Rural Living March-April 2014 by Times Media

F E

R E

March/April 2014

From ghostly ruin...

www.ruralliving.co.nz

pages 34-35

COUPLE CREAM AWARDS

page 9

Pukekohe 09 238 7019

covershot

Stately Victorian mansion, Greenock, started life in inner Auckland suburb, Herne Bay. Some 21 years ago a local Karaka lad saw potential in its renovation, bought the completely run-down house and had it transported to Karaka. Since then it has been a true labour of love to restore this grand old lady to her former glory as Ian Ferguson has painstakingly worked, room by room, anxious to keep as many aspects as original as possible. Today, house and surrounding gardens are moving closer to being available to the public for small functions and special occasion photography.

From the editor... Hi everyone, I sometimes wonder why I am so amazed at how fast this year is flying by; after all, I’ve heard so many of us say the very same thing of years gone by. It comes home to roost when you think that one minute we were all talking about the coming of the Millennium and worrying about computer crashes and then, suddenly, here we are a third of the way through 2014. I still can’t believe the children, who were just starting school then, are now starting university and my own Millennium teenagers are hitting their 30’s. I guess there’s no point worrying about time waiting for no one; we just have to get on and do the job at hand. Of course, as autumn settles in there is plenty to do for those on the land. However, before winter really takes hold a few of us have managed short escapes and mine was a four-day sojourn in Queenstown during

which I managed to hop across to the Wanaka A&P Show on a glorious day. There was a massive crowd but I managed to get about the show relatively easily. It was a big help that the lake front site was just a short walk from the bus stop – yes, I took the bus to Wanaka. Apparently there were an estimated 32,000 spectators, competitors and trade exhibitors over the two-day event. We were there on the Friday when various sports celebs and the Prime Minister, John Key, attended but, sadly, I didn’t spot them. But I did spot some rather good looking animals – there were hundreds. It really was great to see a South Island A&P show and actually feel and be part of the wonderful support it garnered. The coming together of town and country did Wanaka proud and actually made me all the more enthusiastic for the ongoing success of local shows in Pukekohe and at Clevedon.

And while readers may all be thinking, ‘gosh’. that’s a whole year away’, we all know just how fast time flies! We’ll be welcoming 2015 before we know it. In the meantime, I’m sure you all have work to do but take time out to read this month’s Rural Living especially the article on Gareth Manning’s Sunset Free Range Poultry operation. This year being The Year of the Family Farm makes Gareth’s business timely. Not only are he and wife Anita, plus their children, all heavily involved but Gareth’s parents help by selling eggs at the Parnell markets. Good for them. Cheers

Helen Perry Editor

inside A Publication of Times House Publishing Ltd

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

Editor: Helen Perry DDI 09 271 8036 Email: editor@ruralliving.co.nz Sales: Kate Ockelford-Green DDI 09 271 8090 Email: kate@ruralliving.co.nz Gina McNeill DDI 09 271 8020 Email: gina@ruralliving.co.nz Caroline Boe DDI 09 271 8091 Email: caroline@ruralliving.co.nz Art Director: Clare McGillivray DDI 09 271 8067, Fax: 09 271 8071 Email: clare@ruralliving.co.nz Manager: Karla Wairau DDI 09 271 8083, Fax: 09 271 8099 karla@timeshouse.co.nz Publisher: Brian Neben 50 Stonedon Dr, East Tamaki, AKLD PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Ph: 09 271 8080, Fax: 09 271 8099 DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only. Times House Publishing Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this newspaper. All the material in this newspaper has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times House Publishing Ltd.

4 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

RURAL Page 6-7 Free range poultry business a golden egg

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

Page 9 Locals triumph at Auckland Hauraki Region Dairy Industry Awards

Page 10-11 Over the gate with RSA president Doug McNally

Page 14-15 Proof of the pasture in plantain

Page 18 Ruth Watson – sounding the last post

Page 24 Bid to rid region of flannelweed

New hybrid sparks interest – page 49

Living Page 27 Reay’s Diary – admiring Pokeno’s growth spurt

Page 28 Country boys raise the profile on umbrellas

Page 32-33 Exploring awesome Awhitu Peninsula

Page 37 Coromandel couple bottle homemade flavours – your chance to win

Page 38-39 Bathroom makeover

Page 44-46 Death with dignity

Page 47 Former Rugby World Cup All Black recalls local roots

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Just laying around Rebecca Glover discovers while life might be cruisy for chooks, free-range farmers can get into a flap. If you were reincarnated as a chook, you’d want to end up on Gareth and Anita Manning’s farm. There, you’d lay your heart out, enjoying fresh air, sunshine, dust baths and the opportunity to indulge in unlimited ‘Twitter’ with 1500 other happy hens. And every morning you’d receive a polite wake-up call when Gareth knocks on the door with breakfast... Yes, Gareth swears he really does knock at the shed door – but the reason is practicality rather than politeness. “It lets them know I’m coming in, so that they don’t get a fright.” High on the Awhitu Peninsula, Gareth and Anita run Sunset Free Range Poultry, where they produce free-range eggs for supermarkets, groceries and dairies as well as exporting 26% of their production. Gareth calls the business his “retirement plan” after 16 years at NZ Steel but he admits “this is a lot harder”. “Starting a business in the

The Manning children are all given responsibilities to help the family-run business operate smoothly.

middle of a recession might look a bit dumb, but I knew it would work.” From selling eggs from their backyard flock to his workmates, Gareth realised there was a burgeoning market for cruelty-free food. He and Anita had firsthand experience of what factory farming does to hens when they bought their foundation flock, 18 retirees from a battery production unit. “They were kind of paralysed

– they could hardly walk. Their claws were overgrown after being crammed into cages, and they had bald patches. But after a couple of months on grass they’d lost that anaemic look, grown back their feathers and started laying.” So popular were the eggs that the Mannings decided to have a crack at going commercial. They went through the long and laborious process of gaining planning permission to set

up premises on their 18-acre lifestyle block, stocked it with poultry and business boomed. Soon demand was such that they had to bring other freerange farms on board and establish a pack house in Pukekohe. Gareth and Anita run the business along with Dale Budge (‘Budgie’) and their three sons, Nico (13), Blake (nine) and eight year old Sonni. The boys are getting a business education at the same time, their pay for their labours going into their own bank accounts along with the money they earn from rearing calves on the lifestyle block. Some calves are hand-reared, while others are reared on a few nurse cows led by Lala, an elderly Jersey who enjoys a daily feed of carrots. “The boys have their own money to spend – but when

What are you shelling out for? Most commercial layer hens in New Zealand are either the Hyline Brown or Brown Shaver variety. Both are brown-feathered with some white plumage, especially in the tail. They have been developed from the Rhode Island Red breed. These hens will lay around one egg each day, and are capable of laying up to 80 weeks of age. In New Zealand, layer hens may be in conventional cages, colony cages, barns or free range.

Battery and Colony Battery Cages Of the 3.2 million egg-laying chickens in New Zealand, eighty-eight per cent are caged.

Barn Barn-farmed hens are kept in large sheds with limited space and no access to outdoors.

Free Range There is no certification for ‘free range’ in New Zealand and the code of welfare for layer hens does not specify basic standards such as size of outdoor area and maximum num-

6 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

bers of hens per flock. The key difference with freerange egg farming is the hens’ access to the outdoors, with shelter provided in sheds fitted with nest boxes and perches. Free-range eggs comprise up to 14% of commercially produced eggs purchased in New Zealand. Consumption of freerange eggs has increased over recent years at a rate of approximately 1% per year.

Organic Organic refers to food free of pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilisers and antibiotics.

Organic standards require birds to be free-range and restrict flock size. Consumer NZ reports that some egg brands give the impression they are ‘approved’ or ‘certified’ by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA). In fact, NZFSA does not approve or certify any eggs. Its role is to register egg producers’ risk-management programmes and audit their compliance with these programmes which aim to ensure producers are meeting food-safety standards – not to supervise animal welfare.

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it’s gone, it’s gone!” says their father. Not all ‘free-range’ eggs are created equal. With the business firmly focused on animal welfare, Gareth was determined to ensure that his farm was genuinely free-range. “Our hens have access to pasture 24/7 if they want it; they have sheds to lay in and come into at night. We practise paddock rotation just like livestock farmers to ensure the birds always have fresh grass to go on to.” Some observers have criticised free-range production, claiming birds suffer injuries from attacking each other in an uncontrolled environment. But Gareth is adamant that this need not be the case. “It’s all about management,” he says. “I can’t stress enough how important it is to get amongst the birds. Walking through them twice a day, it’s easy to observe bird behav-

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RURAL

Gareth Manning and Katy Read from UK-based Compassion in World Farming look over conditions at one of the properties that support the Sunset Free Range Poultry operation.

Guide to raising chickens at home

iour and isolate any individual that’s sick or being bullied, to check for water leaks or generally monitor their health.” Low protein levels in the feed can cause aggression, so quick corrective action is needed if the hens show signs of becoming agitated. So dedicated is Gareth to the welfare of his flock, he’s enlisted the help of local vet Matt Avery to audit his own farm and those of his suppliers. To ensure high health standards are adhered to, they have devised a special monitoring programme, which can be followed by customers. Certainly those customers are increasing. Gareth says they tend to be affluent, educated and well informed. They are prepared to pay more for eggs produced under humane conditions – and this seems to have had a spin-off effect in that conditions are being modified on some non-free range farms. Unlike many, the Manning birds have a happy (h)en-ding. At the end of their 75-week laying stint, instead of shipping them off to an abattoir, Gareth advertises them for sale – and so far, within days, they have been snapped up by buyers keen for a few backyard chooks. Sadly, the one thing Gareth hasn’t yet perfected is the production of chocolate Easter eggs!

Fresh golden-yolk eggs in ready supply, organic fertiliser for the vegetable garden and of course, a ‘warm-fuzzy’ rural experience for children – what’s not to love about keeping backyard chickens? Nevertheless novices will need to learn a thing or two and Backyard Chickens, A guide for beginners, by Michelle Templin, covers all one needs to know about raising a flock of chickens. Whether you already have a few in the backyard or are considering getting chickens, this great little handbook provides answers to questions such as: ■■ what type of chicken suits your space ■■ where to buy chickens ■■ what to look for when buying chickens ■■ what housing your chickens will require ■■ what your chickens will eat ■■ how to care for your chickens It also includes sections on chicken health, an easy reference breed list and directions on hatching chicks. Providing comprehensive and clear advice, Backyard Chickens, published by New Holland (RRP $24.99) not only covers the basics, but also guides readers down a path of furthering interest in raising

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chickens by hatching and incubating their own. A chicken breeder who runs a small hobby farm business breeding and supplying chickens to suburban and rural dwellers, Michelle Templin’s book is easy to read, includes clear, sound advice and is well illustrated. It’s sure to inspire more than a few lifestylers to add chickens to their backyards.

WIN! Backyard Chickens Thanks to publishers New Holland, Rural Living has a copy of Backyard Chickens by Michelle Templin to give away to one lucky reader. With it we will include a copy of the Hamilton Garden’s booklet, The Sustainable Backyard Garden. To enter the draw for this eco-friendly prize just visit www.ruralliving.co.nz then click on the competitions link and complete the form. One entry per person/email address; entries close April 30, 2014. Winner notified by phone or email.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 7

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Call to revamp forecasts Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD Most people who live and rely on the land seem to manage their way through a drought but when we have drought for the second year running, things become extremely difficult. After last year’s dry, when the rain finally arrived, the grass greened up within about two weeks but I don’t think it thickened and lots of the bare patches remained throughout the spring. In my opinion, this meant that this summer’s grass was well below normal grass quality for this area. While the district hasn’t been officially declared a drought zone, when faced with our present conditions, I find our property in a very, very dry state and not able to fully sustain our animals. This has forced us to use some of our winter hay and to purchase sheep nuts which, I should add, are not cheap! This time two weeks ago we were delighted with the news of an impending cyclone with buckets of rain, predicted. As was advised by TV and

Lack of grass means relying on sheep nuts to help feed our dozen sheep.

radio we stocked up on emergency requirements – torches with new batteries, several buckets of water, a transistor radio and a manual appliance to open our electronically operated gates. More importantly, we waited for two or three days of heavy rain which we all know never arrived. The little rain we had (excuse my expression) was as useless as tits on a bull! At this time I would like to raise the matter of our weather forecasts. For many years, I, like other people, have watched TVNZ’s forecasts following the evening news but I ﬁnd them to be so inaccurate that I’ve just about given up watching.

