Rural Living December 2014-January 2015 by Times Media

F E

R E

December 2014/January 2015

www.ruralliving.co.nz

FARMER

SOLDIERS

WIN! page 27

pages 6-7

SUMMER

NO TIME TO REST pages 23-24

SWEET

NEW CAREER page 30

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 1

PUKEKOHE BRANCH 68 King St, PO Box 147, Pukekohe bus. 09 238 7019 | fax. 09 238 7018 www.barfoot.co.nz

JANUARY ■ sALes Pukekohe Saleyard Every Saturday except holiday weekends, A&P Showgrounds, Station Rd, Pukekohe 10.30am – pigs, sheep, calves 12pm – cattle Tuakau Saleyard Every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, Tuakau Saleyards Rd Mon – sheep 10.30am, feeder calves 11am, dairy 12pm Wed – prime cattle 11.30am Thurs – store cattle 12pm

■ entertAinment Waiuku Movie in the Park January 16, from 6.30pm, Tamakae Reserve, Waiuku It’s (almost) time to do the time walk again! It’s just a jump to the left, then a step (or more) right down to the Tamakae Reserve in Waiuku to see The Rocky Horror Picture Show outdoors on a giant screen. This free event begins with live entertainment from 6.30pm, with the film showing at 8.30pm; popcorn, ice-cream, hotdogs and more goodies will be available for purchase. Waterslide Mania January 8-12, 10:30am-4:30pm, Pukekohe Showgrounds, Station Road Take a ride on the slide side this summer! Why burn in the sun when mum, dad and the kids can burn energy instead? A fun, active event, Waterslide Mania offers a great way to beat the heat. Slides likely to feature are: Crazy Cruiser, Lightning Luge and Downhill Dragster. So,

pack togs, sunscreen and coins for ice-cream and lunch at the stalls, and do what you oughta while having fun in the water! Tickets will be available at the gate on Birch Road, off Station Road on the day.

■ AnimALs New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka Million – Twilight Races January 25, 3pm, Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera, Auckland With fast-paced, high-stakes racing on offer, before the hammer goes down at the National Yearling Sales 2015 in Karaka, the glitterati of the racing world and the social set will come out to play during New Zealand’s million dollar party. Billed as an ‘international showstopper’, this event will see the top 14 qualified youngsters from last year’s sales as they race head-to-head in New Zealand’s richest race. And, once the horses have had their turn, Ellerslie’s resident DJ will set guests in a spin, playing well into the night. A fascinator-ing way to kick off Auckland Anniversary weekend, the Karaka Million is sure to delight, particularly those who love horses... of course, of course! See ellerslie.co.nz or nzb.co.nz for details. National Yearling Sales Series January 26-February 2, Karaka Sales Complex Winning runs need to start somewhere and for almost 88 years, that somewhere has often been the Karaka Sales

Photo supplied

Enjoy a time warp at the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Waiuku.

Complex. The 2015 event dates are: Premier Sale (Jan 26-27), Select Sale (Jan 28-30) and Festival Sale (Feb 1-2). Also the Australasian Classic Yearling Sale (Feb 16). See nzb.co.nz.

■ sPort Gulf Oil Howden Ganley F5000 Festival January 16-17 AND January 23-25, 9am-5pm, Hampton Downs Motor Sport Park, Hampton Downs Road, Te Kauwhata With F5000, Formula One, Can-Am and historic muscle cars all on show over two actionpacked weekends, 2015 looks set to offer summer-thing special for motorsport! Celebrating the career of Kiwi Formula One racer, Howden Ganley, the festival will showcase F5000s as they take part in the World series. With racing legends – including Ganley, Amon and Smith – in atendance, the festival will also include airshows, so whether on track or in the air, there’s a lot to set the heart pumping at Hampton Downs! See nzfmr.co.nz.

SRAM Tour de Ranges January 17, Clevedon A&P Showgrounds, 107 Monument Road It’s a beautiful summer... get on your bike! A celebration of cycling, the SRAM Tour de Ranges is designed for peddlers of all ages and all levels of ability. Winding its way through some of the most scenic countryside in our region (or New Zealand for that matter!) the course covers some remarkable roads through the rolling hills of the Hunua Ranges along the way. Beginning and ending at Clevedon A & P Showgrounds, riders can choose either a 30km or a 110km course. See tourderanges.co.nz for details. V4 and Rotary Nationals 2015 Show and Shine Day AND Drag Racing Day January 24, 9am-5.30pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Greenlane West, Auckland AND January 25, 8.30am-5pm, Fram Autolite Dragway, Meremere If summer’s becoming a bit of a drag, then this dynamic duo is right for you! The Show

Brought to you by members of Franklin’s

Largest Rural/Lifestyle Sales Team 2 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

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Stephanie Alderlieste Craig Ashby 027 246 7911 021 998 605

David Powell 027 485 9321

Community Calendar and Shine Day at Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds will display show cars, drag cars, drift cars, minitrucks, V8s, classics, ‘old skool’ cars, bikes and others. But wait... there’s more! The following day cruise down the motorway to Meremere as motorhead madness continues with Pro Import drag cars, burnouts, drift exhibitions and even a bikini competition; this event really does offer a number of ways to fuel the senses! Tickets available at the door/ gate; see 4androtary.co.nz. Triathlon Pink NZ January 25, 7am-7pm, Franklin Sport Swim & Fitness, 29 Franklin Road, Pukekohe Running for fun and fitness, ladies will soon be thinking pink! Since the first Triathlon Pink in Sydney, 2006, Pinkies have proudly helped to raise more than $1.4m to assist breast cancer charities. Designed for fun, the event can be undertaken as a triathlon or duathlon (minus the swimming) and is a female only affair. See triathlonpink.co.nz for more information and to register. NZCMRR Annual Festival January 30-February 1, Pukekohe Raceway After holding its annual festival at Hampton Downs for the past few years, the New Zealand Classic Motorcycle Racing Register is set to be back on track at Pukekohe this summer. Held over three days, the event features a feast of racing, as classic machines (including the very first Britten – Aero d’Zero and a CRS Britten) and adept riders conquer corners and ace the straights. In its 36th year, the event will include a tribute to John Britten, marking 20

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years since his untimely death. And the excitement continues the following weekend (February 7-8) at Hampton Downs Motor Sports Park with NZCMRR’s first Championship round of the year. For more information see nzcmrr.com. And, to read more about one particular local pair’s passion for bikes, see page 28-29.

India v Ireland (March 10) and Bangladesh v New Zealand (March 13). Auckland: Australia v New Zealand (February 28), South Africa v Pakistan (March 7), India v Zimbabwe (March 14), Semi Final 1 (March 24) Tickets are selling fast and some games may already be sold out! See tickets.cricketworldcup. com/fixtures for details.

The Saints, Edge Kingsland and Young Lyre. What’s more, following food for the soul, visitors will enjoy food for the stomach too, with a FREE barbecue set for the Saturday night. So, spread the good word and head on down to Hamil-tron as the city of the future hosts this epic event. See festival-one.co.nz.

Cricket World Cup – Auckland and Hamilton matches February-March 2015, times and dates vary, Eden Park, Auckland and Seddon Park, Hamilton Can the Blackcaps put their best foot (but not leg before!) forward and claim the Cricket World Cup, or is the sport’s ultimate prize destined to remain elusive? All will be revealed in early 2015. With Auckland and Hamilton venues just up and down the road respectively, this event offers local fans a chance to be part of the action. Games include: Hamilton: South Africa v Zimbabwe (Feb 15),

■ mUsic

■ mArkets

Festival One January 23-26, times vary, Mystery Creek Events Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Road, Mystery Creek, Hamilton If music is a gift from God, then this multi-day Christian festival is one heck of a present! Held over Auckland Anniversary Weekend, Festival One will showcase the musical stylings of such acts as: Switchfoot, NewWorldSon, Gungor, HalfNoise, Canon Blue, Paper Route, Brady Toops, Omega Levine, Late 80’s Mercedes, South Auckland Poets Collective, The Jury &

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

Zac Farro of Halfnoise will be performing at Festival One.

HunterKevin Utatao Lim Scott McElhinney Trudy Katrina Boyce Riedel 027 482 027 497 2488 8223 027 210021 8887 898 021 170 483 2970

Pokeno Market Every Sunday, 9am-4pm, main street, Pokeno Crafty Cows Market – Pokeno Second Sunday of each month, 10am-1pm, Pokeno Town Hall Awhitu Country Market Last Sunday of each month, 10am-2pm, Matakawau Hall, Awhitu Rd, Awhitu Peninsula Clevedon Village Market Every Sunday, 9am-2pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 1 Papakura-Clevedon Rd, Clevedon Clevedon Farmers Market Every Sunday, 8.30am-12pm, Clevedon Showgrounds, Monument Rd, Clevedon Pine Harbour Fresh Market Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, Pine Harbour Marina, Jack Lachlan Dr, Beachlands

Photo supplied

Alfriston Country Market First Saturday of each month except January, 8.30am-12.30pm December, normally 9am-12pm, Alfriston Community Hall, Mill Road, Alfriston

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 3

Hunter Graeme Utatao Trudy Willson Boyce Graeme Sue Willson McCardle Sue McCardle 027 482021 2488 770 021 898 733 483 021027 770 733527 027 0094 527 0094

covershot

Summer is indeed sweet especially when strawberries abound. As most of us take the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and entertaining friends around the barbecue and the table, this luscious fruit is ideal dessert fare. And this month Rural Living takes a look at how one local woman swapped a long time retail career for working outdoors in her own strawberry patch. Despite initial trepidation, the venture has proved a huge success. See page 30. Photo Wayne Martin

A Publication of Times House Publishing Ltd

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

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

From the editor... Well, here I am writing on the cusp of a New Year. As always, Rural Living takes us from the end of one month into another and I’m sitting here thinking what a small step it is from 2014 to 2015 yet, overnight, another year is added to life’s milestones. As 2014 drew to an end, I enjoyed so many little encounters around the district. Popping into Tuakau Quality Meats I was met with the warmest of greetings from Jim and his team. Not that they had a clue who I was; just another customer and them so happy to chat. However, when I then mentioned greetings from their Rural Living sales rep Kate, what lovely words they had to say about her. I came away with two very useful Redi Reference 2015 calendars packed with all sorts of handy information from first aid and kitchen hints to gardening and fishing guides, school holiday dates and much more – thanks Jim, I really appreciated your service. Afterwards I lunched with

our contributing writers at the beautifully restored Tuakau Hotel –the dining room looked a picture. Our napkins were folded to resemble water lilies and there were festive crackers on tables booked for Christmas celebrations. Although it was only Tuesday, and we were but a few, the service was impeccable. The whitebait fritter passed the yum test too! However, the end of the year also had its frustrations. At home my Orcon internet and landline connections were down for two weeks and came on the back of a long-standing problem of internet cut outs. It took endless phone calls from mobiles and workplaces and many frustrating conversations, going from pillar to post, before the problem, which also required Chorus coming to the party, was remedied. I was not impressed. But what was particularly annoying was that there was no higher management order here in Auckland to whom I could speak and seemingly no other body to which a complaint could be taken. All in all,

the experience left me one dissatisfied customer. But no more complaining – how wonderful that 2015 is upon us with a whole new year of exciting projects ahead. In today’s issue we are well aware that holiday time can be difficult for landowners so Rural Living has provided some reminders for those planning to head out of town. We also talk to a man of great ‘vintage’ and chat to the CEO of Auckland Trotting Club about her role and future planning. Check out the WIN page for some super prizes, and see what the 2014 Young Vegetable Grower of the Year has to say ‘over the gate!’. And with that I’ll wish you all a very happy and prosperous New Year in which, I hope, you all remain firmly grounded. Cheers, Helen

Helen Perry Editor

inside RURAL Page 6-7 Malcolm Lumsden soldiers on

Page 8 Brian’s Diary

Page 10 Over the Gate with Brett Parker – Young Vegetable Grower of the Year

Page 16 Bumpkin Banter

Page 20-21 Change of scenery for trainer Geoff Small

Page 23-24 Summer maintenance – water and grass responsibilities

Page 25 Weed report – Capeweed, a pretty invader

4 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

Malcolm Lumsden’s 1943 GMC 6x6, see story pages 6-7.

