RL June 2017

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June 2017

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

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

June ■COUNTRY CALENDAR NZ National agricultural fieldays June 14-17, 8am-5pm (Wed-Fri) & 8am-4pm (Sat), Mystery Creek Events Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Rd, Hamilton Leave the suits and sedans at home, readers, it’s almost time to pull on those gumboots and give that 4x4 a run down to Hamilton for this year’s Fieldays! From exhibitions of the latest products – farm gear to home wares – to expert advice, rural sports and plenty of tasty morsels too, this event is the cornerstone of NZ’s rural calendar for good reason. See fieldays.co.nz.

■EXPOS, FAIRS & FETES kids fair June 10-11, 10am-5pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Greenlane West, Epsom The best way to teach kids that life’s not fair is to promise to take them to this magical event and then... take them to the dentist instead! But, for those of us who aren’t quite that cruel, it might be nice to gather together the offspring and head on over to the ASB Showgrounds this month. From exhibitor displays to free rides and entertainment – including bouncy castles, stage shows, face painting, and obstacle courses – this kids’ fair offers a fair deal for families. See kidsfair.co.nz for details.

Waikato Wedding expo June 25, 9.30am-3.30pm, Hamilton Gardens, Cobham Dr, Hamilton Grooms may think they’re essential to weddings but, as some brides would blushingly confess, many a plan for their big day has been laid long before said fella first shuffles into the

Craig

Trudy

Brendon

021 998 605

021 898 483

027 238 6660

2 — Rural Living — June 2017 Moore Ashby Boyce

picture! However, as there are so many arrangements to be made, even the best prepared bride is often busy right up until the knot is tied. Fortunately, the Waikato Wedding Expo provides plenty of assistance with everything from cakes, gowns, caterers, venues, photographers, entertainment and the honeymoon, to gifts, jewellery, flowers, celebrants, makeup and more on show. See weddingexpo.net.nz for details.

■THEATRE & DANCE Calendar girls June 9-11 & 16-17, from 8pm, OSPA Theatre, 24 Hall Rd, Onewhero Naked ambition takes centre stage during this comedic romp. Based on the 2003 Brit flick of the same name by Nigel Cole, this stage version tells the tale of a group of women who undertake quite the cheeky fundraiser indeed. See the What’s On tab at ospa.org.nz. kororareka: the ballad of Maggie flynn June 9-17, Q Theatre, 305 Queen St, Auckland City In the 1800s, (before it was to become New Zealand’s first capital) Russell was a lawless outpost. Then known as Kororareka, the town was home to fiery types, but few so fiery as Maggie Flynn. This production tells the story of

Sue

Stephanie

027 527 0094

027 246 7911

McCardle Alderlieste

Hunter

Utatao

027 482 2488

a resilient, rambunctious heroine who leaves England a convict only to become Madam of the notorious King Edward Hotel. Inspired by true stories of New Zealand women, this play features plenty of twists and turns. See redleaptheatre. co.nz for details.

Pacific Dance festival 2017 June 15-24, Mangere Arts Centre, cnr Bader Dr and Orly Ave, Mangere The world’s largest Polynesian city steps up the entertainment in June during the Pacific Dance Festival. Showcasing contemporary and traditional dance, this event is made to move! See pacificdance. co.nz for more details.

When sun & Moon Collide June 20-July 6, show times vary, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey St, Auckland City What secrets will be illuminated during Mutuwhenua, the Night of the Dead Moon? Two Danish backpackers have gone missing from a local walking track in a small, rural settlement. Someone knows what’s become of them, but no one is talking. In When Sun and Moon Collide, playwright Briar Grace-Smith and Auckland Theatre Company explore how identity, isolation and abandonment can shape our lives and fuel our darkest fears.

Visit atc.co.nz/whats-on.

Hadley

Pierce

027 480 2741

Graeme

David

021 770 733

027 485 9321

Willsonwww.ruralliving.co.nz Powell

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

■MUSIC ultimate eagles June 17, Auckland Town Hall, Queen St, Auckland City Those who like to take it to the limit, living life in the fast lane, obviously haven’t spent too much time in Auckland traffic!

However, in the long run, it’ll be well worth while heading in(to) the city one of these nights when the Ultimate Eagles tribute band gets busy being fabulous. Details via ultimateeagles.com.

Manukau symphony orchestra – romance June 24, 7:30-10pm, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Just because Valentine’s Day is well and truly behind us, it doesn’t mean we can shirk our work when it comes to ‘date night’, chaps. Thankfully, the Manukau Symphony Orchestra (MSO) has an event that’s sure to win a few points with that significant other with an evening of romantic music from the maestros. For details, visit pacific.org.nz/whatson.

■ARTS auckland festival of Photography June 1-24, galleries Auckland wide If you ought to be in pictures, perhaps you’ve already been framed! Throughout June (and throughout Auckland) shutterbugs of many varieties will show their work, revealing how Kiwis see our world. For a full programme of events (including exhibitions at local venues such as Franklin Arts Centre – Images Photography Group, June 3-20) see photographyfestival.org.nz.

anyway. A lot can happen in 7 Days, as this show is set to prove. Joined by fellow comedians, James Keating, Andre King and James Roque, Paul Ego (of TV3’s 7 Days fame) headlines an evening expected to dish up plenty of laughs, chuckles and even (if we’re lucky) a few guffaws to boot.

See pukekohecosmopolitanclub.co.nz.

■RACING & MOTORING New Zealand Warbirds D-Day open Day June 4, 10am-4pm, Ardmore Airport, 511 Harvard Ln, Ardmore The only way is up as this event is set to prove. To mark the anniversary of D-Day, warbirds of various makes will take to skies above Ardmore. From aerial to static displays, aircraft to vehicles, with food and refreshments as well as children’s activities, this show offers plenty of entertainment for all ages. Further information via nzwarbirds.org.nz.

Queen’s birthday at ellerslie June 5, from 10.30am, Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera To mark Queen’s Birthday, Ellerslie is preparing for a right royal celebration as the sport of kings takes centre stage. And, as there will be plenty for children too – including a bouncy castle fit for a prince or princess – even Liz’s littlest subjects can reign (or rein) supreme whether the weather is sunny or if it... rains!

Kevin

027 210 8887

027 497 8223

Simon

Macrae

Pukekohe Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Massey Street, Pukekohe Pokeno Market Every Sunday, 8am-2pm, main street, Pokeno Crafty Cows Market – Pokeno Second Sunday of each month, 10am-1pm, Pokeno Town Hall awhitu Country Market Last Sunday monthly or long weekend Sunday, 10am-2pm, Matakawau Hall, Awhitu Road, Awhitu Peninsula sustainable Papakura Market Third Sunday of each month (except March & April), 10am-1pm, Papakura Recreation & Fitness Centre, 294 Great South Road, Papakura

Clevedon farmers Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-1pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Road, Clevedon New Zealand Warbirds D-Day Open Day

Pukekohe Comedy Night – Paul ego (7 Days) May 27, 8-10pm, Pukekohe Cosmopolitan Club, 78 Nelson St, Pukekohe The Ego has landed! Well, he’s about to

Scott

■MARKETS

Clevedon village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Clevedon

■COMEDY

www.ruralliving.co.nz Lim McElhinney

lindauer ladies Day June 21, 11am-5pm, Pukekohe Park Raceway, 222-250 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe Wine and dine the day away with canapes, a gourmet buffet lunch followed by live music. Visitors are expected to dress to impress with spot prizes up for grabs. Oh, and while the wine flows, there will be a few equines running around the track too.

See pukekohepark.co.nz.

Vicky

Vendt

027 420 2540

027 405 3440

Tuakau

Tuakau

Murray

Dawson

alfriston Country Market First Saturday of each month except January, 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston

Nick

Bates

Sales Manager Branch Manager

Rural Living — June 2017 — 3

From the editor... adding some new interior touches too.

I’ve dispensed with many of our former furniture pieces so now it’s time to go shopping – wish me fun readers!

And, talking of shopping I guess a fair few of our landed gentry will be off to do their own shopping at Mystery Creek’s, National Agricultural Fieldays.

Rural Living heads down there every year and we love to see local businesses displaying their goods as well as sussing out new technology and, of course, all the competitive events from muscle-building log chopping through to hunky bachelor boys and No 8 wire ingenuity. All that’s coming up June 14-17 – see more on Fieldays pages 16-17.

Naturally, Rural Living has plenty more to keep readers away from their chores, so take a break, grab a cuppa, put your feet up and enjoy!

Cheers,

homes so I’m super excited especially by the contrast they will provide against our black brickwork.

Murray’s also giving us olive trees to mask the end of the section that dips away from the house – again, I love the colour and feathery foliage of these trees but I can already see my man’s mind ticking over with the idea of producing olive oil.

Now, don’t laugh, I’ll allow him his illusions for a little while but after his fruit wine making efforts of a few years ago (and that’s another story), I’m a bit sceptical.

In addition to the Out of Eden plan, I have a few ideas of my own, or rather those of a generous couple we met when driving around the Pokeno Village Estate on Anzac Day to glean a few ideas.

Warren and Shirley’s garden was lovely.

When we stopped to peer at it from the footpath they came out and invited us to wander. By time we left, we had seen every aspect of their beautiful home and garden and they urged us to adopt any ideas that took our fancy and we will – isn’t local hospitality wonderful?

Now that the landscaping is underway I can, perhaps, pay some attention to

Helen Perry, Editor

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e’ve been in our new home for three months now and just when I couldn’t stand the grounds one minute more – woohoo – work is starting on the landscaping!

I never really wanted to build on a large section but man about the house insisted 1100 square metres was just right. All I could see was loads of gardening down the track and no time to dig in.

However, thanks to Murray Nicklin from Franklin’s, Out of Eden, we have a plan, a good plan to put in easy care trees, lawns and gardens that, hopefully, will require minimal care. Mmmh...I’m not so sure about that but I do love his ideas, in particular the addition of some white barked silver birches which have special meaning for me.

My parents were Finns and silver birches were very much a part of the landscape in their homeland, not to mention that bunches of birch leaves are used to slap and clean your bare skin when in the sauna – an exhilarating experience!! I planted birches at the first home we built many years ago but not at subsequent

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4 — Rural Living — June 2017

Matingarahi

Manurewa Orua Bay

Wa

BOYS BAG THE BIRDS... Boys will be boys but, during duck hunting season, it’s time for real men (and women) to have fun going great guns in the great outdoors. As this month’s cover suggests, in our June issue we get on the game.

Not only do we have a quick update about the season so far (see page 6), we also hear from a few sources about their stance on select committee recommendations, which could result in tighter gun controls – see page 13.

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

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DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times House Publishing Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine.

All the material Mangawara Woodleigh Ruawaro in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times House Publishing Ltd.

design

Settling In build SOUTH EAST WAIKATO FRANKLIN

Botany and Ormiston

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Easy.

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

Your big plans made easy.

Your bigplans plansmade made easy.

Your big easy.

Showhome: 8 Kilbryde Crescent, Pokeno

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

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

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

Your big plans made easy.

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June 2017 — 5

ducKs uP... and down When the power goes out in houses, many tend to put on the red light in the bedroom. And, it appears, a similar phenomena occurs with birds of a different feather.

Wet weather last spring and summer seems to have resulted in extended breeding by waterfowl, resulting in more birds ripe to be bagged. Despite this, with the season now well underway, other factors have hampered efforts, John Dyer (Auckland/Waikato Fish & Game wildlife manager) says.

“The floods before the season have made it much harder to camouflage maimais with greenery – they were still under water before the season – so birds weren’t so easily fooled,” he says.

“And, flood waters dispersed birds, with some going onto flooded paddocks after worms, floating seeds and the like.”

The flooding also created problems for hunters getting into and marking up their favourite spots. Fog has also played a role so far, adds John.

“By all accounts, the bags further south, more towards Thames/Paeroa, were much better despite problems caused by fog and later clear skies.

In fact, the fog sometimes worked in people’s favour. For instance, ‘lost’ geese would come into a caller. These are in the freezer now!”

Ultimately, however hefty those bags may be on the homeward journey, John says game bird hunting all comes down to being a good sport.

“I have yet to find anyone this year who wasn’t enjoying the chance to be in the great outdoors pursuing this traditional sport with family or mates.”

PLEASE NOTE: dates for the game bird season depend on region and species – see fishandgame.org.nz for further information.

6 — Rural Living — June 2017

Farm working week shorter i t’s said a man’s work is never done but farm workers are working less hours per week than they did 12 months ago.

According to the 2017 Federated Farmers-Rabobank Farm Employee Remuneration survey, which this year collected information from 914 respondents on 2834 positions, the average number of weekly hours being worked by entry level staff on dairy farms has reduced from 43 to 42 hours.

Federated Farmers employment spokesperson Andrew Hoggard says it is the second consecutive drop with an average of 45 hours recorded two years ago.

“This is good because it reflects a higher per hour wage, but also suggests that some farmers are becoming better at managing their rosters.

“Farming requires hard work at certain times of the year and that’s unlikely to change, but generally staff should be working reasonable hours to enable a work/ life balance.”

The survey also found the use of employment agreements had increased

over the last year.

“Having a written employment agreement for all staff is a staple of good employment practice and compliance with the law,” Mr Hoggard says.

“According to the survey, over 90 percent of permanent employees now have a written employment agreement with 96% compliance in the dairy industry.

“This is up on last year when 88 per cent of respondents had a written agreement.” Another key finding in the survey was the high percentage of employers who find it difficult to attract farm staff. .

Forty per cent of all farm work employers reported it was “not at all easy” or “not very easy” to recruit new staff although about 75% of all farm worker employers were satisfied with the performance and capability of the staff that they did employ.

“Recruitment, especially in the dairy and grain industry, is still proving difficult,” Mr Hoggard says. “This is reflected in the fact that there is still relatively high reliance on migrant labour.”

salaRies uP a smidgen A modest rise in farm employee salaries over the last 12 months has seen the mean salary for employees on grain farms increase by 2.3 per while the mean salary for workers on sheep and beef and dairy farms has increased by 1.8 per cent and 0.3 percent respectively.

The 2017 Federated Farmers-Rabobank Farm Employee Remuneration survey, completed earlier this year, found that despite small decreases in the mean salary of some of the 15 roles surveyed, overall mean salaries had risen for employees across all farming sectors.

Federated Farmers employment spokesperson Andrew Hoggard says it is positive to see farming salaries creeping upwards given the tough economic conditions experienced by farmers in recent years.

“Many farming operations experienced a difficult 2016 and as a result we weren’t expecting to see much movement in salaries from last year’s report, especially

given survey responses were collected in late 2016 and early 2017 at a time of low farm income.

“At the time survey responses were being collected, the recovery in dairy prices was well underway, however farmers were yet to see the cash-flow benefit materialise.

Sheep and beef farmers were also experiencing low returns over this period and this will have impacted farm employee salary decisions.”