Maybe the Auckland area is hard to predict due to the narrow shape of the land. I also feel more time is spent on South Island forecasting, than this greater Auckland area which, by the way, houses a third of New Zealand’s population. I really don’t care how much rain they are getting at Milford Sound or other remote places. I would rather have more resources and time spent on the weather here. Most days the temperatures, wind and rainfall vary from say, the North Shore to Pukekohe, or Waiau Pa to Howick. This is information I feel we should get each evening not the South Island West Coast rainfall!

Even Jim tells us what wonderful weather we are having and what a great summer we are experiencing – how lucky we are. Waikato dairy farmers don’t seem to go along with that! On another note, we have had a setback with Willedu when he injured his front foot and an abscess developed under the hoof. The veterinary team drained the infected area and although he still has a bandage and cover on it, Willedu is now putting weight on the foot so here’s hoping there is no permanent damage. Next month I hope to report on our autumn rainfall!

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Local milkers cream awards Guests at the 2014 Auckland Hauraki Dairy Industry Awards were left counting the ‘Costars’ as a local couple showed that when it comes to success, they are milkmen and women who really do deliver! Held in Pukekohe on Saturday, March 22, the awards dinner quickly became a night to remember for Onewhero’s Bryce and Rosemarie Costar, named the Auckland Hauraki region’s Sharemilker/Equity Farmers of the Year, as well as winners of six merit awards. Placing third in 2013, this year the couple has claimed $20,200 in prizes, sure to be put to good use in developing their sharemilking business and towards their goal of farm ownership. “The awards give you a much stronger understanding of what drives your business and what areas you do well in and

Co-star performance

Bryce and Rosemarie Costar

what you could improve on. It ultimately leads to running a more efficient, compliant and profitable business,” the pair agrees. Waiuku herd manager, James Manusauloa, also kept the local crowd cheering as he secured second place – behind Paeroabased Marion Reynolds – in

the Auckland Hauraki Dairy Trainee of the Year title race. Bryce and Rosemarie will be joined by Marion, and Auckland Hauraki Farm Manager of the Year, Ngatea contract milker, Simon Player, at the national awards dinner on May 9 at Sky City Convention Centre in Auckland.

In addition to their Sharemilker/Equity Farmers of the Year Award (Auckland Hauraki Region), the Costars also claimed: ■■ Ecolab Farm Dairy Hygiene Award ■■ Federated Farmers of New Zealand Leadership Award ■■ LIC Recording and Productivity Award ■■ Meridian Energy Farm Environment Award ■■ Ravensdown Pasture Performance Award ■■ Triplejump Risk Management Award ■■ Westpac Business Performance Award Other top performers included Ngatea’s Evan and Jan Billington, runners-up in the sharemilker/equity farmer contest, and Thames’ Mathew and Jemma Morrissey, who claimed third.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 9

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With

Over

the gate

Doug McNally

“The merchant ploughs the main, the farmer ploughs the manor; glory is the soldier’s prize, the soldier’s wealth is honour” (Robert Burns). After wars’ end, what more can veterans expect? Vietnam veteran, ex-farmer and president of the Pukekohe and Districts Returned Services Association (RSA), Doug McNally, explains, over the gate.

What has been your primary focus for the RSA?

It was in the middle of the night. We were out on an op, trying to get some shuteye, when our sentry let strip with the machine gun and claymore mines at VC coming down the track. I crawled behind my pack and webbing, using that as cover while returning fire. It wasn’t until the next morning that I noticed my webbing was shot to shreds; that was too close for comfort and changed my way of thinking, as you may well imagine... life should not be taken for granted!

I have been involved with the RSA for around 10 years and president since 2007. During that time I’ve been trying to keep membership numbers up. Over the past two to three years membership has been holding, but patronage has dropped; times are changing, and we need to change with them. The challenge is to discover what people want, and to go with it; that’s not always an easy task!

Your father was also a farmer. Have you been involved in making a living from the land as well?

How important is the RSA’s role? Very important. Ex-service personnel need a place to meet where there’s always a sense of comradeship. We have citizens and ex-soldiers as members, which works well, and our welfare section visits members in hospital or who are ill at home. Also, the Anzac Day parades attract a large number of residents from the very young to older people. All can be involved. Doug McNally

Ghandi said: “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” Can this also be applied to how society treats veterans? What Ghandi said is very true. When we returned from Vietnam, we were shunned by society and the powers that be. If men and women fight for their country, they should be respected and looked after by their countrymen. Soldiers today are now getting that respect; that’s how it should be.

recent veterans. These men and women are our trained defence, part of New Zealand’s proud history and our sense of mana. Are today’s soldiers better prepared for dealing with the horrors of combat? I don’t think anyone is prepared for the horrors. Personally, I thought I was quite prepared, then reality struck during my first contact with the Viet Cong; suffice to say that life was very different from that day on.

How important is it to also recognise the sacrifices of those in conflicts since WWII?

Where and when did you serve and have others in your family served?

It’s important to remember our

I joined the Army in 1964 and

10 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

served for 15 years in total. I went to Vietnam in 1969 with Victor 4 Company, 6RAR/ NZ ANZAC Battalion, posted at Nui Dat in the Phuc Tuy Province. We departed in 1970. I later left the Army but rejoined for another term before retiring finally to civilian life. My father served with the New Zealand Army in North Africa and Italy with the 8th Army during WWII. And my brother was with the Army in Burnham Camp, Malaya and Singapore. During your time in Vietnam, was there any one incident which profoundly altered how you look at life?

Dad was a dairy farmer in the Waikato. After I left school, I worked on a couple of farms before joining the army, aged 18. I moved to Tuakau years ago to assist my sister and family with their flower growing business. Later on, I bought a property in Onewhero and grew watercress commercially for about four years. These days, I live in Awhitu with my wife, Diane. We raise goats and dry stock and I work for Turners and Growers Logistics in Pukekohe. If you could grow any crop, what and why? It would have to be either watercress or flowers because it was so peaceful [growing these previously] and I had time to think about other things at the same time. If you could invite any three military men – living or dead – to dinner, who and why? Wira Gardiner [Lieutenant Colonel Sir Harawira Gardiner], my platoon commander in Vietnam. I felt very safe under his command. He’s a great leader, someone who would lis-

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ON THE MARCH

Doug McNally, above and top third from left, serving in Vietnam.

ten if we had a problem, and he played a big part in getting me home in one piece. Jerry Mateparae [Lieutenant General Sir Jeremiah Mateparae – Governor-General and former Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force] is also a great leader. He is strong, caring, honest and compassionate, and well suited to the position he

Invest in his

holds; he’s doing a great job. Willie Apiata [Bill Henry Apiata – New Zealand Special Air Service (SAS) veteran and Victoria Cross recipient] is a quiet, unassuming and very brave man. He acted on instinct to achieve what he did [delivering a wounded companion to safety under fire in Afghanistan]. He represents what comradeship is all about.

A century on from the beginning of the ‘war to end all wars’, Kiwis will once again attend ANZAC Day services and parades throughout the country and abroad. This year’s services include: ■■ Auckland – Auckland War Memorial Museum Cenotaph, Auckland Domain, dawn service (6am) civic service (11am) ■■ Pukekohe – Town Hall, dawn service (6am); civic service (10am) ■■ Papakura – Cenotaph, corner Great South Rd and Opaheke Rd, dawn service (6am); civic service (9am) ■■ Drury – Drury War Memorial, Tui St, civic service (11am) ■■ Waiuku – RSA service, Cenotaph (11am), civic service at War Memorial Hall, Queen Street (11.45am) ■■ Awhitu – RSA service, Awhitu Central Church (9.30am) Contact your local RSA, or visit rsa.org.nz for more details.

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Polo in full swing The best of the herd took to Auckland Polo Club’s Clevedon fields recently for the BMW NZ Open Polo. Rural Living photographer WAYNE MARTIN was there to capture the fast-paced action delivered by some of the sport’s top players.

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Vet Talk microchipping, Branding with Franklin Vets

and vaccinations

By Holly Walton BVSc, Franklin Vets At this time of the year we start to help owners make decisions regarding weaning, branding, castrating colts, microchipping and vaccinating their foals. Many breeders will be weaning their foals at around six months of age. Some people find it easier to have the above procedures performed while the foal is still running with its dam and others prefer that the foal be weaned and handled first. For any routine procedure involving a vet call-out for your foal, a basic level of handling is usually expected. Foals should have received their first broad spectrum de-wormer at eight weeks of age followed by commencement of their vaccination course. For example, tetanus and strangles at about 12 weeks of age. The time to castrate or geld a colt is a matter of personal preference. Many breeders

Franklin Vets’ cipher brand, sometimes referred to by thorougbred owners as “Very Fast!”.

will geld at around six months and this is also a great time to have wolf teeth removed and a microchip inserted whilst the colt is under anaesthetic. It also avoids major “colty” behaviour from developing. Thoroughbred foals need to be registered prior to July 31 in the season it was born. The foal must be officially identified by a veterinarian, microchipped, branded and a hair sample sent for DNA sampling. Standardbred foals are branded and DNA sampled

through their breed association. Their brand uses a series of symbols that represent the year and identification number of the foal. This appears on the right neck crest. In general, branding involves using both shoulder areas and sometimes the near side thigh. Most societies use freeze branding with liquid nitrogen. The right shoulder identifies numerically the year the foal was born and in what order chronologically in relation to the cipher brand that appears on the left shoulder.

The cipher brand is usually related to the vet practice performing the branding (see photo) but can be a stud brand owned by the breeder. Some breed societies circulate their own cipher brand. Microchipping is now replacing branding as an option for several breed societies and is often required as part of official identification processes such as life certificates with the Royal Agricultural Society. There are several registers in New Zealand that run a microchip database. However, there is no formal national microchip database programme for all horses. For sport horses and crossbreeds that don’t fall into a recognised breed category, the companion animal microchip register can be used to ensure your peace of mind should your horse go missing. If you wish to book our equine vets to carry out freezebranding, microchipping or vaccinations please contact one of our clinics.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 13

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Awapai Station Manager, Shane Tilson on the plantain at Awapai Station, Hawke’s Bay.

Plantain proves fat Much has been said about what makes the ideal feeding ground for lifestock but when it comes to the fatted lamb, a Hawke’s Bay on-farm trial has shown Mary’s little follower fattens faster on plantain than lambs grazed on pasture. Awapai Station, a ram breeder for Focus Genetics, recently carried out trials followed by an on-farm field day for other farmers to find out more about plantain management. The field day was prompted by more farmers turning to plantain as a popular, affordable alternative to pasture for fattening lambs and improving the condition of livestock for mating. Awapai farm manager, Shane Tilson said he had planted 80 hectares of mixed clover and tonic plantain over the past four years and was now seeing outstanding results. “We did a research experiment this season where we grazed half our Highlander ewe hoggets with their Primera lambs on plantain and half on grass for the last month of lactation in December. “The lambs that were weaned off the plantain were a kilo heavier in carcass weight than the lambs that were grazed on pasture. And the ewe hoggets weaned 1.2 kgs heavier than those on pasture.

14 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

“All up, 48% of the lambs weaned off the plantain mob graded better off mum compared to 21% off the grass mob. It was clear the plantain lambs graded better, yielded better and put on weight faster.” Mr Tilson said the lambs on the plantain put on 350 grams a day on average from date of lambing to weaning. “The plantain is very palatable and seems to digest well. Our lambs grazed the whole paddock very evenly. “Having plantain also meant that during last year’s drought we were able to grow all our Primera rams out to meet con-

tractual demands from farmers. Without plantain we would have been very challenged.” Mr Tilson added that plantain was helping get his replacement Highlander ewe lambs to a mature body weight earlier. “We can mate our hoggets earlier and get the genetic gains earlier without compromising growth rates.” On weaning his hogget replacements in January, Mr Tilson said they came off the plantain at 66.5 kilos. “They had put on 4.5 kilos while also rearing a lamb, so we were thrilled.” However, to reap the benefits

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of plantain he said it must be managed well. “We graze it when the height of the plantain is the height of a stubby beer bottle and we take the stock out when it’s the height of a stubby beer bottle lying on it’s side. You can’t just stick your stock in there and forget about them.” Opepe Farm Trust farm manager, Ryan Mason planted more than 300 hectares of tonic plantain on the Central Plateau farm and said it was one of the best decisions he has made. “We have light soil and poor fertility as well as challenging climatic conditions so we need

a crop that can handle our harsh environment. We need something to give us growth all year around. Plantain is the answer.” Opepe Farm Trust grazes dairy heifers and calves on the plantain and also finishes its Primera/Highlander and Primera/Romney lambs on plantain. The property used to have 100 percent brown top grass but 10 percent is now plantain and Mr Mason said he planned to grow more. “Plantain is a good year round plant that is low cost and is easy to establish in a low fertile environment. We have peace of mind knowing we have the feed available going into the winter and during droughts. This enables us to focus on good genetics and management.” Focus Genetics chief executive, Gavin Foulsham said Awapai’s results demonstrated the value of matching investment in forage with an appropriate investment in genetics or vice versa. “It makes sense that if you are going to invest in quality genetics, you need to ensure you are providing them with the forage that allows the animals to express their genetic potential. Awapai’s results with plantain have really hammered home that message!”

