Rural Living May-June 2018

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May/June 2018

Over the gate LOCAL FArMerS SAY ‘CHeeSe’

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Chipping away at Fieldays Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 1

Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

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

may/june n MUSIC & MUSICALS hopetoun Brown and finn scholes June 1, from 7.30pm, OSPA Theatre, 24 Hall Road, Onewhero As many country folk will tell you, if you mess with the bull you’ll get the horns!

However, that’s exactly what fans of Hopetoun Brown will expect when this band hits Onewhero. From trumpets and saxophones, to bass clarinets, tubas, trombones and more, this show will draw on the talents of some of New Zealand’s ‘top brass’ to blow audiences away with blues, soul, funk and jazz. More information via ospa.org.nz.

n MAGIC, DANCE & THEATRE it’s showtime: Magic and illusion spectacular May 25, 7-8.30pm, Pukekohe Town Hall, cnr Massey Avenue and Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe The amazing Mike Lindsay headlines a mind-bending magical evening in Pukekohe. What’s up his sleeve this time around? There’s only one way to find out!

For more information, see itsshowtime.co.nz. faulty towers dinner show – waiuku May 25, The Shires, 47 Queen St, Waiuku One of Karaka’s most popular (yet delightfully defective) dinner shows is heading west to The Shires of Waiuku!

While Red Shed Palazzo is still the regular venue for Basil, Sybil and co’, this comedy crew will serve up plenty a crack-up (in more ways than one) during this performance inspired by the hit UK TV series, Fawlty Towers. For a full schedule, running right through to December, see faultytowersshow.co.nz.

Craig

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2 — Rural Living — May/June 2018 Moore Ashby Boyce

The Cherry Orchard

pacific dance festival June 2-23, times vary, Mangere Arts Centre, Corner Bader Drive and Orly Avenue, Mangere Showcasing work by a range of Pacific choreographers, this festival brings a wealth of talent from throughout our region to the Auckland stage. Visit pacificdance.co.nz. the cherry orchard June 12-26, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey Street, Auckland City Work by another master playwright is on stage in Auckland this month. With The Cherry Orchard, Anton Chekhov gave his final masterpiece to the world, a story which asks how far a family will go to avoid the pitfalls of poverty. Billed as a ‘tragicomedy of laughter-through-tears told by sad clowns and self-made men’ this play is a must see. Visit atc.co.nz/ whats-on for more information.

n EXPOS & FESTIVALS national Agricultural fieldays June 13-16, Mystery Creek Events Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Road, Ohaupo A magical mystery tour is waiting to

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take rural folk away! Well, as far as Ohaupo (south of Hamilton) at least.

Billed as ‘the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event’, Fieldays features everything from trade stalls to competitions – with some of rural sports’ top prizes on the line – and cooking and fashion shows to... boot! For a detailed schedule of this year’s many events, see fieldays.co.nz. simunovich olive estate Annual harvest & lunch June 17, from 11.30am, Simunovich Olive Estate, 49 Main Road, Bombay Wander through 30,000 olive trees during this guided tour then tuck into a three course lunch prepared by chef Logan Clark, of Bracu fame. See bracu.co.nz for details.

n ARTS te raki – raemon Matene May 26 – June 30, Franklin Arts & Cultural Centre, 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe Local photographer, Raemon Matene, shares her work during this exhibition focused on the Pukekohe community.

Featuring an intriguing range of photos,

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Willsonwww.ruralliving.co.nz Szaszy

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

Te Raki seeks to challenge stereotypes while inviting us all to confront our own perceptions. For details see facebook. com/FranklinArtsCentre. the iron Girl story June 2-21, Franklin Arts & Cultural Centre, 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe The beauty of movement (ironically) is captured in this solo exhibition.

Fascinated by portraiture and people, Tatiana Skorik has met with acclaim due to her ability to depict movement through the static medium of photography.

For more information about Tatiana’s work, see tatianaskorik.co.nz, and visit facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre for details about the exhibition itself.

n SPORT, FITNESS, RACING & MOTORING welcome to winter racing festival May 26, 11am-5pm, Pukekohe Park, 222-250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe Despite the drop in temperature, some are still hot to trot... or gallop, at least! For more details, visit pukekohepark.co.nz.

nZ warbirds – d-day open day June 3, 10am-4pm, Ardmore Airport, Hamlin Road, Ardmore If it wasn’t for some incredibly brave young men in flying machines, the D-Day landings would have failed to get off the ground! To commemorate their role in the most extensive amphibious operation of all time, Warbirds will present flying and static aircraft displays. For details, visit nzwarbirds.org.nz. loaded tough Guy and Gal challenge June 9-10, from 11am, Christian Youth Camp, 148 Waingaro Road, Ngaruawahia At Rural Living, we’ve run a quick poll (which was exhausting enough on its own) and discovered that only one of our team believes they’re tough enough to take this challenge on! Designed to put even the fittest (aged 13 and older) to the test, this gruelling course features everything from swamp crossings, a spider’s web net climb and crawling under barbedwire, to tunnels and hurdles, as well as mud, mud and more glorious mud. Details via eventpromotions.co.nz/ tough-guy-gal-challenge.

n MARKETS pukekohe Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Massey Street, Pukekohe pokeno Market Every Sunday, 8am-2pm, main street, Pokeno crafty cows Market – pokeno Second Sunday of each month, 10am-1pm, Pokeno Town Hall Awhitu country Market Last Sunday monthly or long weekend Sunday, 10am-2pm, Matakawau Hall, Awhitu Road, Awhitu Peninsula sustainable papakura Market Third Sunday of each month (except March & April), 10am-1pm, Papakura Recreation & Fitness Centre, 294 Great South Road, Papakura clevedon village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Clevedon clevedon farmers Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-1pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Road, Clevedon

NZ Warbirds Photo Antony Hansen

Scott

Kevin

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www.ruralliving.co.nz Lim McElhinney

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Maria

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

Murray Nick Rural Living — May/June 2018 —3 Dawson Bates Sales Manager Branch Manager

From the editor...

September) World Vegetarian Day, (Oct 1), World Soil Day, (Dec 5) and World Animals Rights Day, (Dec 10).

Unfortunately, The International Year of the Potato has been and gone – 2008 noted the potato was a global diet staple, with the UN affirming the need to focus world attention on its role in providing food security and eradicating poverty.

Oh well, perhaps Franklin could declare its own commemorative event – The Year of the Onion! After all, our local Long Keeper has played its part in ensuring the rest of the world knows its onions.

And, with that, it’s time to take this month’s Rural Living to the couch, put up your feet and read about the BIG cheese that keeps on winning awards, an axeman keen to give competitors the chop and a couple whose olive oil success is contrary to all predictions. There’s plenty more, of course, so just, enjoy!

thought…. “now that’s something I should know more about” or “I’d like to do more for this particular cause”; in no time, I was planning to mark most of them if not all.

However, it wasn’t that straight forward – I had to research several ‘health’ awareness days – Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day, World Anosmia Day to name just two.

On the other hand I laughed when I came across National Towel Day, Star Wars Day, Geek Pride Day, Toilet Day and World Barking Dog Day, the latter to celebrate our ‘inner dog’ – just bark randomly on December 20 to make someone smile or run for a straight-jacket!

Man about the house also raised an eyebrow when I mentioned Intersex Awareness Day, Blasphemy Day and World Naked Gardening Day – I wonder who peeled away the layers of on May 2, 5 or 6?

Several dates came up.

Anyway, I’m sure readers will get my drift when I say international days come thick and fast and can we ever hope to keep up?

Perhaps, perhaps not, but for Rural Living readers it could be pertinent to remember World Milk Day (June 1) World Agricultural Day (June 11) Bee Aware Month (in

Helen Perry, Editor

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s the month of May began with May Day, International Workers’ Day and World Asthma Day, I became acutely aware of just how many international awareness days are celebrated not to mention commemorative days (global, national and regional) unofficial observance days and, of course, international weeks, months, years and decades of…well, you get the idea, the list seemed endless.

At a quick count, I initially came up with 243 international awareness days, many recognised by organisations such as WHO (World Health Organisation), the UN (United Nations) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) among others.

But that was just scratching the surface. While I commend efforts to raise awareness of so many worthwhile causes, health issues, environmental concerns and even emotions – I quite like the idea of an International Day of Happiness or a World Kindness Day – I wonder just how many such days we can embrace or do we just choose a few that resonate with our personal leanings? And, that can be difficult. The more I browsed the more I

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BLOW BY BLOW: If Jesse Whitehead could paint a picture of how it’s going to be, it would likely depict this ‘steel-nerved’ chopper holding aloft a trophy (or several)... with an axe in the other hand, of course. Shown on this month’s cover, Jesse has his sights set on competing in timbersports at Fieldays. Recently, he took a little time to catch up with Rural Living at the Glenbrook Steel Mill to discuss his sporting goals and the art behind his craft. To read more, see pages 40-41. Photo Wayne Martin

info@ruralliving.co.nz editor: Helen Perry DDI 09 271 8036 editor@ruralliving.co.nz Sales: Kate Ockelford-Green DDI 09 271 8090 kate@ruralliving.co.nz Jackie Underhill DDI 09 271 8092 jackie@ruralliving.co.nz Cathy Renolds DDI 09 271 8019 cathy@ruralliving.co.nz Art director: Clare McGillivray DDI 09 271 8067 clare@ruralliving.co.nz Publisher: Brian Neben Level 1, The Lane, Botany Town Centre, Chapel Road, Auckland PO Box 259-243, Botany, Auckland 2163 Ph: 09 271 8080

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Mangawara Times Media Ltd does not assume or accept any responsibility for, and shall not be liableWoodleigh for, the accuracy or appropriate application of any information in this magazine. All the Ruawaro material in this magazine has the protection of international copyright. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Times Media Ltd.

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 5 KAT5300

Smarter farming needs nutrient effiCienCy SpeCialiSation

By Greg campbell, ravensdown chief executive

S

ome tough questions are facing all those involved with food creation in New Zealand. How do we move from commodities such as milk powder to niche products which consumers believe in and pay more for?

How do we provide proof to back up our food’s excellent “back story?”

How do we manage the trade-off between environmental impacts and economic prosperity?

The answer to all these questions is smarter farming. Smarter farming is about challenging all aspects of farming; knowing improvements are always possible and definitely needed.

Three trends help set the context:

elderly 1 More people

In the time it takes to read this, some 200 people will have arrived on Earth. New Zealand can only grow enough food to feed about 40 million out of seven billion people. So the question is: which 0.5% of

6 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

the world’s population are we going to feed and how?

If the over-65s in China represented a country, by 2050 its population would be bigger than the UK, France and Germany combined. This could mean more demand for smaller pack sizes and added benefits such as lamb with extra Omega 3 for healthy joints.

2

More citydwellers

3

More Middle clAss people

More people living in cities means less space for storing and cooking food and more eating out. A lettuce from a vertical garden, insect protein shake or a 3D-printed lunch at your desk may provide daily nutrients but perhaps it’s New Zealand cheese on the pizza in the restaurant, milk in the latte or ice cream in the hotel for those special moments.

Globally, there are 140 million people joining the ranks of the middle class every year – mostly in Asia - and protein is a bigger part of their family diet. Many will pay for food that has come from a trusted source.

But to command a premium, proof is required and that’s where technology helps.

Maps which show exactly how much

fertiliser was placed where; robots measuring grass growth; laboratories which diagnose soil needs; algorithms which predict how much feed a farm will grow; coated fertilisers which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions; special aerial cameras to assess soil nutrients remotely; and software which shows where best to tackle potential phosphate run-off and nitrate leaching.

Ravensdown is working on these tools today so that future generations and all users of our precious natural resources can benefit. There’s no silver bullet but we are part of the solution.

Leaving the land in better condition than we found it is no idle dream. But it is going to take a lot of work. Our environmental consultancy, which assists with mitigations and compliance issues, is the fastest growing part of our business.

Our fleet of topdressing aircraft is being modified with computer-controlled doors so environmentally sensitive areas can be avoided.

As a farmer-owned co-operative, our commitment as nutrient efficiency specialists is to supply the necessary amount of nutrients to nourish the soils – no more, no less – and help minimise losses for the benefit of the farm and the environment.

I believe smarter farming is the answer because it allows us all to adapt to looming disruption and ultimately benefits all New Zealanders.

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Lamb on run...

i

s big really better? The creative minds behind Dargaville’s giant kumara the oversized L&P bottle in Paeroa and Ohakune’s gargantuan carrot thought so and, it seems, so too does Marty Shanahan, aka The Backyard Cook.

Undertaking his ‘Lamb and Three Veg Tiki Tour’, Marty is on a road trip in his ‘lamb rover’, visiting all these landmarks and more – even stopping by the Beehive – while towing a giant lamb chop. We’d doubt even West Coast farmer and Minister of Agriculture, Damien O’Connor, has ever met a man with meat this big!

