Rural Living - October/November 2022

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

Working Title

Now – December 3, Franklin Arts Centre, Massey Ave, Pukekohe

The varied approaches of Melanie Arnold, Belinda Gri ths and Diane Scott combine during this exhibition, Working Title, as they: 'explore interests in materiality and chance discoveries reaching beyond the tangible or visible.' Also on soon, (Oct 26-Nov 16) A Journey with She sees the talents of Sheree Foster take centre stage. Details via www.facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre.

Cafe Kaos Open Mic Night

October 28, 7-9pm, Cafe Kaos, 44 Edinburgh St, Pukekohe

Allowing all comers to rock the microphone could cause... ‘Kaos’! However, as this event (which is expected to be the first of many) gives local musicians, of all levels of ability, the chance to take to the stage, it could see a star or two born as well. For additional information (and to register), contact Pukekohe songstress Emily Rice via www.emilyrice.co.nz.

Waikato and Clevedon A&P Shows

October 28-30, 9am-4pm, Claudelands Event Centre, Hamilton, & Nov 5-6, 9am-5pm, Clevedon A&P Showgrounds, Clevedon Hamilton and Clevedon are set to celebrate rural life. Featuring rural sports, live music, food stalls and much more, they should prove why A&P shows are essential to our communities. For details visit www.waikatoaandp.co.nz and www.clevedonshow.co.nz.

Franklin Home & Lifestyle Expo

October 29-30, 10am-4pm, PIA Centre, 59 Ward St, Pukekohe

Part home show, part community celebration, this annual event doesn’t just feature a wide range of local businesses involved in the building, design and renovation game, it’s as much about how we live as it is about the homes we call our own. More information is accessible via www.franklinexpo.co.nz.

Melbourne Cup Day

November 1, from 11am, Pukekohe Park, Manukau Rd, Pukekohe

Redevelopment of Auckland Racing’s Ellerslie home track sees Pukekohe Park hosting this marquee event and more (with free general admission) over summer. In addition to action from the Melbourne Cup live on the big screen, this event also features a feast of racing on our local track. For additional information visit www.pukekohepark.co.nz.

Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble

November 12-13, locations vary

No need to tiptoe through the tulips when we could go Barfoot through the gardens! Sponsored by Barfoot & Thompson, this year's Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble takes visitors on a tour of 19 inspiring gardens. Visit www.franklinhospice.org.nz for further information, and see pages 8-9 to read our Q&A with Jane Thomas from Bombay’s remarkable Addenbrooke.

Art Weekend Port Waikato

November 12-13, various locations, Port Waikato

From painters and sculptors to textile artists and more, this open studio event takes us to the workspaces of an eclectic range of local artists. Giving an insight into not just what is created, but how artworks come together, this event is sure to inspire. For more details search ‘art weekend Port Waikato’ on Facebook.

Anne of Green Gables

November 12-26, O Broadway Theatre, 41 Elliot St, Papakura

Anne Shirley is feisty but she’s not the boy the Cuthberts wanted to adopt to help them out on their farm. A heart-warming play (based on the acclaimed novel of the same name), Anne of Green Gables reveals how accepting each other for who we are is the key to love and happiness. Details via www.ptc.org.nz.

PLEASE NOTE: information regarding times & dates of these events was correct at the time this issue went to print. However, readers are advised to check events online for updates.

UN-FAWKE-GETTABLE? from the

According to John Milton:

‘Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot.’ I see a reason or two, Mr Milton. You see, limited fireworks access and use to ensure we ‘stay safe’ has, to some degree, seen festivities fizzle out – you could say we’ve ‘lost the plot’.

I completely appreciate that farmers and lifestylers don’t forget how fireworks frighten animals. However, do we need even more laws to limit firework use? If existing laws are not followed, surely that’s more a failure of law enforcement than of the law itself. And, wouldn’t an outright ban see us on the same road as we are with firearms – more restrictive to the law-abiding and not so much to those who would break laws anyway? Fawkes was well aware he was breaking the law.

November 5 celebrations began as a way of discouraging opposition to the ‘powers that be’, as indicated by the practice of burning Guy in e gy – this has

slipped o the agenda, perhaps also to ensure we ‘stay safe’. For me, however, the fifth is about seeing my daughter’s face light up (figuratively and literally), as she exclaims, overawed by this strange magic in her world: ‘fireworks are popping!’

Similarly, to some Halloween is a harvest celebration while others decry it as ‘promoting the occult’, which they may consider more dangerous than sparklers… perhaps! And yet, I simply delight in my little one cackling maniacally about dad knocking on our door dressed in ad hoc costumes – we had to improvise last year due to lockdown. So, as bizarre as Guy Fawkes (and Halloween) may seem, and with all due respect to Mr Milton, I’ll ‘remember, remember’, but I’ll also choose to play it my way.

Other locals playing it their way include Waiuku's Nigel Upchurch, as Helen Perry’s article in this issue indicates. And, while Jane Thomas’s Addenbrooke garden (featuring in the upcoming Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble) may be in keeping with English country style, its

Bombay location, stunning scenery and her creativity have made it unique – see our Over the Gate Q&A. All this and more on the following pages.

Wait… is there something I forgot? Oh yes, it’s that Guy Fawkes could be seen as a reminder to our ‘betters’ suggesting they better not be negligent in their duties or overreach their power, even if there are no more mad Guys (one would hope) intent on exercising ‘people powder’ by sending them o with a bang!

My duties fulfilled (so no barrels beneath my pew!), be you a Guy or ghoul, or just an amazed (and amazing) kid having fun: have a happy Halloween and Guy Fawkes, everyone. Now, isn’t the next weird occasion something to do with a fat man, stockings and chimneys? That’s nowhere as strange!

Jon Rawlinson, Editor

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4 rural lifestyle properties in the greater Franklin district and

– Pokeno to Drury/Karaka and Clevedon to Waiuku. It is

businesses throughout the district's regional

their key community of Pukekohe.

THE WAGON?

to roll for the upcoming Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble (Nov 12-13) will find

visiting a wide variety of gardens, ranging from the quirky and eclectic to sprawling (and overawing) country spreads. Among the most splendid is Bombay’s Addenbrooke, a magnificent English country garden, featuring a 1904 villa, lovingly developed by Jane Thomas. For more about the ramble and to read our Q&A with Jane, see pages 8-9.

Win!

Visit www.ruralliving.co.nz to enter our prize draws and be in to win. One entry per person/ email address; entries close November 20, 2022. Winners notified by phone or email.

A BONDI SANDS EVERYDAY SKINCARE PACK

KELLY TARLTON’S

PASSES

Looking to achieve that sun kissed glow without baking under the sun? Because the sun can be damaging to our skin and our health, Bondi Sands is on hand to help. Featuring everything from Fresh’n Up Gel Cleanser to serums and creams, the Everyday Skincare range is designed to provide a quick and easy daily skincare regime. Thanks to Bondi Sands, we have a prize pack (includes Begin Again serum, Eye Spy eye cream, Fountain of Youth serum, Fresh’n Up cleanser and Sweet Dreams moisturiser) valued at almost $113 up for grabs.

There’s even more to ‘sea’ at Kelly Tarlton’s! Open from early December, the Sea Cave Adventure zone is set to provide an interactive experience focused on the Hauraki Gulf and its intriguing inhabitants, from a native octopus to eels, starfish, crayfish and crab species. Thanks to the good folk at Kelly Tarlton’s, we have THREE family passes (maximum of four people, entry for children under three is free) to give away.

Kiwis are encouraged to ‘soil their undies’ during National Gardening Week (Oct 17-24) and beyond. This year, ensuring the soil underneath our plants is good to grow is the week’s primary theme, helping us nourish our soil as best as we can. Thanks to Yates, we have a gardening hamper, valued and more than $220 and including everything from a wide range of fertilizer and plant food to seeds, to give away to one lucky gardener.

LIFE IN THE SHALLOWS

Rich and diverse, New Zealand’s wetlands may not be appreciated as much as they should. Often holding deep cultural and spiritual significance, these vital and vulnerable ecosystems are home to a wide range of wildlife. The race is on to save them, as this informative book reveals.

Karen Denyer & Monica Peters: Life in the Shallows – The Wetlands of Aotearoa New Zealand | RRP $65 | Massey University Press

Love where your live, but your home no longer suits your lifestyle?

Make the most of your property and lifestyle through a new home build with Jennian Homes Franklin.

Discover the freedom of a home built to suit your needs and enjoy a build journey that’s first focussed on relationship and trust.

With 40 years of experience, we’re experts in helping you create a purposeful, functional home that’s suited to your personal style and way of life.

Over

WITH

Jane Thomas (ADDENBROOKE)

the hard work Jane and Graeme Thomas have put into one of Franklin’s most splendid gardens as well

is warranted

upcoming Franklin Hospice Garden

sprung from the pages of a Jane Austin novel.

posed questions to Jane… over

Did you have gardening experience before purchasing Addenbrooke in 2012? How much work have you put in? Have you had help?

The closest we had to gardening experience was in being members of Eden Garden when we lived in the city, so our work is mostly intuitive.

The gardens have been extensively expanded with new landscaping. From a series of areas, we developed the property into an interconnected walk-through garden. We’ve made additions, such as the pavilion, which we transported from Wellington. We try and maintain its cohesiveness by mirroring planting or landscaping and repeating certain plants to hold the look of the garden for continuity. We have a flat lawn now that can be used for croquet and is great for ball games with our grandchildren. We are looking forward to the years to come as our new garden developments mature.

We have four amazing people helping us. Our creative hard landscaping and large plant team, Pete and Sam, take our design ideas and turn them into reality.

The ‘flower power’ team, Mel and Cathy, take care of the husbandry of the plants, especially roses and hydrangeas of which we have hundreds if not thousands. Cathy also helps me with plant selection and growing plants from seeds and cuttings.

Does the property follow a theme?

It’s designed on the concept of an English country garden (influenced by Gertrude Jekyll and the gardens at Sissinghurst, Kent) but in keeping with the villa. The house has also been totally renovated and extended while remaining faithful to the original 1904 villa design. Every room has a garden vista and the floral and soft furnishings inside reflect the garden.