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www.ruralliving.co.nz Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 15

RURAL ��

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

Cat and mouse run around As age catches up with country puss I’ve noticed urban comforts appeal to her much more than roughing it rurally. Where once she was happy to sleep on the deck chair outdoors or to curl up on the doormat, these days she would rather snuggle up to me in bed. In fact, by morning it is she in the middle and me on the edge! If I’m reclining in the lounge so is madam – on top of my stomach, making movement impossible. In winter she opts for the back of the couch, just where it catches the warm down draft from the heat pump, but I must be sure the leather is covered with a throw! In the past, even on cool mornings, she would make a beeline out the door for her morning ‘constitutional’ – a brisk inspection of the property, ablutions, claw sharpening on the plum tree and, on warmer

days, a thorough wash on our sun-drenched deck. Not anymore. One look at the wet or the cold and she is quick to find a hidey-hole inside; we’ve even resorted to keeping a litter box (just in case).

But some habits die hard. Puss may have slowed but she’s still capable of catching a mouse or two as I recently found out. Walking in the door, I grabbed a cuppa and was just settling to watch the news when I heard

that very particular ‘miaow’ that doesn’t say, ‘it’s me, I’m home’, but implies, ‘look what I’ve got, you’re going to love it!’ Yes, stiff limbs and all, she had nabbed the tiniest, weeniest grey mouse and was having a play. However, on letting it off the claw for a moment, mouse was quick to scurry under a bookcase. For the next hour puss lay immobile in front of the heavy unit waiting to pounce. But clever mouse stayed where it was, safe until man of the house arrived home and used a coathanger to move it out. By this time puss had gone walkabouts but husband’s quick reflexes went to work and mouse was quickly stomped on. Moral of the story: patience is no longer a virtue when mouse bides its time but quick-acting husbands are better than mousetrap and no cheese wasted. – Cat-chup, Pukekohe

Oh, Dairy-Me! By Mandy Gundersen Recently we left a hectic life in The Big Smoke (Auckland) behind for a more relaxed Franklin lifestyle. Despite moving to residential Pukekohe – handy to town but with a section big enough for a trampoline and fort, this ‘city girl’ felt more than ready to embrace a rural life and transform into ‘country girl extraordinaire’. Well, that was the plan. Hanging out the washing on our first morning, Master Three and I were stopped dead by a terrible bellowing

noise. Our usually brave young guy ran inside to hide and I had phone in hand ready to summon the husband home. However, we finally decided to head out and explore (little fellow with some trepidation). And there, across the road from our cul de sac, on neighbouring land was a herd of cows, peacefully lowing and munching on breakfast. What a pleasant surprise! That evening, husband (who grew up a ‘farm boy’) had a great laugh but our young man perfectly summed up a Townie’s experience – “Daddy, I thought cows just said, ‘Moo!’ ”

16 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

Good things come in small packages!

Big horses can seem overwhelming to little children but Janet Keeling’s daughter Mackenzie is happy and confident astride this charming Shetland pony, ‘Gleneagles Polly’, during a riding lesson at Whitford with Kristin Gribble-Bowring. The perfect pony for timid littlies!

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Shake your tail feather By Helen Perry Rural living bachelor Gavin Wilkinson is pretty much king of the roost at his Hunua home. He comes home each night to a bevy of ash blondes and redheads all clamouring for his attention and who are entirely at his beck and call. Except for one rival who thinks he has more to crow about than Gavin. Preferring to remain nameless, this cocky individual struts around as if he owns the place but is so confident of his popularity he doesn’t flaunt it or, for that matter, abuse his sway with the girls. Instead ‘Fred’, the pseudonym I’ve given him, is friendly, welcoming and happy to have the ladies run after him while making few demands. But judging by the number of youngsters born at this idyllic garden retreat, you might say he’s had his way with more than a few – Dad’s Day in Hunua is quite an event! By now you may have guessed, this cock of the walk is indeed a handsome rooster and the ‘girls’ a mix of blue araucanas and shaver cross hens. Gavin is breeding the shavers partly for eggs and partly as table poultry and the blue araucanas, for sale.

“All my hens are free range – the chickens won’t even roost in a coop preferring trees or under the bushes around here,” Gavin says. “I actually started out in the Whitford area with about six hens but I lost a few to rats, stoats and ferrets and had to do a lot of pest control – trapping and bait stations mostly. It worked well. “Here at Hunua I still have to keep a close eye on pest control but with luck, when my 20 hens are laying I can get up to a dozen or more eggs a day.” And thanks to ‘Fred’ a giant size light Sussex (still growing), plus some young male blue araucanas, coming up to maturity, Gavin’s breeding programme is moving along too. “I’m hatching my own eggs and recently hatched around 20 blue araucana chicks, most of which I kept.” Gavin was also breeding golden pheasants with the aim of increasing the local population of game birds to a sustainable level for shooting. But with his recent move to Hunua, that’s been put on the back burner for a while. “Between work – full time in my aunt and uncle’s nursery and part-time pest control – re-settling and breeding, I’m pretty busy,” says the poultry-

Gavin Wilkinson with his giant light Sussex rooster defined by its white body, black tail and black tipped wings. Photo Wayne Martin

man who is a keen gardener and outdoorsman. “Working at the nursery also means I occasionally get to bring home plants not suitable for sale which means I can better establish the gardens here.

The chooks will like that!” In the meantime, Gavin pretty well has his hands full but, naturally, he’s hopeful of keeping the chicken coop full too if ‘Fred’ can keep up his end, that is!

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 17

RURAL ��

Contractors play it safe Agricultural contractors must be on top of all employment and health and safety obligations, according to Rural Contractors New Zealand (RCNZ). Roger Parton, RCNZ chief executive, says the industry is working hard to encourage and attract good people and their safety must come first. “It is all very well having a top-of-the-line tractor, but it is not much use if there is nobody to drive it!” Rogue operators, treating staff poorly and putting them at risk through unsafe practices could earn the industry a bad name, he adds, while written employment agreements (EAs) help employers and employees form a clear understanding of responsibilities.

“It is actually a requirement of employment law to have EAs and these should be signed before any work begins,” says Mr Parton.

“Correct employment procedures and safe workplace practice are an essential part of doing business nowadays. This is as important to the success

of rural contracting today as having the right gear to do the actual work.” Both employers and employees are legally required to take practicable steps to provide a safe work environment, including working hours and shift patterns which reduce risks of fatigue, Mr Parton says. “One way of ensuring this is to have an operating health and safety plan in place – not sitting on a shelf gathering dust. Such a plan needs to identify hazards and put controls in place to manage them. It is also not a bad idea to have experienced workers supervise new or untrained employees,” he says. “Training helps share knowledge and develop skills. It can also help influence behaviour and improve health and safety.”

Autumn Colds not to be sneezed at By Neil Houston, Veterinary Associates Autumn often brings colds and coughs to horses just as it does to humans. As a general rule, if the nasal discharge is clear, and the horse is bright and eating, it is unlikely that treatment is required. If the nasal discharge is thick and yellow there is probably some secondary bacterial infection present and antibiotic treatment may be required.

If the horse is depressed, off its food, has a temperature or is showing an increased effort in breathing, it should be examined by a veterinarian. Equine Rhinoviruses belong to the same family as the human common cold. Infection occurs in all horses and the virus is spread by direct contact and through aerosols. The nasal discharge is usually clear. The horse may have a fever, be off its food and have a cough. There is no vaccine and the

virus generally has to run its course with supportive treatment administered only if necessary. Equine Influenza (‘Flu’) is not present in New Zealand. Equine Herpes Viruses are also widespread in horse populations and are most common in young horses. Horses usually have a clear nasal discharge, are off food, have a fever, and sometimes a cough. There is no specific treatment and in uncomplicated cases the

clinical course of the disease is usually less than one week. In some cases supportive care may be required and rest is important as too rapid a return to work may result in prolonged illness or secondary bacterial infection. Vaccines against Herpes Viruses are available but immunity from vaccination is not strong and vaccination every six months is required. Horses can also become carriers of the virus with recurrence at times of stress.

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RURAL

Passing on post Long-time rural postie, Ruth Watson from Pukekohe is parking the van and hanging up her mailbag. Last year the well-known driver was worried about a NZ Post proposal to reduce the frequency of rural delivery, and while this plan hasn’t gone ahead, Ruth’s decided to move on to fresh pastures. “As far as I understand now, I don’t think the rural sector is going to be affected by the changes to reduce mail services, but both my husband, Dave, and I hate living life with all the uncertainties.” So, after nine years, Ruth will hang up her mail sack on April 1 even though she’s unsure exactly where the road ahead may lead. “I’ve done it long enough and I am sick of the early mornings and the six-day-a-week commitment. I am just going to catch my breath before I worry about finding something else to do with all my spare time,” she says. Over the years, Ruth has gained a reputation amongst locals for going above and beyond the expected when executing her appointed rounds. “We have often fed cats and dogs while owners are on holiday and also watered veggie gardens over the Christmas holiday period – and been well rewarded for doing so! “I have even delivered papers right to the doorstep for those who have been laid low.”

But driving the rural route hasn’t been all cool runnings for Ruth. “I have made many friends whom I will keep in touch with, but also one or two enemies, because their letterboxes were a real issue to deliver to and they wouldn’t do anything about it. It’s a two-way street, I guess!” And she has encountered some interesting situations during her tenure. “Delivering mail is a very serious business,” she quips. “However, I have seen most of Drury in their pyjamas during early deliveries! “I also came across a live baby possum in a letterbox once, but it didn’t make me scream as much as a large, black, plastic rat in another; I absolutely hate rats! “It became a kind of ‘you’re it’ joke amongst a few families in the area. I am glad I’m not afraid of spiders and cockroaches, though, because both frequent many a box in the area!” Creepy crawlies are accepted as hazards of the trade and Ruth won’t miss them but she will miss the many people who have helped make her job more enjoyable. “There’s a large number of growers on our run and the family’s certainly going to miss the lovely fresh produce and flowers often given to us along with the annual supply of chocolate and wine at Christmas time, of course!”

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 19

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RURAL

Sage words on dry times Once again, the rain, rain seems to be staying away in Franklin. However, while the Green Party’s recentlyannounced Solar Homes scheme may cast new light on sustainable living, it seems the Greens are yet to come to the party to assist Kiwis willing to make use of every drop of an essential resource – JON RAWLINSON reports. Green Party MP, Eugenie Sage, says the collection of rainwater by rural and townbased New Zealanders could help alleviate the drain on this country’s water supply and economy. “The Green Party supports households conserving water and improving their resilience with rainwater collection tanks and rain barrels. “Rainwater tanks can reduce demand on council systems. This can save money and postpone capital spending on additional water supply infrastructure,” she says. “Councils could do this through low interest loans (repaid through rates) or subsidies using rates. An example [of this] is our solar homes plan to make the installation of solar panels more affordable.” Ms Sage’s statement comes in response to calls in a recent issue of Rural Living by climate expert, Dr Jim Salinger, for government to subsidise domestic rainwater collection systems. “It’s very important to harvest rainwater as our climate warms. With warming comes drying of our climate, so collection of rainwater is necessary to offset increased demand,” Dr Salinger stated.

“We do have a bit of policy around water conservation but nothing specific on rainwater collection tanks [or] similar scheme for rainwater harvesting.”

“Some subsidies should be given by local government for domestic rainwater collection [rain barrels or tanks], as this is a cost saving on the local body concerned.” While the Greens appear to agree with Dr Salinger in principle, practice at a national level is another matter, at least at this stage. “We do have a bit of policy around water conservation but nothing specific on rainwater collection tanks [or] similar scheme for rainwater harvesting,” Ms Sage says. Although taxpayers may need

to wait a while for government, national or local (in greater Auckland at least), to offer incentives to collect water at home, councils are increasingly encouraging water conservation in one way at least... and many have the bills to prove it!

Post script Auckland Council, as well as the Labour Party did not provide a response to Dr Salinger’s comments in time for publication. However, Cameron Cotter from National had this to say: “A risk with central govern-

ment imposing blanket rules and regulations is that they may not be suitable for all... National believes in communities coming up with solutions that best meet their needs. “Local Authorities are democratically elected and are answerable to ratepayers, so if those communities want things to change they can ask their local authority to investigate and act.” In my opinion, this begs the question, if it’s our job to prod councils into serving our needs, what is our ‘National’ government for?

