey, our kuni-kuni pig. One day, he was tipping the chicks into a vat of water when he gave a shout. “Hey Becky,” he yelled, “Take a look at this.” I left the sink where I’d been washing some overalls. “What’s up, Dad?” He was holding a small fluffy yellow chick. “This feller’s still alive,” he said.

I held out my hand. “Will we keep it?” I asked. It seemed to look anxiously at Dad, who laughed. “Heck yes,” he answered. “It must be the luckiest chicken alive. Maybe the luck will rub of on us.” We decided to call him ‘Lucky’. Six months later when I went into the chook house to collect the eggs, I found Lucky sitting on one. So we renamed her Lucy. Dad said that Lucy’s luck was like winning Lotto two weeks running. Firstly she’d been mistaken for a male and dumped. If she’d been sorted into the female pile she’d have had only a year to live in pretty horrible conditions. Secondly, she’d survived the dumping and ended up with us. Lucy was part of our family for ages.

She won prizes at our school’s Calf Club Day – not as a calf, although Mum said she’d follow me around better than some of the calves followed the kids who’d reared them. She scooped the poultry section at the local Group Day two years running and she was the boss of the animals we had. Dad said she was a real fighter. That must have been why she had survived. His painting of Lucy won top prize at the Franklin Art Festival and then his illustrated book about her was so successful he was able to paint fulltime. Lucy lived almost 12 years. I’d left school and was living away from home when Mum rang to say she’d found her lying under some roses in the garden and that’s where she was buried. I had a long cry. Mum said Dad did too.

Keep sending us your briefs, trivia and photos of country life – email to info@ruralliving.co.nz. 18 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

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RURAL

Wet weather clothing Whether you work outdoors or are a weekend warrior, it is vital to have decent outdoor clothing to protect you from wind and water when in the bush. While entry level rain gear will keep you dry from rain that’s about all it will do. As soon as you are active (hunting or tramping), it’s difﬁcult to prevent sweat from building up inside, soaking insulating layers and causing you to overheat. Entry level rainwear gives one of two outcomes, or both – getting soaked by sweat or take it off and get soaked by rain. Your best bet, by far, is to invest in some kit, preferably designed for the job. Outer wear built to keep an active outdoors person dry from the rain and sheltered from the cooling wind are now available. These products are made from technical materials with an internal membrane featuring millions of pores that block water from the outside yet are large enough to let water molecules found in sweat, escape from your body from the inside. These fabrics are treated during the fabric manufacturing process with DWR (durable water resistant or hydrophobic). These technical fabrics breathe

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up to four times more than a standard windproof shell layer and remain up to 80% wind and weather-resistant. Fabrics are also treated with antimicrobial inhibitors to reduce bacterial growth which reduces the ability of the fabric to carry your scent which can be detected by the game you are hunting. To be completely waterproof, outer shell layer seams need to be sealed. This can be done by using waxed thread or a special mesh on the inside which can be sealed with a technical heat-bonding tape applied

with precise heat and pressure to form a permanent bond with the fabric. After-use care and cleaning is also important. A warm wash with a non-powdered laundry detergent (Sports Wash recommended) assists in killing bacteria and warm drying for 20 minutes revives the fabric. Powdered wash detergents are not recommended as they have UV brightness additives which are visible to animals. A reapplication of a DWR every two years will help maintain the hydrophobic properties of your garment.

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RURAL ��

Testing home grown truths about ‘tom’ Tomatoes New Zealand is urging Kiwis to ask retailers to confirm whether their tomatoes have been treated with radiation – a process undertaken to eradicate bacteria, mould, insects and other pests. However, is the issue a storm in a saucepan? Alasdair MacLeod, chair of Tomatoes New Zealand has said with tonnes of irradiated Australian tomatoes being imported nationwide, retailers need to take labelling seriously. “We are asking all food and hospitality retailers, including catering companies, to clearly label their irradiated produce at point-of-sale and on their menus to avoid any public confusion,” he said. Rural Living asked three major suppliers of fresh produce – Foodstuffs (which includes PAK’nSave, New World and Four Square), Progressive Enterprises (Countdown, FreshChoice and SuperValue) and Fruit World – if their stores stocked irradiated tomatoes. Foodstuffs’ group communications director, Antoinette Shallue, confirmed: “As a Kiwi retailer, we proudly support Kiwi growers. As such we have directives in place that we will stock only New Zealand-grown tomatoes. Furthermore, New

Zealand-grown tomatoes are not irradiated.” Similarly, Jess Miller, Countdown’s communications advisor confirmed Progressive’s stores also stock only tomatoes sourced from New Zealand. However she added: “If our stores did have tomatoes from outside of New Zealand, these would be labelled accordingly. “I understand smaller independents may not be labelling properly for irradiated tomatoes, however we have a longstanding commitment to labelling country of origin.” At the time of going to print, we were yet to receive comment from Fruit World. While Tomatoes New Zealand acknowledged that irradiation

was vital to protecting our horticulture industry from fruit fly, Alasdair MacLeod added consumers must be able to make informed choices. He is also is urging those who believe a retailer is selling unlabelled, irradiated produce to report them to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). With so many outlets confirming their tomatoes are not irradiated, we asked Tomatoes New Zealand to what extent consumers need be concerned. A spokesperson responded: “Our understanding about the big retailers is the same as yours – as far as we’re aware, none of them are currently selling irradiated produce.

“We understand the latest shipment has been purchased by smaller, non-franchised retail outlets (dairies and smaller unbranded supermarkets and the like) and some fruit and vegetable markets. “We also understand they’ve been purchased by some in the hospitality sector.” However, MPI confirms it has not received many complaints. In a statement, the Ministry said between July 1, 2013 and July 9, 2014, it had: “Received eight complaints about unlabelled irradiated tomatoes. “Two related to unlabelled irradiated tomatoes and capsicums [involving] retailers and market vendors in Wellington and Auckland. “MPI undertakes random checks and found many retailers have been informed by suppliers of labelling requirements and were complying with the Standard.” Readers can register complaints with the MPI on 0800 693721. Information regarding labelling requirements is available at mpi.govt.nz. NB: In June 2013, the New Zealand Health Import Standards were amended permitting the import of Australian irradiated tomatoes providing they are labelled as such.

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RURAL

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“I know it takes much more than a factory and a collection of chemicals to produce that amazing health tonic we call milk.” And, although Kiwis may be under the conception that “milk must be cheap as chips”, good animal husbandry and environmental practices take effort, skill and money. “If dairy can take a leaf from the way wool has been compromised by synthetic alternatives, then we should not be calling this test tube product milk at all!” He adds such initiatives have been undertaken before, without success. “102 years ago the New York Times reported ‘No need for cows now’, when German scientists created a synthetic milklike product using vegetable matter. “That promised much like we are hearing out of Ireland now, but it didn’t go very far, very fast. “If anything, what this [new] test tube product proves is that we seem to be moving further and further away from understanding the huge effort which goes into quality primary food production. “What next, a five course cordon bleu meal in a pill like in the Jetsons?”

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Coke may be ‘it’ and Red Bull may ‘give you wings’, but Andrew Hoggard from Federated Farmers says, when it comes to milk, nothing’s better than the real thing! Despite the prospect of a recent breakthrough in producing artificial milk, he believes the real deal will continue to rule the roost. “Milk is much, much more than collecting up the constituent parts and running it through an industrial process as if it’s cola,” he says. “Champagne has vigorously defended the use of that word and we need to do the same. This stuff isn’t milk and must not be called milk.” His comments come in the wake of recent reports that bioengineering company, Muufri, is planning to soon manufacture lactose, cholesterol and cow-free milk, with product expected on shelves by July 2015. The UK’s Daily Mail further reports Muufri will soon create a proof-of-concept at University College Cork, Ireland. While such synthetic product could be problematic, Andrew says millions of years of mammalian evolution prove nothing beats the real thing. “It doesn’t send a shiver down to my red bands just yet.

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 21

RURAL ��

Author makes horse sense of disappearing practice Although seldom seen today, and certainly not on our rolling Franklin hills, the Kiwi drover was for many years a largely unsung hero, the quiet achiever, in New Zealand history. With the European settlement of New Zealand, drovers were, in many ways, the emblem for our heartland psyche, moving stock ‘on the hoof’ from ships and stations to new homes scattered throughout the country. Now, in her book, On The Hoof, Ruth Entwistle Low doesn’t horse around. Instead her interviews with almost 60 old-time drovers, their family members and others in the industry, reveal the practice of droving and the people who underpinned it. Through research, colourful storytelling and the voices of

the drovers themselves, Ruth describes what the job entailed – where and how they travelled, the problems they faced and the ups and downs of a lifestyle which relied heavily on man’s four-footed friends, horses and dogs. From sleeping rough and battling motorists to the perils of river crossings and that close companionship with their dogs and horses, the droving lifestyle offered freedom from the routine of everyday life, excitement and adventure. Ranging all over rural New Zealand, from our colonial past to the droving industry’s ‘twilight’ years, when the growth of trucking led to its demise, Ruth documents both the day-to-day and the dramatic in a gripping narrative that will appeal to a wide body of readers. On The Hoof is a special book

ture industry – it deserves a spot on the bookshelves of all New Zealanders. Frank Torley, from Country Calendar says this is a book that defines the hardships, the frustrations and, at the same time, the satisfaction these drovers felt from getting the job done. “It is a thoroughly absorbing read.” ■■ On The Hoof by Ruth Entwistle Low. Published by Penguin NZ. RRP $45.

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Thanks to Penguin, Rural Living has two copies of On The Hoof by Ruth Entwistle Low to give away. To enter the draw visit www.ruralliving.co.nz then click on the competition link and complete the form. One entry per person, entries close August 31, 2014. Winner advised by phone or email.