The garden is (largely) devoted to flowers. Which varieties in particular?

We have numerous rhododendrons, magnolias, azaleas, lilacs, crab apple trees and camellias as well as established trees such as pohutukawa, grand magnolias, liquid ambers, golden elm, puriri, and a large new maple.

Have you been part of the Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble before? How did you come to be involved?

This will be our second time. We hadn’t had any experience with the hospice the first time, but a couple of years ago my sister stayed with us while on palliative care and the nurses from Franklin Hospice were amazing! During the ramble we’ll be o ering Devonshire teas, part of our way of giving back.

You also give back through your own charity, (SSFI). What does this charity do to assist the community?

Our registered, child-centric charity, School Start First Impressions (SSFI), supports five-year-olds starting school. The children come from families with financial di culties.

If you could grow any plant, what & why?

We work hard to grow paeonies and lilacs, but the climate is not conducive in Bombay. They grow well in the South Island, where we’re from, and reminiscent of gardens we visited as children.

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

I’d invite Saint Hildegard of Bingen. A German Benedictine abbess, she was a writer (theological, botanical, and medicinal), composer, philosopher and mystic from the Middle Ages. She was fiercely independent and chose to take her nuns and set up her own monasteries. Her works about herbs and plants are still referred to today.

Secondly, Graeme’s guest would be Leonard Cohen, due to his extraordinary poetic lyrics, the magic of the melodies and arrangements.

Thirdly, Gertrude Jekyll, mentioned earlier. A renowned artist, garden designer, horticulturist and writer, she's another woman of many talents. We would ask about her knowledge of plants and placings as well as her long, productive life designing more than 400 gardens.

Jane & Graeme Thomas

Pigs prove lucky lifestyle choice

Raised a ‘townie’ in Auckland’s Mt Eden suburb, Nigel Uphurch went ‘the whole hog’ when he switched to lifestyle farmer and pig breeder seven years ago. HELEN PERRY recently visited him on the Waiuku property which has been in his wife's family for four generations.

Controversy over animal welfare issues regarding pig farming has triggered debate in recent years resulting in a new government codes of practice. However, in Franklin, a certain brood of pigs have no confinement or poor care issues.

In fact, it could be said that the Upchurch animals are ‘happy as pigs in clover’. That’s because they are free range, being bred (mostly) as rural pets or to be raised further for home kill. Either way, they are all tended with a ection.

After living in Amsterdam for several years, Nigel and his wife, Merrin, returned home in 2014. Eighteen months later, they set out to fulfil their rural ambitions on the Waiuku property where Merrin’s mother was among the first in New Zealand to adopt permaculture practices.

“Whilst we also raise beef cattle, our intention was always to focus on breeding pigs in a small way rather than supplying the commercial market,” Nigel explains. “It has proved a good move for us as we now have three breeding herds: Berkshires, Devons (large blacks) and Kunekunes.

“Berkshires are often called the ‘wagyu of pork'; that’s because the meat is slightly marbled making it prime quality. Both

Berkshires and Devons are British heritage breeds and generally have good size litters – Berkshires about 8-12 piglets and Devons, 10-14 – so the return is pretty good for our small venture.

“These pigs are also hardy, have a good temperament and, because they are black-skinned, they don’t burn easily when kept outdoors. They are also super intelligent; a happy choice for us.

“Kunekunes are smaller, lighter, very food-orientated and have fewer piglets in a litter, but they are easy to feed and are very social, which makes them great pets. Most piglets are sold at about six weeks; by then, 'mum' is fed up and doesn’t want 10 or 12 fast-growing o spring still trying to suckle!”

Despite the rewards, Nigel warns that there are implications to keeping pigs.

“You need plenty of space – a small outdoor area will soon be churned to mud so it’s best to rotate pens or paddocks where possible. This will reduce nutrient build up and also odour – it’s not the pigs that smell it’s the excrement and build-up of food waste.”

Nigel suggests using wood chip and old bedding hay to reduce pugging and to absorb excess nutrients. Grass seed in

the hay will also help regenerate green growth in disturbed soil, he advises. It also pays to keep an eye on sows after they have birthed, he adds.

“The one drawback of free range is that sows can sometimes crush the piglets, hence advocacy of short-term sow crates by some, but they were never for us!”

Nigel and Merrin balance daily farm chores with their careers. Nigel is a 3D animation specialist catering to a global market while Merrin is an environmental consultant specialising in freshwater ecology and catchment restoration. Her clients include councils, catchment groups and farmers.

Subsequently, neither are too busy to ignore their commitment to clean waterways (their land is bordered by the Waitangi Stream with two tributaries) and tree planting. To date, they have planted about 7000 native trees along with ongoing weed and pest control.

“So, between the pigs, the cattle, conservation and our other jobs, we’re kept on the go,” Nigel admits. “Fortunately, we receive some help from Workaway volunteers [see www.workaway.info for details] in maintaining this lifestyle and, thankfully, it works.”

This happy-chappy isn't inclined to ‘lay downits life’ when Nigel is around – instead, it gladly‘knuckles under’ for a blissful tummy rub.

PIGLET’S ‘BABE’ ROLE NO COMEDY

By Helen Perry

There were no cameras rolling but there was a keen student film crew on site the day I visited the Upchurch Stud.

I quickly collared director, Lucie Lesnard, thinking the attraction was to record a snapshot of lifestyle pig farming. Not so!

Lucie was there to complete her Bachelor’s degree by highlighting the grim reality of postpartnum psychosis, a condition which is more severe than perinatal (or postnatal) depression and can result in loss of one’s sense of reality. It may include hallucinations, delusions, mood swings and behaviour changes.

Interestingly, her story, which aims to show the disconnection between a mother su ering from the condition and her child, substitutes a piglet for a human baby, hence the visit to the Upchurch property.

“Although this is primarily my project, about 20 students are involved in the production with the outcome, a 10-minute short film,” Lucie said. “Sadly, the story does not have a happy ending.”

In New Zealand for three years and studying at the SAE Creative Media Institute in Parnell, she is now in her last year and has no plans to immediately

return to her home in New Caledonia.

Rather, Lucie is keen to stay in New Zealand and will seek work in brand marketing or the film industry should an opportunity arise.

“I’m also keen to submit the film to a New Zealand’s amateur film competition,”she adds. “I’d love to see how it is received.”

Nigel with student film crew – see story below

to

Lucie Lesnard discusses her project with Nigel

Merrin and Nigel

New strain changes game?

While it may not be cause for alarm just yet, the discovery of a new strain of cattle disease, Mycoplasma bovis (M.bovis), on a Canterbury farm is almost certain to cause further stress for farmers nationwide.

“This strain doesn’t behave any di erently than the strain we have been dealing with and our existing testing will pick it up, as it has done in this case,” M. bovis programme director, Simon Andrew, says. “It doesn’t a ect our e orts to eradicate M.bovis from New Zealand.”

Although its origins are yet to be confirmed, it is possible the new strain arrived in New Zealand through imported feed and farm machinery or frozen semen, Mr Andrew believes.

“While considered a very low risk, frozen semen used on the a ected property, which had been imported prior to the introduction of the new import health standard, is being looked at,” he says. “Our team is carrying out an investigation. At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest that there has been any forward spread on any farms that received cattle from this farm.”

The discovery follows confirmation that further cattle are to be culled in e ort to eradicate the disease. Despite mass culling since M.bovis was first discovered in New Zealand in 2017, there has been no confirmed infection outside of mid-Canterbury since July 2020.

Mr Andrew believes the end is in sight. “All properties with cattle in the high-risk area will be depopulated by mid-January 2023, or earlier, followed by a standdown period of 2-3 months to allow [them] to be cleaned and disinfected,” he adds.

“Although we are at the tail-end of this outbreak, it is possible we may find other infected properties in the future and so we must remain vigilant and maintain our nationwide surveillance programme.”

LOCKDOWNS –ANIMAL CONTROL FEELS THE BITE

Causing animal shelters to ‘burst at the seams’, the pandemic has had fuelled increases in Auckland’s dog population and, alarmingly, the frequency of attacks, a recent report reveals.

“Many ‘lockdown puppies’, now young dogs, weren’t socialised adequately because of lockdown restrictions, causing increased undesirable and unacceptable behaviour,” Auckland Council animal management manager, Elly Waitoa, explains. “We also noticed the pandemic changed dog behaviour more broadly, with many being over-stimulated, through high human interaction, increasing territorial behaviour.”

Released in September, the Animal Management Annual Report 2021-2022 states attacks were up by more than 20 per cent, bucking a downward trend from 2017-2020. The rise in numbers (up 5.5%) can be attributed to limitations caused by lockdowns, with vets unable to desex animals and more Kiwis homing dogs, Ms Waitoa advises.

Despite often being shorthanded (with sta in isolation), animal control responded to an increased number of requests for assistance than in the year prior. In addition, animal shelters and even the courts have been under immense pressure, Ms Waitoa adds.

“Many prosecutions were delayed due to limited court services during the lockdown periods."

Animal Management is now undertaking extensive data analysis to better understand the impacts of the pandemic and, where necessary, adapt and improve its services. Search ‘Animal Management’ at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to view the complete report.

Products

breaking broody

Chooks may be in the mood to brood, but that doesn’t mean farmers are, as Dr Sarah Clews (BSc BVSc) explains.

Sitting on eggs is a natural behaviour in hens, allowing their reproductive tracts to rest. However, brooding comes with its own risks, such as pneumonia, musculoskeletal issues, external parasite burdens, weight loss and predation. Therefore, if the eggs are infertile, many owners will try to prevent this type of behaviour or break it once it begins.

When genetics line up and the season and day length hit that sweet point, the hen’s oestrogen and progesterone will climb, triggering broody behaviour. Accumulating eggs, providing a safe and comfortable nest, and seeing chicks also help encourage this. The hen will pluck the feathers from her underside to create a ‘brood patch’ and stimulation against that brood patch (usually of eggs) encourages levels of the hormone prolactin to climb. This causes broody behaviour to continue, and manipulating these hormones is the key.