Living Page 28-29 Brett and Adrian – over-riding passion for bikes

Page 31 Must love horses – Dominique Dowding talks trots and tracks

Photo Paul Vettoretti

Page 33 Fashion – tropical punch

Page 37 Summer drinks, take your pick

Page 43 Motoring – thumbs up for diesel jeep www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 5

RURAL ��

Tanks – for

the memories

It’s not unusual to find a collection of old tractors at the end of a long, rural road. However, enough military hardware to transport a small army is perhaps another matter, as JON RAWLISON discovered when visiting the north Waikato. The Lumsden’s Ohinewai dairy farm is currently inhabited by approximately 850 cows, 12 hectares of maize, a few humans, at least one cat... and ex-military vehicles in varying states of repair. However, considering the family patriarch, Malcolm Lumsden, is a former president of the Franklin Vintage Machinery Club, and a former secretary of the Military Vehicle Collectors Club, the cowshed cache makes a lot more sense! “I find them interesting and we have a lot of fun,” Malcolm says. “New Zealanders have a bent for keeping old vehicles going. You can’t own these vehicles unless you’re part of a club, because you can’t just buy parts off the shelf,” he says. “They may not be as popular as golf clubs of course, but then again I’m definitely not one to chase a little ball around the paddock all day!” Malcolm’s collection includes military (and civilian) tractors, trucks, a jeep, an armoured car and even a halftrack used during D-Day, many of which he has fully restored while others

wait their turn. Since 1912, the Lumsdens have farmed in the area, the current block since 1927. However it wasn’t until Malcolm’s father, Frank, converted a wartime duty into a peacetime hobby that the pair mobilised their interest with action. “Dad was a driver in the army and served in the Pacific during the Second World War. He drove a winch truck and worked on American vehicles; he could fix anything. He was a self-taught mechanic because the family also ran a carrying [logistics] business,” he says. “When Dad retired and moved to Maraetai, he started playing with tractors first, which kept him occupied. Dad was my best friend, so we started working on vintage tractors together and, later on, military vehicles.” Following the Second World War, rural New Zealand saw a surplus of military vehicles find their way onto farms, keeping interest in them alive. Malcolm says maintaining useful machinery has helped keep farm costs under control. “By maintaining our machin-

ery over the years, we’ve lowered our costs. When I started in about ’63; we had an old tractor, then another, made one out of two of them and so forth. As with many aspects of farming, you’re always doing something you don’t know how to do, just so you can learn how it should be done,” he says. In the early 1990s, Malcolm joined the Franklin Vintage Machinery Club. He has also been involved – to varying degrees – with other, similar organisations for enthusiasts, and believes such clubs are “hugely important”, particularly to rural communities. “A number of tractor people are also interested in old trucks and military vehicles. We became involved with the Military Vehicle Collectors Club and found it to be very family-orientated. It’s about vehicles of course – the clubs help locate parts and advice –

but there’s a great social aspect as well. They’re part of rural networks which provide fellowship,” Malcom says. “More importantly, New Zealand doesn’t have a lot of national museums looking after heritage vehicles. If it wasn’t for individuals maintaining tractors, cars and military vehicles, that heritage would be lost.” Although Malcolm’s collection is not accessible by the public, his vehicles are often on display at club events. And when Franklin Vintage Machinery Club gathers for its upcoming Vintage Harvest Festival – Glenbrook Vintage Railway (March 21-22), the Lumsden collection is likely to command attention. “I’ll try to go along and take some tractors and maybe the halftrack,” Malcolm says, “And if they want me to do something else, all they need do is ask and I’ll be happy to help.”

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6 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

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ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝

RURAL

Far left, Malcom Lumsden on his 1942 Willys Jeep. Left, a 1942 M5 International Half Track with M45 quad mount. Photos Paul Vettoretti

cal careers than the work weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re entrusted to do,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, it is the rural advocate and has an important job in supporting our industry.â&#x20AC;? Malcolm was also involved with efforts to make New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ports independent in the late â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s and was awarded the 1990 Commemoration Medal in recognition. In addition, despite his disdain for politics, he has been a catchment advisor for the Waikato Regional Council for the last 15 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have a hatred for politics; I find it distasteful. To be in politics, you need to compromise and not hold on to your principles. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not me. Having said that, I have achieved a lot over the years, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about really.â&#x20AC;? He says a knack for public speaking has served him well, a talent that seems to have been adopted by son, Andrew â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more widely known as comedian and TV presenter, Te Radar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I can relate to what he does, after so many years of public speaking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and politics, in itself, is a form of entertainment! â&#x20AC;&#x153;To me, it makes no difference that Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a famous comedian, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m just glad to be his dad because heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a hell of a good natured son; what you see is what you get, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no pretence, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m proud that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good, clean-living son and that he rings home every week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; what more would a father want?â&#x20AC;?

Fedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; up with politics? If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no rest for the wicked, as Malcolm Lumsden attests, then this north Waikato dairy farmer must be downright evil! In reality, however, the only thing wicked about Malcolm is his sense of humour. Although a fourth generation may now manage the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 430ha farm, Malcolm continues to serve his community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m supposed to be retired,â&#x20AC;? he says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;but all that means is I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get time off or paid overtime and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m on call twentyfour-seven, if not for farming then for babysitting!â&#x20AC;? As well as roles with various motoring and vintage machinery clubs Malcolm previously held top office with Federated Farmers in the 1980s and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had some big donnybrooks [public arguments] as president

of Waikato Federated Farmers; I insisted on reforms and was non-compromising and nononsense in my approach. I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exactly popular, but people knew Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d deal with the issues. Overall, I think I was rather good in politics because I certainly upset a lot of people!â&#x20AC;? After three years, Malcolmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s planned retirement was turned on its head when he was elected as vice president for Federated Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; national body. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I came back from holiday the day before the national conference and everything was arranged for me; I was to be the next vice president. So, without any preparation at all, I made a speech and was elected, just like that!â&#x20AC;? But life in office wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t to be quite as straight forward for Malcolm.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t particularly welcomed to the top table. At my first executive meeting I refused to approve a salary package until Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d seen the details. I was told it was between the chief executive and the president; I said â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;not in my bloody books it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; I dug my toes in and there was a huge dustup; therein started my demise!â&#x20AC;? However, Malcolm kept the faith and persevered. He believes Federated Farmers has somewhat lost its way, but remains essential to the health of rural New Zealand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Federated Farmers has a critical role, but whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fulfilling that role is questionable. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enjoy the support that it used to and has lost [its] drive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a pretty rough statement, but some people seem more interested in politi-

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; December 2014 - January 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 7

RURAL ��

one year ends Another begins Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and is also an avid lifestyle farmer

COUNTRY LAD Well, here we are with another year gone by and gone by so quickly although, being an election year with a fairly predictable result, and seasonally, a reasonable year for rural folk, you could say it’s been eventful. While 2014 started with a serious drought and was followed by a mild winter, then a work-warm spring, it has given us more grass than I can remember. It was great for the garden too as we now have a record crop of plums on our only plum tree – can’t wait till they ripen. I did intend to review the year but after an accident on the road outside our property, I felt the need to mention a pet hate of mine – people driving too fast on our rural roads! Many of these roads are narrow, they don’t have white lines and also have many unsafe corners that locals know about but which are a real danger to visiting strangers unfamiliar with the road conditions. I live on Runciman Road near the Drury end and the stretch fronting our boundary would probably see at least one near

The end result of a typical accident near Brian’s home.

miss a month. On three occasions we have had cars go through our fence finishing up in the paddocks. One car crashed through the fence and ended up in the creek, grazing a large tree on the way. Half a metre closer to the tree and the result would have been really serious. Many accidents and near misses seem to be due to a deceptive corner when travelling north toward Drury. I do know there are other bad spots on our road where accidents occur but I can only relate to those in the vicinity of our frontage.

Our offending corner looks like a gentle curve and gives the impression motorists don’t need to slow down. However, half way around the corner, one realises it goes further than anticipated and, at speed, it causes many drivers to drift on to the wrong side off the road. When correcting the error, many slide off the steep side and the result is an accident. I feel that on many of these roads 100kph is just too fast and the speed limit should be reduced. Another point about our roads is that we do occa-

sionally see animals straying on to them. We have often stopped to herd cows, sheep and horses back through gateways left open by mistake. Dogs are also difficult to see at night. By the time you read this edition, weather permitting, I should have my hay baled and stacked in the barn. However, the windy conditions prior to Christmas made life a bit difficult around the gardens as they dried up and we were continually raking leaves. On the horse front! Will Desire is back at work getting ready for his two-year-old debut in the New Year. Willedu has been broken in and our lovely baby filly is growing rapidly and looks good. Hopefully, at this time next year we will be preparing her for the New Year sales. She is still unnamed as we haven’t had many names submitted to the competition. Subsequently we will finalise this in the New Year which means there is still time to enter. The mare is named Willowbrook and the sire is Auckland Reactor so be in with a chance to win a dinner for two at Alexandra Park – just email your name and your entry to briann@times.co.nz. Finally, I take this opportunity to thank all our many readers; we do appreciate all the kind words from dozens of people, unknown to us, who stop and comment on our articles – Happy New Year to you all.

53318-v2

8 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

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RURAL ��

With

Over

the gate

Brett Parker

Earlier this year, hot shot croppers from across New Zealand battled it out to become Young Grower of the Year. While unsuccessful in securing the overall title, Brett Parker (assistant crop manager from Pukekawa’s Hinemoa Quality Producers) did claim honours as Young Vegetable Grower of the Year 2014. This month, Rural Living discovered a little more about this down to earth country boy... over the gate.

How did you come to choose vegetable growing as a career path?

What prizes did you secure during the contests and how will they benefit you in your career?

I grew up on farms around the Pukekohe area and, after leaving school, I went dairy farming for three years. One day, I decided I didn’t want to wake up so early to milk cows! Instead, I wanted to drive tractors.

I won a trip to Australia to the value of $2500 and prizes of $250 and $500. But really, what I think I gained was respect from my peers in the growing community; and that’s priceless! Were you disappointed to miss out on the overall Young Grower of the Year title? And do you have any plans to enter next year?

However, these days, sometimes, I’m waking up even earlier than I did before! But loving every minute of it. What experience do you have in the industry?

Absolutely disappointed, but the standard was high and Patrick Malley [overall Young Grower winner from the Bay of Plenty] certainly deserved it!

I’ve lived and worked in Franklin for most of my life, apart from two years in Western Australia. I learnt a lot over there, especially how to drive bigger gear, with GPS capabilities.

I can enter again, but I might let some others step up and have a go next time around.

I also learnt most of the basics of horticulture at Wai Shing in Pukekohe, including chemical application, before becoming assistant crop manager at Hinemoa Quality Producers in Pukekawa in September 2010.

With Franklin becoming increasingly urbanised, could the days of veggie growing in the area be numbered? Not at all. Even with urban areas creeping onto our land, it will never reach the highly fertile, best producing lands. I’m confident that Franklin will remain Auckland’s food bowl.

How tough were the Young Veggie Grower and Young Grower competitions? Both competitions were tough, but because I’d competed in 2012 – and particularly when I was competing in my home town – I felt a bit more comfortable. When I moved on to the Young Grower competition, it definitely felt like a big step up, however. With regards to both contests, what tasks were involved and what did you find most challenging? Activities included topics on employment, innovation concepts, sustainability and ferti-

If you could be minister of horticulture for one day, what would you do first and why?

Brett Parker

liser, budgeting, and cashflow in the business section. We also undertook practical activities: irrigation, telehandler operation and stacking, crate/ bin assembly, agrichemicals, and a hortisports event.

10 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

Photo supplied

Evening events included a leadership panel session, and the speech competition. The excel-based module was tough, on budgeting and cashflow, because all I know about XL is that it’s my shirt size!

Ultimately, I’m a vegetable grower through and through... I haven’t got a political bone in my body! If you could grow any crop or raise any animal imaginable, what and why? Onions, because I’m (to say the least) not too bad at growing them! www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Baker backs homerun halls Auckland Council may hand off our halls, should locals have their way. Responding to community feedback, the council issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the management and operation of 11 community halls across Franklin last month. Local board chair, Andrew Baker, says the move follows “a strong message” from communities in the Wairoa sub-division expressing a wish for halls to be run “by the community, for the community.” “Currently, management of halls is undertaken differently within the rural areas of Wairoa, Pukekohe and Waiuku,” he says, “We’ve used a communitymanagement model across some parts of Franklin, so we know that, with the right support and agreements, it can work well.” Under the board’s operations model it will be responsible for governance and strategy, while day-to-day operations will be managed by appointed hall committees. Through this new model there will be one way of operating as chosen by the community and supported by the local board, Mr Baker says. “Communities in rural locations take responsibility for their own local halls, giving them more flexibility and encouraging greater use of the halls as a community resource. “It also means halls will have strong local connections – we know rural communities have a high level of ownership over their venues.” The EOI will be used to identify community groups with an interest in operating each hall; each group must be an incorporated society or trust, or have the ability to become incorporated.