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RURAL

Call to share your farm life stories It’s well known that life on the farm can range from the comical to the bizarre. Whether milking cows, mustering sheep, raising pigs, collecting eggs or growing crops, most farmers will tell you that daily chores can be pleasurable, exasperating, satisfying, maddening, laughable and highly rewarding all rolled into one. Now, Rural Women New Zealand is inviting people to get creative by writing short stories of no more than 300 words and taking photos and videos to showcase New Zealand farming life today. Rural Women national president, Wendy McGowan says the competition, being run in conjunction with the Ministry

for Primary Industries (MPI), is part of RWNZ’s celebrations to mark the 2014 International Year of Family Farming. “We hope entries will tell the stories behind the primary products grown on our farms,” she says. There are five categories: ■■ Women and men at work on the farm ■■ Farm machinery and farm innovation ■■ Animals ■■ Children ■■ Rural communities. MPI will use some of the photos, videos and stories to promote the New Zealand primary industry brand and our rural values. “We encourage people to get

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their creative juices flowing to share the challenges and triumphs of farming and today’s sustainable business practices,” says Ms McGowan. “We hope to see entries that reflect our care of the land and our animals, and the skills and ingenuity of the people that make New Zealand’s primary industries so successful.” RWNZ also hopes the compe-

tition will highlight the opportunities for great careers that are available in the sector. “Stories are powerful, and we have some great farming stories to tell,” Ms McGowan adds. The competition is open to everyone with great prizes. Entries close November 1, 2014. Entry forms and further information at www.ruralwomen. org.nz/iyff

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 23

RURAL ��

An eye to ending engine fires While some may cast an eye in the direction of a hot bird or two, farmers will be well aware that such feathered fancies are best set aside when it’s time to get that engine running. Inventor of an innovative product, BirdSpy, explained why to JON RAWLINSON. Every year at the National Fieldays Innovation Centre, budding inventors shine a light on new products designed for the rural market. This year, straight-shooter, Steve Jones, outlined why his product could save farmers money and also avoid injury, even death. By preventing engines from starting whenever birds or nesting materials are detected within agricultural machinery, the BirdSpy system puts safety first, he said. “From July through to September starlings tend to nest, often in the engine bays of vehicles. “It takes less than 15 minutes for them to leave enough dry material to ignite in an engine bay; the problem is serious and well known. “In my opinion, just about

everyone in the rural sector will have experienced or know someone who has had a fire in a tractor or other agricultural machine.” And such fires can cause damage to more than just the bank balance, posing danger to operators as well as vehicles. “I am not sure of the injury stats, however, if Worksafe were to apply a risk ranking, the potential for serious injury or loss of life would be up near the top,” said Steve. A combination of his rural upbringing and skills as an automotive engineer made this innovator acutely aware of just how problematic engine fires can be to rural businesses. “In 2003 I became a heavy motor loss adjuster for an insurance assessing company.

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Since then, I’ve been involved with serious claim losses. “Having also seen the emotional side of the situation I wanted to help avoid what are, in my opinion, preventable accidents. Insurance losses are measureable and we believe New Zealand insurers pay out

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$3-5m annually as a result of such accidents. “The cost to farm businesses may vary, however, downtime during repairs also needs to be considered, and reliability of the vehicle, postaccident repairs, can be compromised long-term too.” Approximately 10 years ago, Steve was requested by a Vero claims handler to investigate how the risk of such fires could be mitigated. He tried many methods before finding a solution – BirdSpy. “BirdSpy monitors risk areas, such as the hot spots of the machine’s engine. If an intru-

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premium rates on machinery with BirdSpy installed. Although research and development is ongoing, with more applications being considered, BirdSpy is available here in Franklin from a selection of local tractor dealers. “Most reputable tractor and machinery suppliers or auto electricians can obtain and install BirdSpy systems to new vehicles,” Steve confirmed. “What’s more, retrofitting into existing equipment is simple for qualified tradespeople, the system being compatible with both 12 and 24 volt power electrical systems.”

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sion is detected, the operator will receive an audible and visual warning on engine start-up,” he explained. “What’s more, to prevent these alarms being ignored, the engine will shut down until the bonnet of the vehicle is raised, nesting materials are cleared and a reset switch under the bonnet is activated.” Since field trials of the system, which involves 10 machines, began four years ago Steve has claimed a 100 percent success rate. Should this continue, he believes insurance companies could be encouraged to review

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 25

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Sales dates have been announced for the 88th National Yearling Sales Series at New Zealand Bloodstock’s (NZB) Karaka Sales Complex. The Premier Sale will be held January 26-27, followed by the Select Sale, January 28-30, and the Festival Sale, February 1-2, 2015. After the 2014 results recorded increases across all key statistics – including the average and median prices, as well as the clearance rate – NZB expects an even better showing next year.

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page when talking to government.” Mr Leahy adds that because the NBA is a membership organisation, member surveys will be undertaken. Federated Farmers Bees chairman, John Hartnell, says his organisation has already confirmed to progress unification and hopes the NBA can work through its democratic process as quickly as possible. “The bee industry in 2014 is not what it was in 2000. “It is a completely different business today and the industry needs to change as quickly as possible to reflect this by establishing one entity, with one voice that encompasses everyone. “This is critically important if our industry is to gain the real respect it needs to operate in the commercial world.”

A selection of red-blooded blokes will walk the walk on August 1, signalling the

start of the Winter Mixed Bloodstock Sale at New Zealand Bloodstock’s Karaka Sales Complex. Organisers of the Karaka Stallion Parade say last year’s event was well-received as breeders, studs and interested parties inspected a large contingent of sires gathered ahead of the breeding season. This year, parades will be conducted from 10am, with selling commencing at 12pm. People interested in entering a stallion should contact James Jennings at New Zealand Bloodstock (james.jennings@nzb.co.nz or 09 298 0055) before July 28.

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By Ditch Keeling Coastal Pest Solutions Ltd After a long and gloriously mild start to winter the temperatures have finally dropped enough for the possums to start packing on some fur. Rats and mice have also noticed the drop so, calls from people hearing scampering in the roof, are coming in thick and fast. Rabbits are again breeding right through the winter and I seriously doubt we’ll see much winter mortality this year. Rabbit burrows often get flooded out and rabbits generally become more susceptible to disease when living in wet conditions. However, the current mild winters and drought-like summers are producing an ever-increasing rabbit population right across the Auckland region with more and more calls for assistance coming in from the north. One aspect of winter that an increasing number of Kiwis look forward to is the annual possum fur plucking season and it constantly surprises me just how many different types of people are becoming involved, harvesting fur for some extra cash. Possum fur prices are currently at $110 per kilo for hand plucked and $105 for machine plucked. These aren’t particularly good prices and the fur buyers are telling us its proving to be a bit of a slack season thus far.

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Coastal Pest Solutions Ditch with his collection of old traps.

Let’s hope the cold snap continues and we all get to pull some quality fur as a result. For more information on harvesting/selling fur contact the friendly crew at www.possumhunter.co.nz. For several years now I’ve heard a lot of people enquiring as to the legality of using gin traps for pest control. These traps were a mainstay of all trapping in this part of the world for around 150 years so there are simply thousands of them out there. Gins were banned under many City Bylaws during the last few decades but a complete and formal ban was introduced by MAF in 2008, making it illegal to sell/use quite a range of leg hold traps. For more visit www.biosecurity.govt.nz. There are still a range of traps that can be used legally and most

Photo supplied

professionals favour what is known as the Victor # 1 leghold trap. In recent years there have been a large number of cheaper knock-offs coming out of China. Without exception these are proving cheap and nasty so I’m sticking with the Victors. For more information on traps available, and prices, contact my famous old trapper mate Maurie at M.S. Woodcraft Ltd mswoodcraft@xtra.co.nz. All of the now ‘prohibited’ traps are an important part of our pest control history. I have put together a collection of traps used over the years and welcome any new additions, if you have something that needs a new home be sure to give me a call. 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 — July - August 2014 — 27

RURAL _______________________________________________________________________________

Weed

REPORT

When Eve gave Adam fruit from the tree at the centre of Eden, the world’s first gardeners were destined for a fall. While it’s been speculated that the fruit was a pomegranate or an apple, it could easily have been a banana that fuelled their unfortunate passions! Even in the modern age, not all fruits are good for us – or our environment, at least. Thanks to information kindly provided by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Waikato District Council, this week we feature one such fruit that’s good to eat, but potentially disastrous for our gardens. What is banana passionfruit? Native to the Andes region of South America, banana passionfruit (Passiflora mollissima also known as Passiflora tripartita) is a vigorous, invasive tropical climber, with tendrils which can grow up to 10 metres in height. These vines feature shiny, green leaves with clearly defined veins, large, pink and green petalled flowers with yellow and white centres, and yellow-orange fruit when ripe. Although the fruit is edible – by many accounts, sweet and tasty – because of the plant’s invasive nature, it should not be grown here in New Zealand. Why is it a problem? Banana passionfruit plants are capable of smothering trees with their dense growth of leafy

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vines. It has become particularly problematic in parts of Nelson and Marlborough. Because the fruit is so favoured by animals such as possums, feral pigs and rats, even more damage can be inﬂicted on our native ecosystems as a result. In addition, the seeds are easily dispersed by such animals, as well as birds, resulting in its rapid spread. Can it be grown in New Zealand? Short answer, no! Banana passionfruit is listed on the National Plant Accord – a cooperative agreement between the Nursery and Garden Industry Association, regional councils and government departments – as an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act. This means the sale, cultivation, distribution or commercial

display of banana passionfruit in New Zealand is banned. Control methods While smaller plants can be easily removed by hand, it’s important to ensure the entire root system is removed to prevent them growing again. For optimum results, DOC recommends herbicides such as Roundup or Escort, applied using a knapsack, brush gun or by the cut stump method. Cut vines back as much as possible in winter-early spring, spraying re-growth later in spring. To prevent damage to the host tree, wait until the vines dry out before removing them. Take care to spray only when conditions allow reducing the risk of other plants being affected. Read instructions carefully if using herbicides and be sure to wear protective clothing. The cut stump method is suggested by DOC for larger vines. To do this, remove vines to access the base of the plant and affect a straight, ﬂat cut before applying herbicide to the cut stump. Leave plants in the ground until the roots have died off; additional applications can be administered should the plant start growing again. For further details about banana passionfruit, or for help with identiﬁcation or control of any invasive species, contact DOC or your local council.

Cleopatra, queen of Egypt was certainly not in de-nile when it came to her appearance; instead she bathed in milk. And it’s that milkshake that brought all the Caesars to the yard, because according to research from Hamilton company, Quantec Personal Care, an active ingredient derived from cow’s milk could be the secret to stopping spots from popping up. Quantec MD, Dr Rod Claycomb, says the company has developed a clinicallyproven anti-acne cream with an active ingredient that relies on the milk of bovine kindness. “The bioactive enzymes and proteins found in our Epiology anti-acne cream are essentially the same active enzymes and proteins that all mammals produce. “These work together and make up the essential components of the body’s immune defence system.” However, while this breakthrough may be good moos for acne-prone teens, unfortunately it didn’t work out too good for Egypt’s queen who, despite having a ﬂawless complexion and a bod that set many eyes to Romeing, also had... an asp that didn’t quit!

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BBQ talk Rosemary Lamb Chops with Grill-Roasted Potatoes INGREDIENTS ■■ 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic ■■ 1 tsp salt ■■ 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves ■■ 2 tsps finely chopped fresh thyme leaves ■■ ¾ tsp freshly ground black pepper ■■ 8 lamb loin chops, 1¼ inches thick, trimmed of excess fat ■■ Extra-virgin olive oil ■■ 1kg new potatoes, 1½ inches in diameter, quartered

Farmers bank on new tech’ Since Mesopotamian farmers made crude markings on clay tablets to account for livestock numbers by the banks of the Euphrates, technology has been driven by those who make a living from the land. And while millennia may have passed, the same principles apply today, albeit with new tools employed. Adam Ferguson from MYOB says the accounting solutions provider’s BankLink system is one example of technology satisfying a growing need for speed in relaying important information to rural businesses. “BankLink is proving to be a great fit, enabling us to strengthen our offering, especially in the rural sector,” he says. BankLink delivers more than 20,000 rural data feeds from 10 rural suppliers including Fonterra/RD1, Farmlands,

and PGG Wrightson. This is in addition to MYOB’s data feed service from trading banks. The feeds enable accountants to provide clients with cash flow reports comparing year-on-year results. Data can also be used for livestock calculations and the forecasting of milk production. And more developments seem likely, adds Adam. “To make it easier for farmers and other rural operations to do business, we are developing partnerships with iAgri and CashManager RURAL, both of these are New Zealand rural software developers providing farm management solutions,” he says. “We are very proud of our extensive footprint in rural New Zealand, and we are fully committed to working with accountants and farmers for decades to come.”