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 21

RURAL _________________________________

Innovators encouraged TOOL TALK

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However, they are more difficult to ignite in the first place. Hardwood usually costs more, gives off more heat but takes longer to dry than softwood. Softwoods are less dense and are usually more resinous. This means they ignite much faster, and, therefore, are good as a starter wood to get the fire going. Softwood is generally cheaper, gives off less heat and burns faster but it dries more quickly than hardwood. The following table will guide you in your winter firewood choices.

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No.8 wire thinking will be put to the test again this year during National Fieldays annual Innovation Competition. With entries now being accepted, organisers are urging budding Benjamin Franklins and Thomas Edisons to step forward with their rural inventions. The cream of the crop will be displayed in the Fieldays Innovation Centre during the event. The competition features a range of categories to support ingenuity at all levels. Incorporating commercial innovations and backyard creations, it is the perfect place for new innovations to be launched, says Fieldays event manager, Vanessa Richmond. “Offering help and assistance for entrants is a major part of Fieldays Innovations. We are bringing partners onboard to help nurture relationships with entrants while fostering entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity. “Entrants also receive invaluable feedback from prospective customers, and the potential to gain priceless media exposure for their innovation. It is then no wonder that the amount and standard of entries strengthens year after year.” As featured previously in Rural Living, Ayla Hutchinson – inventor of the Kindling Cracker – claimed a number of

The Kindling Cracker attracted plenty of attention at Fieldays 2013.

awards in 2013, including the title of Young Inventor of the Year. Since then, she has taken her product to market and claimed further plaudits including the title of Most Inspiring Individual at the NZ Innovator’s Awards. Ayla says Fieldays helped put her invention on the map. “I had heaps of pre-orders from Fieldays... the Kindling Cracker has been so successful, I can’t believe that I am selling them to people around the world!” Inventions can be entered online at fieldays.co.nz/enterinnovationcentre; details will be kept confidential until inventions are unveiled on the first day of Fieldays 2014.

NO BUSINESS LIKE AGRIBUSINESS Last year, approximately 900 exhibitors and 125,000 visitors made the pilgrimage to National Fieldays at Mystery Creek, near Hamilton. This year, organisers are expecting even more to attend. Jon Calder, NZ national Fieldays CEO, says the event

provides a compelling showcase for what’s happening throughout New Zealand’s agricultural industry. Considered to be the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agribusiness expo, Fieldays will run from June 11-14; visit ﬁeldays. co.nz for details.

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RURAL

no reining in keen players Fierce competition saw nearly every game come down to the wire at the recent Sponsors Classic hosted by the Counties Polocrosse Team. Polocrosse fans from across the city flocked to Adberry Park in Glenbrook for the two-day event at which the Ravensdown team triumphed over Takanini Feeds by five goals in a fast and exciting final. Six teams competed over two days, the first event of this nature to be held at the ground in two years. Last month Rural Living focused on the White brothers from Hunua who had both been

picked to play in the Classic. At that point they were waiting to hear if they were to play in the same team or opposing teams. Jason played for the Takanini Feeds team which was runner-up and Martin played for the Rural Delivery team. A popular equine sport since it was introduced to New Zealand in the late 1960s, polocrosse is played by both men and women. Unlike polo, players require only one horse and use a ‘basket’-style racquet to shoot a rubber-covered foam ball between two posts.

Takanini Feeds general manager, Iran Forsdyke, with his company sponsored team.

Rural Delivery team member Martin White out front of Albany Toyota players.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 23

RURAL _______________________________________________________________________________

Flannelweed Flannelweed (Solanum mauritianum) may be on the way to becoming a “ﬂagship pest plant” for eradication in our district. Andrew Sinclair, of Whakaupoko Landcare, is leading a campaign to have the status of Flannelweed to “Total Pest Control-Whole Region”, as in the Waikato district. “The current 20 metre boundary control requirement makes little sense for a species which is mainly spread by birds,” Mr Sinclair says. “As a community, if we want to pick a weed as ﬂagship for successful control, Flannelweed is the ideal ambassador. “It is a problem weed due to its rapid growth – up to four metres per year – and its spread by birds.” Mr Sinclair is making a submission to Auckland Council, supported by Patumahoe Village

Incorporated, and Awhitu Peninsula Landcare. Flannelweed is readily identiﬁable and easily killed. Seedlings can be pulled out, larger trees can be sprayed or cut with the stumps painted using glyphosate or picloram. Seeds are relatively short lived most germinating within 1-2 years. Flannelweed, also known as woolly nightshade, tobacco weed and kerosene weed (it has a faintly kerosene-like smell), originated in South America and should not be confused with Sida Cordifolia also known as ﬂannelweed. The latter is a pasture pest in neighbouring Australia but more on that another day. There can be few country folk who don’t recognise Solanum mauritianum. It tends to infest gullies, roadside verges and neglected land but is also found in urban districts.

Weed

REPORT

A small tree it grows mostly to anything from four to nine metres with all parts of the plant covered in ﬁne, dusty hairs which can irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. Leaves are large and oval; purple ﬂowers form in clusters with yellow anthers which appear from January through to December followed by clusters of round, furry berries about one centimetre across.

Initially these are hard and green slowly turning soft and a dull yellow. The berries are moderately toxic especially to children and may be toxic to livestock too. The plant produces toxins which poison the soil. Seeds are spread by birds and it should be remembered that a single plant can produce 10,000 seeds. ■ NOTE: Following last month’s weed report on agapanthus, Rural Living received a call from a local Franklin contractor who recommended the use of Grazon for eliminating this plant. Active ingredients in Grazon include triclopyr and picloram but this is a Group 1 herbicide which should be used with great care and preferably by people experienced in working with toxic herbicides.

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RURAL

Autumn rodent control starts now! By Ditch Keeling Coastal Pest Solutions Ltd In keeping on track with last month’s article about pests around horses it’s time to dust off all of your rodent control gear and get it out there in time to deal with the annual influx of rats and mice. Rats and mice move into our buildings during winter and the damage that these guys can do is often extensive. It has the potential to be particularly dangerous as gnawing on electrical wires and water pipes is far more common than you might think. In fact, the gnawing noise in the roof, that people often complain about, is almost always from rats chewing on cables and pipes to keep their teeth nice and sharp. However, this has resulted in many house fires and water leaks. Considering that almost any rodent infestation can be removed for less than a couple of hundred dollars, it’s simply not worth the risk of ignoring rodent presence. Problems often start with rats gaining access into ceiling cavities and if one can do it you can bet that others will follow. I spend a lot of time in ceiling cavities and the amount of rat poo in many such spaces shows years of regular use. Removing all branches that allow roof access by rodents is a really important step as it is by far the most common means of access yet it is so easily fixed; sometimes it just means removing a few branches and voila – no more rats! The same can be said for dense vegetation around the base of a building, mould and, moisture. When an environment is clean and tidy, bugs and rodents just don’t have the conditions to become easily established. Obviously, removing these

r11030

Ditch Keeling shows the result of effective trapping.

factors alone will not always remove a rat problem and sometimes stopping access is impossible. Where this is the case, you will need to apply either bait stations or traps. Bait stations containing toxic bait provide the most efﬁcient form of rodent control; traps can work, but they seldom achieve the same results as a well run bait station programme. There are many forms of rat bait available but sadly a lot of them just don’t do the business. I stake my reputation on Pestoff Rodent Blocks which have never let me down. Many readers will have seen the nifty electronic devices that claim to keep a building rodentfree; almost sounds too good to be true doesn’t it? I can’t recall how many of these I have seen in the homes of people that have phoned desperately seeking a solution

to ongoing rat problems. Trapping is, by necessity, extremely hands-on but does have the advantage of reducing the risk of ending up with a smelly, dead rat hidden away in a corner. Incidently, I am often asked whether poisoned rats will die inside or outside a building. It is, of course, impossible to predict, however, we only occasionally see a dried-out, dead rat in a roof and the owners often tell me they never smelt a thing. To my mind, the chance of noticing a funny smell for a while is a safer bet than just hoping the rats don’t burn down the house or ﬂood you out. Please feel free to email or call me direct to ﬁnd out more about the range of rat and mouse control products available. Help us to provide the advice you require by sending all pest animal questions to info@ coastalpestsolutions.co.nz.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 25

LIVING _______________________________________________________________________________

Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.ruralliving.co.nz click on the competitions link then ﬁll in the form. One entry per person/ email address; entries close April 30, 2014. Winner notiﬁed by phone or email.

WIN! NEW MASHA POTATO & VEGETABLE MASHER Making mash needn’t be a lumpy chore. With the new Masha Potato & Vegetable Masher it’s super easy! Simply prepare veggies as normal and let the Masha create perfect, lump-free mash in a ﬂash. Try adding kumara or carrot to your mash or use your Masha to whizz batter, cake mix or for perfectly whipped cream. Create your own healthy baby food too! Featuring a special wave blade and low speed motor, the motion of the blade pushes food through the outer mesh casing to ensure perfectly smooth and creamy mash every time. Masha’s moving parts are dishwasher safe for a nice and easy clean. Available from Mitre 10 RRP $69.99 or enter our draw for a chance to win one for yourself.

WIN! A SPRING BULBS PRIZE PACK FROM GARDENPOST At Rural Living, we’re full of the joys of spring, despite the fact that we still have the little matter of both autumn and winter to negotiate! Thanks to GardenPost and their wide range of spring ﬂowering bulbs, we’re reminded that just as every rose has its thorn, every autumn has its spring. Visit gardenpost.co.nz for more information or to order a copy of the latest GardenPost catalogue. In the meantime, we have packs of spring bulbs to give away to SIX lucky winners! Each pack includes: 10 yellow daffodil Malvern City, ﬁve red and white tulip Carmague and 10 mixed gladioli nanus bulbs.

WIN! A MEDIUM-SIZED DOUBLE SILVER BANGLE FROM FIX-8 Made in New Zealand, the Fix-8 bangle is a symbol of Kiwi, No.8 fencing wire ingenuity and shows our ability to fix and create stuff with whatever we have lying around! What’s more, they’ll bring out the Kiwi in you, whether you’re fencing in the high country or fixing to look fab on the high street. The perfect gift idea for Kiwi mums, Fix-8 bangles are available in a range of sizes and finishes, including silver, copper and brushed metal, from fix8.net.nz. RRP from $40.

WIN! A COPY OF ANIMALS IN COMBAT Almost a century ago, young Kiwis prepared to land on a little known peninsula a world away from New Zealand; many would never return home. However, once the smoke had cleared on the First World War, alongside soldiers from all nations, hundreds of thousands of horses and other animals also served and died. In Animals in Combat, author and former military working dog handler, Nigel Allsopp, explores a history of military animals, their different roles and what the future holds for animals in modern warfare. And in marking ANZAC Day, publisher, New Holland has provided Rural Living with a copy of Animals in Combat (RRP $34.99) to give away. Just enter the draw to be in to win.

WIN! $50 COLUMBUS COFFEE VOUCHER WIN! SUPERFOODS COOKBOOK BY MICHELLE BRIDGES Building ‘Bridges’ to better nutrition has never been easier, thanks to this new book by one of Australia’s leading diet and fitness experts. From beans that boost brainpower to veggies that help prevent disease, superfoods really are beneficial additions in the kitchen and in Superfoods Cookbook, Michelle shows how they can best be used to create nutritious, yet delicious, dishes. Featuring 80 recipes Superfoods Cookbook published by Penguin Group (NZ) includes weekly menu plans and shopping lists, while outlining the benefits of each superfood (RRP $37). And thanks to Penguin readers have a chance to win a copy for themselves– just enter the draw. 26 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

Foodies will surely love to win this $50 voucher from Columbus Coffee at Mitre 10 Mega in Pukekohe. Renowned for its fresh, healthy food, prepared on site, with both light meals and counter food to choose from, Columbus Coffee can also be relied on for a fabulous range of coffee options as well as tea, chocolate drinks and more. The perfect place for breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea, Columbus Coffee at Mitre 10 Mega is open seven days 8am-4pm so, just enter the draw to be in to win this chance for great food at a venue where you can do your hardware shopping too!

