Rural Living July-August 2021

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20 JULY AUGUST 21 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.

■EXPOS & FESTIVALS

Friday the 13th

The Auckland Food Show July 29 - August 1, 10am-5pm, ASB Showgrounds, 217 Green Lane West, Epsom Why wait until Christmas to eat, drink and be merry? No set menu, this event dishes up a smorgasbord, with everything from product displays to cooking demonstrations and, of course, enough food and beverages to have any belly wriggling like a bowlful of jelly! Further information at www.foodshow.co.nz.

Wonderland Glow Show August 2-3, times vary, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura, and August 4-5, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Anyone who thought Alice in Wonderland could not be any curiouser may scratch their heads but little ones are bound to enjoy this outlandish twist on Lewis Carroll’s classic book. From a mad March hare to dancing flamingos, this glow-inthe-dark puppetry performance is billed as ‘upbeat, weird and wonderful.’ More information via www.glowshow.co.nz.

■FRIDAY THE 13TH

■MUSIC, THEATRE & DANCE

13 Bloody Jobs August 13, times vary, Spookers, 833 Kingseat Road, Karaka From barbaric butchers and demented dentists to insane surgeons, Spookers has quite the cast lined up for Friday the 13th.

Visit www.spookers.co.nz.

Aretha July 24, from 8pm, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Dr, Auckland City A show celebrating a woman, a diva and a legend, Aretha expects to earn plenty of r-e-s-p-e-c-t! Along with other Kiwi musicians (including Boh Runga, Bella Kalolo and Vanessa Stacey) the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra will showcase the songs made famous by Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. More information via www. apo.co.nz/whats-on.

■FAMILY FUN Kid’s Disco August 1, 3-5pm, Papakura RSA, 40 Elliot St, Papakura Bananas in pyjamas are expected to head down to the Papakura RSA on August 1 for this PJ-themed disco intended to entertain children aged up to 10 years. Details via www.papakurarsa.co.nz/events.

Jordan Luck Band Winter Tour August 7, from 8pm, Pukekohe Cosmopolitan Club, 78 Nelson Street, Pukekohe Ironically, not a lot of luck is needed to

The Circle of Life — Sunday Serenade August 8, from 1.30pm, St Andrew’s Church, 3 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Clevedon Choir power will raise the roof when college choirs take to the stage in Clevedon. Performers will share songs from stage and screen during this show presented by the Clevedon Valley Music Foundation Trust. More information via www.cvmft.org.

Martie Pendragon and the Sword of Power August 13-14, times vary, Backstage Theatre, Victoria Ave, Waiuku Waiuku Theatre Group presents a magical retelling of The Sword in the Stone. When an average girl, (Martie), encounters a bumbling wizard (Merlin) and his enchantress sister (Morgana), she finds herself in possession of powers which could help her tremendously or turn her world upside-down. See www. waiukutheatre.com for details.

Inflated Rebel August 11-15, times vary, Q Theatre,

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Ashby Tabrum Boyce 2 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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see a lot of Luck! Although Jordan Luck made his mark with The Exponents in the 1990s, it’s not too difficult to catch this hard-working muso in action somewhere.

Touring profusely, he is living proof that catchy tunes never get old. See www. pukekohecosmopolitanclub.co.nz/events.

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Papakura Pipe Band’s Ceilidh

Inflated Rebel

305 Queen St, Auckland City Featuring the SOFT.co dance company, this show serves as an exploration of the binaries of obedience and rebellion, with puffer jackets, blow-up pool toys, and an inflatable set thrown in for good measure.

A humorous, rambunctious romp, Inflated Rebel also poses poignant and important questions about identity, feminism and humanity. See www.qtheatre.co.nz.

The Firebird with Paquita August 12-14, times vary, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Dr, Auckland City Set to a grand score by the iconic Stravinsky, this exotic fairy tale offers a world of wild enchantment presented by the talented dancers of the Royal New Zealand Ballet. For more information see www.rnzb.org.nz.

Papakura Pipe Band’s Ceilidh (Scottish Dance) August 14, from 6.30pm, Karaka War Memorial Hall, 319 Linwood Road, Karaka Stirring tunes such as Scotland the Brave to The Flower of Scotland and many others will likely rouse the crowd at this event. Highlanders and lowlanders alike can expect the Papakura Pipe Band to be in fine form with Scottish dancing, whisky and haggis also on the menu. For details search ‘papakurapipeband’ at www. facebook.com.

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Dakota of the White Flats August 14-21, times vary, Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street, Auckland City Based on Philip Ridley’s award-winning book of the same name, this play is billed as ‘a thrillingly spooky and punk show with wild characters, gutsy heroines, and an electric score.’ See www.qtheatre.co.nz.

Steel Magnolias August 14-28, times vary, Off Broadway Theatre, 41 Elliot St, Papakura Based on the acclaimed film of the same name, this stage adaptation by Papakura Theatre Company tells a story about heartache and how the human spirit can triumph in the face of tragedy. More information at www.ptc.org.nz.

You Make Me Feel Like Dancing!

August 17, from 11am, Pukekohe Town Hall, 14-16 Massey Ave, Pukekohe, and September 9, from 11am, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura Bust out those boogie shoes — or blue suede ones for that matter - and enjoy a showcase of the most famous dance hits from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Details via www.operatunity.co.nz/concerts.

Tutus on Tour August 17, from 6.30pm, BNZ Theatre, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau While stepping their way across the

Nicola

country, dancers from The Royal New Zealand Ballet will step up to present works from such classics as Swan Lake and more.

See www.rnzb.org.nz for details.

Things that Matter — Stories of Life and Death August 17-29, times vary, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey Street, Auckland City Perhaps the most important thing to any of us in life is good health, but when treating people, as well as their afflictions, good health requires a wide-ranging approach by doctors. A memoir of Dr David Galler who has worked on the frontlines of New Zealand’s health system for more than 30 years, this play tells the story of extraordinary patients and the struggles our society faces in caring for them. Visit www.atc.co.nz/whats-on for further information.

■ARTS Romancing the Collection From August 14, Auckland Art Gallery, Wellesley St East, Auckland City Looking back to the 19th century, when Auckland Art Gallery’s collection was first established, this exhibition showcases a wide range of work from the Romantic era.

For more information visit www. aucklandartgallery.com.

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Beresford Macrae Higgie Rural Living — July-August 2021 —3

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from the

EDITOR

WELL DONE, FIELDAYS

I also greatly admired the new machine for picking asparagus and, was thrilled to see Waiuku’s Future Post, which makes fence posts from recycled plastic, among the three top award winners – we have previously covered the company and its product in the magazine.

On another happy note; I’ve now had both Covid-19 jabs, smilingly and expertly delivered at the Waiuku Medical Centre.

What a pleasure the whole process was at this site. I know some folk have had long waits at other sites, but on arriving for my first vaccination, five minutes ahead of time, the whole process ran like clockwork and I had departed 35 minutes later. So, Waiuku Medical Centre team take a bow!

Well, now it’s time to grab a cuppa and sit down with Rural Living – there’s plenty inside (I hope) for everyone!

good coverage especially when our farmers have often been in the firing line for greenhouse emissions despite the fact that without farming, NZ’s economy would be in the poo!

Frankly, I’m tired of seeing our farming community often put down when so many are actively working to reduce their Co2 emissions and put in place more eco-friendly practises. It doesn’t happen overnight (I pinched that phrase from our PM who has used it when tackled on various issues)) but I applaud the progress which is being made.

And, yes, perhaps I’m being a bit snippy but when New Zealand can stand up and say it has the most efficient dairy milk production practises in the world, that’s something we should be proud of.

Of course, one of the truly fascinating aspects of Fieldays was the innovation centre where rural ‘bright sparks’ again showed their genius. I was particularly interested in Riverwatch NZ, which presented its ‘riverwatch waka” at Fieldays two years ago and was back this year to launch its end product for monitoring and understanding our waterways. I see this as another big step in helping farmers to preserve waterways near their farms.

Helen Perry, Editor

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espite the Government doing its best to depress me with new electric vehicle taxes, which will hurt our farming community among others, and Auckland Council doing much the same with it forecast of a large rise in rates, I refuse to be downhearted.

Instead, how wonderful it was to see National Fieldays back at Mystery Creek in June after having to cancel last year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

What’s more, it was encouraging to see wholehearted support from farmers and the public for this long standing event of more than 50 years – attendance at 132,776 visitors over the four days was well up on the last physical Fieldays in 2019.

Impressively, more than 33,000 people visited the site’s Health and Wellbeing Hub, a testament to its popularity.

I was especially impressed with the range of testing carried out, including tests for skin cancer, blood glucose, blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and hearing, as well as hepatitis C and smear tests, plus confidential mental health support – fantastic!

I was also pleased to see mainstream media giving this major farming event

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AVO-GO KIWIS: Growing avocados is not child’s play but, thanks to Franklin’s verdant soil, our region is fast gaining recognition as fruitful (and fruit full) territory. Recently, Rural Living sought out a ‘plucky’ pair dedicated to leaving no stone (fruit) untended with regards to their family business. In addition to meeting Mr and Mrs Wright, master Wright (aka William) is also prepared to lend a hand as our cover shot shows. To read more, see pages 8-9.

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DISCLAIMER: Articles published in Rural Living do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or editor. All material is provided as a general information service only.

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

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Win!

petitions visit r any of these com To enter the draw fo code – d enter this month's ruralliving.co.nz an address; try per person/email RLAUG2428. One en tified by 31, 2021. Winner no entries close August phone or email.

WIN! GLAD TO BE GREEN® ECO-FRIENDLY PRIZE PACK WIN! MUMMA J’S SKINCARE PACK One lucky reader is sure to be delighted with this gorgeous all-natural, chemicalfree skincare prize courtesy of Mumma J’s.

The five-piece, prettily presented pack includes Mumma J’s green tea and honey cleanser, facial exfoliator, moisturiser, toner and night oil – perfect for hydrating, nourishing, softening and strengthening the skin.

For those who miss out visit www. mummajs.co.nz to see the full range of skin care and essential oils.

Living sustainably is becoming a pressing issue for most Kiwis and GLAD is playing its part in helping them make sustainable choices by recently launching its Glad to be Green® food care range. With more Kiwis also taking up composting, the new Glad to be Green® Compostable Bake Paper fits perfectly being sustainably sourced, unbleached, chlorine-free and certified home compostable after use.

GLAD has also developed other Glad to be Green® products to better store, protect and preserve food, including 50% plant based snack bags, 50% plant based sandwich bags and 50% plant based snack bags containing a minimum of 50% plant-based plastic. The good news is Rural Living has one bench top compost bin and a selection of Glad to be Green® products to give away to one lucky reader.

WIN! WHAT YOU MADE OF IT

WIN! A HUSKI BEER COOLER 2.0 It may be cold outside, but to ensure we can beat the heat come summer, one Kiwi company is thinking ahead of the curve. No Styrofoam sleeve, the Huski Beer Cooler 2.0 is double-walled, vacuum insulated and copper lined for maximum thermal performance. Made from corrosion-resistant marine-grade stainless steel, they’ll still be cool for many years to come. Huski beer (and wine) coolers are available via www.huski. co.nz (RRP $39.99) and from selected home, lifestyle gift and design stores. However, we have Huski Beer Coolers to give away to TWO lucky readers.

6 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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The latest chapter in a life well lived, this memoir follows on from the first two volumes of CK Stead’s memoirs — South-West of Eden and You Have a Lot to Lose, which are still available from booksellers.

With his latest work, this prolific Kiwi author has turned over yet another new leaf as he shares an insightful and honest account of his life in letters.

We have a copy of this book to give away.