INSTRUCTIONS Roughly chop garlic then sprinkle with salt. Crush the garlic and salt together to create a paste. Add remaining seasoning and chop together. Prepare Weber grill for direct cooking over medium heat 200°c. Lightly brush or spray chops on both sides with oil. Spread half of seasoning mixture on

both sides of chops. Allow chops to stand at room temperature for 15-30 mins before grilling. Put cut potatoes in a bowl. Drizzle 2 tbps of oil over the top and add the remaining seasoning mixture. Stir potatoes to coat evenly. Brush the cooking grates clean. Grill potatoes over direct medium heat, with the lid closed as much as possible, until tender, 15-20 mins, turning every 5 mins. Remove from grill and keep warm while grilling the lamb. Grill the lamb chops over direct medium heat, with the lid closed as much as possible, until cooked to desired doneness, about 8 mins for medium rare, turning once or twice. If flare-ups occur, move the chops temporarily over indirect heat. Remove from the grill and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Serve warm with the potatoes.

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LIVING ��

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WIN! LATINA FRESH SOUP ON THE GO Latina Fresh has lunchtime sorted with its tasty new range of single serve fresh soups. Simple, convenient and bursting with flavour and goodness, Latina Fresh Soup comes in four delicious flavours – pumpkin and parmesan, tomato and basil pesto, chicken corn and noodle, and mushroom and thyme. Made in New Zealand – RRP $3.99 for a 300 gram serve – just heat in the microwavable pot and eat. Look for Latina Fresh soups, pastas and pasta sauces in the chiller aisle of your supermarket today. And the good news is Rural Living has a superb Latina Fresh Soup prize pack to give away. It contains two mugs, a thermos and a rug (perfect for enjoying soup on the go), plus $30 in Latina Fresh vouchers (value $100).

Win! A Husqvarna Universal Hatchet Although we may prefer to avoid it, sometimes it’s necessary to perform... a hatchet job! Fortunately, with Husqvarna’s Universal Hatchet such jobs have never been easier. Thanks to its Fibre-reinforced PA shaft – making the axe durable and robust – and non-stick coated head, the Universal Hatchet offers easy entry to wood while lasting the distance. What’s more, with a soft grip and balance point close to the axe head, it’s designed to make stocking up on firewood during winter a quicker and easier task. Rural Living has a Husqvarna Universal Hatchet RRP $59.95 up for grabs.

What’s hot for winter? Selaks New Zealand Roast Day, of course, and it’s coming up on Sunday, August 3. As a well-entrenched Kiwi tradition, the roast is one of New Zealand’s favourite meals so, to encourage loved ones to gather and recapture the good times that go with a Sunday roast, Selaks has given TWO Rural Living readers a chance to win a fabulous roasting pack (valued at $100). It includes a limited edition Selaks NZ Roast Day apron, chopping board, oven mitt and tea towel. (See roast recipe page 43.) Download your free eCookbook at www.selaks.co.nz/roastday.

WIN! VICTORY, NEW ZEALAND AIRMeN AND THE FALL OF GERMANY Thanks to HarperCollins here’s a chance for readers to win a copy of Victory, New Zealand Airmen and the Fall of Germany just in time for Father’s Day. Published to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day, June 6, 1944, this account of the New Zealand air crew’s role in the dramatic invasion of Europe in 1944 to the fall of Berlin is captivating (see article page 32). Most of the exploits have never been told before and many of the men featured are largely unknown. But their bravery is recounted here in a moving tribute to a passing generation of true heroes. Victory, New Zealand Airmen and the Fall of Germany, by Max Lambert, published by HarperCollins, RRP $39.99.

WIN! WELEDA NOURISHING HAIR OIL ere’s a chance to win a 50ml bottle of Weleda Nourishing Hair Oil for treating hair and scalp with natural nutrients that work to repair, nourish and promote healthy and luscious-looking locks from root to tip! Suitable for wet or dry hair, Weleda Nourishing Hair Oil (RRP $19.90) is free of SLS, parabens, preservatives and artificial essences. Use as a pre or post-styling treatment.

Win! Organic heirloom prize pack from Kings Seeds Rural Living has an organic heirloom prize pack for one lucky reader! Valued at $35, it includes: Radish Easter Egg, Beetroot Detroit Dark Red, Rocket, Onion Red Amposta, Carrot Scarlet Nantes, Blue Shelling Pea, Cucumber Tendergreen, Lettuce Green Salad Bowl, Basil Sweet Genovese and Zucchini Black Beauty seeds. What a garden treat!

For last month’s Rural Living winners visit www.ruralliving.co.nz/competitions 30 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

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The real Stephen Donald speaks up Rugby is not always picture perfect and world cups rarely run to script. With TV One set to screen The Kick (August 10, 8.30pm), a movie based on the exploits of Waiuku’s own Stephen Donald (aka Beaver), JON RAWLINSON touched base with the man himself. When former All Black coach, Graham Henry, was running desperately short of first five-eighths during the 2011 Rugby World Cup, there was nothing else to do but... leave it to Beaver! Roughly three years on, TVNZ has captured the events surrounding Stephen Donald’s famous penalty kick, which secured the William Webb Ellis trophy for New Zealand. However, despite a career in the public eye, Stephen says seeing himself portrayed by an actor on screen is a little strange.

L-R, actors Andrew Munrow and David de Lautour on set of The Kick. The film, which portrays the events surrounding Stephen Donald’s role in the 2011 Rugby World Cup, will screen on TV One at 8.30pm on Sunday, August 10.

“It’s a rather embarrassing thought and probably, when it’s shown, it’ll be a tough few days with my mates, and whoever else, taking the p***!

helped him stay balanced and grounded.

“I’ve seen the first cut, before they chopped it up a bit. It’s a movie, not a documentary – as they had to continually tell me! – so there is the outline of true events with a bit of spice sprinkled on it to make it more interesting, I guess.”

“You may be this or that in other people’s eyes, but when you’re home, you’re just another local going fishing or having a beer at the rugby club. I think that’s important when dealing with the highs and lows of sport,” he says.

Despite being nicknamed ‘Beaver’ – after his apparent resemblance to a character from the American sitcom, Leave it to Beaver – Stephen says, he hopes he more closely resembles the actor playing him in the film, David de Lautour.

In 2011, Stephen did not make the cut for the All Blacks. He was called in as cover after Daniel Carter and Colin Slade both suffered injuries during the World Cup campaign. By that time, Beaver was whitebaiting on the Waikato. Fortunately he answered the call from Graham Henry.

“Considering Jerry Mathers [who played Beaver in the TV show] is 60-odd now, I hope I look more like David,” he quips. “But, to be fair, I’m an ugly bugger, so I wouldn’t want to bring David down to my level!” Born in Papakura, Stephen represented Waiuku, Counties Manukau, Waikato, the Chiefs and secured 23 caps for the All Blacks. He says his upbringing in Franklin

“I’m a dreamer so I tried to keep some hope. But, realistically, deep down, I knew throughout the 2011 Super Rugby season I had no chance and I was getting a few signals confirming that. “Some people have said being away [from the game] helped in that I wasn’t in the hotel for six weeks or so, in that bubble. But I can do a bit of damage to my fitness in five weeks

of R&R too! So, although I might have been in a better head space, my body and fitness were not quite there.” Back in black, Stephen headed to Auckland for his date with destiny... with a haul of whitebait for the team, of course! “I brought some in, but my roommate was Piri [Weepu] so it didn’t go much further than him!” During the final against France, starting five-eighth, Aaron Cruden also went down with injury. Stephen – dressed in a jersey too small for him – was certainly big enough for the occasion, landing his famous penalty goal which ultimately made the difference.

and I think they were all pretty happy for me.” Although now playing in Japan – following a stint with Bath – Stephen says he intends to finish his career in New Zealand. “I’m enjoying it massively at Mitsubishi [Dynaboars]. It’s not without challenges, language being the obvious one. The main difference is the smaller size of players and lack of structure to the play. But I’m enjoying the open style of the game. “It’s always been my intention to finish playing in New Zealand, whether in the ITM Cup or for Waiuku, but I’ll just see what happens and if the body holds together.”

To mark Stephen’s role in the 8-7 World Cup final win, Waiuku Rugby Football Club later renamed its home ground ‘Beaver Park’.

And should lightning strike twice and current All Black coach, Steve Hansen, calls in the Beave’, would Stephen again step up?

“It was a bit embarrassing, but I guess it was just the locals having some fun,” he says. “It’s also what happens when you’re from a small community; everyone feels a part of it

“I’ll answer the phone [from the All Blacks] until the day I’m six feet under, but I can’t imagine Shag [Hansen] will need to make that call this time around,” he says.

Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 31

LIVING ��

Readers win in battle of war books In marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, Rural Living focuses on several books which commemorate elements of both World Wars and the Vietnam War too. New Zealand and the First World War: 19141919 By Damien Fenton Damien Fenton’s New Zealand and the First World War 1914-1919 tells how Kiwis prepared to land on a little known peninsula a world away almost a century ago. Many would not return home. Offering a comprehensive story of New Zealand’s involvement, Damien Fenton’s book dramatically details the First World War. The words of Colonel William Malone, commander of the Wellington Battalion, Quinn’s Post, Gallipoli, July `15, 1915 illustrate the stoicism of our soldiers: “The fighting has been and is very stern and hard here but New Zealand’s lads and men have proven themselves the equal of the best soldiers in the world.” With more than 500 images as well as maps, posters and letters, this hardback book is a ‘must have’ for those keen to understand the sacrifices of our original Kiwi diggers. Published by Penguin Group (NZ). RRP $75.

crews role in the dramatic invasion of Europe in 1944 to the fall of Berlin the following year is sure to enthral.

destroying German U-Boats. Their stories were integral to the allied success of D-Day and ultimate victory.

many New Zealanders still vividly remember, these stories are told by New Zealanders who were there.

From hunting U-boats in the cold Atlantic to dropping supplies for the Resistance, towing gliders carrying paratroopers and weapons at Normandy, Arnhem and the Rhine crossing and destroying enemy aircraft in the air, New Zealand airmen played a full and important part in the final year of the Second World War.

Most of their exploits have never been told before and 70 years on many of these men are largely unknown or forgotten. Published by HarperCollins. RRP $39.99.