“When Beef + Lamb approached me and asked if I could drive a giant lamb chop across the country I thought they were trying to ‘pull the wool over my eyes’ – this is surely a ‘recipe’ for disaster,” says Marty – while consulting the latest edition of the ‘big book of puns’, one might assume.

“But ‘ewe’ have to admire the ‘workmansheep’ that’s gone into making the chop, I feel a bit ‘sheepish’ for doubting them now.”

Some might perceive a difference between a giant gumboot, for example, and an enormous piece of butchered animal flesh; other’s may not.

Timed to mark the 136th anniversary of the first shipment of frozen lamb from Dunedin (where Marty’s ovine odyssey concludes) and London, this promotion has a serious side, Rod Slater from Beef +

Lamb New Zealand contends.

“New Zealand is famous for the lamb we produce... It’s internationally renowned, produced in our unique environment and meets standards that guarantee tender results.

So, we thought it’s probably about time we did something massive to celebrate this mighty meat?”

Having Marty make a madcap dash across country while (literally) going on the lamb is certainly ‘something’; you’ve got to give them that!

KAT5206

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 7

Disappointing media sports coverage...

Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD

B

ack in the March/April issue of Rural Living I wrote a story about our stray cat which we named Jessie.

I found Jessie more than four years ago hiding under a hedge in front of our former home in Runciman Road. At the time of compiling this month’s column Jessie was lying at my feet having a very sound sleep (sleeping takes up about 20 hours a day).

She is a lovely cat and needs lots of attention and lets us know when its feeding time by standing by her bowl and meowing.

This made me think that if I had a lost my cat all that time ago I would always wonder what became of her. Was she still alive or was she living wild? Not knowing would make me feel quite sad.

Anyway, a short time after publishing Jessie’s story we received a phone call from a lady who was quite sure that the cat in our photo had once belonged to her daughter. She emailed a photo of their cat which looked very much like Jessie.

She and her husband visited us shortly after and immediately recognised her as

the daughter’s cat which they had named, Tish. Their daughter was unable to visit as she was due to give birth but hopefully she will get to see her old cat soon.

On a different note; recently I wanted to watch my Pilates instructor’s son playing rugby for the New Zealand Under 20’s in the finals of the Oceania Under 20’s tournament in Australia.

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A young Jessie before she went wandering.

I checked which TV channel was playing the game but it was not being shown on any of them. Normally, I would expect this to be screened on Sky Sport, or TV1 but after a few calls we found out that it was being streamed on an especially set up website.

How stupid was this? I don’t want to watch my rugby coming through a computer and I didn’t know what streaming was let alone know how it works.

Finally, with the help of family members we were able to view the game. I then learned that next year’s Rugby World Cup will follow a similar system for watching games.

Why have the powers to be made it so difficult to follow New Zealand’s number one sport? Not being a technical person, it needs to be easy for me, and many others like me, not made more difficult.

While on the subject of sport I find the news coverage of late has been rather poor. In regards to the Oceania game I mentioned, I could find no coverage of the results on TV, radio or newspapers.

Looking to next year’s Rugby World Cup, I am sure many people will expect freeto-air TV for this but, I guess this being 2018 we unfortunately have to pay for our sports viewing.

What’s more, with this new streaming proposal, it will be disappointing for many of my generation who rely on Sky to provide top rate sports coverage. I hope this can still be the case.

Go the chiefs!

8 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

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What’s up with D. O’C...

Ad-ministering our agriculture and rural communities’ portfolios may require more than just political skills, New Zealand’s ‘First Farmer’ would likely contend. As these snapshots (based on reports from Damien O’Connor’s office) suggest, having one foot in a gumboot and one in parliament can come in handy!

M.Bovis A nasty business The damage from Mycoplasma bovis looks set to get worse before it gets better.

Most recently, this deadly disease was discovered at properties in the Waikato and Manawatu – see page 22 to read more.

Discussions among the minister and primary industries organisations now turn to consider whether management should replace eradication as a goal. Mr O’Connor recently confirmed those whose animals have already been culled can expect prompt compensation.

“Farmers whose animals are being culled will receive an initial payment for the value of culled stock within two weeks of a completed claim being lodged,” he said. “Farmer welfare is paramount to all of us. We are committed to helping farmers on the ground who are caught in the M.bovis response.”

Mr O’Connor believes deficiencies in use of NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing) has hamstrung efforts to check the spread of M.bovis.

A ministry divided The more things change, the more they remain the same. While former ‘mega ministry’, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), has been dismantled, the new man at the top’s focus appears eerily similar to that of his predecessor.

Former Minister, Nathan Guy, was oft-reported as stating that biosecurity was his number one priority; recently, Mr O’Connor announced that: “When I began this role it was clear biosecurity was our number one challenge... pest incursions and disease outbreaks threaten our biodiversity... we need a greater focus on biosecurity.”

MPI’s responsibilities are now divided among four ‘business units’ tasked with fisheries, forestry and food safety as well as biosecurity. Funding the changes comes at a cost of $6.8 million (operating costs, $2.3m annually). However, Mr O’Connor asserts the bill will be met through reprioritised spending within MPI. “Biosecurity is a challenge for us all... It www.ruralliving.co.nz

“Kiwi growers and farmers have an immense collective knowledge and energy,” Mr O’Connor added. “They know sitting still is not an option and are constantly looking at ways to improve their operations. The Primary Sector Council will help harness that expertise.”

Growing relationships

Mr O’Connor (right) with Australia’s David Littleproud.

requires vigilance from everyone and it is vital that every New Zealander is pitching in to protect our environment.”

In the wake of such recent threats and outbreaks as Mycoplasma bovis (recently spread to the Manawatu), Myrtle Rust, Kauri Dieback and the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, it seems all Kiwis (including MPI’s former ‘top Guy’?) have a role to play, in addition to continuing to fund efforts, of course.

Board yet?

Once upon a time, there was a farmer who had a vision.

“Does that vision coalesce around ideas of sustainability, grower to plate storytelling, pasture-fed protein, smarter use of water and appealing to consumers who are prepared to pay more for products that align with their personal values?” Mr O’Connor waxed rhetorically when announcing the establishment of the new Primary Sector Council.

“I do not have all the answers myself, which is why I am excited about the work the council will do,” he resolved.

The council is comprised of experts on aspects such as ‘grower to plate storytelling’. The 15-person panel will be chaired by Lain Jager, a former Zespri Group boss.

Only time will tell how proud our current Minister of Agriculture will be of his efforts in office, but across the ditch, some are Little-proud of Mr O’Connor’s counterpart.

When attending the annual Agriculture Ministers’ Forum, Mr O’Connor met Australian Agriculture Minister, David Littleproud, among others. Topics of discussion included biosecurity, climate change and trade.

“Australia and New Zealand face similar aspirations and challenges in world markets,” Mr O’Connor said shortly before his departure. “During talks we will look for new opportunities to work together to support our agricultural sectors.”

Mr O’Connor expects to build on existing co-ordinated trans-Tasman efforts to check such threats as foot-and-mouth and Mycoplasma bovis.

What’s up? Docs!

Tertiary education doesn’t come cheap, but more than 30 international agriculture students are set to benefit (collectively) to the tune of $400,000, thanks to a New Zealand-funded doctorate scholarship.

Recently, Mr O’Connor named the first successful candidates who hail from such countries as Argentina, Ethiopia, Mexico, Nigeria and Tunisia. They will research agricultural greenhouse gas mitigation.

“New Zealand’s farmers are worldrenowned for efficient food production,” he said. “It’s important we support the next generation of science leaders if we are to reduce agricultural emissions without compromising world food security. We export excellent primary sector products and can do the same with our expertise.”

In total, 30 recipients will be assisted in their work across various research fields.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 9

with

Over

Helen Dorresteyn

the gate Clevedon Valley Buffalo Co When buffalo cheeses come out on any night, they’re bound to result in smiles around the table. Since establishing the popular Clevedon Village Farmers Market and the Clevedon Valley Buffalo Co, Helen and Richard Dorresteyn have enjoyed more than just a taste of success, most recently named Supreme Champion at the Outstanding NZ Food Producer Awards. Rural Living caught up with Helen to chat about life and a love of cheese... Over the Gate.

What makes buffalo cheese (in general) and your award-winning Marinated Buffalo variety (in particular) so popular?

It’s definitely down to the milk – delicate, sweet and very creamy without being cloying on the palate. Our marinated buffalo cheese is unique. It has a velvety texture, it’s light and airy and has a full, rich flavour of buffalo milk as well as those from the marinade, which contains roast garlic, thyme and olive oil. Most people will eat it straight from the jar the first time but they soon discover just how versatile it is; use it in sandwiches, on crackers, or for dressing pastas, salads and vegetables and, of course, with grilled meats.

The company has won numerous awards over the years. What makes this one so special?

The Supreme Outstanding Award is a significant achievement. Winning means that in 2018 our Marinated Buffalo product is the best new artisanal product in New Zealand. It is always a thrill to have our efforts acknowledged; it gives people that have never tried buffalo milk yoghurt and cheese the incentive to do so.

What’s your personal favourite from all the products your company produces?

I love our mozzarella, particularly the bocconcini (means ‘small mouthful’). It is the perfect size for my lunch. It takes me on a romantic journey to the Amalfi Coast and I love pairing it with whatever is in season in the garden – at the moment I’m grilling finely-sliced fennel and serving it with the bocconcini torn in half along with 10 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

We discovered fresh buffalo mozzarella in Naples – it was a revelation! We needed cheese for the Clevedon Farmers Market so decided to have a go at making our own. You can’t make a comparable product from cow’s milk and it can’t be genuinely fresh if imported, unless it’s flown in overnight.

We bought our herd from Darwin in 2007 and now have approximately 130 animals, bred selectively for an improved temperament and to produce more milk.

We need more land to grow the herd further. We have sold everything we have ever made and believe there is growth in the market for our products. a couple of pieces of prosciutto. Why eat, if not well?

Are buffalo any more difficult to farm than other livestock?

Being so heavy, they are harder on the land so managing our pasture can be a challenge, particularly during a wet winter.

However, they are hardier than cattle. This means calving has been relatively easy with little help needed, and they’re not as susceptible to mastitis and don’t need to be drenched. Our farm manager and relief milker make working with these animals look easy but it’s really because they are both excellent stockmen and the buffalo know and trust them. Our buffalo don’t tend to be aggressive, although they are suspicious of strangers and you need to be well aware of your surroundings when working with them.

Your passion for buffalo cheese began during a trip to Italy 17 years ago; how did that lead to making your own cheese?

Have Kiwi palates become more sophisticated over the years? Are the days of ‘meat & three veg’ long behind us?

I think Kiwis who love to eat fresh food are spoilt for choice these days and, when they cook, they are very adventurous.

Despite today’s busy lifestyle, if you can make time to eat well with others at least once a day, your body and soul will thank you for it.

Since you established the Clevedon Village Farmers Market, how successful has it been?

The market has bought bucket loads of joy and opportunity to meet with customers coming from all over for the atmosphere and produce. It’s been a phenomenal success as it has been built by stallholders and customers enjoying a unique and friendly shopping experience. I hope the market continues to help farms and food producers in the area thrive as it www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Helen and Richard Dorresteyn

provides an important first step for them in marketing their produce.

Are people increasingly looking to source food direct from producers?

Yes. Anyone that has ever grown something to eat knows you can’t beat fresh produce! People should know where their food comes from and how it is processed. As it’s their health at stake, they should have the right to make qualified decisions about what they eat.

Monty Python once (in)famously misquoted: ‘Blessed are the cheese makers’. How blessed do you feel?

We are truly lucky that we have been able to make this idea a reality. Richard and I are very grateful that we work together so well. It is an exciting, challenging industry to be in and, while we are optimistic for the future, we have to be so careful to stay on the right track – there is no pot of www.ruralliving.co.nz

Pukekohe

Photos Wayne Martin

gold to raid if things go wrong and there are many mouths to feed. Running such a business is a huge responsibility.

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

Also, what would you serve them?

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

Mum – I miss her and she taught me to cook. Robyn Williams – he had a kind eye and was modest. Jamie Oliver – he has put himself out for kids’ health and I would like to hear him say ‘Pukka’ first hand!

I would start with cherry mozzarella crumbed in panko, fried and served warm with an aperitif, followed by a Caesarstyle salad dressed with marinated buffalo cheese, using sorrel leaves and cos lettuce, green tomatoes, bacon, quails eggs fried in olive oil and fresh herbs.

The star course would be smoked and grilled duck with hazelnuts, butter pumpkin cream and kale, complemented by a very good bottle of Central Otago Pinot Noir.

For dessert, tamarillos poached in red wine with our buffalo vanilla bean yoghurt.

To finish, Brookwood chocolates. Yum!

I would have a large, swampy native farm and raise Moa. I think it would be amazing to ride them!

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

I would duck and run for cover! Moving the country to sustainable farming practice is going to be so unpopular and expensive because many city folk won’t want to fund it and a lot of farmers won’t want to change. As a country we need to be making the most out of our primary sector, adding value and keeping our environment healthy, but that’s a tall and expensive order.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 11

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ompetitors best be ‘on guard’ when two young Franklin fencers head to Southland in July. Young Farmer of the Year finalist (2017), Lisa Kendall, says winning this year’s Northern Region Fencing Competition (with fellow Frankliner, Daniel Morgan) was an unexpected honour.