CK Stead: What You Made of It | RRP $49.99 | Upstart Press www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:57:19 PM

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Wrights AvocadoDs TO ‘HASS’ AN HAVE LOTS

rthland are The Bay of Plenty and No avocados but, as renowned for producing , the efforts of JON RAWLINSON explains fruit too. local growers are bearing

I

n the swankiest eateries of metropolitan Auckland, smashed avocado on toast has become (stereotypically) the talk of the town.

However, whether patrons know it or not, there is a chance the exotic ingredient on their plates grew from the Super City’s own big back yard.

Peter Wright from Wrights Avocados in Waiau Pa says, one of the best things about growing in Franklin is that it is so close to Auckland and the local market can be easily supplied.

“About three years ago, we were picking enough [fruit] to fill 30 bins – there are about 1200 avocados to a bin – and last year we had about 50 bins,” Peter says.

“This year, I’d like to see us pick enough to fill in the region of 70 bins, double that in a good year, once at maturity. So you could say we are still growing.”

In fact, growing in more ways than one!

The local market may, indeed, be reaping the rewards of Franklin avocado orchards but, for the most part, growers seek greener pastures when it comes to selling their produce.

As the worldwide avocado market is increasing by (approximately) 10 percent 8 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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per annum, the export dollar is what really drives Kiwi growers to dig deep, Peter says.

“In the past 10 years or so, Franklin has become a better recognised producer and we want to have more growers here. It all comes down to economies of scale so, the more the better, really. It’s a high value export fruit, which is what this country needs.”

The more abundant local land proves to be for more growers, then more infrastructure will be developed to the benefit of all, he adds, and the less likely this beautiful corner of Auckland will become part of its expanding concrete jungle.

Originally from Wellington, Peter moved to said ‘concrete jungle’ soon after university. He met Martina (originally from Sofia, Bulgaria) and, soon enough, the pair escaped to the country.

A property valuer by trade, his skills came in handy when selecting the right piece of land near Waiau Pa, to (quite literally) set down roots. “[Property] market knowledge definitely helped me pick a good piece of land but everything we’ve learned about [growing] avocados has come from doing things

on time and being practical,” he says. “My parents have an avocado orchard nearby, which was also part of the reason for moving here.”

Peter’s parents, Howard and Margaret, have proved a vital resource, Martina confirms.

“We’ve benefited from everything they’ve done, the problems they’ve faced and overcome,” she says. “We were very lucky to have their help – they’ve, almost given us a handbook for growing avocados. We had a lot of knowledge right from the start without as much trial and error.”

Armed with advice from seasoned veterans, the couple still had plenty of work ahead of them. Faced with empty paddocks, they began work from scratch.

“The first thing we did was put in shelterbelts. Avocado roots don’t go deep so they need shelter. As soon as they were protected, we planted one paddock at a time, Peter explains.

“You only get the returns if you put the effort in. Our setup costs weren’t extensive, at around $15,000 per hectare, because we have done it ourselves. If we brought contractors in it would have been www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:57:25 PM

Martina and Peter Wright

double that or more.”

“There are different methods for growing but, however it’s done, how much fruit you can expect to pick it comes down to how much effort you can put in.”

Martina laughs, “And, that’s why it’s called ‘lifestyle’ living!”

Covering 3.3ha (of a 4.3ha property) the orchard now includes, roughly 300 trees bearing hass avocados.

“Hass is the most common variety you’ll find in the shops. They have a tough skin, which makes it easier to transport them without being damaged,” Martina advises.

The orchard’s roots stretch back approximately eight years, proving the point that, as with many things in horticulture, good things take time.

“In the second year after we planted we grew about six avocados from about 180 trees!” she says. “It took another five or six years to break even with yearly costs. But, the better you look after them, the more the trees bear year after year.”

HARVEST LOOMS...

An orchardist’s work may never be done but harvest time can be particularly hectic,

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especially when labour is thin on the ground. Border restrictions have shown it can be hard to find good help these days, but not so for the Wrights.

“Bigger producers might have problems but we’re okay and I’d say other avocado growers are okay too. We haven’t heard about any who are struggling due to lack of labour,” says Peter. “We have a great picking team based just up the road.

They’re all locals and are invaluable to us.”

As avocados become ripe for the picking over a longer period than many other fruits – usually from July right up until March – there is a degree of flexibility at work.

“When you have a really young orchard, the fruit is ready earlier. Also, years ago, the traditional season would start in November but, due to climate change, it is now (most often) ready sooner than that.”

TO MARKETS! Taking good care of their trees is crucial to ensuring the Wrights’ orchard continues to deliver a cash crop, but market forces and the forces of nature ultimately dictate the price.

Photo Wayne Martin

“You only get the returns if you put the effort in. Our setup costs weren’t extensive, at around $15,000 per hectare, because we have done it ourselves. If we brought contractors in it would have been double that or more.”

“It comes down to a lot of factors, including the strength of the dollar. In horticulture, just like a property cycle, all of a sudden you can get a premium payout because there’s a shortage somewhere. For example, they had a bad cyclone in Australia a few years ago and lost orchards, which would take years to replace.”

Supplying the export market doesn’t come cheap; regulatory bodies require compliance covering everything from the quality of fruit to pest control.

“There is a heck of a lot of standards but they all really come down to being as ‘green’ as possible and providing a premium product, which suits us anyway,” Peter confirms.

“Overall, we always put the health of our trees first, ahead of the dollar value. We’d prefer a nice flow [of income] rather than negotiating highs and lows. That works out best in the long run.”

15/07/2021 1:57:28 PM

Over

THE GATE

WITH

Peter Tabrum

OWNER OF LEWIS MENSWEAR Peter Tabrum has been behind the counter at Lewis Menswear for the past 35 years. He offers a hard to match service when it comes to dressing men; his eye for size and style having helped to dress many a male – to their wives satisfaction! In June, Lewis Menswear moved to a new site at 122/124 King Street, in the heart of Pukekohe, so Rural Living talked to Peter, over the gate, about the changing face of his store – and fashion – over the years.

How many years have you been in the ‘rag trade’ and did you start in retail on leaving school; if so was that in menswear, if not, what direction did you take?

I’ve been in the rag trade for more than 40 years. Following high school I completed a three-year City and Guilds of London Institute, textile technicians’ course. I was then employed by various textile manufacturers in various technical capacities.

Peter Tabrum 10 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

Photo Wayne Martin

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You are a Pukekohe local, correct? What made you buy Lewis Menswear in the first place?

Yes, I am a Photo Wayne

www.ruralliving.co.nz Martin

15/07/2021 1:57:33 PM

Pukekohe resident. I love this town and the people. In 1996, my wife Glenys and I bought out Trevor Lewis in Pukekohe but the store actually opened in 1985 and I have been the face of the business since 1988, several years before we fully took over.

Are your satisfied you made the right choice(s) or have you wished you had moved on to something else?

I’ve always loved retail and textiles so ownership of this store was a natural progression; I have no regrets.

The store has recently relocated from one King Street site to another – what was the reason for this?

After 20 years at 41 King Street it was time for a change and a fresh look.

When the opportunity arose to move to a bigger store, suited to our retail set up, we were very happy to move into the ‘heart of town’ at 122/124 King Street.

The middle block is becoming what I call, ‘Fashion Central.”

Fashions come and go; what are some of the fashion looks you have most admired and most detested?

I’ve always detested Safari suits and gaudy wide ties. The current fashion of suits and sports coats is with a very colourful patterned shirt and no ties; it’s a fashion favourite of mine.

Pukekohe district is home to men of the land and city workers; do you cater for both and do their tastes in clothing generally differ?

Our store has been labelled a one-stopshop for menswear because we cater for casual and dress wear. Whether it’s a rural or an urban look we have both covered and we cater for a wide range of age groups, too.

There was a time when virtually every man owned and wore a hat; that custom diminished after the 1960s but are you seeing a return to hats and, if so, are the choices different?

Hats are still popular but more as a protection from the sun or the elements although certain styles — such as the cheesecutter — will always have a following. People are usually particular about a ‘look’ and, at present, hats are something of a fashion item. Varying brim sizes are in demand but the most popular would be the Trilby style with a narrower brim. www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJuly-August 2021.indd 11

What about ties (and bowties too); are these a disappearing fashion accessory?

Ties have certainly waned in demand.

These days, much dress wear is being worn minus a tie but they are still worn for more formal occasions such as balls and award dinners where you will see a mix of business and bow ties. Of course, some corporate firms still expect staff to wear a tie but even in this market, ties are diminishing.

What kind of major shift have you seen in the way men dress today as opposed to, say, 40 years ago?

There is a much more casual approach to men’s clothing. Gone are the days of having to conform to a dress code set by society. Go to any funeral, for instance, and you will see men in suits and ties, guys wearing rugby club jerseys, and just about everything in between. There was a time when jeans were strictly for weekends but now, tailored dress jeans are common in office workplaces and more.

What other fashion items have come, gone and come back again?

Paisley shirts have come and gone along with fitted trousers but I have to say fashion does tend to repeat itself. Naturally, younger men haven’t experienced certain fashions which were around in the 60s and 70s as when paisley was synonymous with the psychedelic era. That’s all new to some so, the current trend of more colourful shirts reflects this to a certain degree.

What about the proverbial black singlet worn by so many farmers; is it still sought after?

The iconic black singlet has seen a drop in demand. Today, there is so much choice in the way of work wear. Synthetic, washable, brushed singlets and shirts are popular and, of course high-vis items are compulsory in many work places.

Covd-19 lockdowns saw more people working from home with this trend continuing; has it prompted a shift in dressing habits and if so how?

The pandemic has definitely influenced the way people dress. Working from home, with no people contact, has seen casual dress become the norm. However, a reality of the post-Covid lockdowns is that many men are in need of larger clothing, myself included! We’ve noted a fair number of customers are now one size bigger.

Have fabrics changed much over the years – more wash and wear, perhaps?

“Pure cotton for shirts make up the biggest percentage of shirts we sell supplemented by synthetic shirts, heat set and requiring no ironing – my preference!

Washable wool for dress trousers is the most popular although customers tend to prefer casual trousers in cotton with stretch for comfort and looks.

In general, do men buy their own clothes or do their wives/partners do it for them or at least influence their decisions?

A large percentage of guys will not buy clothing unless it receives the stamp of approval by their partners. Many women will purchase or take clothing on approval for at home ‘fashion parades’ and fitting.

If couples have time to shop together, the guy is usually guided by what his partner or wife likes. In some cases, if a partner approves but the guy is not too fussed we hear a “let’s go!” comment.

Boxers or briefs, boyleg, long johns or none of these? What do you personally prefer (if you don’t mind saying) and what does the modern man lean towards?

Personally, fitted boxers are my choice of underwear which seems to be the most popular male choice today. Best selling men’s underwear item is the bamboo fitted boxer.

If you could grow any plant – flower, vegetable or tree – what would it be and why?

Fruit trees! I have lemon, plum, peach and feijoa trees — there’s nothing like fresh produce.

If you could be Prime Minister for a day what would be the first thing you would do and why?

I’d put a stop to all the socialist and globalist agendas we keep hearing.

If you could ask any three people (living or dead) to dinner who would they be and why?

Firstly, I’d invite Bob Dylan so I could quiz him on some of his unfathomable lyrics.

Secondly, Roger Federer so I could delve into his personal journey of becoming a tennis legend — his ups and downs and how he copes with a big loss like that at Wimbledon recently. Thirdly, Neil Armstrong so I could seriously grill him and ask did he really land on the moon — fact or fiction?

Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 11

15/07/2021 1:57:34 PM

P U S ’ T A H W

. . .

C ’ O .

D WITH Agriculture minister, Damien O’Connor, is well known as a down-to-earth chap, however he was up in the air recently, digging beneath the surface of trade negotiations as well as attending to other matters related to range of portfolios, as our summations based on ministerial reports reveal.