Fruit flies under the microscope Migrant fruit flies thinking they can wing their way under the detection radar are in for a shock. This summer the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) rolls out two new mobile laboratories to speed analysis of material collected in the field and the identification of trapped insects. With their ability to manage on-site diagnostic work when fruit flies are detected, the need to remove potential risk material out of surveillance zones to off-site laboratories is reduced and trapped insects are identified quicker. Ultimately this will mean counter measures can be actioned faster. This year MPI has dealt with two separate individual fruit fly finds in targeted surveillance traps in Whangarei. Each response required hundreds of kilos of fruit collected in the area to be analysed as well as the identification of any trapped insects. In both cases a mobile field lab was set up in a portable building with space in the temporary field headquarters also being modified. MPI’s Director Investigation Diagnostic Centres and Response, Dr Veronica Herrera says those facilities were cramped and took days to

become fully operational. “Modifications were costly and time-consuming and had to be removed when the investigation ended,” she says. “The new labs are designed to be picked up and transported to the field by truck and can be ‘plugged in’ to our field HQ’s power and water systems. Laboratory function can be up and running within a day.” Dr Herrera says in a fruit fly investigation, several laboratory tasks take place: ■■ examination of insects trapped in the high-risk area ■■ slicing of fruit collected from the area to look for fruit fly eggs or larvae ■■ incubation of fallen fruit that may contain eggs or larvae so any hatching insects

Photo supplied

can be identified. She says during an investigation a large amount of potential risk material from a fruit fly surveillance zone needs examining and it isn’t appropriate to move it out of the zone to a lab. “We need this mobile laboratory capability to be moved into the surveillance zone to maintain quarantine,” she says. “The new portable labs meet fruit fly containment requirements and have suitable lighting and ventilation flows to ensure quarantine is maintained.” Dr Herrera says the Ministry now has better examination and inspection facilities, improved containment, greater flexibility at the site headquarters and cheaper establishment costs.

Animals fare well here New Zealand exhibits amongst the highest of animal welfare standards, according to the recently released Animal Protection Index. While pleased to see New Zealand topping the list – alongside the UK, Austria and Switzerland – Bridget Vercoe from World Animal Protection in New Zealand – says there is still room for improvement. “Whilst this is great news, there are still improvements to be made. The Animal Welfare

12 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

Act, which is currently under review, is a good example of how New Zealand is continuing to make positive change for animals,” she says. “However, it is vital we keep progressing in matters of animal welfare. World Animal Protection looks forward to working with the Government to ensure New Zealand maintains its leadership position.” Countries were ranked on the index according to indicators including:

■■ Recognition of animal sentience (that animals can feel pain and suffer) ■■ Effective governance structures ■■ Implementation of animal protection policy ■■ Legislation and standards ■■ Provision of humane education and awareness promotion Conditions for a range of animals – from those used scientifically and pets to wild and farm animals – were each considered separately. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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A black-stained tongue in horses is due to eating plantain. This weed is usually harmless, but it can cause painful, irritated mouths. If your horse seems unhappy with a bit, plantain could be the cause. Book a vet visit for a thorough mouth check and appropriate treatment. Happy horses have happy mouths! The ground is drying out and so are hooves. Soak or hose your horse’s hooves regularly to provide moisture. Choose a good quality hoof oil over hoof varnish, which is very drying and damaging. Keeping the hooves healthy is the first step to having a sound horse all season long.

Lifestyle Blocks

■■ Flystrike – Now is the time to watch for flystrike among your sheep. Avoid dags by tailing, crutching and good worm control. Shearing prior to summer followed by treatment with an effective flystrike prevention product is also the best way to avoid problems. Prevention is certainly better than cure when it comes to maggots! ■■ Drenching – lambs and calves should be drenched for worms every 4-6 weeks over

the summer months, depending on the product used. During the Barber’s Pole season (January to April), ensure your sheep are treated with a product offering persistent activity against Barber’s Pole as sheep can be re-infected with enough parasites to kill them in less than three weeks when using products with no persistent activity. ■■ Ticks – treat for ticks when these are visible on animals, if animals are rubbing or if they have large areas of hair loss. Ticks transmit the infection Theileria, so seek veterinary advice if you are bringing cattle into your area from anywhere south of the middle of the North Island (e.g. south of Rotorua). ■■ Facial eczema – FE affects cattle, sheep and alpacas but not horses. The FE season generally occurs from January to May

during warm, moist weather. The liver damage caused by this disease is not treatable so the key is to prevent the damage before it happens. On lifestyle properties, the easiest way to do this is by using oral zinc boluses every 4-6 weeks. Technicians at Franklin Vets can administer these boluses for you. ■■ Ryegrass staggers – outbreaks of ryegrass staggers occur from late November until the end of April. There is no scientificallyproven treatment for relieving ryegrass staggers, however, there are some products available that may help. Most animals recover within 1-2 weeks when removed from affected pasture.

Cats and dogs

■■ Fleas and ticks – It’s summer and time to get those beach bodies ready! With 30-40% of cats and dogs being overweight, it is time for them to get beach-ready

too! This means cutting their calories and increasing their exercise, just as people do. Cutting down treats and tit-bits is important but so is watching the diet they consume. Just reducing the quantity of food can leave pets feeling hungry and prone to scavenging or begging behaviour. They can also become deficient in some trace nutrients. The best way is to feed a specific weight loss diet such as Royal Canin Satiety which leaves them feeling full with less calories. Visit Franklin Vets for your FREE weight loss nurse consult and get your pet fit and trim this summer. Now is the time to ensure all your animals are covered for fleas. Not all animals will scratch when they have fleas. In fact, fleas can be invading your house and biting you before your pets show any signs of flea irritation. An exciting range of new generation flea treatments is now available at Franklin Vets clinics.

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A Kiwi business is further focused on nurturing a bright future for New Zealand’s agricultural sector following a recent announcement. Farmax is now offering $5000 scholarships to Massey University postgraduates to encourage research expected to benefit agriculture; similar annual scholarships are already provided to Lincoln University students. The pastoral management software company’s general manager, Gavin McEwen, says he looks forward to seeing how these funds can be put to good use. “There is a new generation of agricultural minds who have the potential to create and Gavin McEwen discover tools that will help New Zealand farmers in their everyday lives and improve the country’s agricultural performance as well. “We see the advancements being made in the sector all the time and place immense value in the work of researchers, so it’s a natural fit for us to offer some money to make sure that continues,” he says. Applications are open to all Massey University postgraduates until March 10. However, preference will be given to those employing Farmax products in their research. See farmax.co.nz for details.

RURAL

Fieldays challenge While most of New Zealand is focused on the holiday season, the NZ National Fieldays Society is looking ahead to Fieldays 2015, announcing the premier feature theme as Growing our Capability in Agribusiness. The society’s CEO John Calder says the theme addresses a very real challenge across the primary industry and agriculture sector that requires a focused and inclusive discussion, from all aspects of industry. “If we as New Zealanders wish to double exports by 2025, there needs to be a major shift in thinking and attitude towards what ‘agriculture’, ‘agribusiness’ and ‘farming’ encompass in 2015 and beyond. What got us here today won’t

continue to take us forward.” He says the theme stems from the need to build on New Zealand’s position as a global leader in agriculture, and recognises the challenges in maintaining and growing a skilled workforce. “The challenge to attract New Zealand’s best to the agricultural and primary sector highlights the increased demand for advancement in education around agribusiness. “The rapid development of innovation and technology in farming, coupled with increasing requirements around food safety and traceability, mandates a shift in how we equip and prepare those working in agriculture, and those who will be our future workforce and

ultimately our next generation of agribusiness leaders.” Mr Calder says, Growing our Capabilities in Agribusiness, is a crucial and thought-provoking theme for New Zealand’s agri sector. He says it will be an exciting platform to showcase career opportunities within New Zealand’s primary industries and the innovation and technology that will help drive continued efficiency behind and beyond the farm gate. Fieldays’ three pillars – Education, Innovation and Internationalisation – correspond with the direction of next year’s theme and Mr Calder adds that increased education is a critical element in achieving New Zealand’s industry goals.

SPCA shows TLC While a cute kitten or a pampered pup may seem like the perfect gift, every year the SPCA becomes littered with such Christmas presents which are not actually so welcome as first thought. With many animals needing new, loving homes, post Christmas is the perfect time to adopt a pet. However – at any time of year – rather than risk giving a gift which may not be gratefully received, the SPCA has initiated a new programme,

Give Some TLC. Simply choose your favourite animal (dog, cat, rabbit or farm animal) and select a gift to help them. This could be a week’s feed for a horse, vaccinations for a goat, a warm bed for a pig or a rescue call-out. An e-card or printed card and even a soft toy will then be sent to the recipient of your choice. The purr-fect way to show you care, Give Some TLC is a gift that will always be gratefully received. See givesometlc. org.nz for details.

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Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 15

RURAL ��

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

The purr-fect crime By Mrs Katz We have a cat called Ned, generally a placid character who prefers to snooze than charm the birds from the trees, or so we thought. However, I recently awoke to witness quite the sight concerning our usually docile feline; there he lay in the corner of our bedroom on his back sleeping snug as a bug amidst quite the pile of feathers... sans bird! And so we set to on a bird hunt, me checking all likely spots indoors; Ned at my heels, with a ‘where could it be?’

expression plastered across this furry puss. With all avenues exhausted – and no trails of feathers leading anywhere else – I began cleaning the crime scene of feathers and a not insubstantial quantity of drying blood. Meanwhile said feline sat smugly in the cat-bird seat atop the nearby tallboy. Whether it was he who shot his teeth into Cock Robin (or some other poor, defenceless avian) or another of our three cats, it was quite evident that Ned would never confess... after all, he’s no stool pigeon! Left to wonder if ‘no body’

really does mean ‘no crime’, I had to let that too-big-for-hisboots pussycat go. However, I’m sure, as he sauntered out the door, I heard: ‘watch out Gareth, you’re next!’

So we’re left with this mystery – at least unless we hear a tell-tale heart of a raven (or some other poor, defenceless bird) beating ‘neath our bedroom floor, that is!

More pork for Christmas? Christmas time, mistletoe and… swine? While many of us will have made pigs of ourselves on Christmas Day, it seems a few little porkers avoided the pot, if this photo from reader, Alita Dickinson, is anything to go by. Shortly before Christmas, Alita sent us this photo of her Kune

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Kune, Pearl, with her latest litter of piglets, born on December 12. Readers may remember Pearl, who featured previously in Rural Living. As we can see, Pearl is still one divine swine who’s happy to ham it up for the camera! Thanks to Alita for this photo. Do keep your pics of pigs and more coming in, readers.

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RURAL

Holiday – what holiday? Yippee, it’s holiday time! Time to head off to the beach and chill out, take that road trip, visit the long lost rellies, maybe fly off somewhere exotic....yeah, nah. You won’t be going anywhere if you haven’t arranged someone to look after your property, or more particularly your animals. Living in the country is so good, why would you want to leave anyway? Unfortunately, one of the drawbacks of having a lifestyle block or farm is the difficulty of getting away; the old farmer who says he hasn’t had a holiday for 17 years is probably exemplifying just that, rather than implying the devotion to duty he hopes you’ll read into it. Finding reliable farm minders is a perennial problem, particularly at this time of year. They need to be booked well in advance. When you do find one of these treasures, make life easy for them by keeping everything as simple as possible. Try to ensure everything is in working order before you depart, and be aware that a stranger may not be familiar with your farm and

AT RD1 GREAT RANGE, GREAT PRICES its systems. Leave extensive lists of where to find things, how many animals there are supposed to be and where, how the water system works and where the electric fence units are located. Ensure your list includes which vets to call if needed, what food the dog likes, a warning that the cat likes to bring rats into the house (usually dead), advice that Flossie is about to calve, a heads-up about the hole in the hedge by the road, detailed instructions on the special technique needed to do up the Taranaki gate, a caution that the donkey kicks up a racket if not fed at 5pm precisely... It’s no wonder many rural landowners find it easier to holiday at home! Anyway, what could be better than a beer in your own backyard? – Rebecca Glover

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No matter how rugged rural folk may be, one day we’ll all buy the farm. However, when that happens, whether farmers’ sons and daughters will inherit the earth remains to be seen, new data from Lincoln University suggests. Assessing responses to a recent survey, senior lecturer in farm management, Dr Kevin Old, and research fellow, Dr Peter Nuthall, discovered difficulties regarding the division of farm assets among children, while still ensuring a reasonable income for all concerned. The survey found 47 percent of respondents intend to divide assets equally among heirs, even if it means selling

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the farm. Others plan on leaving one heir to take over with the expectation, in many cases, that he or she will compensate any siblings. Best intentions aside, most farmers appear reluctant to engage in succession planning. While Old and Nuthall contend that succession problems outlined by the survey’s results are not necessarily new, they do emphasise the need for succession planning to be started early and with careful thought. The pair recommends family members need to consult regarding succession as soon as possible; from there, professionals can be brought in to help with planning.

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Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 17

RURAL ��

Smoking hot... or cold? When summer eventually arrives, families and friends will often be found gathered around the barbecue enjoying the different tastes of barbecued food. Growing in popularity is the food smoker which can replace or complement the faithful barbecue. There are two types of smoking – cold and hot smoking. Cookbook and smoking fanatics alike differ on what specific temperature delineates a ‘hot’ versus a ‘cold’ smoke. The smoking process both preserves and flavours food. Hams, bacon, salmon, herring, eggs, cheese and shellfish are often smoked. It is important to make a distinction between smoking for preservation (smoke cooking) and smoking for texture and flavour.