The survey found salary rises were more common for junior positions and there was also quite a big jump in salary for shepherds on sheep and beef properties – a four per cent increase.

“Given other non-monetary benefits often make up a farm employees’ total package, such as food, accommodation and power, the total package provided to farm employees is still very competitive in comparison to other off-farm roles,” says Mr Hoggard. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Photo jeanette Nee

Red alert

R

for green fingered gardeners

ather than applause of approval, Yates Bravo will now be banned from use, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced. Along with a number of other ‘garden variety’, commonly-used fungicide products, Bravo faces a ban on manufacture in (or import into) New Zealand.

Approvals for at least four fungicide products containing chlorothalonil (Bravo, Greenguard and Guardall from Yates, and Tui Disease Eliminator) have been revoked, EPO CEO, Dr Allan Freeth, explains.

“We have issued [a] Red Alert to raise public awareness of the dangers of using products containing chlorothalonil, a broad-spectrum pesticide used to control fungal leaf diseases in vegetables, ornamental crops and turf. Chlorothalonil is acutely toxic, especially if inhaled, and is classified as a suspected carcinogen.”

He says the move follows a similar

European Union ban and a reassessment of chlorothalonil which found it posed unacceptable human health risks.

“Given the serious effects chlorothalonil can have on human health and the environment, initiating a Red Alert is another way for us to help protect New Zealand and New Zealanders from chemicals that we have concerns about.”

Approvals for other products (including

McGregor’s Black Spot and Fungus Spray, Watkins Fungus and Mildew Spray, and Taratek 5F) have been altered. They will be available only to trained and certified commercial operators.

From November 11, products containing chlorothalonil will either be banned from sale completely or restricted, as the case may be, Dr Fiona Thomson-Carter from EPA adds.

“It is important to note that these products do not make up an exhaustive list; they are only the products we are currently aware of. There may be others being imported or manufactured in New Zealand under the approvals process,” she says.

“If consumers are in doubt about whether a product contains chlorothalonil, they should check the label or ask the supplier.”

More information is available via epa.govt.nz.

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 7

No escaping leaf fall Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD

l

ooking out my window it’s easy to tell what time of year it is as I can see heaps of London plane tree leaves covering my back lawn.

During the 22 years we lived in Runciman Road, my main autumn task was raking up and disposing of about 10 tonne of London plane leaves.

At one stage, we had well over 30 of these trees on that property until we had to remove several. There were still a lot left behind, however, they are lovely spring and summer trees and were an absolute delight for all those years.

But, back to the present. Our new property has just two, although very large, plane trees and they are now inviting me to make a start on raking up tiers of spent leaves.

We intend to have the trees trimmed over winter to keep then under control for summer. The downside to this is, once trimmed, they seem to gain a new lease of life and within a season or two, are bigger than ever. Mustn’t complain, though; we do love our trees.

This past week PGG Wrightson has held autumn weanling sales at the Karaka Bloodstock Centre and although I can’t provide sales results (we went to print just ahead of the sales) I do hope these were good!

I saw a large number of weanlings on

“Our productive Pukekohe food bowl is too good to lose to housing.”

show at Alabar Farm two weeks ago and I must say they looked in fine condition. On talking to a number of breeders, they said that the great spring and good rainfall over summer kept the grass growing, hence such superb looking horses.

And, when it comes to land, I must tell you that I have continued to receive comments on my article of two months ago regarding saving our highly productive Franklin land from housing estates.

I am well aware that we need land for housing but, more importantly, we need land for food growing. Many experts claim it is some of the best soil in the world so

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let’s keep it. We don’t want all our veggies coming from Australia, do we? The Rural Living team will keep an eye on council moves in this direction.

Finally, I must congratulate H.R. Fisken and Sons on celebrating the company’s 60th anniversary.

I have been buying brood mare mix from Fisken’s for more than 20 years and have always experienced really great service. However, since selling the Runciman Road property our mare and foals have been grazed elsewhere – maybe one day!

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SUMMER CHALLENGES FACING LIFESTYLE BLOC

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

VET TALK

Please RSV or pukekoh

Arthritis in pets Dr Paul eason bvM&s MaNZCvs (surgery, emergency & Critical Care) Arthritis is a term that includes all forms of inflammatory disease processes in a joint.

The most common form we see is osteoarthritis (OA), with an estimated 20% of adult dogs and more than 60% of adult cats suffering from this condition.

In dogs, OA almost always occurs secondary to an abnormality (e.g. trauma, cartilage disease, anatomical fault).

Obese dogs are significantly more likely to develop OA and to be affected by it than normal weight dogs. In cats, often no initiating cause can be found.

It is more common and more severe in older pets.

A key feature of OA is the loss of articular cartilage, essential for normal functioning of the joint. Inflammation of the capsule around the joint leads to the production of inflammatory chemicals which worsen the condition.

The pain of OA varies. It often starts with a dull, aching

Severely arthritic hip of a dog joint pain that is difficult to pin down to one joint, and can lead to increasingly severe pain from progressively less stimulation.

Signs include limping, stiffness, gait-alterations, reluctance to exercise, muscle wasting, and physical changes to the joint such as swelling, pain, reduced range of motion, and crepitus (that crunching feeling on moving an inflamed joint).

OA is diagnosed by clinical examination, x-ray, sometimes joint fluid analysis, and in cats often by response to treatment.

Management involves a combination of therapies: ■ Weight control – important

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for all pets as it reduces the signs of arthritis, and the chances of developing it.

■ Exercise – should be reduced during flare ups of arthritic pain, to allow the inflammation to subside. In the long term, regular, moderate, controlled exercise may be beneficial.

■ Pain killers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs). These highly effective medications form the mainstay of OA treatment, but need to be used with care as they can have side effects. Other pain killers are also available.

■ Pentosan is a course of injections which may act to slow cartilage degradation.

■ Selected brands of glucosamine and chondroitin may benefit dogs.

■ Essential fatty acid (EFA) supplements (fish oils).

■ Stem cell therapy is a very new treatment for the management of OA, involving extracting and activating the stem cells from fat, then injecting these back into the affected arthritic joints.

■ Surgery can also be used to treat some patients, e.g. stabilising a cruciate-damaged

CHICKEN MITES Infestations of chicken mites will be seen on chickens as damaged combs and skin, scaly legs and feather loss.

Powders can be used to treat chickens. However, eradication of the mites can be challenging due to the presence of mites throughout the housing. Removal of bedding, thorough cleaning and treatment of the hen house followed by re-treatment in 7-10 days is essential.

joint, fusing a severely arthritic joint, or even removing a joint completely.

OA is common and unpleasant.

It is also manageable in almost every patient, so talk to your vet if you think your pet may be affected or feel free to call us if you have any queries.

Got an emergency?

Franklin Vets Papakura and Pukekohe are open 7 days and late nights.

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

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 9

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

Over

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the gate

Pukekohe

Allan Fong the fresh grower

To Pukekohe market gardener, Allan Fong, fresh thinking is a way of life. Then again, as his business (run with his brother, Colin, and wife Loretta), The Fresh Grower, was established by his grandfather and father, it’s literally been part of the local landscape for decades.

This month, we chat with Allan about what it takes to enjoy the sweet taste of success.

Where is your produce available? Do you plan to keep expanding into markets worldwide?

However, in some cases – such as in arid or challenging conditions – there could be some merits in growing GM crops to feed a growing population.

It’s available throughout the North Island, and in the South Island through cafes, restaurants and the like. About 30 percent of our business is through food services.

We’re exporting to Hong Kong – to ourselves, to our own shop – and we’re working on a few projects, looking to export to mainland China as well.

Why did your grandfather and father choose Pukekohe as a place to set down roots and start the business?

They originally grew in Parnell and Panmure, back when there were market gardens out that way, but because of the suburban sprawl they moved here.

Pukekohe has unique soil qualities while being fairly frost-free and it’s in close proximity to Auckland, of course.

Late last year, you picked up the supreme award at the Australasian Syngenta Growth Awards. What has winning it meant for your business?

The awards covered three categories: growth, sustainability and community. We won the supreme award, which was quite a surprise! I think it’ll help make people more aware of our products and what we’re trying to do here. Hopefully, it shows that we’re on the right track.

What’s the secret to The Fresh Grower’s success?

Hard work; then again, everyone works hard! It’s probably because we’re bringing niche crops to the mainstream, introducing people to new products, new flavours, new textures and new ways of cooking.

Auckland Deputy Mayor, Bill Cashmore, said the most productive land in Franklin won’t be rezoned for housing. Has some of our best land already been destroyed to make way for new homes?

We can’t farm concrete! We hope our land won’t be rezoned as residential but there has been some good growing land which has been already. I suppose the carrot is too big. If land is rezoned, the price per acre becomes astronomical.

As the world’s population grows, more 10 — Rural Living — June 2017

food needs to be produced from less land. Are we getting the most out of the land we have available? Are we (in New Zealand) ahead of the game?

The world population is increasing at a net rate of 60 million per annum – that’s almost the population of the UK – so the pressure is on! We’re already producing smarter crops, which maximise yield per acre, and changing the way we farm in terms of minimal tillage.

I think we are keeping up with the game but environmental pressures – such as better management of nitrogen leeching, water disposal and soil erosion – are huge.

We’re well aware of them but commercial farming always comes with some impact, which is unavoidable. There is a tradeoff between having affordable food and environmental impact.

While GM (Genetically Modified) crops are not grown here, are there benefits to growing them elsewhere in the world?

I don’t think they’re necessary in our environment, here in New Zealand.

Considering the business has ‘grown’ quite substantially over the years, how much of a hands-on role can you and your brother, Colin, play in the business?

Are your children (Ryan and JJ) and nephews (Daniel, Cameron and Matthew) carrying on the family trade?

We’re both very hands-on, although the next generation is coming through.

Cameron and Matthew are at university while Ryan and Daniel are on the farm.

They all want to be involved. Cameron’s studying business, my son’s a chef, Daniel did some horticultural studies and Matthew is studying logistics, so together they cover a lot of bases for the business.

My daughter, JJ, is an actress; she helps us out too, though, with our blogs and Facebook and things like that.

Of all the produce the Fresh Grower produces what’s your favourite to eat?

Our baby cos lettuce or slender stem broccoli. It’s probably because we started with those two when they weren’t available in New Zealand.

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

A type of vegetable which would have www.ruralliving.co.nz

Pukekohe’s Fresh Grower, Allan Fong, presents his award-winning crops.

all the nutrients we need in one, while being easy to cook, great tasting and quite disease resistant. Fighting pests and diseases is always a challenge for us.

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

I would try and put something in place to incentivise more young people to come into agriculture and horticulture.

Food production is essential and, as the

population increases, it’s going to be a challenge to feed everyone. Preparing the next generation for this is crucial.

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

My dad is long passed now, but I think I’d like to invite him so he could see what we’ve achieved here.

Secondly, someone who represents the millennial generation who’s not involved in horticulture. We could then make them

Photo Wayne Martin

more aware of where their food comes from and the effort and energy involved in producing it.

Lastly, the UN Secretary General [currently António Guterres] or someone else who can make a real difference by putting their energies into more positive things, rather than wars and disputes. I see so much waste out there on a political level. If they divested their energy away from weapons into research, science and solving the food shortages, wouldn’t the world be a much better place?

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 11

newsbites

Three-peat for Wilcox I

n a classic case of history repeating, an AS Wilcox worker has secured the Young Veggie Grower of the Year title.

In front of a hometown crowd at the Pukekohe’s PIA Centre, Scott Wilcox claimed first place. From the fourth generation of ‘Wilcoxs’ working for the company, Scott is an assistant in the carrot growing programme.

“It’s a privilege to be at Wilcox. There is a high standard set and everyone is encouraging. Like the All Blacks, culture is key,” he says. “The competition has been a great opportunity to test my skills.”

During these competitions, practical and theoretical exercises are undertaken to demonstrate industry knowledge.

Scott was awarded top marks for best speech, pest and disease identification, and fertiliser knowledge and calibration.

Chris Cowie from T&G in Reporoa was first runner-up, followed by Shaun Reynolds from TA Reynolds, Pukekohe.

Scott’s prize haul includes a $2500 professional development tour to Australia and $1500 cash. He has also booked a place in August’s Young Grower of the Year competition. Success then will result in a shot at the Young Horticulturalist of the Year crown in November.

In 2015, Hamish Gates from Wilcox reached the Young Horticulturalist final which was won last year by another Wilcox lad, Andrew Hutchinson. Scott says their experience proved invaluable in preparing him for Young Veggie Grower.

“Hamish has just returned from his trip in America with even more experience and zest for the industry. They have both set perfect examples. The bar has been lifted.

much of a good thing can be deadly.

“Farmers will be thrilled to see crops or pastures shooting up after the rain, but it’s likely to be very high in nitrates. This can be fatal for stock if not managed and monitored properly.”

High soil temperatures speed conversion of ammonia to nitrate making more available to plants and cows, he explains.

“Overcast days stop the photosynthesis process and put higher nitrate levels in pasture, especially in the mornings and evenings, that’s why early afternoon grazing is better,” he says.

Some plant species, including rye grasses, brassica crops, maize and oats, as well as hay and silages derived from them, are more at risk of high nitrate levels.

Jeremy advises that paddocks should be tested if they feature fast growing crops, younger pastures (under 21 days’ rotation), or high soil temperatures in particular.

Scott Wilcox

Andrew was phenomenal last year; it’s tough to match his performances. But I will be giving it my best shot.”

To read more about Hamish and Andrew’s winning runs, see our OctNov 2015, Oct-Nov 2016 and Nov-Dec 2017 issues – e-editions accessible via ruralliving.co.nz.

Nitrate not great for bingeing bovines The weather may have delivered gorgeous conditions for cows but, Jeremy Klingender from Ravensdown warns, too

Cash injection for rural health Applicants are being sought for the $3000 Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) and Access Community Health Scholarship.

This is open to people working in health with rural connections, Fiona Gower (RWNZ’s national president) says. “[Past] recipients have ranged from paramedics to nurse practitioners... they have a common aspiration to undertake further training and develop knowledge so they can continue to provide quality health services in rural communities.”

Applications close July 1; details via ruralwomen.org.nz or access.org.nz.

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FED, FARMS AND

a

ccess to the right tools for the job could be restricted as farmers are caught in the crossfire from new gun control measures, Katie Milne from Federated Farmers fears.

“You don’t use an axe to cut down a tree when you can use a chainsaw,” she says.

“Pest control needs to be undertaken in an efficient manner.”

Ms Milne’s comments come in reaction to a parliamentary select committee recommending tighter regulations for semiautomatic firearms and permits when lending firearms to other licence holders.

Although any resulting regulations are intended to help stop guns falling into criminal hands, semiautomatic shotguns and rifles offer the most effective way of dealing with such farm pests as rabbits, hares and Canada geese, she adds.