Damien O’Connor

YOUNG FARMERS’, FUNDING BOOST Border closures may have seen labour shortages impact the primary industries but they have also highlighted the importance of home-grown helping hands.

Consequently, Mr O’Connor is boosting government support of New Zealand Young Farmers.

“As part of our work to support and grow the sector we will contribute $1.76 million to New Zealand Young Farmers over three years,” our Minister of Agriculture said in early July. “As a proud former member, I’ve seen the importance of the work they do to help farmers adapt and meet challenges head on.”

The funding will help the organisation grow its membership base encouraging young Kiwis to consider the wide range of career paths the primary industries offer.

“The support will help the organisation focus on further development of its clubs, introduce a new membership model and develop a wide-ranging digital platform to better connect members and provide services,” he added. “New Zealand Young Farmers is part of our rural history and it’s important it continues to help its members and support rural communities.”

FAIR TRADE? While the debate regarding whether recent border exemptions will be enough to address labour shortages in the primary industries continues, at least one Labourer was guaranteed a boarding pass. Wearing his Trade and Export Growth hat, Mr O’Connor flew off to Europe, the UK and Singapore recently.

“Virtual engagements have served us very well over the last year, but I’m very much looking forward to face-to-face 12 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

RLJuly-August 2021.indd 12

engagement,” he said prior to departure.

“Being able to meet with my counterparts – albeit socially distanced – will help us move towards concluding high quality, comprehensive and inclusive FTAs.” While fruit picking can’t be undertaken at distance – social or otherwise – trade talks in London appear to have been fruitful.

“My visit to London has been timely and constructive… I reaffirmed New Zealand’s wish to see a high quality agreement concluded with the UK as swiftly as possible,” the Minister said. “For New Zealand that means receiving a market access offer that eliminates tariffs and provides commercially meaningful access.”

From London, Mr O’Connor and his entourage visited Brussels and Paris for discussions with his counterparts in the European Union before further meetings in Singapore on his way home.

To ensure their safety, the Minister and his ‘small travelling delegation’ were vaccinated before departure and required to undertake a 14-day stay in a MIQ facility on return. However, such requirements are a small sacrifice considering wider benefits from improved trade relationships, Mr O’Connor believes.

“Covid-19 is teaching us all a lesson in the value of relationships and international cooperation,” he added. “You only have to look at vaccine supply chains to see just how interconnected our collective fortunes are. Trade is a positive and stabilising force for the world.”

BORDER EXEMPTIONS – VETERAN VETS, MASTER FARMERS While borders remain closed, the Government opened the door on more

exemptions for skilled workers recently.

“It is clear from conversations with the dairy and veterinarian sectors that they are facing workforce pressures,” Mr O’Connor said as Rural Living’s June-July issue was being finalised. “[New] border exceptions will go a long way towards relieving those pressures.”

The exceptions will allow up to 200 farm workers and up to 50 vets to enter New Zealand, along with some of their family members.

“Dairy managers and vets have specialist skills developed over many years, which we can’t replicate overnight... migrant dairy farm workers will supplement the domestic workforce and provide critical support.”

LOWERING EMISSIONS – ADVICE, PLAN...

ACTION? As Rural Living’s June-July issue went to print, the Beehive emitted comments regarding the importance of lowering emissions, as outlined in advice from The Climate Change Commission.

“The Commission shows that it is both affordable and achievable for the agriculture sector to play its part in meeting our climate change targets,” Mr O’Connor said. “Farmers are making good progress to align their business with efforts to reduce emissions. Our challenge now is to accelerate the use of existing technologies and ensure the further adoption of on-farm practices that lower emissions.”

The wide-ranging advice covers sectors ranging from agriculture to construction, energy, transport and more.

“We will set out how we plan to do this in the forthcoming Emissions Reduction Plan,” Mr O’Connor added. www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:57:35 PM

& Y IT IV IT S O P G IN W O R G S N R E C N O C G IN W GRO SURVEY FINDS

<Pho please

<He

ing ism among those grow Overall growth in optim thors y point made by the au (and raising) food is a ke l Confidence Survey. ra Ru nk ba bo Ra nt ce re of the most

“F

armers are now marginally more positive about the prospects for the agricultural economy in the coming 12 months,” says Todd Charteris from Rabobank. “The key reason for this is rising commodity prices.”

The survey found farmers expected the rural economy to improve over the next year was up slightly – to 32 percent, from 29 percent last quarter. However, it also

highlights concerns about the impacts of government policy.

“There are several government policies which may be causing unease. However, this spike is likely attributable to the recently-finalised advice from the Climate Change Commission, which could have significant implications for land use and farming systems, including reductions in total livestock numbers.”

And, it appears there is another

common concern among farmers.

“For the first time, we also asked about the impact of labour shortages,” Mr Charteris adds. “In response to these, 40 percent of farmers said they ‘have been’ or ‘will be’ impacted by labour shortages with 64 percent among horticulturalists… it’s clear industry leaders and government still have plenty of work to do to mitigate the strain of worker shortages.”

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Get off the grass!

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

NO UNICORN BUT AN ENCHANTING RAINBOW om fail Rainbows, for their very beauty, seld to the k spea to bring gasps of delight; they rainbow ning stun this did heart and the soul as a few no Poke at ry facto ait Synl sitting over the t-grade infan the not or ther Whe . ago weeks formula base skim milk, whole milk and infant counted as be can e powders produced ther the rainbow of om bott the at ’ ‘the pot of gold ow, captured rainb this sure for but le atab is deb ne Martin, Way

by Rural Living photographer, rainbows ents elem tual embraces all the spiri dreams, e, hop – for ired adm are known and beauty. rse, cou of and, ise prom t, men enlighten

DISPOSABLE CAKE! It’s always lovely to see the joy and the array of useful gifts at a baby shower but when I attended my cousin’s shower recently, guests were particularly admiring of the effort which had gone into this special celebration ‘cake’! It was made entirely from diapers topped with a cute knitted soft toy and a large wooden ‘F’– the first initial of the baby’s Christian name – very novel and the first that I’ve seen like it. I should add that the mum-to-be was both impressed and thrilled….a fun day!

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elcome to winter; the time of short days, cold, mud and rain.

Here are a few veterinary tips for this time of year. ➜ De-worming: Now is a good time to drop in a faecal egg count for testing and to make sure your horse or pony has been de-wormed with a product containing Moxidectin.

Moxidectin is included in UltraMox and Equest. It will kill encysted strongyles (living in the lining of the gut) which can survive other de-wormers. These strongyles are a significant cause of ill-thrift and colic if left untreated. We recommend de-worming your horse with one of these de-wormers at least once a year and autumn/winter is the best time. ➜ Hooves: We see many hoof abscesses in the winter due to the wet and muddy conditions. Prevention is the key! Pick your horse’s feet out frequently, even daily if you can. This will keep the feet free of constant contact with mud and stones. It will also allow any bruising or cracking in the feet to be picked up early so treatment can be done prior to an abscess or seedy toe developing. Make sure your trimming is kept up to

date as this also helps prevent abscesses and seedy toe. ➜ Feeding: Nutritional requirements change in the winter as the weather gets colder and there is more rain and mud about.

These changes will require your horse to use more energy to stay warm. On the other hand, if your horse is not being ridden as much because of the weather, that will decrease requirements. With these variables, and with varying levels of grass around, it is important to check under your horse’s cover regularly to monitor weight. This is best done by running your hand over the rib cage.

You should be able to feel the ribs through a thin layer of fat. You don’t want them to be sticking out and feeling bony, but you also don’t want so much fat that you cannot feel the ribs at all. If changes are being made with feed, do these slowly so that your horse does not develop colic. ➜ Dentistry: Winter is also a good time to make sure your horse’s teeth have been checked for any problems such as loose teeth or mouth ulcers. Sharp points which naturally develop in a horse’s mouth can be smoothed off to make eating more comfortable and efficient. This means the food you are giving your horse can be used efficiently and not wasted.

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If you have any concerns about your horse’s health this winter, do not hesitate to contact us at Franklin Vets Equine (09 238 2471) to discuss these issues.

✔ Check out the lifestyle farm rearing pages for calves, lambs, kid goats, chickens & pigs on www. franklinvets.co.nz for all you need to know about raising happy & healthy Ag Day pets. ✔ A warm and cosy winter home provides the perfect environment for fleas to develop, as eggs which were laid in summer and autumn can continue to develop through winter. Treat all pets in your household for fleas — We recommend Bravecto.

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Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 15

15/07/2021 1:57:53 PM

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on Fieldays 2021 The pegs were pulled ent could have in mid-June but the ev y years to come. repercussions for man

“I

t’s an exciting time for New Zealand and for the primary sector and the events industry,” Peter Nation, from the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, said.

“In conversations I’ve had with exhibitors, they’ve said they have had strong sales and foot traffic through their sites and are enjoying having that face-to-face contact again with their customers.”

New products and services suited to the primary industries were on display at Mystery Creek, Hamilton. However, once again, the Innovations tent showcased some of the latest and greatest ingenuity.

The awards saw winners named in four categories, Gail Hendricks (Innovation Event Manager) confirmed.

“Categories were organised to follow the innovation lifecycle and provide the support, mentoring and exposure innovators needed to bring their revolutionary products to market or grow market share,” she said. “The calibre of entries for our 2021 event has taken things to the next level and showcased the primary industry’s latest and greatest technology and developments.”

THE WINNERS WERE: ◆ Early Stage and Young Innovator’s awards — Cropsy Technologies

Leila Deljkovic — Cropsy Technologies

Claiming the Early Stage and Young Innovator’s awards, a young team of engineers presented scalable AI enabled hardware to assist growers.

“Growers can’t monitor every vine in their vineyard, and they don’t have the resources to. Being engineers, we thought: how can we help?” Leila Deljkovic from Cropsy says. The result is a camera with machine learning which can be tractor-mounted. It can then provide growers with information ranging from the number of vines to disease. Thanks to Cropsy’s innovation, growers can minimise crop loss, estimate yield and plant more efficiently. ◆ Prototype Award – Springarm Products Standing at an empty trough one evening, farm manage, Ric Awburn watched as cows nudged and snapped the ballcock. ‘If only it could give a little,’ he thought. Two years later, Springarm Products’ award-winning solution

appears set to save farmers water, time, money, and stress. Instead of snapping when put under pressure, Springarm’s ballcock springs back into place.

“Some of the older dairy farmers have said: ‘Why didn’t you invent this when I still had my farm?’,” Springarm director and Ric’s wife, Marianne Awburn, said.

“We’ve seen the relief on [people’s] faces because there’s a solution to their problem.”

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• TOWING: 600KG “We were delighted to receive this prestigious award, The recognition which comes from Fieldays, and the vast and experienced agricultural and food producing communities within New Zealand, is very significant.”

Visit www.fieldays.co.nz for full details regarding these and more innovations.

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All aboard!

se of ‘get your It wasn’t so much a ca e skate’ when the skates on’ as ‘get on th Committee’s 12 New Zealand Olympic eboard – Eke Tahi, metre long, 800kg skat – visited Pokeno meaning, Ride as One ly as part of a 41-day Primary School recent nationwide tour.

A

iming to make the Guinness Book of World Records as the “largest fully operational skateboard in the world”, the super sized board’s tour celebrated six newly added events at the Olympic Games including that of skateboarding.

A competition to name the board was earlier won by Maraetai resident, Karen Fisher whose suggestion was inspired after “seeing the challenges faced by the athletes in a year of disruptions”.

Photo Wayne Martin

“Athletes are athletes because they don’t give up,” said Karen. “For me, Eke Tahi is a symbol of us all coming together as one.”

