Rural Living - June-July 2021 by Times Media

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ruralliving.co.nz

June/July 2021

FARM TO MARKET

Brookby Barn

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FIFTY YEARS IN

‘FIRE-ING’ LINE

DENISE MATENE

SNAPS LOCKDOWN Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 1

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JUNE 20 JULY 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.

Secret Lives of Stencils

Auckland Live Cabaret Season

■ COUNTRY CALENDAR

■ MUSIC, THEATRE & DANCE

Fieldays 2021 June 16-19, Mystery Creek Events Centre, Mystery Creek Road, Ohaupo A showcase of all things country, Fieldays offers visitors a rich range of events, product demonstrations, stalls, entertainment and so much more. See www.fieldays.co.nz.

Matariki double bill June 19-21, Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre, Queen St, Auckland City Two inspiring (although very different) pieces of documentary theatre will be on show this month. While Barrier Ninja expresses challenges faced in dealing with the health system, Sorry For Your Loss is a heartfelt recolection of growing up on the mean streets of Hamilton in the ‘90s. Visit www.aucklandlive.co.nz.

David Bowie & the Art of Being Different June 24, from 7.30pm, OSPA Theatre, 24 Hall Road, Onewhero Presented by Dr Ian Chapman & the Cosmic Jive Trio, this musical performance centres on the work of the iconic David Bowie. However, it also includes an accompanying talk and interactive aspects too. More information at www.ospa.org.nz.

Auckland Live Cabaret Season June 19 – July 4, The Civic, Cnr Queen St & Wellesley St West, Auckland City Cabaret fans will have more than just a show or two to go to during this festival. With performances focused on everything from the life of chanteuse Edith Piaf, to Naked Girls Reading, this series appears set to draw the attention of plenty of old chums, old chum. See www.aucklandlive.co.nz.

Brahms 4 July 3, from 7.30pm, BNZ Theatre, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Including Brahms’ fourth and last Symphony in E minor, this performance will showcase the talents of the Manukau Symphony Orchestra. Also featuring Beethoven’s C minor Piano Concerto, the concert sees some of the greats of the past take centre stage once again. More information via www.manukausymphony.org.nz.

Secret Lives of Stencils June 16 - August 22, Highwic House, 40 Gillies Avenue, Epsom Telling a yarn about yarn, this exhibition celebrates the 150 year history of the iconic wool bale stencil. Applied to post boxes, gates and the sides of trucks, stencils became synonymous with wool producers and each one carries its own, unique story. More information via www. heritage.org.nz or www.facebook.com/ Highwic

avoid falling from great heights. See www.atc.co.nz/whats-on for details.

■ EXPOS & FESTIVALS Elemental AKL July 14 - August 1, various locations, Auckland Serving up ‘events and experiences celebrating the culture, cuisine and creativity of Tamaki Makaurau Auckland’, this eclectic festival is designed to show our city in the most favourable light. Visit www.aucklandnz.com/elementalfestival.

The Life of Galileo June 22 – July 10, times vary, ASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey Street, Auckland City Throughout history, people have gone along to get along; Galileo Galilei was not that kind of guy! A portrait of a genius under fire by a master playwright, Bertolt Brecht, this production reveals how those who seek out the stars must struggle to

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Madagascar — the Musical July 8-18, times vary, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, 50 Mayoral Drive, Auckland City If you like to ‘move it, move it’ best get a move on before this show sells out! A live stage adaptation of the ultrapopular animated film of the same name, Madagascar is a riotous adventure sure to

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Community Calendar

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TUAKAU 09 237 8310 | www.barfoot.co.nz/tuakau

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Denise Matene — Kia Kaha Puke: We Got This

Madagascar — the Musical

appeal to all members of the family. Details via www.Madagascarthemusical.co.nz. Luck of the Irish July 13, from 11am, Pukekohe Town Hall, 14-16 Massey Ave, Pukekohe, and August 12, from 11am, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura Loaded with jigs and jollity, this performance is intended to take audiences on a musical ride to the Emerald Isle featuring songs ranging from stirring, heart-felt ballads to light-hearted tunes. See www.operatunity.co.nz/concerts.

East Auckland Art Trail July 14 – August 1, various locations, east Auckland Coinciding with the Elemental AKL festival, the east Auckland Art Trail is designed to showcase top stops among our neighbouring region’s creative hubs, including Clevedon. Visit www. eastaucklandtourism.co.nz.

Clevedon Antique & Collectors Fair July 3-4, 10am-4pm, Clevedon Community Centre, 3 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Clevedon From the priceless to the price-less, valuable treasures and treasured (non) valuables will be traded during this fundraiser for Auckland Hospice Trust. See www.aucklandnz.com/visit/events.

Kia Kaha Puke: We Got This Now – June 25, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Ave, Pukekohe Photographer, Denise Matene, shares images taken in the Pukekohe area during New Zealand’s first Covid lockdown in this haunting and (at times) heart-warming exhibition. For further information visit www.facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre. For more about Denise, see pages 32-33. Eye on Nature Wearable Arts Fashion Show June 24, 6.30-8.30pm, BNZ Theatre, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau Art can hang on walls but, when some fantastic creations hang from people, the result can be poetry in motion. This show

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Quota Papakura Antique Fair July 9-11, 10am-4pm, Drury School, Young Cres, Drury Raising funds to assist the good work of Quota Papakura in helping the deaf, and hard of hearing, this event will again offer locals the chance to buy and sell antiques and collectables. Contact Quota Papakura on 09 2983854 or 021334055.

Nicola

■ FAMILY FUN Kid’s Disco June 27, 3-5pm, Papakura RSA, 40 Elliot St, Papakura Papakura RSA will be full of youthful exuberance during this event, when children (aged 0-10 years) will be invited along to put their best feet forward. See www.papakurarsa.co.nz/events.

■ SPORT, FITNESS & RACING

■ FUNDRAISERS

■ ARTS

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sees wearable arts focused on keeping an Eye on Nature through its eco-friendly theme. See www.pacific.org.nz/whatson.

Lindauer Ladies Day 23 June, 11am-6pm, Pukekohe Park, 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe Wine and whinnying is par for the course at this event. In addition to racing on track, guests will be treated to a buffet lunch, dessert, entertainment and more, including the ever-popular Fashions on the Field. See www.pukekohepark.co.nz. Junior Tough Guy and Gal Challenge June 24, 8.30am-12.30pm, Ngaruawahia Christian Youth Camp, 148 Waingaro Road, Ngaruawahia Good guys might finish last but only the toughest guys (and gals) will have a hope of finishing first during this demanding event. Both 1.5km and 3km courses see primary and intermediate school-aged children tackle mud and obstacles as they run, walk and crawl their way through. See www.eventpromotions.co.nz

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

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from the

EDITOR

STOP, GO, STOP, GO...

STOP! T

his month I was determined to talk about a few cheery things in life – the beautiful male pheasant which flew across SH22, dining at Maxwell’s golf resort in Bombay and brunching beachfront at Mt Maunganui, but then I read Transport Minister, Michael Wood’s confirmation that the Mill Road project has (pretty well) been canned. His words: “If we had proceeded with Mill Road as originally scoped, it would have cost up to $3.5 billion and at peak produced six tonnes of CO2 emissions a day. “Instead, we’ve focused on delivering important safety improvements to Mill Road, upgrades to SH1 and rail, and new rail stations connected to public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure. This rebalanced package helps manage debt, reduces emissions and supports housing growth.” What a load of claptrap! As it stands, this vital link to east Auckland sees Cosgrove Road in Papakura and its connection to Mill Road, all the way to Redoubt Road, clogged most weekday mornings. It was only a few weeks ago that National Party leader (and Papakura MP) Judith Collins said Auckland would: “Suffer a transport heart attack if improvements aren’t made to the Mill Road Corridor. The project is vital to meet the needs of the increasing population and business development in the Franklin area, and the pressing need to create additional capacity for the motorway.” How right she was and, by golly, I’m in full agreement, having travelled this route many times between our Pukekohe and Howick offices. After the latest government announcement, Ms Collins added: “Cancelling Mill Road will leave South Aucklanders fighting gridlock for decades to come, all because the Government is pushing ahead with a half-baked add-on to the Auckland Harbour Bridge.” I ask, how much time, money and CO2 emissions have gone up in smoke simply through the lengthy process of meeting after meeting, revision after revision, on this topic for it all to (apparently) now amount to nothing? 4 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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Pahurehure cycleway.

If transport authorities had gone in boots and all at the outset, this ‘shovel ready’ project could have been completed long ago and, perhaps, we wouldn’t still be harping on about buses and cycling. I recently passed six virtually empty buses in the Botany area – one a doubledecker – including one with only three or four passengers! What level of CO2 emissions are these buses cranking out, especially as they stop and start frequently for passengers and can take longer than a car journey? Furthermore, while there has been more emphasis on trains, there is no direct rail link to east Auckland and unlikely to be in the foreseeable future. I concede that the new cycleway from Drury to Takanini is attracting weekend recreational cyclists, but I haven’t seen any riders there on my several trips into Auckland during the week. As I have said many times, when parents need to drop children at day-care centres, shop after work and race to sports fixtures, a bike just doesn’t cut it. Now, Ms Collins reiterates this point with her comment: “The Government’s fixation on walking, cycling, and forcing people out of their cars is out of touch... Grant Robertson should try cycling across the harbour with groceries,sports gear and the kid’s netball team and see how that goes.” Frankly, I cannot understand such a fixation either, especially when SH1 – the major link in and out of Auckland to most of the country – is hopelessly inadequate. Last Friday, ahead of Queen’s Birthday Weekend, even at 11.30am it was stop/ start for my 25 minute trip from Hill Road, Manurewa to Ramarama; I hate to think what it was like by late afternoon! Most Sundays, northbound lanes from Drury are nearly always jam-packed with traffic moving at a crawl. Those are just two shortfall examples, which I doubt can be solved with cycleways. Ironically, New Zealand’s governing

Photo Wayne Martin

party is called Labour; perhaps it should be renamed ‘Blather’! Despite all the talk which seems to go into moving precisely nowhere (as in the epic of the Mill Road works that have never worked!), the transport debate appears to grow ever more longwinded and the traffic ever more congested.

Helen Perry, Editor

COVERSHOT

FARM, BARN, MARKET: Horsing around might be discerned as kid’s play but at newly opened Brookby Barn the fun attraction for Abigail and Josh Stevenson are miniature donkeys, (pictured on our cover) and a host of other cute animals which make up the rural hub’s petting zoo for children. Of course, for adults, the retail bays and rustic cafe plus a chance to relax in country surrounds is what Brookby Barn is all about. Read more on pages 22-23. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Moss? Forget about it. Mould? Forget about that too. Thanks to Wet & Forget’s Rapid Application Moss Mould Remover we can quickly put paid to moss and mould, which are all too common at this time of year. Thanks to its rapid application nozzle, it’s now even easier to cover large areas and hard-to-reach spots. We have bottles of this efficient, effective product (RRP $99.95) to give away to THREE lucky readers.

