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PLEASE NOTE: information regarding times & dates of these events was correct at the time this issue went to print. However, due to the pandemic, events may be postponed or cancelled. In some cases, tickets may be limited or social distancing measures employed as appropriate. Readers are advised to check events online for updates.

Auckland Pride Month

■ EXPOS & FESTIVALS Chinese New Year Festival & Market Day January 30, 9:30am-4pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Epsom Let’s face it, 2020 was a dog of a year!

However, as 2021 is the year of the ox, let’s not allow the world to drag us down as we dig our heels determined to kick them up in celebration of the Chinese New Year.

From cultural performances and food to arts and crafts, this festival expects to see Auckland celebrate in style. See www. aucklandchinese.org.nz.

Auckland Pride Month February 3-28, various locations, Auckland Comprising events designed to celebrate diversity in the Super City, this festival is intended to prove that, while we may all be individuals, decency and understanding should be traits shared by all. Including the Same Same but Different writers’ festival (Feb 12), the fun-filled Big Gay Out (on Valentine’s Day), the Pride March (Feb 27) and more, this year’s Pride Month will see Auckland show its true (rainbow) colours.

See www.aucklandpride.org.nz.

Self Made February 13, 10am-11pm, Sir Woolf Fisher Arena, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Exploring the artistry of crafts, this expo

sees small, local businesses, artists and performers present their wares. From fashion and beauty to tattoo art and more, Self Made includes market stalls and demonstrations as well as live entertainment.

Auckland Fringe February 14 – March 6, various locations, Auckland If something seems a little off, it’s probably on (at) the fringe! From Uxbridge Arts and Culture in the east, to MOTAT out west, The Pumphouse Theatre north of the bridge and Nathan Homestead in South Auckland, this festival, which celebrates the off-centre, is set to take place at a wide range of other venues all across the city.

See www.aucklandfringe.co.nz for a full programme of events.

■ MUSIC, MUSICALS, THEATRE & DANCE Kiwi Concert Party – Runga, Finn & The Twins January 23, 4-10.30pm. Villa Maria Estate Winery, 118 Montgomerie Rd, Mangere Bic Runga, Tim Finn and The Topp Twins headline this two-hour variety concert, which also features the talents of the Hatea Kapa Haka group. Music and comedy combine during an all too Kiwi celebration of summer. Details via www.villamaria. co.nz/winery/events.

Two Ladies February 9-27, times vary, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey St, Auckland City It’s no easy job being the FLOTUS (First Lady of the United States) as a certain former model would, no doubt, agree. As this play reveals, the lives of the women behind some of the most powerful men in the world are replete with drama. With characters loosely based on Melania Trump and Brigitte Macron, Two Ladies tells the story of Sophia and world-weary Helene as they grapple with grievances, distrust of each other and their own husbands. See www.atc.co.nz/whats-on for details.

Boogie in the Vines February 14, 12-6pm, Turanga Creek Organic Vineyard, 133 Whitford Park Rd, Whitford Fresh from hosting Groove in the Grapes in January, Turanga Creek will set the stage for another outdoor concert, this time in support of Totara Hospice. Anyone keen to put those boogie shoes back into action see www.hospiceinvines.co.nz for details.

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Mana Wahine January 28-30, Q Theatre, 305 Queen St, Auckland City Combining dance, waiata and mesmerising imagery, this show by the Okareka Dance Company celebrates the power women exert women through life and death. Visit www.okareka.com/mana-wahine.

Utatao

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Gypsy Jazz Duo – Fiona Pears & Connor Hartley-Hall February 14, OSPA Theatre, 24 Hall Road, Onewhero When Pears pairs up with a Hartley-Hall at a hall on Hall Road, audiences can expect they will make beautiful music together.

Violinist and composer Fiona Pears has become a re-sounding success over the past 15 years due (in part) to her fiery mix of tango and Gypsy jazz music; similarly, guitarist Connor Hartley-Hall is also known for his Gypsy jazz style. For more information about this concert contact OSPA via ospa.org.nz.

The Crooners February 16, from 11am, Pukekohe Town Hall, 14-16 Massey Ave, Pukekohe, and February 18, from 11am, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura Love to love love songs? If so, this is the show for you! Performed by an all-male cast, this show features top tunes sung by some of the world’s finest crooners of days gone by. See www.operatunity.co.nz/ concerts for more information.

■ ARTS Clevedon Art Trail January 30 – February 1 (Anniversary Weekend), various locations, Clevedon Winding its way through picturesque rural eastern Auckland, the Clevedon

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Art Trail showcases beauty in many forms. From painting and sculpture to ceramics and more, many a medium is showcased during this annual event. For further information, visit facebook.com/ clevedonarttrail or clevedonarttrail.co.nz.

■ SPORT, FITNESS, MOTORING & RACING Castrol Toyota Racing Series (rounds 1 & 2) Jan 22-24 & 28-30, Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, 20 Hampton Downs Rd, Te Kauwhata Hampton Downs hosts rounds one (which doubles as the New Zealand Grand Prix) and two before the series heads to Manfeild for the final race in February. For full details regarding the full five round series, see toyota.co.nz.

NZB Karaka Million January 23, from 3pm, Ellerslie Racecourse, 100 Ascot Ave, Remuera A race day that is well worth every penny implied by its name, the Karaka Million sees some of the top graduates from Karaka’s New Zealand Bloodstock Centre race for bragging rights and one of the richest purses this country’s racing industry can offer. And, of course, thanks to fashion, music and more, there will be entertainment off the track too. Further information via www.ellerslie.co.nz/newzealand-bloodstock-karaka-million.

Nicola

Photo Tim Stephenson

NZB Karaka Sales January 24-28, times vary, NZB Karaka Sales Centre, 10 Minau Rd, Karaka Champions of the future will go under the hammer during one of New Zealand’s most well-known bloodstock sales events.

From ‘sure things’ to ‘dark horses’ any one of these horses could go on to reap rich rewards indeed. See www.nzb.co.nz for more information.

Auckland Polo Club – Cambridge Homes Charity Day January 31, 10am-7pm, Auckland Polo Club, 102 Clevedon-Kawakawa Bay Rd, Clevedon ‘Blazing saddles’ anyone? With proceeds set to assist the Clevedon Volunteer Fire Brigade, this annual charity will, once again, see polo stars blazing bright. For more information see www.facebook. com/Aucklandpolo.

Yamaha NZ Festival of Freeride February 12-13, from 9am, Karioitahi Beach, Karioitahi Rd, Karioitahi Keen on taking a slow ride, taking it easy?

Feel free but once you reach Karioitahi Beach, Freeride will prove anything but!

From surfing to motocross, on water and off road action features during this event.

In addition, visitors can expect music and other entertainment during this familyfriendly fest’ offering much more than just a day at the beach.

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Luke

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Branch Manager

Macrae Higgie Rural Living — January-February 2021Bates —3

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from the

YOUNG ATHLETES TOP OF THEIR GAME!

athletes, including those who trailed in their events.

Wonderfully, both Pukekohe Amateur Athletic and Harrier Club and Waiuku Athletics Club had small teams there. Both did well with two Waiuku athletes, siblings Charli and Quinn Gardiner-Hall bagging several medals between them and Oliver Anderson from Pukekohe taking home two medals.

On reflection, I can say I had as much fun as those young competitors. I take my (sun) hat off to Colgate, the NZ Athletics Association, clubs, parents, volunteers, and of course, the athletes – you all contributed to a fantastic and successful three-day event. Well done!

Helen Perry, Editor

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of competing. Nevertheless, I became increasingly impressed by the amazing and committed performances given by hundreds of young people from 79 clubs.

Many results and times achieved were outstanding – it seems to me that New Zealand has some incredibly talented track and field athletes in the making. Here’s hoping their sport aspirations will continue to be fostered.

Of course, we were there to see our two grandsons take part for the first time. While neither came away with medals, our elder grandson made the semi finals of the Grade 11 boys 100 metre sprint finishing 15th out of 46. He also made the semi finals of his 200 metre sprint and finished 9th which would have made him the reserve for the final had he not inadvertently stepped out of his lane at one point which meant disqualification – a learning curve indeed!

But, neither boy disgraced himself.

Both achieved personal bests in several events and I, like others who watched family compete, was as proud as punch.

In particular, it was heart-warming to hear continual applause and loud encouragement from spectators for all

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ike many readers I marvel at how quickly we move from one year to the next. One minute we are talking Christmas, New Year and holidays; next, many of us are back at work.

The tinsel, baubles and glitter of just a few weeks ago are packed away for another 12 months, or rather 11 – that’s how quickly the weeks fly by!

Our office, like a great number of others, closed for three weeks with staff members making the most of the summer break.

After an enjoyable visit to New Plymouth early last year we (man about the house and I) decided to return this summer. We timed this year’s visit to coincide with the Colgate Games at Inglewood.

What a wonderful experience.

Established some 50 years ago, the games are held in January every year with two events – North and South Islands. Entry is open to children aged seven to 14 years who are members of athletic clubs affiliated to Athletics New Zealand.

However, they don’t have to be top athletes. While every event is professionally run and medals are given out, emphasis is on fun, sportsmanship and the joy

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GRILLED TO PERFECTION: A ‘grilling’ at work is nobody’s idea of fun but grilling at home – with a gathering of friends on hand – is just the thing for summer entertaining. What’s more, for great results, there’s nothing like charcoal cooking.

For flavour-packed, barbecue cuisine, Kingsford Charcoal Ambassador, Adam Roberts, offers some useful tips as well as a very yummy recipe for coffee-smoked barbecue beef short ribs (see pages 30-31) Time to opt for hot coals and put aside the gas, perhaps?

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Henry Jones – MADE TO ‘MALLET’

Keeping up with the Jones’ is no easy feat, especially on the polo field. However, with Clevedon set to host the BMW NZ Polo Open in February, JON RAWLINSON managed to catch up with a member of the Jones family long enough to discuss his passion for the sport.

H

enry Jones (the polo player, not the raider of lost arks!) is all apologies when he returns from a short, emergency interlude to wrangle some wayward sheep. He needn’t be, it’s due to those woolly wanderers paying their fair share of the bills that he and other family members are able to partake of polo. Covered in mud – it’s not just mud! – Henry completes the interview like the professional he is.

“Sorry about that,” he says, “But as you can see it wasn’t a trip to the pub!” We run a fair few sheep here, some got spooked and fell down into the creek so we were trying to save as many as we could. I try to avoid [working with] the sheep, they’re not my forte, I’m much better with the horses.”

Henry is pretty darn good with horses, as those who have seen him play polo would agree. For the past 10 years or so he has been chasing an (almost) endless summer, competing around the world, from South America, Australia and South Africa to the UK. “I’ve been to Argentina a lot but I’ve spent most of my time [when abroad] in England during [the Northern Hemisphere] summer. I haven’t been able to travel recently because of the pandemic, which has driven me crazy, especially as I missed most of the previous season due to a leg injury.”