And, it was surely a case of Pokeno pupils ‘riding as one’ when the skateboard made a welcome appearance at their school. Staff members from the Barfoot &Thompson Pokeno office were also present, the parent company having been given a chance to support the tour via its partnership with the NZ Olympic Committee.

Matt Markland (left), Bowman Hansen with Pokeno Primary School enthusiasts.

“It was a privilege to see our branches help the road show connect with our community,” says Jacqui Anderson on behalf of the team at Barfoot & Thompson, Pokeno.

“In particular, it was wonderful that this growing Pokeno community saw its primary school on the tour agenda and pupils given the chance to meet two of New Zealand’s top skateboarders, Bowman Hansen and Matt Markland who, I believe, is hoping to make it to the Paris Olympics in 2024.”

ut paper? p o t y d a e R pen to

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18 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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15/07/2021 1:58:10 PM

ce Agi-Nutrients and Innovation & Collaboration winners Ballan (right). Photo Clare Toia-Bailey Hiringa Energy, with Tim Myers, Norwood

Surfing for farmers

Surf’s up, solutions ‘BLOWING IN THE WIND’ AT PINZ AWARDS Surfing for Farmers had fellow finalists over a ‘barrel’, wiping out the competition in the Team category of the recent Primary Industry Awards.

“F

or most farmers the programme provides them with their first time on a surfboard… when farmers come out of the water, it’s like a reset for them,” the judges’ notes assert.

Developed by Steven Thompson from Bayley’s Rural Real Estate in Gisborne, Surfing for Farmers aims to encourage hard working rural people to de-stress and take good care of their mental health, especially important in turbulent times.

Along the lines of ‘turb-ulent’ times, Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Hiringa Energy claimed the Norwood-sponsored Innovation & Collaboration Award. Joining forces, the organisations plan to construct

wind turbines. Energy from these, together with hydrogen energy, will replace use of natural gas to produce urea at Ballance’s Kapuni, South Taranaki site.

True Honey Company also enjoyed the sweet taste of success claiming the Producer Award, as noted by judges: “From having hives in dense manuka serviced by helicopter, to world class processing for a quality-driven, highly discerning marketplace, the company has taken a natural New Zealand product to international recognition and acclaim.”

Others in the winners’ circle were: Malcolm Bailey from Dairy Companies Association of NZ (Outstanding Contribution to Primary Industries),

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Professor Jon Hickford, Dr Huitong Zhou, Freeman Fang, Lincoln University (Science & Research), HortNZ’s Emma Boase (Emerging Leader) and Frances Clement, NZ Pork (Industry Champion).

The annual event is designed to acknowledge and honour the people and businesses striving to make a difference in the primary industries, Terry Copeland from Federated Farmers adds.

“With a whole set of gnarly challenges in front of us — from global warming, biosecurity threats, cost pressures and demand for more community water storage, to name a few — robust science, entrepreneurial spirit and crossagency teamwork is needed.”

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Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 19

15/07/2021 1:58:14 PM

Climate change – COMMISSION MISSING THE MARK? Greenpeace has fired a few shots across the bow of the primary sector following the release of a report by the Climate Change Commission.

“T

he Climate Change Commission’s final plan seems more anxious about placating big dairy than doing what is scientifically necessary to avert the climate crisis,” Greenpeace climate change campaigner, Amanda Larsson, says. “[It] is completely missing the opportunity for a thriving countryside with vibrant rural communities and plenty of jobs, which is restoring nature, protecting the climate and looking after people’s health.”

Released shortly before Rural Living’s previous issue went to press, the Climate Change Commission’s report offers wide-ranging advice to the Government regarding methods to curb emissions and to address climate change.

Supporting farmers to “shift to regenerative, organic farming” is one of the solutions advocated by Greenpeace.

“Intensive dairying is to New Zealand what coal is to Australia,” Ms Larsson adds.

“New Zealand has the world’s highest methane emissions per person, largely thanks to [having] six million dairy cows...

We can talk until the cows come home, but until the Government gets to work and

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FARMERS, GROWERS RESPOND Growers could benefit should the commission’s advice bear fruit, says Mike Chapman from Horticulture NZ (HortNZ).

“We’re pleased the [commission] has increased its estimate of how much land could be converted to horticulture, from 2000 hectares a year to 3500 hectares a year,” he says. “If horticultural can expand, it will reduce some of the emission reductions required by other parts of the primary sector.”

However, for horticulture to achieve its full potential, barriers such as water availability and access to labour must be addressed, he confirms.

While Federated Farmers agrees that more hands will be needed to make light work, cutting red tape will also be vital to ensuring the new world can go ‘round,

GOOD GENES RIGHT FIT, SMALLWOOD SAYS As farmers and growers prepare ahead of impending regulations expected to address climate change, agritech giant CRV is ready to take the bull by the horns.

“Genetics has been identified as a means of building a long-term solution to climate change,” CRV managing director, James

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Smallwood, confirms. “As an industry, if cow numbers are reduced, farmers will need to improve efficiency per cow to ensure farming remains sustainable, both environmentally and economically.”

Mr Smallwood’s reassurance follows the recent release of the Climate Change Commission’s final report, which emphasises the need to reduce agricultural emissions.

He expects better breeding and genetic technologies will play a key role in helping dairy farmers meet climate change targets without sacrificing milk production.

“With technologies such as genomic testing, we can work with farmers to identify superior animals in their herds.

“By combining this technology with precision breeding tools, such as sexed semen from elite bulls, farmers have an opportunity to accelerate their herd’s genetic gain in animal efficiency,” Mr Smallwood adds.

“There is no doubt [the] new targets are challenging, but they also present our dairy industry with an opportunity to step up and further strengthen our global competitive advantage.”

N

says president, Andrew Hoggard.

“To expect landowners to make land use changes based on the weight of regulation they face, rather than market forces, is unreliable and unlikely to deliver lasting improvements... It would have been heartening to see the commission acknowledge these pressures and recommend non-regulatory solutions.”

However, there will be more talk – and waiting – before any actions advised by the commission are taken or red tape cut.

“Now, we will wait to see if the Emissions Response Plan, due by the end of the year, can take us further together without slamming farmers and growers even harder,” Mr Hoggard concludes.

cuts climate pollution from those cows, we’re leaving ourselves and our future generations exposed to more frequent and intense droughts, floods, storms and fires which the climate crisis will bring.”

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Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 21

15/07/2021 1:58:19 PM

Fairweather’s hot look ‘JERSEY BOYS’ SLICK GENES

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reeding the world’s first bulls carrying the ‘slick gene’, which makes them better able to withstand warmer climates, a Waikato-based company is now expecting offspring of its ‘Jersey boys’ will retain this important characteristic.

“There are 250 million dairy cows in the tropics so there is real potential and opportunity in developing the right cow for that climate,” Derek Fairweather, from Thermo Regulatory Genetics, says. “We’re continuing to gather data so we can understand which daughters

of the bulls are really performing so we can build a proven superior animal, specifically for the tropics.”

Cattle with the slick gene have shiny, wet-looking, shorter hair, keeping them up to 1°C cooler. Harnessing this gene should improve milk production in warmer climates, especially significant in the face of climate change.

“We started in 2008 breeding slick genetics into dairy cows, after our team had done a fair amount of travel around the tropics,” Mr Fairweather adds. “We [wanted] to develop better genetics for the tropics because we understood better-producing cows could literally mean the difference for a farmer sending his child to school or not.”

CEO Derek Fairweather.

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22 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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15/07/2021 1:58:21 PM

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Warm June hits highs

likely saw a few folk ly Ju in rly ea ap sn ld A co came on the back of it as ly al ci pe es g rin shive t June on record.

New Zealand’s warmes

A

ccording to the The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), the average temperature in NZ was 2.0°C above average – that’s the 13th time this has happened since 1909 and it meant several records were broken with 24 locations having their warmest June on record.

The highest temperature was 22 at Hastings on June 26 and Leigh on June 19. Taranaki is still leading the sunniest location table.

Rainfall was also above normal (120149% ) for eastern parts of Northland, inland Bay of Plenty, eastern Waikato, Wairarapa, northern Canterbury, southeastern Otago and western Southland.

Record or near-record mean maximum air temperatures for June were recorded at a wide range of locations across the country; Here are a few close to Auckland.

Location

Mean maximum air temp. (oC)

Departure from normal (oC)

Year records began

Comments

Auckland (Whenuapai)

12.7

1.57

1945

Highest

Whangarei

18.3

2.0

1967

Highest

Whakatane

16.9

1.7

Kerikeri

17.9

1.3

1945

2nd-highest

Leigh

18.2

2.2

1966

2nd-highest

Whitianga

17.4

1.8

1962

2nd-highest

FURTHER HIGHLIGHTS:

Matamata

16.3

1999

2nd-highest

◆ The lowest temperature was -7.4°C, observed at Middlemarch on June 19. ◆ The highest 1-day rainfall was 162 mm, recorded at Arthurs Pass on June 25. ◆ The highest wind gust was 191 km/h, observed at Cape Turnagain on June 28. ◆ Of the available, regularly reporting sunshine observation sites, the sunniest four locations in 2021 so far are Taranaki (1331 hours), Bay of Plenty (1299 hours), Marlborough (1291 hours)

Tauranga

16.8

1.7

1913

2nd-highest

Rotorua

14.4

2.0

2.4

and Hawke’s Bay (1277 hours). ◆ Of the six main centres in June 2021, Auckland was the warmest and sunniest, Tauranga was the wettest, Christchurch was the coldest and driest, and Dunedin was the least sunny.

1974

1964

Highest

2nd-highest

NOTE: While not an official recording, Rural Living Editor, Helen Perry’s own temperature gauge at home registered 19°C on at least three occasions in June so she thinks Pukekohe didn’t do too badly in June either.

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RLJuly-August 2021.indd 23

Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 23

15/07/2021 1:58:22 PM

nner L-R: Joseph Watts (ru er inn (W n ma Jar e Jak up), the FMG Young Farmer of (third Year) and Calvin Ball . place)

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Leave it to ‘cleaver’ JOHNSTONE ON ROAD TO FINAL

Following in the footsteps of James Smith (aka The Tattooed Butcher) PAK’nSAVE Pukekohe butcher, Nick Johnstone, will be packing his bags for competitive butchery’s big show.

“I

have been practicing every day leading up to the [Butcher Apprentice of the Year] competition and have a fantastic mentor, James Smith who won the Young Butcher of the Year competition last year,” Nick says. “[James] is super supportive, guiding me on techniques and critiquing my product choices.”

Securing Northern Regional honours recently, Nick carved up the competition as butchers put their boning, trimming, slicing and dicing skills to the test during a range of challenges.

Nick attributes his win to attention to detail.

“It’s great to be able to show my skills at competition level and it was amazing to win,” he says. I competed last year but didn’t place, so I’m super proud to have come back and won this year and can’t wait for the finals.”

While Nick was named the region’s top apprentice, a fellow PAK’nSAVE worker, Luka Young from Kaitaia, placed first in the senior Young Butcher of the Year contest. Both have booked themselves places at the Grand Final, set to take place on August 3, at the Vodafone Events Centre, Manukau.

Grand Final winners will receive their choice of either an allexpenses paid butchery study tour or a cash prizes.

Head judge, Peter Martin, says competitors will need to be at the top of their game to claim national titles.

“I am a strong advocate for these competitions and the best part as a judge is seeing the opportunities for young people in our trade to showcase their skills at competition level,” he says.

“I know competitors will be delighted to showcase their skills in front of their peers, families and friends – it’s going to be an exciting atmosphere at the final this year.”

24 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

RLJuly-August 2021.indd 24

h

Young Farmer

ntor James Smith.

Nick Johnston with me

JARMAN TURNS OUT TOPS For five generations, Jake Jarman’s family has farmed the land; now, Jake has landed quite the haul. In addition to the prestigious Young Farmer of the Year title, the ANZ Relationship Associate yielded a total prize package worth more than $75,000.