Collecting eggs, once or even twice a day, helps to prevent broodiness. If you have a hen on the edge or predisposed to broodiness, remove nesting materials quickly to nip it in the bud. Keep a close eye on hens to make sure they don’t take themselves off to create a hidden nest.

In the first few days, you may snap hens out of becoming broody by locking them out of their nesting boxes. Carry them some distance away and distract them – this may be all that’s required. Try removing hens at night and placing them on their perches. As chooks won’t want to wander in the dark, they’re more likely to sleep with the flock and

become less broody by morning.

Eggs hatch naturally within 21 days; if not, prolactin naturally declines in 3-4 weeks. If hens are close to this stage anyway, you may choose to let them sit it out for another week or so, until motivation wanes. Alternatively, place them in a cage with a barred bottom, making sure they have a perch, space to move, food and water and protection from heat and cold stress. The idea is not to be cruel but to remove all stimulation against that brood patch to lower prolactin – methods,

such as hosing and ice baths, are inhumane and unnecessary. Let hens out twice a day, with distractions, and see if they return to the nest.

BEWARE! Owners commonly mistake very sick hens for broody hens. If your hen is closing her eyes, has weak or heavy breathing, has a change in comb colour or it is becoming difficult to break broody behaviour, have her checked immediately! Our poultry vets at Franklin Vets Papakura can help.

SPRING CHECKLIST

Hold off shearing sheep until lambs are at least six weeks old

Keep grass 4+ cm long for sheep and goats with little ones at foot. Remember that milk supply peaks 5-6 weeks into milking

Wean bottle-reared lambs at a minimum of six weeks old to avoid the increasing risk of bloat. To be weaned this young, they need to be grazing consistently for the past two weeks, be eating ‘creep feed’ (baby muesli), be chewing their cud, and fully vaccinated, ideally with Covexin 10. See our website for more information

Chooks are likely laying now. Keep a close eye on any who stop suddenly, or for any unusual eggs, as the lay period is a high-risk time for reproductive disease

Disbud calves between 4-6 weeks old and vaccinate. Castrate while sedated to keep discomfort to a minimum

Consider synchronising beef cows for artificial insemination. Discuss this with our vets well before summer mating

lambs, calves and kids with a combination ingredient oral drench for the

time when they are taking in a significant amount of grass:

Hand-reared young around 8-10 weeks old

Reared on mum, drench at weaning around three months

From left: A pale comb, dark purpling comb and closing eyes are all indications of critical illness rather than broodiness.

SAVE OUR SOIL: SOS answered?

In recent years, as the Franklin region has been subject to increasing urbanisation, Rural Living has shared numerous stories in which politicians have asserted the importance of retaining ‘the most’ productive land. However, precise definitions of how much of ‘the most’ productive land, exactly where it is located and when it will be protected have remained elusive.

Fortunately, such definitions may not be too far o thanks to the recent ‘National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL)’. Through this, local councils are to be expected to identify, map and manage highly productive land in their regions.

“The National Policy Statement will greatly improve how we protect highlyproductive land from inappropriate subdivision, use and development,” Environment Minister, David Parker,

confirmed shortly after Rural Living’s previous issue was released. “We need to house our people and to feed them too. Our cities and towns need to grow but not at the expense of the land that’s best suited to grow our food.”

In response to government intentions, Nadine Tunley from Horticulture NZ appears optimistic that, finally, talk will be converted into action. However, she warns that the NPS-HPL is just a first (although important) step.

“HortNZ has advocated for nearly a decade for government policy that recognises the importance of our best soils and ensures that they are prioritised for what they are best for: producing healthy vegetables and fruit,” she says. “Covid has taught us that we can’t take for granted that there will always be New Zealand-grown vegetables and fruit on our retailers’ shelves.”

As Ms Tunley illustrates, growers will need more than just assurances that prime land will not fall victim to developers.

“It’s no use protecting our best land if growers cannot get access to inputs such as fresh water, are bogged down with compliance, and can’t a ord fertiliser or to transport their produce. At the same time, growers need to know they have a skilful and reliable workforce available to plant, pick and pack,” she adds.

“We also need to ensure that growers can a ord to invest in new growing methods, in response to climate change. Growers only need ongoing issues in one of these areas for their viability to be compromised, which could mean vegetables and fruit cannot be sustainably grown in New Zealand in the future.”

To read comments concerning the NPS-HPL by Minister of Agriculture, Damien O’Connor, see page 22.

Wanting to build?

WHITFORD

set to inspire

Inspirational role models from across the food and fibre sector have been enlisted to encourage students to choose paddocks over o ces when establishing their career paths. Following its September launch in Canterbury, the Inspiring Food and Fibre Futures in Schools programme is also scheduled to hold events at Donald’s Farm, in nearby Whitford, during November.

“We’re proud to be leading the [programme],” Trevor McIntyre from NZ Young Farmers confirms. “Our young people will play a significant role in the future success of our food and fibre sector. It’s important they’re aware of the breadth of roles available. The experiences and knowledge that they gain now will help to guide their subject choices and even lead them to long and successful careers in the sector.”

The initiative features question-and-answer sessions and interactive discussions, as well as the opportunity for students to undertake numerous hands-on farm tasks. More information –including how to become a volunteer role model – is accessible via www.inspiringthefuture.org.nz.

To read our July-Aug 2020 interview with Donald’s Farm manager, Sam Waugh, see the ‘past issues’ section at www.ruralliving.co.nz.

Photo Wayne Martin

SHOWJUMPING ARENA on solid ground

You can lead a horse through (rain) water and, even in winter, they will still be able to jump. Thanks to the development of a new, 3200 square metre arena in Karaka, riders can now train yearround, as Abderry Equine Services’ Cheski Brown explains.

“An arena like this means [riders] can work throughout winter when often it’s not physically possible with older style facilities where footing can become inconsistent in very wet weather,” she says. “A good surface means the horses are happy and will jump boldly because they have confidence that their footing, on take-o and landing, will be predictable and consistent.”

Constructed by Waiau Pa-based lifestyle and equestrian construction company, Harrison Lane, the arena was designed to ensure solid footing by channelling

Leeshelle Small

rainwater away from its surface.

“We have riders from all over New Zealand who come here to train. Our goal is to help [them] and horses in a safe environment,” Ms Brown adds. “Recycling water for us to reuse in drier times is an added bonus.”

The drainage system leaves enough water behind to ensure a ‘consistent

cushioning’ for the horses, so while it won’t become a bog in winter, it’s no ‘dusty trail’ during summer either.

“We had a big downpour [before the opening in September], but the arena surface was perfect!” Harrison Lane’s Laura Daly says. “All the excess water drained away from the arena and Cheski was using it the next morning. I have the same type of arena on my block and have found I’m now spending much less time maintaining a perfect riding surface.”

drained and Cheski was using it the next

The new arena was first put through its paces during an opening event attended by talented showjumpers as well as such notables as local MP Andrew Bayly and equestrian legend Blyth Tait.

To read more about Abderry, see our Over the Gate Q&A with Cheski Brown via the ‘past issues’ section (Mar-Apr 2021 issue) at www.ruralliving.co.nz.

COUNTIES CUP DAY

Saturday 19 November 2022

Counties Cup Day needs no introduction.

Franklin’s iconic day at the races, this event promises top-tier racing as well as plenty of hospitality options to take in all the excitement.

Whether you’re coming with friends, bringing the family or joining us to party – it’s the event Pukekohe won’t want to miss.

For tickets and more, visit pukekohepark.co.nz

Ace

Open season!

Acast of thousands (at least!) is hitting New Zealand’s rivers and lakes now that freshwater fishing season is o cially underway. Corina Jordan from Fish & Game NZ is optimistic of a ‘massive’ turnout as the season progresses.

“The last two or three years have been tough for many New Zealanders; it was great to see an increase in angling activity following the lockdowns – people made the connection that outdoor pursuits help improve wellbeing,” she says. “Now, with inflationary pressure driving up food prices,

going out and catching your own, healthy free-range food makes sense from a financial perspective too.”

The organisation expects anglers to net approximately 100,000 licences this season, of which an expected 10 per cent will be sold to visitors from abroad.

“This is good news for the wider economy – research shows international anglers are big spenders, among the

highest value tourists the country receives,” Ms Jordan adds. “Many guides are also back to being well booked by overseas clients after several years of no tourism, which is great for their businesses and the flow-on economic e ects for the regional communities where many are based.”

Visit www.fishandgame.org.nz to obtain a licence or for more information, including details regarding catch limits.

Bryce Marshall, Rakaia River, Canterbury.

#BREAKING BITES

For the most part, news cannot be served in bite-sized pieces. However, in e orts to serve readers a balanced diet of news (is there any such thing?), we’ve included the following matter-of-fact morsels to chew over.

ON THE WIRE…

Despite positive reports regarding improvements in rural connectivity, services for many are ‘treading water, if not going backwards’, Richard McIntyre from Federated Farmers contends.

”When a third of rural users are saying mobile connectivity has declined in the last year, it points to severe reliability issues,” he says. “For a sector that underpins the lion’s share of New Zealand’s export earnings, and one where productivity gains and reporting requirements are increasingly aligned with use of technology, apps and devices, this is really concerning.”

Mr McIntyre’s comments follow findings from the 2022 Federated Farmers Rural Connectivity Survey released in September. More than half of respondents reported slow internet speeds with 32 per cent (up from 20%) indicating mobile phone service had declined.

While Rural Living understands those living in more remote corners of New Zealand face the greatest connectivity limitations, we would love to hear from rural Franklin locals grappling with this issue – email us at editor@ruralliving.co.nz.

FARMERS DIG DIGITAL?

Many farmers may ‘stick to the knitting’ with regards to how they run their businesses, a recent survey indicates.

“Proudly traditionalist, farmers and growers are reluctant to change what has worked for their land for many years,” Brendan O’Connell from AgritechNZ says. “While there is a healthy population of trailblazers, on the whole the willingness to adopt [digital technology] early is lower than outside the primary sector.”