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LIVING

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

CITY LASS Three months of this year already gone. It seems to go faster every year or is that I am getting older? Well, this month has not been very exciting and the main conversation at home is whether we will get some rain today. The forecast has promised but even the cyclone somehow managed to deliver only a tiny amount of rain. My garden is looking sad and I have pulled up all the vegetables to prepare for some winter crops. The cat that Brian wrote about last month is still with us and our Burmese cat Billy is so jealous. Billy sneaks up on our ‘guest’ from all angles and tries hard to be ferocious but the other lovely cat just looks at him and Billy slinks away. Not really over-brave is our cat. I feel so sorry for whoever owned this lost puss as he (I think it is a he) is so friendly and accustomed to people. He may have been lost for quite some time. I have a photo so if anyone recognises him please contact me. I was really thrilled the other day when we popped into the cafe at Drury. While we were waiting for our coffee, a man at the adjacent table was reading the latest

Red sky in the morning, no farmers’ delight in Franklin. Right, lost puss making himself at home. issue of Rural Living. When he had ﬁnished his meal I watched and he actually took the magazine with him. We have been in publishing all our lives but we still get a huge thrill when people tell us that they have read something or other in any of our publications. Last weekend we decided to go and look at what is happening down at Pokeno. What a busy place the town is. We were there around 3pm on a Sunday and saw so many people eating icecreams, buying meat at the Pokeno butcher and relaxing in the cafe.

We then drove to where the new dairy company is being built. It is massive with new streets being developed around it. We continued up the hill to see the new subdivisions that already have people living in houses. The development there is massive which is great except for one thing and that’s the Southern Motorway. I travel each day up to Highbrook from Drury and experience the chaos that has eventuated over the past year. The motorway is seriously blocked every day from Drury. I envy the people who can live and work locally, lucky them.

The next time I write my column, Easter will be upon us and Daylight Saving will have ended. We all know that means winter is on its way. I see in the shops all the new season clothes and also lots of fabulous boots so, maybe next month will be one of spending on a new winter wardrobe. Remember, if you are splurging on anything be sure to shop locally; we are really lucky to have such a great selection of retailers in our area covering just about everything. Have a great month, Reay.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 27 17/03/14 2:51 pm

Greig Brebner and Scott Kington

Of umbrellas and alpacas He’s behind the raining success of an award-winning global product but none of it has ‘blunted’ Scott Kington’s enthusiasm for farm life. NATALIE BRITTAN takes a look at the Clevedon man’s lifestyle. Blunt Umbrellas may have produced a sleek accessory for city slickers, but the duo behind its success have forsaken the big smoke for the lush pastures of country living. A Newmarket company that specialises in innovative umbrella design, Blunt Umbrellas is owned and founded by former east Auckland boys, Greig Brebner and Scott Kington. Greig and Scott now live on lifestyle blocks in Warkworth and Clevedon respectively. Scott, who made the move from urban to rural living 12 years ago, says it was a natural decision to return to New Zealand for the quintessential Kiwi lifestyle after having lived overseas. “We wanted a greener lifestyle. My wife and I had a young child and we

thought Clevedon would be a nice place to grow up.” The father of two says his children love it. “They get to run around, climb trees and use their imagination which is what this environment is perfect for.” With adjoining bush on his 4-hectare land, jointly shared with his parents, Scott says he has an ideal lifestyle. A small-scale operation, the Kington homestead has four alpacas “to keep the grass down” and has had chickens in the past. Keeping things small has allowed the forward-thinking director of Blunt Umbrellas to focus on his umbrella business which began in 2005. What sets the Blunt Umbrella apart from its counterparts is a revolutionary design which Scott’s business partner, Greig, came up with.

28 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

A mechanical engineer by background, Greig, devised an umbrella which, instead of sharp tips, uses a small, claw-like device called Blunt Tip technology. When a Blunt Umbrella is opened up, each tip also opens up, making the fabric more taut and resulting in a stronger than average umbrella. This is all part of a revolutionary radial tensioning system which, together with superior materials and improved aerodynamics completes the package: a weather warrior that will not falter in wind tunnels of up to 120 km/h. Ultimately, it’s about user experience, says Scott. “Anyone who’s used a Blunt Umbrella doesn’t want to go back to a standard umbrella.” And the figures don’t lie. With 33 retailers in more than 20 different

countries and 1200 stores, everybody who is anybody has a Blunt Umbrella – even celebrities. “George Clooney and Matt Damon have supposedly requested our product and we believe we’re going to be in a couple of Hollywood movies this year,” says Scott. To cap it all off, Blunt Umbrellas was recently named a winner at the prestigious iF Product Design Awards held in Germany. With more than 3,249 entries from around the globe across 17 categories, the award was a coup for the promising young company. Despite this encouraging news, Scott and Greig are aiming higher than the stars – world domination, in fact. “The Japanese use 120 million umbrellas a year – the market is huge and we’ve just scratched the surface!”

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Taking the Fall in style suspender style pantyhose and elegant sheers with animal motifs at the knee – they spell fun party times ahead even when days turn cold and wet.

Autumn days remain warm but hints of early morning chill remind us that winter is on its way and it’s time to rug up. New season fashions include a re-emergence of sultry animal prints, florals, short-sleeved bomber jackets, layered over knits; luxe fabrics; metallic evening bags, stiletto shoes with pointed toes, biker boots, wool coats – flare with flair, belted too – batwing sleeves, soft merino knitwear (not too tight), skorts, skinny pants, harem pants, and sexy hosiery.

On the leisure front the big news in sports shoes are memory inners – inner soles that shout superb comfort and goodbye to new-shoe blisters. Pink, punk and plaid have popped up in some collections with pink the surprise colour for winter although red gets the nod from the ‘hood’. Give a roar for shaggy faux furs and, for those who love to leg it around town, then floaty tops and short, draped, evocative pants teamed with tantalising sheers are a goer.

While opaque tights have dominated the hosiery scene for the past two to three years and will remain popular, sassy, sheer styles, with an Italian influence, are now all the rage with motifs stamping their presence.

longer-length flip skirts, all with bold accessories – belts, earrings, scarves – will ensure there’s nothing dowdy about winter 2014.

However for the slightly more conservative, felt hats, knit skirts, tailored jackets with denim jeans, shirt tails under sweaters and

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 29

LIVING ��

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Adrenals are a pair of little glands that sit above the kidneys. They are one of those body parts that you don’t pay a lot of attention to until they let you down. Actually it is more of a case of you letting them down. The classic scenario is the committed businessperson or homemaker, who burns the candle at both ends. They move from project to project, driving themselves. As their energy levels drop, they start to depend on caffeine and sugar hits, more and more, to get that energy burst to keep going. Their body is first whispering, then talking but they are much too busy being busy, to listen. It gets harder and harder to get out of bed in the morning. Their days develops into a pattern. They have to drag themselves out of bed in the morning. It takes caffeine, refined carbohydrates and sugar to get going and they get a bit of an energy rise at around 10am, followed by a late afternoon slump, with a rise in the evening. The body is talking, but they are still not listening, so now the body starts shouting. Now, they cannot get out of bed in the morning. Getting dressed is a major effort. Everything is a major effort. The best they can do is lie around all day. Often, conventional medicine does not recognise adrenal fatigue. You undergo a series of tests, but the results come back as normal, so there cannot be anything wrong with

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30 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

you. Most adrenal fatigue sufferers go through a gambit of practitioners, searching to regain their lives. Adrenal fatigue is a progressive condition. It starts with a serious lack of energy; and can develop into just being too tired to do anything. Sleep provides no relief. The sooner you act, the quicker the results. Your body cannot correct itself unless it gets what it needs. At BeWell, we run a series of scientifically validated tests to look at what is really going on in your body. We look at energy levels from a cellular level up. We have a proven track record of dealing with this ever increasing malaise of our modern society. Visit our website for more information.

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 31

LIVING ��

Best Awhitu With so many people busy jockeying for position in the rat race, undertaking epic journeys can be out of the question. However, with stunning scenery right on our doorsteps, JON RAWLINSON found the Awhitu Peninsula offers a great place to explore over Easter. When Thor Heyerdahl sought adventure he built a boat and set out to cross the Pacific. As I’m neither a boat builder nor a descendant of Vikings, I undertook a much less hazardous (but ultimately rewarding) Kon-Tiki type tour of my own to costa da Franklin.

Stretching out between the Manukau Harbour and the Tasman Sea, Awhitu is located less than an hour’s drive from Pukekohe and has much to offer visitors including: • Waiuku – This town may be the gateway to the peninsula, but it’s certainly more than a passing fancy! Rich with history, Waiuku provides a snapshot of the region’s pioneering past, particularly at the Waiuku Museum. Visitors can also wander around its collection of restored buildings dating back to the 1800s. • Pollok Co-op – Because the only road north runs right through it,

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Worlds of Wisdom Tour with Jane Brebner Pollok is literally not to be missed! The perfect place to stop for a cuppa, Pollok Co-op also serves up a healthy dose of art at the heart of the peninsula. From its quirky sculpture garden â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where plants are available for purchase â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to paintings, sculptures, glassware, ceramics and jewellery, Pollok Co-op offers a most interesting pit stop. Be sure to pick up some locally made preserves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially those produced by EarthTalk at Awhitu. â&#x20AC;˘ Beaches â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Orua Bay, Big Bay, Wattle Bay and Grahams Beach are all great spots to take a dip. As an added bonus, despite being rather secluded, they feature such extras as playgrounds, picnic areas and boat ramps. And, as the peninsula is renowned for its fishing, there could be more than just a little fishie when the boat comes in, providing weather, time and tides allow! â&#x20AC;˘ Big Bay Burgers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Double beef, bacon, egg, tomato, beetroot, onions, lettuce, cheeseâ&#x20AC;Ś need I go on? Fast becoming a local legend, the Big Bay Burger â&#x20AC;&#x201C; available from Big Bay Holiday Park â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is quite a mouthful to describe, let alone eat! Making the Big Mac look like an amuse-bouche, the only thing humble about these behemoths is their price, $12 each, scenery free of charge! â&#x20AC;˘ Manukau Heads Lighthouse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; On a clear day, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tough to imagine that the tranquil scenery observed from the Manukau Heads Lighthouse could also serve as a watery grave. However, on February 7, 1863, the infamous tidal sandbar sent the

warship HMS Orpheus to the bottom and claimed 185 lives. Today, a replica of the first lighthouse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; built in 1874 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; stands vigil over the area, providing a glimpse into the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past, as well as stunning views of its present. â&#x20AC;˘ Bird parks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heard about the bird parks of Awhitu! Located at Waipipi â&#x20AC;&#x201C; off Awhitu Road towards the base of the peninsula â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and at Orua Bay. Both parks have a variety of feathered friends which have made themselves right at home. Opening times can vary, so visitors should call ahead. â&#x20AC;˘ Awhitu Golf Club â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Whether playing a round, or just playing around, Awhitu Golf Club welcomes top shots and miss-alots alike! Set in the Awhitu Regional Park, visitors can stroll the nine-hole fairways then take in dinner at the clubhouse. â&#x20AC;˘ Accommodation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Visitors looking for more than simply a day trip will find Awhitu offers a number of options for accommodation, from booking baches and B&Bs to bay-side service at the Big Bay Holiday Park or Orua Bay Beach Motorcamp and Accommodation. Although Awhitu has been an attractive holiday destination for generations, as Kiwis fly further afield, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a danger it could become a forgotten local jewel. It pays to remember one cannot truly appreciate all this world has to offer until we have experienced the treasures that lie in our own backyards.

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www.ruralliving.co.nz Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; March - April 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 33

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House and garden project of Victorian proportions Derelict and marked for demolition the fate of an 1850’s Herne Bay house looked sealed when a developer bought the land on which it stood. That was until Ian Ferguson climbed through a window into the virtually falling down building, saw potential in its kauri bones and negotiated a sale. HELEN PERRY visited 21 years on and found a work in progress. I first encountered Greenock Garden in 2008 when the property’s owner Ian Ferguson and his partner Kevin Hunt were preparing the gardens for the Heroic Garden Festival. A once bare paddock, part of the Ferguson family farm, had been totally transformed over a period of 14 years, with maturing gardens encompassing a large man-made pond dotted with water lilies. There was an orchard and cottage gardens surrounding the huge two-storey colonial house bought by Ian and transported in four pieces to the Karaka site in January, 1993. On arrival, the house was deposited onto a bare paddock where cows had grazed only days before. From left, downstairs Victorian bathroom, the parlour and the master bedroom. “The old girl looked terrible,” Ian said at that time. “No maintenance had been carried out for about 50 years. What’s more the dilapidated, faded burgundy paintwork, rusted roof and mis-matched 1930s bay window addition all looked ready to collapse.” Undeterred the qualified motor mechanic (who still has a passion for classic cars) armed with vision and practical skills, launched himself into the restoration project. The exterior was completely stripped, frame work was repaired and most of the windows were replaced with new units in true Victorian style. The 1930’s bay window was removed and the drawing room restored to its original size.

window at the front of the house and dormers were also fitted in the three double bedrooms to balance the design. The veranda was originally fitted to the front of the house only; Ian decided to take it down the side as well with French doors where the side windows once were. A balcony from the master bedroom was built over the existing scullery, with the window being replaced by a set of French doors. For practical reasons a small porch, matching the style of the house, was fitted over the back door.