Although this Clevedon local didn’t actually fall off his horse – the horse tripped and fell on top of him – he is now securely back in the saddle (when not chasing sheep!) and rearing to ride.

In addition to working on the family farm (Hololio), and helping manage its polo club, with no pro’ polo to go to abroad, Henry has employed another skill to help pay the bills.

“I’ve also been driving for a company called Premier Horse Transport. Not travelling, I just needed something else to keep me sane and make a bit of money over the winter,” he explains.

6 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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Henry is far from the only member of his family to compete at a top level; his cousin, Jeremy, also represents New Zealand, and his half brother and sister, Edward and Pia Elworthy-Jones are quickly making names for themselves.

And, although they no longer compete, Henry’s father, Nick, and uncle, Chris (who also raises ponies), are both accomplished former players.

While good breeding is important in producing champion ponies, it appears the Jones’ genetics have also assisted in developing champion players.

“I guess you could say that,” Henry laughs.

With regards to the ponies, he confirms one can’t underestimate the importance of the right mount.

“Easily eighty percent [of performance] is down to the pony. A good player without good horses won’t play well but even an ordinary player can do well with good horses,” he explains.

“Almost all of mine are former race horses which didn’t make it on the track.

We give them a new lease on life. It’s a big change so the right temperament and adaptability are definitely things we look for as well as manoeuvrability and a soft mouth – which basically means they have good brakes. Most race horses will have all these characteristics but, aside from speed, they’re not used to drawing on them.”

A recent addition to Henry’s highlight reel was a Test match in South Africa last year. However, another was taking part in The World Polo Championship in 2017, just the second time New Zealand has qualified for the tournament since its inception in 1987.

“Since first playing for New Zealand in 2012, in an under 21 team, I’ve played, roughly, about half a dozen games at various [age group] levels. There is an added thrill representing my country and I hope to do so again soon,” he says.

“I played the qualifying rounds for the World Champs in Thailand and then on to [the main event in] Sydney. We played Chile – which lost to Argentina in the final – in our first game. Drawing them first up meant it was always going to be tough.

We were knocked out in the pool stages but it was a great experience to play against the world’s best countries.”

The next World Polo Championship is scheduled for California in October and will feature international heavyweights including five-time champs, Argentina, Brazil (three wins), Chile (two), the USA and more. While New Zealand could qualify, they’d be considered a very dark horse to take top honours.

“I think it’s mainly down to the amount of polo played, and of the players; in some countries that’s what makes them so good. We wouldn’t be too far off the top 10 nations, potentially, and the game is growing here.”

In order for the game to grow further, more youngsters need to take part.

Ironically, considering his high school did not have a polo team, Henry began playing this ‘sport of kings’ while attending Kings College.

“I was a late starter; I rode a little but not a heck of a lot and didn’t start playing polo until I was a teenager. I think I was just interested in other things – I played cricket and hockey for a start.

On looking back, I wish I’d started polo earlier but, somehow, I think I’ve managed to catch up with others my age who have been riding and playing for longer.”

However, as polo is not necessarily a young man’s game, there will be plenty of time for this energetic and not at all ‘sheepish’ young sportsman, to make up for lost time “Depending on how many falls we have, and as long as we look after ourselves, we can play into our sixties,” he adds. “So, hopefully, I do have plenty of years left in me yet.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

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“Easily eighty percent [of performance] is down to the pony. A good player without good horses won’t play well but even an ordinary player can do well with good horses.”

POLO OPEN DOWN TO BUSINESS

g the Henry in action durin en.

2019 BMW NZ Polo Op

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Photos Lucy Ainsley

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Henry ‘Indiana’ Jones may still be content raiding lost arks in far flung corners of the world but Clevedon’s Henry Jones is seeking elusive prizes much closer to home as the accomplished young polo player seeks to achieve ‘high goals’ on home ground.

“I was in the Semco team which made the finals [at the BMW NZ Polo Open] in 2019 but I’ve never actually won it. I’m playing in my uncle’s [Chris Jones] team this time, along with Jeremy – I’ve probably played more against than with him in the past. I think we should stand a good chance but the competition’s always tough.”

Regardless of travel restrictions, Henry believes some of the world’s best players will be champing at the bit to take part in the competition.

“Especially if they’re coming from countries where they haven’t been able to play, and if polo is their livelihood they’ll definitely be keen to play here,” he contends. “Even if there are fewer players from overseas than usual, it will mean at least a few Kiwis, who wouldn’t normally play, will get an amazing opportunity. So, either way it’ll be a great tournament.”

Henry, Jeremy and other local and international players will take to the field on February 21; for more information about the Open visit www.nzpoloopen.com.

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 7

14/01/2021 3:59:35 PM

WHAT A

year it was!

Brian Neben publishes Rural Living and was a lifestyle farmer for many years

COUNTRY LAD

A

lot of people must be wondering where this year will lead.

After 12 months of pandemic pandemonium I’m not sure we all believe we’ve seen the last of Covid-19, but I’m looking on the positive side – we overcame the odds once, we can do it again!

Usually, at this time, I review columns of the past year but, as I sat down to write I wondered if I had much to reflect on especially as printing of Rural Living was halted during the first Covid-19 lockdown.

Yet, despite that, and a bout of illness which laid me low for a month, I was amazed at how much I’d found to talk about.

What’s more, while many matters pertained to country living, a number also addressed city dwellers – I guess I’ve become more aware of the latter since moving to the suburbs after many years living on a Runciman lifestyle block.

Back in February/March 2020, Aucklanders were facing a drought. At the time of writing we had just seen a great downfall but the ongoing weeks brought extended dry spells affecting water supplies for town and country. At the time, I provided water saving tips which could still be helpful now: ◆ Take quicker showers or go swimming.

Gym members use the facility’s showers. ◆ If it’s yellow, let it mellow! ◆ If car washing is essential use a bucket of

8 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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water not a hose. ◆ Water the garden at night to avoid evaporation. Try and use grey water (from the bath, laundry or dishes) for the garden.

Come March/April, Covid-19 had us in its grip. It sparked memories of the polio epidemic of 1947-48 when primary and secondary schools closed for several months, just as we did. Ironically, in that column I mentioned that the district officer of health warned against swimming at any Auckland harbour beaches from St Heliers Bay to the North Shore.

The waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours were thought to be polluted and bathing was considered most unwise – not so different from today although for different reasons. I recently heard that pollution levels at several Auckland city beaches were not good!

With our shift to the city, it seemed inevitable that my involvement in harness racing breeding would come to an end and I addressed this in a couple of columns.

While in the country, I bred 16 horses from just two mares which gave me great satisfaction and although I said we didn’t have any real champions, they were all champions to us. On the other hand, one or two did do pretty well on the race track.

As the year progressed and Covid-19 restricted many activities, I feared for the survival of Glenbrook Railway – thankfully it is still on track!

Mid-year gave us the good news that after two weeks without any new corona virus cases, NZ was moving to Alert Level 1. At the time, Reay and I were preparing for our first ‘inter-city’ move and viewed a house where the owners were moving to

the country. Readers may recall I felt a bit homesick especially when chickens were discussed.

As a result, August/September had me reminiscing about the first chickens we kept on our one acre Flat Bush property before moving to Runciman Rd where chooks were among our first purchase as well as six steers, some ewes and the first of my brood mares, the lovely Eliza Doolittle – I still miss collecting eggs each day!

With the second Auckland lock down, and no chance to move beyond our city limits, my thoughts again turned to harness racing. I still had one horse, Willsherocknroll, preparing to race. She was in the care of trainer Adrienne Matthews who said she was “coming along nicely”.

That cheered me no end.

As we headed into spring/summer, and the second lockdown had passed, I remembered a similar time at the end of the Second World War when there was food and petrol rationing. Yes, some things were short during Covid-19 but it was nothing like those post war years.

Then, as 2020 wound down, my thoughts turned to a long-held grievance – public sale of fireworks. I said then, and say now, ban them except for organised public displays! Our animals will thank us!

My final column took readers to my former home town, Tuakau. I featured an article borrowed from the Tuakau & Districts Museum covering the founding of the town’s once strong newspaper, The Press – it was a fitting end to the year from a long time newspaperman!

And, with that, it’s onwards with 2021 – here’s looking to a great year! – Go the Black Caps! www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 3:59:37 PM

– n o s e m a G ADY TO ‘RURAL’!

LET’S GET RalEand Rural Games is gearing up to deliver a fe12as-1t 4,of

arch rd Ranger New Ze next instalment (M e th s ct pe ex , Once again, the Fo er nd la ritage. ’ founder, Steve Hol e country’s rural he th on ht lig ot rural sport. Games sp a e to continue to shin Palmerston North)

“W

e’re New Zealand’s premier rural sports event,” he says. “[In 2020] more than 40,000 people attend the games to see rural athletes battle it out for bragging rights.”

In addition to shearing, fencing and timbersports, the Games also features more unusual contests covering everything from gumboot throwing to egg roulette. And, this year, it has even more on the agenda.

‘COUNTRY CLUBS’ PAR FOR COURSE It may be the perfect way to spoil a good walk for some but, to others, golf is a classic country pursuit.

“Golf is a big part of rural life, so it feels right to create the New Zealand Rural Games Golf Cup,” Steve Hollander, says.

“We’re a pretty unique, golf-obsessed country. You can find a golf course in nearly every town and settlement across the country and even some in the middle of nowhere.”

wages across the sector to rise,” organiser, Margaret Kouvelis, says.

“We have a once in a generation chance to encourage our young people into careers in rural areas which in For a full turn will help bring programme of Rural vibrancy back to the small towns and Games events visit settlements across our country.” www.ruralgames.

The Careers Day co.nz. will have a heavy focus on industry The golf tournament (open to bodies hosting such men’s and women’s grade players organisations as Beef + Lamb, with official NZ Golf handicaps) will be DairyNZ, HortNZ, the New Zealand held at the Manawatu and Palmerston Arborist Association, Fencing Contractors North Golf Clubs with a $5000 prize table.

Association of New Zealand, New Zealand Shearing Association and more.

“We are proudly rural and supportive of closing the urban rural gap and this event will help us achieve that,” Steve As New Zealand launches into recovery Hollander adds. “Rural New Zealand is mode, more willing workers will be on the rise again and we’re focused on needed across the primary industries. For ensuring young people from urban areas this reason, the next Rural Games will get to understand the opportunities and include a careers day. the unbeatable lifestyle that you can afford “Before Covid-19, there was a lot of in our towns and settlements across the demand for staff across rural New Zealand. country.”

That situation is exacerbated, causing

GAMES ON THE JOB

FED UP, GRUBB’S UP FOR COMMON GROUND ON WATER Two of rural New Zealand’s most wellknown advocacy groups had a meeting of minds late last year in efforts to build bridges over troubled waters.

“The meeting was pleasant, beneficial and long overdue,” Ray Grubb from New Zealand Fish and Game said of consultations with Federated Farmers. “[It was a] good starting point. Both parties agree there are lots of areas of commonality.”