“I

’m feeling overwhelmed, excited and relieved that it’s over! I’m just also so incredibly thankful to so many people,” he says. “I was happy that I gave everything a go to the best of my ability and be competitive.”

Finalists, drawn from regional competitions held nationwide undertook a range of challenges during the grand final in Christchurch, July 1-3.

“I loved the practical day, the challenge of having to multitask under time pressure and be a bit strategic,” Jake says. “My fellow competitors certainly didn’t make it easy and honestly, I feel like it was anyone’s game for the whole three days.”

Young Farmers CEO, Lynda Coppersmith, says the contest was tough but Jake was a worthy winner.

“It is an absolute honour to have Jake named as the 2021 FMG Young Farmer of the Year… As a first-time competitor, it has been amazing to watch Jake shine and not just ‘give it a go’, but take out the title. He has proven to us again that this contest isn’t about age and experience but determination and cross-sector skills.”

Joseph Watts (East Coast region) finished second, followed

by Calvin Ball (Northern), who also picked up the Community Footprint award, and Kieran McCahon (Waikato/Bay of Plenty) was named ‘People’s Choice’.

Young Farmer of the Year honours weren’t the only laurels lifted; Eddie Millichamp and Sophie Adkins from Mount Hutt College were named Junior Young Farmers of the Year while the West Otago Young Guns (Ben Hartshorne, Dustin Young and Henry Chittock) claiming the AgriKidsNZ title. www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:58:30 PM

CONTROLLING PESTS

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

G hop to it

idday folks, I’ve finally returned to Auckland after a big burst of rabbit control on Great Barrier Island – another fantastic trip and I’m extremely pleased with the reducing rabbit numbers out there.

This year’s programme was the fifth consecutive year of control and the kills now total 7049 rabbits from Okiwi Station at the northern end of the Island.

Each of these trips covers about 15 nights of shooting and kills for each trip have so far gone 3753, 1448, 695, 633 and just 520 exterminated this time.

It was a great result and one that definitely suggests we will need to alter what we do in order to take the number below the current 500-600 kills per trip.

There are numerous large rabbit warrens across the station and most rabbits I find now are directly associated with these. As such, I’ve recommended that we focus on finding and fumigating these for the 2022 operation.

Burrow fumigation is something we do a lot, and it’s usually the very first step in rabbit control.

Unfortunately, it involves a lot of spade work and this is something that requires special permission as many of the burrow sites on Great Barrier are located in significant archaeological areas.

Therefore, the team out there is going to be very busy with paperwork in order to put everything in place for this to go ahead.

It’s a hassle that I believe is well worth the effort as permanently destroying these

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burrows is likely to drop the remaining population to just a couple of hundred animals and seriously limit their ability to breed back up. Fingers crossed we get the go-ahead.

We have received a lot of correspondence in my absence. It seems many of you are currently undertaking mid-winter planting and suffering big losses from rabbits and pukeko. These guys are really hard on new plants and often go completely unnoticed until you try and establish new trees.

Pukeko are attracted to the disturbed soil caused by planting, and once they start, they usually keep pulling out the young plants until none are left. This can become seriously expensive!

Options for controlling pukeko are shooting, or drugging them with the bird narcotic Alphachloralose. Both methods have their place but be sure to obtain a permit from Fish and Game NZ as pukeko are game birds and big penalties apply if you kill them without authorisation.

Controlling these guys to nice, low numbers PRIOR to planting is always the best bet but, as I say, you often don’t notice just how many there are until you plant a bunch of juicy new trees.

Rabbits and hares also cause a lot of damage to new plantings. Again, cutting back their numbers PRIOR to planting is definitely the way to go. However, should you find yourself with unexpected losses part-way through a planting project, the standard methods of burrow fumigation, removal of cover and night shooting will all put a halt to the damage.

As always, drop me a line if you need any further information or advice on these methods, a few bucks on pest control will save hundreds of expensive plants.

Until next time, folks.

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15/07/2021 1:58:32 PM

Plantain plan

FODDER FUTURE HOME GROWN? All going well, a $22 million research programme is expected to prove quite the cash cow and the idea behind it is definitely ‘not bananas.’

“N

ew Zealand dairy farmers are already world leaders when it comes to sustainable milk production, and [The Plantain Potency and Practice programme] is about offering another practical way to improve environmental performance on farm,” Fonterra’s Charlotte Rutherford says.

Not only serving as a fodder crop, the Ecotain cultivar of plantains can reduce nitrogen concentration of animal urine in the soil. While PGG Wrightson (developers of the cultivar) is contributing the lion’s share of funding for further research, the

Government has also chipped in with $8.98 million through its Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund.

“The programme will look at the impact of Ecotain pastures right across the supply chain – from the farm to the consumer and everything in between, including our manufacturing processes,” Ms Rutherford adds.

“Our goal is to develop a quality solution which can be applied at scale across farms nationwide.

The partners will work closely with farmers to ensure the solutions work for them, are achievable and fit well into New Zealand farming systems.”

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26 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:58:37 PM

QUAD BIKES – BETTER SAFE A quad bike fatality on a Waikato farm in January has seen WorkSafe pump up the pressure for better safety awareness.

A recently concluded investigation found that correctly inflated tyres and sufficient training could have prevented the accident.

“Planning on the farm needed to include a more comprehensive system for checking the quad bikes tyre pressure,” Paul West from WorkSafe says, adding that businesses should consider installing crush protection devices (CPDs) on the back of quad bikes.

The accident serves as a grim reminder that there have been 75 fatalities nationwide, with a further 614 serious injuries, linked to quad bikes since 2006.

FIRE AND EMERGENCY APPLAUDED – DAVE’S HERE, MAN!

Dave Dobbyn

The crowd at Tuakau’s La Valla was ‘all fired up’ as talented types, including Dave Dobbyn, entertained the hard-working troops from local volunteer fire brigades on July 3.

T

itled ‘Let’s Talk’, the event recognised the essential community work of Tuakau, Pokeno and Onewhero firefighters and their comrades in particular.

“We held this social event because we care about our crew’s wellbeing,” Tuakau Station senior officer, Peter Colman, says. “It was very positive and a good

opportunity to reinforce our organisational values: we do the right thing, we serve and support, we are better together, and we strive to improve.”

Presented with the assistance of local businesses, the concert and dinner also saw mental health advocate Mike King lend words of support, with other entertainers in fine voice.

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RLJuly-August 2021.indd 27

Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 27

15/07/2021 1:58:38 PM

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Glad goes green Eco-friendly Kiwis have every reason to be ‘glad’ right now. That’s because food care manufacturer, GLAD has recently launched its Glad to be Green® range based on its research aimed at helping consumers make more sustainable choices.

R

esearch, commissioned by GLAD as part of its Change The Outcome campaign, revealed that 50% of all New Zealanders were concerned about food waste and more than half were aware that food waste contributed to CO2 emissions.

It also showed 86% of New Zealanders were trying to be more sustainable at home.

Painting a detailed picture of New Zealand’s approaches to composting, recycling and reducing food waste, other results revealed that while almost a third of Kiwis have never composted before, 20% were taking up composting to be more sustainable at home.

This makes the launch a Glad to be Green® Compostable Bake Paper timely as it is sustainably sourced, unbleached, chlorine-free and certified home compostable* after use.

The research also showed that two thirds (68%) of New Zealanders felt throwing out food was a waste of money, but they also estimated they were wasting

With this in mind, the new Glad to be Green® cling wrap and reseal products can be seen as a sustainable choice for Kiwis seeking better ways to store and plan their meals, protecting and preserving food for longer lasting freshness.

The products contain a minimum of 50% plant-based plastic produced from a renewable source of sugar cane and have a smaller carbon footprint**.

8.9% of the food they bought.

GLAD knows better storage and usage of food plays a role in reducing the amount of food heading to landfill and that reducing food waste is estimated to help save Kiwis an average of $21.39 each week.

Therefore, it is interesting that 40% of those surveyed said they created new meals out of leftovers to prevent waste, and 34% were seeking more effective storage methods to delay the onset of food decomposition.

The Glad to be Green® range includes: ◆ Compostable Brown Paper – RRP $7.79 ◆ 50% Plant Based Snack Bags – RRP $5.50 ◆ 50% Plant Based Sandwich Bags – RRP $5.50 ◆ 50% Plant Based Cling Wrap – RRP $7.00 Glad to be Green® Compostable Brown Bake Paper is available at New World, PAK’n SAVE and Countdown stores; other Glad to be Green® Food Care range products are available in supermarkets nationwide.

Research conducted by Antenna Insights in June 2020. *Certified compostable to AS4736 and AS5810 standards. **When compared to standard GLAD products.

Every homeowner wants to enjoy a feeling of pride and comfort when driving up to their home not just for the first time, but every time. And, that’s exactly what the team at Homes by Nest works hard to create – even the name reflects that sense of warmth and snugness which envelops homeowners when they walk through the front door into their very own living space.

Phone Bru Goldfinch 021 215 8368 • Email bru@homesbynest.nz • www.homesbynest.nz 28 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:58:43 PM

T

Kids BOOKS CELIA SEAGULL AND THE PLASTIC SEA

ELASTIC ISLAND ADVENTURES – KINGDOM OF BLONG

‘Plastic fantastics’ may be a wonderful sight when in full flight on the sea.

However, plastic waste has become a colossal ecological problem. In this book, Nicole Miller delivers a powerful message in a way young readers can understand, revealing that even the smallest among us can work to change our ways and our world for the better.

The ‘Blong’ awaited next chapter of the Elastic Island Adventures series is sending its protagonists on another escapade, especially well suited to readers aged 8-12 years. Arriving at a very strange island, Kiri, Jed, Ethan and Emma must find the missing king of a kingdom of cats.

When forest dwellers – including kakapo, kunekune, ruru, weta and keruru – need a hero, there’s one bird/bat that’s happy to rise to the occasion. And yet, a certain little creature with big ambitions has a few attributes that may hold him back, as this story by the acclaimed (dynamic?) duo of Melinda Szymanik and Isobel Joy Te Aho-White reveals. Can Kiwi overcome the challenges he faces to become the hero he believes he can be?

Karen McMillan: Elastic Island Adventures – Kingdom of Blong | RRP $19.99 | Duckling Publishing

Melinda Szymanik & Isobel Joy Te AhoWhite (illustrator): Batkiwi | RRP $19.99 | Scholastic NZ

HISTORIC HOMESTEADS OF HAWKE’S BAY

THE SPIRIT OF THE MOUNTAINS

MADHOUSE AT THE END OF THE EARTH

For generations, the Hawke’s Bay has been home to some of the grandest homes in the country. In this book, Angus Gordon explores the heritage behind a number of houses that dot the landscape as well as their central place in the history of New Zealand’s pastoral revolution. Loaded with photos this book is sure to appeal to history buffs, architectural enthusiasts and many others.

Packed full of breathtaking photos, often taken at altitudes where taking a breath requires more effort than at sea level, this book features Ron Hay’s personal stories of his own adventures in the Southern Alps. From complicated climbs of Mount Tasman, to more family-friendly tramping trips, The Spirit of the Mountains also includes a veteran tamper/climber/ photographer’s observations about one of the world’s most majestic regions.

Some of the world’s most beautiful places can be among its most deadly. In August 1897, the Belgica was set to carry the first scientific expedition to the South Pole.

However, her crew was to make history for different reasons. Facing the brutal Antarctic winter, surgeon Dr Frederik Cook and first mate Roald Amundsen, take centre stage in this a harrowing true survival story with a novelistic approach, based on the ship’s diaries and crew journals.