“Police resources would be better spent enforcing the current Arms Act and focusing on the criminal gang activity and home burglaries that the inquiry was intended to address.

“The farming community, in fact all New Zealanders, are frustrated by poorly thought-out solutions to real problems that simply burden law-abiding citizens with unnecessary costs but do nothing to address the real causes of the problem.”

DitCh PitChes iN Pest control may be a goal of ministers in Wellington – the Government plans to make New Zealand ‘pest-free’ by 2050 – and yet, to Rural Living columnist, Ditch Keeling, it’s a way of life.

The pest control expert (from Coastal Pest Solutions) believes the select committee recommendations are a waste

www.ruralliving.co.nz

firearms

of time and money.

“This is a bewildering move against legitimate firearms use. Surely we all understand that laws only affect those that abide by them. There is no evidence to suggest that legitimate licence holders are responsible for gun crime, so why are we being targeted?” he asks.

“In my opinion, this move does nothing to address criminal [activity] but puts unnecessary burdens on licence holders and police.”

Although he believes restrictions on firearms use are necessary, exemptions should be made for responsible, lawabiding users.

“Semis are used for pest control because they are much quicker – nothing can be done as well with a single shot so operational efficacy would be reduced across the board,” he says. “Stats on accidents show [gun controls are] needed, but these recommendations are like placing a restriction on whether a hammer or a nail gun may be used by tradesmen!”

To help ensure this, Mrs Bennett has enlisted the assistance of Outdoors with Geoff’s Geoff Thomas, as well as firearm safety specialist and New Zealand representative shooter, Nicole McKee. “I’ll be working through our response to the report over the next few weeks,” she says. “Police are also keen to continue working with the firearms community through forums like the Firearms Community Advisory Forum.”

Nathan Guy (Minister for Primary Industries), declined to comment as to whether controls could hamper efforts to achieve targets of making New Zealand ‘pest free’ by 2050. However, a spokesperson from his office assures us that: “It won’t have any impact on the pest free target as that relies on a lot more than just bullets, including traps and new technology... it will rely, in part, on some technologies that probably don’t exist yet.”

The Government is encouraging the development of such new technologies through the Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, spokesperson confirms.

beNNett aND guY – uNDer the guN In response to Ms Milne’s comments, Police Minister, Paula Bennett, assures that the select committee’s recommendations are far from a done deal.

“I have had an initial look at the report and can already see a number of recommendations that will not be progressed,” she confirmed to Rural Living.

“I have a family full of recreational hunters and fishers so I understand where Ms Milne is coming from. My priority is to see fewer guns in the hands of criminals, not to unduly burden responsible firearms’ owners – including farmers.”

Rural Living — June 2017 — 13

Boston back from wild It can be a difficult task tracking some interview subjects down; when it comes to Sam Boston, it’s next to impossible! However, despite the logistical difficulties, JON RAWLINSON recently caught up with this intrepid local to chat about her work caring for wild animals in Borneo and the USA.

P

apakura’s Samantha (Sam) Boston may have had a fair idea of the work that awaited her in the jungles of Borneo but nothing prepared her for the heartache she experienced.

Since working with orang-utans at Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre late last year, she has developed a deeper understanding of the plight of these magnificent creatures.

“While I was in Borneo their conservation status was changed from ‘Endangered’ to ‘Critically Endangered’.

This is the final classification before they are deemed extinct in the wild,” she says.

“I learnt a lot about how people capture them as babies for pets, and of course how they are killed for the sake of palm plantations and other developments. I knew a lot of this already, but seeing it first-hand was devastating.”

Day-to-day, work involved feeding and plenty of cleaning to ensure sanitary conditions for the animals, many of which struggled with weakened immune systems. However, Sam says assisting with rehabilitation is crucial as many of the sanctuary’s inhabitants have been wrested from their native environment.

“Most of my time was spent ‘training’ the animals, taking them out into a copse of trees with a man-made jungle gym where each animal was monitored to ensure they were learning important skills such as climbing, swinging, nest-building and foraging.

“The sanctuary was amazing, but the animals we rescued came from pretty horrid conditions, and it was so sad to learn their stories.

Primarily caring for infants and youngsters under about eight years of age, the young veterinary nurse says she would like to return in a few years to see how much the babies have grown and progressed.”

Sam also came to better understand the plight of Borneo’s people – “visiting a third-world region was a stark reminder of how privileged we Kiwis really are.”

Despite widespread efforts to encourage Westerners to avoid purchasing products containing palm oil – which has massively

14 — Rural Living — June 2017

One of Sam’s charges from her last visit to Oregon.

damaged the orang-utan’s habitat – Sam says demand doesn’t seem to be reducing.

She remains convinced that education is crucial to ensuring animals such as orangutans don’t face extinction.

“During my visit to Borneo it was clear that (in general) animal welfare was not high priority for most people. Palm oil is a touchy subject because, for many, it’s vital to their livelihoods.

She says developing alternative revenue streams is also essential to ensuring the region’s people, and its government, free themselves from relying on a profitable, although destructive, practice.

“I would really like to see a rise in ecotourism. The more money we pay to support conservation efforts – by visiting sanctuaries such as the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – the more locals will realise how valuable their wildlife is and better see the need for it to be protected.

“Money dictates so much in this world, so if we can add economic value to conservation, it will be better supported.”

Oregon again...

When she returns to the USA soon, Sam Boston will be looking forward to meeting the locals. On the other hand ‘meating’ the locals is less appealing to her.

“My work will involve a lot of meat trimming and road kill collecting – which I don’t enjoy, but it’s for the good of the

wolves,” she reveals. “I’ll also be providing companionship... if they want it, that is!”

In July, Sam expects to rekindle relationships formed during two previous stints (in 2010 and 2014) working at Oregon’s White Wolf Sanctuary. She says she is looking forward to resuming old acquaintances and making new ones.

“Oregon is my second home, and the arctic wolves are my second fur family – next to my own pets. I’m expecting a warm welcome from the wolves and I can’t describe how excited I am to be seeing them again!”

While plenty of elbow grease will be required when cleaning or leading tour groups, Sam says providing companionship to these most noble animals will be her priority.

“Because they will never be released into the wild, we spend as much time with them as they demand. They seem to think of us as their servants; I think that’s just wonderful!”

Sam hopes politics won’t hinder (or ‘trump’) her best intentions to continue caring for endangered creatures.

“There is some worry that, with the change in government, wildlife will lose some support in the States. I suppose we will have to see what the upcoming years bring. However, while wolf culls still occur, in Oregon, people rally for wildlife protection, which is fiercely defended, as it should be worldwide.”

In addition to her travels to Borneo and Oregon, Sam has also worked with elephants in Thailand. Despite plans for her next trip to Kenya having ‘fizzed out’, she intends to keep working abroad in Africa, South America and Japan in the future.

However, she admits that there is a somewhat ‘selfish’ side to her altruistic endeavours; there is most certainly a reward for volunteering abroad.

“When I return from these excursions I tend to feel more balanced and grounded.

That helps me avoid taking the rat race too seriously.

“Spending time with wild animals, such as the wolves, definitely does this. There is something special about their presence; it’s very calming. It just puts life into perspective for me.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

Sam caring for baby Archie at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Borneo.

❝

To read more about Sam and her work, see our AprilMay 2016 issue via ruralliving.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June 2017 — 15

Septic Tank Owners ‘wiZZ’ Kids taKe How you can save money by keeping your septic system effective and healthy Pee at fieldays Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them.

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

A malfunctioning septic system can become a health hazard.

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

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

There are only three remedies.

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

Septi-Cure is cost effective.

By far the most cost effective solution is to pour one litre of Septi-Cure™ down the toilet bowl every six months. This simple action will help keep your system working at top efficiency by reducing solids and scum. Instead of emptying your tank frequently, the reduction in solids and scum saves you expensive pump out costs. Your irrigation field and leach lines will become clear of slimes and blockages so nature can handle the gradual seepage and evaporation for you. When this is happening your system 16 — Rural Living — June 2017

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:

l

ess MUN equals more mon-ey, not to mention less environmental damage, that’s the expectation CRV Ambreed is set to put to the test at this month’s National Agricultural Fieldays at Hamilton’s Mystery Creek Events Centre. Following a genetic discovery believed to reduce nitrogen leaching on farms by 20 percent within 20 years, the company has entered the Launch NZ Award category of the Innovations Awards at Fieldays.

The daughters of bulls marketed under the LowN Sires brand are expected to have a reduced concentration of Milk Urea Nitrogen (MUN) – a measure of the amount of nitrogen contained as milk urea.

CRV Ambreed manager, Mathew Macfie says there’s overwhelming evidence of a direct connection between MUN and the amount of nitrogen excreted in urine.

“We thought what better place to showcase this than at the Innovation Awards. This discovery, made through five years of research, will help provide tools to meet environmental compliance through breeding – all within the standard AI (artificial insemination) mating programme.”

The company’s genetic discovery should be a game-changer for the dairy industry, Mr Macfie adds.

“We’re pretty excited at CRV to have made this discovery and to be working with others in the industry to further test and confirm the genetic development.”

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While the jury may still be out as to whether androids do indeed dream of electric sheep, it seems many an American farmer has been dreaming of riding an electric bike.

Since winning an Innovations award at Fieldays in 2014, Ubco’s electric farm bike – a world first – has captured the imaginations of rural sorts all the way over in the USA. A recent deal with Oregon-based technology entrepreneurs, Bob and Ethan Ralston, should secure a foothold into the American market and open doors to further export opportunities, company CEO, Timothy Allan says.

“Having their experience and knowledge available to the company will be invaluable, and their ability to lead the US investment deal has already proven to be a success,” he says.

Designed in New Zealand, the electric Ubco 2x2 is a whisper quiet utility vehicle which embraces portable energy.

“The combination of a lightweight frame, powerful and near silent motors, and a stateof-the-art Lithium-Ion battery that not only fuels the bike, but charges tools on the go, means that the Ubco 2x2 has more than filled the brief of replacing the common farm bike.”

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 17

High times ahead for hemp?

W hile debates continue to rage regarding medicinal marijuana, the seeds of a new industry appear set to

be sown.

An agreement between New Zealand and Australian food safety authorities effectively gives hemp seed the green light seeing it legalised as food, Food Safety Minister David Bennett confirms.

“This is an exciting new industry for New Zealand. Low THC-hemp seed is nutritious, safe to eat and will add to the economy. Hemp seeds have a growing global market currently worth around $1 billion. It is estimated it will initially generate between $10 million and $20 million in export revenue and create about 20 jobs.”

The agreement allows production of hemp seeds with safe levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol (or THC) - the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis. As the seeds don’t require fertiliser or irrigation, Mr Bennett expects

crops will yield farm gate revenue between $4000 and $5000 per hectare.

However, as the new standard requires changes to the Food, Misuse of Drugs, and Medicines Acts, it may be up to 18 months before Kiwis can legally sow seeds of the green, green grass at home.

Mack hits back Although David Bennett seems pleased with the removal of restrictions on

growing hemp seed, others are less than impressed. Mack McIntosh, chair of NZ Hemp Industries Association Inc (NZHIA) says the agreement is a baby step rather than a giant leap forward.

“After 18 years of consultation, the food ministers are still treating [it] like a drug crop and only allowing hemp seed foods,” he says.

The root of Mr McIntosh’s disappointment is that the changes only relate to seeds, rather than the plant as a whole, including leaves and flowering tops.

“The high value nutrition potential is massive, phenols to fragrances are available from this one arable crop, [but] our farmers want access to the revenue streams from the whole plant, not just the seed,” he adds.

“This is a massive missed economic opportunity. In a short time we could have been leading the world! And, all sorts of industries would have developed not just in the seed and grain industry.”

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Pest control opportunities

game bird season

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

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only be controlled during the game bird season or by obtaining a special permit from Fish & Game at all other times of the year.

The rules and regulations governing game bird shooting vary from region to region so it’s well worth having a good read of the 2017 Gamebird Hunting Guide available online at www.fishandgame.org. nz and also from most fishing/hunting supply stores.

Game bird licenses for adults cost $20 for a single day or around $91 for the whole season. If you occupy the land you intend to shoot on then no license is

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required but be sure to read the hunting guide before you start as there appears to be a whole lot written on the subject of who qualifies as an “occupier”.

If engaging someone else to do the work, remember that ultimately the responsibility falls on you, the landowner, so you need to be certain of the quality of your shooter.

Make the most of this season, Pooks and Paris are not usually the greatest eating, but you need to get them on the table before you find that out. As always, feel free to drop me a line to talk it through.

Email: info@coastalpestsolutions.co.nz • www.coastalpestsolutions.co.nz 11655

he 2017 game bird shooting season started on May 2 and even those not normally interested in bird shooting, should note that the formal game bird season presents pest control opportunities that don’t exist at any other time of the year.

I can already hear the gasps of horror from all you bird lovers but believe me, for every bird lover there is a property owner having their paddocks, ponds, crops and gardens pillaged by excessively high numbers of game birds gone bad.

By far the most common culprits are paradise shellducks (Tadorna variegate) and pukeko (Porphyrio porphyrio). Both of these native species have benefited immensely from land clearance and their populations have increased as result of there being simply more ideal habitat for them now, than ever before.

Paradise shellducks spend much of the year in pairs but then gather in large groups for the annual moult during December-February. Extensive paddock damage and fouling of troughs is often the result.

Pukeko are extremely successful breeders and even small numbers can multiply to become problematic in a very short time frame. Paddock damage, predation of other birds’ chicks, fouling of troughs and damage to new plantings are common problems associated with an increasing pukeko population.

Both of these species are classified as game birds, meaning that they can

Rural Living — June 2017 — 19

E KOH K E PU CARRIERS Ltd

28 Alpito Place, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 1497 pukekohecarriers@xtra.co.nz www.pukekohecarriers.co.nz

More Than 30 Years of Quality Transport

E KOH K E PU CARRIERS

year old From one 60 another business to ons congratulati Sons!

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Twice daily service from Auckland – Takanini, Papakura, Drury, Paerata and Pukekohe Daily service from Pukekohe Depot – Patumahoe, Glenbrook, Waiuku and Otaua Buckland, Tuakau, Pokeno and Bombay

Supplying high performance animal feed for 60 years 15737

Tuakau Grain Feed Mill, 104 Bollard Rd, Tuakau Ph 09 236 9624 • sales@milkwel.co.nz www.milkwel.co.nz 15724

Congratulations on 60 years.

Proud to be the bank for H.R. Fisken & Sons Limited.

Got any banking questions? Ask us today.

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20 — Rural Living — June 2017

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H.R. FISKEN AND SONS LTD

Horse power

7 1 0 2 1957

– the fisKens’ stoRy

Who are the Fiskens? It’s a simple, yet most profound question. And, it would take a lot more than one article to even begin to answer. HR Fisken & Sons may be widely known throughout Franklin as suppliers of high quality animal feeds but what lies behind the company is a rich history, and a most interesting chap, too, as JON RAWLINSON discovered.

i

PR NE OD W UC T!

t’s 1926; Bob ‘Fuff’ Fisken’s heart is in his mouth. This butcher boy’s going the distance – sulky and all – as his American-bred trotter, Peterwah, thunders him down the home straight.