“We’re both quite competitive, but we didn’t really expect to win.

We just went up to have a go,” the Karaka local says. “I was hoping to relax at the Grand Final this year and to be able to watch it, but now it will be a bit more serious.”

Last year, Lisa fell shy of becoming the first woman to win the overall Young Farmer of the Year title – see Rural Living’s Feb 2017 issue to read more). However, thanks to her most recent victory, the Franklin Young Farmers’ vice-chair will soon contest national fencing honours, along with the club’s chair, Patumahoe-based Daniel Morgan.

It’s going to be awesome fun competing in front of a [large] crowd,” Daniel adds. “I’ve never been a competitor at a Grand Final before, only a spectator. It’ll be interesting Daniel being on the other side of the... fence!

Morgan The national fencing and Lisa final will coincide Kendall with the 2018 are off to Young Farmer the Grand Final. of the Year Grand Final in Invercargill, July 5-7.

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Looking outside

the square W

inner of this year’s Fieldays No 8 Wire National Art Award, Akky van der Velde, looked ‘Outside the Square’ when it came to creating her intriguing entry of the same name.

The Canterbury artist again proved that No 8 Wire ingenuity is alive and well in New Zealand when she met the competition brief to forge No 8 wire and other agricultural products into a sculptural artwork. She was one of 23 finalists who vied for the top prize of $7000.

Judge, Andrew Clifford, director of Te Uru Waitakere Contemporary Gallery, praised van der Velde for, “creating something magical with an economy of materials”.

“This piece is articulate and understated,” he said at the awards night earlier this month.

“It grabs attention with a big dose of colour.

Its sophistication is in its simplicity, easily understood but a delight to look at, held together only by gravity and the magnetic forces of metal.”

Fiona Clark from Taranaki was the runner-up with her sculpture, Bushtail Mammal 1837, while Auckland’s Bev Goodwin placed third for her work, Play Time. Each

received $1,000 and $500 respectively.

This year’s President’s Choice Award, selected by Peter Carr, went to Sophie Prendergast of Auckland for Life Tree.

The No.8 Wire National Art Award is the

first of this year’s Fieldays festivities, with the exhibition, featuring all 23 finalists, running daily, 10am to 5pm, until June 11, at ArtsPost in Hamilton. Entry is free.

Akky van der Velde with her winning work, Outside the Square.

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 13

Fieldays –

graSSrootS grown up

a

lmost half a century since New Zealand’s first Agricultural Fieldays, country folk of all sorts are expected to descend on the Waikato for the show’s 50th affair.

Since the first two shows at Te Rapa Racecourse, Fieldays has come a long way – in terms of many of the high tech products, tools and methods showcased – but not so far geographically. In 1971, organisers took the show on the road to its current location at Mystery Creek.

However, without a rather ‘brassy’ manoeuvre by its founders, Fieldays may never have got off the ground at all.

“When the [National Fieldays] Society went into the bank they were asked what security they had for the loan and one of the farmers threw a roll of copper wire on the bank manager’s desk and said “this is the only asset we have!” Fieldays’ CEO, Peter Nation, says.

“At that first event in 1969, [they] thought they’d have a couple thousand people turn up. But on the day, it turned out to be more than 10,000 with cars parked all the way up Te Rapa straight.”

To celebrate the show’s origins, a special anniversary sculpture, which incorporates the very wire ‘put down’ as security with the bankers (and used for communication over the loudspeakers at the show’s early incarnations), is on display at the Waikato Museum as part of the 50 Years of Fieldays exhibition.

Mounted on reclaimed native timber, which once lined the Fieldays Society’s first boardroom, the sculpture (titled Origin ’68) was created by two-time No.8

Cherise Thomson and Fieldays Society chief executive, Peter Nation with Origin ‘68.

Wire National Art Awards finalist, Cherise Thomson.

“I wanted the sculpture to represent the cycle of interconnectedness, inspiration and growth that has made Fieldays what it is from the founders’ original vision 50 years ago,” she says.

Carrying the theme ‘future of farming’, 2018’s Fieldays seeks to carry on the vision of the event’s founders.

Best Boot forwArd...

Top of Rural Living’s top ‘must see’ list this year has to be Rural Catch, previously

Photo supplied

known as Rural Bachelor of the Year. For the first time ruggedly handsome (and just plain rugged) men will compete alongside country women in efforts to claim the prestigious Golden Gumboot, not to mention more than $20,000 in prizes.

Challenges will test the skills of finalists both on and off the farm.

From kitchen demonstrations to tractor pulls, fencing and timber sports competitions (see pages 40-41 to read our interview with Franklin axeman Jesse Whitehead), there’s plenty more in store at Mystery Creek – see fieldays.co.nz for a full schedule.

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‘Our Land’ scrutinised C

ontinuing decline of New Zealand’s biodiversity and ecosystems and our soil resources is revealed in a sobering government report, Our Land 2018.

Providing an in depth view of measurable change in the pressures that affect soil, biodiversity and ecosystems, the recently released findings reflect the pressures of human activity in combination with the physical processes of geology and climate.

A timely reminder that human use of land has always had an impact on the environment, it says what has changed in our lifetime is the extent and intensity of this impact as population increases and technology and society change.

While it points out the accentuating effects of major earthquakes and climate change have particular relevance in 2018, perhaps more importantly, from the view of Pukekohe residents, urban expansion is seen to be reducing the availability of some of our most versatile productive land.

“Studies based on changes in land cover indicate that between 1990 and 2008, 29 percent of new urban areas were on some of our most versatile land. Fragmentation can also be a pressure on urban fringes: in 2013, lifestyle blocks occupied 10 percent of New Zealand’s most versatile land. This may block future options for agricultural production.”

To gain a view of the overall pressures on land, and on soil in particular, the

report looks at recent changes in land use across conservation, forestry, agriculture, and urban areas. It also reports on three pressures that can have concentrated effect at specific points: 8 Our land 201 mineral extraction, waste, and contamination.

To understand the decline in indigenous biodiversity and ecosystems the report also takes into account the effects of human activities in terms of habitat loss, habitat degradation, and species loss. In total, it presents a comprehensive picture of what is happening to ‘our land’, New Zealand today. d’s >> New Zealan

al Reporting Environment

Series

The Our Land 2018 report is accessible via mfe.govt.nz

DATA TO 2017

frAnKlin lAnd ‘dryinG’ up?

The Our Land 2018 report which highlights the need to protect the country’s best soils for growing fresh fruit and vegetables has been applauded by Horticulture New Zealand.

Chief executive, Mike Chapman says his organisation couldn’t agree more with a statement in the Ministry for the Environment and Statistics New Zealand report that: ‘land is fundamental to human life, and central to the environmental system we depend on. The decisions we make and the actions we take affect not just the land, but also water, oceans, air and atmosphere, and the life they support.’

“This report highlights the expansion in urban areas (a 10 percent increase between 1996 and 2012) and the accompanying loss of some of our most versatile land,” Mr Chapman says.”We have been talking to Government about this issue in Pukekohe, as well as other prime growing areas for fruit and vegetables.

“Some of this soil is unique, particularly the volcanic soils around Pukekohe where vegetables can be grown all year in a frost- free environment. This area feeds a lot of New Zealand.”

Mr Chapman says Horticulture NZ believes such valuable growing soils should be protected by central Government policy.

“We can’t afford to keep losing these soils if we want to continue feeding New Zealand their favourite fruits and vegetables.”

“We [Horticulture NZ] look forward to working with the Government to ensure we don’t lose more valuable growing land and that we improve environmental outcomes within horticulture.”

CaSh Crop no... weed Misuse of drugs regulations appear set for review. however, the impending public consultation is unlikely to usher a ‘pot-culture’ shangri-la style Amsterdam of the south pacific anytime soon. At least for now, discussions will be limited to the sale and use of low tetrahydrocannabinol (thc) hemp seed as foods. unlike his near namesake (Beach Boy, Brian wilson, well known for his dalliances with illicit substances), nZ food safety boss, Bryan wilson has much more pragmatic plans for hemp. “the hemp industry believes that 16 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

the production of hemp seed foods will stimulate regional economies, create jobs and generate $10-20 million of export revenue within 3 to 5 years,” he says. “hemp is a plant that contains extremely low levels of thc, with the seeds themselves containing only trace amounts of thc, which means they are safe to eat.”

As reported in Rural Living, June 2017, hemp seed oil can already be sold in new Zealand; the upcoming consultations will focus on amendments needed to regulations regarding licensing for cultivation and production of hemp products. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Alpaca risk Vitamin D deficiency Dr Sarah Clews, BVSc, BSc

JUNE Checklist

Alpaca and Llama originated from the high altitude plains of South America, high in UV and Vitamin D.

opportunity to build up good levels of Vitamin D heading into the winter months n Thicker fleeced, or black alpaca – higher levels of melanin in the skin prevents the absorption of UV n Growing animals in the first three years of life.

Clinical signs In newborns, we may see angular limb deformities. In milder cases and in older animals, a shifting limb lameness, or weight shifting back on the hind limbs may be noticed.

When severe, alpaca may experience broken bones and avulsion fractures, however, in mild cases, poor weight gain and ill-thrift may be all that is seen.

Veterinary intervention early on is crucial if we hope to normalise the malformation completely.

Prevention is key Vitamin D should be supple-

vet?

Need a

mented in dams 4-6 weeks prior to unpacking, and cria every May and July for the first three years of life. Even older animals may suffer low levels while not overtly affected; therefore, herdwide supplementation during winter would not go awry.

When to call your vet n For signs of angular limb deformities, lameness, ill-thrift or weight loss. Your vet will detect and treat the deficiency.

Surgery or splints may be required if severe and pain relief is crucial. n For Vitamin D supplementation and administration n To discuss feeding management, ensuring an appropriate mineral ratio. Imbalanced calcium and phosphorus levels may lead to rickets n To test blood levels during winter, if you’re interested in monitoring your herd.

n Parasites in poultry are relatively common, and the main signs are weight loss, diarrhoea and/or a drop in production. There are many types of intestinal worm, and worming every 4 months is advisable, and more frequently in young birds. n Pets – Just because it is getting colder, don’t drop the ball on prevention and end up with a flea infestation. We are seeing an ongoing tail of summer flea issues persisting, so remember regular treatments for all pets in the household. n Equine – It is important that your horse has its annual dental check-up prior to winter to ensure it keeps its weight up over the colder months. Also, keep magnesium supplementation going while grass growth is still occurring for calm, healthy horses.

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KAT5238-v7

It’s well known that the winter blues can be brought on by a lack of UV hitting our skin as we huddle indoors during the dark winter months. The cause? A lack of UV-induced Vitamin D. But did you know that alpacas suffer too? Who knows if they suffer the same lack of mental stamina, but we do know their bones may be affected by a disease called rickets.

Alpaca and llama originate from the rough highlands of South America. With their fluffy exterior, teddy bear faces and endearing noises, it was only a matter of time before they graced the show rings and lifestyle blocks of New Zealand.

However, at such lower altitudes and, hence, less UV than they’re used to, our alpaca are highly prone to Vitamin D deficiencies. During winter, blood levels may drop to as little as onesixth of their summer levels.

Vitamin D helps the uptake of calcium from the diet and kidneys and helps to mineralise bones. Therefore, when Vitamin D drops, bone begins to thin and disease soon ensues.

Who is at high risk? n Developing foetuses, especially if the third trimester coincides with winter n Autumn-born cria; with little

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 17

Goats aren’t lawnmowers!

I

f there’s one thing likely to ‘get the SPCA’s goat’ it’s a lonely, neglected Billy chained to a tin shelter on an overgrown country berm.

Contrary to belief, the SPCA advises goats don’t make good lawnmowers!

“Goats are curious, playful animals and can make wonderful pets but like all animals, they require special care and a proper diet. They can’t be adopted just to do some ‘goatscaping’!” says SPCA New Zealand CEO, Andrea Midgen. “Anyone thinking of adopting a goat needs to think carefully about its care.”

With this in mind the SPCA has provided the following useful goat care advice.

Goats are herbivores and require a sound diet of good quality hay, grass, plant materials, and additional supplements. Furthermore, they are ‘browsers’; they like to nibble on plants selectively but prefer not to eat from the ground.

Goats love to forage so will appreciate a variety of different types of plant material, but remember many plants are poisonous to them.

Avoid feeding your goat rhododendron, honeysuckle, evergreen, buttercup, any plant from the nightshade family, any part of flowering plants, or any bulbous plants such as daffodils or tulips.

If there is any doubt whether a plant is safe for your goats, then don’t feed it to them.

Make sure fresh, clean water is available to your goats at all times. Water containers should be positioned so that goats cannot knock them over, defecate, or urinate in them.