Cold Smoking Cold smoking temperatures normally range between 32°C to 48°C and will not cook food. It will add flavour to whatever is being smoked. It is important to recognise that bacteria breeds fast at temperatures below 60°C. Therefore, any cooked food can be cold smoked as well as raw food that is normally eaten

uncooked. Food that needs cooking can also be cold smoked prior to cooking. The exception to the rule is cold smoked salmon and mackerel, which are very delicately smoked and can remain raw even when eaten. Smoking times range from 45 minutes to 24 hours. Cold smoking uses an unheated chamber and an external firebox where the smoke is pumped from the fire to the smoking chamber.

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Hot Smoking Hot smoking should be at temperatures between 75°C to 150°C. Different foods require different temperatures and cooking times. Cooking not only affects the taste, but more importantly kills bacteria and parasites that may exist in the food. Both in the case of the cold and hot smoking processes, the fuel used to develop the heat can be electricity, LPG, wood or methylated spirits. In all cases, sawdust, wood chips or firewood are used to generate the smoke. Different flavours can be obtained by using different trees as donors such as kopi, oak, plum, pohutukawa, manuka, beech, honeysuckle, grape,

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apple, walnut, peach, cherry and more exotic mixes such as pohutukawa and brandy or manuka and whiskey. Do not use treated, painted or

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National Yearling Sales By Neil Houston, Veterinary Associates The NZ Bloodstock National Yearling Sales are held at the Karaka Sales Centre for a week starting Anniversary Day, Monday, January 27. On offer are some 1500 yearling thoroughbreds. These yearlings are thoroughly inspected by prospective purchasers and their veterinarians. As well as physical examinations on the sale grounds nearly all yearlings have had a set of sales x-rays taken during the month preceding the sales.

These x-rays consist of a total of 38 images, showing various views of the joints of all four legs. These are then available in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sales repositoryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for veterinarians to examine on behalf of purchasers. It is reassuring for purchasers to know that there are no abnormalities in the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s joints which may interfere with a racing career or, if there are some problems, what the likelihood is of these curtailing a racing career. Once a yearling is sold they also routinely have an endoscopic examination of the lar-

Above: Typical endoscopic view of horse larynx at sale. Left: Typical radiograph of the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stifle (same as the human knee).

ynx, or throat. This examination is carried out soon after the horse is sold and uses a fibre optic endoscope which allows the veterinarian

to examine the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s larynx for any specified abnormalities. Again, any of these may affect the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to breathe and hence itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s athletic ability.

Leptospirosis warning With 120 reported human cases of leptospirosis in New Zealand each year, and the disease posing a significant risk to farmers, the NZ Veterinary Association (NZVA) is urging earlier vaccination of young stock with protection maintained through animal boosters. Dr Jenny Weston, president of the NZVAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Society of Dairy Cattle Veterinarians says leptospirosis is highly infectious and can cross over from animals to humans. Farmers, veterinarians, and meat processors are most at risk of contracting it. She advises that any springborn calves be vaccinated before Christmas, and if

theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going off the property, to ensure theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re vaccinated before they leave. â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Zealand has one of the highest rates of leptospirosis infection in the world with 120 human cases reported annually. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, the rates may be even higher as there could be many unreported cases, with recent research suggesting there could be up to 40-50 undiagnosed cases for every case that is reported,â&#x20AC;? Dr Weston says. She adds many people who have contracted the disease mistake the symptoms for a bad dose of the flu. She urges people to seek medical attention to obtain the correct diagnosis and treat-

ment, warning that it is a serious illness whichÂ canÂ be fatal. Common practice has been to vaccinate calves at six months of age to stop them spreading the disease but Dr Weston says recent evidence suggests this needs to happen at the earlier age of three months. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Delaying vaccination can result in those animals, if exposed to infection, continuing to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;shedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â or pass leptospirosis organismsÂ in their urine â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re adults. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most critical aspect of leptospirosis control and vaccination is to stop animals shedding.â&#x20AC;? The NZVAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LeptosureÂŽ risk management programme ensures that farmers can be

confident that they have taken all â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;practicable stepsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to prevent leptospirosis infecting people on their dairy farms. The programme was developed by NZVA and the NZVA Society of Dairy Cattle Veterinarians to reduce the risk of human leptospirosis infection on New Zealand dairy farms. It has recently been expanded to cover not only dairy cattle, but beef cattle, sheep and deer. Dr Weston suggests farmers seek expert advice from their local veterinarian and carefully consider the timing of vaccination. If the farm is a high risk farm, she urges vaccinations at the earlier 3-month age.

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RURAL ��

Tracking progress Despite moving to fresh fields in the wake of an expanding Super City, one local harness racing trainer is not ready yet to loosen his grip on the reins altogether, proving to JON RAWLINSON that Franklin’s still a Small world after all! After putting horses through their paces around his Patumahoe tracks for almost 15 years, Geoff Small may have slowed down a little, but the veteran harness racing trainer isn’t ready to cross the finish line just yet. Last month Geoff and family completed a move from Zenola Farms in Patumahoe to a new, smaller property in Bombay. “We were looking to the next stage of life and what we wanted to do. I’m 52 now and want to give it three to five more years then reassess where I’m at. Early in my training career it was my dream to have a complex like that [Zenola], but we decided it was time to let it go.” He says the decision was made gradually and designed to ensure a better work-life balance. “After the arrival of our children, it became increasingly difficult getting groups together for syndicates and maintaining them, especially for my wife, Aria. We had to keep the ball

rolling and it was hard to know when to stop. We saw downscaling now as a way to get things back under control and find some time for ourselves.” Going forward Geoff will use the facilities at Franklin Trotting Club (FTC) in Pukekohe. “We’ve gone from being able to train 44 horses under cover – working so many horses can take its toll! – to having room for 24 horses here. I don’t need to take work home with me now and once my work’s done, if I need to take time out, it’s no longer too tough to organise.” While downscaling should yield more family time, Geoff’s well aware how much work will be involved with the upkeep of his new 40 plus acre block. “From six in the morning until 1pm it’s definitely full on here, but I’m hoping to redirect some of my afternoon time,” he says. “Our new property is 40-odd acres, so there’ll still be plenty of work to do. “I’ll keep horses to a minimum at home, but the property will

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Supplying the Smalls with horse feed for 20 years and wishing them well for the future.

20 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Geoff Small

still be part of the business.” Geoff adds that having a reliable team under his instruction and the club’s facilities nearby has helped ease the transition. “It’s been a little tough letting go, but I’ve told myself that’s what’s happening and I think I’ve been pretty good about it. I’m not saying we’ve made a right or wrong decision, but we’ve made a decision and we’re going with it. “And relocating was easy! Because this barn is the newest and everything functions well, we were able to move in one day and start work the next. One of the big positives is that we no longer need to maintain our own tracks and facilities – which is very time-consuming and costly – so that eases the pressure.” Geoff says the family always

Photo Paul Vettoretti

intended to stay local and the recent merger with Auckland Trotting Club (ATC) was not a factor when considering relocation. “We had already sold our property before the merger was announced, so [ATC’s] intentions to upgrade facilities here didn’t influence that decision,” he says. “There’s not a lot of work that needs to be done, other than a bit of maintenance and a few upgrades to some of the older stables. And, if numbers drive need, I’m sure they’ll build more barns to accommodate.” Supportive of the merger, Geoff has faith that ATC will ‘pony’ up the dough for Franklin and that the move will ultimately help restore the flagging fortunes of harness racing. “The people in the driving

seat in Auckland will do their darnedest to get things done; that’s just the type of people they are. They’re forward thinking and I believe they have the industry’s best interests at heart. They want us to have good facilities, feel comfortable here and want to come to work. “People could say FTC is losing its identity in some ways, but ATC’s involvement should

ensure this facility will continue to run well and, at the end of the day, help make the dream of having a world class complex become a reality. I guess it’s a bit like the Auckland Council merger; you can’t halt progress!” ■■ To read more about Geoff Small, see Rural Living’s Jan-Feb 2013 issue, available on request or online at ruralliving.co.nz.

Sale-ing away With the Australasian Classic Yearling Sale at the Karaka Sales Complex set for February 16, local trainer, Geoff Small is expecting positive results. Although, at the time Rural Living spoke with Geoff he was yet to thoroughly examine the sales catalogue, he’s sure buyers

will find quality horses in abundance. “We’ll be selling a couple of colts and we’ll be looking to buy for a few syndicates as well,” he says, “There are always good families to buy from at the sales, and I’m sure 2015 will be no exception.”

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MYCHRISTIAN – (yearling filly) Christian Cullen / Mhairi Age – Yearling filly 6 Shares @ $6000 per share This filly was purchased at the weanling sales this year and is ready to be broken in. For further information, contact -

Geoff Small 0274 990 652 or Aria Small 021 885 121 Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 21

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

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

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RURAL

water – PrecioUs commodity Coming up to December it was pretty much a case of water, water everywhere including lots to drink. But as those living in rural areas well know, ‘tanking’ up on water is a given for most and the big dry can hit pretty quickly. Yep, water harvesting is an integral part of living on the land where there is no town water supply. And running short can be costly if tankers have to be called for a top up. In short, harvesting rainwater simply involves the collection of water from surfaces on which rain falls and storing this water for later use. Generally, water is collected from roofs and stored in large tanks but it can be collected in dams from rain falling on the ground and producing runoff. And some folk are lucky to have access to bore water – water from underground springs. However, most commonly, farmers, as well as small lifestyle block owners, rely on large tanks, placed above or below ground, for water storage. The size of tank will depend on rainfall, the size of the property, what the water will be used for and household numbers. New lifestylers who have purchased bare land and are planning to build will need to think carefully about their water needs and tank(s) sizes. Most will need rainwater for indoor supply not just outdoor. In areas with year-round rain, a 5000 litre tank will provide a proportion of your water use but probably not enough.

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Where summers are dry, rural homes usually require a much larger tank (10,000 litres +) and if rainwater is the sole source of water, think in terms of installing at least a 30,000 litre rainwater tank. Other factors to influence tank size include: ■ The size of the property but also if it has a large garden or secondary dwelling. ■ The size of your roof – will it

collect adequate water? Also think about what type of tank to install. The most common tank materials include plastic (polyethylene), concrete, fibreglass, timber and steel and one’s ultimate choice may be influenced by budget, the size of tank required, water use and whether the tank will be sited above or below ground. Modern steel tanks have a

long life polymer coating on the inside and a wide range of shapes and sizes are available. Timber tanks have a plastic bladder liner, and generally come in larger sizes. Concrete and fibreglass tanks are strong and long-lasting. Plastic is tough, durable and relatively lightweight. If placing tanks in the ground, consult a structural engineer and a reputable tank company.

other considerAtions Gravity-fed systems (without need for a pump) will need the barrel or tank on a stand. Because a litre of water weighs a kilo, a rainwater tank stand needs to be strong and should be concreted into the ground. It will also need to be more than 30cm and less than one metre high – tanks on stands over one metre high generally require a building consent. Such tanks are not usually big enough for full household supply but are often useful at small country baches. A rainwater system supplying the house will need a pump to operate, an overflow outlet and access for cleaning (that’s another issue again). Of course, there are a number of first flush devices which allow for the first flow of water to the rainwater storage tank, to be diverted from the tank. By doing this, any built up dirt on the roofs of buildings, can be excluded from the tank.

Remember, water from roofs can be contaminated by decaying leaves, petals and pollen; faecal matter from birds, possums and rats; and dead birds, insects or other animals. Contamination can also come from solid fuel flues, pollution, chemical spray drift, and harmful materials – such as lead – in the roof, roof paint, gutters and downpipes. The Building Code requires, among other things, that water supplies must be protected from contamination so it is important to check Code requirements relating to rainwater collection. If building, the risk of contamination can be reduced by using roof, spouting and pipework materials which won’t contaminate the water supply. Install leaf guards over gutters and leaf screens on downpipes. Install a first flush diverter to prevent the first 20–25 litres of water, which may be contaminated, from entering the storage

tank and don’t collect rainwater from a roof that has overhanging trees or a TV aerial where birds are likely to sit. Finally, ensure that the flue from a solid fuel burner is located so that soot and other discharges are carried clear of rainwater collection. If rainwater is being harvested for human consumption, roofing, spoutings, downpipes, and pipework materials must comply with AS/NZS 4020 Testing of products for use in contact with drinking water. Products available to improve tank water collection include: ■ Spouting protection ■ Leaf diverters ■ First flush water diverters and or filters ■ Calm inlet for water ■ Floating intake to house ■ Siphon overflow ■ Filters and/or UV systems ■ Tank treatments such as hydrogen peroxide-based products

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 23

RURAL ��

Grass, grass everywhere Rebecca Glover has been farming in Franklin for many years. She has grown berryfruit, rears calves and breeds Simmental cattle and Arab horses. Today she looks at grass related issues. Spring has sprung, the grass has indeed riz – and riz, and riz. Thanks to a spring which delivered us plenty of rain at regular intervals, local farms have gone into summer with excellent pasture cover, with cool temperatures deterring the premature formation of seed heads. Having grass for Africa presents a happy dilemma to farmers and lifestylers – what to do with it? Obviously sending it to Africa is out of the question, but much silage has been made, and even some hay squirrelled away for a not-so-rainy day. It’s a wonderful way to head into summer with the ever present threat of drought later on. But once the barns are full and plastic bales piled in neat stacks, what are the options for dealing with nature’s bounty? With more moisture falling soon after harvest, there’s the possibility of taking a second cut off paddocks, baling the excess for sale or selling it standing for contractors or other farmers to cut, rake and bale themselves. This season there’s also the added dimension of the best cattle prices for many a long year. Sell now and reap the benefits, or take advantage of the unusual opportunity to grow animals on and add lucrative kilos?