This harbinger assures Fuff’s place in history, bagging victory in the Dominion Handicap at Addington, becoming the first to complete the two mile race in four and a half minutes. But his victory heralds much more than that.

It’s Fuff’s passion for horses which was to fuel a similar fervour in his son (Harold ‘Chappy’ Fisken), his grandson (Graham) and, today, his great-grandson (John). The result is Buckland business, HR Fisken & Sons, which has stood the test of time.

“Poppa [Chappy] actually started the business 60 years ago, but in a way it’s his dad’s legacy,” says John Fisken, director of the present day HR Fisken & Sons. “Sure, we may now sell a wide range of animal feeds, but old Fuff’s passion was the driving force and where it all began.”

There’s no shortage of men to see about horses when writing for Rural Living, but few talk with such zeal about

Bob (aka Fuff) Fisken.

all things equine – or family history – as John.

“Chappy carried on Fuff’s passion for harness racing and was a successful trainer and driver in his own right. He had his horses here – he was right into trotters – but there was nowhere nearby with good feed. He started bringing up quality oats from the South Island. People

wanted to know where he got his feed, so he thought ‘I’ll build a shed’. It went from there.”

While the business may have grown from roots set down by Chappy, his son Graham and his wife, Marie, developed it further, even leading the way into diversifying the business as a saddlery.

Continued page 23

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 21

ADVANCE TYRE & ALIGNMENT

Congratulations HR Fisken & Sons Proud to be part of your transport team!

Proud to be associated with HR Fisken – congratulations on 60 years in business • Car, Truck, Tractor Tyres • Punctures • Wheel Alignment Specialists • Specialists in Light & Heavy Truck Balancing Hours: Monday-Friday 7.30am-5pm, Saturday 8.30am-12 noon

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Congratulations H.R. Fiskens and Sons on 60 years in business

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

Congratulations to Fisken and Sons on 60 years in business

TO CELEBRATE H.R. FISKEN AND SONS 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS WE ARE OFFERING

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H.R. FISKEN AND SONS LTD

Celebrating 60 Years

Left - Geoffrey, Chappie, Robert, Una & Roma Fisken. Right – an early photo of the Fisken property on Tuakau Road.

From page 21 “Dad’s still here; he’s really helpful,” says John, who now runs the business. “Of course, we’ve seen plenty of changes.

When I was growing up, the shed was dark and dusty, like a 19th Century cotton flax mill! Mum and Dad have done a hell of a lot to improve the whole customer experience. They were schoolteachers and have always been really good with people.”

The nature of Fisken’s customer base has also changed.

“When I was little, the bags of pig feed were 62.5kg – that’s hard to lift when you’re a kid. Then it went to 50 kg, then 40 and now we’re at 25. I guess mankind’s getting weaker and weaker! In all seriousness, it’s really because of the changing needs of our customers. These days we service the lifestyle market as much as larger farmers and breeders.”

johN takes the reiNs Locally born and bred, John Fisken settled down to work fulltime for the family business in 1997. However, before that he had more than just a few wild oats of his own to sow. From large scale grain farms in the United Kingdom, to waiting tables

in Austria, and even working with the UNHCR – (the UN Refugee Agency) in Bosnia and with Mother Teresa in Calcutta, John’s was far from the typical OE. “Probably the most important lesson I learnt was ‘don’t step into a minefield’, but I guess that’s not so much of a problem around here!” he laughs.

This Massey Bachelor of Agriculture graduate also spent some time on the West Bank. “Having some Israeli soldier cock his M16 and point it at my chest was certainly interesting! I can tell you, the size of the bore on those things seems much bigger when you’re looking down the barrel of one! That was actually after I’d started working here. I had three weeks’ holiday, you see.”

John doesn’t go into much more detail.

He tells me those are stories for another day.

“A lot of my experiences didn’t really have much (if anything) to do with horses or even farming but they helped me understand the world a lot better. It meant, when it came time to come home for

good, I was ready.”

During John’s time, in particular, Franklin itself has changed. However, he remains resolute that HR Fisken & Sons is staying put.

“Houses are steadily marching towards us but I just wouldn’t move. That’s it!”

Although it’s too early to Bob Fisken tell whether John’s children, Sienna (12) and Lulu (10), will carry on in his footsteps, they are most certainly keen on horses and, in some ways, already developing at least one business strategy.

“Lulu’s always telling me I’m too soft.

She says ‘you need to be tougher, Dad’, and that’s the youngest one! I don’t know if they will take on the business but they definitely love horses. They’ve even made up a rap song which goes something like: ‘We want a pony, yeah, we want a pony, yeah, we want a pony... oh yeah!’ along with a bit of beat boxing too! That can get rather annoying on a long car journey!

“I feel like the ‘mean dad’ sometimes, but Sienna has ballet five afternoons and nights a week. Maybe, one day, when they’re a bit older. We’ll see.”

Liquid supplement containing Glucosamine, Chondroitin & Biotin suspended in Omega Oil for bone & joint health, mobility & hoof condition in horses.

For more info phone 0800 848 276 or visit www.palamountains.info/equine 15770

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June 2017 — 23

CAFÉ

KAOS

Mid W inter

Happy 60th birthday from our free range chickens, the KAOS crew and our loyal customers who love our eggs!

Christtymas Par

Rob Blyth. 0272940413. thank you

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Congratulations on reaching the milestone of 60 successful years in business!

www.alexandrapark.co.nz Congratulations to HR Fisken & Sons on 60 years in business, and thanks for your great support of Harness Racing in Franklin.

Proud suppliers to HR Fisken and Sons

Broadlands Lucerne Chaff ROB BLYTH | P: 0272 940 413 E: broadlandschaff@gmail.com

Suppliers of chaff for horses 15796

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Pure Oil NZ proudly supply HR Fisken locally grown, cold pressed, GE Free Rapeseed Oil, for inclusion in their range of quality equine feeds.

LEG UP_Performance_print.pdf

Congratulations to HR Fisken for celebrating 60 years in business! All the best from the Pure Oil NZ team in year five!

1

30/09/16

Congratulations to the HR FISKEN TEAM celebrating 60 years of business in the Franklin District!

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24 — Rural Living — June 2017

Virbac NZ | Phone: (07) 849 6782

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H.R. FISKEN AND SONS LTD

Celebrating 60 Years

Feeding the need W hile HR Fisken & Sons started out selling horse feed 60 years ago, today the company offers much more.

“Our core range is still horse feed – and calf feed to dairy farmers – but we’re even selling dog and chicken feed now. The range has grown gradually. We now have feed for almost any type of animal you can imagine,” John Fisken says.

Asked how much the right feed plays in turning horses (whether gallopers, harness racers, equestrian horses, or jumpers) into champions, he laughs and says: “You’d like to think it makes a huge difference, that’d make a good story.

Put it this way, if the horse doesn’t win, it’s generally down to the feed; but if it does, it’s really down to the horse and the trainer.”

Far from simple oats, which made up John’s grandfather’s original feeds, today’s varieties are developed with the assistance of experienced nutritionists to help ensure all the right nutrients are delivered in one.

“The big difference between our feed and many others is that it’s made fresh every day. Some feed is made to last such as plutonium, but this stuff is natural,” John explains.

“Having said that, no horse feed really is ‘all natural’, if it was it would be grass, and you can’t race on grass; well, you can race on grass, but you know what I mean!”

John says Fisken’s new Ultra Low GI feed is a good example of the company’s modern scientific approach.

“Unlike grain-based feeds where starch is the energy source, Ultra Low GI

www.ruralliving.co.nz

The Fisken ‘family’ today: John (front, second from left) with staff and family.

provides ‘Super Fibres’, which give horses a gentle and reliable source of energy. It’s especially well suited to horses intolerant of grain.”

In addition to feed, Fiskens has made a name for itself as a saddlery, sourcing and stocking top quality products, from saddles and tack to clothing.

“I remember Poppa [Chappy] sitting on the steps of the office chatting to people who had to get past him to go in. He saw that,when they bought their feed, they’d often want something else. He had huge experience with racing gear, so he knew exactly what we should be selling.”

The Fisken’s saddlery range has also increased markedly over the years.

“Just in the last year, the premises

Photo Wayne Martin

have been expanded greatly to meet growing demand. We try to source the best products and sell them for the most reasonable prices we can,” John says.

Ultimately, however, the secret of Fisken’s success comes down to its people – generations of them.

“There’s an old saying in which, if someone isn’t your number one fan, they’ll wish you ‘many staff’!” he laughs.

“I’m only joking, of course. A business is only as good as the people working in it and luckily we really do have an awesome bunch of people working with us who are almost part of the family. Some have been with us more than 20 years, and that makes a world of difference at the end of the day.”

Rural Living — June 2017 — 25

Win!

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

WiN! a Pure shaDe tWiN PaCk valueD at $163 Even during winter, the sun can damage our skin and our health. Fortunately, the NZ Sunscreen Company’s Pure Shade range not only protects from harmful rays, but it’s designed to moisturise, brighten, rejuvenate and firm skin all at the same time! Developed with natural, organic, Kiwi ingredients (such as Manuka Honey, Pohutukawa, Grape Seed and Kiwifruit), Pure Shade Moisturising Brightening Sunscreen (RRP $88) and Pure Shade Moisturising Brightening Antipollution After Sun Repair (RRP $75) are available now via nzsunco.com. Rural Living has a pack featuring both of these products to give away.

WiN! the ultiMate ChoColate Cookbook Chocolate and sugar go hand in hand, surely! Well, apparently not necessarily, as this book reveals. In The Ultimate Chocolate Cookbook, former MasterChef Australia host and Cosmopolitan magazine editor, Sarah Wilson, provides a bounty of recipes which allow us to quit sugar without also quitting chocolate. ◆ Sarah Wilson: The Ultimate Chocolate Cookbook | RRP $29.99 | MacMillan Publishers NZ

WiN! gooDNess beautY eNseMble Check out this gorgeous Goodness ensemble — Every Day Cream Cleanser packed with the nourishing apple extract, avocado and coconut oils to ensure skin is spic and span; alcohol-free Goodness Cool Mist toner, vegan-friendly, rich in antioxidants, free of nasties and with all the benefits of cooling aloe vera juice and coconut water plus extracts from chia, cucumber and celery. To cap it off we’ve included the new Goodness Every Day Moisturiser with SPF to shield your best asset from pesky UV rays. With avocado and certified organic chia seed oil to hydrate and nourish, use as an under makeup base and for lightweight year-round protection!

WiN! CouNtrY CaleNDar – for the love of it DvDs From the Kaipara Harbour to North Otago, the latest collection from iconic TVNZ show, Country Calendar tells the stories of Kiwis who make a living from their love of the land. Featuring a Christchurch lad come Northland fisherman, urbanites who have escaped to the country, and even a pig farmer from England, all of the right rural people featured on this DVD have one major thing in common... they do it for the love of it! DVDs can be purchased (RRP $29.99) via shop.tvnz.co.nz, however, Rural Living has THREE copies up for grabs.

WiN! joiNt aCtive CaPsules Jack jumped candlesticks but if your joints are aching then now’s the time to bone up on Good Health Joint Active with UC-II. If you are among the 50,000 plus Kiwis who suffer joint pain then this triple action formula, which helps preserve joints, regenerate cartilage and support bones, may be just the ticket. Using UC-II®, a natural form of collagen that forms the primary structural component in cartilage, Joint Active with UC-II® is designed to work with the immune system to deactivate cells that attack joint tissue, thus allowing the body to reduce inflammation and repair cartilage. Be in to win one of three 30 capsule packs of Good Health Joint Active with UC-II® (RRP $34.90). See www.goodhealth.co.nz.

For last month’s Rural Living winners visit www.ruralliving.co.nz/competitions 26 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

all go in the meRRy month of may Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS

g

osh the weeks are going fast and we are nearly at the shortest day so I am trying to be very positive about the fact that spring will be sprung in no time, but I fear, not before a lot of horrible weather has come our way.

Living at our new property experiencing the change of seasons promises to be great. In our old house we knew when spring was on the door step because the jonquils and daffodils all started to pop out of the ground. We have no idea what will pop up at this new property but it will be fun finding out.

On moving, we thought we had left behind London plane trees but we do have two huge plane trees here and they still have many leaves to fall. Thankfully, these trees are on the lawn and not the drive and there are only two!

This month I went to my sister-in-law’s significant birthday party held at her home in Clevedon. She is a wonderful gardener and to see what has been achieved over two years is amazing.

Driving home, I thought that with clever planting, all the new subdivisions we passed along the way could really look great if they were planted effectively rather than just featuring awful row on row of wooden fences.

This month we also had the chimney sweep in with the hope of putting our wood burner to work only to find out it is shot and we need a new one.

Reay’s new Santa Fe shutters just what she wanted.

We have required a lot of advice as the existing flue goes up through the highest point on our roof. Hopefully next month I can report on a ‘warm’ outcome.

Shortly after we moved into this house I decided that after having Santa Fe shutters in our former bedroom, I wanted to have the same in my new bedroom.

I duly contacted Kevens Curtains and luckily for us the store had a special on Santa Fe shutters. A consultant came out to measure up and the order placed.

Waiting has never been my strong point but I am happy to report that my new shutters are, of last week, installed.

Oddly enough I was talking to my Waiau Pa friend and she told me her shutters had arrived too and were ready to install. Unfortunately, for her, the

house she is building is not ready for shutters! But me, well, my home was ready and now all is done!

Mother’s Day was a great success too.

It was a real ‘me’ day. My daughter, who works at Cafe Kaos two days a week, was working there on Sunday so, to be with her, the family had to lunch at Kaos.

It was so much fun and because some of us were late it meant that the majority of customers were gone and we could all eat together – lots of fun.

We then went home and two of my nieces popped in to say, ‘Happy Mother’s Day’. They were my sister’s daughters and, as she is no longer here, I am the closest thing to their mother. A great day – I am so lucky to have such a special family, extended or whatever.

Roll on winter, or not!

Time For A Change?

Use My ESP - Experience, Support, Professionalism

M. 021 955 141 I E. c.cooper@barfoot.co.nz Papakura Office 09 298 8029 www.ruralliving.co.nz

13543-v3

Cherry Cooper Rural Living — June 2017 — 27

Transformed in every way With two degrees in hand – law and business management – Melanie O’Halloran’s interest in interior design was tugging her in a new direction. But busy with three children and a home-based in Alfriston business she was reluctant to tackle a third degree. Then she heard about the Nanette Cameron School of Interior Design at Te Tuhi Centre for the Arts. She told HELEN PERRY it proved to be a life-changer.