The most recent AgritechNZ report reveals 59 per cent of businesses surveyed favoured adopting of digital technologies. Adoption appears to be lowest in such areas as management of water, crops and e uent, highest with regards to business management, including accounts, payroll and health and safety.

“This may be the entry point for digital technology on farms, with many tools having been around for a long time,” Mr O’Connell adds. “However, those with a higher need for precision are showing higher adoption rates.”

DAIRY BUOYANT, REPORT SUGGESTS

The pandemic has had ‘limited impact’ on the global dairy sector, a recent report contends. Released as Rural Living’s previous issue was finalised, the World Dairy Situation Report concludes that production and consumption of dairy products have continued to increase.

It states: 'Regardless of how hard the di culties and challenges were during the

NO SEX, PLEASE, WE’RE FARMERS!

A new sexed semen lab in Waikato will accelerate genetic gains in dairy cattle while reducing bobby calf numbers, Andy Medley from CRV expects.

“The demand for sexed semen from dairy farmers continues to grow year on year,” he says. “The innovative technology we are using means we can provide farmers with a high-quality sexed product to help them maximise their profitability and achieve genetic gains faster and in a more e cient way.”

past years, the global dairy sector never lost its ability to anticipate and adapt to changes. 2021 was the second Covid-19 pandemic year, but again this year this disruption had only a limited impact on the global dairy sector.'

Prepared by dairy experts from around the world, the report was presented during September’s IDF World Dairy Summit in New Delhi, India. The report is accessible via www.fil-idf.org.

Spring pest control delayed… slightly

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

Gidday folks. I’ve been limping toward pest control lately and, with bunnies bouncing into spring, this pest controller has been struggling to keep up! It’s been a case of ‘one small step for man, one giant leap in rabbit numbers!’

Eight weeks since I ruptured my Achilles tendon (what a mongrel of an injury) and I’m still in plaster. On the upside, I’ve discovered a whole range of chores that can be done on all fours, so the skirting boards in the house are all beautifully dust free and my gardens have never been weeded quite so thoroughly.

Cleaning and gardening have definitely been my saviour in the last few weeks; after 29 years of trapping and shooting pretty much every day, I was at a total loss as to what to do with myself. House bound and immobilised, especially coming into spring (which is always a very full-on time on the pest control

front), I never thought I would miss working quite so much.

The calls have continued to come, of course. I’m hearing: ‘how are you placed to take care of our bunnies?’, or: ‘we have a possum in our ceiling cavity’, in addition to requests about all the summer trapping projects scheduled to kick o about now. What I wouldn’t give to be able to jump in the truck and go to work! I haven’t even been able to drive due to the angle of my cast – I have tried (with hilarious consequences) but never even made it out of the driveway!

In the early injury gloom, I dreaded having to tell people I was going to be out of action for a bit, considering so few do what I do. The injury put an immediate stop on a massive amount of extremely specialised work – stu you just can’t ask just anyone do, requiring every little bit of my 29 years’ experience to pull o safely and e ciently.

It’s been really amazing just how understanding and supportive people have been, however. Everyone has said something along

the lines of: ‘Okay, when can we book you for?’, as well as: ‘Ditch, why don’t you have an apprentice?’ Both of these are really good questions and I hope to answer the first of then when my final cast comes o soon enough. As for the second question, hmmm… it’s rather obvious now that I probably do need an apprentice.

I’ve had a few workers over the years, all have started out great, but the fact that I’ve had to let them go does not say good things about some camo-wearing, aspiring young hunters. Maybe that’s where I’ve gone wrong. Still, this job is very much about attention to detail and getting it right every single time, neither of which seems to be particularly common among young men, huh? A mature female trapper/shooter may be the answer.

In any case, I have the time to think about this before I crack on with a moon boot and some physio. With any luck, I’ll be walking just in time to get all the traps out for this season’s predator control –fingers crossed!

Until next time folks, take good care and enjoy spring. I’m really looking forward to being back with you all real soon.

WHAT’S UP WITH D.O’C...

LIFESTYLE BLOCKS ON CHOPPING BLOCK?

Thanks to the recently released ‘National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL)’, prime growing land across the Franklin region and beyond could be spared from the bulldozer. However, this will also reduce development of lifestyle blocks.

“Over the last 20 years, about 35,000 hectares of our highly productive land has been carved up for urban or rural residential development, while 170,000 hectares of this land has been converted to lifestyle blocks,” Mr O’Connor said in late September. “Once land is built on, it can no longer be used to grow food and fibre. We are moving to protect our most fertile and versatile land, especially in our main food production areas.”

Through the NPS-HPL, local councils will be tasked with mapping out and managing developments on highly productive land. In addition, ‘strong restrictions’ on new rural lifestyle developments are expected. To read more, see page 14.

NOTE HOPES

Reductions in agricultural emissions should increase should a new memorandum of understanding rise to the occasion, Mr O’Connor expects.

“We are committed to reducing agricultural emissions. This joint venture will be a combined e ort by government and industry. By working together, we can help farmers shift the dial sooner.”

The Ministry for Primary Industries and agribusinesses signed the agreement set to allocate $172 million over the next four years to provide ‘practical tools and technologies’ to farmers.

STOCK TAKES

The recent passage of the Animal Welfare Amendment Bill will prevent the passage of live animal exports by sea from April. Although these represent (approx.) just 0.6 per cent of primary sector exports, animals can be at sea for extended periods, exacerbating welfare risks, Mr O’Connor stated in late September.

“Those in the trade have made

improvements over recent years, but the voyage times and the journey through the tropics to the northern hemisphere markets will always impose challenges," he said. "[The Bill] protects the reputation of our farmers [and] farmers of the future who want to commit to livestock farming assured we are the best managers of animal welfare and producers of ethical animal protein for the world.”

LABOURING ON

In an attempt to address a lack of labour, the Labour-led government has increased the cap on the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) programme, allowing for 3000 additional overseas workers.

While Mr O’Connor contends this will help our primary industries find the workers they need, the scheme is not intended to fill all vacant roles.

“The cap maintains pressure on RSE employers to continue recruiting New Zealanders where possible,” he confirmed. “We’ve been working with the primary sector and making good progress on growing a local workforce.”

Better results, time after time.

Minister for Rural Communities, Agriculture, Biosecurity and more, Damien O’Connor is often keen to comment on ‘growing concerns’ from Wellington, as our summations of reports from his o ce confirm.

Damien O’Connor

RURAL ROOKIES TAKE NOTE!

Green acre dreams can become brown acre nightmares for city folk escaping to the country. However, armed with the right equipment, advice and old fashioned hard work, even those new to lifestyle living can create a piece of heaven in Franklin.

LIFESTYLERS AND LIFE STYLES

For many, the pandemic led to the realisation that we can work from home more often, providing further impetus to Kiwis keen to dig into lifestyle farming.

Although a little knowledge does go a long way, it may not go far enough. Especially as inexperience can put animal welfare at risk, even farming on a small scale is best not taken lightly. Therefore, people purchasing a lifestyle block are well

advised to pick up the 'books' before they begin to set down roots.

While primary industry organisations tend to focus on assisting professional farmers, they still o er helpful resources suited to lifestylers too. Having said that, there’s no substitute for 'on the ground', local knowledge. In addition to professionals at rural supply businesses and country vets, many veteran Franklin lifestylers will be willing to share their

expertise; don’t feel like you need to go it (or grow it) alone!

And, remember that even experienced lifestylers know when to call the experts (such as those featured on the following pages) to provide a helping hand or manage projects from start to finish.

So, whether you’re new to the land or an old hand, make the most of every resource and every expert to help you knock that block o .

AGROWQUIP: OF DEERE FRIENDS

fortunate to work alongside the team at AGrowQuip; their service is second to none.”

Spread across nine branches in the North Island, AGrowQuip is a 100 per cent Kiwi owned John Deere dealership with our number one priority being to provide the highest quality products and services.

We have a proven track record for o ering world-class aftersales support to our AG & Turf customers and we're proud to have be named the o cial John Deere Forestry and Construction Dealership for the entire North Island a few years ago.

Feel free to pop into our Pukekohe branch and see what we’re all about. Set in the heart of Pukekohe, a large portion of this branch’s business revolves around supporting the amazing growers in the area. AGrowQuip Pukekohe feels privileged to work with customers who are

continuing to put in the hard yards, ensuring we have fresh fruit and veggies on our tables.

We believe in the John Deere brand, its integrity, family culture and passion for the achievements reachable when we work together with their equipment. As do our customers, such as Michael, who writes: 'Everyone who works for AGrowQuip has the same passion for the gear as I do. I love driving John Deere [choppers], not just because of their power and quality, but also that of their people too. I feel

'Reliable, good looking, man’s best friend' – this could be said about almost every tractor or machine that rolls out of the John Deere factory. As John Deere said: “I will never put my name on a product that does not have in it the best that is in me.”

SPECIAL OFFER

AGrowQuip is currently running an iconic, limited o er on the John Deere 5075E Tractor and Stoll Loader for an appealing $59,900 (plus GST). This attractive duo comes with a three-year power train warranty at 3% (per annum) interest over three years. There are also monthly repayment options available starting from $1,299 (plus GST) per month – conditions apply. Call us (on 0800 872 286) for more about this special deal.

– The AGrowQuip team

A partnership based on trust and mutual goals has benefited two widely respected businesses, AGROWQUIP explains:

POWER 'POINTS'

When getting stuck into summer maintenance, the bright sparks at COUNTIES ENERGY are on hand with this helpful advice:

Kia ora, hello, gidday! With summer almost here, we thought it timely to remind farmers, market gardeners, lifestyle block owners, contractors, builders and DIYers of the dangers around electrical assets. We all need to go about our work in the safest way possible. Unfortunately, we see a large increase in easily avoided faults and safety issues as sunshine hours increase and our community becomes busy getting the job done.

To begin with, if you have an onsite contractor, don’t forget to point out where your power lines, cables and electrical assets are located to keep everyone safe and to save additional time and costly disruptions. Call us if you need a free safety disconnect, cable locate or have a safety question or concern.