Tips for feeding goats ◆◆ Because goats prefer not to feed from the ground, try to place foods at different heights which they can forage as they would do in the wild. ◆◆ Introduce new foods gradually in small 18 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

amounts alongside foods your goats are familiar with – goats do not cope well with sudden changes in diet. ◆◆ When feeding goats together, spread the food out so they don’t compete for space to feed. ◆◆ Clean out food and water dispensers regularly. Goats can be fussy about the cleanliness of their drinking water.

to jump and climb on. Remember they love to chew, so always monitor their environment to check if enrichment provided is still suitable.

Goats are also curious and playful which means they need stimulation to help prevent boredom or problem behaviours such as chewing or trying to escape.

Provide different food or present it in creative ways such as hanging it from various heights. Change your goats’ environment regularly so there are always new things to investigate. Make sure that any new enrichment items are non-toxic and safe for your goats.

The great escape

Goats are highly intelligent, social animals and need an environment which stimulates them physically and mentally.

Stimulating environments The best environment for goats is one with plenty of space to run and play and varied terrain or objects to climb on or explore. Surroundings need to be clean, comfortable and offer protection from the elements and possible dangers.

Their enclosure must be large enough so they can exercise, explore, play and climb. Tree stumps, logs, sturdy huts, raised planks, large tyres and wooden benches all are great items for goats

Goats are incredibly inquisitive and active, and they are known to be excellent escape artists. They can also be very destructive. It’s important that all fencing is strong and sturdy and without crevices or platforms that may allow your goat(s) to escape.

Fencing should be a minimum of 1550mm, depending on the size of the goat and must comply with government or local council regulations.

Large, agile goats may need a higher fence and, remember, goats can squeeze through hedges, no matter how thick, and climb most banks and stone walls. They can also become trapped in unsuitable fencing.

Gaps in the fence must be small enough that goats will not get their heads and limbs stuck or allow small goats to squeeze through.

Owners of horned goats will need to take particular care not to have nettingtype fencing as the goats’ horns can easily become tangled in these fences.

Monitor fence boundaries for signs of damage which needs repair or for digging underneath; these may indicate that your goats are bored and need more enrichment. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Safety and shelter A goat’s environment should be free from toxic or hazardous substances or items, e.g. poisonous plants or sharp nails.

Being browsers, they tend to inspect and nibble most things in their environment so fences and woodwork shouldn’t be coated in anything that might be toxic to the goats if eaten.

It’s important not to tether goats.

Tethering prevents them from being able to express their natural behaviour and can also put them in significant risk from entanglement, or injury. Sores or injuries can also develop under a collar.

Tethered goats may be in danger of mistreatment by unkind humans or attacks by other animals such as dogs.

Tethering is only acceptable during short-term veterinary or husbandry procedures and where the goat is supervised.

When it is necessary to temporarily use a tether, specific care must be taken to select a type and length which ensures the goat is unlikely to come to harm. Any collar used must be soft, with a swizzle D cup connector, and only chains that cannot be tangled should be used.

Shelter must be able to withstand www.ruralliving.co.nz

and provide protection from the most extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, wind, and rain. Goats hate getting wet because they lack natural waterproofing, have a thin coat, and have very little fat under their skin. This makes them susceptible to the cold.

Tips for creating good shelter ◆◆ Ensure it’s big enough for goats to comfortably stand up, move around in and lie down. ◆◆ It should be clean, dry, well ventilated and contain appropriate bedding e.g. a layer of straw or wood shavings. ◆◆ Raise the shelter above the ground to help keep it dry. Don’t forget to provide a ramp so your goats can access their shelter! ◆◆ Avoid metal shelters; they are too cold in winter and too hot in summer. Don’t incorporate a large amount of glass either as this can act like a greenhouse, becoming very hot. ◆◆ Ensure your shelter is free from potentially harmful items (e.g. sharp protrusions). Maintain regularly.

◆◆ While some herds of goats are happy to share a ‘main goat house’, other herds may not be happy to do so.

Monitor the behaviour of your goats to ensure they can all seek shelter safely.

If any goats are being excluded, you will need to provide additional shelter. ◆◆ Don’t forget… Goats need friends!

Goats are social herd animals that should not be kept alone. It’s best to have at least two goats that get on well together. ◆◆ Goats need regular veterinary care.

Vaccination, worming, foot care, general health checks and emergency care are all very important for goats.

They tend to deteriorate quickly when ill, so keep on top of things! ◆◆ Different breeds have different needs.

There are a variety of breeds of goat, each with different characteristics in regards to temperament and health. Be sure to research which breed will suit you and your lifestyle. ◆◆ Uncastrated male goats are not suitable as pets. They develop an extremely strong odour and frequently spray urine. They can also be very boisterous.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 19

Living la dolce vita in Waikato A Kiwi couple’s love affair with Italy prompted them to re-create a Tuscan olive grove in the rolling hills of north Waikato. Against all odds, their hobby has produced some world class oils. They talked to ANGELA KEMP.

i

t was after their first holiday to italy nearly 20 years ago that Kathleen Maunsell and John Mcnaught decided they needed something more than a nine to five existence. Back home in Auckland they scouted for suitable land to realise their dream.

After much searching at all points of the compass, the couple finally located a property in Glen Murray which they thought had a great aspect, was affordable and would be excellent for growing olives. “however expert advice we received soon after purchase assured us the waikato was a very poor choice and unlikely to result in a successful olive growing venture,” says John. “over the next two years we set about planting 600 trees made up of five tuscan varieties. living in Auckland, we whizzed down the southern Motorway on many weekends and did the hard yards.” the bare 19-acre block was named whangape Grove (after the adjacent lake) and produced its first extra virgin olive oil harvest five years later (so small it was collected in plastic carrier bags). this year’s harvest (picked at the end of April) is expected to produce a rather more substantial amount of olives which will be pressed down the road at te Kauwhata. “we have plenty of olives and hopefully the mynah birds won’t have taken too many. we could possibly yield 6000 kilos but only pick what we think we can sell.”

20 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

the olives are grown organically with a neighbour’s miniature horses and cows keeping the grass down in the winter.

But tuscany it ain’t and whatever you grow, farming is a fickle business. strong winds during pollination last year resulted in one of the grove’s lowest yields of just 120 litres of oil. But what it lacks in quantity is certainly compensated by the quality of its produce. whangape Grove has won no fewer than 10 awards including several at the prestigious los Angeles international extra virgin olive oil competition. “we won a gold and best in class which was amazing as it’s one of the top five olive oil competitions in the world,” says John. “it was obviously a really good year.” the pair describe the taste of their oils as grassy and peppery (a sign it’s high in www.ruralliving.co.nz

antioxidants) but mellowing over time.

The oil is sold through The Farm Shop Gordonton and Prof’s Café at Woodlands as well as on-line; customers are eagerly waiting the new harvest. But, the venture will never be the couple’s sole source of income: Kathleen works in admin and John does some contracting.

“We’d started to think about a healthier lifestyle and were drawn to olive oil because of the benefits of a Mediterranean diet,” says Kathleen. “But you need to use it like the Italians do and put it in and on everything. Once a bottle is opened it has a relatively short life (6-8 weeks) because every time you open it, you let oxygen which reduces the health benefits.

“It’s best to buy your oil in a quantity you will use in that time rather than letting it sit around for months.”

Five years ago John and Kathleen gave up city life for good and left their Mt Albert home to move permanently to their little slice of Italy after building a limestone faced, eco block house overlooking the plantation. Kathleen has named it the Fantail’s Nest due to its size and the abundance of fantails in the grove.

“It’s extremely warm and cosy just like a nest and we’re happy to say we haven’t required heating of any sort even on the frostiest of winter days.”

John and Kathleen have been back to Italy several times since their first visit but say they’re happy living the good life in the Waikato. www.ruralliving.co.nz

The good oil Along with our wines, New Zealand olive oils are now regularly winning awards on the world stage.

Research has shown that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has more health benefits than any other food, and it is a key component of the Mediterranean diet. Olive oil must be extra virgin to have the associated health benefits.

The olive (Olea europaea), traditionally the symbol of peace and tranquillity, is a long-lived, evergreen tree and thrives in warm temperate to sub-tropical regions similar to the Mediterranean basin from which it is native.

Olive trees are generally easy care plants and can live for several hundred years – there are profitable commercial plantings in Spain which are more than 200 years old.

In the colder regions of New Zealand where winters also start early, the fruit may fail to fully ripen especially with later maturing selections. Young olives trees can be injured by cold winds and hard or unseasonal frosts.

Oil olives should be harvested as soon as possible after they have become fully ripe. The NZ Olive Association suggests that this is when half the olives have turned black.

As olives ripen, the quality of the oil within changes.

Over 20 varieties of olives are now available in New Zealand and were originally sourced from Italy, Greece, Spain, California and Israel.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 21

‘Crap’ idea M.Bovis in waikato comes up ‘trumps’

R

If there really is money in ‘muck’, it seems a company from down country is set to hit the mother... ‘load’!

Designed to better disperse dairy effluent on pastures, the Vibra Screen

by Rainer Irrigation has secured top honours in the recent Irrigation Innovation Awards.

The secret is Vibra Screen’s ability to handle varying amounts of effluent, removing solids in the process while avoiding blockages.

“We were getting frustrated with having to repair existing effluent separators that were not reliable and had high maintenance costs for clients,” says Gavin Briggs from Rainer.

“Our first production Vibra Screen has been operating for over 4,000 hours with no repairs being needed and the farmer is very happy with the results.”

Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them. Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained.

What is Septi-Cure™?

Septi-Cure™ is a concentrated mixture of selected naturally occurring microorganisms. These harmless tiny organisms live and multiply by feeding on waste material. When introduced to your septic tank system, they go to work straight away digesting waste material, reducing solids and scum, allowing your septic system to start operating to its maximum efficiency. *Results may vary

ecent detections of Mycoplasma bovis (in the Waikato and Manawatu) prove the devastating bacteria has not yet run its course and could spread even further, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) warns.

“It’s a reality of New Zealand’s farming system that large numbers of animals are sold and moved across big distances,” the Ministry’s director of response, Geoff Gwyn, says. “This response is serving to underline just how much movement takes place and it is this, coupled with poor record keeping through NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing) that is making our job very challenging.”

M.Bovis was first detected in South Canterbury last July, subsequently discovered elsewhere in the South Island and at a Hastings property. The latest discoveries were made in May, on a sheep and beef farm near Palmerston North and a dairy farm in the Cambridge area.

Although thousands of infected cows have already been culled, Mr Gwyn admits a change of tack may be needed.

“Currently many of our people, along with our partners in industry, are putting

in big hours to gather the information needed to make such a significant decision – do we attempt to eradicate the disease or move to some form of management over the long term? It is not an easy decision to make. All options remain on the table.”

See mpi.govt.nz for further information.

A satisfied customer in Hamilton has used Septi-Cure™ for over five years.

He says this allows them to have an odour free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well Septi-Cure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition.

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Study aimS to help laCtoSe intolerant

S

ome 70 percent of adults around the world consider themselves lactose intolerant, experiencing bloating, nausea or other unpleasant symptoms after eating dairy products.

Now, researchers are calling for lactose intolerant Aucklanders, aged 20-40, to take part in a study that may make them better able to tolerate dairy.

Study participants will consume conventional cheese and milk for two weeks and a2 Milk™ cheese and milk for two weeks (with a recovery break in between) to see if benefits of a2 Milk™, identified in an earlier study by the same researchers, persist over a longer period.

The earlier 2017 study – a collaboration between the Liggins Institute and AgResearch – found that a2 Milk™ prevents some symptoms of lactose intolerance and eases others, even though

it contains the same amount of lactose as conventional milk. It was shown that a2 Milk™ was at least as effective as lactosefree milk at preventing or reducing some symptoms including nausea, stomach pain and bloating, but didn’t improve ratings of “overall digestive comfort”.

Study lead, Dr Amber Milan, a research fellow at the Liggins Institute says it is already known that lactose intolerant people can sometimes build up their tolerance to lactose over time by including lactose or milk in their diet.

“If we can help that process along, hopefully we can improve digestion of lactose after just a few weeks. We’re hopeful that consuming dairy with only the A2 protein will reduce symptoms by avoiding inflammation that might make intolerance worse.”

Regular milk contains both the A1 and A2 types of beta-casein protein, a major

milk protein, while a2 Milk™ comes from cows that naturally produce only the A2 type.

The new study, dubbed Los aMiGoS, has been designed to minimise uncomfortable symptoms by limiting daily lactose to the equivalent of two glasses of milk – an amount which is usually tolerable for people with lactose intolerance.

To spare participants unnecessary discomfort, their protein consumption will be topped up with daily servings of cheese, which is nearly lactosefree. Cheese from a2 Milk™ has been especially created for the study. Neither the participants nor researchers will know which kind of dairy they’re consuming during each fortnight stretch.