Here’s your chance to win a gorgeous set of Bela:Sonder jewellery, a beautiful reminder of the work Bela:Sonder does to help women in need by partnering with fashion chain, MAX and charitable organisation, Dress for Success. Bela:Sonder’s give-back programme means that each piece of jewellery purchased in-store allows another piece to be given to a Dress for Success client – women seeking employment and financial independence. Of timeless design, and made to last, Bela:Sonder jewellery pieces are crafted from recycled brass and are available exclusively from MAX retail stores but we have a lovely necklace and matching bracelet to giveaway to one lucky reader.

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WIN! A COPY OF KIWI FARMERS’ GUIDE TO LIFE Sharing the stories of Kiwi farmers and their families, this book explores the highs and lows of making a life on, and a living from, the land. In addition to looking back at ‘the way we were’, Tim Fulton also focuses on the changing nature of our primary industries and how many, deemed the backbone of New Zealand, are holding up when faced with climate change and the need to feed an ever-growing population. A perfect read for farmers, this book should prove insightful to city folk too. Tim Fulton: Kiwi Farmers’ Guide to Life | RRP $39.99 | Bateman Books www.ruralliving.co.nz

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“There were no gardens, just a swampy sheep paddock. But there were willow trees and little lambs in it and a lovely doll’s house of a homestead with wrap around decks. We could see what a magical place it could be.”

Bridell Clark.

Photo Wayne Martin

8 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:47:38 PM

BRIDELL IS ‘WEDDED’

to her garden! An unconventional upbringing sowed the seeds of a lifelong passion for Waiuku flower-grower Bridell Clark. She’s transformed a swampy paddock into a stunning garden and kick-started a business to boot. ANGELA KEMP reports.

here’s no doubt gardening grows on you and for Bridell Clark that began at an early age. She was brought up with her two young brothers by artistic parents in the Coromandel where growing food to eat was the norm. “It wasn’t a commune but Dellrian Gardens more of a small community living off the land in Tairua,” she explains. “There wasn’t much work around so people were self-sufficient and I learned a lot about growing things, medicinal plants, native bush and respecting the environment.” Bridell has certainly put what she learned to good use after making the 17-acre Waiuku property she and husband Brian bought seven years ago into a horticultural paradise. “There were no gardens, just a swampy sheep paddock. But there were willow trees and little lambs in it and a lovely doll’s house of a homestead with wrap around decks. We could see what a magical place it could be.” The couple has created a wonderland for visitors to wander down pathways surrounded by a series of gardens containing an abundance of blooms all year round. They welcome gardening groups, small and large, from all over Auckland to view not only the ornamental and production gardens but no fewer than five ponds, a stream, waterfalls, board walk, a small bush walk and bridges. There’s a multitude of animals including sheep, cattle, horses, dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, pukekos, pheasants, fresh water koura, eels and fish, and three peacocks – including a stunning white pair. Called Dellrian Gardens (a compilation of their first names), Bridell grows more than 50 types of flowers and foliage trees which she sells to florists as well as using www.ruralliving.co.nz

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them herself. She specialises in dried flower arrangements and says they were the first thing to make her fall in love with flowers. “When I lived in Tairua, mum’s friend lived in a natural wood house and she always had flowers hanging from the ceiling. Combined with the smell of timber I just thought they were the loveliest thing. Everything I’ve grown I’ve always made sure to dry a little and I grow what I can dry to minimise wastage.” The garden has themed areas including Singaporean, Japanese and tropical as well as a white garden like that of Sissinghurst Castle Garden in the UK. More naturalistic planting can be seen in a meadowland, cactus groves and Australian and South African dry beds. “We also have a large raised veggie garden, hot house, nuttery and many orchards growing nearly every fruit you can think of,” says Bridell. When she was 11 the family moved to Tauranga and after leaving school Bridell did a floristry course. However, lack of industry opportunity saw her train as a veterinary nurse instead. She did that for several years, including a stint with animal guru, Mark Vette, before coming full circle and making a career with flowers. This year Dellrian was launched as a garden wedding and events venue and hosted its first wedding in January. Brian, an electrician, is busy building a covered area (to be dressed in copious greenery

and flowers) ready for the next wedding season. Bridell is also well known in flower circles thanks to her work as a committee member of Waiuku Festival of Flowers and as a member of the 200-strong Waiuku Gardening Enthusiasts Facebook group. She recently hosted a seed-swap for her fellow gardening enthusiasts and has numerous trays of seedlings growing in the potting shed. In the know locals stop by the roadside bloom bar at the front gate to buy flowers, seasonal produce and Bridell’s ceramics, another evocation of her childhood. “Both my parents were into ceramics and their parents as well. I kind of grew up around it, wanting to create and make. Dad was a sculptor and he created life-size pieces out of chicken mesh and concrete clay. “He taught me how to do that and I eventually got my own wheel and kiln. I have been making little forest creatures and candle-holders but I am now focusing on making planters and mugs.” Bridell and Brian’s two children, Ovid (seven) and 20-month-old Elva, have a magical place in which to grow up not dissimilar from their mother’s Coromandel childhood. “It’s my life’s purpose to create a natural wonderland for little ones to fall in love with the land,” Bridell says. “I want them to know where food comes from and how to grow their own so they will always have a full belly without the need for money for every meal. [I want them to have] somewhere they can chase butterflies, build huts, talk to birds and wait for the fairies to come out; to have a place where their imagination can run wild and free and live in celebration of mother nature.” Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 9

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Colin Riddle. 12 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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Photo Wayne Martin

www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:47:43 PM

Over

THE GATE

WITH

Colin Riddle (WAIUKU VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE) In 1971, Kiri Te Kanawa debuted at Covent Garden, Kentucky Fried Chicken opened its first New Zealand store and the last scheduled steam-hauled train service ran on our railways. And, in the small, country town of Waiuku, a young buck named Colin Riddle joined the Waiuku Volunteer Fire Brigade. Recently, Rural Living caught up with Colin to chat about his long service to his community... over the gate.

You marked 50 years of service in May. How proud are you to have served your community for so long? I’ve always have been proud of serving the Waiuku and surrounding communities, that’s why I joined the Waiuku Volunteer Fire Brigade. We celebrated with a few drinks with other members on the night – my shout, apparently! You also marked 48 years of ‘service’ to your wife, Linley on the same day, correct? Yes. We will hold a double star celebration in October in the town hall. Our wedding anniversary is the same date, which makes it easy to remember. There will be another celebration when we reach 50 years too, of course. You’re a local born and raised, is that right? What makes Franklin such a special place to live? I was brought up on a farm near Aka Aka and Linley is also born and bred here. Waiuku has almost everything we could need – all we need now is a covered swimming pool. What motivated you to join the Waiuku Volunteer Fire Brigade? Joe, my father-in-law to be at the time, was in the brigade and asked if I would like to become a member as they had raised the membership numbers because the Waiuku Fire Board purchased a new International Fire appliance. I have always www.ruralliving.co.nz

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enjoyed the comradeship; it’s like a big family. How long did you serve as an active fire fighter before stepping aside to let the young guys save lives? I was a fire-fighter for 20 years before I was elected as a station officer. I was then appointed CFO in 2011. But you’re always active and in the front lines. You were a bricklayer by trade, correct? When you retired from bricklaying, did you consider hanging up the hose on fire fighting too? Yes. I did a bricklaying apprenticeship in Waiuku with J.T.Reesby Ltd. I closed my own business in August 2019. I wanted to complete 50 years [with the fire brigade] and have no plans of retiring yet. How tough is it to get through the worst/ most confronting parts of the job? Is there enough support? We had one our members pass away at the local gym. We were called to administer CPR. He had a fire Service funeral and I had to lead the brigade through this ordeal. As a brigade, we work as a team and look after each other. FENZ (Fire and Emergency NZ) has great back up with counselling and other services for members. Help is only a phone call away. Are our rural regions (across the board) receiving adequate fire service coverage? When FENZ was established in 2018, all fire services merged in one organisation.

The rural areas are now funded the same way urban brigades are and they are better off for it. Have volunteer numbers fallen? Should volunteers be paid, even if only working part-time? Waiuku has never had trouble finding recruits; in fact, we have always had a waiting list. Each volunteer gets $300 each at Christmas from the government but I don’t expect to be paid as I see my service as my gift to my community. If you could grow any plant or raise any animal (real or imagined), what and why? I’d grow a plant that gets rid of white fly so I can grow better tomatoes! If you could be Chief Executive of Fire and Emergency New Zealand for a day, what would you do first and why? That’s a job I wouldn’t like. I wouldn’t change anything, though, as I think we are very well looked after. If you could invite three people (living or dead) to dinner, who and why? Vern Duff, an old family friend. He was in his eighties when I was in my thirties. One day, he told me all about the early fire brigade; I’d write it all down next time around! My mother, Eunice. She used to cook the best tripe. And, my father Ian. Looking back, I think I should have listened to him and gone farming when I was 16! Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 13

10/06/2021 3:47:44 PM

BUDGET CASH CREDIT TO FARMERS, FED SUGGESTS Kiwis Especially during the pandemic, farmers and growers have kept fed. However, they’ve also fed the Government, Fed’ suggests.

“N

ew Zealand’s internationally competitive, resilient and fleet-footed farmers and growers [rolled] with the Covid punches to keep this country financially afloat,” Andrew Hoggard from Federated Farmers says. “What we really need from this government is an acknowledgement that the world pays us good money for the food we produce, and a regulatory framework that encourages and supports us to keep doing what we do.” His comments follow the release of Budget 2021 in late May. Mr Hoggard believes farmers should pat themselves on the back for making it possible for the country to afford the Budget. However, he says talk of winding back the clock to undo reforms will send shivers down the spines of farmers.

“The only reason farmers and growers were able to keep New Zealand out of the financial crap of last year was because [of] the reforms of the 80s and 90s,” he warns. “Our sector is now internationally competitive, open and embracing of free trade. The 120 countries we trade with welcome our highly valued products, produced to environmental and animal welfare standards beyond what the world expects. We do this because it is the only way to operate a truly globally successful economy.” Positives from the Budget, include additional support for streamlining farm planning, agricultural emissions research and boosting the effectiveness of the NAIT, National Animal Identification and Tracing system, Mr Hoggard adds.