They relay various histories in a narrative that is sincere and direct. They take readers on operations with gunners, infantrymen, pilots and troopers to face the fear and the heartbreak of devastating loss.

Victory – New Zealand Airmen and the Fall of Germany By Max Lambert

In Victory, Max Lambert shares the vivid, inspiring and previously unpublished stories of those young fliers—some still teenagers—who lived and died in the service of their country during and after the invasion of Normandy in 1944.

Published to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day, June 6, 1944, this account of the New Zealand air

Throughout, Lambert tells the stories of New Zealanders who flew with Coastal Command searching out and

• See page 30 to enter the draw for a copy of this book.

No Front Line By Claire Hall With 2014 marking 50 years since the first New Zealand service personnel were deployed to the Vietnam War, the release of No Front Line by Claire Hall is timely. An absorbing, frank, and sometimes shocking, look at an inescapable episode in our history, and one that

The book also includes reflections from non-combatant engineers, defence and civilian medics, aid workers and administrators. No Front Line is compiled from over 150 veteran interviews recorded over five years. With more than 200 photographs, maps and timeline, it presents an indepth window into a war in which 3500 New Zealanders served between 1963 and 1975. Published by Penguin Group (NZ). RRP $45.

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Sandra Sutcliffe with athletes Fiona Strong, Jacob Osborne (back) and Scott Innes.

Photo Wayne Martin

Special ref takes the plunge Although the best athletes in the Commonwealth may line up to represent their countries on centre stage, one local swimming referee has found she really is onto something special, as JON RAWLINSON discovered. After training as an official for the Pukekohe Swimming Club, mother of three, Sandra Sutcliffe soon found herself a little out of her depth. Two years ago, the regional sports coordinator for Special Olympics New Zealand and club member, Dave Beattie, invited the Valley School teacher aide to a Special Olympics meet. “I went along and... wow! I experienced lots of emotions watching the swimmers. I was overwhelmed, inspired and amazed at their abilities,” she says. “I was a little bit apprehensive at the prospect of refereeing, but the team there was really good and said, ‘just judge it like you would any other meet.’ While the swimmers may have disabilities, seeing their capacity to

achieve was really inspiring.” Although Sandra had no direct involvement working with intellectually disabled people, the experienced swimming referee took to the task like a duck to water. Two years on, despite the challenges special athletes face, Sandra says in the pool they need to achieve certain standards just like other competitive swimmers.

Sandra’s game. “When I officiate at a Special Olympics event, I have to be sharper and more alert. I become more aware of the decisions I make and why I’ve made them,” she says.

Commonwealth Games, which is a shame, because there’s a lot of talent on show,” she says.

“It’s been very beneficial for me with my mainstream swim work because when I go and judge a swim meet afterwards, I find it’s actually enhanced my skills.”

Games for a challenge?

“While the swimmers may be disabled in some way, we have to judge them in line with Swimming New Zealand rules. Our job as referees is, primarily, to make sure their strokes are performed correctly.”

In the lead up to the World Summer Games in Los Angeles next year, Special Olympics New Zealand is calling out for more volunteers – like Pukekohe’s Sandra Sutcliffe – to join their ranks and make a difference.

And refereeing Special Olympics’ events has actually helped raise

“Unfortunately, the athletes don’t get the same coverage as the Olympic or

“But Special Olympics New Zealand offers such a supportive environment for volunteers and there are a number of ways people can help. “There’s no fixed term for volunteering – just whenever you’re available – and people can become involved even if they don’t have specific sports’ skills.” From July 25 to August 3 next year, Los Angeles will host more than 7000 athletes from 177 countries, thanks to the support of more than 30,000 volunteers. Those interested in volunteering will find more information at specialolympics.org.nz.

Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 33

LIVING _______________________________________________________________________________

Racing through birthday fun we were away she would gather up some options. The Footloose team were well ready for us and sometime later, after a lot of laughs, we both left with boots.

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

What a month. I will begin with the saga of the stray cat that I wrote about some months ago. As the cat became tamer, it has also grew fatter. That’s ﬁne, we thought, but earlier this month we had visitors who proclaimed, ‘the cat is pregnant’.

Back to get the dress. I love the way that although there was a sale on, the only dress, and a jacket my daughter liked were new season stock and, of course, were not on special – typical! Monday was the races and later the birthday celebrations. The decision was that I would have lunch with daughter and a couple of friends. We gathered at Monarch for a time then lunch eaten, I went on my way.

At this stage we didn’t know whether it was a male or female cat so, off to Town and Country Vets for the diagnosis. Firstly they checked if there was a chip and, of course, there wasn’t so we left her (yes, she is a girl) for a full check-up and, if necessary, an abortion and spaying.

Next, the actual party. Only family and lifetime friends were invited so the guest list ensured we would have fun but the venue was the winner – Cafe Kaos. As the cafe was open to the public until around four we decided to start this party at 6pm and it would end at 10-ish (hopefully).

CITY LASS

Good, all under control. We hadn’t reached home before the vet rang to say she had already been spayed and, of course, was not pregnant, just fat! We turned the car around and picked up ‘Jessica’, all well and still fat. Obviously, being spayed, she had been someone’s pet and she wasn’t at all frightened of travelling in the car. The vet thought she was about 10 years old so, if you have lost your lovely mixed tabby/tortoiseshell cat, please get in touch with me. Next, the big week. A couple of weeks ago Rural Living sponsored a race at

Winner of best impromptu hat at the Counties Racing Lindauer Ladies’ Lunch. the Counties Racing Lindauer Ladies’ Lunch in Pukekohe. The day started badly with an early announcement that the races had been cancelled. So, what to do? We all had our outﬁts ready so, races or not, the luncheon was on. I have no idea how watching races could have ﬁtted into our day. And the way Karen Blanchard from Counties Racing altered the programme with only hours to spare was amazing. We had such a fun day. The room was beautifully decorated with all the tables having lovely centrepieces arranged by Scent, each of which was won by a guest at that table. Most women had hats

or fascinators but those who didn’t were encouraged to make one from something on or around the table. There was a prize for the best hat made on site and the ideas were ingenious. That was Monday. Then, my daughter, who is a Pukekohe resident, turned 40 on the Wednesday. That birthday really started the Saturday beforehand with us shopping for a new outﬁt – one to wear to the races and also for her birthday party the following Saturday night. Yes, a week of turning 40! We started at Annah Stretton talking with Cle and she told us to go and get the boots Emma wanted ﬁrst. While

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We had a meal served around seven and the way Elton, Stuart and the team did such a fabulous job of taking orders and serving 30 guests all at once was amazing. As ever, I think our family, with the help of the Kaos boys, really made chaos in Pukekohe that night. At 10.30pm the olds (as we are called) left and the cafe closed so the party moved on to Edinburgh Street. I believe that was until the early hours of the morning. And Sunday? Well, Sunday everyone was very quiet, very quiet, and now life can get back to some form of normal. Bring on next month.

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Counties Racing Lindauer Ladies’ Lunch This year’s Lindauer Ladies’ Lunch hosted by Counties Racing was a truly ‘fascinating’ affair with head-turning hatinators and fascinators topping off glamorous racewear. Dressed to the nines, this year’s guests made judging for best dressed, best fascinator and most creative fascinator made on the day with ‘at hand’ materials, extremely difficult. While actual racing had to be cancelled there was no stopping the ladies enjoying a superbly fashionable event with great food and sponsored prizes. 1 1. Lisa Burnett and Angella Gregory 2. Jason Goodall and Alofa Glas 3. Ginny McArthur and Carly Moloney 4. Nina Crawford, Irene Norbis and Penny Barry 5. Catherine Gould, Kate Ockelford-Green, Cle Bicknell, Reay Neben and Belinda Sheriff 6. Lynn Pulman, Catherine Bull, Alyson Grice and Lynne Alexander 7. Glenda Dean, Michelle Kidd and Rachael Buxton

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NATURALLY LUSCIOUS LOCKS! Winter weather can leave hair looking dull and lifeless but there’s no need to despair. Weleda Nourishing Hair Oil is designed specifically to treat hair and scalp with a regular hit of natural nutrients, which works to repair, nourish and promote healthy and luscious looking locks from root to tip! Cara Smith, Katie Craig, Natasha Harris, Chelsea Grant, Lisa Sharp.

Photo Wayne Martin

Alberts Hair

celebrates fifth birthday in style After five years based in Hall Street – and 17 years in the region – founder of Alberts Hair Salon, Natasha Harris, says her team is proud to be at the heart of the community.

before moving the salon to Pukekohe 12 years later, in 2009. She says her team’s skill, knowledge and professional approach has been crucial to the success of the salon.

“We started with a very small team and a vision. Today, Alberts is entrenched in the local, Franklin community and we enjoy calling Pukekohe home.

“Our team members have been carefully chosen based on their attitude to customer service and commitment to personalising our salon services for each and every guest,” Natasha says.

“We would particularly like to thank all of our wonderful clients; we appreciate their support over the years and for recommending us to family and friends.”

“Alberts is all about hair. We operate a boutique salon where we specialise in makeovers and image maintenance.

Locally born and raised, Natasha established Alberts in Papakura

“We love what we do; making our clients feel absolutely fabulous,

Suitable for use on wet or dry hair Weleda Nourishing Hair Oil, which is free of SLS, parabens, preservatives and artificial essences, can be used as a pre or post styling treatment, working to restore moisture, soften split ends and add radiant shine.

while helping them discover their ideal colour, shape and easy-tomaintain, personal style.” In addition to salon services, Natasha believes in providing a complete customer experience. “The parking’s free, the coffee is amazing and the service is friendly and efficient. Visit alberts.co.nz for more information or simply give us a call to arrange an appointment. We look forward to seeing you in the salon again soon!” Alberts Salon, 2/23 Hall Street, Pukekohe. Ph 09 2387576 info@alberts.co.nz www.alberts.co.nz

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 37 8/04/14 1:44 pm

LIVING ��

Barmy about Bali Life is full of surprises. And as it turns out, so is Bali, as NATALIE BRITTAN discovered on a recent short trip to the island. The flights were booked and I was full of expectations for my brother’s October wedding in Bali – that is, until I found I was really expecting. With a baby due that very month, it was highly unlikely I would be allowed in the air unless a stork flew us both there and back. But was Bali off the cards? Surely not, the husband insisted. With credit in our account from the airline, we were free to rebook – and he was determined to go, having never been. So, we flew just before Queen’s Birthday weekend, escaping the first frost of winter and squeezing in a quick Melbourne stop to see a friend. We arrived late at night in Bali’s bustling Denpasar district, sorebummed and bleary-eyed. Crawling into a taxi, we were immediately consumed by traffic. However, on arrival at The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa in trendy Seminyak, the stress lifted. Smiling staff came bearing fragrant frangipani garlands for our worn necks and the most refreshing iced lemongrass tea for our parched throats. Cool, calm and welcoming, the hotel’s beautiful Balinese architecture and relaxed atmosphere confirmed this was where we were meant to be. The rooms were equally impressive with luxurious timber, a divine bath and heavenly bed – the kind that makes weary travellers sigh deeply and sink into an unshakeable slumber after a hot bath. And so we did. The following days blurred into a mishmash of food, shopping, cooling down by the hotel’s beachfront pool, massages, riding on a scooter and having a splash at a water park. As this was to be our ‘babymoon’,

the extensive pregnancy list of don’ts proved to be a major thorn in my side. Alas, I could not help myself and caved to the following: alcohol (just the merest drop), blue cheese and camembert, deli meats, an exhilarating water slide, scooter riding, fire dancing show, and aromatherapy massage. I would say 50 Hail Marys for these sins, but I don’t think it would cleanse me of the one Bloody Mary cocktail I consumed. Fortunately, the baby survived my escapade healthy and intact, which, perhaps, goes to show some pleasures indulged in moderation aren’t so bad. And once motherhood is in full bloom, I’ll gladly book flights to Bali again, baby and all!