People interested in joining the study can learn more at www.liggins.auckland. ac.nz/en/for/thecommunity/los-amigostudy.html

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 23

2017 Gamebird Season offers chance to gun down pests

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

T

he 2017 gamebird shooting season started on May 5 and it’s worth noting, even by those not normally interested in bird shooting, that the formal game bird season presents pest control opportunities that don’t exist at any other time of the year.

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

By far the most common culprits are paradise shellducks (Tadorna variegata) and pukeko (Porphyrio porphyrio).

Both of these native species have benefited immensely from land clearance and their populations have increased as result of there being simply more ideal

habitat for them now, than ever before.

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

Pukeko are extremely successful breeders and even small numbers can multiply to become problematic in a very short time frame.

Paddock damage, predation of other birds chicks, fouling of troughs and damage to new plantings are common problems associated with an increasing pukeko population.

Both species are classified as gamebirds, meaning that they can only be controlled during the gamebird season or by obtaining a special permit from Fish and Game at all other times of the year.

The rules and regulations governing game bird shooting vary from region to

region so it’s well worth having a good read of the 2018 Gamebird Hunting Guide available online at www.fishandgame.org. nz and from most fishing/hunting supply stores.

Gamebird licenses for adults cost $20 for a single day or around $91 for the whole season. If you occupy the land you intend to shoot on then no licence is required but be sure to read the hunting guide before you start as there appears to be a whole lot written on the subject of who qualifies as an ‘occupier’.

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

Make the most of this season – ‘pooks and paris’ aren’t usually the greatest eating, but you need to get them on the table before you find that out. As always, feel free to drop me a line to talk it through.

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24 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

143-145 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe • Ph 09 238 3281 Fax 09 238 6019 • Email parts@wallaceheron.co.nz

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Win!

To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit ruralliving.co.nz and enter this month's code – RLJUN3110. One entry per person/email address; entries close June 30, 2018. Winner notified by phone or email.

win! MocconA coffee priZe pAcK! Time for a cuppa? Here’s your chance to win a fabulous Moccona prize pack (value $75) including a Peter Alexander-designed Floral Garden 200g Moccona jar of coffee, a mug and $40 Peter Alexander voucher but don’t despair if you miss out because supermarkets nationwide are presently stocking Moccona’s iconic 200g Classic jars featuring the four very stylish, limited edition motifs created by sleepwear designer, Peter Alexander. What’s more, the designs being printed on glass means once the coffee has been enjoyed, these beautiful jars can be upcycled for displaying flowers, sugar cubes, cosmetics, sweets, stationery, or make-up brushes.

win! fArrAh’s MeAl Kit twin pAcKs

out of the wild Even an experienced soldier knows that the wild is tough to tame! However, Charlie Paterson spent seven years doing just that, striving to survive in the midst of the rainforests of Fiordland National Park.

From serving in the New Zealand Army to stoking coal-fired boilers on a tourist steam ship in Queenstown, Charlie knew a thing or two about the great outdoors.

But, perhaps the most important lesson he ever learnt was that one should never underestimate how, despite its majestic beauty, our back country can quickly reveal its teeth! To order a copy, visit purewilderness.co.nz. ◆ Charlie Paterson: Out of the Wild | RRP $39.90 www.ruralliving.co.nz

Feeling caliente, caliente, caliente? Well, if you are, it’s probably because you’re indulging in some dishes which, even in winter, are best served... hot! Especially designed to make it easy to create authentic Mexican cuisine at home, Farrah’s Meal Kits have (almost) everything you could need to spice up those winter nights. To further expand our palates, Farrah’s has two new additions to this range: Fajita and Crispy Chicken, which are available (RRP $8.39 per pack) from supermarkets. Rural Living has FIVE twin packs (including one box of each of these new varieties) up for grabs.

win! silBerhorn pet recovery While humans may benefit from free (well, free-ish) healthcare, the same can’t be said for our furry friends. And, as most pet owners will tell you, vet treatments can be costly. Thankfully, Silberhorn has devised a nutritional supplement designed to help keep pets in peak condition. Featuring deer velvet, glucosamine and chrondroiton, Pet Recovery (RRP $29) is intended to support pets with joint mobility issues, especially problematic in ageing cats and dogs, and those recovering from operations. Thanks to Silberhorn, we have bottles (100 capsules) to give away to FIVE lucky readers.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 25

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

CITY LASS

e

ach month when I sit down to write my column I find it hard to believe that four weeks have already passed since the last column. First, I must start by saying isn’t this lovely, warm weather wonderful for this time of the year. I still have roses flowering and many plants haven’t lost their leaves yet.

We do know what is coming but the longer it takes to arrive, the better. I had a message yesterday from our daughter in Dubai and the temperature there is now over 43 degrees celsius. That’s just too hot for me!

She also sent through photos of the day when a sand storm swept across the whole city recently, covering everything in sand – it looked just like our fog. Oh, the joys of living in a desert.

This month we had a quick visit from our grandson who was home on leave from Europe. He is a chef and is working on one of the many super yachts in the Mediterranean. What an experience he is having although he says it is quite lonely being in the galley most of the time. Even so, the experience and places he has visited could never be achieved if he had to pay his way.

The first thing he did when he arrived was to go into Auckland and buy himself a drone. He practised here and then

Sandstorm over Dubai.

went tripping around New Zealand taking the most incredible photographs. How different things look from the air. He has now returned to Barcelona but on his way popped in to visit the daughter and sonin-law in Dubai for a few days.

This month we have been to the movies and seen The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. What a lovely movie and such a good reminder of what can been achieved with determination at all costs.

There have been a few movies released lately about the Second World War and its horrors and I believe it is important that those hardships are never forgotten.

I know I am old but my dad was in the air force during the Second World War and many of my friends had parents that either served or were affected badly by the war.

As the next generation comes through

those are distant memories and I suppose they don’t feel very real although interest in schools and among other organisations for young people is growing and each year sees more and more young people among the thousands attending our ANZAC day ceremonies.

Amazingly, we still had Second World War veterans marching at the dawn parade here in Pukekohe this year. My goodness, they sure made them tough.

I don’t usually mention rugby as I leave that to the husband but later this month my Pilates instructor Jo, and her husband Mark, are heading to France to watch their very talented son Harry play for the Under 20s New Zealand rugby team at the world champs. How exciting is that?

So, it’s go the ‘baby Blacks,’ if I am allowed to call them that; here’s to their success.

Cherry Cooper Lives Local, Sells Local!

M. 021 955 141 Papakura Office 09 298 8029 26 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

KAT5291-v2

Call me for a chat about your rural / lifestyle needs today!

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Moorea enchants A unique mixture of French and Polynesian cultures makes French Polynesia a tropical paradise with a difference as CARMEN BIRD discovered.

Here she recounts some of the attractions which delighted her.

I

’d never really considered French Polynesia for a holiday until my husband suggested trying somewhere new and French Polynesia was, indeed, new!

Made up of 118 islands and atolls, the two most common tourist areas are either Moorea or Bora Bora. To minimise travelling time, and the need for an extra flight to Bora Bora, we opted for Moorea.

Papeete (the capital of Tahiti, the main island) is a 4.5 hour flight from Auckland and Moorea another hour by ferry from the mainland.

On arriving at the picturesque bay of Vai’are, surrounded by impressive, towering volcanic mountains and tropical greenery, it was just a short 30-minute bus ride to the Hilton Hotel where we were booked for a leisurely vacation.

A French territory until 2003 and now a French collectivity, these beautiful islands are known for their diverse multi-cultural mix of French and Tahitian locals speaking a mix of both languages. We didn’t come across many New Zealanders which was kind of nice – our trip seemed more of an adventure than the usual Pacific Island break.

However, the over water bungalows instantly put us in holiday mode. They just seemed so exotic and tropical with private decks. Five steps off the deck and you could drop into the water for a spot of snorkelling any time of the day.

Before we left New Zealand, a friend told me I would love the bread; I told her I wasn’t going to be eating any of the bread – you know, low carb diet and all that!

Well, famous last words! I’m not sure if it was the French influence (didn’t they invent croissants?) but the bread was insanely fantastic.

The beautiful breakfast buffet was so impressive with a whole table dedicated to every type of bread one could think of from prune bread to mouth-watering croissants, all deliciously fresh and totally irresistible.

Regardless of whether visitors are relaxers or explorers, there are plenty of activities to choose from. We opted to spend our days exploring.

We started out by hiring the cutest little yellow jeep and spent a day driving around the island stopping at local villages, peering over black pearls of every shade, size, and www.ruralliving.co.nz

shape...and price as I’m sure readers can imagine.

There were lots of handmade sarongs and hanomi (the local beer) as well as souvenirs to buy at shops dotted along the road that wrapped around the island.

On another day we hired mopeds and took the winding route up through lush forests to the Belvedere lookout at the top of the island. It certainly deserves its reputation as providing the best views in Moorea – what a spectacular outlook across those majestic volcanic mountains and the bays below.

I’d highly recommend a late lunch/early dinner at the Beach Café decorated with every ‘Veuve’ accessory you could imagine from lanterns to umbrellas.

The fresh, homemade pizzas were perfect with a glass of this French champagne and the café was an ideal spot to watch the sun go down over the glistening yachts on the horizon.

The highlight of our visit was a jet-ski adventure with Moorea Activities Centre.

We booked a three-hour trip and jetted off around the island and even out and beyond the reef for a bit which was a little intimating.

The steely dark blue of the ocean seemed vast, and knowing it was a zillion metres deep on the outside of the reef, was hard to fathom!

Back inside the reef we stopped at a local spot known for its sea life. Jumping into the crystal blue water, the sharks and giant mantra rays seemed to frolic around us. Our guide told us how intelligent the rays were and how they remembered him as they skimmed past us.

As these huge rays glided past, we were able to pat them – so silky and soft, which I hadn’t expected. Sharks also darted around but they didn’t seem that interested in tourist for dinner, which was fine by me.

During our stay we also grabbed paddleboards and kayaks on a number of occasions – spending late afternoon time in the protected lagoon was a serene and peaceful way to end the day.

We loved Moorea, the bread, the adventures, the water, the weather and especially the stingrays.

As we relaxed on our last morning enjoying breakfast, and our blissful, tropical beach view, we made plans to come back next year… maybe with the kids... if they play their cards right, that is!

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 27

Franklin Arts Centre • 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe, Auckland 2120 • Ph 09 238 8899 • facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre • Mon–Fri: 9.30am–4.30pm, Sat: 9.30am–2.30pm

TE RAKI

RAEMON MATENE

OPENING:

What is a tongue tie?

SATURDAY 26 MAY

10.30AM

In her first solo exhibition photographer 26 May to 30Te Raki, June 2018Raemon Matene (Ngā Puhi, Waikato-Tainui) celebrates the people

By Cherie Roberts – Lactation Consultant IBCLC and of Te Raki ō Pukekohe and Nga Hau e Wha marae, in a documentary photographic collection spanning five years.

New Zealand Steel Gallery Yvonne Vannoort – Dentist BDS Otago FREE EVENTS

T

ongue tie is where the tongue and/or lip frenulum (the attachment under the tongue and to the top lip) is too Te Raki opening: tight, causing restrictions in the movement of the tongue Tikanga workshop: Saturday 9 June, 10–2pm Sat 26 May, 10.30am This is an opportunity for gallery whānau and community to learn and understand aspects of tikanga Māori, led by one of our kaumatua. and/or the lip.

Join us for the opening Places are limited and bookings essential. Contact the gallery at 09 238 8899 or franklinartscentre@aklc.govt.nz.

What• Mon–Fri: problems be associated with having a tongue tie?

Franklin Arts Centre • 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe, Auckland 2120 • Ph 09 238 8899 • facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre 9.30am–4.30pm,can Sat: 9.30am–2.30pm of Te Raki, the first Tongue ties can lead to significant difficulty with key functions of solo exhibition by local breathing, eating, swallowing and speech. For babies, restriction photographer Raemon of the tongue OPENING: does not allow correct tongue movement and they Matene (Ngā Puhi, SATURDAY Waikato-Tainui). often struggle to breastfeed well.

26 MAY I can see a frenulum, 10.30AM does this mean I or my child has a tie?

Tikanga workshop: Having a lip or tongue frenulum is normal, a person experienced in Sat 9 June, 10am–2pm treating these ties needs to assess what is normal and what is not.

Learnphotographer about aspects of Matene (Ngā Puhi, Waikato-Tainui) celebrates the people In her first solo exhibition Te Raki, Raemon Once baby’s tongue tie is released will all symptoms disappear? tikanga Māori (Māori of Te Raki ō Pukekohe and Nga Hau e Wha marae, in a documentary photographic collection spanning five years.

A team approach is highly recommended to work towards protocol), led by our FREE EVENTS achieving optimal outcomes after release. Every health care kaumatua. Places are Opening: Saturday 26 May, 10.30am professional who releases oral restrictions should strongly limited and bookings Join us for the opening of Te Raki, led by our kaumatua and with the artist present. Refreshments will be served. recommend each infant works with a lactation consultant and essential. Please phone Tikanga workshop: Saturday 9 June, 10–2pm 09 238 8899. body worker. In older children and adults other services may This is an opportunity for gallery whānau and community to learn and understand aspects of tikanga Māori, led by one of our kaumatua.