M

elanie O’Halloran’s eye for detail, her sense of style and a nose for bargains that look like they cost a lot more than a few dollars look set to make her a very clever interior designer – not to mention her latent talent developed when she undertook a Nanette Cameron interior design course.

“I’d long intended to study interior design and when we moved here [a hidden 1.3 hectare lifestyle property on a private Alfriston estate] I thought, this it, I’m going to do it. The options were the Unitec degree course, online study or the two-year Nanette Cameron course with a third optional year.

“The time factor for Unitec proved impractical and I didn’t want to do online because I felt it was important to interact with other people and talk through ideas. Nanette’s course was so well respected and it was also part time. With three children I needed to work around the family so I went for it and loved it.

The course was fun, interesting and challenging.”

28 — Rural Living — June 2017

Timing for her qualification couldn’t have been better. Melanie and husband Tim bought their little bit of country in the city four years ago and included were former stables, a condition of the early subdivision clauses which required the eight estate properties to be economically viable.

“Originally part of the Alfriston Stud, when the land was split up each property included a requirement to have stables, a mare and a couple of other horses.

Over time, conditions changed and most owners dispensed with the horses and took up other forms of income. We grow chestnuts – mostly cared for by WWOOFers (willing workers on organics farms) – and we have a strong pick-yourown season throughout most of April.”

With the stables redundant as a home for horses, Melanie and Tim saw other possibilities – a venue where friends and family could gather for special events and which could also double as an Air B&B or as personal guest accommodation.

With the design course under her belt, Melanie set her creative side to work

redesigning the 40 square metre space into a luxurious studio unit with en suite.

With a black and grey impact on the colour scheme she has created a robust, industrial loft look with strong emphasis on colour and pattern evident in the en suite’s walk in shower – a geometric splashback in shades of orange, black, grey, mustard and brown, making up one wall!

What is particularly impressive is Melanie’s innovative use of accessories, the result of astute buying and recycling.

“I did a lot of shopping at K Mart for smaller items which didn’t cost a lot but look terrific – whoever is doing their home wares buying is doing a stellar job. I’ve also picked up other gems from the likes of Bed, Bath and Beyond.”

And, indeed, even an experienced eye might find it hard to discern the difference between Melanie’s shrewd purchases and much more expensive items.

However, it is in the kitchen that she has achieved dramatic impact with a polished timber breakfast bar – the rimu slab handselected and fibreglass coated at Weka www.ruralliving.co.nz

From far left, the stables bed can be folded away to create party space; diamond shaped pendant light; en suite with eye-catching splashback wall; Melanie O’Halloran enjoying her new direction.

Photos Wayne Martin

Wood in Kingseat – plus a magnificent recycled fire surround, painted black and mounted on the bench top to frame the black-mirrored splashback then accentuated by brass firedogs.

On closer look, the dark grey ‘concrete’ bench tops are, in fact, laminate not that you’d know from a distance. Distinctive, diamond-shaped, black wood pendants lights hang from the high ceiling, their pattern duplicated in bracing Melanie designed for the breakfast bar.

Beautifully appointed, the marvel of the greater space is that the queen size bed can fold away leaving a generous party venue if so desired. And, it all opens to a north-facing, outdoor entertainment area.

“I’ve had a lot of pleasure, and fun bringing this together,” admits Melanie but says she has a bigger job ahead when she tackles the family home.

With the stables redundant as a home for horses, Melanie and Tim saw other possibilities – a venue where friends and family could gather for special events and which could also double as an Air B&B or as personal guest accommodation.”

❝

Although she has already re-designed the master bedroom, she may well be pushed for time when it comes to

devoting her energies to other rooms.

Not only has Melanie become a colour ambassador for Dulux Paints – “and I’m loving it” – she has also set up her own design business, Uptown Jane Interiors, loosely based on turning a ‘plain Jane’ house into an ‘uptown girl – “or, at least that’s the thought behind it,” she laughs.

With no thought of returning to law, Melanie says she’s just thrilled to be finally working in a domain that has attracted her for such a long time.

“And, really, it’s all thanks to the Nanette Cameron School of Interior Design in Pauranga. I learnt such a lot and I intend to do the third optional year at intervals to keep up with changing trends and ideas.

Really, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this training to anyone with an interest and flair for re-inventing spaces. It really has put me on a new career pathway.”

School encourages grand designs!

The Nanette Cameron School of Interior Design is an institution in east Auckland but more than that, the school, based at Te Tuhi Arts Centre in Pakuranga, is highly respected throughout the country.

From its beginnings in 1967, it has become a leading design education facility, instilling an understanding and appreciation of design in thousands of students.

Offering cutting edge courses that respond to contemporary practice the aim is to produce forward thinking designers who will shape the future of the industry in New Zealand. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Providing students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to create beautiful, personal and satisfying home environments, classes are taught by designers/teachers who are professionals practising in the field.

The course is suited to students keen to renovate their own homes or who are building new as well as to those seeking entry level positions in design practices, or a foundation for further study.

It consists of eight core modules, designed to be studied part time over two years at Te Tuhi. Each module runs

over nine weeks, with one 2.5 hour class per week, and include topics such as bedrooms and bathrooms, the art of lighting, the creative kitchen and the history of design and furniture.

A range of private home and industry visits with a design focus are available to students participating in any of the core modules. On completion, students are eligible to enrol in a further year of professional development with a predominantly ‘out in the field’ approach.

For enrolment enquiries and more information contact info@tetuhi.org.nz, phone 09 577 0138 or visit ncsid.co.nz Rural Living — June 2017 — 29

Milan expo – Setting trends

By Kim Reiche, renovation specialist/director, Refresh Renovation

Many items were curved and softer with the all important ‘comfort factor’ very much at the fore.

Coloured glass, bronze and copper dominated the hard materials, while walnut was still the preferred timber. Marbles, with stunning veins in lovely new blues and greens, were present across various brands.

Layout trends were cluster, cluster, and more cluster – coffee tables, lighting, a scattering of casual seating all allowed for more flexibility while a play on height and shape reflected light at different angles.

Look out for these trends in Auckland showrooms from October onwards.

T

he Salone del Mobile Milan at the Rho Fiera Milano exhibition centre, is the trade fair every design enthusiast should visit. The scale of the fair and its displays are mind blowing!

I have visited the fair on three occasions but, sadly, not this year.

However, our supply partners tell me it was as magnificent as ever.

This year’s fair, April 4-9, boasted more than 2000 exhibitors involved in the international furnishing industry including lighting and work spaces and the young emerging designers’ exhibition.

With a display area of more than 270,000 square metres, the Salone attracts about 372,000 visitors from some 165 countries and sets the trends for the next 12 months.

Tickets are reserved for trade industry specialists but it is open to the public on the Saturday and Sunday. So, put this on your bucket list!

On previous visits to the fair, there were definite annual trends in colour and texture which changed season to season.

However, the fundamentals of good design were also evident.

Granted, most offerings were high end in terms of dollars but they have helped me gain a greater understanding and appreciation for ergonomics, quality of materials and materials fit for purpose.

Suppliers such as Giorgetti, Minotti, Castelli and Moooi all display their

own style, flair and trademark detailing while maintaining scale and functionality in their products.

The quality displayed in double stitching, detailing of timber and the finishing of products and materials have all contributed to exceptional standards in terms of perfect pieces – almost works of art.

Debbie from ECC felt this year’s trends definitely had a 60’s feel in terms of colours and shapes. Muted tones in shades of green, blue and mustard brought a touch of “Twiggie” back into design.

She says furniture seemed smaller in scale, with rounded, more organic lines.

Over the next few months I will further discuss interior design trends but should you have any disaster areas which need our help, please feel free to send them through to us for a solution.

E: kim.reiche@refresh.co.nz

CONCEPT TO COMPLETION

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

Your Lifestore Store of Choice 0800 33 60 33

R e ta i l S to R e

www.refresh.co.nz

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

30 — Rural Living — June 2017

15355

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Trend alert

– it’ all about automation

K

iwi homeowners love automation and many have taken to motorised window treatments, recognising they are sophisticated, convenient and functional.

Alisha Butts from Kevens Curtains says motorised curtains and blinds are becoming more commonplace as homeowners embrace time-saving, smart wiring systems.

“The demands of modern living require that we fit so much into our day, it seems we have less time than ever. There’s even a name for it – we’re time poor. With home automation, it seems technology can perform the role of hired help, ensuring many tasks are done at the touch of a button such as drawing the drapes or lowering the blinds!

“And when it comes to curtains and blinds, this new age of automation can solve many problems. For example, motorised curtains and blinds are great for hard to reach windows or where there is a

lot of glass to be covered.

“Modern homes with big windows and stacking doors can be very transparent and that’s fine if there is plenty of privacy but where homes are close together, window coverings are usually a must – motorised blinds and curtains just make life very easy.

“How lovely to open and close the curtains while still lying in bed and so convenient for elderly or bed-bound patients. Drapes can be drawn in multiple rooms quickly and efficiently, even remotely which means returning home to a welcoming environment. And, with less handling of the fabric, curtains and blinds stay clean longer.”

Alisha adds that motorisation also eliminates the need for chains or cords. If installed at the house building stage she says it’s easy to accommodate throughout but adds motorised window treatments can also be retrofitted and run on batteries. At the press of a button, blinds and curtains can be lowered or

retracted to any point, individually or as a specified room or area grouping.

Automation aside, there’s been a big swing to shutters in modern homes.

“Modern shutters come in a variety of finishes and are a real asset. They can be used inside or out, although these days interior shutters are all the rage. They can also be fitted as sliders, hinged or as stackers and add appealing character to a room or overall design.”

“Of course, at Kevens we handle and can advise on all manner of curtains, blinds and shutter requirements and our range of fabrics and finishes is outstanding. We deal only with the most reputable companies and just love helping clients to achieve window solutions they will love.”

To chat with a Kevens Curtains consultant, or to find out more about automated window treatments, pop into the shop in Queen St, Pukekohe or give the girls a call today on 09 238 9326.

FREE DRAPE MAKING ON NETTEX &

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 31

tips for bedside style

T

he bedside table it the first thing seen in the morning and the last thing seen before drifting off to sleep making it the perfect place to display pretty pieces and favourite mementos. Here are six ideas from Città to make the most of this space. ◆◆Bedside furniture – Mix and match bedside furniture to suit your needs. Stools and side tables make practical surfaces to arrange your bedside vignette. If storage is needed, choose a modern set of bedside drawers. Keep the look cohesive by choosing furniture in similar materials, such as oak. ◆◆Soft light for reading – Pendant lights hung above a bedside table are becoming extremely popular. They’re a great way to frame a bed, and hung at the right height, can provide a soft, ambient light for your bedside. ◆◆Framed art or memories – Inspiring art or special moments sitting pretty in frames will be the first thing you see in

➋

➌ ➊ the morning and the last thing you see at night, so make sure you love them. ◆◆Bedside blooms – Flowers add a touch of the outdoors and can help you sleep. No need to visit the florist each week, a simple single flower or cluster of foliage picked from your garden will look beautiful. Stick to smaller vases or even a glass to hold flowers next to the bed. ◆◆Trinket dish – Keep your precious items

➍

➎ close while you sleep. Dainty salt pinchers or decorative marble soap dishes make the perfect resting place for jewellery.

Keep a stack of books on hand; they make ideal platforms to display trinket dishes. ◆◆Vessel for water – Wake up refreshed with a mug, glass, pitcher or carafe beside your bed. We’re in love with our charming Mr & Mrs carafes – they make great bedside companions.

1. Ombre Table Lamp $299, Talo Mug $25.90, Artwork by Natalie Tozer, Sove Linen Pillowcase Pair $69.90, Flint Duvet Cover from $169, Cotton Velvet Quilted Bedspread from $359, Luna Wool Embroidered Cushion Cover $64.90, Marl Knitted Wool Blend Cushion Cover $69.90. 2. Contrast Light Shade $159. 3. Mr. & Mrs. Night Set $174.90. 4. Oak Linear Side Table $440. 5. Marble Soap Dish $16.90.

32 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

– pinnacle of hair care

W

hen Natasha Harris relocated Alberts Hair Salon to Pukekohe nine years ago she added an international dimension to the local hairdressing scene.

Her enthusiasm for her craft and her commitment to incorporating the latest techniques, products and services from overseas into the salon sat well with clients seeking expertise, experience and talent.

As a result she has gathered a loyal clientele who know she and her team will treat their hair as they would their own.

“During these past nine years in Pukekohe Alberts has evolved,” Natasha says. “Initially we hit the ground running and that hasn’t changed, nor has our commitment to ensuring each of our guests have beautiful, wearable, memorable hair. This truly is the essence of what Alberts is about.”

Though Tash has always had a clear vision of what she wanted Alberts to represent, she says: “it’s the choices we make that define us.”

“I have really enjoyed the way that Alberts has evolved, internally as a team, and also aligning ourselves with emerging companies which are pushing the boundaries of what it is to be an environmentally-conscious salon. By changing some of the little things we have managed to make a big difference.”

For example, Alberts prides itself in using Color.Me by Kevin Murphy, This range is PPD-free, ammonia-free and uses naturally derived sustainably sourced ingredients such as aloe vera, honey, shea butter and pomegranate.

“All the hair care products are paraben and sulphate-free and our Butter nail polish is free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, DBP, toluene, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, TPHP,” Tash says. “And we are obsessed with our superb Jane Iredale makeup range.”

“A destination for both women and men, Alberts remains a boutique salon offering believable colour and international trends,” Tash says.

“These amazing girls, who have so much talent and passion, inspire me every day with their dedication to our craft and their constant desire to learn more. And, all the while, they create the incredible atmosphere that I love to call Alberts.”

www.ruralliving.co.nz

The team at Alberts Hair Salon – from left, Devin, Tash, Chelsea, Zoryana, Anita and Ashleigh.

meet THE TEAM: ◆◆Tash – hair colour guru, precision hair cutting and creating believable colour, I love a great blow wave, the more volume the better.

◆◆Anita is your girl for bobs, lobs and beautiful colour. She creates amazing hair fusion from natural blondes right through to vibrant coppers, rich reds and ombre.

◆◆Chelsea’s hairdressing super power is creating beautiful, on trend hair colour.

Blonde, bronde, balayage, ombre – you name it, she’s your colour angel.

Chelsea is also your ‘go to’ girl for fun and funky party hair for that big night out.

◆◆Zoryana comes all the way from Ukraine and if you love an on trend, short pixie cut she is your stylist. She is super talented with the ability to also create great hair styles for those special occasions.

◆◆Ashleigh – our gentle little Aussie is a fantastic hairstylist and an expert when it comes to beautiful, on trend cuts and colours to suit you, your hair and your lifestyle.

◆◆Devin is Alberts salon apprentice and is fast becoming a colour expert.

She has a passion for creating fabulous blonde toners and, at the basin, her hands are from heaven.

Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe Phone 09 238 7576 www.alberts.co.nz Rural Living — June 2017 — 33

ball season the complete package for special occasions Natasha Harris from Alberts Hair Salon, Pukekohe talks about preparing for that glamour night out

I

t’s that exciting time of the year for many high school students. You’ve bought your dress and heels, booked the limo, and found a date (or you are ready for a great night out with the girls!)

Ball season is well upon us and for those who are in the market for fabulous hair and makeup for that special event, look no further than the incredibly talented team at Alberts Hair Salon.

We’ll make you look and feel even more glamorous than ever before regardless of whether you are off to a school ball, a wedding or an event. Our team can help you to stand out on your big day with these beauty and hair essentials, all at a special package value price of $230. ◆◆ Hair up (we recommend you wash your hair the night before your service) ◆◆Makeup application using Jane Iredale makeup ◆◆False eyelash application ◆◆Mini-lip colour for you to keep for your big night ◆◆ Mini hydrating facial spray – a perfect way to refresh your makeup once you have left the salon For appointments phone the girls at Alberts Hair Salon, 09 238 7576, 2/23 Hall Street, Pukekohe, www.alberts.co.nz

Thunderpants are go!

Thunderpants’ birds are all set for launch, as these latest designs show. Specialising in organic underwear and clothing, the Kiwi company is flying high with a collection of native birds for our bums, Thunderpants’ creator, Josie Bidwill (or is that ‘Birds-well’) explains.

“As a country, we have a real connection with our native birds; everyone has their favourite, so we thought what better NZ icon to put on a pair of Thunderpants?” she says.

Produced from fair trade certified yarn, these fabulous Thunderpants are available via thunderpants.co.nz.

Mane to measure

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

Hair today is (often enough) gone tomorrow for three or more Kiwi children who are diagnosed with cancer every week.

So, to help support Kiwi children fight this devastating disease, as well as their families, New Zealanders are being asked to don a bonnet (of a sort) and wig out on Wednesday June 21.

Schools and businesses are invited to take part in Wig Wednesday, which will see children and adults wearing wigs (borrowed, made or bought) in return for a donation to the Child Cancer Foundation.

For details, or to register, visit childcancer.org.nz.

01513

34 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Fat city faces facts w hile Auckland may be continuing to grow couch potatoes in increasing numbers, it seems the big city’s littlest inhabitants are busily bucking an alarming trend.

According to a new Healthy Auckland Together coalition report, the percentage of overweight and obese Aucklanders over 18 has risen to more than 61 percent (three out of five) in the last year.

However, the number of obese and overweight amongst four year olds actually dropped from 22 to 20 percent.

Analysing the reasons for this will help identify why Auckland is seeing this disparity between age groups, Coalition spokesperson, Dr Michael Hale believes.

“We need to find if this trend is a preschool blip that reverses as children get older,” he says. “Something positive is happening for pre-schoolers, but not being able to identify the causes makes it difficult to push for change to achieve the

same result for older children.”

Older children are more likely to become attached to screens and be exposed to less healthy food, he adds. The report also calls attention to a reduction in the number of five to 14 year-olds either walking or riding bikes to school.

With regards to adults, weight is

Win! the genetics of health

m

an was not made to ride in automobiles, fly in aeroplanes or even walk upright. Although the human species may have come a long way since our early days, we remain servant to our genes.

Surgeon and author, Dr Sharad P. Paul, looks to the links between everyday health and evolutionary biology to help us lead a life which best suits our own gene types.

To achieve better health, we need to understand our evolutionary past, the good doctor contends; while our genes carry an individual blueprint, wellness is possible.

Is cholesterol good or bad? How do we fight cancer? How does stress affect our health? The Genetics of Health seeks to answer these questions and many more.

To be in to win a copy of this book, enter via www.ruralliving.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries www.ruralliving.co.nz

close June 30, 2017. Winner notified by phone or email. ◆ Dr Sharad P. Paul: The Genetics of Health – understand your genes for better health | RRP $35 | Simon & Schuster

easier to gain and harder to lose. “This is exacerbated by environments that encourage sitting at work, in the car and at leisure, and poor quality snacking and [eating] meals out as well,” Dr Hale contends.

To view the report in its entirety, visit healthyaucklandtogether.org.nz.

Kiwi gyms in gReat shaPe

When motivating the average Joe to get their rear into gear, NZ exercise facilities are more effective than many abroad, new ratings suggest.

The latest Net Promoter Scores (a worldwide measure of customer satisfaction with gyms and other exercise facilities) reveal Kiwi providers scored an average of 70 out of 100, as opposed to the US at 43, and the UK at just 34.

Richard Beddie from Exercise NZ believes the results reflect our competitive market and business owners who go above and beyond. ”New Zealand is recognised as a global leader in the exercise industry and many facilities and professionals are highly regarded overseas,” he says. “[Owners] make a huge effort to ensure their customers receive dedicated assistance from highly qualified personal trainers.”

Rural Living — June 2017 — 35

Win! good health pack What sort of X-rays are used in dentistry?

By Yvonne Vannoort, The Dentist

D

igital X-rays have, for many years, replaced the old X-ray film, the advantages being that they require far less radiation, there are no chemicals involved in processing the X-rays, which is better for the environment, and they are easy to store and retrieve when needed. They also give better images that help in diagnosing problems too.

More recently, 3D imaging has become routine assisting in the understanding of all sorts of oral problems.

For example, this 3D imaging is used to check the degree of difficulty of removing wisdom teeth.

Other sorts of X-rays you will come across include: ◆◆Bitewings. These are used as routine images to check for decay in teeth about every 18 months to two years. ◆◆PA is short for periapical. It means to look around (peri) the apex or end (apical) of a tooth root. This is used to look for infection around a tooth root. ◆◆OPG is the abbreviation for orthopantomogram. This is used to look at all the teeth and around the roots of the teeth. It also shows the bone of the upper and lower jaws, the jaw joints and sinuses. This is useful for orthodontics to see how permanent teeth are replacing baby teeth.

There are more types of X-rays, but whichever is needed, they are taken with care to ensure they are necessary and are the best option to provide the information needed. In addition, lead aprons are used to protect clients from radiation.

Remember, when at the dentist, ask to see your X-rays and have them explained to you – you will be as fascinated as we are!

You should love visiting

As winter bites and colds and flus come out to play, we can’t just bury our heads at home and wait out the season.

Fortunately, Good Health has assembled a veritable arsenal of products intended to help defend us against the woeful conditions the freezin’ season brings.

The latest addition to its Viralex range, Kids Immune Chews (RRP $20.90 – 60 tablets) are designed to ensure less days off daycare and school by helping boost children’s immune systems. With no artificial colours, flavours, sweeteners or preservatives, these berry flavoured, chewable tablets are embossed with a cute kiwi to provide a spoonful of sugar (metaphorically speaking, that is!) to help the medicine go down.

Viralex also offers assistance to the entire family with: ◆◆Everyday Immune Support – to build the body’s immunity year-round (RRP $24.90 for 30 capsules / $44.90 for 60) ◆◆Attack Rapid Immune Defence – when those first signs of winter ills set in (RRP $28.90 for 30 capsules / $49.90 for 60) ◆◆Soothe EpiCor Throat Lozenges – to help alleviate irritated, dry throats and blocked noses (RRP $14.90 for 20 lozenges) Rural Living has a prize pack (valued at almost $90) featuring these four products. Enter the draw at www.ruralliving.co.nz.

One entry per person/ email address; entries close June 30, 2017.

Winner notified by phone or email.

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

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

New client consultation $168 Includes: • Full mouth xray plus two bitewing xrays • Full mouth examination • Treatment planning

Ph (09) 522 0652 • Fax (09) 522 0435

Contact us now for your appointment 13201-v2

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

www.the-dentist-pukekohe.co.nz

36 — Rural Living — June 2017

plassurg@ihug.co.nz • www.plastic-surgery.co.nz Level 2, OneHealth Building, 122 Remuera Road, Remuera, Auckland

00431

www.ruralliving.co.nz

love is sPelt

T.I.M.E. by jenny tibbotts, suits & gumboots Country Daycare

P

arents often confide in teachers about problems they are having with their children at home. A common theme is parents seeking solutions for their children’s behaviour e.g. hitting, being rude and general mischief.

The key to a solving such problems is to give children your attention because your attention makes your child feel loved.

Children crave your attention and will demand it in whatever way gets the biggest response. Unfortunately, children who need the most love will ask for it in the most unloving of ways.

A child who craves attention from parents will likely draw on the walls or throw their toys… they will do anything for your attention. Positive or negative is irrelevant to the child, they just know when they did the action they received attention.

The Five Languages of Love by Gary Chapman explores five ways that people show love and what makes them feel loved.

Each person has their own preferences of what makes them feel loved and how they like to express love. For children, feeling loved makes them happy, resilient and a pleasure to be around.

The love languages are: ◆ Quality time: Spend some time together every day; play a game, go on an adventure or watch a movie together. ◆ Physical touch: cuddles, high fives, kisses or any sort of physical contact. ◆ Gift giving: Some people feel loved when they are given a gift or surprise; give your child a flower or a shell. ◆ Words of affirmation: Praise your children and tell them how wonderful they are. ◆ Acts of service: Do nice things for your children such as helping with a chore or task.

Try to figure out your child’s particular love language and then provide the positive attention craved. When you get it right, your actions will mean the world to them.

Suits & Gumboots Country Daycare 12 Helenslee Rd, Pokeno.

46 Waerenga Rd, Te Kauwhata Phone 0800 464656 www.suitsandgumboots.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Win! a maRion day twin PacK Some days are tougher than others, especially for a couple of characters created by multi award-winning children’s author, Marion Day, as these two new releases reveal. The Little Feijoa Tree wonders why she’s different from all the other trees in the garden; will she ever have fruit of her own? Meanwhile, Black Shag may have survived a storm but can she save herself from the incoming tide; can she dry her wings in time?

With both of these books, Marion (once again) draws on nature as her muse with stories designed to entertain and inspire little ones. To read more about Waiuku illustrator, Jane Thorne, see Rural Living’s May-June 2016 issue via ruralliving.co.nz.

To be in to win a twin pack featuring copies of both these books, enter via the competitions tab at ruralliving.co.nz. One entry per person/email address; entries close June 30, 2017.

Winner notified by phone or email. ◆ Marion Day: Black Shag and The Little Feijoa Tree | RRP $19.99 each | AM Publishing

win! that’s not the monsteR we oRdeRed At the risk of ending up in the doghouse with his partner, one of our writers says he can completely relate to this title! However (unsurprisingly), matrimonial moans are not the focus of this particular children’s book by the authors of My Grandpa is a Dinosaur.

In their latest book, Richard Fairgray and Terry Jones (of Monty Python fame) present a picture book bursting with wacky humour and clever illustrations.

When the Turner family gets a monster as a useful pet, everyone wants their own.

Unfortunately, the monster we order isn’t always the monster we’ll get!

To be in to win a copy of this ◆ Richard Fairgray & Terry comical tale, see www.ruralliving.

Jones: That’s Not the co.nz/competitions. One entry Monster we Ordered | per person/email address; entries RRP $19.99 | Picture Puffin close June 30, 2017. Winner (NZ Juvenile)/Penguin NZ notified by phone or email.

Rural Living — June 2017 — 37

Local author talks of tales Author, Elaine Blick, is no stranger to turning to new chapters in her life. Shortly before the release of her latest novel (Hearts Set Free – at Chapters in Pukekohe, the Clarks Beach local spoke to JON RAWLINSON about her past and, importantly, her process.

I

n an age where an almost limitless stream of entertainment is just a few clicks away, it can be easy to forget that behind every great story is a writer.

While Elaine Blick says she enjoys reading, often enough she makes her own fun.

“I write novels simply because I enjoy writing. I’m an avid novel reader and try to write the kind of book I myself would like to read. I look forward, each day, to settling back into the story,” the Clarks Beach author says.

“Before beginning a book, I usually have a rough idea of the direction it will take, but the twists and turns of the plot often surprise me as they are dictated by the characters and the relationships that develop between them. It’s like watching a play unfold on the page.”

Of course, tales can be told just as well through modern devices. And yet, this England-born, New Zealand-raised novelist believes there is no definitive substitute for the tangibility of a book.

“I know we live in a technological age.

I do own a Kindle and download many books, but I still prefer to read a printed book and turn the pages. There is nothing I like more than settling down with a book at the end of a day.”

Rural Living first spoke with Elaine a few years back – see our Aug-Sept 2014 issue, accessible via ruralliving.co.nz. Since then, she has published her fourth work of fiction, First Names Only, and her fifth, Hearts Set Free is set for release soon – see secondary story.

When seeking inspiration, Elaine says

Before beginning a book, I usually have a rough idea of the direction it will take, but the twists and turns of the plot often surprise me as they are dictated by the characters and the relationships that develop between them.

It’s like watching a play unfold on the page.”

❝

she need only look out her window or into her past. First Names Only borrows from both.

“My surroundings inspired several chapters. I drew from memories of Clarks Beach as it was in the ‘60s, when baches were almost the only dwellings near the beach. Those were halcyon days for holiday makers and I think this book contains a wistful note for the past.”

Published in 2015, First Names Only tells the story of a young, unmarried mother in the 1960s. Elaine’s mother worked at Childhaven – a home for unwed mothers in Epsom – for many years.

“Throughout my youth, I knew many of the young mothers and their stories, so the book is written from an authentic background. I think First Names Only

struck a chord with women who had been in the same situation in particular.”

Specific people from her past have graced Elaine’s pages; however, as her books are works of fiction, she’s careful to ensure that connections aren’t too obvious.

“The one book where I did draw heavily on characters I knew was Where the Bellbird Sings. They were mostly teachers from a school where I taught. I thought they would not be recognisable as this was 50 years ago and I had changed names and the location, but someone identified them,” she says.

“After that, I’ve been careful not to model my characters on actual people.

Even though they’re only used as a starting point and for some characteristics, people can be upset by this.”

Born in England, Elaine moved to New Zealand aged five. The former teacher has lived in both counties since. Although she doesn’t write for money or adulation – more for the love of the game – her novels have met with some success here and abroad.

Above all, she believes everyone should share their stories.

“Many New Zealanders are discovering the satisfaction of seeing their personal stories in print. Even if their books are read only by their families and friends, it’s important to make a permanent record of their unique experiences,” she says. “After all, it’s our individual experiences which make this world such an interesting place in which to live.”

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38 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Facts about fiction – Clarks Beach’s Elaine Blick with her latest novel, Hearts Set Free.

Photo Wayne Martin

Heart-to-heart sagas explored When a young woman discovers love letters from another era in a rented cottage, she soon becomes obsessed by the dramatic tale they tell.

“My latest book, Hearts Set Free is about woman (Clara) in late 18th century England who defies society’s conventions by falling in love with a black servant, an ex-slave,” Clarks Beach author, Elaine Blick, explains.

“What gives her the courage to go against her family and society at large?