Places to eat and visit • Grocer & Grind, Seminyak – This Western-style bistro offers a nice and gentle transition – good coffee and nosh just like home gave us just the boost we needed on the first day. • Sea Circus, Seminyak – A hippy kitsch eatery serving food so good you won’t believe your eyes. Wholesome and simple with flavours that explode. Fresh juices (strawberry and lychee) and smoothies (acai berry, banana, strawberry and bee pollen), quinoa and chia seed coconut milk porridge with goji berries, toasted coconut flakes and grilled banana – yum! Even the notso-wholesome hubby gave his bacon and eggs the tick of approval. • Kori Restaurant, Kuta – Nestled in the heart of Kuta (home to the 2002

38 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

Bali bombings memorial), this gem is worth battling the one-way traffic bottleneck. Tranquil pools with terrapins, hut-like pavilions, live music in a tropical garden and beautifully presented Balinese cuisine. Try satay and semur daging (a rich beef stew) – the yellow rice, sambal and peanut sauce are to die for. • Dulang Kafe, Kuta – The mindboggling decor is easily forgotten with one sip of the banana thick shake. Extra cold, bananery and creamy, it’s just what we needed on a typically hot Bali day. The coconut lassi deserves a mention too – yoghurt lovers will love the tang. And the local cuisine isn’t too bad either. • Teba Sari, Ubud – Veer off the beaten track and discover the world famous Kopi Luwak (coffee made from beans passed through a foxlike animal’s digestive system) in a plantation growing native herbs and plants. There’s a free tour led by a native guide who explains growing and

production processes – something along the lines of “one cup of Kopi Luwak needs one ‘poop mongoose’, and 1 kg ground coffee needs 90 mongoose”. At the end of the tour, we were served a free tea and coffee tasting ‘platter’ consisting of more than 10 intriguing flavours such as mangosteen tea and coconut coffee. Priced at 50,000 rupiah, a cup of Kopi Luwak is comparable to the price of a cup of coffee in New Zealand. The shop has a variety of great souvenirs. • Waterbom Park, Kuta – My husband really, really likes water slides. And this is the be-all and endall of water slides. From terrifying 90 degree drops to endless snake-like twists, this place is the bomb! • Tanah Lot, Beraban – Like a temple floating in the sea, Tanah Lot is impressive. We visited at high tide but it didn’t stop ardent devotees from wading through. At the time of our visit, there was a religious festival on – it was a real treat seeing locals dressed in traditional costumes (kebaya and sarongs) in beautiful

Photos supplied

Malen in Seminyak and boy, was it good enough for me. Not the most attractive by a mile, it more than makes up with outstanding textures and flavour. Crispy pork crackling, flavoursome meat, sambal and various unidentifiable piggy parts deep fried and served with rice – it literally sang in my mouth. white lace and royal yellow. Give the tourist markets a miss but visit the snake temple – the owls, bats, talking birds, and distended snakes in their enclosures are fascinating. • Naughty Nuri’s Warung, Ubud – A roadside grill serving hunks of tender ribs smothered with sauce and other meaty delicacies. Be warned though, this unassuming shack is strictly

no-frills. Definitely a blokey place to down a Bintang beer and throw some meat on the barbie, basically. • Ibu Oka, Ubud – When it comes to Balinese cuisine, nothing beats babi guling (Balinese roast pork). The one who rules the babi guling roost is Ibu Oka in Ubud, but it was closed on our visit due to the religious festivities. A close second, so I was told, is Pak

win

• Red Carpet Champagne Bar, Seminyak – Paint the town red at this quirky open-air bar boasting wait staff in red and gold bell hop uniforms complete with hats. The fresh juices and cocktails pack a real wallop and the snacks and nibbles are as tasty as anything. Linger long enough and scrummy complimentary canapés such as chicken pomodoro, beef yakiniku, caprese, and cauliflower

soup will make their rounds. The cheese and ham platters are sensational too. • Nirvana Restaurant, Seminyak – The food may be average but the fire dancing performances are the real pull. Twirling hula hoops and umbrellas ablaze with fire as well as eating fire, the young and beautiful performers move with mind-bending grace and agility. • Beachwalk Bali, Kuta – A beautiful garden-themed mall, built just two years ago. Airy, tropical and visually stunning, it has the world’s big name brands such as Aldo, Gap, Mango and Zara. It’s a real pleasure to just stroll through, with its flowing breeze and open layout.

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 39

EATS QUALITYerM TUAKAU ow ned and op ated Family

• Retail meat and home kill specialists • Good old fashioned, courteous service

09 236 8732

Bevan, Jo-Ann and Jim Smyth.

Jim’s still prime beef!

23 GEORGE ST, TUAKAU

R10116

We design, manufacture and install...we do the lot

Tuakau butcher Jim Smyth has had 46 years in the industry and told ANGIE KEMP he doesn’t regret a day.

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.

Jim Smyth has owned Tuakau Quality Meats for 14 years and likes to think he’s a cut above the chain stores. His customers seem to think so too. Some travel from as far as Rotorua to visit his George Street shop.

09 299 9231

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

R11064

TUAKAU HOTEL

Born in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, 62 years ago, Jim came to New Zealand when he was six months old with his parents and brother. He’s been in Franklin ever since.

1875

“We lived in Waiuku and dad worked on a local farm. Eventually, he bought his own herd of cows and went 50/50 share milking. I went to Otaua School until I was 11 then we shifted off the farm to Pukekohe. My father became foreman at St George’s canning factory where The Warehouse is now.”

Proudly supporting

win with

www.ruralliving.co.nz 40 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

R100063

local produce and ingredients

www.tuakauhotel.co.nz

Photo Wayne Martin

While attending Pukekohe High School, Jim worked at Central Meat Mart after school, becoming permanent when he was 16. “I just loved looking round butchers’ shops and watching the butchers, thinking, ‘gee, I’d love to do that’. “My apprenticeship was three years at the little shop in Hall Street, where McDonalds is now. I ended up buying it and worked there for 20 years. We were there into the ’80s by which time the supermarkets had come in and virtually wiped us out.” Jim closed the shop and went to work for Counties Meats (now Country Meats) on Manukau Road but after three years he wanted his own business again. Opportunity knocked when Tuakau Quality Meats became

available. “It was Bill Duncan’s butchery and had been on the site for more than 40 years. I’ve been here 14 years and still love the job.” Today, it’s very much a family business with Jim’s wife, Jo-Ann and son, Bevan helping too. Specialising in traditional meat and meat products, prepared at the back of the shop, Jim’s sausages are a favourite. He sells a staggering 200 kilos each week, rising to 300 kilos in summer. “They’re made the same way I made them 46 years ago; I’ve never changed. Our customers also like our bacon which we smoke out back. We cure all our own bacon the old way, leaving it to dry for five to 10 days before we smoke it, roll it and slice it. It takes time but is worth it.” Jim says little has changed in either product or practice in his four plus decades as a butcher. “We also do a lot of home kill, about half of our trade, and a lot of home kill sausages too,” he says, pointing to 40 kilos of pork sausages made up for a customer earlier in the day. “They bring in a wild pig, we bone it out and make it into sausages. We also have a guy who goes to farms and brings it back here where we cut and package it. We do about four or five beasts a week.” Then when time allows, Jim enjoys hunting, fishing, deer stalking and duck shooting on the Waikato staying at the family bach in Otaua purchased by his father in 1952.

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

The coffee club pukekohe

LONE STAR PUKEKOHE

TUAKAU HOTEL

Open daily for breakfast, lunch or just coffee and cake. Choose from a wide range of mouthwatering meals from our all-day menu. So for Good Food, Great Service and Excellent Coffee, make sure you visit The Coffee Club Pukekohe!

The Lone Star Pukekohe is famous for providing quality with quantity, using only the best and freshest local produce. It’s not only the size of the meals that are memorable – the service too, is legendary – your meals are served with a genuine smile in generous portions.

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!

• GooD MoRNING coMboS Muffin & small coffee $6.50, Salmon Stack & small coffee $15.90 or Bacon, Eggs, Tomato & Toast with small coffee $13.90 (available Mon-Fri 9am-11am, not valid with VIP or other offers) Shop 4b, 8 Massey Ave, pukekohe. ph 09 238 6883 open Mon-Wed 7am-5pm, Thurs 7am-8pm, fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-4.30pm, Sun 8am-4.30pm www.thecoffeeclub.co.nz

Winter Opening Hours 8 Massey Ave, Pukekohe. Ph 09 947 7774. Cafe open 7 days from 5pm until late – Lunch Fri-Sun 11.30am-2.30pm. Bar open 7 days from 3pm until late. www.lonestar.co.nz

LICENSED

Tuakau Hotel, 1-3 George St, Tuakau. Ph 09 236 8084. restaurant@tuakauhotel.co.nz Open Mon-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat & Sun 8am-9pm or by arrangement for group functions

LICENSED

MA TU HO HOTEL

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Stampede Bar & Grill is the premier nightspot and function venue. Stampede is an authentic Western style bar and restaurant and boasts an exciting western saloon style environment.

We are a newly refurbished bar and restaurant, come on in and check us out. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Entertainment Friday nights and every 2nd Sunday afternoon.

Folks are coming from miles around to eat from the mouth watering menu on western saddle seats in the restaurant with its authentic wild west décor.

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Commerce St, patumahoe. ph 09 236 3783. open mon-Sun 11am till late.

LICENSED

Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 41

LIVING ��

Chocolate Lava Cake

Gluten-free

Pukekohe couple, Neville and Judy Green are well-known for their home-based Gluten-Free Made Easy workshops in which they focus on gluten-free cooking that tastes fantastic. They also operate an online recipe club. This is the final in a fourpart series featuring recipes that are delicious and gluten-free. www.gfme.co.nz ingredients • 160g chocolate (50% cocoa or more) • 160g butter • 3 eggs • 110g caster sugar • 25g rice flour • 14g glutinous rice flour • 10g tapioca starch • 6g sorghum flour • 1/8 tsp xanthan gum

METHOD Preheat oven to 180°C.