SUMMER SAFETY REMINDERS

 High load?

With hay season just around the corner, please think about high loads. Many would be surprised at the number of safety issues and faults caused by overloaded hay loads, front end loaders, and post rammers that Counties Energy attends. These safety risks can also cost time and money if power is lost to the cow shed, for example. Please check your route for power lines and don’t forget lines can be damaged in high winds and may lie lower as a result.

 Irrigating?

Please ensure your irrigation is not hitting our network power lines and transformers, or your service lines, because water and electricity don’t mix! Receiving a hefty bill for a blown transformer and dealing with the inconvenience of a long power outage

Keeping you safe!

Important information if you’re doing some DIY, working, transporting or building near electrical equipment.

Doing some DIY?

If you’re considering doing some repairs to roofing, spouting, painting, waterblasting, tree-trimming and scaffolding – look up for overhead lines.

Apply for a FREE residential temporary disconnection when working near overhead service lines.

Moving the boat?

Don’t forget to look up for overhead lines!

Working near electrical equipment?

If you’re working around any Counties Energy electrical equipment, you must apply for a Close Approach Consent if you want to work within 4m of overhead lines, are excavating within 5m of a power pole or within 12m of a tower or pylon.

is far from ideal. So, be sure to scout around for electrical equipment before you set up an irrigator.

Please discuss these key points with family, employees and community, and stay safe, everyone!

– The Counties Energy team

In an emergency

If you hit an electricity cable or overhead power line:

• Treat the cable or overhead line as live –jump well clear and get back at least 10 metres.

• Evacuate the immediate area.

• If you are in a machine, stay there.

• If you are at serious risk from another hazard, such as fire, and must leave the machine, jump well clear. Do not touch metal surfaces, or the machine and ground at the same time.

• Leave the damaged cables exposed for us to fix.

• Call us immediately on 0800 100 202

• In the event of an electric shock don’t touch the person or animal until you are certain the source of electricity has been removed.

• Call 111.

To apply for a free residential Temporary Disconnection or a Close Approach Permit go to countiesenergy.co.nz or call us on 0800 100 202.

Spring is well under way and so too is our team. This month marks the first anniversary for our Whitford shop. I’ve been amazed about the support from customers; our workshop has been so busy through winter that we are now looking to add another technician to our Whitford team.

Being in a rural location, we tend to take on just about anything as we want to help our customers as much as we can. Husqvarna continues to be a prominent supplier and we’re well supported by the brand. Looking forward, we will have new and interesting things on the go for our Whitford store, enhancing our range of products and services.

Since taking over the tyre side of the business from former owners, Woodbine, we have been phenomenally busy supplying new quad bike, side-byside and ride on mower tyres, as well as handling car and trailer puncture repairs. Fortunately, we had all the tyre changing equipment we needed when we purchased the business here in Whitford.

Operating for more than 50 years, our

Pakuranga store has a very loyal customer base. Unlike Whitford, Pakuranga still supplies wood and gas fires from Masport, Firenzo, Kent, Woodsman and Rinnai. Thanks to the addition of a new mechanic, we are now even better able to assist customers at this store.

From both stores, we o er pickup and delivery for ride on mowers, chippers, chainsaws, line trimmers and all other outdoor power equipment. Woodbine was at the

store for more than 35 years and sold a huge amount of John Deere equipment around the area, but we are able to service and repair this and all other brands.

We are looking forward to another fantastic season and I’d like to thank all our loyal customers for their support.

RAINWATER: TANK TALK

Lifestyle farmers may (most often) tap into tank or bore water. However, additional rainwater collection can save time and money, in particular during those dry summer months when water delivery companies are often stretched.

Earlier this year, Auckland Council amended requirements for most property owners to obtain resource consent when installing rainwater tanks.

Although consents are still required for tanks connected to household plumbing, or for household use, locals now face less red tape when collecting rainwater for plants or animals, for example.

Drawing water from roofs, even smaller rainwater butts, barrels and the like can harvest anything from a few hundred to

few thousand litres. However, various

apply,

need a filter and/or a pump?

be connecting the rain tank to an

need to channel the overflow?

tank require a support structure?

still need a council

Before investing in collecting ‘pennies from heaven’, it pays to ensure money won’t simply go down the drain. Auckland Council provides comprehensive advice – search ‘rainwater collection’ online at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz – and, 'tank-fully', Franklin is well served by specialists in water collection and usage.

EXCLUSIVE NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD IN KARAKA

An exclusive new neighbourhood, Pararēkau Island is set to provide island life while being within easy reach of the Super City and (even more super) Franklin countryside.

For the last few years, local brothers and long-time developers, Ian and Jim Ross, have been creating something very special in Karaka. After completing the beautiful, and highly sought-after Karaka Harbourside development, the pair had one more piece of land in the area – a spectacular island.

The second largest island in the Manukau Harbour, Pararēkau boasts stunning views, a walking track, and it’s connected to the mainland via six hectares of nature reserve.

"It truly is a magical place," Ian says. After meticulous planning, the development began, creating a new, private, gated community of the highest standard.

Preparation of the island is now complete and it's connected to town water supply, power and sewer, with fibre connections ready to go at all sites. Titles for the new sections are expected in February 2023.

“Demand is already high for this exclusive new neighbourhood, with waterfront, north facing sections being the most sought-after."

Standing on the island, feeling the soft ocean breeze, it’s hard to believe you’re just three minutes’ drive to the motorway, and 33kms from Auckland’s CBD.

The Karaka area has come a long way in recent years, with local cafes and restaurants earning a reputation for quality. So, residents on the island will be well catered to with regards to great co ee, delicious meals, and numerous other amenities nearby.

Although these lots (priced from $1.6M) are, perhaps, not best suited to first home

buyers, those keen to upsize or even retire will find they really do o er luxury island living, Ian adds.

This neighbourhood will be exclusive, with electronic security gates, milliondollar sunset views and a walking track that accesses picturesque scenery, which flows through the nature reserve and around the main island, making it perfect for an evening stroll or morning run.

If you can see yourself on your own

island, entertaining guests, while the sun sets over a sparkling sea, or taking grandchildren exploring through the bush, this could be just the spot for you.

For more information, see karakaisland.co.nz or call Andrew Frost on 022 431 2497

See karakaisland.co.nz for more information, or call Andrew Frost on 022 431 2497.

Luxury Island Sections for Sale

in the calm waters of the Manukau Harbour, just off the coast of Karaka, Pararēkau Island

truly a unique location.

on the island, feeling the soft ocean breeze, It’s hard to believe you’re just

minutes drive to the motorway, and 33 kilometres from Auckland’s CBD.

now available from $1.6M

Memories made… with Chris

Reay Neben is the publisher of Rural Living

CITY LASS

Christmas is just around the corner and, after a polar blast, we are looking forward again to summer. This year has not been great for us and I know many who have found it tough. However, our little greatgrandson has certainly become a bright ray of sunshine for us and watching him grow is just lovely.

The other day, I popped in to visit my former gardener, Christine (Chris) Bristow, at her fabulous garden in Bombay. It was the perfect time to visit as the garden was just starting to shoot up with all the colour that comes with spring.

I have talked Chris into opening her garden to the public in late January. Along with some other locals she will have plants, pottery and more goodies for sale, so there will be a mini market in addition to fabulous garden that’s well worth visiting. Look out for more details next month.

When I moved from our property in

Runciman, I had a few pieces of garden art that I couldn’t keep. One was an old plough my sister (Jill) had collected and, after she died, my brother-in-law gave it to me. Because it was special, I had it in pride of place at the top of my drive for all to see. However, as it’s now at home in Chris’ garden, I can visit and see the plough (pictured), meaning this item from my sister’s collection lives on, in a way.

Gardens have an extra depth of meaning to me – I have plants that I’ve named after the people who gave them to me – but they can require a lot of work. When my garden was in the Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble years ago, it seemed that weeds just popped up overnight right before the event. Fortunately, Chris helped with getting it ready, but it sure does make me think about all the e orts people who are opening their gardens for the upcoming ramble will be putting in.

Now that I live in suburbia, I notice that fewer and fewer properties have gardens,

which is sad. I am fortunate to still have a reason to visit garden centres (which I love doing) and treat myself to a plant or two.

We haven’t been doing much going out, not as much as we’ve wanted to, although we did head to Red Shed Palazzo with a girlfriend (Val) for a Sunday lunch recently. It was packed! Brian enjoyed his usual favourite, lamb’s fry and bacon, which looks amazing but certainly not my kind of food – yuk, just the thought of it!

We try and meet up with Val, a former Waiau Pa local, at least once a week. Val’s husband, Tony, is very ill but he is being well looked after by Ryman. Horses always were Tony’s real passion, and he was the one who talked my Brian into buying a horse and starting our journey down this track fifty years ago now. The four of us holidayed and travelled around the world together so we have lots of great memories to talk about. Memories really are priceless.

Jill's vintage plough in Chris Bristow's garden

BOOKS: NONFICTION FAVES

DIDDLY SQUAT – ‘TIL THE COWS COME HOME

Quick witted, fast driving petrolhead turned farmer, Jeremy Clarkson, is back with a sequel to his popular book, Diddly Squat. Picking up on his adventures, after banking a grand profit of £144 from his first year of hard work, this book reveals life on Clarkson’s farm hasn't become much easier. Proof that living on the land is no leisurely pursuit, even for a gentleman farmer, Jeremy’s pitfalls and pratfalls are sure to entertain.

Jeremy Clarkson: Diddly Squat –‘Til the Cows Come Home | RRP $38 | Michael Joseph

MORE RETRO CARAVANS

The phrase ‘they don’t make them like they used to’ definitely applies to caravans. Harkening back to a time (from the 1950s – ‘80s) when New Zealanders were more inclined to look closer to home for adventure, this charming book is also a snapshot of style, with caravans decked out in such decor as shabby chic, industrial, and art deco. Also including accounts of restoration projects, this book explores why caravans are still right at home in Kiwi hearts.