Ron Hay: The Spirit of the Mountains | RRP $39.95 | Mary Egan Publishing

Julian Sancton: Madhouse at the End of the Earth | RRP $40 | WH Allen

Nicole Miller: Celia Seagull and the Plastic Sea | RRP $15 | Mary Egan Publishing

BATKIWI

THE SUBLIME & THE EXTREME

Angus Gordon: Historic Homesteads of Hawke’s Bay | RRP $50 | Mary Egan Publishing www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 29

15/07/2021 1:58:52 PM

‘Whose’ game?

ON BOARD WITH LANGUAGE ence of Covid-19 saw a resurg es with several interest in board gam ng but none new products emergi and as so unique to New Zeal a bilingual Kaupapa, devised for for Aotearoa and suitable of speakers and learners g te reo Māori. Rural Livin e. wanted to know mor

Rosie Remmerswaal and Kuruho Wereta at the launch of Kaupapa.

K

uruho Wereta and Rosie Remmerswaal met by chance nearly three years ago when both were visiting friends at Umupuia Marae (Umupuia/Duders Beach). They didn’t know then they would become friends, flat mates, and the instigators of a word description game aimed at helping anyone learning te reo Māori.

However, in little more than two months they were sharing premises and ideas to help Rosie learn te reo Māori from scratch and for Kuruho to discover a new love for the language he had grown up with.

“I grew up in Ōtaki, which is well known for its strengths within te reo Māori and I had a bilingual and bicultural upbringing.

As I matured I felt the desire to expand my experiences, so I left Ōtaki to pursue a career as a ranger.

“However, I’ve always maintained a strong connection to my Māori arts background through carvng and weaving but didn’t have many opportunities to kōrero Māori every day.”

On the other hand, Rosie, with Pākehā, Dutch, Irish and Swedish ancestry, grew up with very little te reo Māori.

30 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

RLJuly-August 2021.indd 30

“But, as I learnt more about my role as a Pākehā upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, I wanted to learn,” she says.

And, learn she did with startling pace and fluency.

“It’s a beautiful language and a vessel for ways of thinking, wisdom and world views which have arisen from this very place we are blessed to call home. The more I learn, the more passionate I become about supporting Māori culture, reo and, ultimately, tino rangatiratanga.”

Serious talk but, it was this desire that set her on her new learning path with Kuruho’s encouragement. Although he has recently returned to live and work in Ōtaki, since bringing their game project to fruition, he and Rosie are still working closely together, expanding their newly formed company, Kura Rēhia.

“Over time, our flat in Maraetai became more and more bilingual,” Rosie says.

“Kuruho would teach me about whatatauki (Māori proverbs) and I’d share new things I was learning with him.

Subsequently, Kuruho was inspired to take his reo to the next level and took up night classes.

“One night we were playing a board game and decided to try negotiating the English words using te reo Māori. It was fun but clumsy so we created a similar word game by cutting up pieces of paper and hand writing our own clues in Māori.”

As a result, the friends took this basic version of Kaupapa to their reo Māori classes and received enthusiastic responses.

It prompted them to explore further.

Over the next two years they continued to develop the word game so that it could be played at any language learning level – beginners can use it to learn new words while fluent speakers are able to create a fast-paced, playful Māori immersion game.

“The design and feel of the game has evolved over many renditions,” Kuruho adds.

“The design we eventually landed with is inspired by the patterns of nature and pūrākau (traditional narratives) as expressed in whakairo (carving) and weaving such as haehae, pākati and taratara ā Kae. There are stories and meanings deeply rooted into the foundation of these patterns.”

In 2020 the friends founded, Kura Rēhia www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:58:55 PM

A successful launch day.

with the aim of creating more games, resources and events for bilingual Aotearoa.

Working closely with graphic designer, Aroha Tamihana (Maimoa Creative) and translator, Hemi Kelly, they chose environmentally responsible, independent New Zealand company, Soar, to manufacture the game.

It was formally launched in early May at Umupuia Marae, near Clevedon, where the pair met close to the flat where the game began.

Having poured heart and soul into organising the Te Reo o te Rēhia launch, these entrepreneurs are now keen to expand their reach and make the game available to broad range of organisations and environments.

“There is enthusiasm from libraries, kura (schools) and community groups which, like us, see te reo as vital to www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJuly-August 2021.indd 31

how we have fun together as whanau and friends,” Rosie says. “We would like to continue developing fun resources for speakers and learners of te reo Māori.”

Kuruho adds: “The world can be so serious and difficult to navigate at times and there is a lot of mahi for all of us at Tiriti partners in Aotearoa.

However, there are hidden treasures in the act of play.

“When we play our neutral pathways can expand at a rapid rate; this creates a space for deep learning to take place in a form which is disguised as fun; that’s very healing. Our mission is to support Aotearoa to become an authentically bilingual nation where everyone can thrive.”

Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 31

15/07/2021 1:59:07 PM

DIGGING INTO CITY GARDENING

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Reay Neben is the publisher of Rural Living

CITY LASS

T

ime is flying by and the thought of spring arriving is the most exciting thing on my calendar. I must say that I don’t like the winter at all. The cold is worse for me now as I have neuropathy as a side effect of the chemotherapy and chilly temperatures make it so much worse. Never mind, I survived so, it’s a small price to pay!

For the past two weeks I have been playing nursemaid to Brian who has just had a hip replacement. It is really amazing that the morning after his operation he was up and walking and with less pain than he had prior to the replacement being done.

He came home the next day but then I realised we were really ill-equipped to cope with his mobility issues. However, after a bit of trial and error, and a few wee words, we were all sorted.

Earlier in the year we bought a new bed in which the head and tail end could both be raised. This has proved to be truly fantastic as Brian can zoom up and down to his heart’s content and it has certainly made it easier for him to get out of bed.

Unfortunately, we generally leave the remote on our bed and Billy (the cat) has mastered the paw on the button

Colourful canna lilies for the garden.

technique. Most alarming when you wake up with your legs high in the air!

Now that the shortest day has passed, and we head towards spring, I start thinking about the garden. It is so different gardening in suburbia than on the land.

When we lived rurally, I used to dig up parts of our paddocks to start a new garden and that was so much fun. Putting in plants which would grow big was never an issue. My trips to Farrells were always a treat and I nearly always came home with a lot more plants than I intended.

I loved experimenting with different types of gardens and nothing I did really conformed. In town, I am doing the same but with much smaller plants.

Recently, I asked my former gardening lady Christine, who has the most superb garden in Pukekohe East, to favour me with a few bromeliads and canna lilies which she had thinned out of her garden.

Well, that was nearly enough to fill my entire town garden. It was instant and, now, I just have the weeds to contend with.

When Brian is up to going out again the first place we are heading to is the idyllic Red Shed at Drury for his favourite meal of lambs fry and bacon. That’s certainly not my taste at all but, of course, there is plenty more for me to choose from and the garden surroundings are lovely!

See you all next month

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15/07/2021 1:59:11 PM

FLOWERS AND MORE

Heebores WINTER WONDERS

These shorter winter days mean less time in the garden and more time inside, letting me make the most of the gift of time with my family.

Melanie Kennerley

W

e have just passed the shortest day of the year, the sun has barely risen as I leave to do the school run and has generally set when I return home again.

This makes it hard to get any time in the garden other than clearing the great piles of fallen autumn leaves from drains to try to minimise the damage from recent torrential downpours.

I’ve finally put my dahlias to bed in my She Shed for the winter and found a home for the last of my bulbs patiently chilling in the fridge.

While most things are hibernating outside while we hibernate inside, the hellebores (or winter roses) are just starting to explode, with my favourite being Anna’s Red. They are a stunning rich, deep burgundy colour and are the first hellebores I bought. As my eldest daughter is named Anna, how could I resist them?

When it is cold and dreary outside, it is a perfect time to enjoy some flowers inside.

If you want to pick your winter roses there are a few tricks to make them last so you don’t end up with a vase of drooping heads. Either wait until the stamens have dropped and the seed pods are developing or, if like me you struggle to resist for that long then dip the cut stems in just boiled water. Watch them bubble for about 10 seconds and then pop into a vase of cool water. That’s a tip you can use for any flowers which have started to droop; it will help most perk back up again.

While I am being forced into spending more time inside, I must admit that I have enjoyed doing some jigsaw puzzles. We had some great floral and food ones arrive in store recently. These and a candle would make great winter presents or are a way to treat yourself over these long winter evenings.

Melanie Kennerley, Master of Science (1st Hons), DIP and Interflora qualified florist, local business woman.

melanie_kennerley

My youngest daughter loves lighting candles which I have never done before, and she’s helped me discover the pleasure of burning a beautiful candle and allowing its welcoming fragrance to fill the room.

So, while I’d love to have more daylight and more flowers in the garden, I am eagerly watching for and appreciating those which are starting to reveal their faces. And, at night I’m enjoying a glass of wine while I work away with my daughter over a jigsaw puzzle.

KAT7588-v3

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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15/07/2021 1:59:14 PM

NEW IN

FAST, STRAIGHT AND SLEEK HAIR ANYWHERE, ANYTIME Natasha Harris of Alberts Hair Salon commends the new portable ghd hair Get straightener. your ghd

UNTREATED HEARING LOSS CAN AFFECT OTHER DISEASES

PAUL CATLOW from Total Hearing Care, in Pukekohe, talks about how hearing loss can impact on overall health.

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ouch up your style anytime and anywhere with ghd’s first portable hair straightener — the new ghd unplugged™ cordless hair straightener. This is sure to be your new handbag hair styling hero! Portable and powerful, the ghd unplugged™ harnesses dual-zone technology to ensure the optimum styling temperature of 185°C is maintained throughout styling.

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any New Zealanders experience some form of hearing loss, yet many choose to ignore it.

Hearing loss could be a symptom of a deeper health issue or could put you at risk of other health problems.

These are some health conditions linked to hearing loss: ◆ People who experience hearing loss are five times more likely to be at risk of dementia and alzheimer’s. ◆ Hearing loss is linked to diabetes. Those who have diabetes are at a greater risk of experiencing hearing issues. ◆ Studies have indicated that there is a close relationship between hearing loss and cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that the cardiovascular system is linked to hearing because if there is inadequate blood flow to your heart, it will have the same effect on the blood vessels within the ear canal, which can then lead to some form of hearing loss. People who are over 40, and experiencing hearing loss that is not noiseinduced, should ensure they have a heart check. ◆ Because of the inability to hear certain sounds, hearing loss can cause people to lose their balance and fall more often. ◆ Hearing loss can cause individuals to experience a decrease in social interaction. This can then lead to feelings of loneliness, as well as a decreased immune system. In turn, this can cause individuals to become stressed and puts them at risk of depression. ◆ Personal safety is at risk when hearing loss goes untreated. Once hearing becomes difficult, a reduction in overall alertness occurs.

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Taking care of your general health is the top priority. It is also important to pay attention to the warning signs of a more serious health condition.

Checking on hearing loss is simple, quick and painless. Having a hearing test is as important as having your eyes checked regularly.

You have the chance to reduce the risk of further disease by caring for your hearing.

If you would like further information please contact our team @ Total Hearing Care.

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34 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:59:18 PM

SAY AYE TO EYE CREAM d it’s hing’ feature an Our eyes are our most ‘eye-catc aspect, not only our important to take care of every nding the eyes. eyesight but also the skin surrou

By SHOSHANA EISNER, pharmacist and founder of QED Skincare

F

rom wrinkles to bags, dark circles, and puffiness, the eye area will show it all! Somehow all the stresses of life are magnified in this central area of the face.

The skin around the eye area is different to the skin over the rest of the face. Simply put, it is far more delicate and thinner, too.

Perhaps you have noticed that you never get pimples in this area of the face? That’s because there are minimal oil glands around the eye and fewer oil glands means less natural protection in tis area. This makes the eye area more prone to dryness, fine lines and early signs of ageing.