Ian made five changes to the original design, all made sympathetically and in keeping with the design and era.

When I saw the house that first time, the rusted iron roof had been removed and Ian had re-roofed with Welsh slate, recycled from the University of Otago in Dunedin.

He installed two internal bathrooms with Victorian toilets and hand basins. The addition of the upstairs bathroom meant fitting a dormer

New weatherboards had been machined to match and the exterior reclad. Copper valleys and gutters had been installed and chimneys

34 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

rebuilt with the original bricks but with reproduction chimney pots. Visiting again last month, progress seemed to have slowed. But the exterior had been repainted and a lot of internal work had been done. Ian had replaced internal wiring, added insulation and had installed an internal sprinkler system to protect the historic house in the event of fire. Subsequently, framework was still exposed in several rooms.

master bedroom, painted a bold ochre, was complete and although the drawing room looked like a construction site without plaster board, insulation had been finished and a modern open firebox fitted behind the original Victorian fireplace and mantle. It just waits on gibbing and internal painting. “We’ve planned a deep rose leaf green for the walls and, of course, many of the accessories already have that Victorian influence.”

The parlour, while temporarily housing furniture for the drawing room, had been completed some years earlier and though other rooms still needed finishing, Ian was hopeful everything, bar the kitchen, would be complete within five years.

Among features Ian and Kevin particularly love are three glorious stained glass windows and four leadlite doors, their colours, and that of Victorian fire tiles, being used to influence colour schemes throughout.

“I am still reinstating some features, such as an arch in the hall, but most rooms are now ready for gibbing. The new kitchen will be last.”

“We’ve chipped away slowly attacking each new stage as time and money allowed and it’s now starting to look like a home.”

In the meantime, the bathrooms looked splendid, the light-filled,

While work is slowly ticking along, over the years the project has

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living

experienced some interesting turns. Not long after the exterior was first finished and repainted, an American film company approached Ian with the idea of using the house in a horror movie, The Boogie Man. “The remuneration was too hard to resist – it meant we could do a lot more work – but unfortunately the house was sprayed with dye to give it a derelict and decidedly spooky appearance,” Ian recalled. “On site for about six months, the film crew gave house and gardens a hammering and I was quite glad when the time came for them to go.” Interestingly, the house was also used in a music video clip for New Zealand band Blind Spot’s single, Yours Truly. Now sporting a new grey exterior coat, Ian said the house had regained its former stateliness and, when he and Kevin made a formal commitment to each other among friends and family in 2010, it looked a picture. But it’s not just the house which has received loving attention. The cottage gardens still provide an informal floral showcase, combining an element of structure with a random wild flower effect. Next door, the orchard pips rivals for its variety of fruit trees. In the main garden liquidamba rubs branches with dogwoods, pin oaks, a redwood pine, plane tree, English oaks, acacias and more. The many exotics have matured since my last visit and like all gardens, the floral displays change according to the season. While Ian and Kevin have both contributed to its care, it is Kevin who spends the most time watering, weeding and ensuring plants look their best. A natural gardener, he has embraced Ian’s initial vision for colourful, cottage-style gardens where wild flowers are as welcome as hybrids. On the northern side of the house, the formal lawn has a more manicured look with bordering gardens of annuals and perennials (brighter than an artist’s palette) together with lush foliage, breaking up the straight lines. On the western pond side there

Ian Ferguson, left, and partner Kevin Hunt.

Photo Wayne Martin

perhaps some of the most delightful “pieces” are the homestead pets – Ralph, the dalmatian, Holly a joyful schnauzer/beardie/labrador cross and Maine coon cat, Bella.

“I’d like to make it available for private functions and small ceremonies including same sex marriages. It would be perfect for wedding photography,” he said.

“The pond area needs a bit of work right now,” Ian said. “We’ve concentrated on the house, and let this part of the grounds go a bit but it shouldn’t take long to bring it back.”

While not part of the 2014 Heroic Garden Festival, Greenock – named after a Scottish coastal town meaning, basking in a sunny meadow – attracts plenty of interest from gardeners as well as bridal couples looking for a small function venue or a place for photos.

“There’s also been a lot interest from people who appreciate the history of the house and although this won’t initially be open to the public, eventually, when my time’s up, I’d like the property to become a museum for the community. Then visitors will be able to appreciate both the house and the garden.”

Garden art has also been placed around the property blending naturally with the surrounds. But

As a result Ian and Kevin hope to open the gardens for public use later this year.

are no straight lines. Instead large clumps of yellow and red canna lilies are interspersed with dahlias, hydrangeas, green arum lilies, St John’s wort, Canterbury bells, delphiniums, agapanthus, nicotiana, zinnias, buddleja and many varieties of campanula to name a few.

To enquire about Greenock email greenockgarden@xtra.co.nz

Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 35

dining MA TU HO HOTEL

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

patumahoE hotEL

STAMPEDE BAR & GRILL

Serving bistro meals, pizza, bar snacks and takeaway orders all at great prices. Great country hospitality and great entertainment. • Accommodation • Great Rates • Restaurant • T.A.B. • Gaming Machines

Stampede Bar & Grill is the premier nightspot and function venue. Stampede is an authentic Western style bar and restaurant and boasts an exciting western saloon style environment. Folks are coming from miles around to eat from the mouth watering menu on western saddle seats in the restaurant with its authentic wild west décor.

238 Great South Road, Papakura. Ph 297 8991 Open 7 days, 11.00am-3am www.stampedenz.com

LICENSED

Enjoy the pleasant rural setting of the General Store Restaurant located in the heart of Whitford Village. Specialising in a la carte dining, weddings, functions and corporate events it is just 5 minutes drive from Howick. Relax on the sun-drenched verandah, enjoy a drink in the bar, dine in style. • FREE GLASS OF HOUSE WINE OR BEER with any restaurant meal when mentioning this advert

• $10 LuNCh DAILy Commerce St, patumahoe. ph 09 236 3783. open mon-Sun 11am till late.

GENERAL STORE RESTAURANT & BAR

1 Whitford Wharf Rd, Whitford. Ph 530 8437 Open Wed-Fri 6pm till late, Sat-Sun 10am till late www.generalstorerestaurant.co.nz

LICENSED

LONE STAR PUKEKOHE

TUAKAU HOTEL

TE MARORO RESTAURANT

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

Planning a night out? Or just fancy a drink after work? Try one of our new cocktails to tempt your palate or one of our extensive range of craft and international beers in stock before sitting down to a meal at the restaurant or enjoying the last of the summer sun on our Palm Terrace. Let the team here at the award winning Tuakau Hotel, help you relax and unwind after a long day.

Experience Te Maroro Restaurant, winner 2013 ‘People’s Choice’ NZ Beef and Lamb and 2011 Culinary Fare ‘Restaurant of the Year’. Located at Jet Park Hotel, just 5mins from Auckland Airport, enjoy an excellent range of seasonal dishes reﬂecting a fusion of local and international cuisine. Open for dinner, lunch, and breakfast daily. Executive Chef, Nancye Pirini and team take pride in creating a superb experience for the most demanding diners.

• Be ready for a revved up ANZAC weekend with the V8s and Lone Star Open for breakfast Friday, Saturday and Sunday

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

8 Massey Ave, Pukekohe. Ph 09 947 7774. Cafe open 7 days from 5pm until late – Lunch Thur-Sun 11am-2pm. Bar open 7 days from 3pm until late. www.lonestar.co.nz

LICENSED 36 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

LICENSED

• SPECIAL – Receive 25% off the total bill up to the value of $40 when quoting this advert. Jet Park Hotel, 63 Westney Rd, Mangere. Ph 275 4100. Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch, dinner, 6am-10pm. www.jetpark.co.nz

LICENSED

$$$

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living

King of Castle Rock

full of pith and vinegar Desiring a taste of the good life, Andy and Shelley decided to bake their cake and eat it too, as JON RAWLINSON discovered. There’s more than many would expect cooking in the Corles kitchen. After taking their place behind the counter at Castle Rock Café on the Coromandel Peninsula, husband and wife duo, Andy and Shelley Corles, quickly turned their attention to developing their own Castle Rock range of homemade condiments and preserves. Andy, a chef by trade, says the rural lifestyle has provided inspiration for the couple’s diverse range of vinegars, sauces, dressings, jams, relishes and chutneys, featuring such varieties as gin and grapefruit marmalade, chilli peach chutney and raspberry vinegar. “We noticed there was a demand for quality, homemade products, so we decided to try a few unusual and new ideas and because everyone loved them so much, we kept on going,” he says. Locally grown ingredients never fall from the tree. “We grow our own chillis, tomatoes and herbs, but all the fruit and vegetables we use are New Zealand grown and we try to source as locally as possible. “Our garden is huge and now full of fruit trees, so we’re looking forward to enjoying the fruit as the trees mature. We also have an extensive vegetable garden which we hope will

provide more produce for the café as it matures.” Shelley says the secret to the success of the range has been “care, love and small batches.” “Each time Andy makes a batch we measure, mix and sample. We bottle and label by hand and really take care so others will enjoy it as much as we do,” she says. While Andy prefers Castle Rock’s chilli lime chutney, which he says makes everything delicious from steak to prawns, cheese and stir fries, Shelley recommends the strawberry lemon vinegar. “It is so versatile and enlivens even more mundane dishes, such as chicken salad, with an explosion of flavour!” Fortunately, Andy and Shelley’s creations are not only found down at Castle Rock. Some products are now available in Farro Fresh outlets in Auckland as well as stores in Whitianga, Matarangi and Thames. “Demand is increasing all the time. However, because we never want our products to be made by machines, it’s important to find the right balance. Andy has said we will need to build another kitchen soon and employ someone to make chutney and vinegar all day. But as much as I enjoy our range, it won’t be me!”

Andy and Shelley Corles at work in the kitchen.

Photos supplied

WIN! castle rock products Rural Living has a pack of specially selected Castle Rock products to give away.

entry per person / email address; entries close April 30, 2014.

It includes strawberry lemon mint vinegar, chilli lime chutney, tangy tomato relish, tamarillo chutney, strawberry lemon dressing and whiskey marmalade. To be in with a chance to win, simply visit the competitions section at ruralliving.co.nz and complete the form. One

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

187 Manukau Road, Pukekohe • Ph: 09 238 7289 e: franklincountrymeats@vodafone.co.nz • www.franklincountrymeats.co.nz

53582-v5

Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 37

LIVING ��

Bathroom design lessons It pays to do your homework before starting to renovate, as TAMARA RUBANOWSKI found out. When my partner and I decided to start renovating our 1970’s home, we soon learned not just one – but many lessons. We bought the property about four years ago because we had fallen in love with it at first sight, marvelling at the high cathedral ceilings, the quiet location near the beach and the gorgeous big garden. We knew older homes required a fair amount of repair and maintenance but soon after we moved in we realised that the three bathrooms in the house needed major work. The bathroom décor was well past its use-by date and on closer inspection we found the floors and walls were damp and mouldy. It seemed that the previous owners’ idea of dealing with

the mould was painting the walls a blue/green colour and then putting the house on the market! We found a lot of inspiration by collecting brochures at various bathroom and plumbing showrooms and visiting tile shops all over town. It was quite a long learning process and our folder full of information, photos and design magazines grew bigger and bigger. After several months of careful planning we decided to gut the bathrooms completely. I wanted a new bathroom design that reflected our coastal location, with a colour scheme inspired by sand, shells and driftwood. Luckily my partner and I agreed on most of the new bathroom design

We decided to keep the colour scheme and materials consistent in all three bathrooms. This resulted in a streamlined look throughout the house.

It also meant cost efficiencies were achieved through buying tiles and other materials in bulk quantities. Many stores offered special discounts when we asked, “how much for three of those?” We came up with our own bathroom designs, drew up a floor plan and budget spreadsheet, shopped around

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38 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

East Tamaki Branch • 212B Burswood Dr, East Tamaki • Ph 273 8128 Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat 10am-3pm • Email: sbtwnz@gmail.com

50044-v14

www.keithhayhomes.co.nz

TOP TIPS • Do your homework well in advance. for the best prices for materials, then hired a local builder and plumber to oversee the project.

• Pay attention to details.

We insisted on extractor fans to improve ventilation in each bathroom and on new Aqualining for the walls and ﬂoors. It was important to ‘water proof and future proof’ our investment.

• Allow for a few ‘unexpected extras’ in your budget.