Risk leaving it too late to sell, when grass quality and quantity begin to fade and everyone else has the same idea? It’s a conundrum worthy of any currency trader. If anybody out there was given a crystal ball for Christmas and can tell us what’s going to happen, speak now!

The battle of the bulge There can never be too much grass if you’re fattening stock, milking cows or making supplementary feed, but many horse owners dread the annual greening of the land. Some horses suffer from metabolic ailments which are attributed to lush pasture, producing performance problems just at the time of year when they need to be on their best behaviour for the summer show season. Toxin binders and other products are available to help horses’ digestive systems deal with the grass, and often they are removed from pasture altogether. Christmas indulgences may have had owners avoiding the scales, but a riding horse’s expanding waistline poses a much more serious problem than simply going up a girth size. Quite apart from the extra

physical strain imposed by obesity, the threat of laminitis lurks behind every lush emerald blade. This painful and debilitating hoof condition is far easier to prevent than cure. Usually associated with rotund Thelwell lookalikes, it can affect any breed of equine,

and owners need to resist those big brown eyes looking hungrily over the fence. Telling him you’re saving him from himself won’t cut any ice with Neddy, but sometimes, somebody just has to be firm. (Don’t we all wish somebody had been firm with us over Christmas?)

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24 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

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Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 25

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rounding pasture is already at carrying capacity with new rabbits moving out across neighbouring developments. The standard â&#x20AC;&#x153;fixâ&#x20AC;? for rabbits involves finding and fumigating all burrows and warrens, and then following up with professional shooting after dark. This is often easier said than done on smaller properties as the rabbits doing the damage at your place may be actually living next door or vice versa. So, while it may not be difficult to remove every rabbit from your five acres, often itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not long before new rabbits have arrived from next door. The message here is really about economy of scale. If you are suffering from rabbit damage its always worth having a chat to your neighbours as they are probably suffering the same pest problems. Sharing the control time

between multiple properties saves everyone a few dollars and greatly improves the extent of control achieved. While a professional will always give the best results there are lots of things you can do to minimise the chances of ending up with a rabbit infestation. Cover, in the form of burrows or scrubby vegetation, log and fire piles, all provide excellent cover for rabbits so removing these is often very important. Burrows, themselves, support the greatest number of rabbits so these should never be tolerated. Dig them out and collapse them, fill them with gravel, and keep logs up off the ground. In short, do whatever it takes to deny them these safe havens. If you find managing your rabbits is beyond your own ability donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to give me a call anytime to talk it through.

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To enter the draw for any of these competitions visit www.ruralliving.co.nz click on the competitions link then fill in the form. One entry per person/ email address; entries close January 31, 2015. Winner notified by phone or email.

Win! By Nature twin packs – three to be won

WIN! KAREN MURRELL LIPSTICK DUO

Good things are made by man; great things are... By Nature! Once again proving beautiful skin doesn’t have to cost the earth, By Nature has added two new products to its popular range: Organic Rosehip Oil and Purifying Facial Cleanser (RRP $30 each). Rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, Organic Rosehip Oil intensely moisturises to nourish and repair. And, when coupled with Purifying Facial Cleanser for morning and night, By Nature provides a perfect pair for beautiful, healthy-looking skin. Rural Living has THREE By Nature twin packs (including both of these products) up for grabs!

Summer is all about fun and colour so we’re giving away two vibrant Karen Murrell lipsticks – Racy Rata and Coral Dawn. The inspiration behind Karen Murrell’s new – Racy Rata – came from the South Island’s breathtaking Rata trees bursting with berry-red flowers. A bright raspberry-red shade, this mesmerising shade will inject vibrancy into your day. Equally stunning, Karen Murrell lipstick – Coral Dawn – is all about saying hello to the sun! Vivid and happy, it combines exotic red-orange with yellow-lemon notes into a bright tangerinelike lipstick. Rich in natural pigment, both lipsticks are long-wearing, don’t feather and don’t contain animal products. Karen Murrell Lipsticks – Coral Dawn and Racy Rata, RRP $29.95 each, available at selected pharmacies and health food stores.

WIN! Fix it, Miss Minit Women have been guilty of punishing their feet for centuries, but that’s all set to change thanks to a savvy young lady’s first aid kit promising comfort and style underfoot. Global handy brand Mister Minit recently welcomed a new sidekick, Miss Minit, to assist with all footwear dilemmas for the discerning female customer. The range has everything to soothe sore feet and protect designer investments. Rifle through Miss Minit’s handbag and discover cushions, gel pads and heel grips as well as odour removers, water and stain protectors, polish pens, foot revival sprays and shoe shine sponges. Available from Mister Minit heel bars nationwide, Rural Living has a Miss Minit prize pack of three soft gel heel grips, three soft touch gel cushions and three shoe shine sponges to give away so enter the draw.

WIN! What Katie Ate: At the Weekend If ever a book encapsulated summer eating and entertaining it’s What Katie Ate: At the Weekend, featuring recipes from Katie Quinn Davies’ wildly successful blog as well as many never-seenbefore recipes. This gorgeous book, which is all about weekend eating, includes Katie’s own photography of dishes for informal get-togethers. Some of the dishes are inspired by her travels while others reflect her life in Sydney, Australia. What’s more, Rural Living has a copy up for grabs. What Katie Ate: At the Weekend by Katie Quinn Davies, published by Lantern, an imprint of Penguin Books. RRP $49.99.

Win! Rosie’s Radical Rescue Ride There’s a lot to enjoy about life on a funny farm, as Rosie the cow discovers. When the tractor breaks down, Rosie finds a novel way to cut the hay in this fun rhyming picture book by award-winning writer, Kyle Mewburn. A story of Kiwi No.8 wire ingenuity put to work, this book is sure to appeal to youngsters in town as well as country kids. Rosie’s Radical Rescue Ride by Kyle Mewburn. Published by Random House. RRP $19.99. Rural Living has FOUR copies of this book to give away! www.ruralliving.co.nz

Win! A four pack of CH’I Designed to revitalise and refresh, even during the busiest of seasons, CH’I draws on ancient Chinese medicinal principles to help balance our body’s energy. Available nationwide Rural Living has a selection of four CH’I flavours to give away. This pack includes one bottle each of Herbal Lemon, Lemongrass and Lime, Original Herb Blend and Herbal Sugar Free. RRP $3.79 330ml bottle.

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 27

LIVING ��

Motorbikes built by two – Riding rural A welding and fabrication tutor at Manukau Institute of Technology and a Middlemore Hospital paediatrician may seem an unlikely pairing but when these local guys are ready to ride, JON RAWLINSON found there’s no difference between their walks of life. When country roads take Brett Walker-Holt and Adrian Trenholme home, it’s to a place they both belong. An Aladdin’s cave of two-wheeled, vehicular treasures, Adrian’s Clevedon workshop is a piece of petrolhead heaven where the pair delights in building bikes for the track and the open road. “When I get together with Adrian to work on the bikes, Tracey, his wife, might knock us up a feed and it’s just a great place to be," says Brett. "Even when we’re working away, we never feel stressed out.”

including a California and a Le Mans. “One used to be my brother’s and another was my dad’s [Mike], so there’s a bit of heritage there. Dad has a couple of Harleys, and my brother, Glenn, used to race as well.” With other family members often in the saddle too, the Walker-Holts hold no quarter when it comes to riding the roads. “I suppose you could call it a family passion,” says Brett. Adrian adds: “or a mental health problem!”

With an extensive collection between them, many built almost from scratch, it’s fair to say that building, riding and racing is a passion shared.

Brett’s sons, Lee, aged 21 and Royd, 19, are also keen pedallers. “I suppose my boys developed their interest from me, if I didn’t have bikes, they might not have gone down that road,” he says.

“We build up the bikes ourselves and then go racing,” Brett continues, “I won the pre-war 500cc class last year in the NZCMRR [New Zealand Classic Motorcycle Racing Register], so we’ve had some success.

“We have a few bikes for bucket racing, which we do over at the Mount Wellington go kart track. Both my boys started on that. Racing has been a father-son thing for both Adrian and I.”

“I had to ride pretty hard to win; there are some serious contenders with some up from Wellington and even the South Island. We didn’t get any money out of it, though!”

Bucket racing – which derives its name from slang similar to ‘bucket of excrement’ – often involves recycled ex-road machines, rather than finely tuned racing bikes.

While he prefers pre 1980s bikes, Brett (who spends his days at MIT) is a particular fan of a certain Italian ‘bellezza’.

While Brett’s son Lee is more a-tuned to classics, Royd has enjoyed particular success of late, securing the 2014 650cc Pro Twins National Championship, winning almost every race along the way.

“In total, I have one, two, three,” he counts aloud, “then there’s the Montesa – four, five – three bucket racers – six, seven; God, it’s sounding a bit scary, isn’t it?! All up, I’d say about ten-ish. “I’m a Moto Guzzi man, though, really. I probably have four and a half of them (one’s a work in progress),

Riding is also a family affair for the Trenholmes, with Adrian first racing in the early 1990s. “In my family it started with me, after I got my first bike when I was 10,” he says. “My son, Hugh, has raced quite a bit as well. He’s the same age as

28 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

Lee, Brett’s son, and started riding with him. “Brett and I knew each other vaguely because the boys went to school together, and then in 2007 we started racing together. It went from a basic start to a solid friendship. “I have a load of old Triumphs, pre-60s, mainly. My favourite is the ‘39, it’s gone from a shiny bit of kit to a rough as guts bike, but it’s still beautiful to me. And I did buy a Moto Guzzi as well – on Adrian’s recommendation – because it’s easy to ride.” With danger present at ever corner, not to mention bike bits a plenty, how do their women folk cope? Have their wives, Sarah Walker-Holt and Tracey Trenholme, ever asked these local lads to ditch their rides? “My bike bits aren’t tolerated in the house,” laughs Adrian. “But Tracey gets involved too and does a bit of marshalling now and then. In the early days, she was at every race.” Brett adds: “I just sold a 1938 BSA, because the garage was getting way too full. Sarah wouldn’t ask me to get rid of any bikes and she’s even let me keep a couple inside. She’s into her jewellery, that’s her thing and I’m into bikes, that’s mine… and I don’t even give her a key to the garage!” While neither has specific mechanical training, Adrian says both have skills which come in handy in the workshop. “Brett has skills I couldn’t dream of, although I’m good with motors. As I’m a paediatrician, there aren’t a lot of skills which are transferable. “But, in both, I have issues to resolve and need to think logically to do so.

Of course, in medicine,” he laughs, “it’s not so easy to just pull out some spare parts if anything goes wrong!” And ‘wrong’ can happen on the track as well, leading to a few abrupt halts for Mr Walker-Holt and Mr Trenholme! “I’ve had some biggies [crashes] over the years, probably about half a dozen since 1992. One time, I was taken out by another rider and came away with a couple of broken vertebrae,” Adrian says. “He [Adrian] ended up in Taupo Hospital,” adds Brett, “It does get a little bit dangerous. I’ve nearly crashed a few times, just from being a bit stupid. But, luckily, I’ve really had only one big crash, and not too serious.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

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living

Paediatrician Adrian Trenholme and welding tutor Brett WalkerHolt equally at home in the 'saddle'. Photos Wayne Martin

But, of course, there’s a thrill factor at play. “Oh yeah, man, it’s a real thrill, absolutely! If you start racing someone, you want to beat them; it’s pretty much that simple,” Brett confirms. “Overall, though, we ride and race for the camaraderie, the companionship. When we go to events, we meet guys from all over the country and have a yarn. Mind you, we’ve also had our fair share of breakdowns too… that’s the bikes not us, at least yet!” • See Barfoot and Thompson’s community calendar on pages 2-3 to read more about the New Zealand Classic Motorcycle Racing Register’s Annual Festival, January 30-February 1, Pukekohe Raceway. www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 29

LIVING ��

Strawberry fields for Angela By Rebecca Glover “What if we pick a whole lot of strawberries and nobody comes?”

Like many of us, Angela remembers strawberries being a luxury fruit as a child, and she’s now blown away by the call for them.

That was one of the nightmares that woke Angela Smith in the middle of the night after quitting a secure job to embark on a new, untried venture – growing and selling her own strawberries.

“We’re just keeping up with the demand. Some people come several times a week; they appreciate being able to buy locally produced fruit straight from the grower, and I get a lot of enjoyment from that.”