In particular, water quality and access to freshwater sources are issues that affect members of both groups. Although they www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 9

haven’t always see eye-to-eye, a more productive relationship does appear to be developing, Andrew Hoggard from Federated Farmers asserts.

“Many of our members are also members of Fish & Game. And fishermen and farmers are very similar people.

We both love the outdoors and likely have more in common than we do in difference. It is pleasing that we have been able to come together and discuss those areas of shared interest and concern and think about ways in which we can work on those areas of difference.”

Differing opinions have seen some public spats between the organisations but, Mr Hoggard believes a better working relationship is in the best interest of both.

“We are not breaking out the marshmallows, lighting the camp fire, and singing “kumbaya” together, but we both recognise that an adversarial approach really only benefits lawyers.

We are not going to agree on everything, but we can at least disagree in a respectful manner that doesn’t vilify either farmers or fishers in the eyes of one another.”

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 9

14/01/2021 3:59:39 PM

of Agriculture, Not a lot! As Minister osecurity Rural Communities, Bi ’Connor (and more), Damien O ia as to his seldom alerts the med s, we have summer holiday plan onth’s little to report in this m ‘doings’ issue other than some from late last year.

WHAT’S UP

WITH D.O’C...

SOPI ON THE UP AND UP?

better despite the pandemic.

“The star performers this year include the horticulture sector.” Mr O’Connor said. Its export revenue is forecast to hit nearly $7.1 billion, an increase of 8.9 percent from the previous year. It’s driven by successful harvests in early 2020 and continued strong demand for our fresh fruit and wine.” The latest SOPI report is accessible via www.mpi.govt.nz.

With the world ‘coming out of its cage’ some expect our primary industries will be doing just fine, Mr Brightside (aka Damien O’Connor) expects.

“New Zealand’s success in combating Covid 19 – along with our solid elimination strategy – provides a good base from which to build back better than before,” the Minister of Agriculture said following the release of the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report in mid December.

The report forecasts food and fibre export revenue of more than $47.5 billion for the year ending June 2021, and a record $49.2 billion the following year.

“This strong performance is testament to the sector’s ability to adapt to keep businesses operating and workers in jobs.

Producers are working to keep staff and communities safe and provide food and fibre products for home and abroad.”

Although some primary industry sectors are experiencing downturns – including seafood, dairy, meat and wool – the report predicts that these sectors will rebound strongly. And, others have fared even

that journey.”

In partnership with farmers and Ballance Agri-Nutrients, the Government plans to turn $25 million in funding into $1.063 billion in benefits to New Zealand farmers by 2030.

“Our farmers and growers are among the most progressive in the world... This programme will contribute to these efforts across the country to further lower our emissions,” Mr O’Connor concluded.

WILL CLEAN GREEN GROW THE MONEY TREE?

DIRTY’ MONEY?

Glorious five-year plans may have been made famous by leaders of a less democratic nature but five-year partnerships are all the rage with our Labour government. The latest of these seeks to significantly reduce the food and fibre sector’s environmental footprint, while boosting economic growth and sustainability, Damien O’Connor expects.

“We know New Zealand’s food and fibres sector takes its responsibility to reduce its environmental impact seriously, and [the Future Ready Farms] programme represents our ongoing commitment to partnering with farmers and growers on

In the lead up to Christmas, many Kiwis may have forgotten World Soil Day on December 5 – we did! However, seldom one to miss a reason to dish out gifts (or get down to earth), Damien O’Connor didn’t.

“Our Government is committing $6.25 million for a nationwide project to expand S-Map,” Mr OConnor said in December.

S-Map combines soil sampling with digital mapping to aid primary industry sectors across issues including crop and pasture management, erosion, irrigation, drought resilience, and land valuation. The additional funding will help expand this project further.

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14/01/2021 3:59:40 PM

re,

his e

VET TALK

FACIAL ECZEMA – THE 3 W’S Dr Jennifer Stone BVSc (Dist.) outlines the risk of facial eczema now that summer is here and how to take the best prevention steps.

T

he New Year brings the need to start preparing for the 2021 facial eczema (FE) season. The last two summers have been (very) dry and therefore relatively mild FE seasons but we need to remain vigilant about preventing this disease.

When thinking about FE it is important to think about the 3 W’s – Warm, Wet and (W)rotten. n Warm = Facial eczema most commonly occurs once mean evening temperatures stay above 12 degrees celsius. n Wet = Moisture is needed for the fungus to grow, high humidity and showers of rain are ideal for fungal growth. n (W)rotten = Dead matter is the preferred breeding ground of the fungus which causes FE and, with the way the pastures have rapidly gone to seed this year, it is likely dead matter will be present in many pastures.

FE symptoms occur due to ingestion of fungal spores causing liver damage; this results in loss of appetite, skin peeling, shade seeking, agitation and deaths.

FE is a disease for which prevention is better than the cure. There are several possible strategies to prevent FE: ◆ Spraying pastures with a product to prevent fungal growth can be very effective but

CHECKLIST n Internal parasites – have a good worm control strategy in place for young stock with less immunity. Sheep, goats and alpacas need a drenching programme for barber’s pole. n Ticks – treat when these are visible or if they are rubbing or have large areas of hair loss. n Ryegrass staggers – can occur late November to the of April. Animals appear uncoordinated and may fall down if startled. There are some toxin binders and supplements available to reduce symptoms. Most will recover within 1-2 weeks when moved from affected pasture.

timing is crucial and can be tricky, especially if a rain shower washes away the product. ◆ Use of ‘safe’ pastures – the fungus which causes FE prefers to grow on ryegrass, therefore, crops such as turnips, maize, chicory, meal, PKE, and silage/baleage are considered ‘safe’ as these feeds will be low in FE spores. ◆ Supplementation with zinc, this has been the backbone of FE prevention for many years. Dry stock do not drink enough water for trough supplementation to be effective in moderate/high challenge seasons.

Therefore, bolus supplementation with products such as Faceguard is considered best. When given at correct doses zinc is very effective at preventing FE, but if too much is given, zinc can also be toxic so talk to us about the correct dose/bolus size if you are in any doubt.

WHEN TO SUPPLEMENT? FE in January occurs when we get ideal conditions, remember the 3 W’s.

FE season can go on longer than you think; don’t stop treatment too early.

Once you begin supplementation it takes 7-10 days for protective levels to be reached; leaving supplementation until you see cases is too late!

Monitor our website for spore counts in your area or, even better, bring a pasture sample into us for a count. Samples need to be about half a bread bag in size, cut the grass off at ground level without soil/ roots. Turnaround time is normally about 24 hours.

For more information, talk to your local Franklin Vets team.

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Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 11

14/01/2021 3:59:41 PM

Investment in cash crop THE GREEN, GREEN SPIRULINA OF HOME

S

hould a relatively new farming venture grow from strength to strength, we may soon (politely) suggest those seeking the source of New Zealand’s natural wealth best go ‘look in a lake’!

“Market research shows that consumers... are increasingly looking to add more plant-based protein in their diet and spirulina fits that trend nicely,” Justin Hall from NZ Algae Innovations explains.

“Our challenge is to find that sustainable point of difference that would make our spirulina a uniquely New Zealand product.”

With help from The Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures fund, NZ Algae Innovations expects to assess the viability of larger scale production of spirulina. All going well, a new primary industries sector worth more than $100 million a year could develop, Mr Hall expects.

“Spirulina has a very low carbon and water footprint, so it checks the sustainability box. By creating a healthy product with a limited environmental footprint, a new spirulina sector for New Zealand has the potential to support both community and environmental wellbeing.”

Usually cultivated in ponds or lakes, spirulina can also be grown on marginal land. High in protein and iron, it can be used in a range of foods once harvested and dried.

“Our research so far has included looking at how to incorporate spirulina into a range of added value food products. We’ve already been experimenting with creating whole dried spirulina sprinkles, which taste nutty – a bit like nori [dried seaweed], with the intent of attracting new consumers.”

Justin Hall.

“Given the effects of noise on animals, pristine soundscapes free from man-made noise are crucial to ensure effective conservation,” Tree Frog.

HUMAN DIN, ANIMAL IMPACT Cranking up the stereo may annoy the people next door but noise pollution can have wide ranging impacts on more often ‘overlooked’ neighbours, results from a recent UK study suggest.

“There are important implications to consider around noise pollution and the protection of wildlife,” Dr Hansjoerg Kunc from Queen’s University Belfast says. “[Our] research proves man-made noise is clearly disrupting [wildlife] from being able to hear and understand each other clearly, which has an impact on their future survival.”

The researchers analysed data from 31 animal species, including frogs and birds, gathered from experimental studies which exposed them to a wide range of man12 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 12

made noise that hampered their attempts to communicate.

They discovered that animals exposed to human-made noise had to adjust their acoustic signals when competing for mate attraction, to repel rivals and in parentoffspring communication, all of which have a crucial role in their survival For example, man-made noise could limit the correct assessment and change the outcomes of fights if larger individuals, producing low-frequency calls, increase the frequency of calls in response to noise which would prevent other individuals from assessing the size and thus fighting ability of males correctly. This is important for amphibians where body size is often

correlated with pitch.

A duck misunderstanding when another suggests he ‘duck!’ during hunting season is not the only negative consequence; if animals can’t communicate, the resulting loss of biodiversity could adversely affect people too.

“Given the effects of noise on animals, pristine soundscapes free from manmade noise are crucial to ensure effective conservation,” Dr Kunc concludes.

“There is no doubt that tackling humaninduced environmental changes, such as noise pollution, is a crucial societal and economic challenge that will ultimately determine the health of both ecosystems and organisms, including humans.” www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 3:59:42 PM

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Importantly, they are expected to significantly reduce the consumption of disposable gloves and hand disinfectants.

If stained, they can be machine washed up to 30 times without losing their antimicrobial properties.

Mr Räihä says the Hofler Biotech UT is a thin, shape-fitted, knitted glove with a touch screen feature.

“It [the glove] is like a second skin; you can wear it indoors and outdoors all day long,” he explains.

ow, here’s a handy development – gloves with a natural-based treatment, which eliminates viruses and bacteria by a minimum of 99%, have been fingered as a world first for Finnish company Hofler Oy. Timo Räihä, executive vice president at Hofler Oy, says the idea resulted from consumer needs especially during Covid19, “We felt it was really important to develop a glove which also had a protective function,” Mr Räihä says.

The natural-based antimicrobial nontoxic treatment of the glove is sustainably produced from side-streams of the forest industry. The treatment does not contain heavy metals or harmful chemicals and

Available for both women and men in several colours, the Hofler Biotech gloves will come to the market in January 2021 and can be pre-ordered from the hofler.fi online store.

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14/01/2021 3:59:43 PM

Longer lives,

HIVES TO THRIVE?

T

o ensure bumblebees are sharp and go about their (sorry, readers!) ‘buzzness’ with a new flick of their wings – especially during spring – the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has joined forces with a local grower. Life expectancy is key to the organisations’ plans.

“The queen bumblebee of a commercial hive lives for approximately 8-10 weeks and the hive winds down once the queen dies,” Dr Gunjan Gera from Gourmet Waiuku explains, “Our project will study various factors and compounds in conjugation with the bumblebee queens to see if we can extend the life of a hive to at least 12-18 weeks.”