A spa bath, walk-in shower, ﬂoorto-ceiling marbled tiles for a lovely luxurious look, in-wall cisterns, heated mirrors and quality heated towel rails were added. The new soft-closing toilet seats were a great improvement – no more loud “ker plonk” noises in the middle of the night. Researching the details for months in advance meant that we could buy top quality materials at a reasonable cost. For example, we saw some lovely designer tiles for about $140 per square metre, but then found an almost identical product on sale for

• Draw up your own ﬂoor plan and have it checked over by an expert.

• Shop around for the best prices and get at least three quotes. • Don’t cut corners and use the best quality materials you can afford. • Take photos of the building process for future reference. $49 per square metre. This resulted in a massive saving of a few thousand dollars. Surprise! However, no matter how well prepared you are, it is true what they say about building projects: some things will not go according to plan and you can be guaranteed of a few surprises. The builder’s plan to remove all our

old toilets at the same time and to install a Port-a-loo in our garden was stopped just in time. We pleaded to keep at least one small bathroom functioning for the family.

waterfall spout, which we had chosen for our spa bath, proved to be a challenge. Both the builder and plumber were scratching their heads, but they worked it all out in the end.

There were also some unexpected costs with the old plumbing, which needed upgrading and some of the old drains had to be unblocked.

While this was a major renovation, which took a few months to complete, we were very pleased with the results. We love our bathrooms and are now plotting the next big project – a new kitchen. Watch this space…

Installing a unique German-designed

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*Not an offer of finance. 5% deposit is indicative only subject to meeting lending criteria. Lenders terms, rates and conditions apply. Please ask Platinumwww.platinumhomes.co.nz Homes for more information.

(09) 238 7777

Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 39

Enjoy the good life at Acacia Cove

NE W ZE AL AND

NE W ZE AL AND DESIGNED+ DESIGNED+ PRODUCED PRODUCED

Custom wardrobes

2010 RVA Manager of the Year Bruce Cullington

Wardrobe renovations Do you have a wardrobe with small doors and poor access?

Acacia Cove is a country-style village situated on the beautiful Wattle Downs Peninsula.

If you answered yes, then our wardrobe ‘break-out’ service is for you.

Who could ask for more?

For those who appreciate the tranquility of an estuary setting Acacia Cove has it all, as well as its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and new gym.

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

53002-V6 53002-V6

If you’re aged 55 or over, value your independence but want greater security, come and have a look at the superb properties we have to offer. A right to occupy dwelling at Acacia Cove Village is unsecured.

Please accept this invitation to visit our showroom Duﬀy: Paul Duffy: Oﬃce: 09 570 5029 ext 202 Office: Mobile 021 606 229

Whether you choose to live in a villa or one of our luxurious apartments, you’ll have the security of a 24 hour, fully monitored emergency call system built in.

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

Wattle Farm Rd, Wattle Downs, Manurewa Ph 268 8522 www.acaciacovevillage.co.nz Email: acacia@kirkdale.co.nz

New Zealand Owned & Operated E54237

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Ph: 272 272 2890 2890 •• www.jhf.co.nz www.jhf.co.nz Ph:

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Enjoy the good life at Acacia Cove Take one look at Acacia Cove as a retirement option and you won’t want to live anywhere else. This totally New Zealand owned and operated village enjoys an outstanding location, exceptional facilities and is focused on living life abundantly. A gated community with 213 villas plus 10 luxurious apartments, Acacia Cove occupies 25 acres, is bounded by the estuary and is located across from Wattle Downs Golf Course. This tranquil, rural-like environment of trees and greens, glimpses of water and an delightful river’s edge walkway makes it one of the most desirable in the country. With 32 weekly activities life at Acacia Cove is never dull. Consequently many younger retirees or even working couples with an eye on future retirement are opting for its unique lifestyle of privacy, independence and a wealth of social activities. The village itself includes a restaurant and bar, library, hair salon, nurses station and medical clinic, craft room and residents workshop, a meeting room also used for movie evenings and big screen events, plus a new facility containing a gym, billiard table and jigsaw arena. The superb indoor heated pool with spa, overlooking an extensive

bowling green that would rival many such community facilities, is another facet to the superior facilities offered. What’s more, there is a motel unit available for visitor use while integral facilities such as the spacious restaurant and gracious lounge, with central stack stone, open ﬁreplace, both face north and enjoy sun and outlook. A bus calls to take residents shopping several times a week and, of course, regular excursions and functions are all part of village life with residents free to choose their level of involvement. Both the villas and apartments are sunny, extremely spacious and beautifully appointed offering one, two and three-bedroom options. All dwellings are equipped with an emergency call system and car parking is well catered for. Gardens and patios can be seen at every turn making for particularly picturesque surrounds.

To fully appreciate all Acacia Cove has to offer come along to the information tour on April 4. Bookings essential, phone 268 8522 to secure your place. Village Manager Bruce Cullington says importantly, the Occupation rights Agreement offers some of the best terms of any retirement village and provides residents with total ease of mind when it comes to maintenance and operational costs.

“However, to really appreciate how lovely it is at Acacia Cove come to our information tour on April 4, 2014,” Bruce says. “But remember bookings are essential so, please, phone 268-8522 to secure a place.”

131 Wattle Farm Rd, Wattle Downs, Manukau, Auckland. Ph 268-8522. E: acacia@kirkdale.co.nz. www.acaciacovevillage.co.nz Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 41

PUKEKAWA 576 Highway 22 The Landmark! Defined by its dominance of the landscape this gracious homestead is set prominently on an ancient volcanic cone, a preferred place to live for generations past.

Wander the substantial grounds punctuated by garden rooms, orchards, subtropical plants and fruits, majestic redwoods, a grape arbour, architectural old Moreton Bay fig and many others.

Why? The Panorama!

Restore the fountain, manicure the drive, bring this matriarch of landmarks into the 21st century! Restore her glory and feel the envy of an awe inspiring position with superb microclimate.

A Landmark that is the guardian of other landmarks from the meandering Waikato River in the West to Aucklandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sky Tower, Rangitoto Island and following East to the rugged skyline of the Coromandel Peninsula and Tabletop Mountain.

Prominence and privacy will be your reward. An inspiring property that others have long envied, want to own or visit but few get the opportunity.

Nobody will build higher than you on this 38ha (94acres). Walk a little way to the peak and survey an unsurpassed 360Âş vista.

The Trustees recognise the possible uses for the three titles that comprise this property are many and varied.

Imagine breakfast on the veranda watching the spectacular sunrise or sunset with a wine and friends in the evening.

To accommodate this, expressions of interest are invited and preferred by April 30, 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; however negotiation may be entered into from the outset.

View: Harcourts: PW140208

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Contributor to realestate.co.nz

57 King Street, Pukekohe, Auckland 1800 www.pukekoheproperty.co.nz

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living

Over-pricing caution ACCREDITED BUILDING CONSENT AUTHORITY

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

Building or Buying or Selling?

A strong 2013 for sellers has led to a greater increase in property listings in the Franklin lifestyle/rural market and although good for buyers, sellers should take caution when deciding how to sell and price their property. Sales volumes in February were down 15 per cent on the same period last year. Barfoot & Thompson managing director, Peter Thompson, says these figures indicate that the market is good for buyers, but sellers needed to be cautious not to over-price their properties. “These signs are positive and an indication that the economy is stable, banks are lending, and buyers and sellers remain confident. “But there is more choice out there and that will ultimately affect prices,” Mr Thompson said.

• Residential, Commercial & Industrial Plan Approval and Compliance Inspection Services

“We are starting to see a return to listings levels of October and November last year. For buyers, that’s good, they can start to shop around, but greater choice means more competition. Sellers will need to be realistic and not over-value their assets if they want them sold.”

and their property being marketed by experts who are also local.

• Pre-purchase Inspection Reports

The company’s aim is for every seller to have the best opportunity to sell at a price and within a time frame to fit their move.

• Unauthorised Building Resolution

• Building Advice

Ph 272 2269 Fax 272 2270 Email: info@bldgcert.co.nz

If you’re looking for a lifestyle opportunity from 1000m2 to 10 acres and larger, talk with a location specialist from the Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe team for advice on your next move to lifestyle/rural living.

Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe has grown its sales team to include specialist salespeople focusing in many “new interest” areas. Sellers can take confidence knowing their real estate needs are being cared for

Unit 23/2 Bishop Dunn Place, Botany South, Auckland 2013 PO Box 217 012, Botany Junction 2164 www.compassbuilding.co.nz 53844

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Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 43

DEATH WITH DIGNITY ��

organising a funeral We immediately responded with, “bright, breezy and full of life.” Yes, rimu proved the very best choice; we were so grateful for this little bit of guidance.

Talking about death is never easy and when dealing with the passing of loved ones many people are unprepared for what it takes to organise a funeral service and subsequent burial or cremation.

Cost of the funeral had been sorted some years earlier with an insurance policy so this was not of concern but what if this hadn’t been the case?

Here the family of the late Bette Ockelford share some of their experience. Grieving over the passing of our mother and faced with organising her funeral, we were astonished with how much there was to arrange and what a momentous task it was.

we’re part of your community At Fountains we are proud to work the families of Manurewa, Papakura, Franklin and wider rural areas. Our professional, caring staff are here to help you arrange a memorable, affordable funeral service with attention to every detail. We can also help you arrange a fitting monument, headstone or plaque for a loved one with our design and manufacturing services.

For example, I did not know that some florists use day-old flowers rather than fresh ones – fortunately ours were perfect and extremely elegant, so suited to our mother’s personality.

at two excellent locations

R100026

Papakura: Cnr Wood & Elliott Sts - Ph 298 2957 Manurewa: 36 Maich Rd - Ph 266 6177

The choice of caskets was overwhelming, something we were unprepared for. When the family couldn’t decide, it was the funeral director who asked us the obvious: “what was your mother like?”

These days, funeral insurance is a necessity especially for families who would find it difficult to cover this cost unexpectedly. Fortunately, our whole experience with bereavement arrangements was uncomplicated and stressless because of the stellar care delivered to us. However, it was abundantly clear that one needs to carefully choose a funeral home and directors, ensuring they are right for you and your loved one and who will also be upfront with advice on those areas you would like to take care of yourself.

Peace of mind comes in knowing Grahams has been serving Franklin and district for over 75 years

Cemeteryservices services Cemetery Followingthe theloss lossofofa aloved lovedone, one,family familyand andfriends friendsneed needfriendly friendly Following advice andprofessional professionalservices. services.Auckland AucklandCouncil’s Council’scemetery cemetery team team advice and can help youininyour yourtime timeofofneed. need. can help you offer: WeWe offer: Returned Services areasforforburial burialand andash ashinterments interments è è Returned Services areas burial sites and optionsforforash ashinterment interment è è burial sites and options mausoleums (only availableatatWaikumete WaikumeteCemetery) Cemetery) è è mausoleums (only available beautifully appointednon-denominational non-denominationalchapels chapels è è beautifully appointed audio visual services è è audio visual services webcasting è è webcasting lounge spaces post-servicerefreshments refreshmentsand andcatering cateringoptions options è è lounge spaces forfor post-service memorial walls è è memorial walls a range pre-needoptions. options. è è a range of of pre-need

Southern cemeteries: Southern cemeteries: Manukau Memorial Gardens, 357 Puhinui Rd, Papatoetoe, Auckland Phone 279 8232 Phone 0909 279 8232

all funeral arrangements.

Western and central cemeteries: Western and central cemeteries: Waikumete Cemetery,4128A 4128AGreat GreatNorth NorthRoad, Road,Glen GlenEden EdenPhone Phone09 09818 8185615 5615 Waikumete Cemetery,

Call: (09) 236 8919

Northern cemeteries: Northern cemeteries: North Shore MemorialPark, Park,235 235Schnapper SchnapperRock RockRoad, Road,Schnapper SchnapperRock, Rock,Auckland Auckland North Shore Memorial Phone 415 9646 8020 Phone 0909 415 9646 extext8020

(24 hours)

www.grahamsfunerals.co.nz

11029

44 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

Tuakau | Pukekohe | Waiuku

R11023

After hours contact: phone0909301 3010101 0101 After hours contact: phone visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or or visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

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death with dignity

Final farewell celebration of life If funerals have always seemed a sombre affair and talk of death often morbid, then times really are changing. Today, most funerals are a celebration of life. Clothes are brighter, favourite songs or music are played at the service and a photographic display, video, personal records and other significant mementos may be used to highlight the deceasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. In the main, people are more open about their feelings and will often address the gathering spontaneously. While there is no escaping the loss and grief family and friends feel, todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funeral services, regardless of religious beliefs, are more inclined to reflect the deceasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal interests, attributes and achievements with a sense of joy. Other things have changed too. While traditional, varnished caskets are still the most popular, the idea of a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cardboard boxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is not so very alien.

families generally need help to make suitable service, cremation or burial arrangements whilst also requiring comfort and the chance to grieve.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s caskets are made from various materials and many people ask for a painted or decorated casket, often choosing the deceasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite colour.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why it is important when choosing a funeral director that there is empathy between the family and the company selected.