“What we really need t from this governmen nt me is an acknowledge that the world pays us d we good money for the foo ry to ula reg produce, and a s ge ura framework that enco ep and supports us to ke .” do we at doing wh

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14 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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WHAT’S UP

. . . ’C .O D H T WI A man of the land equally at home buzzing around the Beehive, Damien O’Connor covers a range of portfolios including: Agriculture, Biosecurity, Trade and Export Growth, and Rural Communities. Once again, the Rural Living team sifted through his ‘doing this’ – based on reports from his office – to sum up what, of late, he has done. Damien O’Connor

BUDGET BACKS BIOSECURITY As Mycoplasma bovis and Covid have shown, keeping undesirables – dare we say except Australians? – out of Aotearoa is of the utmost importance. Consequently, it’s not surprising to see funding in the recently-released Budget 2021 for biosecurity. “As a nation which depends on trade and tourism, and a country whose lifestyle is linked to our unique natural environment, our focus on investment in biosecurity is vital,” Damien O’Connor said soon after the Budget was delivered on May 20. In addition to $28 million ($32 million over five years) set to fund a Pest Management Plan to protect kauri from dieback, and $8.9 million to help strengthen biosecurity management of mail, the Government has invested $22.5 million in NAIT, the National Animal Identification and Tracing Scheme. NAIT has been crucial to tackling the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak. “Our ability to trace cattle and deer through the NAIT system is a critical factor in managing biosecurity threats that could have a devastating impact on New Zealand’s agricultural sector,” Mr O’Connor added. “We’ve achieved increased levels of NAIT compliance in recent years. This funding will help us maintain and build on that good work. ”

EMISSIONS – SUSTAINED To help farmers and growers reduce emissions, the Government has emitted quite the allocation of funds in the new Budget. “This Budget commitment... will deliver lasting reductions in both agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and the associated costs,” our Minister of Agriculture said of the move. “As an www.ruralliving.co.nz

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agricultural nation, there is a lot riding on our ability to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.” The war chest includes: $37 million towards a national integrated farm planning system, $24 million for research and development, and $900,000 to collect ‘vital statistics’ on agricultural production, such as greenhouse gas. Care has been taken to help farmers and growers implement changes and, all going well, they should expect to boost returns, Mr O’Connor contends. “To meet our climate change and sustainability goals we need a single national farm planning framework which is easy for farmers and growers to use and that integrates with their business requirements,” he said. “This new Budget investment will supercharge and streamline efforts. Getting the right result will actually add value to our exports. High-value consumers abroad want to know they’re buying food and fibre that are quality, ethical and sustainable.”

MINISTER’S PASSES COMMENT, GAS Mr O’Connor may be better known for passing laws than passing gas – in polite circles at least! – but such emissions were the topic de jour when our Minister of Agriculture attended the launch of a project in Hamilton in mid May. Essentially, scientists believe genetics hold the key to how much (or how little) methane emissions cattle produce. “Each one of the cows we have in New Zealand now produces a whole lot more for the same inputs that we put in maybe 20 or 30 years ago,” Mr O’Connor said. “That kind of progressive development which we’ve seen in production, we want to now see in methane reduction and I’m sure we can do that. We are innovative, we’re creative and we’re cooperative.” To read more, see page 24.

ADVERSE EVENT, IMMEDIATE ACTION The recent May/June weather bomb may have hit further afield but its fallout has been felt as far as Wellington, with reverberations impacting our primary industries throughout the country. Hitting the South Island, the storm resulted in widespread flooding leading to classification as an ‘adverse event’. “I’m on the ground in Canterbury today [June 1] to speak with officials and farmers about how the Government can assist rural communities,” Mr O’Connor said. “It’s putting further pressure on farmers who have been battling drought and we’re committed to helping them get through.” The adverse event classification has enabled access to funding through Rural Support Trusts. “The funding will help speed up the recovery of farming businesses, and includes wellbeing support and specialist technical advice,” he added. “We will continue to assess whether further support is required as the full extent of the flooding becomes clearer.”

EASY AS UK CPTPP? International trade agreements are rarely simple to negotiate. However, an important step in the much vaunted CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) has been taken, our Minister for Trade and Export Growth (aka D.O’C) has confirmed. “We look forward to working with our CPTPP partners and the UK to establish how the UK will meet the high standards required in the CPTPP, including those relating to market access,” he said in early June. ”New Zealand welcomes this next step towards the UK becoming part of the Indo-Pacific’s most advanced and high quality free trade agreement.” Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 15

10/06/2021 3:47:45 PM

Fieldays RIDES AGAIN!

When one of New Zealand’s most well-known rural events resumes usual service, competitors will be digging deep and riding high!

“I

t’s like a triathlon. The competitors are on the move, running, lugging equipment, and trying to keep themselves hydrated, otherwise their muscles start locking up,” says organiser of Fieldays’ New Zealand Fencing Competitions, Clevedon local Debbie White. “At times, the judging process can come down to a couple millimetres to distinguish between the fences.” With the prestigious Golden Pliers (singles) and Silver Spades (doubles) up for grabs, some of the best in the fencing business will go hammer and tongs (and hammer and nails) to gain the top titles. Another crowd favourite competition back on track sees driven heavyweights of another nature.

Fieldays runs June 16-19 at Mystery Creek Events Centre (near Hamilton); for a full programme visit www.fieldays.co.nz.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: ◆ The Dairy Precinct – includes milk cooling, water filtration and effluent management systems ◆ The Motor Vehicle Precinct – working vehicles and more ◆ The Health and Wellbeing Hub – designed to help ensure rural people remain in top shape despite a rigorous lifestyle ◆ Rural Living Precinct – includes durable gear to withstand the elements, whether farming, fishing, hunting or even tramping ◆ Innovations Centre – the latest products and bright ideas from Kiwi No.8 wire ingenuity

“I generally know everyone there; it’s always the same scene: we have a big catch up and a good yarn, then we go out on the track to try and beat each other,” says tractor pull competitor, Daniel Reymer. In addition, the Civil Contractors New Zealand Excavator Competition will offer an uplifting experience and other old favourites are expected to return too. Competitions undoubtedly bring an extra element to Fieldays but, at heart, the event serves as a conduit between those who make a living from the land and those who supply them with the tools of their trade. This year, more than 1000 exhibitors will show their wares.

MOTORCYCLING – LOCAL TAKES WHEEL

Paul 16 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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A veteran of motorsport has been elected president of Motorcycling New Zealand (MNZ). Ararimu’s Paul Pavletich, many times a champion on the national road-racing scene, brings extensive experience to the role. “I have some key projects that I see are relatively low-hanging fruit where we can really add some value to our members and make it a stronger organisation,” Mr Pavletich says. “I am looking forward to the challenge and to working in co-operation with the MNZ board members and commissioners.” Formerly Motorcycling New Zealand’s chief executive, Mr Pavletich’s involvement with the sport also includes serving as chief instructor at the Auckland Motorcycle Club for 12 years and as a riding tutor for the New Zealand Automobile Association (NZAA). “My background as being a club president and former CEO for MNZ gives me a good Pavletich.

insight into the mechanics of it... I see that the future is quite bright. I think we are in a good position going forward.” Mr Pavletich has a number of goals he is hoping to achieve. “I’d love to see an academy formed, across all the disciplines... Other areas of focus will include raising the motorcycle competition profile with the public, improving circuit safety and working towards having more international competitions within multiple disciplines.” Encouraging more women to engage with the sport – leading to more female riders and officials becoming involved – is also high on his priority list, as is affordability: “We have to make the sport more affordable for people to compete,” he says. “I understand times are hard financially for most folks and racing is a luxury, so we need to work out a more affordable path to grow the sport and engage the next generation better.”

Article and photo courtesy of Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:47:49 PM

VET TALK

QUESTIONS I AM COMMONLY ASKED BY LIFESTYLE FARMERS Dr Jennifer Stone addresses the five questions she is am most commonly asked by Lifestyle Farmers in part two of a two-part article first featured in Rural Living last month.

HOW DO I GO ABOUT BREEDING MY OWN COWS? Because of a bull’s size, nature, and expense, it is not always as easy as just “putting a bull in with the cows” and letting nature take its course. There are various breeding programmes designed to allow cows to be mated by artificial insemination at a convenient time.

These breeding programmes are devised with your local vet and an artificial insemination technician. Contact your branch of Franklin Vets to arrange this service. If you are considering having a bull on your block, it is imperative that good handling facilities are available. Good, strong electrified fences, a wellbuilt holding yard and easy access to a good stock loading race are the minimum essentials. Different types of bulls tend to be more suitable to different types of cows. Discuss this with your vet for independent advice on what type of bull is best for your situation. I WANT TO REAR CALVES. HOW DO I GO ABOUT IT? Rearing calves can be rewarding when things go right and heartbreaking when things go wrong! If you are rearing calves for the first

PART 2

time, discuss the ins and outs with your vet. Some basics for consideration: ◆ Prepare a clean, draught-free and warm environment for your calves before you bring any home ◆ Buy healthy calves which are at least four days old Look for: ◆ Dry, small navels – Pricked up ears, clear bright eyes, moist noses, shiny coats – Firm faeces – Playful movements ◆ Quarantine calves for seven days as they come onto your property ◆ Discuss with your vet appropriate first aid measures for calves with scours/ diarrhoea before you need to use them.

CHECKLIST ◆ Equine – it is hoof abscess time again, and a good time for hoof supplements such as Hoof Gold. Keep poultice material such as Animalintex and Epsom salts on hand, just in case. Clean out horse’s feet daily. Keep magnesium supplementation going while grass growth is still occurring for calm, healthy horses. ◆ 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. One Bravecto spot-on treatment protects cats against fleas for three months and dogs for six months.

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Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 17

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FIELDAYS BOUND –

help me, Honda! From farm to track, many who have found themselves stuck in a rut have relied on Honda Products to pull them through. Avoiding such sticky situations can begin with a visit to the newly-refurbished Counties Honda showroom (Massey Street Pukekohe), or the Honda stand at Fieldays – June 16-19, Mystery Creek, Hamilton.

“T

he extensive Honda range – from motorbikes, ATVs and SXSs, to power equipment – has become renowned for quality and reliability,” says Brett Aspden from Counties Honda. “As a new Honda franchise owner, it’s very rewarding for me to, routinely, receive positive feedback about our products.” The Honda Power Equipment range includes generators and water pumps, which are especially vital to farmers, often helping to keep the lifeblood of farms pumping. In addition, the Lawn and Garden care range is great for general property maintenance in the hands lifestyle block owners or even ‘weekend warriors’, Brett attests. And, Honda has even more tricks up its sleeve, including specialist products such as the Versa Tool. “Versa Tool has a wide range of attachments – from brush cutters, hedge trimmers and pruners, to blowers, cultivators and edgers – making a single power-head an extremely versatile piece of kit on lifestyle blocks as well as on larger farms.” Of course, Honda is renowned for the quality and reliability of its on and off-road bikes too, Brett reminds us. “From riding the high country to simply getting from point A to point B, 18 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

“Honda is one of the ble world’s most recognisa ’s brands and the world largest manufacturer t of small engines,” Bret u’re adds. “So, whatever yo to after, from motorbikes power equipment, feel ffee free to drop in for a co ur and let’s chat about yo needs.”