Because bumblebees are often used for pollination in berryfruit crops, glasshouses, and other covered crop areas, hives that can thrive for longer should yield decided benefits for growers, MPI’s Steve Penno expects.

“Enhancing bumblebee [longevity and] activity would mean better pollination for growers, which means higher yields and better quality produce,” he says.

Backed by $160,000 (of the $400,000 required) from MPI’s Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures Fund, research will also seek to screen bumblebees for diseases, reduce inbreeding and control pests.

!

C O D ?

P U ’S T A H W – S T WAR ON PES Sometimes a (shuttle)cock up is not such a bad thing! In efforts to stop rats in their tracks, DOC (the Department of Conservation) is working on a cunning plan to drop biodegradable, shuttlecocksized traps from helicopters or drones.

“Traps are an important predator control tool, but current technology limits use,” Minister of Conservation, Kiri Allan, explains. “The aerial micro-trap is a new concept that is non-toxic and humane, and potentially cost-effective for suppressing rats over large areas and in remote and difficult to access locations.”

Armed with government funding of $1.3 million over five years, developers of the trap, Goodnature, will now look to develop and test a prototype, in collaboration with DOC, in hopes of helping to win the war on rodents.

“Each year millions of our native taonga—birds, bats, lizards, frogs and insects—are killed by rats,” Ms Allan adds.

“We need to innovate to create new tools and transform our ability to remove predators to enable Papatuanuku and our native species to thrive.”

14 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 14

bbie van Dam, Kiri Allan (left) with Ro ) and Amber ure nat od (Go nd Craig Bo Bill (DOC). www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 3:59:44 PM

Forklift roadshows

AIM TO RAISE SAFETY AWARENESS Operating a forklift might look easy-peasy but between 2013 and 2020 Worksafe New Zealand recorded 11 fatalities and some 127 injuries resulting from forklift accidents.

I

n a move to promote forklift safety and prevent accidents, Worksafe will tour the country from February to April 2021 highlighting technology to keep workers safe.

The roadshows will include drone, video and CCTV footage from live operating environments to demonstrate the everyday risks forklift operators encounter, discussion to support safe use of vehicles and demonstrations from companies who have developed proximity warning devices.

WorkSafe’s director of engagement and implementation, Angela Mansell says the proximity warning devices are expected to be a highlight.

“Health and safety solutions can be

hard to conceptualise on paper. This gives those who use forklifts in their workplace the chance to see them in action and interact with the tech,” Ms Mansell says.

“The objective of these roadshows is to increase levels of knowledge and understanding of risks and risk management for operators, site workers

and businesses working with forklifts.”

WorkSafe says other forklift safety discussion would cover controls such as exclusion zones, operator training and maintenance of forklifts.

The roadshows are free of charge to anyone keen to improve their safety awareness around forklifts, particularly forklift operators, health and safety managers and health and safety representatives.

Roadshows close to Pukekohe include: ◆ February 17, 2021, Aotea Centre, Auckland CBD. ◆ February 18, 2021, Vodafone Events Centre, Auckland south. ◆ February 25, 2021, Novotel Hotel, Hamilton.

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RLJanFeb 2021.indd 15

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 15

14/01/2021 3:59:46 PM

FARMERS UNDER PRESSURE,

no satisfaction?

F

armers have been feeling the impact of a double-edged sword (or ploughshare) of late – as pressure from banks appears to have eased, dissatisfaction with them among farmers grows, explains Andrew Hoggard from Federated Farmers.

“Banks put the pressure on farmers to reduce their debt when commodity prices are good [in order] to put them into a better position to weather the next downturn. There is also a trend by banks to diversify agricultural lending from dairy to other sectors, especially horticulture,” he says with regards to findings in the

latest Federated Farmers Banking Survey.

“Banks have been trying to reduce their exposure to agricultural lending as it is considered ‘risky’, including by the Reserve Bank... agricultural debt has been squeezed down and dairy farming has been bearing the brunt, with dairy debt down almost $2 billion over the past year.”

The survey reveals members’ satisfaction with banks continues a threeyear slide, from 80.8% in November 2017 and 68.5% (in May this year) to 65.4%.

However, there has also been a slight drop in the number of farmers feeling

under pressure – from 19.3% in May to 18.4% – to pay off debt. Postponement of the Reserve Bank’s stiffer bank capital requirements could be an explanation for this, Mr Hoggard contends.

Despite a feeling of pressure easing since peaking at 23.2% in November 2019, it remains higher than in earlier years of the survey when it ranged from just 5-10%.

In terms of farming sectors, dairy farmers appeared to be under the most pressure from banks (24.9%), followed by arable farmers (23.3%) and meat & wool farmers (10.3%).

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14/01/2021 3:59:47 PM

BEEF AND LAMB

better off ‘red’?

A

side from the fact that, in many Kiwi households, if we don’t eat our meat we can’t expect any pudding, beef and lamb offer other benefits too, a new study aims to prove.

“We know there are myths and misinformation about the production and benefits of eating red meat, so we have turned to research to help bring balance,” Sirma Karapeeva from the Meat Industry Association says. “Nutritionists

tell us moderate amounts of red meat can be an important part of a wellbalanced diet, and [new] research aims to build on the evidence that underpins this.”

Researchers from AgResearch, the Riddet Institute and the University of Auckland are undertaking studies to assess the physical effects on the body from various diets, as well as monitoring satisfaction, sleep and stress levels.

Results will help grow demand for

pasture-raised, ‘natural’ beef and lamb, Ms Karapeeva expects.

“Research shows there is untapped global demand for natural beef and lamb raised on grass pastures and consumers are prepared to pay a premium for it,” she adds. “New Zealand farmers have... a strong point of difference against many of our international competitors. The red meat sector is working hard to ensure [their] story is heard by consumers around the world.”

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adm Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 324 2571 Auckland: Christchurch:03 324 2571 09 2385138 Auckland: 324 2571 09Auckla 2385 ww admin@drilling.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.n admin Christchurch:03 324 2571 Nationw Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 324 2571 Christchurch:03 Auckland: 324 2571 09 2385138 Auckland: 324 2571 09 Auckland: 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz www.drilling.co.nz Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 324 2571 Auckland: Christchurch:03 324 2571 09 2385138 Auckland: 324 2571 09Auckland: 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz 09 2385138 www.drillin admin@drilling.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz admin@drilling.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz admin@mcdni.co.nz Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 324 2571 Christchurch:03 Auckland: 324 2571 324 09 Auckland: 2385138 2571 Auckland: 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz www.dri Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 324 2571 Christchurch:03 Auckland: 324 2571 09 324 Auckland: 2385138 2571 09 Auckland: 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz www.drilling.co Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 Christchurch:03 324 Christchurch:03 324 2571 Christchurch:03 2571 Christchurch:03 Auckland: 324 Auckland: 324 2571 2571 09 324 Auckland: 2385138 09 324 2571 Auckland: 2385138 2571 Auckland: 09 2385138 Auckland: 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz 09 2385138 www.drilling.co.nz www.drilling.co.nz www.drilling.co.n www.drillin Christchurch:03 324 2571 Auckland: 09 2385138 www.drilling.

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KAT6699-v2

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Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 17

14/01/2021 3:59:48 PM

Take me to the river His name is synonymous with local retail royalty but now Chad Keven is sprouting a new family business from the roots up. ANGELA KEMP spoke to Chad and his partner, Hayley Graham, about a growing concern.

Chad Keven and Hayley Graham.

I

t’s nearly six years since Stu Keven retired and shut shop on Keven’s department store, omnipresent on Pukekohe’s King Street for 89 years.

Son, Chad worked there on and off for more than 10 years, learning curtain and blind making, a skill he still occasionally uses in high density housing developments in Auckland.

From his childhood, he remembers the higgledy-piggledy layout of the old Keven’s department store where carpets were stored and cut in the building’s top floor.

“They were massive rolls which had to be craned and hoisted up to the third floor. I even have one of the hoists at the nursery,” Chad says.

Now, alongside Hayley he’s helping to build a successful plant nursery on 12 acres opposite the Waikato River on River Road, Tuakau.

Aptly named River Road Nursery, the business is well supported by locals and visitors keen to get their green fingers on

18 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 18

its horticultural delights.

Chad wears a lot of hats at the nursery; he’s just finished welding huge tables for the propagation area, he makes a delicious coffee in the container coffee shop, handles the mulch deliveries and does the summer watering (usually in the evenings) among many other roles.

He says the site was a complete bombsite when they started – “there was junk everywhere, rubbish buried everywhere, a friendly family of rats, buildings falling down, piles of rock, sand and weeds and more than 30, 25m pine trees to cut down.

“Then we had to install drains, create a carpark, put up a gate, set up a shop and landscape the gardens, the growing areas, [and create] shelter…. It was a massive job.

“We have taken great pride in improving what was a former industrial wasteland.

Although it was difficult, we can stand back and enjoy what we have done.

We especially love the gardens and re-vegetation of neglected areas.”

Future projects include developing an orchard and building a shade house.

In the meantime, the nursery stocks everything you would expect from a garden centre – veggie seedlings, fruit trees, roses and shrubs, hedging, cottage garden perennials and cheap and cheerful annuals.

Every sale includes a healthy dose of free advice from the knowledgeable Hayley on the care of purchases.

“We are in the process of working on a ‘vertically integrated business model’ so, growing more for our own supply,” says Hayley. “Horticulture is one of the few industries where you can either be fully interdependent with other nurseries or grow only your own stock.

“We have been doing a mixture of both but will grow more of our own in future.

We have a great plastic house and are propagating more and more all the time.

“Our houseplant range is expanding and we have rolled out our house plant babies range priced at $3 which is a great price www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 3:59:50 PM

for anyone keen to get into houseplants.”

Originally from Gisborne, Hayley started working in a garden centre at age 19 then went on to study at Tairawhiti Polytechnic in Gisborne.

“After that I wanted to learn more so I completed a Diploma in Horticulture via correspondence through Massey University while still working full time at nurseries in Gisborne and Pukekohe.”

While caring for their three young children, Hayley began growing plants at the family home in Tuakau before opening the garden centre nearly three years ago.

“The nursery seemed a natural progression, plus there was no other plant shop in Tuakau,” she says.

Passionate about seeing plants progress and flourish, she says she reaps huge benefits from caring for them plus seeing other people’s interest also grow. ”I love seeing plant combinations come together and I have an appreciation for all plants; there is always something www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 19

interesting or magical about them.”

Hayley’s seen demand for houseplants soar and now stocks more than 100 different indoor plants, many of them propagated by herself.

“It’s difficult keeping up with demand which is one of the reasons we started the plant babies range.”

The spiralling cost and veracity for houseplants nationwide has shown itself at River Road Nursery too. Chad recalls a recent sale of a gold variegated Monstera – “we thought it was a runt and sold it cheaply only to see similar plants being sold soon after for $500!”