Don & Marilyn Jessen: More Retro Caravans | RRP $49.99 | Bateman Books

THE SHIP BENEATH THE ICE

Endurance they had but it was not enough. On November 21, 1915, Ernest Shackleton’s ship (the Endurance) finally gave way to the pressure of the ice surrounding her during his ill-fated Antarctic expedition. More than a century later (in March 2022), the wreckage of this famed vessel was located. Including previously untold accounts about Shackleton’s struggle to survive, this book takes a legend to new depths.

Mensun Bound: The Ship Beneath the Ice: The Hunt for Shackleton’s Endurance | RRP $39.99 | Macmillan

SHORT 'STOREYS'

BEDTIME BLAST-OFF!

The latest addition to Mark Sommerset’s popular series about a smart sheep and a gullible bird sees Quirky Turkey attempting a trick. Will the cunning plan prove successful or ‘wool’ it fail? A humorous story, ideally suited to readers aged 2-5 years, Bedtime Blast-o ! reveals that a little mischief isn’t such a bad thing, but it can backfire sometimes too.

Mark Sommerset & Pradyut Chatterjee (illustrator): Bedtime Blast-o ! | RRP $29.99 | Dreamboat Books

JOURNEY THROUGH THE CAT DOOR

This story provides an interesting twist on a children’s classic. Enzo is no lion, his cat door is no wardrobe and, while there’s no witch waiting outside, there is a villainous professor to contend with. Discovering his new door to the outside leads to a mystical world, Enzo must draw on all of his skills to save his own skin.

Belinda O’Keefe & Monica Koster (illustrator): Journey Through the Cat Door | RRP $21.99 | Bateman Books

THE 156-STOREY TREEHOUSE

Since Andy Gri ths and Terry Denton first began their books about an infamous treehouse, which began at a mere 13 storeys, it has (almost) taken on a life of its own. The latest instalment sees 13 new storeys added, so it now also includes an aquarium wonderland, a TV quiz show level, a super-stinky stu level, a lost sausage o ce and so much more!

Andy Gri ths & Terry Denton: The 156Storey Treehouse | RRP $17.99 | Macmillan

Karl’s classics GO THE DISTANCE

While the asphalt may have been pulled out from under motorsport at Pukekohe Park, Franklin’s uno cial crown as a classic and vintage car capital is showing no sign of slipping.

ANGELA KEMP talked to one enthusiast who went the extra mile to create his enviable fleet.

It was while he was growing up on a farm in South Africa that Karl Van Der Wat inherited his father’s passion for vintage motors. His dad, also named Karl but known as Kalfie, farmed ostrich, sheep and maize on the family farm in Ottosdal, North West Province.

The farm was also home to around 15 vintage cars. Like most farmers, Karl (senior) had multifarious skills, which he passed on to his son, including a penchant for car restoration.

“Of all the vehicles he owned he had one that he loved the most, a 1937 Daimler, made in England,” says Karl.

That same car now takes pride of place at Karl’s rural property in Karaka along with a 1928 Model A Ford and a 1934 Ford Coupe, all shipped from South Africa. Another Model A Ford bought in New Zealand completes the collection.

“The Daimler has a special story attached to it which began shortly after I was born,” says Karl. “In 1966, my father wanted to go to an auction and buy a Daimler. He already had a few vintage cars, but the Daimler had really caught his eye. However, my mother told him there was no way she was letting him leave the farm

to spend hours going to an auction when I was just four days old!”

But, as is often the case, some things are just meant to be, and ‘many, many’ years later, the favoured car crossed Karl’s dad’s path once again. This time, 20 years after first falling in love with it, he was in a position to buy the 1937 Daimler, .

“It was never really properly restored, just cleaned up and reupholstered while it sat in my dad’s garage. When I said I wanted to bring it to New Zealand, he helped clean it up."

Karl shipped the Daimler and one of the Model A Fords from South Africa 15 years ago at a cost of $7,000. His father followed and enjoyed a tour of New Zealand.

“Because of the family connection, my cars are very special to me; I just want to make them a little bit more reliable."

Karl enjoys tinkering with his cars as well as driving them and says the roads around Franklin are perfect for touring.

A property developer, Karl has recently completed a 35-apartment block in Papakura and admits he doesn’t spend as much time renovating cars as he’d like. He’s also been kept busy helping his wife, Erna, with her entries into the World of Wearable Arts (WOW) Awards

"My dream is to be able to drive down to Wellington for WOW or to take part in the Art Deco Festival in Napier, but for now I am happy to tootle around the district.”

To read more about Erna and Karl’s 2022 WOW entry, see p34-35 of our Aug-Sep e-edition, accessible via the ‘past issues’ tab at ruralliving.co.nz

“The Daimler was quite special and I feel privileged my dad helped me get it back on the road. It was his last restoration... he passed away just a few years later.”

If we do happen to see Karl in one of his cars touring the district, we’ll be sure to give him a toot!

passed away just a few years later.”

Karl says he is fond of all his vintage cars, but the Daimler has a special place.

cars, but the Daimler has a special place. in the morning!

“Daimlers were popular cars and have been used for royalty across the world. But luxury apart, they're no better than the Fords – they all have a special problem in common: they don’t like to get out of bed

WOW FACTOR…

Karl Van Der Wat is not just top of the ‘class’ when it comes to classic cars. Recently, he and his wife, Erna, reached the finals of the prestigious World of Wearable Arts (WOW) Awards with their garment titled: ‘UNRAVELLING – Been there. Done that. Got the t-shirt’. Despite claiming accolades at past events, the Karaka couple did not return to the winners’ circle this time. However, it’s safe to expect they’ll be back with more fabulous designs in future.

CHRISTMAS

Around the towns

Jacqui Church

LOCAL ELECTIONS: CHURCH’S IN, GOFF’S OFF, BAKER TAKES CAKE

Billed by some media (not us, though!) as a ‘dark horse’, a Port Waikato local, Jacqui Church, appears set to take up the Waikato District mayoral reins (and the chains) following her victory in the recent local body elections.

“I’m thrilled!” the (now) former Awaroa ki Tuakau Ward Councillor says. “It appears those who have supported me in the past turned out for me again, but I’ve also attracted new voters too. I look forward to representing people from across the Waikato District with the same passion and enthusiasm as I have the Northern Waikato communities.”

Results from the ballot boxes also saw former Franklin Local Board Chair, Andy Baker, cook up a win (over an ex-All Black, Ardmore's Keven Mealamu) to replace Bill Cashmore as Franklin Ward Councillor. In addition, Wayne Brown will replace Ardmore's Phil Go as Mayor of Auckland. Both Mr Go and his deputy, Mr Cashmore (an Orere local), confirmed plans to retire prior to the elections.

“It is great to be a part of this team and to have gone through the challenges we have faced over these six years,” Mr Go said during a recent farewell to council colleagues.

“When you can make a di erence in the lives of the people that you are representing, when you can make your city better, when you can do something for future generations, that is a satisfaction none will get in the private sector.”

He joked that he had not seen Mr Cashmore, so emotional since he gave his wife a bulldozer for her birthday.

“We touch the public of Auckland every day,” Mr Cashmore stated. “To my mayor, Phil, I did not ask to be your deputy, but you have my admiration and my respect. It has been my honour and my privilege.”

Compiled with assistance from Laura Kvigstad, Auckland Council reporter, funded by NZ on Air

GOOD GOING!

Frankliners were pumped to help Z Energy (Bombay, Pukekohe and Z Waiuku) kickstart the Good in the Hood initiative recently. Until October 24, charities and community groups will benefit each time a pitstop is made and a vote is cast at Z stations.

“Good in the Hood allows us to play our part in recognising those who are making a significant contribution to the health and well-being of our local community,” local Z retailer, Melanie Kennerley, says. “All the charities selected are doing valuable work supporting people across all walks of life in our Franklin community.”

DRURY: ROUTE SOLUTIONS

Developers have been picking up the pace of late in Drury as new roading and pathways take shape.

“The next stage of construction will see the milestone completion of new transport infrastructure for thousands of residents in the Drury area,” Drury South Crossing CEO, Stephen Hughes, confirmed. “It will provide safe access for children walking or cycling to school, as well as allowing commuters to use a range of modes of transport and connect with public transport networks in Drury Village.”

When complete, the network will provide a major route running north/south, with access to 90ha of public recreation areas along with 17km of walking and cycling pathways. Construction of the final stage began in late September with completion expected in March.

ON SONGS…

Roll over Velvet Fog and give The Velvet Underground the news, Pukekohe's Christy Sahota has been dishing out the smooth tunes of late. With her song titled ‘Velvet’, Christy has been on screen during TVNZ’s Take the Mic Although (spoiler alert!) Molly Pawson from Dannevirke won the contest, Christy's e orts could kickstart her music career. Episodes of Take the Mic are available on demand via TVNZ+.

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER IN PAPAKURA

Shackleton

FESTIVE FLAIR IS NEAR!

If it’s not beginning to look a lot like Christmas yet, it will soon enough. This year, we’re looking forward to a host of events to help lift those Christmas spirits.

Tracy Shackleton Papakura Town Centre Manager

CAROLS IN THE PARK – Dec 2, from 6pm, Central Park: Pack a picnic for a fun filled, family-focused, free evening, featuring carols as well as other Christmas songs.

PAPAKURA ROTARY SANTA PARADE – Dec 4, from 3pm: From Central Park, the parade marches down Great South Rd, into Broadway and Railway St before looping back for more entertainment during Chilling in the Park.

CHILLING IN THE PARK – Dec 4, 4-6pm, Central Park: Featuring live music, food trucks, face painting and much more, this after-parade party gives us the chance to chill out during what’s expected to be a warm summer evening.

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING – Dec 8, 5-7pm: Papakura stores will be open late providing the perfect opportunity to shop to the tune of festive entertainment as we knock o those Christmas wish lists.

SHOP AND WIN – Dec 1-22: For every $20 spent at any Papakura Store, shoppers can be in to win $1000 in gift vouchers. Simply pop your receipt (name and phone number on the back) into the specially marked barrel near Papakura Library.