Image credit: Raemon Matene, Heta Potentials, with Tahina Heta and be suggested on top of body work such as speech therapy, oral whanau, Doors of Potential Series, 2018. Places are limited and bookings essential. Contact the gallery at 09 238 8899 or franklinartscentre@aklc.govt.nz. myofacial therapy and breathing training.

Franklin Arts Centre Is there any benefit to having my tongue tie released now I am 12 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe Find us on Facebook older or is it too late?

JE0967 It is never too late to have a tongue tie released. The younger you are the least amount of retraining your body needs to bring you back to normal function, but many adults find a great relief in symptoms from having their tongue ties released.

Will having a tongue tie cause issues past breastfeeding?

If the tongue cannot function properly due to restriction it could potentially lead to any of the following issues: ◆◆Eating issues ◆◆Speech difficulties ◆◆Higher rates of decay ◆◆Behavioural problems ◆◆ Clicking jaw/painful jaw/TMJ ◆◆Sleep apnoea ◆◆Snoring ◆◆ Food trapping next to gums AESTHETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY ◆◆ Malocclusion – requires braces ◆◆ Enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids ◆◆Incorrect swallowing habits ◆◆Mouth breathing ◆◆Postural problems Cosmetic and ◆◆Teeth grinding ◆◆Headaches and migraines Reconstructive Surgery ◆◆Neck, back and facial pain ◆ ◆ R

eflux, colic, other digestive by a Specialist Plastic ◆◆Incorrect palate development issues Surgeon ◆◆Bedwetting ◆◆Gingivitis and gum disease Opening: Saturday 26 May, 10.30am Free events Join us for the opening of Te Raki, led by our kaumatua and with the artist present. Refreshments will be served.

TE RAKI

RAEMON MATENE

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 29 KAT6073

CHECK OUT WINTER!

naturally Committed Natasha Harris of Alberts Hair Salon talks about natural makeup products which deliver results.

a

t Alberts we’re committed to using natural, sound ecologically harvested techniques and organically grown ingredients, to ensure that what we offer YOU is of the very highest, natural quality – ethical products which deliver incredible results. With Kevin Murphy Haircare and Color.Me, Jane Iredale make up and Butter London nail treatments, we have you covered.

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Natural, earthy tones are the must have colour for your lips this winter. Try Jane Iredale lip fixation in Content or Craving; if you prefer a lipstick, you can’t go past Puremoist Lipstick in Tricia, Jamie or Susan.

Please feel free to talk to one of our talented team of stylists or, better still, book in for a complimentary consultation.

Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe | 09 238 75 76 | www.alberts.co.nz 01513

30 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

The Scots might have a monopoly on plaids (and tartans) but this season Ketz-ke has shown it has the flair to re-ignite trends of yesteryear by putting plaids and checks to the fore. And, by putting their own spin on a long-time favourite, this season’s offering is anything but prim and proper!

Featuring a bold colour palette and flattering shapes, Ketz-ke’s latest drop is set to invigorate winter’s typically monochrome approach to both work and weekend attire – no drab days here!

In particular, the Shuffle blazer resurrects a wardrobe staple in a vivid green plaid that puts paid to Monday blues. Match with a Six Hearts tee to elevate an everyday look, or pair with the Blocker pant to embark on a bold winter statement.

Another classic print with a refreshing new approach is the midilength check Jackpot dress which combines flirtatious, modern frills and a flattering feminine shape. Checks ares also seen on the tapered Card pant, cut loosely around the thighs and cropped at the ankle for a modern look.

Offering up a collection of chic, wearable looks, Ketz-ke’s ‘check it out’ styles offer a warm and welcome balance to the everyday wardrobe when mixed and matched with winter favourites.

1. Ketz-ke Shuffle Blazer RRP $219, Ketz-ke Six Hearts Tee RRP $115, Ketz-ke Blocker Pant RRP $169 2. Ketz-ke Jackpot Dress RRP $139 3. Ketz-ke Pack Tee RRP $115, Ketz-ke Card Pant RRP $145 www.ruralliving.co.nz

Brand new dayS!

e

ach new ‘Day’ can be marvellous indeed for little ones, as shown by these two recent releases from one of New Zealand’s most widely read children’s authors.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

ages

5-7

Four weeks might not seem like a long lifespan but Pepe the forest ringlet butterfly is intent on making every moment count.

After laying her eggs, she asked Tutu the tui to watch over them but can this flighty bird really be trusted? Ideal for readers aged 5-7, this book features beautiful illustrations by Anna Evans and fact pages to help little ones learn about these remarkable creatures. ◆ Marion Day: Pepe & Tutu and Skiddies| RRP $19.99 each | AM Publishing

noodle heAd When Flippy and Floppy argue over a sweetie in this book (by best-selling author, Giles Andreae), the sublime quickly turns ridiculous. Interestingly enough, calling each other by such names as ‘silly sausage’, ‘smelly pants’ and (as the title suggests) ‘noodle head’ doesn’t do too much to resolve their differences, the duo soon learns.

From the author of Giraffes Can’t Dance comes this heart-warming, deceptively simple story.

t suited f es

ages

• or

Suits & Gumboots Country daycare 12 Helenslee Rd, Pokeno.

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

pepe & tutu

t suited f es

• or

S

tarting school for the first time is such a huge deal for a young child but learning to deal with transitions is a part of life.

Children need support to learn how to manage change and to build resilience. Teachers, parents, and whanau can help children develop a positive attitude to this change, by encouraging their sense of self-worth, confidence as a learner, and their independence.

Encouraging curiosity, risk taking, playing fair, sharing knowledge, and being able to ask for help, will benefit our children as they move into their new environment.

Here are some other practical ways we can assist our children in preparing for school: ◆ Ensure children can remove and put on their shoes easily, as well as jerseys and jackets. ◆ Make sure children can go to the toilet independently and know about good hygiene including washing and drying their hands. Talk about asking the teacher when the toilet is needed instead of just leaving the classroom. ◆ Find out and talk to children about the school routine.

There are bells that ring during the day to signal when morning tea or lunchtime starts and finishes and when school starts and ends. ◆ Tell your child/children that at school they need to put up their hand to talk at mat time which makes sure everyone is heard at different times. ◆ Discuss the contents of lunch boxes; what’s for morning tea, lunch or afternoon break. Children need to know that they don’t eat everything at morning tea time but need to leave enough food for lunch. They should also have a lunch box/bag they can open on their own. ◆ Encourage independence and responsibility with school bags, lunchboxes, book bags and other belongings.

Having strong links between home and school are the best way to help our children settle and make the adjustment to their new environment.

•B

By heather watson, suits & Gumboots country daycare

Farm life comes with all sorts of pitfalls, from avoiding creepycrawlies that don’t often creep their way around town, to dealing with animals that don’t really like to be patted. With illustrations by Robyn Hoglund, Marion Day’s humorous tale of the mischievous Benji and his adventures are best suited to children aged 5-7.

•B

preparing for SChool

sKiddies

2-5

◆ Giles Andreae: Noodle Head | RRP $17.99 | Puffin Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 31

HEY, HEY, IT’S HAY DAY!

Smoked Kahawai & Kumara Chowder

f

ancy a little ka pai kai? Providing a fusion of traditional Maori recipes and modern cooking techniques the Puha & Pakeha food truck takes Kiwi cuisine to the streets of Auckland. To track down the truck, see the ‘Where to find us’ page at puhaandpakeha.co.nz. But there’s no need to wait as, thanks to this recipe courtesy of Puha & Pakeha (aka Belinda and Jarrad McKay), our boat’s already come in!

inGredients Makes approx 3 litres ◆ 1 medium carrot, finely chopped ◆ 1 stick celery, finely chopped ◆ 1 brown onion ◆ 1 clove garlic ◆ 1 Tbsp smoked paprika ◆ 1 tsp salt ◆ 1 tsp pepper ◆ 250g potato, peeled and roughly chopped ◆ 500g kumara, peeled and roughly chopped ◆ 4 cups (1 litre) Campbells Real Stock – Fish ◆ 300ml milk ◆ 200ml water

32 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

Method Place carrot, celery, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, potato, kumara and stock in a large pot. Cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20mins or until vegetables are tender.

Add milk and water then blend until smooth.

Add sweet corn, chives, parsley and smoked kahawai and heat through Serve with a dollop of sour cream, garnish of chives and some crusty bread.

Country Cafe

WINNER Rural Cafe of the Year 2016 & 17

Weddings - Birthdays or any special occasions

Red Shed

Palazzo

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

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

16 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Ph (09) 294 6687 Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

KAT5624-v2

The district’s new lifestyle magazine – it’s monthly and its free! Travel, fashion, beauty, home and garden, profiles, food and more. Pick it up in most of our towns or see the digital version online – southmagazine.co.nz

◆ 500g smoked kahawai – pulled ◆ 200g sweet corn ◆ 2 Tbsp chopped fresh Chives ◆ 2 Tbsp chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

r ay s, re ou nd et at k ls Su ark The hec tai M er – c r de nn st fo Di s be ite it’ bs at we

Hey readers, it’s a great read – SOUTH… of the border…down Franklin way!

COMPLIMENTARY

when a day’s hard yakka is done, there’s nothing quite so good as to sink down into a chair as we sink down a beer or two. while there are plenty of beverages for those to whom a day’s work involves driving a desk, Mac’s hay day farmhouse Ale has been brewed especially for country folk who know what a hard day’s work is really all about!

Also known (by its brewers) as ‘barnyard funk’, this beer is no rot-gut home brew. crafted using french saison yeast (oohla-la!) it’s a modern homage to old world farmhouse ales. when married with taiheke hops, the result is a kettle-boiled drop features an earthy, yet tart and spicy, flavour.

And yet – ironically, considering its top taste – this beer is a ‘Gross’ product. “it’s all about the flavour and aroma from the specialty yeast,” Kurt Gross from Mac’s explains. “this works in balance with specialty malts and subtle contributions from the hops. As well as adding a tonne of flavour, the yeast ferments the beer out to a dry finish but leaves an unexpectedly silky and rich feeling in the mouth.”

Mac’s hay day (Apv 5.5%) is available in four packs (rrp $14.99) and on tap at Mac’s Brew Bars for a limited time.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Meat... the champs When two Aussie ‘tribes’ go to war, the stakes are high; here in NZ it’s a little different. During Fieldays (in the PGG Wrightson tent, June 13), top Kiwi cooks will compete to dish up the perfect slab of meat during Beef+Lamb’s Steak of Origin.

Contestants will be judged based on aroma, taste/flavour, tenderness, juiciness and texture. As for that other Origin series, it remains to be decided who’ll end up as... dead meat! Meanwhile, try this for size.

Mustard pan-fired scotch fillet steak with quick bernaise Ingredients: ◆◆4 Quality Mark scotch fillet steaks ◆◆Roasted potato wedges, beans and peas Method: Brush each steak lightly with oil. Season with salt and pepper. Preheat the pan to moderately-hot. Cook on one side until the first sign of moisture appears. Turn

steaks once only.

Test steaks for degree of doneness with tongs. Rare is soft, medium feels springy and well done is very firm. Remove steaks from heat, loosely cover with foil and rest steaks for 2-4 mins before serving. Serve each with a spoonful of béarnaise, and the potatoes, beans and peas.

Quick béarnaise Ingredients: ◆◆1 teaspoon sea salt flakes ◆◆2 tablespoons white wine vinegar ◆◆2 egg yolks ◆◆150g of butter, melted and hot Method: Process salt, white wine vinegar and egg yolks until smooth. Heat the butter until melted and hot. With the processor running begin to add the butter a little at a time; the first lot should be just a drizzle.

Gradually add the butter in a thin stream.

Season with black pepper.

Courtesy recipes.co.nz

Hot Spots RED EARTH EATERY & WINE BAR

CANOPIUS Canopius has a new menu bringing as always the finest, freshest and free-range product to the area’s surrounding Papakura. Paired with our 100% fair-trade, organic coffee for the best brunch in the South. Be it Eggs Benedict for brunch, or our Canopius Burger for lunch, with beef ground fresh in house, Canopius’ focus on high quality is sure to please. Whether you choose your favourite from our menu, or grabbing something from the extensive cabinet selection, Canopius will cater to what drives your hunger.

145 Great South Road, Papakura Open Tues-Fri 7am-4pm Sat-Mon 8am-3pm Phone 09 299 1180 www.canopius.co.nz www.facebook.com/canopiuscoffeehouse

KAT5630-v3

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5233-v3

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

255 Great South Rd, Papakura Phone 09 296 9027 become a fan today www.redearth.co.nz

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 33

New bags set to bin plastic?

W here once the world shouted ‘plastic-fantastic’ from the rooftops, now the former wonder product is very much ‘persona non grata’, taking up estimated 20% of all landfill space and becoming an ever-increasing global problem.