Honda has the right motorbike to suit. We also offer a great range of safety equipment and apparel – for road, dirt and the farm – so all bases are covered.” Prior to taking the reins (or should that be the handlebars?) at Counties Honda earlier this year, Brett spent many

years working as a senior manager in the automotive industry both in New Zealand and abroad. However, he also has hands-on skills which have proven most beneficial. “I grew up in the Waikato and learnt to milk cows on a farm near Mangatangi,” he says. “After that, I started out on the tools as a technician. The experience I gained has been invaluable ever since. It’s certainly helped me understand what our customers – including farmers – need from our products and our team.” “Honda is one of the world’s most recognisable brands and the world’s largest manufacturer of small engines,” Brett adds. “So, whatever you’re after, from motorbikes to power equipment, feel free to drop in Special Fieldays for a coffee and let’s chat pricing available about your across the needs.”

Honda range!

More information about Honda’s range is available at www.countieshonda.co.nz. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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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.

VINCENT –

VAN GONE?

hen the work of a super ‘star’ artist adorned the walls of the Spark Arena Gallery in May, a Rural Living reader sent us this photo of a promotional piece attached to van Gogh Alive exhibition. Although he was most certainly excessive in other ways, as the quintessential ‘starving artist’, Vincent van Gogh was not driven to excess when it came to luxuries. So, it’s a safe assumption he would have been more likely to drive the equivalent of a clapped out old van than a brand new Porsche Taycan. Unless, of course, he actually sold some paintings! As van Gogh’s Starry Night (the paint job covering the Porsche in question) is now valued at (approx) NZ$130 million, and a new Porsche Taycan can be purchased for a mere (approx) $173,000, Vincent might have traded in his van for one of these luxury sports cars. These two beauties could be a match made in heaven; then again, as Don McLean would likely suggest, maybe it misses the point: ‘They would not listen, they’re not listening still, perhaps they never will’.

their best pink to Guests donned st. ato’s Pink Breakfa support Port Waik

TICKLED PINK! Port Waikato may be a small seaside community but the locals there have big hearts especially when it comes to raising funds to combat cancer. What’s more, in the spirit of country-wide Pink Breakfasts held during May to help raise funds for breast cancer research, the Port community, donned their best pink to participate in a Pink Breakfast and a TradeMe auction of a sketch by Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern which ultimately sold for $10,000. In total the breakfast and auction raised a massive $25,000 for the Breast Cancer Foundation.

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THE DILIGENT DOZEN

job dogs put to test

dbags but, as Some dogs may be at home in han m dogs prefer to The Cobber Challenge proves, far e, Kiwi dogs stretch their legs. For the first tim t puts are invited to enter a contest tha test. the work ethic of canines to the

“T

he Cobber Challenge provides hard data to prove what most farmers already know: a good working dog can do the work of at least two or three people,” challenge organiser, Kellie Savage, says. “We are thrilled to welcome our New Zealand cousins into the competition this year.” From August 16 until September 5, a dozen dogs will be fitted with GPS collars to track their distance covered, work duration and speed. Points will be awarded with data uploaded daily so fans can track performances. Last year’s winner, a Kelpie-cross named Buddy, set a new record by covering 835kms. His owner, Glenda Rogan from New South Wales, says the challenge provided insight into just how hard her dogs work. “I found competing in the Challenge with Buddy very rewarding. He’s a big, strong dog who’s always busy, so I thought he’d be a strong contender,” she says. “I have one of Buddy’s sons, called For more Mate [in this year’s edition]... he’s proving to be a information, or to really good dog.” enter a dog, visit www. The winning dog will receive a year’s cobberchallenge.com.au. supply of Cobber Working Dog feed with its Nominations close owner netting $3000 AUS, to be spent on a June 27. working dog breeding programme, training or participation in working dog trials.

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10/06/2021 3:48:02 PM

Brookby Barn -

Marlise Meyer Photography

Chris and Monya Van Wyk with children Demi-Lee (left) and Yanko.

COMMUNITY HUB, RURAL HAVEN This month a rural dream came true for Chris and Monya Van Wyk when they formally opened their new venture – Brookby Barn – a country café, retail space and community hub which they told HELEN PERRY emerged form an experimental Christmas market.

t was 2008 when Chris and Monya Van Wyk arrived in New Zealand from South Africa. Thirteen years, and two children later, the couple realised their aspiration of purchasing rural land never thinking then where that might lead. Even when the couple pulled together a series of festive markets, just prior to Christmas 2020, all within a vast barn on their eight hectare Brookby property, they weren’t thinking much beyond that initial project. But, when those first 22 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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markets proved to be a great success, largely due to the efforts of the local community and friends who pitched in to renovate and set up the barn in just six weeks, Monya saw long term possibilities. That initial effort resulted in a colourful, innovative and well designed marketplace which included a delicatessen, crafts, décor items, produce, gifts galore, art and even a children’s market where youngsters sold their pre-loved toys, jewellery and other craft work, baking, books and more. “We couldn’t have wished for a better response and, subsequently, we decided to take the concept a few steps further,” Monya says. Now the community-focused family has set up a country café in the barn complemented by retail and exhibition bays, function space for special events and a children’s petting zoo (open at weekends). “People today are always busy and

quality family life is sometimes sacrificed. We wanted to generate a place where families (and individuals) can come to relax, shop and enjoy our rural setting, hence the idea of a rustic café where we will serve breakfast and lunches with beautiful desserts and deli items also available.” And, after a hugely successful Queen’s Birthday Weekend opening, when the crowds turned out and left the café bare, the venture looks exceptionally bright. However, there was a time when any thoughts of this kind of project were nowhere in the making. “Although we both come from farming backgrounds and always wanted to buy rural, it didn’t seem this would be possible,’ Monya explains. “Then, by chance, we learned that one of Chris’ customers was retiring and selling his Brookby property. “When we came to view it, Chris just said, ‘were buying it!’ and, amazingly our offer was accepted. More incredible www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:48:05 PM

Marlise Meyer Photography

Brookby Barn will operate Wednesdays to Sundays, 8.30am-2pm and is also available for private functions.

because we couldn’t even get into the barn as it was tenanted so we didn’t see what work was involved until we actually moved in.” Chris, the owner of a company specialising in portable houses, had no problems visually and starting work on changes. “But it was the efforts of silent partners, friends and the local community which really helped bring it all together,” Monya adds. “We didn’t know anyone in this area but before long local people were offering to help and turning out for working bees.” Furthermore, she says it was the caring attitude of ‘neighbours’ from across rural surrounds which especially warmed her heart – even made her teary. “For example, when one of our special calves became ill, we had few clues how to treat her. Although we’d come from farming families in South Africa, it was very different there. www.ruralliving.co.nz

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“In despair, I asked for suggestions via the local grapevine. Within no time I had advice and offers of help pouring in from everywhere. Busy farmers came and gave us a hand to establish lifting equipment and a routine to help the calf’s recovery. “I was overwhelmed by their concern and generosity and this inspired us even more in our idea of creating a permanent café and market.” Coming from a long career in retail marketing, Monya well knows how to set up appealing spaces which attract the eye. Her Christmas markets received glowing comments from visitors with scores of photographs a testament to her designer approach. Expanding on the idea came naturally. “The new retail space is looking great with local artisans and crafters offering unique, boutique-style products such as homewares, old school jars, jewellery, raincoats, shoes, pottery and ceramics,

Photos Wayne Martin

glassware, handmade chocolates, baby items and natural organic drinks to name a few,” she says. “So far, the petting zoo, set up for little ones, has two miniature donkeys, several cows, sheep, ducks, chickens, turkeys and guinea fowl. We also have kuni kuni pigs but no goats, they can be very naughty. “Because we are dog lovers and have two dogs of our own plus a regular ‘visitor’ – Brutus and Lily, our own Labradors and a golden retriever, Bella – we have a dog station so visitors can bring their canine pets with them. “Of course, the café is fully operational too and we will have the loft available for B&B style accommodation soon. We see Brookby Barn as both a community hub and a rural escape for those living in suburbia. After such a wonderful opening weekend, we hope to welcome, meet and be a support not only locals but visitors from east Auckland and beyond.” Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 23

10/06/2021 3:48:08 PM

Dairy awards

THE CREAM OF THE CROP Far from being mere milk maids, the winners of the 2021 Dairy Industry Awards could be said to have been made to milk.

t was an evening for ‘home town heroes’ at Hamilton’s Claudelands Event Centre recently. Waikato farmers topped the tables in two of the three main award categories: Christopher Vila (Dairy Manager of the Year), Ruth Connolly (Dairy Trainee of the Year). What’s more, Waikato’s Reuben and Deb Connolly were named runners-up in

olly, Waikato, Christopher Vila, DIA Award winners 2021 – Ruth Conn boj, Hawke’s Bay Wairarapa. Kam it Sum Waikato, Manoj Kumar and

the third major category, Share Farmer of the Year, won by Manoj Kumar and Sumit Kamboj from Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa. A number of merit awards were also presented. Another highlight of the evening came when Morrinsville’s Jeff Bolstad received a Lifetime Contribution Award for his long service to the awards and the dairy

industry in general. “Jeff has no ego, just a pure love and passion for aspiring dairy farmers,” awards trust chair, Natasha Tere, said. “He has been a guiding light, a father figure and confidante to many while on their awards journey.” For a full list of winners, visit dairyindustryawards.co.nz.

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LABOUR SHORTAGES –

on-growing issue The Labour Government has renewed its efforts to address contentious labour shortages which have been troubling both horticultural and agricultural industries.

rimary sector organisations have been buoyed of late due to fresh attempts by the Labour Government to address labour shortages. However, it remains to be seen whether such efforts will be enough to ensure the backbone of our economy receives the support it needs to... grow. “The horticulture industry is still struggling to get enough workers, as winter pruning gets underway and we start to look to next season and the spring harvests,” outgoing chief executive of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ), Mike Chapman, confirms. “This season, there was an estimated shortfall of 5000 workers at the height of apple and kiwifruit harvests... not all the crops were picked and quality was compromised. In addition, productivity fell due to lower skill levels and the aptitude of a number of workers.” However, HortNZ welcomes recent Government extensions to the Supplementary Seasonal Employment (SSE) and Working Holiday visas by six

months, although the move does not go far enough, Mr Chapman asserts. “We’re pleased this decision has finally come out as we are losing workers on these visas to Australia,” he says. “We

urgently need a Pacific bubble, which will enable the safe entry and exit of workers from the Pacific, using the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. [The] RSE is such a beneficial scheme, not only for our growers and packers but for the Pacific.” Other industry groups also welcome recent government efforts. “This is positive news for farmers who will be encouraged that government have heard our concerns and responded,” DairyNZ’s Dr Tim Mackle says. “We will be ensuring farmers understand the detail of the class exception to be able to make an informed decision.” Travel exemptions, which allow 200 skilled farm workers into New Zealand, are expected to help farmers who have been crying out for help, Chris Lewis from Federated Farmers adds. “I have taken many, many calls from people who are struggling to cope without their farm managers and skilled staff. It has been a desperate time for many dairy farming families.”