She and partner, Stuart Campbell, need not have worried. Customers have been flocking to their stall near Waiuku since the first succulent berries made their appearance in early October, and as the fruit kept coming, so did the buyers.

Angela’s morning starts at 7am, picking a third of the paddock each day, which takes about three hours by herself. “Picking while running backwards and forwards to the shop is the best weight loss programme I’ve ever had,” she says.

It’s the couple’s first attempt at horticulture. There was much to learn, but by careful planning and following advice from experienced growers everything has, so far, gone smoothly.

Stuart helps when on the right shift from his steel mill job. In between jobs and study, the whole family is involved, including son Alistair and daughter Greta. Angela’s mother, Patricia, packs and grades, and her father, Bruce, turns the lower grade strawberries into delicious jam. Even a young niece lends a hand occasionally.

Previously a familiar face behind the counter at feed and saddlery merchants H R Fisken and Sons, Angela had been plotting her transition to self-employment for some time. “After 20 years working in crime prevention (as a civilian) and a long period in retail, I felt like a complete change,” she says. “I love being at home – I’ve always been a home body, so growing something seemed the logical thing to do.” Initially she and Stuart thought of growing kiwifruit, but decided the expense of the necessary

Angela Smith

Photo Wayne Martin

infrastructure and the delay of several years before a financial return made strawberries a sweeter option. “Strawberries are relatively cheap to establish, and the income is almost immediate,” Angela explains. “Stuart has family friends, the Somerfields, in Tauranga, who grow a wide variety of fruit, and they’ve been a fantastic source of information and really encouraging. We picked the brains of some local ex-growers too. “We’ve found people very easy-going in the horticulture industry.” After having their chosen spot rotary hoed by a local man, another

contractor mounded up the rows, laid the plastic and installed irrigation lines in one operation. Then the 10-12,000 plants, sourced from Te Puke, were planted; a variety named Camarosa which produces large, evenly coloured, glossy red fruit. While they grew, in her spare moments Angela was busy sourcing all the packing materials and equipment she would need, much of it from TradeMe (“my favourite shop!”). She was determined everything would be ready by the time the first berries ripened. “When you’re selling to the public, you have to do it right. There was no way I was just going to wing it.”

So, how does Angela feel about trading the security of a weekly wage for being her own boss? “I’m loving it!” she says. And not just the luscious, juicy sweet berries, which she insists, “I taste test purely for research,” but the lifestyle they bring. And with her plant order doubled for next season, Angela looks set to make local strawberry aficionados ‘berry happy’ indeed.

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30 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

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Harnessing the future From an island in the sun to a top job at Auckland Trotting Club, Dominique Dowding has come a long way, as she explains to JON RAWLINSON.

“We’ve been focused on attracting new people and seen an increase in those taking up barns [at the Franklin site]. That’s vital for us because it means more horses to race, wider fields and better betting.” The merger sees planned upgrades of facilities in Pukekohe, which will form a training venue to be known as Franklin Park. While it appears the majority of members have been on board, Dominique admits there has been some friction.

Bloodstock has long been in her blood, but CEO of Auckland Trotting Club (ATC), Dominique Dowding, says running a successful business needs more than a love of the game.

“There will always be some who aren’t happy with everything being done, and that’s fine... that’s democracy! However, the majority are happy with the merger.

“You have to be interested in what you’re driving. Those who don’t believe (passionately) in what they’re doing, shouldn’t be CEOs! Harness racing comes down to horses and competition; I love both and that has to be part of a winning formula!” Born and raised in Barbados, as a child Dominique moved to Canada. “My family was into polo ponies and thoroughbred racing. We were a plantation family and raised cattle and horses. In Canada we lived in the city and had nothing to do with country life. It was quite a culture shock, but I like living in cities too. Now, I have the best of both worlds.” The New Zealand leg of Dominique’s life – and her introduction to harness racing and standardbred horses – resulted from meeting and marrying tourism entrepreneur Barry Doody, who was a steward at Canterbury Park Trotting Club. The couple later became involved with syndicates. In October 2012, Dominique was on the move again, this time to undertake her present role with ATC. She now spends her time in Christchurch and Auckland. While prior experience with harness racing was limited, Dominique’s range of skills has proved useful. “I may not understand harness racing to the same technical degree as some who have been around the sport all their lives, but I definitely have a good understanding,” she says. “It’s essential to learn [the details] but not to know these straight away. Any CEO can wrap themselves around this business if they take time to study and listen to the people involved.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

“The Franklin amalgamation is about an industry-wide view. It’s not ‘big brother’ taking over; both clubs accepted it for the right reasons, to save harness racing in the north and make the industry attractive again.”

Dominique Dowding Photo Wayne Martin

With more than 30 years experience in marketing, sales, facilities management, entertainment, events, food and beverages, IT and property development, Dominique welcomed the chance to help restore the industry’s flagging fortunes. “Harness racing has become an entertainment entity competing for consumer dollars. One of the biggest problems is attracting new audiences, getting owners back into the game, lifting stakes and getting our name out there. My marketing and sales skills are useful to this end. With technology playing an important role, especially on the betting side, it’s an advantage having an IT background.” While harness racing may largely be perceived as a man’s world, Dominique says becoming ATC’s first female CEO was not the greatest of hurdles to overcome. “I don’t look at it as a gender issue, but there were some who weren’t happy with a woman being CEO of a racing club. However, I hope I have won [these] people over and they believe in the vision we’ve set out to accomplish, see improvements in performance and how we’re trying to develop this club and the industry.”

And running a harness racing club does ultimately come down to talking to men (and women) about horses. “I’ve learnt heaps since I started! The trainers, drivers, owners and sponsors have been very kind and helpful,” Dominique says. “I’m very appreciative about how open they’ve been in explaining their issues. “I also have a racing manager who helps with technical aspects of the game, and the board members are all invested in the industry too, so that’s another talent pool I can call on.”

merger on track? Harness racing has embarked on its new course in our region. As covered previously in Rural Living, the merger of Auckland Trotting Club (ATC) and Franklin Trotting Club (FTC) appears to offer a bright future. CEO of the now unified club, Dominique Dowding, says the move is already starting to see dividends. “Even before October 1 – the official takeover date – we completed a preliminary master plan for the site, which shows how committed we are to everything we’ve promised Franklin members and the harness racing industry,” she says.

While FTC accepted ATC’s proposal, two other clubs, Thames Harness Racing and Kumeu Trotting, rebuffed similar advances. “They decided not to come with us. That’s fine, we understand that and the door’s always open [for them] to merge with us,” she says. “I understand they want to keep their tracks for their communities, but the way the industry is going, we have to do what’s best for the greater good, rather than just for our own areas.” After refusing ATC’s offer to take over its North Auckland track, Kumeu Trotting Club was initially told it could no longer race at Alexandra Park. “At the time that was our stance, because we felt so strongly. But we’ve decided to allow them to race two meetings a year here,” Dominique says. “Our goal is for two levels of racing. A premier programme at Alexandra Park and country-type meetings at Franklin Park. Two tiers will enable us to cater to different types of horses and audiences.” • To read more about the ATC/FTC merger, see ruralliving.co.nz July-Aug and Aug-Sept.

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 31

Living ��

Far out, man – WE’RE ON A HIGH Reay Neben is a Franklin resident and publisher of Rural Living.

CITY LASS By the time you read this the madness and panic of Christmas will be over. Brian and I are staying home and hopefully playing in the garden and also partaking of some of the goodies on offer at our wonderful local eateries. I must say that the response I get from my column is amazing; I am often approached by people who comment on something I have written. I consider myself really lucky to live in this area and to live the lifestyle that I do. Driving home from Highbrook each day it is so nice to wait for the ducks to walk over the drive heading to the pond and then to encounter the fossicking chooks – all this before I reach the house. The motorway is a real bone of contention and it is getting worse so our going out now tends to be Franklin-based rather than heading towards the city. December proved particularly busy with all the Christmas functions, the best one being our work Christmas party. It was a themed night and everyone dressed for the seventies. This was great as there were so many

Unrecognisable – Reay and Brian Neben with Reay’s daughter, Emma Smith (left), channel the 70’s. styles during that period. I had no idea what to wear so Brian and I popped into Gracie’s in the main street. She was amazing, styling Brian, my daughter and me. Brian went as a hippie and looked dreadful (although everyone said he looked fantastic) and I didn’t look much better (but it seemed to work wonderfully well, too). Daughter looked absolutely glamorous. It was so much fun as everyone made an effort to dress up. I was especially surprised by the men who seemed to be in the zone completely.

The last week at work, before the break, is always high pressure and, now, these relaxed days at home are such a contrast. Reading books is a luxury I do enjoy and that, along with the garden, is set to be the agenda for the holidays. I have made a New Year’s resolution to work less days so here’s hoping I can achieve that. I want to go shopping and visit friends on a week day rather than endure the busyness of the weekend. My girlfriend Val, from Waiau Pa, is the person I miss the most as we used to live in the same Howick street

many years ago and she was also my secretary so I saw her every day. We all left Howick and that changed. Amazingly we both ended up in Franklin so catching up should be easy but I still work most days. Luckily our husbands are good friends so we often go on holiday together. I trust you all had a wonderful Christmas and now I wish you all the best for New Year and, please, remember to support all our local businesses. No matter what you need you should find it in Franklin. Cheers, Reay

AFFORDABLE STYLISH LATITUDE DESIGNS ON YOUR LAND Full Build or Kitset Options Showroom & Office: 341 Great South Rd, Papakura Showroom Open Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-3pm, Sat 10am-3pm, Sun 11am-2pm

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32 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

www.ruralliving.co.nz

living

Tropical punch Hair care Nothing screams holidays more than palm trees, tropical flowers and summer fruit colours. We love this tropical punch trend â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bold, fun and oh-so easy to wear! â&#x17E;&#x160;

with a purpose

Natasha Harris of Alberts Hair Salon Pukekohe sheds some light on the good that can come from a committed hair care range with a heart. Pureology is committed to preserving beautiful, vibrant hair colours with the utmost respect for the environment. Sustainable Coastlines is a registered NZ charity, committed to cleaning up and preserving the coastlines of New Zealand and the wider Pacific. Together we can make a difference.

â&#x17E;&#x2039;

Visit sustainablecoastlines.org for information on how to be involved or visit their Facebook page. Pureologyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Curl Complete for Colour-Treated Curls and Waves Curly hair has naturally occurring stress points that can be disrupted by colour services, leading to shape distortion, breakage, and faded curls. New Curl Completeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique formulae with coconut oil and Pureologyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exclusive Antifade Complex, resurface stress points to revive shape, reduce breakage, reduce frizz and illuminate shine.

â&#x17E;&#x152; â&#x17E;? â&#x17E;&#x17D;

1. Wave A lot Dress, Coop RRP $349 2. Spectrum Luxe Petite, Kagi RRP $69 3. Obi Bag, Saben RRP $420 4. Shoes, New Balance RRP $130 5. Hawaii 50 Dress, Trelise Cooper RRP $699

â&#x20AC;˘ Sustainability is a responsibility, not a luxury. â&#x20AC;˘ We minimise our environmental impact through water conservation, water reduction and reduced eco-toxicity across the entire life cycle of our products. â&#x20AC;˘ Clean water is a fundamental right for every adult and child. â&#x20AC;˘ Animal rights â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our products are never tested on animals. Why is Pureology coconut oil special? The Curl Complete Coconut Oil, from the Solomon Islands, is hand collected and organically certified. Pureology is available at Alberts Hair Salon, 2/23 Hall Street, Pukekohe.

Pureology & Sustainable Coastlines cleaning up at Waiheke. Photo supplied

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; December 2014 - January 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 33

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8/04/14 1:44 pm 54024-V4 54024-V7

LIVING ��

SLIMFAST – answer to seasonal weight gain? Initial Christmas feasting may be over but many will still be tucking into sweet treats such as chocolates, and candy, nuts and nougat, toffee and truffles. And, of course, there’s still plenty of holiday entertaining to come. What’s more that can be troublesome when it’s time to slip on a swim suit – you could find yourself carrying more kilos of goose fat than intended! Luckily, GO Healthy’s new Slimfast Garcinia Cambogia (6000mg), could help reduce the problem. It is a weight management product that supports body fat management, a healthy fat metabolism, digestive function, healthy cholesterol levels, cravings and appetite levels at the same time. Garcinia Cambogia contains a compound called HCA, which stands for hydroxycitric acid – a compound that does the ‘heavy lifting’ so you don’t have to. Slimfast Garcinia Cambogia contains 6000mg of high potency Garcinia Cambogia, containing scientifically proven 60% HCA. This ingredient is the key to appetite management and a healthy fat metabolism – pop it on your post festive shopping list if you feel a little help is needed in shedding extra bulk. • Slimfast Garcinia Cambogia RRP $36.90 (50 Vegecapsules)

WIN! SLIMFAST prize pack Here’s your chance to put paid to any extra kilos gained when celebrating the holiday season – we have a Slimfast prize pack to give away containing a bottle of 50 Slimfast Garcinia Cambogia capsules, (RRP $36.90), a Slimfast water bottle and a Kathmandu active towel. Simply visit ruralliving.co.nz, click on the competitions link and complete the form. One entry per person/email address; entries close January 31, 2015. Winner notified by phone or email.