This question intrigues another woman (Debra) 200 years later as she reads the letters.

“It hits so close to home that it threatens to tear Debra’s marriage apart.”

Hearts Set Free is available now at Chapters bookshop in Pukekohe, online www.ruralliving.co.nz

via Amazon or direct from the publisher – pegasuspublishers.com. However, Elaine has already completed another novel, her sixth.

“My next book, Miranda, is also set in the late 18th century, this time in Jamaica and South Carolina.

“It follows the life of one of the minor characters from Hearts Set Free, a black woman who has a burning desire to ensure her people are equipped to deal with emancipation when it comes. I was inspired by her feisty character and felt compelled to tell her story too.”

She expects Miranda to be published next year. ◆◆Elaine Blick: Hearts Set Free | RRP $17 | Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie Publishers/ Vanguard Press

Win! hearts set free Thanks to Elaine and Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie, Rural Living has a signed copy of Hearts Set Free up for grabs. To be in to win, complete the form at ruralliving.co.nz/ competitions. One entry per person/ email address; entries close June 30, 2017. Winner notified by phone or email.

Rural Living — June 2017 — 39

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

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

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

Red Shed

Palazzo

CANOPIUS Offering healthy, tasty options for breakfast and lunch, plus a great cabinet selection to have on the go, Canopius’ cleaneating concept brings fresh, free-range products to Papakura and surrounds. With most everything, including its famous spelt muffins and raw desserts, made in house, Canopius’ focus on unprocessed foods aims to please. Whether enjoying eggs benedict or kumara latkes in the café, or ordering fresh sourdough sandwiches to be delivered to the office working lunch, Canopius is on the job.

145 Great South Road, Papakura Open Tues-Fri 7am-4pm Sat-Mon 8am-3pm Phone 09 2991180 www.canopius.co.nz www.facebook.com/canopiuscoffeehouse

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RED EARTH EATERY & WINE BAR Red Earth eatery & wine bar offers a premium dining experience in Papakura, with fare ranging from smaller Tapas-style sharing plates and platters to full meals. Gluten-free and vegetarian options available. Red Earth’s extensive wine list offers a wide selection of wines from around the country and the world. For something extra special, there is a cellar list for more exclusive bottles too! Don’t miss live music every Saturday night. Pop in and see our friendly team for a fantastic time – Red Earth, open 7 days a week, 10am till late for brunch, lunch and dinner!

255 Great South Rd, Papakura Phone 09 296 9027 www.facebook.com/redearth.winebar

the kentish hotel Built in 1851 by Mr Edward Constable who emigrated from Maidstone Kent, in England, The Kentish Hotel caters to today’s clientele but is steeped in history. Mr Constable went on to apply for a publican’s special licence, and on January 10, 1853, he was granted licence number 47. That special licence still continues today and the hotel lays claim to being the longest, continuous liquor licensed hotel in New Zealand.

Today, it boasts a high class restaurant which serves delicious seasonal foods and it also offers hotel guest rooms upstairs.

5 Queen St, Waiuku. Phone 09 235 8367 Email info@thekentishhotel.co.nz www.thekentishhotel.co.nz 14950-v2

40 — Rural Living — June 2017

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Chocolate avocado ice-cream Children love sweet treats, but a lot of treats are packed with sugar and unhealthy fats. Avocados are the perfect base for super healthy desserts and kiddy treats. Packed with healthy fats, their creamy, rich texture makes them ideal for yummy icecreams.

01837-v3

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$15

◆◆2 large ripe avocados ◆◆2 medium ripe bananas (ideally frozen) ◆◆2 tbsp cocoa powder ◆◆2 tsp vanilla extract ◆◆2 tbsp coconut milk or milk of your choice ◆◆Optional: 2 large dates or 1-2 tbsp maple syrup

Normally $20

Indian Restaurant

method Blend everything together and freeze into a container or into ice block moulds.

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Dine in or pick up

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Order online www.gingerpukekohe.co.nz

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Except Seafood & Tandoori Mon, Tues, Wed

Conditions apply. Please allow at least 30-45 minutes for delivery.

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

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 41

Get your outdoors sorted with JakMat Get those muddy garden paths sorted with JakMat, an interlocking system that can be filled with stones for a permeable surface that you can walk or drive on.

Talk to our friendly team at Central Landscape and Garden Supplies Drury to see how JakMat can make your outdoors more tidy and less muddy!

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

42 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz 14032-v9

Dan’s Tips June 2017

Ginger

N

a winner!

uts though the concept may be, this spice is rather nice (and good for us) despite its awkward looks.

The root of the ginger plant (or Zingiber officinale) is from the same family as turmeric and cardamom.

Originally from southern Asia, ginger gained its name from the Tamil word for root, which translates as inji ver.

Producing bright yellow flowers, the ginger plant can be quite a looker and not just prized as an excellent ‘root’, so is often grown for aesthetic purposes.

Ginger has ‘bread’ a plethora of devoted followers who swear by this spice as an ingredient in cooking and for home-remedies.

The primary reason is that she’s hot to trot! Ginger is a spicy girl, bringing a sharp, pungent flavour to a variety of fare including curries, biscuits, sauces, candy and drinks (not to mention one particular self-styled music group).

Versatile in use, ginger roots are often infused with lemon, brown sugar or honey, added to produce a warming winter tea designed to combat the ill-effects of colds and flu. Ginger is also ingested to provide relief from nausea, treating muscle or joint pain and inflammation.

Modern research has shown that it can actually influence gastrointestinal function, helping to prevent colon cancer, and that it reduces damage caused to the body by free radicals.

As ginger stimulates saliva production, making swallowing easier, it can also relieve sore throats, common this time of year, and make that medicine go down just a little easier!

When it comes to how much ginger should be added to dishes or remedies, it’s ultimately down to how much you can ‘beer’ while ensuring brews are ‘what you really, really want’!

Whether taken for taste or health benefits, ginger has become a favourite of people from many cultures worldwide. So, while some may choose to turn their backs on this spice, many more are sure to agree that once you go ginger, you’re bound to linger!

It’s getting chilly - now is the time to plant roses and lily bulbs as well as winter crops like strawberries, garlic, shallots and asparagus. It’s also time to take cuttings and dig in green crops.

Growing Food • Colour the Vegetable garden – Swiss chard are eye-catching and calendula flowers are brilliant for deterring straggling pests, as well as edible • Winter Crops – plant strawberries, garlic, shallots and asparagus. Living Earth Garden Mix is ideal for growing them in • Dig in green crops – ahead of flowering preferably.

Lawns • Moss Control in lawns as winter begins to hit – spray patches with Yates’ Surrender • Sow Grass – if you do wish to sow grass now with the weather cooling down we recommend you sow with ProLawn Tournament or Classic blends.

Other Work • Free plants – now’s an excellent time to take fuchsia and rose cuttings • Lily Time! Lily bulbs are in stores ready for planting • Plant roses – Queen’s Birthday Weekend is traditionally the time to plant new or re-locate existing roses • Winter perfume – daphne bushes, magnolias, michelias and viburnums all combine pretty flowers with sweet fragrance.

Sow Grass With ProLawn If you do wish to sow gras s now we reco mm end you sow with Pro Law n Tou rnam ent or Clas sic blen ds (in all Cen tral yard s) whi ch are bett er perf orm ers in the cold .

14033-v9

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — June 2017 — 43

trust – so important

Landlords – Get it Right!

By Kylie Bosanac, Nick Bosanac Builders Limited

H

ave you heard the saying, “If people like you, they will listen to you. But if they trust you, they’ll do business with you,”?

We whole-heartedly believe in this saying. We know that the number one reason our clients choose us is because they TRUST us.

Obviously value for money comes into the equation, which we discussed in last month’s column. But when push comes to shove, if comparing two fairly similar quotes, with similar price points, most people pick the person they most trust.

Building up that trust is a process which takes time. Luckily, the process of designing and building a new home is not fast, so you have time to weigh up the relationships you are building with your prospective building company.

When adding to or renovating an existing home it is also important to ensure you trust the contractors you intend to use as they will be entering the place which you already inhabit.

Here are some tips for gauging trustworthiness… ◆◆Do you like them? Meet with the key people who will manage your build. It’s really important to know the specific people who you will deal with for the duration of your project. You want to make sure you get along well with them. If there are personality clashes or any uneasy feelings, listen to your gut instinct. It’s usually right. ◆◆Do they show true interest in you? By this we mean, do you feel valued as a client or are you just a dollar sign? They should acknowledge your input, not railroad you. You should feel confident they will accommodate your needs, wants and ideas – this is YOUR home we are talking about! You don’t have to become golf buddies, (not that Nick would complain!) but you should gel. ◆◆Do they show integrity? “I said what I meant and I meant what I said, an elephant is faithful 100 percent” – Dr Suess Apply some ‘Horton Logic’ to your potential builder – how does he stack up? Building a relationship comes down to consistency and communication.

The ultimate aim should be to have a great build experience whoever you choose. If you choose a team which treats you as a ‘building partner’ rather than just a transaction, we know this will put you well on the way to achieving a great outcome.

If you would like to see how we can be a great build partner, get in touch with us today! Email kylie@bosanacbuilders.co.nz, phone 027 458 3038 or visit us at 31a Rangi Rd, Takanini.

By Sarah Hagenson, Lawyer, Arnet Law

T

enancies fall into two categories – residential or commercial.

It is important for landlords to understand the difference.

A residential tenancy refers to a tenancy where a property is being rented to live in.

Residential tenancies are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (“RTA”). The terms of a residential tenancy are ideally recorded in a Residential Tenancy Agreement signed by the landlord and tenant.

A commercial tenancy refers to a tenancy where the premises are rented to carry out business activities. A commercial tenancy is usually recorded in a Deed of Lease signed by the landlord, tenant and, in some cases, guarantors. Commercial tenancies entered into from January 1, 2008 are governed by the Property Law Act 2007 (“PLA”).

Recently, there have been instances where landlords have rented out premises using the wrong documentation, in particular where residential and commercial tenancies operate from the same premises e.g. a residential unit located above commercial premises. In that situation, it is important that both a Residential Tenancy Agreement for the residential part and a Deed of Lease for the commercial part are signed by the landlord and tenant. Failure to do so, and attempting to include both tenancies within one document, can lead to major problems including accounting and taxation issues.

Both the RTA and the PLA regulate the relationship between the tenant and the landlord, and set out the rules as to how events arising from the tenancy are to be resolved.

The rights and obligations under both the Acts can be very different, as are the procedures they implement for management of the tenancy and resolution of any disputes. This means events arising from each tenancy need to be dealt with in a manner consistent with Act applicable to that type of tenancy.

It is important for landlords to understand the type of tenancy they are dealing with and adhere to the applicable rules and procedures. Recently a landlord had to refund all rent paid and pay a fine for having rented a converted garage to a family.

If you’re about to sign up a new tenancy, are in a tenancy dispute or are concerned as to whether you are fulfilling rights and obligations, contact Arnet Law. We have a lawyer for that!

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

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

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

Renovations & Addtions

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

021 989 636

01633-v3

We Build Beautiful Homes.

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

13708-v2

44 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz AL BUY SELL 67H X 90W 1016.indd 1

17/10/16 2:51 pm

HERITAGE HOMES

timeless chaRacteR

i

suit your lifestyle, needs and site ◆ Use one of our standard plans, and if it doesn’t work perfectly, modify or change it as needed Owning one of these beautiful homes does not have to be as expensive as some imagine. The reality is they can be built as authentic as required but you can also find the happy spot where costs are kept real.

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

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

ChoiCes

FUTURE-PROOF BUILDING

There are many options available when building a new Heritage Home with Nick 09 236 8413 NewPhone Homes Decks Bosanac Builders.

Mobile 021 989 636 Additions Concrete Work ◆ Replicate a beloved home from your past nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz Renovations Sheds ◆ Create a bespoke design of your own to www.bosanacbuilders.co.nz BB BB

BB

BB

BB

www.ruralliving.co.nz

box for a home and the Heritage Homes range of designs is a chance to take inspiration from the past, add the best of today and produce a home that will still be standing for generations.”

She says, importantly, these homes have all the up to the minute modern essentials – open plan living, insulation, ventilation, lighting, technology and many other modernisms – required for comfortable living. “These are not your typical franchise or mass produced homes. It takes real tradesmen to build them yet there are various, affordable options. Clients can choose from a kitset home but with the ability to make changes or we can design something completely unique.

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

BB

s it possible for new homes to echo traditions of the past exuding both character and soul? The team at Nick Bosanac Builders says, “Yes!” And, that’s why the company has acquired the Auckland licence to build Heritage Homes.

Nick and Kylie Bosanac acknowledge that despite today’s ‘contemporary’ trend there are those who yearn for a home which embraces bygone eras without the shortcomings that often accompanied colonial or Victorian practices.

“Now we can offer the best of both worlds,” they agree. “While we have always specialised in building quality homes for the modern day family, of which contemporary architecture is an integral part, now we are also building Heritage Homes, and offer a character selection of bespoke and off-plan timber homes which emanate all the beauty and charm of the past.”

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

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

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

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

With Nick on the tools and Kylie managing the office, Nick Bosanac Builders is an independent firm and a family business intent on giving clients the home of their dreams and an unrivalled build experience.

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

“We have always believed clients deserve more than a cookie cutter square

(09) 236 8413 (021) 989 636

bosanacbuilders.co.nz Rural Living — June 2017 — 45

Inn to win with Speight’s!

In some places around the world, mates come together to build a barn; in New Zealand, we often build something slightly different.

But who will help Kiwi fellas add the coup de gras to their homes? Speights will, along with the help of a few good mates.

To be in to win one of three $15,000 custom-made bars – complete with personalised glassware, a bar fridge and a Speight’s tap – all we need do is band together to complete an unfinished DIY project, Ben Wheeler from Speight’s explains. “We enjoy encouraging New Zealanders to complete the unfinished and enjoy a cold Speight’s when the job is done... Speight’s is the beer for people who get things done and the third year of ‘We Will’ just builds on that.”

To enter (over 18s only), visit speights. co.nz, share a photo of an unfinished space while tagging in the mates you expect will roll up their sleeves to help.

Entries close June 30, 2017.

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House & land packages Phase 2 release

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SOLD HOUSE & LAND PACKAGES AVAILABLE SECTIONS

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UNDER CONTRACT

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We have secured prime sections in the heart of Pukekohe. With a great range of quality homes to suit your budget and lifestyle, we offer a complete house and land solution. But you will need to hurry, because sites are popular and limited. Visit our on-site sales office or give us a call.

We love our homes, you will too.

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Call us today 027 478 5858 www.stonewood.co.nz 15800

46 — Rural Living — June 2017

www.ruralliving.co.nz

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

The Countryside Begins with Townsend…

Should I sell in Winter?

T





     



HE standard response when you’re thinking about selling your home but are not sure when, is “sell in spring”. And there’s plenty of truth in that as warmer, drier weather and post-winter itchy feet drive potential buyers out to open homes.