Place flours and gum in a container and mix together. Break the chocolate into pieces and place in a bowl along with the butter. Gently melt over a pot of boiling water. Keep warm.

Photo Wayne Martin

Lightly grease 4-5 ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder.

Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Beat the eggs and sugar to combine approx 2 minutes. Add the chocolate butter mixture and mix.

Allow to set for 5 minutes. Invert over a serving dish while still warm.

Fold in the flour mix and pour into prepared ramekins to 3/4 full.

Dust with icing sugar. Serve with whipped cream, yoghurt or ice cream.

Multi Award Winning Bacon & Sausages Sausages include gluten free and allergy free with over 30 different flavoured beef, pork and lamb

187 Manukau Road, Pukekohe • Ph: 09 238 7289 e: franklincountrymeats@vodafone.co.nz • www.franklincountrymeats.co.nz 42 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

53582-v5

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living

Wicke-d roast day menu Selaks New Zealand Day on August 3 is the perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends and celebrate that favourite New Zealand tradition, the Sunday roast. And to help you with your menu check these two recipes from New Zealand Roast Day ambassador, Nici Wickes.

BONELESS LAMB LEG STUFFED WITH BEETROOT and RICE PILAF Wine Match: Selaks Reserve Central Otago Pinot Noir Prep: 20 mins. Cook: 1½ - 2 hours Serves: 4-6 Stuffing a lamb leg with rice pilaf and beetroot is so easy and makes a change from regular roast lamb.

Ingredients For the rice pilaf • 1 cup white basmati rice • 150 grams unsalted butter • 2 red onions, sliced • 1 tsp ground allspice • 1 tsp cumin seeds • 1 cinnamon stick • 3 medium beetroot, scrubbed and grated For the lamb • 1.5 kg leg of lamb – de-boned • 2 tsp ground allspice • 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled, crushed • 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses • 1 tsp sea salt • ½ cup Selaks Reserve Central Otago Pinot Noir • ½ cup water

Method Wash rice in a sieve until water runs clear. In a medium, heavy-based

saucepan, melt butter and fry sliced onions for a few mins. Add spices and cook over medium heat for about 10 mins until onions are completely soft. Add beetroot and cook for a few more minutes. Add rice then cover with water to 2cm above the rice. Bring to boil, covered, then stir once. Replace the lid and reduce heat to low and cook for 7-10 mins. Remove from heat and rest rice for five mins, with the lid on, while you prepare the lamb. Preheat the oven to 150˚C. Combine allspice, garlic, pomegranate molasses and salt and rub over inside surface of lamb. Put half the pilaf inside the leg, tuck meat around rice, and secure with string. Place in an ovenproof dish, add wine and water, seal with foil and cook for 1.5 hours. Take the lamb from oven and remove foil. Increase the oven temp to 200˚C. Pack rest of rice pilaf into dish around lamb and roast for 15 mins, or until the lamb is nicely browned. Rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve lamb on flat breads with minted yoghurt and the rice pilaf on the side.

GOOEY CITRUS SELFSAUCING PUDDING Wine Match: Selaks Reserve Gisborne Waipara Dessert Wine Prep: 15 mins. Cook: 45-55 mins. Serves: 6

oranges, stir to combine. Add flour and milk alternately and mix with a wooden spoon to just combine, until you have a soft, cake-like batter.

There’s something magical about self-saucing puddings and this one, laced with plenty of citrus, is so deliciously warming in winter but equally good served cold in summer.

In another bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks then fold them carefully into the batter, being careful not to over-mix it as the air is what will give ‘rise’ to your sponge in the oven.

Ingredients • 100g softened butter • 1 cup caster sugar • 4 eggs, separated and at room temperature • Zest and juice of 2 lemons • Zest and juice of 3 oranges • ½ cup plain flour • 400 mls (1 ¾ cups) milk

Method Preheat the oven to 150˚C. Grease a ceramic or other ovenproof dish. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric beater until light and fluffy and there is no ‘grittiness’ if you rub a small amount between your fingertips. Add egg yolks to creamed butter and sugar and continue beating. It may curdle but don’t worry. Add zest and juice of the lemons and

Using a spatula, scrape the batter into your greased ovenproof dish so that the mixture comes about threequarters of the way up the sides. Cook in a water bath by standing the pudding dish in a roasting dish and pouring boiling water into the roasting dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pudding dish. Bake 45-55 minutes or until the top is puffed and golden and the sponge is cooked through. It should spring back to the touch. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with a small jug of pouring cream. Nici’s top tip: Due to the small quantity of flour in this recipe it is easy to make gluten free – just substitute the flour with a gluten free flour such as rice or tapioca flour.

Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 43

LIVING ��

All’s Wells at royal show While Lichtenstein’s Castle Vaduz may seem like half a world away, it’ll soon be much closer to home, as JON RAWLINSON discovered. Clarks Beach landscape painter, Trevor Wells, is set to display one of his latest works – depicting Castle Vaduz in Lichtenstein – at the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) from August 8-17.

Above, Trevor Wells’ painting of Castle Vaduz entered in the Ekka exhibition. Left, Trevor at work in his studio. Photos supplied

“It’s always a great honour to have a work included in any exhibition, but especially one as large and prestigious as Ekka,” he says. “There are thousands of entries, so I am honoured to have been chosen.” While his work certainly speaks for itself, Trevor only began painting after a rugby accident in the 1980s left him paralysed. ACCREDITED BUILDING CONSENT AUTHORITY

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Before his accident, he had no interest in art whatsoever but was later persuaded to try painting by holding a brush in his mouth.

“The castle is beautifully set on the mountain above [the town of] Vaduz,” he says, “Surrounded by snow, it was a stunning scene!”

Looking to the future, Trevor hopes to paint more landscapes including those of the Franklin district.

“When someone suggested having a go, I laughed! But, after using mouthsticks and pens for years, I found it easy using a brush,” he says.

Trevor will be attending Ekka where, alongside several other members of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists organisation (MFPA), he will be demonstrating his painting skills. See ekka.com.au for details.

In the meantime, his Brisbane exhibition work, Castle Vaduz, is based on a photograph taken by his

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wife and is expected to be viewed by more than 400,000 visitors.

“I sat for hours practising. It’s very therapeutic and time passed quickly, which certainly helped. And, compared to other challenges I’ve faced, painting has always seemed quite straight forward.”

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Naturally colourful Everyone’s talking spring especially homeowners seeking fresh decor inspiration. Draw the curtain on ‘dull’ by using stylish, new season trends with the emphasis on vibrant colours and expressive prints.

Palm Beach by Pegasus, available from Guthrie Bowron.

Photos supplied

Colour – Bright colours are always a favourite for the warmer months. They can help change your mood instantly and in the home they provide a fresh perspective. This season watch out for citrus yellows, emerald greens, fresh teals and intense blues. Or warm things up with vibrant orange, soft reds and blush pinks. Fun combinations of cheerful colour can add a sense of excitement and optimism – just what’s needed after a cold, wet winter.

Palm Beach, above, and Home Sweet Home, below, by Pegasus available from Guthrie Bowron.

Botanical – Vivid and dynamic prints bursting with colour are emerging from our natural environment. Designs featuring birds and butterflies with striking floral and botanical settings are printed on linens (or linen blends) for drapery and velvets for rich opulent upholstery or accessories. Add to this gorgeous, botanical wallpapers to create a stunning feature space whilst also giving the option of a strong pattern-on-pattern look.

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Interior designer Julie Rees was recently inspired by her visit to one of Australia’s biggest design conferences. She shared her experience with NATALIE BRITTAN.

Whisper sliding doors

Instead of waiting for the latest trends to wash up on New Zealand shores, interior designer Julie Rees jumped on the plane to see what was fresh across the Tasman.

We manufacture high quality aluminium framed sliding doors. These can be custom made to your specific requirements.

The owner of Sojo Design recently attended designEX, a three-day expo in Sydney’s Glebe Island and was blown away by the displays.

“It was very inspiring. There were some amazing talents and a lot of very fine designers.”

At Innovative Interiors we design, build & install beautiful high quality wardrobe and storage concepts. Please take advantage of our free quote & consultation service by contacting our office today.

Attracting more than 10,000 industry professionals each year, designEX is Australia’s largest design and architecture trade event.

Please accept this invitation to visit our showroom Please contact us: Office: 09 570 5029 ext 202

Showroom address: 24-S Allright Place, Mt Wellington Monday-Friday 9am-3pm www.innovativeinteriors.co.nz

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Covering everything from interiors, the workplace, textiles and furnishings, surfaces and finishes, to kitchens and bathrooms, tile, stone, and architecture, the expo showcased the kind of variety which Julie says New Zealand needs more of.

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48 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

50044-v14

East Tamaki Branch • 212B Burswood Dr, East Tamaki • Ph 273 8128

“There are only so many places to go to in Auckland. It’s mostly chain and standard stuff – it’s really quite boring.” In contrast, many of the products at designEX were refreshing and original with lighting and colour particular standouts for the passionate creative. “The lighting was really amazing,” Julie says. “Especially impressive was unique lighting from About Space. The colour ‘indigo blue’ was also very popular and the contemporary wallpapers made a big impact.”

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Innovative wardrobe solutions wardrobe solution suitable for contemporary walk-in wardrobes and dressing rooms, and includes the ultimate range of sophisticated accessories.

Innovative Interiors has been designing customised wardrobe and storage solutions in New Zealand for almost two decades and has established a strong presence in the Franklin district including Karaka, Pokeno and Pukekohe, through subdivision projects, new home owners and renovations.

Whisper Sliding Doors provide a superior finishing touch for any wardrobe, office or storage space. Fluid engineering and quality componentry ensure that our sliding doors glide along the tracks with the lightest touch.

In addition, the company recently formed a dedicated design team to serve the needs of both the building trade and residential sector.

All products are made in New Zealand and backed up with a 10-year guarantee on workmanship and componentry.