HORTNZ – TUNLEY TAKES TURN AT TOP A good chap and an efficient man (Mike Chapman) has been replaced by an executive expected to take Horticulture New Zealand to ‘new territory’. “We are very pleased to [have appointed] a candidate of Nadine [Tunley’s] calibre,” the organisation’s president, Barry O’Neil, confirms. “Nadine will lead HortNZ into new territory, as horticulture adapts to Covid and the operation of industry changes.” Drawing on decades of experience in the primary industries Hort NZ new chief executive, Nadine www.ruralliving.co.nz

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sector, Nadine’s duties include advocating on behalf of growers. “I have always had a very strong connection with the food and fibre sector, having grown up in rural New Zealand,” she says. “Our primary industries are in yet another period of change and challenge, be it Covid, climate, labour, environmental, or logistics-related... I am really delighted to be able to assist New Zealand’s strong and vibrant horticultural sector to forge through this next period of change.”

Tunley. Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 25

10/06/2021 3:48:12 PM

SPELMAN’S MAGIC –

boffins harness bull burps It may seem like bull pucky but studies involving passing gas could prove useful in reducing the passing of gas!

recent Waikato-based pilot trial (which also involved breeding company CRV) could hold the answer to breeding climate-friendly cows, indicating genetics are responsible for bull burps. Dr Richard Spelman, from agritech company LIC, says [the trial] suggests genetics plays a role in a dairy bull’s methane emissions. “If [a] genetic link is confirmed, farmers will ultimately be able to breed low methane-emitting cows from low methane-emitting bulls.” The trial measured feed intake and methane emissions (in the form of burps) from 20 bulls. The results appear promising but more study is required. “We will be methane testing daughters from the bulls which are identified to be high or low methane emitters to check their emissions are representative of their father’s,” Dr Spelman says. “It’s a long term project but it has the potential to deliver real benefits to farmers in the future by providing another tool to reduce their farm emissions.” While breeding more climate-friendly cows is the focus, the impact on other

traits needs to be considered, he adds. “It’s really important that we understand the genetic relationships between methane and traits such as milk production and fertility. We don’t want to find we are selecting against methane and inadvertently breeding cows that are less fertile.”

NATIVES TACKLE LEAVINGS, FINDINGS SUGGEST Two native plants could prove effective weapons in battling bacteria in soil caused by dairy effluent, a new study suggests. Northern rata (Metrosideros robusta) and swamp manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) can reduce the amount of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in soil by 90%, Dr Hossein Alizadeh from Lincoln University’s BioProtection Research Centre, says. “E. coli tends to do better in soil which is alkaline to neutral pH. The roots of swamp manuka and northern rata change soil to make it more acidic, so that may be why E.coli dies off more quickly.” Published in the Applied Soil Ecology journal, the study could help develop a game plan for reducing the impact of dairy effluent, its authors contend. “Future research in field conditions would show the potential and/ or limitations of bioactive plantings for preventing faecal or microbial contamination of freshwater resources from contaminated soil.” To view the paper, search ‘Phytoremediation of microbial contamination in soil by New Zealand native plants’ at www.sciencedirect.com.

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26 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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10/06/2021 3:48:14 PM

Papakura Stream

CLEANUP EFFORTS UP AND RUNNING Where there’s water, there is a way to protect it, organisers of the Papakura Stream Restoration Project expect.

“W

e aim to, not only make a difference to stream health, but also mobilise and educate as many people as possible on the importance of getting involved in the protection of our waterways,” says Siobhan O’Grady, from Conservation Volunteers New Zealand. “The [project] is a multi-stakeholder programme which encourages local boards, landowners, corporates and the community to work together on a common goal.” Running from Brookby to the Manukau Harbour, via the Pahurehure inlet, the

63km Papakura Stream winds through rural and urban areas as it crosses southern Auckland. Restoration efforts include installing fencing, planting native trees and shrubs, weed control and litter cleanup. Children from the region’s schools are already involved, learning about local wildlife in the process. The initiative follows a survey, produced with the assistance of local government. Confectionary company, Mondelez NZ, is also pitching in. “This is an incredibly important project as it combines both conservation efforts

as well as consumer awareness around recycled materials and underscores our commitment to protecting the environment,” Cara Liebrock from Mondelez NZ says. “We want to illustrate the importance of collecting and recycling soft plastics and divert it from landfill. It’s a great step forward in achieving New Zealand’s goal of transitioning towards a circular economy.” Underway since late May, the project is taking many hands to make light work; those keen to assist will find further information at www. conservationvolunteers.co.nz.

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HAILS FROM THE QUEEN A tenacious advocate for rural women received a crowning glory recently. Named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM), Fiona Gower’s hard work was recognised in Queen’s Birthday honours. “I was blown away!” the Port Waikato local says. “I’ve had incredible support throughout the whole journey [so] it’s not just about me, it’s about all the women who helped me make a difference.” Among many other good works, Ms Gower – who has featured previously in Rural Living – was a founder of the Onewhero Branch of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) and served as the organisation’s national president 2016-20.

TB or not TB – VIGILANCE ADVISED

which is detrimental to our health.” If hunters come across an animal they believe to be diseased, they should leave it where it is and report details to the landowner, call OSPRI on 0800 482 463 and/or email info@ospri. co.nz with a photo and details of the location.

A full list of this year’s honours is accessible via www.dpmc.govt. nz/honours.

For more information visit www.ospri. co.nz/wildlife-andpests/hunters.

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reat Stoat th TACKLE ONE TO

By Ditch Keeling, Coastal Pest Solutions

idday folks, it’s been a cracker of a month here with possums emptying out bait stations as fast as I can fill them, mice running rampant through houses in new rural developments and hares busily munching their way through the first plantings of the 2021 planting season. Add to that, I’m boarding the barge at dawn tomorrow morning (May 31) for our annual Great Barrier Island rabbit hunt… talk about full-on! I’ve also been flat out getting everyone’s stoat bait stocked up in advance of my three-week absence as several pest-free sites are dealing with stoat incursions at present and these guys are hard enough to catch at the best of times. In particular, I really feel for the trap crew on Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands, they have been on the hunt for a stoat there for months now and, so far, no joy. These islands have a total area of 4100 hectares and the elusive stoat has been detected by dogs at multiple sites right across both of them – it’s a huge task on any area of this size. Of course, Rangitoto presents its own unique challenges with coarse, rocky scoria making even walking quite difficult. What’s more, setting long wooden box traps at 200m spacings requires tracks to be cut through the dense vegetation.

Then every single trap site needs to be levelled in order to get them to sit nice and flat, all with the knowledge that, ultimately, only one of several thousand traps will actually do the deed! The challenge for the trappers is both physical and mental, so much so that I understand the lead trapper recently quit! However, I do sympathise. I spent 10 years on Rangitoto during the 1990s I spent 10 trapping the last possums and years on Rangitoto wallabies. We used to completely during the 1990s wear out a pair of leather combat boots every six weeks; it’s no trapping the last possums wonder the dogs were reluctant and wallabies. We used to to head onto the scoria each day! completely wear out a pair of Another pest-free site leather combat boots every six currently dealing with a weeks; it’s no wonder the dogs problematic stoat is Tawharanui Open Sanctuary. were reluctant to head onto Although Tawh’ is only 580 the scoria each day! hectares, this site also has its own challenges with the full spectrum of threatened species present. This means only traps which are completely safe to use around them can be deployed...the the detection and removal of new last thing anyone wants is to kill one of the incursions and getting funders and staff species we are trying to protect. prepared to commit huge resources to Creating pest-free areas has been very maintain the hard-won pest-free status – much the focus for conservation over the complete eradication is always a reason past few decades. This has been a very to celebrate! For sure, conservation is a challenging bit of science but we got there long-term game and one I’m hopeful all and ultimately developed the world’s very Kiwis will support. best eradication techniques. Until next time, folks. The challenge now is more around

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FOG FAILS TO CLOUD

WARM MEMORIES Reay Neben is the publisher of Rural Living

CITY LASS

t’s the middle of June already and we are nearly at the shortest day of the year — this year has certainly gone fast! When we look back on last year with all its lockdowns, it is nice to be at this stage with the pandemic. Brian and I have now had our second dose of the vaccine so that’s a comfort. I feel for the countries close to us which are suffering a resurgence of the virus. Poor Fiji, such a wonderful holiday destination but I think it will be a long time until they are part of our bubble. Looking at the adverts for Rarotonga I am reminded of the super holidays we have enjoyed there. The last visit wasn’t that great with Brian ending up in the hospital and we had to return early but all our other trips have been magic. On one trip we flew to Aitutaki and stayed in one of the The Rarotongan Resort’s ‘over-the-lagoon’ villas. That was a fabulous holiday and it was such fun having the sea at the bottom of our steps. Every few hours we would feed the fish living under the villa; the bright colours of so many different varieties were fascinating. For us, that was a real holiday. The highlight of the day was watching those fish and, of course, reading a good

l A foggy morning over rura o. ikat Wa the in countryside

book entirely at our leisure. Now that the Cook islands are part of the New Zealand bubble I know holiday makers will head over there. Such a safe place with lovely beaches and lots to do. In stark contrast to the sun in Rarotonga, last week I visited my brother-in-law at his new Pokeno home. He had been badly injured in a car accident and I thought I would pop in and see how things were going. I had forgotten about the Waikato fog but, as I travelled down the other side of the Bombay Hills, the temperature gauge kept dropping and at the Pokeno turnoff the fog was extremely thick with the temperature at 8 degrees. I went into the new Countdown to pick

up some supplies and felt stupid dressed in only a light top with all the locals in big puffer jackets, gloves and hats. It was definitely winter there. Freezing! When I left at midday, the temperature had risen to 9 degrees but, by the time I reached the top of the Bombays, the sun was shinning and it was a warm 17 degrees. At last I was dressed correctly for the weather! From there I headed to Patumahoe for lunch with my former Pilates girls at The Butcher’s Shop Café. What a wonderful catch-up with delicious food! All up it was a great day but that fog, with no sun, really blew my mind. See you next month when we are making headway towards spring!