Also an agent for NZ Vertical Gardens, the nursery has stunning living walls on display at jaw-dropping prices.

Needless to say, running the nursery and caring for their boys – 12-year-old, Jai, 10-year-old Albie and Finn (8) – leaves little time for tending their own home garden.

“Our garden at is natural/neglected, depending on your style of gardening,”

laughs Hayley. “Kind of like the plumber with a dripping tap. I guess we just spend too much time tending to plants and gardening at work.

“However, over the years we have spent time focusing on vegetable gardening and growing food. We have planted, and are still growing, limes, lemons, peaches, apples, plums, nectarines, figs, pears, elderberry, bananas, hops, and grapes.”

A real Chad of all trades, Chad has held many jobs in a variety of occupations other than Keven’s – the wine industry, retail, process engineering (in-vessel composting) and light rail engineering.

But these days, the nursery is allconsuming and apart from it’s day-to day business, it has also hosted several local fairs.

“We now feel there is a real River Road Nursery community,’ Hayley says.

“It’s great to know quite a few of our customers well and and to greet them personally. The aim now is to continue delivering the products they need.”

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 19

14/01/2021 3:59:53 PM

1st Nature (Open – Brody Edwards

uth)

ination (Yo 1st Play and Imag n – Jaxon Hazlema

) 1st Nature (Adult – Natalie Hansen

section)

Local shutterbugs SHOW THEIR SKILL

In an age when many people are often most focused on smartphones, tablets and computers, in Te Kauwhata (and surrounds) locals have turned their eyes to photography, zooming in on the wonders around them.

N

ow for the second year, the township’s Toi Ako Artspace has come up trumps with its community photography competition which attracted 275 images across three sections – nature, play and imagination and an open class. Each allowed for adult and youth entries including a people’s choice winner, some of which are featured here in Rural Living.

Event organiser, Lauren Hughes sees photography is an extremely accessible art form and says, “we run the competition as

a free event with photographers entering their work digitally to remove as many barriers as possible to participation.

“It is wonderful to showcase our local talent, which includes a number of trained professional photographers as well as passionate amateurs. What is even more rewarding is seeing the joy it brings to the community to see itself reflected in the exhibition.

“It has been an incredibly tough year for everyone and it is encouraging to know that so many in our community can still

spot those small moments of beauty or interest in the everyday that make a great photo.”

A panel of three local judges selected 60 finalists whose works will be exhibited in the Te Kauwhata Library throughout this summer.

Entries for For more this year’s information on Toi competition Ako’s programmes will open in contact Lauren at October.” artstekauwhata@ gmail.com

KAT5314-v23

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14/01/2021 3:59:55 PM

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Made from natural ingredients and real wood, resulting in an authentic smoky flavour, Kingsford Charcoal Briquettes come in four delicious flavours – Original, Applewood, Mesquite and

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Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 21

14/01/2021 3:59:57 PM

LEISURELY START TO

new year

Reay Neben is the publisher of Rural Living

CITY LASS

W

It was a great day but at 11pm it had to stop so off to bed they went.

I must say, that as each car left, my age was really showing and Brian and I spent Boxing Day recovering. Not sure if it will happen again next year; at least not in quite the same way.

One of our plans during the holidays was to catch the ferry from Half Moon Bay into the city. We managed to fit this into our not busy schedule. The ferry ride only took about forty minutes and on route we were lucky to see some of the America’s Cup yachts out practising. It was very exciting seeing them fly by.

We arrived at the Ferry Building in town and because of all the fencing and road works we decided not to eat at The Viaduct but instead opted to head for the new Commercial Bay straight across the road. That was a really fascinating

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shopping centre with the most amazing food.

We decided to have whitebait fritters and three oysters as a treat; it was super.

When we finished eating, we crossed over Quay St and enjoyed a gelato ice cream before heading back on the ferry – three and a half hours from start to finish and a view of the sailing again on the way back – wonderful.

Today is my first day back at the office and I have already been out to Sanctuary Dental to have my teeth sorted so this column is my first piece of real work. After I finish it, I will probably go home and think more seriously about working tomorrow.

As the saying goes, ‘baby steps’.

And, that’s me for this first issue of Rural Living but I would like to wish all our loyal readers and advertisers a Happy New Year and let’s make 2021 a truly great year.

KAT5593-V35

ell, 2020 is done and now we head happily into 2021.

What a wonderful break we had over this holiday period. I had made a plan to do all sorts of things I have wanted to do for ages and I did just one of them. It’s amazing when you have time to spare there is always tomorrow and that’s what happened. I read lots of books which, for me, indicates a good holiday and I did go out for the occasional lunch.

Firstly, Christmas was back at our place for the first time in two years; when I was sick it didn’t happen. Now, to have the whole family together was truly fun. We hosted lunch but this year I cheated and did My Food Bag Christmas Bag. It was decided by the girls in the family that we should prepare most of it on Christmas Eve. That was a very good idea except to say that with everyone staying overnight, Christmas began with fish and chips for dinner on Christmas Eve. A lot of noise and partying was done and we still had the next day to come!

However, the food was all prepared and at 11am the champagne corks were popped.

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James Norcliffe & Emily Walker (illustrator): The Revenge of the Tooth Fairy | RRP $17.99 | Puffin

MILLY, MOLLY AND LILY – BOXED SET

THE 130-STOREY TREEHOUSE

Often drawing on her farming background, Kiwi author Gill Pittar has become well known for her books about Milly and Molly, who may be different in some ways but, in others, are as alike two peas in a pod. Now, a new character, Lily, is discovering that she is the perfect addition to this adventurous trio. To mark Lily’s introduction, a new boxed set (featuring seven books) is available along with an interactive app.

The latest storey in the continuing story of a treehouse that offers much more than we could possibly imagine, The 130-Storey Treehouse is on the ‘up and up’ again. Now featuring a soap-bubble blaster, a time-wasting level, a toilet paper factory, a room full of mechanical grandparents and much more, children’s literature’s most imaginative abode has grown to new heights!

Gill Pittar, Ge Bing & Zhao Xiaoyu (illustrator): Milly, Molly and Lily Boxed Set | RRP $49.99 | Milly Molly Children’s Publishing Group

Andy Griffith & Terry Denton: The 130-Storey Treehouse | RRP $17.99 | Macmillan Publishers

LIVING LIGHTLY – THE BUSY PERSON’S GUIDE TO MINDFUL CONSUMPTION

HERE TODAY, GONE TOMORROW

Summer

READS BEST DAY WALKS NEW ZEALAND “Lace up your boots, slap on a hat and take a big gulp of water – New Zealand’s best day walks are waiting”! The world can wait, with a little help from this book we can get out and explore our own glorious big back yard. From Abel Tasman National park, to Northland’s Twilight - Te Werahi Loop and all parts in between, this book offers a detailed guide to 60 walks throughout the country as well as plenty of practical tips.

Lonely Planet: Best Day Walks New Zealand | RRP $36.99 | Lonely Planet www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 23

Ever feel weighed down by life? It’s time to lighten up! A book designed for those who reduce their impact on the world around them and make the most of what they have, Living Lightly offers a wide range of practical hacks designed to simplify life and our homes.

Nicola Turner: Living Lightly – The Busy Person’s Guide to Mindful Consumption | RRP $45 | HarperCollins NZ

Ironically completed during lockdown, this book charts a Clark’s Beach author’s travels (along with a friend, a campervan and a sense of adventure) throughout Europe in the early 2000s. Featuring some delightful (and even frightful!) escapades, Here Today, Gone Tomorrow is an autobiographical travelogue based on the often amusing experiences of two retired women determined to take on the world. This book is available via Amazon and Book Depository. Visit www. elaineblicknznovelist.com for details.

Elaine Blick: Here Today, Gone Tomorrow | RRP $20 | Strategic Book Publishing and Rights Co Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 23

14/01/2021 4:00:01 PM

Thrill-seeker BRANCHES OUT

ure travel If the past 12 months has harnessed advent offered a for many go-getters then this summer has close to fresh opportunity to swing into action – all . home as MANDY GUNDERSEN discovered

Z

ipping through the trees some 30 metres off the ground might not be everyone’s idea of fun but the flight path at Bombay’s Adrenalin Forest is certain to excite those who enjoy an adrenalin rush.

Officially opened in December of 2019, this challenging ropes course, hidden in an old quarry, never really got off the ground (so to speak) – Covid-19 put a halt to that.

Then, when the first lockdown was over and winter set in, it was decided to wait until spring before re-opening. As it turned out, a second lockdown proved that decision to be wise.

By September last year the adventure playground was up and running so, come the Christmas school holidays, I, and my 11-year-old son, were dead keen to test the ‘high’ wires and see if we could make it through all six levels (plus two ‘b’ levels) within three hours – an ambitious task!

Being quite a thrill-seeker without being a true daredevil, I love the mental challenge of overcoming fears and pushing physicals limits…as long as I’m in no real danger. This attitude seems to have rubbed off on my eldest son, Blake, who has become my partner in all things adventurous.

Furthermore, because we had both completed similar clip and climb obstacle courses in the past, we didn’t anticipate any difficulty learning the ropes here.

24 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 24

Subsequently, after a thorough rundown with safety instructions, we felt ready to conquer Adrenalin Forest.

We were in for a shock. The course was high, and I quickly reassessed my expectations that this would be a straightforward clamber.

Comprising six difficulty levels, as well as two alternative ‘b’ courses at levels two and three, I immediately realised that the top two levels would provide more than a decent test of ability, strength and courage.

I was also impressed by how aesthetically unobtrusive it all seemed.

The long and varied aerial course was set perfectly into its woodland setting, incorporating many natural climbing elements as well as excellent shade for participants and spectators.

Instructor, Tristan, was clearly knowledgeable and competently managed our group, which included three other young children.

There was a knack to ‘clipping-on’ but ample opportunities to practice the technique. It was also reassuring to know that the first three levels could be completed using “quick connectors” if we struggled to clip-on.

After assessing the obstacles, Blake and I were confident to make a start and had three hours to climb as far as we could.

‘Easy.’ I thought. But… not so easy!

The first two levels were straightforward (ideal for beginners). However, we opted to also tackle levels 2B and 3B to ensure we were fully confident before progressing. In hindsight I might have skipped these two in order to maintain my strength for higher and more demanding levels.

Importantly, the early obstacles were varied and interesting, requiring sufficient focus so that I quickly forgot I was up in the air.

Course 3 required more daring and we encountered some exciting and quite different obstacles such as the hanging rings by which we travelled ‘Tarzan style’ from one platform to a cargo net with only one foot braced in a small metal ring.

As we progressed further, Blake had one minor fall, mid-obstacle. It was quickly dealt with by Tristan who had him back on the platform ready to continue in minutes. Afterwards, my son said that his little slip actually gave him confidence that the harness would hold if he fell again. It spurred him on.

However, much as it pains me to admit, Adrenalin Forest got the better of me, physically. Having completed courses 1, 2, 2b, 3 and 3b I was starting to tire but was determined to go on.