With this in mind, the eye area needs a heavier-duty cream to protect and fight the signs of ageing, whilst also being light enough to absorb into the delicate skin.

Eye cream has two main purposes. One is to improve the appearance of the area, making it look fresh, rested and youthful.

The second is to protect against future damage.

A good eye cream, with the right hydrating ingredients, should reduce the appearance of fine lines and help plump this area. It should promote a dewy appearance but, most importantly, it should provide nutrients to prevent further damage.

The right ingredients in your eye cream can also reduce dark shadows, brighten and generally improve the youthfulness of your appearance.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT EYE CREAM? As with all skin care, choosing the right eye cream is very personal but it should target all your concerns. There are many creams on the market and much of the

decision making comes down to your preferred texture and feel.

Don’t be fooled by fancy ingredients and instead look for natural ingredients which are antioxidant rich. If you are prone to irritation, avoid eye creams with added scent which can also cause dryness and, potentially, more damage and wrinkles.

HOW DO I APPLY EYE CREAM? The texture of the eye cream will depend on your preference and determine how it should be applied. A light texture, which is formulated to avoid dragging the skin, should be gently swept around the eye area. Thicker or a heavier eye cream should be tapped on, in order to prevent dragging and damage to this delicate area.

To learn more about QED skincare visit www.qedskincare.com

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Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 35

15/07/2021 1:59:27 PM

HOLA TO

Mexican flair! als that can be Today’s busy world demands me is Farrah’s Meal made in minutes. The good news with two new Kits are do the job perfectly and – Smoky Chipotle Mexican flavours recently added is a given. and Hickory BBQ – tasty dining rah’s: Try this yum recipe courtesy of Far

SMOKY CHIPOTLE FISH TACOS INGREDIENTS: ◆ New Farrah’s Smoky Chipotle Taco Kit OR Farrah’s Small Taco Tortillas and Farrah’s Smoky Chipotle Spice Mix ◆ 450g white fish fillets, sliced ◆ 1 tbsp oil ◆ 2 tomatoes, finely diced ◆ ½ red onion, finely diced ◆ 1 bunch coriander, finely chopped ◆ 2 cups mesclun lettuce ◆ Chipotle mayo (provided with Taco Kit if using) ◆ Limes

METHOD: Drizzle fish in oil and coat in Smoky Chipotle Spice Mix. Heat a pan or griddle on a medium heat with a dash of oil. Add fish and cook for 2-3 minutes each side until cooked

through (depending on thickness).

Mix finely chopped tomatoes, red onion and coriander together to make a classic Pico de Gallo.

Warm tortillas in a frying pan on a medium heat for 10 seconds each side. (Tip: stack the heated tortillas in foil to keep them warm.)

Build your tacos with smoky chipotle fish, mesclun lettuce and Pico de Gallo salsa.

Drizzle with chipotle mayo and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Makes 10 tacos.

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RLJuly-August 2021.indd 36

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15/07/2021 1:59:29 PM

What do you get ine when you comb – two Kiwi classics mon & NZ Lamb and Le Paeroa? has created a dish Marty Shanahan ur orld famous’ in yo which will be ‘w at he ahead and household so, go because this ue ec rb up the ba ur new dish could be yo . ite favour

I

Choice combo!

Chop chop! This L&P marinated lamb chop recipe came to Rural Living as part of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s National Lamb Day celebration in May, a tad too late for our publication but too good to miss!

nterestngly, Monday May 24 marked 139 years since New Zealand’s first frozen sheep meat shipment successfully arrived in Britain. The trip was so successful, it kick-started what is now a multi-billiondollar export industry.

What’s more, Marty Shanahan, The Backyard Cook, was inspired to bring together two New Zealand classics – lamb chops and L&P soft drink – in celebration of all things Kiwiana. This unique Kiwi recipe is the result.

LEMON & PAEROA MARINATED LAMB CHOPS Serving size: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes + marinating time Cook time: 6-8 minutes

INGREDIENTS: ◆ 8 lamb chops ◆ 1 garlic clove, crushed ◆ 1 red chilli, chopped ◆ 1 stalk of lemongrass ◆ (approximately 5cm) ◆ 6 stalks of fresh coriander ◆ 6 fresh mint leaves ◆ ½ cup of Lemon & Paeroa soft drink For the Marinade: Season lamb chops with a pinch of salt. Place all ingredients, apart from the Lemon & Paeroa, in a small food processor and blitz until you have a paste. www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJuly-August 2021.indd 37

Add the Lemon & Paeroa to the processor, and blitz again until combined.

If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the garlic, chilli, and coriander stalks.

Before chopping the lemongrass, tap alongside the stalk with the back of a knife to break it up. Add ingredients together and combine in a pestle and mortar.

Place lamb chops with the marinade in a resealable bag for up to five hours in fridge.

For the lamb chops: Bring the chops back to room temperature before cooking.

Preheat the barbecue or stove top until medium-hot. If using the barbecue, place a piece of baking paper or silicone baking sheet on the barbecue (this helps prevent the marinade from just burning).

Place lamb chops into barbecue for 10-12

minutes, turning once.

If using a stovetop, place the lamb chops in a cast iron skillet and heat each side for approximately 3-4 minutes (depending on the heat of your pan). Look for a caramelised char on the lamb chops which will give you those sweet, caramel tones.

Once done, rest the lamb chops on a wooden board for around half the cooking time. While meat is resting, deglaze the pan with some left over L&P scooping up the left over marinade and pour it on top of the chops. Serve.

Rural Living — July-August 2021 — 37

15/07/2021 1:59:31 PM

COUNTRYSIDEBegins THE

with Jo-Ann Day-Townsend

SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT CONDITIONS BUYERS AND SELLERS SHOULD KNOW

To keep your plans on track, it’s important to be aware of a few things that can catch sellers and buyers out. Nothing can derail your buying and selling plans quicker than a sale and purchase agreement mishap.

conditions this is when a solicitors approval clause for the vendor will ensure that you are also protected.

• Important note: A sale and purchase agreement is a binding document. It is always sensible to let your solicitor see it before you buy or insert a solicitor’s approval clause for both the vendor / owner and the buyers’ to ensure that you are signing up to the contract you envisaged.

Otherwise known as the escape clause, the cash out clause gives the seller the right to cancel a sale and purchase agreement if they receive a better offer.

3. THE CASH OUT CLAUSE

offer then becomes the opening bid. The seller is in complete control. They can choose to bring the auction forward, or accept an offer before the auction. It is up to them.

If you see this on a property you have interest in, remember to register your interest with the agent so you can be notified if the auction is brought forward.

A “better offer” does not necessarily mean better price. A seller might use it to switch to a buyer who offers a faster settlement, or if they tire of waiting on a purchaser to sell their property. As a seller this is an excellent clause as it ensures that if your buyer is selling their own home to purchase that you are not losing pace with the market so ask your agent to explain the benefits of it to you in the current market. I highly recommend putting one in especially in the current market and if the agent doesn’t want to do this for you question if they are working for you or the buyers.

5. ALTERATIONS

It is easier to negotiate settlement dates on listed properties, but you still may be able to request a variation of settlement terms before an auction. If the owner agrees to this variation, you will need to get it in writing before the auction so you can bid with confidence. The agreement for a change of date will only apply to your contract if you are successful.

How it works

6. THE “SUNSET” CLAUSE

Once the cash out clause is operated, the purchaser is given a few days to declare their offer unconditional or else have the agreement cancelled. The seller can then proceed with the back-up agreement.

If you’re planning to buy an off-the-plan property, buyers should check that their pre-sale agreements include a “sunset” clause. In the case of a property development, this clause allows contracts to be voided if the development isn’t completed by a certain date.

2. CONDITIONAL ON SALE OF PURCHASER’S PROPERTY

As a seller: If it is a slow market, this clause can make your property less appealing to buyers and Be careful not to sell your house twice.

1. AN INCONVENIENT SETTLEMENT PERIOD If you’re selling and buying at the same time, try to work the settlement dates in your favour. For example, you may ask to extend the settlement to 90 days rather than the more standard 30 to give yourself time to find and purchase a new property without the need to find temporary accommodation espically at the moment.

Keep in mind

Conditional offers are relatively common for listed properties. These can include them needing to get authority from the bank for finance, a LIM or even in some instances, sell their current property. This last instance is known as “conditional to sale of purchaser’s property”.

Both buyers and sellers should keep in mind that these conditions come with provisions and penalties.

As a buyer: If a cash out clause is invoked on you, don’t take unnecessary risks and change your offer to unconditional before you are ready – especially if you are still undergoing your due diligence. Try to expedite the due diligence process, but do not forsake it. The cash out clause is not applicable to auctions.

4. “FOR AUCTION: UNLESS SOLD PRIOR”

Remember that Conditional offers are not applicable to auctions which must be cash.

• TIP: If your buyer introduces additional sale and purchase agreement

This term informs buyers that the seller is willing to accept offers before an auction and could opt to withdraw a property for sale if a suitable offer is made. If an offer is made with an acceptable price and conditions, the seller can also choose to bring the auction forward from its scheduled date. The

• Important note: To make a pre-auction offer on a property, it must be an unconditional offer.

If you make any alterations to the Sale and Purchase Agreement – on the price for example – the change must be initialised by all parties. Failing to do so can cause an agreement to fall as it is not a valid contract.

The sunset clause is really for the purchaser’s benefit. It stops them getting stuck in a contract they can’t get out of. Unfortunately, this has been used by developers as a means to re price their properties to leverage a greater return from them – so a word to the wise to do more research on your developer.

Check also that the buyers’ deposit is refundable under the sunset clause. Always get a lawyer to clarify this!

So, before you purchase an off-the-plan property, talk to your lawyer about the potential risks, get them to approve your pre-sale agreement and thoroughly research the company managing the development.

Looking to buy or sell then Jo-Ann is the person who will ensure that you are looked after throughout the process.

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend

Port Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

38 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

KAT5307-v43

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

15/07/2021 1:59:33 PM

FROM THE EXPERT’S DESK

HOME MAKEOVERS ON

a budget

Sometimes homeowners yearn for a fresh interior look but the budget doesn’t allow for a major overhaul. If your home needs a facelift but you’re low on funds, here are some affordable ways to give your living space a makeover.

KAT5307-v43

s

◆ Update your window treatments. Pick out new curtains in a pattern you love or opt for shades or blinds that complement the style of your home. Curtain fabrics and blinds vary enormously in price but by shopping wisely at stores such as The Warehouse, Spotlight and more, it’s possible to source ready-made curtains or fabrics extremely reasonably. ◆ Refinish your cabinets. Wood cabinets in the kitchen, bathroom or elsewhere can be stripped, sanded and stained or painted to give a fresh appearance. Swap out knobs and handles to further change their look or, perhaps the budget will stretch to new doors if the inner shelving is still in good order. This is less expensive than installing a whole new kitchen. ◆ Paint and re-caulk the bathroom. Fresh paint goes a long way to brightening a room but so does applying caulking in the space around the tub and between the toilet and floor. It’s a small detail which can make a big difference.

If the bath has yellowed, but there is no budget for a new one, ask about re-surfacing the old one. ◆ Redo the flooring. There are budget-friendly flooring options including vinyl, carpet, laminate and even tiles.

Look for sale days. Unlike timber and stone, these products can be fairly easy to install on your own if you are handy when it comes to DIY jobs. ◆ Replace light fixtures. Look for affordable but timeless fixtures or consider investing in a statement piece for your front entrance or living room. You can find the materials you need at hardware, lighting and home decor stores. It’s amazing how a new light can change the look of a room. ◆ Swap out worn cushions and throws for new ones.