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FLOWERS AND MORE

s on s ea s e h t of g in g n a h C It’s the change of the seasons but there’s no time to relax... The dried flower revival is letting us get quirky and creative during these colder months!

t has been pouring with rain, thunder and lightning are coming and going at their own will and it’s cold! There is little flowering in the garden for picking – it is that time of the year which feels strange with summer flowers, like cosmos, trying to be cheerful yet bulbs, such as earlicheer, starting to flower along with hellebores. I was, however, out trying to pick when heavy rain struck and I had to shelter in my She Shed. My She Shed was developed last year in what was our shed for hand rearing calves for school Ag Days. Over summer I was hanging a lot of flowers and foliage for drying there but it is now too cold and open. Instead, I have taken over our hot water cupboard which is full of roses hanging from my clothes drying rack – no room for drying clothes anymore! This is the first year I’ve dried flowers. When they started to make a comeback, the concept took me back to my younger days of dusty, very average looking displays. What is available now is so vastly different, it’s like night and day. At The Wild Rose we have dried and preserved flowers from Japan, China, Europe and Australia. Some of the preserved rose heads are of such good quality it’s hard to tell the difference between a living rose and a preserved one. These sit alongside locally grown flowers and foliage which are also dried. I grew strawflowers over summer for the first time. They grew to be taller than me and flowered over so many months but, finally, they had to make way for spring

bulbs in my picking garden. The last of them I dried and it is hard to tell if they are fresh or dried which makes them such a versatile flower to grow. I also grew bunny tails, however these grew to be about knee high to a grasshopper, albeit that there were a lot of “tails” on each plant. When my father rang to ask if I would like him to pick some while he was at the beach I was delighted. My mother wasn’t, she cursed the bunches of bunny tails drying at her house. I am even more delighted now that there is a worldwide shortage of bunny tails – can you believe it! I know the dried flower revival will come to an end, but while it’s here I am totally embracing it. I love that you can be quirky and creative; at The Wild Rose we are putting dried flowers in terrariums and large egg cups which are perfect for the ‘not so perfect’ flowers. In the fresh flower world it is all about stem length and being long and beautiful. In the real world, and just like us, not all fit this mould. Dried flowers and their many uses are just right for the ‘non-perfect’ in the flower world, and for that I love them as that is exactly what I grow in my garden.

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

KAT7588-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 31

15/06/2021 9:05:32 AM

DENISE MATENE –

she’s got this!

Covid-19 may have emptied our streets at times but it didn’t drain the nation’s spirit. Instead, Kiwis pitched in to support each other. Now, their efforts, and the impact of the pandemic, are captured in a perceptive photography exhibition at the Franklin Arts Centre, Pukekohe.

Denise Matene.

32 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

Photo Wayne Martin

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ocal photographer, Denise Matene’s exhibition, Kia Kaha Puke: We’ve Got This! not only encapsulates the team of five million’s efforts to resist the effects of Covid-19 but reflects her own resolve to overcome life’s hurdles and address issues she feels are important. Life hasn’t always been easy for this mother of six – five sons and a daughter – who was widowed four years ago and works evening shifts behind the bar at the Franklin Cub to support her family. In one year she lost her husband Damion (to cancer), her dad and also the loved family pet of 12 years, yet there was never a time when she thought of giving up. Instead, she plunged into work and family life but found time to focus her creative nature on pursuing her love of photography, often looking at sensitive but vital questions troubling society. “My first exhibition, just on a year ago, focused on vulnerable teenagers and the feelings that often result in mental health issues and www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:48:23 PM

can sometimes lead to heart-breaking tragedy. I called it, Rangatahi Matter, [loosely translating as youth matter]. “I was thrilled to see one my photos, a young lad, was picked to feature on the Auckland Festival of Photography flag and also appeared on the back of a bus.” Now, Denise’s second exhibition looks at Covid-19’s incongruity – the many difficulties, the many joys! “In those early days we had no idea of the ongoing impact; in fact there were mixed reactions. Initially, some thought it exciting, a bit playful, even funny when masks and hazmat suits started to emerge. “It seemed cool to be off school or work for a bit. But then reality set in. There were deaths, sickness and financial hardship; our roads were deserted, there were empty buses and businesses and the masks came out in earnest. “Social distancing meant we missed our friends and their hugs; the community struggled yet Kiwis lent a hand wherever they could with whatever they had. I thought I just had to record those remarkable efforts and outcomes.” So, that’s exactly what Denise did. She took her camera on walks, to the supermarket and past empty shops and highways. She also captured the

Exhibition reflects on Covid-19 year.

generosity and resilience of people from many walks of life. “I loved seeing people refusing to buckle to pandemic pressures. I like to think I’ve done the same in my own life which hasn’t always gone as planned. I was young when I had my first child and it wasn’t till some years later that I married and had five more children. To me, they [my kids] are everything and giving them the best life means taking every opportunity that comes my way. That’s why seeing such strong determination within the community [during Covid 2020] was so inspiring.” With photography satisfying her creative outlet, Denise says she hopes to do more in the future and, perhaps, paint too. “I was just 10 when my mum bought me my first camera – a little Hanimex with a revolving flash cube on the top. I loved it but developing film was expensive so I was allowed just one reel of film per month. ‘Now, as my children grow older, I’d like to do more and look at other forms of art, too. I’m not sure what or even how. I started at the Franklin Club just before my husband passed so this has been a real lifeline. I don’t want to give it up or the friends I’ve made here so, perhaps my time to delve further is yet to come.”

Denise Matene’s photography exhibition, Kia Kaha Puke: We’ve Got This! can be seen at The Steel Gallery, Franklin Arts Centre, Massey Street, Pukekohe until June 25, 2021 (closed weekends).

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Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 33

10/06/2021 3:48:24 PM

EMBRACING

GREY

Natasha Harris of Alberts Hair Salon offers tips and tricks for keeping your crowning glory looking beautiful, while embracing you!

ver the past year a lot of women have embraced a more natural look, and a few clients have made the decision to let their grey grow in. With salons closed for months during lockdown, people had time to see the possibilities of embracing their natural highlights including grey hair. This can be a huge change and while the result is empowering, it can be a process to blend the new growth of salt-and-pepper with old, coloured ends if you’re unwilling to chop it off. If you want to go down this route, you will need to be prepared to work closely with your stylist and expect this to be a bit involved. Ideally I like to map a schedule for clients, so they know what timeline to expect. Once the grow-out is in a good place, I recommend a semi-permanent gloss to keep the grey from looking yellow and occasionally a few pale foils around the face to make it pop – it’s natural, but better! Matte Brown or Blonde: Cooling down your colour will give you an insight into the softer palette of naturals, allowing your colour to blend as it fades, while giving it a beautiful shine. For anyone who is on the fence about going blonde, this is your first step in that direction. A matte brown works well with almost every skin tone. Be sure your colourist tones your hair for longer than usual to create a dense, longlasting brown — and to avoid brassy tones.

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

LOUD MUSIC

NOT FIT FOR EXERCISE PAUL CATLOW from Total Hearing Care, in Pukekohe, talks about the effects of loud exercise music on hearing.

urning down the music at your fitness classes won’t affect how hard you work out, researchers in America have concluded. Many of us have attended fitness classes or walked past gym classes with music blaring out loudly. In part, this is due to the commonly held belief that high intensity music can help class members to work harder and at higher intensity levels. In a recent study by the University of Maryland, School of Medicine, the sound level in a number of hour-long spinning classes was measured. In the study it was found that average sound levels in group fitness classes to top 90 decibels and even to exceed 100 decibels, might be enough to damage your hearing. Investigators found that no difference in exercise intensity existed between classes with music 20% lower than the music in the loudest class. In the loudest classes some 25% of participants reported they had experienced symptoms of possible hearing damage such as ringing in the ears following the class. In addition, more than one third of participants in these classes reported the volume was excessive and that they would prefer a lower sound level. “Participants were most likely to report that the music level was satisfactory in classes where sound levels were lowest,” said author Dr. Ronna Hertzano, associate professor of otolaryngology – head and neck surgery at the medical school. For the study, Dr Hertzano’s team surveyed participants (average age 31 years) in hour-long spinning classes at a Baltimore gym. In classes with music which was two to three decibels lower than the loudest classes – about 20% reduction in perceived loudness – participants reported no differences in their exercise intensity. Only three participants told researchers they used hearing protection such as ear plugs, according to the report. “Our findings make a strong case for reducing music volumes in fitness classes to protect against hearing loss without sacrificing the intensity of the work out,” Dr Hertzano concluded.

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KbIoDoS ks TAKAHE TROUBLE

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High jinks and high adventure are par for the course for Moose! When a distress call comes in over the radio, Moose must draw on his aviation skills to fly to the rescue, as this award-winning book reveals. Fans of flying machines and daring aviators are sure to enjoy this uplifting story.

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Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 35

10/06/2021 3:48:29 PM

We were just recovering from one of our worst months since opening – we had been shut for most of the Christmas and New Year period, had staffing issues, and had bills to pay including suppliers and wages.

COVID-19 NO MATCH FOR

Carbon Kopi! Setting up a new business is hard enough without the threat of a global pandemic. Former Rural Living journalist, NATALIE BRITTAN, who left us for a new life with her family in the United Kingdom, endured a tough 2020 having not long opened her West London coffee shop, Carbon Kopi, when the global pandemic hit. Now, a year on, she tells us how she has surmounted the challenges of Covid-19.

t all happened so quickly – the order on March 23, 2020 to shut down all essential retail, prompting us to give away all our food, milk and other perishable items. We quickly rang our best customer, John, who volunteers for a homeless shelter to come and pick it all up which he did in a heartbeat. We were just recovering from one of our worst months since opening – we had been shut for most of the Christmas and New Year period, had staffing issues, and had bills to pay including suppliers and wages. We scraped together what little we had, borrowed money from family and managed to pay off everything we owed. Thankfully, at the time we both had full-time jobs to rely on – Chris had his I.T. job and I had my marketing job. There wasn’t much time to mull over our decision – it was painful for sure, but we had other things on our minds 36 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:48:31 PM

daughters, Leah (6) and Ellie Opposite: Natalie and Chris Brittan with Hiro Hamashita (third from left) ager Man Cafe e: (three and a half); Abov one of her popular brews. with lie with grateful paramedics; Right: Nata

including stressful full-time jobs and homeschooling our little ones, aged two and a half and five years. As the weeks went on, and after pouring over government guidance, we decided to reopen in April (2020) for takeaways only and were guided by the community. We set up a one-way system, re-arranged all the furniture, bought masks and hand sanitiser and waited. Thankfully, we didn’t have to wait for long. The customers came back in droves; it was as if we’d never left. In fact, many discovered us during the lockdown while on their daily cycling or walking excursions. With everything closed, we stood out like a sore thumb. We found even more customers “living around the corner”. Being located close to a major West London hospital, we had our fair share of medical staff passing through. One day, a customer asked if he could pay coffees forward to one of the many doctors who visited our shop so, we set up a scheme to enable members of the community to donate coffees to the NHS. When the coffees gradually ran out, and the initiative lost momentum, we turned it into a permanent £2 discount on all coffees. From time to time, we still see people paying for paramedics’ coffees whenever they are in the shop. As a result, we have always had a queue of ambulances out on www.ruralliving.co.nz