Beauty counter Kick start the Berocca way

Bean Day Cream which is entirely plant-based and includes natural extracts packed full of phytonutrients, to deliver healthy, luminous skin.

Whatever our style, however we get our kicks, especially when partying over summer, we can all use a little something following celebrations.

The inclusion of the scientificallytested, potent superfruit extract, Vinanza® Grape Seed Extract, ensures this skin-indulging day cream contains exceptionally high levels of antioxidants to enrich, brighten and revive luck-lustre complexions.

Whether trudging languidly back to work or getting up to a mountain of catch-up chores, it’s important to get over the night before as early as possible the day after. Packed with guarana (a fast-acting, natural energiser), B vitamins and minerals, new Berocca Kick contains no sugar and it’s designed to improve reactions, speed and accuracy, while decreasing tiredness.

Seeds contain all the necessary nutrients to sustain life and support growth. Extracted via a patented process using only water, grape seed extract strengthens capillaries, improves circulation, reduces redness, and lightens the skin, significantly improving its texture and appearance.

Perfect for a long day of studying, alertness for a big day at work, or the energy you need for actionpacked activities on the weekend, Berocca Kick is available from supermarkets and pharmacies; RRP $8.99 per 10-pack.

A DAY CREAM THAT MEANS BUSINESS!

had your ‘beans’ – vanilla beans, that is, served up in a Plantae cream, then you ain’t experienced anything.

When it comes to beauty products, the committed may well think ‘been there, done that’ but until you’ve

Plantae’s love affair with the plant kingdom unravels in every application of its balancing Vanilla

The cream also includes certified organic extracts of vanilla, jasmine, camellia, shea butter, myrrh, safflower and lemon balm to help protect, rejuvenate and balance the skin. Plantae Vanilla Day Cream RRP $48.90 (50g) , available at selected pharmacies and health food stores nationwide.

Special K ticks along After festive feasting and holiday indulgence follow New Year fears that we’ve let ourselves go! However, after recently clinching Two Ticks from the New Zealand Heart Foundation, it seems Special K is corn again, assuring a healthy start to the day and the New Year. Taking a new direction for the brand, Kellogg’s now has a new, threegrain recipe – which includes added wholegrain oats and less sodium – says Julian Ng, the company’s marketing and innovation manager. “The new flake recipe is being used across all varieties of the Special K cereal range. It represents a steep change for the brand within New Zealand being the first time in its

34 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

history that a recipe adjustment of this nature has been implemented.” According to the Heart Foundation, foods submitted for Two Ticks undergo stringent, independent analysis regarding nutrient content. The programme aims to identify core foods for a healthy diet and all Two Tick products are subject to ongoing, random compliance audits. “We are absolutely delighted, of course, that our new product meets the stringent Heart Foundation nutrition criteria for Two Ticks,” says Mr Ng. “It is recognition of the vision and hard work the team has put in to achieve a healthier product that delivers the same great taste

consumers know and love.” The Two Ticks feature on Special K packs from early December. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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living

BBQ Talk

With Stihl Shop Pukekohe

THE HEARING HUT Audiology and Hearing Clinic Independent. Kiwi owned. Kiwi operated.

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read thermometer, inserted in the thickest part of the ham (not touching the bone) registers 70Â°C, about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Tony McGeough

Bring to boil a large saucepan of lightly salted water. Add kumara, cook until a sharp knife inserted into the centre of the kumara meets with a little resistance, 8 to 10 mins. Drain and rinse under cold running water. Cool completely, at least 1 hour.

Ham is ideal for every occasion and with entertaining a priority during summer this is a favourite â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Apple-Glazed Ham with Kumara.

INGREDIENTS â&#x20AC;˘ 1 bone-in, fully cooked smoked ham, shank end, 3.5kg â&#x20AC;˘ 1 1/2 cups apple juice â&#x20AC;˘ 6 kumara, each about 280 grams, peeled, cut lengthwise into quarters GLAZE â&#x20AC;˘ 1/2 cup apple jelly or peach preserve â&#x20AC;˘ 1 tbsp stone-ground mustard â&#x20AC;˘ 2 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary â&#x20AC;˘ 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil â&#x20AC;˘ 1 tsp kosher salt â&#x20AC;˘ 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

METHOD Stand ham at room temp for 30 mins before grilling. Prepare Weber Gas grill for direct and indirect cooking over medium-low heat (about 175Â°C). Score ham in crisscross pattern about 1 inch apart and 1/2 inch deep on all sides, except cut side. Place the ham, cut side down, in large disposable foil pan and pour in apple juice. Loosely cover ham only with foil. Brush cooking grates clean. Grill ham over indirect medium-low heat, with the lid closed, until an instant-

Owner and Audiology Clinician The Hearing Hut

Avoid the Hearing Aid â&#x20AC;&#x153;rip-offâ&#x20AC;?!

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the glaze ingredients and heat until the jelly is melted, whisking occasionally. Set aside. Remove foil when internal temp of ham reaches 70Â°C. Brush with half the glaze, continue cooking for 15 mins. Add remaining glaze and cook until glaze is set and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the ham registers 75Â°C, about 15 mins. Remove ham from grill and take out of pan. Reserve cooking liquid. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

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info@hearinghut.co.nz

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Brush kumara wedges with oil and season evenly with salt/pepper. Grill over direct medium-low heat, with the lid closed as much as possible, turning occasionally until they are nicely marked and just tender when pierced with sharp knife, 10 to 15 minutes. When cooked, add kumara to pan with reserved liquid. Slice ham and spoon over with as much remaining cooking liquid as you like. Serve warm with the kumara.

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Right into Outdoor Power Equipment

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

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living

A toast to summer A drink, a drink, a drink for Lilly the Pink, the Pink... well, we all know how that one goes, don’t we? Summer’s here and the time is right to sample some fluids. So, this month we have a few top tipples to enjoy. WARNING – some of these products contain alcohol, so be sure to drink responsibly... or not, we’re not your mum! Speight’s Summer Ale A cold beer on a hot summer’s day is one way to stay ‘ale and hearty especially when the brew is Speight’s Summer Ale. Joining the Speight’s Craft range of batch-brewed beers which have won international recognition at recent beer awards, Speight’s Summer Ale is a great example of the refreshing style of beer that so many Kiwis enjoy. Brewed using Munich and pale malts with a generous amount of Amarillo and Cascade hops, this great-tasting beer balances biscuity malt sweetness with hop bitterness with a little citrus and spice thrown in. RRP $24.99 per 12-pack of 330ml bottles. APV 4%.

Sun Dog Cider It’s said only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the noon day sun, but we Kiwis sure love to catch a few rays too! So, while we’re about it, what better way to keep cool than with a brand new Kiwi-made cider? Bold, fruity and refreshing, Sun Dog combines apple cider with flavours including feijoa and mandarin and strawberry and

lime. However, be careful when drinking this beverage in the sun. With an ABV of 4.5%, this dog does have a bite! RRP $9.99 per four-pack of 250ml cans.

Höpt Soda Whether barbecuing with friends, entertaining the family or simply in need of a ‘cool one’ from the fridge after mowing the lawn, Kiwis enjoy a great thirst-quencher. Now the choice is easy. Forget the usual sweet fizzies and juices and opt for Hopt! With less than half the sugar of most leading soft drinks Hopt Sodas are refreshing in more ways than one. Created by blending real hop extracts with intriguing flavour combinations try salted lychee, pear and basil, watermelon and mint, and elderberry and herb. RRP $7.99 per four-pack of 330ml bottles.

Perrier Limited Edition Long the reserve of the sophisti-cats, now even alley cats are enjoying the refined flavour or Perrier. Taking it to the streets, Perrier has released a limited edition range

of bottles with packaging designs by leading street artists. Featuring interpretations of the classic brand by JonOne, Sasu and Kobra, these famous green bottles better not fall off the wall! What’s more, with every bottle purchased, Kiwis will have a chance to win a trip to Melbourne – entries close March 8, 2015. RRP $3.99 per 750ml bottle, or $9.99 per four-pack of 330ml bottles.

Charlie’s Straight Up Cola Cheer up, Charlie, there’s room for you too! Ever since Mr Ellis first made his ‘Marc’ in the drinks biz, Charlie’s has become a popular brand. And, following the recent launch of its Straight Up Cola Charlie’s winning ways seem set to continue. CEO Craig Cotton from brand owner, The Better Drinks Co, says: “We’ve included real kola nuts and natural malt [with] no chemicals, numbers or words we can’t pronounce; and we’ve pulled back on the sugar as well. We reckon we’ve cracked it – it tastes bloody good!” RRP $2 per 350ml can (or $5.99 per four-pack).

CHIA Some say CH’A, others say CHIA, but both say cheers when it comes

to enjoying healthy drinks! Drawing on the goodness of chia seeds – considered one of nature’s ‘superfoods’ – these blends bring together a plethora of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fibre, electrolytes and more to deliver a nutritious tipple. Combined with fruity flavours, including blueberry, blackcurrant, orange and passionfruit, CHIA is designed to be a healthy drop which doesn’t leave taste at the door! RRP $5.00 per 275ml bottle.

Ch’i Herbal Lemon and LemonGrass & Lime Get on the (lemon) grass! Summer sun and ‘celebrating’ can sap our strength. Thankfully, CH’I Herbal Lemon and CH’I Lemongrass and Lime are designed to revitalise and refresh even during the busiest of seasons. Inspired by Chinese medicinal thought, and modelled on blends once believed to boost ‘ch’i’ (or Qi) and balance the energies of our bodies, CH’I has become a popular tipple. With these two new varieties, there’s never been a better time to hit the herbal! RRP $3.79 per 330ml bottle.

Got something to say? Tell us what is happening – we want to know what you think... what you like... what you want to see in Rural Living

Be in our next issue – booking deadline January 16 Phone 0800 456 789 s info@ruralliving.co.nz s www.ruralliving.co.nz www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 37

LIVING ��

Outdoor spaces By Jacqui Godfrey, Forma Contemporary Furniture interior designer Outdoor rooms can be an extension of your home and now that summer is here it is definitely time to consider the options and finalise the detailing. Having emerged from the warmth of open fires and heat pumps we can now create exterior spaces to maximise the warmth of the sun and fashion outdoor living areas to enjoy and share with family and friends. Whether you have a courtyard, a garden area, or a pool, there are a few simple components to consider. Placing a dining table in your outdoor space helps make the most of longer evenings especially when the barbecue is fired up. Layer your outdoor table with casual crockery, placemats and cutlery. Add a few colourful jugs and glasses too.

Concrete-style dining tables with chunky timber or metal bases give a more substantial look. Team this with bench seats or low maintenance lightweight chairs and you have it all. Go for stackable chairs; they’ll be easier to store at the end of the season. Outdoor sofas are great for lounging around on or sharing a cool drink with friends – go as big as you can and everyone gets a seat. Throw a few bean bags in the mix and move them around the garden or pool area to capture the sun and add extra seating. A corner sofa can fill a spot on your deck with an outlook to the garden. Textured sofa finishes, such as woven wicker and cosy squabs, mean you are guaranteed comfort. With the addition of an outdoor

fireplace or brazier you can relax and stay warm long after the sun sets. Surround your outdoor spot with planting. Palms that gently sway in the breeze can take us to a tropical island. Planted walls oozing with healthy herbs and greenery are a great backdrop to your outdoor oasis. Rows of lanterns and candles give an ambient light and can define pathways. Light bigger sculptural trees with more intense exterior lights to outline the branch structure. With all this set in place you can have everyone over to share your home and celebrate those special festive times over the summer. There is bound to be loads of laughs and everyone will want to linger longer in your unique, outdoor paradise.

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SALE EXTENDED! Y THE EARLY EARL BOXING DAY S

A HUGE RANGE OF BEDS

ALE

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Elite Sleeper

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Quei Ê-iÌÊ WAS $5,999

UÊ Û> >L iÊ ÊÃ vÌÊ> `Êv À ° UÊÊ ì«i ì ÌÊ* V iÌÊ-«À }ÊV ÀiÊ«À Û ìÃÊ À Û ìÃ ÀiÊvÀii` Êv ÀÊÕ ` ÃÌÕÀLi`ÊÃ ii«°

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38 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

www.ruralliving.co.nz

LIVING ��

Our own piece of paradise – the Kiwi bach By Rachael Buxton, Interiors.etc

With torch in hand I navigated rotten floorboards and human sized wetas to reach the ‘long drop.’ Our modern conveniences extended to the Zip water heater and a barely operable stove. We didn’t even have a barbecue. We had mismatched plates and souvenir teaspoons, candlewick bedspreads and snakes and ladders. There was no TV. The internet hadn’t been invented. We had dancing competitions to KISS music, we built tree huts, threw plums at the neighbours, collected pipis, harassed the dairy owner and played for hours and hours on the beach. The traditional Kiwi bach does still exist but these museum pieces are gradually being replaced with more palatial dwellings primarily due to the rise in coastal land values. Erosion issues have seen the emergence of moveable and de-mountable dwellings such as one designed by Ken Crossan Architect. Crossan’s ‘bach on sleds’ is amazing. The bach is built from ply and industrial elements with shuttered openings which enable the dwelling to be ‘locked down’ when not in use. Jeff Fearon and Tim Hay are two architects that inspire. They design

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The Kiwi bach of my childhood was a fibrolite-clad health hazard. It was symbolic of a ‘Girl versus Wild’ adventure.

beach houses with a contemporary aesthetic; large expanses of sliding glass, rough sawn cladding, concrete, ‘openness’ with a view and a sheltered courtyard. Natural materials are incorporated into the interior with natural stone, oiled wood interior wall panelling and barn like doors. Surfaces are tough and easy to clean, and age well with family wear and tear.