Level 4 (a leap up in difficulty) began with a cargo net climb. The net was freeswinging and reclipping was required every www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 4:00:02 PM

CLIMB EVERY…

TREETOP!

few rungs. On reaching the top my arms were done and after traversing this level’s sixth obstacle, the rope bridge, I knew I didn’t have the muscle strength to go one rope further.

As lead instructor Kimberley Waldek later said – “your mind was willing but the body said, enough.”

Instead, I enviously watched Blake complete a further three obstacles, including the Commando Flying Fox, before declaring himself bruised with muscles on fire.

I don’t take defeat lightly. I loved the challenge of this course and both Blake and I are set to give it another crack especially after watching other high climbers swinging with great agility into Level 5.

We plan to return over the summer but will bypass the initial stages to ensure our muscles go the distance.

We’ll begin where we left off – at Level 4 – and I like to think we will make it to the end even though the final two levels are high – very high.

It’s possible I may have to settle for giving it my best shot.

But Blake assures me that although we aren’t SAS material – yet – by again tackling this amazing treetop arena with its exacting set of physical (and mental) challenges, we will, indeed, scale new heights! www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 25

From hanging barrels, and lateral logs through to floating islands, a giant ‘spider’s web’ and two 100 metre flying foxes, Adrenalin Forest’s many obstacles will put daredevils to the test.

Importantly, the ropes course, with its various levels of difficulty, can also inject new confidence into the not so brave.

Instructors, headed by operations manager, James Pegg and lead instructor, Kimberley Waldek, both come from a background of outdoor activities. James has worked at Camp Adair in the Hunua Ranges, at camps in the USA and, more recently at an adventure centre in South Australia.

On the other hand, Kimberley rides and snowboards and, for the past two years, has been an instructor at the Lakewood Lodge adventure and confidence-building camp in Glen Murray.

“I’m loving this new environment which really makes use of my skills,” she says. “Not a day goes by when we aren’t tackling some part of the course and every two weeks, James and I test the whole course completely.

“The safety equipment is the best I’ve seen and it’s great to see such a variety of climbers leaving here feeling exhilarated regardless of what level they have achieved.”

Built around a bowl structure within a former quarry, Adrenalin Forest offers more than 100 individual obstacles across the six main levels and two sub levels.

“There’s something for most ages and abilities,” James says. “Our oldest climber

was 78 and loved it.”

With three hours to try and complete the entire course, James says total success is possible especially for those who are fit and strong.

“However, many are content to complete three to four levels in their time frame and still feel they have gone beyond their own expectations. Generally, we see them back to complete the course at a later date.”

In addition to individuals and family groups who come to test their skill, James adds that many companies use the course for team building or just for a fun work social.

With plenty of outdoor tables to accommodate spectators, and those who have ‘done their dash”, he says barbecues are permitted but must be arranged with management beforehand.

“We share the site with the Franklin Archery Club and, although it operates on different times than ourselves, we are in a forest too so, safety is always of prime importance.”

With three other sites across the country (Christchurch, Wellington and the Bay of Plenty) the Auckland site may be relatively new but James says word has spread and it is attracting visitors from far and wide.

“Whether looking for a confidence booster or a test of both body and strength of mind then Adrenalin Forest, with its many unexpected twists, seems to be meeting all expectations. Climb to 30 metres and the adrenalin is red-lining!”

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 25

14/01/2021 4:00:04 PM

IT’S A NEW

beginning!

This time last year I was welcoming in a new year never realising what was ahead not just for Alberts but for the whole country. Who of us could have foreseen the year which was to come?

• • • •

A JU1518

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PUKEKOHE

Tristan de Chalain Limited 10 West Street Pukekohe Tel: 09 522 0652

fter see-sawing between lockdowns, working to keep up businesses, schooling children at home and managing all those necessary daily jobs which needed attention – pandemic or no pandemic – amazingly New Zealand came through it all. And, Alberts did too – stronger and more determined than ever to stay on the up and up. Now, my team and I are looking forward to a fresh year in which we take care of our clients and the planet too!

At the forefront of hairdressing, both in Pukekohe and previously in Papakura, for more than 23 years Alberts has strived to provide service and expertise parallel to any salon in the inner city and surrounding suburbs – our vision has been to create ‘beautiful, wearable hair’ for everyone!

However, we have also been committed to sustainability.

Caring for the environment has been at the heart of every product we stock and every brand we partner with; we want to leave the planet in the best shape possible for future generations.

For me Covid-19 highlighted the need to again look after our world and for my industry to play its part in doing so. That’s why Alberts is aligned to forward thinking companies, such as Kevin Murphy, which share the same vision and can create change.

In particular, I am aware of the damage chemical and plastics can do and, subsequently, Alberts is a Certified Sustainable Salon bent on reducing harmful materials. By recycling paper, metals and chemicals and keeping plastics in circulation instead of filling landfills, we can do our bit to conserve, preserve and protect.

The past year was tough, but in true Alberts style, we managed to rise above the difficulties and, hopefully, provided our clients with a salon where FOR they could feel safe and pampered.

ADVICE AND Importantly, while continuing to help APPOINTMENTS sustain the planet we also aim to sustain beautiful hair for our clients. As a new year CONTACT MY TEAM AT ALBERTS HAIR begins, we hope to keep you all looking SALON. wonderful – come and see us!

TAURANGA

Tristan de Chalain Limited Suite 9, Promed House 71 Tenth Ave, Tauranga South Tel: 09 522 0652

NEW PLYMOUTH

Tristan de Chalain Limited Care First Building 99 Tukapa Street, New Plymouth Tel: 027 431 5152

For enquiries and bookings contact: Alberts Hair Salon Shop 2/23 Hall St, Pukekohe Ph: 09 238 7576 Shop online at: www.alberts.co.nz

Visit our website www.plassurg.co.nz or email reception@plassurg.co.nz KAT5898-v2

26 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 4:00:05 PM

W

g!

er

hole

PLASTIC FANTASTIC

swimwear

A former Air NZ aeronautical designer and a fashion model-turned-cardiologist have flown into the heart of manufacturing with their sustainable swimwear label, Cinnamon Swan.

U

sing fabric made from recycled plastic bottles with off cuts from the production process upcycled into matching accessories, co founders, Geoff Gates and Anneline Helms, met by chance in Croatia.

They soon realised their respective skills could be used to develop a new fashion venture with export potential.

Geoff says the premium brand is designed to appeal to an ethicallyconscious consumer who still has a passion for fine design and individuality.

Previously a designer of multi-million dollar interiors on private jets as well as Boeing, Airbus and Air New Zealand

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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aircraft, he says his design skills are complementary to that of business partner, Anneline, also the company’s director of fashion.

Anneline’s years of experience as an international model for labels such as Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Swarovski before she pursued a career in cardiology, have helped shape the new accessorised clothing line.

The pair agree that in e-commerce fashion sector targeted by Cinnamon Swan, the level of consideration and detail put into packaging is just as important as that needed for the clothing itself.

“The ethos of the brand lies in both

Geoff Gates and Annaline Helms.

sustainability and luxury,” Geoff says.

“While the swimwear material contains plastic bottles, the export packaging has also been carefully designed to be entirely free of plastic. Even the hang tags don’t use plastic attachments and, thanks to another locally sourced innovation, we also have a recycled, water-activated tape to seal our boxes.

The company launched in time for the New Zealand and Australian summer before focusing on the European, US and Chinese markets.

Initially, the line will be distributed through their website and via a new Instagram store.

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28 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

www.ruralliving.co.nz BC0283

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14/01/2021 4:00:07 PM

MANAGE THE

busyness of life Throughout 2020, worry and stress saw many people lacking a good night’s sleep. Essential to good health, long-term effects of sleep deprivation can lead to less engagement with the important things in life such as children, your partner, friends, or your job.

N

ow, Nutra-Life’s BalanceME 30 Day Programme pack is formulated to help those feeling tired to rediscover energy, focus and a zest for life.

The pack includes a 60-capsule bottle of Nutra-Life’s Magnesium Sleep, access to the BalanceME online portal, a chance to win a Sleepyhead Chiropractic HD bed, an eye mask, and a copy of the BalanceME programme all aimed at helping users get more shut-eye.

The capsules combine Magnesium amino acid chelate with sleep supporting herbal extracts – passionflower, lemon balm, schisandra and hops, ingredients to help you to fall asleep, sustain sleep throughout the night by relaxing muscle

So, head to your local Life Pharmacy, Unichem or lifepharmacy.co.nz to start your journey towards a more balanced lifestyle.

Nutra-Life BalanceME 30-Day Programme Pack (RRP$19.99).

self-guided programme aims to educate and equip users with a catalogue of resources and expert information to help with eating, sleeping and moving more effectively.

After purchasing, just register online to gain access to the full content. The activation code is in the booklet inside each pack and once put in motion your 30 days begin automatically although lifetime access to all programme content will be granted once your 30 days have finished.

tension and then wake feeling refreshed.

The programme addresses what we eat, how we move, and how we approach sleep and, in particular, demonstrates how magnesium helps convert food into energy, helps to create and repair DNA, and helps regulate neurotransmitters, which send messages throughout the brain and nervous system.

Diets often need to be supplemented with magnesium as it naturally depletes in times of stress, intense exercise or poor diet. It also depletes with age as the body loses its ability to store and absorb it, which can accelerate the ageing process Nutra-Life’s BalanceME 30 Day Programme offers tools needed to prioritise a healthy sleep schedule. The

“Dentures can be a nightmare when they are not fitting well. Worn dentures may cause discomfort when eating or speaking.”

DENTURE SERVICES • • • • • • •

Full Top and Bottom Sets Full Set (same day service)* Partial Acrylic dentures Flexible Partial Dentures Metal Partial Dentures Denture Repairs Denture Relines

• Denture Polishing & Cleaning • Hospital Visits • Home Visits • Custom Sport Mouthguards • Denture Modifications

Problems that may be associated with poor fitting dentures are: • Mouth Ulcers • Headaches • Tissue Irritation • Painful Jaw • Poor Aesthetics • Incorrect Bite • Affected Speech • Loss of Self-Confidence

BOOK A FREE DENTURE CONSULTATION PAPAKURA

257C Great South Road, Papakura

BOMBAY

362 Hillview Road, Bombay

JU1567

www.ruralliving.co.nz

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 29

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14/01/2021 4:00:09 PM

FIRE UP YOUR

barbecue skills!

Barbecues are as much as part of the Kiwi summer as lazing at the beach, hiking our walking trails, wine tasting and more.

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ot everyone has the magic touch when it comes to producing that perfect steak or snags on a charcoal grill – often said to be the best.

So, Kingsford Charcoal Ambassador, Adam Roberts, co-founder of the Australasian Barbecue Alliance and the NZ Barbecue Alliance, who has trained hundreds of barbecue competition judges, offers these tips for great barbecue results: ◆ Season your meat – Many folk forget to season meat properly before adding it to the grill. Applying a decent sprinkle of kosher salt, fresh cracked black pepper and a pinch of brown sugar to the meat a few minutes before cooking can turn a good steak into an amazing steak. ◆ Quality in means quality out – There’s no benefit to spending good money on quality meat if you use the cheapest charcoal to fire up your grill.