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the street which have since become the norm for Carbon Kopi. As the months went on, and the lockdowns continued, we learned to adapt, turning dine-in space into retail for Kiwi and Australian snacks including chocolate fish, Moro bars, L&P, Milo, Pic’s Peanut Butter, Tim Tams and pineapple lumps – to name just a few. Then one of our baristas had an idea for hanging screens so we designed several hanging’ sneeze’ screens which were attached from the ceiling to the counter. We applied for a range of loans available to us and used them to grow the business – we had always toyed with the idea of doing a simple brunch menu – fix up the courtyard, and install a commercial kitchen which had initially been used for outside storage. Earlier this year, we hired a chef and began planning to launch a food offering to coincide with the reopening of outdoor dining which took place on April 12 as per the Government roadmap. We also successfully applied for an alcohol licence and curated a wine list along with a few beers and hard seltzers. April 12 rolled around and we had a freezing start to outdoor dining with a light sprinkling of snow on the first day! However, we managed a soft launch of brunch and our alcoholic drinks — a grand

total of three cocktails — alongside the wines and beers. All were well-received and we are working to expand our offering as the warmer weather sets in. Fortunately, overall trade, despite the spring cold, was steady. Even though it was ‘all go’ for us during the past months, we realised how fortunate we were to be in a suburban location which we initially doubted as being ‘too quiet’. A strong business strategy combined with a lot of luck has meant we have ridden out the pandemic unscathed to date. However, it’s hard to ignore some of our favourite coffee institutions which are still struggling and doing badly, largely through no fault of their own but because of location. In addition, we’ve had a number of Kiwi and Australian customers who have been trapped in the UK unable to get back home. Hearing about their visa extension dilemmas and post-Brexit visa problems has made us realise, even more, how lucky we have been. Through it all, there has been a great need to remain positive – after all coffee is meant to have an uplifting effect on people! What’s more we have now been able to open for indoor dining again – a great pick me up for all! With Carbon Kopi still ticking along despite the best efforts of Covid-19 to bring it down, we are very happy coffee shop owners! Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 37

10/06/2021 3:48:32 PM

basedCE – PlanCRt-UM BLE SLI COOKIE

WITH FIG & TOASTED GINGER

INGREDIENTS Makes six giant or eight medium slices

◆ 1/2 cup maple syrup ◆ 1/4 cup The Collective Plant Yoghurt – Greek-Style Vanilla

Base ◆ 6g fresh ginger, finely chopped ◆ 1 1/2 cups almond meal ◆ 2/3 cup cornstarch ◆ 1/3 cup rice flour ◆ 2 tbsp coconut sugar (or sugar of choice) ◆ 1 tbsp ground flaxseed ◆ 1 1/2 tsp baking powder ◆ 1/4 tsp baking soda ◆ 1/4 tsp salt

Fig Filling ◆ 1 heaped cup dried figs ◆ 1/2 cup hot water ◆ 1/4 cup coconut oil ◆ Pinch of salt Crumble Topping ◆ 1 cup almond meal ◆ 2-3 tbsp The Collective Plant Yoghurt – Greek-Style Vanilla ◆ 1/8 tsp salt

Olivia Moore (of That Green Olive fame) proves there is more than one way for the cookie to crumble with this sumptuous dish.

Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a slice tin with baking paper. Place figs in a bowl and pour over hot water cover and allow to soak. In a frying pan, dry toast the ginger over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and toasted, stirring so that it doesn’t burn. Remove from heat and add to a large bowl, along with the remaining ingredients. Mix to form a dough. Press into your prepared slice tin and bake for 25-30 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned on top. Allow to cool while you make the filling. In a food processor or with a stick blender, blend soaked figs with soaking water, coconut oil and salt until a smooth paste. Spread over the prepared base and chill while you make the crumble topping. To make the crumble topping, combine almond meal and salt. Slowly add yoghurt, mixing, until a dough forms. Using your fingers, crumble the dough over the filling and gently press. Chill for 2-3 hours until fully set, then slice and serve with generous dollops of vanilla yoghurt.

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38 — Rural Living — June-July 2021 Red Shed Palazzo large logo.indd 1

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

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Let us take care of your best friends Town & Country Veterinary Services have a dedicated companion animal clinic based in Drury Village. We believe in delivering the very best quality care for your pets, along with making sure that you receive a personally tailored service. We have a strong focus on keeping your pet healthy and our team is here to help achieve this. Our shop stocks a range of premium food and flea treatments.

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Set on three acres in the beautiful countryside beneath the Drury Hills. The Sports Bar is always full of action with a gaming lounge and TAB facilities plus plenty of TVs to watch your favourite sporting event. Great entertainment Friday/Saturday nights. Great pub fare, friendly staff, huge outside Courtesy van garden areas. available ThursMOTORHOME & Sat, travels within CARAVAN PARK a 15km radius of FOR SHORT STAY Murphy’s Law REQUIREMENTS

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Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 39

10/06/2021 3:48:34 PM

Lamb ragu

WITH OLIVES AND POLENTA Just one of 80 recipes included in The CSIRO Women’s Health & Nutrition Guide, this excerpt offers a modern twist on a traditional Italian favourite.

accompaniment to Polenta is a staple in many parts of Italy and makes a wonderful or frozen. days three to up for fridge the in stored be this ragu. The ragu can large saucepan a in reheat and ht overnig fridge the in mixture frozen the Thaw over medium heat, ensuring it is heated throughout before eating.

INGREDIENTS

Serves: four Preparation: 30 minutes Cooking: four hours, 10 minutes

◆ 600g diced lamb ◆ 1 head garlic, outer leaves – removed, halved horizontally ◆ 4 large zucchini, thickly sliced ◆ 2 large red capsicums, seeded and thickly sliced ◆ 2 large green capsicums, seeded and thickly sliced ◆ 2 red onions, cut into thick wedges ◆ 2 lemons, cut into wedges ◆ 1 small bunch oregano ◆ 3 tbsp pitted kalamata olives, halved ◆ 1 litre salt-reduced chicken stock ◆ 170g (1 cup) instant polenta ◆ 1 tbsp olive oil ◆ Rocket or other leafy greens, to serve

METHOD Preheat the oven to 160°C (140°C fanforced). Combine the lamb, garlic, zucchini, capsicum, onion, lemon, oregano, olives and 500ml (two cups) of the stock in a large, heavy-based roasting tin. Cover with a double layer of foil and slow roast for four hours or until very tender. Remove and set aside to rest. Heat the remaining stock in a saucepan over medium heat. Slowly whisk the polenta into the hot stock, making sure no lumps form. Cook, whisking constantly, for five-seven minutes or until the polenta

is very thick and the grains are tender. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the olive oil until melted and well combined. Season with freshly ground black pepper. Divide the polenta among plates and spoon the lamb ragu over the top. Serve with rocket or other leafy greens.

BUY THE BOOK! Packed full of practical guidance with achievable goals, The CSIRO Women’s Health & Nutrition Guide is available from bookstores now. More than just a cookbook, it is designed to be an accessible guide focused on healthy eating. 40 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

RLJune-July 2021.indd 40

Beverly Mulhhausler, Jane Bowen and Gemma Williams, photography by Rob Palmer: The CSIRO Women’s Health & Nutrition Guide | RRP $39.99 | Macmillan Australia www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 4:06:55 PM

CHOOSING FLOORING TO SUIT LIFESTYLE

When it comes to flooring, homeowners have a range of options. Popular choices include hardwood, vinyl, terrazzo, laminate, engineered wood, ceramic, cork, natural stone and bamboo.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN UPDATING FLOORS INCLUDE: FUNCTION: Do you have kids or pets? Do you like to exercise in a particular part of the house? Opt for flooring that’s practical and suits your lifestyle. For instance, while blonde hardwood and white tiled floors are stylish, they may not be the best choice if you have a cat or dog with dark fur. Avoid flooring that’s excessively hard in rooms where you spend a lot of time on your feet and while carpet may be perfect in a home with few occupants, a more hardy flooring might suit large, active families. Consider tiles for wet areas. ATMOSPHERE: Make sure you choose a flooring type which contributes to the style you want to create. For example, natural stone generally provides a Zen-like

ambiance, whereas blonde hardwood will add warmth to a space. If you want a retro vibe, consider pastel terrazzo or, for a more sophisticated look, opt for dark laminate flooring. Carpet can provide warmth and style. Visit local suppliers to compare different flooring samples and seek advice from a qualified salesperson. Take in photos of the rooms you’re renovating. INSTALLATION: Before installing new flooring, check out the subfloor. Sagging floorboards may need extra support and a subfloor upgrades may be required if installing electrical wiring, plumbing or radiant heating in the subfloor. Depending on which floor covering you choose, a concrete subfloor may need resurfacing.

Talk to a qualified professional before installing or altering new floors. UPKEEP: Some flooring requires maintenance which goes beyond simply sweeping and mopping. Porous flooring, such as unglazed tiles, limestone and concrete, may need a periodic application of sealant. Hardwood floors may need sanding and varnishing every so often and if a tile should become cracked it may need replacing. Before settling on anyone type of flooring, gauge its qualities and make sure you know what upkeep it requires. A flooring professional will provide expert advice and can recommend specific solutions for your home.

Thinking of developing your land? There’s never been a better time to build a new, dream home on your existing land. Jennian Homes Franklin can manage the entire project for you. We can guide you through subdividing one or multiple sections, as well as helping with title of sections and working with development planners. We’re experts at what we do, so if you’re thinking of subdividing your land or building your dream home, contact the friendly, experienced team at Jennian Homes Franklin today.

Call us to organise your free site visit!

Jennian Homes Franklin 2 Walter Lawry Drive, Paerata Rise P 09 238 6156 E franklin@jennian.co.nz jennian.co.nz KAT7604-v2

www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJune-July 2021.indd 41

Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 41

10/06/2021 3:48:36 PM

EL NOV stio ns

sugge

W s c

WORST. IDEA. EVER.

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CHINA ROOM

When Georgia sets up a fake twitter account with the sole intention of praising her bestie’s business, it could be considered a stroke of genius or the... Worst. Idea. Ever. This witty and sharp new novel, from a bestselling author, takes readers on a twisting (and twittering) journey as Georgia learns more about her dear friend than she could ever have imagined.