With a simple press of a button you can protect yourself from the sun or rain. Introducing a sophisticated motorised awning system, you will be the envy of all your friends and neighbours. Sit back and enjoy your new retractable awning, all at the push of a button.

For most of us, however, the beach holiday concept is not really about a fixed dwelling; it’s more about having the time to spend with those nearest and dearest to us. We could be camping, motor-homing, or sleeping under the stars. It’s about hot weather, sunshine, warm water, waves, jandals, sausages and tomato sauce, snogging in the sand dunes, bikini competitions, beersies, barbecues, sand in our togs, having a summer crush, sandcastles, Mum screaming at us for dragging half the beach inside and creating lasting memories. Happy holidays everyone.

Our Motorised Retractable Awnings come with a 7yr warranty, the highest warranty available in NZ. Rural Living customers Ͳ enjoy 50% discount on our motorisations when you mention this ad! Check out our pricing options on our website novashades.co.nz For more information call us on 0800 27 0056 R1101167

Interiors.etc new flagship store NOW OPEN! Experienced Interior Designer Rachael Buxton is available to assist with all your furnishing needs or consult on new home or renovation projects. NZ-made and imported furniture, lamps, mirrors, homeware, gifts and women’s accessories are available for sale. 20 Queen St, Pukekohe Phone 09 239 1721

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Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015 — 39

LIVING ��

Garden Visit New Zealand’s best gardening website

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advice on home gardens, fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, trees and shrubs. It also includes great giveaways, competitions and a comprehensive directory of products, services and more.

real estate sales maintain momentum By David & Kirsty Powell, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

buoyancy returning to parts of the real estate market.

Historically November is one of the busiest sales months of the year and November 2014 was no exception. Nationally there were 7,416 dwellings sold in November, this was 12.2% more than October and up 6.5% on November 2013.

“Commentary from around the regions suggests that the ‘top end’ of a number of regional markets was performing well, with the middle and lower ends doing less well.”

Not only were volumes up, a new record was set for the national median price that now sits at $455,750, up $30,750 on the same time last year. The areas experiencing new record median prices included Auckland, Waikato/ Bay of Plenty, Wellington and Canterbury/ Westland. The REINZ chief executive Helen O’Sullivan said the November data showed there was an element of

Volunteer charity shops, have fun Volunteer in in ourour charity shops, have fun whilstsupporting supporting of Hospice. whilst the the workwork of Hospice.

November data showed that price growth for properties over the $1 million price tag experienced +10% price growth compared with houses at the other end of the scale which had much lower price growth of less than 4%. So the top end of the market is driving the overall rise in the national and some regional median prices, while those dwellings in the lower deciles are seeing less price growth and a lack of buyer capacity which may be related to the LVR restrictions currently in place.

Homes we’d love to own Step inside some of the country’s most impressive addresses during the 2015 NZ House and Garden Tours.

Join team at the of yourof local Joinaafriendly friendly team atheart the heart your local The first leg covers Auckland City’s community in one of our Totara Hospice shops. fringe and central suburbs of community in one of our Totara Hospice shops.

Our dedicated and caring volunteers need more help!

Ponsonby, Herne Bay and Parnell. Our dedicated and caring volunteers need more help! Visitors will discover inner city gems Turn kindly donated goods into much needed support for our patients that showcase the art of small-andand their families. Full training provided, great chance to meet Turn kindly donated goods isinto much aneeded support for our patients beautiful living, including a little new friends - and there are many ways you can help. and their families. Full training is provided, a great chance to meet art-filled apartment set on top of new friends - and there are many ways you can help. the old George Courts building in Karangahape Road. Please contact Wendy Stanmore now if you can help on: (09) 2983108 or wendy.stanmore@hospice.co.nz The tour then heads to Cambridge, contact WendyPrevost Stanmore nowManurewa if you can help TotaraPlease Hospice, 140 Charles Drive, where town meets country in the on: (09) 2983108 or wendy.stanmore@hospice.co.nz Waikato. From a former service

station converted into a remarkable lakeside home, to a farmhouse with a girly vibe and a perfectly polished villa, the tour takes in the tree-lined township and tranquil countryside. Moving down the line, the tour winds its way through Wairarapa (March 20) and Queenstown (March 28). Tickets are available from $65, with discounts for multiple tickets and package deals. Proceeds will help support The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation. See nzhouseandgarden.co.nz/nz-housegarden-tours-2015 for details.

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40 — Rural Living — December 2014 - January 2015

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living

Digger Danâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s QUICK TIPS

kikuyu to fescue

No matter what weather Christmas has brought our way it will have had an effect on the garden but at this time of year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fairly easy to remedy problems even when taking time off for relaxation. Just remember to water, feed and groom.

By David Aspin, Dip Turf Culture

Water

Converting a kikuyu lawn to fine fescue, may seem like mission impossible but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easier than you think.

If you already have fescue in your lawn the spray will not harm it.

By using the Haloxyflop herbicide it is possible to spray out kikuyu and keep it out of your lawn.

Kikuyu is best controlled from November to March when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growing well. Leave for two weeks then mow at 20 mm. Catch the clippings.

You may have to also use a broad leaf spray to kill weeds that the Haloxyflop spray doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. This process does not involve tilling the soil. First measure the lawn area and identify what grasses/weeds you have. Next use herbicide Haloxyflop and herbicide Axall to spray your lawn. These herbicides can be mixed at time of application. Do not use a surfactant or wetting agent.

New gardens need a good soaking every four or five days. Established trees and shrubs can get away with a fortnightly soaking. Shallow rooted annuals, veges and container plants need watering at least every second day while weather is hot. Water in the evening or early morning; water loss by evaporation peaks in the hottest part of the day.

Grooving before seeding would help make good seed soil contact but fescue seed will germinate in the dead thatch. Select good fescue seeds; I advise using a mix of chewing fescue and red creeping fescue at a rate of 4kg per 100 square metres.

Morning watering is great for nutrient absorption as plants tend to be most active at sunrise. But if running late for work, leave watering until the end of the day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to hurry it. Frequent shallow watering promotes surface root growth, making plants more susceptible to drying out. It is better to water less often, taking time to soak the soil thoroughly.

Apply seeds and water at least once a day. Fescue seeds take between 10 and 20 days to germinate and the best time for seeding is March and April but conversion can happen at any time.

Feed

The rate for Haloxyflop is 3 litres per hectare, 300 mls per 1000 sq metres or 30 mls per 100 square metres. Use 60 litres of water per 100 square metres. The rate for Axall is the same as Haloxyflop.

The benefits of fine fescue over kikuyu include not having to mow the lawn as much and fescue is good in winter and summer whereas kikuyu is a summer grass.

Flowering, fruiting or actively growing plants such as roses, subtropical plants, vegetables and flowering annuals will respond positively to a good feed. Well-fed, strong plants will shake off warm weather pests and diseases more easily.

You will need a good sprayer and I

Enjoy your conversion.

Supplement controlled release

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Deadhead and trim Removing spent blooms encourages more flowers and helps prevent disease. Cut just above a bud. Delay trimming those plants whose berries and seeds are a feature in late summer. Tidy up lanky growth on shrubs, climbers and perennials. Remove the tatty leaves from palms, grasses, and flaxes.

Ripe for picking The more you pick, the longer tomatoes, beans, and zucchinis will fruit. Fruit laden aubergines and capsicums may need staking. Cut down on hot weather diseases (especially bothersome on tomatoes), by removing infected or overcrowded lower leaves. To reduce the humidity diseases thrive on, provide space between plants and keep clear of weeds. Avoid watering the foliage, but well- watered, well-fed plants are less susceptible to diseases than thirsty malnourished ones. Mulch with compost to keep moisture in and weeds out.

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; December 2014 - January 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 41

LIVING ��

Big crowds witness V8 changing of the guard

(Opposite John Deere)

Race fans flocked to the Fuchs 500 at Pukekohe Raceway recently to witness a changing of the guard, as V8 Supercar star, Shane Van Gisbergen and emerging Kiwi driver, Simon Evans combined to claim their first BNT NZ SuperTourers endurance series titles.

Call in for a holiday tyre safety check

It also came as a rejuvenation for top tier New Zealand motorsport with more than 10,000 fans coming through the gates over the two days to watch a host of classes.

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These included the BNT NZ SuperTourers, UDC V8 Utes, NZ Super Trucks Ssangyong Racing Series, Motul Honda Cup and the NZV8 Touring Cars.

best cars, the best fields, the best drivers,” says Marsden. “Facilitating the return of the Super Trucks to Pukekohe after a 10 year absence is a good example of this. “These 1200 Horsepower monsters certainly added to the appeal of the event and contributed to the large crowd in attendance. “Besides the emphasis on a great racing spectacle we also focus on families in our marketing and the experience we deliver them at the track,” he adds. “At all events we have free family activities and we are one of the last events in the country where you can still BYO food.

BNT NZ SuperTourers sales and marketing manager, Mike Marsden says the key to the success of the format is delivering a family-focused entertainment event for fans, a quality hospitality experience and a motor racing spectacle.

“Families look for value for money in a very competitive entertainment market and the NZ SuperTourer show definitely delivers on both fronts – families walk away very happy and pleasantly surprised at how good a day at the track is.”

“We are committed to delivering the best motorsport in the country as we saw at Pukekohe and certainly into the future with the

The 2014-2015 BNT NZ SuperTourers championship continues with four sprint-race meetings early in 2015.

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

living

Jeep diesel best in world For the second year running the Chrysler 3.0 V6 Turbo Diesel engine fitted to the Jeep Grand Cherokee has earned a place as one of Wardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10 Best Engines in the World. In 2014 it is the only diesel to make the prestigious list, placing it ahead of all other diesel engines.

Outback has a sophisticated, stylish new exterior for a great on-road presence, which provides a 10 per cent improved aerodynamic performance compared to the outgoing model. Photo supplied

Outback moves forward drives home Outbackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true SUV off road capability.

There is a suite of new technology, combined with sophisticated design and premium soft-touch interior trim, as well as the unique Subaru Boxer engines with a lower centre of gravity, that sets them apart from the crossover SUV wagon pack.

There will be a choice of three powertrains, all with the fuel saving benefits of the unique Subaru Lineartronic Transmission, including the 3.6RS model for the first time. Like all Subarus sold in New Zealand, Outback has constant AllWheel Drive.

Yet it is equally at home on tarmac, with a handling and road holding package that makes Outback a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car in all conditions.

A new feature-packed infotainment system introduces a wide array of new functions, plus speech recognition. And the X-Mode All Wheel Drive feature, that enhances driver safety and confidence on steep hills and slippery terrain,

The 2015 Outback has a five-star rating for occupant safety from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). Underlining Outbackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety

credentials is the addition of new generation EyeSight driver assist, which adds new features that help reduce fatigue and the likelihood of collision risk or severity.

In New Zealand, Jeep Grand Cherokee range opens at $64,990 with the Laredo 4x2 and is topped by the high performance Hemi V8 powered Grand Cherokee SRT8 priced at $109,990.

The new generation EyeSight provides more driver-assist features for safer driving with adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and brake light recognition of the vehicle in front. Development of the cabin has produced a premium interior experience with a huge focus on detail quality, tactile surfaces, switchgear, space, quietness and comfort. The 2015 Outback will go on sale in February, with prices being announced on February 2.

Fitted with the 3.0 litre Turbo Diesel engine, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a maximum tow weight of up to 3500kg.

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; December 2014 - January 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 43

Photo supplied

Outback, the original crossover Sports Utility Vehicle, which has led to dozens of imitations, has enhanced its SUV credentials with the launch of the fifth generation Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive 2015 model.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is as quiet and smooth as the diesels weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been testing in luxury cars, delivers an imposing 570Nm of torque, and works in perfect harmony with the standard eight speed transmission to deliver 6.5 l/100km on the highway,â&#x20AC;? said Drew Winter, editor-in-chief of Wardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auto World and senior editor of WardsAuto.com.

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

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Rural Living â&#x20AC;&#x201D; December 2014 - January 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1

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