SANTA’S GROTTO – Dec 15-23 (closed Dec 18): Come along to Santa's home away from home here in Papakura. Have free photos taken with the man himself (the one and only, we believe!) while passing on Christmas gift requests direct, or by posting them through his mailbox. What’s more, his capable helpers will be on hand to wrap gifts.

For more information about all these events (and more), visit www.papakura.co.nz/events.

Christy Sahota

KEEP CALM AND SPRING

Beauty COUNTER

COUNTDOWN TO SUMMER

What better way to welcome summer than with a ‘new you’? At Alberts, we’re seeing bookings on the rise as clients get ready to step out in style with so many events on the calendar.

Although looking good is the goal, warm weather can play havoc on hair as it becomes dry and brittle. Yes, a little taste of something fizzy by the by the pool is welcome, but frizzy hair is not! Luckily, our expert team can help with the latest hair products, styles and techniques designed to tame that frizz factor.

Maintaining hair’s body and bounce during warm weather can be tricky. That’s one of the reasons we are so particular about the products we supply, handpicking proven conditioning and nourishing treatments so you can be assured of salon level care at home.

We’re still seeing women who have let it all hang out a little too much during winter and into spring; they are now desperately in need of assistance! If you have locks that have become out of control, think again! I never cease to be amazed at just how on top of their game our stylists at Alberts are at managing even the wildest hair.

If your hair is under control but you’d like to stay in step with current trends, we can definitely be of assistance. However, we’ll also be sure to take your particular needs into consideration – some fashions may not work well for all. So, while we’d love women to check out fresh new looks online, book in for a consult so we can help discover the right look for you, complementing everything from your eye colour and skin tone to your lifestyle.

For healthy hair that’ll stay strong throughout spring and summer, give us a call to make an appointment and we can help put a spring in your step as we dive on into summer.

With warmer days just around the corner, it's the ideal time to prepare skin to beat the heat from top to toe.

SMOOTH OPERATOR

Lush has launched a new range of facial scrubs, and we love their Enzymatic Facial Exfoliator. Available from LUSH stores and online (RRP $34.50), Happy Skin's bromelainrich formula with enzymic pineapple is designed to gently break down dead cells while its ground tagua nut and bamboo exfoliate skin.

CAFFEINE HIT

Hit skin with the good stu in vegan-friendly Bu -ME Sugar Co ee Body Scrub. Say hello to smooth skin as this natural formula, with superfine co ee grounds and brown sugar, helps scrub away dead cells and remove rough patches. Available at select pharmacies, RRP $29.99.

Before we break out the jandals, we'd best get our feet in shape for summer. Manicare's Pedipro Soft Roc Foot Exfoliator incorporates 360 degree, all-round coverage intended to bu away hard skin, leaving feet feeling smoother and softer. Available from major pharmacies (RRP $17.99), it features an ergonomic design so it can be easy and comfortable to use as we bu away that dry skin on heels and knees as well.

Sporting spirit

we prepare those

when on the

This sportswear is designed to provide targeted support and compression. Focusing on comfort as well as performance, it's intended to reduce 'soft tissue bounce', which is (by the sounds of it) something we could all do without!

performance,

The SenseKnit Running Collection is available from Lululemon stockists nationwide.

MIND – WHAT WE EAT

Some treatments designed to ensure better mental health are created in labs, but some help may also spring from Franklin’s soil. Fresh fruit and vegetables play a significant role in maintaining a healthy state of mind, GP Dr Dane Rua contends.

“The close connection between our gut and brain and the importance of our digestive system means what we eat influences how we feel. Research into this complex area highlights just how important our diet is to our emotional state,” he says. “When you’re feeling low or stressed, take a moment to reflect on the fuel your body is running on. If it’s a diet high in sugar and processed food, swap in those recommended servings of fruit and vegetables to give yourself a natural boost of energy and nutrition.”

Dr Rua recently joined the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust in e orts to promote healthy eating.

“Getting your recommended five or more servings of colourful, fresh vegetables and two servings of fruit every day o ers a real boost to both the body and the mind,” he adds. “Fresh produce is packed with a range of anti-inflammatories and antioxidants that contribute to good mental health.”

The Denture and Denture Implant Clinics

Missing

teeth? There’s no need to any longer when the All Dentures team is on the case! While some may be able to keep their teeth in tip top condition, others are not so lucky. Fortunately, clinical dental technician, Dr Marc Adams, and the team from All Dentures (in Pukekohe, Papakura and Papatoetoe) are on hand to ensure smiles can last a lifetime.

“Years ago, dentures could be cumbersome and uncomfortable, but we’ve come a long way since then,” he says. “These days, by drawing on the best techniques and equipment modern technology can offer, at All Dentures we can tailor-make top quality dentures to suit.”

From full or partial dentures to repairs, relines and even mouth guards,

Marc’s highly trained team can ‘make it, fit it and fix it.’

“From initial consultation to dental work – undertaken by dentists

oral

we provide a comprehensive service, offering the highest

care during every step of treatment,” Marc explains.

committed to making quality dentures that are comfortable and functional

our patients so they can get back to sinking their teeth into

To take that first step to a brighter smile, contact Marc and team at either of their three clinics. “Simply give us a call and we’ll take it from there,” says Marc, “Our clinical dental technicians offer full dental

required.”

Diabetes: SAY

Aby-product from cheesemaking could be used to treat a common and debilitating condition, a twoyear project aims to prove. Working with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), a Wellington-based company is exploring how high levels of glucose in whey permeate can create sugar with anti-diabetic properties.

“Currently there are no New Zealand made sweeteners on retail shelves,” says Ben Van Rooy from WheyTech Bionics NZ. “The imported sweeteners often have artificial ingredients added that don’t have any health benefits.”

Milk producers are providing raw product for trials conducted by Plant & Food Research.

“Our next challenge will be to turn the product into a stable powder format that can be used in nutraceuticals. This will be technically tricky due to its stickiness, but if we manage to achieve this it’ll be a world first. We’re hoping to, eventually, create a pharmaceutical product doctors will prescribe for type 2 diabetes. This will require extensive testing and clinical trials so will be a few years away.”

MPI is committing more than $111,000 to the $277,903 project, but the rewards could well outweigh the investment, the ministry’s Steve Penno expects.

“One of the strategic objectives of the Fit for a Better World roadmap is the sustainable and profitable growth of valueadded products from existing raw material,” he adds. “If this project is successful, it will make a positive di erence to our dairy industry, our environment [in addition to] people with type 2 diabetes.”

‘WASTE’ LINES: RECIPES FOR SUCCESS

In recent decades waste has led to want, and adverse health impacts, however solutions need not be lost, a former accountant turned cookbook author asserts.

“Just one generation ago, our parents could look in the fridge and pull a meal together with a few leftovers or a couple of products pulled from the pantry,” Linda Duncan says. “I am aware that there are many people out there who are incapable of doing this now.”

Culinary skills among Kiwis may be lacking but they can be reclaimed, she contends.

“Boomers’ parents often grew their own fruit and vegetables, made sauces from scratch, baked their own treats, preserved spoiling fruit or made it into jams or chutneys and less premium cuts of meat and even o al was cooked regularly,” she adds. “I want people, regardless of experience, to [be able to] produce a meal that is easily achievable, economical, tasty, and above all stress free.”

Recipes designed to cut waste and maximise ingredients are available in Linda’s The World’s Easiest Recipes books (volumes 1-3) from booksellers nationwide.

The newest surgical facility in Auckland, located right in the centre of Pukekohe

All's Fare

HAPPY HEINZ-OWEEN!

All Hallows’ Eve fans will likely confirm that, from decorations to treats, ‘the Devil’s in the details’ come ‘fright night’. So, HEINZ has released a range of scarily good black garlic mayonnaise –available while stocks last via www.wattiestohome.co.nz (RRP $5). As these ‘fang watering’, smooth and creamy condiments are billed as: ‘so good even vampires will struggle to resist the black garlic taste’, they may well prove useful protection should Nosferatu and friends come knocking!

‘WITCH’ ONE? HAZEL!

Whittaker’s has used the old ‘nut’ in cooking up a promising Halloween treat. Featuring a silky smooth (yet palm oil-free) hazelnut gianduja filling and milk chocolate, Whittaker’s Hazella is available (RRP $5.49, 250g blocks) from supermarkets – and (perhaps) from households nationwide, on October 31 at least!

tempting tipples to tasty treats,

be ‘fare’ enough,

(and recent)

to these

HOORAY FOR OKAY!

good is Good Buzz’s latest o ering? Apparently, it’s… Quite Good. Under a name that delightfully winks at an all-tooKiwi trait of downplaying claims of quality, the company has produced RTDs featuring vodka or gin (ABV 5%) in four fruity flavours. Available from www.quitegood.co.nz and selected liquor outlets (RRP $29.99 for ten-packs, $19.99 per mixed flavour sixpack), these kombucha-based brews are likely to have many claim: ‘yeah, nah, they’re pretty nice really, aye?’

NICE JUAN, VALDEZ!

The humble flat white may have become rather pricey, but it need not be. Proof that freeze-dried instant co ee doesn’t have to involve compromising on quality, the Juan Valdez brand o ers brews created from premium Columbian arabica beans. This range is available exclusively from select speciality food stores (RRP $12.90 per jar) – stockists via www.nz.juanvaldez.com. See page 45 for a tempting Co ee & Hazelnut Cake recipe from Juan Valdez.

the

pedrop

METHOD

Preheat oven to 175 degrees C and cover a baking sheet with baking paper. Cut pastry into strips. If using frozen pastry, ensure it is thawed and has reached room temperature before use. Wrap the strips around each cheerio, leaving a portion unwrapped near the end to make the ‘face’. Place on the baking sheet and cook for 15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

To make the dipping sauce, combine mayonnaise, mustard, maple syrup, salt and pepper and food colouring.

Set mummies aside to cool for 5-10 minutes. Apply cream cheese and black peppercorns to form ‘eyes’.