And now, thanks to a new trade range from Innovative Interiors, the building industry has the answer to all wardrobe and storage dilemmas. Working closely with builders, architects, property developers and specifiers, design consultant Linaire Vipond has 20 years’ experience in the building industry to her name. She says the special trade range combines standard designs with premium quality for ultimate convenience. “Clients can choose from a flatpack option or we can do the full installation. We can come up with something that specifically suits their requirements.” Residential design consultants Gemma Puzey and Shona Tarai also come from extensive backgrounds

in the kitchen and interior design industries. “We will visit our clients on-site or in the home. We can also work off plans with home owners. We’re here to make the process as easy as possible and we offer a FREE consultation service that comes with a no-obligation quote,” says Gemma. Based at the Innovative Interiors showroom and factory in Mt Wellington, the design team provides a complete and customised service from design through to manufacturing and installation. Clients can choose from three Innovative ranges:

• The Traditional Range is ideal for less complex storage options, wallmounted and offers exceptional value for money without compromising quality or style. • The Classic Range is an elegant, floor-mounted wardrobe system and comes with an extensive selection of accessories. • The Euro Range is the premium

What’s more, Innovative Interiors is at the forefront of storage modifications and upgrades for the following areas in the home: • Garage • Home office / media room • Children’s rooms To create a well-planned and effective home environment, call into the Innovative Interiors showroom today:

Innovative Interiors 24s Allright Pl, Mt Wellington. Showroom: Mon-Fri 9am-3pm. Ph 570 5029, 0800 80 30 50, www.innovativeinteriors.co.nz Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 49

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*Offer valid 28/07/2014 to 17/08/2014. Offer applies to selected beds only. Excludes Everyday Dream Prices and clearance stock. Product ranges vary between stores and some products are available in selected stores only. Not all products are held in our Beds R Us stores and there may be a waiting period for these goods to arrive or be delivered. Delivery fees may apply to the new bed being delivered on top of the purchase price. Finance not available for online purchases. Q Card Finance: Available on Q Card Flexi Payment Plans. A $45 Establishment Fee for new Q Cardholders and a $35 Advance Fee for existing Q Cardholders will apply. Minimum payments of 3% of the monthly closing balance or $10 (whichever is greater) are required throughout interest free period. Paying only the minimum monthly payments may not fully repay the loan before the end of the interest free period. Q Card Standard Interest Rate applies to any outstanding balance at end of interest free period. Q Card lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. GE Finance: Credit and lending criteria, $55 establishment fee and $55 annual fee apply. Prevailing interest rate applies to any outstanding balance on the expiry of the interest free period. Gem Visa and GE CreditLine are provided by GE Finance and Insurance. R11082

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living

Choosing a carpet What goes underfoot in the home should have more than sole. Floor coverings need real ‘soul’. They should fit with the homeowner’s idea of warmth, comfort and personality. While the options are many, wall to wall carpeting is still the most popular floor covering in New Zealand homes especially in lounge areas which call for a degree of formality, a real feeling of cosiness and noise insulation too. But, before rushing out and buying a carpet do some footwork – find out about different styles, materials and quality. Consider colour, faderesistance, durability, practicality and, of course, comfort. Because the floor is the foundation not only of the home but for furniture and soft furnishings, its covering needs careful consideration with the total look being taken into account.

But remember to explore the type of carpet to best suit your lifestyle. Do you need an extra heavy duty, hard-wearing carpet for heavy traffic areas or perhaps an anti-allergenic synthetic mix? Decide early what you want and expect from a carpet. Do you have children or pets? Are you staying long term? Is that thick, luxurious pile you covet, affordable? Most carpet companies will provide you with sound information about different carpet fibres – wool, solution dyed nylon, polypropylene and wool/ synthetic mixes. Wool has long been the mainstay of the New Zealand carpet industry. It is warm, luxurious, hard-wearing, stays looking good for many years

and has innate stain resistance. Wool carpets can feel cooler in summer and warmer in winter; they act as an insulator, helping to reduce noise and they are flame retardant. But in recent years Solution Dyed Nylon (SDN) has become increasingly popular offering complete consistency in colour as well as improved colour-fastness. Because pigment and polymer are mixed before extrusion, there is the potential to create a huge range of colours. What’s more, SDN is treated with lifetime anti-static protection – great for asthmatics – and also offers long-term resilience, durability and superior stain and odour resistance. It is easily cleaned. There are a number of other carpet fibre types and combinations which carpet professionals can explain in detail. They will also help you match a floor covering to your budget.

Photo supplied

When talking price be sure to ask about the difference between square metres and broadloom metres. Most carpet is 3.66 metres wide and is measured as a lineal or broadloom metre but some shops quote on the square metre. Understand the difference and when asking for a quote ensure you receive a price for the full area being covered including underlay and other charges.

R10115

And, the beauty of carpet is, that it

really is warm, durable, comes in a huge range of colours, patterns and textures and will add that sense of luxury to any style of home.

Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 51

LIVING ��

Digger Dan’s quick tips

It’s the warmest winter for years and some strange things are happening in the garden!

Photo supplied

KINGS Crowning glory Leading the way from its base in the Bay (of Plenty, that is), Kings Seeds has recently received some good news indeed! After an extensive certification process, the company has been confirmed as offering New Zealand’s largest range of Organically Certified seed. However, owner and founder of Kings Seeds, Gerard Martin, says providing certified organic seeds is not quite so new to the business, which he and his wife Barbara established in 1978. “We’ve only ever supplied internationally certified organic seeds... it just made sense to formalise this by applying for New Zealand accreditation. “It reinforces our commitment to provide New Zealand gardeners

with the most extensive range of organic seeds. We’re extremely proud to have come through the [certification] process with flying colours!”

Roses in June! This year, with many roses blooming as late as June, try leaving the pruning until mid to late August, when they’re more into dormancy – they’ll catch up quickly in spring.

Since becoming the first mail order company to offer internationally certified organic seeds to New Zealand gardeners back in 2000, Gerard says Kings’ organic range has grown from 14 to 128 seed varieties.

Great lettuce crops are surviving the winter. However, from now on sow or plant the hardier types such as rocket, Miners’ lettuce, endive, radicchio, cos and that winter stalwart, ‘Merveille des quatres saisons’.

“Consumers are becoming more educated around the health and environmental benefits of organics in general and that starts from the seed up. We have responded to this demand and are committed to expanding our organic seed range every season.”

To Do in the Garden Encourage youngsters to garden – even in winter! Kids love digging so make sure you’re out there helping them to get their hands dirty and actually feel what soil is like.

• See page 30 for your chance to win an Organic Heirloom prize pack from Kings Seeds.

Sow pansy seeds – ensure it’s a colourful mix – kids love their smiley faces. In warmer areas, sow broad

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bean, radish and carrot seeds. Encourage youngsters to wash the flesh off the pumpkin seeds after you’ve cut a pumpkin and then lay out to dry. Now they have next spring’s pumpkin seeds on the go. Buy up the last of the bulbs on sale at garden centres and plant them in their own garden patch – they’ll still come up! Plant roses and other deciduous exotic shrubs and trees such as magnolias and viburnums. Select a sunny site that has the correct amount of space for the size the plant grows to. Dig through compost and place 2 to 3 ‘gro-tabs’ in the hole, before placing the rootball on top and firming the soil around. Stake if necessary. Get the fragrance – plant daphne, boronia, witch-hazel and mahonia for delicious winter flower and fragrance in the garden.

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

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Gerard and Barbara Martin.

For example, colonies of baby snails are hatching and eating their greens. Gardeners can usually rely on pests dying off or hibernating during the cold. This hasn’t happened with the warm weather, so, when lettuce and cabbages are washed ahead of eating, little snails tend to float around in the sink. Try to eradicate them before they grow into big hungry specimens in spring!

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 53

LIVING ��

Carpet

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Check out our instore specials*

By Nick Bates, sales manager, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

Services we offer: • We can assist you through your journey from start to ﬁnish • Repair service (for all those little damages or restretches) • For both domestic and commercial situations • Free measure and quote • Insurance work • Supply and installation • Floor preparation

R11028-V2

149B Manukau Rd, Pukekohe. Phone 09 238 2954 4/21 Ronwood Ave, Manukau. Phone 09 262 0048 www.flooringxtra.co.nz Hours: 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday *T&Cs

Winter slows sales numbers, but values edge up

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Winter has well and truly settled in and appears to be having its traditional impact on the Auckland and Franklin property markets in terms of sales numbers and slowing of new property listings. However, prices have continued to edge up slightly during the month. “The average Auckland sales price during June was up 1.6 percent on May’s average price, and the second highest average price on record,” says Wendy Alexander, chief executive officer of Barfoot & Thompson. “The number of new listings in June was the lowest number this year and down 12.8 percent on those for May. While a fall in new listings is a trend

commonly seen at the start of winter, it will add pressure to lack of choice in coming months.” The Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe sales team includes specialist salespeople focusing on many “new interest” areas. Sellers can take confidence knowing their real estate needs are being cared for and their property being marketed by experts who are also local. The aim is for every seller to have the best opportunity to sell at a price and within a time frame to fit their move. Furthermore, if you are looking for a lifestyle/rural opportunity, talk with a location specialist from the Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe team for advice on your next move to lifestyle/rural living.

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT HOME FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE BLOCK?     

Whatever you need, whatever your budget we can build it for you: » » » »

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www.keithhayhomes.co.nz R100028

54 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

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

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living

Building a better lifestyle As many readers would be aware, moving to the country in search of the good life is no walk in the park! From locating the right section to building the dream home and even dealing with such potential pitfalls as septic tanks and special lending conditions, director of Emandee Homes, Lisa Potter, says it pays to plan ahead. “Setting up on a lifestyle property can be so much more complex than moving into an existing home in town. But it doesn’t have to be; it’s all down to planning.” Not only can the team at Emandee design and build houses, thanks to established relationships, they also help locate sections, arrange finance, insurance and more with companies that know how rural people tick.

to offer our services to people throughout the region.

“Our family is from a farming background, so we’re well aware of the kinds of challenges those new to the land, or simply moving to a new block, encounter,” Lisa says. “Working closely with key lenders, insurance providers and even rural plumbers, we make sure a move to the land is conducted as smoothly as possible.” As a qualified architectural designer, Lisa has designed a number of homes in the Franklin region; plans are then made tangible by her brother, Mike, and father, Mark, both directors of the company. “Dad’s been a builder for 40 years or so, and Mike for more than a decade. As certified builders, they not only have the expertise to get the job done, customers have peace of mind too, backed by a 10-year guarantee on their workmanship.”

“Ultimately, homes shouldn’t be straight off the plan. Whether you’re looking for a cosy, low-maintenance dwelling in any of the wonderful local developments, or an extensive lifestyle ranch house on a small block, personality and individual requirements really do matter.