But, now, environmentally-conscious readers should be pleased to learn about Ecobagsnz, a New Zealand-owned company intent on reducing plastic waste and supplying ethically produced reusable, compostable, biodegradable and degradable bags.

Ecobagsnz supply a diverse range of bags including non-woven reusable bags and string bags as well as bin liners made from compostable and degradable materials. Here are some from the range:

ECOBAGSNZ STRING BAGS Versatile, durable and made from organic cotton. These are available online in a produce bag (drawstring form) or in a carry bag style with the option of short or long handles. Ecobagsnz strong fresh produce bags (set of 2 RRP $8.90), Ecobagsnz strong carry bag (long handle RRP $7.99); (short handle RRP $7.50).

An estimated 300 million plastic bags end up in the ocean harming sealife.

THE ECOPACK COMPOSTABLE RANGE 100% compostable, plastic-free and biodegradable bags and bin liners are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic bags. Ecopack compostable liners are made from corn starch blended with other biodegradable materials. They are a more sustainable packaging choice taking approximately 90 days to break down in a home or commercial composting environment. All liners come in two sizes – kitchen liners, 27L and 36L; bin liners 60L and 80L; wheelie bin liners 140L and 240L.

THE ECOPACK DEGRADABLE RANGE Degradable bags and bin liners are made from polyethylene and although they are still a petroleumbased plastic bag, they contain a degradable additive known as TDPA

(Totally Degradable Plastic Additives) manufactured by a company called EPI. This helps the bags break down into smaller particles when exposed to sunlight, heat and oxygen. They can take between two-five years to break down, depending on conditions. Ecopack degradable kitchen tidy liners come in two sizes 27L (50 pack RRP $4.99) and 36L (30 pack, RRP $5.99).

Ecopack is available at leading supermarkets and health stores but for more information on pricing and stockists visit www.ecobags.co.nz.

FREE DRAPE MAKING ON SELECTED FABRICS*

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34 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

The perfect mix Rural Living editor HELEN PERRY seldom raves about products that cross her desk. However, the new Vitamix ASCENT series of high performance blenders had her applauding these versatile appliances.

a

t a recent introduction to Vitamix, I sampled a delicious ‘hint of mint’ smoothie, followed by hot Thai ginger soup, a mixed nut butter and, finally, two types of ice cream, all unbelievably conjured up within minutes in the magical Vitamix ASCENT A3500i.

Featuring touch screen controls with a five programme setting meant, with the touch of a button, it was possible to have each creation table-ready in under five to six minutes, the powerful motor easily pulverising hard or frozen ingredients to perfect consistencies.

What’s more, I was completely floored by our serving of instant ‘hot’ soup, heated by ‘friction’ without the use of an actual element, and made with whole vegetables, followed a short time later by perfectly textured, creamy, cold, mango ice cream – dinner parties made super easy!

While some readers may initially gasp at

the price – RRP $1595 for the A3500i (used at the demonstration) and $1295 for the three setting, A2500i – after watching this quality appliance at work, I became an instant fan and could certainly see the value.

What’s more, Vitamix blenders come with a 10-year warranty suggesting they might just live up to their tagline, ‘dependable not disposable’.

I could say a lot more about this kitchen super-hero, so suited to life on the land (and used throughout the food industry), but instead Rural Living offers this ‘make in minutes’ recipe to those who already own a Vitamix blender or are tempted into buying one – like me!

thai ginger Soup with CaShewS Ginger and chilli lend a zesty flavour to this soup, while cashews give it a hearty creaminess. Makes: 1 Litre, total time: 15 minutes, difficulty: easy

inGredients:

Method:

◆ 480ml water ◆ 1 carrot, halved ◆ 1 quarter cabbage ◆ 1 stalk celery ◆ 1 half a red pepper (seeded) ◆ 1 courgette ◆ 1 spring onion ◆ 1 slice lemon ◆ ½ garlic clove ◆ 3 cm (1 inch) fresh ginger root ◆ 1 slice chilli pepper ◆ 125 g (1 cup) raw cashews ◆ 1 Tbsp fresh coriander leaves ◆ 1 tsp honey ◆ 1 vegetable bouillon cube

Place all ingredients into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid.

Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to Variable 10, then to High. Blend for 5 minutes or until heavy steam escapes from the vented lid. Serve immediately.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

◆ NOTE: Prepared in the Vitamix ASCENT A3500i there was almost no need to dice and chop the vegetables. This high performance bender, with laser-cut, aircraft grade stainless steel blade, just motored through cutting whole vegetables, stalks and more and all with just a push of the soup button.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 35

Super hungry citrus C itrus trees such as mandarins, oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit are always hungry! they’re busy throughout the year, growing lush new foliage, producing beautifully perfumed flowers and developing their delicious fruit. during autumn citrus trees will grow a lovely new flush of leaves as well as continuing to nurture their fruit so, it’s important to support trees during this hectic time and provide them with plenty of nutrients to keep them well fed.

Give citrus the nutrition they need by mixing 2 capfuls of yates® thrive® citrus liquid plant food into a 9 l watering can and applying over the root zone each week. this plant food is a complete citrus fertiliser which contains a specially formulated blend of nitrogen to promote green leaf growth, phosphorus for strong root development and potassium to encourage flowering, healthy plants and quality fruit. tender new citrus foliage is susceptible to attack from aphids, which can cause leaves to permanently curl and distort and reduce overall plant health. Aphids also excrete a sweet, sticky substance called honeydew which attracts the disease, sooty mould which appears as a dark grey ash covering over leaves and stems. regular spraying with yates nature’s way® citrus & ornamental insect spray or conqueror oil, on both the upper and lower leaf surfaces, will help keep aphids under control. it is based on natural pyrethrin and vegetable oil and is certified for use in organic gardening, so it’s ideal for gardeners wanting to use organic methods of insect pest control. once the aphids (and other sap sucking pests) are controlled, the sooty mould will gradually disappear.

36 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

eArl Grey Anyone?

while many tea drinkers love a squirt of lemon in their tea for earl Grey enthusiasts it’s all about the orange! the team at yates tell us there is some controversy surrounding earl Grey tea and how it came to be named after charles Grey, Britain’s prime Minister from 18301834.

Apparently, some say the tea recipe was created by accident or that it was blended as a symbol of gratitude to earl Grey after one of his men saved a chinese man’s son. others say it was made to suit the quality of the water where earl Grey used to live. whatever the real story, earl Grey tea combines bergamot orange (citrus bergamia) with black tea to give it a distinct flavour and aroma.

Many modern day earl Grey blends use bergamot flavouring or essential oil, however, readers can also make their own fragrant earl Grey tea using the intensely flavoured, dried rinds of bergamot oranges. so, if you’re into earl Grey tea (or would like to make bergamot orange marmalade), then it’s time to grow your own bergamot orange!

Bergamot orange trees are vigorous growers and can reach five metres tall, although they can be kept smaller by pruning. they’re hardy trees needing welldrained soil and a full sun position receiving at least six hours of sunshine a day. the fruit’s skin is actually the colour of lemons or limes, and ripens during winter and early spring. it is very acidic so its tart juice can be used as a replacement for lemons. when planting a new bergamot orange tree, or any citrus tree, improve the soil in the planting hole by mixing in some yates® thrive® natural Blood & Bone. it contains rich organic matter to improve the quality of the soil and is a natural source of slow release nutrients as well as nZ seaweed to help promote early root growth. water the new tree well after planting and, in spring, start feeding weekly with yates thrive citrus liquid plant food.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

autumn reCovery By darren szaszy, Barfoot & thompson, pukekohe

D

ata released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) shows there were 182 more lifestyle sales (11.9%) for the three months ended March, 2018 than for the three months ended February, 2018.

Overall, there were 1716 lifestyle property sales in the three months ended March, 2018, compared to 2011 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended March, 2017 (-14.7%), and 1534 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended February, 2018.

In all, 7344 lifestyle properties were sold in the year to March, 2018, 1,558 (17.5%) fewer than were sold in the year to March, 2017. The value of lifestyle properties sold was $5.77 billion for the year to March, 2018.

Good quality properties are still in high demand and entry level lifestyle properties from $700,000 to just over a $1 million are attracting very good buyer interest with some receiving multiple offers within days of coming to market.

Brian Peacocke, Rural Spokesman at REINZ says, “Following a considerable easing in sales during the three-month period ending February, 2018, the most recent three-month period, ending March, 2018, recorded a solid upturn which reflected a dramatic recovery in activity, particularly in the northern regions.”

swoosh – it runs on (froZen) wAter!

Queensland, the home of surf, sun, sand and... the snowsailer!

While ‘horse’ power may still be coveted by old school farmers, wind power can spin our wheels too, even if the contraption in question has no wheels at all.

Conceived in Antarctica by a craft-y Aussie business, the Swoosh Snowsailer is quite quick over snow or ice, able to reach speeds of almost 50kph – that’s ‘knot’ quite 30 in nautical talk.

Now, after rigorous testing, the Swoosh is ready to sail its way on to the market. To help our Aussie neighbours get this wacky racer off the ground, or for more information, visit theswooshsnowsailer.com.

KAT5468

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 37

Qu We ee ar ns e W B op ee ir en ke th nd da y

We dig weekends...

Even in winter Central Landscape Supplies Drury has you covered for winter - pick up firewood, pebbles and drainage for boggy areas and it’s a great time to add a bit of compost to condition the soil.

Talk to our friendly Central Landscape Supplies team at Drury about all your winter outdoor needs.

Open Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm 38 — Rural Living — May/June 2018 www.centrallandscapes.co.nz

www.ruralliving.co.nz Auckland • 09 294 8410 • 141 Great South Rd, Drury, KAT5290-v7

Seaweed

just the tonic!

Wait an applepickin’ minute!

Selecting a keen crop of workers may be difficult for orchardists but packing the fruits of their labour need not be. What’s more, the Robotic Apple Packer won’t pack a sad if he gets the boot!

“We searched all over the world for innovative solutions for the increasing challenges our horticulture clients face,” Jamie Lunam, from Jenkins Freshpac Systems, says. “We found the automated technology for apple growers right here in our own backyard!”

Developed by Bay of Plenty company, Robotics Plus, the packer identifies and places apples in trays, safely handling up to 120 fruit per minute, the equivalent of two human grafters.

This ingenious AI ‘wunderkind’ was specifically designed to help alleviate such severe labour shortages as that faced by the apple industry in Hawkes Bay earlier this year.

“There is a national labour shortage in the sector at the most critical stages of the season, and it’s going to get worse, Mr Lunam says. “We’re delivering a solution to the problem of ensuring New Zealand produce reaches key export and local markets.”

While such technology may, eventually, make people power obsolete as far as packing apples goes, it’s not yet time to bid farewell to humans; robots haven’t developed a taste for fruit... yet. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Central’s Tips June 2018 Winter has come - protect fragile young citrus, tamarillo and passionfruit by making frost shelters.

Brighten up your winter outdoors by planting rainbow stemmed chards, daphne, azaleas and hellebores and stake up broad beans.

In the Veggie Patch • In go the strawberry plants, asparagus crowns, shallots and garlic. Snip and plant runners off existing strawberries.

• Stake or build supports around broad beans as they grow

• If frost is an issue, build frost shelters for young citrus, tamarillo plants and passionfruit vines. Frost cloth or newspaper is also a cheap and easy option

• For eye-catching colour in the vegetable garden plant rainbow stemmed chard

Lawns • A little mowing and control of porina caterpillar is sufficient during this time

The rest of the Garden - Focus on fragrance and colour: • For delicious scent plant daphne bushes, boronias, wintersweet and the very special Daphne Bholua

• Winter Colour: azaleas and early flowering camellias and rhododendrons brighten up the winter garden. Witch-hazel, winter jasmine and mahonia that offer yellow tones on dull days

• Plant winter roses (hellebores) in raised beds or on banks to view the remarkable and varied interiors of their beautiful flowers KAT5290A-v7

A

fter the long Indian summer and mild autumn, many a garden will be over its floral best but that’s just means there still plenty for gardeners to do – clearing leaf fall, sowing lawns, erecting wind and frost protection and creating drains to take away surface water.

If planting roses and citrus in the coming months, soil can be prepared now by digging in compost and aged manure. And, if your garden is in need of a tonic then Yates Thrive® Natural Seaweed is a great pick me up.

A plant and root tonic, based on 100% sustainably-sourced bull kelp from the Southern Oceans, the bull kelp is cold composted using a gentle extraction method which preserves more of the seaweed’s delicate growthboosting compounds. Importantly this handy tonic: ◆◆Reduces transplant shock in new plants. ◆◆ Is an excellent plant starter to support new plant and root growth. ◆◆ Aids recovery from stress conditions such as drought, pests, diseases and frosts.

Thrive Natural Seaweed can be used all year round on all plants, including flowers, trees, shrubs, fruit, vegetables and lawns and it’s ideal for applying over newly transplanted, cool season vegetable and flower seedlings to help give them the best possible start.