Regardless of your main colour scheme you are bound to find cushions in a new shade or pattern which will still tie in with your overall scheme yet will succeed in giving the room a new look. ◆ Don’t be afraid to check out pre-loved items in op shops and second hand stores. These days most such stores have many quality items, some not even out of the original purchase box. You’ll be surprised what ‘treasures’ can be found to effect an attractive but low budget interior upgrade.

GETTING THE BASE RIGHT KIM REICHE is director of two renovation franchises, runner-up, Franchise of the Year 2019 and had project wins for the People’s Choice 2020 plus Gold, Silver and Bronze awards.

W

hat happens when you bake a cake without knowing what the ingredients should be at that time and you don’t have enough time to bake the cake in the first place? Then you mess up the icing! You end up with a bit of a disaster. Luckily it doesn’t take much to bake another cake.

Apply the same lack of planning, preparation and finishing to a renovation and you’ll have a very different disaster on your hands and a very expensive one to boot.

For a successful renovation, it’s critical to get the base right with considered planning, expert preparation, and detailed finishing.

All require the experience of a professional in order to achieve the stunning result you’re seeking.

Planning is a discipline. It doesn’t come easy, which is why so many of us avoid planning and like jumping into action quickly. It’s also why so many projects fail – poor planning.

Successful renovation companies understand that detailed and thorough planning is the first cornerstone to be put in place and it’s definitely worth doing well.

As the Boy Scouts motto goes: Be Prepared. Significant effort and skill needs to be invested in the preparation stages of your renovation. After all, it’s no good having a floor which looks fabulous at a glance but has subtle yet extremely annoying lumps and bumps that you then need to live with.

The icing on the cake will be your end result. This is where quality finishing shines and where the wow factor becomes evident.

Do not be tempted to skimp on the finishing touches. Instead, showcase the high standard of your renovation through high end paint finishes, classy cabinetry, clever lighting and stunning surfaces.

Get all of this right and you can have your cake, and eat it too!

House overdue for a renovation?

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

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.

Call Kim to get your project underway 0800 004 600 www.refreshrenovations.co.nz/KimReiche KAT7013-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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15/07/2021 1:59:40 PM

PLANNING FOR A

child-safe garden

rWhen planning a garden and use friendly backyard, parents and to grandparents will generally want make it play-safe for children.

W

here adventurous youngsters are concerned, it’s important to think about risk prevention when designing landscaping.

This will ensure a safe space is provided for little ones to play with few worries.

TO GET YOU STARTED: Create a designated space to safely store tools, fertilizers, pool chemicals and other potentially dangerous items. Keep them well away from inquisitive hands and don’t keep toys in the same area.

If planning to build a multi-tiered garden, consider using ornamental gates and ramps (with a handrail) to reduce the risk of falls – these will also be useful for elderly visitors.

Be doubly sure pools, ponds and other bodies of water are properly fenced off and only accessible through a gate which latches. Drownings at home are far too common in this country especially where safety measures have been inadequate.

Check council’s fencing rules.

If using stakes to support climbing plants in your vegetable garden, cover the

ends to prevent injuries in the event that someone trips and falls.

When it comes to planting your garden, choose non-toxic species without latex or thorns. Or better still, opt for edible plants.

Ask advice if you are unsure as to which plants may cause harm.

Finally, don’t over clutter your lawn with garden art. Allow children room to play without worrying about damaging pots or sculptures. Instead, place these within garden beds and dug areas to attract interest without the prospect of harm.

OUTSTANDING in their field of Lifestyle/Rural real estate Cherry Cooper

Rural Sales

Kim Neil

Lifestyle/Rural Sales

021 955 141 027 213 3711

Dreena McElhinney

Branch Manager

Bob Cockburn Rural Sales

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Lifestyle/Rural Sales

027 479 5293 027 488 9234 027 784 9116

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Suzy Causebrook

021 055 9754

021 485 606

Lifestyle/Rural Sales

Rural Sales

Call any time for an up-to-the-minute market appraisal. barfoot.co.nz/papakura KAT7645

40 — Rural Living — July-August 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

15/07/2021 1:59:44 PM

PRICES INCREASE AT

stubbornly high rate

By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

F

ranklin prices continue to rise and rise although out-of-town buyers say the Franklin area offers great value compared to the inner Auckland city market.

They also say they like the district’s more relaxed lifestyle – great for sellers but not first home buyers! However, there are still great buys if you are keeping your finger on the pulse.

Barfoot and Thompson managing director, Peter Thompson says the onset of winter, and the new regulations aimed at making home buying less attractive to investors, have not dampened prices, or the number of Auckland houses sold in June.

Normally sales numbers in June start to edge lower, but this year the company sold 1243 homes, up 3.8 percent on those for the previous month, and both the average and median prices paid were higher than

those for May this year.

Even though new listings for the month, at 1485, were solid, at month end our total listings of 2864 were the lowest at a month end for five years. Demand and competition for homes has never been higher and the number of homes we had for sale at the end of the month was down by a quarter on the number available at the same time last year.

The average price paid was $1,143,328, up 2.6 percent on that for May, and the median price at $1,109,000 was up 3.4 percent. The rate at which prices were increasing did ease slightly in June but the rate remained stubbornly high.

Our June-on-June median price increase now stands at 21.9 percent. The Real Estate Institute’s Price Index for Mayto-May for Auckland was an increase of 26.3 percent.

Demand for housing, low levels of

THE LATEST ON REAL ESTATE

supply and record low mortgage interest rates have continued to prove a stronger counterbalance to new regulations aimed at pulling back the rate of price increases.

Demand for high end housing continued unabated, and during the month we sold 120 homes for more than $2 million. The only month last year in which we sold more $2 million homes was in December.

Throughout last year, our monthly average for the number of homes which sold for more than $2 million was 61.

During June Barfoot and Thompson sold 170 homes for less than $750,000; this represented 13.8 percent of our total sales for the month.

What properties we had to sell in the rural and lifestyle markets attracted strong buyer interest with lack of listings holding back sales. There are currently more buyers than vendors in the rural and lifestyles markets. Of particular interest is bare land zoned for residential or which has future rezoning potential.

Are you selling? Ph Darren 021 676 004.

Craig Ashby P 09 294 6156 M 021 998 605 E c.ashby@barfoot.co.nz

KAT7590

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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15/07/2021 1:59:47 PM

DIRECTORY ________________________________________________________________________ A fresh approach to renovations

There’s no substitute for hard work!

Franklin based family business providing a full range of expert electrical services

Call Kim Reiche to get your project underway 0800 004 600

• New builds • Smart homes • Kitchens • Automation • LED Lighting • Feature designer lighting • Security & garden lighting • Rewiring & Switchboards

Phone 09 235 0350 or 022 0616 614 www.progressiveelectrics.co.nz

KAT7007-v2

JU0762

WALKERS

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

PEST CONTROL • Insects and rodents • Domestic and commercial • Consultancy work

PUKEKOHE Contact us to plan ahead, or for guidance

BC0190-v3

Controlling your pests since 1988

Contact plan ahead, with or Contact usus totoplan ahead, orforfor guidance and support allguidance funeral arrangements support withall all funeral funeral arrangements andand support with arrangements Call: (09) 236 8919 (098919 ) 236(24 Call:Call: 09 236 hours) (24 hours) 8919 (24 hours) www.grahamsfunerals.co.nz www.grahamsfunerals.co.nz www.grahamsfunerals.co.nz Tuakau | Pukekohe Tuakau Waiuku | Waiuku Tuakau | | Pukekohe Pukekohe | | Waiuku

Open 7 Days Closed Public Holidays Ph (09) 23 52 769 6a Court St

KAT5295

YOU NAME IT – WE’LL KILL IT!

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

Open 7 Days Closed Public Holidays Ph (09) 23 92 964 Shop 2 / 33 Edinburg St (Next to Pizza Hut)

WAIUKU

KAT6214

THEMOWERSHOP PUKEKOHE Visit us in store: 44 Crosbie Rd Pukekohe Ph: (09) 238 0150 E: admin@themowershop.co.nz www.mowershopnz.co.nz

Franklin’s Home of for over

! s r a e Y 0 2

What we sell & service ...

• Rideon Mowers • Lawnmowers • Brushcutters • Chainsaws • Hedgetrimmers • Blowers • Outdoor power equipment What we do...

• Servicing • Spare parts • Repairs (most brands) • Same day chain sharpening • Pick up & Delivery service • Parts & consumables for the products we sell

KAT7703

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_________________________________________________________________________

FOR ALL YOUR WATER NEEDS

Call us for all your farming supply needs

CALL IN AND SEE US

• 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

KAT6826

KAT5287

RURAL & LIFESTYLE

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

24-Hour Callout Service

• Rollers

l Tip trucks

• No posts needed • Free standing • Any shape or size possible • Easily moved • Chickens won’t perch on it!

& trailers

CONTRACTOR

l Tree Removal l Drainage

l D65 Bulldozer l Roading

& scoop

l Low loader

BE IN CONTROL! CHICKIN-OUT FENCING

l Grader

Keeps your chickens in OR out

l Excavations l Dams

RABBIT CONTROL TWO STYLES Instant tree guards • Freestanding, easily movable OR • Flat push-in panel

l Building sites l Demolition

l Horse arenas l Metal/sand/

slag supplied

Experienced Operator 35 years+

Craig Nicholson Earthmoving & General Cartage

KAT6152-v3

ALLAN’S LIFE-STYLE FENCING | 027 279 3483

wilz@lifestyleproducts.net.nz | www.lifestyleproducts.net.nz

l Stopbanks

l General cartage

2, 3 or 4 piece tree guard assembles in a minute! Can be easily moved in a year or 3 and used on another tree.

09 294 7378 | 021 072 7163 info@apluswater.co.nz www.apluswater.co.nz

Grant Escott FENCING

l 1.7 to 26 tonne diggers

WANT TO MANAGE YOUR CHICKENS?

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

KAT5289-V2

Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

PROFARM

DESIGN, SUPPLY, INSTALL

0800 782 521

Household Water Deliveries Tank Cleaning Swimming Pool Fills Commercial – Industrial – Roading Tip Truck Hire Registered Water Carrier

SEPTIC TANK

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

Free quotes – Competitive rates

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

KAT5317

14 Constable Rd, Waiuku Phone 09 235 8268

Or:

IN TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

DY0311

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

For the best advice and friendly service

KAT5297

0800 SUCKA1

GUBB PUMP & WELL SERVICES

DIRECTORY

Classic Roofing Solutions

GREASE TRAP CLEANING SST SERVICES

We raise Brown Shavers

21E Ryan Pl, Manukau

KAT6171-v3

ANd

p: 09 294 7611

Over 37 years roofing experience

KAT5226-v3

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

Nigel Wagstaff Phone 09 232 8287

KAT5306

KAT6822

MADSEN LAWRIE SURVEYORS LTD

LAND SURVEYORS Contact

• House Pumps • Farm Pumps

Chris mobile 021 765 629

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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KAT7412

CHRIS JULIAN Freephone (0508) RURAL H20 (0508) 787 254

PH 09 237 0050 40 Crosbie Rd, Pukekohe www.aqualectrix.co.nz

LAND SUbDIVISION

David Lawrie or Ben Young

URbAN & RURAL LAND DEVELOpMENT

www.madsen-lawrie.co.nz Email: office@madsen-lawrie.co.nz

pROpERTY & TITLE INVESTIgATION

14 Hall St PO Box 177, Pukekohe Tel 09 238 6369

fARM pLANS & AERIAL phOTOgRAphS RESOURcE MANAgEMENT AppLIcATIONS bUILDINg SET OUTS

KAT5316-v3

Water Pumps

Water Tank Cleaning (While full or empty) Water Tank Maintenance Water Deliveries ~ Swimming Pools Filled

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

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KAT5286-v42

44 — Rural Living — July-August 2021