Themed caskets can be selected to reflect personality or special interests. Caskets can come painted with roses, kittens, race cars, rainbows and other artwork too. Because the modern funeral is likely to contain those many elements of thanks and warm memories,

While families will often concentrate on gathering together those special items as well as writing a eulogy, there are many other aspects to consider.

Whatever one decides regarding arrangements for the last goodbye of a loved one, there is the assurance that plenty of kindly and professional assistance is at hand.

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For example, if oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget or, perhaps, cultural traditions, do not include using formal funeral transport, it is possible to personally take over transportation of the casket and even keep it at home until the day of the funeral.

â&#x20AC;˘ Liaison with clergy or celebrant â&#x20AC;˘ Burial or cremation â&#x20AC;˘ Floral tributes â&#x20AC;˘ Newspaper placement of death and bereavement thanks notices â&#x20AC;˘ Registry of death obligations â&#x20AC;˘ Printing of service orders â&#x20AC;˘ Mourning vehicles â&#x20AC;˘ Refreshment facilities and catering

Thankfully, most funeral directors are sensitive to the different needs of families and will have many organisational aspects well in hand.

Funerals

always

However, some families may want to undertake some of these arrangements themselves therefore, it would pay to inquire whether there are any legalities to observe in doing so.

Therefore it can be extremely helpful that funeral directors, who are often required to come out in the middle of the night (albeit at a slightly extra charge), can arrange for some or all of the following according to the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishes and their budget:

Phone 09 299 9271 Mobile 021 140 6632 Email emma@cetech.co.nz Web www.emmalove.co.nz CERT. CELEBRANT STUDIES I MEMBER OF THE CELEBRANTS ASSOC. NZ I REGISTERED MARRIAGE CELEBRANT R110028

Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; March - April 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 45

THE LAST THING YOU SHOULD BE THINKING ABOUT IS YOUR FUNERAL. Okay, so we’ll all have one someday. But until then, we’re pretty sure you’ve got better things to worry about. So we’ve made taking care of your funeral – and your family – easy. With a Cigna Funeral Plan, you choose your level of cover – between $5,000 and $15,000 – and if you’re aged between 55 & 85, your approval is guaranteed. We can give you an instant quote – online, or over the phone. Apply this month and you’ll get 10% off your ﬁrst year’s premiums – and if your policy covers yourself and your spouse or partner we’ll give you a permanent 20% discount. When the time comes, your chosen beneﬁciary will usually receive a cash payment within 48 hours. Accidental death is covered immediately – with death by natural causes covered after 24 months. Cigna have been protecting New Zealanders for over 90 years. So make sure that you, and the people you care about, have one less thing to worry about.

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living

V8’s back on track for anzac This year, the last post will coincide with the roar of engines during the ITM 500 Auckland V8 Supercars in Pukekohe. Organisers of the event – running during ANZAC weekend – have confirmed the Returned Services Association (RSA) will be their official charity. V8 Supercars CEO, James Warburton, says the RSA is the perfect beneficiary.

Serious business – Rugby World Cup All Black Jerome Kaino greets fans.

Photo Wayne Martin

Papakura’s prodigal son returns? Most often associated with Auckland rugby, Blues loose forward, Jerome Kaino, actually grew from local grassroots, as he explains to JON RAWLINSON. Competing in the Japanese Top League or a Rugby World Cup final may seem a world away from Prince Edward Park, home of the Papakura Sea Eagles Rugby League Club. However, Jerome Kaino says it was while living in Papakura that he made a decision that would affect his life from there on.

Although he transferred to Pakuranga’s Saint Kentigern College in Year 11, Jerome remained living in Papakura until the age of 21 when his family moved to Manurewa.

“When I was growing up, it was more a touch rugby, rugby league town. I played league up to the age of 14 or 15 for Papakura Sea Eagles.

“I didn’t really look at becoming an All Black [while at college]; I was just hoping to make Auckland Secondary Schools. I was stoked and shocked at how fast my career escalated.”

“At that time, Counties Manukau Rugby Union started doing a lot more in the area and our first fifteen gained a big following, so I decided to switch to rugby.” Originally from American Samoa, Jerome’s family moved to New Zealand when he was four years old. He attended Kelvin Road School, Papakura Intermediate and Papakura High.

In a meteoric rise, he quickly shot through the grades, both during and after leaving secondary school.

Jerome played 84 games for the Blues and 48 tests for the All Blacks before being named runner-up IRB (International Rugby Board) Player of the Year, following the 2011 World Cup. He then headed offshore for a two-year stint in Japan. Recently returned, he says the decision to once again fall in with the Blues camp was an obvious one,

although the back-to-back, Super Rugby champion Chiefs was an outside chance to claim his services. “I told JK [Blues coach, John Kirwan] right off the bat that I wanted to come back; it was just a case of finding a spot,” he says. “When I [initially] heard they had a full roster, the only other region I would have considered was the Chiefs. I had a few words with Dave Rennie, but I was very happy that the Blues found a spot for me.”

“It is an honour to stage this event during ANZAC weekend, which holds enormous significance on both sides of the Tasman. With ATEED [Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development], our event partners and the RSA, we will ensure the legend of the ANZAC is respected and remembered.” He says the RSA and V8 Supercars have been working together on a number of initiatives, including sale of poppies at the event, a ‘Meet the Drivers’ event at Pukekohe RSA (April 23), merchandise sales and the ANZAC Day services. In addition, RSA members and current armed forces personnel will receive free trackside entry on April 25. “We are indebted to the RSA for their support of our event,” says Mr Warburton, “and we are committed to partnering with them to assist with their invaluable charitable programmes.” V8 fans will experience support category action on Thursday, April 24, before an afternoon start on ANZAC Day featuring the first 100km race. Two 100km races will be staged on Saturday and one 200km race on Sunday.

Looking to the future, Jerome says, while he has always been committed to the Blues franchise, he wouldn’t totally reject the chance to return to his old, local stomping ground. “I wouldn’t turn down the prospect of playing under Tana Umaga,” Jerome laughs, “I’d be open to it, as long as I could still play for the Blues, that is.”

Photo Mark Horsburgh

Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 47

LIVING ��

Ford’s real beaut ute Aussies are pretty good at claiming things as their own, such as New Zealand legends Split Enz, Phar Lap, Pavlova and Russell Crowe. They can keep Crowe, but the rest are as Kiwi as they come. However, the good old ute, a passenger car-based pick-up that’s sold in virtually every market around the world, really was an Australian invention. This year Ford is celebrating the 80th anniversary of its iconic ute, which led to the development of vehicles such as the F-Series and Ranger and propelled the company to years of truck leadership. Like all good ideas, the first integrated passenger car-based ute was born out of necessity, very much like the first Model T Ford. In mid-1933 the then managing director of the Ford Motor Company of Australia, Hubert French, received a letter from a farmer’s wife in Gippsland, Victoria. She wrote: “My husband and I can’t afford a car and a truck but we need a car to go to church on Sunday and a truck to take the pigs to market on Monday. Can you help?” What the customer wanted was a vehicle with passenger car comfort but which could also carry loads. French passed the letter on to a young design engineer, Lewis (Lew) Bandt, who had joined the company only a few years previously as Ford’s only designer.

Get a load of this – Ford Australia’s first coupe-utility, which spawned the latest award-winning Ford Ranger pick-up. Bandt was just 23 years old but was already showing a flair for design for which he was to become quite famous until he retired in 1975. Bandt died in 1987, after being involved in an accident driving a restored version of the utility he helped make famous. Bandt’s take on the passenger car-based utility was considered revolutionary at the time. Until the early 1930s, many automobile manufacturers and vehicle body builders had constructed wooden or metal ‘utility’ bodies on car chassis. Where Bandt’s design differed was that he developed his Ford utility as a coupe (two-passenger, steelpaneled, glass-windowed car) with

an integrated steel-panelled, load carrying section at the rear. What Bandt did was to blend the ‘pickup’ sides into a coupe body, which provided a cleaner profile, and increased the load area behind the cabin. He completed his original design in October, 1933, and quickly produced two prototypes for testing. By January 23, 1934, he had the final drawings and the new Ford ute went into production with Bandt christening his design a ‘coupeutility’. The result was quickly hailed as the ‘must have’ vehicle for rural communities and 22,000 were

sold between 1940 and 1954. The original Bandt-designed Ford ute paved the way for what has morphed into some of the world’s biggest selling vehicles – the pick-up or utility. It also spawned the Falcon ute, which has been a firm favourite with customers since the first Falcon XK ute was launched in 1961. In total, Ford Australia has sold more than 455,000 Falcon utes, among the most popular being the Falcon XB, XF II, AU II, BA and current FG models. The Australian-designed and developed Ford Ranger is also widely sold in more than 180 different countries.

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48 — Rural Living — March - April 2014

________________________________________________________________________________

LIVING

Plugged in, ready to go Mitsubishi has added a new dimension to the petrol/diesel SUV market by introducing a world-ﬁrst PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric) vehicle version of its popular Outlander.

ﬁve-year warranty and at that stage, in the unlikely event a replacement is needed, it is expected that the purchase price would have been reduced signiﬁcantly.

Due in Mitsubishi dealer showrooms next month, it is the ﬁrst ever to meld electric vehicle technologies with allwheel-drive capabilities in an SUV.

Plug in electric hybrid versions of Outlander retail at $59,990 for the XLS all-wheel drive and $66,990 for the VRX all-wheel drive.

The beneﬁt to the owner, Mitsubishi says, is the unprecedented environmental performance and quietness of an EV, the stability and handling of a 4WD, and the sheer practicality of an SUV.

OUTLANDER PHEV MORE THAN A MATCH FOR ASIAN MOUNTAINS AND JUNGLE To demonstrate the Outlander PHEV’s pace and durability, a privately entered pre-production vehicle was driven in the 18th FIA-sanctioned Asia Cross Country Rally.

It boasts an undreamed-of 1.9 litres per 100kms or, as one UK writer noted, 149 miles per gallon. All this in an SUV that looks just like its petrol or diesel Outlander cousins, and behaves in the same way. New Zealand is third in the world to experience the car, after Europe (where 20,000 are already on the road or ordered), and Japan. Mitsubishi’s head of sales and marketing strategy, Daniel Cook, says “This is absolutely a ‘no compromise’ car, with genuine AWD capabilities and credentials. “Plug the car into a standard power socket overnight and you can commute to work up to 52kms with no fuel use, while spending less on electricity for the week than the cost of a couple of coffees.”

(The average NZ commute is 38 kilometres says Cook). Off-peak, a full 6.5 hour charge costs $1.41, so a weekly electric-only commute’s around $7.

petrol engine is constantly ready to generate electricity to top up the battery, and add extra power when it’s needed. All with no intervention from the driver.

“This car turns conventional thinking on its head,” adds Cook. “Typically, a focus on power can tend to sacriﬁce economy, and vice versa.

When it comes to this PHEV’s battery life, he says it doesn’t have a stated life expectancy as such, but at 10 years it is still expected to hold 80% of the original charge.

“Not in this case. The twin electric motors’ 332 Newton metres of torque and V6-style power position the PHEV as the performance car of the Outlander range. Yet overall, you get this astonishing economy.”

At today’s prices a replacement battery is $16,000, so not dissimilar to an engine replacement. However, the battery is covered by a

This six-day event – the continent’s biggest and an eastern take on Dakarstyle extreme cross country rallying – covered 2,000 km of challenging South East Asian mountain roads, muddy jungle and river crossings between Pattaya in Thailand and Pakse in southern Laos. The PHEV was totally standard except for rally-required upgrades such as shock absorbers and springs, roll cage and underﬂoor protection. In an event mostly populated by heavy-duty diesel-powered utes, the only plug-in hybrid ran problem-free, ﬁnishing 17th overall.

Cook says that ‘range anxiety’ is a thing of the past. The 2.0-litre

Rural Living — March - April 2014 — 49

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Subscribe to Rural Living Rural Living is a stimulating magazine delivered to RD addresses in the Franklin district. It is designed to provide readers with varied rural information, which is both informative and helpful to the lifestyle market, as well as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Livingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; section providing for all aspects of living. HOW TO SUBSCRIBE: For your free e-edition of Rural Living delivered straight to your inbox go to www.ruralliving.co.nz/ subscriptions/e-edition For a copy of Rural Living mailed to your letterbox go to www.ruralliving.co.nz/subscriptions/print subscriptions. Postage costs $49 inc GST per annum.

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