Set in Victorian England, this book expects to reveal that fiction really can be stranger than truth. When Jasper Jupiter’s Circus of Wonders arrives on the outskirts of her village, Nell (due to her birthmarks) becomes the troupe’s ‘leopard girl’. Although forced to join the circus at first, Nell soon discovers her new identity could prove quite the opportunity.

Prize-winning author, Sunjeev Sahota, shares a powerful novel. Inspired (in part) by his own ancestry, this book shows how family ties can see common themes – from love, oppression and trauma to the pursuit of freedom – stretch out across generations and from one side of the world to the other.

Jane Fallon: Worst. Idea. Ever. | RRP $37 | Michael Joseph

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42 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

RLJune-July 2021.indd 42

www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:48:38 PM

COUNTRYSIDEBegins THE

with Jo-Ann Day-Townsend

SIX THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN SELLING YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY Fixed term tenancy – A landlord or tenant cannot give notice to end a fix-term tenancy early. So, if the property being sold is rented for a fixed-term, the property must be sold with the tenancy and tenants in place. The buyer will become the new landlord for the rest of the fixed term.

When you decide the time is right to sell your rental property, there are certain rules you need to be aware of. Notice – If an owner puts the property on the market, they must tell the tenant in writing. As a courtesy, and to promote good relations between the sales team and the tenant, they should let the tenant know beforehand through their property manager. Photography – Your property manager must seek permission before you organise for a photographer to enter the property to take marketing photographs. Be aware your tenant can refuse to allow their personal possessions to be in any photograph. Even if permission is granted, if the tenant feels their privacy has been violated they may object so best to work closely with them through your agents., Access to the property – Owners, and their real estate sales consultants, have the right to show possible buyers through the house. They can also show through a registered valuer or a building expert they’ve employed to prepare a report. But the tenant must give permission first. A tenant can’t unreasonably refuse access, but they can set reasonable conditions. For example, they can: Limit access to certain times of the day and days of the week; refuse open homes and auctions on site; ask to be present during open homes. Tenants can insist that the property be shown by appointment only. Before including open homes or an on-site auction in the sales plan, the owner should discuss all this information with the tenant. Consent needs to be given for specific dates and times, and should be put in writing. Once sold – When sold, if the new owner intends to keep on the same tenants, the tenants should be told who the new owner is and when they’ll take over. Ask your property manager to provide the new owner with a copy of the tenancy documents and arrange for the bond to be transferred. If you have received good service from your property manager, it may be an ideal time to recommend that the property be kept under the same management structure to minimise any disruption to the tenant. When the property is sold, the original landlord’s interest in the bond

Fixed-term tenancies can only be changed if the landlord and all the tenants agree. Any agreement should be in writing and should include what’s been agreed to. Both the landlord and tenants should keep a copy of this. Fees may be appplied. will pass to the new landlord. If the property is sold to someone who doesn’t want to keep on the tenants, one of the conditions of sale will be “vacant possession”. The owner must give the tenant at least 90 days’ written notice to end the tenancy, so the house will be empty for the buyer. Please remember to add on the appropriate ‘service days’ to any notice to vacate. If the notice is posted to the property, then four working days must be added. This can be reduced to two days if the notice is hand delivered to the property and can be immediate if the notice is emailed, faxed or handed in person to the tenant – always remembering that the actual notice period starts the following day from the end of any notice period.

A tenant might assign or sublet the property- The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020 states that from 11 February 2021, landlords must consider all requests from tenants to assign the tenancy and must not decline unreasonably. Landlords may include reasonable conditions when giving consent for assignment that the tenant must meet. Subletting can also occur with agreement. Choosing the Right Agent – A good agent makes all the DIFFERENCE to the successful sale of your property – ensuring the minefield of notices and viewings don’t land you in court.

Need help selling then give Jo-Ann a call – she is happy to help.

FOR SALE with JO-ANN

Maramarua, 108 Maxwell Road

Te Kauwhata, 914 Waikare Road

Jo-Ann Day-Townsend

Port Realty Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJune-July 2021.indd 43

Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 43

KAT5307-v42

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

10/06/2021 3:48:38 PM

Renovation win REWARDS SUPERB PROJECT ners Lane and Melissa Den Brink, ow ted of Smith & Sons Franklin, are ela ion at winning the 2020 NZ Renovat ns of the Year title across Smith & So e they internationally – the second tim a have won the award. Here, Meliss ely outlines the extensive and extrem satisfying project. TRANSFORMED: Before and after renovation.

n realising their 1990’s home had never achieved code of compliance, our clients, Stephen and Naomi, whose children had ‘flown the nest’ came to us for renovation help. The layout of their house was dated and no longer suited their lifestyle. We took them through our design plan and construct process, ending up with a contemporary design which included everything they wanted. At the first site meeting, they even brought a Lego model showing how they envisaged the outcome – we thought that was pretty cool! The new layout included extending the kitchen to provide a larger kitchen as well as knocking out some existing walls to create an open plan family area with a separate, formal living room. These two spaces are divided by a one-of-a-kind, barn door, made by Lane during lockdown, to represent country living. A new fireplace was installed in the dining room, providing not only physical warmth but creating that cosy ambiance fireplaces offer. Timber-look tiles for the floor also add warmth to this area. The bathroom underwent a dramatic transformation, its striking, monochromatic

44 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

RLJune-July 2021.indd 44

style enhanced by bold, black fittings which contrast with the natural tones of the floor and full height wall tiles. A timber feature on the vanity provides a softening effect without detracting from the drama of the monochrome colour scheme. A large shower and bath exude an inviting, luxurious feel any guest would be thrilled to enjoy. The master bedroom received a new walk-in wardrobe – every woman’s dream – with custom built cabinetry to suit the space. This room also gained a larger en suite when we combined the existing en suite and the former walk-in-wardrobe. The same detailing was used in the main bathroom which included a double basin vanity and twin shower heads. The other bedrooms were updated with new carpet and a fresh coat of paint. Black hardware was added to the doors throughout the entire house and all joinery was replaced with new double-glazed, matte iron sand aluminium joinery, bringing the home up to today’s standard to ensure it remains warm and dry throughout winter. The kitchen and scullery were marginally extended and a new stunning, custom-designed kitchen and scullery were installed. Sleek, black cabinetry with

timber look accents, an engineered stone top, an island bench for additional counter space and a breakfast bar at the end were included together with a splashback of matte black subway tiles and timber accents to tie in with the timber floor tiles. The workable scullery is tucked away, so all the mess which comes from hosting can be hidden. New appliances include a double wall oven and a wine fridge, making it an entertainer’s paradise. Externally, the house was clad with Abodo timber to provide an attractive contrast to the existing brick. A wraparound deck, built from composite decking, flows from the open plan living with three, separate Louvretec roofs to give outdoor entertaining options. A large outdoor fireplace together with a hot tub, which looks out to the beautiful Hunua Ranges, finish the main outdoor area perfectly. The end result? Stephen and Naomi love their home AND they have code of compliance! all this was achieved through a year of lockdowns and disruption, making the result something we can be extremely proud of!

To find out more about Smith & Sons Franklin visit www.smith-sons.co.nz or call Lane and the team on 0800 764 846.

www.ruralliving.co.nz

10/06/2021 3:48:42 PM

THE LATEST ON REAL ESTATE

HOUSING MARKET UNMOVED BY

latest restrictions By Darren Szaszy, Barfoot & Thompson, Pukekohe

ranklin district saw 18 settled rural/ lifestyle sales with an average sale price of $1,400,000 during the past month. Average time on the market is currently sitting at around 30 days and, on average, prices have risen 35% since the year prior. Managing director of Barfoot & Thompson, Peter Thompson says May’s Auckland housing sales data shows no hint that restrictions imposed in March have had an impact on prices or sales numbers. Trading in May was excellent, with the median price increasing, the average price being in line with the record price set in April and sales numbers being their highest in the month of May for four years. The market has worked through the implications of the recent changes and

continues to trade with confidence. The median May price of $1,073,000 was up 2.2 percent on of April, setting a new record median price which was 17.4 percent ahead of last year’s May price. At $1,114,011, the average price for May was right in line with that of April, and 17.5 percent ahead of where it was 12 months ago. As we enter the colder winter months it is not unusual for sales activity to ease back and, if this was to occur, the cause is likely to be seasonal rather than investors reacting to the removal of interest payments as a tax deduction and the extension of the bright line test. Sales of 1197 for the month were 8.1 percent ahead of those for April and comfortably higher than the pre-covid sales numbers for the same month between 2017 and 2019. Although new listings at 1502 were their highest in a May for four years it did

nothing to improve availability, and at month end we had only 3122 properties on our books. This is the lowest number of properties for sale since January, and our lowest in the month of May for five years. All up, 110 properties sold for in excess $2 million in May, the third consecutive month in which sales exceeding $2 million have been above 100. Sales of property for less than $750,000 stood at 179, 15 percent of all sales. Rural properties sales also remained unaffected by the new regulations with sales in this sector reaching $95 million, the highest May sales turnover for five years. Sales around Kumeu were particularly strong following a lift in new listings while buyer demand for property in the $2 million to $3 million price range in Rodney was greater than available listings. The far North continues to attract high interest, particularly for 10 to 25 ha bush blocks with streams. To find out what your property is worth call Darren on 021 676 004.

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

KAT7590

www.ruralliving.co.nz

RLJune-July 2021.indd 45

Rural Living — June-July 2021 — 45

10/06/2021 3:48:44 PM

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Ph: 09 271 8000 www.times.co.nz 46 — Rural Living — June-July 2021

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KAT7412

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

Free quotes – Competitive rates KAT5317

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

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

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

VISIT US AT

www.trackworks.co.nz

FOR ALL YOUR UNDERCARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS... Workshop – Engineering – Onsite Welding and Mechanical services available Castrol Distributors: Agents for Fleet IIIIIIIII IIIII Guard Filters, Exide Batteries. IIII IIIIIIII IIII IIII III

0800 SUCKA1 0800 782 521

www.ruralliving.co.nz

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KAT5318

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

Call us for all your farming supply needs For the best advice and friendly service IN TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

PROFARM 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

KAT5297

Certified Plumbers and Drainlayers

Phone: 09 238 7168 Fax: 09 239 2605 Email: trackworks@xtra.co.nz Yard at 71 Adams Drive, Pukekohe KAT5287

Or:

Alan Wilson Plumbing 235 9066

II III IIII IIIIII I

III III WE KNOW TRACKS, IT’S IN OUR IIII III IIII I I IIIIIII II IIIIIIIIIIIIII IIIIIIII NAME, MAKE TRACKS TO US IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

CHRIS JULIAN Freephone (0508) RURAL H20 (0508) 787 254 Chris mobile 021 765 629

DY0311

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

KAT5289-V2

KAT6171-v3

PEST CONTROL

We raise Brown Shavers