Certified for use in organic gardens by BioGro New Zealand, the large 2L pack will make up to 900 L of seaweed tonic.

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 39

the Bank Said no –where to from here?

By philippa farmer, canopy

m

any of my clients have approached me after having their mortgage application turned down by their bank. Understandably this can be a very disappointing experience and it is easy to give up hope, but often there are other options.

Understand where you went wrong –finding out exactly why your application was declined is the first step to putting things right. Was there a default on your credit check, or poor account conduct? Not enough deposit? Did the bank feel your income was too low, or outgoings too high? Are you recently self-employed? If you wish to proceed you will either have to find a lender who will accept your application as is, or address the issues that led to your application being declined in the first place.

A mortgage adviser can work with you to figure out the best way forward.

Approach other mainstream banks –different banks have different lending criteria. While one bank may turn down an application, another may be willing to approve it. Some lenders are more lenient when calculating your ability to service the loan; some are willing to overlook minor issues on your credit check.

An experienced adviser will have a good working knowledge of each bank’s lending criteria and know which lender is likely to have an appetite for a particular deal. Plus, working with a mortgage adviser will give you access to numerous lenders without having to fill out multiple applications.

Consider non-bank lenders – mainstream banks are governed by the Reserve Bank of NZ (RBNZ) and must follow their guidelines. This includes the loan-to-value restrictions on both owner occupied and investment properties. Non-bank lenders have more flexibility and may be able to work outside these restrictions. Again, a mortgage adviser will know which lender is a good fit for your current situation, and they can help you improve your position to return to a mainstream lender when you are ready.

If you have been turned down by your bank and wish to look at alternative options, call Philippa Farmer on 021 432 748 for an obligation free chat.

Your insurance, mortgage and Kiwisaver advice specialist We’ve got you covered

Phone Philippa Farmer – 021 432 748 Email philippaf@canopygroup.co.nz KAT5204-v2

www.canopygroup.co.nz www.facebook.com/karakafinance 40 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

When the chips are down Jesse is a steel-driving (or welding), axe wielding man! While many of today’s chaps are a little soft around the middle, Jesse Whitehead, who works (figuratively speaking) at the coal face, is a chip off the old (lifestyle) block too, as JON RAWLINSON explains.

w

hen Jesse Whitehead heads down to Mystery Creek for June’s National Agricultural Fieldays, he will be intent on chopping the competition down to size. Although timbersports require intense focus, nerves of steel are handy too, the Glenbrook steel millbased fitter/welder reveals.

“You need to be able to shut everything else out but, sometimes, being nervous can help as it keeps you on your toes,” he says. “We’re all mates but we all hate losing! There’s no one else you can blame when you do, though; it’s all about testing yourself.

“A huge amount of the sport comes down to technique.

Some big guys are strong as an ox but some smaller guys beat everyone because they have excellent technique. Size definitely helps but there’s a lot more to it than that.”

At Fieldays’ Festival of Logging, Jesse will compete in a range of disciplines with axe and chainsaw in hand. Perhaps more importantly, spots in the Kiwi team for October’s Stihl Timbersports World Championship (featuring teams from 16 nations) will be on the line. When the dust (and woodchips) clear, five, including a non-travelling reserve, will be selected.

Jesse is likely to compete against such top choppers as Young NZ Rural Sportsperson of the Year, Jack Jordan, his brother Shane, and even 14-time world champ, Jason Wynyard.

And, as if that isn’t enough, a certain ‘clan McDonald’ is also expected to descend from their farm and get stuck into the swing of things, waving the flag (and their axes) for Franklin too.

Jesse believes the three brothers – David, Nathan and William – will all be on form come June.

“I’d say they’ll be there, yeah. I could beat them in some events but we have our own strengths as well as events we’d be happy were left out of the programme altogether! Single saw is probably my weakest, but I’ve been training with David www.ruralliving.co.nz

for that. He was world champion at the Sydney Easter Show in that event so it’s been pretty handy having him coaching me.”

A friendly rivalry with the McDonalds since his high school days has helped Jesse progress in his sport. All four locals have made their marks since (and many of them!) at competitions nationwide and beyond.

“Waiuku College had a crosscut sawing team and the McDonald boys’ neighbour was the coach. They said I should come and have a go. I always liked watching the chopping at A&P shows so I was keen. It just happened because it happened, really,” says Jesse.

“I’ve grown up in the sport with them so we’re all good mates. I probably have the biggest rivalry with Nathan because we’re around the same age. We hate losing to one another but, afterwards, we always get together and have a laugh.”

Over the years, the Waiuku Axemen’s Club has grown some tall timber in this sport. At the sharp end, during competitions, this is an individual contest but, as Jesse reminds me, success comes off the back of a team effort... it doesn’t just grow on trees.

“In a way, what you see on the day is the easy bit but a lot of hard work goes in behind the scenes. Our club is always on the lookout for more poplar trees, too so if www.ruralliving.co.nz

“A huge amount of the sport comes down to technique. Some big guys are strong as an ox but some smaller guys beat everyone because they have excellent technique.

Size definitely helps but there’s a lot more to it than that.”

anyone can help with this, or in any other way, we’d love to hear from them.” ◆◆NOTE: To read Rural Living’s interview with David, see our Oct-Nov 2015 e-edition, accessible via ruralliving.co.nz.

Cutting his teeth The Stihl Timbersports World Championship’s is likely to be a two-horse race between Kiwi and Australian squads, axeman Jesse Whitehead, expects.

Since the early years of the series (mid 1980s – mid ‘90s) when the USA dominated, Kiwis have had the edge on the competition. The best competitors at Fieldays’ Festival of Logging will go on

Photo Wayne Martin

to compete at the champs and Jesse’s recent form indicates he could well make the ‘cut.

“If I perform well on the day, I stand a reasonable chance – as good as anyone else – of making the team,” the Waiuku lifestyler’s son says.

At January’s Rotorua Axemens’ 50th anniversary event, Jesse placed second in the tree felling; he also topped the table in a number of disciplines at February’s Counties Power Pukekohe Show.

“A&P shows are always good for training, working on skills, and some of them can have the best fields you’ll ever find in New Zealand so the competition can be really tough,” he says.

Unfortunately, all did not go to plan during March’s Rural Games, where Jesse finished seventh overall.

“I was disappointed because I didn’t do so well in my stronger events, springboard and standing block,” he explains.

Looking ahead and beyond the world champs, it’s an Aussie competition which this Kiwi sportsman hopes to nail.

“At last year’s [Sydney Royal Easter] show, I didn’t do as well as I’d have liked so I’ve taken a year off to work on my training.

I’ve had some good results there in the past, though. It’s classed as the Wimbledon of wood chopping. You can win 10 or even 20 world titles elsewhere but one win in Sydney trumps all those.”

Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 41

The Countryside Begins with Townsend...

ADVERTORIAL

Get more than first impressions from open homes Open homes are a great first impression of a property and you’ll know almost immediately if it’s one you want to pursue. So, how can you be sure you’re getting as much information as possible?

noise, depending on the type of business and its operating hours. Talk to your sales consultant about what zoning around the property means for potential development.

The structure – chances are the current owners are going to present the interior of the property in the best possible light. They will have cleaned and tidied, perhaps added a new coat of paint, or even had the home styled with beautiful furniture.

Whilst these things will help you to appreciate what the home could look like for you, it’s more important to focus on the dwelling’s structure. You need to look for:

n A home close to public transport is always convenient, but a home that shares a border with a train line, for example can cause a lot of excess noise, potentially hurt re-sale value, and cause safety issues for young family members depending on fencing around the property.

n Poor construction. Windows and doors that jar, or cracks in the walls around doors and windows are both signs of poor construction. n Wet spots on walls or ceilings. Condensation within the home can lead to mould build-up, timber decay, leaks, corrosion and even loss of structural integrity. n Cracks in the foundation. Some small cracks in a home’s foundation can be harmless, but large cracks either running down the foundation or across could mean a home is shifting, which can cause significant structural damage over time.

If you see anything through this process make a note of it, and make sure to mention it when you have a professional building inspector go through the property.

The location – You may be attracted to the area, but take a look at the property’s exact location for things that may bother you over the long-term, hurt re-sale value, or cause lifestyle issues. Things to consider are: n Is it on a busy main road? Houses on main roads can attract lower prices than those on quieter, private and less congested roads. You’ll also have to get used to the noise of heavy traffic. n Is it next to a retail or commercial space. This can create high levels of traffic and additional

n Are there power lines over the land/property?

Sometimes found on larger parcels of land, power lines have been known to drop property prices. n Is the property on a flood plain? Be aware that houses within the same street can be impacted differently by flood waters. If you have concerns talk to you sales consultant, property inspector and the local council.

The surroundings – Take note of the neighbouring properties on each adjoining border for any clues you might not be comfortable long term.

Are the neighbours’ yards neat and tidy? It might not directly impact on the property you’re considering, but what about when it comes time to sell the property? Do you have a comfortable level of privacy? Take a look at different angles around the home, particularly on smaller blocks or apartments. Are you too close to neighbours? Can you easily hear them through the walls?

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

It’s important to remember that none of these things always have to be immediate deal breakers on a property you’re interested in. It’s about having as much information as possible so you can make an informed decision and end up with a property you are happy with, for an amount you feel is reasonable.

Once you have made your first visit and if you decide you wish to proceed in making an offer, seek good legal, building and financial advice from the experts.

Pukekawa, 324 Clark and Denize Road

Awhitu, 1014 Awhitu Road

Waiuku, 150 Constable Road

Hunua, 177B Jones Road

Pukekawa, 91 Brewster Road

Pukekawa, 41 Mission Track Road

42 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5307-v7

for sAle with Jo-Ann

Saucy Stuff…

By Kylie Bosanac, Nick Bosanac Builders Limited

L

ately I‘ve been pondering how our business fits into the marketplace and what makes us unique. This was fuelled further when I attended a business seminar addressing just that point so, I wanted to share my take-away and my analogy with you, because its applicable to lots of areas of life, not just building homes.

We all know that businesses exist to solve a problem – you buy a drill because you need a hole; you buy a house because you need a home. Sounds simple, but at this event we were challenged to think about our target market from an alternative perspective… YOUR perspective! What will YOU get from us, or your chosen provider, over and above the basic need for shelter? The product you select needs to solve your unique issue.

I’m hungry, so lets look at this from a food analogy. Take for example the iconic Kiwi tomato sauce! Like building companies, there are four main competitor spheres in the market: ◆◆The Core: Watties. It’s the sauce we all love. It appeals to the hot chip-loving Kiwi masses! In home-builder terms – this equals big companies with a good product that lots of people want and they have the capacity to meet a mass market ◆◆The Basic: Store Brand. It does the job, tastes ‘kinda the same’, but costs less! These firms thrive on price driven sales. Their product meets the need, but may not have all bells and whistles. ◆◆The Fancy: Tuimato – Let’s be honest, it’s awesome! It’s a little unique, and has a zing that makes the small extra cost worthwhile.

This group are tailored, bespoke builders with a personal approach. ◆◆The Alternative: Ketchup. Its tomato sauce, but it’s not! It looks a little different, it tastes a little different, but it appeals to people who want something a little ‘extra’. These are your build specialists who provide another solution, perhaps its transportable, or a character look or maybe its green!

Whatever your ‘sauce’ preference, being really clear about what you want from your build as a whole will help you to decide the right partner to move your project forward.

It makes the process so much smoother and stress-free when you are working with the right team! You wouldn’t buy a sledge hammer to make a hole for a picture hook…just sayin’!

For your info, we are Tuimato – all day long so, if you are into that, bring your chips and let’s talk how we can create something unique together! Visit us in our showroom at 151 King Street, Pukekohe or in the social sphere www.facebook.com/bosanacbuilders/

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

www.ruralliving.co.nz

021 989 636

nick@bosanacbuilders.co.nz

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 43

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44 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

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Rural Living is available FREE from selected advertisers and the following locations:

46 — Rural Living — May/June 2018

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Tuakau Tuakau Meats, 23 George St. Tuakau Pharmacy, 51 George St. H.R Fiskens, 295 Tuakau Rd. Field Fresh Fruit & Vege, 3/53 George St. Profarm Tuakau, Cnr Madill Rd and George St. Ardmore Animal Stuff, 192 Airfield Rd.

Karaka Animal Stuff, 671 Karaka Rd. Drury Animal Stuff, 222 Great South Rd. Drury Butcher, 232a Great South Rd. Town & Country Vets, 257 Great South Rd. Patumahoe The Butchers Shop Cafe, 4 Patumahoe Rd. Clevedon Clevedon Dairy, 14 Main Rd, Clevedon Village

Rural Living is delivered the last week of each month. Copies will go quickly so be quick to collect yours from any of the following outlets.

An electronic version is also available at ruralliving.co.nz

Clevedon Rural Supplies, 13 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon Village Te Kauwhata Te Kauwhata Pharmacy, 14 Main Rd. Peplers, 5 Main Rd

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Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

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Rural Living — May/June 2018 — 47

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48 — Rural Living — May/June 2018