I recommend an all-natural charcoal product which will greatly enhance the flavour of your food; my favourite is

Kingsford Charcoal briquettes. They’re made from real wood char and give off a balanced and clean smoky flavour, making a difference to the end product. ◆ Get the right tools – Invest in a quality charcoal smoker or grill and a digital thermometer to improve the quality of your barbecue food. There are many versatile barbecues on the market but finding the right one for your preferred cook method and style can be tricky. By joining an online social group, you can fast-track your learning; ask the group about the best model to buy for your lifestyle, space and budget. ◆ Experiment – Practice makes perfect and experimentation with flavours and techniques can greatly enhance your barbecuing skills. ◆ Join an online barbecue social group – There are online social groups for novice barbecuers and experts alike.

Simply search Facebook for a Group page in your local or nearby area. ◆ Vegetarians needn’t be excluded – a

well-seasoned, garlic butter-washed whole portobello mushroom cooked to tender on the charcoal grill can taste almost as good as a beef burger patty.

And, don’t forget corn on the cob is a must for al fresco dining. Grilling vegetables over charcoal is a great way to turn a flavourless green into a char-grilled, flavour-packed morsel. Try searing you veg over Kingsford Mesquite Briquettes for a savoury, smoky flavour.

Also, try a grilled fruit salad, smoked pumpkin or a beautiful head of parmesan and cashew-crusted, cauliflower.

Kingsford Charcoal Briquettes are made from natural ingredients and real wood giving an authentic smoky flavour. Choose from four delicious flavours – Original, Applewood, Mesquite and Hickory. They are available from Countdown, New World, or Pak’n’Save stores nationwide. For more recipes, tips and ideas visit www.nz.kingsfordcharcoal. com.au

Red Shed

Palazzo

Sunday marketS

www.redshedpalazzo.co.nz

Weddings - Birthdays Red Shed Palazzo large logo.indd 1

or any special occasions

9/07/2015 10:26:36 a.m.

Breakfast/Lunch – licensed

OPEN 5 days 8.30am - 4.00pm Wednesday - Sunday

WINNER RuRal CafE of thE YEaR 30 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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16 Jesmond Rd, Karaka Ph (09) 294 6687

Email: eat@redshedpalazzo.co.nz

KAT6932-v3

www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 4:00:09 PM

COFFEE-SMOKED

barbecue beef short ribs Time to try this recipe from Kingsford Charcoal Ambassador, Adam Roberts.

INGREDIENTS ◆ 2 racks beef short ribs (3–4 bones per rack) ◆ 2 tbsp peanut oil (or olive oil) ◆ 100 g unsalted butter Rub ◆ 2 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper ◆ 2 tbsp kosher salt ◆ 1 tbsp freshly ground coffee ◆ 1 tbsp brown sugar ◆ 1 tbsp onion powder ◆ 1 tbsp garlic powder ◆ 1 tbsp smoked paprika Sauce ◆ 250 ml tomato sauce (ketchup) ◆ 100 ml water ◆ 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar ◆ 4 tbsp brown sugar ◆ 3 tbsp honey ◆ 1 tsp finely ground freshly cracked black pepper ◆ 1 tsp finely ground kosher salt ◆ 1 tsp onion powder ◆ 1 tsp mustard powder ◆ 2 tbsp hot sauce ◆ 1 chipotle pepper, finely diced

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes Cooker: Barbecue Smoker Skill Level: Medium Serves 4

Preheat a barbecue smoker to 140°C (275°F) using the Kingsford Original Flavour Briquettes, for an authentic smoky flavour.

Remove the silver skin from the top of the short ribs and also remove the membrane from under side of the beef ribs. Massage the oil onto all sides of the ribs to apply a light coating.

Combine the rub mixture in a small bowl or container then evenly apply to oiled ribs. Depending on the size of the ribs, more mixture may be required.

Ensure all rib meat is covered with the rub, concentrating on the top and sides of the meat then the underside. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Place the ribs bone down in the barbecue smoker and add hickory wood chips or chunks in small batches in the first two hours, being careful to ensure a constant but light and even smoke.

Allow the ribs to cook for a further one hour (three hours total), then remove from the smoker and double-wrap with foil placing the butter inside the foil wrap.

Return the wrapped ribs to the smoker, placing the meat side down this time, for a further three hours.

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a pot, starting with the wet ingredients then the dry ingredients and bring to the boil.

Turn the heat down and simmer sauce in pot for a minimum of 30 minutes before removing to cool.

Remove the beef ribs from the foil and baste ribs with basting brush twice over a 10 minute period, then slice to serve.

Tips Serve with sides including macaroni and cheese, grilled corn or cornbread in winter, or with a side salad or spicy coleslaw in summer. Can be served sliced off the bone or caveman style on the bone.

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 31

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COMPETITION WINNERS

A colourful Christmas!

Creativity seems to be in the genes of local youngsters who tacked Rural Living’s annual Christmas colouring contest. They showed imagination and skill with pencils, pastels and crayons.

Winner Maanvir Chawla (7 years).

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s usual, judging was difficult – so many varied and interesting interpretations of our ‘Father’ Christmas at the barbecue…. Was it Santa or dad wielding those tongs in the spirit of festive cooking?

In the end, it was seven-year-old Maanvir Chawla who won the junior section while nine-year-old Kayleigh Potter took out the senior prize. However, with so many wonderful entries Rural Living has decided to award several consolation prizes to those highly commended entries. All prize winners will be contacted before the end of January.

Winner Kayleigh Potter (9 years).

SOME OF OUR CONSOLATION WINNERS

32 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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Special thanks to TS Wilcox for again sponsoring the competition and to local artist, Elise Smith for her creative competition artwork.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 4:00:13 PM

Tool up

IN THE GARDEN

S

hears, rakes, weeders, hoes, hedge trimmers, secateurs, shovels, trowels — taking care of your garden requires quite a bit of equipment and some of it doesn’t come cheap. So, to keep your garden tools in prime condition for as long as possible heed the following tips: ◆ Clean soil, water, resin and sap can all damage garden tools, especially those with metal blades. When gardening is done for the day get rid of any residue with soapy water or an alcoholsoaked cloth. To remove rust, rub the surface with fine-grain sandpaper. ◆ Sharpen blades regularly by honing them with a metal file. Be careful to follow the angle of the blade. Don’t use a grinder; it will likely remove an unnecessary amount of metal. ◆ Repair your tools. If screws, nails or springs are unstable (or have fallen out), tighten them or replace them without delay.

Gently sand your tools’ wooden handles from time to time to avoid getting splinters. ◆ Protect your tools by using a protective oil (such as flaxseed oil) on the metallic components. Make sure the surfaces are perfectly clean before applying the oil. This will keep your blades sharp and prevent rust. ◆ Store tools carefully. Keep in mind that it’s important to store garden tools in a dry, well ventilated area. Place them bladeside up to avoid moisture accumulation.

TOOL CHECKLIST FOR NEW GARDENERS: ◆ Gloves, ◆ Loppers ◆ Pruning shears/ secateurs

◆ Hand trowel ◆ Spade

◆ Rake ◆ Hose ◆ Hoe ◆ Watering can ◆ Wheelbarrow

en tools – top Rural Living’s pick – Niwashi gard tool, the ed hand t righ or three: traditional left and fibrous flax and yu kiku on at (gre k garden shar Niwashi – led stemmed weeds) and the long hand en; once gard the in er all will make life infinitely easi . them out with be ldn’t wou you have these you

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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PROPERTY STILL IN

high demand

If anyone initially thought Covid-19 would dampen the 2020 property market then they were in for a surprise.

A

s the months went by, property prices continued to rise despite the occasional fluctuation. Now, new annual data from realestate.co.nz shows that as prices soared, so too did demand with 23.0% more users of the service, searching for property nationally as compared to 2019. What’s more, the number of people searching for property in 2020 more than tripled that of 2016.

Vanessa Taylor, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says that despite all the challenges which came with 2020, Kiwis’ love affair with property didn’t diminish: “Up 10.7% to $775,976, properties in New Zealand, on average, cost $75,056 more in 2020 than they did in 2019.

Coupled with the record demand, this tells us that people didn’t shy away from buying and selling last year,” Ms Taylor says.

Demand from users searching for property at realestate. co.nz rose in every region in 2020, with the most significant increases seen in the South Island but Ms Taylor adds that the increase in demand wasn’t matched by the number of properties that came onto the market.

Nationally, 109,128 properties were listed for sale in 2020 – a 2.6% decrease on the 112,007 properties that hit the market in 2019.

“What we’ve seen quite clearly throughout 2020 is demand for property outweighing supply, which could have contributed to price increases. Only Auckland bucked the trend, with a 10.5% increase in listings in 2020. “[However] in Auckland we’ve started to see a change, with the large number of new homes being built exceeding demand caused by population growth. But supply is still tight because of the shortfall in previous years.”

Average asking prices were up year-on-year in every New Zealand region in 2020, as well as nationally.

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 33

14/01/2021 4:00:15 PM

COUNTRYSIDEBegins THE

with Jo-Ann Day-Townsend

PLANTS NEED HOUSE ROOM TOO! FOR SALE with JO-ANN

W

hether you’re staging your home or not, house plants are a wonderful way to transform the rooms of your home. Adding greenery not only injects colour and structure into a space, it also creates a sense of relaxation and boosts mood. Plants can even reduce noise levels and improve air quality, so with all that going for them, what’s holding you back?

For those of us who don’t have naturally green thumbs, choosing the right plants is the key.

Succulents are generally hardy and drought tolerant which is perfect for busy people. They also come in a wide variety of interesting shapes. Containers with good drainage and using succulent or cactus potting mix are recommended to keep succulents at their best.

Looking for something delicate for the bathroom or a bedroom? String of Pearls, with its delicate tendrils of round beads, look wonderful hanging or draping over the edge of a table or pedestal.

For something more rugged, the Bunny Ear

Cactus looks great, but take care when handling. With its irritating barbs, this is not the ideal plant for those with small children or curious pets.

If succulents aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other resilient plants that can add interest to a room.

Te Kauwhata, 915 Waikare Road

Snake plants are extremely hardy and make a great statement piece with their tall, contrasting coloured leaves. Philodendrons and Pothos are leafy, easy care options that are true survivors and make great hanging plants.

COMING TO THE MARKET

For larger spaces, consider a Rubber Plant or for a lower maintenance option, try a Dragon Tree. One of my personal favourites is the Peace Lily – it will take neglect and even if you forget to water it and you will know as the leaves droop – it seems to bounce back.

1 RIFLE RANGE RD, PUKEKOHE

If you really are not green fingered there are some great options in the fake plant range so maybe give that a try.

Jo-Ann has some great options when it comes to getting your house ready to sell so give her a call you will glad you did.