Born and raised on a Pukekawa farm, Lisa has travelled the world and worked abroad. However, she says since going into partnership with her father and brother, she has enjoyed being back in Franklin. “The company is based in Karaka, Dad lives in Waiuku and Mike in Pukekohe so we’re ideally placed

“While some companies may rely on existing plans or employ outside architects – often for an additional fee – we design homes from scratch, to match the specific requirements and budgets of our clients. However, we

have built up an extensive plan base as well, to aid in design decisions and to inspire.” From estimations and preparing working drawings, to building the dream home, Lisa says Emandee is able to provide a complete service. “While Franklin is becoming a very popular place to live, there’s still plenty of room for urbanites and lifestylers too,” she confirms. To take a first (or next step) in living the lifestyle dream, contact Lisa and team on 09 557 9606, or visit emandeehomes.co.nz.

turn the keyHome, with316 Emandee... Karaka Harbourside Show Harbourside Drive, Karaka. Open 8.30am-5pm weekdays or by appointment. Free preliminary design and pricing consultation Ph 09Obligation 557 9606, emandeehomes.co.nz Personalized service including individually designed homes for any budget

Experienced in Residential and Rural building projects Rural Living

— July - August 2014 — 55

A selection of House and Land Packages available throughout Franklin

Architectural Range – The Horizon

Built on a solid past,

First Choice Range – First Choice 105

shaping the future! Keith Hay Homes is one of New Zealand’s leading and most trusted new home builders and has been proudly building and delivering homes to Kiwis for more than 75 years! With so many years of experience in a highly competitive market, Keith Hay Homes has a wealth of knowledge to call upon and importantly – they’re Kiwis too. The company has based itself on a strong moral foundation, listening to the customer, providing a reliable service and ultimately, their motto says it all – ‘Success through satisfied customers’. Their homes are built by licensed building practitioners and they only use top quality products from other leading New Zealand manufacturers. Managing director, David Hay, is so sure of the quality of the homes that he offers his own five-year personal guarantee. Whatever you require, Keith Hay Homes can build it for you. General Manager Matthew Hay says: “We provide a vast selection of family homes, holiday homes, rural workers’ accommodation, minor dwellings, commercial and education buildings.” Recently Keith Hay Homes has completely revised its Coastal Collection of homes and has added the ‘Hahei’ plan to the range. If you

are looking for a holiday home then look no further. “Our transportable homes are becoming increasingly beneficial in coastal areas whereby there are increasing problems with erosion and possible flooding issues,” Mr Hay says. “Homes can easily be moved if required. Council is also asking for homes to be built higher above the ground which suits our approach which utilises wooden piles rather than concrete pad foundations.”

Coastal Collection – Hahei

Over the years Keith Hay Homes has built many homes as rural farm worker accommodation and continues to do so. Mr Hay notes that the company had seen farmers, especially in the dairy sector, moving to acquire larger homes for its workers and top of the range houses for managers. “They are looking at the going rate for a good manager, and rather than trying to pay above the market rate they are trying to attract top people by providing better houses,” he says. “That improves the value of the farm as well.” Being innovative continues to drive the success of Keith Hay Homes. At the recent Mystery Creek Fieldays, Keith Hay Homes released its latest architectural home – The Horizon. This stunning 143sq m plan was

56 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

Classic Collection – Hopkins designed in collaboration with awardwinning, Architex NZ. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom home combines a simple horizontal aesthetic with a clearly articulated layout to provide a palette for easy living. This house attracted a great interest at Mystery Creek and is now available for viewing at the Drury Branch, Corner Firth Street & Great South Road, Drury. Keith Hay Homes builds the homes in its yard and then transports to site meaning there is minimal site

disruption and land can still be utilised up to the last minute. If there are access issues homes can also be built on site. The friendly team of home consultants are all well trained and can help clients with the entire building process so it is simple and stress-free.

www.keithhayhomes.co.nz Ph 0800 Keith Hay

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LIVING ��

A well-rounded SUV By Alistair Davidson Nissan’s all-new X-Trail no longer looks like the box that it came in, and while the rounded styling is the most obvious change, this popular SUV is vastly improved in all areas. Rural Living spent a week with a two-wheel drive entry-level ST, which is without a doubt the ‘soft roader’ in the new line-up. The lack of all-wheel drive isn’t a bad thing. If you don’t need to go fanging around muddy paddocks and climbing near vertical cliff faces, twowheel drive is all you want. Outgoing X-Trail was capable on-road, and the new job has cranked things up another couple of notches. ST feels composed, surefooted, and

there’s negligible body roll when cornering. Rough roads are handled with aplomb, and ride comfort, in general, is excellent. The front wheels will spin when accelerating from rest on extremely slippery wet roads and loose gravel, but traction control quickly sorts that out. The steering is well weighted, there’s a reasonable level of feel, and there’s no faulting the brakes.

There are no diesel models in the new line-up. Power and torque are on a par with similar SUV offerings (Mitsubishi Outlander’s 2.4 has the same power, and 2nm less torque) so there’s nothing radical there. X-Trail’s big difference compared to the old model is the CVT (constantly variable) transmission.

ST is powered by a 2.5-litre fourcylinder petrol engine that puts out 126kW at 6000rpm and 226Nm of torque at 4400rpm.

I’ve never been a fan of CVTs. The sensation of the engine immediately going to max rpm under hard acceleration, then the revs dropping as road speed increases, just feels so wrong.

This engine is used across the four model range; however as ST is the only 2WD variant it’s the most frugal, achieving 8.1 litres per 100km.

Old X-Trail’s CVT wasn’t great, whereas the new car’s transmission can be tricky to pick as a CVT. That annoying buzz has gone, and it’s

significantly smoother. X-Trail is built on a shared Nissan/ Renault platform. Although fractionally longer overall than the outgoing model (by 5mm), it’s a full 75mm longer in wheelbase and that growth is most obvious in mid-row leg room. Not only is ST unique in the X-Trail universe, being 2WD, it also has a third row of seats. These two extra seats can house a couple of adults at a squeeze, but are best suited to kids. This makes sense, because as a 2WD it’s likely to

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 58 — Rural Living — July - August 2014

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EUROPEAN CAR REPAIR SPECIALIST

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Three cylinders, three awards A small petrol engine that powers Ford cars, including the new Fiesta Sport in New Zealand, has fought off competition from premium brands and supercars to win the ‘Oscars’ of the engine world for an unprecedented third time in a row. Ford Motor Company’s three-cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine – which lowers fuel consumption without sacrificing power – had been named 2014 International Engine of the Year for its drivability, performance, economy, refinement and technology. Bluetooth six-speaker audio, 5” display screen, keyless entry with pushbutton start, and warmed and cooled cup holders are some of the standard features. The third row of seats folds flat into the floor. There’s still reasonable load space with the rearmost seats in use. Photos Alistair Davidson be the wagon that does the school and Saturday morning sport runs. New X-Trail has better ride and handling, nicer styling and a CVT that you can live with; however the highlight has to be the interior. More space is only part of the story. The choice of materials is first rate, the velour trim in ST particularly comfortable with an upmarket feel.

As far as safety features go, being entry level the ST misses out on blind spot warning, moving object detection and Around View, but still has a reversing camera, ABS, brake assist and brake force distribution, active ride and active trace control (traction and stability control), and six airbags.

A panel of 82 automotive journalists from 35 countries also named the 1.0litre EcoBoost the “Best Engine Under 1.0-litre” for the third year in a row at the Engine Expo 2014, in Stuttgart. Ford Powertrain Engineering vice president, Bob Fascetti, said to deliver the complete package of eye-popping fuel economy, surprising performance, quietness and refinement Ford knew this little 1.0-litre engine would have to be a game changer.

And Dean Slavnich, co-chairman of the 16th International Engine of the Year awards and editor of Engine Technology International magazine added that this year’s competition was the fiercest yet. “But the 1.0-litre EcoBoost continues to stand out for all the right reasons – great refinement, surprising flexibility and excellent efficiency. The 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is one of the finest examples of powertrain engineering.” Launched in Europe in 2012 with the Ford Focus, the 1.0-litre EcoBoost is now available in a further nine Ford vehicles: Fiesta, B-MAX, EcoSport, C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, Tourneo Connect, Tourneo Courier, Transit Connect and Transit Courier. In Europe, the all-new Mondeo will also feature the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine when it launches this year. Ford’s European facilities in Cologne, Germany and Craiova in Romania produce a new EcoBoost engine every 42 seconds.

X-Trail ST is five bucks shy of $40,000, which is good value for money.

It’s beautifully styled, there’s no excessive bling, and gaps are tight and even. The soft-look surfaces actually are soft-touch.

If you’re looking for a new SUV, ask yourself if you really need 4WD. If the answer is ‘I’m not sure’, then you should test drive the X-Trail ST.

EcoBoost 1.0’s compact, low-inertia turbocharger spins at up to 248,000 rpm – more than 4,000 times per second and almost twice the maximum rpm of the turbochargers powering 2014 F1 race car engines. Photo supplied

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

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Rural Living — July - August 2014 — 59

DIRECTORY �� Registered Property Valuers

OPEN 7 DAYS CLOSED PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

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

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

TILES on elliot

TILES 29b Elliot St Papakura

441 Glenbrook-Waiuku Road, Glenbrook Showroom Hours: By appointment Ph 235 3900 • Mob 021 270 9454 E: craig@bucksheating.co.nz www.bucksheating.co.nz

R11040-v2

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

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.

P: 09 214 6044

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

E: tilesonelliot@vodafone.co.nz R11071

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

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

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6A Court St, Waiuku Phone 09 235 2769

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WWW.FASHIONZ.CO.NZ

E513038

Paint & Wallpaper Specialists Cnr. East & Elliot Streets, Papakura. Ph (09) 298 3347

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

R11069

53586-v3

QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

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

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.

60 — Rural Living — July - August 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.

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For a FREE no obligation quote contact our friendly team

We supply a wide range of commercial & domestic:

Our services include:

❀ Professionally designed flower bouquets and arrangements ❀ Lovely gifts including chocolates, soft toys, Italian soaps and balloons ❀ Daily deliveries Mon to Sat throughout Auckland

■ Mat overlocking ■ Floor preparation ■ Concrete grinding ■ Quality installation

Ph (09) 2929 540

53435

17 Papakura-Clevedon Road (Main Road) Clevedon Village

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

michelle@clevedonflowers.co.nz

Order online www.clevedonflowers.co.nz

Recovery & Redesign Padded Bedheads Lounge/Dining Domestic/Commercial

0800 BIOLOO (246566)

• FREE QUOTES • HUGE RANGE OF FABRICS

Wholesale Prices

Building Cleaning / House Washing / Roof Washing and Treatments / Gutter Cleans / Prepaint Cleaning / Fence, Walls, Deck and Driveway Cleaning

Ph 0508 932 532 (0508 WE CLEAN), mobile 021 366 615 Email: office@bestpropertyservices.co.nz

Web:

54026

54737

WE ALSO OFFER... Window cleaning • Carpet cleaning • Pest control • Furniture and upholstery cleaning

www.bestpropertyservices.co.nz

www.bioloo.co.nz

50392-v2

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

W! E N

R11009

show n’shine

HOUSE wash

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.

Advanced Concentrate Makes up to 80 litres!

Showroom: 1/13 West St, Pukekohe. Ph (09) 238 3429. 53434

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

Visit us online at www.mastercraft.co.nz

Exterior Cleaning Experts

email: vanb@wave.co.nz

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

Phone 09 239 2226 Address: 171 Manukau Road, Pukekohe

Auckland Wide

Freephone

BOBCAT & TRUCK HIRE

Come and see us for a free consultation, great advice, and award winning design. R100018

5IF 6MUJNBUF 5PJMFU

R11056-v2

5IF 6MUJNBUF 5PJMFU

■ Carpets ■ Vinyls ■ Auto & Marine carpets ■ Cork, Porcelain & Glass Tiles

FRANKLIN UPHOLSTERY 162 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe. 09 238 7483