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 93 degrees C and line a baking sheet with baking paper. Pour (approx.) one cup of water into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Whisk together egg whites, sugar and cream of tartar in a large metal bowl. Place the bowl over the pot to create a double boiler, making sure the bowl doesn’t come into contact with the water.

Heat the mixture, constantly whisking, until the sugar is dissolved. Remove the bowl from the saucepan and whip with an electric mixer until sti peaks form. Carefully pour the mixture into a pastry bag or resealable plastic bag with a cut corner and pipe 16 ghost shapes.

Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and bake for three hours. Turn o the oven and

& HAZELNUT CAKE

INGREDIENTS

Cake

Icing

METHOD

Preheat oven to 170 degrees C. Line a 20cm tin with baking paper. Sift flour, cocoa, baking soda and sugar into a large bowl and add hazelnuts. Combine butter, eggs, co ee and yoghurt then pour into the dry ingredients and combine. Pour mix into the tin and smooth the top.

Bake for approximately 45 minutes, checking at the 30-minute mark as oven temperatures can vary. Remove from the oven and leave the cake to cool on a rack for a couple of hours.

To prepare the icing, place the butter in a bowl, add icing sugar and co ee in two batches until mix is smooth. Spread evenly over the cake and decorate with chopped hazelnuts. Rest cake for a few hours before serving.

BEFORE AFTER

ESPRESSO MARTINI INGREDIENTS

THE HOME YOU HAVE ALWAYS DREAMED OF WITH A RENOVATION FROM SMITH & SONS

METHOD

all ingredients into a shaker and shake for 15-20 seconds. Strain into a martini glass and enjoy!

SEASONAL

When referring to seasonal changes to the interior design of our homes, we’re acknowledging subtle modifications that are neither expensive nor overtly disruptive to already busy lifestyles.

Summer months bring warmer weather. We move away from hunkering down with warm, textural throws on sofas positioned around a fires or other heating sources; we store blankets, throws and winter cushions away and burst open doors to the patio as we look forward to sunshine, warmth and fun while lounging with our drink of choice après pool. It’s often only then that we wonder where we put the squabs and cushions for the outdoor sofa!

Thankfully, there have been great changes and improvements made with outdoor furniture and fabrics. For instance, Christchurch-based David Shaw Furniture now manufactures a luxurious, fully upholstered outdoor sofa that can be covered with fade and water-resistant fabric. This means furniture can now stay outdoors on a permanent basis and last many years.

Indoors, we can have some fun with seasonal decorating. Try moving furniture to new positions and shift the focus and flow towards your view and outdoor living. Replace heavier, darker tones with lighter, brighter and less cluttered styling. And, switch out that tired, old bedding!

It’s also a good time to update accessories to reflect current trends. Replacing a resin fruit bowl with something more organic, such as a stunning hand-crafted berry bowl from Annette Piercy Pottery, is a great way to go. Annette o ers functional, almost joyful pottery made with love in Waiuku. Check out Annette’s beautiful handmade treasures on Instagram: annettepiercypottery.

Scents can also reflect the season. Shift from spicy, muskbased home fragrances to light and fresh combinations of citrus, vanilla, white cedar and sparkling champagne, for instance. Voluspa and Simpatico soy candles from the US can be purchased from interiors.etc at the Karaka Church. Their candle, di user and room spray ranges are superb, some of the best on the market in my view. Swap dried arrangements for living plants and flowers for added seasonal aromas.

Also look to change your artwork, temporarily replacing dark brooding prints with light, abstract images and beach scenes more inclined to lift our spirits.

If you need some interior decorating help in time for summer, feel free to pop in and see me at the Karaka Church or give me a call. Happy decorating, everyone!

Tis

season to think ‘summer’, as interior design specialist, Rachael Buxton from Interiors.etc, advises.

Rachael

HALLOWEEN: pumpkin kicks

GOOD GOURD! To some it’s all about procuring free lollies, to others Halloween is a time to be scared silly. What’s often overlooked – especially as it falls in spring down our way – is that Halloween is a harvest festival. Although Lincolnshire’s Sophie Allport produces a few frighteningly festive decorations, her focus is on the harvest and, in particular, pumpkins.

Real deal, bright orange pumpkins can be hard to come by for a Kiwi Halloween, but Sophie’s quirky, felt pumpkin decorations and centrepieces (as well as mugs, tablecloths, aprons and more) can be shipped to New Zealand. Further information is accessible via www.sophieallport.com.

What’s more, as this English company’s wider range is practically devoted to farmhouse chic, it’s well suited to country kitchens worldwide.

PROPERTY PRICES DOWN NOT OUT?

By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

While September’s Auckland property sales adjust to current economic conditions, buyers focused their attention on property selling for under $1 million, a significant shift in the price bracket where sales were made.

For most months this year, our sales in the ‘under $1 million’ price category have ranged between the low 30s to 40 per cent of total sales, but it rose to 46% from the 614 sales we made in September. We also sold 46 properties for more than $2 million, the same number as last month.

Overall, buyers remained cautious

Darren Szaszy

in September, with sales numbers up 6.2% on those for August but down 7.8% percent on those for September last year.

At $1,064,000, the monthly median price fell away by 4.2% on that for August, the lowest it has been for 16 months. However, the average price ($1,164,852) was up 0.6% (compared to August) and 2.9% ahead of the average from September last year.

While our median price was down (by 14%) on the median peak price of $1,240,000 (achieved last November), it was only down 3.3% when we compare it with September 2021. Comparatively, the average September sales price was down (8.9%) in contrast to the peak average price ($1,278,647) achieved in December,

but it was 2.9% percent higher than last September’s average price. This indicates prices are edging lower gradually rather than falling sharply.

New listings for the month (1,301) were solid, 2.5% higher than we have averaged across the previous three months. At month end we had 4,567 properties on our books, lower (by 1.5%) percent than last month but two thirds higher than at the same time last year.

Interest in rural and lifestyle property remained positive in September although activity was quiet as buyers and vendors sought common ground on prices. In terms of properties sold, the average price was $1.6 million, an increase of 8.8% on that for August.

SPRING LAWN CARE: GET ON THE GRASS!

Before spring gives way to summer, lawns need attention. Patchy, weedy lawns are a common problem in Kiwi backyards, but it’s not too di cult to knock lawns back in top shape and keep them that way – a little care can result in big improvements.

WATERING

Watering is essential to maintain a green pasture over the hot summer months. Grass is resilient and, even if it turns brown and dries o completely, it is more than likely that the roots are dormant, waiting for water to revive them. A sprinkler system or a soaker hose are most e cient in watering lawns. Over-watering is usually more of a problem than under-watering as waterlogged soils allow moss and moisture-loving weeds (such as buttercup) to become established.

MOWING

If you allow lawns to grow too high, unwanted weeds will become dominant. The average lawn should be cut to a height of 2.5cm at times of faster growth and to 3cm during slower growth periods. This encourages deeper root growth allowing the grass to thicken and minimising competition from weeds. Using a mulch mower to cut grass more finely or a catcher to collect grass clippings both help to protect lawns from diseases caused by piles of grass cuttings.

FERTILISING

Lawn fertiliser is usually applied in spring as well as autumn. Use a specially blended lawn fertiliser, high in nitrogen, and always

spread evenly. Water fertiliser in well after applying to prevent grass from ‘burning’.

AERATION

Making holes in lawns will increase the flow of oxygen, fertilisers, nutrients and water to the roots. This should be undertaken once a year and is most e ective in spring or autumn when the weather is damper but not too wet. Use a garden fork and spike the lawn using a straight up and down motion – this breaks down the compacted soil and allows water to drain away. The holes should be around 10cm deep and 15cm apart.

WEED CONTROL

A well-maintained lawn will have fewer weeds than neglected ones. Sometimes the best way to eradicate weeds is to cut them out with a sharp knife. However, as some (such as docks) have a long tap root, speciality lawn weed sprays o er a more practical and permanent approach.

With regards to broadleaf weeds, which are very common, remove using spot sprays of a weed killer specifically designed for broadleaf.

Onehunga weed is a regular problem in summer as the seeds have sharp little

prickles which are uncomfortable under bare feet. This weed is best controlled by applying a weed killer specially formulated for it in October when they are in flower. When using any weed spray always follow the instructions.

Plant summer veggies including lettuce, cucumber, beans

Add mulch around trees to retain moisture and deter weeds

Pot up summer colour in containers and sow wildflower seeds

Feed roses

Weed and fertilise lawns

Waterblast decks & driveways

IS SPRING CLEANING GOOD FOR A SALE?

great time

way out of

get

property

winter

front of interested buyers

the number of weeks that the property

Some strategies that you might like to use to prepare your property for the spring selling season.

DECLUTTER AND STYLE

Cleaning out the clutter before listing the property on the market is an opportunity to tidy up before listing and has the added benefit of reducing the number of belongings that you would need to take with you when you move.

Styling your current furnishings or bringing in professionally styled furniture and accessories can help the property appeal to potential buyers with a fresh and professionally lived-in look. Talk to Jo-Ann or Victoria as they have items that will help your property stand out from the crowd.

SPRING CLEAN OUT THE WINTER MONTHS

Over the winter months, homes will largely be closed with minimum airflow and heaters running to keep the warmth on the property. This can lead to dampness, dust and mould build-up in some cases.

Before listing the property for sale, it is a great time to open the property to fresh air and have it professionally spring cleaned from top to bottom including all fixtures, fittings, windows and blinds and floors and carpets.

Don’t forget to look at the landscaping of the lawns, gardens and any

people

to make

a great chance

can be the difference

the market.

pool areas that can sometimes be forgotten during the cooler months.

ESSENTIAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS

With the wetter and cooler months potentially behind you, now is as good a time as any to look at the maintenance and repair items that need attention and may have been put off during winter.

Make a list of the must-do items needed for sale and those that are wish list items and ensure that you are working through the essential items prior to listing the property for sale. It is a good time to complete these as inaction may result in negotiations on the final sale price.

Want to know what you need to do at your place then give Jo-Ann or Victoria a call as they are happy to point you in the right direction.