• 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • 2 lounges

• 4+ garaging • 1ha (mol)

182 JERICHO RD, BOMBAY • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • 2 lounges

• 2+ garaging • 4.59ha (mol)

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend

Port Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

34 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5307-v37

0800 TOWNSEND or 021 1696 056 jo-ann.day-townsend@harcourts.co.nz www.joanndaytownsend.co.nz

14/01/2021 4:00:16 PM

What’s trending IN KITCHENS?

If planning to remodel your kitchen then be aware that lacquered cabinets, exaggerated modernism and large cabinet handles are passé. When it comes to kitchen designs.

Here’s what’s on trend.

KAT5307-v37

NATURAL MATERIALS Wood, stone and other materials, which evoke the natural world, are the backbone of minimalist, contemporary, rustic and garden-themed kitchens. Opt for understated matte finishes and warm rather than cool tones. And do favour locally crafted items and regionally sourced materials if you can. Look out for decorative items, cabinets, hardware, tiles and stone.

STORAGE WALLS If there’s limited room in your kitchen, floor-toceiling storage rather than multiple cabinets will maximise the space to accommodate all cooking essentials.

DRAWERS: Growing more popular than ever drawers are steadily replacing cupboard units where practical. Providing for everything from crockery to pots and pans or grocery items, just pull open the draw you can see it all in front of you – no delving into hard-toreach, dark corners.

WARM NEUTRAL TONES Browns, beiges and greys are again taking centre stage. While warm-toned hardware such as matted gold, copper, champagne and charcoal are proving popular on drawers and (as well as faucets and other fixtures) soft close, handle-less cupboards are also popular. If choosing soft, neutral tones, add a pop of colour for individuality – yellow is right on trend.

OVERSIZED PANTRIES/SCULLERIES Generous walk-in pantries or, better still, an additional scullery with showcase-like shelving and plenty of hideaway storage, even a sink and a dishwasher, are a hit for kitchens of all styles. If you have the space for it, this trend will make life easy.

If a full scullery is not possible try to incorporate a huge pantry which still offers plenty of storage.

LIGHTS: The industrial look is still to the fore and can add real character to a kitchen especially above a free-standing island or breakfast bar. Concealed lighting is still the most popular choice for above hobs and under elevated cabinets. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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HIDDEN RANGE HOODS Range hoods integrated into cabinets or walls are increasingly popular. You can also hide them behind tiles or natural stone. However, make sure your range hood is positioned for optimal efficiency and easy to access for repair or replacement.

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 35

14/01/2021 4:00:20 PM

FROM THE EXPERT’S DESK

MEASURE SALES

PERFORMANCE

By Richard Gee, Geewiz! Business Mentor

N

o matter what your selling system, you need to measure the right actions which drive decisions.

Sales reps who call on customers should have their face-to-face meetings measured by the number per day, decisions made on quotes, and decisions to buy. Do not measure phone calls, mileage, texts or social media contact.

A good rep will see five to eight customers per day in face-toface meetings if working well. Route trade reps will see 35-40 people per day and get small orders from each. Emails and phone calls are just like car tools of the trade.

Sales people who make phone sales should only have the calls which resulted in placed orders measured (not all calls), the opportunities to quote, measured and the quote success, or appointments made to visit, measured; nothing else.

Forget the number of calls being made – a total of 40 calls delivering eight contacts for one appointment is a useless measure of skill.

Social media reps should have those leads generated per day, measured; nothing else. Prospecting reps should have the faceto-face meetings which result in a quote or decision measured.

Salespeople are employed to use their selling skills and get decisions so, measure the steps resulting in decisions not the other stuff that occurs which, if used, may fudge the results.

If sales performance is falling, then first visit those things you are measuring then look at the skills of your people.

Visit customers with your sales reps and watch for skill use, questioning, selling benefits, and overcoming objections but most of all their ability to ask for a decision.

Listen in on sales phone calls checking that questions, benefits and calls for a decision are all being made. Read and watch social media posts for those questions, decision asking, and language used. Go with reps to see how they approach customers.

If you find problems then run a sales training seminar to overcome lack of skills. [Richard can help here]. If you measure the correct action you get the best results – decisions to buy!

Talk with sales mentor Richard Gee to help gain the best results.

W

ith design expertise at the forefront, local renovation company, Refresh Renovations Franklin and Manukau – Kim Reiche secured a trio of wins at the recent 2020 People’s Choice Awards.

The awards, contested across franchises in NZ, Australia, the UK and America, reflected the commitment to excellence by Kim Reiche and her team.

As director of Refresh Renovations Franklin and Manukau, she says it was a wonderful honour to win the awards which were determined by public vote.

“To have the public support us was hugely rewarding. It reinforced the strong design focus we take with all of our projects.

Renovations can be stressful but our team works extremely hard to optimise our approach which marries exceptional design, a relentless pursuit of excellence and attention to detail with strong management systems to ensure projects are completed on time, on budget and to the highest standard.”

We were named award winners in the following categories: ◆ GOLD – Conversion of the Year: This involved converting a garage into a self-contained modern flat. The result was a feature-packed but compact living space, with double bedroom and modern kitchen offering everything for comfortable living. ◆ SILVER – Open Plan Living of the Year: This garage conversion featured open plan living and kitchen, bathroom, laundry and a double bedroom with built-in wardrobe. Creating a contemporary atmosphere with soft and cool-toned colour palettes, the project was commended for elegance and style. ◆ BRONZE – Full House Renovation of the Year: Refresh Renovations Franklin and Manukau transformed this home into a spacious, light, warm and lavish space which feels completely different from the original property. Renovated on a tight timeframe for a professional couple, it required detailed project planning, an essential element of success with this renovation.

“I am so grateful to have such a dedicated team who are committed to delivering our client’s dreams,” Kim says. ‘If you are looking to renovate, relax and let our team at Refresh Renovations manage the entire project for you.”

For more information, call 0800 004 600.

Relax and let Refresh manage the entire project for you, even if you live out of town.

BUSINESS MENTOR

Helping Your Decisions

Refresh is your local home renovation specialist – we’re locals who live in the area and can manage your project from start to finish. Refresh Renovations can renovate kitchens and bathrooms right through to complete home renovations.

Using our online customer portal you can track your project remotely including specifying products and seeing pictures and videos from site. Talk to us today.

Phone 0274 720 410 richard@geewiz.co.nz

Call Kim to get your project underway

0800 004 600 | www.refresh.co.nz KAT7110

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WINS AWARDS

House overdue for a renovation?

eewiz!

36 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

LOCAL RENOVATION COMPANY

KAT7013-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

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14/01/2021 4:00:22 PM

DIRECTORY ����������������������������������������������������������������������� GOOD GRIEF For a goodbye to remember let Grahams take care of your family

A fresh approach to renovations Call Kim Reiche to get your project underway 0800 004 600

Contact us to plan ahead, or for guidance

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MADSEN LAWRIE SURVEYORS LTD

LAND SURVEYORS Contact

David Lawrie or Ben Young

URbAN & RURAL LAND DEVELOpMENT

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Family business for more than 35 years

LAND SUbDIVISION

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

See and feel the Acacia Cove lifestyle for yourself!

10.30am, Wednesday, For those who appreciate the February 3 tranquility of an estuary setting RSVP to 09 268 8522 Acacia Cove has it all, as well as

by Friday, January 29 its own restaurant, heated indoor pool, library, bowling green and gym. greater security, come and have a Whether you choose to live in look at the superb properties we a villa or one of our luxurious have to offer. apartments, you’ll have the • Best Ageing Programme at the security of a 24 hour, fully 2017 Ageing Asia Eldercare monitored emergency call system Awards built in.

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38 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

14/01/2021 4:00:23 PM

l 1.7 to 26 tonne diggers

Classic Roofing Solutions

• Rollers

l Tip trucks

& trailers l D65 Bulldozer & scoop l Low loader l Grader l Excavations l Dams

Closed Public Holidays Ph (09) 23 92 964 Shop 2 / 33 Edinburg St (Next to Pizza Hut)

PUKEKOHE • New COLORSTEEL® roofs and re-roofing – houses and barns • Senior discount

Open 7 Days

l Roading

l Stopbanks

l Building sites l Demolition

l Horse arenas l Metal/sand/

slag supplied

Experienced Operator 35 years+

Craig Nicholson Earthmoving & General Cartage

Nigel Wagstaff Phone 09 232 8287

WAIUKU

l Drainage

l General cartage

Over 37 years roofing experience

KAT5295

Closed Public Holidays Ph (09) 23 52 769 6a Court St

l Tree Removal

KAT6822

Phone 09 238 4047 or 021 987402 601 Buckland Rd, RD2, Pukekohe

KAT5289-V2

Open 7 Days

DIRECTORY KAT5306

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CHRIS JULIAN Freephone (0508) RURAL H20 (0508) 787 254 Chris mobile 021 765 629 Water Tank Cleaning (While full or empty) Water Tank Maintenance Water Deliveries ~ Swimming Pools Filled

FOR ALL YOUR WATER NEEDS CALL IN AND SEE US

KAT6171-v2

0800 SUCKA1

GUBB PUMP & WELL SERVICES

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

14 Constable Rd, Waiuku Phone 09 235 8268

0800 782 521

Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

GREASE TRAP CLEANING SST SERVICES

CONTRACTOR

Call us for all your farming supply needs

p: 09 294 7611

IN TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

PROFARM

• Decks • Post Driving • Retaining Walls • Rural & Residential Fencing

KAT5226-v3

18 Elliot St, Papakura.

Ph 09 298 7767.

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 8.30am-2.30pm Cnr Madill & George St, Tuakau.

Ph 09 236 8228.

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 8.30am-12noon

PEST CONTROL

YOU NAME IT – WE’LL KILL IT! Controlling your pests since 1988

Free quotes – Competitive rates KAT5297

e: sstseptictanks@gmail.com e: john@drurytrucks.co.nz John: 0274 923 669 Robbie: 0274 967 430

WALKERS • Insects and rodents • Domestic and commercial • Consultancy work

For the best advice and friendly service

RURAL & LIFESTYLE

21E Ryan Pl, Manukau

24-Hour Callout Service

027 236 8753 • 09 236 8753 grant.kylie@xtra.co.nz

Mobile 0274 789 857 Email 2trmn8@gmail.com Main Highway, Paerata

BC0190-v3

ANd

Grant Escott FENCING

KAT5317

SEPTIC TANK

KAT6826

Or:

DESIGN, SUPPLY, INSTALL

KAT5287

We raise Brown Shavers

• Service of all farm, industrial, agricultural irrigation and domestic pumps • Bore pumps • Drainage supplies • Water tanks • Deep well pumps • Water filter systems • Bulk sand and cement • Pool pumps – chemical supply • Galvanised, alkathene & pvc pipes and fittings

Shop Eat P lay Stay

LOCAL

LOCAL

LOCAL

Proudly supporting local! www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJanFeb 2021.indd 39

LOCAL 151 King Street, Pukekohe

Rural Living — January-February 2021 — 39

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RLJanFeb 2021.indd 40

www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5286-v37

40 — Rural Living — January-February 2021

14/01/2021 4:00:24 PM