But life doesn’t stop for winter. People still need to move, whether it be for new jobs, for family reasons or just those itchy feet, no matter what the season, and there are some distinct positives to selling your property in winter.

For a start, there’s a lot of people who stick to the “list in spring” rule, which means you have less competition from other sellers in the market at the same time. And while there does tend to be slightly fewer buyers in the market, those that are making the effort to get out and about house shopping at open homes on cold, wet days tend to be more focused and motivated to buy.

As always, presentation and pricing are the key to a quick sale, but what are the specific keys to presenting your property in the best light during the cooler months?

■ If you have a fireplace, make sure it is stocked with firewood, has a clean chimney and is crackling away at inspection time. Light it ahead of time, so the room is at a cosy temperature. If you have air-conditioning, crank up the heat so the visitors can experience your home as a warm haven. Portable heaters can pre-heat a room, but should be packed away before the visitors arrive.

■ Because all windows are typically shut for extended periods, sometimes in winter a home can get musty or left with residual cooking smells. Pick a time before inspection to open the windows and maybe turn on ceiling fans, and allow some fresh air in. Leave enough time to warm things up again before the open house.

■ Check curtains and walls for any signs of mildew.

■ Make sure rooms feel light and bright by pulling up blinds and pulling back curtains from windows.

■ Consider investing in a dehumidifier if your home feels damp. Have it running in different rooms around the house for a few days ahead of open homes.

■ To create a warm feel, position winter essentials such as blankets, duvets, pillows and quilts tastefully and appropriate throughout your home.

■ Choose your open homes to coincide with the best light and sun, for example, east-facing windows may attract a lot of light in the morning.

Ensure all your windows are as clean as possible to allow maximum light.

■ Your garden may be a little duller during winter, so consider adding winter pots of colour to brighten things up. Also, take the time to strip the moss off pathways and other garden surfaces such as pots and walls and trim back any overhanging evergreen plants that can make areas of the garden feel gloomy and damp.

■ If it’s been a particularly cold or wet snap do a thorough check for any icy or slippery areas around the section.

To understand the best time to sell, look at market conditions rather than the weather report. As your Harcourts sales consultant Jo-Ann Day Townsend who will work with you, focus on the market and your ability to present your home to potential sellers, no matter where the mercury is sitting in the temperature gauge.

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend 021 1696 056 jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz BCRE Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Mauku 555 MaukuWaiuku 555 Waiuku Road Road Mauku 5552 Waiuku Road 4B C 2D 2I Quality Lives Quality Lives Here Here

Auction

Quality Lives Here

4B 2C 2D 2I Auction

20th May atnew 11am on site, Saturday 20th May at 11am on site, Near new quality Near new quality home home - build as a forever home - Saturday build Near quality as homea - build forever as a forever home home open 1/2hr priornow (unless sold prior) open 1/2hr prior (unless sold prior) now a barrier nowto a barrier totheir their next move so needs next to be move a barrier to their so next moveneeds so needs to be to be View Sunday 12sold.

NoonFeaturing: - 1pm View Sunday 12 Noon - 1pm sold. Featuring: sold. Featuring: www.harcourts.co.nz/PW170403 www.harcourts.co.nz/PW170403 • 4 bedrooms, • 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 2 bathrooms • 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • 2 lounges, double • 2 lounges, double garage garage • 2 lounges, double garage • Room for that • Room for that man man shed on 14992m2 shed flat land on• Room 14992m2 for that man shed on 14992m2 flat landflat land • Quality fittings • Quality fittingsthroughout throughout • Quality fittings throughout • Great indoor/outdoor • Great indoor/outdoor flow in convenient location flow in • Great indoor/outdoor convenient flow in convenient location location Jo-Ann Day-Townsend Jo-Ann Day-Townsend M 0211 696 056 P M 0211 696 056 P This property Thishas property has so much so – someone much smart will – This someone property has so much – someone smart will smart will jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz buy this - is that buy this - is thatyou!! you!! this - is that you!!

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Bombay 137 Chamberlain Road

Health Forces Urgent Sale Seller’s instructions are clear, “THEY NEED IT SOLD” YOU MUST VIEW NOW! • Large, open plan living, dining and kitchen area

• Great indoor/outdoor flow • 9171m2 (more or less) • Three double bedrooms, two bathrooms • Great location with rural views

So don’t delay, you will miss out. Contact Jo-Ann Day-Townsend or Daniel Harding today!

Rural Living — June 2017 — 47

Auct

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48 — Rural Living — June 2017

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15799

Pressure on vendors

as sales fall and listings increase

By David Powell, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

T

he Auckland housing inventory continues to grow and is generally out of sync with the rest of New Zealand.

Auckland stocks have risen by 39% compared to April 2016. For all other parts of New Zealand the listings fell by 16.7% over the last 12 months.

Prices in Auckland look to have plateaued with a 12 month median price increase continuing to decrease. This April the 12 month difference was just +3%, in March it was +8.3%. One would certainly expect increased price pressure downward if listings continue to grow.

Add to that the September elections effect

and it may result in the third quarter sales slowing significantly.

While Auckland’s population continues to grow above the rate of the new house build rate the pressure to find accommodation will continue. Any significant movement in the interest rate level will be another factor home buyers will need to take into account.

Regional analysis shows:

Medium Prices April 2017 Sales Volume April 2017

cpw April 2016 cpw April 2016 Auckland City +6.7% -26% Franklin +8.9% -29% Auckland Region +3% -33% Waikato Region +22.3% -38%

Housing Listings April 2017 cpw April 2016 Auckland Region +39% Waikato Region -12% The REINZ May 2017 news provided the basis of this commentary.

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Rural Living — June 2017 — 49

New pocket neighbourhood brings fresh life to Onehunga

F

orget housing woes – a new master planned, residential development, Fabric of Onehunga, is set to provide 239 one, two and three bedroom apartments across five buildings, interspersed by 7000 square metres of park-like, landscaped grounds.

The 1.29ha site, spanning Onehunga’s Spring and Victoria Streets, is being developed by Andrew and Tim Lamont of Lamont & Co, who are no strangers to successful urban living developments, having spearheaded the SKHY mixed use precinct on Khyber Pass Road in Newton, now under construction.

Their vision for Fabric of Onehunga was to create a new pocket neighbourhood where considered apartment living meets shared green spaces in one of Auckland’s oldest urban villages – and to enrich the already vibrant social fabric of the area.

The first release has been immensely popular with first home buyers, Onehunga locals and those transitioning from larger homes. Tim says we see these apartments appealing to a wide range of people from

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empty nesters to young couples and families.

“Onehunga has become a desirable place to live with vibrant cafes and shops popping up all over and there’s also the creation of a foreshore beach with parks and walkways making it ideal for kids.”

Apartment interiors will include contemporary finishes, clever storage, spacious layouts and maximised natural light. All apartments are pet-friendly and will flow out to balconies or large terrace

gardens with shared access to the pocket park at the heart of the development.

Fabric of Onehunga is registered with the New Zealand Green Building Council and is targeting a Homestar 6 Design and Build rating for efficiency and sustainability.

There is a full size two-bedroom apartment styled by Homestyle Magazine open to view daily from 11am-3pm. Visit the display suite at 11 Spring St, Onehunga. www.fabricofonehunga.co.nz

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Right ‘Hon’, Guy! From earthquakes to floods, New Zealand’s civil defence has come under fire for a lack of preparedness. However, as our newly-appointed Civil Defence Minister is also still Minister for Primary Industries, our Guy in parliament is now prepared to take the bull by the horns, in more ways than one! Once again, we take a tongue-in-cheek look at some of Nathan Guy’s recent adventures.

“It’s very disappointing that [it] has appeared in New Zealand. However, I want to thank the staff and owner of Kerikeri Plant Production nursery for making such a prompt notification to MPI,” Mr Guy added.

More information, including how to identify myrtle rust, is available via mpi. govt.nz. Anyone believing they have seen myrtle rust should not to touch the plants or attempt to collect samples as this will spread the disease. Instead, contact MPI.

Nate’s ready to rock... or roll!

Rust fuss no joke He might be quite a ‘fun Guy’ but Nathan’s a most serious sort when his number one priority as Minister for Primary Industries (MPI) is threatened.

Following the detection of myrtle rust – a fungal disease which can seriously damage plants including pohutukawa, rata, manuka, gum, bottlebrush and feijoa – Mr Guy sprang into action.

“Five pohutukawa seedlings had suspected myrtle rust, and laboratory testing has confirmed this,” he said soon after affected plants were found in Kerikeri.

“MPI has initiated a Restricted Place notice to restrict the movement of any plants and people at the site, and is treating nursery stock with fungicide spray as a precaution.

“Work is also underway to trace any stock that has left the nursery and all other nurseries in Kerikeri are being inspected.”

Since making these comments, myrtle rust was found at a second Kerikeri site and, in late May, in Taranaki as well.

The potentially devastating disease, prevalent in eastern Australia and Tasmania, was discovered on Raoul Island in the Kermadecs in March. Spores can easily spread across long distances by wind.

There is no known method of controlling the disease in the wild, apart from application of fungicide in small areas used as a last resort.

While Bill English’s recent cabinet reshuffle may have involved moves as predictable as Auntie Mary’s when dusting her collection of porcelain dogs, we were treated to at least one (most pleasant) surprise as Nathan Guy claimed the Civil Defence portfolio.

And, Nathan wasted no time in sinking his teeth into his new duties by launching a new initiative designed to ensure under30s are prepared should disaster strike.

“We know that young people are great at getting prepared when they’re properly motivated, and this campaign taps into that by reinforcing that preparing for an emergency is easier than you think,” he said.

“It encourages them to make sure they

are looking after themselves and their mates.”

The public education campaign – part of the wider ‘Never Happens? Happens’ programme launched last year – targets people aged 18-30, who have a lower rate of preparedness for emergencies than the average Kiwi, the Minister believes.

With a taxpayer price tag of $160,000, it emphasises that it’s no harder than getting ready for a festival, a road trip, or a Netflix binge session, Mr Guy (actually!) said.

Considering the price of festival tickets these days, he’s probably not far off the mark, however.

We asked the Minister what his (liable to be often repeated) priority as Minister of Civil Defence will be, however no reply was provided in time for publication.

Trust him... he’s a politician Trusted to provide support to rural communities they may be, but unity is required to provide these groups with the support they need, Nathan Guy believes.

Consequently, the Minister for Primary Industries has welcomed the formation of a new, national body, The Rural Support National Council, to represent New Zealand’s rural trusts.

“It will provide single point of contact for other national organisations and the Government, and help the different regions share resources and experience,” he said.

“Rural Support Trusts do fantastic work supporting our rural communities in tough times, and this new central body will make them more efficient and effective.”

From droughts, to the earthquake in Kaikoura, Marlborough and the Hurunui, and floods in the Bay of Plenty, there have been plenty of adverse times recently, through which these trusts have shown their value, he adds.

In its first meeting, the National Council elected its first Chairperson, Waikato RST chair Neil Bateup as chairperson, and Gavan Herlihy from Otago in the vice chairperson role.

Rural Living — June 2017 — 51

www.ruralliving.co.nz PREPARING FOR AN EMERGENCY IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK. MAKE A PLAN TODAY AT WWW.HAPPENS.NZ/MAKE-A-PLAN

Rising motorsport star, Alexandra Whitley.

Times photo Wayne Martin

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52 — Rural Living — June 2017

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Driving ambition on fast track

T

Making it big in the male-dominated sport of motor racing is Franklin’s Alexandra Whitley. The 22-year-old is one of the country’s most successful drivers and wants to be the first female to compete in the V8 Supercars competition.

She spoke to ANGELA KEMP. www.ruralliving.co.nz

here’s a lot more to Alexandra Whitley than her winning smile but her gleaming white teeth could hold the key to securing her the sponsorship she needs to take her career to the next level.

After a season beset with mechanical failures she was placed 11th overall in the SsangYong Actyon Ute Racing Championship Series which ended at Pukekohe Park in April. Reaching speeds of up to 170kph in a double cab 2.7l petrol ute, Alexandra proved she was on track to achieve her ambition.

Although the number of women in the sport is growing she is one of only four in the SsangYong series.

“In the early days of my career I had to earn the boys’ respect. It’s a lot better than when I started but nobody likes being beaten by either a boy or a girl.”

Offered the opportunity to race in Europe, Alexandra now needs to find sponsorship to make that happen. And, that’s where her winning smile comes in.

“I want to be an ambassador for Colgate. I don’t like to play the female card but being a woman in a male-dominated sport obviously opens up different marketing possibilities for sponsors.”

Australian Alexandra grew up in a racing family in Toowoomba with her father a keen speedway driver and her older brother and sister both motor racing enthusiasts. She was a relatively late starter to motor racing first getting behind the wheel at 17 years old.

“Before that I was keen to become an Olympic swimmer but I had an accident and hurt my foot which ruled that out. I started going down to the track and one day I asked Dad if I could have a go. I just loved it and I’ve never looked back.”

Alexandra moved to New Zealand two years ago to follow her dream and was awarded a Junior Development Scholarship by the Women of Australian Motor Sport (WAMS).

More recently she was one of few selected to attend the New Zealand Elite Motorsport Academy in Otago where

she learnt about dealing with the media, fitness, nutrition, mental and physical training and establishing sponsorship.

Her fiancé and fellow Australian, Peter Bennett is also in the SSangYong stable and finished seventh in the series. The couple bought a house in Tuakau six months ago and Alexandra says she loves living close to the Pukekohe track which she regularly cycles round.

“I’ve always gone well at Pukekohe , I had pole positions when the V8 Supercars came so it’s right up there on my list of favourite tracks.”

Although she works for SsangYong in nearby Takanini, even Alexandra’s remarkable driving skills can’t beat the Auckland traffic necessitating a 5am start.

After work she goes to the gym for cardio training or back home to work out on her bike.

“I’ve had to sacrifice my business and my family life to make a name for myself in New Zealand but I love living here, it’s a beautiful place.”

On the other hand, she says a chance to race in Europe would help her career in leaps and bounds.

“The racing is the easy part; the hardest is trying to get sponsorship. Motor racing is an expensive sport and you just have to keep trying.”

If she doesn’t find sponsorship, Alexandra will continue to race in the SsangYong series which she says is one of the most competitive classes in New Zealand. She’s also looking at moving into TLs, a slower version of V8 Supercars.

Alexandra added to her tally of successes at the maiden SsangYong Endurance championship at Pukekohe Park in the first weekend in May. She was the only driver to achieve the podium in both races after completing a gruelling three hours of driving solo. ”Due to a post-race change of rules that saw the last race awarded double points, I finished second overall instead of the overall win,” she said.

“However, this is a fantastic result and it was the icing on the cake to my hard work throughout the year and lead up to this event.”

Rural Living — June 2017 — 53

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